“Choose today to start recognizing His hand in your life,” Teresa Bell encouraged. “As you do, you will come to understand His will for you, grow closer to Him and our Savior and gain a firm assurance that His hand is always with you.”
In her devotional address on Tuesday at the BYU Marriott Center, Bell taught how to recognize God’s hand in your life.
Bell, a professor of German and second-language acquisition at BYU, introduced three key ways to notice His influence in your life: daily prayer, journaling and reflecting on your patriarchal blessing.
Daily Prayer
“When we regard each morning as a gift of God and we begin each day with a prayer of gratitude, our days start with a focus on what God has given us,” Bell expressed.
She emphasized that by committing to morning and evening prayers, you are setting yourself up for success by fostering gratitude and a daily connection with God.
Journaling
Bell stressed the importance of intentional reflection by daily journaling to be able to recognize God’s influence in everyday life. In times of trial, these journal entries can serve as a strength and reminder of God’s constant involvement in your life.
“If you're not already writing something down each day, start now — begin today,” Bell encouraged. “As we focus on recognizing and recording God’s hand in our lives, it becomes easier to see His influence in both the big and small moments.”
Patriarchal Blessings
“Every time you wonder what you should do with your life, study your patriarchal blessing,” Bell said. “Every time you want to feel God’s love, read your patriarchal blessing. Your patriarchal blessing is your own personal revelation, and it’s scripture just for you.”
She taught that by categorizing blessings, commandments and warnings from your patriarchal blessing, you can deepen your understanding of God's plan for you.
Bell explained that by following the straightforward advice of committing to daily prayer, journaling and the consistent reflection of your patriarchal blessing, you will be able to acknowledge God’s hand in your life and deepen your faith and connection with Him.
Watch the full devotional address at BYUtv.org.
