Early Saints and Temple Work

Temple work meant so much to the early Saints. I love to read their journals and quotes because it helps me remember to keep sacred covenants foremost in my mind and never take the blessings of the temple for granted.

Joseph Smith, in his dedicatory prayer for the Kirtland Temple prayed: “And we ask thee, Holy Father, that thy servants may go forth from this house armed with thy power, and that thy name may be upon them, and thy glory be round about them, and thine angels have charge over them.” D&C 109:22 – 23

What a blessing in our lives to be promised that we might go forth armed with power, taking upon us Christ’s name and having angels to help us.

Brigham Young loved temple work. During the last days the Saints were in Nauvoo, he guided them to finish the temple and perform the ordinances that Heavenly Father had revealed to Joseph Smith. Brigham worked tirelessly to see that all the Saints in Nauvoo received the blessings of the temple. “I have given myself up entirely to the work of the Lord in the Temple night and day, not taking more than four hours sleep upon an average, per day, and going home but once a week.” History of the Church 7:567.

Sarah Rich served as a temple worker in Nauvoo. She spoke of her experience. “If it had not been for the faith and knowledge that was bestowed upon us in that temple by . . . the Spirit of the Lord, our journey would have been like one taking a leap in the dark . . .  But we had faith in our Heavenly Father, . . . feeling that we were his chosen people  . . ., and instead of sorrow, we felt to rejoice that the day of our deliverance had come.” Daughters in My Kingdom, 30.

I love to take time to remember the joys of the temple, the goodness of God that will guide our daily lives, and the tirelessness of our leaders to help us gain these blessings. What a great spirit the temple brings into our lives. Let us all take time to remember.