The Stillness Before the Decree: Daniel, Peacemaking, and the Iron Rod

The prophets have consistently warned of a time of trial and tribulation, a period when the world descends into chaos and contention. Yet, within these warnings lies a beacon of hope: the principle of peacemaking, not as a passive avoidance of conflict, but as an active, righteous force. Recent discussions within the Operation Iron Rod community have centered on the importance of cultivating a deep understanding of scripture, particularly as it relates to preparing for and navigating these challenging times. Barbara Morgan Gardner and Deb Barry’s recent Grounded podcast episode on Daniel 1-7 provides a powerful lens through which to examine this principle.

The stories of Daniel and his companions – Daniel in the lion's den, Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego refusing to bow – are more than just entertaining narratives; they are demonstrations of unwavering faith and a profound understanding of the covenant. As Dr. Gardner and Deb highlight, the key to Daniel's survival, and the potential for peace in those tense moments, lay in his ability to remain calm and seek understanding. Daniel’s question in Daniel 2:15 – “Why is the decree so hastily?” – resonates deeply. How often do we, too, rush to judgment, to action, without pausing to understand the underlying motivations and potential consequences?

This isn't merely about avoiding confrontation; it’s about approaching it with a spirit of discernment and a commitment to truth. Consider the urgency of the decree in Daniel 2. Had Daniel reacted with anger or defensiveness, his fate would have been sealed. Instead, he sought understanding, and in doing so, opened a path to preservation. This mirrors the counsel of President Oaks: to seek safety for ourselves and others by first understanding.

The podcast emphasizes the profound connection between these ancient narratives and the urgent pleas of the Brethren today. It’s a reminder that the principles of peacemaking are not relics of the past but vital tools for navigating the complexities of our present. The Spirit whispers this same counsel: to stand quietly, to ground ourselves in the scriptures, and to speak calmly and boldly when the time is right. Standing quietly provides opportunity for us to be grounded, speak calmly and boldly. This isn’t a call to inaction, but a call to righteous action rooted in understanding and guided by the Spirit.

This echoes the teachings found in the Doctrine and Covenants regarding the iron rod, a symbol of the word of God (D&C 26:3). Those who hold fast to the iron rod will be guided through the darkness, but it requires a stillness of heart and a willingness to listen. The noise of the world, the demands for immediate action, can easily obscure the whispers of the Spirit. It is in the stillness, in the deliberate seeking of understanding, that we can grasp the iron rod and be led to the tree of life.

The testimonies of our forefathers, the pioneers who crossed the plains with unwavering faith, offer another powerful illustration. They faced immense trials, yet they persevered through a combination of faith, resilience, and a deep commitment to principle. Their ability to remain steadfast in the face of adversity stemmed from a similar foundation – a grounding in the word of God and a willingness to seek understanding before acting.

Let us, as Latter-day Saints, strive to cultivate this same spirit of stillness and discernment. Let us seek to understand the motivations of others, even those who oppose us. Let us be willing to pause, to breathe, and to listen for the guidance of the Spirit. Let us hold fast to the iron rod and be led to the tree of life, where we may partake of its fruit and find eternal joy.

This conversation, as highlighted in the podcast, isn’t isolated to a group of women in Wales; it’s a universal call to discipleship. It’s a reminder that peacemaking, true peacemaking, requires more than just good intentions; it requires a profound understanding of God’s will and a willingness to act in accordance with it.