Understanding the Spirit of Revelation: Insights from Doctrine and Covenants 6–9 for Personal Guidance and Faith
The Spirit of Revelation is a remarkable gift that connects us to divine guidance, offering clarity and peace in a world full of uncertainty. Doctrine and Covenants 6–9 helps us understand how personal revelation works and outlines the steps we can take to receive it. These chapters reveal that the Lord speaks to both our minds and hearts, through the quiet promptings of the Holy Ghost. They remind us that revelation comes when we seek it earnestly, prepare spiritually, and act with faith. Whether you're navigating life's big decisions or searching for everyday direction, these verses teach us how to align with the Lord's will and timing, bringing His light into our lives.
Enrich your Come Follow Me study of the Doctrine and Covenants 6-9 for February 3-9: This is the Spirit of Revelation.
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Gain clarity on how one receives personal revelation, learn how to recognize the spirit, and strengthen your faith.
Understanding Personal Revelation
Understanding personal revelation is essential for making meaningful connections with God and navigating the challenges of life. In Doctrine and Covenants 6–9, we find powerful insights about how the Spirit of Revelation works and its importance in our personal lives. These scriptures guide us in recognizing and seeking this divine communication, offering both clarity and peace through the Holy Ghost.
What Is Revelation?
Revelation is God's way of communicating with us, guiding us through impressions, thoughts, and feelings. It’s not a grand spectacle but often comes subtly, like a whisper reminding you of the right path. In Doctrine and Covenants 8:2–3, the Lord explains to Oliver Cowdery that revelation comes through the Holy Ghost, who speaks to both our hearts and minds. This dual connection—logic (mind) and emotion (heart)—is how the Spirit confirms divine guidance.
Think of revelation as a compass: it doesn’t show you the full journey but points you in the right direction. Whether it’s a feeling of peace when faced with a big decision or a clear thought that provides answers to a complex question, it’s personal and purposeful. The Holy Ghost is the messenger, ensuring that God’s words reach us in ways we can understand.
Oliver Cowdery’s Experience With Revelation
Oliver Cowdery's story in Doctrine and Covenants 6–9 offers a relatable example of how personal revelation works. As Joseph Smith’s scribe during the Book of Mormon translation, Oliver sought to understand God’s will for him.
The Prophet Joseph Smith later recorded that the “Lord appeared unto a young man by the name of Oliver Cowd[e]ry and showed unto him the plates in a vision. … Therefore he was desirous to come and write for me” (in The Joseph Smith Papers, Histories, Volume 1: Joseph Smith Histories, 1832–1844, ed. Karen Lynn Davidson and others [2012], 16; spelling, punctuation, and capitalization standardized).
In Doctrine and Covenants 6:14–17, the Lord reassured him that He had already been communicating with him. "If it had not been so, thou wouldst not have come to the place where thou art at this time," the Lord declared, affirming Oliver’s earlier spiritual experiences.
However, Oliver also learned an important lesson: revelation requires effort and faith. When he struggled to receive guidance while attempting to translate, the Lord gently reminded him in Doctrine and Covenants 9:8–9 to first "study it out in [his] mind" and then seek confirmation through prayer. This teaches us that revelation often works like solving a puzzle—God guides us as we put in the effort to understand.
Elder Richard G. Scott (1928–2015) of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles taught:
“One of the great lessons that each of us needs to learn is to ask. Why does the Lord want us to pray to Him and to ask? Because that is how revelation is received. …
“If you feel that God has not answered your prayers, ponder these scriptures [D&C 6:14–15]—then carefully look for evidence in your own life that He may have already answered you” (“How to Obtain Revelation and Inspiration for Your Personal Life,” Ensign or Liahona, May 2012, 45, 47).
Oliver’s experience highlights a key principle: revelation isn’t always instant. Like waiting for dawn to break, sometimes we only see a little bit of light at a time. But with patience and trust in the Lord, clarity comes, confirming that God’s hand is at work in our lives.
These lessons from Oliver's life remind us that revelation is deeply personal, meant to guide and uplift us as we seek to follow Jesus Christ and align with the Lord’s timing. Through the Spirit of Revelation, we can find answers, direction, and peace even in life’s most uncertain moments.
