Wicked King Noah was enraged when he heard of the prophesies of Abinidi. He asked the people, aWho is Abinadi, that I and my people should be judged of him, or bwho is the Lord, that shall bring upon my people such great affliction? (Mosiah 11:27)
It's one thing to ask, "Who is this guy who is prophesying bad things about me and my people?" It's quite another to ask, "Who is the Lord?" I think that's a really funny question. Doesn't the word "god" mean anything to him? Does he, in his great pride, think he is mightier than God?
It seems like in today's world, many people feel the same as King Noah, although they may not express it the same way he did. They think that they are in charge of their lives, and whatever dominion they are over. They don't realize that their life can be snuffed out in an instant, and all their empire-building will be as naught.
Tuesday, December 29, 2009
Tuesday, December 15, 2009
Write His Name Upon My Heart
I've been reading in Mosiah 5 and have been pondering on the concept of taking His name on us. At the beginning of his sermon, King Benjamin promised the people that he would give them a new name, and now he tells them that they are now called the children of Christ. For Christ had spiritually begotten them.
We sing and recite and discuss the fact that we are a Child of God, or Daughter of God. In addition to being a daughter of Heavenly Father, as I am baptized I also become a daughter of Christ. He has spiritually begotten me, and I want to always do as He would have me do, and try to be more like Him, to have a family resemblance. In this way, the title "Christian" becomes a family name, and I hope to bear it proudly. The admonition of parents, "Remember who you are", is a good reminder to all of us. I hope people would say, "You act just like your Father", or "Your Father must be so proud of you!"
Benjamin says that if I would belong to the family of Christ, I must "hear and know the voice by which [I] shall be called, and also, the name by which he shall call [me]." In other words, I must have such a close relationship with Christ that I recognize His voice whenever or wherever I hear it, as I would that of my children or husband. And when He calls my name, when He says, "My Christian children, come here", I would gladly rush to Him.
That name must not just be tucked away into a pocket somewhere. It must be written upon my heart. Sin can blot that name away, making me forget that I am his daughter. Benjamin says, "take heed that ye do not transgress, that the name be not blotted out of your hearts. "
The promise is that He may seal me His. The cross-references for "seal" go to the Topical Guide results for "Election, Elect" and are glorious and inspiring. Here's one I love, "D&C 132: 49 For I am the Lord thy God, and will be awith thee even unto the bend of the world, and through all eternity; for verily I cseal upon you your dexaltation, and prepare a throne for you in the kingdom of my Father, with Abraham your efather. "
What a promise! It will all be worth it. It is now all worth it. It has always been worth it.
We sing and recite and discuss the fact that we are a Child of God, or Daughter of God. In addition to being a daughter of Heavenly Father, as I am baptized I also become a daughter of Christ. He has spiritually begotten me, and I want to always do as He would have me do, and try to be more like Him, to have a family resemblance. In this way, the title "Christian" becomes a family name, and I hope to bear it proudly. The admonition of parents, "Remember who you are", is a good reminder to all of us. I hope people would say, "You act just like your Father", or "Your Father must be so proud of you!"
Benjamin says that if I would belong to the family of Christ, I must "hear and know the voice by which [I] shall be called, and also, the name by which he shall call [me]." In other words, I must have such a close relationship with Christ that I recognize His voice whenever or wherever I hear it, as I would that of my children or husband. And when He calls my name, when He says, "My Christian children, come here", I would gladly rush to Him.
That name must not just be tucked away into a pocket somewhere. It must be written upon my heart. Sin can blot that name away, making me forget that I am his daughter. Benjamin says, "take heed that ye do not transgress, that the name be not blotted out of your hearts. "
The promise is that He may seal me His. The cross-references for "seal" go to the Topical Guide results for "Election, Elect" and are glorious and inspiring. Here's one I love, "D&C 132: 49 For I am the Lord thy God, and will be awith thee even unto the bend of the world, and through all eternity; for verily I cseal upon you your dexaltation, and prepare a throne for you in the kingdom of my Father, with Abraham your efather. "
What a promise! It will all be worth it. It is now all worth it. It has always been worth it.
Friday, December 11, 2009
Enjoy the Words of Eternal Life
I'm finishing up reading through the Pearl of Great Price for the second time this year. Here in Moses 6 Enoch teaches the people by quoting the words of the Lord to Father Adam:
59. That by reason of transgression cometh the fall, which fall bringeth death, and inasmuch as ye were born into the world by water, and blood, and the aspirit, which I have made, and so became of bdust a living soul, even so ye must be cborn again into the kingdom of heaven, of dwater, and of the Spirit, and be cleansed by blood, even the blood of mine Only Begotten; that ye might be sanctified from all sin, and eenjoy the fwords of geternal life in this world, and eternal life in the world to come, even immortal hglory;
As I've been marking my scriptures, I've been marking commandments in green, and blessings in pink. So I have to look at each phrase and decide whether it's a teaching, a commandment, or a blessing, etc. You get the idea. When I got to "Enjoy the words of eternal life", I assumed it was a commandment. Another thing to add to our list of things to do. But looking again, I don't think that's the case. The Lord here is saying that we must be baptized and receive the gift of the Holy Ghost and be cleansed by the blood of Christ. As a result of doing this, we receive certain blessings. The three Enoch lists here are: 1) Be sanctified from all sin, 2) Enjoy the words of eternal life in this world, 3) Enjoy eternal life in the world to come, even immortal glory.
The word "enjoy" here, according to the thesaurus, might mean "take pleasure in", or "be favored with". Either one is interesting in this context. If we are blessed to "take pleasure in" the words of eternal life, then when we are converted and baptized and have the Holy Ghost, we learn to love receiving the words of eternal life, whether we find those in scriptures, in church meetings, in conference talks, or any of the sources of instruction available to us. If we take the latter meaning, "be favored with", then those words of eternal life are a gift to us, a Christmas present, a birthday gift, a source of joy and peace and continual love that we need to treasure every day. When we're counting our blessings, the words of eternal life surely should be right at the top of the list!
59. That by reason of transgression cometh the fall, which fall bringeth death, and inasmuch as ye were born into the world by water, and blood, and the aspirit, which I have made, and so became of bdust a living soul, even so ye must be cborn again into the kingdom of heaven, of dwater, and of the Spirit, and be cleansed by blood, even the blood of mine Only Begotten; that ye might be sanctified from all sin, and eenjoy the fwords of geternal life in this world, and eternal life in the world to come, even immortal hglory;
As I've been marking my scriptures, I've been marking commandments in green, and blessings in pink. So I have to look at each phrase and decide whether it's a teaching, a commandment, or a blessing, etc. You get the idea. When I got to "Enjoy the words of eternal life", I assumed it was a commandment. Another thing to add to our list of things to do. But looking again, I don't think that's the case. The Lord here is saying that we must be baptized and receive the gift of the Holy Ghost and be cleansed by the blood of Christ. As a result of doing this, we receive certain blessings. The three Enoch lists here are: 1) Be sanctified from all sin, 2) Enjoy the words of eternal life in this world, 3) Enjoy eternal life in the world to come, even immortal glory.
The word "enjoy" here, according to the thesaurus, might mean "take pleasure in", or "be favored with". Either one is interesting in this context. If we are blessed to "take pleasure in" the words of eternal life, then when we are converted and baptized and have the Holy Ghost, we learn to love receiving the words of eternal life, whether we find those in scriptures, in church meetings, in conference talks, or any of the sources of instruction available to us. If we take the latter meaning, "be favored with", then those words of eternal life are a gift to us, a Christmas present, a birthday gift, a source of joy and peace and continual love that we need to treasure every day. When we're counting our blessings, the words of eternal life surely should be right at the top of the list!
Saturday, December 5, 2009
The Lies of Satan
It's not just that Satan lies, but that he calls God a liar. For example, in the Garden of Eden, he found Eve and tried to persuade her to partake of the forbidden fruit.
Moses 4:10 And the serpent said unto the awoman: Ye shall not surely die;
As I read that, the words "Ye shall not surely die" jumped out at me. He's telling Eve that God lied to her. Of course, faith in God is dependent on the knowledge that we can trust Him at all times.
Later, after they had been cast out of the Garden, Adam and Eve taught their children to believe in God. But Satan again called God a liar:
Moses 5: 13 bBelieve it not; and they believed it not, and they cloved Satan more than God. And men began from that time forth to be dcarnal, sensual, and devilish.
