Jesus gave His disciples power to give the Holy Ghost. Moroni clarifies that this was to be done by the laying on of hands, which was also the practice inJerusalem. How amazing that God trusts His children with power to give this divine gift to others!
No Contention, No Disputations
Jesus clearly taught the people in ancient America that He disapproves of "disputations." After His visit, the people were happy because they avoided contention. President Dallin H. Oaks encouraged us to follow Jesus by being peacemakers.
“They That Feared the Lord Spake Often”
Malachi indicated that talking with other believers frequently can strengthen our faith and help us maintain our perspective. One of the purposes of regular church attendance is to build that kind of relationship with fellow believers.
Pray On!
Jesus prayed with His disciples in the Americas. For an extended time at the beginning of the second day, the people prayed. Jesus encouraged them with the words "Pray on." Afterward, He encouraged them to continue to pray in their hearts.
Accomplishing the Purposes of the Sacrament
The sacrament blesses us in many ways including: 1. Allowing us time to ponder quietly while surrounded by a supportive community 2. Helping us see what we can do better and what we are doing well 3. Remembering the Savior's suffering and His victory.
Ask Not Amiss
Jesus promised that our prayers will be answered. James added a caution: we need to pray with the right motives. Bishop Keith B. McMullin taught that the Spirit can help us understand what to ask for, so that our prayers can be aligned with God's will.
Hold Up Your Light
Jesus invited us to let our light shine. Paul counseled Timothy not to be ashamed of the gospel. We all have reasons to be self-conscious, but if we let our fears silence us, we will miss out on glorious opportunities to share the light of Jesus Christ.
Praying Always
What does praying always look like in your life? For me, it means that I have a prayer in my heart throughout the day. It also means pausing to pray before a daunting task. God is always available to hear us, and we should frequently talk with Him.
Earthen Vessels
Jesus shines His light through us, but we are imperfect conduits of that light. Paul described that reality by saying, "We have this treasure in earthen vessels." As a result, we ought to be patient with ourselves and with others as we do the best we can.
“Mark Them Which Cause Divisions”
Paul warned us to avoid people who cause contention or deceive people. The Savior taught that we should continue to love them, minister to them, and pray for them, but don't make them your mentor. Don't trust them to be your teacher. Be careful.