Moroni warns us in the last chapter of the Book of Mormon to “deny not the power of God” and to “deny not the gifts of God” (Moroni 10:7-8). He then lists a number of gifts we can receive from God and testifies that “every good gift cometh of Christ” (Moroni 10:9-18). On the Title Page, he adds that the Book of Mormon will “come forth by the gift and power of God unto the interpretation thereof.”
Nephi used this same terminology to describe the future translation and publication of the Book of Mormon. (See 1 Nephi 13:35.) Amaleki used the same phrase to describe King Mosiah’s process of translating an ancient Jaredite record. (See Omni 1:20.)
The Restoration Proclamation testifies that “Joseph Smith was given the gift and power of God to translate an ancient record: the Book of Mormon—Another Testament of Jesus Christ.”
It seems clear that the words “gift” and “power” in this phrase are basically synonymous: both refer to capabilities received from God, not earned or developed by Joseph. A gift sounds more permanent, while power has a connotation of immediacy. It sounds like Joseph had a spiritual gift which enabled him to translate ancient records and he received power from God specifically to translate the Book of Mormon into English.
Moroni said “If there be one among you that doeth good, he shall work by the power and gifts of God” (Moroni 10:25). Which makes me think: What spiritual gifts have I been given which I could use to bless other people? And what power is God willing to give me to help me accomplish my immediate goals and assignments?
Today, I will be grateful for God’s gifts and for His power which He shares with His children. I will remember that Joseph Smith translated the Book of Mormon by the gift and power of God. I will also strive to receive His gifts and power, so that I can contribute meaningfully to His work within my sphere of influence.