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The Spirit of Revelation
In our rapidly changing world, our need for spiritual guidance has never been greater. As we seek to discern truth amidst the clamor of dissenting voiced in order to worship, minister, and lead our families effectively, we rely on the Spirit’s help every day.
“The roles of both the mind and the heart in personal revelation are crucial,” writes Elder David A. Bednar, “and no simple formulas or recommended action steps can guide us through this rigorous spiritual process. Indeed, this book is not an attempt to define how revelation works. Rather, it is a witness and a testimony that revelation does work—and in a multitude and variety of ways.”
In this landmark book, Elder Bednar outlines several principles of revelation, then provides a host of examples in which we can observe these principles in action for ourselves. As we come to recognize the role of revelation in our lives, we can move forward in confidence that the Lord is guiding our steps. As Elder Bednar writes, “If we are striving to be and become good—not perfect right now, but gradually getting better,...then indeed we can have the constant companionship of the Holy Ghost. We are not ‘preparing to receive revelation'; we are 'living in revelation.’”
“The roles of both the mind and the heart in personal revelation are crucial,” writes Elder David A. Bednar, “and no simple formulas or recommended action steps can guide us through this rigorous spiritual process. Indeed, this book is not an attempt to define how revelation works. Rather, it is a witness and a testimony that revelation does work—and in a multitude and variety of ways.”
In this landmark book, Elder Bednar outlines several principles of revelation, then provides a host of examples in which we can observe these principles in action for ourselves. As we come to recognize the role of revelation in our lives, we can move forward in confidence that the Lord is guiding our steps. As Elder Bednar writes, “If we are striving to be and become good—not perfect right now, but gradually getting better,...then indeed we can have the constant companionship of the Holy Ghost. We are not ‘preparing to receive revelation'; we are 'living in revelation.’”
116 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 2, 2021
130 people are currently reading
914 people want to read
About the author
David A. Bednar
17 books213 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 262 reviews
November 29, 2021
“May I simply suggest that what we initially believe is ‘the’ answer may be but one part of an ongoing, incremental, and unfolding pattern of small answers?”
Personal revelation consistently makes my list of goals to improve on each year. I feel like I have periods of improvement, or openness to revelation, but I would love for it to be a more consistent presence in my life (or possibly learn to recognize its presence in my life). I picked up this book to help. It is divided into two sections: principles of revelation and experiences with revelation. Each principle added to my understanding and helped answer some questions I’ve had (like “Why would the Lord not make the voice of the Spirit easy to recognize all the time?”). I especially connected with the principles of “still and small”, “line upon line”, “hearing what is not said”, and “scattered among us.” I feel like this book, and the time spent pondering its principles, has given me additional understanding and tools to improve my ability to receive.
-“When our note taking is focused on recording the statements of a teacher or speaker, then we in essence are writing upon the large plates, recording ‘the history’ of the class or meeting. But when we jot down notes and reminders about what we are learning individually and personally by the power of the Holy Ghost, then we are writing the ‘things of our souls’ on the small plates.” Our notes should be simple and focused on our thoughts and feelings and not upon the the comments spoken.
-“Knowledge carefully recorded is knowledge available in time of need. Spiritually sensitive information should be kept in a sacred place that communicates to the Lord how you treasure it. That practice enhances the likelihood of your receiving further light.” -Richard G. Scott; Writing down spiritual thoughts and feelings enhances our ability to receive and recognize promptings from the Holy Ghost.
-“The things I hear with my natural ears are intended and delivered for the benefit of everyone. But the things I receive in my mind and heart by the power of the Spirit are intended just for me.” -response from a missionary about the principle of hearing what is not said
-The principle of receiving “line upon line, precept upon precept” essentially means “many small answers over a period of time.” (incremental spiritual impressions tend to be the rule, as opposed to big answers quickly and all at once, which tend to be the exception); this method helps us mature and progress
-The principle that revelation is “scattered among us”: we each contribute to a “shared revelatory process.” We should think “I’m preparing to participate in a revelatory experience” instead of “I’m going to a meeting.”
-“If we are striving to be and become good—not perfect right now, but gradually getting better—if we are honoring our covenants, seeking for the companionship of the Holy Ghost, worthily partaking of the sacrament and retaining a remission of our sins, and pressing forward, then indeed we can have the constant companionship of the Holy Ghost. We are not ‘preparing to receive revelation’ we are ‘living in revelation.’”
Personal revelation consistently makes my list of goals to improve on each year. I feel like I have periods of improvement, or openness to revelation, but I would love for it to be a more consistent presence in my life (or possibly learn to recognize its presence in my life). I picked up this book to help. It is divided into two sections: principles of revelation and experiences with revelation. Each principle added to my understanding and helped answer some questions I’ve had (like “Why would the Lord not make the voice of the Spirit easy to recognize all the time?”). I especially connected with the principles of “still and small”, “line upon line”, “hearing what is not said”, and “scattered among us.” I feel like this book, and the time spent pondering its principles, has given me additional understanding and tools to improve my ability to receive.
-“When our note taking is focused on recording the statements of a teacher or speaker, then we in essence are writing upon the large plates, recording ‘the history’ of the class or meeting. But when we jot down notes and reminders about what we are learning individually and personally by the power of the Holy Ghost, then we are writing the ‘things of our souls’ on the small plates.” Our notes should be simple and focused on our thoughts and feelings and not upon the the comments spoken.
