One of my favorite scripture study tips is the exact opposite of what most people try to do:
Let my mind wander.
It’s hard, because I used to be so focused on trying to keep my brain focused and NOT letting it wander.
But then I realized that “wandering” was often the time when my brain was digesting information, receiving little bits of inspiration, and thinking about stuff that had happened that day.
In other words, I was pondering.
Even if I felt like my brain was wandering “off-topic”, I have found that if my scriptures are open and I have sincere intent, even the most random place me brain wants to explore might lead me exactly where the Spirit needs to inspire or enlighten.
So I intentionally build in time to let my mind wander.
(Side note: setting a time limit to study instead of just doing “a chapter a day” helps give your brain permission to wander more too!)
But this is often really tricky because who has extra time to just sit there and let their mind wander on purpose?!
Our days are filled to the brim with other priorities.
We place value on “getting things done.”
So if I’m just sitting there with my scriptures, staring off into space, and thinking, what am I actually accomplishing?
Did you happen to notice what Nephi did in order to allow the voice of the Lord to speak to him and give him great power?
“And it came to pass as he was thus pondering. . . .” (Helaman 10:3)
Nephi pondered, too!
He took the time as he traveled to be quiet.
He thought about previous miracles and revelations he had received in his life.
And that quiet pondering is what led the Lord to give him amazing power.
Are we making quiet moments?
It’s so tricky.
But if the Lord is going to speak, if His Spirit is going to inspire, even with the simplest of messages, They need space to work.
Taking that powerful step to ponder opens us up to God’s power, allows us to obtain personal revelation, and gives us the chance to feel real peace.
Happy Studying!
-Cali Black
5 Responses
I completely buy into, and testify of, the “wander and ponder” approach when I’m taking a walk. I know many people who enjoy listening to podcasts or conference talks as they walk in the morning. Great! That’s their style, and I’m not throwing any shade at them. BUT, for me, especially when I was the RS pres., I wanted the silence as I walked passed each sister’s home, so the spirit could influence me to their needs. I let my mind wander as I thought of the needs of the sisters and their families. I let my mind wander as I think of my own needs and the needs of my family. Now, I let my mind wander as I prepare for my Gospel Doctrine lesson. I love the peace, recharge, and inspiration that comes from wandering and pondering.
PS: Thanks for everything! You are soooo awesome!
I love this so much! Thanks for sharing <3
Just sit, wonder and stare. Maybe reread a portion?
I love this. The less is more concept. I loved the BYU devotional by Bradley P Owens “let us run the race that is set before us” https://youtu.be/Yx5XtYKcNxg
He experienced a similar outcome.
Thank you for sharing this! I will check it out!