Faith precedes the miracle;: Based on discourses of Spencer W. Kimball

by Spencer W. Kimball

Understanding the gospel, concern for people, love for the these form the underlying theme of Faith Precedes the Miracle. In nearly three decades as a General Authority, President Kimball has spoken forthrightly to members of the Church, warning of the deceits of Satan and pointing out the road back for those who have erred and who yearn for reconciliation with the Lord. This book is based on some of his sermons and messages, but each one has been edited and revised to a reading style while retaining the basic, highly personal mode of expression. The subjects reflect a genuine concern for how Latter-day Saints can find joy and happiness through living gospel principles, including testimony and revelation, marriage and the family, morality and repentance, righteousness, and the restored church. Each message is an important, direct statement of gospel principles.

Genres: Lds, Religion, Nonfiction, Church, Spirituality, Faith, Lds Non Fiction

364 pages, Hardcover

Published January 1, 1973

About the author

Born on March 28, 1895, in Salt Lake City, Spencer W. Kimball grew up in Thatcher, Arizona. After completing a mission and marrying Camilla Eyring, he settled in Safford, Arizona, to raise his family and run an insurance business. Years of Church and community leadership preceded his calling as an Apostle in 1943. Overcoming severe health problems, he became Church President on December 30, 1973, at the age of 78. He led the Church with spiritual power and energetic determination during a period of dramatic vitality and growth. His administration produced significant advances in doctrinal understanding, member unity, and gospel expansion worldwide. In the 12 years of his presidency, the number of operating temples doubled, the number of missionaries increased by 50 percent, and the priesthood was extended to all worthy male members. He died in Salt Lake City on November 5, 1985.

Reviews

[Nathalie · Rating 4 out of 5]

I wanted to read this book because of a brother in my ward who had an enormous health challenge and after re-reading this book (and a lifetime of dedicated faith no doubt) did receive his amazing healing miracle. It so impressed me that I finally decided to read it after nearly 40 years since joining the LDS Church. President Spencer W. Kimball was the prophet when I joined the Church. It is based on his discourses, which means that I had heard or read many portions of this book over the years. It was like stepping back in time for. It brought back a lot of the feelings of living in the 1970's. The challenges are the same but now amped up by the use of technology and the further decline of society's mores but the process of healing is the same, more than ever. I didn't learn anything new but this book reinforced that indeed, faith must precede the miracle. It takes steady and committed spiritual preparation and a lot of faith. I didn't get my miracle yet but I am just getting started.

[Carol Jones-Campbell · Rating 4 out of 5]

President Kimball wrote this book in stories and examples to help us understand the many different ideas and concepts of faith, and how we can use it in our life. I recommend this book as an excellent tool to help understand faith, and how it applies in our lives.

[Heather · Rating 5 out of 5]

It was good to read this book again. It is wonderful to read President Kimball's testimony and teachings of Christ and the importance of having faith in Him and His plan. Really each of these chapters are different teachings on several different principles of the gospel of Jesus Christ, but they really all tie back into faith in Christ. We must have faith in Him and trust in Him. Here are a few of my favorite quotes/ideas from this time reading through:

"Faith is needed as much as ever before (page 10)."

"If revelations cease, either men are unresponsive and in the darkness of apostasy or God is dead (p. 22)."

We "must labor and so live as to obtain the Holy Spirit, for without this you cannot build up the kingdom (p. 25)."

"There has never been a single minute since 1830 when the poeple were left without the revealed guidance of the Lord (p. 46)."

"Can God have limitations (p. 53)?"

"To know is not enough. One must do (p.85)."

"The Lord is omnipotent, with all power to control our lives, save us pain, prevent all accidents, drive all planes and cars, feed us, protect us, save us from labor, effort, sickness, even from death, if he will. But he will not.... The basic law of the gospel is free agency and eternal development. To force us to be careful or righteous would be to nullify that fundamental law and make growth impossible (p. 96)."

"Despite our limited view his purposes will not fail (p. 106)."

"Love is far more than physical attraction. It is deep, inclusive, and comprehensive...there must be faith and confidence and understanding and partnership. There must be common ideals and standards. There must be great devotion and companionship. Love is cleanliness and progress and sacrifice and selflessness (p. 158)."

"Prayer is not an optional activity; it is basic to our religion (p. 200)."

