The Scriptures Will Heal You

I have been pondering lately the healing power of the scriptures. Jacob, a prophet in the Book of Mormon, talks about how the word of God "healeth the wounded soul" (Jacob 2:8). I know from my study of Doctrine and Covenants that the soul is the "body and spirit" (D&C 88:15). That means that the scriptures have the power to heal our spirits and our bodies; what an incredible thing!

Elder Robert D. Hales told at story in General Conference about his own experience with healing. He said that "While I was lying in my hospital bed and for several weeks at home, my physical activity was severely restricted by intense pain which disabled my weakened body, but I learned the joy of freeing my mind to ponder the meaning of life and the eternities . . .  I discovered that if I dwelt only upon my pain, it inhibited the healing process. I found that pondering was a very important element in the healing process for both soul and body" (Healing Soul and Body). As he pondered the word of God, Elder Hales was healed, and he discovered that "The Lord is the ultimate caregiver" (Id.).

There are many promises about the power of scripture study. Elder Richard G. Scott shares the following:

"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." (The Power of Scripture; emphasis added).

I think that this is a fascinating promise. There are so many griefs and pains in this life, but we have the promise that "The healing power of the Lord Jesus Christ—whether it removes our burdens or strengthens us to endure and live with them—is available for every affliction in mortality" (He Heals the Heavy Laden). Over and over again in the scriptures, Christ has healed his people, and He is the Lord that heals us still (Exodus 15:26).

I know that when we turn to the Savior through scripture study, we will be healed. We can find forgiveness for sins, balm for grief, companionship for loneliness, and the remedy for physical ailments. Please use this amazing gift that we've been given!