Filling the Hole: Finding Our True Inheritance in the Covenant

Sometimes, the deepest ache in our hearts—that feeling that something vital is missing—can feel like a wrestling match in the dark. We build plans, we work diligently, we try to secure our happiness with our own efforts, and then, inevitably, life throws us a curveball. We wake up, and we realize what we built wasn't quite enough.

If you’ve ever felt that tug—that sense that the 'happily ever after' is more complicated than a perfect timeline suggests—you know this feeling well. It’s the feeling of trying to fill a hole in your heart with anything but the Spirit of the Lord.

This week’s study in Genesis offers powerful reminders that the greatest fulfillment doesn't come from our own striving, but from yielding to the covenants we keep. Think about Rebecca. Abraham’s servant was diligent, making a massive journey, and when Rebecca answered his request—drawing water for the servant and his ten camels—she didn't hesitate. She was quick to serve, and more importantly, she was quick to believe.

The Power of the 'I Will Go'

We often quote Nephi’s declaration: “I will go and do the things which the Lord hath commanded.” It’s a cornerstone of our journey as Latter-day Saints. But I was struck by Rebecca’s response, which was no less powerful: “I will go.”

In a moment where her family was uncertain, she exercised faith to move forward with God's plan, trusting the divine guidance of the servant and the covenant path. That simple declaration echoes across the centuries: when the Lord guides, we follow.

And then we see the pattern repeat. Isaac and Rebecca struggle with infertility, only to receive a revelation about two nations within. The older, Esau, was not meant to inherit; the younger, Jacob, was destined for the covenant inheritance. It wasn't the strongest or the first-born who received the blessing; it was the one guided by divine revelation and patience.

These stories—Rebecca’s leap, Jacob’s wrestling, the struggles of the patriarchs—aren't just ancient narratives. They are blueprints for our own discipleship. They teach us that when our deepest hopes are placed in things that are temporal—be it a career, a relationship, or even our own perfect plans—we will eventually wake up and realize it’s not enough.

The remedy, always, is to keep our focus on the Savior. He didn't just *suggest* that it's finished; He *wrestled* for us, and He declared it so. He has already done the work.

As we continue our journey to help others understand the restored gospel, remember that every member can be an Internet missionary, every member can be a disciple anywhere, all the time. If you’re feeling that ache, that sense of incompleteness, I encourage you to look into the teachings on covenant keeping. If you want to dive deeper into these Old Testament themes, I highly recommend listening to the full episode of John Hilton III’s podcast on this topic.

For those of us preparing to serve, or those of us who have recently returned, remember that the preparation is constant. If you’re looking for a way to strengthen your personal testimony through scripture, check out a Book Club or Bible Study Group in HolyPlaces. It’s a wonderful way to deepen your personal scripture-discipleship.

What are you filling the hole with this week? Let's keep drawing closer to the source of life.