Introduction
One of the important keys to being spiritually prepared to gather Israel - as well as becoming a life-long disciple of Jesus Christ - is revelation. Joseph Smith stated that, “Salvation cannot come without revelation, it is in vain for anyone to minister without it. You will succeed in your work as you learn to receive and follow personal revelation” (Discourse, between circa 26 June and circa 4 August 1839-A, as reported by Willard Richards, Church History Library, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Salt Lake City).
Revelation Defined
According to the Bible dictionary, revelation is, “the making known of divine truth by communication with the heavens…It is individual guidance for every person who seeks for it and follows a prescribed course of faith, repentance, and obedience to the gospel of Jesus Christ” (Bible Dictionary, p.762).
Revelatory Pattern
Study 1 Nephi 15: 8, 11. Discuss and list the key components for receiving revelation:
DESIRE to know (1 Nephi 11:1)
PONDER in your heart (1 Nephi 11:1)
ASK in faith (1 Nephi 15:11; Matthew 7:7-8)
BE DILIGENT in keeping His commandments (1 Nephi 15:11)
VERIFY that personal revelation you receive is in harmony with the commandments of God, teachings of the living Apostles and Prophets, and your covenants with God (Preach My Gospel 109).
Receiving Revelation
Read “Learn to Recognize the Promptings of the Spirit” section in Preach My Gospel 106-108.
Study the following scriptures. Pay particular attention to the following ways revelation is received:
Gives ideas in your mind, feelings in your heart. (D&C 8:2-3)
Gives you feelings of love, joy, peace, patience, meekness, gentleness, faith, and hope (D&C 6:23; 11:12-14; Romans 15:13; Galatians 5:22-23).
Enlightens your mind (Alma 32:28; D&C 6:14-15; 1 Corinthians 2:9-11)
Replaces darkness with light (Alma 19:6; D&C 50:23-25)
Gives you feelings of peace and comfort (John 14:26-27; D&C 88:3)
Gives you feelings of hope and an anchor to your soul (Ether 12:4)
Revelatory Experiences of the Past
Record in your journal and share with your companion a time in your life when you received personal revelation. What thoughts came to your mind? How did you feel? What did you do as a result of the impressions that came to your mind or the feelings that you felt?
Preparation for Receiving Personal Revelation
What concern(s) do you have about beginning your mission experience (e.g. fears, anxieties, worries)?
What assurances (Alma 58:11) do you desire to receive from Heavenly Father that you need to ask for in your prayers? Formulate your desire into a question to take to the Lord in humble prayer.
Answers to your prayers are on the Lord’s timetable. It may require persistence and patience on your part.