Section 53-57

I usually don't read this many sections but I was interested in the story and I'm glad I continued reading. During the first years of the church, the callings weren't known very well and The Lord gave very specific directions and comfort when calling people to certain positions. Nowadays most callings are well defined in our handbooks and we are guided by people who have done what we are called to before us. 

The controversy that is mentioned in section 54 and 56 about the consecration of properties includes the main reasons why that law didn't work so well. Mainly because there are selfish and greedy people who break their covenants when they should be humbling themselves. It does not matter whether we are rich or poor because the temptations of the world are given to all. The rich need to be weary that their riches will canker their souls if they do not help the poor (v16). The poor who are not humble, and who allow envy and idleness to fill their hearts are also in trouble (v17). 

God knows the difference between rebelling against Him and falling for temptations in times of weakness. His anger kindles against the rebellious while He is merciful for those that are weak. Knowing what I have learned makes me want to work on staying humble while I am a poor college student and earn blessings from God by continually trying to support myself financially and spiritually. 

Lastly I want to address the love of God displayed in the way He provides for His church like in section 57. Not only does He provide guidance in what to do, but He also provides the means to do what He commands (like Nephi's story!). Specifically here, he provides financial aid to buy land for the church members to settle in Independence, Missouri. He assigns people to certain tasks to that this gospel can spread and be preached to those in darkness (v10).