1 Nephi 1:18-20

After experiencing these divine manifestations, Lehi went forth to call his people to repentance.  He "truly testified of their wickedness and their abominations," and also prophesied of the "coming of a Messiah and also the redemption of the world."  Because of Heavenly Father's infinite love for His people, he greatly desired their return to Him, their repentance, their healing.  He respected their agency while still holding them accountable for their lives, their choices and actions.  He treats all His children with this same respect.

This reminds me of hymn 240,  "Know This, That Every Soul Is Free"

1. Know this, that ev’ry soul is free
To choose his life and what he’ll be;
For this eternal truth is giv’n:
That God will force no man to heav’n.

2. He’ll call, persuade, direct aright,
And bless with wisdom, love, and light,
In nameless ways be good and kind,
But never force the human mind.  

 If my goal in this life is to become more like my Savior, who is in the express image of His Father, then I need to treat my spouse and my children with respect, with goodness and kindness, as well as all the rest of Heavenly Father's children.

Today's question.  How do I think of the people in my life?  How do I treat them?  Am I respecting their agency?  What area do I most to need to improve so I will be loving, correcting and respecting with Christ-like love?

D&C 121:41-46, 2 Nephi 10:23-24, Helaman 14:30-31

1 Nephi 1:7-15

Like Moses and Joseph Smith and other prophets, Lehi was exhausted by this spiritual manifestation, but further revelation was coming.  In his vision, Lehi beheld the Savior and his apostles.  The Savior himself delivered Lehi's prophetic calling (the book).  Even though there was destruction foretold, Lehi praised God for His works and power and goodness and mercy. "His soul did rejoice and his whole heart was filled."

We each receive callings to "go and do" in our lives.  While they may not be as dramatic as Lehi or Moses or Joseph, they are just as real.  God gives each of us tasks and stewardships during our lives here on earth.

How do I respond to the call from God to act, to do, to live, to be?

Some calls are pleasant, others not so much.

How do I maintain my faith and determination when the Spirit is guiding me in a direction I would rather not go?