Section 25 of the Doctrine and Covenants and Personal Revelation

This revelation was given in Harmony, Pennsylvania, in July 1830, three months after the organization of the Church.  It was first printed in the Book of Commandments in 1833 as Chapter 26.  The revelation is addressed to Emma Smith, wife of the Prophet Joseph Smith.  In the earlierst version, Emma Smith is addressed as "my daughter in Zion".  Joseph Smith later expanded this verse to add, "All those who receive my Gospel are sons and daughters in my kingdom."

Can you imagine having a revelation directed to you?  Yesterday, in Sunday School, we talked about revelation, yes, even personal revelation!  As children of our Heavenly Father, we are entitled to receive revelation to guide us and comfort us.   "When we speak to Heavenly Father, we do so by means of prayer. When he speaks to us, he does so by means of personal revelation."  So spoke  L. Lionel Kendrick

in a 1997 devotional.  I find this statement wonderfully simple and direct.  Brother Kendrick goes on to explain, 

"This two-way divine communication is critically important to our success, to our sense of well-being, to our feelings of security, and to our spiritual salvation. It is imperative that we understand the process of receiving personal revelation."

Questions to ponder:  Should I seek personal revelation?  How will I receive personal revelation or identify it when it comes?  What should our response be to personal revelation?  How do we prepare to receive revelation?  It is humbling to me to note that the Savior intercedes on our behalf with Heavenly Father.  We direct our prayers to the Father by virtue of our understanding that the answers, the consideration, the authority is at that throne.  Who answers our prayers for guidance?  "
It is by means of the Holy Ghost that personal revelations are received. It is the Spirit that communicates with our spirit in receiving revelation. The Savior promised, “God shall give unto you knowledge by his Holy Spirit” (D&C 121:26).

The talk given by Brother Kendrick is very enlightening as to how and why and in what manner personal revelation can be obtained.  I can help prepare myself for the guidance I so sorely need by way of sincere prayer, thoughtful consideration, and a humble, teachable attitude.  Is there ever a time when the answers to our prayers are answered by a lack of revelation?  What other scriptures or talks can you find on this topic?  Here are the "top 25 quotes" by Brother Kendrick.