“From the very beginning God has done His work through a system of organized councils” (M. Russell Ballard, Counselling With Our Councils, 2012). Our Heavenly Father’s plan for our eternal progress was discussed and accepted or rejected in a pre-mortal council. Then a council worked together in the creation of this world. As Abraham teaches, “The Gods took counsel among themselves” (Abraham 4:26)
The utilization of councils continues on this earth. Elder Ballard further states, “The Lord has also established, both in the Church and in our homes, a system of councils designed to strengthen and uplift every Latter-day Saint.” (Counselling With Our Councils, 2012)
Spine-tingling moments
President Nelson shared the decision-making process of the Council of the First Presidency and the Quorum of the Twelve apostles:
“When we convene as a Council of the First Presidency and Quorum of the Twelve, our meeting rooms become rooms of revelation. The Spirit is palpably present. As we wrestle with complex matters, a thrilling process unfolds as each Apostle freely expresses his thoughts and point of view. Though we may differ in our initial perspectives, the love we feel for each other is constant. Our unity helps us to discern the Lord’s will for His Church.
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In our meetings, the majority never rules! We listen prayerfully to one another and talk with each other until we are united. Then when we have reached complete accord, the unifying influence of the Holy Ghost is spine-tingling! We experience what the Prophet Joseph Smith knew when he taught, 'By union of feeling we obtain power with God'' (in Conference Report, Apr. 2018, 95, emphasis added).
President Nelson’s description of the “unifying influence of the Holy Ghost” as “spine-tingling” is the perfect description of the experiences I have had in councils. I have gained an eternal perspective of councils and counseling together as an integral part of my daily life.
The Value of Church Councils
I was able to experience firsthand the process described by President Nelson during a stake council meeting. I witnessed the Lord’s organization in action as the discussion unfolded and council members prayerfully shared their thoughts and impressions. Together, they turned to the scriptures and to counsel from Church leaders. Through this process, the Spirit guided the council directly to the concerns of the stake presidency. It was a powerful witness to me of the influence and power of the Holy Ghost.
Prayer: A Form of Personal Council
Councils can also consist of smaller gatherings.
In the quiet and peace of the morning I often sit “in council” with my Father in Heaven and His Beloved Son, Jesus Christ. As I pray in the name of Jesus Christ, my prayer is addressed towards my Father in Heaven.
In prayer, I imagine myself with Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ. I share with Them my feelings of gratitude, my tears, my hopes, my love and then seek their guidance, support and help. I feel guided, comforted, and encouraged. I do not feel alone. Each time I pray, God is listening, caring for and loving me. This is an example of how a covenant relationship works.
The Scriptures Reveal God’s Counsel
Time spent studying the scriptures is time spent in council with Jesus and His teachings. I have felt the influence of the Holy Ghost as I study the word of God. He is the Word, and we can find Jesus Christ in His words in the scriptures. (John 1:1)
Counselling With My Bishop
I have felt the spine-tingling influence of the Holy Ghost as I have met with my bishop in tithing declarations and temple recommend interviews. This is an opportunity to give an account of my efforts.
My tithing declaration confirms to me that I am on the covenant path which will lead me back to my heavenly parents. My temple recommend signifies a regular, repeated statement of my covenant bond and my desire to maintain and strengthen that bond with the Lord.
When the Saviour was creating this world, He went forth and did as Heavenly Father asked Him to do. Then, He would return and give an accounting of His efforts. This process taught me the importance of being accountable for my actions.
When I meet with my bishop, the Lord’s representative, I am, in essence, given the opportunity to return, to report, and to counsel with the Lord.
The accounting I give is for my own benefit. It helps me remember not only what I could be doing better, but also to recognize my own worthiness. It is easy to dwell on faults, but giving an accounting brings into view the things I am doing right, and in doing so, my confidence before God is strengthened.
Councils in Heaven are Ongoing
I believe councils are a part of the plan on both sides of the veil.
Susa Young Gates was a daughter of Brigham Young. She became extremely ill and was ready to die. “Then came the miracle. Francis M. Lyman…was asked to give her a blessing. He was so certain she would die that the blessing began to take the form of an admonition not to fear death. Suddenly, however, he stopped, and, as Susa recalled later, waited for nearly two minutes before he continued: “There has been a council held in heaven, and it has been decided you shall live” (Utah Genealogical and Historical Magazine, 24 July, [1933], 98, emphasis added).
God’s Plan is to Hold Councils
Councils are more than just a good idea, they are part of God’s plan. The Lord said through the prophet Isaiah, “Come now, and let us reason together” (Isaiah 1:18). The Lord repeats this in the Book of Mormon: “Counsel with the Lord in all thy doings, and he will direct thee for good” (Alma 37:37).The Lord’s power is made manifest as He reveals solutions, and uplifts and strengthens us as we counsel in councils.