Whenever we're tempted to doubt the things that the Lord is telling us, we need to remember that the doubt is a tool of Satan's. Whether we're doubting that things will really turn out to bless our lives, or that Christ has truly atoned for our sins, or that we can be exalted with Him someday, Satan would have us believe that God lies. He whispers, "God doesn't care about you and what happens to you. You can't do everything that's required of you, so why try? It's just too hard, and the standards are too high. The Terrestrial Kingdom is good enough and you don't have to work so hard to get there."
But the Lord won't leave us alone with Satan when we call on Him for help. In Moses we read that immediately after Satan had told his lies,
Moses 4:10 And the serpent said unto the awoman: Ye shall not surely die;
As I read that, the words "Ye shall not surely die" jumped out at me. He's telling Eve that God lied to her. Of course, faith in God is dependent on the knowledge that we can trust Him at all times.
Later, after they had been cast out of the Garden, Adam and Eve taught their children to believe in God. But Satan again called God a liar:
Moses 5: 13 bBelieve it not; and they believed it not, and they cloved Satan more than God. And men began from that time forth to be dcarnal, sensual, and devilish.
Whenever we're tempted to doubt the things that the Lord is telling us, we need to remember that the doubt is a tool of Satan's. Whether we're doubting that things will really turn out to bless our lives, or that Christ has truly atoned for our sins, or that we can be exalted with Him someday, Satan would have us believe that God lies. He whispers, "God doesn't care about you and what happens to you. You can't do everything that's required of you, so why try? It's just too hard, and the standards are too high. The Terrestrial Kingdom is good enough and you don't have to work so hard to get there."
But the Lord won't leave us alone with Satan when we call on Him for help. In Moses we read that immediately after Satan had told his lies,
14 And the Lord God called upon men by the aHoly Ghost everywhere and commanded them that they should repent;
15 And as many as abelieved in the Son, and repented of their sins, should be bsaved; and as many as believed not and repented not, should be cdamned; and the words went forth out of the mouth of God in a firm decree; wherefore they must be fulfilled.
He will help us, if we just call on Him and believe in him and repent. We don't need to believe the lies of Satan.
He will help us, if we just call on Him and believe in him and repent. We don't need to believe the lies of Satan.
Sunday, November 15, 2009
Always Remember Him
What a challenge to always remember Him, but what great promises are tied in to that commandment.
Scorchi made some wonderful comments in the last post, so I suggest that you read those comments. I also suggest that you read a conference talk by Henry B. Eyring, called O Remember, Remember. Here's a quote from that talk:
My point is to urge you to find ways to recognize and remember God’s kindness . . .
And the challenge to remember has always been the hardest for those who are blessed abundantly. Those who are faithful to God are protected and prospered. That comes as the result of serving God and keeping His commandments. But with those blessings comes the temptation to forget their source. It is easy to begin to feel the blessings were granted not by a loving God on whom we depend but by our own powers.
Later on, he says:
Scorchi made some wonderful comments in the last post, so I suggest that you read those comments. I also suggest that you read a conference talk by Henry B. Eyring, called O Remember, Remember. Here's a quote from that talk:
My point is to urge you to find ways to recognize and remember God’s kindness . . .
And the challenge to remember has always been the hardest for those who are blessed abundantly. Those who are faithful to God are protected and prospered. That comes as the result of serving God and keeping His commandments. But with those blessings comes the temptation to forget their source. It is easy to begin to feel the blessings were granted not by a loving God on whom we depend but by our own powers.
Later on, he says:
There is a simple cure for the terrible malady of forgetting God, His blessings, and His messages to us. Jesus Christ promised it to His disciples when He was about to be crucified, resurrected, and then taken away from them to ascend in glory to His Father. They were concerned to know how they would be able to endure when He was no longer with them.
Here is the promise. It was fulfilled for them then. It can be fulfilled for all of us now:
“These things have I spoken unto you, being yet present with you.
“But the Comforter, which is the Holy Ghost, whom the Father will send in my name, he shall teach you all things, and bring all things to your remembrance, whatsoever I have said unto you.”5
The key to the remembering that brings and maintains testimony is receiving the Holy Ghost as a companion. It is the Holy Ghost who helps us see what God has done for us.
Take time to read Brother Eyring's talk. He urges us to notice and record our many blessings as a way to see the hand of God in our lives. And that will help us remember.
Friday, November 13, 2009
Formula for Joy
King Benjamin gives a sure-fire formula for joy and happiness (Mosiah 4:11). As a matter of fact, the promises are 1). Always rejoice 2). Be filled with the love of God 3). Retain a remission of your sins 4). Grow in the knowledge of the glory of God. And there are lots of other promises that I'll discuss later.
Here is the formula. I should precede this by saying that Benjamin is talking to people who are full of joy, having just received a remission of their sins. So he's speaking to an educated and converted congregation. He tells them (and us) how to retain this conversion. He says:
How do I do that? How do I remember Him?
Here is the formula. I should precede this by saying that Benjamin is talking to people who are full of joy, having just received a remission of their sins. So he's speaking to an educated and converted congregation. He tells them (and us) how to retain this conversion. He says:
- Remember and keep remembering the greatness of God. Remember your own nothingness. Remember His goodness and patience with you.
- Humble yourselves
- Call on the Lord daily
- Stand steadfast in the faith of Christ
How do I do that? How do I remember Him?
Thursday, November 12, 2009
See That Ye Do Them
Mosiah 4:10 And again, believe that ye must arepent of your sins and forsake them, and humble yourselves before God; and ask in bsincerity of heart that he would cforgive you; and now, if you dbelieve all these things see that ye edo them.
There are many things which we believe, but we don't always do them. I believe strongly and with great passion that exercise is good for me. But many times I hover at the decision to go to the gym or stay home. And I choose to stay home and read a book or watch TV. I know that certain foods are bad for me, but I choose to eat them. I know that I could be more valiant in my callings, but I choose to procrastinate and scrape by, getting my visiting teaching done at the last minute. I know temple worship is important, but months go by without a single visit to the temple.
King Benjamin says, "See that ye do them". It's not enough to believe. We need to DO.
There are many things which we believe, but we don't always do them. I believe strongly and with great passion that exercise is good for me. But many times I hover at the decision to go to the gym or stay home. And I choose to stay home and read a book or watch TV. I know that certain foods are bad for me, but I choose to eat them. I know that I could be more valiant in my callings, but I choose to procrastinate and scrape by, getting my visiting teaching done at the last minute. I know temple worship is important, but months go by without a single visit to the temple.
King Benjamin says, "See that ye do them". It's not enough to believe. We need to DO.
Wednesday, November 11, 2009
No More Blameless
King Benjamin tells us in Mosiah 3:22-27 of the plight of those who choose to reject Christ. He says: They shall stand as a bright testimony against this people, at the judgment day; whereof they shall be judged, every man according to his aworks, whether they be good, or whether they be evil.
25 And if they be evil they are consigned to an awful aview of their own guilt and abominations, which doth cause them to shrink from the presence of the Lord into a state of bmisery and cendless torment, from whence they can no more return; therefore they have drunk damnation to their own souls.
So when we stand before God, we will see all of the things we have done wrong, all of our evil intentions, all of the things we've tried to hide from others and ourselves. Those who have made no attempt to repent will see themselves as they really are, and King Benjamin says that view will cause them to shrink from the presence of the Lord. Sometimes we have the impression that the Lord is standing with an accusing look, pointing towards Hell, sending sinners away from Him. But it says here, that they (hopefully not "we") will "shrink" from His presence, and send themselves into a state of misery and endless torment. Just as a child hides from its parents when it's done something wrong, they will want to hide from the Lord so that He can't see the evil they've done. They will condemn themselves.
So when we stand before God, we will see all of the things we have done wrong, all of our evil intentions, all of the things we've tried to hide from others and ourselves. Those who have made no attempt to repent will see themselves as they really are, and King Benjamin says that view will cause them to shrink from the presence of the Lord. Sometimes we have the impression that the Lord is standing with an accusing look, pointing towards Hell, sending sinners away from Him. But it says here, that they (hopefully not "we") will "shrink" from His presence, and send themselves into a state of misery and endless torment. Just as a child hides from its parents when it's done something wrong, they will want to hide from the Lord so that He can't see the evil they've done. They will condemn themselves.