Preparation for Receiving Revelation
Receiving revelation isn’t just a passive experience—it’s an active journey of preparation and faith. Doctrine and Covenants 6–9 gives us invaluable guidance on how to prepare ourselves to receive personal revelation. From nurturing sincere faith to studying scripture with intent, these sections teach us about the spiritual habits and mindset necessary to invite and recognize God’s guidance.
The Role of Faith and Sincerity
Faith and sincerity lie at the very heart of receiving revelation. Without faith, we can’t truly seek divine guidance with the trust that God will answer us. Doctrine and Covenants 9:8 offers a profound insight: “You must study it out in your mind; then you must ask me if it be right.” This verse reminds us that revelation often follows our faithful action. Faith isn’t passive—it’s something we exercise as we take steps toward answers.
Consider faith as the doorway to understanding. Think about carrying a key. Until we use it to unlock the door, the key is just potential. Faith works the same way—it opens the door for revelation when paired with active efforts like prayer and thought. The Lord knows our hearts, and when we approach Him with sincerity, asking “with real intent,” we demonstrate our desire to follow His will, no matter the answer. This openness creates space in our lives for the Spirit to speak and guide.
Revelation is God's way of communicating with us, guiding us through impressions, thoughts, and feelings. It’s not a grand spectacle but often comes subtly, like a whisper reminding you of the right path.
Real-world examples abound in Doctrine and Covenants. Oliver Cowdery was told to study his mind and heart before asking God. His experience reminds us that faith and sincere effort are inseparable when seeking the Spirit’s guidance. God responds when He sees that we are not only willing to receive but prepared to act on His answers.
Importance of Study and Obedience
Preparation for revelation doesn’t stop with just faith—it requires action, beginning with diligent study and obedience to God’s commandments. Doctrine and Covenants 9:7 teaches a critical lesson: “You have not understood; you have supposed that I would give it unto you, when you took no thought save it was to ask me.” In essence, the Lord expects us to prepare ourselves by doing the work first.
Studying scripture is one of the most powerful ways to prepare. Think of it as gathering the spiritual tools you’ll need to construct a foundation for revelation. Without studying, it’s like expecting to solve a puzzle with missing pieces. When we immerse ourselves in God’s word, we build a vocabulary for the Spirit to use as it communicates with our hearts and minds.
Equally important is living obediently. Obedience tunes our hearts to what God values. If we’re distracted by behaviors or choices that pull us away from Him, it becomes harder to recognize His voice. Obedience strengthens our ability to discern between fleeting personal thoughts and the quiet, confirming feelings that come from the Holy Ghost.
Oliver Cowdery, again, provides a compelling example. He wanted to translate scripture but hadn’t yet done the preparatory work of study and thought. The Lord gently corrected him, reaffirming that revelation follows effort. This teaches us that God values initiative and preparation, and as we align our will with His, we open the doors for clarity and direction.
To prepare for revelation, we must act. Study the scriptures. Pray intentionally. Live in harmony with God’s commandments. These are not lofty, unattainable goals—they’re daily habits that bring us closer to the Spirit of Revelation, helping us hear God’s voice in our lives with greater clarity.
How Revelation Is Received
Revelation is an intimate and sacred way Heavenly Father communicates with us, often guiding us through life's challenges and questions. Doctrine and Covenants sections 6–9 beautifully illustrate the process of receiving revelation and provide insightful examples of how the Spirit of Revelation works in varied and personal ways. Whether it’s a gentle nudge in your heart or a clear thought in your mind, the Lord uses ways tailored to each individual’s understanding and needs.
Mind and Heart Impressions
Revelation often comes through impressions to both the mind and the heart. Doctrine and Covenants 8:2–3 explains this dual connection: “I will tell you in your mind and in your heart, by the Holy Ghost.” This combination of thoughts and feelings is the Holy Ghost confirming truth in a way that resonates deeply within us, both intellectually and emotionally.
