Blessings

As members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, we know that God loves and blesses His children. Blessings are divine favors that God gives to His children. Heavenly blessings contribute to the true happiness, well-being, or prosperity of God’s children and are conferred upon people according to their obedience to God’s commandments, in answer to prayers, through priesthood ordinances, or simply because He is merciful and full of grace. Sometimes blessings do not come until you ask for them, and sometimes asked-for blessings do not come until after trials or challenges are over. 

The priesthood, or the power and authority of God, plays an important part in how God’s children obtain His blessings. One way we can receive blessings is by following the prophet, who holds the priesthood. Prophets receive revelation from our Father in Heaven, who directs them to tell God’s children what He would have them do. As Randall K. Bennett shared, “following the prophets of God is directly connected to receiving Heavenly Father’s blessings” (“Prophetic Invitations and Promised Blessings,” March 2019). 

The word blessings can also refer to priesthood blessings, which are special, individual blessings that God can bestow upon any of His children through worthy priesthood leaders. These blessings are given by priesthood holders laying their hands upon a person’s head and using inspiration to give a specific blessing of either comfort or healing. Patriarchal blessings, which are sacred, personal blessings that give counsel from the Lord, are another type of priesthood blessing. 

Any person can obtain the Lord’s blessings if they strive to obey the commandments and follow Jesus Christ. We hope that as you read these speeches, you will recognize the Lord’s blessings in your life and discover what He has in store for you.