Tuesday, November 10, 2009
Take Counsel, Prepare, Organize
I've been reading in the book of Abraham, in the Pearl of Great Price. He was shown a vision of the creation of the earth. He talks specifically about how the gods "took counsel among themselves", how they "prepared the earth", and how they "organized the earth".
It seems to me that these principles should apply in my life as well. We as a family or as a couple need to take counsel among ourselves to decide what needs to be done for any problem or challenge. We need to prepare, to get things ready. And we need to organize.
These ideas seem obvious to most people. But I have always been organizationally-challenged. I tend to just rush headlong into doing something and then discover that I don't know what I'm doing or don't have the needed supplies. Instead, I need to discuss and think it through, get ready and organize. Then I'll be ready to get going and DO IT!
It seems to me that these principles should apply in my life as well. We as a family or as a couple need to take counsel among ourselves to decide what needs to be done for any problem or challenge. We need to prepare, to get things ready. And we need to organize.
These ideas seem obvious to most people. But I have always been organizationally-challenged. I tend to just rush headlong into doing something and then discover that I don't know what I'm doing or don't have the needed supplies. Instead, I need to discuss and think it through, get ready and organize. Then I'll be ready to get going and DO IT!
Wednesday, November 4, 2009
He has Caused that I Should Rejoice
Mosiah 2:20 He has caused that we should rejoice! He provides us with opportunities and reasons to rejoice. He doesn't force us. He gives us many causes to rejoice, but we have to choose to open our eyes and see them. We have to cherish our relationships with our loved ones. We have to realize our blessings. We have to look around and see the beauty He has surrounded us with.
A recent talk that was part of Music and the Spoken Word really touched my heart. A quote from that broadcast: Indeed, the world offers us daily moments of beauty that can enrich our lives—if we open our eyes and open our hearts.
Walking around under my own power, taking the world for granted, rushing through my days, thinking that my achievements are all my own, these are such easy mistakes to make. But they not only rob God of the credit for my blessings, but they rob me of the joy I could receive if would I acknowledge His hand in every aspect of my life.
President Uchtdorf gave a talk called, Have We Not Reason to Rejoice? Read it. It really helped me realize how many wonderful blessings I have.
The Lord has certainly caused me to rejoice.
A recent talk that was part of Music and the Spoken Word really touched my heart. A quote from that broadcast: Indeed, the world offers us daily moments of beauty that can enrich our lives—if we open our eyes and open our hearts.
Walking around under my own power, taking the world for granted, rushing through my days, thinking that my achievements are all my own, these are such easy mistakes to make. But they not only rob God of the credit for my blessings, but they rob me of the joy I could receive if would I acknowledge His hand in every aspect of my life.
President Uchtdorf gave a talk called, Have We Not Reason to Rejoice? Read it. It really helped me realize how many wonderful blessings I have.
The Lord has certainly caused me to rejoice.
Live and Move and Do
I love King Benjamin! He teaches us some very powerful things, things that have really helped and supported me at difficult times in my life. Here are some things King Benjamin says the Lord has done for us:
- Created us
- Preserves us
- Lends us breath
- Allows us to live and move and do according to our own will
- Supports us from one moment to another
- Causes us to rejoice
Wednesday, October 28, 2009
He Worketh in Me
Words of Mormon 1:7 Mormon injects some comments as we come to the end of the Small Plates of Nephi. He says, . . . And now, I do not know all things; but the Lord cknoweth all things which are to come; wherefore, he dworketh in me to do according to his ewill.
The Lord knew what would happen thousands of years in the future in the life of Joseph Smith, as he was translating the Book of Mormon. He knew that the transcript of the translation would be lost, and that the Lord would instruct Joseph not to translate the same record again. He warned Joseph that wicked men would take the transcript and change it, then claim that Joseph couldn't translate the same way twice. So the Lord had prepared an alternate record. Mormon found these small plates among the records, and included them "for a wise purpose."
I realize that like Mormon, I do not know all things. For me, that's a huge understatement. But I also acknowledge that the Lord knows all things which are to come. He can see the end from the beginning. For me, it takes a great deal of faith and trust to stumble blindly ahead, not knowing where my steps are taking me. If only I knew what was coming. If only I knew why I was being told to do something. SO my big hope is that He can work in me to do according to His will. That He can trust me to carry out His plan, even though I don't know why He wants it done. Whether it's following small promptings or big ones, I need to trust in Him and let Him work in me to do according to His will.
The Lord knew what would happen thousands of years in the future in the life of Joseph Smith, as he was translating the Book of Mormon. He knew that the transcript of the translation would be lost, and that the Lord would instruct Joseph not to translate the same record again. He warned Joseph that wicked men would take the transcript and change it, then claim that Joseph couldn't translate the same way twice. So the Lord had prepared an alternate record. Mormon found these small plates among the records, and included them "for a wise purpose."
I realize that like Mormon, I do not know all things. For me, that's a huge understatement. But I also acknowledge that the Lord knows all things which are to come. He can see the end from the beginning. For me, it takes a great deal of faith and trust to stumble blindly ahead, not knowing where my steps are taking me. If only I knew what was coming. If only I knew why I was being told to do something. SO my big hope is that He can work in me to do according to His will. That He can trust me to carry out His plan, even though I don't know why He wants it done. Whether it's following small promptings or big ones, I need to trust in Him and let Him work in me to do according to His will.
Saturday, October 24, 2009
Wrestling with the Lord
I'm still pondering on Enos' descriptions of his prayers. Especially with the idea of struggling in the Spirit. He says, (v. 11) I prayed unto him with many long strugglings . . .
Alma had a similar experience as he went into Ammonihah. Alma alabored much in the spirit, bwrestling with God in cmighty prayer . . .
So, here's my question: What exactly were they doing? We can assume that the wrestling is figurative. Although in Genesis we see Jacob wrestling with a man, most LDS Bible experts agree that the wrestling was not actual physical contact. So Alma and Enos are spiritually struggling or wrestling with the Lord. Does that mean they're trying to convince the Lord of what they want? To change His mind? To persuade Him to do something despite His better judgment? That sounds like something I might do, but surely not a prophet of God.
What then? Alma was asking for something good, something righteous and praiseworthy. But it was something which the Lord was not able to grant without taking away the people's agency. Alma asked that the Lord would pour out His spirit, that Alma could baptize them unto repentance. But the people hardened their hearts. They chose sin and destruction.
In Enos' case, Enos asked something that was the Lord's will. Why, then was it a struggle? I'm wondering if the struggle was for Enos to align his desires, his wishes with the will of the Lord. Perhaps Enos started out, in his new-found conversion, praying that he could go right then and convert all the Lamanites. The Lord said, "No, that's not going to happen." Perhaps Enos thought, "If not now, then sometime in the future?" Enos had learned that there was a very real possibility that his people, the Nephites, were going to all be destroyed many hundred of years hence. And he worried about what would happen to the sacred records that had been written, and would yet be written by the prophets of the Nephites. Would those be destroyed also? Might they be preserved so that they could be brought forth to convert his brethren, the Lamanites, at some future time?
I think the struggling was what happened to Enos as he worked through his desires and feelings and brought them into alignment with what the Lord wanted. And perhaps Alma's righteous desires caused him to struggle and wrestle as he came to accept that the people did have their agency and the Lord would not force them to repent and become a righteous people. As much as Alma wanted to save them, he could not do it. He was still allowed to preach to them, and he did convert a few. The Lord blessed him for his righteous desires.
As I pray, I always think the things I am asking for are good things. I try not to ask for selfish things, at least not too much. But I usually just put my request on the Lord's table and leave it there. And do the same the next night. And the next. Eventually, I'm nagging the Lord, rather than struggling to find out what He wants for me. I need to wrestle more.
Alma had a similar experience as he went into Ammonihah. Alma alabored much in the spirit, bwrestling with God in cmighty prayer . . .
So, here's my question: What exactly were they doing? We can assume that the wrestling is figurative. Although in Genesis we see Jacob wrestling with a man, most LDS Bible experts agree that the wrestling was not actual physical contact. So Alma and Enos are spiritually struggling or wrestling with the Lord. Does that mean they're trying to convince the Lord of what they want? To change His mind? To persuade Him to do something despite His better judgment? That sounds like something I might do, but surely not a prophet of God.
