Lehi's Vision: the Mists of Darkness

One of the stories from the Book of Mormon that seems to have more and more meaning, no matter how many times I have studied it, is Lehi’s vision of the Tree of Life. In short, Lehi saw a tree with a rod of iron extending from it and a path underneath the rod of iron. On one side of the rod of iron was a river and on the other side of the river there was a huge building. Countless people were in the dream either moving toward the rod or away from it. Nephi was able to see his father’s dream and was given the interpretation as well. This dream seems to represent the spiritual journey that we are each on in this life.

I was intrigued by one verse in particular; where the angel is explaining to Nephi about the mists of darkness:

“And the mists of darkness are the temptations of the devil, which blindeth the eyes, and hardeneth the hearts of the children of men, and leadeth them away into broad roads, that they perish and are lost” (1 Nephi 12:17).

This gives three examples of how the adversary uses temptation to lead us away from the iron rod—the word of God (see 1 Nephi 11:25)—are by: 1) blinding our spiritual eyes, 2) hardening our hearts, and 3) leading us away into broad roads where we get lost.

Spiritual Blindness

In reference to blindness, the Bible dictionary states, “In addition to the healing of physical blindness, the mission of Jesus included curing blindness to the things of the spirit” (Bible Dictionary:blindness). Isaiah describes spiritual blindness as, “Seeing many things, but thou observest not; opening the ears, but he heareth not” (Isaiah 42:20). Paul taught about spiritual blindness to the Ephesians as, “Having the understanding darkened, being alienated from the life of God through the ignorance that is in them, because of the blindness [footnote: GR hardness] of their heart” (Ephesians 4:18).

Elder Kim B. Clark taught,

“In His mortal ministry, Jesus worked such mighty miracles of healing and taught with such authority and power that the scripture says, ‘His fame went throughout all Syria … and there followed him great multitudes of people.’

“Some who saw Him heal and heard Him teach rejected Him. Others followed Him for a season but then walked with Him no more. The Lord Jesus Christ was there in front of them, but they did not see who He really was. They were blind, and they chose to turn away….

“However, there were many men and women, including His faithful Apostles, who centered their lives on Him. Though they struggled with worldly distractions, with confusion about what He taught, and even with fear, they believed in Him, loved Him, and followed Him.

“Of them, Jesus said, “Blessed are your eyes, for they see: and your ears, for they hear’” (Kim B. Clark,“Eyes to See and Ears to Hear”, Ensign, November 2015).

Spiritual blindness comes when we choose to ignore the truths we know—perhaps out of ignorance, or perhaps because we have alienated ourselves from God. No matter the cause, it seems that we are unable to see those things that are right before our eyes, because of choices that we have made.

In Nephi’s vision he was taught about a “great and abominable church” who’s sole intent was to “blind the eyes and harden the hearts of the children of men”. This was done by their “[taking] away from the gospel of the Lamb many parts which are plain and most precious” and because of this “an exceedingly great many do stumble, yea, insomuch that Satan hath great power over them” (see 1 Nephi13:26-29).

Elder Dallin H. Oaks gave this insight,

“Book of Mormon prophecies describe the ‘great and abominable church of all the earth, whose founder is the devil’. This ‘church’ is prophesied to have ‘dominion over all the earth, among all nations, kindreds, tongues, and people’. Called ‘most abominable above all other churches,’ this church is also said to act ‘for the praise of the world’ in bringing ‘the saints of God … down into captivity’.

“Because no religious denomination—Christian or non-Christian—has ever had ‘dominion’ over all nations of the earth or the potential to bring all the saints of God down into ‘captivity,’ this great and abominable church must be something far more pervasive and widespread than a single ‘church,’ as we understand that term today. It must be any philosophy or organization that opposes belief in God. And the ‘captivity’ into which this ‘church’ seeks to bring the saints will not be so much physical confinement as the captivity of false ideas” (Dallin H. Oaks, “Stand AsWitnesses of God”, Ensign, March 2015).

We are surrounded by the ideas and philosophies of the world. As we hold to the rod of iron we can avoid deception.

Another way the mists of darkness cause spiritual blindness is by the temptation to “[look] beyond the mark” (Jacob 4:14). I think that means seeking for things that we can’t understand in this life, sometimes to the exclusion of all other things. Seeking is necessary in this life, but there are many things that we won’t have answers for until the next life. When on our quest for truth, which comes through seeking, it would be wise to remember the words of President Uchtdorf,

“It’s natural to have questions—the acorn of honest inquiry has often sprouted and matured into a great oak of understanding. There are few members of the Church who, at one time or another, have not wrestled with serious or sensitive questions. One of the purposes of the Church is to nurture and cultivate the seed of faith—even in the sometimes sandy soil of doubt and uncertainty. Faith is to hope for things which are not seen but which are true.

“Therefore, my dear brothers and sisters—my dear friends—please, first doubt your doubts before you doubt your faith. We must never allow doubt to hold us prisoner and keep us from the divine love, peace, and gifts that come through faith in the Lord Jesus Christ” (Dieter F. Uchtdorf, “Come, Join with Us”, Ensign,November 2013).

To avoid, or withstand, the mists of darkness we must cling to the rod of iron and not let the questions that we don't have answers to cloud our vision of what we already know.

