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Led by Divine Design
Elder Ronald A. Rasband shares timely counsel and personal stories about recognizing the hand of the Lord in our everyday pursuits. Through his own experience, Elder Rasband helps us learn first how to seek the Spirit and then how to recognize and respond to divine guidance in our families, with friends and colleagues, in our Church service, and during times of trial.
192 pages, Hardcover
First published October 1, 2018
15 people are currently reading
319 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 99 reviews
January 2, 2019
I thoroughly enjoyed listening to this audiobook. I'd heard some of the stories in his general conference talks but loved how he pulled everything together in this format. I wish I had a hard copy to mark up. Definitely one worth a relisten.
Content: Clean, Latter-day Saint non-fiction
Content: Clean, Latter-day Saint non-fiction
February 8, 2019
This is a nonfiction religious book. The author is one of the leaders of the Mormon faith. I liked the overall message in this, especially the emphasis on faith. He seemed like a nice guy and I liked his use of the scriptures but I DO NOT recommend the audio. It was flat and it felt like he was just reading the words. It's a short book, but it felt longer than it was.
January 9, 2019
This short audiobook, read by the author was a perfect way to be reminded of the Lord's hand in our lives. Elder Rasband used a number of stories from his own life, many of them which he had shared in General Conference talks over the years. I enjoyed the spiritual uplift of reading this book, and also the chance to remember my own experiences with the spirit. I liked Elder Rasband's definition of how to recognize the spirit and respond to it immediately. It's also important to note what happens when we doubt it or delay acting on the promptings.
I had received some sad news today, and this was just the thing I needed to help me feel close to the Lord, buoyed up, and reminded that the Lord is in the small details of our lives. He will use the Holy Ghost to help us return to Him if we heed and choose wisely.
I had received some sad news today, and this was just the thing I needed to help me feel close to the Lord, buoyed up, and reminded that the Lord is in the small details of our lives. He will use the Holy Ghost to help us return to Him if we heed and choose wisely.
March 15, 2019
This is a very enjoyable read with lots of beautiful pictures and stories at at heartwarming. One of the things that Elder Rasband uses as a parable is that we are all on a chessboard and God is moving us around the game. I know from my life I can see God's hand in it and it's comforting to know that we're being led by divine design.
January 20, 2019
Well written LDS book on faith, God's power in our lives, and how to find happiness. Quick read with a lot of tangible takeaways and anecdotes. I loved it!
April 14, 2019
This is a great book about learning to follow the Spirit and recognize the Lord's hand guiding our lives. Here are a few favorite quotes:
"The Holy Ghost is crucially important in our lives. Our Father in Heaven knew that in mortality we would face challenges, tribulation, and turmoil; He knew we would wrestle with questions, disappointments, temptations, and weaknesses. To give us mortal strength and divine guidance, He provided the Holy Spirit... The Holy Ghost binds us to the Lord. By divine assignment, He inspires, testifies, teaches, and prompts us to walk in the light of the Lord. We have the sacred responsibility to learn to recognize His influence in our lives and respond (p. 4)."
"Remember the Lord's promise: 'I will impart unto you of my Spirit, which shall enlighten your mind, which shall fill your soul with joy' (D&C 11:130).... That joy comes as peace amidst hardship to heartache. It provides comfort and courage, unfolds the truths of the gospel, and expands our love for the Lord and all God's children. Although the need for such blessings is so great, in many ways the world has forgotten and forsaken them (p. 5)."
"Each week when we partake of the holy sacrament, we make a covenant to 'always remember him,' the Lord Jesus Christ, and His atoning sacrifice. When we keep this sacred covenant, the promise is given that we 'may always have his Spirit to be with [us]' (D&C 20:77) (p. 7)."
"The Spirit most often communicates as a feeling. You feel it in words that are familiar to you, that make sense to you, that prompt you (p. 9)."
"'As we pursue the journey of life, let us learn the language of the Spirit (Thomas S. Monson, p. 10).'"
"'Ye have heard his voice from time to time; and he hath spoken unto you in a still small voice, but ye were past feeling, that ye could not feel [the] words' (1 Nephi 17:45) (p. 10)."
"If we pay attention to the promptings that come to us, we will grow in the spirit of revelation and receive more and more Spirit-driven insight and direction (p. 15)."
"We must be confident in our first promptings. Sometimes we rationalize; we wonder if we are feeling a spiritual impression or if it is just our own thoughts.... The Prophet Joseph Smith taught that if you will listen to the first promptings, you will get it right nine times out of ten (p. 17)."
"Now a caution: don't expect fireworks because you responded to the Holy Ghost. Remember, you are about the work of the still, small voice (p. 17)."
"The Lord knows the needs of all His children--and He knows who is prepared to help. If we let the Lord know in our morning prayers that we are ready, He will call on us to respond (p. 19)."
"'When the Lord speaks to you, He won't speak in big, loud ways, like wind storms or earthquakes or fires. You'll hear Him speak quietly, like a still, small voice in your heart (p. 24).'"
“Listening to that still, small voice also helped me find and improve the talents Heavenly Father blessed me with (p. 25).”
“I would offer you a little formula that…almost certainly will enable you to have the Spirit as your constant companion. First, bridle your passions… let virtue garnish [your] thoughts unceasingly… ask for the Spirit—pray for it (p. 30).”
“It has been my experience that very little occurs in the way of transgression that is not first rehearsed and debated in one’s own mind and soul. A huge key in avoiding these pitfalls is to let virtue be in our thoughts and deeds always, not allowing our minds to wander. I can recommend it without reservation as a way to flee from temptation and transgression (p. 33).”
“A key element in having the Spirit with us in our lives is remaining true to the light we have received (p. 37).”
“Being true to our authentic self requires continual effort to increase our light, knowledge, and understanding (p. 38).
“When you feel completely and perfectly loved, it is much easier to love others and to see them the way the Savior does. Please turn to our Savior in prayer and ask to receive His pure love both for yourself and for others. He has promised that you will feel His love if you ask in faith (p. 38).”
“Sister Rasband and I learned early to counsel together. That spiritual aspect of our relationship, and our trust in the Lord, has been a foundation for many years (p. 46).”