What then? Alma was asking for something good, something righteous and praiseworthy. But it was something which the Lord was not able to grant without taking away the people's agency. Alma asked that the Lord would pour out His spirit, that Alma could baptize them unto repentance. But the people hardened their hearts. They chose sin and destruction.
In Enos' case, Enos asked something that was the Lord's will. Why, then was it a struggle? I'm wondering if the struggle was for Enos to align his desires, his wishes with the will of the Lord. Perhaps Enos started out, in his new-found conversion, praying that he could go right then and convert all the Lamanites. The Lord said, "No, that's not going to happen." Perhaps Enos thought, "If not now, then sometime in the future?" Enos had learned that there was a very real possibility that his people, the Nephites, were going to all be destroyed many hundred of years hence. And he worried about what would happen to the sacred records that had been written, and would yet be written by the prophets of the Nephites. Would those be destroyed also? Might they be preserved so that they could be brought forth to convert his brethren, the Lamanites, at some future time?
I think the struggling was what happened to Enos as he worked through his desires and feelings and brought them into alignment with what the Lord wanted. And perhaps Alma's righteous desires caused him to struggle and wrestle as he came to accept that the people did have their agency and the Lord would not force them to repent and become a righteous people. As much as Alma wanted to save them, he could not do it. He was still allowed to preach to them, and he did convert a few. The Lord blessed him for his righteous desires.
As I pray, I always think the things I am asking for are good things. I try not to ask for selfish things, at least not too much. But I usually just put my request on the Lord's table and leave it there. And do the same the next night. And the next. Eventually, I'm nagging the Lord, rather than struggling to find out what He wants for me. I need to wrestle more.
Friday, October 23, 2009
Lessons from Enos
Enos 1:4-12 I'm asking Enos to teach me about prayer. He tells us how he prayed and received answers, but happily, he doesn't just say, "I prayed." Here are some quotes:
But Enos was not one to give up easily. As you can see, he prayed for long periods, and with mighty prayer and strugglings, and with his whole soul and with all diligence. I don't know how to do that. I run out of things to say after about 5 minutes. And I don't think the Lord wants to hear me repeat the same thing over and over.
My friend Curtis would remind me that we don't need to have prayer marathons. That the Lord can hear us and respond to our needs after shorter amounts on our knees.
Now that I mention it, every time I read this account, I wonder why the Lord made Enos struggle so much for his final request. I'll quote it: I cprayed unto him with many long dstrugglings for my brethren, the Lamanites.
- I ccried unto him in mighty dprayer and supplication . . .
- . . . all the day long did I cry unto him; yea, and when the night came I did still raise my voice high that it reached the heavens.
- I did cpour out my whole soul unto God . . .
- . . . struggling in the spirit . . .
- I cprayed unto him with many long dstrugglings . . .
- . . . after I had aprayed and labored with all diligence . . .
But Enos was not one to give up easily. As you can see, he prayed for long periods, and with mighty prayer and strugglings, and with his whole soul and with all diligence. I don't know how to do that. I run out of things to say after about 5 minutes. And I don't think the Lord wants to hear me repeat the same thing over and over.
My friend Curtis would remind me that we don't need to have prayer marathons. That the Lord can hear us and respond to our needs after shorter amounts on our knees.
Now that I mention it, every time I read this account, I wonder why the Lord made Enos struggle so much for his final request. I'll quote it: I cprayed unto him with many long dstrugglings for my brethren, the Lamanites.
13 And now behold, this was the desire which I desired of him—that if it should so be, that my people, the Nephites, should fall into transgression, and by any means be adestroyed, and the Lamanites should not be bdestroyed, that the Lord God would cpreserve a record of my people, the Nephites; even if it so be by the power of his holy arm, that it might be dbrought forth at some future day unto the Lamanites, that, perhaps, they might be ebrought unto salvation . . .
18 And the Lord said unto me: Thy fathers have also required of me this thing; and it shall be done unto them according to their faith; for their faith was like unto thine.
So my question is, why did the Lord require Enos to struggle and labor with all diligence if He was going to give him what he wanted anyway; if He had already promised other prophets the same thing? The answer, of course, is that the prayer itself was a blessing to Enos. The struggling and labor were for Enos' benefit. Prayer is not a trial, it's not a duty, it's not a punishment. It should be like sitting down with your best friend to talk about things that are dear to your heart. I want to learn to pray like that.
So my question is, why did the Lord require Enos to struggle and labor with all diligence if He was going to give him what he wanted anyway; if He had already promised other prophets the same thing? The answer, of course, is that the prayer itself was a blessing to Enos. The struggling and labor were for Enos' benefit. Prayer is not a trial, it's not a duty, it's not a punishment. It should be like sitting down with your best friend to talk about things that are dear to your heart. I want to learn to pray like that.
Thursday, October 22, 2009
The Joy of the Saints
Enos 1:1-3 How did Enos' conversion story come about? What prompted it? He went out to hunt beasts. Was it being in the outdoors, with no outside interruptions? The beauty of nature? Many people go hunting but never have spiritual conversions. There must be more than that.
We don't know much about what Enos was like before this experience, but this sounds like it was his first real experience with the Lord. He does tell us a few things about his past.
That caused me to wonder if sometimes I have failed to stress the joys of Gospel living. The peace, the friendships, the love of others, the sweetness of testimony. Those who have felt the stirrings of the Holy Ghost have felt that sweetness, but for those who have not, the Gospel can seem like an unending list of do's and don't's. More of a burden than a blessing. But if we can remember to share with them the "joy of the saints", perhaps they can eventually have an "Enos" experience, and their souls will "hunger".
We don't know much about what Enos was like before this experience, but this sounds like it was his first real experience with the Lord. He does tell us a few things about his past.
- His father (Jacob) was a just man.
- Jacob had taught him in his language. Some students of the scriptures have suggested that this means that he had taught Enos the Reformed Egyptian which the prophets used for writing on their scriptures, in addition to the Hebrew which the people spoke.
- Jacob had taught Enos in the nurture and admonition of the Lord. In other words, he had taught him the Gospel.
- The next verse is the one which touched me as I studied this part of the story: . . . the words which I had often heard my father speak concerning eternal life, and the ajoy of the saints, bsunk deep into my heart. And my soul ahungered;
That caused me to wonder if sometimes I have failed to stress the joys of Gospel living. The peace, the friendships, the love of others, the sweetness of testimony. Those who have felt the stirrings of the Holy Ghost have felt that sweetness, but for those who have not, the Gospel can seem like an unending list of do's and don't's. More of a burden than a blessing. But if we can remember to share with them the "joy of the saints", perhaps they can eventually have an "Enos" experience, and their souls will "hunger".
Wednesday, October 21, 2009
Sherem's Tragedy
Jacob 7:1-22 Sherem labored diligently to lead away the hearts of the people. He wanted to persuade them that there was no Christ. He was learned, and used flattery and the power of speech and had the power of the devil. Satan taught him the things to say. If we pay attention, we'll see that the same lies are repeated today.
In our day, the idea that anyone would believe in a devil is really ridiculed. Angels are very popular. People can believe in angels. And ghosts. But to believe in a God who is involved in our lives, to think that He guides us in our daily lives, to think that there is a devil who might try to influence us - these are signs of uneducated, small-town, foolish people. Sherem may have died, but Sherems exist in every time, influenced by Satan who fills them with his lies.
- No one can know the future
- There is no Christ
- There is no Holy Ghost
- If I don't know these things, neither can you.
In our day, the idea that anyone would believe in a devil is really ridiculed. Angels are very popular. People can believe in angels. And ghosts. But to believe in a God who is involved in our lives, to think that He guides us in our daily lives, to think that there is a devil who might try to influence us - these are signs of uneducated, small-town, foolish people. Sherem may have died, but Sherems exist in every time, influenced by Satan who fills them with his lies.
Saturday, October 17, 2009
His Own Purpose
Jacob 5:53 And this will I do that the tree may not perish, that, perhaps, I may preserve unto myself the roots thereof for mine aown purpose.
In the parable, the lord of the vineyard struggles to preserve the trees, for his own purpose. We have to do a little research to find out what that purpose is. When I was in junior high, a teacher led us in a discussion about why God does the things he does. I was shocked when he concluded the discussion with the conclusion that He does everything concerning us FOR HIS AMUSEMENT. Apparently, according to this philosophy, we are like chess pieces that he moves about here and there to see what we will do for his own entertainment.
