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The Rock of Our Redeemer: Facing the Future with Faith, Hope, and Power
Amid today’s whirlwinds of opposition and adversity, how can we avoid feeling discouraged, remain firm in our commitment to be devoted disciples of the Savior, and stay on the covenant path? The answer is simple yet profound. To face the future with faith, hope, and power, our lives need to be anchored to the “rock of our Redeemer” (Helaman 5:12). To help Latter-day Saints understand how to anchor their spiritual foundations to the rock of Jesus Christ, Elder David A. Bednar focuses on three divine to strengthen our covenant connection with the Father and the Son; to increase in spiritual knowledge, testimony, and conversion; and to gather gospel truths together in one. These interrelated invitations work together to help disciples seek the spiritual gift of faith in the Lord Jesus Christ and become more securely connected to Him. Through the teachings found in The Rock of Our Redeemer, we can come to realize the blessings of relying on our Savior—blessings of purpose, power, knowledge, strength, perspective, and peace. Even when navigating the confusion and heartaches so common in the latter days, we can be blessed through the power of the Holy Ghost to “be still” (Psalm 46:10)—to have a personal, spiritual assurance that God is our Heavenly Father, we are His children, and Jesus Christ is our Savior.
116 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 2, 2024
96 people are currently reading
340 people want to read
About the author
David A. Bednar
17 books212 followersDavid A. Bednar was ordained and set apart as a member of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints on October 7, 2004.
Bednar was born on 15 June 1952, in Oakland, California. His mother came from a long line of Latter-day Saints, but Bednar's father did not join the church until Bednar was in his late twenties. He served as a full-time missionary in Southern Germany and then attended Brigham Young University, where he received a Bachelor of Arts degree in communication in 1976 and a Master of Arts degree in organizational communication in 1977. He then received a Doctorate in organizational behavior from Purdue University in 1980.
From 1980 to 1984, Bednar was the assistant professor of management in the Sam M. Walton College of Business (then College of Business Administration) at the University of Arkansas in Fayetteville, Arkansas. He became assistant professor of management at Texas Tech University from 1984 to 1986. He then moved back to the University of Arkansas as the Associate Dean for Graduate Studies in the Sam M. Walton College of Business from 1987 to 1992 and was then the director of the Management Decision-Making Lab from 1992 to 1997. In 1994, he was recognized as the outstanding teacher at the University of Arkansas and received the Burlington Northern Foundation Award for Excellence in Teaching. He has twice been the recipient of the Outstanding Teacher Award in the College of Business Administration.
Bednar then served as the president of Ricks College/Brigham Young University–Idaho from 1997 to 2004 in Rexburg, Idaho. There, he oversaw and managed the transition of the school from, what was at the time, the largest private junior college in the United States, Ricks College, to a four year university, Brigham Young University-Idaho.
Bednar married Susan Kae Robinson in the Salt Lake Temple on 20 March 1975. They are the parents of three sons.
His publications have appeared in Labor and Industrial Relations Review, Academy of Management Review, Human Relations, Quality Progress, Quality Management Journal, Cornell Research Quarterly, National Productivity Review, The Journal of Retail Banking Services, The Journal of Business Communication, The Journal of Business Education, and other journals.
from http://lds.org/church/leader/david-a-...
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/David_A....
http://www.byui.edu/president/presbio...
Bednar was born on 15 June 1952, in Oakland, California. His mother came from a long line of Latter-day Saints, but Bednar's father did not join the church until Bednar was in his late twenties. He served as a full-time missionary in Southern Germany and then attended Brigham Young University, where he received a Bachelor of Arts degree in communication in 1976 and a Master of Arts degree in organizational communication in 1977. He then received a Doctorate in organizational behavior from Purdue University in 1980.
From 1980 to 1984, Bednar was the assistant professor of management in the Sam M. Walton College of Business (then College of Business Administration) at the University of Arkansas in Fayetteville, Arkansas. He became assistant professor of management at Texas Tech University from 1984 to 1986. He then moved back to the University of Arkansas as the Associate Dean for Graduate Studies in the Sam M. Walton College of Business from 1987 to 1992 and was then the director of the Management Decision-Making Lab from 1992 to 1997. In 1994, he was recognized as the outstanding teacher at the University of Arkansas and received the Burlington Northern Foundation Award for Excellence in Teaching. He has twice been the recipient of the Outstanding Teacher Award in the College of Business Administration.
Bednar then served as the president of Ricks College/Brigham Young University–Idaho from 1997 to 2004 in Rexburg, Idaho. There, he oversaw and managed the transition of the school from, what was at the time, the largest private junior college in the United States, Ricks College, to a four year university, Brigham Young University-Idaho.
Bednar married Susan Kae Robinson in the Salt Lake Temple on 20 March 1975. They are the parents of three sons.
His publications have appeared in Labor and Industrial Relations Review, Academy of Management Review, Human Relations, Quality Progress, Quality Management Journal, Cornell Research Quarterly, National Productivity Review, The Journal of Retail Banking Services, The Journal of Business Communication, The Journal of Business Education, and other journals.
from http://lds.org/church/leader/david-a-...
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/David_A....
http://www.byui.edu/president/presbio...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 103 reviews
October 26, 2024
10⭐️! I have listened to this book and then I went and bought it. Now I’m rereading and highlighting it. Next, I’m going to listen to it again because It has powerful direction on how we can be firm and steadfast in our faith in Christ.
November 9, 2024
Enjoyable.
Notes:
The Liahona also did not work when family members were slothful
“These are your days”
“Continue your journey and wolf your heart rejoice.”
“Come with conviction and endurance.”
“Thou art my dear child, keep going.”
Notes:
The Liahona also did not work when family members were slothful
“These are your days”
“Continue your journey and wolf your heart rejoice.”
