Layne's Lunch

 8 Wherefore, beware lest ye are deceived; and that ye may not be deceived seek ye earnestly the best gifts, always remembering for what they are given;     9 For verily I say unto you, they are given for the benefit of those who love me and keep all my commandments, and him that seeketh so to do; that all may be benefited that seek or that ask of me, that ask and not for a sign that they may consume it upon their lusts.  D&C 46:8-9        As I listened to general conference in April, I was impressed by Elder Holland's use of this scripture, so I decided to spend the week pondering its meaning.   One of the first questions that came to my mind was how does seeking the best gifts prevent us from being deceived?  Then I remembered the scripture in 1 Corinthians 12:31 that we should “covet earnestly the best gifts”.  Satan has greater power to deceive us when we turn from seeking Christ and start seeking things of this world.  When Paul uses the word “covet” (meaning to yearn,

    34 These words are not of men nor of man, but of me; wherefore, you shall testify they are of me and not of man;     35 For it is my voice which speaketh them unto you; for they are given by my Spirit unto you, and by my power you can read them one to another; and save it were by my power you could not have them;      36 Wherefore, you can testify that you have heard my voice, and know my words.                                                                                                                                                    D&C 18:34-36 Several years ago someone read this scripture to me and then said that if you want to talk to God then you should pray.  If you want to hear him speak, then read your scriptures.   This advice has helped me multiple times in my life.  When I am desperately seeking inspiration for some specific guidance, then I immediately think about scripture study.  There have been many times as I have been reading and pondering my s