This morning I want to reflect upon the beautiful and comforting words from the Bible, specifically Jeremiah 29:12. This verse holds a great deal of significance in the life of a Latter-day Saint, as it speaks to the very heart of our faith and the relationship we share with Heavenly Father.
“Then shall ye call upon me, and ye shall go and pray unto me, and I will hearken unto you.”
The Lord extends a divine invitation to every one of us. He beckons us to call upon Him, to draw near to Him in prayer, and assures us that He will listen to our cries. What a magnificent promise this is! The Creator of the universe promises to listen to the heartfelt petitions of His children. He who formed the heavens and the earth has a special, individualised concern for each one of us.
As members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, we understand the importance of this verse within the context of the Restoration. We know that the heavens were opened, and God the Father and His Son, Jesus Christ, appeared to the young prophet Joseph Smith in answer to his fervent prayer. That sacred event initiated the restoration of the Gospel in its fullness and marked the beginning of the latter-day work.
This verse also speaks to us individually and collectively. In our daily lives, we face challenges, trials, and uncertainties. It can be easy to feel overwhelmed or alone. However, God’s promise in Jeremiah 29:12 provides hope for all of us. When we call upon Him, when we turn to Him in sincere prayer, He will hearken unto us.
Brothers and sisters, our prayers are not in vain. God hears us, and He responds in His own wisdom and timing. It may not always be the answer we expect or want, but it will always be the answer that is best for our eternal welfare. This promise invites us to exercise faith, to trust in His divine plan, and to be patient in our waiting.
In our prayers, we can find strength, guidance, comfort, and peace. We can pour out our hearts to Heavenly Father, knowing that He will never turn a deaf ear to our pleas. He is a loving and merciful God, and He cares for us beyond our comprehension.
Let’s cherish the privilege of prayer and the assurance that God is always ready to hearken unto us. Let us approach Him with gratitude and humility, and let us seek His guidance and His will in all things. As we do so, we will draw closer to Him, and our faith will be strengthened. May we take this promise to heart and rely on the power of prayer in our lives.
In the name of Jesus Christ, amen.
