Where does salvation come from?

I often get asked or messaged, “Cali, I just can’t get into the habit of reading my scriptures every day. What can I do?”

I love getting these questions, and I have practical advice and tips to share.

But in many of the messages, I hear my own concerns from a few years ago echoing in their words:

“I would be so much more righteous if I could actually read my scriptures every day. God is probably disappointed that I can’t even get this right.”

In our church, reading the scriptures and praying every day are preached so often, that sometimes we mistakenly start to think that salvation comes through their repetition.

So I want you to think for a second:

WHY do YOU study the scriptures?

What’s your reason?

If it’s to fulfill your “righteousness checklist” for the day, then it might be helpful to look at the Anti-Nephi-Lehies’ example.

They kept the Law of Moses with exactness after their conversion. But…

“They did not suppose that salvation came by the law of Moses; but the law of Moses did serve to strengthen their faith in Christ”. Alma 25:16

THAT is why we are asked to read and pray every day.

Not because they will complete the checklist and get us into heaven.

But because those actions strengthen our faith in the Savior.

Those actions help us become more Christlike.

And that’s what God IS looking for.

People who try. People who are kind and caring. People who serve. People who have the desire to be a little bit better.

And our daily scripture study and prayers are powerful tools to help us make that mighty transformation.

So if you are caught up in the guilt of the checklist, try instead asking yourself, “What can I do today in order to become more Christlike?”

And I think you might more willingly place studying and praying at the top of your activity list.

Happy Studying!

-Cali Black