September 30, 2010

Tonight I read Alma 31 where Alma goes on a mission to the Zoramites who are living wickedly. I love what it says in verse 5 about the power of the "preaching of the word" ... that "it had a more powerful effect upon the minds of the people than the sword, or anything else." I believe that power comes from the Spirit of the Lord. One does need to be humble and have an open heart to be influenced by that power. The Zoramites "would not observe to keep the commandments of God," and "neither would they observe the performances of the church." These were people who had had the gospel in their lives. They knew it. Again, this illustrates the vast importance of living obediently and with faith. Those simple ways of living help to protect against the loss of the Spirit. It has to be real in our actions, not just wishful thinking, or believing that one is living righteously simply be believing the tenets of the gospel. Faith is action and we need to be showing through our daily choices whether or not we are choosing to obey God. My actions show that I love God and I'm willing to be obedient to His commands. I hope I will always show that through my actions.