Highlights for Doctrine and Covenants 6-9
Perhaps Nephi taught us to “liken ALL scriptures unto us” (1 Nephi 19:23) because often Christ reminds his listeners, “what I say unto you, I say unto all…” (Mark 13:37). What is even more incredible, and gives me pause, is He is “no respecter of persons” (Acts 10:34-35). Such a profound truth, full of hope for each of us.
In other words, everyone has the same path to the same blessings (D&C 130:20-21). God does not have favorites based on looks, genetics, status or personality. He does show favor to those who draw close to him. It may work similarly to what I sometimes tell my six kids when they swear another sibling is a favorite over them. I am an equal opportunity mom but not an equal outcome mom. You reap what you sow (D&C 6:33).
No doubt, Nephi would have likened the Doctrine and Covenants to his people along with the brass plates. No matter how recent it has been since you’ve read the Doctrine and Covenants, prepare to be delighted. Jesus talks personably to you throughout its sections. About every other page, there are rich, powerful, meaningful quotes meant for you in our time. Ezra Taft Benson called the D&C “the capstone of our religion.”
6 Awesome Quotes
Here are six direct quotes from Jesus Christ in sections 6-9. While there are more, these are my favorites:
1 Hopefully, at some point in our lives, we figure out the pursuit that leads to the most happiness and fulfillment. Where do we focus our time? Despite what society and culture try to hard-drill into us – money and status will not get you there.
7 Seek not for riches but for wisdom, and behold, the mysteries of God shall be unfolded unto you, and then shall you be made rich. Behold, he that hath eternal life is rich.
8 Verily, verily, I say unto you, even as you desire of me so it shall be unto you; and if you desire, you shall be the means of doing much good in this generation. (D&C 6:7-8)
2 Our Savior is closer and more personable than many of us consciously realize. He wants to draw near to us (D&C 88:63). We are our own gatekeepers regarding our relationship with Him. If you would like to study this out more – here are 4 powerful talks by prophets that teach how to have a personal, ongoing relationship with Christ. Two of them are by President Nelson.
32 Verily, verily, I say unto you, as I said unto my disciples, where two or three are gathered together in my name, as touching one thing, behold, there will I be in the midst of them—even so am I in the midst of you. (Doctrine and Covenants 6:32)
3 The idea of karma appears many times in the scriptures; here is one more. You reap what you sow. One of the most significant descriptions of Jesus is “he went about doing good.” (Acts 10:38) He dearly encourages us to the same. What good could you set into motion?
33 Fear not to do good, my sons, for whatsoever ye sow, that shall ye also reap; therefore, if ye sow good ye shall also reap good for your reward.
34 Therefore, fear not, little flock; do good; let earth and hell combine against you, for if ye are built upon my rock, they cannot prevail. (D&C 6:33-34)
4 Isn’t it a comfort to know that only God knows the actual thoughts and intentions of your heart? He is, undoubtedly, the only partner I want. Lucifer does not have access; he can influence you, but your soul, heart, and mind are yours to direct.
36 Look unto me in every thought; doubt not, fear not.
37 Behold the wounds which pierced my side, and also the prints of the nails in my hands and feet; be faithful, keep my commandments, and ye shall inherit the kingdom of heaven. Amen. (Doctrine and Covenants 6:36-37)
5 The most powerful spirituality comes from experiencing the Holy Ghost. It’s the spirit of revelation. Christ makes a point throughout the Doctrine and Covenants to teach how personal revelation happens. Here are two simple verses that teach how revelation happens.
2 Yea, behold, I will tell you in your mind and in your heart, by the Holy Ghost, which shall come upon you and which shall dwell in your heart.
3 Now, behold, this is the spirit of revelation; behold, this is the spirit by which Moses brought the children of Israel through the Red Sea on dry ground. (Doctrine & Covenants 8:2-3)
6 Love this process! Seek after knowledge and understanding first—reason things through with pondering and consideration. Then take your best conclusion to the Lord. He works with you from there. I’ve experienced the stupor of thought myself; it’s a significant experience, especially when you realize what just happened.
7 Behold, you have not understood; you have supposed that I would give it unto you, when you took no thought save it was to ask me.
8 But, behold, I say unto you, that you must study it out in your mind; then you must ask me if it be right, and if it is right I will cause that your bosom shall burn within you; therefore, you shall feel that it is right.
9 But if it be not right you shall have no such feelings, but you shall have a stupor of thought that shall cause you to forget the thing which is wrong; therefore, you cannot write that which is sacred save it be given you from me. (Doctrine & Covenants 9:7-9)
Takeaway
The Doctrine and Covenants are a gift from heaven and have blessed my life immeasurably as I study them. They record many of Jesus Christ’s direct, life-changing messages to us. It’s a dedicated guidebook for our lives.