1 Nephi Chapter 3

And behold, it is wisdom in God that we should obtain these records, that we may preserve unto our children the language of our fathers; And also that we may preserve unto them the words which have been spoken by the mouth of all the holy prophets, which have been delivered unto them by the Spirit and power of God, since the world began, even down unto this present time. ~ 1 Nephi 3:19-20

This scripture is perhaps not the obvious choice for this chapter. It is not, "I will go and do the things the Lord has commanded...". Other LDS readers will recognize that scripture mastery verse, as well as the text from a Primary song.

In these two verses Nephi is trying to persuade his wayward brothers that they need to try to get the plates from Laban again. He tells them it is important to preserve their language for their children, and also to have a record of their scriptures. These were the writings of Moses, as well as the words of the prophets current to their time, including Jeremiah and Isaiah.

I love the emphasis he places on the scriptures as literary works, capable of teaching and preserving language, and also as a way to preserve the commandments and writings of the prophets.

I love the scriptures. In them are some of the most beautiful writing. Their primary importance of course is to teach us and to bring us closer to God.

I have been trying hard to read the scriptures every day. My husband and I recently finished the Old Testament. We talked about reading the New Testament but decided a 'change of venue' would be welcome so we restarted the Book of Mormon.

One reason I started this blog was to share my testimony of the truthfulness of the Book of Mormon. I know someone may read this that doesn't believe it is scripture. That's okay. I think you should spend some time every day reading the scriptures you do believe in. The more people study and try to connect with God the better people we will all be.

Do you want to read this verse in context? Read all of 1 Nephi Chapter 3.