Jewish families prepare for Passover by carefully eliminating all leaven from their homes. Jesus and Paul taught that leaven is representative of impurities in our souls. Thoughts and feelings which "puff us up" make us less holy, less prepared to stand in God's presence and receive His grace.
Let God Prevail
With a name that means "the heel catcher," Jacob struggled his whole life to get ahead. At Peniel, God dislocated his hip with a touch and then blessed him anyway. Jacob learned that he could prevail by letting God prevail.
“Walk with Me”
God invited Enoch to walk with Him. Walking together encourages creativity and promotes unity. Two of the Savior's disciples had a meaningful experience as they walked with Him on the road to Emmaus. We can also draw closer to Him by accepting His invitation to walk with Him.
Shepherds: Keeping Watch
Why did an angel announce the Savior's birth to shepherds? They were alert and vigilant. They were willing to follow instructions immediately. And they enthusiastically shared the good news. We can follow their example of receptiveness, responsiveness, and joyful testimony.
Persuasion
God leads by persuasion, not coercion, because His goal is our long-term growth, not immediate compliance. As his disciples, we should lead the same way: sharing truth with clarity and gentleness as we humbly and patiently persuade others to make wise decisions.
Receiving Gifts from God
Elder Patrick Kearon taught that receiving a gift is more than accepting it. It includes valuing it, putting it to use, and strengthening our relationship with the giver. Jesus was a good receiver of gifts from the Father, and we can follow His example, receiving grace for grace until we receive a fulness.
Forms and Power of Godliness
Mormon taught that "every form of godliness" invites the ministering of angels. Paul warned that "the form of godliness" without the corresponding power is insufficient. We recieve the power of godliness through priesthood ordinances, which enable us not only to bless and serve others but to become more like God.
Vessels of Wrath, Vessels of Mercy
We are all vessels. We all carry intangible things wherever we go, and some of what we carry spills over and influences the people around us, for good or for evil. If we carry bitterness, frustration, or anger, we are "vessels of wrath." If we carry kindness, gratitude, or joy, we are "vessels of mercy."
Biblical References in Doctrine and Covenants 76
The revelation recorded in Doctrine and Covenants 76 was prompted by meditation about a single Bible verse, but it contains an enormous number of biblical paraphrases and allusions. The revelation demonstrates the unity of God's word as revealed to many prophets and apostles throughout history.
These Truths
The Declaration of Independence of the United States articulates several important principles which are affirmed in modern revelation. These principles include the equality of God's children, our universal ability to recognize truth, and the right of each person to seek after happiness.