“Come with conviction and endurance.”
“Thou art my dear child, keep going.”
November 13, 2024
Wish I took more notes. Short, sweet, and encouraged deeper faith in Christ.
“Once you and I have made a covenant with God, our relationship with him becomes much closer than before our covenant. Now we are bound together. Because of our covenant with God, he will never tire in his efforts to help us and we will never exhaust his merciful patience with us. Each of us has a special place in Gods heart.”
“Once you and I have made a covenant with God, our relationship with him becomes much closer than before our covenant. Now we are bound together. Because of our covenant with God, he will never tire in his efforts to help us and we will never exhaust his merciful patience with us. Each of us has a special place in Gods heart.”
June 18, 2025
How do you rate a book using a minuscule 5-star scale when its information, wisdom and importance deserves all of the stars in the multiverse. It feels like I have been blessed to personally sit at the feet of Jesus Christ and have him teach me how to spiritually survive until he comes to usher in the long awaited Millennial era. I’m profoundly grateful to Elder Bednar for taking the time to not only write but to personally narrate this book. What an amazing gift to be taught important truths in such an intimate way by a Prophet, Seer and Revelator. It’s impossible to overstate the importance of this book. Oh how I wish everyone would take the time to read and ponder his prophetic and important words.
November 14, 2024
Loved this book! Elder Bednar does such a good job at helping us understand how we can build our testimonies on Jesus Christ. He uses scripture and other prophetic quotes to help illustrate why we need to do this and how we can go about doing it in our daily lives. His apostolic witness at the end is inspiring and faith building.
It is definitely worth reading!
It is definitely worth reading!
December 1, 2024
Profound. Perfectly worded. Elder Bednar reminds me of Neil A Maxwell sometimes, sans alliterations, but just as deep.
February 6, 2025
This is simply beautiful. I wish I had the hard copy to make notes and highlight things, but the audio is great to.
April 18, 2025
A nice short book to ponder on.
May 5, 2025
Very insightful book that is filled with simple, actionable truths. Worth reading multiple times.
July 17, 2025
A quick read that packs a spiritual punch. Nothing was over complicated, however Elder Bednar showed a new light on the basic principles that Christ has told us will bring us closer to Him.
August 3, 2025
Succinctly clear. Sourced. Manageable chapter length. Rearranged for the medium.
November 27, 2025
I read this with my husband and really enjoyed it! It was profound and I loved the reminders and doctrine throughout. It felt a little scattered but worth the nuggets.
September 4, 2025
Elder David A. Bednar teaches that individuals must anchor their spiritual foundation to Jesus Christ, who is the only unchanging truth, to face life's challenges. He outlines three key invitations to strengthen this connection: enhancing covenant relationships with the Father and the Son, increasing spiritual knowledge and faith, and consolidating gospel truths to foster a powerful, secure relationship with Christ. Powerful!
October 4, 2024
I love reading books from Church leaders. They really help boost my testimony and learn more of Jesus Christ.
October 15, 2024
Elder Bednar does not mince words. He testifies that we cannot live on borrowed light and we must do everything in our power to have a full and growing testimony of our Savior. Fabulous book. Loved the insights!
March 3, 2025
Amazing and insightful.
Quotes:
Steps to becoming firm and steadfast (Helaman 15:7-8). The first step is (1) belief in the teachings and prophecies of the holy prophets as recorded in the scriptures. Such belief (2) fosters faith in the Lord Jesus Christ. Faith in the Savior leads to (3) repentance. Faith in Christ and repentance bring about (4) the mighty change of heart. And as many as have diligently and faithfully followed these steps are (5) firms nd steadfast in the faith. That is the Lord’s blueprint for becoming steadfast and immovable.
The firmness of mind described by Jacob (Mosiah 18:9) is the spiritual remedy for “double-minded” men and women who alternate haphazardly between spiritual and worldly priorities and are unstable in all their ways.
Precisely because faithfully honoring sacred covenants binds us securely to the Savior, He becomes the ultimate source of spiritual direction and strength in our lives. The covenant connection we have with our Heavenly Father and His resurrected and living Son is individual and personal. It is the supernal source of perspective, hope, peace, and enduring joy.
The word abide denotes remaining fixed or stable and enduring without yielding. President Jeffrey R. Holland explained that “abiding” as an action means “‘[to] stay—but [to] stay forever.’ That is the call of the gospel message to … everyone … in the world. Come, but come to remain. Come with conviction and endurance. Come permanently, for your sake and the sake of all the generations who must follow you.”
Direction and strength are the blessings that flow from fidelity to gospel covenants and ordinances.
What was it that gave those early Church members such strength? What fueled their devotion and enabled them to press forward in overwhelmingly adverse conditions? It was teh fire of the temple covenants and ordinances that burned in their hearts. It was their commitment to “worship, and honorably hold a name and standing” (D&C 109:24) in the house of the Lord.
There is no spiritual power in living by convenience. The power comes as we keep our covenants. As we look at the lives of these early Saints, we see that their covenants were the primary force in their lives.
Note the centrality of covenants to the promise of deliverance. Covenants received and honored with integrity and ordinances performed by proposer priesthood authority are necessary to receive all of the blessings made available through the Atonement of Jesus Christ.
Most of us know that when we do things wrong and need help to overcome the effects of sin in our lives, we can become clean through the Savior’s redeeming power But do we also understand that the Atonement is for faithful men and women who are obedient, worthy, and conscientious and who are striving to become better and serve more faithfully? I wonder if we fail to fully acknowledge this strengthening aspect of the Atonement in our lives and mistakenly believe we must carry our load all alone—through sheer grit, willpower, and discipline and with our obviously limited capacities.
