Blessings That Come From Living the Gospel of Jesus Christ

When Jesus Christ was living upon the earth He taught His gospel through sermons, parables, and by his unfailing example. He taught in such a way that people from all walks of life could find understanding in his message. He ordained apostles, used the power of the priesthood to work miracles, and taught things that we should and should not do.

Such is His gospel today.

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, the name by which the Lord said His Church should be called in the last days (D&C 115:4), is a restoration of His earlier church: complete with prophets, apostles, ordinances, priesthood power, thou shalts, and thou shalt nots.

I think it is sometimes easy to get caught up in the list of many things that are asked of us as members of the Lord’s church. But it seems that those who truly take that next step in their conversion process find a joy truly unknown by others. President Uchtdorf said,

“Sometimes, in the routine of our lives, we unintentionally overlook a vital aspect of the gospel of Jesus Christ…In our diligent efforts to fulfill all of the duties and obligations we take on as members of the Church, we sometimes see the gospel as a long list of tasks that we must add to our already impossibly long to-do list, as a block of time that we must somehow fit into our busy schedules. We focus on what the Lord wants us to do and how we might do it, but we sometimes forget why….

“[T]he gospel of Jesus Christ is not an obligation; it is a pathway, marked by our loving Father in Heaven, leading to happiness and peace in this life and glory and inexpressible fulfillment in the life to come. The gospel is a light that penetrates mortality and illuminates the way before us.

"While understanding the ‘what’ and the ‘how’ of the gospel is necessary, the eternal fire and majesty of the gospel springs from the ‘why’” (link to talk).

Jean A. Stevens also stated,

“The gospel of Jesus Christ is not a checklist of things to do; rather, it lives in our hearts. The gospel is not weight; it is wings.” (link to talk)

How do we make the transition from checking off our daily, weekly, monthly to-do list to becoming truly converted to the majesty and the why of the gospel of Jesus Christ? I think that by understanding more completely the gospel of Jesus Christ, and the blessings that await the faithful, we can gain the faith to move forward along the strait and narrow path of discovering why.

President Uchtdorf continues,

"When we understand why our Heavenly Father has given us this pattern for living, when we remember why we committed to making it a foundational part of our lives, the gospel ceases to become a burden and, instead, becomes a joy and a delight. It becomes precious and sweet.

“Let us not walk the path of discipleship with our eyes on the ground, thinking only of the tasks and obligations before us. Let us not walk unaware of the beauty of the glorious earthly and spiritual landscapes that surround us….

“[S]eek out the majesty, the beauty, and the exhilarating joy of the “why” of the gospel of Jesus Christ” (link to talk).

Seeking out the “why” of the gospel does not come without preparation and effort. Like the oil in the lamps of the ten virgins (Matthew 25:1-13) it is not something that can be shared or taught. It must be learned. It takes time, and a concerted, diligent effort. It takes wanting to do what the Lord wants us to do and wanting to become who He wants us to become above all else.

President Ezra Taft Benson tells us the blessings we can receive as we give our all to the Lord.

“[M]en and women who turn their lives over to God will find out that he can make a lot more out of their lives than they can. He will deepen their joys, expand their vision, quicken their minds, strengthen their muscles, lift their spirits, multiply their blessings, increase their opportunities, comfort their souls, raise up friends, and pour out peace. Whoever will lose his life to God will find he has eternal life.” (link to article)

The Lord has blessed us with so much, and will continue to bless us so long as we are faithful and obedient. In the Doctrine & Covenants we read,

“For of him unto whom much is given much is required;” (D&C 82:3)

It is only right that those who have received so much from the Lord are also required to give. I also believe that when much is required and much is achieved greater blessings than can be imagined begin to flow forth.

One of the many blessings we have received in this life is our knowledge of Jesus Christ. As we seek to learn more about our Savior we will find Him in the scriptures. We will see consistency in His examples and teachings. We will see the love and mercy He extended to all those who sought Him out. We see that those who trusted in His words received the promised blessings. It is when we trust in those promised blessings of the gospel that we can begin to move forward in faith. And, despite our circumstances, the short-term results, or patiently waiting, we can know that we are being blessed as we come to discover the why of His gospel.

One of the first principles of the gospel is “Faith in the Lord Jesus Christ” (Article of Faith #4). Faith is continuing to move forward, believing Jesus Christ, and living the gospel when things are going well or when our world seems to be falling apart around us. As we look to the Lord we can find hope for the future, strength to move on, comfort, understanding, blessings to be grateful for, forgiveness, and “the peace of God, which passeth all understanding” (Phillipians 4:7).

Prayer

One of the many ways the Lord has allowed us to come to Him, increase our faith in Jesus Christ, and find promised blessings is through prayer.

Elder Scott says this about prayer.

