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Increase In Learning: Spiritual Patterns For Obtaining Your Own Answers
Please note: Video segments are not supported on Kindle devices and are therefore not included in the Kindle edition of this ebook.
The overarching purpose of Heavenly Father’s great plan of happiness is to provide His spirit children with opportunities to learn,” writes Elder David A. Bednar of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles. But how can we best learn the things we need to know and do?
Elder Bednar emphasizes concepts, patterns, and processes that invite each of us to act and learn fundamental truths for ourselves. Declaring that answers to our questions always are found in the doctrines and principles of the restored gospel, he provides a framework in this book for learning those doctrines and understanding with our hearts.
240 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 1, 2011
319 people are currently reading
2826 people want to read
About the author
David A. Bednar
16 books208 followersDavid A. Bednar was ordained and set apart as a member of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints on October 7, 2004.
Bednar was born on 15 June 1952, in Oakland, California. His mother came from a long line of Latter-day Saints, but Bednar's father did not join the church until Bednar was in his late twenties. He served as a full-time missionary in Southern Germany and then attended Brigham Young University, where he received a Bachelor of Arts degree in communication in 1976 and a Master of Arts degree in organizational communication in 1977. He then received a Doctorate in organizational behavior from Purdue University in 1980.
From 1980 to 1984, Bednar was the assistant professor of management in the Sam M. Walton College of Business (then College of Business Administration) at the University of Arkansas in Fayetteville, Arkansas. He became assistant professor of management at Texas Tech University from 1984 to 1986. He then moved back to the University of Arkansas as the Associate Dean for Graduate Studies in the Sam M. Walton College of Business from 1987 to 1992 and was then the director of the Management Decision-Making Lab from 1992 to 1997. In 1994, he was recognized as the outstanding teacher at the University of Arkansas and received the Burlington Northern Foundation Award for Excellence in Teaching. He has twice been the recipient of the Outstanding Teacher Award in the College of Business Administration.
Bednar then served as the president of Ricks College/Brigham Young University–Idaho from 1997 to 2004 in Rexburg, Idaho. There, he oversaw and managed the transition of the school from, what was at the time, the largest private junior college in the United States, Ricks College, to a four year university, Brigham Young University-Idaho.
Bednar married Susan Kae Robinson in the Salt Lake Temple on 20 March 1975. They are the parents of three sons.
His publications have appeared in Labor and Industrial Relations Review, Academy of Management Review, Human Relations, Quality Progress, Quality Management Journal, Cornell Research Quarterly, National Productivity Review, The Journal of Retail Banking Services, The Journal of Business Communication, The Journal of Business Education, and other journals.
from http://lds.org/church/leader/david-a-...
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/David_A....
http://www.byui.edu/president/presbio...
Bednar was born on 15 June 1952, in Oakland, California. His mother came from a long line of Latter-day Saints, but Bednar's father did not join the church until Bednar was in his late twenties. He served as a full-time missionary in Southern Germany and then attended Brigham Young University, where he received a Bachelor of Arts degree in communication in 1976 and a Master of Arts degree in organizational communication in 1977. He then received a Doctorate in organizational behavior from Purdue University in 1980.
From 1980 to 1984, Bednar was the assistant professor of management in the Sam M. Walton College of Business (then College of Business Administration) at the University of Arkansas in Fayetteville, Arkansas. He became assistant professor of management at Texas Tech University from 1984 to 1986. He then moved back to the University of Arkansas as the Associate Dean for Graduate Studies in the Sam M. Walton College of Business from 1987 to 1992 and was then the director of the Management Decision-Making Lab from 1992 to 1997. In 1994, he was recognized as the outstanding teacher at the University of Arkansas and received the Burlington Northern Foundation Award for Excellence in Teaching. He has twice been the recipient of the Outstanding Teacher Award in the College of Business Administration.
Bednar then served as the president of Ricks College/Brigham Young University–Idaho from 1997 to 2004 in Rexburg, Idaho. There, he oversaw and managed the transition of the school from, what was at the time, the largest private junior college in the United States, Ricks College, to a four year university, Brigham Young University-Idaho.
Bednar married Susan Kae Robinson in the Salt Lake Temple on 20 March 1975. They are the parents of three sons.
His publications have appeared in Labor and Industrial Relations Review, Academy of Management Review, Human Relations, Quality Progress, Quality Management Journal, Cornell Research Quarterly, National Productivity Review, The Journal of Retail Banking Services, The Journal of Business Communication, The Journal of Business Education, and other journals.
from http://lds.org/church/leader/david-a-...
