522. Prayers are to contain expressions of gratitude.
523. We are to pray for forgiveness of our sins.
525. Through prayer we can receive divine direction concerning whatever we seek to undertake.
526. The Spirit of God is received through the prayer of faith.
527. We are to pray for our family members.
528. We are to pray for our neighbors, for the welfare of those around us.
529. We are to pray for the sick.
530. We are to pray for the sinful person.
531. We are to pray for our enemies.
532. We are to pray for a testimony of the gospel.
533. We are to pray for our own spiritual welfare.
534. We are to pray that we can conquer Satan.
535. We are to pray for help to resist temptation.
536. In times of sorrow and affliction we are to pray for help from the Lord.
537. We are to pray for what is right—for what is in accord with the will of God.
538. The Holy Ghost enables a person who prays to ask according to the will of God.
539. We are to pray for those who have religious authority over us.
540. We are to pray for those who have civil authority over us.
541. In our prayers we are to dedicate ourselves and all that we have to God.
542. Through prayer we can obtain protection from peril.
543. Through prayer we can receive knowledge of divine truth (the mysteries of God).
522. Prayers are to contain expressions of gratitude.
A prayer is not complete unless gratitude for blessings is expressed. It is by the power of the Lord that we live and move and have our being. This should be frankly stated gratefully as we pray to our Father in Heaven. (Evidences and Reconciliations, 1:313) MGSP:8
And ye must give thanks unto God in the Spirit for whatsoever blessing ye are blessed with. (Revelation, March 8, 1831) D&C 46:32
Thou shalt thank the Lord thy God in all things. (Revelation, Aug. 7, 1831) D&C 59:7
The young man who closes the door behind him, who draws the curtains, and there in silence pleads with God for help, should first pour out his soul in gratitude for health, for friends, for loved ones, for the gospel, for the manifestations of God's existence. He should first count his many blessings and name them one by one. CR1961Apr:7-8
quoted by Mormon
Counsel with the Lord in all thy doings, and he will direct thee for good; yea, when thou liest down at night lie down unto the Lord, that he may watch over you in your sleep; and when thou risest in the morning let thy heart be full of thanks unto God; and if ye do these things, ye shall be lifted up at the last day. (Alma instructs his son Helaman, about 73 B.C.) Alma 37:37
quoted by Mormon
And now I would that ye should be humble, and be submissive and gentle; easy to be entreated; full of patience and long-suffering; being temperate in all things; being diligent in keeping the commandments of God at all times; asking for whatsoever things ye stand in need, both spiritual and temporal; always returning thanks unto God for whatsoever things ye do receive. (Alma to the people in Gideon, about 83 B.C.) Alma 7:23
For whom and what should we pray? We should express gratitude for past blessings. . . . (Faith Precedes the Miracle, p. 202) TLDP:485-86
In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you. (Paul's letter to the Church at Thessalonica, comprising Jews and many pagan converts, A.D. 50) 1Thess. 5:18
The prayerful and humble man will always realize and feel that he is dependent upon the Lord for every blessing that he enjoys, and in praying to God he will not only pray for the light and the inspiration of His Holy Spirit to guide him, but he will feel to thank Him for the blessings that he receives, realizing that life, that health, that strength, and that all the intelligence which he possesses come from God, who is the Author of his existence. ("Personal and Family Prayer," IE1942Dec:779) TLDP:489
quoted by Mormon
And behold also, if I, whom ye call your king, who has spent his days in your service, and yet has been in the service of God, do merit any thanks from you, O how you ought to thank your heavenly King 20. I say unto you, my brethren, that if you should render all the thanks and praise which your whole soul has power to possess, to that God who has created you, and has kept and preserved you, and has caused that ye should rejoice, and has granted that ye should live in peace one with another—
21. I say unto you that if ye should serve him who has created you from the beginning, and is preserving you from day to day, by lending you breath, that ye may live and move and do according to your own will, and even supporting you from one moment to another—I say, if ye should serve him with all your whole souls yet ye would be unprofitable servants. (King Benjamin addresses his people, about 124 B.C.) Mosiah 2:19-21
Frequently, prayers are requests for specific blessings. They may, however, and should, include expressions of thanksgiving, praise, worship, and adoration. CR1978Apr:73
O give thanks unto the LORD; call upon his name: make known his deeds among the people.
2. Sing unto him, sing psalms unto him: talk ye of all his wondrous works.
3. Glory ye in his holy name: let the heart of them rejoice that seek the LORD.
4. Seek the LORD, and his strength: seek his face evermore.
5. Remember his marvellous works that he hath done; his wonders, and the judgments of his mouth; Psalms 105:1-5
You show knowledge is valued by expressing appreciation for it, especially in heartfelt prayers of gratitude. The Lord said: “He who receiveth all things with thankfulness shall be made glorious; and the things of this earth shall be added unto him, even an hundred fold, yea, more” (D&C 78:19). (CR 1993Oct; Acquiring Spiritual Knowledge, Ensign, November 1993, p.86)
Related Witnesses:
[Thanks for Life and Hope of Eternal Life:] Then, in thanking the Lord for the blessings of mortal life, and the hope of immortality and eternal life, we might properly say such things as:
Father, we thank thee for life itself, for this mortal probation in which we as pilgrims, far from our heavenly home, are gaining experiences that could be gained in no other way. We thank thee that thou didst ordain and establish the great and eternal plan of salvation whereby we, as thy spirit children, are given power, if faithful and true in all things, to advance and progress and become like thee. CR1984Apr:45
[Thanks for Restoration of the Gospel:] With reference to the restoration of the glorious gospel in our day, prayers might include expressions along these lines:
And now, O thou God of our Fathers, we are grateful and rejoice in what thou hast done for us in our day.
With all our hearts we thank thee for the restoration of the gospel; that the voice of God is heard again; that the heavens, long sealed, have been rent; that holy angels, bringing priesthoods and keys and light and truth, now minster among us.
We stand in reverent awe at the realization that thou and thy Beloved Son came to Joseph Smith in the spring of 1820 to usher in the dispensation of the fulness of times.
We marvel that thou didst send Moroni to reveal the Book of Mormon; Moses to empower us to gather Israel from the Egypt of the world into the Zion of God; and Elijah to confer upon us the power to bind on earth and have our acts sealed everlastingly in the heavens.
How grateful we are that Elias brought back the gospel of Abraham, so that we, as children of the covenant, might have a continuation of the family unit in eternity. CR1984Apr:45
[Thanks for the Atonement of Christ:] We thank thee for sending thy Holy Son Jesus to be the Savior and Redeemer; to put into full operation all of the terms and conditions of thy great and eternal plan of salvation; to save us from death, hell, the devil, and endless torment.
O how we glory in him and in his blessed name, rejoicing everlastingly that he has ransomed us from temporal and spiritual death; that he is the one Mediator between us and thee; that he has reconciled us unto thee, not imputing unto us our sins, but healing us with his stripes.
We thank thee, O our Father, that thou gavest thine Only Begotten Son so that we, believing in him, shall not perish, but have everlasting life; that he, amid the blood and agonies of Gethsemane, and the blood and cruelties of Calvary, bore our sins on condition of repentance. CR1984Apr:45
523. We are to pray for forgiveness of our sins.
The formula of forgiveness is plainly set forth in the scriptures. First, men must forsake their sins. Then they must confess to the Lord and also to those against whom they have sinned, asking for forgiveness. Grievous sins which affect the standing in the Church should be made known to the bishop of the ward. One of the important factors in our escape from sin is the matter of making restitution to those against whom we have sinned. This we should do so far as it is within our power—the Lord expects we must also be willing to forgive other people who have offended us and finally we must press forward in doing the works of righteousness for the rest of our lives. (Your Faith and You, pp. 92-93) TLDP:205
recorded in Luke
And he said unto them, When ye pray, say, Our Father which art in heaven, Hallowed be thy name. Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done, as in heaven, so in earth. 3. Give us day by day our daily bread.