Elder Richard G. Scott affirmed:
“The feeling of peace is the most common confirming witness that I personally experience. When I have been very concerned about an important matter, struggling to resolve it without success, I continued those efforts in faith. Later, an all-pervading peace has come, settling my concerns, as He has promised” (“Using the Supernal Gift of Prayer,” Ensign or Liahona, May 2007, 10).
Think of it as a quiet duet between your thoughts and your feelings, harmonizing to deliver divine answers. For example, you may feel sudden clarity about an important decision while simultaneously experiencing peace that confirms it’s the right choice. These moments, though not always dramatic, are unmistakable and provide a powerful witness of the Lord’s involvement in your life.
Elder Richard G. Scott explained additional ways the Spirit might communicate with our mind and heart:
“An impression to the mind is very specific. Detailed words can be heard or felt and written as though the instruction were being dictated.
“A communication to the heart is a more general impression. The Lord often begins by giving impressions. Where there is a recognition of their importance and they are obeyed, one gains more capacity to receive more detailed instruction to the mind. An impression to the heart, if followed, is fortified by a more specific instruction to the mind” (“Helping Others to Be Spiritually Led” [address to Church Educational System religious educators, Aug. 11, 1998]; see also Teaching Seminary: Preservice Readings [Church Educational System manual, 2004], 55).
It’s reassuring to know that God speaks in ways we can grasp and trust—connecting with both our reason and our emotions to deliver His guidance.
Burning in the Bosom and Stupor of Thought
Doctrine and Covenants 9:8–9 introduces two noteworthy concepts: the “burning in the bosom” and the “stupor of thought.” A burning in the bosom can feel like a warm and peaceful confirmation, a stirring that reassures you of the correctness of a path or decision. Conversely, a stupor of thought—where clarity disappears, and confusion sets in—signals that a course of action may not align with God’s will.
That said, not all revelations fit neatly into these distinct categories. The Spirit’s voice often whispers rather than shouts, and many answers come gradually, unfolding over time like the soft light of dawn. This teaches us to be patient and alert, paying attention to both the quiet assurances and the subtle warnings the Spirit provides.
Revelation involves trusting that the Lord knows the best way to communicate with us, and recognizing that His answers may not always come in ways we expect.
Reflection on Past Revelation
Looking back at how God has guided you in the past can help bolster your faith in receiving present and future revelation. In Doctrine and Covenants 6:22–24, the Lord reminds Oliver Cowdery of a prior moment of peace and divine reassurance, saying, “Did I not speak peace to your mind concerning the matter? What greater witness can you have than from God?”
This verse invites us to reflect on our own experiences where we’ve felt the Spirit’s peace or guidance. Maybe it was a moment when a decision felt inexplicably right, or when an overwhelming trial became bearable through unseen strength. By remembering these instances, we strengthen our confidence in God’s ability to guide us again.
It’s also a reminder to record these moments—keeping a journal of spiritual experiences not only helps us revisit God’s hand in our lives but also prepares us to testify of His goodness when needed. Our past experiences of revelation stand as evidence of God’s love and the consistency of His promises.
Trusting in the Lord’s Timing
Elder Jeffrey R. Holland of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles explained some ways in which Moses’s example can help us to better understand the spirit of revelation:
“Why would the Lord use the example of crossing the Red Sea as the classic example of ‘the spirit of revelation’? Why didn’t He use the First Vision? … Or the vision of the brother of Jared? Well, He could have used any of these, but He didn’t. Here He had another purpose in mind.
“First of all, revelation almost always comes in response to a question, usually an urgent question—not always, but usually. Moses’ challenge was how to get himself and the children of Israel out of [the] horrible predicament they were in. …
“You will need information, too, but in matters of great consequence it is not likely to come unless you want it urgently, faithfully, humbly. Moroni calls it seeking ‘with real intent’ (Moroni 10:4). If you can seek that way, and stay in that mode, not much that the adversary can counter with will dissuade you from a righteous path.
“The Red Sea will open to the honest seeker of revelation. The adversary does have power to hedge up the way, to marshal Pharaoh’s forces and dog our escape right to the water’s edge, but he cannot conquer if we will it otherwise. That is lesson number one about crossing the Red Sea, your Red Seas, by the spirit of revelation.