Lehi told of “a strait and narrow path, which came along by the rod of iron” (1 Nephi 8:20). I wonder if this path is made of “a sure foundation” (Helaman 5:12), a foundation of rock—rather than a dirt path—that the posts of the rod of iron are deeply embedded into. The iron rod is the word of God, and Christ is the rock. If we stray from the stone path we are near a river (a horribly, dangerous, swiftly moving river) that I imagine has gradually sloping, sandy banks.

I am reminded of the psalm, “Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path” (Psalms 119:105). The path is something solid to guide our steps. However, when the mists of darkness come if we don’t have hold of the rod, Nephi recorded that those people, “did lose their way, that they wandered off and were lost” (1 Nephi 8:23) even though they were initially on the path. It is our grip on the rod that makes the difference when the mists of darkness come. And they will come.

“Traveling through mists of darkness is a completely normal part of God’s plan. He allows us to experience difficulties from time to time so that we can completely depend on Him and His Son. The key is to cling to the iron rod” (Juventa Vezzani, “Latter-daySaint Voices: Finding My Way through Mists of Darkness”, Ensign, January 2016).

Hardens the Heart

I think a key to understanding how hearts can be hardened is found in the Book of Hebrews,

“Take heed, brethren, lest there be in any of you an evil heart of unbelief, in departing from the living God.

“But exhort one another daily, while it is called To day; lest any of you be hardened through the deceitfulness of sin.

“For we are made partakers of Christ, if we hold the beginning of our confidence steadfast unto the end;” (Hebrews 3:12-14)

I feel that these verses say that we will start to disbelieve when we distance ourselves from God. We can then become more hardened in our hearts through continued disbelief or even the deceitfulness of sin, further distancing ourselves from God. We lose our connection with the Spirit through sin, and no longer have the continual guidance and direction available through the Holy Ghost.

We, as members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, “believe the Bible to be the word of God as far as it is translated correctly; we also believe the Book of Mormon to be the word of God” (Articles of Faith 1:8). The Lord has given us His word—an iron rod—to cling to as a spiritual protection in these last days. President Ezra Taft Benson shared this promise about the Book of Mormon specifically:

“It is not just that the Book of Mormon teaches us truth, though it indeed does that. It is not just that the Book of Mormon bears testimony of Christ, though it indeed does that, too. But there is something more. There is a power in the book which will begin to flow into your lives the moment you begin a serious study of the book. You will find greater power to resist temptation. You will find the power to avoid deception. You will find the power to stay on the strait and narrow path” (Ezra Taft Benson, “The Book of Mormon—Keystone of Our Religion”, Ensign, November 1986, emphasis added).

There have been times during my life when I have been closer to the Lord and other times when I have been father away. How do we continually stay close to the Lord? I think that President Spencer W. Kimball gave wise counsel when he said,

“When you look in the dictionary for the most important word, do you know what it is? It could be ‘remember.’ Because all of [us] have made covenants … our greatest need is to remember. That is why everyone goes to sacrament meeting every Sabbath day—to take the sacrament and listen to the priests pray that [we] ‘… may always remember him and keep his commandments which he has given [us].’… ‘Remember’ is the word” (see Book of Mormon: Gospel Doctrine Teacher's Manual, Lesson 33, "A Sure Foundation").

I also love this insight on the power that comes through remembering that was shared about a seminary class,

“’If you remember,’ [the teacher] said, ‘you won’t forget to pray. You won’t forget to serve or love. You will remember to read the scriptures. You will not forget your family and friends. You will remember to obey the prophet. You’ll keep in your heart the knowledge that Jesus Christ sacrificed his life for us, and you will love him as he loves you. You will remember why you came to this earth. And you will remember you are sons and daughters of God. You can return home to him if you remember to keep his commandments and live your lives the way he has asked.’” (Laura Kay Worthington, “What is the Most Important Word?”, New Era, September1992).

Another key about why our hearts may be hardened is found in 3 Nephi. Nephi recounts,

“[A]nd the people began to forget those signs and wonders which they had heard, and began to be less and less astonished at a sign or a wonder from heaven, insomuch that they began to be hard in their hearts, and blind in their minds, and began to disbelieve all which they had heard and seen—

 “Imagining up some vain thing in their hearts, that it was wrought by men and by the power of the devil, to lead away and deceive the hearts of the people; and thus did Satan get possession of the hearts of the people again, insomuch that he did blind their eyes and lead them away to believe that the doctrine of Christ was a foolish and a vain thing” (3 Nephi 2:1-2).

The people began to forget about what they had seen and heard, and began to harden their hearts. They were not remembering. Each week we are reminded to “always remember Him” (Doctrine & Covenants 20:77, 79) during the sacrament prayers. This does not mean for those few minutes that we’re sitting in our seats, but always in our day-to-day lives. This is a great protection to us, to allow us time to really remember our Savior, so that we can (hopefully) keep from becoming hard in our own hearts.

We will be surrounded by mists of darkness at different times throughout our lives. During these times, if we can remember to grasp the iron rod we can find light, truth, and direction. Continually holding fast to the rod of iron takes faith, but is crucial when we are surrounded by these mists and unable to see. Elder David A. Bednar explains the importance of the day-to-day things that we need to do to be able to remember.

“In [1 Nephi 8:30] we read about a third group of people who pressed forward ‘continually holding fast to the rod of iron, until they came forth and fell down and partook of the fruit of the tree.’ The key phrase in this verse is continually holding fast to the rod of iron.

