Teachings Becoming Scripture

Modern and continuing revelation is a subject of controversy when it comes to Latter Day Saints in the Christian community.  It's easy to question how the teachings of modern church leaders can be accepted as not only doctrine but as being from the Lord himself and worthy of being cannonized.  As a member of the LDS church, I feel that this modern day revelation is necessary and truly from God.  I've never had a prophet lead me in a direction that didn't feel right.  I've only seen good things from following the revelation and guidance given through religious leaders today.  

During Joseph Smith's time, there was no radio, no Ensign (a church magazine that is published and distributed world wide), no internet for reading talks or hearing podcasts, no television for recording and re-broadcasting church meetings where revelations were given.  We rely heavily on what was recorded by individuals attending Joseph Smith's sermons and meetings where he taught and revealed to the saints what the Lord would have them do.  At the time the Doctrine & Covenants was compiled, some of Joseph Smith's sermons were added into this set of scripture.  I can see that these teachings often explained things he had counseled with the Lord about and received answers to his own questions.  He was also teaching about things that may not be explained in other places in scripture or expounds on doctrine found in the Book of Mormon and the Bible.  It's a blessing to have these teachings preserved in the Doctrine and Covenants.