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.
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.
Called and Assigned
A call to serve is more important than an assignment to a specific location. The Lord directs both, but the calling is constant, while the details of where, how, and whom to serve can change. We need to be fully committed to our callings but adaptable to changing assignments.
A More Exceeding and Eternal Weight of Glory
God's promised rewards are both greater (more exceeding) and longer-lasting (eternal) than our current sufferings. While it's hard to maintain perspective during difficult experiences, we can remember the faith of Ammon and his brothers, who found extraordinary joy after enduring significant suffering.
Planted
There is power in being "planted" instead of transient. When we put down roots, forge friendships, and set long-term goals, we are more productive and more happy. God told church members in Ohio to act "as for years," and he told members in Missouri to "plant themselves in this place."
Devoted to Study
Scripture study requires time and effort but leads to personal revelation and spiritual growth. Prophets like Nephi, Jacob, and Benjamin emphasized diligent searching of the scriptures. Jesus commanded us to study Isaiah and the other prophets. By dedicating time daily to the scriptures, we gain insights, improve decision-making, and prepare ourselves to share true principles.
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.
The Plan of Salvation
God has a fabulous plan for us. Book of Mormon prophets call it by various titles, including the plan of happiness, the plan of redemption, and the plan of salvation. As Patrick Kearon observed, these titles remind us that God intends to save us.
Testimony of Jesus = Spirit of Prophecy
An angel told John that the testimony of Jesus is the spirit of prophecy. The only way we can be sure that Jesus is our Savior is by direct, personal revelation from God. Therefore, the people who have that testimony are the people who receive revelation.
Abide in Your Calling
Paul urged the Corinthian saints to stay focused on their current callings and not to be distracted by opportunities that aren't currently theirs. It can be hard to maintain our focus, but we will find joy in doing what we have been called to do right now