“The third group also pressed forward with faith and conviction; however, there is no indication that they wandered off, fell into forbidden paths, or were lost. Perhaps this third group of people consistently read and studied and searched the scriptures. Perhaps it was diligence and devotion to a seemingly ‘small and simple [thing]’ that saved the third group from perishing. Perhaps it was ‘the knowledge of the Lord’ and ‘the knowledge of the truth’ obtained through faithful study of the scriptures that yielded the spiritual gift of humility—such that this group of people ‘fell down and partook of the fruit of the tree’. Perhaps it was the spiritual nourishment and strength provided by continually ‘feasting upon the word of Christ’ that enabled this group to heed not the scorning and mocking of the people in the great and spacious building. This is the group you and I should strive to join” (David A.Bednar, “Lehi’s Dream: Holding Fast to the Rod”, Ensign, November 2011).

Leadeth them Away into Broad Roads

When I read this sentence I wondered why the adversary chose to lead people into “broad” roads. Why didn’t he lead them to isolation? Perhaps it is because when we are alone, and take a moment for some quiet reflection and contemplation, that we can feel the whisperings of the spirit drawing us back to the path. I feel that the adversary is aiming for distraction. If he can put us in a broad road, filled with sights, sounds, and other distractions, it can put us in an awkward or uncomfortable situation of making ourselves stand alone, if we choose to be different. He wants to cloud our judgment with what seems to be a natural desire to want to be included and accepted. There is strength in numbers, both for good and evil.

I also like this explanation that President Boyd K. Packer gave:

“This trend to more noise, more excitement, more contention, less restraint, less dignity, less formality is not coincidental nor innocent nor harmless.

“The first order issued by a commander mounting a military invasion is the jamming of the channels of communication of those he intends to conquer.

“Irreverence suits the purposes of the adversary by obstructing the delicate channels of revelation in both mind and spirit” (Boyd K. Packer, “Reverence Invites Revelation”, Ensign,November 1991).

In Luke we read, “Strive to enter in at the strait gate: for many, I say unto you, will seek to enter in, and shall not be able” (Luke 13:24). When I read this verse I wondered why would they “not be able” to enter? What would keep them from being able to enter?

King Benjamin taught about the broad road of sin when he said, “And finally, I cannot tell you all the things whereby ye may commit sin; for there are divers ways and means, even so many that I cannot number them” (Mosiah 4:29). The road to sin is so incredibly vast that we cannot fathom it. The road to the Savior, on the other hand, is very narrow. Nephi taught,

“Wherefore, do the things which I have told you I have seen that your Lord and your Redeemer should do; for, for this cause have they been shown unto me, that ye might know the gate by which ye should enter….

“And then are ye in this strait and narrow path which leads to eternal life;…

“And now, my beloved brethren, after ye have gotten into this strait and narrow path, I would ask if all is done? Behold, I say unto you, Nay; for ye have not come thus far save it were by the word of Christ with unshaken faith in him, relying wholly upon the merits of him who is mighty to save.

“Wherefore, ye must press forward with a steadfastness in Christ, having a perfect brightness of hope, and a love of God and of all men. 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.

“And now, behold, my beloved brethren, this is the way; and there is none other way nor name given under heaven whereby man can be saved in the kingdom of God” (2 Nephi 31:17-21).

Once we are in the “broad” roads of life it is easy to stay there without any effort. But once we enter into the gate that leads to eternal life, it will take a concerted effort on our part to stay there.

The adversary does not often come out and attack openly. He uses subtlety, deceit, arrows and fiery darts that can be thrown from a distance, rather that hand-to-hand combat. He doesn’t attack when we are strong but waits until we are tired, rundown, and weak.

The mists of darkness are necessary to provide an opportunity for growth. We can’t fully comprehend something unless we’ve experienced it. This life gives us that opportunity to learn—to know for ourselves the good from the evil. In this battle we have our Savior on our side. The power that comes through the atonement of Jesus Christ can help to keep us on the strait and narrow path. It is only through Him that we will be able to stay on the path that leads back to Him.

The key to enduring through the mists of darkness, the temptations that will come throughout our lives, is the rod of iron.

Elder Jeffrey R. Holland gives amazing insight into the power of the word of god.

“The Savior warned that in the last days even those of the covenant, the very elect, could be deceived by the enemy of truth. If we think of this as a form of spiritual destruction, it may cast light on another latter-day prophecy. Think of the heart as the figurative center of our faith, the poetic location of our loyalties and our values; then consider Jesus’s declaration that in the last days ‘men’s hearts [shall fail] them’….

“Brothers and sisters, God always provides safety for the soul, and with the Book of Mormon, He has again done that in our time. Remember this declaration by Jesus Himself: ‘Whoso treasureth up my word, shall not be deceived’—and in the last days neither your heart nor your faith will fail you” (Jeffrey R. Holland, “Safety for the Soul,” Ensign, November 2009).

May we do all that is in our power to keep our grip on the iron rod.

Personal Experience with Reading the Book of Mormon

I have read the Book of Mormon multiple times in my life. A few years ago I realized that sometimes I didn’t really get much out of my scripture reading. I remember a talk by President Ezra Taft Benson in which he talked about reasons for reading the Book of Mormon. He said,

“It helps us draw nearer to God. Is there not something deep in our hearts that longs to draw nearer to God, to be more like Him in our daily walk, to feel His presence with us constantly? If so, then the Book of Mormon will help us do so more than any other book.

It is not just that the Book of Mormon teaches us truth, though it indeed does that. It is not just that the Book of Mormon bears testimony of Christ, though it indeed does that, too. But there is something more. There is a power in the book which will begin to flow into your lives the moment you begin a serious study of the book. You will find greater power to resist temptation. You will find the power to avoid deception. You will find the power to stay on the strait and narrow path.” (Ezra Taft Benson, "The Book of Mormon-Keystone of Our Religion", Ensign, Nov 1986).