-“Knowledge carefully recorded is knowledge available in time of need. Spiritually sensitive information should be kept in a sacred place that communicates to the Lord how you treasure it. That practice enhances the likelihood of your receiving further light.” -Richard G. Scott; Writing down spiritual thoughts and feelings enhances our ability to receive and recognize promptings from the Holy Ghost.
-“The things I hear with my natural ears are intended and delivered for the benefit of everyone. But the things I receive in my mind and heart by the power of the Spirit are intended just for me.” -response from a missionary about the principle of hearing what is not said
-The principle of receiving “line upon line, precept upon precept” essentially means “many small answers over a period of time.” (incremental spiritual impressions tend to be the rule, as opposed to big answers quickly and all at once, which tend to be the exception); this method helps us mature and progress
-The principle that revelation is “scattered among us”: we each contribute to a “shared revelatory process.” We should think “I’m preparing to participate in a revelatory experience” instead of “I’m going to a meeting.”
-“If we are striving to be and become good—not perfect right now, but gradually getting better—if we are honoring our covenants, seeking for the companionship of the Holy Ghost, worthily partaking of the sacrament and retaining a remission of our sins, and pressing forward, then indeed we can have the constant companionship of the Holy Ghost. We are not ‘preparing to receive revelation’ we are ‘living in revelation.’”
September 22, 2021
Really loved the principles taught and examples shared in this great book! I listened to the audiobook and I always love it when the Brethren read their own books--just something about it coming from their own mouths is inspiring!
October 4, 2021
This is Nonfiction-Religion-Christian. I haven't read this author yet but have enjoyed listening to his council from the pulpit. I loved the first part of this one. I liked the way he broke down the different ways prayers are answered and how personal revelation comes. I think people often want, and maybe even expect, a lightning strike. The author made it clear that action on our part too is necessary, not just sitting in a waiting room for your named to be called, so-to-speak.
The latter half of the book contained his own personal experiences and how answers came to him in real life situations. I thought of my own children and the current forks they are facing in their roads.
Overall, I loved his practical advice so 5 stars.
The latter half of the book contained his own personal experiences and how answers came to him in real life situations. I thought of my own children and the current forks they are facing in their roads.
Overall, I loved his practical advice so 5 stars.
June 18, 2022
An insightful and inspiring book on some important principles of revelation along with accompanying personal experiences that exemplify these principles. Well worth the read! But be prepared to ponder and consider what you are learning, write down what you are learning that he isn’t saying in the book (note, that is one of the principle, “hearing what is not being said”).
October 15, 2021
This book begins by describing basic principles and then give numerous short accounts of people receiving and acting upon revelation. While the stories aren’t long and they may not all seem significant, I learned a lot about how God is guiding us in our daily lives.
September 19, 2021
A book that seems simple, but is so profound. He shares stories, experience and insights.
September 27, 2022
I definitely would recommend. Elder Bednar gave me many things to think about. How I personally receive revelation and looking for revelation in more than one way.
October 1, 2023
I felt like this is a really good book in helping you see how you are “living in revelation” when you have the Holy Ghost as your companion. A short but inspiring read: The first half was principles of revelation and the second half was stories where you try to identify the principles happening in these stories.
May 17, 2024
EXCELLENT! I will listen to this again in the future.
Read
November 3, 2025I loved this. It was neat that the first half was all about different ways the Lord speaks to us and then him, his wife, and his kids all share experiences that are very different in how those principles he talks about comes into play. I loved getting a peek into the Bednar’s experiences. Worth reading.
August 19, 2022
"We are not 'preparing to receive revelation'; we are 'living in revelation.'"
I read/discussed the first part of this book with the principles section at the beginning of the book for a church religious class for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints called Institute for the summer semester and my class was once a week on Tuesday nights at 7pm and we as a class for this book had AMAZING discussions and learned from each other through insights and even experiences.
So real quick, for those who don't know what Institute is, here's the description I found online which explains it better and gives you a general idea of what it is and a few facts about it.
"What is institute? The institutes of religion program of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints provides religious education for young adults ages 18 to 30. With a worldwide enrollment of more than 350,000 students in almost 2,700 locations, there is an institute of religion near you. Institute provides an opportunity for students to strengthen their commitment to Jesus Christ and conduct a comprehensive study of the scriptures and words of modern-day prophets. Institute students may find guidance and direction from the Holy Ghost. This guidance can help them make important life decisions as students learn together and strengthen one another."
But, since I'm 31 so over 30, they do welcome visitors since where I live there's not much adult institute classes, but the one on Tuesday nights mentioned just now I've been attending (ALMOST when I had something those nights come up) every week since graduating High School since June of 2009 so for 13 years since then I've been attending the institute classes which vary every semester, but I usually like to find a teacher I like and stick with them even though there's more than one in a building I go to, and if I like the teacher which I usually do, I keep going to their class until they're released. And it's a time and place I love going to and just learning spiritually and have seen blessings happen in my life occur and also felt a peaceful feeling of escape to go to once a week and feel God's love for me and other's.
Anyway, it's a great program and glad it's there but part of me wishes there were also adult classes in my area though I'm still grateful I can at least attend one nearby in my area and not too far away. And since this book really wasn't on the curriculum, in my area, they let the teachers or some if they wanted pick what they want to teach for the semester and the couple who teach my class wanted to do this one for the summer semester and I've loved it!
