Becoming teachable
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"When our desire to be taught is greater than our desire to be comfortable, we become teachable," said Elder Robert R. Steuer of the Seventy.
Speaking in the Saturday afternoon session, Elder Steuer of the Seventy asked, "How do we ignite this power of divine instruction in our lives?
"First, we need to start with a willingness to be instructed." While many may naturally hunger and thirst after righteousness, others may be compelled to be humble. Some would like simply to change the rules instead of following instruction, but "We too must realize that God has governing laws and that His wisdom is greater than our own."
Second, one must put himself or herself into a "proper frame of mind and heart," a process that comes by prayerful pondering and laboring in the Spirit. "This labor is real labor and includes the active steps of seeking, hearkening and studying the scriptures," continued Elder Steuer. "When humbled and stripped of pride, our heart is softened and now we can focus on heavenly counsel and instruction."
Third, "we must be obedient to the instruction we receive," he said. But, since we are free agents, life can sometimes be a difficult journey of applying our hearts and minds to the truths of God.
"Being teachable is a process of learning line upon line. In this process we convert thoughts and feelings into actions. But what a reward for this exercise of our faith as we open the path of communication with the Lord. The Lord said . . . everyone that hearkeneth to the voice of the Spirit cometh unto God, even the Father.' " (Doctrine and Covenants 84:47.)
Elder Steuer said that it is humbling to consider that the still small voice is always there for us, teaching us what to do and where to go. "When promptings are heeded, often more are given. If we do not follow them, the promptings eventually diminish."
"We even have reasons to be good, reasons to be moral and reasons to change our behavior. . . . We activate the full force and blessings of the Atonement in our lives," he said. "We become sensitive to the whisperings of the Holy Spirit so that the righteous principles taught by prophets and the truths from the earth can place Christ deeply into our lives. We become His true disciples."