Marion G. Romney also spoke of the power that comes from a regular study of the Book of Mormon when he said:

“I feel certain that if, in our homes, parents will read from the Book of Mormon prayerfully and regularly, both by themselves and with their children, the spirit of that great book will come to permeate our homes and all who dwell therein. The spirit of reverence will increase; mutual respect and consideration for each other will grow. The spirit of contention will depart. Parents will counsel their children in greater love and wisdom. Children will be more responsive and submissive to the counsel of their parents. Righteousness will increase. Faith, hope, and charity—the pure love of Christ—will abound in our homes and lives, bringing in their wake peace, joy, and happiness.” (Marion G. Romney, "The Book of Mormon", Ensign, May 1980).

I decided that I was going to test these promises, and make a daily, intentional, study of the book of Mormon. When I first started, I was a little worried because I generally read right before bed. I didn't think I could get much out of it, and I was also worried that staying up later to read would not be as beneficial as sleep. I knelt down and explained to the Lord that I wanted to read the scriptures, but I would really need His help to get something out of what I was reading, and also that I would have help to be functional in the morning - especially with my later night readings.

As a young mother, I was often very tired, and my emotions were high. About a month after starting this experiment I had a really rough day. When I talked to my husband about my troubles he said that he was surprised about me having a rough day, because for the past month there had been such a wonderful feeling in our home. I feel that has been a tremendous blessing from reading the Book of Mormon. It has given me the courage to keep reading every day because I know that the Lord will continue to support me. One thing I have learned is when I remember to ask the Lord, he is there to help.

Walking In the Lord's Path

In the Book of Mormon Nephi shares part of the dream his father had, about the Tree of Life. Lehi saw a great and spacious field, and then a tree covered with fruit. He walks to the tree and eats of the fruit. After partaking of the fruit he looks around (see 1 Nephi 8:4-13). It makes me wonder if he was so focused on the tree that he saw nothing else until he reached it.

He notices Sariah, Sam, and Nephi, calls to them, and they come and eat the fruit. It isn’t until he sees Laman and Lemuel that he mentions the rod of iron and the path. “And I also beheld a strait and narrow path, which came along by the rod of iron, even to the tree by which I stood." Lehi sees a river that runs near the tree. He also sees that the rod of iron extends along the bank of the river. (see 1 Nephi 8:19-20)

What I understand from this is that if your feet are solidly on the path, the rod should be within your grasp, and will stand as a barrier between you and the river, which Nephi later learns is “filthy” and represents “the depths of hell” (1 Nephi 12:16). The iron rod represents the word of God and leads to the tree of life, or the love of God (see 1 Nephi 11:25). Elder David A. Bednar taught,

“The fruit on the tree is a symbol for the blessings of the Atonement. Partaking of the fruit of the tree represents the receiving of ordinances and covenants whereby the Atonement can become fully efficacious in our lives” (link to article).

Lehi also saw “numberless concourses of people” who commenced in the path but a mist of darkness arose and they lost their way (see 1 Nephi 8:21-23). Nephi explains that "the mists of darkness are the temptations of the devil, which blindeth the eyes, and hardeneth the hearts of the children of men, and leadeth them away into broad roads, that they perish and are lost” (1 Nephi 12:17). 

Darkness, fogginess, or anytime we can’t see clearly can be disorienting. When I have been in such a situation I have become confused as to which way to go. Moving forward to a specific location in total darkness (even if I've seen it before) can be challenging. When we are unable to see, how much more important would it be to be holding onto something solid? President Boyd K. Packer gave a little insight when he said “If you hold to the rod, you can feel your way forward with the gift of the Holy Ghost” (link to talk). I think it is very important to note that there is no mention of this group holding on to the rod. 

One thing I found interesting is that when Nephi speaks of the path that these people are following he uses the word in. I find this very descriptive of the type of path they (and we) are following.

A number of years ago I had the opportunity to go and see some of the early pioneer landmarks; the ruts in Gurnsey, Wyoming were among them. In this area the pioneers had to go over some rocks. Group after group after group went over these same rocks, until eventually a path was worn into the rocks.

The strait and narrow path has been around for a very long time. Adam and Eve were the first on this earth to trod it, followed by many faithful others throughout generations. By following the examples of the righteous and obedient men and women in the scriptures we can stay in the well-marked path.

There are two other groups of people mentioned that grab the rod, press forward, and partake of the fruit, but the outcomes are very different.

Both of these groups press forward and have a grip on the rod. The first group is described as clinging to the rod. They make it to the tree and partake of the fuit, but when the mocking voices and fingers of scorn are felt, they seem to backtrack in their conviction. Nephi recounts, 

“And it came to pass that I beheld others pressing forward, and they came forth and caught hold of the end of the rod of iron; and they did press forward through the mist of darkness, clinging to the rod of iron, even until they did come forth and partake of the fruit of the tree….

“And after they had tasted of the fruit they were ashamed, because of those that were scoffing at them; and they fell away into forbidden paths and were lost” (1 Nephi 8:24, 28).

The other group is described as continually holding fast to the rod. This group "came and caught hold of the end of the rod of iron; and they did press their way forward, continually holding fast to the rod of iron, until they came forth and fell down and partook of the fruit of the tree” (1 Nephi 8:30). 

