19 May 2002
Being overwhelmed by circumstances recently, I have found that the best way out of my situation is to prioritize, then work with vigor on the Number One Problem until it is sufficiently resolved that it is no longer Number One, then move on to the new Number One Problem. The problems are mowed down, and suffering seems to be minimized by this strategy.
Finding this success in temporal things, it occurred to me to apply this same strategy to spiritual matters. In so doing, I found it easy to see that faith in the Lord Jesus Christ has to be my Number One Priority; I take this to mean that I must look to Him in every thought and circumstance and try to do His will above all else. I also understand that the first fruits of faith in Jesus Christ is repentance; I take this to mean that I must be about the business of changing every sin and bad habit into an act of faith in Jesus Christ. But what would be priority Number Three?
It occurs to me that the first step of repentance is to forgive others their trespasses against me. I remember that the Lord says in the Doctrine and Covenants, Sec. 63:8–11, the following: “My disciples in days of old, sought occasion against one another and forgave not one another in their hearts; and for this evil they were afflicted and sorely chastened. Wherefore I say unto you, that ye ought to forgive one another; for he that forgiveth not his brother his trespasses standeth condemned before the Lord; for there remaineth in him the greater sin. I, the Lord, will forgive whom I will forgive, but of you it is required to forgive all men.”
The Lord also says in 3 Nephi 13:14–15: “For, if you forgive men their trespasses your heavenly Father will also forgive you; But if you forgive not men their trespasses neither will your heavenly Father forgive your trespasses.”
Understanding that forgiveness of sins and the companionship of the Holy Ghost are inextricably linked together, and that I cannot enjoy the guidance of the Holy Ghost to repent and have faith if I am not forgiven of my sins, I see that my first task of repentance is to forgive all others their trespasses against me. Then I can be forgiven, then I can enjoy the companionship of the Holy Ghost, then I can effectively work on the next steps of repentance under the expert guidance of the Holy Spirit.
It is plain to me that forgiveness of others is a clear priority in my life, my key to repentance and to faith in Jesus Christ, and thus my key to spiritual progress.