Contrast this idea with the words that God taught to Moses in the Pearl of Great Price, Moses 1:39 For behold, this is my awork and my bglory—to bring to pass the cimmortality and deternal elife of man. The Lord loves us so much that His entire purpose, His work, indeed what gives him His glory is helping us gain eternal life, to live forever with Him. He wants us to be happy, not just today, but for eternity. He wants us to be the best that we can be; He wants to share eternity with us. The former is a selfish, self-absorbed god, toying with His subjects. The latter is a loving, unselfish, sacrificing God, full of compassion.
In the parable, the lord of the vineyard struggles to preserve the trees, for his own purpose. We have to do a little research to find out what that purpose is. When I was in junior high, a teacher led us in a discussion about why God does the things he does. I was shocked when he concluded the discussion with the conclusion that He does everything concerning us FOR HIS AMUSEMENT. Apparently, according to this philosophy, we are like chess pieces that he moves about here and there to see what we will do for his own entertainment.
Contrast this idea with the words that God taught to Moses in the Pearl of Great Price, Moses 1:39 For behold, this is my awork and my bglory—to bring to pass the cimmortality and deternal elife of man. The Lord loves us so much that His entire purpose, His work, indeed what gives him His glory is helping us gain eternal life, to live forever with Him. He wants us to be happy, not just today, but for eternity. He wants us to be the best that we can be; He wants to share eternity with us. The former is a selfish, self-absorbed god, toying with His subjects. The latter is a loving, unselfish, sacrificing God, full of compassion.
Tuesday, October 13, 2009
Fear vs. Strength
Moses1:20 And it came to pass that Moses began to afear exceedingly; and as he began to fear, he saw the bitterness of bhell. Nevertheless, ccalling upon God, he received dstrength, and he commanded, saying: Depart from me, Satan, for this one God only will I worship, which is the God of eglory.
At first, Moses was quite courageous in rebuking and withstanding Satan, asking twice "Where is thy glory?" But when Satan then threw a temper tantrum, "ranting upon the earth", Moses was frightened. After he began to fear, he saw the bitterness of hell.
We are told repeatedly in the scriptures not to fear. Especially we should not fear man. We must remember that God is in charge, not our boss, or our enemy or anyone else. A friend recently reminded us of that, quoting the hymn How Firm a Foundation. "Fear not, I am with thee; oh be not dismayed, for I am thy God and will still give thee aid. I'll strengthen thee, help thee and cause thee to stand, upheld by my righteous omnipotent hand."
I'm undecided about fear. It seems to me that we should fear some things. Or at least have a healthy respect for those things. Satan is one thing I have some fear of. I'm sure there are many others. But when Moses began to fear, things got much worse for him. Fear caused him to lose control of the situation. I think fear is the opposite of faith. (I'm a little slow, but I get it eventually.) We can't have both fear and faith in our hearts at the same time. So fear crowded out faith, and Moses viewed the bitterness of hell.
But Moses knew where the strength had to come from. He surely didn't have the strength on his own to fight off Satan, or even to get rid of the fear. So he called upon God. He chose faith. And God gave him strength to rebuke Satan in the name of the Only Begotten. Then Satan, with much weeping and wailing, departed.
If I allow myself to fear, I push out faith. I forget that the Lord is in charge, that He loves me, that He always wants what's best for me.
Here's a lovely hymn that just came to mind: When Faith Endures.
I will not doubt, I will not fear;
God's love and strength are always near.
His promised gift helps me to find
An inner strength and peace of mind.
I give the Father willingly
My trust, my prayers, humility.
His Spirit guides; His love assures
That fear departs when faith endures.
At first, Moses was quite courageous in rebuking and withstanding Satan, asking twice "Where is thy glory?" But when Satan then threw a temper tantrum, "ranting upon the earth", Moses was frightened. After he began to fear, he saw the bitterness of hell.
We are told repeatedly in the scriptures not to fear. Especially we should not fear man. We must remember that God is in charge, not our boss, or our enemy or anyone else. A friend recently reminded us of that, quoting the hymn How Firm a Foundation. "Fear not, I am with thee; oh be not dismayed, for I am thy God and will still give thee aid. I'll strengthen thee, help thee and cause thee to stand, upheld by my righteous omnipotent hand."
I'm undecided about fear. It seems to me that we should fear some things. Or at least have a healthy respect for those things. Satan is one thing I have some fear of. I'm sure there are many others. But when Moses began to fear, things got much worse for him. Fear caused him to lose control of the situation. I think fear is the opposite of faith. (I'm a little slow, but I get it eventually.) We can't have both fear and faith in our hearts at the same time. So fear crowded out faith, and Moses viewed the bitterness of hell.
But Moses knew where the strength had to come from. He surely didn't have the strength on his own to fight off Satan, or even to get rid of the fear. So he called upon God. He chose faith. And God gave him strength to rebuke Satan in the name of the Only Begotten. Then Satan, with much weeping and wailing, departed.
If I allow myself to fear, I push out faith. I forget that the Lord is in charge, that He loves me, that He always wants what's best for me.
Here's a lovely hymn that just came to mind: When Faith Endures.
I will not doubt, I will not fear;
God's love and strength are always near.
His promised gift helps me to find
An inner strength and peace of mind.
I give the Father willingly
My trust, my prayers, humility.
His Spirit guides; His love assures
That fear departs when faith endures.
Saturday, October 10, 2009
Take Counsel from the Lord
Jacob 4:10 Wherefore, brethren, seek not to acounsel the Lord, but to take counsel from his hand. For behold, ye yourselves know that he counseleth in bwisdom, and in justice, and in great mercy, over all his works.
It seems so obvious that we wouldn't try to tell the Lord how to run his business, but we surely want to tell Him how to fix ours. We're pretty sure what needs to happen so that our lives can be ideal, and wonder sometimes why the Lord is taking so long to "get with the program".
It's obvious to me that if He would just fix that wayward child, or cure me of my illness, or provide more money, that my life would be so much easier, and I would surely be able to bless those around me much better.
But Jacob says that I need to stop relying on my own strength and wisdom. I can't see the big picture, but only a little part of it. I'm like a baby who doesn't want its diaper to be changed, the plant that doesn't believe it should be pruned, the toddler who is sure that the road is the very best place to play.
In Sacrament meeting one day, a young man getting ready for a mission asked the Bishop to come up to the stand with him. He introduced the Bishop, saying that he had some great words of wisdom that would bless our lives. He said, "What would you like to teach us, Bishop?" The Bishop said, "Well, . . ." and the young man said, "Thank you!" and pushed the Bishop back to his seat. Then he asked how often we are like that in our prayers. We ask the Lord for instructions, pleading for His wisdom. Then we finish our prayers and go on with our lives, forgetting to listen for the answer we just pleaded for.
I need to "take counsel from his hand". I know that He loves me and He will bless my life with His wisdom, His justice, and His great mercy. What more could I want?
It seems so obvious that we wouldn't try to tell the Lord how to run his business, but we surely want to tell Him how to fix ours. We're pretty sure what needs to happen so that our lives can be ideal, and wonder sometimes why the Lord is taking so long to "get with the program".
It's obvious to me that if He would just fix that wayward child, or cure me of my illness, or provide more money, that my life would be so much easier, and I would surely be able to bless those around me much better.
But Jacob says that I need to stop relying on my own strength and wisdom. I can't see the big picture, but only a little part of it. I'm like a baby who doesn't want its diaper to be changed, the plant that doesn't believe it should be pruned, the toddler who is sure that the road is the very best place to play.
In Sacrament meeting one day, a young man getting ready for a mission asked the Bishop to come up to the stand with him. He introduced the Bishop, saying that he had some great words of wisdom that would bless our lives. He said, "What would you like to teach us, Bishop?" The Bishop said, "Well, . . ." and the young man said, "Thank you!" and pushed the Bishop back to his seat. Then he asked how often we are like that in our prayers. We ask the Lord for instructions, pleading for His wisdom. Then we finish our prayers and go on with our lives, forgetting to listen for the answer we just pleaded for.
I need to "take counsel from his hand". I know that He loves me and He will bless my life with His wisdom, His justice, and His great mercy. What more could I want?
Friday, October 9, 2009
Despise Not the Revelations of God
Jacob 4:8 . . . And no man dknoweth of his eways save it be revealed unto him; wherefore, brethren, despise not the frevelations of God.