In contrasting the idea of clinging versus holding fast I am reminded of an experience I had. 

In Zion’s National Park there is a beautiful hike, known as “Angel’s Landing”. It truly felt like I was standing in the place of angels when I was at the top overlooking the vast expanse. 

Near the end of this hike, however, there was a steep climb. As I started on the final climb there were strong, sturdy, thick chains that were bolted into the side of the mountain, alongside the trail. A sign said to hold on to the chains as you climb. I remember walking along the path, and keeping my fingertips on the chain, or not quite holding on because the path was wide. I was comfortable with the width of the path and wasn’t worried about falling off, and felt that it was something I could handle without a problem. When the path narrowed, and the fear of falling became real, I would grip the chain tightly until the narrowness, and fear, had passed. 

Comparing this to Lehi’s vision I wonder if those from the first group were casually walking in the path—doing all the right things—but not holding fast to the rod. Perhaps they were gently grazing their fingertips along the rod, feeling that this journey was something they could handle on their own (pride maybe?), but hanging on just in case troubles came up. This group doesn’t seem to have fully internalized the gospel into their lives, because when the mocking and scorn came they fell away (see 1 Nephi 8:28). Did Nephi use the word “forbidden” because of covenants they had made? 

Jesus taught this idea of holding to the word of God, in a parable. In the parable of the sower he speaks of the seed being thrown to several different groups. I want to point out what happens to one specific group.

“Behold, a sower went forth to sow;

“And when he sowed…

“Some [seeds] fell upon stony places, where they had not much earth: and forthwith they sprung up, because they had no deepness of earth:

“And when the sun was up, they were scorched; and because they had no root, they withered away” (Matthew 13:3, 5-6).

Jesus explains this parable to his disciples. First, he teaches that "The seed is the word of God” (Luke 8:11). The rod of iron also represents the word of God. The Savior's continued explanation seems to fit the clinging group of people from Lehi's dream.

“But he that received the seed into stony places, the same is he that heareth the word, and anon with joy receiveth it;

“Yet hath he not root in himself, but dureth for a while: for when tribulation or persecution ariseth because of the word, by and by he is offended” (Matthew 13:20-21).

It seems that these people may have been doing the right things (they started in the path) and they were at least doing something right (they made it to the tree), but along the way something was missed. They went through the motions, but I don’t think they internalized the reason behind what they were doing. President Dieter F. Uchtdorf explains,

“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).

When we understand why we are in the path and why we are holding on to the rod, it will make the temptations more bearable, and the challenges of life's journey easier to get through.

I find another parable fitting to the dream of the iron rod. We know that in the Parable of the Ten Virgins the oil represents spiritual preparedness, and all ten virgins are members of the church—meaning all have been taught the truth (link to article). Yet half are wise and half are foolish. From the scriptures we learn that to be wise means to “[apply] your hearts to understanding” (Mosiah 12:27). Another scriptures goes along with President Packer's quote above, 

“For they that are wise and have received the truth, and have taken the Holy Spirit for their guide, and have not been deceived” (Doctrine & Covenants 45:57).

It seems that having access to the Holy Ghost as you travel in the path is a critical element. In Lehi’s dream I think that those who are continually holding fast to the rod of iron are those who lived “by every word that proceedeth forth from the mouth of God” (Doctrine & Coventants 84:44) and have served Him “with all [their] heart, might, mind and strength” (Doctrine & Covenants 4:2). This can be shown by the exertion that has been spent to get to the tree, for they fall down when they reach it (see 1 Nephi 8:30). 

Elder Robert D. Hales shares what this group of people may have done to keep a firm grip on the rod of iron.

“I testify that when we do what is necessary to know [Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ] and know Their love for one another, we will obtain 'the greatest of all the gifts of God'—even eternal life….

“How can this gift be ours? It comes through a matter of personal revelation…

“As you seek a personal witness—your personal revelation—you will discover that Heavenly Father has provided a special way for you to know the truth for yourself: through the third member of the Godhead, a personage of spirit we know as the Holy Ghost” (link to talk).

Nephi also taught that,

“the power of the Holy Ghost…is the gift of God unto all those who diligently seek him, as well in times of old as in the time that he should manifest himself unto the children of men….

“For he that diligently seeketh shall find; and the mysteries of God shall be unfolded unto them” (1 Nephi 10:17,19).

This group had paid the price to obtain their own spiritual witness through the Holy Ghost that Jesus is the Christ, the Eternal Son of God. They had received a witness that Jesus Christ really is who He said He is. They had learned, through their own experience, about the healing power of the Atonement of Jesus Christ. They had felt the peace “which passeth all understanding” (Philippians 4:7). They knew that Jesus Christ,

“would overcome the world; he would descend beneath it all. He would make it possible for every person of every age to overcome every obstacle, every weakness, every sin, and every tinge of guilt” (Tad R. Callister, The Infinite Atonement, p 205).

They had full confidence in the promises of our Heavenly Father, and our Savior Jesus Christ. It is no surprise that they paid no heed—mindfulness, consideration, study—to those mocking from the great and spacious building. They knew in whom they had trusted (see 2 Nephi 4:19).

Elder M. Russell Ballard spoke of our journey through life similar to being in a boat on a white-water rafting trip. The boat symbolizes The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. One of the rules on this journey is to “stay in the boat”. 

