Elder Bruce R. McConkie on the power of studying the scriptures

Elder Bruce R. McConkie (July 29, 1915–April 19, 1985) served as a Seventy from 1946-1972 when he was called to the Quorum of Twelve.  He served in that assignment until his death from cancer at age 69.

"I think that people who study the scriptures get a dimension to their life that nobody else gets and that can’t be gained in any way except by studying the scriptures. There’s an increase in faith and a desire to do what’s right and a feeling of inspiration and understanding that comes to people who study the gospel—meaning particularly the Standard Works—and who ponder the principles, that can’t come in any other way."

- Bruce R. McConkie, "Spare Time’s Rare to Apostle,” Church News, 24 Jan. 1976, 4

Elder Bruce R. McConkie was recognized in his day, and still is today, as being among the great gospel scholars of our dispensation. His writings about the doctrine of the Church, the life of the Savior, and the latter-day restoration were primary reference works, and he played a key role in enhancing the updated version of our printed scriptures. He wrote and spoke powerfully, drawing continually from the scriptures for his doctrine and explanations. Clearly he had dedicated much of his life to careful study of the Lord's written word. These words reflect personal experience:

This is a beautiful promise. As we devote time and effort to coming to know and understand the gospel, and then applying it on our lives, our lives gain richness and depth that come in no other way.

(Compilation and commentary by David Kenison, Orem, Utah, 2019)