Gaining an answer through Prayer

This morning I opened the scriptures to 1 Nephi 18-19. I was seeking direction for how to better share what I am learning with my family and others but I was sent in another direction and received inspiration on enduring trials and obtaining answers to prayers. Some of the scriptures that touched me were: 1 Nephi 18:3, 1 Nephi 18:16 and 1 Nephi 19:9. (you can read them for yourself :) ).

I then turned to my Conference talks and read Gary E. Stevenson's talk titled "Look to the Book". How grateful I am for the Book of Mormon. Reading it regularly this past month has changed me in so many subtle ways. His challenge to replace social media with even just 10 minutes of study a day is not to much to ask. He also said

"They will strengthen your faith, fill your soul with light, and prepare you for a future you scarcely have the ability to comprehend.

Within the book’s pages, you will discover the infinite love and incomprehensible grace of God. As you strive to follow the teachings you find there, your joy will expand, your understanding will increase, and the answers you seek to the many challenges mortality presents will be opened to you. As you look to the book, you look to the Lord."

I then found myself wandering into the topic of how to receive answers to prayers. I really struggle with this. I often want answers quickly and clearly. But this is not God's way.

We are told in D&C 9:8 "But, behold, I say unto you, that you must study it out in your mind; then you must ask me if it be right, and if it is right I will cause that your bosom shall burn within you; therefore, you shall feel that it is right." But what if we don't get that feeling or maybe we are not sure we received an answer?

I love Elder Richard G. Scott (I miss hearing him speak). As I search this topic two of his Conference talks came up.

April 2007-Using the supernal gift of prayer

October 1989-Learning to recognize Answers to prayers.

Well worth the read. He stated:

"He is our perfect Father. He loves us beyond our capacity to understand. He knows what is best for us. He sees the end from the beginning. He wants us to act to gain needed experience:

When He answers yes, it is to give us confidence.

When He answers no, it is to prevent error.

When He withholds an answer, it is to have us grow through faith in Him, obedience to His commandments, and a willingness to act on truth. We are expected to assume accountability by acting on a decision that is consistent with His teachings without prior confirmation. We are not to sit passively waiting or to murmur because the Lord has not spoken. We are to act."

One quote especially I touched my heart.

"He will always hear your prayers and will invariably answer them. However, His answers will seldom come while you are on your knees praying, even when you may plead for an immediate response. Rather, He will prompt you in quiet moments when the Spirit can most effectively touch your mind and heart. Hence, you should find periods of quiet time to recognize when you are being instructed and strengthened. His pattern causes you to grow."