As we read 3 Nephi 1-7 and the September 7-13 Book of Mormon 2020 Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families lesson, we can feel our bodies become tense when we ponder how we would react in such dramatic situations. The Nephites of those times lived during absolutely mind-bending circumstances to have been believers in Jesus Christ. Many ancient American Saints personally saw and heard Samuel the Lamanite prophesy that the birth of the Savior would be known to them by “that day and that night and that day which should be as one day as if there were no night” (3 Nephi 1:8).
After a few years, though, unbelievers claimed that the time for this miracle had passed, and they even set a day “that all those who believed in those traditions should be put to death” (3 Nephi 1:9).
In this highly charged atmosphere, Nephi pleaded that his people would not be killed. After a day of fervent prayer, “the voice of the Lord came unto him saying: Lift up your head and be of good cheer; for behold, the time is at hand, and on this night shall the sign be given, and on the morrow come I into the world, to show unto the world that I will fulfil all that which I have caused to be spoken by the mouth of my holy prophets” (3 Nephi 1:12-13).
There would have been excitement throughout the land. Perhaps many non-believers would have been brought back to the fold. Even today, Nephi’s prayerful cries echo through the ages to us.
Guided by Prophets
Nephi’s revelations teach us that prophets have taught and warned the people throughout the ages. Today, we live in highly charged times with our own sets of challenges. Just as Nephi was, we too have been swept up in situations not of our choosing. Each time we have always found it does not matter what others say, do, or think. Their comments do not impact our lives when we have the true gospel doctrines and prophets as our guides.
During our 47 years as members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, we have always tried to follow our living prophet. We watch him lead, guide, and direct us—knowing that through modern-day revelations Jesus Christ is still at the head of His restored Church.
Like Nephi did when Jesus was born, President Russell M. Nelson is giving us counsel on how to prepare for Christ’s Second Coming. Recently he warned, “The adversary is quadrupling his efforts to disrupt testimonies and impede the work of the Lord” (“We Can Do Better and Be Better,” Ensign, May 2019, 68). This message should really drive it home for all of us to get ready.
Deepening Our Conversion to Jesus Christ
One of the most powerful resources for unifying modern families against the onslaught of Satan are the Church’s Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families resources. We have been challenged to use this home-centered and Church-supported curriculum in order to gain a deeper conversion to Jesus Christ.
When introducing this new resource, Elder Ronald A. Rasband stated, “I can promise that you and your family will experience greater light and unity as you study the gospel together in your home and at church” (“Introduction to Come, Follow Me for Individuals and Families by Ronald A. Rasband,” Gospel Media video).
Concerning the Come, Follow Me resources, Elder Quentin L. Cook affirmed: “I testify to you that in the deliberations of the Council of the First Presidency and the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles in the temple, and after our beloved prophet petitioned the Lord for revelation to move forward with these adjustments, a powerful confirmation was received by all. Russell M. Nelson is our living President and prophet. The announcements made today will result in profound blessings for those who enthusiastically embrace the adjustments and seek the guidance of the Holy Ghost. We will become closer to our Heavenly Father and our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, of whom I am a sure witness” (“Deep and Lasting Conversion to Heavenly Father and the Lord Jesus Christ,” Ensign, Nov. 2018).
Building on the Rocks of Prophetic and Personal Revelation
One of the most important lessons I have recently learned is to seek additional personal revelation to strengthen my testimony. For example, at the October 2018 Conference, President Nelson invited the women of the Church “to participate in a 10-day fast from social media and from any other media that bring negative and impure thoughts to your mind. Pray to know which influences to remove during your fast. The effect of your 10-day fast may surprise you. What do you notice after taking a break from perspectives of the world that have been wounding your spirit? Is there a change in where you now want to spend your time and energy? Have any of your priorities shifted—even just a little? I urge you to record and follow through with each impression” (“Sisters Participation in the Gathering of Israel,” Ensign, Nov. 2018, 69).
I didn’t have a social media issue, but what surfaced instantly in my mind was my television viewing. So, I addressed that media habit immediately. To this day, my conscience springs into action if I watch too much TV. What a time waster. Often times, my television is turned off now.
I spend my time with family, adding to family history, temple attendance, reading the Book of Mormon, striving to participate fully in Relief Society, and fulfilling a service mission. I am even fired up with indexing. President Nelson’s invitations for women have revealed ways for both my dear husband and me to change our lives. We are happier than before and living a more fulfilled life together.
Following the revelations from prophets combined with our own personal revelations can help us avoid Satan’s temptations. As President Nelson clearly tells us: “You don’t have to wonder about what is true. You do not have to wonder whom you can safely trust. Through personal revelation, you can receive your own witness that the Book of Mormon is the word of God, that Joseph Smith is a prophet, and that this is the Lord’s Church. Regardless of what others may say or do, no one can ever take away a witness borne to your heart and mind about what is true” (“Revelation for the Church, Revelation for Our Live,” Ensign, May 2018, 96).