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"The Spirit of the Lord," 2 Nephi 21:1-5

2 Nephi 21:1-5

At the beginning of this chapter there is a yet another descriptive prophecy of Chirst's coming and of the nature of his righteousness. The personal application is that as Christ was and is, so I can also become through faith in Him. This comes with the hope that I may one day be worthy to be called a son of Christ (see Mosiah 5:7). 

What stands out to me in this reading is the definition of the Spirit of the Lord found in verse 2 and then the results of having the Holy Spirit as a companion that follow in subsequent verses. Parenthetically, this is for me one of the most unique and empowering doctrines of my "Mormon" faith, in contrast with the rest of modern Christianity. I am blessed to enjoy the continual companionship of the Spirit of the Lord, as long as I prove faithful to the baptismal and sacramental covenants that I have made, which covenants entitle me to be the recipient of such a blessing as this. This companionship is very real, constant, and consistent. Yet, this definition of the Spirit of the Lord is vastly greater than I have previously considered.

In teaching about the Holy Spirit, or the Holy Ghost, or the Spirit of the Lord, as He is called in these verses, I will point people to understand how the Spirit feels and what his mission is. But herein are six words that define what the Spirit of the Lord is:
  • The Spirit of Wisdom and Understanding
  • The Spirit of Counsel and Might
  • The Spirit of Knowledge and of the Fear of the Lord
In regarding these lines of scripture, this helps me to discern even more the purposes and influence of the Holy Ghost, and allows me to consider ways in which I could be employing His companionship that I do not currently use. For if the Spirit of the Lord is wisdom and understanding, counsel and might, and knowledge and fear of the Lord, then one filled with the Spirit of the Lord is empowered to work great works.

In my own words, this is how I would define these attributes of the Spirit.
  • Wisdom - The capacity to act in such a way that results in greater love and peace, usually possessed by one that can see the full picture and act in such a way that is both merciful and just.
  • Understanding - The ability to feel with the heart and mind, through communication, the situation and experience of all parties involved involved.
  • Counsel -The ability to discuss a situation in a group setting and come to a peaceful/agreeable decision that results in action and unity.
  • Might -Power, Energy, courage, and confidence that comes when acting in righteousness and truth.
  • Knowledge - Similar to Understanding. Comprehension of the wider scope of history. Learning in all the graces.
  • Fear of God - Respect and reverence for the source of all light and truth. Realization that all things depend upon His time and purposes.
Isaiah 61:1-3 offers an interesting comparison to these verses and the thoughts that I've just considered.  This is yet another way of viewing the outcomes of communing with the Spirit of the Lord.
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