Day 8: Making scripture study more edifying and effective

I read a great talk by Elder Bednar suggesting 5 principles that will help make scripture study more edifying and effective.  He states:

1- Pray for understanding and invite the help of the Holy Ghost
"The things of the Spirit can be learned only by and through the influence of the Spirit.  Each time we begin a session of sincere scripture study, an earnest and humble prayer in which we petition our Heavenly Father in the name of his Son for the assistance of the Holy Ghost will greatly improve our learning, understanding, and recall."

2- Work!
"Gospel knowledge and understanding come through diligent study of the scriptures and tutoring by the Holy Ghost.  The combination that opens the vault door to hidden scriptural treasures includes a great deal of work-simple, old-fashioned, hard work."

3- Be consistent
"Given the hectic pace of our lives, good intentions and simply "hoping" to find the time for meaningful scripture study are not sufficient...specific and scheduled time set aside each day increase the effectiveness of our searching in and study of the scriptures."

4- Ponder
"Asking questions about and pondering the things we have studied in the scriptures invite inspiration and the assistance of the Holy Ghost."

5- Write down impressions, thoughts, and feelings
"Writing down what we learn, think, and feel as we study the scriptures is another form of pondering and a powerful invitation to the Holy Ghost for continuing instruction."  Bednar refers to a quote by Elder Richard G. Scott, "You will find that as you write down precious impressions, often more will come.  Also, the knowledge you gain will be available throughout your life."

Tomorrow's challenge:  apply the 5 principles to my scripture study