Receiving and Acting Upon Personal Revelation

Online Sunday Personal/Companionship Study

Introduction

One of the important keys to being spiritually prepared to gather Israel - as well as becoming a
life-long disciple of Jesus Christ - is revelation. Joseph Smith stated that, “Salvation cannot come
without revelation, it is in vain for anyone to minister without it. You will succeed in your work
as you learn to receive and follow personal revelation” (PMG, p.85).

Revelation Defined
According to the Bible dictionary, revelation is, “the making known of divine truth by
communication with the heavens…It is individual guidance for every person who seeks for it
and follows a prescribed course of faith, repentance, and obedience to the gospel of Jesus
Christ” (Bible Dictionary, p.762).

Pattern of Revelation
Study 1 Nephi 15: 8, 11. Discuss and list the key components for receiving revelation:

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Receiving Revelation
Read “Learn to Recognize the Promptings of the Spirit” section in PMG, p. 102-103.
Study the following scriptures. Pay particular attention to the following ways revelation is
received:

• Gives ideas in the mind, feelings in the heart. (D&C 8:2-3)

• Gives feelings of love, joy, peace, patience, meekness, gentleness, faith, and hope (D&C
6:23; 11:12-14; Romans 15:13; Galatians 5:22-23).
• Enlightens the mind (Alma 32:28; D&C 6:14-15; 1 Corinthians 2:9-11)
• Replaces darkness with light (Alma 19:6)
• Gives feelings of peace and comfort (John 14:26-27; D&C 88:3)
Revelatory Experiences of the Past
Record in your journal and share with your companion a time in your life when you received
personal revelation. What thoughts came to your mind? How did you feel? What did you do as
a result of the impressions that came to your mind or the feelings that you felt?

Preparation for Receiving Personal Revelation

What concern(s) do you have about beginning your mission experience (e.g. fears, anxieties,
worries)?

What assurances (Alma 58:11) do you desire to receive from Heavenly Father that you need to
ask for in your prayers? Formulate your desire into a question to take to the Lord in humble
prayer.
Answers to your prayers are on the Lord’s timetable. It may require persistence and patience
on your part.