Ask of God

Joseph Smith — History 1:1–26 | January 4-10

One of the most important lessons Joseph Smith learned was that he could ask God and receive answers to his prayers. As he read James 1:5, Joseph was prompted to ask God to answer his questions about which church was right. The heavenly vision he received in response to his question ushered in the restoration of the fulness of the gospel of Jesus Christ. Joseph would continue asking God questions throughout his life as he organized the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. He learned to receive and respond to revelation. We can follow Joseph’s example and study the scriptures, prayerfully ponder, and listen for answers from God whenever we lack wisdom. Gradually we’ll learn how God answers our questions and gives us guidance and revelation in our lives.

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Scripture

Joseph Smith—History 1:25

“So it was with me. I had actually seen a light, and in the midst of that light I saw two Personages, and they did in reality speak to me; and though I was hated and persecuted for saying that I had seen a vision, yet it was true; and while they were persecuting me, reviling me, and speaking all manner of evil against me falsely for so saying, I was led to say in my heart: Why persecute me for telling the truth? I have actually seen a vision; and who am I that I can withstand God, or why does the world think to make me deny what I have actually seen? For I had seen a vision; I knew it, and I knew that God knew it, and I could not deny it, neither dared I do it; at least I knew that by so doing I would offend God, and come under condemnation.”

Why is Joseph Smith’s vision in the Sacred Grove so important to us?
What did Joseph learn?
How can we receive answers to our prayers?
How do we know that Heavenly Father knows us personally?
How can we respond when people question our testimonies?

Quote

“In like manner, what will your seeking open for you? What wisdom do you lack? What do you feel an urgent need to know or understand? Follow the example of the Prophet Joseph. Find a quiet place where you can regularly go. Humble yourself before God. Pour out your heart to your Heavenly Father. Turn to Him for answers and for comfort. Pray in the name of Jesus Christ about your concerns, your fears, your weaknesses —yes, the very longings of your heart. And then listen! Write the thoughts that come to your mind. Record your feelings and follow through with actions that you are prompted to take. As you repeat this process day after day, month after month, year after year, you will “grow into the principle of revelation.”
Russell M. Nelson