As we are yoked with Him through sacred covenants and receive the enabling power of His Atonement in our lives, we increasingly will seek to understand and live according to His will. We also will pray for the strength to learn from, change, or accept our circumstances rather than praying relentlessly for God to change our circumstances according to our will.
Repetition invites the Holy Ghost to renew, enrich, and enlarge the knowledge we already have obtained; it also can bring new knowledge and understanding into our minds and hearts. Thus, repetition is a vehicle through which the Holy Ghost can enlighten our minds, influence our hearts, and enlarge our understanding.
Only a correct understanding of the Father’s eternal plan of happiness and the Savior’s Atonement and His gospel can provide the strong spiritual foundation that will enable us to stand firm and steadfast in the latter days.
I find it most interesting in these and many other verses that understanding is linked primarily to the heart. Note that we are not explicitly counseled to apply our minds to understanding. … Understanding occurs when what we know in our minds is confirmed as true in our hearts by the witness of the Holy Ghost.
Understanding, then, is the result of revelation; it is a spiritual gift, it is a prerequisite to conversion, and it entices us to more consistently live in accordance with the principles we are learning.
The key lesson for us to learn from the parable of the ten virgins is that deliberate and consistent preparation and performance provide essential oil for our lamps. Line upon line and precept upon precept—by small and simple things are great things brought to pass.
The scriptures contain the words of Christ and are a reservoir of living water to which we have ready access and from which we can drink deeply and long. You and I must look to and come unto Christ, who is “the fountain of living waters” (1 Nephi 11:25, Ether 8:26, 12:28) by reading (Mosiah 1:5), studying (D&C 26:1), searching (John 5:39; Alma 17:2), and feasting (2 Nephi 32:3) upon the words of Christ as contained in the holy scriptures. By so doing, we can receive both spiritual direction and protection during our mortal journey.
Look for connections, patterns and themes in scripture study. Connection is a relationship or link between ideas, people, things or events, and the scriptures are full of connections. A pattern is a plan, model, or standard that can be used as a guide for repetitively doing or making something. Themes are overarching, recurring, and unifying qualities or ideas, like essential threads woven throughout a text.
Learning by faith requires spiritual, mental, and physical exertion and n’ont just passive reception. In the sincerity and consistency of faith-inspired action, a person indicates to our Heavenly Father and His Son, Jesus Christ, a willingness to learn and receive instruction from the Holy Ghost.
“And if a person gains more knowledge and intelligence in this life through his diligence and obedience than another, he will have so much the advantage in the world to come” (D&C 130:18-19) The order in which knowledge and intelligence are listed in verse 19 is instructive—with knowledge first and intelligence second. … Interestingly, knowledge is associated with diligence. Significantly, intelligence is linked to obedience. Through persistent, effective and diligent work, a person can accumulate knowledge in the form of facts, data, information, and experience. Intelligence, however, can be gained only through obedience.
While the Lord invites us to gather together in one all things in Him, we may often segment gospel truths in ways that limit our understanding and vision. We may sometimes give undue emphasis to separate categories of the work of salvation and the associated policies and procedures.
Please now consider the role of the Book of Mormon in changing hearts—and of temple and family history work in turning hearts.
To face the future with faith, hope, and power, our lives need to be anchored to the “rock of our Redeemer” (Helaman 5:12). We are connected securely to and with Heavenly Father and the Savior as we worthily receive ordinances and enter into covenants, faithfully remember and honor these sacred commitments, and do our best to live in accordance with the covenant conditions we have accepted. And as we accept the invitation to ask, seek, and knock for the spiritual gift of faith in Christ and strive to learn for ourselves eternal truths we further strengthen our bond to God and the Savior. And it is through that bond that we receive spiritual strength and stability.
“Don’t let the whirlwinds drag you down. These are your days—to stand strong as disciples of the Lord Jesus Christ [Helaman 7:9]
“Build more firmly your foundation upon teh rock of your Redeemer.
“Treasure more completely His incomparable life and teachings.
“Follow more diligently His example and His commandments.
“Embrace more deeply His love, His mercy and grace, and the powerful gifts of His Atonement.
“As you do, I promise that you will see the whirlwinds for what they are—tests, temptations, distractions or challenges to help you grow. And as you live righteously year after year, I assure you that your experiences will confirm to you again and again that Jesus is the Christ. The spiritual rock under your feet will be solid and secure. You will rejoice that God has placed you here to be a part of the final preparations for Christ’s glorious return.” - Elder Neil L. Andersen
You undoubtedly have experienced [great] feelings of dread after learning about a personal health challenge, discovering a family member in difficulty or danger, or observing disturbing world events. In such instances, the distressing emotion of fear arises because of impending danger, uncertainty, or pain and through experiences that are unexpected, sometimes sudden, and likely to produce a negative outcome.
In our daily lives, endless reports of criminal violence, famine, wars, corruption, terrorism, declining values, disease, and the destructive forces of nature can engender fear and apprehension. Surely we live in the season foretold by the Lord: “And in that day … the whole earth shall be in commotion, and men’s hearts shall fail them” (D&C 45:26).
Fear is dispelled as we anchor our lives to the rock of our Redeemer through a correct knowledge of and faith in the Lord Jesus Christ, as well as through our covenant connection to Him and Heavenly Father.
“Whenever any kind of upheaval occurs in your life, the safest place to be spiritually is living inside your temple covenants!
“Please believe me when I say that when your spiritual foundation is built solidly upon Jesus Christ, you have no need to fear. As you are true to your covenants made in the temple, you will be strengthened by His power. Then, when spiritual earthquakes occur, you will be able to stand strong because your spiritual foundation is solid and immovable.” - President Russell M. Nelson
In the land of Helam, Alma’s people were frightened by an advancing Lamanite army.