4. And forgive us our sins; for we also forgive every one that is indebted to us. (Jesus teaches his disciples the Lord's Prayer and teaches the efficacy of prayer) Luke 11:2-4
quoted by Mormon
After this manner therefore pray ye: Our Father who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name. 10. Thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven. 11. And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors. (The resurrected Jesus teaches the Nephites the Lord's Prayer, A.D. 34) 3 Nephi 13:9-11
quoted by John A. Widtsoe
When you get up in the morning, before you suffer yourselves to eat one mouthful of food, call your wife and children together, bow down before the Lord, ask him to forgive your sins, and protect you through the day, to preserve you from temptation and all evil, to guide your steps aright, that you may do something that day that shall be beneficial to the Kingdom of God on the earth. Have you time to do this? Elders, sisters, have you time to pray? (In Tabernacle, Ogden, Utah, May 26, 1872, JD15:36) DBY:44
When responsibility is accepted and the urgency to repent is felt, the question may come, “Where do I start?” Each life is unique. But for all, repentance will surely include passing through the portal of humble prayer. Our Father in Heaven can allow us to feel fully the conviction of our sins. He knows the depths of our remorse. He can then direct what we must do to qualify for forgiveness. For serious sin, we will need to confess to a judge in Israel and accept his guidance. Prayer alone will in that case not be enough. But for all of us, whatever the gravity of our sins, prayer will open the door to repentance and forgiveness. Without earnest prayer, repentance and cleansing are not possible. When the door is opened by prayer, there is possibility for peace. (CR 1999Oct; Do Not Delay, Ensign, November 1999, p.33)
Related Witnesses:
If we say that we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us. 9. If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.
10. If we say that we have not sinned, we make him a liar, and his word is not in us. (Letter to the churches in Asia) 1 John 1:8-10
We confess our sins before thee and seek remission thereof, lest anything stand between us and thee in receiving a free flow of thy Spirit. CR1984Apr:46
[Enos ] writes:
"and all the day long did I cry unto him;"
Here is no casual prayer; no worn phrases; no momentary appeal by silent lips. All the day long, with seconds turning into minutes, and minutes into hours and hours. But when the sun had set, relief had still not come, for repentance is not a single act nor forgiveness an unearned gift. So precious to him was communication with and approval of his Redeemer that his determined soul pressed on without ceasing.
"yea, and when the night came I did still raise my voice high that it reached the heavens." (Enos 4)
Could the Redeemer resist such determined imploring? How many have thus persisted? How many, with or without serious transgressions, have ever prayed all day and into the night? Have many ever wept and prayed for ten hours? for five hours? for one? for thirty minutes? for ten? Our praying is usually measured in seconds and yet with a heavy debt to pay we still expect forgiveness of our sins. We offer pennies to pay the debt of thousands of dollars. (Faith Precedes the Miracle, p. 211) TLDP:481
quoted by Mormon
And my soul hungered; and I kneeled down before my Maker, and I cried unto him in mighty prayer and supplication for mine own soul; and all the day long did I cry unto him; yea, and when the night came I did still raise my voice high that it reached the heavens.
5. And there came a voice unto me, saying: Enos, thy sins are forgiven thee, and thou shalt be blessed. (Enos prays mightily and gains a remission of sins, 544-421 B.C.) Enos 1:4-5
And it came to pass that I did frankly forgive them all that they had done, and I did exhort them that they would pray unto the Lord their God for forgiveness. And it came to pass that they did so. And after they had done praying unto the Lord we did again travel on our journey towards the tent of our father. (Nephi forgives his brethren who had bound him with cords, about 600-592 B.C.) 1 Nephi 7:21
In consequence of these things, I often felt condemned for my weakness and imperfections; when, on the evening of the above-mentioned twenty-first of September, after I had retired to my bed for the night, I betook myself to prayer and supplication to Almighty God for forgiveness of all my sins and follies, and also for a manifestation to me, that I might know of my state and standing before him; for I had full confidence in obtaining a divine manifestation, as I previously had one. (Joseph relates the angel Moroni's visit to him, Sept. 21, 1823) JS-H 1:29
Author's Note: Sins are not forgiven solely through prayer but following appropriate repentance. As stated by Francis M. Lyman:
"The forgiveness of sins is predicated upon faith in God, repentance and reformation and baptism. Sins are not forgiven through the payment of tithing, nor through the partaking of the sacrament, nor observing the Word of Wisdom, or prayer. There are blessings attached to each of these important requirements of the Gospel; but if a man would have his sins forgiven, and be allowed to enter into the Church, he must have faith in God, and in his Son Jesus Christ, and in the Holy Ghost, he must repent of all his sins, turn unto the Lord with full purpose of heart and sin no more. Then God will forgive him and redeem him from his sins; but not by paying tithing. . . . But we want our names recorded in the Lamb's Book of Life, and it is not done by the observance of any one principle alone, but to every principle there are special blessings promised." (CR1899Oct:34)
524. It is appropriate to pray for our temporal needs: asking for the blessing of God upon all we possess and upon all our labors.
We pray for everything that is needed and dignified and proper. I heard a boy about fourteen years of age in family prayer imploring the Lord to protect the family sheep upon the hill. It was snowing and bitterly cold. I heard a family pray for rain when a severe drought was on and conditions were desperate. (Faith Precedes the Miracle, p. 206) TLDP:485-86
quoted by Mormon
Yea, humble yourselves, and continue in prayer unto him.
20. Cry unto him when ye are in your fields, yea, over all your flocks.
21. Cry unto him in your houses, yea, over all your household, both morning, mid-day, and evening.
22. Yea, cry unto him against the power of your enemies.
23. Yea, cry unto him against the devil, who is an enemy to all righteousness.
24. Cry unto him over the crops of your fields, that ye may prosper in them.
25. Cry over the flocks of your fields, that they may increase. (Amulek teaches the people to pray, about 74 B.C.) Alma 34:19-25
As for our temporal needs, I would feel no hesitancy in saying such things as: . . .
We need food, clothing, and shelter; we need schooling and proper employment; we need wisdom in our business and professional enterprises.
Grant us according to our needs, giving us neither poverty nor riches, but feeding us with food convenient for us. CR1984Apr:46
quoted by Elder Joseph Fielding Smith
We would say to the brethren, seek to know God in your closets, call upon him in the fields. Follow the directions of the Book of Mormon, and pray over, and for your families, your cattle, your flocks, your herds, your corn, and all things that you possess; ask the blessing of God upon all your labors, and everything that you engage in. (Times and Seasons, June 1842) HC5:31; TPJS:247; DGSM:33
If faithful, we have a right to claim the blessings of the Lord upon the labor of our hands, our temporal labors. The farmer has a right to ask the Lord for blessings upon his farm, upon the labor that he bestows upon it. He has a right to claim the blessings of the Lord upon the animals that are necessary to the cultivation of his farm. He has a right to ask God to bless the grain that he sows and the seeds of the fruit that he plants in the soil. It is his privilege, not only to ask and claim these blessings at the hand of the Lord, but it is his right and privilege to receive blessings from God upon his labor, upon his farm, and upon all that he puts his hand unto in righteousness. It is our privilege to ask God to remove the curse from the earth, and to make it fruitful. If we will live so that we shall be entitled to his favor, and so that we may justly and righteously claim the blessings and gifts that he has promised unto his Saints, then that which we ask will be given, and we shall receive and enjoy them more abundantly. It is our privilege to ask God to bless the elements that surround us and to temper them for our good, and we know he will hear and answer the prayers of his people, according to their faith. CR1898Apr:9-10
Related Witnesses:
And there had been murders, and contentions, and dissensions, and all manner of iniquity among the people of Nephi; nevertheless for the righteous' sake, yea, because of the prayers of the righteous, they were spared. (Writing about the condition of the Nephites, 60 B.C.) Alma 62:40
Elias was a man subject to like passions as we are, and he prayed earnestly that it might not rain: and it rained not on the earth by the space of three years and six months.
18. And he prayed again, and the heaven gave rain, and the earth brought forth her fruit. (James writes to his brethren in the Church) James 5:17-18
And it came to pass that so great were their afflictions that they began to cry mightily to God.
11. And Amulon commanded them that they should stop their cries; and he put guards over them to watch them, that whosoever should be found calling upon God should be put to death.
12. And Alma and his people did not raise their voices to the Lord their God, but did pour out their hearts to him; and he did know the thoughts of their hearts.
13. And it came to pass that the voice of the Lord came to them in their afflictions, saying: Lift up your heads and be of good comfort, for I know of the covenant which ye have made unto me; and I will covenant with my people and deliver them out of bondage.
14. And I will also ease the burdens which are put upon your shoulders, that even you cannot feel them upon your backs, even while you are in bondage; and this will I do that ye may stand as witnesses for me hereafter, and that ye may know of a surety that I, the Lord God, do visit my people in their afflictions. . . .