We can't know God, we can't understand His doings, we can't believe in Him unless it is revealed to us. Those who scoff and scorn at the idea of God do so because they aren't open to revelation or inspiration from Him.
We as LDS people believe that the Lord is very near when we are worthy of His presence. A song popular a few years ago talked about God watching us "from a distance", as if He's not involved in our lives. I firmly and strongly testify that that idea is false. He is with us at all times if we do as He asks. I have experiences daily which may seem like small "coincidences", and many people would scoff at the idea that I was inspired or helped by the Spirit of the Lord. Those who read these words and have had similar experiences will feel the warm confirmation of the Spirit telling them that these experiences are indeed from the Lord. Those who despise the revelations of God will think it's foolishness.
The other day I jumped in my car to go somewhere and began quickly to back up into my neighbor's driveway to turn around, as I nearly always do. Suddenly a flash of remembrance told me that there was a car behind me, and I slammed on my breaks, avoiding hitting that car. My mind had registered that there was a car there before I got in, but I forgot about it as I fastened my seat belt and inserted the key. I looked back, but for some reason, the car behind me didn't register, or was at the wrong angle or something. Why I would have that flash of memory just when I did to avoid hitting that car might be called "just lucky" by most people. But the Spirit confirmed to me at that moment that the Lord had given me that thought. I was overcome with gratitude yet again for His tender mercies in my life.
We can't know God, we can't understand His doings, we can't believe in Him unless it is revealed to us. Those who scoff and scorn at the idea of God do so because they aren't open to revelation or inspiration from Him.
We as LDS people believe that the Lord is very near when we are worthy of His presence. A song popular a few years ago talked about God watching us "from a distance", as if He's not involved in our lives. I firmly and strongly testify that that idea is false. He is with us at all times if we do as He asks. I have experiences daily which may seem like small "coincidences", and many people would scoff at the idea that I was inspired or helped by the Spirit of the Lord. Those who read these words and have had similar experiences will feel the warm confirmation of the Spirit telling them that these experiences are indeed from the Lord. Those who despise the revelations of God will think it's foolishness.
The other day I jumped in my car to go somewhere and began quickly to back up into my neighbor's driveway to turn around, as I nearly always do. Suddenly a flash of remembrance told me that there was a car behind me, and I slammed on my breaks, avoiding hitting that car. My mind had registered that there was a car there before I got in, but I forgot about it as I fastened my seat belt and inserted the key. I looked back, but for some reason, the car behind me didn't register, or was at the wrong angle or something. Why I would have that flash of memory just when I did to avoid hitting that car might be called "just lucky" by most people. But the Spirit confirmed to me at that moment that the Lord had given me that thought. I was overcome with gratitude yet again for His tender mercies in my life.
Wednesday, October 7, 2009
Our Weakness
Jacob 4:7 Nevertheless, the Lord God showeth us our weakness that we may know that it is by his grace, and his great condescensions unto the children of men, that we have power to do these things.
God shows us our weakness, not to punish us or make us feel inadequate, but to help us to be humble. Otherwise, we might never seek Him and recognize his dominion over us.
There are two ways to look at the idea of weakness. God shows to us our weaknesses such as selfishness, laziness, pride, greed. This can happen through personal experiences or perhaps in moments of contemplation or prayer. Maybe we hear comments in church meetings or conference, or read things in our scriptures and the Spirit whispers to us that we need to recognize that weakness and repent and change.
But I think Jacob is talking here of our shared Weakness (and notice that the word is singular), that of being mortal, of being human, of having a natural man as part of our nature. He's saying here that we can never be perfect, that we can never save ourselves. That's why we need God's grace and His condescension to come back to Him. That's why we need the atonement of Christ. We can't do it ourselves.
God shows us our weakness, not to punish us or make us feel inadequate, but to help us to be humble. Otherwise, we might never seek Him and recognize his dominion over us.
There are two ways to look at the idea of weakness. God shows to us our weaknesses such as selfishness, laziness, pride, greed. This can happen through personal experiences or perhaps in moments of contemplation or prayer. Maybe we hear comments in church meetings or conference, or read things in our scriptures and the Spirit whispers to us that we need to recognize that weakness and repent and change.
But I think Jacob is talking here of our shared Weakness (and notice that the word is singular), that of being mortal, of being human, of having a natural man as part of our nature. He's saying here that we can never be perfect, that we can never save ourselves. That's why we need God's grace and His condescension to come back to Him. That's why we need the atonement of Christ. We can't do it ourselves.
Tuesday, October 6, 2009
Colors for marking
All the colors I'm using are: if God is speaking, as in quotations, Attributes of God, Teachings,
Parables are marked with a big rectangle overlaid over all the paragraphs of the parable. This is red, but you could alternate colors for different stories. Miracles have a large slanted M at the first of the first sentence. All JST references are highlighted below, and the letter of the reference in the text is highlighted in red. He had us do that as our first project and I have all the NT done. Also GR, HEB, IE, OR references at the bottom are marked. I don't know how to demonstrate the Parables markings or the Miracles. Anyway, here's an example.
Parables are marked with a big rectangle overlaid over all the paragraphs of the parable. This is red, but you could alternate colors for different stories. Miracles have a large slanted M at the first of the first sentence. All JST references are highlighted below, and the letter of the reference in the text is highlighted in red. He had us do that as our first project and I have all the NT done. Also GR, HEB, IE, OR references at the bottom are marked. I don't know how to demonstrate the Parables markings or the Miracles. Anyway, here's an example.
1 aTake heed that ye do not your balms before men, to be seen of them: otherwise ye have no reward of your Father which is in heaven.
2 Therefore when thou doest thine alms, do not sound a trumpet before thee, as the ahypocrites do in the synagogues and in the streets, that they may have bglory of men. Verily I say unto you, They have their reward.
Commandment or Promise?
I have a new system of scripture marking since Education Week. It involves different colors of Prismacolor pencils. I use blue for commandments or instructions and pink for promises or rewards. Dark blue is for punishments, yellow is for references to Christ, and so forth. Anyway, as I read these scriptures and attempt to analyze them, I have to decide which color to use to mark them. In the scripture below, "search the prophets" would be a commandment, but what about "have many revelations and the spirit of prophesy"? Is that a commandment or a reward? Here is how I have marked this section in my scriptures:
Jacob4:6 Wherefore, we search the prophets, and we have many revelations and the spirit of prophecy; and having all these witnesses we obtain a hope, and our faith becometh unshaken, insomuch that we truly can command in the name of Jesus and the very trees obey us, or the mountains, or the waves of the sea.
Perhaps I'm marking too much, but I'm using one of the cheap Book of Mormons and not my permanent set and I'm still learning and experimenting.
Jacob4:6 Wherefore, we search the prophets, and we have many revelations and the spirit of prophecy; and having all these witnesses we obtain a hope, and our faith becometh unshaken, insomuch that we truly can command in the name of Jesus and the very trees obey us, or the mountains, or the waves of the sea.
Perhaps I'm marking too much, but I'm using one of the cheap Book of Mormons and not my permanent set and I'm still learning and experimenting.
Monday, October 5, 2009
Why We Write Our Testimony
Jacob 4: 3 Now in this thing we do rejoice; and we labor diligently to engraven these words upon plates, hoping that our beloved brethren and our children will receive them with thankful hearts, and look upon them that they may learn with joy and not with sorrow, neither with contempt, concerning their first parents.
4 For, for this intent have we written these things, that they may know that we knew of Christ, and we had a hope of his glory many hundred years before his coming; and not only we ourselves had a hope of his glory, but also all the holy prophets which were before us.
Jacob has very kindly explained why I am keeping this blog. I hope and pray that my beloved brethren and my children will receive my words with thankful hearts. I never want there to be any question as to who my faith centers around. I know of Christ and have a knowledge of His glory many thousand years after his coming. I bear strong witness of His divinity and my love for Him.
But Jacob is also talking to me as one of the children who is receiving the words of those who have gone before. I need to receive them with a thankful heart and with joy. I need to treasure up the words of the prophets, and also those of my ancestors who suffered and sacrificed to pave the way for my easy life. They made those sacrifices because they believed that Joseph Smith was a prophet of God and that the Book of Mormon was the word of God. I honor those sacrifices and am thankful for their testimonies.