"Do we express gratitude to Him who gives us all? Paul asked that we pray 'for kings, and for all that are in authority.' This will help develop loyalty to community leaders and concern for the Lord's influence on them. We pray for the poor and needy, and at the same time remember our obligation to do something for them.... We pray for the missionaries.... We pray for our enemies (p. 202)."

"Pray in faith....there can be no deception. The Lord knows our true condition.... Do we offer our supplications in modesty, sincerity, and with a 'broken heart and a contrite spirit'? (p. 207)"

"Cast not away therefore your confidence, which hath great recompense of reward. For ye have need of patience, that, after ye have done the will of God, ye might receive the promise. (Heb. 10:35-36 and p. 249)."

I also really enjoyed Chapter 27: Render...Unto God that talks about tithing and "seeking first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all things shall be added unto you (Matt. 6:33 and p. 288)."

This life is but a small moment. We must remember the bigger picture of our Heavenly Father's plan....and have faith in that that we can't always see, but that we know is right. He lives and will lead us. There are miracles as we have faith in Him and His power in our lives.

[Karen Danielson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Listened to this book again after reading it in the 1970’s. I had forgotten how much I love President Hinkley and respect his prophetic words. Sometimes I feel like I shouldn’t have so many challenges if I’m doing everything I can to love and serve the Lord. This book reminded me that perhaps our challenges are because we are loved. Present Kimball had a million serious health problems and he gave his entire life in service to others. I know God loved him. Faith is trusting that everything is ultimately for our own good and faith precedes miracles.

[Brett · Rating 5 out of 5]

Such a wonderful book!! I look forward to returning to it often for a study of various Gospel topics!!

[David Cook · Rating 4 out of 5]

I read this book in 1979. It was not part of the standard missionary library at the time. I expressed an interest in deeper reading to my mission president and he said “When you have read the standard missionary library twice in English and Spanish, I’ll lend you some books to read. I accomplished the goal and had a steady supply of new books for the last 10 months of my mission. This book was one of the first I read. It is a timeless and insightful book written by Spencer W. Kimball and remains a classic in the genre of religious literature and is still relevant today.

The central theme of the book is the importance of faith in achieving miracles. Kimball argues that faith is not just a feeling or belief but a principle of action that requires diligence, patience, and courage. He also emphasizes the role of faith in personal growth and spiritual development.

One of the most powerful lessons from the book is that faith in God includes faith in His timing. This concept encapsulates Kimball's belief that miracles do not always happen immediately, but through steadfast faith, they will come at the right time. He urges readers to trust in God's timing and not to become discouraged when things do not happen as quickly as we would like.

Kimball's writing is straightforward and easy to understand. His personal experiences and anecdotes add depth and authenticity to his message. The book also includes practical suggestions for developing and strengthening faith, such as prayer, scripture study, and service to others. According to Kimball, miracles are not just random events that happen without cause or explanation. Instead, they are a manifestation of God's power and love for His children. Kimball believed that miracles could occur in response to prayer, faith, and obedience to God's commandments.

Kimball taught that miracles are not limited to biblical times or to specific people. Instead, he believed that anyone can experience a miracle if they have the faith and willingness to ask for it. He also emphasized that miracles do not always involve physical healing or dramatic events. They can also be small but significant blessings, such as the peace and comfort that come from feeling God's love and presence in our lives. Although he does not mention any other religious traditions approach to miracles, I surmise that he would not be fan of the “revival tent” style of miracles.

Overall, "Faith precedes the miracle" is a must-read for anyone seeking to deepen their faith or looking for inspiration to persevere through difficult times. Kimball's message of hope and encouragement resonates with readers and reminds us that miracles are possible through unwavering faith.

[thethousanderclub · Rating 3 out of 5]

Adam C. Zern offers some thoughts . . .

"In the Latter-day Saint culture, Spencer W. Kimball's The Miracle of Forgiveness is legendary. Spencer W. Kimball, the 12th President of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is known for his bold and forward speaking and writing style. The Miracle of Forgiveness has no shortage of 'straight talk,' and Faith Precedes the Miracle is no different. Less well-known and less read among Latter-day Saints than Kimball's other book, Faith Precedes the Miracle is a good addition to any Latter-day Saint's library, albeit it's not as memorable as other spiritual works.

