1 Nephi 11:13-15 (page 20)
And it came to pass that I looked and beheld the great city of Jerusalem, and also other cities. And I beheld the city of Nazareth; and in the city of Nazareth I beheld a virgin, and she was exceedingly fair and white. And it came to pass that I saw the heavens open; and an angel came down and stood before me and he said unto me: Nephi, what beholdest thou? And I said unto him: A virgin, most beautiful and fair above all other virgins.
1 Nephi 11:18-21 (page 20)
And he said unto me: Behold, the virgin whom thou seest is the mother of the Son of God, after the manner of the flesh. And it came to pass that I beheld that she was carried away in the Spirit; and after she had been carried away in the Spirit for the space of a time the angel spake unto me, saying: Look! And I looked and beheld the virgin again, bearing a child in her arms. And the angel said unto me: Behold the Lamb of God, yea, even the Son of the Eternal Father!
1 Nephi 11:27-28, (page 21)
And I looked and beheld the Redeemer of the world, of whom my father had spoken; and I also beheld the prophet who should prepare the way before him. And the Lamb of God went forth and was baptized of him; and after he was baptized, I beheld the heavens open, and the Holy Ghost come down out of heaven and abide upon him in the form of a dove.
1 Nephi 11:311-33 (page 21)
And he spake unto me again, saying: Look! And I looked, and I beheld the Lamb of God going forth among the children of men. And I beheld multitudes of people who were sick, and who were afflicted with all manner of diseases, and with devils and unclean spirits; and the angel spake and showed all these things unto me. And they were healed by the power of the Lamb of God; and the devils and the unclean spirits were cast out. And it came to pass that the angel spake unto me again, saying: Look! And I looked and beheld the Lamb of God, that he was taken by the people; yea, the Son of the everlasting God was judged of the world; and I saw and bear record. And I, Nephi, saw that he was lifted up upon the cross and slain for the sins of the world.
Alma 34:8-9 (page 293)
And now, behold, I will testify unto you of myself that these things are true. Behold, I say unto you, that I do know that Christ shall come among the children of men, to take upon him the transgressions of his people, and that he shall atone for the sins of the world; for the Lord God hath spoken it. For it is expedient that an atonement should be made; for according to the great plan of the Eternal God there must be an atonement made, or else all mankind must unavoidably perish; yea, all are hardened; yea, all are fallen and are lost, and must perish except it be through the atonement which it is expedient should be made.
Alma 42:14-15 (page312)
And thus we see that all mankind were fallen, and they were in the grasp of justice; yea, the justice of God, which consigned them forever to be cut off from his presence. And now, the plan of mercy could not be brought about except an atonement should be made; therefore God himself atoneth for the sins of the world, to bring about the plan of mercy, to appease the demands of justice, that God might be a perfect, just God, and a merciful God also.
2 Nephi 2:6-9 (page 57)
Wherefore, redemption cometh in and through the Holy Messiah; for he is full of grace and truth. Behold, he offereth himself a sacrifice for sin, to answer the ends of the law, unto all those who have a broken heart and a contrite spirit; and unto none else can the ends of the law be answered. Wherefore, how great the importance to make these things known unto the inhabitants of the earth, that they may know that there is no flesh that can dwell in the presence of God, save it be through the merits, and mercy, and grace of the Holy Messiah, who layeth down his life according to the flesh, and taketh it again by the power of the Spirit, that he may bring to pass the resurrection of the dead, being the first that should rise. Wherefore, he is the firstfruits unto God, inasmuch as he shall make intercession for all the children of men; and they that believe in him shall be saved.
2 Nephi 31:20 (page 114)
Wherefore, ye must press forward with a steadfastness in Christ, having a perfect brightness of hope, and a love of God and of all men. Wherefore, if ye shall press forward, and endure to the end, behold, thus saith the Father; Ye shall have eternal life.
Ether 12:41 (page 511-12)
And now, I would commend you to seek this Jesus of whom the prophets and apostles have written, that the grace of God the Father, and also the Lord Jesus Christ, and the Holy Ghost, which beareth record of them, may be and abide in you forever. Amen.
Thursday, December 24, 2009
Friday, December 11, 2009
Wax Strong in the Spirit
Mosiah 18:26 (page 182): "And the priests were not to depend upon the people for their support; but for their labor they were to receive the grace of God, that they might wax strong in the Spirit, having the knowledge of God, that they might teach with power and authority from God."
