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.
“Like the Dog to His Vomit”
In describing the Nephites' rapid fall from righteousness to sin, the narrator paraphrases a metaphor from the book of Proverbs about dogs and vomit. Progress isn't linear, and we all experience setbacks, but God is always willing to forgive when we repent
“I Am Mormon”
Mormon tells us three things when he introduces himself in 3 Nephi 5: 1. The origin and significance of his name 2. His calling and purpose 3. His multigenerational perspective
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.
How to Preach
Alma was an effective teacher because he taught according to: 1. The revelations received by his predecessors. 2. The spirit of prophecy: He received revelation while he taught. 3. The testimony of Jesus 4. The holy order by which he was called.
“As Often as My People Repent”
The Savior promised to forgive us "as often" as we repent. That's a comforting promise, particularly when we make mistakes repeatedly. We need to keep repenting, He'll keep forgiving, and we'll eventually stop making those mistakes with His help.
“Give Thanks in All Things”
Alma and his fellow church leaders "[gave] thanks in all things." Elder Dieter F. Uchtdorf explained that gratitude is not transactional. Instead, it is "an expression of hope and testimony." We can be grateful even for blessings we have not yet detected.
“We Talk of Christ”
Nephi tells us that he consistently taught his children about Christ, because he wanted them to know where to turn to overcome their sins. Sometimes those words aren't well-received at first, but they may eventually become a lifeline in a time of need.