Part 7 of “The Devoted Life: Exploring the Path of Discipleship”
In our exploration of discipleship this week, we’ve examined what it means to be a disciple of Christ, discussed the cost of discipleship, learned about walking by faith, considered how to face opposition, explored the power of ministering to others, and discovered the joy of sharing our testimony. Today, we’ll focus on maintaining an eternal perspective as we press forward on the path of discipleship.
Nephi captures the essence of enduring discipleship in one of scripture’s most powerful verses: “Wherefore, ye must press forward with a steadfastness in Christ, having a perfect brightness of hope, and a love of God and of all men” (2 Nephi 31:20). Notice how he combines three essential elements: steadfast action (“press forward”), eternal perspective (“perfect brightness of hope”), and the pure love of Christ (“love of God and of all men”).
What strikes me most about this verse is how it transforms discipleship from a series of daily tasks into an eternal journey. Yes, we still need to take daily steps—we must “press forward”—but we do so with an eternal vision that gives meaning to each step. This reminds me of Moses, who “endured, as seeing him who is invisible” (Hebrews 11:27). His eternal perspective helped him endure daily challenges.
The Apostle Paul understood this principle deeply. “For I reckon,” he declared, “that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory which shall be revealed in us” (Romans 8:18). This eternal perspective doesn’t minimize our current challenges—it helps us see them in their proper context.
President Russell M. Nelson has taught: “The Lord loves effort, and effort brings rewards. We keep practicing. We are always progressing as long as we are striving to follow the Lord.” This principle of eternal progression transforms how we view our daily discipleship. Every effort, every small act of faith, every moment of service becomes part of our eternal development.
Consider how this eternal perspective changes our approach to:
- Daily scripture study: Not just reading ancient words, but having conversations with heaven that shape our eternal character
- Prayer: Not just daily check-ins, but building an eternal relationship with our Heavenly Father
- Service: Not just helping others, but participating in God’s eternal work of bringing to pass the immortality and eternal life of His children
- Challenges: Not just enduring difficulties, but being refined for eternal purposes
The beauty of this perspective is that it gives meaning to both our triumphs and trials. When we understand that we’re on an eternal journey, we can be more patient with our progress, more forgiving of our failures, and more appreciative of the daily moments that shape our discipleship.
Today, I invite you to lift your vision. Whatever challenges you’re facing, whatever daily struggles you’re enduring, remember that you’re not just walking a mortal path—you’re on an eternal journey. As Elder Jeffrey R. Holland has reminded us, “Some blessings come soon, some come late, and some don’t come until heaven; but for those who embrace the gospel of Jesus Christ, they come.”
I testify that Jesus Christ lives. This isn’t just historical knowledge—it’s a living reality that can transform every aspect of our lives. As we press forward with steadfastness in Christ, maintaining that perfect brightness of hope (2 Nephi 31:20),He will help us become what He knows we can be.
Elder Linder 