This is the first of a series where I plan to share talks and resources related to the role of living prophets in our personal lives and in the doctrine of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. I intend to share reliable sources and accurately represent what the Lord and His authorized servants have taught, but my insights are my own and I am not an official Church representative.

First up is an April 2020 general conference talk by Elder Quentin L. Cook called “The Blessing of Continuing Revelation to Prophets and Personal Revelation to Guide Our Lives.”

Key Points

• The Lord knows how to prepare his prophets and apostles for their service in His kingdom.
• In fulfillment of ancient prophecy, the heavens are open today, and we have access to continuing revelation from God.
• Some of the revelation that comes through the prophet is monumental, while other is procedural or seemingly small. In either case, the Lord guides His Church according to its current needs.
• Personal revelation is as important as prophetic revelation when we prayerfully seek guidance in our lives.
• The Holy Ghost can communicate God’s will to us in simple but powerful ways. Its influence is enhanced when we regularly study the truths found in scripture and taught by prophets.

Reflection Questions

What teachings from prophets have “enhance[d your] understanding of essential divine truths and provide[d] guidance”?

In what ways has the Holy Ghost helped you receive revelation as you’ve studied prophetic teachings?

How has your life been blessed because there is continuing revelation on the earth?