Big exam coming up soon - fast before or during?

[pam]

I guess we are just going to differ on this. I see differences in the circumstances.

I see it as God giving us the strength and the open mindedness to remember that which we have studied. You see it as an intervention even in that.

I see how people can see that in different ways. But to me, if praying and fasting gives someone comfort in those things, then by all means do it.

[Gwen]

from “Lesson 9: The Power of Personal Prayer,” Preparing for Exaltation: Teacher’s Manual, 44 LDS.org - Sunday School Chapter Detail - The Power of Personal Prayer

Ask a class member to read the following story:

Andy never did as well in school as he knew he could. He got nervous when he took tests. Even when he studied and felt confident about his knowledge of the information that would be on a test, he seemed to forget it all as soon as he got the test. He discussed the problem with his father. His father suggested that, after careful study and before taking his tests, he pray for help to recall what he had studied.

Scripture discussion

• • Why is it appropriate to pray for help with tests and other things that might not seem important spiritually?

After class members have discussed answers to this question, have them read Alma 34:20–27. Point out that the words “cry unto the Lord” refer to our prayers to Heavenly Father. Note Amulek’s counsel to pray for temporal things, such as fields and flocks, in addition to spiritual things.

• • After we pray for help, what should we do?

Explain that like Andy in the story, we should not simply wait to be blessed; we should work toward receiving the blessings we have prayed for.

Testify that Heavenly Father always hears our prayers—even about small things and even if we feel unworthy.

sorry snow, i think i will accept the church's approved lesson manuals over your personal opinion.

[Gwen]

to keep with the principle of more than one witness....

Gregg Luke, “Blessed for the Test,” NewEra, Apr 2009, 48–49 LDS.org - New Era Article - Blessed for the Test

“Idea List: How to Be a Better Student,” New Era, Nov 2004, 25 - make note of the 9th suggestion LDS.org - New Era Article - Idea List: How to Be a Better Student

“Idea List: Learning Matters,” New Era, Nov 2002, 9 - make note of the second suggestion LDS.org - New Era Article - Idea List: Learning Matters

and just to make snow happy, yes we don't always get the answer we want... doesn't mean it was wrong to ask in the first place...... Katherine Strang, “All That Work for Nothing,” New Era, Sep 1992, 60 LDS.org - New Era Article - All That Work for Nothing

[Superbaldguy]

My request has generated some interesting discussion.

My petitions are simply for the enhanced ability for recall, I don't expect the Lord to give me the chance to score 95% or something crazy like that, I only need 70%. That, in itself, could prove to be a challenge as exam writing is rarely done when you are over 25 years old.

I intend to fast before the exam, not sure what would be the best timing. I also feel a Priesthood blessing would be helpful from my Home Teachers.

[Elgama]

Good Luck you know your own abilities and go with your gut - I have had supernatural help in exams because ultimately if the Lord's will is you will get 95% and you are receptive have done your best he'll help with the rest