“But Alma went forth and stood among them, and exhorted them that they should not be frightened, but … should remember the Lord their God and he would deliver them.
“Therefore they hushed their fears” (Mosiah 23:27-28).
Notice Alma did not hush the people’s fears. Rather, Alma counseled the believers to remember the Lord and the deliverance only He could bestow (2 Nephi 2:8). And knowledge of the Savior’s protecting watchcare enabled the people to calm their own fears.
Truly, one of the greatest blessings of devoted discipleship is “the peace of God, which passeth all understanding” (Philippians 4:7).
The peace Christ gives allows us to view mortality through the precious perspective of eternity and supplies a spiritual settledness (Colossians 1:23) that helps us maintain a consistent focus on our heavenly estimation. Thus, we can be blessed to hush our fears because His doctrine provides purpose and direction in all aspects of our lives. His ordinances and covenants fortify and comfort in times both good and bad. And His priesthood authority gives assurera ce that the things that matter most can endure both in time and in eternity.
But can we quiet the fears that so easily and frequently beset us in our contemporary world? The answer to this question is an unequivocal yes. To receive this blessing in our lives, we can look to Christ and press forward with faith in Him—as we do so, we help secure our spiritual foundations to Him, our Redeemer.
The counsel Alma gave to his son Helaman applies precisely to each of us today: “Yea, see that ye look to God and live” (Alma 37:47). We should look to and have our focus firmly fixed upon the Savior at all times and in all places.
Unlike worldly fear that creates alarm and anxiety, godly fear is a source of peace, assurance and confidence. … The righteous fear I am attempting to describe encompasses a deep feeling of reverence, respect, and awe for the Lord Jesus Christ (Psalms 33:8, 96:4), obedience to His commandments (Deuteronomy 5:29; 8:6; 10:12; 13:4; Psalm 112:1), and an anticipation of the Final Judgment and justice at His hand. Thus, godly fear grows out of a correct understanding of the divine nature and mission of the Lord Jesus Christ, a willingness to submit our will to His will, and a knowledge that every man and woman will be accountable for his or her own sins in the Day of Judgment. … Godly fear is loving and trusting in Him. As we fear God more completely, we love Him more perfectly. And “perfect love casteth out all fear” (Moroni 8:16).
I promise the bright light of godly fear will chase away the ark shadows of mortal fears (D&C 50:25) as we look to the Savior, press forward on His covenant path with consecrated commitment, and build the foundations of our lives upon Him.
Quotes:
Steps to becoming firm and steadfast (Helaman 15:7-8). The first step is (1) belief in the teachings and prophecies of the holy prophets as recorded in the scriptures. Such belief (2) fosters faith in the Lord Jesus Christ. Faith in the Savior leads to (3) repentance. Faith in Christ and repentance bring about (4) the mighty change of heart. And as many as have diligently and faithfully followed these steps are (5) firms nd steadfast in the faith. That is the Lord’s blueprint for becoming steadfast and immovable.
The firmness of mind described by Jacob (Mosiah 18:9) is the spiritual remedy for “double-minded” men and women who alternate haphazardly between spiritual and worldly priorities and are unstable in all their ways.
Precisely because faithfully honoring sacred covenants binds us securely to the Savior, He becomes the ultimate source of spiritual direction and strength in our lives. The covenant connection we have with our Heavenly Father and His resurrected and living Son is individual and personal. It is the supernal source of perspective, hope, peace, and enduring joy.
The word abide denotes remaining fixed or stable and enduring without yielding. President Jeffrey R. Holland explained that “abiding” as an action means “‘[to] stay—but [to] stay forever.’ That is the call of the gospel message to … everyone … in the world. Come, but come to remain. Come with conviction and endurance. Come permanently, for your sake and the sake of all the generations who must follow you.”
Direction and strength are the blessings that flow from fidelity to gospel covenants and ordinances.
What was it that gave those early Church members such strength? What fueled their devotion and enabled them to press forward in overwhelmingly adverse conditions? It was teh fire of the temple covenants and ordinances that burned in their hearts. It was their commitment to “worship, and honorably hold a name and standing” (D&C 109:24) in the house of the Lord.
There is no spiritual power in living by convenience. The power comes as we keep our covenants. As we look at the lives of these early Saints, we see that their covenants were the primary force in their lives.
Note the centrality of covenants to the promise of deliverance. Covenants received and honored with integrity and ordinances performed by proposer priesthood authority are necessary to receive all of the blessings made available through the Atonement of Jesus Christ.
Most of us know that when we do things wrong and need help to overcome the effects of sin in our lives, we can become clean through the Savior’s redeeming power But do we also understand that the Atonement is for faithful men and women who are obedient, worthy, and conscientious and who are striving to become better and serve more faithfully? I wonder if we fail to fully acknowledge this strengthening aspect of the Atonement in our lives and mistakenly believe we must carry our load all alone—through sheer grit, willpower, and discipline and with our obviously limited capacities.
As we are yoked with Him through sacred covenants and receive the enabling power of His Atonement in our lives, we increasingly will seek to understand and live according to His will. We also will pray for the strength to learn from, change, or accept our circumstances rather than praying relentlessly for God to change our circumstances according to our will.
Repetition invites the Holy Ghost to renew, enrich, and enlarge the knowledge we already have obtained; it also can bring new knowledge and understanding into our minds and hearts. Thus, repetition is a vehicle through which the Holy Ghost can enlighten our minds, influence our hearts, and enlarge our understanding.
Only a correct understanding of the Father’s eternal plan of happiness and the Savior’s Atonement and His gospel can provide the strong spiritual foundation that will enable us to stand firm and steadfast in the latter days.