Overall, I got a copy of this book and thought it would be so much easier to mark and write in my own copy with notes or thoughts etc and I'm glad I did. Plus this book has been on my list of books to read anyway and I thought why not continue with the teacher's class and make an excuse to read this amazing and helpful insightful book with some few principles that's actually helped me personally in receiving my own revelation. I got the Book on CD from the library to finish this book which I'm glad I did and the second section had a lot of many great stories and one tender one that got me crying (in a good way of course) and just so tender and special that it touched me.
No matter what religion you are, I'd still highly recommend this book because it's so inspiring and even educational to recognize revelation and also how to receive it. If you're not quite sure what that means, here's another description of it I found which also explains it perfectly:
"In its broad meaning, revelation is divine guidance or inspiration; it is the communication of truth and knowledge from God to His children on earth, suited to their language and understanding." In a nutshell, just as said quote above, and as David A. Bednar said, we're not preparing for revelation, we're living revelation and it's all around us. If you want further insight into this topic or revelation in general, this book is for you but also I say it's a must read because it's amazing and I learned from a few principle's that I've actually put to action and they worked and one I'm probably going to have to keep going with but it brought out wonders and blessings in my life throughout the semester when I put a particular principle that stood out to me the most to practice and it was awesome. Now I can't wait to keep using this principle and learning from revelation in ways I didn't think was possible.
I read/discussed the first part of this book with the principles section at the beginning of the book for a church religious class for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints called Institute for the summer semester and my class was once a week on Tuesday nights at 7pm and we as a class for this book had AMAZING discussions and learned from each other through insights and even experiences.
So real quick, for those who don't know what Institute is, here's the description I found online which explains it better and gives you a general idea of what it is and a few facts about it.
"What is institute? The institutes of religion program of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints provides religious education for young adults ages 18 to 30. With a worldwide enrollment of more than 350,000 students in almost 2,700 locations, there is an institute of religion near you. Institute provides an opportunity for students to strengthen their commitment to Jesus Christ and conduct a comprehensive study of the scriptures and words of modern-day prophets. Institute students may find guidance and direction from the Holy Ghost. This guidance can help them make important life decisions as students learn together and strengthen one another."
But, since I'm 31 so over 30, they do welcome visitors since where I live there's not much adult institute classes, but the one on Tuesday nights mentioned just now I've been attending (ALMOST when I had something those nights come up) every week since graduating High School since June of 2009 so for 13 years since then I've been attending the institute classes which vary every semester, but I usually like to find a teacher I like and stick with them even though there's more than one in a building I go to, and if I like the teacher which I usually do, I keep going to their class until they're released. And it's a time and place I love going to and just learning spiritually and have seen blessings happen in my life occur and also felt a peaceful feeling of escape to go to once a week and feel God's love for me and other's.
Anyway, it's a great program and glad it's there but part of me wishes there were also adult classes in my area though I'm still grateful I can at least attend one nearby in my area and not too far away. And since this book really wasn't on the curriculum, in my area, they let the teachers or some if they wanted pick what they want to teach for the semester and the couple who teach my class wanted to do this one for the summer semester and I've loved it!
Overall, I got a copy of this book and thought it would be so much easier to mark and write in my own copy with notes or thoughts etc and I'm glad I did. Plus this book has been on my list of books to read anyway and I thought why not continue with the teacher's class and make an excuse to read this amazing and helpful insightful book with some few principles that's actually helped me personally in receiving my own revelation. I got the Book on CD from the library to finish this book which I'm glad I did and the second section had a lot of many great stories and one tender one that got me crying (in a good way of course) and just so tender and special that it touched me.
No matter what religion you are, I'd still highly recommend this book because it's so inspiring and even educational to recognize revelation and also how to receive it. If you're not quite sure what that means, here's another description of it I found which also explains it perfectly:
"In its broad meaning, revelation is divine guidance or inspiration; it is the communication of truth and knowledge from God to His children on earth, suited to their language and understanding." In a nutshell, just as said quote above, and as David A. Bednar said, we're not preparing for revelation, we're living revelation and it's all around us. If you want further insight into this topic or revelation in general, this book is for you but also I say it's a must read because it's amazing and I learned from a few principle's that I've actually put to action and they worked and one I'm probably going to have to keep going with but it brought out wonders and blessings in my life throughout the semester when I put a particular principle that stood out to me the most to practice and it was awesome. Now I can't wait to keep using this principle and learning from revelation in ways I didn't think was possible.
September 6, 2022
This is the perfect book if you are every wondering about how to better cultivate the spirit of personal revelation in your life. I have so much to learn! The format of this book is unique. Elder Bednar lays down 10 patterns he has observed in scripture and his own experience in how the Holy Ghost can operate in our lives. Then he provides multiple stories that illustrate these principles but he doesn't specify which ones. The format is intended to invite reflection and individual learning. Reading and reflecting on this helped me more than anything else to begin making better progress to increasing my capacity for personal revelation.
