FOOD FOR THE SPIRIT--Wait Upon the Lord

In Moroni 7:37, we learn that by unwavering faith, we learn for ourselves that “it is by faith that miracles are wrought.”

Elder Robert D. Hales further explains:

"Generally, those miracles will not be physical demonstrations of God’s power—parting of the Red Sea, raising of the dead, breaking down prison walls, or the appearance of heavenly messengers. By design, most miracles are spiritual demonstrations of God’s power—tender mercies gently bestowed through impressions, ideas, feelings of assurance, solutions to problems, strength to meet challenges, and comfort to bear disappointments and sorrow.

These miracles come to us as we endure what the scriptures call a “trial of [our] faith.” Sometimes that trial is the time it takes before an answer is received (Robert D. Hales "Personal Revelation: The Teachings and Examples of the Prophets, Enisgn, November 2007).

So as the title of my blog suggests, and as we have been taught for years as members of the church, miracles happen only after the faith that results from trial and testing in this life. These miracles happen on the Lord's timetable, not ours, a fact that requires even more faith. Sometimes it takes years and years to find the answers we seek, which can lead to a wavering of faith in some. But, in reality, those who continue in faith, knowing that the Lord will bless them with answers and increased understanding, grow in faith and knowledge as they "wait upon the Lord."

Elder Hales went on to explain the true nature of personal revelation and how it is received:

"I testify that on the hillside or the meadow, in the grove or closet, now or in the eternities to come, the Savior’s words to each of us will be fulfilled: “Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you.” While we are commanded not to seek after signs, we are commanded to “seek . . . earnestly the best gifts.” These gifts include the Holy Ghost and personal revelation. That revelation will come “line upon line, precept upon precept,” as the Savior said, and “unto him that receiveth [the Lord] will give more.”

I pray that I will continue in faith each day, with a knowledge that as I seek the answers will come. Maybe they won't come as a instant download. Maybe I, like the prophets of old will only gain the answers to the questions of my heart, through fervent and sincere prayer, consistent righteousness, and increased patience and hope.