Elder Richard G. Scott gave a very inspiring talk, as usual, at the past General Conference. Some of his statements have caused me to contemplate the fundamental principles of faith.
He said, "Our Father expects you to learn how to obtain that divine help by exercising faith in Him and His Holy Son, Jesus Christ. Were you to receive inspired guidance just for the asking, you would become weak and ever more dependent on Them". Wait a minute, I thought it was a good thing to become "ever more dependent on Them"? The implications of his statement deserve deep consideration.
Never does our reliance upon the Lord relieve us of our responsibility. Never does our dependence upon Them justify a lack of effort on our part. There are things to act, and things to be acted upon (2 Ne 2). We are not here on earth just to be God's pawns, we have a sphere of influence. God uses His servants, He uses His friends, not pawns, to accomplish His work.
What actions are we not taking today, which, if taken, would bless the life of another? What invitation are we not offering today, which, if offered, would result in a less active friend or neighbor joining us at Church this Sunday? I wonder if the power to work miracles lies within us more often than it does in another? Does God depend on us to bless His children?
The Lord has made great promises to His faithful saints, they don't all need to be repeated here. He says, "signs follow those which believe" (D&C 63:9). Are we living in a manner that would produce such "signs"? Do we ever take action that draws the Lord into our lives because our action demonstrates our faith in His promises? Or do we live in a manner that doesn't necessarily include Him or require His intervention and support? Do we even think about it?
The much repeated slogan of President Hinckley's life comes to mind. I repeat it here once again but with a few added words for emphasis of what I believe he was teaching. "Pray as if everything depends on the Lord, because it does. Go to work as if everything depends on you, because it does."
Very inspiring. I love your perspective and the inspiration it gives me to do better. I know that especially when it comes to missionary work, I'm more reserved and struggle with the initiation to just go out and invite and be that instrument the Lord needs me to be. I've heard many times how God depends on us to be instruments in His hands to bless the lives of His children. It truly is a responsibility that requires humility and faith, and a reliance on the Lord for help. Definitely something I need to be better at. Thanks for the reminder!
ReplyDeleteBen: I just discovered your posts, and am wonderfully impressed and inspired! Keep up the great writings! Sorry my comment is so delayed...
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