21. Yea, and in the valley of Alma they poured out their thanks to God because he had been merciful unto them, and eased their burdens, and had delivered them out of bondage; for they were in bondage, and none could deliver them except it were the Lord their God.
22. And they gave thanks to God, yea, all their men and all their women and all their children that could speak lifted their voices in the praises of their God. (Amulon puts taskmasters over Alma —the converted priest of King Noah—and his people; the Lord delivers them from bondage, 145-121 B.C.) Mosiah 24:10-14,21-22
525. Through prayer we can receive divine direction concerning whatever we seek to undertake.
quoted by Mormon
Counsel with the Lord in all thy doings, and he will direct thee for good; yea, when thou liest down at night lie down unto the Lord, that he may watch over you in your sleep; and when thou risest in the morning let thy heart be full of thanks unto God; and if ye do these things, ye shall be lifted up at the last day. (Alma instructs his son Helaman, about 73 B.C.) Alma 37:37
If there should come a problem as to what kind of business a man should be engaged in, whether he should invest in this matter or that, whether he should marry this girl or marry that girl, where he should marry, and how he should marry, when it comes to the prosecuting of the work to which we are assigned, how much more certainly would those decisions be made, if always we recalled that all we do, and the decisions we make, should be made with that eternal goal in mind, with an eye single to the ultimate glory of man in the celestial world.
If all our selfish motives, then, and all our personal desires, and expediency, would be subordinated to a desire to know the will of the Lord, one could have the companionship of heavenly vision. If your problems be too great for human intelligence or too much for human strength, you too, if you are faithful and appeal rightly unto the source of divine power, might have standing by you in your hour of peril or great need an angel of God, whose you are and whom you serve. One who lives thus worthy of a testimony that God lives and that Jesus is the Christ, and who is willing to reach out to him in constant inquiry to know if his course is approved is the one who is living life to its full abundance here, and is preparing for the celestial world, which is to live eternally with his Heavenly Father. CR1946Oct:146
quoted by Elder Joseph Fielding Smith
We would say to the brethren . . . ask the blessing of God upon all your labors, and everything that you engage in. (Times and Seasons, June 1842) HC5:31; TPJS:247; DGSM:33
We pray for help in carrying out our church callings. (Faith Precedes the Miracle, p. 207) TLDP:485-86
All over this land there are thousands and tens of thousands of students who are struggling to get an education. In the Church, let us teach these students that if they want to succeed in their lessons, they should seek their God; that the greatest Teacher known to the world stands near to guide them. Once the student feels that he can approach the Lord through prayer, he will receive confidence that he can get his lessons, that he can write his speech, that he can stand up before his fellow students and deliver his message without fear of failure. Confidence comes through sincere prayer.
. . . . It is not imagination, if we approach God sincerely seeking light and guidance from him, our minds will be enlightened and our souls thrilled by his Spirit. Washington sought it; Lincoln received it; Joseph Smith knew it; and the testimony, the evidence of the Prophet Joseph's inspiration is manifest to all who will but open their eyes to see and their hearts to understand. CR1961Apr:8
It is so satisfying to know that God is mindful of us and ready to respond when we place our trust in Him. There is no place for fear among men and women who place their trust in the Almighty, who do not hesitate to humble themselves in seeking divine guidance through prayer. Though difficulties may arise and reverses may come, in our prayers we can find reassurance as the Lord speaks peace to our souls. (CR 1993Apr; Back to Gospel Basics, Ensign, May 1993, p.90)
Related Witnesses:
[W]e have pleaded long and earnestly in behalf of these, our faithful brethren, spending many hours in the Upper Room of the Temple supplicating the Lord for divine guidance.
10. He has heard our prayers, and by revelation has confirmed that the long-promised day has come when every faithful, worthy man in the Church may receive the holy priesthood, with power to exercise its divine authority, and enjoy with his loved ones every blessing that flows therefrom, including the blessings of the temple. (On Sept. 30, 1978, at a general conference of the Church, President N. Eldon Tanner presented—and it was accepted by the Saints assembled as revelation—what is now known as "Official Declaration 2," from which this excerpt is taken) Official Declaration 2:9-10
As to personal blessings that prepare us for salvation, our thoughts might be couched in expressions along this line:
Bless us in our families that husbands and wives may love each other and cleave unto each other; that parents may bring up their children in light and truth; that children, thus brought up in the nurture and admonition of the Lord, may honor their fathers and their mothers by living as their righteous ancestors lived.
O Father, there are those among us, not a few in number, who desire and are worthy to have eternal companions. Wilt thou prepare the way before them that they may have the desires of their hearts in righteousness. . . .
O Father we rejoice in the gifts of the Spirit and seek them in greater abundance. Let testimony and revelation and visions and miracles multiply among us.
Let us know the wonders of eternity, even those things which eye has not seen, nor ear heard, nor have yet entered into the heart of man. CR1984Apr:46-47
526. The Spirit of God is received through the prayer of faith.
Prayer is the key that opens the door to the Spirit of the Lord. The Lord told us in this dispensation, when the Church was very young, that we were to pray always that we would be conquerors. He told the Prophet Joseph to "pray always, . . . that you may conquer Satan, and that you may escape the hands of the servants of Satan that do uphold his work." (D&C 10:5) ACR(Taipei)1975:7
receiving the Word of the Lord
Pray always, and I will pour out my Spirit upon you, and great shall be your blessing—yea, even more than if you should obtain treasures of earth and corruptibleness to the extent thereof. (A commandment of God for Martin Harris, March 1830) D&C 19:38
And the Spirit shall be given unto you by the prayer of faith; and if ye receive not the Spirit ye shall not teach. (Revelation, Feb. 9, 1831) D&C 42:14
receiving the Word of the Lord
Draw near unto me and I will draw near unto you; seek me diligently and ye shall find me; ask, and ye shall receive; knock, and it shall be opened unto you.
64. Whatsoever ye ask the Father in my name it shall be given unto you, that is expedient for you; . . . (Revelation, Dec. 27/28, 1832) D&C 88:63-64
Do not forget to call upon the Lord in your family circles, dedicating yourselves and all you have to God every day of your lives; and seek to do right, and cultivate the spirit of union and love, and the peace and blessing of the Living God will be with us, and He will lead us in the paths of life; and we shall be sustained and upheld by all the holy angels and the ancient patriarchs and men of God, and the veil will become thinner between us and our God, and we will approach nearer to him, and our souls will magnify the Lord of hosts. (In Tabernacle, Provo, Utah, Nov. 30, 1879, JD20:361) MPSG1983:128
It is not imagination, if we approach God sincerely seeking light and guidance from him, our minds will be enlightened and our souls thrilled by his Spirit. Washington sought it; Lincoln received it; Joseph Smith knew it; and the testimony, the evidence of the Prophet Joseph's inspiration is manifest to all who will but open their eyes to see and their hearts to understand. CR1961Apr:8
Related Witnesses:
Let him that is ignorant learn wisdom by humbling himself and calling upon the Lord his God, that his eyes may be opened that he may see, and his ears opened that he may hear;
33. For my Spirit is sent forth into the world to enlighten the humble and contrite, and to the condemnation of the ungodly. (Revelation received Jan. 14, 1847) D&C 136:32-33
quoted by Mormon
I perceive that ye are weak, that ye cannot understand all my words which I am commanded of the Father to speak unto you at this time.
3. Therefore, go ye unto your homes, and ponder upon the things which I have said, and ask of the Father, in my name, that ye may understand, and prepare your minds for the morrow, and I come unto you again. (The resurrected Jesus directs the people to pray for understanding, A.D. 34) 3 Nephi 17:2-3
527. We are to pray for our family members.
We pray for our own family members, their incomings and outgoings, their travels, their work, and all pertaining to them. When children pray audibly for their brothers and sisters, it is likely that quarreling and conflicts and jarrings will be lessened. (Faith Precedes the Miracle, p. 204) TLDP:485-86
quoted by Mormon
Cry unto him in your houses, yea, over all your household, both morning, mid-day, and evening. . . .