Like most books of its kind, Faith Precedes the Miracle is marred by the presentation and organization of the book. In fact, using the term 'book' may be a little generous to describe what it is. Rather than being a book it's a collection of his many speeches on various topics bound together between two covers. I never really care for that kind of a setup simply because the chapters seem so disconnected from one another. I prefer to read a book specifically designed to be so, which I believe lends importance and purpose to the message conveyed. Jesus the Christ by James E. Talmage is a good example of what I'm referring to.

Having said that, there is plenty to love in Faith Precedes the Miracle. It's a great reference book since President Kimball covers so many topics in this one book. His remarks on family life are, in my opinion, especially poignant and even controversial compared to today's societal standards. His unapologetic conviction is refreshing and honorable.

There is much to love, yes, but it's not really all that necessary to buy this book since most of his remarks can be found through other means. I had already listened to many of President Kimball's talks and, therefore, I was 're-leaning' large portions of the book. Faith Precedes the Miracle is great as a reference but not as a stand-alone book."

http://thethousanderclub.blogspot.com/

[Kelly · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this book! After reading this book I wish I could remember Spencer W. Kimball as a prophet. He died when I was young and I don't remember him at all. This book helped me to get to know him a little better. It served as a great reminder that faith is such an important principle of the Gospel of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints.
It is through faith that all great things come to past. Spencer W. Kimball was an amazing prophet and a very good writer. I loved how he went through so many aspects of the Gospel explaining how faith was so important to each and every part.
I would have given it 5 stars, but at the very end he went on a little soap box about Native American's. He had a point and he definitely illustrated that point well. I thought it went on a little too much and started feeling a little like a soap box.
I highly recommend this book to any member of the Church. It is a great reminder of the gospel's core principles. I would also encourage any new convert to the church to read this book. President Kimball does a really good job explaining so many basic principles.

[Annika Paxman · Rating 5 out of 5]

My husband and I decided to read this in the evenings together. I believe every one of us at some point in our live has sought a miracle. The first chapter of this book delves immediately into the religious aspects of asking God for a miracle, and the role faith has in such a request.
We are immediately taken into the Old Testament and shown examples of prophet showing their faith before receiving their miracle.

The most moving example for me personally, was being that of Abraham and Isaac. Kimball points out that it wasn't until Abraham showed his faith in the Lord by placing Isaac upon the altar before the angel appeared as well as the ram in the thicket.

Not only does this work cover the topic of faith, but prayer, obedience, marriage, prejudice, and more. In turn, my husband and I enjoyed some very good religious discussions concerning these subjects. This is one that I would recommend to anyone seeking for something uplifting, and enlightening.

[Erin · Rating 4 out of 5]

I love President Kimball's bold speech. Things are very black and white when he talks about them. You are either on the Lord's side or you are not. There is power in his words. At fist I had the thought that some things really do not apply to "today's society", most of these selections were written/given from the 1950's to the 1970's; however, gospel truth is eternal truth. Sometimes we have a great ability to "rationalize" what we do not like to hear. but like the title indicates, Faith and obedience to all that is true whether we like it or not, is what brings the miracles. This is not a in depth book about what the doctrine of faith is or means to us. It is a sampling of stories and examples where living the true commandments brings forth the type of faith that then results in the miracle. It would take a lot of faith to live as President Kimball suggests.

[Amanda · Rating 3 out of 5]

I did not realize when I picked this up that it is not technically a book written by President Spencer W. Kimball, but a compilation from his discourses. I felt that some of the chapters were put together strangely, bounced around from topic to topic, and were hard to follow. It was mostly in the first few chapters and I almost gave up reading the book altogether. There is a lot in this book and some of it is outdated. (For example, it was put together before the change to allow the black members of the church to receive the Priesthood.) However, I am glad that I kept with it. There were a few chapters in the middle that I enjoyed immensely and found myself marking something on almost every page. I had felt compelled to read this book and not give up before I was through and I definitely found messages that spoke specifically to me and things that I have been thinking about recently.

[Heather · Rating 4 out of 5]

Very great read. It's kind of like the Priesthood/Relief Society manuals on the Presidents of the Church in that each chapter is a compilation of his words on a particular topic. I really enjoyed it, and appreciated his insights. My one complaint is that I read it because of the title, and the title ended up having very little to do with what it was actually about. Still very glad I read it, though.