“Prayer is a supernal gift of our Father in Heaven to every soul. Think of it: the absolute Supreme Being, the most all-knowing, all-seeing, all-powerful personage, encourages you and me, as insignificant as we are, to converse with Him as our Father. Actually, because He knows how desperately we need His guidance, He commands, 'Thou shalt pray vocally as well as in thy heart; yea, before the world as well as in secret, in public as well as in private.'

“It matters not our circumstance, be we humble or arrogant, poor or rich, free or enslaved, learned or ignorant, loved or forsaken, we can address Him. We need no appointment. Our supplication can be brief or can occupy all the time needed. It can be an extended expression of love and gratitude or an urgent plea for help. He has created numberless cosmos and populated them with worlds, yet you and I can talk with Him personally, and He will ever answer.” (link to talk)

Elder J. Devn Cornish shared an experience where a seemingly “small” prayer was answered. He then continues,

“In His mercy, the God of heaven, the Creator and Ruler of all things everywhere, had heard a prayer about a very minor thing. One might well ask why He would concern Himself with something so small. I am led to believe that our Heavenly Father loves us so much that the things that are important to us become important to Him, just because He loves us. How much more would He want to help us with the big things that we ask, which are right?

“Little children, young people, and adults alike, please believe how very much your loving Heavenly Father wants to bless you. But because He will not infringe upon our agency, we must ask for His help. This is generally done through prayer. Prayer is one of the most precious gifts of God to man.” (link to talk)

Throughout my own life I have witnessed more examples than I can count of the power of prayer. These range from small, insignificant requests, to heartfelt pleadings. Looking back, I can see how the Lord has answered my prayers – not always as I wanted, or imagined, but they were answered. In the words of the singer Garth Brooks, “Sometimes I thank God for unanswered prayers.” And for those unanswered prayers I continue to trust in my Heavenly Father, and my Savior Jesus Christ, because I know the time of their fulfillment will come.

Scriptures

Another tool that our merciful Lord has blessed us with in our attempt to come closer to Him, develop our faith, and discover the why of His gospel, is access to His word. In our day we have the scriptures and the words of the living prophet and apostles so readily available to us. As Elder Richard G. Scott stated,

“Who could have imagined not very many years ago that the full standard works and years of general conference messages would fit into your pocket? Just having them in your pocket will not protect you, but studying, pondering, and listening to them during quiet moments of each day will enhance communication through the Spirit.” (link to talk)

As we search these inspire words our understanding will increase and our testimonies will grow. We will come to know our Savior more deeply than we ever have before.

There are many blessings that come from immersing ourselves in the scriptures. However, we must not forget that these scriptures came with great sacrifice. President Ezra Taft Benson reminds us of their immeasurable value when he said,

“[L]et us not treat lightly the great things we have received from the hand of the Lord! His word is one of the most valuable gifts He has given us. I urge you to recommit yourselves to a study of the scriptures. Immerse yourselves in them daily so you will have the power of the Spirit…” (link to talk)

The power that comes from holding fast to the word of God is also described by Nephi, as he interprets the dream that his father saw about the Tree of Life.

“And [my brothers] said unto me: What meaneth the rod of iron which our father saw, that led to the tree?

“And I said unto them that it was the word of God; and whoso would hearken unto the word of God, and would hold fast unto it, they would never perish; neither could the temptations and the fiery darts of the adversary overpower them unto blindness, to lead them away to destruction” (1 Nephi 15:23-24).

What greater protection can we ask for in this day and age of temptation and blatant wickedness? By studying the words of the Lord we can be protected from temptation and the fiery darts of the adversary.

Later, the words of Nephi again tell us the promises we can receive from searching the word of God.

“Wherefore, if ye shall press forward, feasting upon the word of Christ, and endure to the end, behold, thus saith the Father: Ye shall have eternal life” (2 Nephi 31:20).

Elder Jay E. Jenson counsels us to remember the promises that can be found in the scriptures. He lists Promises of Power, which include power to: overcome evil, live righteously, teach convincingly, call down the powers of heaven, and to change the heart and disposition. He also lists Promises of Increase, which include increase in: hope and joy, spirituality, knowledge and understanding, power of discernment, and testimony. (link to talk)

How greatly we have been blessed to have a knowledge of the blessings and promises the Lord has made available to us through our faith and obedience!

Tithing

Another blessing of the gospel of Jesus Christ is the law of tithing. Why is this a blessing and not a burden? Aren’t we just giving 10 per cent of our income away? How can it be considered a blessing?

Breanna Olaveson, in the Ensign magazine, says this about tithing.

“In a world where many people place great value on wealth, willingly giving a tenth of your income may seem strange. Many may even argue that no one can afford such a sacrifice. But obedience to the Lord’s commandments always brings blessings. As Elder Dallin H. Oaks of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles said, ‘Those who place their faith in the Lord’s promises say, "I can’t afford not to pay tithing."