27. Yea, and when you do not cry unto the Lord, let your hearts be full, drawn out in prayer unto him continually for your welfare, and also for the welfare of those who are around you. (Amulek teaches the people to pray, about 74 B.C.) Alma 34:21,27
We pray for loved ones, the sick, and those in need. We pray for the frustrated, the disturbed, the sinful. ("Prayer," New Era, March 1978, p. 15) MPSG1983:130
quoted by Mormon
Pray in your families unto the Father, always in my name, that your wives and your children may be blessed. (The resurrected Jesus commands the Nephite people to pray, A.D. 34) 3 Nephi 18:21
If children pray for their parents, it makes them more appreciative of their parents, and as they pray for one another, they feel closer to one another and part of each other, especially as they realize that they are talking to their Father in heaven while on their knees in family or secret prayer. Then is when we forget our differences and think of the best in others, and pray for their well-being and for strength to overcome our own weaknesses. There is no doubt that we are better people when we try to tune in to the Spirit of our Father in heaven so that we might communicate with him and express our desire to do his will as we pray for his blessings. CR1967Oct:55-56
quoted by Elder Joseph Fielding Smith
Follow the directions of the Book of Mormon, and pray over, and for your families, your cattle, your flocks, your herds, your corn, and all things that you possess; ask the blessing of God upon all your labors, and everything that you engage in. (Times and Seasons, June 1842) TPJS:247; DGSM:33
528. We are to pray for our neighbors, for the welfare of those around us.
quoted by Mormon
[L]et your hearts be full, drawn out in prayer unto him continually for your welfare, and also for the welfare of those who are around you.
28. And now behold, my beloved brethren, I say unto you, do not suppose that this is all; for after ye have done all these things, if ye turn away the needy, and the naked, and visit not the sick and afflicted, and impart of your substance, if ye have, to those who stand in need—I say unto you, if ye do not any of these things, behold, your prayer is vain, and availeth you nothing, and ye are as hypocrites who do deny the faith.
29. Therefore, if ye do not remember to be charitable, ye are as dross, which the refiners do cast out, (it being of no worth) and is trodden under foot of men. (Amulek teaches the people to pray and to be charitable, about 74 B.C.) Alma 34:27-29
Confess your faults one to another, and pray one for another, that ye may be healed. The effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much. (James writes to his brethren in the Church) James 5:16
We pray for loved ones, the sick, and those in need. We pray for the frustrated, the disturbed, the sinful. ("Prayer," New Era, March 1978, p. 15) MPSG1983:130
Related Witnesses:
The nearer we get to our heavenly Father, the more we are disposed to look with compassion on perishing souls; we feel that we want to take them upon our shoulders, and cast their sins behind our backs. . . . If you would have God have mercy on you, have mercy on one another. (In Relief Society meeting, at the Grove, Nauvoo, Ill., June 9, 1842) HC5:24
529. We are to pray for the sick.
And the prayer of faith shall save the sick, and the Lord shall raise him up; and if he have committed sins, they shall be forgiven him.
16. Confess your faults one to another, and pray one for another, that ye may be healed. The effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much. (James writes to his brethren in the Church) James 5:15-16
We pray for loved ones, the sick, and those in need. We pray for the frustrated, the disturbed, the sinful. ("Prayer," New Era, March 1978, p. 15) MPSG1983:130
Our petitions are also for the sick and afflicted. The Lord will hear our sincere prayers. He may not always heal them, but he may give them peace or courage or strength to bear up. We do not forget in our prayers the folks who need blessings almost more than the physically imperfect—the frustrated and confused people, the tempted, the sinful, the disturbed. . . . (Faith Precedes the Miracle, p. 206) TLDP:485-86
quoted by John A. Widtsoe
Parents, have you ever noticed that your children have exercised faith for you when you have been sick? The little daughter, seeing you sick, will lift her heart with a pure, angelic-like prayer to heaven; and disease is rebuked when that kind of faith is exercised. God bless the children I pray that they may live and be reared up in righteousness, that God may have a people that will spread and establish one universal reign of peace, and possess the powers of the world to come. (In Bowery, July 8, 1860, JD8:117) DBY:206
Related Witnesses:
recorded in Matthew
Howbeit this kind goeth not out but by prayer and fasting. (Jesus heals a lunatic boy and teaches his disciples the principle of faith) Matthew 17:21
O Father, there are those among us who are sick and afflicted, who suffer from disease, and who are not appointed unto death. O thou Great Physician, pour out thy healing power upon thy Saints.
O Lord, increase our faith, and let the sick be healed and the dead raised even in greater numbers than at present.
But above this, O thou God of healing, wilt thou cause him who came with healing in his wings also to heal us spiritually. CR1984Apr:46
Author's Note: Examples of prayer for the sick in early latter-day Church history recorded by Joseph Smith:
"Six, p.m., I met with my Brother Hyrum, William Law, Newel K. Whitney, and Willard Richards in my private room, where we had a season of prayer for Brother Law's little daughter, who was sick, and Emma, who was somewhat better." (HC6:31)
"Thursday,
12.—Prayer-meeting in my room. We prayed for William Mark s, who was sick." (HC6:54)
"Sunday,
3.—I arrived at the assembly room and found all present: except Hyrum and his wife. He had slipped and turned his knee joint backward, and sprained the large muscle of his leg, and I had been ministering unto him. Emma had been unwell during the night. . . . We also prayed for Nathan Pratt, who was very sick, Hyrum, and others. I afterwards instructed them in the things of the Priesthood." (HC6:98)
"A prayer-meeting held this evening in the assembly room. I was not present. Brigham Young presided. Several sick persons were prayed for." (HC6:108)
"Prayer-meeting in the assembly room. Prayed for Sister Richards and others, who were sick." (HC6:211)
"President Rigdon offered an affectionate appeal for the prayers of the Saints on behalf of the sick, and then prayer by Elder George J. Adams." (HC6:297)
"Prayer meeting in the evening; the brethren prayed for the sick. . . ." (HC6:346)
530. We are to pray for the sinful person.
We pray for loved ones, the sick, and those in need. We pray for the frustrated, the disturbed, the sinful. ("Prayer," New Era, March 1978, p. 15) MPSG1983:130
One of the most pleasing scenes that can transpire on earth, is, when a sin has been committed by one person against another, to forgive that sin: and then, according to the sublime and perfect pattern of the Savior, pray to our Father in heaven, to forgive also. ("A Friendly Hint to Missouri," Times and Seasons, March 15, 1844, p. 473) TLDP:206
We do not forget in our prayers the folks who need blessings almost more than the physically imperfect—the frustrated and confused people, the tempted, the sinful, the disturbed. . . . (Faith Precedes the Miracle, p. 206) TLDP:485-86
recorded in Matthew
But I say unto you, Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you; . . . (Jesus teaches the multitude to love their enemies) Matthew 5:44
Related Witnesses:
Therefore the people came to Moses, and said, We have sinned, for we have spoken against the LORD, and against thee; pray unto the LORD, that he take away the serpents from us. And Moses prayed for the people. (Israel in the wilderness is plagued with fiery serpents) Numbers 21:7
531. We are to pray for our enemies.
recorded in Matthew
But I say unto you, Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you; . . . (Jesus teaches the multitude to love their enemies) Matthew 5:44
We pray for our enemies. This will soften our hearts, and perhaps theirs, and we may better seek good in them. And this prayer should not be confined to national enemies but should extend to neighbors, members of the family, and all with whom we have differences. . . . (Faith Precedes the Miracle, p. 203) TLDP:485-86
quoted by Mormon
But behold I say unto you, love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them who despitefully use you and persecute you;
45. That ye may be the children of your Father who is in heaven; for he maketh his sun to rise on the evil and on the good. (The resurrected Jesus Christ teaches the Nephite people, A.D. 34) 3 Nephi 12:44-45
Related Witnesses:
quoted by Mormon
And after I, Enos, had heard these words, my faith began to be unshaken in the Lord; and I prayed unto him with many long strugglings for my brethren, the Lamanites. (The voice of the Lord comes into Enos ' mind in response to an earnest prayer for his enemies, the Lamanites, 544-421 B.C.) Enos 1:11
532. We are to pray for a testimony of the gospel.
But even with all this, the prime element of any conversion is personal prayer. When a person gets down on his or her knees and prays to Heavenly Father about the message that he or she has heard, that's when conversion really starts to take place. There cannot be conversion without prayer, without recognition of a power higher than our own. Until a person comes to the point where he or she desires to really communicate with our eternal Heavenly Father, conversion will always be elusive. But it can be conclusive once powerful, personal prayer takes place. In a sense, our role through all of our exposures and introductions of the Church to others through member missionaries, books, magazines, films, lessons, meetings, etc., is simply to stimulate individuals to receive personal revelation from our Heavenly Father. Once that happens, all the rest falls into place. ("Status Report on Missionary Work," EN1977Oct:14) TLDP:486
I thought this morning that I would refer to the question of prayer, for it is so vital to a man and woman, no matter what position they hold, in order that they may maintain a testimony, if they have one, of the Gospel of Jesus Christ; and if they haven't yet that testimony, I know of no better way in all the world to receive it than to plead with our Heavenly Father that it may be granted unto them. I know whereof I speak, because it was only through the humiliation of my soul and the prayers ascending to my God, at the request of the mother who gave me birth, that I received a testimony that this is God's work; and every prediction made by the servants of God in any age since it was established upon this earth, shall be fulfilled. CR1932Oct:85
Prayer is to the soul like the irrigating stream to our dry and parched fields and orchards. Prayer nourishes, strengthens and imparts vitality to the seed. The seed grows under the influence of prayer. But where prayer is neglected, the results are just as we see them when we neglect to irrigate our fields and orchards. That which is planted there begins to wither and dry up.
