Truths About Preparation

I was looking through my things while packing today and came across a handout that I prepared for my Relief Society last summer. Let me know what you think.

The Atonement is central to preparation. We can only fully prepare with the grace and Atonement of Jesus Christ (“Whatever path you follow, please establish for yourself a must-be-accomplished goal to acquire a better understanding of the Atonement while you are a student at Brigham Young University. This may seem to be a significantly added burden that you cannot realize because of the press of all else you are required to do while enrolled here. However, as an Apostle of the Lord Jesus Christ—and I do not use those words lightly—I testify that your understanding of the Atonement and the insight it provides for your life will greatly enhance your productive use of all of the knowledge, experience, and skills you acquire at this university.” Richard G. Scott, “To Establish a Secure Foundation for Life,” BYU Devotional, 16 Mar 2008.)

The greatest blessings of this life will not and cannot be realized unless we prepare for them (eternal life, eternal marriage, personal mission, etc.)

Preparedness is a Godly attribute (1 Nephi 3:7; 22:20; Ether 12:11)

Preparedness is a commandment (1 D&C 1:12)

Preparedness is essential to the purpose of our life on earth (Alma 12:24)

For preparedness to be effective, it must be constant (Referring to spiritual preparedness: “However much faith to obey God we now have, we will need to strengthen it continually and keep it refreshed constantly.” Henry B, Eyring, “Spiritual Preparedness: Start Early and Be Steady,” Ensign, Nov 2005.)

Trials are essential to our preparation and preparation is essential to facing trials (President Harold B. Lee realized that the Lord had used trials to prepare him for his calling as prophet; “I wish to state here and now that wishing will not replace thorough preparation to meet the trials of life.” Thomas S. Monson, “Treasure of Eternal Value,” Ensign, Apr 2008.)

Faith gives us the desire to prepare, and as we prepare, we strengthen our faith (“Preparation begins with faith, which enables us to weather vicissitudes as they come.” Keith B. McMullin, “Be Prepared…Be Ye Strong from Henceforth,” Ensign, Nov 2005; “Strong faith is developed by obedience to the gospel of Jesus Christ,” Bible Dictionary)

To fulfill our life mission, we must prepare (Esther 4:14)

There is a proper sequence to preparation (For example, the Aaronic priesthood is the preparatory priesthood, or we take upon us the covenant of baptism before we make temple covenants)

Preparedness, just like perfect love, casts out fear (D&C 38:30)

Preparation will involve sacrifice, commitment and diligence (“As we devote ourselves to the Lord’s work, we must be involved in the hard work we call preparation.” Dallin H. Oaks, “Teaching and Learning by the Spirit,” Ensign, Mar 1997.)

Preparation is often personal and individual (“The earth was created for you, that you might come to dwell here and prepare yourself…” N. Eldon Tanner, “Administration of the Restored Church,” Liahona, Sep 1978, emphasis added.)

Preparation takes time