“Along with rule number one as I’ve applied it, remember rules two and three: always wear a life jacket, and hold on with both hands. The words of the Lord are found in the scriptures and the teachings of the apostles and prophets. They provide us counsel and direction that, when followed, will act like a spiritual life jacket and will help us know how to hold on with both hands.

“We need to become like the sons of Mosiah, who 'waxed strong in the knowledge of the truth.' We can become men and women 'of a sound understanding.' This can be accomplished only by our 'search[ing] the scriptures diligently, that [we] might know the word of God.'

“In searching the scriptures and the words of past and current apostles and prophets, we should focus on studying, living, and loving the doctrine of Christ.

“In addition to developing the habit of personal scripture reading, we need to be like the sons of Mosiah and give ourselves 'to much prayer, and fasting.'

“It seems that these things which are not easily measured are of great importance. Stay focused on these simple things, and avoid becoming distracted” (link to talk).

I felt this very fitting to Lehi’s dream of the rod of iron. We need to hold on firmly with both hands, and we can do that as we follow Elder Ballard's counsel. There will be times when we stumble, or fall, but if we are holding steadfastly to the rod of iron we will only fall so far. As we keep focused on the Lord: obeying His words as found in the scriptures, and the words of His prophets; we can stay in the path that He has already walked. By doing these things we can make it to the tree of life and experience God's love in its fullness.

The Armor of God (Part 2: Truth)

with truth, 

We live in a world with mixed messages in the media, politics, and differing opinions on anything and everything we can imagine. It may often feel overwhelming to really find and discern where to find the truth. Through studying I have found instruction on where we can find truth and the protection it can provide.

HONESTY:

Truth can be defined as honesty. Straight and simple; be honest. In the 13^th Article of Faith it proclaims, “[w]e believe in being honest” (Article of Faith 1:13). In Exodus we read, “Thou shalt not bear false witness against thy neighbour” (Exodus 20:16). To bear a false witness is to say something that is not true, or to falsely stand for something that is not right. Our neighbor can be defined as anyone we interact with.

When the resurrected Jesus Christ appears to the Nephites He gave them a new law (see 3 Nephi 12): rather than simply refraining from wrong actions or words, His new law requires a greater commitment from them—to control their thoughts. This law of the Lord also applies in our day.

President Ezra Taft Benson said the following.

“Thoughts lead to acts, acts lead to habits, habits lead to character—and our character will determine our eternal destiny” (link to article).

More than just being honest in the things we do and say, we need to be honest (and in control of) our thoughts. In the Book of Mosiah, King Benjamin also counsels us on the importance of controlling thoughts,

“But this much I can tell you, that if ye do not watch yourselves, and your thoughts, and your words, and your deeds, and observe the commandments of God, and continue in the faith of what ye have heard concerning the coming of our Lord, even unto the end of your lives, ye must perish. And now, O man, remember, and perish not” (Mosiah 4:30, emphasis added).

As we obey this law of the Lord it is not just our outward self that is being refined; it is a purification of our inner self as well. Being honest in our actions, speech, and thoughts helps to build our character. Through our honesty we can be protected from many undesirable consequences that result from dishonest acts. We can also be protected from the guilt and mental anguish that come when we try to hide the truth.

In the scriptures there are many examples of stalwart people. I want to point out a group of exemplary young men; Helaman’s stripling warriors. They are described as follows:

“And they were all young men, and they were exceedingly valiant for courage, and also for strength and activity; but behold, this was not all—they were men who were true at all times in whatsoever thing they were entrusted.

"Yea, they were men of truth and soberness, for they had been taught to keep the commandments of God and to walk uprightly before him” (Alma 53:20-21, emphasis added).

The parents of these boys had once been a bloodthirsty people but once converted to the truth they never went astray. The result of their complete conversion can be seen in their young sons. Their sons were strictly obedient to the commandments of God. Through their obedience, and their faith—for they knew the Lord would deliver them out of whatever difficulty they faced (see Alma 56:47)—this inexperienced group of young men fought against a very experienced Lamanite army and “not one soul of them” (Alma 56:56) fell to the earth.

As we follow their example by being true in all things (in word, action, and thought), being obedient to the truth, and having our faith centered in the Lord, Jesus Christ, we will be protected. And not one soul of us will fall away.

SEEKING FOR TRUTH:

We, as members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, have been directed to search for knowledge. Elder Marcos A. Aidukaitis gives three ways that we can learn the truth for ourselves.

“First, we can know the truth by observing its fruits….

"Second, we can find truth by experimenting on the word ourselves….

"However, there is yet a third way to know the truth, and that is by personal revelation” (link to talk).

The Lord does not tell us that we have to believe what the missionaries, the bishop, the Gospel Doctrine teacher, our friends, family, or what any one else tells us about the truth of this gospel. He counsels us to “study it out in [our] mind; then [we] must ask [Him] if it be right, and if it is right [He] will cause that [our bosoms] shall burn within [us]; therefore, [we] shall feel that it is right” (Doctrine & Covenants 9:8). Study it out yourself, and then go straight to the source. Ask God.

The Prophet Joseph Smith followed this counsel and found out for himself that this gospel is true. We can do the same. As we come to know the truth for ourselves we can become stronger and stronger in our conviction of living the gospel of Jesus Christ.

Elder Aidukaitis said, “God will reveal truth to those who seek for it as prescribed in the scriptures” (link to talk). In the Book of James we read the instruction,

“If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him.

“But let him ask in faith, nothing wavering” (James 1:5-6).

In the Book of Mormon we have another witness of finding the Lord’s unfailing guide to know truth.

