Lessons from the Writings of Mormon – Part 1

So far this year, I’ve studied all of the chapters of the Book of Mormon which were written by the prophet Mormon. Here are some of the lessons I’ve learned as I’ve studied Mormon’s words, grouped into categories:

Leadership

• An effective leader consults with others and accepts feedback graciously. He or she understands the importance of counseling with other people in making difficult decisions.
• An effective leader sets priorities based on righteous motives, addresses the root cause of problems that arise, and prepares continually for the future.
• Effective leaders are steady and are not easily intimidated.
• Effective leaders are more concerned about the welfare of the people they lead than about achieving specific objectives. They diligently serve the people they lead, including working alongside them, instead of expecting the people to serve them. They make assignments and delegate duties to others, but they also personally fulfill the duties which they cannot delegate.
• Effective leaders learn from their failures, understand their limitations, and respect the voice of the people and the rule of law.
• They hold themselves and others accountable, and uphold a high standard of integrity.

Acquiring Spiritual Knowledge

• If we harden our hearts and choose not to believe, we will not understand the truth. If we reject the truth, it becomes harder for us to accept it in the future.
• We can open our hearts to the truth by asking sincere questions in prayer. We need to ask specific questions about the challenges we face and listen for answers.
• It is important to acknowledge what we don’t know and to build on the knowledge we have already received.
• Our testimonies may rely upon multiple types of evidence. It is important to honestly evaluate the evidence we encounter in order to avoid rejecting truth. In particular, we need to recognize the good around us and act upon the evidence we have received. Sometimes, we need to act without having complete knowledge. When we choose to believe, we can receive the Holy Ghost.
• We need to study, ponder, and internalize the truths taught in the scriptures. Pondering in particular can help us to maintain an eternal perspective.
• The Holy Ghost can teach us things which we can learn in no other way. The Holy Ghost speaks with a voice of mildness. We need to pray for the companionship of the Holy Ghost.
• Sometimes spiritual experiences are cumulative. When we receive knowledge, we ought to ask, “Is there more?“