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/David_A....
http://www.byui.edu/president/presbio...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 344 reviews
August 21, 2013
I like Elder Bednar, of course. My father in law gave me this book because it was gifted to him for Christmas and he started reading it, then decided it was way over his head so he gave it to me.
I don't think it's actually way over anybody's head, it's just not going to be interesting for everyone.
My issue with this book is that it was 4 very short chapters, then at the end of each chapter there is a whole bunch of additional reading material comprised of conference talks and scripture, all of which is freely available for no charge online. YOU DON'T NEED TO READ THIS BOOK! Just study Elder Bednars conference talks and you got it.
And that is my issue with Deseret Book. They are really starting to rub me the wrong way. I would love to have a question-answer session with Sherri Dew. I don't understand taking a conference talk and binding it in a pretty book, then selling it for$20. But I guess they aren't forcing anyone to waste money, people can spend their dollars how they want.
As for the book, it was a good read.
I don't think it's actually way over anybody's head, it's just not going to be interesting for everyone.
My issue with this book is that it was 4 very short chapters, then at the end of each chapter there is a whole bunch of additional reading material comprised of conference talks and scripture, all of which is freely available for no charge online. YOU DON'T NEED TO READ THIS BOOK! Just study Elder Bednars conference talks and you got it.
And that is my issue with Deseret Book. They are really starting to rub me the wrong way. I would love to have a question-answer session with Sherri Dew. I don't understand taking a conference talk and binding it in a pretty book, then selling it for$20. But I guess they aren't forcing anyone to waste money, people can spend their dollars how they want.
As for the book, it was a good read.
September 3, 2023
This book was on my to read list for 12 years. I tried to read it when it first came out and just couldn't-too much effort required, from having to go online and find videos and read a bunch of "extra" talks. I decided to tackle it again this year and take it slow. It took me 8 months but I sure learned a lot. It did require effort and pondering but Elder Bednar is a master teacher and I'm glad I finally finished it.
March 8, 2014
Very few books have struck such a harmonious chord within me. I love learning. I love learning about learning. I secretly packed inspirational and like books with me all through my collegiate years. I would snack on math and then sneak off somewhere to feast on a book from the brethren. Little did I know what was in store for me later in life... Learning is uniquely personal- we all learn in different ways. This book is inspired. It's timing is inspired. Its content is inspired. It has added kindling to a smoldering desire within to do exactly what the title states. I urge anyone to get their own copy. The value far outweighs the cost.
July 8, 2012
If I could, I would give this book 10 stars. It's fabulous. And it's not even because of what's written in it, necessarily. It's the principles and doctrines Elder Bednar teaches. This book is all about learning for yourself, being spiritually and physically self-reliant, and focusing on doctrines and principles to change behavior. I think the most inspiring part of this book for me is the framework he gives for solving problems, helping others and ourselves to change behaviors and habits. He uses questions like, "What doctrines and principles, if understood, would help me to become more charitable?" or "What doctrines and principle, if understood, would help me become a better wife and mother?". I've been studying and approaching my goals like this lately, and it really has changed my approach. It's helped me so much. I look forward to using this framework to teach our children and in any callings and responsibilities I have in the gospel. I totally, 100% recommend a serious study of this book and applying the things Elder Bednar is trying to teach. I also have to say, the best part of this book for me is the DVD that comes with it. It's a fantastic reference. I just love Elder Bednar.
January 18, 2012
Elder Bednar truly has a gift for taking seemingly disparate strands of the gospel and weaving them together into an inspiring tapestry.
Each of the four chapters in this book builds on the last. While the basic concepts can be stated fairly simply, each provides a wealth of possibilities for personal study and contemplation.
The first chapter, "An Individual Responsibility to Learn" focuses on the gospel truth that we are to be agents to act for ourselves and not objects to be acted upon. In other words, don't wait passively for light and knowledge; actively *do* something to gain it. The spiritual power that comes when we even begin to grasp this truth is formidable. As Elder Bednar states, "The ultimate responsibility for developing spiritual strength and stamina rests upon each and every member of the Church."
Chapter Two, "Knowledge, Understanding, and Intelligence," describes a progression of our comprehension of truth. As Elder Bednar defines the terms, knowledge is simply "facts, information, and abilities obtained through experience or education." Understanding is what happens when we receive a spiritual witness of the truths we already have knowledge of, and is specifically linked to our hearts, not our minds. Finally, intelligence is "the righteous application of knowledge and understanding in action and judgment" or putting it into action. This chapter includes many scriptural verses that bear these definitions out.
