Boldness and Vision of Joseph Smith and Witnesses
The boldness and the vision of the early leaders of the church is incredible. The three witnesses began their testimony with the statement, "Be it known unto all nations, kindreds, tongues, and people, unto whom this work shall come:...." I was impressed that these men had such vision that this work would indeed spread to all the world. These brethren must have been thoroughly convinced that this work and their experiences were true. If not, what a presumptuous and preposterous statement this would be!
Likewise, the statement by Joseph Smith regarding Moroni telling him that his "name should be had for good and evil among all nations, kindreds, and tongues..." is incredible. What are the odds that this could possibly be true? How many people born in 1805 have their name even known throughout the entire world? Much less, known for good and evil. Joseph Smith and the witnesses of the Book of Mormon had vision of this work. And they were bold in proclaiming that vision. Unless they had something really special, I find it almost impossible that they could make these predictions come to pass in the way that they have unfolded.
My life has been so blessed by the teachings and spirit I have received from the Book of Mormon. Studying this book has also given me increased vision of the purpose of life and the great plan that our Heavenly Father has for us to progress and be happy. Studying this book has increased my desire and capacity to become converted to Jesus Christ. I am excited to be studying together as a ward.
Insights from Joseph Smith's Testimony on Receiving Spiritual Guidance
I find so many great principles and insights into how I can better receive spiritual guidance in my life by reading the Testimony of The Prophet Joseph Smith. I find it interesting what led to the visions and guidance that Joseph received. Three principles stuck out to me - faith, diligence and obedience. The first time Joseph was visited by Moroni, it was the result of "prayer and supplication". The vision occurred during the act of "calling upon God". Joseph was exercising faith by calling upon God. The second time Joseph was visited by Moroni, he "lay musing on the singularity of the scene, and marveling greatly at what had been told to me...". Joseph was exercising faith by pondering upon the message received, and he received more. Similarly, this happened again that evening.
In addition to faith, I think diligence and obedience also played important roles in Joseph receiving spiritual guidance. I am impressed that after being up all night in interviews with Moroni, Joseph still got up as usual to fulfill his family responsibilities and to help his father in the labors of the day. When his father sent him into the house, he obeyed. When Moroni told him to tell his father what happened, he obeyed. He obeyed in going to the hill to find the plates. He was diligent in going back to the hill each year to receive instruction and intelligence.
I have found that when I apply these principles in my life, I also receive greater spiritual guidance. As I exercise faith I receive more guidance from the Spirit. As I am diligent and obedient to the impressions received, I receive greater guidance. I hope to be more consistent at applying these principles in my life and to better receive the guidance that God would like to give me.
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