Imagine the joy of seeing the prophesied sign of the Lord Jesus Christ’s birth. And yet some would still not believe because Satan hardened their hearts (see 3 Nephi 1:22).
In Moses’ day, the Egyptians had the same problem after witnessing signs: “And it shall come to pass, if they will not believe thee, neither hearken to the voice of the first sign, that they will believe the voice of the latter sign. And it shall come to pass, if they will not believe also these two signs, neither hearken unto thy voice, that thou shalt take of the water of the river, and pour it upon the dry land: and the water which thou takest out of the river shall become blood upon the dry land.” (Exodus 4:8–9).
It is faith that brings true change—not signs. Change is within the heart and soul, and not in the witnessing of external signs. We should not seek signs to believe, for they follow faith (see D&C 63:9–11).
Elder Bruce R. McConkie expounds upon the blessings these signs are for the faithful:
In every age the Lord sends forth clearly discernible signs and warnings so that those who are spiritually inclined can know of his hand-dealings with men. In the meridian of time, when Jewish tempters, members of “a wicked and adulterous generation,” came desiring that “he would shew them a sign from heaven,” he rebuked and derided them by asking, “Can ye not discern the signs of the times?” (Matt. 16:1–4.) To the faithful elders carrying the message of salvation to the world in this dispensation, the Lord has given this promise: “Unto you it shall be given to know the signs of the times, and the signs of the coming of the Son of Man.” (D. & C. 68:11.)… .
By the power of the Holy Ghost the faithful saints are able to discern the signs of the times, signs preparatory to and part of this final great dispensation.” (Mormon Doctrine, 2d ed. [Salt Lake City: Bookcraft, 1966], 715–716)