Scripture Thought 9/4/08

1 Nephi 1:1 (part 3)I always wonder why Sam and Nephi responded differently to the teachings of Lehi and Sariah. Do you think that Sam and Nephi just followed blindly? Or did they listen, ponder, seek, and then pray? We learn more from this verse. Even though they did these things, possibly different from Laman and Lemuel, life was not always a cake walk for them. Nephi talks of many afflictions in his life. What do you think it was like for him growing up? What he teased or ridiculed? Did he have self esteem problems? Do you think he was any different from us? We know that he was harrassed by his older brothers, but was that all? How do you think he dealt with the other challenges of every day mortal life?In one instance he is talking about afflictions and in the next he is talking about being highly favored of the Lord. How does one become Highly Favored of the Lord. I think it all goes back to the difference in the way he recieved the teachings from his father. For that matter, I think it has to do with the way he received the teaching from all prophets and spiritual leaders. We know that Lehi was not the only one. We later learn that they had the history of the Jews. He listened, pondered, sought, asked, and then moved forward in faith. I have recently learned the importance of documenting my feelings and understandings. We see here that Nephi did the same. He kept a journal. I like to keep a journal and have learned the importance of keeping a scriptural or spiritual journal. I need to work on keeping them both at the same time. I know that when I sit down with the Lord in prayer and study his word, I am open to much more insight. It is a wonderful thing. When I say insight, I do not mean to just spiritual or scriptural things. I find that when I am open to the Lord and studying, I am open to receive the answers to other questions I have in life. I am able to find solutions, resolve, patience, and a greater love for my Savior. I find myself being Highly Favored of the Lord. I encourage you to do the same.