In Chapter Three, "Prayerful Inquiry: Asking, Seeking, and Knocking," Elder Bednar talks about the three-fold process of inquiring of the Lord. He emphasizes the importance of faith, persistence and patience, and discernment throughout this process.
The final chapter, "Doctrines, Principles, and Applications: A Framework for Gospel Learning," provides a unique and helpful structure for approaching gospel learning by delineating between the often overlapping categories of doctrines, principles, and applications. Elder Bednar cautions against spending a disproportionate amount of focus and energy on the applications, which is where many members of the Church spend most of their time, to the neglect of the important doctrines and principles. Utilizing this framework can help learners comprehend the gospel as the interrelated whole that it is rather than as separate, distinct, and unrelated parts.
The material on the DVD includes a conversation in a classroom setting with about 30 young adults and an interview with both Elder and Sister Bednar by Sheri Dew. I especially appreciated Sister Bednar's inclusion in the interview and her insights on learning and teaching.
This book provides simple, yet powerful instruction on how to learn and, most importantly, how to become more spiritually self-reliant.
So with this glowing review you might wonder why I only gave this book three stars. After each chapter several "related readings" are included. These related readings include eight of Elder Bednar's General conference talks, three additional articles he's written for the Ensign, and a CES fireside he gave in February of 2007, as well as a complete reprinting of four chapters of scripture. In addition, one of the four chapters is mostly comprised of portions of another General Conference talk he gave and two of the other chapters have significant chunks of two other Ensign articles. In all, at least two-thirds of this 200-page book is either directly reprinted or indirectly reworked (though often word-for-word) from other sources available for free online. I can't bring myself to give four or five stars to a $27 book that is less than one-third new material, regardless of how good the new material and restructuring is.
* Disclosure: I received a review copy from the publisher.
For more book reviews, come visit my blog, Build Enough Bookshelves.
Each of the four chapters in this book builds on the last. While the basic concepts can be stated fairly simply, each provides a wealth of possibilities for personal study and contemplation.
The first chapter, "An Individual Responsibility to Learn" focuses on the gospel truth that we are to be agents to act for ourselves and not objects to be acted upon. In other words, don't wait passively for light and knowledge; actively *do* something to gain it. The spiritual power that comes when we even begin to grasp this truth is formidable. As Elder Bednar states, "The ultimate responsibility for developing spiritual strength and stamina rests upon each and every member of the Church."
Chapter Two, "Knowledge, Understanding, and Intelligence," describes a progression of our comprehension of truth. As Elder Bednar defines the terms, knowledge is simply "facts, information, and abilities obtained through experience or education." Understanding is what happens when we receive a spiritual witness of the truths we already have knowledge of, and is specifically linked to our hearts, not our minds. Finally, intelligence is "the righteous application of knowledge and understanding in action and judgment" or putting it into action. This chapter includes many scriptural verses that bear these definitions out.
In Chapter Three, "Prayerful Inquiry: Asking, Seeking, and Knocking," Elder Bednar talks about the three-fold process of inquiring of the Lord. He emphasizes the importance of faith, persistence and patience, and discernment throughout this process.
The final chapter, "Doctrines, Principles, and Applications: A Framework for Gospel Learning," provides a unique and helpful structure for approaching gospel learning by delineating between the often overlapping categories of doctrines, principles, and applications. Elder Bednar cautions against spending a disproportionate amount of focus and energy on the applications, which is where many members of the Church spend most of their time, to the neglect of the important doctrines and principles. Utilizing this framework can help learners comprehend the gospel as the interrelated whole that it is rather than as separate, distinct, and unrelated parts.
The material on the DVD includes a conversation in a classroom setting with about 30 young adults and an interview with both Elder and Sister Bednar by Sheri Dew. I especially appreciated Sister Bednar's inclusion in the interview and her insights on learning and teaching.
This book provides simple, yet powerful instruction on how to learn and, most importantly, how to become more spiritually self-reliant.
So with this glowing review you might wonder why I only gave this book three stars. After each chapter several "related readings" are included. These related readings include eight of Elder Bednar's General conference talks, three additional articles he's written for the Ensign, and a CES fireside he gave in February of 2007, as well as a complete reprinting of four chapters of scripture. In addition, one of the four chapters is mostly comprised of portions of another General Conference talk he gave and two of the other chapters have significant chunks of two other Ensign articles. In all, at least two-thirds of this 200-page book is either directly reprinted or indirectly reworked (though often word-for-word) from other sources available for free online. I can't bring myself to give four or five stars to a $27 book that is less than one-third new material, regardless of how good the new material and restructuring is.
* Disclosure: I received a review copy from the publisher.
