Let’s further extend our study of “this life” and read a couple of verses in D&C 130:
18 Whatever principle of intelligence we attain unto in this life, it will rise with us in the resurrection.
19 And if a person gains more knowledge and intelligence in this life through his diligence and obedience than another, he will have so much the advantage in the world to come. (D&C 130)
After spending the last few posts entertaining the idea that “this life” can refer to something other than the singular state of existence in which we find ourselves, let us switch gears, once again, and return to that understanding in order to derive the greatest benefit from these verses.
Whatever “the world to come” may look like, it is clear that any advantage one may have in it with respect to knowledge and intelligence will be a consequence of that person’s diligence and obedience in “this life.” Outcomes in the future are predicated upon our decisions in the present. This is an eternal principle, and, in terms of “time” of both short and long duration, it is how we grow in “intelligence, or, in other words, light and truth”—which is synonymous with “the glory of God.” (D&C 93:36)
Diligence and obedience in this life begin with true repentance—a forsaking of ALL one’s sins—and they continue as we incorporate each additional God-given increment of light and understanding about His character into ours.
It cannot be overstated that this is how the “goodness” in God’s “kingdom” is both increased and perpetuated.
Now you may suppose that this is foolishness in me; but behold I say unto you, that by small and simple things are great things brought to pass; and small means in many instances death confound the wise. (Alma 37:6)
Worlds without end.