I find it most interesting in these and many other verses that understanding is linked primarily to the heart. Note that we are not explicitly counseled to apply our minds to understanding. … Understanding occurs when what we know in our minds is confirmed as true in our hearts by the witness of the Holy Ghost.
Understanding, then, is the result of revelation; it is a spiritual gift, it is a prerequisite to conversion, and it entices us to more consistently live in accordance with the principles we are learning.
The key lesson for us to learn from the parable of the ten virgins is that deliberate and consistent preparation and performance provide essential oil for our lamps. Line upon line and precept upon precept—by small and simple things are great things brought to pass.
The scriptures contain the words of Christ and are a reservoir of living water to which we have ready access and from which we can drink deeply and long. You and I must look to and come unto Christ, who is “the fountain of living waters” (1 Nephi 11:25, Ether 8:26, 12:28) by reading (Mosiah 1:5), studying (D&C 26:1), searching (John 5:39; Alma 17:2), and feasting (2 Nephi 32:3) upon the words of Christ as contained in the holy scriptures. By so doing, we can receive both spiritual direction and protection during our mortal journey.
Look for connections, patterns and themes in scripture study. Connection is a relationship or link between ideas, people, things or events, and the scriptures are full of connections. A pattern is a plan, model, or standard that can be used as a guide for repetitively doing or making something. Themes are overarching, recurring, and unifying qualities or ideas, like essential threads woven throughout a text.
Learning by faith requires spiritual, mental, and physical exertion and n’ont just passive reception. In the sincerity and consistency of faith-inspired action, a person indicates to our Heavenly Father and His Son, Jesus Christ, a willingness to learn and receive instruction from the Holy Ghost.
“And if a person gains more knowledge and intelligence in this life through his diligence and obedience than another, he will have so much the advantage in the world to come” (D&C 130:18-19) The order in which knowledge and intelligence are listed in verse 19 is instructive—with knowledge first and intelligence second. … Interestingly, knowledge is associated with diligence. Significantly, intelligence is linked to obedience. Through persistent, effective and diligent work, a person can accumulate knowledge in the form of facts, data, information, and experience. Intelligence, however, can be gained only through obedience.
While the Lord invites us to gather together in one all things in Him, we may often segment gospel truths in ways that limit our understanding and vision. We may sometimes give undue emphasis to separate categories of the work of salvation and the associated policies and procedures.
Please now consider the role of the Book of Mormon in changing hearts—and of temple and family history work in turning hearts.
To face the future with faith, hope, and power, our lives need to be anchored to the “rock of our Redeemer” (Helaman 5:12). We are connected securely to and with Heavenly Father and the Savior as we worthily receive ordinances and enter into covenants, faithfully remember and honor these sacred commitments, and do our best to live in accordance with the covenant conditions we have accepted. And as we accept the invitation to ask, seek, and knock for the spiritual gift of faith in Christ and strive to learn for ourselves eternal truths we further strengthen our bond to God and the Savior. And it is through that bond that we receive spiritual strength and stability.
“Don’t let the whirlwinds drag you down. These are your days—to stand strong as disciples of the Lord Jesus Christ [Helaman 7:9]
“Build more firmly your foundation upon teh rock of your Redeemer.
“Treasure more completely His incomparable life and teachings.
“Follow more diligently His example and His commandments.
“Embrace more deeply His love, His mercy and grace, and the powerful gifts of His Atonement.
“As you do, I promise that you will see the whirlwinds for what they are—tests, temptations, distractions or challenges to help you grow. And as you live righteously year after year, I assure you that your experiences will confirm to you again and again that Jesus is the Christ. The spiritual rock under your feet will be solid and secure. You will rejoice that God has placed you here to be a part of the final preparations for Christ’s glorious return.” - Elder Neil L. Andersen
You undoubtedly have experienced [great] feelings of dread after learning about a personal health challenge, discovering a family member in difficulty or danger, or observing disturbing world events. In such instances, the distressing emotion of fear arises because of impending danger, uncertainty, or pain and through experiences that are unexpected, sometimes sudden, and likely to produce a negative outcome.
In our daily lives, endless reports of criminal violence, famine, wars, corruption, terrorism, declining values, disease, and the destructive forces of nature can engender fear and apprehension. Surely we live in the season foretold by the Lord: “And in that day … the whole earth shall be in commotion, and men’s hearts shall fail them” (D&C 45:26).
Fear is dispelled as we anchor our lives to the rock of our Redeemer through a correct knowledge of and faith in the Lord Jesus Christ, as well as through our covenant connection to Him and Heavenly Father.
“Whenever any kind of upheaval occurs in your life, the safest place to be spiritually is living inside your temple covenants!
“Please believe me when I say that when your spiritual foundation is built solidly upon Jesus Christ, you have no need to fear. As you are true to your covenants made in the temple, you will be strengthened by His power. Then, when spiritual earthquakes occur, you will be able to stand strong because your spiritual foundation is solid and immovable.” - President Russell M. Nelson
In the land of Helam, Alma’s people were frightened by an advancing Lamanite army.
“But Alma went forth and stood among them, and exhorted them that they should not be frightened, but … should remember the Lord their God and he would deliver them.
“Therefore they hushed their fears” (Mosiah 23:27-28).
Notice Alma did not hush the people’s fears. Rather, Alma counseled the believers to remember the Lord and the deliverance only He could bestow (2 Nephi 2:8). And knowledge of the Savior’s protecting watchcare enabled the people to calm their own fears.
Truly, one of the greatest blessings of devoted discipleship is “the peace of God, which passeth all understanding” (Philippians 4:7).
