Naaman wanted to be healed but envisioned it as a dramatic event. His servants had to help him humble himself and take the simple steps Elisha prescribed. Alma explained that God works through small means. He can make great things happen when we do very small things in obedience to Him.
David and Jonathan
Jonathan and David shared a special bond. Jonathan felt no animosity toward the man who would replace his father on the throne. David was faithful to the covenant they made with each other. Like Alma and the sons of Mosiah, their friendship was anchored in humility and faithfulness to God.
“I Have Enough, My Brother”
An important element in the happy reunion of Jacob and Esau is their prioritization of the relationship over worldly goods. Both brothers minimized the importance of wealth by saying, "I have enough." Contentment can cultivate gratitude and generosity.
The God of Abraham
God chooses to be recognized by His interactions with prior generations. Abraham functions as a template for the covenant life. His descendants understand God through His interactions with Abraham, and they understand their identity as heirs of the blessings and the responsibilities of Abraham.
How to Endure Well
God told Joseph Smith that if he endured well, he would be exalted. Enduring well includes (1) doing what we can within our constraints, (2) learning from the experience, (3) continuing to fulfill our duties and move toward eternal goals, (4) trusting God's timetable, and (5) being patient.
Standing Fast in My Appointed Offices
The Lord counseled Newel Knight, Sidney Gilbert, and Edward Partridge to “stand fast” in their assigned responsibilities. Alma taught the same principle: "Why should I desire more than to perform the work to which I have been called?" Whether parenting, working, or teaching, we find joy and growth when we "lift where we stand."
My Runway
Like a pilot using their assigned runway, we each receive revelation from God within our appointed responsibilities. The Lord taught Oliver Cowdery this principle and instructed him to respect the "runway" of Joseph Smith. We can likewise receive revelation while respecting the revelation received by others within their assigned responsibilities.
“Pretend to No Other Gift”
God told Joseph to "pretend to no other gift," than the gift to translate until his task was complete. He meant that Joseph should focus on the task at hand and not spend time thinking about other opportunities and gifts which might come in the future.
Exquisite
Alma described his pain and his joy using the same word: exquisite, which means "in the highest degree." Lehi taught that we cannot feel joy if we feel no misery. Maybe our sorrows expand our hearts, making room for us to feel more joy.
The Fruits of our Labors
Joy comes from meaningful accomplishments. We can feel joy even as we recognize that we couldn't have done it without God. We can feel joy in the accomplishments of others and in our relationships. We can also feel joy in future, hoped-for accomplishments