Keeping it Simple: Finding the Childlike Faith in the Modern Field

Brothers and sisters, if you’ve been in the field, or if you’ve been studying in the temple, you know the weight of the gospel. It’s profound, it’s powerful, and it’s everything. But sometimes, when we are so deep in the *work*, or when we are preparing for missionary discussions, we start adding layers—layers of intellectualism, layers of self-effort, layers of 'what ifs.' We complicate the simple.

I was thinking the other day about how easily we can make something beautiful and pure into something unnecessarily complex. It’s almost like we treat the gospel like a complex theory we have to defend with endless citations, rather than the simple, joyful truth it is.

The Danger of Complication

The Spirit whispers simple truths, doesn't it? The gospel is meant to be received, not earned. We are so adept at *doing*—doing study, doing service, doing outreach—that sometimes we forget the most fundamental action: simply *receiving*. We get caught up in the mechanics of missionary preparation, in the perfect answer, or the flawless testimony, that we forget the core message.

We hear phrases like, “Did you *get* your spiritual breakthrough?” or “Did you *receive* the Spirit?” It sounds like a transaction, doesn't it? Like we have to *achieve* a blessing. But the Savior taught us something vital: there is a massive difference between *getting* something and *receiving* something. To receive, you just become a vessel. You empty out the clutter, the anxiety, the 'I must prove myself' mentality, and you become ready to be filled.

It reminds me of a time when I was trying to plan a simple gathering—just a few friends, some snacks, a chance to talk. And I, in my own little flurry of over-planning, turned it into a logistical nightmare. Suddenly, we needed new furniture, the grill needed painting, the snacks had to be artisanal, and the casual chat had to become a structured event. I was exhausted, and the whole point—connection—was lost in the preparation.

If we treat our discipleship like that—a series of elaborate, stressful projects—we burn out. We forget that the Lord wants us to approach Him like a child. Not a sophisticated scholar, not a seasoned expert, but a child who trusts completely.

Be Like a Child: The Core Skill

Remembering Luke 18:17 is a constant recalibration for us, especially as we serve in different capacities—whether we are in the MTC, in the field, or even just having a quiet moment studying in HolyPlaces. Being like a child isn't about naiveté; it's about trust. It’s about accepting the simple narrative of the Atonement without needing to analyze every theological nuance until you lose the joy.

This principle is a perfect skill to carry into our internet missionary efforts. When someone asks a tough question, don't feel the need to deliver a five-point, highly academic rebuttal. Instead, bring the simplicity of the gospel. Point them back to the core truth, the covenant path, and the power of the Savior.

If you are feeling overwhelmed by the complexity of the world, or by the expectations placed upon us as Latter-day Saints, remember this: Keep it simple. Trust the process. Let the Spirit guide you back to the pure, unadulterated joy of the gospel.

If this resonated with you, I encourage you to spend some time reflecting on this. If you’re looking for a gentle nudge in that direction, I highly recommend revisiting some of the foundational teachings in the Iron Rod. It's a wonderful reminder of the basics.

For those of you who are feeling the pull toward deeper study, the Book Club feature in HolyPlaces is a wonderful, low-pressure way to dive into scripture with others. And if you want to practice those simple answers before your next missionary discussions, don't forget to check in with Davee. He's ready to walk you through some tricky investigator questions!