The "R" Word in LDS Culture

In our hyper-politically correct world today, there are some words we are not supposed to use.

We still refer to words indirectly, though they are veiled like the "X" Word or the "Y" word.

It's simple. 

Fill in the first letter of the unacceptable word. Somehow that makes us all kinder and gentler. And bright, too, like George Bush. You get the idea.

That little game of political correctness is often disingenuous but very acceptable today.

When someone says "X” Word instead of the real deal, the little voice in my brain still shouts the silent word out loud! It's almost worse than hearing the real thing and moving on! So, I don't know who we are protecting or being true to.

But I digress. The idea of politically correct speech is a topic for another day.

Right now, I want to talk about a word in LDS culture we don't speak very much about openly.

The "R" word.

But I'm going to shout it out in bold print right now. Cover your eyes. Here it comes!

REVELATION.

Before proceeding, I want to be clear that this post results from my personal mental meandering. Therefore, these personal thoughts may not represent the doctrine or principles of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. 

Having said that, I hope you find the following thought-provoking.

Revelation is a powerful tool for understanding God's will and gaining insight into our lives.

It can provide guidance, comfort, and direction when we need it most. But it should always be approached with humility and respect. Hence, members of the LDS church are careful not to discuss it too freely or take advantage of its power.

Maybe that is one reason why LDS church members are hesitant to talk about revelation.

They recognize its importance and treat it with reverence. They understand this extraordinary gift from God should be handled with care and respect, making them hesitant to discuss it openly or take advantage of its power.

But maybe we should talk about the "R" Word more openly.

Leaders of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints understand the importance of sharing personal revelation with others. Therefore, they have encouraged members to discuss it openly.

We are expected to share the pure truth from His revealed word.

To tell of our experiences with revelation. After all, that is how we gain a testimony. If one has received a revelation, should they not be willing to share the message with others?

At the same time, members are reminded not to take their sacred experiences lightly with a revelation or become boastful about it.

This may be the core of the matter. The reason why we discuss the principles of revelation less often and openly.

This is what I think.

We should embrace the topic and talk about our personal experiences with revelation in general terms without sharing the specifics of the revelations themselves.

To talk openly about revelation so long as it is done with humility and respect for its power. When handled responsibly, sharing personal revelations can be a powerful tool for providing insight and guidance for those who need it.

Think of parents counseling their children.

After prayerful pondering, a parent receives a powerful and specific revelation regarding the path of a child who is considering serving a mission but is wavering.

Would not the parent sit down and counsel the child? Even consider sharing some specifics and bare testimony of what the Lord had to say regarding the matter.

We also sustain the Prophet, his counselors, and members of the Quorum of Twelve Apostles as prophets, seers, and revelators.

They share the revelations received for the benefit of the Church and its members. The action to be taken. But they rarely offer the details revealed in the vision, dream, or strong prompting.

We receive revelations all the time as we strive to make good choices.

On occasion, some messages are amazing and life-changing when heeded. Others, most actually, are not quite as impressive but still manifest the gentle shepherding of the Master.

So perhaps we could be more vocal about this precious gift. Though not the sacred details except when prompted and sharing the details make sense.

The Revelatory Flywheel

Being more open about the doctrine and principles of revelation will have the effect of a flywheel. Our faith strengthens when we validate the reality of revelatory experiences in an open and mutual manner. Increased faith will pave the way for another round of revelation.

Something to think about as you define your path or when talking about the "R" Word.

Thanks for reading and pondering with me! 

Russell Anderson

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