Finding Your Role in the Great Work: A Lesson from D&C 18

Sometimes, when we’re deep in study—whether it’s reviewing the covenants in the temples or digging into the revelations in the scriptures—it feels like the Lord has a very specific script for us. We might look at the apostles, or perhaps think about our own calling in our stake, and feel the weight of expectation. It can feel like we need to audition for the *perfect* role.

I was thinking about this the other day while reflecting on the power of calling, and it brought to mind a wonderful point from the recent podcast study of D&C 18. It really hammered home something fundamental that I think every disciple, whether you’re in MTC, serving a mission, or right here at home, needs to remember: we all have a role, and that role is vital.

The speaker shared an analogy about theater and sports—how sometimes you think you’re auditioning for one role, but the director (or the Lord!) has a different, equally important role in mind for you. It’s a beautiful reminder that our perceived limitations or desires for a specific calling shouldn't overshadow the gifts we already possess or the needs the Lord has laid before us.

Every Member Has a Role to Play

This concept—that we each have a role—is echoed throughout the revelations. It’s not just about the Apostles, or the leaders in the quorum. It’s about the individual disciple. It’s about the "internet missionary" aspect of our discipleship today. We are all called to be disciples anywhere, all the time.

When we study the Doctrine and Covenants, we see the Lord building His Church piece by piece, revelation by revelation. It’s a grand, unfolding tapestry, and every thread—every single member—is necessary for the picture to be whole. If one thread is missing, the pattern is incomplete.

Trusting the Spirit's Direction

What does this mean practically? It means trusting the Spirit when you feel unsure of your next step. If you feel called to serve in a Book Club, lean into that. If you feel the Spirit prompting you to reach out to a neighbor who is struggling, that is your role right now. If you are preparing for your own mission, focus on the *process* of preparation, not just the destination. Be Christlike in your daily interactions.

The revelations are always pointing us forward, toward gathering Israel and building Zion. And the Lord knows best what role we play in that grand endeavor. Sometimes we need the "carrot" of joy and positive focus, and sometimes we need the "stick" of necessary conviction—just like the contrast the speaker drew between the two approaches to repentance.

It’s an amazing thing to realize that our discipleship isn't a single audition; it's a lifetime of embracing the role the Spirit places us in for that season.

If this resonated with you, I encourage you to reflect on it. Where does the Spirit feel you need to step up, even if it’s outside your comfort zone? Don't wait for a formal calling to feel useful; the Lord has already given you a role.

For those of you who want to dive deeper into how the Lord speaks through scripture and revelation, I highly recommend checking out the Social Scripture Study layer inside LivingBook. It’s a wonderful way to see how others are finding their role in scripture study!

If you want to continue exploring these foundational principles of the restored Church, please listen to the full episode of the podcast on D&C 18. It’s a treasure trove of principles!

As always, keep moving forward, my friends. Be diligent, be humble, and remember that your unique place in the work is needed.

P.S. If you're looking for more foundational teachings on discipleship, check out the latest readings from the Iron Rod authors available in LivingBook.