4 For, for this intent have we written these things, that they may know that we knew of Christ, and we had a hope of his glory many hundred years before his coming; and not only we ourselves had a hope of his glory, but also all the holy prophets which were before us.
Jacob has very kindly explained why I am keeping this blog. I hope and pray that my beloved brethren and my children will receive my words with thankful hearts. I never want there to be any question as to who my faith centers around. I know of Christ and have a knowledge of His glory many thousand years after his coming. I bear strong witness of His divinity and my love for Him.
But Jacob is also talking to me as one of the children who is receiving the words of those who have gone before. I need to receive them with a thankful heart and with joy. I need to treasure up the words of the prophets, and also those of my ancestors who suffered and sacrificed to pave the way for my easy life. They made those sacrifices because they believed that Joseph Smith was a prophet of God and that the Book of Mormon was the word of God. I honor those sacrifices and am thankful for their testimonies.
Saturday, October 3, 2009
Revile Not Because of the Darkness of their Skins
Jacob 3:9
Wherefore, a commandment I give unto you, which is the word of God, that ye revile no more against them because of the darkness of their skins
How can the color of someone's skin have any bearing on their heart? If we loved as God loves, we would see through and past someone's skin and into the soul. When we get into the habit of judging others by outward appearances, we deprive ourselves of seeing as He sees, loving as He loves.
Wherefore, a commandment I give unto you, which is the word of God, that ye revile no more against them because of the darkness of their skins
How can the color of someone's skin have any bearing on their heart? If we loved as God loves, we would see through and past someone's skin and into the soul. When we get into the habit of judging others by outward appearances, we deprive ourselves of seeing as He sees, loving as He loves.
Feast Upon His Love
Jacob 3:2
O all ye that are pure in heart, lift up your heads and receive the pleasing word of God, and feast upon his love
Here we have the concept of feasting again. It reminds me of the story of the woman who scrimped and saved to go on a cruise. She brought crackers and snacks and took all her meals in her room. Then on the final night of the cruise she decided to treat herself to the sumptuous meal being served. When she asked how much she had to pay, she was told that all meals were provided as part of the cost of the cruise.
Sometimes we are like that. Our Father has laid out a banquet for us. But it is up to us to come in and partake.
I think one way to do this is to count our blessings. We have been raised figuratively on meat, vegetables, desserts, while those around us get by on scraps and scrapings. We have the Gospel, we have health, we have glorious families, we have peace and safety. Yet we complain if we miss our favorite TV show.
O all ye that are pure in heart, lift up your heads and receive the pleasing word of God, and feast upon his love
Here we have the concept of feasting again. It reminds me of the story of the woman who scrimped and saved to go on a cruise. She brought crackers and snacks and took all her meals in her room. Then on the final night of the cruise she decided to treat herself to the sumptuous meal being served. When she asked how much she had to pay, she was told that all meals were provided as part of the cost of the cruise.
Sometimes we are like that. Our Father has laid out a banquet for us. But it is up to us to come in and partake.
I think one way to do this is to count our blessings. We have been raised figuratively on meat, vegetables, desserts, while those around us get by on scraps and scrapings. We have the Gospel, we have health, we have glorious families, we have peace and safety. Yet we complain if we miss our favorite TV show.
Pride
Jacob 2:20
Jacob talks about pride. President Benson told us that pride is enmity between ourselves and our fellow man, or against God.
Why would we afflict and persecute others? Jacob tells us that one being is as precious as another and that such things are abominable. Somehow we seem to get an adrenalin rush from "putting others down", as if making them smaller will make ourselves larger.
Jacob talks about pride. President Benson told us that pride is enmity between ourselves and our fellow man, or against God.
Why would we afflict and persecute others? Jacob tells us that one being is as precious as another and that such things are abominable. Somehow we seem to get an adrenalin rush from "putting others down", as if making them smaller will make ourselves larger.
Songs of Everlasting Joy
D&C 133:33 And they shall be filled with songs of everlasting joy.
Here are some hymns that fill my soul with joy:
How Great Thou Art
Rejoice, the Lord is King
O My Father
The Spirit of God Like a Fire is Burning
All is Well
I Believe in Christ
Behold the Wounds in Jesus' Hands
I Stand All Amazed
Here are some hymns that fill my soul with joy:
How Great Thou Art
Rejoice, the Lord is King
O My Father
The Spirit of God Like a Fire is Burning
All is Well
I Believe in Christ
Behold the Wounds in Jesus' Hands
I Stand All Amazed
Seek For the Kingdom of God
Jacob 2:18
We are told to seek for the kingdom of God before riches. We should desire to serve the Lord and our fellow man. If our desire is to bless others, we will be given riches. Selfishness is a big problem for me. I want to serve others, but with my "excess". I can give them my EXTRA time (there's never enough), and my EXTRA money (whatever's left over after I have everything I want. It shouldn't inconvenience me in any way.
We are told to seek for the kingdom of God before riches. We should desire to serve the Lord and our fellow man. If our desire is to bless others, we will be given riches. Selfishness is a big problem for me. I want to serve others, but with my "excess". I can give them my EXTRA time (there's never enough), and my EXTRA money (whatever's left over after I have everything I want. It shouldn't inconvenience me in any way.
Friday, October 2, 2009
Dangers of Riches
Jacob 2:13 Riches lead to pride which leads to a desire to persecute others. The Nephites found gold, which led them to choose costly apparel. Then because of their pride in their appearance, they persecuted those who didn't have the fine clothes.
What is the remedy?
1) Listen to the Lord
2) Love others as yourself
3) Share your bounty and serve others
What is the remedy?
1) Listen to the Lord
2) Love others as yourself
3) Share your bounty and serve others
Inspired Leaders
Jacob 2:5 "But behold, hearken ye unto me, and know that by the help of the all-powerful Creator of heaven and earth I can tell you concerning your thoughts, how that ye are beginning to labor in sin, which sin appeareth very abominable unto me, yea, and abominable unto God. "
The Lord inspires our leaders to know of our thoughts - our sins - so that they can know how to teach us. This is something to contemplate as we prepare for General Conference. Those general authorities who are speaking have been fasting and praying to know what to speak on at this time. They have to know our weaknesses, our sins, our struggles to know how to help us.
Of course, this also applies to our local leadership. Only those inspired of the Lord can know how to lead their flock.
The Lord inspires our leaders to know of our thoughts - our sins - so that they can know how to teach us. This is something to contemplate as we prepare for General Conference. Those general authorities who are speaking have been fasting and praying to know what to speak on at this time. They have to know our weaknesses, our sins, our struggles to know how to help us.
Of course, this also applies to our local leadership. Only those inspired of the Lord can know how to lead their flock.
Abide and Cleave
D&C 132:54-56 Emma Smith is given instrutions in her role as a wife to the prophet Joseph Smith. She is told to "abide", and to "cleave unto my servant Joseph and to none else." Then in verse 56 she's told to forgive him.
I also need to abide and cleave and forgive.
I also need to abide and cleave and forgive.
Obtain Mine Errand from the Lord
Jacob 1:17 Jacob could see that his people were beginning to sin, but he didn't begin to preach to them until he had obtained his errand from the Lord. He needed to preach what the Lord would have taught, not just what Jacob wanted to preach.
As leaders and teachers, we need to always find out what the Lord would have taught and how He wants it taught, and to always teach by the Spirit.
As leaders and teachers, we need to always find out what the Lord would have taught and how He wants it taught, and to always teach by the Spirit.
Thursday, October 1, 2009
Believe in Christ
Jacob 1:7 Jacob wants all men to believe in Christ, view His death, suffer His cross and bear the shame of the world. I think he's saying that we should ponder on the sins that Christ took upon Himself and our part in His suffering.
Faith and Great Anxiety
Jacob 1:5
Jacob tells us that he and the other prophets were given to know the future of their people, because of faith and great anxiety. They had great concern for their people, but their faith had made it possible for them to see the future destiny of the people.
I also feel the faith and great anxiety of our leaders, both local and church-wide, in our behalf. I know they love us and pray for us and that everything they do is motivated by this love and faith.
Jacob tells us that he and the other prophets were given to know the future of their people, because of faith and great anxiety. They had great concern for their people, but their faith had made it possible for them to see the future destiny of the people.
I also feel the faith and great anxiety of our leaders, both local and church-wide, in our behalf. I know they love us and pray for us and that everything they do is motivated by this love and faith.
