The Melchizedek Priesthood enables us to have the heavens opened to us. Numerous visions in the scriptures are described as the heavens being opened, but it can also happen in more quiet, personal ways, enabling us to receive knowledge, commune with God, and participate in His miraculous work.
Principles of Priesthood Power from Doctrine and Covenants 107
Four principles for receiving and exercising priesthood power. 1. The priesthood is the Order of Christ. 2. The priesthood helps us have stronger relationships. 3. The priesthood is exercised by united groups. 4. Priesthood holders are accountable to learn and fulfill their responsibilities.
King of Righteousness, King of Peace
The first priest mentioned in the Bible is Melchizedek, whose name means "King of righteousness." He led the city of Salem, which means "peace." According to Alma, he served as a type of Christ by serving "under his father," working hard to persuade the people to repent, and consequently helping them find peace.
Tender Blades, Lawful Heirs
Commenting on the parable of the Wheat and the Tares, the Lord taught the following principles: 1. Be grateful for the good things you have inherited. 2. You are "hid with Christ." 3. God restores all things, but not all at once. 4. Wheat can be a light to tares.
Without Beginning of Days or End of Years
Abraham's priesthood authority connected him to righteous ancestors, all the way back to Adam. Modern priesthood holders trace their authority back to Joseph Smith, who received the priesthood from Peter, James, and John under the direction of Jesus Christ. Our callings connect us with those who have gone before and with those who will follow.
By the Hand of My Servant
When someone performs a priesthood responsibility, they act on behalf of the Savior. “I will lay my hand upon you by the hand of my servant,” He said. When we receive such service, we should recognize the true source of the blessing: not the person performing the service, but Jesus Christ Himself.
Keys
Keys open doors. In two revelations received in 1830, the Lord described to Joseph Smith various keys he has given to people. Reflecting on those keys can increase our appreciation for the opportunities He has made available to us.
Priesthood Power
Authority gives us permission to do something. Power gives us the ability to do it. Priests and teachers were ordained anciently "by the power of the Holy Ghost." Joseph Smith and Oliver Cowdery experienced spiritual gifts and power when they received the priesthood and were baptized. We also need to seek to receive God's priesthood power in order to more effectively bless His children.
Authority Restored
Heavenly messengers gave Joseph Smith authority. God delegates different types of authority to different people, so that we can all contribute to His work. The heavenly messengers all lived previously on earth. Our work is not limited to our mortal lives.
His Holy Order
Jacob said that he had been called and ordained according to God's holy order. The earliest meaning of "order" is "a body of persons living under a religious discipline." God's church provides a community and activities which help us draw closer to Him.