“In the process of revelation and in making important decisions, fear almost always plays a destructive, sometimes paralyzing role. …
“That is exactly the problem that beset the children of Israel at the edge of the Red Sea. That is lesson number two. It has everything to do with holding fast to earlier illumination. The record says, ‘And when Pharaoh drew nigh, the children of Israel lifted up their eyes, and, behold, the Egyptians marched after them; and they were sore afraid’ (Exodus 14:10).
“… Our faith will be tested as we fight through self-doubts and second thoughts. Some days we will be miraculously led out of Egypt—seemingly free, seemingly on our way—only to come to yet another confrontation, like all that water lying before us. At those times we must resist the temptation to panic and to give up.
“‘And Moses said unto the people, Fear ye not, stand still, and see the salvation of the Lord. … The Lord shall fight for you’ (Exodus 14:13–14).
“Again, that is the second lesson of the spirit of revelation. After you have gotten the message, after you have paid the price to feel His love and hear the word of the Lord, go forward. Don’t fear, don’t vacillate, don’t quibble, don’t whine.
“The third lesson from the Lord’s spirit of revelation in the miracle of the crossing of the Red Sea is that, if God has told you something is right, if something is indeed true for you, He will provide the way for you to accomplish it” (“Remember How You Felt,” New Era, Aug. 2004, 7–8).
Life doesn’t always move at the pace we expect or hope for. Sometimes, no matter how righteous our desires or how earnestly we pray, blessings seem slow to arrive. Yet, as Doctrine and Covenants 6–9 teaches, God’s timing is perfect and far-reaching, even when it’s hard to understand in the present moment. Trusting His timing is an act of faith, requiring patience, humility, and a reliance on His wisdom rather than our own.
Oliver Cowdery’s Desire to Translate
Oliver Cowdery’s story in Doctrine and Covenants 9 is a powerful example of learning to align personal desires with God’s wisdom. Oliver’s intention to assist in bearing the burden of translating the Book of Mormon was righteous and sincere. The Lord acknowledged this and encouraged his faith but also used the experience to gently teach a profound lesson about timing and preparation.
In Doctrine and Covenants 9:3, Oliver is reminded of his important role as scribe, a task the Lord had appointed him to do. Yet, in verses 7–14, he learns why his efforts to translate were not successful: “You took no thought save it was to ask me.” The Lord explains that receiving guidance and inspiration requires effort—Oliver needed to study the matter out in his mind before seeking divine confirmation.
This situation illustrates a key principle: spiritual preparation and effort are essential but so is understanding and trusting when the Lord redirects us. Oliver’s role as a scribe was key to the unfolding of God’s work. His willingness to set aside his personal desire and fulfill the Lord’s plan serves as a reminder that trusting in God’s timing and assignments is part of exercising faith.
Does this seem familiar in your own life? Sometimes, even our best intentions don’t yield the outcomes we expect. It’s not because God doesn’t value our desires, but because He sees the bigger picture. Like Oliver, we’re invited to trust that when the Lord redirects our path, it’s for our ultimate good and His greater purposes.
Faith in God’s Plan
Elder Dallin H. Oaks once counseled about the importance of trusting in the Lord’s wisdom, especially when faced with unfulfilled righteous desires. He explained that while some blessings may be postponed until the next life, faith in God allows us to endure uncertainty and find peace.
Imagine trying to watch a movie by staring at a single frame. Without seeing the whole story, it’s easy to misunderstand what’s happening. God, the ultimate storyteller, sees the full narrative of our lives and designs each chapter with divine precision. Trusting His plan means believing that every detail—even the delays—has a purpose.
When our desires don’t align with immediate outcomes, it can be tempting to doubt or feel forgotten. But Elder Oaks reminds us that faith is not about forcing our will but submitting to His. This trust grows stronger when we focus on what we can control—prayer, obedience, and developing Christlike attributes—while leaving the timing and outcome in His hands.
Is there something in your life that feels like it’s not happening fast enough? Remember, trust isn’t just about waiting; it’s about waiting actively, knowing that God hasn’t forgotten you. He is orchestrating a greater plan than you can see right now. As you place your faith in Him, you’ll find peace in the process, even before the answer comes.