For more book reviews, come visit my blog, Build Enough Bookshelves.
February 18, 2014
I love the way Elder Bednar thinks and his desire to learn and understand. This book is not one of stories, but of answers to why we learn how to more fully increase in knowlege and understanding. His insights were enlightening and the talks included in this book (there are several for each chapter) are great resources of additional information. I loved the questions at the end of each chapter and area for notes on each page. I feel I got so much more out of this book because of the time I took to ponder and record my thoughts in it. I especially loved his insight into the differences between knowledge, understanding, and intelligence...how understanding in the scriptrues is connected with the heart (to understand, we must feel truth) and intelligence is truth in action (intelligent people are christlike people). This is a book I will refer back to and am excited to watch the dvd that came with it (a q&a discussion with Elder Bednar).
March 7, 2012
I really liked this book. It is a little difficult to read, I think, if you just want to read it like a novel or something--it's not designed for that and it doesn't talk about things you can read in that way. I kept notes as I read. I didn't use the DVD, nor did I read every single "additional reading" for each chapter. Rather, I read the chapters, and if the heading or introduction of an additional reading caught my attention I read through it. I feel it made me a better student, for sure. Some of the practices I had employed before, but hadn't made consistent use of. I would recommend it for anyone looking to improve as a student, teacher, parent, or just person. (We should be studying always.)
One more thing, I really liked it because Bednar tells you clearly what he thinks about how to increase in learning, but I never felt guilty for not doing these things before; rather, I felt more capable of doing them.
One more thing, I really liked it because Bednar tells you clearly what he thinks about how to increase in learning, but I never felt guilty for not doing these things before; rather, I felt more capable of doing them.
January 10, 2021
2020-2021: Currently rereading and discussing with my sister.
2013:
This book really has got me to reflect on my own study and prayer.
I love the questions that you are supposed to ask yourself and all of the extras: DVD and online.
I loved having all of the study material (even if you can get it free on the web) in the book so that I could underline and take notes all in one place. I love the bright white and thick paper used, it is perfect for note taking and re-reading.
2013:
This book really has got me to reflect on my own study and prayer.
I love the questions that you are supposed to ask yourself and all of the extras: DVD and online.
I loved having all of the study material (even if you can get it free on the web) in the book so that I could underline and take notes all in one place. I love the bright white and thick paper used, it is perfect for note taking and re-reading.
March 14, 2017
This definitely had me thinking deep and long about what I am doing in my life and how I can do better.
Popsugar 2017: a book written by someone you admire
Popsugar 2017: a book written by someone you admire
June 30, 2024
What a powerful book! It's difficult to write this review because I want to give it all away, not that I think Elder Bednar would necessarily mind that, but because I try not to give things away in my reviews. Besides from what the cover says, learning our answers is the most important thing, not being told them.
April 26, 2020
I love how this book is set up to help you study and ponder instead of just read. I had some good learnings as I went through and found good principles that will help me with further study.
July 7, 2025
I don't think there's anything of Bednars that I haven't enjoyed.
July 31, 2012
This book was amazing. Elder Bednar wrote it to help people gain a better understanding about how to gain answers for ourselves, through the spirit, on any subject.
The book comes with a DVD inside, where he discusses some of the concepts of the book with a group of college students who read an advanced copy of the book.
This book opened my eyes in new ways. It's hard to express the ways that I was changed by this book. However, there were a few themes that I thought were very powerful. I'll share a few quotes to express the different themes.
The first theme I liked was that learning how to learn is one of the most important things we can learn.
"The prophet Joseph Smith was the greatest learner in the dispensation of the fullness of times." p. 5
"The religion embraced by the Latter-day Saints, if only slightly understood, prompts them to search diligently after knowledge. There is no other people in existence more eager to see, hear, learn, and understand truth." - Brigham Young p. 9
"We might ask, when shall we cease to learn? I will give you my opinion about it: never, never." - Brigham Young p. 10
"None of us can assume that he has learned enough. As the door closes on one phase of life, it opens on another, where we must continue to pursue knowledge. Ours ought to be a ceaseless quest for truth." - Gordon B. Hinckley p. 12
"Intelligence is the righteous application of knowledge and understanding in action and judgment." p. 70
The second them I pulled out was the importance of seeking to become something greater, ultimately to become like our Heavenly Father.