“‘Keep thy soul diligently, lest thou forget the things which thine eyes have seen, and lest they depart from thy heart all the days of they life: but teach them thy sons, and thy sons’ sons’ (Deuteronomy 4:9).”
“Those who are seeking the Spirit will often be led to the temple. What temples bring to families and individuals seeking to draw closer to the Lord Jesus Christ and our Father in Heaven, seeking peace in a fractured world, seeking comfort in times of trouble, cannot be calculated (p. 49).”
“Often the Spirit works in our lives through the instrumentality of other people. Some friends are wise and trusted mentors. They are a special kind of friend; they have gone before us, and they know the way. The Spirit can direct them to offer their help in our journey (p. 59).”
“‘The only way to have a friend is to be one’ (Ralph Waldo Emerson, p. 61).”
“‘Wherefore, settle this in your hearts, that ye will do the things which I shall teach, and command you’ (JST Luke 14:28 [Luke 14:27, footnote b]). Acting with integrity invites the Spirit into our lives (p. 63).”
“Integrity in business and in spiritual and family matters all draw from the same well of strength—our love for the Lord Jesus Christ (p. 65).”
“I realized the importance of good friends in helping me stay close to the Spirit (p. 67).”
“Though they did not see Him, Jesus stood by them. Aware of their plight and sympathetic to their hardship, it was His loving support that sustained them in their mission and brought hundreds and thousands of new converts into the Church… It was the Savior who beckoned, ‘Come unto me’ (Matthew 11:28). In friendship, as in every other principle of the gospel, Jesus Christ is our Exemplar (p. 68).”
“The Spirit will help you know how you can use those gifts in the Lord’s service. The talents God has given us first become apparent in the interests we pursue. If you are wondering about your talents, make a list of the things you like to do… Study and ponder your patriarchal blessing… Consult family members, trusted friends, teachers, and leaders; others often can see in us what we find difficult to see in ourselves (p. 75).”
“‘Everyone has inherent talents. From a study of your [Family History] genealogy, find the talents you have inherited by the things you like to do, and do easily, that some of your ancestors have done. Then become an expert or a specialist in some phase of that field. The Lord will bless your efforts in your studies and in your daily work’ (Eldred G. Smith, p. 75).”
“‘God has endowed us with talents and time, with latent abilities and with opportunities to use and develop them in His service. He therefore expects much of us, his privileged children’ (Spencer W. Kimball, p. 76).”
“Each of you has been blessed with divine talents by our Father in Heaven. He is waiting for you to identify, develop, and magnify those talents He has blessed you with (p. 76).”
“Use your talents to build the kingdom of God… Our first priority in building the kingdom is helping others in our own family (p. 77).”
“Focusing on serving the Savior can guide us toward making proper decisions in our daily lives (p. 78).”
“‘Expand your knowledge, both intellectual and spiritual, to the full stature of your divine potential. There is no limit to your influence for good. Share your talents, for that which we willingly share, we keep. But that which we selfishly keep, we lose’ (Thomas S. Monson, p. 78).”
“Acknowledge God’s hand in your success (p. 79).”
“‘Prayer is an essential part of conveying appreciation to our Heavenly Father. He awaits our expressions of gratefulness each morning and night in sincere, simple prayer from our hearts for our many blessings, gifts, and talents’ (Robert D. Hales, p. 79).”
“It is my sincere hope that we will seriously ponder and pray to find our talents, that we may use them in building up the kingdom of God here on the earth, that we may be found worthy to stand before the Lord at the last day and in His presence hear Him say: ‘Well done, thou good and faithful servant: thou hast been faithful over a few things, I will make thee ruler over many things: enter thou into the joy of thy lord’ (Matthew 25:21) (p. 80).”
“Questions would be asked in real time. How does one prepare for such an event? Never had a felt a greater need to depend on the Holy Ghost for guidance… The Spirit prompted me at one point to call upon my young family members, many of whom were in the audience that day, to come up and join me on the stand. Grandchildren, nieces, and nephews soon surrounded me. I told the audience, ‘This is my youth advisory council!’ Later feedback suggested that many youth were touched by that expression. They felt valued, that their contributions and opinions mattered, that they had a voice in the Church and in the family. That spontaneous action, instigated by the Spirit, was a blessing to many (p. 85).”
“Throughout my life, I have come to know through my own experiences that Heavenly Father hears and answers our personal prayers. I know that Jesus is the living Christ and that He knows each of us individually, or as the scriptures express it, ‘one by one’ (p. 89).”
“I didn’t know…this missionary or his family, but the Lord did, and He inspired a mission president on behalf of one missionary to provide a life-long memory and testimony-building experience (p. 92).”
“[Strive] to rely more on the promptings of the Holy Ghost (p. 93).”
“I was visibly disappointed and would have a hard time faking excitement over my mission call. I took the call downstairs to my bedroom, knelt by my bed, and said a prayer. I needed a testimony that I was going to the mission Heavenly Father wanted me to go to. After praying, I randomly opened my scriptures… I found myself in section 100 of the Doctrine and Covenants. I began reading the following verses: ‘Behold, and lo, I have much people in this place, in the regions round about; and an effectual door shall be opened in the regions round about in this eastern land. Therefore, I, the Lord, have suffered you to come unto this place; for thus it was expedient in me for the salvation of souls’ (D&C 100:3-4).”
“As we are led by the Spirit, our personal journey through life provides us with many special experiences that become building blocks of faith and testimony. These experiences come to us in vastly different way sand at unpredictable times. They can be powerful spiritual events or small enlightening moments. Some experiences will come as serious challenges and heavy trials that test our ability to cope with them. No matter what the experience may be, each gives us a chance for personal growth, greater wisdom, and, in many cases, service to others with more empathy and love. As the Lord stated to the Prophet Joseph Smith in a reassuring way during one of his most significant trails at Liberty Jail, ‘All these things shall give thee experience, and shall be for they good’ (D&C 122:7) (p. 111).”
“Recall, especially in times of crisis, when you felt the Spirit and your testimony was strong; remember the spiritual foundations you have built…. Ponder the scriptures regularly, and remember the thoughts and feelings you experience as you read them. Seek other sources of truth as well, but heed this caution from the scriptures: ‘But to be learned is good if they hearken unto the counsels of God’ (2 Nephi 9:29). Attend church meetings, especially sacrament meeting, and partake of the sacrament and renew covenants, including the promise to always remember the Savior, that His Spirit may ever be with you (p. 115).”