After being converted, Alma began preaching the gospel to others. Having authority, he baptized many and ordained priests to teach the people. Like the Church of Jesus Christ today, these priests were not payed for their service. Their reward would come as a strengthening of the Spirit, making them better servants of the Lord as they taught with "power and authority from God." As I've read this verse, I've pondered why it is important to have the Spirit in my life and what I can do to strengthen my own spirituality.
1 Corinthians 12:7 states, "But the manifestation of the Spirit is given to every man to profit withal." I recently read Elder Richard G. Scott's talk from this last General Conference session in October (you can read it here). This talk is absolutely amazing and I recommend reading the whole talk. He discusses how to acquire spiritual guidance. He quotes President John Taylor, who wrote, "Joseph Smith, upwards of forty years ago, said to me: 'Brother Taylor, you have received the Holy Ghost. Now follow the influence of that Spirit, and it will lead you into all truth, until by and by, it will become in you a principle of revelation.'" Elder Scott explains that "spirituality yields two fruits. The first is inspiration to know what to do. The second is power, or the capacity to do it." He gives two examples where he was able to receive personal revelation during Sunday School lessons. In the first example, the teacher had a difficult time expressing his thoughts and explaining the principles. Elder Scott was touched by the teacher's evident sincerity and began to receive spiritual promptings. As he received them, he wrote them down. Talking about these promptings, Elder Scott said, "the details of the communication are sacred and, like a patriarchal blessing, were for my individual benefit. I was given specific directions, instructions, and conditioned promises that have beneficially altered the course of my life." Wow. When I first read this, the Spirit testified to me that Elder Scott is an apostle of the Lord. What an amazing example that he has given us. There have been many times where I have been given promptings of further enlightenment during talks or lessens and while I recognized them as promptings of the Spirit, I failed to record my thoughts and feelings. I may have missed opportunities to receive something that would have been both precious and sacred to me.
In the second example that Elder Scott gives, he also received promptings during a Sunday School lesson. Again, he began to record the promptings until he felt that they were too personal to record them in that setting. When he returned home, he finished writing down the promptings he had received. He reviewed them, pondered them, and then asked the Lord if there was more for him to receive. More impressions came. He studied and pondered these and asked the Lord again if there was more. Again, more impressions came. Speaking of this experience, Elder Scott said, "when the last, most sacred experience was concluded, I had received some of the most precious, specific, personal direction one could hope to obtain in this life. Had I not responded to the first impressions and recorded them, I would not have received the last, most precious guidance... I believe that you can leave the most precious, personal direction of the Spirit unheard because you do not respond to, record, and apply the first promptings that come to you." How many times have we missed out on what the Lord is willing to give to us?
In a revelation given to Joseph Smith, recorded in Doctrine in Covenants 46:28, it states, "and it shall come to pass that he that asketh in Spirit shall receive in Spirit." The Lord wants to give us a greater knowledge and understanding of the gospel, but we must do our part to receive it. The Spirit can teach us the simple truths of the gospel and open our minds to the mysteries of God (1 Nephi 10:19, page 19). Moroni 10:5 (page 529) teaches us, "and by the power of the Holy Ghost ye may know the truth of all things."
I have a testimony of the gospel of Jesus Christ. All that I know to be true has been given to me through the Spirit. It is something that I can't give to somebody else. It is something that I have a difficult time explaining or describing, but it is something that I can't deny because I've felt the burning in my bosom and I've heard the soft whisperings of the Spirit. I've experienced it time and time again as I pray to my Father in Heaven, read His word, and ponder it's meaning and importance. This important principle, waxing strong in the Spirit, is something that doesn't happen overnight. It takes faith, work, and dedication, but if we are willing to do this, our spirituality will become a great strength that we will be able to use in helping the Lord. Ether 12:27 (page 510) says, "And if men come unto me I will show unto them their weakness. I give unto men weakness that they may be humble; and my grace is sufficient for all men that humble themselves before me; for if they humble themselves before me, and have faith in me, then will I make weak things become strong unto them." This I share in the name of Jesus Christ, Amen.
After being converted, Alma began preaching the gospel to others. Having authority, he baptized many and ordained priests to teach the people. Like the Church of Jesus Christ today, these priests were not payed for their service. Their reward would come as a strengthening of the Spirit, making them better servants of the Lord as they taught with "power and authority from God." As I've read this verse, I've pondered why it is important to have the Spirit in my life and what I can do to strengthen my own spirituality.
