Power = Work / Time

Some people think it strange, but I actually enjoyed my physics courses in college. Learning about the forces that governed this world and the universe fascinated me. Sometimes physics isn't intuitive, or at least it wasn't for me. It seemed like often what I thought would happen under certain circumstances was the exact opposite of what would actually occur. However, the concept of Power is pretty straightforward.

The definition of Power is: the rate at which Work is done. Basically, Power tells us how much Work is being accomplished and how quickly. Power (P) equals Work (W) divided by Time (t).

With this background information, I share a scripture in Alma 18. In verse 35 Ammon says that the Spirit gives him knowledge, and also power according to his faith.  With increased power, Ammon would be able to accomplish more of the Lord's work in less time. In order to increase our efficiency, God has given us the Holy Ghost to lift us and strengthen us so we can accomplish more than we could on our own.

According to the verse, we are given these blessings of knowledge and power according to our faith and desires which are of God. To me, that sounds like a proportional relationship. Thus, one of my goals for 2017 is to increase my faith. I hope that by doing so I will be blessed with a greater portion of the Spirit in my life.

Side note: the unit of Power is the Watt.

Knowledge Unto Salvation

Moroni, a Book of Mormon prophet, writes in 3 Nephi 5:20, "that [God] hath given me and my people so much knowledge unto the salvation of our souls." I find this phrase interesting. When I think salvation I typically do not think of knowledge as the means of attaining it. But after thinking about it for a moment, it makes sense. When we have knowledge of something we are enabled and empowered to act. In order to perform a surgery a physician must first have specific training on the functioning of the human body. In order to develop computer software a programmer must first learn how to code. Once there is understanding there can be action and eventually a finished product.

In verse 25 of the same chapter Moroni talks about a specific kind of knowledge, knowledge of the covenant. In order for us to live with God and partake of salvation we too must gain an understanding of these covenants. And after doing so, if we are faithful, we can obtain the greatest of all the gifts of God, eternal life.