“It was as if the Lord was saying, ‘Now, Ronald, I already told you what you needed to do. Now do it!’ How grateful I was for that loving correction and direction! I was immediately comforted by the prompting and was able to move forward, knowing in my heart that my prayer had been answered (p. 116).”
“As you faithfully live the gospel of Jesus Christ and abide by its teachings, your testimony will be protected and it will grow. Keep the covenants you have made… Be diligent… Remain faithful and steadfast… Seek that which will edify and fortify you spiritually (p. 117).”
“We sustain leaders who, by divine inspiration, have been called to teach and guide us and who are calling out to us to beware of the dangers we face each day—from casual Sabbath-day observance, to threats to the family, to assaults on religious freedom, and even to disputing latter-day revelation. Are we listening to their counsel (p. 121)?”
“As we press forward, choosing to follow the counsel and the warnings of our leaders, we choose to follow the Lord while the world is going in another direction. We choose to hold fast to the iron rod, to be Latter-day Saints, to be on the Lord’s errand, and to be filled ‘with exceedingly great joy’ (1 Nephi 8:12) (p. 122).”
“‘Every foundation stone that is laid for a Temple, and every Temple completed… lessens the power of Satan on the earth, and increases the power of God and Godliness, moves the heavens in mighty power in our behalf, invokes and calls down upon us the blessings of the Eternal Gods, and those who reside in their presence’ (George Q. Cannon, p. 125).”
“‘I would hope that we might go to the house of the Lord a little more frequently… I encourage you to take greater advantage of this blessed privilege. It will refine your natures. It will peel off the selfish shell in which most of us live. It will literally bring a sanctifying element into our lives and make us better men and better women’ (Gordon B. Hinckley, p. 126).”
“Some of the safest places that Heavenly Father has established for the gathering of His people are in the temple so the Lord (p. 128).”
“Recognize the turbulence for what it is. The Lord allows us challenges that at times will feel like tsunamis to make us strong and effective in His service and to help us always turn to Him (p. 129).”
“In order to be led by the Spirit, most of all, we need our Savior, our Lord, Jesus Christ (p. 131).”
“Peter was a fisherman, and he knew about the hazards of the sea. However, he was committed to following Jesus—night and day, on a ship or on dry land (p. 132).”
“I have needed the Savior and the rescue of His hand so many times. I need Him now as never before, as do you. I have felt confident at times leaping over the side of the boat, figuratively speaking, into unfamiliar places, only to realize that I could not do it alone (p. 132).”
“I pray that we will reach out—reach out and take the Savior’s hand that He is extending to us, often through His divinely called leaders and our family members—and listen for His call to ‘Come’ (p. 133).”
“Our hardships will be brief—in eternal terms—and the Lord will be right there (p. 140).”
“Recognize the responsibility to not leave anyone behind. There will be many you encounter with broken hearts and broken dreams. Lift them, help them move forward, boost their confidence in their ability, and renew their faith that the Lord is watching over them. He sent you (p. 150).”
“Stay the course. Hold fast to the Lord’s commandments—even in the face of challenges from unbelievers (p. 151).”
“The Lord has a plan for each of us, and He will unfold that plan as we turn to Him in prayer, seek His guidance, act upon His promptings, and press on (p. 152).”
“‘A perfect body is not required to achieve a divine destiny. In fact, some of the sweetest spirits are housed in frail frames’ (Russell M. Nelson, p. 161).”
“To all of you who have challenges, concerns, disappointments, or heartaches…know this: with infinite love and everlasting compassion, God our Heavenly Father loves your afflicted one, and He loves you (p. 162)!”
“Trusting in God’s will is central to our mortality. With faith in Him, we draw upon the power of Christ’s Atonement at those times when questions abound and answer are few. The Spirit can lead us to the peace we need (p. 163).”
“We all face challenges (p. 164).”
“‘Remember the worth of souls is great in the sight of God’ (D&C 18:10). I wept as I pondered the limitless love our Heavenly Father and His Beloved Son, Jesus Christ, have for each one of us, while learning in a powerful way what the worth of a soul is, both physically and spiritually, to God. Paxton’s family learned they are surrounded by countless heavenly and earthly ministering angels. Some quietly slipped in when needed and silently slipped out. Others were at the door with food, doing the laundry, picking up the siblings, calling with encouragement, and especially praying for Paxton… We continue to learn the important value of being aware of and interested in the lives of those around us, leaning not only the importance of giving help but also the overwhelming joy that comes from helping others (p. 166).”
“‘God bless all who endeavor to be their brother’s keeper, who give to ameliorate suffering, who strive with all that is good within them to make a better world’ (Thomas S. Monson, p. 167).”
“Coincidence is not an appropriate word to describe the workings of an omniscient God. He does not do things by ‘coincidence’ but by ‘divine design’’ (Neal A. Maxwell, p. 172).”
“Our lives are like a chessboard, and the Lord moves us from one place to another—if we are responsive to spiritual promptings. Looking back, we can see His hand in our lives (p. 172).”
“Significant events unfold in the gospel and in the Church that further the kingdom of God on earth. They are not by accident but by God’s plan. He who fashioned this world can calm the seas with His word and can steer both Alma and Amulek and Nephi and Laban to be at the right place at precisely the right time. Likewise, events and associations unfold in each of our lives that further God’s work on earth (p. 172).”
“Most often, our good works are known to only a few. They are, however, recorded in heaven (p. 173).”
“The Lord will move us on that seeming chessboard to do His work. What may appear to be a random chance is, in fact, overseen by a loving Father in Heaven, who can number the hairs of every head (p. 173).”
“What are God’s miracles that remind you that He is close (p. 175)?”
“Allow Him to make more of you than you can make of yourself on your own. Treasure His involvement (p. 176).”
“Sometimes we consider changes in our plans as missteps on our journey. Think of them more as first steps to being ‘on the Lord’s errand’ (D&C 64:29) (p. 177).”