The peace Christ gives allows us to view mortality through the precious perspective of eternity and supplies a spiritual settledness (Colossians 1:23) that helps us maintain a consistent focus on our heavenly estimation. Thus, we can be blessed to hush our fears because His doctrine provides purpose and direction in all aspects of our lives. His ordinances and covenants fortify and comfort in times both good and bad. And His priesthood authority gives assurera ce that the things that matter most can endure both in time and in eternity.
But can we quiet the fears that so easily and frequently beset us in our contemporary world? The answer to this question is an unequivocal yes. To receive this blessing in our lives, we can look to Christ and press forward with faith in Him—as we do so, we help secure our spiritual foundations to Him, our Redeemer.
The counsel Alma gave to his son Helaman applies precisely to each of us today: “Yea, see that ye look to God and live” (Alma 37:47). We should look to and have our focus firmly fixed upon the Savior at all times and in all places.
Unlike worldly fear that creates alarm and anxiety, godly fear is a source of peace, assurance and confidence. … The righteous fear I am attempting to describe encompasses a deep feeling of reverence, respect, and awe for the Lord Jesus Christ (Psalms 33:8, 96:4), obedience to His commandments (Deuteronomy 5:29; 8:6; 10:12; 13:4; Psalm 112:1), and an anticipation of the Final Judgment and justice at His hand. Thus, godly fear grows out of a correct understanding of the divine nature and mission of the Lord Jesus Christ, a willingness to submit our will to His will, and a knowledge that every man and woman will be accountable for his or her own sins in the Day of Judgment. … Godly fear is loving and trusting in Him. As we fear God more completely, we love Him more perfectly. And “perfect love casteth out all fear” (Moroni 8:16).
I promise the bright light of godly fear will chase away the ark shadows of mortal fears (D&C 50:25) as we look to the Savior, press forward on His covenant path with consecrated commitment, and build the foundations of our lives upon Him.
December 5, 2024
I have come to expect nothing but excellence from whatever Elder Bednar writes. This book is no exception. This book and its teachings will stay in my mind (I hope) for a very long time. He breaks down the topic (The Rock of our Redeemer) into three sections: to strengthen our covenant connection with the Father and the Son; to increase in spiritual knowledge, testimony, and conversion; and to gather gospel truths together in one. He does a great job expanding and amplifying what covenants mean and what they can do for us. He also does a great job inspiring those of us to do a better job reading and studying the scriptures (cover to cover, topically, and thematically). For me being a member of the church my whole life, this book has done a great job in reminding me of some very important and basic things I need to be doing consistently. At the very end, he gives his testimony in answering the question, "What does it mean to be an especial witness of Christ?" He hits home the point that he received his witness long before he was called to the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles and not when he received that call. Nor did he receive it because of that call. This book should fill anyone who reads it with valuable insights and takeaways.
January 17, 2025
Wow! One of the most powerful books I’ve read in a long time! I love Elder Bednar and have always learned so much from him.
April 19, 2025
It's always hard to review non-fiction, but especially religious books for me.
This book is written by David A. Bednar, an apostle. He writes specifically toward members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, but it can be read by anyone (obviously) and Christians in general will be able to glean much from it, even without specific knowledge of some of the ordinances unique to the church.
He quotes scripture so often in these pages, I think that half the book is scripture that has been expounded on! He does so from the Standard Works, namely The Old Testament, The New Testament, The Pearl of Great Price, The Doctrine and Covenants, and The Book of Mormon. He also quotes his fellow apostles and the current prophet, Russel M. Nelson, as well as past modern day prophets and apostles.
The focus of this book is Christ, which shouldn't come as much of a shock. He breaks the chapters down into three sections, namely, Section 1: Armed with Righteousness and the Power of God-Our Covenant Connection, Section 2: By Study and Also by Faith-Ask, Seek, and Knock and Section 3: Gather Together in One All Things in Christ-Obtaining the Greatest Perspective of Truth.
Each chapter within the sections is typical less that ten pages, which I appreciated because I needed small bursts to digest at my leisure. There is a lot to find in these pages. I know that I missed a lot, but honed in on other things that I currently need in my life. Specifically about building a personal connection with Christ and trusting in Heavenly Father's will and timing for my life.
The content isn't new, but it's vital. It's repeated for a reason. We need the repetition. The world is so distracting, life is fraught with things to make us fret, fumble, and forget what the point and purpose truly is to living. This book brings it back to the center: Christ. His teachings and example show the way for us to face the future with faith, hope, and His power.
Personal belief and testimony in Christ as the Son of a Living God, as the Savior of the world, and a living resurrected being Himself, is the foundation Elder Bednar counsels us to build on. He is the Rock, and if our every desire, motivation, loyalty and love are founded on Him, then the troubles in life are never insurmountable. We are not alone on this path, because Christ is with us, if we let Him show His power in our lives by making covenants with Him and Heavenly Father and placing all our faith and love on his promises and repenting when we fall short.
I'm glad I finished today, right before Easter. I've been reminded over and over this week of the real true peace that trusting God and Christ brings into the everyday pain and trials that I personally go through.
It's not a wishful hope. It's a sure hope.
That better things are coming.
That life goes on.
That heaven is my home.
That I am a child of God.
That I am loved.
That I am never alone.
This book is written by David A. Bednar, an apostle. He writes specifically toward members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, but it can be read by anyone (obviously) and Christians in general will be able to glean much from it, even without specific knowledge of some of the ordinances unique to the church.
He quotes scripture so often in these pages, I think that half the book is scripture that has been expounded on! He does so from the Standard Works, namely The Old Testament, The New Testament, The Pearl of Great Price, The Doctrine and Covenants, and The Book of Mormon. He also quotes his fellow apostles and the current prophet, Russel M. Nelson, as well as past modern day prophets and apostles.
