There is an inseparable connection between revelation and repentance. One cannot truly repent without obtaining revelation, and one cannot receive personal revelation without it facilitating repentance.
The LDS Bible Dictionary states: “The Greek word of which [repentance] is the translation denotes a change of mind, a fresh view about God, about oneself, and about the world…[R]epentance comes to mean a turning of the heart and will to God, and a renunciation of sin to which we are naturally inclined.”
Repentance is not simply changing behavior, but changing how we see the world. This new perspective not only permanently changes our behavior, but it also changes our nature. This “fresh view about God, about oneself, and about the world,” comes through revelation.
We receive revelation as we seek to follow the Lord’s admonition: “[V]erily, verily, I say unto thee, put your trust in that Spirit which leadeth to do good—yea, to do justly, to walk humbly, to judge righteously; and this is my Spirit. Verily, verily, I say unto you, I will impart unto you of my Spirit, which shall enlighten your mind, which shall fill your soul with joy; And then shall ye know, or by this shall you know, all things” D&C 11:9, 11-14.
“[I]f your eye be single to my glory, your whole bodies shall be filled with light, and there shall be no darkness in you; and that body which is filled with light comprehendeth all things. Therefore, sanctify yourselves that your minds become single to God.” D&C 88:67-68
“That which is of God is light; and he that receiveth light, and continueth in God, receiveth more light; and that light groweth brighter and brighter until the perfect day.” D&C 50:24
Revelation lifts us up closer to God so that we gain a new perspective. The closer we get to God, the greater is our view of truth and reality, and the greater is our peace and joy.
But confirmation bias is probably our biggest obstacle to receiving revelation. If we want personal revelation, we need to have an open mind and be willing to change our opinions. Indeed, we must seek to change our perspective. We need to seek truth, even if it leads us to change our very nature.
That is why an addict who has hit rock bottom and looks up to God is more likely to receive life changing revelation than a self-righteous person who looks down on others.