February 6, 2022
This is a great, quick read on ideas of ways to get inspiration from the Holy Ghost. It is not heavy or a detailed “how to”, but rather tips and examples. The first half of the book he shares some principles:
The Still and Small Principle
The Hearing What Is Not Said Principle
The Line upon Line Principle
The Not Knowing Beforehand Principle
The Not My Will, But Thine Principle
The Diligence and Heed Principle
The Proximity Principle
The Repetition Principle
The Scattered among Us Principle
The What, Not Why and When, Principle
Elder Bednar explains the principles and gives a few short illustrations.
The second half of the book contains “episodes”, which are more detailed stories of times he and his family have received revelation. 4.5 stars!
The Still and Small Principle
The Hearing What Is Not Said Principle
The Line upon Line Principle
The Not Knowing Beforehand Principle
The Not My Will, But Thine Principle
The Diligence and Heed Principle
The Proximity Principle
The Repetition Principle
The Scattered among Us Principle
The What, Not Why and When, Principle
Elder Bednar explains the principles and gives a few short illustrations.
The second half of the book contains “episodes”, which are more detailed stories of times he and his family have received revelation. 4.5 stars!
December 13, 2021
I don’t know why, but I didn’t have super high expectations when I started this book. Boy was I wrong! This was an excellent book about revelation by Elder Bednar. I learned some good and relevant lessons about receiving revelation. I particularly liked section 1. I will be coming back to this book in the future.
October 19, 2021
I LOVED this book by Elder Bednar. He starts off by sharing some principles of revelation (The Still and Small Principle, The Hearing What is Not Said Principle, The Proximity Principle etc.) He and his wife then share personal experiences that show several of these principles of revelation at work. One of my favorite quotes from the book was when he encouraged us to go to our church meetings with this thought in mind, "I'm preparing to participate in a revelatory experience."
August 11, 2022
This is a wonderful book written by one of the twelve. He first describes the principles of revelation then devotes the last half of the book to various experiences of personal revelation to help us (the readers) recognize revelation in our lives. Very good.
September 21, 2025
I think David Bednar said it best: trying to create a linear book for nonlinear subject such as revelation is complex. I loved that he used the first half to outline principles of revelation. Then the second half are stories and applying those principles. If you do the work in the second half you begin to really grasp and see how revelation shows up in life. You start seeing more in your own life as the concepts are put into practice.
Good read, don’t rush it. Spend some time.
Good read, don’t rush it. Spend some time.
October 28, 2021
A very timely and important book! If you’re adept at receiving revelation,this book is for you! If you don’t think God has ever spoken to you, this book is for you!
November 27, 2021
I really enjoyed this book! I love that it wasn’t “do this and that will happen” but just showed all of the ways you’re already receiving revelation, and how to build upon that line upon line.
December 6, 2022
Wonderful book! As I went through the book I just kept thinking how much the youth should read or listen to this book. It would be such a help to them as they try to figure out how the spirit speaks to them. It was really just pleasure to read!
January 10, 2023
Absolutely loved this one!! So good! So many life changing lessons in it. Loved all the stories.
April 14, 2023
So helpful...I loved this book
October 9, 2023
One of the best, clear, and most straightforward explanations (with examples) of 10 important principles of revelation that I have ever read. I’ll refer back to this one often in the future.
December 18, 2024
Listened to this on our getaway together. So many great principles we were able to discuss. Uplifting and enlightening. Highly recommend
February 10, 2022
Loved this book and the insights! Also acted as a sort of journal since at the end of each “episode” Where they reviewed a principle of receiving revelation, there was space to write down impressions and times when you’d seen this principle in your life as well as other thoughts that came to mind.
Here are my notes with highlights from the book:
“ of greatest importance is the willingness of a learner to soften and open his heart so that the Holy Ghost can bear witness of what has been taught.“ Page 5
“people can become so focused upon and preoccupied about “am I receiving revelation? Is this a revelation?“ That it actually may hinder their ability to receive revelation… The task is not so much to persuade the spirit to guide us as to recognize that he is and has been guiding us all along.“ Page 7
1. The still and small principle
“ people might ask, “why would the Lord not make the voice of the spirit easy to recognize all the time?“ I would suggest a simple answer, because God trusts us and wants us to grow.“ Page 11
“The influence of the Holy Ghost is described in the Scriptures as a still small voice… The spirit of the Lord usually communicates with us in ways that are quiet, delicate, and subtle. For example, you may have an occasion when you forget to pray in the morning. And all of a sudden, you hear in your mind the voice of your mother, who, when you were small, would say,“remember your morning prayers.“ Why would God send an angel to deliver that message to you when the Holy Ghost, the third member of the godhead, who brings all things to your remembrance, can prompt recollection of your angel mother reminding you to pray? The spiritual effect is the same.” Page 12
We need to read, study, pray, fast, and obey consistently. It is not by marvelous manifestations that a witness of the truthfulness of the gospel of Jesus Christ comes; rather, it is by the simple, steady performance of the fundamental things that we know we should do.” Page 13
Deep impressions
2. The hearing what is not said principal
When Elder and Sister Bednar meet with church members and Missionaries they often recommend that they not write down anything they say but suggest that they pay very close attention to the thoughts that come to their minds and the feelings that come to their hearts by the power of the Holy Ghost.-16
“When our notetaking is focused upon recording the statements of a teacher or speaker, then we in essence are writing upon large plates(secular), recording “the history“ of the class or meeting. But when we jot down notes and reminders about what we are learning individually and personally by the power of the Holy Ghost, then we are writing” the things of our souls” on small plates(precious recordings).