“And when ye shall receive these things, I would exhort you that ye would ask God, the Eternal Father, in the name of Christ, if these things are not true; and if ye shall ask with a sincere heart, with real intent, having faith in Christ, he will manifest the truth of it unto you, by the power of the Holy Ghost.

“And by the power of the Holy Ghost ye may know the truth of all things” (Moroni 10:4-5, emphasis added).

Paul, speaking to the Corinthians, also stated the need for a witness of the Holy Ghost when he said, “no man can say that Jesus is the Lord, but by the Holy Ghost” (1 Corintians 12:3).

When one receives a witness by the convincing power of the Holy Ghost it is one that cannot be denied or doubted. President Joseph Fielding Smith explained,

 “When a man has the manifestation from the Holy Ghost, it leaves an indelible impression on his soul, one that is not easily erased. It is Spirit speaking to spirit, and it comes with convincing force. A manifestation of an angel, or even of the Son of God himself, would impress the eye and mind, and eventually become dimmed, but the impressions of the Holy Ghost sink deeper into the soul and are more difficult to erase” (Answers to Gospel Questions, comp. Joseph Fielding Smith Jr., 5 vols. [1957–66], 2:151).

Elder Dallin H. Oaks also quoted Joseph Fielding Smith when he said,

“President Joseph Fielding Smith taught: 'The Spirit of God speaking to the spirit of man has power to impart truth with greater effect and understanding than the truth can be imparted by personal contact even with heavenly beings. Through the Holy Ghost the truth is woven into the very fibre and sinews of the body so that it cannot be forgotten' (link to talk).

To receive our own witness of the Holy Ghost about the truth will take faith and effort. We can “experiment on the word” (Alma 32:27) by reading the scriptures, ask God if it is true, and gain a testimony for themselves. Those who follow this pattern can be armed with the power of truth.

IRON ROD OF TRUTH:

Where do we go to find truth? We look for the words of the Lord. For God, our Father, is “a God of truth, and [can] not lie” (Ether 3:12). The words of God can be found in the scriptures.

In the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints we have four books of scripture known as the Standard Works: the Holy Bible, the Book of Mormon, the Pearl of Great Price, and the Doctrine and Covenants. We have been admonished to study all of these words of scripture, but a particular emphasis has been placed on reading the Book of Mormon. As we read the scriptures we can liken the messages to our own lives and circumstances.

In the Book of Mormon we read about the prophet Lehi having an amazing dream—one that is very applicable to our day. In one part of his dream it mentions a rod of iron. Nephi recorded this about his father’s dream, “And I beheld a rod of iron, and it extended along the bank of the river, and led to the tree by which I stood” (1 Nephi 8:19).

Nephi later sees the dream for himself and finds out the interpretation from an angel of the Lord. “And it came to pass that I beheld that the rod of iron, which my father had seen, was the word of God, which led to the fountain of living waters, or to the tree of life” (1 Nephi 11:25, emphasis added).

The iron rod is the word of God. Nephi testified to his brothers about the critical nature of listening to and obeying the word of God when he said,

“and whoso would hearken until 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 15:24).

What protection! By hearkening to the word of God we can be shielded from the blinding power of temptation--not just reading the words, but doing what they say.

In the October 2011 Ensign Elder David A. Bednar goes into greater depth, and speaks of differing levels of protection the iron rod provided to several groups of people in Lehi’s dream (determined by their actions). The first group can be found in 1 Nephi 8:21-23. They started on the strait and narrow path but were thrown off by the mists of darkness, which represent the temptations of the adversary. Elder Bednar commented,

“Notice that no mention is made in these verses of the rod of iron. Those who ignore or treat lightly the word of God do not have access to that divine compass which points the way to the Savior. Consider that this group obtained the path and pressed forward, exhibiting a measure of faith in Christ and spiritual conviction, but they were diverted by the temptations of the devil and were lost” (link to article).

If we do not protect ourselves by daily searching from the iron rod of truth, we can be easily led away into temptation. This is where the adversary may try to persuade us that if we miss one day of reading the scriptures we will be okay.

If we liken this to our lives we can compare studying the word of God to eating spiritual food. Would you be okay to miss one day of physical food without noticing it a little? Would you be as physically strong and mentally acute? What about missing two days, or a week, or a month? The compounding effect of lacking spiritual sustenance may be less noticeable but is as incredibly vital as the lack of physical nourishment. I know some people who read their scriptures while they eat, because they know they will always remember to eat!

Elder Bendar continues with a second group (found in 1 Nephi 8:24-28) who are “clinging to the rod of iron”. They arrive at the tree of life, are mocked by those in the great and spacious building (representing the pride of the world), feel ashamed, and fall away. He continues,

“Even with faith, commitment, and the word of God, this [second] group eventually was lost—perhaps because they only periodically read or studied or searched the scriptures. Clinging to the rod of iron suggests to me only occasional ‘bursts’ of study or irregular dipping rather than consistent, ongoing immersion in the word of God.

“In [1 Nephi 8:30] we read about a third group of people who pressed forward ‘continually holding fast to the rod of iron, until they came forth and fell down and partook of the fruit of the tree.’…

“The third group also pressed forward with faith and conviction; however, there is no indication that they wandered off, fell into forbidden paths, or were lost. Perhaps this third group of people consistently read and studied and searched the scriptures…. This is the group you and I should strive to join” (link to article).

Elder Jeffrey R. Holland also spoke of Lehi’s dream.