"our individual responsibility is to learn what we should learn, to live as we know we should live, and to become what the Master would have us become." p. 1
"Gospel doctrines are eternal, do not change, and pertain to the eternal progression and exaltation of Heavenly Father's sons and daughters." p. 151
"The process of putting off the natural man is initiated by yielding to the enticings of the Holy Spirit." p. 19
"The learning for which the Church stands... is the application of knowledge to the development of a noble and Godlike character." - David O. Mckay p. 73
"Simply knowing about the doctrines of salvation is not sufficient. Rather, each of us should strive to become like Ammon and his missionary companions and have the power of the word in us." p. 173
"In contrast to the institutions of the world, which teach us to know something, the gospel of Jesus Christ challenges us to become something." p. 188
The third theme I picked out, was how to learn from the spirit.
"I personally do not know of a principle more central, important, or essential to spiritual learning than the principle of acting as agents and not being acted upon as objects." p. xii
"attempting to understand a doctrine or principle by examining a single scripture or prophetic statement in isolation from all else that has been revealed on the subject is generally misguided." p. xiii
"A hierarchy of importance exists among the things you and I can learn. Indeed, all information and knowledge are not equally important." p. 63
"Inquire is an action word that denotes asking, requesting, petitioning, soliciting, investigating and exploring...Thus, inquiring of the Lord includes asking, but asking alone is not all that is involved in inquiring." p. 102
"Diligently searching to discover connections, patterns and themes is part of what it means to 'feast' upon the words of Christ." p. 131
"Do not be too concerned or worried about quickly finding the right answer. Rather, focus upon asking the right questions." p. 161
The final theme I picked out was about how to make your prayers more meaningful.
"The object of our prayerful inquiry should not be to present a wish list or a series of requests or demands, but to secure for ourselves and for others blessings that God is eager to bestow, according to His will and timing." p. 112
"Simply saying the words, 'Thy will be done' is not enough. Each of us needs God's help in surrendering our will to Him." p. 114
"The most meaningful and spiritual prayers I have experienced contained many expressions of thanks and few, if any, requests." p.124
"praying earnestly for others, both those whom we love and those who despitefully use us, is also an important element of meaningful prayer." p. 125
These themes were not necessarily the way the information was organized in the book. I think they were more the things that I needed to learn. I imagine I will pull different themes out next time I read it. This is definitely a book I will want to study again in the future.
The book comes with a DVD inside, where he discusses some of the concepts of the book with a group of college students who read an advanced copy of the book.
This book opened my eyes in new ways. It's hard to express the ways that I was changed by this book. However, there were a few themes that I thought were very powerful. I'll share a few quotes to express the different themes.
The first theme I liked was that learning how to learn is one of the most important things we can learn.
"The prophet Joseph Smith was the greatest learner in the dispensation of the fullness of times." p. 5
"The religion embraced by the Latter-day Saints, if only slightly understood, prompts them to search diligently after knowledge. There is no other people in existence more eager to see, hear, learn, and understand truth." - Brigham Young p. 9
"We might ask, when shall we cease to learn? I will give you my opinion about it: never, never." - Brigham Young p. 10
"None of us can assume that he has learned enough. As the door closes on one phase of life, it opens on another, where we must continue to pursue knowledge. Ours ought to be a ceaseless quest for truth." - Gordon B. Hinckley p. 12
"Intelligence is the righteous application of knowledge and understanding in action and judgment." p. 70
The second them I pulled out was the importance of seeking to become something greater, ultimately to become like our Heavenly Father.
"our individual responsibility is to learn what we should learn, to live as we know we should live, and to become what the Master would have us become." p. 1
"Gospel doctrines are eternal, do not change, and pertain to the eternal progression and exaltation of Heavenly Father's sons and daughters." p. 151
"The process of putting off the natural man is initiated by yielding to the enticings of the Holy Spirit." p. 19
"The learning for which the Church stands... is the application of knowledge to the development of a noble and Godlike character." - David O. Mckay p. 73
"Simply knowing about the doctrines of salvation is not sufficient. Rather, each of us should strive to become like Ammon and his missionary companions and have the power of the word in us." p. 173
"In contrast to the institutions of the world, which teach us to know something, the gospel of Jesus Christ challenges us to become something." p. 188
The third theme I picked out, was how to learn from the spirit.
"I personally do not know of a principle more central, important, or essential to spiritual learning than the principle of acting as agents and not being acted upon as objects." p. xii
"attempting to understand a doctrine or principle by examining a single scripture or prophetic statement in isolation from all else that has been revealed on the subject is generally misguided." p. xiii
"A hierarchy of importance exists among the things you and I can learn. Indeed, all information and knowledge are not equally important." p. 63
"Inquire is an action word that denotes asking, requesting, petitioning, soliciting, investigating and exploring...Thus, inquiring of the Lord includes asking, but asking alone is not all that is involved in inquiring." p. 102
"Diligently searching to discover connections, patterns and themes is part of what it means to 'feast' upon the words of Christ." p. 131
"Do not be too concerned or worried about quickly finding the right answer. Rather, focus upon asking the right questions." p. 161
The final theme I picked out was about how to make your prayers more meaningful.