“Elder Richard Scott explained, “knowledge carefully recorded is knowledge available in time of need. Spiritually sensitive information should be kept in a secret place that communicates to the Lord how you treasure it. That practice enhances the likelihood of your receiving further light.”-17
3. The line upon line principle
Many small answers over a period of time
“Typically we receive a series of seemingly small and incremental spiritual impressions and nudges, which in totality constitute the desired confirmation about the correctness of the path we are pursuing.” Page 21
“A more recent and personal example of the line upon line principle occurred during my service at BYU Idaho. Susan and I frequently held question and answer sessions with the students and some would ask, “I prayed and felt good about my relationship with the person I’ve been dating. But it didn’t work out. Why did god change his mind?“ I often responded, “I don’t think God changed his mind. Could you receive one answer, which is, “do some things with this person,“ so that you can find out that he or she is not the right person, which is also then a preparation to ultimately find the right person?“ A variety of patterns for learning and receiving knowledge but the power of the Holy Ghost can operate in our lives. The first step may be that you date a person who is incredibly controlling or has some other issues that you have never encountered before. After a few dates together, perhaps you begin to wonder, how can I have gotten a yes about this person?“ Well, perhaps the Answer was not, “Marry this person.” The yes was, “learn.“ And you learn a lesson that helps you to be wiser and blessed with greater discernment in your future relationships.“ Page 26
4. The not knowing before hand principle
How can I know if I’m receiving personal revelation? Consider that expectation in contrast to Nephi who said “I will go, I will do, for I know”. He was led by the spirit not knowing before hand the things which he should do but he still went forth… While he was acting and going, he was blessed with power and the answers came.Page 27
When we are exercising our faith and doing the simple things we know we should do, we gradually begin to recognize and come to know that we are being guided.… We have to pray for the eyes to see and the ears to hear along the way, so we remember that he is guiding us. And although things may not work out the way we expect or even the way we want, we can expect those outcomes when we recognize he is in control.“ Page 29
5. The not my will, but thine principle
Many times we know an impression is coming to us by the power of the Holy Ghost when it tells us something we do not want to hear or to do something we do not want to do.-31
President Kimball said “I don’t want to heal all the sick, for sickness sometimes is a great blessing. People become angels through sickness.“ There was a young adult who had lost his direction and was going around in circles and even in the wrong direction and President Kimball said to him, “my boy, **I have not enjoyed all of the physical sufferings that I have gone through. I would like to have been spared those.“ Then he riveted his eyes on this young man and said, “but in all my suffering I have come to know God.“ our quest is to come to know God. Page 35
Do not speak lightly about sacred things and it is not wise to continually talk of unusual spiritual experiences.
The Holy Ghost will not prompt an individual to violate sacred covenants and disobey God‘s Commandments. The Spirit of the Lord will not prompt any person to think or act in a manner that is contrary to the doctrine and the authorized practices of the saviors restored church as contained in the holy Scriptures, in the repeated teachings of the Lord‘s apostles and prophets, and in the authorized proclamations and declarations of the council of the first presidency and the quorum of the 12 apostles. The Lord declared, behold mine house is a house of order. If a person purports to receive revelation for purposes outside of his or her particular ecclesiastical calling or responsibilities, then you can be sure that such revelations are not from the Lord.-38
6. The diligence and heed principle
The purpose of the Liahona was to provide direction and instruction during a long and demanding journey.
We are prompted by the Holy Ghost every day to do ordinary and simple things. For example, we are prompted to pray daily. We are prompted to study the scriptures consistently. To the degree that we are diligent and heed these simple promptings, then our capacity to recognize and respond to the Holy Ghost is increased. To the degree that we do not heed these simple promptings, then our capacity to recognize and respond to the Holy Ghost is decreased. We are either progressing or regressing in our ability to recognize and respond to the Holy Ghost. There is no neutral ground; there is no standing still.… We cannot realistically expect to recognize big promptings if we consistently fail to hear the small ones.-41
God will not let you proceed too far without a warning impression if you have made the wrong decision.
I have also learned that properly recording spiritual impressions demonstrates to the savior how much I treasure his direction. The simple practice of writing down spiritual thoughts and feelings greatly enhances the likelihood of receiving and recognizing additional promptings from the Holy Ghost. 43
7. The proximity principle
Harold B Lee said that inspiration comes easier when you can step foot on the site related to the need for it.… Elder Packer received direction for and guidance about his message as he went to the BYU campus early on a Sunday morning to think, ponder, and pray. -44
You are more likely to receive inspiration when you actually are in the place related to the need for the inspiration. As a stake president, I found that I was more likely to receive inspiration about the calling of a new bishop for a ward when I was visiting in that particular ward and not simply praying and working in the stake presidents office. Similarly, when general authorities or areas 70s receive an assignment to call a new stake president, they typically travel to the stake personally to conduct interviews and receive the needed revelation. -45
President Hinckley often made overnight trips to cities in the United States to inspect potential temple sites. I
As a ministering brother or sister you may more readily or fully discern the needs of an individual as you visit periodically in his or her home. Texting and talking on the phone certainly are appropriate ways of maintaining contact with and nourishing family members and those we serve. But the value of home visits, when permissible and appropriate, should not be minimized or overlooked.-46
The concept of proximity with people is not restricted to merely being in the same place or physical space but rather proximity as nearness with people suggests a degree and depth of interactive engagement, a kind of spiritual attentiveness and responsiveness, that can occur only with the assistance and by the power of the Holy Ghost.
