Empowering Believers - Christian Resources for All Paths to Christ
Drawing Wisdom from the Words of Elder Craig A. Cardon
Today’s post is a deep dive inspired by a stirring General Conference talk entitled “Moving Closer to Him” delivered by Elder Craig A. Cardon back in October 2006. Elder Cardon’s message eloquently illustrates the transformative power of the priesthood, a divine authority that not only performs miraculous deeds but also aids in our personal growth and refinement, drawing us closer to God.
From Childhood Wonder to Profound Understanding: The Evolution of Faith and Priesthood
Have you ever been told something so extraordinary that it stays with you for a lifetime? Elder Cardon opens his talk with a poignant story about his young children asking him to “move mountains” through the power of the priesthood. This childhood wonder serves as an entry point into deeper truths. Yes, the priesthood has the power to do miraculous deeds, but its most profound impact is in drawing individuals closer to the Divine.
“If you have faith as a grain of mustard seed, you shall say unto this mountain, ‘Remove hence to yonder place,’ and it shall remove; and nothing shall be impossible unto you.” (Matthew 17:20)
An Epoch-Defining Restoration: The Reestablishment of Divine Authority and Ordinances
In 1829, a significant spiritual event unfolded—the restoration of the Aaronic and Melchizedek Priesthoods. These divine authorities gave way to sacred ordinances and opened the path for additional divine instruction. This was not just a single, isolated event; it was the beginning of a series of restorations and revelations that guided the building of temples, the very houses of God where sacred ordinances would help individuals and families grow closer to Him.
Embracing All of God’s Children: The Gender-Inclusive Nature of the Priesthood
One of the most enlightening aspects of Elder Cardon’s message is the inclusive nature of the priesthood. While men hold the offices and perform certain rites, the blessings of the priesthood are intended for everyone. The highest temple ordinance, which seals a man and a woman together for eternity, serves as a profound example of this spiritual equity. This all-encompassing divine love makes it clear that everyone is an integral part of God’s eternal plan.
A Journey Toward Personal Refinement: The Priesthood as a Catalyst for Internal Transformation
Elder Cardon doesn’t just speak of priesthood power; he talks about the priesthood as a process for refining human nature through service and humility. By serving others, especially within the family, and being open to the whisperings of the Holy Spirit, people can change for the better. It’s a transformation not often visible to the outside world, but one that is deeply felt within the core of one’s being. Qualities like kindness, love, and patience, are not just the fruits but also the drivers of this heavenly process.
From Inner Faith to Outward Change: The Delicate Process of Spiritual Distillation
The talk concludes with a compelling analogy of two glasses of water exposed to humidity. One attracts condensation due to an internal condition, while the other remains dry. This beautifully encapsulates how our inner spirituality and readiness can attract divine blessings, knowledge, and changes into our life. The priesthood aids in this delicate distillation process, refining our natures and drawing us closer to heavenly principles and to God Himself.
Starting a Ripple of Goodness in Your Own Sphere
We may not be moving physical mountains, but the transformative power of the priesthood gives us the capability to make impactful changes within ourselves and in the lives of others. Start with simple acts: contribute to your community, read scriptures, listen to insightful talks like Elder Cardon’s, and cultivate heavenly qualities within yourself. These may seem like small steps, but collectively, they can move mountains of negativity and replace them with hills of goodness and divine love.
By taking these actions, we aren’t merely spectators of divine love and authority, we become active participants in a divine plan designed to draw us, and those around us, closer to God. Link to the original: Click Here
God Is Available. He Loves You…Do You Want Help?…see Prayers Answered”
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