"The object of our prayerful inquiry should not be to present a wish list or a series of requests or demands, but to secure for ourselves and for others blessings that God is eager to bestow, according to His will and timing." p. 112
"Simply saying the words, 'Thy will be done' is not enough. Each of us needs God's help in surrendering our will to Him." p. 114
"The most meaningful and spiritual prayers I have experienced contained many expressions of thanks and few, if any, requests." p.124
"praying earnestly for others, both those whom we love and those who despitefully use us, is also an important element of meaningful prayer." p. 125
These themes were not necessarily the way the information was organized in the book. I think they were more the things that I needed to learn. I imagine I will pull different themes out next time I read it. This is definitely a book I will want to study again in the future.
May 7, 2020
This is spiritual learning simplified.
September 27, 2021
This is an excellent STUDY book! It is not something you can just passively read, you have to study and think about what he is teaching to get the most out of it. That being said, it took me a while to read it. The whole idea that we are responsible for our own increase in learning really resonates with me! I particularly loved chapter 2: Knowledge, Understanding, and Intelligence. Differentiating between these 3 was helpful to me. I also loved the talks he put in for additional study at the end of the chapters. It's a lot to take in all at once, and I could easily refer back to this time and time again.
January 15, 2016
This book took me forever to read!
I didn't even read it the way Elder Bednar wants you to read it. In the preface he writes:
"This volume is not intended to be a quick, casual, or relaxing read.
...As you progress through the chapters you will need to read, study, ponder, search, ask, knock, record thoughts and feelings, link, connect, revise, rethink, ask again, start again, and most important act.
For this reason the book is formatted with extra wide margins and blank pages in the back so you can make notes, jot down impressions, and record questions that will facilitate your acting and learning. Experiencing this book will require diligent work and sustained commitment."
Some parts of the book were really boring, so I skim read those parts.
My favorite parts of the book actually came from talks that you can get online. I took the most notes from these talks and I would give each of these talks 5 stars:
*Quick to Observe (Ensign, December 2006, 30-36)
*Pray Always (Ensign 2008, 41-44)
*A Reservoir of Living Water (CES Fireside Feb 2007)
I didn't watch the DVD that the book comes with.
The book is made up of 4 short chapters. After each chapter there are some "related readings." It's a pretty pricy book ($26.99) for a book that mostly consists of reprinted talks that you can get for FREE online.
For your convenience, here is what is included in each "related readings" section:
Related Readings for Chapter 1
*A copy of 1 Nephi, Chapters 11-14
*That We May Always Have His Spirit to Be with Us (Ensign, May 2006, 28-31)
*Receive the Holy Ghost (Ensign, November 2010, 94-97)
*Quick to Observe (Ensign, December 2006, 30-36)
Related Readings for Chapter 2
*Ye Must Be Born Again (Ensign, May 2007, 19-22)
*Clean Hands and a Pure Heart (Ensign, November 2007, 80-83
*Watching with All Perseverance (Ensign, May 2010, 40-43)
Related Readings for Chapter 3
*Pray Always (Ensign, November 2008, 41-44)
*A Reservoir of Living Water (CES Fireside, February 4, 2007)
*The Spirit of Revelation (Ensign, May 2011, 87-90
Related Readings for Chapter 4
*Marriage is Essential to His Eternal Plan (Ensign, June 2006, 82-87)
*Becoming a Missionary (Ensign, November 2005, 44-47)
*Things as They Really Are (Ensign, June 2010, 16-25)
I didn't even read it the way Elder Bednar wants you to read it. In the preface he writes:
"This volume is not intended to be a quick, casual, or relaxing read.
...As you progress through the chapters you will need to read, study, ponder, search, ask, knock, record thoughts and feelings, link, connect, revise, rethink, ask again, start again, and most important act.
For this reason the book is formatted with extra wide margins and blank pages in the back so you can make notes, jot down impressions, and record questions that will facilitate your acting and learning. Experiencing this book will require diligent work and sustained commitment."
Some parts of the book were really boring, so I skim read those parts.
My favorite parts of the book actually came from talks that you can get online. I took the most notes from these talks and I would give each of these talks 5 stars:
*Quick to Observe (Ensign, December 2006, 30-36)
*Pray Always (Ensign 2008, 41-44)
*A Reservoir of Living Water (CES Fireside Feb 2007)
I didn't watch the DVD that the book comes with.