“Even in financially difficult situations, the Lord’s promises remain unchanged. When Church members faithfully pay their tithing, He will ‘open … the windows of heaven, and pour … out a blessing, that there shall not be room enough to receive it’” (link to article).

She then follows with several examples of ‘modern day miracles’ from paying tithing.

The law of tithing is one of those very defined requirements with a very defined blessing. As we pay our tithing the windows of heaven will be opened. Although we can’t dictate what those windows will bring, we know that they are opened by our all-loving Father in Heaven who “doeth not anything save it be for the benefit of the world” (2 Nephi 26:24).

President Howard W. Hunter lists the following blessings that come from paying our tithing,

“The principle of tithing should be more than a mathematical, mechanical compliance with the law. … If we pay our tithes because of our love for the Lord, in complete freedom and faith, we narrow our distance from Him and our relationship to Him becomes intimate. We are released from the bondage of legalism, and we are touched by the Spirit and feel a oneness with God.

“The payment of tithing strengthens faith, increases spirituality and spiritual capacity, and solidifies testimony. It gives the satisfaction of knowing one is complying with the will of the Lord. It brings the blessings that come from sharing with others through the purposes for which tithing is used…. A testimony of the law of tithing comes from living it. Like all other of God’s laws, when we live them we receive the blessings.” (link to talk)

Temple

Another blessing of the gospel of Jesus Christ is the temple. The temple is a sacred, holy edifice; a refuge from the outside world. A dedicated temple is literally the house of God on the earth.

President Monson lists some of the blessings we receive as we attend the temple.

“As we go to the holy house, as we remember the covenants we make therein, we will be able to bear every trial and overcome each temptation. The temple provides purpose for our lives. It brings peace to our souls—not the peace provided by men but the peace promised by the Son of God when He said, ‘Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid’” (link to article).

President Boyd K. Packer said,

"Temples are the very center of the spiritual strength of the Church. We should expect that the adversary will try to interfere with us as a Church and with us individually as we seek to participate in this sacred and inspired work. Temple work brings so much resistance because it is the source of so much spiritual power to the Latter-day Saints and to the entire Church.” (link to talk)

Great spiritual power, peace to our souls, understanding; these are blessings that come from God as we attend the temple. As the power of God increases in our lives the influence of the adversary will decrease. It is the same with the world. President Packer continues,

“At the Logan Utah Temple cornerstone dedication, President George Q. Cannon, then of the First Presidency, made this statement:

“'Every foundation stone that is laid for a Temple, and every Temple completed according to the order the Lord has revealed for his holy Priesthood, lessens the power of Satan on the earth, and increases the power of God and Godliness, moves the heavens in mighty power in our behalf, invokes and calls down upon us the blessings of the Eternal Gods, and those who reside in their presence.'” (link to talk)

We can find peace, safety, and a refuge to our souls as we enter the temple. With the world becoming more and more wicked, it is even more critical that we come to the temple often to renew our spirits. This need was expressed in the words of Elder Quentin L. Cook when he said,

“I have felt an urgency to counsel each of us to seek the higher ground—the refuge and eternal protection of the temple” (link to talk).

Another blessing of the temple is finding answers. President Boyd K. Packer said,

“When members of the Church are troubled or when crucial decisions weigh heavily upon their minds, it is a common thing for them to go to the temple. It is a good place to take our cares. In the temple we can receive spiritual perspective. There, during the time of the temple service, we are ‘out of the world.’

“Sometimes our minds are so beset with problems, and there are so many things clamoring for attention at once that we just cannot think clearly and see clearly. At the temple the dust of distraction seems to settle out, the fog and the haze seem to lift, and we can ‘see’ things that we were not able to see before and find a way through our troubles that we had not previously known.

“The Lord will bless us as we attend to the sacred ordinance work of the temples. Blessings there will not be limited to our temple service. We will be blessed in all of our affairs” (link to talk).

In my own life I have felt the blessings of the temple on numerous occasions, but I want to share what I learned on one day in particular. My mind had been weighed down for a time, and I felt like I was not finding answers or the right way to go. I felt mentally overwhelmed by many different ideas going back and forth, and was not feeling any clear direction. I decided to go to the temple. I remember so distinctly as I walked through the doors the chaos and noise in my mind cleared instantly. What a wonderful peace I felt while there that stayed even after I left.

What a blessing it is to have the temples on the earth. What a blessing to have a place where we can find peace, escape from the storms of life, and commune with our Maker.

What a blessing to have the gospel of Jesus Christ in our lives. How grateful I am for a wonderful, loving, Father in Heaven who prepared the way for us to communicate with Him, grow closer to Him, and return to live with Him someday. As we focus on living the gospel with our whole hearts, and turning our lives over to the Lord, we will be able to discover the why of the gospel. The Lord has defined the pathway. We just need to take the next step in our own journey toward a deeper conversion.