To Acquire Spiritual Guidance

First and foremost I appreciated Elder's Scott's recognition that receiveing revelation is not easy. He says, "I am convinced that there is no simple formula or technique that would immediately allow you to master the ability to be guided by the voice of the Spirit. 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. They know that essential personal growth will come as you struggle to learn how to be led by the Spirit." It's assuring to have an apostle validate the difficulty.

Second, I appreciate Elder Scott's teaching that we can receive personal inspiriation while being taught by those who are humble and sincere, even though they may not teach eloquently. Even more importantly, we can receive personal inspiration in gospel classes that may not seem oh so inspired.

Third, I was impressed by Elder's Scott's experience he shared about revelation he received:

• He received the inspiration & wrote it down
• He pondered the inspiration & made some minor changes
• Then he prayed, reviewing with the Lord what he had been taught by the spirit & asked "Was there any more to be given?
• He repeated the process of writing, pondering, & praying for confirmation
• He asked again "Is there I should know?" and there was

I sometimes take my moments of inspiration at face value but still have a bit of that dumbfounded, "but I'm not sure I really get it" feeling. I like this prinicple of write, ponder, review, pray, & ask for more understanding. I guess it's reassuring to know it's okay not to get it all at first and feel like I need more inspiration.

Up next: Seeking to Know God, Out Heavenly Father, and His Son Jesus Christ by Elder Robert D. Hales.