The focus of this book is Christ, which shouldn't come as much of a shock. He breaks the chapters down into three sections, namely, Section 1: Armed with Righteousness and the Power of God-Our Covenant Connection, Section 2: By Study and Also by Faith-Ask, Seek, and Knock and Section 3: Gather Together in One All Things in Christ-Obtaining the Greatest Perspective of Truth.
Each chapter within the sections is typical less that ten pages, which I appreciated because I needed small bursts to digest at my leisure. There is a lot to find in these pages. I know that I missed a lot, but honed in on other things that I currently need in my life. Specifically about building a personal connection with Christ and trusting in Heavenly Father's will and timing for my life.
The content isn't new, but it's vital. It's repeated for a reason. We need the repetition. The world is so distracting, life is fraught with things to make us fret, fumble, and forget what the point and purpose truly is to living. This book brings it back to the center: Christ. His teachings and example show the way for us to face the future with faith, hope, and His power.
Personal belief and testimony in Christ as the Son of a Living God, as the Savior of the world, and a living resurrected being Himself, is the foundation Elder Bednar counsels us to build on. He is the Rock, and if our every desire, motivation, loyalty and love are founded on Him, then the troubles in life are never insurmountable. We are not alone on this path, because Christ is with us, if we let Him show His power in our lives by making covenants with Him and Heavenly Father and placing all our faith and love on his promises and repenting when we fall short.
I'm glad I finished today, right before Easter. I've been reminded over and over this week of the real true peace that trusting God and Christ brings into the everyday pain and trials that I personally go through.
It's not a wishful hope. It's a sure hope.
That better things are coming.
That life goes on.
That heaven is my home.
That I am a child of God.
That I am loved.
That I am never alone.
September 15, 2025
A book that strengthens faith and teaches how to truly study the gospel
I not only recommend reading this book by Elder Bednar, but also all of his books. What I loved most is his counsel on how to truly study the scriptures. It is not enough to read from beginning to end—we should also study by topics, look for connections, and discover patterns. This opened my eyes to new ways of learning and applying the gospel, and I am now trying to make this a regular part of my study. Another lesson that impressed me was the reminder that if all I know are the opinions of others, then I do not know enough. True knowledge and testimony must come through seeking, asking, and knocking until the Spirit confirms that truth is “for you.”
The book teaches that our spiritual foundation must be built firmly on the rock of Jesus Christ, not on “borrowed light.” That foundation is strengthened by daily living of the gospel, keeping covenants, and relying on revelation. I appreciated Elder Bednar’s explanation of Helaman 15 as a roadmap of faith—believing the prophets, exercising faith in Christ, repenting, experiencing a change of heart, and becoming firm and steadfast. I also found strength in the powerful reminders about faith as both action and power, urging us to “press on, hold fast, and heed not.”
What touched me personally is how practical these teachings are. Building on Christ’s rock can mean something as simple as supporting leaders or welcoming new members. Repetition in teaching and studying the first principles may feel basic, but it creates the conditions for revelation. Covenants connect us with divine power and protection, arming us with “the power of God in great glory” against growing opposition. This book not only deepened my doctrinal understanding but also gave me very concrete ways to strengthen my discipleship. I loved it and highly recommend it.
I not only recommend reading this book by Elder Bednar, but also all of his books. What I loved most is his counsel on how to truly study the scriptures. It is not enough to read from beginning to end—we should also study by topics, look for connections, and discover patterns. This opened my eyes to new ways of learning and applying the gospel, and I am now trying to make this a regular part of my study. Another lesson that impressed me was the reminder that if all I know are the opinions of others, then I do not know enough. True knowledge and testimony must come through seeking, asking, and knocking until the Spirit confirms that truth is “for you.”
The book teaches that our spiritual foundation must be built firmly on the rock of Jesus Christ, not on “borrowed light.” That foundation is strengthened by daily living of the gospel, keeping covenants, and relying on revelation. I appreciated Elder Bednar’s explanation of Helaman 15 as a roadmap of faith—believing the prophets, exercising faith in Christ, repenting, experiencing a change of heart, and becoming firm and steadfast. I also found strength in the powerful reminders about faith as both action and power, urging us to “press on, hold fast, and heed not.”
What touched me personally is how practical these teachings are. Building on Christ’s rock can mean something as simple as supporting leaders or welcoming new members. Repetition in teaching and studying the first principles may feel basic, but it creates the conditions for revelation. Covenants connect us with divine power and protection, arming us with “the power of God in great glory” against growing opposition. This book not only deepened my doctrinal understanding but also gave me very concrete ways to strengthen my discipleship. I loved it and highly recommend it.
April 10, 2025
I LOVE Elder Bednar’s books. I took lots of notes, but some of the ones that really stood out this time:
- coming unto the savior and being perfected in him is the pursuit of a lifetime!
- being characterized as “steadfast and immovable” in Christ doesn’t need to be loud or showy. More often than not it should be a steady and quiet willingness to follow the Lord wherever he takes you.
- The Lord will bless those who accept the need for commandments and do their best to obey, repenting along the way.
- whatever principle of intelligence we attain unto in this life, it will rise with us in the resurrection.
- love and revere the Lord. The Fear of the Lord is a deep feeling of respect, reverence and awe for the Lord Jesus Christ.
- once we make a covenant with God, we leave neutral ground forever.
- coming unto the savior and being perfected in him is the pursuit of a lifetime!
- being characterized as “steadfast and immovable” in Christ doesn’t need to be loud or showy. More often than not it should be a steady and quiet willingness to follow the Lord wherever he takes you.
- The Lord will bless those who accept the need for commandments and do their best to obey, repenting along the way.
- whatever principle of intelligence we attain unto in this life, it will rise with us in the resurrection.
- love and revere the Lord. The Fear of the Lord is a deep feeling of respect, reverence and awe for the Lord Jesus Christ.
