A Prompting...

Tonight I was reading the Engsign, and I came across something that really spoke to me. I felt prompted to share this quote and some thoughts about it.

President Marion G. Romney said, “I feel certain that if, in our homes, parents will read from the Book of Mormon prayerfully and regularly, both by themselves and with their children, the spirit of that great book will come to permeate our homes and all who dwell therein. The spirit of reverence will increase; mutual respect and consideration for each other will grow. The spirit of contention will depart. Parents will counsel their children in greater love and wisdom. Children will be more responsive and submissive to the counsel of their parents. Righteousness will increase. Faith, hope, and charity--the pure love of Christ--will abound in our homes and lives, bringing in their wake peace, joy, and happiness.”

About 2 months ago our home teachers came and challenged us to read the scriptures with Ryder and Chase. Rocky and I have been doing this on our own, but we really hadn’t been doing it with our kids. They suggested that we read only a few verses with them. So, we started that night--reading and discussing what we read with them--and we’ve continued to read with them every night (but 1) since then.

I testify that what President Romney said is true. We have experienced more reverence, more respect and consideration, less contention, greater love and wisdom, Ryder and Chase listen better, and we do feel more peace, joy and happiness. Now, do they listen each night? No. :) But, when we discuss what we’re reading with them and how it applies to their lives, I see them learning and growing. We ask them questions like, “If you have a problem and mommy and daddy aren’t around, who can you ask?” And we discuss how Heavenly Father hears and answers our sincere prayers.

I don’t want to sound self-righteous in any way. I know many of you are probably already doing this, but I challenge you to start (if you aren’t already) reading the scriptures (Bible, Book of Mormon, etc.) with your kids, and I know it will increase the peace, joy, and happiness you feel in your homes.