1 Nephi 8 - Have I Been Taught by the Spirit?

I’ve had a sticky note in my scriptures since February 22, 2004 that probably needs to be committed to my scripture journal with some of my own thoughts.

Before I go on, I want to mention that this is Chapter 8 and talks about Coming Unto Christ, AKA The Tree of Life to members of the Church.  I’m going to remember exactly where this is by association with Moroni Chapter 8 that is the chapter on Baptism.  They are bookends.  And this has nothing to do with my post.  Just a note to myself.

Pres. Jesse Hunsaker was our Stake President at the time I wrote this note and he gave a talk that impressed me in the deepest way.  He asked if the Spirit has taught me?  In answer to that question, I will say I have, but it is usually when I’ve put in the extra time to really ponder after I’ve read my scriptures. 

He mentioned that in six weeks we would have General Conference.  He suggested I listen to all five sessions of Conference – Saturday’s sessions being the most inspirational.  I apparently took this advice to heart as we’ve been listening/watching all five sessions for a very long time – at least ten years. 

Pres. Hunsaker said, “If I am serious about wanting to be taught by the Spirit, I will put my major efforts on building my spirituality.  I will read quietly from my scriptures. 

He talked about Lehi’s dream, which is Chapter 8 of 1 Nephi.  There are five groups of people:

1. Family – Of no surprise to me is that the family is mentioned first.  The family is of most importance to Heavenly Father and therefore should be my priority as well.
2. V21 – Those who pressed forward – numberless concourses of people even.  Because of the mist of darkness, they lost their way and wandered off and were lost.  Yes, I know many who fit in this category.
3. V24 – Those who cling to the iron rod (word of God).  Clinging is a stronger word the holding.  How can I cling to the iron rod and be lost?  The Mutual theme currently was D&C 90:24 “Search diligently, pray always and be belieivng, and all things shall work together for your good, if ye walk uprightly and remember the covenant wherewith ye have covenanted one with another.”   This is the key to “clinging” – search scriptures and words of the prophets diligently, pray always and believe that all things shall work together for my good if I remember my covenants.  A simple formula!   V30 – There were those who held fast, continued to press forward and the Tree of Life was their focus.  If I continually remember that this life is just a test – a schooling for my eternal life – I will keep my eye on the Tree of Life and serve diligently to be worthy to dwell with my Heavenly Father again.  
4. Those who were ashamed and fell away.  My notes are sketchy but ultimately it is pride that is the culprit.  They were covenant-making people who let the things of the world get in their way of reaching the Tree of Life.
5. V31 – There were those who made a straight line to the large and spacious building – AKA the things of the world. 

 The bottom line to keeping my focus on the things of eternal importance are: 

• Personal prayer
• Family prayer
• Family scripture
• Personal scriptures
• Family Home Evening
• Regular Temple attendance

These are the tools I must use to “cling” to the iron rod and be found worthy after all is said and done to dwell in the presence of my Heavenly Father.  Am I capable of doing all these things all of the time?  I wish I could say I’m perfect at them.  It is my Savior who will pull up the slack if I am diligent and do the best I can do.  I will admit it becomes easier as I get older. 

As I prepare for Conference in one week and keep my focus on those things that are of an eternal nature, I hope with all my heart to be worthy to be taught by the Spirit as I listen to God’s chosen leaders teach us those things they have prepared by the Spirit.