**in our homes and church classes and meetings, teaching, testifying, and explaining the gospel the Lords Way includes observing, listening, and discerning as prerequisites to talking.… Active observing and listening precedes discerning, and observing, listening, and discerning come before speaking. Only by observing, listening, and discerning can we be guided by the spirit to say and do the things that will be most helpful to those whom we serve.… Discerning is hearing with spiritual ears and feeling with the heart.-49-50
8. The repetition principle
In visitations two, three, and four, additional information and instruction were given to Joseph. All of the messages were the same, but they were also different in a pattern of repetitious revelation and learning.… Repeating the core message exactly, and then adding to the original content a very strong and personal warning to young Joseph.-51-53
Repetition is such an important aspect of the essential and most sacred ordinances in which we participate-56
9. The scattered among us principle
Councils and Counseling together
10. The what, not why and when, principle
Revelation typically focus upon the “what“ more than the “why.“
If you read the Scriptures with this question in mind, “why did the Lord command this or why did he command that,“ you find in less than one and 100 commands was any reason given. It’s not the pattern of the Lord to give reasons… The lesson: The Lord often requires that we initially go and do without knowing why. We may need to simply press forward in many situations, as did Adam in the garden of Eden.“ 62
Episodes
Yes or no- “May I simply suggest that what we initially believe is the answer may be but one part of an ongoing, incremental, and unfolding pattern of small answers? It is clearly the case that the Lord did not change his mind; rather, you and I must learn to better recognize the Lord‘s pattern as a series of related and expanding answers to our most important questions.“ 79
The importance of asking inspired questions… elder and sister bednar began a home evening and ice cream with the Bednars at BYu- I. Rather than a lesson on a predetermined topic elder Bednar encouraged the students to ask inspired questions-82
A Little girl had a sister on a mission who died. Elder Bednar spoke at the funeral and addressed the thought “why would heavenly father let her die?“ He said “I don’t know. It really doesn’t make any sense, based on what we know here in this life. But I know that heavenly father knows why, and someday Wie will understand better than we do today. I can’t answer your question, why would it happen? But I know heavenly father knows, and for me, that’s good enough.“ 106
“We have eliminated the thought that threatening storms are a sign that the Lord does not care about our situation. As we have internalized the truth that those very storms enable us to join with the savior in finding peace, we have found these challenges to be some of the most testimony strengthening experiences and our lives. Through quiet moments of tutoring from the spirit, we have learned that when storms and wins and waves come, we should not doubt to savior, but we should plead with him to guide us and strengthen us.-110
“Through difficult experiences, often filled with pain and suffering, character is built, hearts are purified, and souls are enlarged as individuals gain experience and spiritual tutoring. And God expects and trusts us to face temporary mortal adversity with his help so we can learn what we need to learn and become what we are to become in eternity.“ 111
While you can’t see how in this moment, everything will be OK. 121
(Love this!!!) About being a ministering sister, DAVID‘s wife susan said to him one day “David, I think I’ve learned something. I can pray forever and I can seek inspiration forever, and I’m sure heaven will help me, but the first thing I have to do is talk with and ask the sisters what they need, and not just expect God to deliver an answer to me. I have more work to do.“-129
ask what we can do to make ministering higher and holier. What does higher and holier mean to you. One said it would help her to have association with latter-day Saint women. She said could we go to the temple in a more regular basis and then have lunch so I can hang out with latter-day Saint women? Another woman suggested they pick a general conference talk and all read it independently and then come together and talk about what they’ve learned.
“If you could teach our sons just one thing what would it be?” 133
“None of these ideas came easily, and this certainly was not the first thing we attempted as we were organizing the materials for this book. But in the process of time, with much prayerful effort and wrestling on both our parts, the project came together.”149
Here are my notes with highlights from the book:
“ of greatest importance is the willingness of a learner to soften and open his heart so that the Holy Ghost can bear witness of what has been taught.“ Page 5
“people can become so focused upon and preoccupied about “am I receiving revelation? Is this a revelation?“ That it actually may hinder their ability to receive revelation… The task is not so much to persuade the spirit to guide us as to recognize that he is and has been guiding us all along.“ Page 7
1. The still and small principle
“ people might ask, “why would the Lord not make the voice of the spirit easy to recognize all the time?“ I would suggest a simple answer, because God trusts us and wants us to grow.“ Page 11
“The influence of the Holy Ghost is described in the Scriptures as a still small voice… The spirit of the Lord usually communicates with us in ways that are quiet, delicate, and subtle. For example, you may have an occasion when you forget to pray in the morning. And all of a sudden, you hear in your mind the voice of your mother, who, when you were small, would say,“remember your morning prayers.“ Why would God send an angel to deliver that message to you when the Holy Ghost, the third member of the godhead, who brings all things to your remembrance, can prompt recollection of your angel mother reminding you to pray? The spiritual effect is the same.” Page 12
We need to read, study, pray, fast, and obey consistently. It is not by marvelous manifestations that a witness of the truthfulness of the gospel of Jesus Christ comes; rather, it is by the simple, steady performance of the fundamental things that we know we should do.” Page 13
Deep impressions
2. The hearing what is not said principal
When Elder and Sister Bednar meet with church members and Missionaries they often recommend that they not write down anything they say but suggest that they pay very close attention to the thoughts that come to their minds and the feelings that come to their hearts by the power of the Holy Ghost.-16
“When our notetaking is focused upon recording the statements of a teacher or speaker, then we in essence are writing upon large plates(secular), recording “the history“ of the class or meeting. But when we jot down notes and reminders about what we are learning individually and personally by the power of the Holy Ghost, then we are writing” the things of our souls” on small plates(precious recordings).