“In Lehi’s dream an already difficult journey gets more difficult when a mist of darkness arises, obscuring any view of the safe but narrow path his family and others are to follow. It is imperative to note that this mist of darkness descends on all the travelers—the faithful and the determined ones…as well as the weaker and ungrounded ones. The principal point of the story is that the successful travelers resist all distractions, including the lure of forbidden paths and jeering taunts from the vain and proud who have taken those paths. The record says that the protected ‘did press their way forward, continually [and, I might add, tenaciously] holding fast’ to a rod of iron that runs unfailingly along the course of the true path. However dark the night or the day, the rod marks the way of that solitary, redeeming trail” (link to talk).

Holding to the rod of iron may seem difficult at times but we must continually hold fast—especially now. These days in which we are living have been prophesied about and are perilous. It is imperative that we arm ourselves against the power of the adversary. With the power of the adversary and the power of the Lord both on the earth there will be a significant pull from both sides.

We can obtain guidance from Lehi’s dream, as Nephi explained,

“And great was the multitude that did enter into that strange building [representing the pride of the world]. And after they did enter into that building they did point the finger of scorn at me and those that were partaking of the fruit also; but we heeded them not.

“These are the words of my father: For as many as heeded them, had fallen away” (1 Nephi 8:33-34).

If we focus on the Lord we can be guided by Him. If we look to the world for guidance, we will end up somewhere we don't want to be. Elder Holland states,

“The Savior warned that in the last days even those of the covenant, the very elect, could be deceived by the enemy of truth. If we think of this as a form of spiritual destruction, it may cast light on another latter-day prophecy. Think of the heart as the figurative center of our faith, the poetic location of our loyalties and our values; then consider Jesus’s declaration that in the last days ‘men’s hearts [shall fail] them’” (link to talk).

What can we do to protect ourselves against this awful plight? I love Elder Holland's words of instruction.

“Brothers and sisters, God always provides safety for the soul, and with the Book of Mormon, He has again done that in our time. Remember this declaration by Jesus Himself: ‘Whoso treasureth up my word, shall not be deceived’—and in the last days neither your heart nor your faith will fail you” (link to talk).

Don the armor, and protection, of truth by reading from the word of God every single day.

JESUS CHRIST IS TRUTH:

I found one thing that I wasn’t expecting when studying about arming ourselves with truth. I found it in the gospel of John where it says, “Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me” (John 14:6). I realized that Jesus is also truth.

As I thought about it I realized that when we take the name of the Lord upon us we arm ourselves with truth. Each week we can renew our baptismal covenants, and take His name upon us, as we worthily partake of the sacrament. The promised blessing is that, “[we] may always have his Spirit to be with [us]” (Doctrine & Covenants 20:77).

As we remain worthy to partake of the sacrament each week, and take His name upon us, we can be blessed with His armor of truth.

TRUTH IS FREEDOM:

I want to start with a quote from Elder Quentin L. Cook about types of bondage.

“God intended that men and women would be free to make choices between good and evil. When evil choices become the dominant characteristic of a culture or nation, there are serious consequences both in this life and the life to come. People can become enslaved or put themselves in bondage not only to harmful, addictive substances but also to harmful, addictive philosophies that detract from righteous living.

“Turning from the worship of the true and living God and worshipping false gods like wealth and fame and engaging in immoral and unrighteous conduct result in bondage in all its insidious manifestations. These include spiritual, physical, and intellectual bondage and sometimes bring destruction” (link to talk).

In the Book of Mormon the prophet, King Benjamin, speaks of the tendencies of man and their innate nature to be in opposition to God. He also shares the way to free ourselves; “[yield] to the enticings of the Holy Spirit” or the whisperings of the truth. He also explains that this freedom can only come “through the atonement of Christ the Lord” (Mosiah 3:19).

How do we overcome the natural man and free ourselves from the bondage of sin? Jesus said to those who believe on Him, “If ye continue in my word, then are ye my disciples indeed; And ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free” (John 8:31-32). Jesus was free from the chains of Satan because He knew the truth and lived it. We have that same promise.

Elder N. Eldon Tanner said,

“Freedom is based on truth, and no man is completely free as long as any part of his belief is based on error, for the chains of error bind his mind. This is why it is so important for us to learn all the truth we can from all the sources we can. We need particularly to search the scriptures, for in them are the words which, if accepted and lived, will lead us to eternal life” (link to talk).

As we study the scriptures we can know the truth for ourselves. As we act in the truth that we have received our testimonies will grow. President Thomas S. Monson stated,

“We face many serious challenges in the world today, but I assure you that our Heavenly Father is mindful of us. He will guide and bless us as we put our faith and trust in Him and will see us through whatever difficulties come our way….

"May we constantly nourish our testimonies of the gospel, that they will be a protection for us against the buffetings of the adversary” (link to talk).

As we are honest in our efforts to act in our knowledge of the truth we can have confidence that we are on the path that the Lord has prescribed. As we read the scriptures we can build our lives firmly upon the gospel of Jesus Christ. We can gain strength from the Atonement of Jesus Christ as we take His name upon us each week. As we arm ourselves with truth, and have faith in the promises of the Lord, we will find,

“...that when the devil shall send forth his mighty winds, yea, his shafts in the whirlwind, yea, when all his hail and his mighty storm shall beat upon you, it shall have no power over you to drag you down to the gulf of misery and endless wo, because of the rock upon which ye are built, which is a sure foundation, a foundation whereon if men build they cannot fall” (Helaman 5:12).