During 1995, young women in the Church have been encouraged to read the scriptures. In an impressive and inspiring effort, leaders of the Young Women organization challenged the young ladies to "Experiment upon the Word." The leaders hope each young woman who accepts this challenge will have a better understanding of the power of the Lord's teachings.

Can young people undertake a serious reading and pondering of the scriptures? The answer is apparent in the fact that a youth reading the scriptures began this whole dispensation of the fullness of times. Joseph Smith was but 14 when he read James 1:5: "If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him." Young Joseph then "experimented upon the word" by praying for an answer to an important question. The rest, as we are wont to say, is history. (See Joseph Smith-History 1:1-75.)Young people today ought to be encouraged to study the scriptures. While leaders in the Young Women organization have encouraged girls ages 12 to 18 to read, study and apply the scriptures, children of even younger years, and boys, as well as girls, ought to be encouraged to do the same.

President Spencer W. Kimball encouraged all of us to study the scriptures and to make sure that children have their own scriptures to read. He said of the scriptures: "Herein will be found the material for a lifetime of profitable study. One could not possibly, in mortality, learn all about the way of life, consequently these books should be in every home, available for constant reference and reading. Splendid it would be if gifts to children in their early years were book-gifts. How fine if every child could have the New Testament even in early years, and, a little later, his own triple combination of the

Book of Mormon, Doctrine and Covenants, and The Pearl of Great PriceT and also his own Bible." (The Teachings of Spencer W. Kimball, p. 130.)

One important reason for children to begin an early study of the scriptures is that through them they can learn early in life who they are and why they are here on Earth. In these times when so many children have low feelings of self-worth, the knowledge that they are sons and daughters of God is crucial. And just as crucial to these youth is learning what is expected of them as children of God.

Many stories from the scriptures have a strong appeal to youth. For example, an older sister's concern for a baby brother comes across in the story of Miriam watching from a distance as Moses is plucked from a stream. (Ex. 2:1-10.) Boys and girls can be inspired by the young Samuel, who, in answering the Lord's call, said, "Here am I. . . . Speak; for thy servant heareth." (See 1 Sam. 3:1-11.)

On through the Old Testament are stories that encourage youth to be valiant, loyal and calm as opponents, tempters and deceivers come their way. For example, Deborah in her dauntless leadership (Judg. 4-5), Ruth with her unreserved acceptance of the God of Israel (Ruth 1), and Esther in her vital role in saving her people (Esth. 2-7) are commendable role models for youth. Youth love the stories of David's courage in battling Goliath (1 Sam. 17), Daniel's refusal of forbidden food and drink (Dan. 1), Joseph's flight from the enticings of Potipher's wife (Gen. 39) and his willingness to forgive his brothers who sold him into slavery (Gen. 42-45). These stories are timeless reminders for youth to call upon moral reserves as they turn from temptations in today's world.

Children and youth seem to be naturally drawn to the New Testament's stories of the birth of Jesus in Bethlehem, particularly as told by Luke. How many youngsters have taken comfort from the New Testament's several references to the love Jesus has for little children? And how inspired are they to learn of His life and ministry and of the miracles He performed and those that were wrought in His name?

The Book of Mormon is a treasure trove of stories that can not only excite the imagination of youth but also inspire them to goodly works. Among the stories are accounts of faithful Nephi from the time he began his record until he bore his parting testimony (1 Ne. 1-22 and 2 Ne. 1-33); Ammon and his boldness in saving the king's flock and then teaching the king the gospel (Alma 17-18); Captain Moroni and his devotion to God and country (Alma 43-63); Samuel the Lamanite and his courageous preaching to the Nephites (Hel. 13-16); and the brother of Jared and the faith that allowed him to see the Lord. (Ether 3.)

Many great things in the scriptures are waiting to be discovered by young and old alike. The joy is that they may be discovered not just once but over and over again. The challenge leaders issued to young women to study, apply and nurture the word of God is a noble one. Let us join them in continuing this pursuit throughout our lives.