“We are all truly brothers and sisters. We are…engaged in the same cause…‘the cause of Christ’ (p. 182).”
“Each of us is precious to and loved by God. He cares, He whispers, and He watches over us in ways unique to each of us. He is infinitely wiser and more powerful than mortal men and women. He knows our challenges, our triumphs, and the righteous desires of our hearts (p. 183).”
“Where does our agency fit in a ‘divine design’? We have a choice to follow or to not follow our Savior and His chosen leaders (p. 185).”
“When we are righteous, willing, and able, when we are striving to be worthy and qualified, we progress to places we never imagined and become part of Heavenly Father’s divine design. All of us have divinity within us. When we see God working through us and with us, may we be encouraged, even grateful for that guidance (p. 186).”
“The Lord’s hand is guiding you. By divine design, He is in the small details of your life as well as the major milestones. As it says in Proverbs, ‘Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; … and he shall direct thy paths’ (Proverbs 3:5-6) (p. 186).”
"The Holy Ghost is crucially important in our lives. Our Father in Heaven knew that in mortality we would face challenges, tribulation, and turmoil; He knew we would wrestle with questions, disappointments, temptations, and weaknesses. To give us mortal strength and divine guidance, He provided the Holy Spirit... The Holy Ghost binds us to the Lord. By divine assignment, He inspires, testifies, teaches, and prompts us to walk in the light of the Lord. We have the sacred responsibility to learn to recognize His influence in our lives and respond (p. 4)."
"Remember the Lord's promise: 'I will impart unto you of my Spirit, which shall enlighten your mind, which shall fill your soul with joy' (D&C 11:130).... That joy comes as peace amidst hardship to heartache. It provides comfort and courage, unfolds the truths of the gospel, and expands our love for the Lord and all God's children. Although the need for such blessings is so great, in many ways the world has forgotten and forsaken them (p. 5)."
"Each week when we partake of the holy sacrament, we make a covenant to 'always remember him,' the Lord Jesus Christ, and His atoning sacrifice. When we keep this sacred covenant, the promise is given that we 'may always have his Spirit to be with [us]' (D&C 20:77) (p. 7)."
"The Spirit most often communicates as a feeling. You feel it in words that are familiar to you, that make sense to you, that prompt you (p. 9)."
"'As we pursue the journey of life, let us learn the language of the Spirit (Thomas S. Monson, p. 10).'"
"'Ye have heard his voice from time to time; and he hath spoken unto you in a still small voice, but ye were past feeling, that ye could not feel [the] words' (1 Nephi 17:45) (p. 10)."
"If we pay attention to the promptings that come to us, we will grow in the spirit of revelation and receive more and more Spirit-driven insight and direction (p. 15)."
"We must be confident in our first promptings. Sometimes we rationalize; we wonder if we are feeling a spiritual impression or if it is just our own thoughts.... The Prophet Joseph Smith taught that if you will listen to the first promptings, you will get it right nine times out of ten (p. 17)."
"Now a caution: don't expect fireworks because you responded to the Holy Ghost. Remember, you are about the work of the still, small voice (p. 17)."
"The Lord knows the needs of all His children--and He knows who is prepared to help. If we let the Lord know in our morning prayers that we are ready, He will call on us to respond (p. 19)."
"'When the Lord speaks to you, He won't speak in big, loud ways, like wind storms or earthquakes or fires. You'll hear Him speak quietly, like a still, small voice in your heart (p. 24).'"
“Listening to that still, small voice also helped me find and improve the talents Heavenly Father blessed me with (p. 25).”
“I would offer you a little formula that…almost certainly will enable you to have the Spirit as your constant companion. First, bridle your passions… let virtue garnish [your] thoughts unceasingly… ask for the Spirit—pray for it (p. 30).”
“It has been my experience that very little occurs in the way of transgression that is not first rehearsed and debated in one’s own mind and soul. A huge key in avoiding these pitfalls is to let virtue be in our thoughts and deeds always, not allowing our minds to wander. I can recommend it without reservation as a way to flee from temptation and transgression (p. 33).”
“A key element in having the Spirit with us in our lives is remaining true to the light we have received (p. 37).”
“Being true to our authentic self requires continual effort to increase our light, knowledge, and understanding (p. 38).
“When you feel completely and perfectly loved, it is much easier to love others and to see them the way the Savior does. Please turn to our Savior in prayer and ask to receive His pure love both for yourself and for others. He has promised that you will feel His love if you ask in faith (p. 38).”
“Sister Rasband and I learned early to counsel together. That spiritual aspect of our relationship, and our trust in the Lord, has been a foundation for many years (p. 46).”
“‘Keep thy soul diligently, lest thou forget the things which thine eyes have seen, and lest they depart from thy heart all the days of they life: but teach them thy sons, and thy sons’ sons’ (Deuteronomy 4:9).”
“Those who are seeking the Spirit will often be led to the temple. What temples bring to families and individuals seeking to draw closer to the Lord Jesus Christ and our Father in Heaven, seeking peace in a fractured world, seeking comfort in times of trouble, cannot be calculated (p. 49).”
“Often the Spirit works in our lives through the instrumentality of other people. Some friends are wise and trusted mentors. They are a special kind of friend; they have gone before us, and they know the way. The Spirit can direct them to offer their help in our journey (p. 59).”
“‘The only way to have a friend is to be one’ (Ralph Waldo Emerson, p. 61).”
“‘Wherefore, settle this in your hearts, that ye will do the things which I shall teach, and command you’ (JST Luke 14:28 [Luke 14:27, footnote b]). Acting with integrity invites the Spirit into our lives (p. 63).”
“Integrity in business and in spiritual and family matters all draw from the same well of strength—our love for the Lord Jesus Christ (p. 65).”
“I realized the importance of good friends in helping me stay close to the Spirit (p. 67).”
“Though they did not see Him, Jesus stood by them. Aware of their plight and sympathetic to their hardship, it was His loving support that sustained them in their mission and brought hundreds and thousands of new converts into the Church… It was the Savior who beckoned, ‘Come unto me’ (Matthew 11:28). In friendship, as in every other principle of the gospel, Jesus Christ is our Exemplar (p. 68).”
