What does it really mean to receive the Spirit “by the prayer of faith”? Elder David A. Bednar invites us to think deeply about this powerful verse from Doctrine and Covenants 42:14—and how it applies to our everyday discipleship.
He teaches that faith is more than belief—it’s movement. It’s what we do after we say “amen.” With clarity and encouragement, Elder Bednar explains that when we act in faith—when we get up and go forward with a desire to serve, teach, or testify—the Spirit comes. It’s not about waiting to feel ready. It’s about trusting that as we try, the Lord will bless us with what we need.
If you’ve ever felt unsure, unqualified, or uncertain in your efforts to live or share the gospel, this message will bring reassurance and clarity.
The Power of Faith in Action: Embracing the Prayer of Faith
In our quest for spiritual fulfillment, one key aspect often discussed is the concept of prayer—specifically, the prayer of faith. This principle, rooted in the teachings of great spiritual leaders, emphasizes that faith is not merely about believing but acting upon that belief. Below are two main points that encapsulate the essence of the prayer of faith, highlighting its significance and practical application in our daily lives.
Faith as a Principle of Action
At the heart of the prayer of faith is the understanding that faith in the Lord Jesus Christ is fundamentally about action. It is not sufficient to simply pray for guidance; one must act in accordance with the teachings of the Savior. This action reflects genuine belief and a commitment to spiritual growth. Just as the Prophet Joseph Smith approached his sacred quest with the intent to act upon the revelation he would receive, we, too, must cultivate an expectation to act on the answers to our prayers. The prayer of faith begins with a sincere request, but it does not end there—it compels us to move forward with resolve and determination.
The Journey of Faith and Action
The realization of our prayers often occurs not in a moment of quiet contemplation but through the active pursuit of those things for which we seek divine help. When we pray, it is important to recognize that the true guidance does not come while we are still in prayer; rather, it is manifested as we rise and put our faith into action. In other words, the moment we say “Amen” is the beginning of our journey—the initiation of our prayer of faith. This transition from prayer to action is essential; we are encouraged to step out of our comfort zones and take the necessary steps towards our goals, trusting that divine support will accompany our efforts.
dyejo
Guest Author
J Washburn
