Scripture Power

I had a speaking assignment today. This time it came from the stake presidency, to speak in Weymouth Branch on the topic of "Increasing our faith in the Lord through diligent study and pondering of the scriptures".

I started out be relating an experience from the early life of Spencer W. Kimball. Explaining how this account had inspired me to read all the scriptures from cover to cover. I also quoted from a couple of Children's Songs.

"Search, Ponder, and Pray", Children’s Songbook, 109
Search, ponder, and pray
Are the things that I must do.
The Spirit will guide, and, deep inside,
I’ll know the scriptures are true.

and

"Scripture Power", Friend, Oct. 1987, 10–11
Because I want to be like the Savior, and I can,
I’m reading His instructions, I’m following His plan.
Because I want the power His word will give to me,
I’m changing how I live, I’m changing what I’ll be.

I’ll find the sword of truth in each scripture that I learn.
I’ll take the shield of faith from these pages that I turn.
I’ll wear each vital part of the armor of the Lord,
And fight my daily battles, and win a great reward.

[Chorus]
Scripture power keeps me safe from sin.
Scripture power is the power to win.
Scripture power! Ev’ryday I need
The power that I get each time I read.

I concluded by presenting the five basic principles that Elder Bednar has suggested would help us to make our personal scripture study become more edifying and effective.

1. Pray for understanding, and invite the help of the Holy Ghost
2. Work
3. Be consistent
4. Ponder
5. Write down impressions, thoughts, and feelings

The Prophesies of the Birth of Christ

This post links to my script and notes for a talk I gave in Bournemouth Ward yesterday. I was given 10 minutes but as I got nervous and talked fast, probably took less time. I believe it was well received.

The other speakers on the programme were Laurie Miller and Mike Winkworth.