So it is with the word of God in the human soul; it must be watered by the Spirit of God. Prayer must be exercised in order to invoke the power and blessing of God to rest upon it. Then the seed grows; the tree grows and florishes; its branches spread abroad and fill the whole man, and he knows that it is the word of God that he has received. He has a living and abiding testimony in his heart concerning it, and doubt has no room within him. But let him neglect his prayers, let him neglect to cultivate the seed and to watch over it, then it begins to wither, and he begins to doubt and to ask himself whether this is indeed the work of God. (Gospel Truth, 1:345) TLDP:484-85
Whoever in absolute desire to know the truth places himself in harmony with divine forces and approaches God in humble prayer, with full surrender of inherited or acquired prejudices, will learn to his complete satisfaction that there is a God in Heaven, whose loving will is operative on earth. ("The Articles of Faith," IE1935May:288) TLDP:490
Related Witnesses:
Those who live the Gospel of Jesus Christ gain this higher knowledge, this greater testimony, this ultimate assurance that this is the truth. It is the way to truth. All the while, brethren and sisters, we must seek help from the great unseen world about us, from God and his messengers. We call that prayer. A man never finds perfect peace, never reaches afar unless he penetrates to some degree the unseen world, and reaches out to touch the hands, as it were, of those who live in that unseen world, the world out of which we came, the world into which we shall go. CR1938Oct:129
533. We are to pray for our own spiritual welfare.
What do you pray for? You pray that God may recognize you, that he may hear your prayers, and that he may bless you with his Spirit, and that he may lead you into all truth and show you the right way; that he will warn you against wrong and guide you into the right path; that you may not fall astray, that you may not veer into the wrong way unto death, but that you may keep in the narrow way. . . . So we pray for what we need. (Gospel Doctrine, p. 215) TLDP:484
quoted by Mormon
Yea, and when you do not cry unto the Lord, let your hearts be full, drawn out in prayer unto him continually for your welfare, and also for the welfare of those who are around you. (Amulek teaches the people to pray, about 74 B.C.) Alma 34:27
For whom and what should we pray? We should express gratitude for past blessings. . . .
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. This will soften our hearts, and perhaps theirs, and we may better seek good in them. And this prayer should not be confined to national enemies but should extend to neighbors, members of the family, and all with whom we have differences. . . .
We pray for righteousness but do not expect the Lord to make us good. He will help us to perfect ourselves, and as we pray for controls and exercise those controls, we grow toward perfection.
We pray for ourselves and our children and all that pertains to us, as Mormon suggests:
. . . 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. . . . (Mormon 9:27)
We pray for our fellow believers. . . .
We pray for enlightenment, then go to with all our might and our books and our thoughts and righteousness to get the inspiration. We ask for judgment, then use all our powers to act wisely and develop wisdom. We pray for success in our work and then study hard and strive with all our might to help answer our prayers. When we pray for health we must live the laws of health and do all in our power to keep our bodies well and vigorous. We pray for protection and then take reasonable precaution to avoid danger. There must be works with faith. How foolish it would be to ask the Lord to give us knowledge, but how wise to ask the Lord's help to acquire knowledge, to study constructively, to think clearly, and to retain things that we have learned. How stupid to ask the Lord to protect us if we unnecessarily drive at excessive speeds, or if we eat or drink destructive elements or try foolhardy stunts.
We pray for forgiveness. . . .
We pray for everything that is needed and dignified and proper. I heard a boy about fourteen years of age in family prayer imploring the Lord to protect the family sheep upon the hill. It was snowing and bitterly cold. I heard a family pray for rain when a severe drought was on and conditions were desperate. I heard a young girl praying for help in her examinations that were coming up that day. . . .
We pray for help in carrying out our church callings. (Faith Precedes the Miracle, pp. 202-07) TLDP:485-86
[A]sk the Father in the name of Jesus for what things soever ye shall stand in need. Doubt not, but be believing, and begin as in times of old, and come unto the Lord with all your heart, and work out your own salvation with fear and trembling before him. 28. Be wise in the days of your probation; strip yourselves of all uncleanness; ask not, that ye may consume it on your lusts, but ask with a firmness unshaken, that ye will yield to no temptation, but that ye will serve the true and living God. (Moroni addresses those who deny the revelations of God, A.D. 400-421) Mormon 9:27-28
quoted by Mormon
Yea, cry unto him against the power of your enemies.
23. Yea, cry unto him against the devil, who is an enemy to all righteousness. (Amulek teaches the people to pray, about 74 B.C.) Alma 34:22-23
Whenever you are in doubt about any duty or work which you have to perform, never proceed to do anything until you go and labour in prayer and get the Holy Spirit. Wherever the Spirit dictates you to go or to do, that will be right; and, by following its dictates, you will come out right. (In Bowery, April 9, 1857, JD5:85) TLDP:484
Most of us might be disposed to pray for unbroken good fortune, for uninterrupted happiness, for perpetual prosperity, for victory, for assured success, for affluence and ease. But life isn't an uninterrupted holiday; nor, obviously, was it intended to be. Rather it is a time of training, and often of trial, of education, and of self-effort, as evidenced by the Lord God when he expelled Adam and Eve from Eden and said that they should eat bread by the sweat of their brow.
It is not the usual purpose of prayer to serve us like Aladdin's lamp, to bring us ease without effort. Prayer is not a matter of asking only. It should not be always as the beggar's upturned hand. Often the purpose of prayer is to give us strength to do what needs to be done, wisdom to see the way to solve our own problems, and ability to do our best in our tasks.
We need to pray not only for freedom from difficulty but for strength to endure, for faith and fortitude to face what sometimes must be faced. (Richard L. Evans: The Man and the Message, p. 289) TLDP:486
Related Witnesses:
We pray for understanding, wisdom, judgment. ("Prayer," New Era, March 1978, p. 15) MPSG1983:130
534. We are to pray that we can conquer Satan.
Pray always that you may come off conqueror; yea, that you may conquer Satan, and that you may escape the hands of the servants of Satan that do uphold his work. (Revelation in respect to the lost 116 manuscript pages, 1828) D&C 10:5
receiving the Word of the Lord
What I say unto one I say unto all; pray always lest that wicked one have power in you, and remove you out of your place. (Revelation received at Kirtland, Ohio, May 6, 1833) D&C 93:49
quoted by Mormon
Yea, cry unto him against the power of your enemies.
23. Yea, cry unto him against the devil, who is an enemy to all righteousness. (Amulek teaches the people to pray, about 74 B.C.) Alma 34:22-23
We may be definitely sure that the Lord will not permit Satan to deceive the earnest seeker after truth when he sincerely prays. (Answers to Gospel Questions, 3:85) TLDP:136
quoted by Mormon
Verily, verily, I say unto you, ye must watch and pray always, lest ye be tempted by the devil, and ye be led away captive by him. . . .
18. Behold, verily, verily, I say unto you, ye must watch and pray always lest ye enter into temptation; for Satan desireth to have you, that he may sift you as wheat. 19. Therefore ye must always pray unto the Father in my name; . . . (The resurrected Jesus commands the Nephite people to pray, A.D. 34) 3 Nephi 18:15,18-19
Related Witnesses:
Brethren and sisters, let us not be deceived. There are many agents of Satan abroad in the land and some of them may be self-deceived, not knowing that they are in the power of the evil one. However, the spirit of the devil among this people may be detected by all honest, sincere members who keep the commandments of the Lord. The spirit of the Lord is comforting, joy-producing, love-inspiring, help-giving. The spirit of the devil is manifested in fault-finding, envy, selfishness, hatred, deceit, dishonesty, and produces misery, sin and crime. . . .