The lessons from Oliver Cowdery and Elder Oaks remind us that, while our mortal perspective can be limited, the Spirit of Revelation helps us align with God’s will and timing. We may not always understand the delays, but we can trust the One who holds the ultimate outcome.
Fear Not, Do Good
When we dive into the scripture Doctrine and Covenants 6:33, the message is simple yet powerful: “Fear not to do good.” It's a reminder that when we act in righteousness, we align ourselves with God’s eternal truths and blessings. However, fear and hesitation often stand in the way. Let’s explore how we can overcome the doubts that keep us from acting and find strength in faith as we strive to “do good.”
Overcoming Hesitation
Fear and doubt can feel paralyzing, especially when prompted to take a step that seems uncertain or intimidating. Spiritual promptings often challenge us to step outside our comfort zones, whether it’s reaching out to serve someone in need, standing firm in our beliefs, or making a life-changing decision. Why do fear and hesitation creep in? They often stem from a worry about failure, rejection, or inadequacy. But fear is not of God. In Doctrine and Covenants 6:34, the Lord asks us to “doubt not, fear not.” This is more than comforting—it’s an invitation to act boldly.
How do we overcome hesitation? Here are some truths to keep close:
- God knows your heart. He doesn’t ask for perfection; He asks for effort. Trust that He equips you with what you need when you need it.
- The Spirit of Revelation provides clarity. When you feel prompted, pray for peace to confirm your decision, as outlined in Doctrine and Covenants 8:2–3. The Spirit will speak to your heart and mind simultaneously, aligning feelings of peace or urgency with confirmation.
- Act in faith. Like planting seeds, good works often take time to bear fruit, but that doesn’t make them any less valuable. Remember the principle: you reap what you sow (Doctrine and Covenants 6:33).
Hesitation fades when we trust in the Lord’s promises. Fear may not disappear entirely, but courage isn’t the absence of fear—it’s taking action despite it.
The Strength Found in Faith
Faith transforms fear into courage. Think of Peter stepping onto the water, walking toward Jesus. He faltered only when his focus shifted to the raging storm instead of the Savior. When our eyes are fixed on Christ, fear loses its grip.
Examples from scripture and personal life remind us that faith propels action:
- Oliver Cowdery’s faith to serve. In Doctrine and Covenants 6–9, Oliver’s journey with personal revelation teaches a crucial lesson: divine guidance doesn’t always come instantly, but it requires faith to seek and act on it. At times, he hesitated in his role as scribe or felt uncertainty while attempting to translate. But each time he showed faith, whether by asking questions or staying open to instruction, the Lord provided the direction he needed.
- Everyday acts of courage. Simple actions count. Holding firm to your convictions in a challenging environment, helping a stranger, or forgiving someone who has wronged you are acts of faith. These may seem small, but they build spiritual strength—one step at a time.
Faith is strengthened through action. It’s a process, like building muscle. The more we trust in the Savior, the more courage we develop. When doubts arise, think of this promise: “If ye sow good, ye shall also reap good” (Doctrine and Covenants 6:33). Every step of trust in the Lord leads to a harvest of blessings.
What fears are holding you back from doing good today? Whatever they are, remember the Savior’s promise: His grace is sufficient, and His Spirit will guide you. With faith and courage, we can put fear aside, act boldly, and embrace the good works He’s asked us to do.
Applying Revelation in Daily Life
Revelation is more than a spiritual gift; it is a practical tool that guides decisions, fosters growth, and connects us to the divine will of God. As emphasized in Doctrine and Covenants 6–9, the Spirit of Revelation isn’t reserved for prophets—it’s meant to be part of the lives of all who seek it earnestly.
Elder M. Russell Ballard of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles emphasized the importance of asking God when we need knowledge and understanding:
“Today we live in a world in which people don’t ask of God—they seem to want to ask of Google. Even when it comes to questions of faith, there are many who trust the Internet to provide accurate, fair, and balanced answers to their questions more than they trust the ultimate source of truth, our Heavenly Father. …
“… Today the Internet is full of those lying in wait to deceive the uninformed and inexperienced.
