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.
Vain Jangling – Part 2
One reason to avoid speculative topics is because they often lead to conflict. Sincere questions are good, but controversial questions can provoke unnecessary and unproductive disputes. Stay on solid ground by avoiding frivolous topics.
Another Gospel
The good news of the gospel of Jesus Christ is that God himself came to earth, suffered and died for us, and rose again three days later. Each of us needs to develop our own conviction of those truths, independent of anyone else.
Patient Continuance
Enduring to the end is an active process: continuing to do good with an ongoing commitment to eternal goals. It involves learning and growing. It is an uplifting process that can also be called "enjoying to the end."
“Have Ye Received the Holy Ghost?”
Baptism prepares us to receive the Holy Ghost. The ordinance of confirmation by the laying on of hands is an important part of the process. Ultimately, we must act to receive the gift and invite the Holy Ghost into our lives.
None Other Name
Peter taught that there is "none other name" by which we can be saved, except the name of Jesus Christ. When we use His name properly, and when we take His name upon ourselves, we receive His power.
“None of Them Is Lost”
Jesus's mission is to save everyone who is willing to be saved.He told the men who arrested Him to let the apostles go, thus fulfilling His promise to the Father to lose none. We can follow His example by helping everyone belong and flourish.
Lifted Up
Jesus was lifted up—violently and painfully—so that we might also be lifted up—joyfully and gloriously. He spoke of His agony on the cross in terms of its purpose and effect. The fact that His execution was so public helped Him to accomplish its purpose.
A Great Division
Jesus wants us to have peace, but there were divisions among the people who saw and heard Him. Sometimes our words provoke division. Sometimes winning an argument is more important to us than the topic. We should heal divisions, not exacerbate them.
“The Will of My Father”
A defining characteristic of the Savior's life was His commitment to fulfill His Father's will. Both during and after His ministry, He affirmed this commitment. We can follow His example by prioritizing God's will even when it's difficult.