The Savior has been teaching and instructing the twelve who he called to be the leaders over the Nephites. Now He turns to the people and says:
dBlessed are ye if ye shall give heed unto the words of these twelve whom I have echosen from among you to minister unto you, and to be your servants;
Here we have instructions to the people as well as to the leaders. We are told to give heed to their words. We do this by paying attention when they speak and pondering how to incorporate their teachings into our lives. Our local leaders deserve our attention as well as the General Authorities. Our Stake Conference is coming up this weekend. It would be good if I would take a notebook and jot down things that touch my heart as they speak, then go home later and ponder on what things I need to change.
Also, we love General Conference, and look forward to receiving the Conference issue of the Ensign. But we need to spend time with each talk, studying, pondering, applying those things we learn. What use is it having living prophets if we don't know what they're saying to us and make changes where the Spirit tells they're needed?
The other instructions here are for the leaders. They are not called to be puffed up or to get glory or to "boss" people around. They are called to "minister" to us and to be our "servants". The Savior gave the example when He washed the disciples' feet. Anyone who holds a leadership position needs to pray constantly that they can bless those they serve and understand their needs and help succor them.
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This is so good and true. I heard a speaker once who said he listens to the general conference talks as he walks an hour every day. That way he has a chance to listen to every talk about 6 times before the next conference. He is able to commit parts to memory and really find ways to incorporate the teachings in his life. Excellent advice and I believe it is what we really should be doing with the teachings we receive from our inspired leaders.
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