In his temple dedicatory prayer, Solomon repeatedly pleads with God to hear the prayers of repentant sinners, acknowledging that everyone sins. Joseph Smith echoed this sentiment in the Kirtland Temple dedicatory prayer. In the Book of Mormon, God provides an answer to this plea: as often as we repent, He will forgive.
The Lord Raised Up a Deliverer
Like the Book of Mormon, the book of Judges relates events which illustrate the pride cycle. Many of Mormon's observations explain what Judges leaves unsaid. Both books also have heroes, some deeply flawed. Even so, they are blessings from God, sent in response to the people's heartfelt prayers.
Recorded on Earth and in Heaven
The records we keep may be longer-lasting than we realize. Joseph Smith taught that some of "the books" by which we will be judged are the records we keep on the earth. Wilford Woodruff urged us to write our important experiences, promising that what we record on earth will be recorded in heaven.
“I Will Remember Mercy”
In 1833, church members in Missouri were struggling. The Lord explained that some of the adversity they were experiencing was self-inflicted, but He added "notwithstanding their sins, my bowels are filled with compassion." As President Holland has promised, "It is not possible for [us] to sink lower than the infinite light of Christ's Atonement shines."
Admonished but Not Ashamed
The Lord instructed Joseph Smith and his associates to accept feedback graciously and humbly. He encouraged them to "be admonished" but not to be "ashamed." When our confidence rests on our trust in God rather than on our own abilities, we can accept and incorporate corrective feedback into our actions and character more quickly.
Boundaries and Forgiveness
All relationships need boundaries, and setting limits on appropriate behavior does not lessen love or forgiveness. The Lord taught Alma that there are behavioral boundaries for church members, but He reiterated that church members should forgive one another. Forgiveness involves seeing others as children of God, even as we establish and maintain healthy relationship boundaries.
“Sweet Evidence”
Mormon taught that we must be clean to experience miracles. Jacob testified that this is possible through God's grace. The Book of Mormon and modern revelation testify that assurance of God's favor often precedes new revelation. The companionship of the Holy Ghost is evidence that the Atonement of Jesus Christ is working in our lives.
Hear His Voice
A defining characteristic of disciples of Jesus Christ is that they listen to Him. Jesus said, "My sheep hear my voice." In 1830, He added, "Mine elect hear my voice and harden not their hearts." We can be better disciples by listening more intently and taking action more quickly on what we hear.
Avoiding Deception
We can avoid being deceived by (1) obtaining and remembering accurate information, (2) being vigilant but not paranoid, and (3) drawing closer to God, who can enlighten our minds and help us see more clearly.
“O Ye Pollutions”
Moroni asked why we have "polluted to the holy church of God." The church is a hospital for sinners, but as we participate, we are also doctors and nurses. We ought to approach that responsibility with care, recognizing our shortcomings as we help others.