"three things are necessary"

From the Lectures on Faith 3:2-5:

Let us here observe, that three things are necessary, in order that any rational and intelligent being may exercise faith in God, unto life and salvation:
First, the idea that he actually exists.
Second, a correct idea of his character, perfections and attributes.
Third, an actual knowledge that the course of life which he is pursuing, is according to his will.

I have quoted this passage many times on my blog.  It is center to my faith and walk with God.

Staying on Safe Ground

From the Lectures on Faith 3:2-5:

Let us here observe, that three things are necessary, in order that any rational and intelligent being may exercise faith in God, unto life and salvation:

First, the idea that he actually exists.

Second, a correct idea of his character, perfections and attributes.

Third, an actual knowledge that the course of life which he is pursuing, is according to his will.

How can I know that the the life I am leading is according to God's will?  I have the scriptures.  I have prayer.  I have the Holy Ghost. I have priesthood leaders.  

I searched lds.org/scriptures for rock foundation.  There is a list of interesting scriptures it returns.

2 Nephi 28:27-28 "Yea, wo be unto him that saith: We have received, and we need no more! And in fine, wo unto all those who tremble, and are angry because of the truth of God! For behold, he that is built upon the rock receiveth it with gladness; and he that is built upon a sandy foundation trembleth lest he shall fall."  We should expect that more revelation will come.  If we are founded on the rock, we will receive it with gladness.

After declaring the doctrine of Christ, Jesus says this, "And whoso shall declare more or less than this, and establish it for my doctrine, the same cometh of evil, and is not built upon my rock; but he buildeth upon a sandy foundation, and the gates of hell stand open to receive such when the floods come and the winds beat upon them." 3 Nephi 11:40

This makes me think of these scriptures on what is the priority:

 "Say nothing but repentance unto this generation; keep my commandments, and assist to bring forth my work, according to my commandments, and you shall be blessed." D&C 6:9

"And of tenets thou shalt not talk, but thou shalt declare repentance and faith on the Savior, and remission of sins by baptism, and by fire, yea, even the Holy Ghost." D&C 19:31

"And now, behold, I say unto you, that the thing which will be of the most worth unto you will be to declare repentance unto this people, that you may bring souls unto me, that you may rest with them in the kingdom of my Father. Amen." D&C 16:6

As I focus on repenting of those things I know of.  As I exercise faith in Jesus Christ.  I will be on safe ground.  

Confidence Waxed Strong

On Friday night, I attended an Eagle Court of Honor. I was impressed by what I saw in the boy getting the award. It emphasized an impression I felt a few years ago when we first moved into our ward: That I would do my best to encourage and assist my boys to earn their Duty to God and Eagle Scout awards.

If there is one thing that I have felt lacking in my personal development, it is the confidence to do what the Lord requires of me. From the Lectures on Faith 3:2-5:

Let us here observe, that three things are necessary, in order that any rational and intelligent being may exercise faith in God, unto life and salvation:

First, the idea that he actually exists.
Second, a correct idea of his character, perfections and attributes.
Third, an actual knowledge that the course of life which he is pursuing, is according to his will.

It is the third that is the kicker for me. The other night we were studying Alma 5, "do ye suppose that such an one can have a place to sit down in the kingdom of God, with Abraham, with Isaac, and with Jacob, and also all the holy prophets, whose garments are cleansed and are spotless, pure and white?"

This is a hard doctrine. How can we expect the Lord to reward us the same as those who have sacrificed, exercised their faith, developed their character so that the Lord can trust them to only ask for that which is according to His will?

I am convinced that by following the program the LDS church has put in place, my boys will gain confidence in themselves to do the work of the Lord. They will be exceptional husbands, fathers, providers etc. While they are young, they will prove to themselves and the Lord that they have faith in the Lord Jesus Christ. They will also have faith in themselves. They will live and grow according to His word, "relying wholly upon the merits of him who is mighty to save". (2 Ne 31:19).