Scripture Studying for the Lazy

I'll be the first to admit I'm not very good at daily scripture study. I'm pretty good about prayer, but reading my scriptures always made me sleepy. So I've come up with some ways that help me to read my scriptures when I'm lazy, and in this new modern age of computers.

1. Pinterest

If you're not on Pinterest you're either a big fat liar or you're a man. But Pinterest is actually a really great site and I even recommend it to get you to study your scriptures. What? But Pinterest is so distracting! Interestingly enough there is a wonderful section in Pinterest known as the Quotes section. The majority of the quotes are made of up motivational quotes, those random pastel comedy cards (that are rarely funny), "thinspiration" crap, and oh yes, scriptures. And guess what? You can even find conference talks on there. Oh yes. I find plenty all the time. I love going on the quotes section and finding cute graphics with beautiful scriptures. And you know what, if you only read one, at least you're reading! Or maybe you can read many on Pinterest. I've even been inspired to look them up and to read the whole chapter. Do it. It helps.

Side note: there are also boards dedicated to LDS messages. Here are some of my favorites: LDS Quotes, LDS Church Pinterest, Deseret Book, Mormon Haven, Creative Quotes or you could follow my Pinterest Quotes board.

2. Your iPod,

I'm sure many of you have the scripture app. I sure do. Did you know it also counts as an audio book? Plug it in to your car radio or just listen on your speakers and play a chapter while you clean, drive, or sit around. Even if you're not paying attention 100% of the time you're still welcoming the spirit and it'll make you feel better. Another thing I'll do is if I'm in class or at church and I hear a scripture quote I like I write it down in my notes an leave it there. When I go though my notes on my iPod and see these random scripture references I look them up and read them. It's simple but it works!

3. Follows Blogs by Christians for Christians

Well first off if you're following this blog then props to you. There are tons of blogs on the blogsphere dedicated to religion and I'm sure you can find plenty. Hint hint: missionaries always talk about the scriptures so follow those blogs.

Side note: I even recently found this tumblr dedicated to spiritual inspiration for those who like tumblr. Also, to point out a great friend, here is my friend's blog on spiritual thoughts (to encourage her to continue writing for it ;]).

4. Like Church Pages on Facebook

I like several pages on Facebook dedicated to the church and it's teachings, so I'm always thrilled when they post up scripture references or stories. They post things meant to uplift us. And between all the complaining on Facebook about our horrible first world lives it's really great to see an uplifting message. I can't remember the page but I know one that offers scripture challenges. They'll ask a scripture related question then give the answer the next day. It's pretty great.

5. Around The House

You know those little papers and cute things you get in church that end up in your purse? Why not put them on your fridge? Or on your mirror? I had one that took a scripture from D&C but put my name in instead of Oliver Cauldry's and I kept it on my mirror to remind me of the message it has. Seeing these visuals also helps you stay in a Christ centered mood throughout the day as well.

These are all relatively simple, aren't they? You don't have to go to great lengths or be perfect about scripture study. These are all easy and can be done today. Interestingly enough this was actually the topic yesterday during Sacrament meeting (a very wonderful meeting too). I thought I'd share some of the tips given:

-Rather than studying in order, study by topic.
-Always pray before (and I would add always pray after to ask for clarification, to give gratitude, and let Heavenly Father know you're taking his guidance seriously).
-Check out the Bible Dictionary. It's an amazing weapon.
-Go somewhere quiet and make sure there are no distractions. Don't read on a bed or couch where you'll get tired.
-I don't necessarily believe in the "flip open and receive your answer" tactic but some people do this. It's worth a try.

The scriptures are a wonderful source of the Lord's wisdom and can help us in our day to day lives. I know they've blessed my life and the lives of many others and they are true. If you're like me and you struggle with scripture study then try little things like those above to help you. Soon enough you won't get enough of them.