“Elder Richard Scott explained, “knowledge carefully recorded is knowledge available in time of need. Spiritually sensitive information should be kept in a secret place that communicates to the Lord how you treasure it. That practice enhances the likelihood of your receiving further light.”-17
3. The line upon line principle
Many small answers over a period of time
“Typically we receive a series of seemingly small and incremental spiritual impressions and nudges, which in totality constitute the desired confirmation about the correctness of the path we are pursuing.” Page 21
“A more recent and personal example of the line upon line principle occurred during my service at BYU Idaho. Susan and I frequently held question and answer sessions with the students and some would ask, “I prayed and felt good about my relationship with the person I’ve been dating. But it didn’t work out. Why did god change his mind?“ I often responded, “I don’t think God changed his mind. Could you receive one answer, which is, “do some things with this person,“ so that you can find out that he or she is not the right person, which is also then a preparation to ultimately find the right person?“ A variety of patterns for learning and receiving knowledge but the power of the Holy Ghost can operate in our lives. The first step may be that you date a person who is incredibly controlling or has some other issues that you have never encountered before. After a few dates together, perhaps you begin to wonder, how can I have gotten a yes about this person?“ Well, perhaps the Answer was not, “Marry this person.” The yes was, “learn.“ And you learn a lesson that helps you to be wiser and blessed with greater discernment in your future relationships.“ Page 26
4. The not knowing before hand principle
How can I know if I’m receiving personal revelation? Consider that expectation in contrast to Nephi who said “I will go, I will do, for I know”. He was led by the spirit not knowing before hand the things which he should do but he still went forth… While he was acting and going, he was blessed with power and the answers came.Page 27
When we are exercising our faith and doing the simple things we know we should do, we gradually begin to recognize and come to know that we are being guided.… We have to pray for the eyes to see and the ears to hear along the way, so we remember that he is guiding us. And although things may not work out the way we expect or even the way we want, we can expect those outcomes when we recognize he is in control.“ Page 29
5. The not my will, but thine principle
Many times we know an impression is coming to us by the power of the Holy Ghost when it tells us something we do not want to hear or to do something we do not want to do.-31
President Kimball said “I don’t want to heal all the sick, for sickness sometimes is a great blessing. People become angels through sickness.“ There was a young adult who had lost his direction and was going around in circles and even in the wrong direction and President Kimball said to him, “my boy, **I have not enjoyed all of the physical sufferings that I have gone through. I would like to have been spared those.“ Then he riveted his eyes on this young man and said, “but in all my suffering I have come to know God.“ our quest is to come to know God. Page 35
Do not speak lightly about sacred things and it is not wise to continually talk of unusual spiritual experiences.
The Holy Ghost will not prompt an individual to violate sacred covenants and disobey God‘s Commandments. The Spirit of the Lord will not prompt any person to think or act in a manner that is contrary to the doctrine and the authorized practices of the saviors restored church as contained in the holy Scriptures, in the repeated teachings of the Lord‘s apostles and prophets, and in the authorized proclamations and declarations of the council of the first presidency and the quorum of the 12 apostles. The Lord declared, behold mine house is a house of order. If a person purports to receive revelation for purposes outside of his or her particular ecclesiastical calling or responsibilities, then you can be sure that such revelations are not from the Lord.-38
6. The diligence and heed principle
The purpose of the Liahona was to provide direction and instruction during a long and demanding journey.
We are prompted by the Holy Ghost every day to do ordinary and simple things. For example, we are prompted to pray daily. We are prompted to study the scriptures consistently. To the degree that we are diligent and heed these simple promptings, then our capacity to recognize and respond to the Holy Ghost is increased. To the degree that we do not heed these simple promptings, then our capacity to recognize and respond to the Holy Ghost is decreased. We are either progressing or regressing in our ability to recognize and respond to the Holy Ghost. There is no neutral ground; there is no standing still.… We cannot realistically expect to recognize big promptings if we consistently fail to hear the small ones.-41
God will not let you proceed too far without a warning impression if you have made the wrong decision.
