![]() Let us begin by turning to one of my favorite scriptures-Alma, chapter 31, verse 5-as an example of how the scriptures can unexpectedly change lives of people. Robbie’s mother called to her son: “Robbie, Grandpa Neal is here!” Elder Maxwell heard a tired little voice coming from the bedroom asking, “Shall I bring my scriptures?” His grandson Robbie had already gone to bed when he arrived. ![]() He told about the time he visited his grandchildren late one evening. In his last General Conference Elder Maxwell shared this humorous true story suggesting that even his young grandchildren knew him for his love of the scriptures. Yet, we as Church members sometimes behave like hurried tourists, scarcely venturing beyond the entry hall to the mansion.” There are also sumptuous banquet tables painstakingly prepared. Some rooms I have yet to enter, and there are more flaming fireplaces waiting to warm me. Maxwell described what feasting on the scriptures ought to entail: “For me,” he said, “the Book of Mormon is like a vast mansion with gardens, towers, courtyards, and wings. Instead, we treat the scriptures like a “fast food” snack waiting to be picked up at some drive through window while rushing off to some other activity. We do not take the time to “feast upon the words of Christ” as we should. Notwithstanding the plain and precious meaning of these commandments, we often neglect the scriptures. “ up my (Joseph Smith translation of Matthew 1:37), with this accompanying promise: “And whoso treasureth up my word, shall not be deceived.” “Search these commandments” ((Doctrine and Covenants 1:37) and Throughout the scriptures w e are commanded to “feast upon the words of Christ.” Some elements of feasting on the words of Christ include the Savior’s admonition to: 3-“ Receive the Holy Ghost.” The blessing promised for obedience to this commandment is that the Holy Ghost “will show you all things what ye should do” (2 Nephi 32:5, emphasis added). 2- “Ask,” “seek” and “knock.” The blessing promised for obedience to this commandment is that “ every one that asketh receiveth and he that seeketh findeth and to him that knocketh it shall be opened” (Matthew 7:8, emphasis added). 1-“ F east upon the words of Christ.” The blessing promised for obedience to this commandment is that “the words of Christ will tell you all things what ye should do” (2 Nephi 32:3, emphasis added). May I share with you three keys which have been helpful to me in opening the door to a greater understanding and appreciation of the scriptures? In addition to fasting and praying for confirming answers, the holy scriptures-those books filled with deep insight, wisdom and knowledge-should also occupy a prominent place in helping you make the important decisions in your life. ![]() Important that I recommend that you seek out the divine help to which you are entitled. ![]() Today I begin my remarks with a compelling question: “Where would we-or should we-or can we go for directions on how to live our lives?” The answers to all of these questions are so I know that many of you are approaching the times and seasons of your life when you will be making some of the great decisions of mortality: Should I serve a mission ? What career choice should I make? Whom should I choose as my eternal companion ?-and, of equal importance, will they also want to choose me? Brothers and Sisters, Sister Oswald and I thank you for your kind invitation to come to Rexburg and to be with you today.
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