Diligently Seeking
(1 Nephi 10:15-16, 17-19) - Life is full of wonderful mysteries!
15 And after this manner of language did my father prophesy and speak unto my brethren…16 And all these things, of which I have spoken, were done as my father dwelt in a tent, in the valley of Lemuel. 17 And it came to pass after I, Nephi, having heard all the words of my father… was desirous also that I might see, and hear, and know of these things, by the power of the Holy Ghost, which is the gift of God unto all those who diligently seek him… 18 For he is the same yesterday, today, and forever; and the way is prepared for all men from the foundation of the world, if it so be that they repent and come unto him. 19 For he that diligently seeketh shall find; and the mysteries of God shall be unfolded unto them, by the power of the Holy Ghost, as well in these times as in times of old, and as well in times of old as in times to come; [1 Nephi 10:15-16, 17-19]
This seems like a lot of verses to sift through for timely treasures, but I believe that each verse has something special for us in our lives. Some verses may not apply to your life right now, but I believe that they were written and preserved for each of us, to guide and guard us through life, no matter what.
Inspired Eavesdropping
(v15) We seem to hear a lot about Nephi inscribing and describing what his father, Lehi, said to his older brethren. While I love hearing bits and pieces that Nephi shares from his personal conversations with his father, it’s obvious that Nephi felt we would profit even more from hearing mostly about the interactions (and chastisements) that his older brothers, Laman and Lemuel, experienced. I also believe that Nephi isn’t just pointing out their problems to warn us, but painting the picture that they didn’t have to remain the rebellious sons that we read about today! Sure, they had many chastisements, but they also had many chances to choose the Lord and live better lives!
While Nephi knows there are “Laman’s and Lemuel’s” among us, he also has his moments of speaking to and encouraging the “Nephi’s” among us, too!
Content with the content’s inspired intent from within a tent
(v16) I believe that the hidden treasure in this verse is to remind each of us that no matter where we are in life—a tent, car, closet, basement, cramped cubicle or corner office—we are each called and capable of making a difference in our lives and in the lives of others for the better. Though, I know that having a decent desk and computer makes it much easier to write content than trying to do so being content in a tent!
No matter where you live, you can receive guidance and inspiration that will help you live a better life and become a better person.
Heart and Seek
(v17) If you want to become a better person, to live a better life and to help others do so, then the most important step to take (and keep taking) is the one towards your Savior, Jesus Christ. Just like Nephi was desirous to “see, hear and know” the things his father had spoken, the Lord wants you to desire with your heart and seek Him and discover these truths for yourself.
Nephi trusted his father, but he needed to know for himself the truths Lehi taught.
The Holy Ghost’s Guidance
(v17) Here is another “hidden treasure” from Nephi reminding us that we don’t have to know everything immediately, or all at once. There are some things we need more guidance and understanding in. There are things we strive to keep learning line upon line. And the Lord will not only soften our hearts, but open them to receive all that we need to learn about to live and love better in this life (1 Nephi 2:16).
The Holy Ghost isn’t just for Lehi, Nephi and all the important people in the Scriptures. Inasmuch as Nephi knew about and relied on the Holy Ghost, you also have access to that very same power of the Holy Ghost to help guide and guard you every day!
The Same Savior—Always
(v18) Are there people and things in your life you rely upon each day? Are there people and things you absolutely know will not and cannot fail you—especially in times of need? How encouraging and comforting to know that your Savior is not only such a person—He is the ONLY person that can claim that credibility, ability and stability! For “He is the same yesterday, today, and forever!” It means you can rely on Him no matter where you are, where you’ve been, what time it is, where you’re going, or what you’re going through! It means you can repent, change your habits and habitats and live a better life (through Christ’s Atonement) going forward (not backward), no matter who, or where you’ve been!
You have enough troubles and doubts in your life. But knowing that your Savior never changes, means you can count on Him, rely on Him and trust Him to help you in and through whatever trials you are experiencing and enduring.
Seek and Find
(19) The Lord doesn’t spitefully withhold information, inspiration, or confirmation to punish us, but to help prepare us. He doesn’t hurtfully hide things from us that will help us live a better, higher life. That being said, He will purposely and purposefully place things just out of our comfortable reach as to help us improve our ability, stability and strength to reach farther and to increase our faith and trust in Him as we learn to take that extra step to reach and receive those needed blessings.
Today, don’t be afraid to take that additional leap of faith, or reach a little farther into the unknown. God will help you keep stepping and reaching and receiving! For that is how you will grow and become all God has created you to be.