“The Spirit will help you know how you can use those gifts in the Lord’s service. The talents God has given us first become apparent in the interests we pursue. If you are wondering about your talents, make a list of the things you like to do… Study and ponder your patriarchal blessing… Consult family members, trusted friends, teachers, and leaders; others often can see in us what we find difficult to see in ourselves (p. 75).”
“‘Everyone has inherent talents. From a study of your [Family History] genealogy, find the talents you have inherited by the things you like to do, and do easily, that some of your ancestors have done. Then become an expert or a specialist in some phase of that field. The Lord will bless your efforts in your studies and in your daily work’ (Eldred G. Smith, p. 75).”
“‘God has endowed us with talents and time, with latent abilities and with opportunities to use and develop them in His service. He therefore expects much of us, his privileged children’ (Spencer W. Kimball, p. 76).”
“Each of you has been blessed with divine talents by our Father in Heaven. He is waiting for you to identify, develop, and magnify those talents He has blessed you with (p. 76).”
“Use your talents to build the kingdom of God… Our first priority in building the kingdom is helping others in our own family (p. 77).”
“Focusing on serving the Savior can guide us toward making proper decisions in our daily lives (p. 78).”
“‘Expand your knowledge, both intellectual and spiritual, to the full stature of your divine potential. There is no limit to your influence for good. Share your talents, for that which we willingly share, we keep. But that which we selfishly keep, we lose’ (Thomas S. Monson, p. 78).”
“Acknowledge God’s hand in your success (p. 79).”
“‘Prayer is an essential part of conveying appreciation to our Heavenly Father. He awaits our expressions of gratefulness each morning and night in sincere, simple prayer from our hearts for our many blessings, gifts, and talents’ (Robert D. Hales, p. 79).”
“It is my sincere hope that we will seriously ponder and pray to find our talents, that we may use them in building up the kingdom of God here on the earth, that we may be found worthy to stand before the Lord at the last day and in His presence hear Him say: ‘Well done, thou good and faithful servant: thou hast been faithful over a few things, I will make thee ruler over many things: enter thou into the joy of thy lord’ (Matthew 25:21) (p. 80).”
“Questions would be asked in real time. How does one prepare for such an event? Never had a felt a greater need to depend on the Holy Ghost for guidance… The Spirit prompted me at one point to call upon my young family members, many of whom were in the audience that day, to come up and join me on the stand. Grandchildren, nieces, and nephews soon surrounded me. I told the audience, ‘This is my youth advisory council!’ Later feedback suggested that many youth were touched by that expression. They felt valued, that their contributions and opinions mattered, that they had a voice in the Church and in the family. That spontaneous action, instigated by the Spirit, was a blessing to many (p. 85).”
“Throughout my life, I have come to know through my own experiences that Heavenly Father hears and answers our personal prayers. I know that Jesus is the living Christ and that He knows each of us individually, or as the scriptures express it, ‘one by one’ (p. 89).”
“I didn’t know…this missionary or his family, but the Lord did, and He inspired a mission president on behalf of one missionary to provide a life-long memory and testimony-building experience (p. 92).”
“[Strive] to rely more on the promptings of the Holy Ghost (p. 93).”
“I was visibly disappointed and would have a hard time faking excitement over my mission call. I took the call downstairs to my bedroom, knelt by my bed, and said a prayer. I needed a testimony that I was going to the mission Heavenly Father wanted me to go to. After praying, I randomly opened my scriptures… I found myself in section 100 of the Doctrine and Covenants. I began reading the following verses: ‘Behold, and lo, I have much people in this place, in the regions round about; and an effectual door shall be opened in the regions round about in this eastern land. Therefore, I, the Lord, have suffered you to come unto this place; for thus it was expedient in me for the salvation of souls’ (D&C 100:3-4).”
“As we are led by the Spirit, our personal journey through life provides us with many special experiences that become building blocks of faith and testimony. These experiences come to us in vastly different way sand at unpredictable times. They can be powerful spiritual events or small enlightening moments. Some experiences will come as serious challenges and heavy trials that test our ability to cope with them. No matter what the experience may be, each gives us a chance for personal growth, greater wisdom, and, in many cases, service to others with more empathy and love. As the Lord stated to the Prophet Joseph Smith in a reassuring way during one of his most significant trails at Liberty Jail, ‘All these things shall give thee experience, and shall be for they good’ (D&C 122:7) (p. 111).”
“Recall, especially in times of crisis, when you felt the Spirit and your testimony was strong; remember the spiritual foundations you have built…. Ponder the scriptures regularly, and remember the thoughts and feelings you experience as you read them. Seek other sources of truth as well, but heed this caution from the scriptures: ‘But to be learned is good if they hearken unto the counsels of God’ (2 Nephi 9:29). Attend church meetings, especially sacrament meeting, and partake of the sacrament and renew covenants, including the promise to always remember the Savior, that His Spirit may ever be with you (p. 115).”
“It was as if the Lord was saying, ‘Now, Ronald, I already told you what you needed to do. Now do it!’ How grateful I was for that loving correction and direction! I was immediately comforted by the prompting and was able to move forward, knowing in my heart that my prayer had been answered (p. 116).”
“As you faithfully live the gospel of Jesus Christ and abide by its teachings, your testimony will be protected and it will grow. Keep the covenants you have made… Be diligent… Remain faithful and steadfast… Seek that which will edify and fortify you spiritually (p. 117).”
“We sustain leaders who, by divine inspiration, have been called to teach and guide us and who are calling out to us to beware of the dangers we face each day—from casual Sabbath-day observance, to threats to the family, to assaults on religious freedom, and even to disputing latter-day revelation. Are we listening to their counsel (p. 121)?”
“As we press forward, choosing to follow the counsel and the warnings of our leaders, we choose to follow the Lord while the world is going in another direction. We choose to hold fast to the iron rod, to be Latter-day Saints, to be on the Lord’s errand, and to be filled ‘with exceedingly great joy’ (1 Nephi 8:12) (p. 122).”
“‘Every foundation stone that is laid for a Temple, and every Temple completed… lessens the power of Satan on the earth, and increases the power of God and Godliness, moves the heavens in mighty power in our behalf, invokes and calls down upon us the blessings of the Eternal Gods, and those who reside in their presence’ (George Q. Cannon, p. 125).”
