Receiving Revelation-David Bednar

From these two ordinary experiences with light, we can learn much about the spirit of revelation. 1. We entered a dark room and turned on a light switch. Remember how in an instant a bright flood of illumination filled the room and caused the darkness to disappear. 2. The second experience took place as we watched night turn into morning. Do you recall the slow and almost imperceptible increase in light on the horizon? Sometimes the sun rises on a morning that is cloudy or foggy. Because of the overcast conditions, perceiving the light is more difficult, and identifying the precise moment when the sun rises over the horizon is not possible. But on such a morning we nonetheless have sufficient light to recognize a new day and to conduct our affairs. About the light switch: Many of us have experienced this pattern of revelation as we have been given answers to sincere prayers or been provided with needed direction or protection, according to God’s will and timing. However, this pattern of revelation tends to be more rare than common. About the sunrise: The gradual increase of light radiating from the rising sun is like receiving a message from God “line upon line, precept upon precept” (2 Nephi 28:30). Most frequently, revelation comes in small increments over time and is granted according to our desire, worthiness, and preparation. This pattern of revelation tends to be more common than rare Examples: I have talked with many individuals who question the strength of their personal testimony and underestimate their spiritual capacity because they do not receive frequent, miraculous, or strong impressions. If you have had similar thoughts or doubts, please know that you are quite normal. Just keep pressing forward obediently and with faith in the Savior. What to do: In many of the uncertainties and challenges we encounter in our lives, God requires us to do our best, to act and not be acted upon (see 2 Nephi 2:26), and to trust in Him. We may not see angels, hear heavenly voices, or receive overwhelming spiritual impressions. We frequently may press forward hoping and praying—but without absolute assurance—that we are acting in accordance with God’s will. But as we honor our covenants and keep the commandments, as we strive ever more consistently to do good and to become better, we can walk with the confidence that God will guide our steps. Blessings: regardless of the pattern whereby this blessing is received, the light it provides will illuminate and enlarge your soul, enlighten your understanding (see Alma 5:7; 32:28), and direct and protect you and your family.

A little glance back

Reading Elder Oaks talk today and remembering how a scripture from Alma saved my life once and I didn't tell anyone. So, the time has come. Back in the day, when my heart didn't beat so much, things were bad. I was having heart-attackish chest pain a lot and it wasn't going away. I knew deep down things were worse than the doctors thought and I was tracking my heart rate... 35...32...34...29... and still wide awake and hurting. Then Dr. Badger said it was on. The surgery was booked for the morning (as strange as that sounds) and I tried to sleep. 29 bpm when I'm awake-- what about when I'm asleep? I was worried it would stop in the night like the nurse had mentioned and I wouldn't even make it to the table. I wrote letters to my family in case this was the end and then I sat... I played an old BYU devotional I had DVR-ed and the man quoted Alma, "“a just God … granteth unto men according to their desire, whether it be unto death or unto life” (Alma 29:4). And I took it on, praying with all my might to Heavenly Father that my desire was life and the faith to be worthy to have this desire granted. I think this is why I'm alive. Millions of things could have gone wrong and a few did but Heavenly Father was backing me up and I was going to live. It hasn't been until tonight that I have wondered if I could still have the faith and the desire for life in a similar situation. So with this, I'm working on developing my desires- an eternal marriage, a likeness to the Savior, and a close relationship with Heavenly Father. Any suggestions?