David's heartfelt description of abandonment provided the Savior with appropriate words to describe His loneliness on the cross. The words may not have dulled the pain, but they did connect Jesus with an ancestor who never gave up on God, even when he felt completely forsaken.
Jacob’s Blessings
God didn't just bless Abraham. He also empowered him to bless others. As we serve individuals and families within our sphere of influence, we contribute to God's work of uplifting all of His children, one individual and one family at a time.
Abraham and the Posterity Priority
All of God's promises to Abraham are about family. He promised Abraham land so his descendants would have a home. He promised Abraham the priesthood so that his descendants could bless all the families of the earth. Family is central to God's plan for the happiness of His children.
“Take Especial Care of Your Family”
God told Brigham Young to “take especial care of your family.” That counsel still stands today. President Dallin H. Oaks recently reminded us that family work, recreation, and learning are sacred priorities. When we turn off distractions, we will find sufficient time to fulfill our family responsibilities.
Patriarchal Blessings
Jacob and Lehi blessed their children near the end of their lives. Following in that tradition, modern patriarchs provide blessings which affirm recipients' inheritance of Abrahamic blessings and provide counsel and guidance specific to that individual. Patriarchal blessings are given by inspiration and should be read and interpreted with the guidance of the Holy Ghost.
Still and Small
God has all power and controls the elements, but Elijah, Nephi, and Joseph Smith all testified that God spoke to them through a still small voice. What distractions can we remove from our lives in order to hear that voice and receive God's most powerful messages?
Fearing Man vs. Relying on God
The Lord corrected David Whitmer for fearing man and prioritizing earthly over heavenly concerns. He offered David a path forward: solitude, simplicity, and service. These principles can guide us in realigning our focus from the world to God, reminding us to trust in divine strength rather than be unduly influenced by others.
Entangled Again
The Articles and Covenants of the Church begin with a personal story. After being forgiven, Joseph Smith was "entangled again in the vanities of the world." He repented and was forgiven again. When we humbly repent, God will set us free, even when our sins seem insurmountable.
Feeling Condemned
Joseph Smith prayed because he felt inadequate to his divine calling. Nephi offered a similar prayer, detecting a contrast between his behavior and the miracles he had seen. Feelings of inadequacy can be helpful if they turn us toward the Source of grace.
What Do You Delight In?
Mormon said his people "delighted in everything save that which is good." When we delight in something, we immerse ourselves in it and savor it. So what delights you, and how can you adjust your actions and attitudes to be more delighted by good things?