A young missionary working his way through the Missionary Training Center is feeling the strain of learning the gospel in a new language and wonders about his ability to meet demands. Exhausted at the end of a strenuous day, he finds a soft chair and opens the Doctrine and Covenants.

"If you desire a further witness, cast your mind upon the night that you cried unto me in your heart, that you might know concerning the truth of these things.

"Did I not speak peace to your mind concerning the matter? What greater witness can you have than from God?" he reads from section 6:22-23.

From head to toe this missionary feels a serenity pass over him that soothes the doubts and frustrations and gnarled feelings. The contrast in moods is astounding. A euphoria prevails that renews his confidence and restores his commitment.

Other challenges will yet come. Hard times await. But like Oliver Cowdery who first received this assurance in 1829, this missionary is fortified with an added testimony of the divinity of this work. Such peace is unforgettable. It etches an indelible impression, leaving every recipient to witness that there is no "greater witness" than this assurance from God. He is now capable of sharing a greater testimony.

Earnest students of the Doctrine and Covenants are frequently treated to spiritual assurances that offer personal direction to life's perplexities.

To study the Doctrine and Covenants in the quiet of one's heart is like an intimate stroll with the Lord.

To those who have contemplated its promises and blessings, the Doctrine and Covenants is their book, the voice of God in their day — to them. The revelations are true, both universally applicable and personally significant.

As this year's course of gospel doctrine study comes to a close, it is worthy to ask: What are some of the lessons to be learned from the Doctrine and Covenants? What did you learn?

They are questions with infinite answers. However, personally, how are you different? How has the Lord's constant call to repent, or to be more Godly, influenced you to improve?

One result of studying the Doctrine and Covenants will be an increased desire to repent.

The Lord's direction to Martin Harris in section 19 is instruction that applies to all. Where Martin was concerned for his financing of the publishing of the Book of Mormon, the Lord was concerned for his spiritual welfare. Martin was focused on things of the world. His perspectives were materialistic, self-serving and very mortal, not unlike many today.

The Lord's vivid description of His Atonement is merciful and full of love. When we're sensitive, even in the slightest, to the Lord's matchless love and His willingness to suffer for our sins, we long for holiness to clean the slate.

The Doctrine and Covenants is a study in the Lord's love and how to qualify for it.

In some of the most beautiful and sublime language in scripture, the Lord teaches that consecration is not so much about the giving of money or property, but the keeping of the first great commandment to love God with all one's heart.

Oliver received many early instructions that aid us in our own quest to commune with the Infinite, such as early direction received about revelation. Learning to understand heavenly direction becomes a central theme throughout life.

The Lord's dealings with Oliver in section 9 helped him understand what he wasn't able to see or comprehend as the Prophet Joseph Smith translated the plates, namely the spiritual preparation that took place out of sight in the mind and soul.

Oliver thought he simply needed to ask, such as a child pleading with a parent in a candy store. But a great deal more is involved in revelation. There is purpose in the struggle.

"You must study it out in your mind," the Lord taught, adding the promise that the bosom will burn if the decision is correct, or a stupor of mind will follow if incorrect.

The Lord's tender counsel in that section to "be patient," and not to "murmur" is rich counsel for all of us (verses 3, 6).

Each section of the Doctrine and Covenants is laced with gems of insight and encouragement. As if acknowledging the weight of life, many sections end with affirmation and profound promises.

"Therefore," begins verse 15, section 100, "let your hearts be comforted; for all things shall work together for good to them that walk uprightly, and to the sanctification of the Church." Such assurances are repeated throughout. Jesus of Nazareth, who suffered beyond our capacity to comprehend, knows how to comfort us.

Such a promise is reinforcement of faith when problems and challenges seem to have no answer.

In the Doctrine and Covenants, as we stroll with the Lord, we "hear" His voice and are touched by the majesty and power of His teachings.