While reading in Mormon 9 today, I had a taste of sweetness. One of those rare experiences where my mind is opened and instead of seeing the perspective of a valley-dweller, I see an aerial perspective. The pinnacle of my study is this verse:
27 O then despise not, and wonder not, but hearken unto the words of the Lord, and ask the Father in the name of Jesus for what things soever ye shall stand in need. aDoubt not, but be believing, and begin as in times of old, and bcome unto the Lord with all your cheart, and dwork out your own salvation with fear and trembling before him.Carefully reading each sentence, then each phrase, then each word, it is easy to feel the impact of Moroni's words. Because I have, in the past, regularly spoken (in prayer) with the Lord with all my heart, the counsel was internalized in my heart. In my own words:
Listen and follow the words of Christ without resistance, emnity or skepticism. As you've done at other times in your life (you know how to do it!), focus on being believing by focusing your heart. This means focusing my spiritual efforts on understanding the Lord and my relationship with Him. If I sincerely care most about our relationship, one type of fear (the "carnal" fear) becomes irrelevant, replaced by a more divine and compelling fear (a "reverential, respectful, righteous and understanding" fear). The "carnal" fear is inspired by doubts, worries or inadequacies; the more powerful "respecting" fear is more powerful, a concern or even reverence for performing His "will." I believe the "fear" talked about in this scripture is akin to something many have experienced at some point: being given a high form of trust by someone you love, and who you know loves you deeply. This trust inspires you to be your best, doing anything to not let them down, or break what you've been given. This might be described then as "fearing" in holiness or trembling at the thought of doing anything that would break this mutual trust with God, especially after so much has been entrusted. I think the lost 116 pages is an example where Joseph might have had this experience. Or King David after his varied egregious sins.
I believe it is through this process of turning our hearts to Him that we begin to live a different life, and not only do we become worthy to ask for anything we need, but we also perceive those needs differently, and ask with a more worthy heart. It is this worthiness that allows us to ask in confidence and faith, knowing of this mutual trust. I am beginning to imagine how this mutual trust affects our understanding and commitment to covenants.