“‘I would hope that we might go to the house of the Lord a little more frequently… I encourage you to take greater advantage of this blessed privilege. It will refine your natures. It will peel off the selfish shell in which most of us live. It will literally bring a sanctifying element into our lives and make us better men and better women’ (Gordon B. Hinckley, p. 126).”
“Some of the safest places that Heavenly Father has established for the gathering of His people are in the temple so the Lord (p. 128).”
“Recognize the turbulence for what it is. The Lord allows us challenges that at times will feel like tsunamis to make us strong and effective in His service and to help us always turn to Him (p. 129).”
“In order to be led by the Spirit, most of all, we need our Savior, our Lord, Jesus Christ (p. 131).”
“Peter was a fisherman, and he knew about the hazards of the sea. However, he was committed to following Jesus—night and day, on a ship or on dry land (p. 132).”
“I have needed the Savior and the rescue of His hand so many times. I need Him now as never before, as do you. I have felt confident at times leaping over the side of the boat, figuratively speaking, into unfamiliar places, only to realize that I could not do it alone (p. 132).”
“I pray that we will reach out—reach out and take the Savior’s hand that He is extending to us, often through His divinely called leaders and our family members—and listen for His call to ‘Come’ (p. 133).”
“Our hardships will be brief—in eternal terms—and the Lord will be right there (p. 140).”
“Recognize the responsibility to not leave anyone behind. There will be many you encounter with broken hearts and broken dreams. Lift them, help them move forward, boost their confidence in their ability, and renew their faith that the Lord is watching over them. He sent you (p. 150).”
“Stay the course. Hold fast to the Lord’s commandments—even in the face of challenges from unbelievers (p. 151).”
“The Lord has a plan for each of us, and He will unfold that plan as we turn to Him in prayer, seek His guidance, act upon His promptings, and press on (p. 152).”
“‘A perfect body is not required to achieve a divine destiny. In fact, some of the sweetest spirits are housed in frail frames’ (Russell M. Nelson, p. 161).”
“To all of you who have challenges, concerns, disappointments, or heartaches…know this: with infinite love and everlasting compassion, God our Heavenly Father loves your afflicted one, and He loves you (p. 162)!”
“Trusting in God’s will is central to our mortality. With faith in Him, we draw upon the power of Christ’s Atonement at those times when questions abound and answer are few. The Spirit can lead us to the peace we need (p. 163).”
“We all face challenges (p. 164).”
“‘Remember the worth of souls is great in the sight of God’ (D&C 18:10). I wept as I pondered the limitless love our Heavenly Father and His Beloved Son, Jesus Christ, have for each one of us, while learning in a powerful way what the worth of a soul is, both physically and spiritually, to God. Paxton’s family learned they are surrounded by countless heavenly and earthly ministering angels. Some quietly slipped in when needed and silently slipped out. Others were at the door with food, doing the laundry, picking up the siblings, calling with encouragement, and especially praying for Paxton… We continue to learn the important value of being aware of and interested in the lives of those around us, leaning not only the importance of giving help but also the overwhelming joy that comes from helping others (p. 166).”
“‘God bless all who endeavor to be their brother’s keeper, who give to ameliorate suffering, who strive with all that is good within them to make a better world’ (Thomas S. Monson, p. 167).”
“Coincidence is not an appropriate word to describe the workings of an omniscient God. He does not do things by ‘coincidence’ but by ‘divine design’’ (Neal A. Maxwell, p. 172).”
“Our lives are like a chessboard, and the Lord moves us from one place to another—if we are responsive to spiritual promptings. Looking back, we can see His hand in our lives (p. 172).”
“Significant events unfold in the gospel and in the Church that further the kingdom of God on earth. They are not by accident but by God’s plan. He who fashioned this world can calm the seas with His word and can steer both Alma and Amulek and Nephi and Laban to be at the right place at precisely the right time. Likewise, events and associations unfold in each of our lives that further God’s work on earth (p. 172).”
“Most often, our good works are known to only a few. They are, however, recorded in heaven (p. 173).”
“The Lord will move us on that seeming chessboard to do His work. What may appear to be a random chance is, in fact, overseen by a loving Father in Heaven, who can number the hairs of every head (p. 173).”
“What are God’s miracles that remind you that He is close (p. 175)?”
“Allow Him to make more of you than you can make of yourself on your own. Treasure His involvement (p. 176).”
“Sometimes we consider changes in our plans as missteps on our journey. Think of them more as first steps to being ‘on the Lord’s errand’ (D&C 64:29) (p. 177).”
“We are all truly brothers and sisters. We are…engaged in the same cause…‘the cause of Christ’ (p. 182).”
“Each of us is precious to and loved by God. He cares, He whispers, and He watches over us in ways unique to each of us. He is infinitely wiser and more powerful than mortal men and women. He knows our challenges, our triumphs, and the righteous desires of our hearts (p. 183).”
“Where does our agency fit in a ‘divine design’? We have a choice to follow or to not follow our Savior and His chosen leaders (p. 185).”
“When we are righteous, willing, and able, when we are striving to be worthy and qualified, we progress to places we never imagined and become part of Heavenly Father’s divine design. All of us have divinity within us. When we see God working through us and with us, may we be encouraged, even grateful for that guidance (p. 186).”
“The Lord’s hand is guiding you. By divine design, He is in the small details of your life as well as the major milestones. As it says in Proverbs, ‘Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; … and he shall direct thy paths’ (Proverbs 3:5-6) (p. 186).”
May 26, 2020
I l0ved this book because it reminded me of inspiring Church books I read in my teens. The premise is that the things we call "coincidence" are really "by divine design". You can so easily see that in your life if we only pay a little attention to how tings work together so well. It's like the Tenth Insight. The universe is connected and it's run by a divine design. I've always felt that, but this book is a sweet reminder that we are under God's watchful eye.
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December 31, 2018One to go back to and look at parts again.
January 26, 2022
So excellent, I loved his stories and will get my older boys to read this one. I listened to the audio version and enjoyed his calming peaceful voice.
February 9, 2023
This is a lovely book with text set with beautiful pictures. The text gave me a lot to reflect and ponder on. I'm going to reread it, slowly, as I did my first time through. It would make a great gift book.
