These verses teach about the eternal significance of obedience.
20 There is a law, irrevocably decreed in heaven before the foundations of this world, upon which all blessings are predicated—
21 And when we obtain any blessing from God, it is by obedience to that law upon which it is predicated.
Irrevocably decreed
Irrevocably—unchangeably or irreversibly; finally; in a way that can’t be taken back
Decreed—officially ordered by a recognized authority
Before the foundations of this world
“All blessings that were ordained for man by the Council of Heaven were on conditions of obedience to the law thereof.”
Teachings of Presidents of the Church: Joseph Smith (2007), 164.
Predicated
Predicated—based (on)
When we obtain any blessing
The scriptures contain many instances of specific blessings promised to us when we obey certain commandments. Here are just a few examples. Can you find more?
Guidance and answers to prayers if we keep the commandment to “be thou humble” (see D&C 112:10).
Protection against the powers of darkness if we follow the prophet (see D&C 21:4–6).
Knowing the “mysteries of God” if we repent, exercise faith, bring forth good works, and pray continually (see Alma 26:22).
Health and treasures of knowledge if we keep the Word of Wisdom (see D&C 89:18–21).
Having the “windows of heaven” opened to us if we keep the law of tithing (see Malachi 3:10).
Eternal life if we keep all the commandments and endure to the end (see D&C 14:7).
It is by obedience
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Elder Dallin H. Oaks
“God’s choicest blessings are clearly contingent upon obedience to God’s laws and commandments. The key teaching is from modern revelation [D&C 130:20–21]. …
“… This great principle helps us understand the why of many things.”
Elder Dallin H. Oaks of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, “Love and Law,” Ensign, Nov. 2009, 27.
Obedience to that law
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Elder Russell M. Nelson
“If you really want a certain blessing, you’d better find out what the laws are that govern that blessing and then work on becoming obedient to those laws.”
Elder Russell M. Nelson of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, “The Mission and Ministry of the Savior: A Discussion with Elder Russell M. Nelson,” Ensign, June 2005, 19.