In the spirit of helpfulness let me give you a key. When in doubt go on your knees in humility with an open mind and a pure heart with a real desire to do the Lord's will, and pray earnestly and sincerely for divine guidance. Persist in praying in this way until you get an answer that fills your bosom with joy and satisfaction. It will be God's answer. If obedient to this answer you will always act as the President indicates. You will then be safe. CR1941Apr:50-51
535. We are to pray for help to resist temptation.
recorded in Mark
Watch ye and pray, lest ye enter into temptation. The spirit truly is ready, but the flesh is weak. (Jesus at Gethsemane finds Peter, James and John asleep and addresses Peter) Mark 14:38
Prayer is the bulwark of the Saints. It shields and protects those who offer it in sincerity and faith. Without prayer man is exposed to wicked temptations and to every evil. When he goes unto the Lord in humility, he shows Him his weaknesses and the dangers by which he is surrounded. This prompts him who prays to seek unto God for strength to overcome his weaknesses and to resist every temptation. His faith is strengthened by having his prayers answered. He has communion with his Heavenly Father through the Holy Ghost, and that Spirit becomes his constant companion and guide. (Gospel Truth, 2:169) TLDP:489
Pray always, lest you enter into temptation and lose your reward. (Revelation for Thomas B. Marsh, Sept. 30, 1830) D&C 31:12
recorded in Matthew
After this manner therefore pray ye: Our Father which art in heaven, Hallowed be thy name.
10. Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven.
11. Give us this day our daily bread.
12. And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors.
13. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil: For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, for ever. Amen. (Jesus teaches the disciples the Lord's Prayer) Matthew 6:9-13
recorded in Luke
And when he was at the place, he said unto them, Pray that ye enter not into temptation. (Jesus suffers in Gethsemane) Luke 22:40
recorded in Matthew
Watch and pray, that ye enter not into temptation: the spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak. (Jesus addresses Peter before he continues his prayer in Gethsemane) Matthew 26:41
Related Witnesses:
It is by prayer that the most correct conceptions can be obtained of the majesty of our God and of His purity and holiness. No man or woman can be in a proper condition to withstand temptation or be properly on his or her guard who does not pray. It is a direct command from the Lord, often repeated in His word, constantly declared by His servants, that it is the duty of His children to pray to Him without ceasing. When they do not bow the knee, it is still their duty to pray in their hearts. (Gospel Truth, 2:166-67) TLDP:489
536. In times of sorrow and affliction we are to pray for help from the Lord.
It is both proper and important for us in our afflictions and trials to ask for relief through fasting, prayer, and priesthood blessings. But after all we can do, we then submit to God's will as did Jesus in Gethsemane and on the cross, when, in anguish, He posed aloud the possibility that the cup might pass from Him. On that occasion, the key word that expressed Jesus' attribute of submissiveness was "nevertheless." (Even As I Am, p. 47) TLDP:9
If thou art sorrowful, call on the Lord thy God with supplication, that your souls may be joyful. (Revelation, Jan. 14, 1847) D&C 136:29
We do not have to cry unto him with many words. We do not have to weary him with long prayers. What we do need, and what we should do as Latter-day Saints, for our own good, is to go before him often, to witness unto him that we remember him and that we are willing to take upon us his name, keep his commandments, work righteousness; and that we desire his Spirit to help us. Then, if we are in trouble, let us go to the Lord and ask him directly and specifically to help us out of the trouble that we are in; and let the prayer come from the heart, let it not be in words that are worn into ruts in the beaten tracks of common use, without thought or feeling in the use of those words. Let us speak the simple words, expressing our need, that will appeal most truly to the Giver of every good and perfect gift. (Gospel Doctrine, p. 221) TLDP:482
Related Witnesses:
quoted by John A. Widtsoe
I know it is hard to receive chastisement, for no chastisement is joyous, but grievous at the time it is given; but if a person will receive chastisement and pray for the Holy Spirit to rest upon him, that he may have the Spirit of truth in his heart, and cleave to that which is pleasing to the Lord, the Lord will give him grace to bear the chastisement, and he will submit to and receive it, knowing that it is for his good. (In Bowery, Oct. 6, 1855, JD3:47) DBY:227
I rejoice in afflictions, for they are necessary to humble and prove us, that we may comprehend ourselves, become acquainted with our weakness and infirmities; and I rejoice when I triumph over them, because God answers my prayers, therefore I feel to rejoice all the day long. (In Tabernacle, report on mission to Europe, Aug. 22, 1852, JD1:17) TLDP:5
I know of no single practice that will have a more salutary effect upon your lives than the practice of kneeling together as you begin and close each day. Somehow the little storms that seem to afflict every marriage are dissipated when, kneeling before the Lord, you thank him for one another, in the presence of one another, and then together invoke his blessings upon your lives, your home, your loved ones, and your dreams.
God then will be your partner, and your daily conversations with him will bring peace into your hearts and a joy into your lives that can come from no other source. Your companionship will sweeten through the years; your love will strengthen. Your appreciation for one another will grow. CR1971Apr:83
537. We are to pray for what is right—for what is in accord with the will of God.
quoted by Mormon
And whatsoever ye shall ask the Father in my name, which is right, believing that ye shall receive, behold it shall be given unto you. (The resurrected Jesus commands the Nephite people to pray, A.D. 34) 3 Nephi 18:20
The time will come when we shall know the will of God before we ask. Then everything for which we pray will be right. That will be when, as a result of righteous living, we shall so enjoy the companionship of the Spirit that he will dictate to us what we should ask. On this point the Lord said: "He that asketh in the Spirit asketh according to the will of God; wherefore it is done even as he asketh." (D&C 46:30)
I didn't understand this scripture until I had had a lot of experiences. When you live so that the Lord can dictate what you pray for, then you will receive whatever you ask for, because you will ask according to his will; "wherefore, it is done even as he asketh." And again: ". . . if ye are purified and cleansed from all sin, ye shall ask whatsoever you will in the name of Jesus and it shall be done. But know this, it shall be given you what you shall ask. . . ." (D&C 50:29-30(Learning for the Eternities, pp. 117-18) TLDP:487
receiving the Word of the Lord
Whatsoever ye ask the Father in my name it shall be given unto you, that is expedient for you; . . . (Revelation, Dec. 27/28, 1832) D&C 88:64
He that asketh in the Spirit asketh according to the will of God; wherefore it is done even as he asketh. (Revelation relative to governing and conducting meetings, March 8, 1831) D&C 46:30
Petitioning in prayer has taught me, again and again, that the vault of heaven with all its blessings is to be opened only by a combination lock. One tumbler falls when there is faith; a second when there is personal righteousness; the third and final tumbler falls only when what is sought is, in God's judgment—not ours—right for us. Sometimes we pound on the vault door for something we want very much and wonder why the door does not open. We would be very spoiled children if that vault door opened any more easily than it does. I can tell, looking back, that God truly loves me by inventorying the petitions He has refused to grant me. Our rejected petitions tell us much about ourselves but also much about our flawless Father. ("Insights," New Era, April 1978, p.6) DGSM:34
Related Witnesses:
quoted by John A. Widtsoe
If we draw near to him, he will draw near to us; if we seek him early, we shall find him; if we apply our minds faithfully and diligently day by day, to know and understand the mind and will of God, it is as easy as, yes, I will say easier than it is to know the minds of each other, for to know and understand ourselves and our own being is to know and understand God and his being. (In Tabernacle, April 17, 1870, JD13:312) DBY:42
The minute a man stops supplicating God for his spirit and direction, just so soon he starts out to become a stranger to him and his works. When men stop praying for God's spirit, they place confidence in their own unaided reason, and they gradually lose the spirit of God, just the same as near and dear friends, by never writing to or visiting with each other, will become strangers. ("Some Sentence Sermons," IE1944Aug:481) TLDP:481
538. The Holy Ghost enables a person who prays to ask according to the will of God.
The Holy Ghost is a revelator. . . .