August 26, 2022
I find that some books by recent apostles requires one to read them with a different lense. Rather than read with the expectation of profound insights or deep learning, one should approach them through a deeply meek and spiritual perspective, such as, “how can I draw closer to the Lord”, or “lord is it I?” This is one of those books.
This books repeats a lot of ideas and themes discussed in every general conference and doesn’t contain anything particularly insightful, unless one is simply seeking to “be close to the fire” as Desmond Tutu liked to say. That said, I did have personal insights and learnings as I read this book.
This books repeats a lot of ideas and themes discussed in every general conference and doesn’t contain anything particularly insightful, unless one is simply seeking to “be close to the fire” as Desmond Tutu liked to say. That said, I did have personal insights and learnings as I read this book.
January 4, 2019
I really enjoyed Elder Rasband’s experiences he shares in this book. He has clearly led a life of listening to the Spirit and recognizing that God’s hand has by divine design led him through these experiences.
March 14, 2019
This was a good book to get to know Elder Rasband and his testimony better!
July 30, 2025
”There are no coincidences, only divine appointments.”
I’ve always been a strong believer that things do not happen by chance, but always for a purpose. And reading this book beautifully reaffirmed that truth in my heart. This is a powerful reminder that our lives are guided by a loving Heavenly Father who is intricately involved in the details of our journey. I was deeply moved by elder Rasband’s testimony that nothing happens by chance, that the people we meet, the trials we face, and even the seemingly small moments are all part of a greater divine purpose.
”The Lord is in the small details of our lives.”
One of my favorite themes in the book is the idea that God is in the details of our lives. Everything in this book echoes the beautiful truth that we are not alone. Its words bring such comfort and clarity, especially in times when life feels uncertain or overwhelming. It helped me to see that our paths, however winding or unexpected, are being directed by divine hands.
This book isn’t just uplifting, it’s deeply grounding. It inspired me to look at my own life with more faith and gratitude, trusting that every experience is part of a greater plan tailored just for me. It’s a gentle yet powerful invitation to seek the Lord’s guidance in all things and to recognize His hand more clearly. 🤍✨
I’ve always been a strong believer that things do not happen by chance, but always for a purpose. And reading this book beautifully reaffirmed that truth in my heart. This is a powerful reminder that our lives are guided by a loving Heavenly Father who is intricately involved in the details of our journey. I was deeply moved by elder Rasband’s testimony that nothing happens by chance, that the people we meet, the trials we face, and even the seemingly small moments are all part of a greater divine purpose.
”The Lord is in the small details of our lives.”
One of my favorite themes in the book is the idea that God is in the details of our lives. Everything in this book echoes the beautiful truth that we are not alone. Its words bring such comfort and clarity, especially in times when life feels uncertain or overwhelming. It helped me to see that our paths, however winding or unexpected, are being directed by divine hands.
This book isn’t just uplifting, it’s deeply grounding. It inspired me to look at my own life with more faith and gratitude, trusting that every experience is part of a greater plan tailored just for me. It’s a gentle yet powerful invitation to seek the Lord’s guidance in all things and to recognize His hand more clearly. 🤍✨
January 3, 2019
To anyone not familiar with Elder Rasband's talks in general conference, this is easily a 5-star book. The mini-sections are filled with truth, stories, and insights that inspire and bring the studious reader closer to Christ. For those familiar with Elder Rasband's conference talks, it seemed that roughly half of this book is straight reproductions of sections of those talks. When he talked about Peter jumping out of the boat to follow Jesus onto the water, Elder Rasband used one of my favorite phrases of his ("Pretty bold!") in exactly the same place as his conference talk. The excerpts fit well into the book though and, for those unfamiliar, are exceptional examples of the principles he teaches. For me, this book touched my heart in a very personal way that made it worth reading, just for that specific piece of revelation I received. I hope that all who read this can find similar access to divine revelation.
February 6, 2019
This book teaches us how to recognize and act upon the promptings of the Holy Ghost. As I listened to this book three times--yes three times in about a two week period--I was filled with hope and peace. One of my favorite quotes is:
"In these days of worldly intrusions into our lives, when trials and difficulties may seem to engulf us, let us remember our own special spiritual experiences. These building blocks of faith will bring us conviction and reassurance of a caring, loving Father in Heaven, of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, and of Their restored true and living Church."
I recommend this book to anyone who is going through a hard time--or who knows someone who is going through a hard time. The author reminds us that Heavenly Father is mindful of us and of the small details in our lives and that he has a plan for each one of us.
"In these days of worldly intrusions into our lives, when trials and difficulties may seem to engulf us, let us remember our own special spiritual experiences. These building blocks of faith will bring us conviction and reassurance of a caring, loving Father in Heaven, of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, and of Their restored true and living Church."
I recommend this book to anyone who is going through a hard time--or who knows someone who is going through a hard time. The author reminds us that Heavenly Father is mindful of us and of the small details in our lives and that he has a plan for each one of us.
March 7, 2025
I think this may have been drawn from one or more of his general conference talks. It kind of had that feel to it.
Memorable Quotes
1. “When we begin to second-guess, even third guess, our feelings – and we all have – we are dismissing the Spirit; we are questioning divine counsel. The Prophet Joseph Smith taught that if you will listen to the first promptings, you will get it right nine times out of ten (see Truman G. Madsen, Joseph Smith the Prophet [1989], 103).
2. President Spencer W. Kimball said: “Let us remember, too, that greatness is not always a matter of the scale of one’s life, but of the quality of one’s life. True greatness is not always tied to the scope of our tasks, but to the quality of how we carry out our tasks whatever they are.”
Memorable Quotes
1. “When we begin to second-guess, even third guess, our feelings – and we all have – we are dismissing the Spirit; we are questioning divine counsel. The Prophet Joseph Smith taught that if you will listen to the first promptings, you will get it right nine times out of ten (see Truman G. Madsen, Joseph Smith the Prophet [1989], 103).
2. President Spencer W. Kimball said: “Let us remember, too, that greatness is not always a matter of the scale of one’s life, but of the quality of one’s life. True greatness is not always tied to the scope of our tasks, but to the quality of how we carry out our tasks whatever they are.”
