The Lord emphasized to Martin Harris that we need to focus on our "daily walk," living every day according to the counsel we have received. Two essential components of our daily walk with Him are prayer and gratitude.
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.
“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
Retain the Name
Benjamin invited his people to take upon themselves the name of Christ after they had been spiritually reborn and had made a covenant with God. What more did they need to do? They needed to engage in the relationship. Relationships require effort. They are not static.
“Whosoever Among You Borroweth”
King Benjamin taught several principles of money management: 1. Help those in need to the degree that you can. 2. Don't help more than you are able. 3. If you have to borrow money, pay it back. We can apply these principles in our families and communities
“See That Ye Do Them”
King Benjamin said, "If you believe all these things, see that ye do them." Belief is wonderful but insufficient. We need to find ways to convert our beliefs into action, to express our faith not only through words but also through works.
Watch Your Thoughts
King Benjamin urged his people to watch their thoughts. We can do this by observing our natural thought patterns, avoiding unwholesome influences, redirecting negative thoughts early, and focusing on where we want our thoughts to go.
Believe
What can we learn from King Benjamin's invitation to believe? 1. Belief can mature over time as we nourish it. 2. It's important to convert our belief into action. 3. Acknowledged uncertainty creates space for belief. Be willing to say, "I don't know."
Unprofitable
We can never pay God back for what He has done for us and is doing for us. This may seem discouraging, but it is actually liberating and ennobling. If we let go of the illusion of control, we can grow and progress in an environment of His sustaining grace