The book is made up of 4 short chapters. After each chapter there are some "related readings." It's a pretty pricy book ($26.99) for a book that mostly consists of reprinted talks that you can get for FREE online.
For your convenience, here is what is included in each "related readings" section:
Related Readings for Chapter 1
*A copy of 1 Nephi, Chapters 11-14
*That We May Always Have His Spirit to Be with Us (Ensign, May 2006, 28-31)
*Receive the Holy Ghost (Ensign, November 2010, 94-97)
*Quick to Observe (Ensign, December 2006, 30-36)
Related Readings for Chapter 2
*Ye Must Be Born Again (Ensign, May 2007, 19-22)
*Clean Hands and a Pure Heart (Ensign, November 2007, 80-83
*Watching with All Perseverance (Ensign, May 2010, 40-43)
Related Readings for Chapter 3
*Pray Always (Ensign, November 2008, 41-44)
*A Reservoir of Living Water (CES Fireside, February 4, 2007)
*The Spirit of Revelation (Ensign, May 2011, 87-90
Related Readings for Chapter 4
*Marriage is Essential to His Eternal Plan (Ensign, June 2006, 82-87)
*Becoming a Missionary (Ensign, November 2005, 44-47)
*Things as They Really Are (Ensign, June 2010, 16-25)
April 2, 2012
This is a book that needs to be studied and applied to life to be of true worthwhile. So I have been studying. I have also been participating in an online book club discussion about the book sponsored by Deseret Books. Each time I read the section up next for discussion with the online book club, I end up taking more notes even though my only intent has been to just refresh the week's topic of discussion. I suspect that I will soon be indicating I've read/studied the last page of this book, I will not be done with it for quite some time as this book is continually giving me more food for thought. The online book club discussion is also giving me more food for thought and more incentive and need to go back through the book again.
I am not exaggerating when I say this book - or rather following Elder Bednar's counsels in this book - have been trully life-changing. With Elder Bednar's help, I've been broken through something I've been struggling with for nearly a year. I do not think I can ever thank Elder Bednar enough.
I am reading this at the same time I am using the Deseret Bookshelf version.
I am not exaggerating when I say this book - or rather following Elder Bednar's counsels in this book - have been trully life-changing. With Elder Bednar's help, I've been broken through something I've been struggling with for nearly a year. I do not think I can ever thank Elder Bednar enough.
I am reading this at the same time I am using the Deseret Bookshelf version.
December 28, 2014
I'd been wanting to read Increase in Learning for some time, and finally checked out a digital copy from the library on the day I was asked to give a talk on the subject of applying the scriptures in daily life. I had no clue what to talk about, until I read the preface of Increase in Learning. Elder Bednar states not to read the book lightly, and thus I studied it as best as I could. I learned a lot. I didn't just learn how to increase in learning, but much more importantly, I learned how to apply the things I've learned.
What spoke to me most, I think, is the structure of lessons that come in threes:
Knowledge, understanding, and intelligence.
Inquire, seek, and knock.
Doctrines, principles, and applications.
I look forward to studying Elder Bednar's second book, Act in Doctrine, this time not for a talk, but just for me!
What spoke to me most, I think, is the structure of lessons that come in threes:
Knowledge, understanding, and intelligence.
Inquire, seek, and knock.
Doctrines, principles, and applications.
I look forward to studying Elder Bednar's second book, Act in Doctrine, this time not for a talk, but just for me!
February 16, 2016
Increase in Learning takes you on a very In depth spiritual journey where we can all reflect where our testimony of the gospel lies. I really enjoyed all of the video segments that Elder Bednar did with a religion class he was teaching at the time. I love how he wants us to go find the answers we have to the questions we ask, because instead of him giving us all the answers to the universe so to speak he wants to increase our learning by study and also by pray that in turn our faith and testimony will grow because we are the ones who took the journey. I also felt that it was a great opportunity to study the scripture references that were in the book. By reading all of the scripture references I was able to increase my learning and understanding of questions that I have. I really loved this book from start to finish!!! I highly recommend this book!
April 25, 2025
I’ve never taken so many notes on a book before! It’s all so good that I don’t even know where to start. This gave me so much more clarity on the purpose of the Church and my role as an agent to act in my own salvation. It gave me an even deeper appreciation for the gift of the Holy Ghost and the importance of having the spirit with me always.