January 17, 2019
This book is for a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. I liked how each chapter is broken down into small and simple ways to better invite God and His Spirit to be the guide and master artist in our lives each day. This is not mind shattering revelation but good reminders of how we can better recognize God's hands in our lives; how we can become better ministering instruments in His Hands; and how we can increase more joy and peace in our lives as we strive to invite the companionship of the Spirit more. Several good reminders. I love the humble approach of Elder Rasband and hearing about his personal experiences of God preparing and directing Elder Rasband.
February 16, 2019
Ronald Rasband quotes:
"There is a destiny that makes us brothers;
[No one] goes his way alone:
All that we send into the lives of others
Comes back into our own." --(A Creed, Lincoln and Other Poems [1901])
I really enjoyed this book. It was simple, clear, and well-written reminder of principles that I think are important.
Rasband says, "Recognize the responsibility to not leave anyone behind. There will be many you encounter with broken hearts and broken dreams. Lift them, help them move forward, boost their confidence in their ability, and renew their faith that the Lord is watching over them. He sent you."
"There is a destiny that makes us brothers;
[No one] goes his way alone:
All that we send into the lives of others
Comes back into our own." --(A Creed, Lincoln and Other Poems [1901])
I really enjoyed this book. It was simple, clear, and well-written reminder of principles that I think are important.
Rasband says, "Recognize the responsibility to not leave anyone behind. There will be many you encounter with broken hearts and broken dreams. Lift them, help them move forward, boost their confidence in their ability, and renew their faith that the Lord is watching over them. He sent you."
April 23, 2019
It’s always wonderful to be reminded that God, our Heavenly Father is in charge of ALL things in our lives. We truly are led by His Divine design in every aspect of our lives. When I stop for a moment to think of that plain and simple truth, peace washes over me, as I remember that I need to stay close to the Spirit through heartfelt prayer and study - and I will be prompted to take direction in my life. It’s amazing how this book affected me in this way - wherein at the moment I’m picking up the pieces of my life fallen by the wayside and refreshing my perspective of personal/professional goals and seeking direction for the future ahead.
March 30, 2020
I received this book as a gift and was somewhat excited to read it. I was thinking that it would be just compilations of his talks that he has given. It was not, and I was pleasantly surprised. I enjoyed this book more than I thought I would. Again, I think it is timing. There were several things I marked and several excerpts that I sent to my missionary son. It took me much longer to read than it should have, but I wanted time to read and then ponder. I would recommend this book to anyone who wants to learn how to be led by a divine God who I believe loves us and wants to lead us.
January 29, 2021
Fast listen, great and inspiring content and stories.
I believe I heard this quote from Elder Eyering -- "When I pray, I ask to know what blessings I have that I am not yet aware." -- I like thinking about this. I also particularly liked Elder Rasband's explanation of how missionaries get called/receive their assignment.
I liked how his path/journey to where he is included a not-so-typical education and upbringing, at least not what I "imagine" apostles and prophets to be when I consider their station.
I believe I heard this quote from Elder Eyering -- "When I pray, I ask to know what blessings I have that I am not yet aware." -- I like thinking about this. I also particularly liked Elder Rasband's explanation of how missionaries get called/receive their assignment.
I liked how his path/journey to where he is included a not-so-typical education and upbringing, at least not what I "imagine" apostles and prophets to be when I consider their station.
June 21, 2021
I'm so grateful to have listen to this book. A lot of people have been making comments about the narrator's voice how they think somebody else should have read the book.
However there is no voice more powerful than the one who has written the words to begin with especially if that person is an apostle of the Lord. Listening to this book made me feel like I was in a one-on-one conversation with Ronald A. Rasband an apostle. Thank you for sharing your words and Heavenly Father's words with us through your voice.
However there is no voice more powerful than the one who has written the words to begin with especially if that person is an apostle of the Lord. Listening to this book made me feel like I was in a one-on-one conversation with Ronald A. Rasband an apostle. Thank you for sharing your words and Heavenly Father's words with us through your voice.
October 9, 2019
I am trying to read more non-fiction from church leaders and this was my first pick. It was a good, uplifting read. Some of the stories were familiar, but I am grateful for that. The first chapter had an experience he shared in conference that had to do with a friend from college and her family. What a fun surprise to see her picture early on in the book! It was a quick Sunday read and it had some beautiful pictures and spiritual stories that uplifted my mood and brightened me day.
December 15, 2022
A beautiful and inspiring book by Elder Ronald A Rasband about recognizing the hand of the Lord in our everyday life. Using things he has learned throughout life and through his service in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and in the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles. First he takes you through first learning how to seek the Spirit and then how to recognize and respond to divine guidance in our lives.
January 7, 2019
This was a wonderful book that can help us better understand how we can receive answers to the questions that we have in our lives. I appreciated the author's examples from his own life that have helped him to identify the ways that God helps answer his prayers, and also leads his life in ways he had not previously planned on.
January 11, 2019
I really enjoyed this book. I listened to it and it was read by the author. Some stories I recognized from past General Conference talks and some were new to me. I like it when we get a chance to get to know our church leaders a little more through their personal experiences and it was nice he shared some. I can see myself buying this book some time to mark and reread.
June 30, 2019
I’ve always admired Elder Rasband’s belief that there are no such things as coincidences; everything is simply by “divine design”. This book supports those beliefs as he tells stories of God divinely orchestrating his life as well as others. Many of his stories weren’t new. I’ve heard most of them on podcast interviews or general conference talks, but I enjoyed hearing them again.
December 31, 2019
Wonderful book with great spiritual advice! Love the statement, "When we are righteous, willing, and able, when we are striving to be worthy and qualified, we progress to places we never imagined and become part of Heavenly Father's divine design" Thank you Elder Rasband for helping me strengthen my testimony by the words as advice you expressed in this book!!
June 25, 2020
I feel bad not eating this higher because it did have lots of nice things to say and reach, it just didn't have a great flow. I kept forgetting the point of the book, but I did enjoy the stories and insight he shared. I listened to this book and had a harder time getting through, so that why I have two stars. I don't regret listening to it, but not one I'd brag about to read, but useful.
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