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Phoebe Chen REL C 225 – Section 035 9 March 2024 Do the things which the Lord hath commanded The Lord revealed in Section 71 of the Doctrine and Covenants, ” Behold, thus saith the Lord unto you my servants Joseph Smith, Jun., and Sidney Rigdon, that the time has verily come that it is necessary and expedient in me that you should open your mouths in proclaiming my gospel, the things of the kingdom, expounding the mysteries thereof out of the scriptures, according to that portion of Spirit and power which shall be given unto you, even as I will” (D&C 71.1). Throughout church history, prophets and apostles have obediently followed such instructions. One notable example is the Gathering of Israel, where saints gathered to build the city of Zion despite facing numerous challenges (Revelation, September 1830–A [D&C 29]). President Wilford Woodruff's 1890 declaration to cease the practice of plural marriage also exemplifies the principle of obedience to divine commandments, even amidst adversity. This decision, while challenging, was seen as a demonstration of faith and a commitment to God's will, ensuring the welfare of the Church and its members. God's understanding transcends our own, allowing Him to guide us in ways that might seem mysterious or unexpected. For instance, when we're asked to embrace or abandon practices like polygamy, it can be challenging to comprehend the underlying reasons.

However, even in these moments of uncertainty, we can trust in God's wisdom and guidance. Prophet President M. Russell Ballard, in his October 2022 general conference address, stated "Christ can carry us through difficult times today. He did it for the early pioneers, and He will do it now for each one of us", highlighting the resilience of early pioneers, affirming that Christ's support helped them overcome adversity. He assured today's youth that similar divine support is available, encouraging them to fortify their faith and take decisive action, confident in the knowledge that they will be upheld by divine assistance. In essence, our faith and obedience lead to blessings and growth, and God's guidance is ever-present in our lives, especially when we choose to trust and follow Him. Some may question why, if God is unchanging, church policy would evolve and why He might seemingly change directives abruptly. However, this apparent contradiction can be understood. The December 2021 Liahona magazine noted that while Gospel doctrine is eternal and originates from the Godhead, it serves as the foundation for Church policies and practices. These policies, though inspired by doctrine, are subject to modification based on revelation received by the Lord's appointed prophet. Analogous to the growth of branches on a tree, policy adjustments are made in alignment with doctrine and revelation. While policy is inspired, it is not eternal like Church doctrine. Ultimately, God's omniscience allows Him to discern what is best for His children, guiding the evolution of policies to suit the needs of the Church and its members.

For me personally, shifting focus from a task I'm deeply engrossed in poses a significant challenge. For instance, when I'm deeply concentrated on my math homework, being abruptly redirected to prepare for exams in other subjects causes discomfort. This sense of denial often leads to questioning my decisions and wisdom. However, delving into the historical accounts of pioneers bolsters my admiration for their unwavering faith and obedience. Their stories provide me with a profound insight into God’s intricate and wise plan. I particularly resonate with the narratives of pioneers featured in "Saints," such as Sister Eliza R. Snow. She authored over 500 hymns and tirelessly organized Relief Societies, dedicating her time and energy to sharing her steadfast beliefs with the world. Her unwavering confidence and belief that all would be well, akin to the sentiment expressed in the 30th poem, "Tis better far for us to strive, our useless cares from us to drive; Do this, and joy your hearts will swell - All is well! All is well!" inspires me. In conclusion, these stories serve as a reminder to trust in God's plan and to have faith that everything will ultimately work out for the best. "And it came to pass that I, Nephi, said unto my father: I will go and do the things which the Lord hath commanded, for I know that the Lord giveth no commandments unto the children of men, save he shall prepare a way for them that they may accomplish the thing which he commanded them." This statement by Nephi encapsulates a profound truth about God's guidance and provision for His children. Just as Nephi trusted in the Lord's

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commandments, believing that God would prepare a way for him to accomplish those commandments, so do we find reassurance in our own lives that God does not ask of us without also providing the means for us to fulfill His will. This scripture resonates deeply with me, and I hold it close to my heart, striving to follow its counsel and apply it in my own life. Throughout history, this principle has been demonstrated time and again, as the Lord instructed His prophets and leaders to preach and issue declarations at critical moments, ensuring that His divine purposes were fulfilled. Even today, we can take comfort in the knowledge that God continues to prepare the way for us, guiding us through the promptings of the Holy Spirit. As we follow Him with faith, we need not fear, for He is always with us, leading and guiding us along the path of righteousness.

Works Cited Courtesy of the church history department. (n.d.). Eliza R. Snow . Https://Www.Churchofjesuschrist.Org/Study/History/Topics/Eliza-r-Snow?Lang=eng. D&C71 https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/scriptures/dc-testament/dc/71?lang=eng Liahona. (2021, December). Eliza R. Snow . Https://Www.Churchofjesuschrist.Org/Study/Liahona/2021/12/Come-Follow-Me/ Why-Does-Church-Policy-Sometimes-Change?Lang=eng . Matthew mcbride. (n.d.). Ezra Booth and Isaac Morley. Https://Www.Churchofjesuschrist.Org/Study/Manual/Revelations-in-Context/Ezra- Booth-and-Isaac-Morley?Lang=eng President m. russell ballard. (2022, October). Follow Jesus Christ with Footsteps of Faith . Https://Www.Churchofjesuschrist.Org/Study/General-Conference/2022/10/22ballard? Lang=eng . Revelation, September 1830–A [D&C 29], p. 36, The Joseph Smith Papers, accessed 3 月 18, 2024, https://www.josephsmithpapers.org/paper-summary/revelation-september-1830- a-dc-29/1#josephsmithpapers The Gathering of Israel . (n.d.). Https://Www.Churchofjesuschrist.Org/Study/History/Topics/Gathering-of-Israel? Lang=eng.

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