Today's Favorite Verse: 1 Nephi 8:33-34

Today's Favorite Verse: 1 Nephi 8:33-34
"And great was the multitude that did enter into that strange building. 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."

Many that mocked and scorned in the great and spacious building were once members of the church. They will do all in their power to have others join them in their wickedness. I have often thought of how many are unaware that they are living inside the great and spacious by their actions and words. I reflected on how wise the counsel is to "heed them not". We can love them, pray for them, but not contend with them.

"Be patient in afflictions, revile not against those that revile. Govern your house in meekness, and be steadfast."
(Doctrine and Covenants 31:9)

Now that we know what not to do, the important thing is knowing what to do while not heeding them. Elder Bednar spoke of this in a recent general conference talk.

"As I visit with members of the Church around the world, I often ask them this question: what helps you to “heed not” worldly influences, mocking, and scorn? Their answers are most instructive.
Valiant members often highlight the importance of inviting the power of the Holy Ghost into their lives through meaningful scripture study, fervent prayer, and proper preparation to participate in the ordinance of the sacrament. Also mentioned frequently are the spiritual support of faithful family members and trusted friends, the vital lessons learned through ministering and serving in the Lord’s restored Church, and the capacity to discern the absolute emptiness of anything in or coming from the great and spacious building.
I have noted in these member responses a particular pattern that is especially significant. First and foremost, these disciples have firm testimonies of Heavenly Father’s plan of happiness and the role of Jesus Christ as our Redeemer and Savior. And second, their spiritual knowledge and conviction are individual, personal, and specific; they are not general and abstract. I listen to these devoted souls speak of covenants providing strength to overcome opposition and their connection with the living Lord supporting them through times both good and bad. To these individuals, Jesus Christ indeed is a personal Savior."
(David A. Bednar, "But We Heeded Them Not", Apr 2022 General Conference)

"But in coming days, it will not be possible to survive spiritually without the guiding, directing, comforting, and constant influence of the Holy Ghost. My beloved brothers and sisters, I plead with you to increase your spiritual capacity to receive revelation."
(Russell M. Nelson, "Revelation for the Church, Revelation for Our Lives", Apr 2018 General Conference)

Day 3357