Effective Study

I apologize for slacking in updating this sooner.  This class is such a joy to participate in and we gain so much from each one of you.  Thank you for all you do and sacrifice to come and be prepared to discuss and learn.

This week we did something a little different.  We talked about using our scriptures more effectively when we teach.  We started by taking a section in the lesson "The Commandments" and finding scriptures that would help teach each doctrine.  We also talked about different ways to mark your scriptures so you can refer quickly to what you found. 

On page 24 of Preach My Gospel there are several suggestions for marking scriptures.  The class discussion about what is helpful for them included some of these ideas:

1. Start studying with a person or question in mind. An example might be a person who can't stop smoking.

2. Studying is a process.  Stick with it and be consistent and it will become a great joy to you.

3. Write things down.  Keep a study journal.  Possibly an alphabetized one that you can record thoughts and scriptures under a specific topic to refer to quickly when needed or to add to.

4.  Make a scripture chain.  Connect your learning and understanding together in the scriptures.

5.  Use the footnotes.

6.  Color code the verses by lesson or topic.

7.  Find the stories in the scriptures that will help you teach.

8.  Love your scriptures. This will come as you spend time finding answers to your questions and hearing the voice of the Lord speak to you personally from His words through the Spirit.

9.  Record your inspired questions about a topic.  

We had the pleasure of  a few visitors today.  Bro. Brisk from the High Council, Jamie Pyne

and President Pyne.  Thank you for the spirit you brought and your helpful comments and challenges.

Pres. Pyne challenged the young men to pray about someone they can invite and bring to class.  He would like to see the class size double.  We have plenty of room :-)! Your contribution matters!  We are not complete without you!  We need each other to learn and be more prepared to share the gospel.  Thank you for making the effort to be here.  We know how hard it is so early in the morning!  But this is real mission prep!!!

 Bro. Brisk reminded them to read Elder Bednars talk about "Becoming A Missionary" Oct 2005.  We dont have to wait until we are called, we can become a missionary now, every day.  And we will continue to be missionaries after we return.  This is such a great talk.  Dont miss it!

We love it when we get to hear from Elders as they just return!! This is Elder Flake.  He served in the Washington, Seattle Mission.  He shared his testimony and some powerful advice for our class.  He encouraged us to not just learn the information so you can repeat it over and over again, but to really speak from the heart.  Be real when you talk to people.  They can tell when you are just going through the motions and when it really matters to you.   Thank you for sharing your love of missionary work with us!!

So now what?  Lets put into practice this week what we discussed.

Next weeks assignment:

Study the Law of Chastity.  It is found on pg. 77 of PMG, and read the pamphlet.  It is short and you can do it!  As you study this topic and its importance you will become more comfortable teaching it and will be able to help others keep this vital commandment.