Ye have not applied your hearts to understanding; therefore, ye have not been wise. (Mosiah 12:27)
Wisdom is not an automatic result of life experience. We acquire it only through diligent effort.
“Do not believe that sheer suffering teaches. If suffering alone taught, all the world would be wise, since everyone suffers. To suffering must be added mourning, understanding, patience, love, openness, and a willingness to remain vulnerable.” – Anne Morrow Lindbergh
What does it mean to apply our hearts to understanding? It is more than simply thinking about the scriptures rationally. It includes a willingness to be taught, which is a willingness to admit that we may be wrong and to change if necessary. It is hard work, since our deepest beliefs are bound tightly with our emotions, and we therefore tend to consider them to be part of our core identity.
It is relatively easy for us to go through the motions of scripture study, prayer, and participation in Church meetings without truly applying our hearts to understanding. We may not even be aware that we are holding back, that we are participating only superficially. But if our goal is to achieve wisdom, we must overcome our inhibitions and dedicate ourselves fully to these pursuits. We must apply our hearts.
Leave a Reply