Finding the Quiet Corner: Following the Example of Prophet Joseph

Brothers and sisters, if there’s one thing I wish I could bottle up and give to every disciple—especially those of us feeling the weight of the Lord’s call—it would be the discipline of quiet communion. It’s easy, when the Spirit is strong and the field is calling, to feel like we have to *do* something constantly. We feel the pull to be out there, to be in the field, to be making connections, to be testifying.

But sometimes, the most profound missionary preparation, the most powerful work, happens when we intentionally step back. When we find that quiet place.

I was thinking a lot this week about the counsel given by President Nelson, reminding us to follow the example of the Prophet Joseph. It’s a beautiful, actionable blueprint for discipleship that cuts through the noise of our busy lives. He didn't just *tell* us to pray; he gave us a process: find a quiet place, humble yourself, pour out your heart, and then, critically, *listen*.

The Art of Listening: Beyond Just Talking

When we think about prayer, we often focus on the "pouring out"—listing our concerns, our fears, our weaknesses, even those longings of the heart that feel too big or too messy to admit. And yes, we absolutely must bring those things before Heavenly Father. But Joseph’s counsel adds the crucial second half: listen. Write down the thoughts that come to mind. Record your feelings. And then, follow through with the actions that prompt you.

This isn't just spiritual journaling; it’s spiritual investigation. It’s taking the whisperings of the Spirit—the gentle promptings—and treating them like divine directives. It’s the difference between having a good feeling and having a direction from the Spirit that requires follow-through.

Applying It to the Field and Online

How does this translate when we’re out in the field, or even when we’re serving as Internet missionaries? When you’re in a missionary discussion, and the investigator asks a question that makes you pause—a question that requires more than a memorized answer—that’s your cue to slow down. Don't just react. Take a breath. Find that quiet corner, even if it’s just the quiet space between thoughts, and ask the Spirit, "What should I say here?"

This principle applies to everything. If you’re studying the Book of Mormon in a Book Club, and a scripture passage feels confusing, don't just move on. Use the Social Scripture Study layer in LivingBook. Let the insights guide you to a deeper understanding. If you’re struggling with a doctrine, bring it to Davee. Ask him to walk you through the hard questions an investigator might ask, and let him help you structure your answer with grace and clarity.

Remember, we are all disciples learning to be Christlike. Being Christlike isn't about having all the answers; it's about having the humility to admit when you need to listen first. It’s about trusting that the Spirit will prompt you to the right action.

This week, I encourage you to try this exercise. Dedicate 15 minutes—no phone, no distractions—and simply write. Don't edit. Just pour it out. Then, when you finish writing, sit in silence and wait for the quiet thoughts. What does the Spirit prompt you to *do* tomorrow? Write that down. That's your assignment from the Spirit.

If you feel the Spirit moving you to deeper study, check out the Iron Rod. I highly recommend reading up on the principles of gathering Israel—it’s a powerful reminder of our collective mission. And if you want to connect with others who are doing this work, jump into a Bible Study Group in HolyPlaces. We are all in this together, gathering Israel with love.

Fellow Disciples, let’s commit to listening this week.

If this message encouraged you, please share it with another disciple who needs a reminder to pause and listen. Let's keep the light shining!