How do we respond to other people's spiritual experiences? A trusted leader told Joseph Smith that his first vision was "of the devil." In contrast, his father told him his vision of the angel Moroni was "of God." The Spirit can help us avoid defensiveness and recognize truth.
Bountifully
The word "bounty" refers to a generous gift. Amulek reminded the Zoramites that the gospel had been taught to them "bountifully." We can be grateful for the countless blessings God has bestowed and continues to bestow bountifully on His children.
Hearing Hard Truths
Noah and his priests were angry with Abinadi and labeled him as "mad." We use a variety of strategies to avoid accepting difficult messages. We attack the messenger, we respond emotionally, or we look for allies. In the end, it's better to actually listen
In the Wilderness
We can learn a lot about navigating our wildernesses from Zeniff and Limhi. 1. Wandering is expected. 2. You may find unexpected treasures along the way. 3. You may be better off than you were before. 4. You will be motivated to put your trust in God.
Sacred Spaces
After Nephi arrived in the promised land, he and his people built a temple. I imagine him being inspired by King David's deep desire to build a house of the Lord as expressed in some of his psalms. Sacred spaces can help us grow closer to God.
“What Great Things”
Knowing what the Lord has done for prior generations can help us in 3 ways: 1. It provides a foundation for our faith. 2. It helps us recognize that apparently small miracles may be larger than we realize. 3. It keeps us humble and grateful.
God Will Prepare a Way
God allows us to be tempted, but He also provides a way for us to overcome temptations. He gives us assignments, but He also prepares a way for us to fulfill them. The surprises in our lives don't surprise Him, and He's ready to help us through them.
That Rock Was Christ
We expect rocks to be solid, reliable, and strong. We don't expect them to quench our thirst. But the Savior provides both a firm foundation and "living water." That's why a rock which produces water is a meaningful symbol of Jesus.
I Am a Man
It is impossible to be objective about ourselves, but we ought to try. Throughout the scriptures, prophets remind themselves and others that they are human. Alma, Nephi, Ammon, and Peter all used some version of the phrase "I am a man" to emphasize this.
No Respecter of Persons
God doesn't show favoritism. The Greek word prosopolemptes means literally "countenance-taker." The word appears in our Bible as "respecter of persons." God doesn't favor people based on worldly measures of success—and neither should we.