[Jana Hill · Rating 5 out of 5]

This took me a long time to work my way through, but I liked it a lot. As always with Pres. Kimball he just lays it right out there, doesn't beat around the bush about what we're supposed to be doing. And it never ceases to amaze me how even though his (and other apostles) writings were decades ago, they seem so perfectly applicable today.

[Melinda]

Considering her obsession about miracles and such (and telling me that faith is not a part of it), I really think this book would benefit. And all the other principles covered would be helpful, too. I may have to consider buying my own audio copy so she can listen and not wait upon someone to read it to her. I've wanted to read it for myself anyhow.

[Ruth · Rating 4 out of 5]

was a really good book. basically a collection of the discourses of SWK.. a little bit outdated (one chapter was about how we shouldn't hate against the native americans and another one was on the issue of blacks not being able to hold the priesthood), but overall, a fantastic read. my second time reading it! :)

[Emily · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have loved reading this book, especially as I prepare my Relief Society lessons. It is fun to read the powerful talks written by a man that I remember as being so sick, yet so strong. I love it dearly and only have about 100 pages to go.

[Conni Chavez · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved this book. I can tell it was used to compile much of the "Teachings of our Times, Spencer W. Kimball" There were many things in the book I'd read and studied over the last year. A must read for everyone at an appropriate time in life.

[Michele · Rating 4 out of 5]

I love President Kimball's forthright way of telling it like it is. This is a collection of his talks, which I didn't realize before I started reading it. I thought it'll all be on building faith, but it progressed through several different topics.

[Patti · Rating 5 out of 5]

What didn't I learn from this book? The title says it all. Faith precedes the miracle. I have always struggled with having faith, and this book taught me the differenct between belief, desire, and faith. I will keep this book on my shelf for sure.

[Greg · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sequel to Spencer W. Kimball's seminal work, The Miracle of Forgiveness. Based on some of his writings and sermons, he addresses topics such as family, marriage, testimony, personal revelation, and morality. Through it all runs the thread of faith in the Lord Jesus Christ.

[Raven · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoyed this book, however I was expecting another book like "The Miracle of Forgiveness". This book is a collection of talks given by Spencer W. Kimball. Although all the talks are good I was disapointed that it wasn't one solid book.

[Josie · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a great collection of talks by Pres. Kimball. I read it straight through to read it and found some talks I will probably read over and over again and some I may never read again. I especially liked the sections on faith, and the ones on marriage and family.

[Angie · Rating 2 out of 5]

I was expecting this book to be different. I was looking forward to reading a book about Faith, but alas...I only got one chapter. It should have been named Thoughts On Various Subjects by Spencer W. Kimball. It is not that I disagreed with what he wrote, it was just that I learned nothing new.

[Kirsten · Rating 5 out of 5]

President Kimball is an amazing man, and I love how straight forward he is in his council. There were so many different areas of the gospel this book touches on, it's one you can refer to again and again.

[Nola · Rating 5 out of 5]

I first read this book as a senior in high school. I learned so much about faith. At the time, Elder Kimball was in the Quorum of the Twelve, but when he became the Prophet, I felt as if I knew him because of the insights that he gave in this book. I highly recommend reading it.

[Bryan Tanner · Rating 4 out of 5]

This feels like it came directly out of Pres. Kimball's personal scripture journal. It's full of citations from scripture and other personal accounts. Pres. Kimball is very straightforward and methodical in his approach towards the subjects of faith, love, and discipleship.

[Sara · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book, the words of the sharp-tongued, sugar-free prophet Spencer W. Kimball changed my life. If you are looking for an overview of why we are here, or are looking for answers to any pressing questions about the church or the gospel, this is a great place to look.

[Chrisanne · Rating 5 out of 5]

I liked it. I was surprised at the continuity-- I was expecting the regular compilation but it seemed to flow really well. Of course, if you've read/listened to his previous works you might find some repetition. But it had been a while so it didn't bother me.

[Rex · Rating 5 out of 5]

Classic talks by Spencer W. Kimball. The "Tragedy or Destiny" talk has been a long-time favorite.

[Danny · Rating 3 out of 5]

Solid doctrine, satisfying in its simplicity.