He is an inspirer and will put words in our mouths, enlighten our understandings and direct our thoughts. (The Teachings of Spencer W. Kimball, p. 23) DGSM:12
He that asketh in the Spirit asketh according to the will of God; wherefore it is done even as he asketh. (Revelation relative to the gifts of the spirit, March 8, 1831) D&C 46:30
Remember that that which cometh from above is sacred, and must be spoken with care, and by constraint of the Spirit; and in this there is no condemnation, and ye receive the Spirit through prayer; wherefore, without this there remaineth condemnation. (Revelation at Kirtland, Ohio, August 1831) D&C 63:64
Pray by the power of the Holy Ghost. This is the supreme and ultimate achievement in prayer. The promise is: "The Spirit shall be given unto you by the power of faith" (D&C 42:14), "and if ye are purified and cleansed from all sin, ye shall ask whatsoever you will in the name of Jesus and it shall be done (D&C 50:29). Of the coming millennial era, when prayers shall be perfected, the scripture says: "And in that day whatsoever any man shall ask, it shall be given unto him" (D&C 101:27). ("Why the Lord Ordained Prayer," EN1976Jan:11) TLDP:483-84
The time will come when we shall know the will of God before we ask. Then everything for which we pray will be right. That will be when, as a result of righteous living, we shall so enjoy the companionship of the Spirit that he will dictate to us what we should ask. On this point the Lord said: "He that asketh in the Spirit asketh according to the will of God; wherefore it is done even as he asketh." (D&C 46:30)
I didn't understand this scripture until I had had a lot of experiences. When you live so that the Lord can dictate what you pray for, then you will receive whatever you ask for, because you will ask according to his will; "wherefore, it is done even as he asketh." And again: " . . . if ye are purified and cleansed from all sin, ye shall ask whatsoever you will in the name of Jesus and it shall be done. But know this, it shall be given you what you shall ask. . . ." (D&C 50:29-30(Learning for the Eternities, pp. 117-18) TLDP:487
It is all-important that we should possess that Spirit, whether we preach or sing or pray. Prayers unprompted by it do not ascend to Heaven; sermons uninspired by it fail to touch the heart of the hearer; and the songs that are sung in our worshiping assemblies, if not in tune with it, are but discords in the ear of Deity. CR1931Apr:61
Related Witnesses:
Likewise the Spirit also helpeth our infirmities: for we know not what we should pray for as we ought: but the Spirit itself maketh intercession for us with groanings which cannot be uttered. (Paul writes to the Church in Rome, about A.D. 55) Romans 8:26
And this is the confidence that we have in him, that, if we ask any thing according to his will, he heareth us:
15. And if we know that he hear us, whatsoever we ask, we know that we have the petitions that we desired of him. (Letter to the churches in Asia) 1 John 5:14-15
And now, I do not know all things; but the Lord knoweth all things which are to come; wherefore, he worketh in me to do according to his will. (Mormon describes his selection of records that he abridges and that he includes in the plates which eventually comprise the Book of Mormon, A.D. 385)
quoted by John A. Widtsoe
The Lord has said, go into the waters of baptism and be baptized for the remission of your sins, and you shall receive a witness that I am telling you the truth. How? . . . by the Spirit that shall come unto you through obedience, which will make you feel like little children, and cause you to delight in doing good, to love your Father in Heaven and the society of the righteous. . . . [Y]ou will feel a glow, as of fire, burning within you; and if you open your mouths to talk you will declare ideas which you did not formerly think of; they will flow into your mind, even such as you have not thought of for years. (In Tabernacle, Feb. 17, 1856, JD3:211) DBY:331
receiving the Word of the Lord
Draw near unto me and I will draw near unto you; . . . (Revelation, Dec. 27/28, 1832) D&C 88:63
And if ye are purified and cleansed from all sin, ye shall ask whatsoever you will in the name of Jesus and it shall be done.
30. But know this, it shall be given you what you shall ask; and as ye are appointed to the head, the spirits shall be subject unto you. (Revelation for the elders of the Church, May 1831) D&C 50:29-30
539. We are to pray for those who have religious authority over us.
Pray in your homes morning and evening. Pray for civil magistrates and leaders even when you do not agree with them. Pray for the leaders of the Church. Pray, as you have been counseled, that the doors of nations of the world will be opened to the preaching of the gospel. CR1978Apr:48
We pray for the Church leaders. If children all their days in their turn at family prayers and in their secret prayers remember before the Lord the leaders of the Church, they are quite unlikely to ever fall into apostasy. . . . The children who pray for the brethren will grow up loving them, speaking well of them, honoring and emulating them. Those who daily hear the leaders of the Church spoken of in prayer in deep affection will more likely believe the sermons and admonitions they will hear. . . . (Faith Precedes the Miracle, p. 203) TLDP:485-86
There never should be a day pass but all the people composing the Church should lift up their voices in prayer to the Lord to sustain his servants who are placed to preside over them. Not only should they do this in behalf of the president of the stake and his counselors, but they should do it in behalf of the high council, before whom, in connection with the presidency of the stake, matters of vast importance to the members of the Church are brought from time to time for their judgment and counsel. These men should have the faith of their people to sustain them in discharge of their duties in order that they may be strong in the Lord. (Gospel Doctrine, p. 223) TLDP:665
Prayer is practiced in the Kingdom of God. Part of our prayers should be devoted to our leaders: they have great responsibilities. Oh, so many of the people do not realize the responsibilities that fall upon the President and his Counselors these days. It has been so from the beginning and as long as there is life it will continue to be so. Let us pray for our leaders at all times instead of criticizing them, pray that they may be given courage to continue with unflagging zeal from year to year; pray for the power of God to be upon them. CR1940Oct:21
540. We are to pray for those who have civil authority over us.
Pray in your homes morning and evening. Pray for civil magistrates and leaders even when you do not agree with them. Pray for the leaders of the Church. Pray, as you have been counseled, that the doors of nations of the world will be opened to the preaching of the gospel. CR1978Apr:48
I exhort therefore, that, first of all, supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks, be made for all men;
2. For kings, and for all that are in authority; that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and honesty.
3. For this is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Saviour;
4. Who will have all men to be saved, and to come unto the knowledge of the truth. (Paul writes to his assistant Timothy, about A.D. 64) 1 Timothy 2:1-4
[I]t is proper for well disposed persons to wait the Lord's time, to be peaceable and quiet, and to pray for kings, governors, and authorities. This was what Jeremiah taught the children of Israel to do, "and seek the peace of the city wherein I have caused you to be carried away captives, and pray, unto the Lord for it, for in the peace thereof shall you have peace." xxix.
7. It is very evident, from what has been shown, that there is no proper government nor rule upon the face of the earth; that there are no kings who are anointed, or legally appointed of God; and that, however much disposed any of them may feel to benefit the world, it is out of their jurisdiction, it requires a power, spirit, and intelligence, which they do not possess. We see, moreover, that tumults, commotions, rebellions, and resistance are not the way to do it. It requires more wisdom than that which emperors, kings, princes, or the wisest of men possess, to bring out of the wild chaos, the misery, and desolation that have overspread the world, the beautiful order, peace, and happiness portrayed by the prophets as the reign of the kingdom of God. (The Government of God, pp. 58, 67-78) TLDP:260
We ought to pray for these people, for those that are in authority, that they may be led in the right way, that they may be preserved from evil, that they may administer the government in righteousness, and that they may pursue a course that will receive the approbation of heaven. Well, what else? Then we ought to pray for ourselves that when any plans or contrivances or opposition to the law of God, to the church and kingdom of God, or to his people, are introduced, and whenever we are sought to be made the victims of tyranny and oppression, that the hand of God may be over us and over them to paralyze their acts and protect us. (In Assembly Hall, Jan. 4, 1880, JD21:68) TLDP:260-61