Teachings of the Book of Mormon
2 Nephi 33:4 Nephi tells us that the record does the following things: 1) Persuades us to do good 2) Teaches of our fathers 3) Speaks of Jesus 4) Persuades us to believe in Him 5) Persuades us to endure to the end.
Prepare Your Heart to Receive Instruction
D&C 132:3 The Lord has great things to teach us, but we must prepare our hearts to receive them. One way to prepare is outlined in D&C 78:7, where it says that we prepare ourselves by doing what we are commanded to do. That would include fasting and prayer, pondering, study. We should prepare in this way for General Conference, which is coming up this weekend, in which our Prophet and the twelve apostles will speak inspired words to us. But also we can prepare for our church meetings and prepare ourselves to read the scriptures.
Wednesday, September 30, 2009
Scriptures Pertaining to Prayer
I checked out all the scriptures pertaining to prayer in the scriptures and learned the following things. We should (1 Nephi 18:3) pray oft; (2 Nephi 4:24) wax bold in mighty prayer; (2 Nephi 32:8) be taught by the Spirit how to pray; (2 Nephi 32:9) pray always and not faint; (Omni 1:26) continue in fasting and prayer; (Alma 26:22) pray without ceasing; (Alma 34:27) have our hearts drawn out in prayer continually; (Alma 36:13) pray in private; (Alma 45:1) pray to give thanks; (3 Nephi 12:44) pray for our enemies; (3 Nephi 17:15) pray always; (3 Nephi 18:16) follow Jesus' example; (3 Nephi 18:21) pray in our families; (3 Nephi 19:24) pray without multiplying words; (3 Nephi 20:1) continue to pray in our heart; (3 Nephi 27:1) unite in prayer with others; (Moroni 7:6, 9, 48) pray with real intent and with all the energy of heart; (Moroni 8:26) pray with diligence; (Isaiah 56:7) be joyful in prayer; (D&C 136:28) praise; (Matt 21:22) be believing; (1 Cor 14:15) pray with Spirit and understanding; (Jas 4:3) pray not amiss, to consume it upon our lust; (D&C 19:28) pray vocally.
We are promised certain things: (Rom 8:26) We don't know what to pray for, but the Spirit intercedes with groanings that cannot be uttered; (Luke 11:1) the Lord will teach us to pray; (2 Nephi 26:15) the prayer of the faithful will be heard.
We are promised certain things: (Rom 8:26) We don't know what to pray for, but the Spirit intercedes with groanings that cannot be uttered; (Luke 11:1) the Lord will teach us to pray; (2 Nephi 26:15) the prayer of the faithful will be heard.
Pray Continually
2 Nephi 33:3 Nephi prays for his people continually by day. He loves them and he knows his prayers will bless them as much as they are willing to accept.
V.4 "The Lord will consecrate my prayers for the gain of my people." Surely that applies to our families. When we pray for them, the Lord blesses them and us. Consecrate means sanctify, make holy, dedicate.
V.4 "The Lord will consecrate my prayers for the gain of my people." Surely that applies to our families. When we pray for them, the Lord blesses them and us. Consecrate means sanctify, make holy, dedicate.
Pray Always
2 Nephi 32:9 tells us to pray always. Don't perform anything unto the Lord save in the first place you shall pray unto the Father. We need to pray privately and in all our meetings.
The Spirit Teaches Us to Pray
2 Nephi 32:8 The Spirit tells (prompts) us to pray. It also teaches us how to pray. Jesus' disciples in the new world prayed to Him. 3 Nephi 19:24 They were given what they should pray, for they were "filled with desire."
Search Knowledge
2 Nephi 32:7 Nephi mourns "they will not search knowledge." He has knowledge that he's not allowed to share. Knowledge can't be poured into us as from a pitcher. We much search for it -- dig, research, ponder, study.
"...nor understand great knowledge..." Sometimes great knowledge is given us "as plain as word can be", but we "esteem it as naught." We're too hard-hearted, or too busy, or too preoccupied, too lazy, too complacent, too prideful. Our ears are stopped and our eyes are blinded.
"...nor understand great knowledge..." Sometimes great knowledge is given us "as plain as word can be", but we "esteem it as naught." We're too hard-hearted, or too busy, or too preoccupied, too lazy, too complacent, too prideful. Our ears are stopped and our eyes are blinded.
All Things What Ye Should Do
2 Nephi 32:3 "Feast upon the words of Christ..." How do we feast upon His words? Study & ponder the scriptures. Listen in church meetings and in the temple. Feasting is more than just partaking. It's not just devouring. It's savoring and enjoying and not skimping. A great banquet is available. I need to learn to feast.
"... the words of Christ will tell you all things what ye should do." Verse 3 says that the words of Christ will tell us these things, but in verse 5 it says that the Holy Ghost will show us all things what we should do. V. 3 says "tell"; v.5 says "show". If angels speak by the power of the Holy Ghost and speak the words of Christ - what does that mean?
Could this relate to hearing in your mind and in your heart? Tell and show?
"... the words of Christ will tell you all things what ye should do." Verse 3 says that the words of Christ will tell us these things, but in verse 5 it says that the Holy Ghost will show us all things what we should do. V. 3 says "tell"; v.5 says "show". If angels speak by the power of the Holy Ghost and speak the words of Christ - what does that mean?
Could this relate to hearing in your mind and in your heart? Tell and show?
Loved of the Lord
D&C 124:15, 20
Hyrum Smith and George Miller are loved of the Lord. Hyrum is told he is loved because he "loveth that which is right before me." George is loved for "the love which he has to my testimony."
I, too, love the Lord. I love His work, His Gospel. I want to be loved of the Lord.
Hyrum Smith and George Miller are loved of the Lord. Hyrum is told he is loved because he "loveth that which is right before me." George is loved for "the love which he has to my testimony."
I, too, love the Lord. I love His work, His Gospel. I want to be loved of the Lord.
Stewardship
D&C 124:14 This scripture tells us about a man named Robert Thompson: "But let him remember that his astewardship will I require at his hands."
The Lord also holds me accountable for my stewardship. What is it at this point of my life that the Lord expects of me? My children are raised. We've served a mission. I try to carry out my callings to the best of my ability. What does He need of me right now?
The Lord also holds me accountable for my stewardship. What is it at this point of my life that the Lord expects of me? My children are raised. We've served a mission. I try to carry out my callings to the best of my ability. What does He need of me right now?
Come Unto Him
2 Nephi 26:33 Nephi tells us to come unto Him and partake of His goodness.
How do we come unto Him? We do it in our prayers, in our thoughts, in our actions. We try to emulate Him. We come unto Him in service to His children, in fasting, in reading of Him, in pondering in His house (the church and the temple). We do it by partaking to the sacrament, by taking His name upon us.
How do we partake of His goodness? Is this a commandment or a reward? Or is it both? We can feast at His table. We can live the Gospel. We can attend our meetings and savor the Spirit. We can find joy in service. Find joy in day-to-day living of the Gospel.
How do we come unto Him? We do it in our prayers, in our thoughts, in our actions. We try to emulate Him. We come unto Him in service to His children, in fasting, in reading of Him, in pondering in His house (the church and the temple). We do it by partaking to the sacrament, by taking His name upon us.
How do we partake of His goodness? Is this a commandment or a reward? Or is it both? We can feast at His table. We can live the Gospel. We can attend our meetings and savor the Spirit. We can find joy in service. Find joy in day-to-day living of the Gospel.
Tuesday, September 29, 2009
Feasting on the words of Christ
Studying the scriptures has always been a bit of an adventure for me. I've tried for years to read and study every day, but with mixed results. I find just reading is wonderful and uplifting, but I don't know that I could describe that as "feasting upon the word of Christ" (2 Nephi 32: 3).
Right now I'm reading the Book of Mormon (for the umpteenth time) as well as finishing up the Doctrine and Covenants. I have started a journal for the thoughts and ideas that come to me as I try to ponder more about each verse and think about how it applies to my life. Sometimes these are only questions without answers. Some are brief, some are longer. This could be fun!
Right now I'm reading the Book of Mormon (for the umpteenth time) as well as finishing up the Doctrine and Covenants. I have started a journal for the thoughts and ideas that come to me as I try to ponder more about each verse and think about how it applies to my life. Sometimes these are only questions without answers. Some are brief, some are longer. This could be fun!
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