Jacob, apparently the third prophet of the Book of Mormon, wrote that his brother Nephi, the second prophet, had commanded him to keep two records of their people, the Nephites. When Nephi handed over the records to this younger brother, he asked Jacob to keep one set of plates (records) containing the history of the people. The second set would contain something more valuable:
And if there were preaching which was sacred, or revelation which was great, or prophesying, that I should engraven the heads of them upon these plates, and touch upon them as much as it were possible, for Christ’s sake, and for the sake of our people. (Jacob 1:4)
Members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, sometimes known as Mormons, are asked to keep both kinds of records even today. They are commanded to gather their family history, write it, and preserve it for future generations, just as Jacob was asked to do. They’re also asked to keep journals and write personal histories, which include the spiritual aspects of their lives. These too will be handed down to their posterity.
Nephi, and later Jacob, worked hard to make sure the records they kept would be of value to future generations. They listened carefully to the spirit and evaluated what they wrote to be sure it provided something that would help us in our day. Because of their diligence, we have many of God’s teachings to the people, as well as true inspirational stories from their history. These spiritual stories help guide us today, and many have found comfort or wisdom in them, just as people do the stories in the Bible.
What experiences have you had in your life that could be of value to others? What lessons do you want your children and grandchildren to have when you’re gone? Do your children know what your testimony of the Savior is? Is it written down so they can have it to comfort and encourage them after your death? If you keep these records diligently, your influence can continue for many generations to come.
Begin simply. You can write your history for a half hour or so a week. It needn’t even be written in order. Just write what comes to mind, and then insert it into the file wherever it fits. This is an excellent Sabbath activity. Periodically write and date your testimony of the Savior, including what spiritual lessons you’ve learned.
Choose what to write with wisdom. You don’t have to tell it all, but do be honest enough to help others learn from your experiences. As you read the Book of Mormon, you’ll see that sad moments, and moments of spiritual weakness are followed up with an explanation of what can be learned from the experience, and frequently with the ways these events changed lives for those who repented.
Begin your personal record keeping today and have a spiritual impact on your family for generations to come. For more on family history, visit LDS.org’s Family History section.
The late Terrie Lynn Bittner—beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and friend—was the author of two homeschooling books and numerous articles, including several that appeared in Latter-day Saint magazines. She became a member of the Church at the age of 17 and began sharing her faith online in 1992.
