Joseph Smith taught that blessings are predicated on laws. However, it's important to remember three related principles: (1) We exercise agency within the context of the gifts we have already received from God. (2) We don't earn blessings; we qualify for them. (3) God provides promised blessings in His time and in His way.
“Let Your Hearts Rejoice”
Joseph Smith ended a letter to the church with a rousing invitation: "Let your hearts rejoice, and be exceedingly glad." There are many reasons why we don't allow ourselves to feel joy, including ingratitude, perfectionism, conformity, and misguided empathy. Joy can be contagious, and our examples of joyful living may inspire and uplift others.
Upholding the First Presidency
From 1830 to 1835, the Lord gradually revealed the governance structure of His church, including the three men who form the First Presidency. He taught that they are "upheld by the confidence, faith, and prayer of the church." We can support our new First Presidency by praying for them, listening to them, and defending them.
How to Pray for Your Enemies
In the Kirtland Temple dedicatory prayer, Joseph Smith models an approach to praying for our enemies. He expresses hearfelt empathy for those who have been wronged and a desire for their deliverance, but he also expresses a sincere hope that the offenders will change their hearts and receive God's grace.
“We Ask Thee, Holy Father”
Principles of prayer from Doctrine and Covenants 109: 1. When we ask God to dedicate a place, we're actually praying for people. 2. It's okay to ask God to help you keep a commandment. 3. Pray for a variety of people, including those who are hard to love. 4. Pray for God to accomplish His work.
Becoming and Remaining Pure in Heart
When are hearts are pure, we produce good fruit, we feel God's love, and we become prepared to meet Him. We become more pure by eliminating contaminants like pride and envy and by striving to live in accordance with God's will.
Seeing the Face of God
The first verse of Doctrine and Covenants 93 lays out a simple formula: Those who follow Christ will come to know Him. He promises that we will "see [His] face and know that [He is]," which implies far more than being in His presence. It means that we will understand and recognize Him.
The Savior’s Instructions to Missionaries, Ancient and Modern
The Lord's instructions to missionaries in Doctrine and Covenants 84 mirror His instructions to His ancient apostles: Avoid distractions. Trust me to provide the things you need. Those who receive you will be rewarded. If someone rejects you, move on and keep working.
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.
Between Him and Thee Alone
Some conversations are better kept private. Scripture teaches that correction should often be done "between him and thee alone," increasing the chance it will be received with an open heart. Alma’s loving counsel to Corianton was both direct and inspiring. Even difficult messages can be framed in optimistic and respectful ways.