Alma and Mormon both taught that we can perceive spiritual light directly, just as our eyes perceive physical light. God explained to early church leaders that they know the revelations received by Joseph Smith are true because they are righteous, "and that which is righteous cometh down from above, from the Father of lights."
Confession
Confession is liberating. The Hebrew word for confession—yadah—means literally to throw something. We confess not to obsess over our sins and our weaknesses but to externalize them and let them go. We also confess the goodness of God which is the complement to our acknowledgement of our shortcomings, since He can heal us.
Avoiding the Holmesian Fallacy in Our Search for Truth
Sherlock Holmes solved cases by eliminating wrong answers until only the truth remained. This is a successful formula for a detective story but a terrible approach for learning. Mormon urged us to prioritize receiving truth over rejecting error. Modern revelation teaches that darkness degrades us, while light edifies and uplifts. So focus on receiving light!
“Cleave Unto” Your Covenants
The Lord counseled Emma Smith, "cleave unto the covenants which thou hast made." When we cleave unto our covenants, we have confidence in the promises we've received from God, we invest in our relationship with Him, and we find joy in the blessings we receive from Him each day.
Book of Mormon Elements in Doctrine and Covenants 20
The Articles and Covenants of the Church (D&C 20) outline core doctrines and priesthood duties, drawing heavily from the Book of Mormon. Some passages are quoted directly, while others synthesize multiple passages to affirm core doctrines. By relying on the Book of Mormon, Joseph Smith and Oliver Cowdery grounded the restored Church on Christ’s gospel.
Preface to Four Revelations, April-May 1829
Four revelations received by Joseph Smith on behalf of different people have nearly identical openings. These openings are derived from combinations of biblical passages, all of which appear in some form in the Book of Mormon. Here is how I would paraphrase the message of this recurring introduction: Big things are about to happen, so pay close attention to what I'm about to say: People are ready to hear the gospel and if you work hard, you will find success in sharing it. I will answer your prayers, so ask me for help.
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.
Meek and Lowly
Jesus urged us to be "meek and lowly in heart." Alma and Mormon also echoed this admonition. When we focus on doing good instead of looking good, we free up time and energy, increasing our capacity to do God's work and receive gifts from Him.
“I Judge Better Things of You”
After telling his listeners that a lack of miracles implies a lack of faith, Mormon adds, "I judge better things of you." God can help us see the good in others. We will be judged as we judge, so why wouldn't we look for the best in the people around us?
How Do Angels Minister to Us?
Angels provide correction. They help God fulfill His covenants with us. And they strengthen our faith by declaring the words of Christ. Angels always have and always will minister to us, and we emulate them as we minister to one another.