"Pondering a scripture... gives great direction to life. The scriptures can form a foundation of support. They can provide an incredibly large resource of willing friends who can help us. A memorized scripture becomes an enduring friend that is not weakened with the passage of time.
"Pondering a passage of scripture can be a key to unlock revelation and the guidance and inspiration of the Holy Ghost. Scriptures can calm an agitated soul, giving peace, hope, and a restoration of confidence in one's ability to overcome the challenges of life. They have potent power to heal emotional challenges when there is faith in the Savior. They can accelerate physical healing.
"Scriptures can communicate different meanings at different times in our life, according to our needs. A scripture that we may have read many times can take on nuances of meaning that are refreshing and insightful when we face a new challenge in life."
- Richard G. Scott, "The Power of Scripture", Ensign, Nov. 2011, pp. 6-8
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In this message, Elder Scott provided a reminder of the strength and help available as we read, study, ponder, and even memorize the scriptures.
I love the thought of memorized passages becoming "enduring friend[s]" that can continue to bless us over time. I have found that to be the case, as certain passages have been helpful to me time after time. I've also witnessed many times the truth of the last thought of this excerpt—a passage can communicate something today that it never has in dozens of previous readings.
But the essential insight of this message is that we need to claim the blessings the scriptures offer. Passive possession of a sacred record has little value. It is only actively studying, and especially pondering, that can direct our course and bless our journey in life.
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