His promises

For the past six months we have been studying the scriptures with a specific question: “What has God promised to do for his covenant people?”

President Nelson defined the people of covenant Israel as those who are willing to let God prevail in their lives. They are “the house of Israel, even as many as have loved me and kept my commandments.” (Doctrine and Covenants 29:12)

This invitation from our prophet has helped me see and hear the words of the scriptures differently. The voice of our Father in Heaven, inviting me to His path and assuring me of His support, is becoming clearer from the scriptures.

Here are some highlights:

To those who choose to let God prevail in their lives and to be His people, God promises:

-Comfort, support, healing, and strength

-Forgiveness of past mistakes, reconciliation with our God and with each other

-Protection against enemies, weapons, and many other dangers. “No weapon formed against thee shall prosper” (Isaiah 54:17)

-Sufficient means, financial help, eventually very great riches, lasting riches. “He who has eternal life is rich”

-Land, a home of safety, a land of your own, even a mansion in the kingdom of God

-Family. A lasting posterity, many children, peace in your home, and love in your family.

-The ability to bless many other people, even all the families of the earth responsibilities to serve and teach

-The power to make a difference, to heal what has been hurt, to repair the breaches of past generations, and lay a legacy for generations to come.

“Thou shalt raise up the foundations of many generations; and shall be called, The repairer of the breach, the restorer of paths to dwell in.” (Isaiah 58:12)

These are just a few of God’s promises to His people. They are rich and beautiful. They are personal and tender.

There are also promises of warning: that we cannot take of His blessings and then turn from His ways without incurring serious consequences. Like the people of ancient Israel, we who are seeking this path today find ourselves making mistakes and falling from favor with God from time to time. The consequences can be painful. Yet through all our learning process, I am grateful for the promise made possible by our Savior: of forgiveness when we repent, second chances when resolve again to walk in God’s ways.

I am grateful for God’s promises.

They are reliable and remarkable!