“In our search for gospel truth, we not only need to find reliable sources but we also need to give the Lord equal time in our daily pursuits. We need to study the scriptures and the words of the Lord’s servants. We need to be living right before God—we need to be doing His will [see John 7:16–17]. And we can never overstate the importance of taking our spiritual concerns directly to God and trusting His inspiration and guidance” (“Women of Dedication, Faith, Determination, and Action” [address given at Brigham Young University Women’s Conference, May 1, 2015], 5–6, womensconference.ce.byu.edu/transcripts).
But how can we apply this gift in our everyday lives? Let’s explore actionable ways to integrate revelation into daily living with faith and purpose.
Keeping a Record of Spiritual Experiences
One of the simplest yet most profound ways to apply revelation is by writing it down. Inspired insights can slip away like morning dew if we don’t capture them. Doctrine and Covenants 6:22–23 teaches that the Lord often reminds us of moments when He has spoken peace to our minds, but having these moments recorded makes it much easier to revisit and reflect.
Keeping a spiritual journal can bless your life in several ways:
- Reflection: Writing down revelations allows you to recognize patterns in how God communicates with you.
- Growth: Reviewing past insights can provide clarity and confidence in facing new challenges.
- Testimony Building: Written accounts of God’s guidance can strengthen your testimony and provide a foundation for sharing it with others.
Try setting aside a few minutes daily to jot down thoughts, impressions, or feelings that stood out during prayer or scripture study. Over time, you’ll find these notes becoming a personal treasure—a map of God’s hand in your life.
Combining Effort with Faith
Revelation doesn’t often come without preparation. As Doctrine and Covenants 9:8–9 teaches, we’re expected to “study it out” in our minds before asking for divine confirmation. This principle highlights the delicate balance between effort and faith.
Here’s how you can combine action with spiritual reliance:
- Study: Dive into the scriptures or relevant material related to your concern or decision.
- Ponder: Take time to meditate on what you’ve learned, considering possible solutions or outcomes.
- Act: Begin moving forward based on what feels right, trusting that the Spirit will guide your next steps.
Think of this process like building a bridge. Your efforts lay down the planks, and faith provides the structure to support them. God expects us to contribute our part, showing Him that we’re ready to receive His guidance. This pattern ensures that when the answers come, they’re more meaningful and tailored to the path you’re already walking.
Creating Environments for Revelation
Revelation thrives in places of peace and stillness. Modern life is often noisy and distracting, making it challenging to recognize the subtle voice of the Spirit. Doctrine and Covenants 8:2–3 reminds us that the Holy Ghost speaks to both heart and mind—requiring us to create conditions that make His voice easier to hear.
Consider the environments you can create to invite revelation:
- Designate a sacred space: This could be a quiet corner in your home reserved for prayer, study, and reflection.
- Establish routines of stillness: Regular moments of silence (whether during the morning or nighttime) help clear mental clutter and prepare you to listen.
- Minimize digital distractions: Limit unnecessary screen time, especially when seeking answers or pondering deeply spiritual questions.
Imagine trying to tune into a radio station with static interference—you might catch glimpses of the message, but it’s fragmented and unclear. A peaceful environment works like fine-tuning the dial, allowing the Spirit’s voice to come in loud and clear.
By keeping a record, combining effort with faith, and creating welcoming environments for revelation, you align yourself with the process outlined in Doctrine and Covenants. These daily habits make it possible to access God’s wisdom and feel His personal love guiding your life.
Conclusion
Doctrine and Covenants 6–9 offers timeless guidance on seeking personal revelation and trusting in the Lord’s timing. Through examples like Oliver Cowdery’s journey, we learn that revelation comes as we prepare spiritually, act with faith, and remain humble to God’s will. The Spirit of Revelation is not reserved for prophets—it's available to everyone who earnestly seeks it.
As you study these chapters, take the invitation seriously to ask, reflect, and act. Trust that the Lord will guide you in His perfect way, imparting clarity and peace through the Holy Ghost. What steps can you take today to create space for divine guidance in your life?
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