As you approach your honest investigation of Mormonism with prayer and sincerity, there are some things which could stand in your way. We offer these few suggestions of what to watch for and guard against. We hope it will be helpful.
Do Not Be Afraid
If truth is honestly what you seek, do not be afraid when you find it. Jesus said, "And ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free." (John 8:32) Ask and answer the hard questions, and trust Jesus with the outcome.
Do Not Get Defensive
You may have a strong loyalty to the LDS Church. If you have been a member for a long time, you have likely been cautioned to carry on the "legacy" begun by Mormon pioneers. Therefore, as you study you may begin to feel the need to defend what you have been taught as a Mormon. However, your study is personal and private. You are not required to defend Mormonism. Try to focus on what God is saying to you through His Word without putting up walls of defense against what He is showing you.
Do Not Be Prideful
Having invested much of yourself in the Mormon belief system, your natural inclination may be to protect that investment. Nobody wants to find fault with an organization they have given much to support, nor do they want to discover that they have been wrong. It is human nature to want to "win" the argument; to find we were right all along. This is a time when you must set aside your pride. Don't worry about winning, but instead ask God to allow you to see His truth.
Do Not Rely on Moroni 10:4
The Book of Mormon instructs readers on how to know if it is actually an inspired book from God. (Moroni 10:4) Throughout Mormonism, this "test" has been urged on members for discerning the truthfulness of all sorts of things. Remember, you are questioning Mormonism. Instructions on knowing and discerning truth should come from outside the system, not from within the system you are investigating. Therefore, do not rely on Moroni's Promise, but follow the directives given by God in the Bible. (see God's Tests for Truth)