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.
Not to Destroy, but to Build Up
The Savior told Joseph Smith that the Book of Mormon and the church are intended to build up what people already have, not to destroy it. As we interact with others, we must be careful not to disparage or minimize the good things they bring to the table, but to build upon them.
A Job Description for Servants of God
Doctrine and Covenants 4 reads like a job description. It states the need, the expectations, the compensation, and two lists of qualifications. We don't need all of those qualifications to get started. With God's help, we can develop them as we serve.
Christ’s New Testament Church
During His mortal ministry, Jesus selected twelve disciples, whom He called apostles, to lead His church. They ensured that His doctrine was taught accurately, and they administered ordinances like baptism. The Savior has reestablished that church today.
“All Flesh Shall See It Together”
After Jesus's ministry in ancient America, it took some time for people to be converted and united. But when He returns in our day, there will be no ambiguity. We will all be witnesses. We need to prepare now for that event, by testifying and unifying.