Totally separate from picking up this book, I’ve been considering a common homeschooling suggestion to create a purpose statement for your own homeschool. When I read this gem: “To learn truth, to love truth, and to live according to truth.” I knew I’d found mine. Thanks Elder Bednar for that fantastic phrasing and for making ”truth” so meaningful to me!
Totally separate from picking up this book, I’ve been considering a common homeschooling suggestion to create a purpose statement for your own homeschool. When I read this gem: “To learn truth, to love truth, and to live according to truth.” I knew I’d found mine. Thanks Elder Bednar for that fantastic phrasing and for making ”truth” so meaningful to me!
December 22, 2011
At first I didn't care for this book. With all the hype, I wasn't digging the first chapter or even the related readings. But as I delved deeper and really let myself get into this book, I loved every minute reading this book. It is incredibly insightful and eye opening. It helped me realize some things I need to do better with. This is not a book that will give you ideas and suggestions on how to do things, but instead prompts you to do them yourself and find out how to do them yourself. The related readings were amazing and helped support Bednar's ideas.
This is truly an amazing book and one that will change how you study not only the gospel but everything around you.
This is truly an amazing book and one that will change how you study not only the gospel but everything around you.
May 14, 2012
This is an amazing book! Elder Bednar has an amazing gift for teaching... He is a master at giving you enough information to find your own answer without denying you the learning experience of finding the answer for yourself. The videos were an added bonus!
My favorite chapter was on knowledge, understanding, and intelligence. For any who have ever heard me teach the Stickman principle, I felt like this chapter took it even deeper!
I felt like this book got me thinking on a deeper level about doctrines and principles... My desire for learning in every area of my life increased as I read and studied this book!
My favorite chapter was on knowledge, understanding, and intelligence. For any who have ever heard me teach the Stickman principle, I felt like this chapter took it even deeper!
I felt like this book got me thinking on a deeper level about doctrines and principles... My desire for learning in every area of my life increased as I read and studied this book!
September 6, 2013
I have always enjoyed the things Elder Bednar has said over the pulpit and so I was very excited to pick up one of his books. A lot of what was written is things that have already been published either through BYU speeches, General Conference, or other articles of the ensign. That being said, I still recommend reading this book, even if you are already familiar with a lot of his work. He adds many ideas and has sections where you can apply the teaching more deeply into your personal life. Included is a DVD that will enhance some of the thoughts he shares. The main message of the book is how you can get more out of your scripture study, which I feel all of us need to learn.
November 7, 2012
David Bednar expressed reservations about his ability to convey his message in a book format; spiritual learning is a process that has to be discovered and experienced, not just taught. At first some of the deeper principles he explores seem too simple, but take on depth when you really think. I finished reading the text, the included further readings (talks and articles given over the past years by Elder Bednar), and watched all the video segments, but I'm still not "finished" with this book. I need to do more pondering and writing about it.
4.5 stars.
4.5 stars.
May 11, 2012
This book was not what I expected. However, I learned more than I thought I would. While reading the book I felt a bit lost. After watching the DVD that comes with it I understood what Elder Bednar was trying to do with this book, and I appreciate it. I have already incorporated a lot of his teachings into my personal life. It's a life changing book with plenty of opportunities to be taught, personally, by the Holy Ghost.
ps- I didn't read the Kindle edition. It was the actual hard copy.
pps- It really helped me to read the book first then watch the DVD segments.
ps- I didn't read the Kindle edition. It was the actual hard copy.
pps- It really helped me to read the book first then watch the DVD segments.
March 17, 2014
Elder Bednar has written a masterful book that has helped me understand why we learn as much as how. I will definitely read it again and refer to it often. His definition of intelligence as applying knowledge to become a more obedient son or daughter of God has caused me to evaluate how I use the information I gain as I read. I recommend this to any serious student of the gospel.
July 25, 2016
This is not passive reading. Comes with a DVD that corresponds to and expands on different chapters. Even the margins were intentionally widened for note-taking. Closer to a college seminary class than the typical, expected collection of nice platitudes. Easily one of the best LDS books I've ever read.
January 30, 2015
This is GREAT book! There are so many wonderful little nuggets of information and inspiration I am going to have to read this many, many times to truly grasp them all. I am excited to apply these tools and principles to not only my study of the scriptures, but to all of my reading. I highly recommend this for anyone looking to improve their individual scripture study.
April 28, 2016
What a book! This book changed the way I'll think about learning, forever. It also helped me the the difference between doctrines, principles and policies. That will forever change the way I think about the Gospel of Jesus Christ, the restoration of the Gospel, and how God works with us.
April 9, 2022
Freaking awesome, easy 5 stars
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