Gratitude after the blessing

Have you ever heard the tip to pray BEFORE you read the scriptures each time?

I remember first hearing this advice years ago, and at some point I started trying it out!

I started the habit of praying every time before I read the scriptures.

And it is now one of my favorite tips to share!

I have absolutely loved praying beforehand and bringing the Spirit and intention before I start studying. SO powerful!

But as I’ve done this for years now, I also noticed that I felt like something was missing at the end of my scripture study time, too.

I would pray, feel the Spirit, spend time studying… and then just close the book and move onto something else?

It felt a little weird.

So then I tried something new.

I tried ENDING my scripture study with a little prayer of gratitude for the Spirit that I felt and the knowledge or clarity that I gained, too.

And it was even more POWERFUL.

I think there is something natural about wanting to offer a little expression of gratitude after having a divine experience!

When the Lord came and appeared to Abraham and offered beautiful promises to Abraham and his posterity, I can’t even imagine the power that was felt during that exchange.

A true temple experience with big covenants being made.

And yet, when the Lord left Abraham’s presence, look at what Abraham said immediately afterwards:

“Thy servant has sought thee earnestly; now I have found thee”. (Abraham 2:12)

I think that is one of the sweetest and most sincere little prayers of gratitude I have ever heard.

Like, I just love it.

But what a powerful pattern for us to follow, too.

That little acknowledgment.

Being that one leper who returns to thank.

That chance to reflect a bit and put the experience in perspective.

We can show gratitude after spiritual experiences, no matter how big or small.

Happy Studying!

-Cali Black