“Have ye inquired of the Lord?” (1 Nephi 15:8)

As we walk with Jesus Christ, becoming lifelong disciples of Him, we will have questions about what we should do, what we should say, and how we should act.  An essential resource we have to help us find answers is to pray and ask our Father in Heaven.  He will guide us and give us direction for our lives.  

In a conference talk titled “Ask, Seek, Knock” in October 2009, then Elder Russell M. Nelson spoke about how today’s technology provides us with quick and easy access to information.  He then said: “Even more amazing than modern technology is our opportunity to access information directly from heaven, without hardware, software, or monthly service fees. It is one of the most marvelous gifts the Lord has offered to mortals. It is His generous invitation to “ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you.” (Matthew 7:7)

We have the ability to speak with our Heavenly Father anytime we want.  When we do not understand something, when we are struggling with something that has happened to us, when we are hurt, alone or angry, we can go to Him and He will listen, comfort, strengthen and guide us.  Answers do not always come right away, but they do come.  He loves us and He hears us.  He wants us to have the tools necessary to return to Him.

I pray that throughout this year as you walk with Jesus Christ that you will inquire of Him with “a sincere heart, with real intent, having faith in Christ” (Moroni 10:4).  Take time to truly listen - don’t just ask, end your prayer and move on with the rest of your day.  The answers can come in many ways and will come in the Lord’s time.  It could come as you read the scriptures, as you speak with a family member or a friend, as you sing or listen to a hymn, or as you listen to a lesson at church or to a General Conference talk.

I know that as you inquire of the Lord, your life will be blessed and you will be more able to walk with Jesus Christ and be His disciple.

Jennifer Peterson
Stake Relief Society President  
Appleton Wisconsin Stake