541. In our prayers we are to dedicate ourselves and all that we have to God.
President Brigham Young, Heber C. Kimball, Jedediah M. Grant
Do not forget to call upon the Lord in your family circles, dedicating yourselves and all you have to God every day of your lives; and seek to do right, and cultivate the spirit of union and love, and the peace and blessing of the Living God will be with us, and He will lead us in the paths of life; and we shall be sustained and upheld by all the holy angels and the ancient patriarchs and men of God, and the veil will become thinner between us and our God, and we will approach nearer to him, and our souls will magnify the Lord of hosts. (In Provo Tabernacle, Nov. 1879, JD20:361) MPSG1983:128
[D]o you bow in meekness and with sincere desire to seek the blessing of God upon you and your household? That is the way we ought to do, and cultivate a spirit of devotion and trust in God, dedicating ourselves to him, and seeking his blessings. (At American Fork, Utah, Nov. 1879, JD21:118) DGSM:33
quoted by John A. Widtsoe
Say your prayers always before going to work. Never forget that. A father—the head of the family—should never miss calling his family together and dedicating himself and them to the Lord of Hosts, asking the guidance and direction of his Holy Spirit to lead them through the day—that very day. Lead us this day, guide us this day, preserve us this day, save us from sinning against thee or any being in heaven or on earth this day If we do this every day, the last day we live we will be prepared to enjoy a higher glory. (In new Tabernacle, Aug. 9, 1868, JD12:261) DBY:44
Related Witnesses:
(First Presidency)
It is a small matter to devote and dedicate ourselves and all we have to the cause of truth, and the building up of the kingdom of God upon the earth, but it is of importance to rightly apply ourselves and our means where we may do the most good. It is important that we be obedient and passive in the hands of the servants of God, and when we have embraced the truth, and placed ourselves with all we have upon the altar, to so remain, regardless alike of friend or foe, sunshine or shade, peace or plenty, of war, famine, and pestilence. (Thirteenth General Epistle of the First Presidency) (Deseret News, Oct. 29, 1855) (MOFP2:185) TLDP:433-44
It is our privilege to consecrate our time, talents, and means to build up his kingdom. We are called upon to sacrifice, in one degree or another, for the furtherance of his work. Obedience is essential to salvation: so, also, is service; and so, also, are consecration and sacrifice. CR1975Apr:76
Now for a man to consecrate his property, wife and children, to the Lord, is nothing more nor less than to feed the hungry, clothe the naked, visit the widow and fatherless, the sick and afflicted, and do all he can to administer to their relief in their afflictions, and for him and his house to serve the Lord. (Letter to the Church from Liberty Jail, Mo., Dec. 16, 1838) HC3:231
Each year a number of men are called to preside over missions. In each case this requires the man's wife and family to accompany him to some distant place and live there for three years. This is a matter of great importance to the family. If the husband accepts the call he must leave his occupation, making such arrangements as he can obtain a leave of absence from his employer or to find someone to carry on his business. Sometimes the later reentry into his employment is left unsettled. He gives up political preference, his other interests, his hobbies. He turns away from every worldly ambition in accepting the call.
His wife is equally affected. Her home, the garden, her social position, perhaps some of her family will be left behind for the years of the call. Frequently the call comes at a time when there is the promise of marriage for one of the children, or the coming of grandchildren. The probability is that the parents will not be present during these very important occasions in the lives of their children. Children who accompany the parents are affected too, sometimes more deeply and personally than are the parents. After several years of struggle a young man may have just made the athletic team. Or a young woman perhaps has achieved some position in the school or community that is very desirable to her.
What does a person do when he is asked to set aside every personal interest and go away for three years on call of the servants of the Lord? That depends on how he regards his covenants.
I have met mission presidents and their wives in the training session prior to their departure and have met them in the distant parts of the world in the mission field. I never fail to be impressed with one thought. We are here to receive a mortal body. We are here to be tested. Who will pass the test? Are there men and are there women and are there children in the world who will turn aside from all that they hold dear to respond to a call from the Lord? Is there such dedication in the world? Insofar as these mission presidents and their families are concerned, the question has to that time been answered.
We covenant with the Lord to devote our time, talents and means to His kingdom. (The Holy Temple, pp. 163-64) TLDP:103
[Pattern for prayer:] And now, O God, thou Everlasting Elohim, knowing thy mind and will with reference to all these expressions of thanksgiving and all these petitions for blessings, we covenant before thee that we will keep thy commandments and love and serve thee all our days.
Let this, then, be our covenant, that from this hour we will walk in all thy ways, blameless, obedient, faithful, true to every trust, having love one for another, testifying in word and in deed that we are thy people, the sheep of thy pasture, thine elect and chosen children. CR1984Apr:44,47
542. Through prayer we can obtain protection from peril.
If all our selfish motives, then and all our personal desires, and expediency, would be subordinated to a desire to know the will of the Lord, one could have the companionship of heavenly vision. If your problems be too great for human intelligence or too much for human strength, you too, if you are faithful and appeal rightly unto the source of divine power, might have standing by you in your hour of peril or great need an angel of God, whose you are and whom you serve. One who lives thus worthy of a testimony that God lives and that Jesus is the Christ, and who is willing to reach out to him in constant inquiry to know if his course is approved, is the one who is living life to its full abundance here, and is preparing for the celestial world, which is to live eternally with his Heavenly Father. CR1946Oct:146
We pray for protection and then take reasonable precaution to avoid danger. (Faith Precedes the Miracle, p. 205) TLDP:485-86
Prayer is a request for further light, protection or whatever else is desired. (A Rational Theology, pp. 76-77) TLDP:480-81
Related Witnesses:
And it came to pass that so great were their afflictions that they began to cry mightily to God.
11. And Amulon commanded them that they should stop their cries; and he put guards over them to watch them, that whosoever should be found calling upon God should be put to death.
12. And Alma and his people did not raise their voices to the Lord their God, but did pour out their hearts to him; and he did know the thoughts of their hearts.
13. And it came to pass that the voice of the Lord came to them in their afflictions, saying: Lift up your heads and be of good comfort, for I know of the covenant which ye have made unto me; and I will covenant with my people and deliver them out of bondage.
14. And I will also ease the burdens which are put upon your shoulders, that even you cannot feel them upon your backs, even while you are in bondage; and this will I do that ye may stand as witnesses for me hereafter, and that ye may know of a surety that I, the Lord God, do visit my people in their afflictions. . . .
21. Yea, and in the valley of Alma they poured out their thanks to God because he had been merciful unto them, and eased their burdens, and had delivered them out of bondage; for they were in bondage, and none could deliver them except it were the Lord their God.
22. And they gave thanks to God, yea, all their men and all their women and all their children that could speak lifted their voices in the praises of their God. (Amulon puts taskmasters over Alma —the converted priest of King Noah—and his people; the Lord delivers them from bondage, 145-121 B.C.) Mosiah 24:10-14,21-22
543. Through prayer we can receive knowledge of divine truth (the mysteries of God).
If thou shalt ask, thou shalt receive revelation upon revelation, knowledge upon knowledge, that thou mayest know the mysteries and peaceable things—that which bringeth joy, that which bringeth life eternal. (Revelation "embracing the law of the Church," Feb. 9, 1831) D&C 42:61
quoted by Mormon
Yea, he that repenteth and exerciseth faith, and bringeth forth good works, and prayeth continually without ceasing—unto such it is given to know the mysteries of God; yea, unto such it shall be given to reveal things which never have been revealed; yea, and it shall be given unto such to bring thousands of souls to repentance, even as it has been given unto us to bring these our brethren to repentance. (Ammon addresses his brethren, 90-77 B.C.) Alma 26:22
What do you pray for? You pray that God may recognize you, that he may hear your prayers, and that he may bless you with his Spirit, and that he may lead you into all truth. (Gospel Doctrine, p. 215) TLDP:484
[Inspiration] is not imagination. If we approach God sincerely seeking light and guidance from him, our minds will be enlightened and our souls thrilled by his Spirit. Washington sought it; Lincoln received it; Joseph Smith knew it; and the testimony, the evidence of the Prophet Joseph's inspiration is manifest to all who will but open their eyes to see and their hearts to understand. CR1961Apr:8
quoted by John A. Widtsoe
When you approach the throne of grace and petition the Father, in the name of the Savior who has redeemed the world. . . . [I]t should bring near to you things that pertain to eternity, give your reflections and views a more exalted cast, stamp your daily actions with truth and honesty, and cause you to be filled with the Spirit and power of God. (In Tabernacle, Oct. 6, 1859, JD7:274-75) DBY:43
Related Witnesses:
Put difficult questions in the back of your mind and go about your lives. Ponder and pray quietly and persistently about them.
The answer may not come as a lightning bolt. It may come as a little inspiration here and a little there, "line upon line, precept upon precept" (D&C 98:12).
Some answers will come from reading the scriptures, some from hearing speakers. And, occasionally, when it is important, some will come by very direct and powerful inspiration. The promptings will be clear and unmistakable. CR1979Oct:30; DGSM:33
He that keepeth his commandments receiveth truth and light, until he is glorified in truth and knoweth all things. (Revelation received at Kirtland, Ohio, May 6, 1833) D&C 93:28
Whom shall he teach knowledge? and whom shall he make to understand doctrine? . . .
10. For precept must be upon precept, precept upon precept; line upon line, line upon line; here a little, and there a little: . . . (The words of Isaiah, 740-659 B.C.; revelation comes line upon line) Isaiah 28:9-10
Author's Note: According to Smith and Sjodahl Commentary on page 141, mystery is defined as follows: "A mystery is a truth that cannot be known except through divine revelation—a sacred secret."