I have also learned that properly recording spiritual impressions demonstrates to the savior how much I treasure his direction. The simple practice of writing down spiritual thoughts and feelings greatly enhances the likelihood of receiving and recognizing additional promptings from the Holy Ghost. 43
7. The proximity principle
Harold B Lee said that inspiration comes easier when you can step foot on the site related to the need for it.… Elder Packer received direction for and guidance about his message as he went to the BYU campus early on a Sunday morning to think, ponder, and pray. -44
You are more likely to receive inspiration when you actually are in the place related to the need for the inspiration. As a stake president, I found that I was more likely to receive inspiration about the calling of a new bishop for a ward when I was visiting in that particular ward and not simply praying and working in the stake presidents office. Similarly, when general authorities or areas 70s receive an assignment to call a new stake president, they typically travel to the stake personally to conduct interviews and receive the needed revelation. -45
President Hinckley often made overnight trips to cities in the United States to inspect potential temple sites. I
As a ministering brother or sister you may more readily or fully discern the needs of an individual as you visit periodically in his or her home. Texting and talking on the phone certainly are appropriate ways of maintaining contact with and nourishing family members and those we serve. But the value of home visits, when permissible and appropriate, should not be minimized or overlooked.-46
The concept of proximity with people is not restricted to merely being in the same place or physical space but rather proximity as nearness with people suggests a degree and depth of interactive engagement, a kind of spiritual attentiveness and responsiveness, that can occur only with the assistance and by the power of the Holy Ghost.
**in our homes and church classes and meetings, teaching, testifying, and explaining the gospel the Lords Way includes observing, listening, and discerning as prerequisites to talking.… Active observing and listening precedes discerning, and observing, listening, and discerning come before speaking. Only by observing, listening, and discerning can we be guided by the spirit to say and do the things that will be most helpful to those whom we serve.… Discerning is hearing with spiritual ears and feeling with the heart.-49-50
8. The repetition principle
In visitations two, three, and four, additional information and instruction were given to Joseph. All of the messages were the same, but they were also different in a pattern of repetitious revelation and learning.… Repeating the core message exactly, and then adding to the original content a very strong and personal warning to young Joseph.-51-53
Repetition is such an important aspect of the essential and most sacred ordinances in which we participate-56
9. The scattered among us principle
Councils and Counseling together
10. The what, not why and when, principle
Revelation typically focus upon the “what“ more than the “why.“
If you read the Scriptures with this question in mind, “why did the Lord command this or why did he command that,“ you find in less than one and 100 commands was any reason given. It’s not the pattern of the Lord to give reasons… The lesson: The Lord often requires that we initially go and do without knowing why. We may need to simply press forward in many situations, as did Adam in the garden of Eden.“ 62
Episodes
Yes or no- “May I simply suggest that what we initially believe is the answer may be but one part of an ongoing, incremental, and unfolding pattern of small answers? It is clearly the case that the Lord did not change his mind; rather, you and I must learn to better recognize the Lord‘s pattern as a series of related and expanding answers to our most important questions.“ 79
The importance of asking inspired questions… elder and sister bednar began a home evening and ice cream with the Bednars at BYu- I. Rather than a lesson on a predetermined topic elder Bednar encouraged the students to ask inspired questions-82
A Little girl had a sister on a mission who died. Elder Bednar spoke at the funeral and addressed the thought “why would heavenly father let her die?“ He said “I don’t know. It really doesn’t make any sense, based on what we know here in this life. But I know that heavenly father knows why, and someday Wie will understand better than we do today. I can’t answer your question, why would it happen? But I know heavenly father knows, and for me, that’s good enough.“ 106
“We have eliminated the thought that threatening storms are a sign that the Lord does not care about our situation. As we have internalized the truth that those very storms enable us to join with the savior in finding peace, we have found these challenges to be some of the most testimony strengthening experiences and our lives. Through quiet moments of tutoring from the spirit, we have learned that when storms and wins and waves come, we should not doubt to savior, but we should plead with him to guide us and strengthen us.-110
“Through difficult experiences, often filled with pain and suffering, character is built, hearts are purified, and souls are enlarged as individuals gain experience and spiritual tutoring. And God expects and trusts us to face temporary mortal adversity with his help so we can learn what we need to learn and become what we are to become in eternity.“ 111
While you can’t see how in this moment, everything will be OK. 121
(Love this!!!) About being a ministering sister, DAVID‘s wife susan said to him one day “David, I think I’ve learned something. I can pray forever and I can seek inspiration forever, and I’m sure heaven will help me, but the first thing I have to do is talk with and ask the sisters what they need, and not just expect God to deliver an answer to me. I have more work to do.“-129
ask what we can do to make ministering higher and holier. What does higher and holier mean to you. One said it would help her to have association with latter-day Saint women. She said could we go to the temple in a more regular basis and then have lunch so I can hang out with latter-day Saint women? Another woman suggested they pick a general conference talk and all read it independently and then come together and talk about what they’ve learned.
“If you could teach our sons just one thing what would it be?” 133
“None of these ideas came easily, and this certainly was not the first thing we attempted as we were organizing the materials for this book. But in the process of time, with much prayerful effort and wrestling on both our parts, the project came together.”149
July 29, 2023
Amazing insight into revelation and how to receive revelation. I loved the personal episodes at the end and teared up after reading many of them. This has given me a better understanding of revelation and how to look for it in my life.
October 28, 2021
A short audiobook with great insights focusing on principles of revelation.
August 24, 2025
A great book to listen to. Elder Bednar narrates it. I learned a lot about revelation. What an amazing gift from God, to learn things for ourselves. Our loving Heavenly Father doesn't want us to blindly follow what others do or say. We can receive our own personal revelation.
Read
January 23, 2023I liked the set up of this book where the first half explained the principles and the second half was stories sharing his family’s different experiences.
February 23, 2022
I loved this! He gave us 10 principles of revelation and then gave us examples of revelation received at different times by different people and asked us to look at which principles applied and then think about times that we had received revelation in our life with those same principles applying.
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