- once we make a covenant with God, we leave neutral ground forever.
October 4, 2024
Having just finished a book (A Thousand Times Before) on family history and ancestry, this quick read powerfully reinforced for me how very important both temple and family history work is to me--a modern-day member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
I love reading the latest messages from our living Apostles of God. Elder Bednar is a favorite...He answers this important question: "Amid today's whirlwinds of opposition and adversity, how can we avoid feeling discouraged, remain firm in our commitment to be devoted disciples of the Savior, and stay on the covenant path?"
Elder Bednat's answers helped me understand how to anchor myself to Jesus Christ--the spiritual foundation of the Gospel.
I highly recommend The Rock of our Redeemer.
I love reading the latest messages from our living Apostles of God. Elder Bednar is a favorite...He answers this important question: "Amid today's whirlwinds of opposition and adversity, how can we avoid feeling discouraged, remain firm in our commitment to be devoted disciples of the Savior, and stay on the covenant path?"
Elder Bednat's answers helped me understand how to anchor myself to Jesus Christ--the spiritual foundation of the Gospel.
I highly recommend The Rock of our Redeemer.
December 23, 2024
I really love this book. I have read many parts of it at least twice and I have also listened to it. Elder Bednar does a wonderful job of explaining to us that we are to build our spiritual foundations on Jesus Christ. He also teaches that we should not segment the different parts of the gospel but we should (I wish I could say this like he does) realize, view all the different parts of the gospel fit together as a whole. He also emphasizes that strongly that we need to learn the “basic, simple and correct principles of the gospel. Finally he teaches that we do not need to be an Apostle to stand as a witness of Jesus Christ and the restored gospel.
You can truly feel the spirit as you read this book. I highly recommend it.
You can truly feel the spirit as you read this book. I highly recommend it.
November 3, 2024
Of course, there is so much in a book written by an apostle to be gleaned and understood. One of the best parts of the book that stood out to me was on knowledge and intelligence. I have been learning for a long time now that the Lord’s definitions of words, especially attributes of Christ, are different than the world’s definitions. I loved learning one of the Lord’s definitions for intelligence.
“The Lord’s definition of intelligence is the application of the knowledge we obtain for righteous purposes. “
Knowledge is linked to diligence.
Intelligence is linked to obedience
If you pick up this book, get ready to learn, spiritually!
“The Lord’s definition of intelligence is the application of the knowledge we obtain for righteous purposes. “
Knowledge is linked to diligence.
Intelligence is linked to obedience
If you pick up this book, get ready to learn, spiritually!
March 30, 2025
A beautiful book in which the apostle of Jesus Christ, Elder David A. Bednar, focuses on three divine to strengthen our covenant connection with the Father and the Son; to increase in spiritual knowledge, testimony, and conversion; and to gather gospel truths together in one. These interrelated invitations work together to help disciples seek the spiritual gift of faith in the Lord Jesus Christ and become more securely connected to Him.
I loved that although I have heard him touch on these ideas in various talks over the years, he was able to expound on the ideas and teach so much more. He is so gifted at teaching doctrines of Jesus Christ. Wonderful and inspiring.
I loved that although I have heard him touch on these ideas in various talks over the years, he was able to expound on the ideas and teach so much more. He is so gifted at teaching doctrines of Jesus Christ. Wonderful and inspiring.
April 11, 2025
I need to read this book again. I absolutely love elder bednar, but this book had me going between really loving it and finding it okay. there were definitely parts of the book I need to go back and restudy. He brings up some wonderful points and some beautiful angles to look at things. also, though I felt like they were parts of the book that I've heard several times from previous general conference talks and such, so some parts seem repetitive. The books well written, and has Good truth in it, but it was a good enough read
May 8, 2025
I took the opportunity with this book to keep my scriptures next to me as I read. Every scripture Elder Bednar quoted, I looked up and marked it and pondered it. This process taught me so much more than times when I have read the words and neglected to look up the scriptures.
Faith, Hope and Power are products of gospel study. This book brought all three to me. Hope gives me the power to continue to learn the gospel, Faith enables me to make progress to my goals.
Thank you Elder Bednar for your many inspiring pages.
Faith, Hope and Power are products of gospel study. This book brought all three to me. Hope gives me the power to continue to learn the gospel, Faith enables me to make progress to my goals.
Thank you Elder Bednar for your many inspiring pages.
May 9, 2025
Written by an Apostle of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, this book helps us understand how to anchor our spiritual foundations to the rock of Jesus Christ. Elder Bednar focuses on three invitations for us. 1 - to increase in spiritual knowledge; 2 - to gather all gospel truths together in one; 3 - to strengthen our connection with the Savior Jesus Christ.
I found this book to be well organized, written in understandable language that inspired me, and contained specific steps and goals to help me move ahead on my covenant path.
I found this book to be well organized, written in understandable language that inspired me, and contained specific steps and goals to help me move ahead on my covenant path.
June 26, 2025
Elder David A. Bednar frequently states that he prayerfully seeks the help of the Holy Ghost to increase our understanding and conviction. In my effort to understand Bednar's teaching it helps me to picture the Covenant Path as a stretchable spiral. Picture a "Slinky" spring. As we go round and round the spiral hopefully we rise to a higher and holier life with each cycle. Personal revelation, a good story, or a special spiritual experience (somewhat lacking in this book) can stretch the spring and lift us upward. Without this lift one can easily be lost in a forest of words.
November 7, 2024
Short but profound book that focuses on strengthening one’s faith, trust, and obedience to God. Elder Bednar is a great teacher, especially about power of covenants and increasing one’s capacity for receiving personal revelation. I don’t think this book was that much different from the messages in his talks at general conference and devotionals, hence the 4 stars. But it is a good read for my religious friends.
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