In the book of Abraham, we learn that Abraham desired to be a minister, to have priesthood authority, and to bless the lives of others. Chapter 1 verse 2 speaks of his desires:

“And, finding there was greater happiness and peace and rest for me, I sought for the blessings of the fathers, and the right whereunto I should be ordained to administer the same; having been myself a follower of righteousness, desiring also to be one who possessed great knowledge, and to be a greater follower of righteousness, and to possess a greater knowledge, and to be a father of many nations, a prince of peace, and desiring to receive instructions, and to keep the commandments of God, I became a rightful heir, a High Priest, holding the right belonging to the fathers.”

Wow. Look at Abraham’s desires. We know that Abraham faced struggles in his family. His father was a wicked man, and Abraham had to leave and become a stranger in a strange land. Abraham and Sarah were childless for many years, but they had faith that God would give them posterity. After Isaac was born, Abraham’s faith was tried when he was commanded to offer Isaac as a sacrifice. These were tests Abraham faced, yet he prevailed in faith.

The promises God made to Abraham can apply to us. I feel like Abraham’s desires were things that we can strive for. We can strive to be greater followers of righteousness, to possess greater knowledge, and to have a righteous posterity that will bless the world.