1 Corinthians 12:7 states, "But the manifestation of the Spirit is given to every man to profit withal." I recently read Elder Richard G. Scott's talk from this last General Conference session in October (you can read it here). This talk is absolutely amazing and I recommend reading the whole talk. He discusses how to acquire spiritual guidance. He quotes President John Taylor, who wrote, "Joseph Smith, upwards of forty years ago, said to me: 'Brother Taylor, you have received the Holy Ghost. Now follow the influence of that Spirit, and it will lead you into all truth, until by and by, it will become in you a principle of revelation.'" Elder Scott explains that "spirituality yields two fruits. The first is inspiration to know what to do. The second is power, or the capacity to do it." He gives two examples where he was able to receive personal revelation during Sunday School lessons. In the first example, the teacher had a difficult time expressing his thoughts and explaining the principles. Elder Scott was touched by the teacher's evident sincerity and began to receive spiritual promptings. As he received them, he wrote them down. Talking about these promptings, Elder Scott said, "the details of the communication are sacred and, like a patriarchal blessing, were for my individual benefit. I was given specific directions, instructions, and conditioned promises that have beneficially altered the course of my life." Wow. When I first read this, the Spirit testified to me that Elder Scott is an apostle of the Lord. What an amazing example that he has given us. There have been many times where I have been given promptings of further enlightenment during talks or lessens and while I recognized them as promptings of the Spirit, I failed to record my thoughts and feelings. I may have missed opportunities to receive something that would have been both precious and sacred to me.
In the second example that Elder Scott gives, he also received promptings during a Sunday School lesson. Again, he began to record the promptings until he felt that they were too personal to record them in that setting. When he returned home, he finished writing down the promptings he had received. He reviewed them, pondered them, and then asked the Lord if there was more for him to receive. More impressions came. He studied and pondered these and asked the Lord again if there was more. Again, more impressions came. Speaking of this experience, Elder Scott said, "when the last, most sacred experience was concluded, I had received some of the most precious, specific, personal direction one could hope to obtain in this life. Had I not responded to the first impressions and recorded them, I would not have received the last, most precious guidance... I believe that you can leave the most precious, personal direction of the Spirit unheard because you do not respond to, record, and apply the first promptings that come to you." How many times have we missed out on what the Lord is willing to give to us?
In a revelation given to Joseph Smith, recorded in Doctrine in Covenants 46:28, it states, "and it shall come to pass that he that asketh in Spirit shall receive in Spirit." The Lord wants to give us a greater knowledge and understanding of the gospel, but we must do our part to receive it. The Spirit can teach us the simple truths of the gospel and open our minds to the mysteries of God (1 Nephi 10:19, page 19). Moroni 10:5 (page 529) teaches us, "and by the power of the Holy Ghost ye may know the truth of all things."
I have a testimony of the gospel of Jesus Christ. All that I know to be true has been given to me through the Spirit. It is something that I can't give to somebody else. It is something that I have a difficult time explaining or describing, but it is something that I can't deny because I've felt the burning in my bosom and I've heard the soft whisperings of the Spirit. I've experienced it time and time again as I pray to my Father in Heaven, read His word, and ponder it's meaning and importance. This important principle, waxing strong in the Spirit, is something that doesn't happen overnight. It takes faith, work, and dedication, but if we are willing to do this, our spirituality will become a great strength that we will be able to use in helping the Lord. Ether 12:27 (page 510) says, "And if men come unto me I will show unto them their weakness. I give unto men weakness that they may be humble; and my grace is sufficient for all men that humble themselves before me; for if they humble themselves before me, and have faith in me, then will I make weak things become strong unto them." This I share in the name of Jesus Christ, Amen.
Monday, November 9, 2009
Labor Diligently
Moroni 9:6 (page 527): "And now, my beloved son, not withstanding their hardness, let us labor diligently; for if we should cease to labor, we should be brought under condemnation; for we have a labor to perform whilst in this tabernacle of clay, that we may conquer the enemy of all righteousness, and rest our souls in the kingdom of God."
This chapter is a letter that Mormon has written to his son, Moroni. At this time there were very few believers among the Nephites. In fact, Mormon mentions in verse 20 that the Nephites were more wicked than their enemies, the Lamanites. I believe that the Book of Mormon has come forth to help us in our day and there is something very important that we can learn from Mormon's great example.
There is a lot of work that the Lord needs us to do. It can feel very overwhelming at times. Alma 34:32 (page 295) tells us, "For behold, this life is the time for men to prepare to meet God; yea, behold the day of this life is the day for men to perform their labors." When I read this verse, I feel a heightened sense of and desire to do my duty to God (Alma 7:22, page 206), but I also feel anxiety as I ponder the tasks the Lord needs me to do. I find myself wondering how I can possibly do it all. It is at this point that I remember that the Lord has given us all we need to succeed in gaining our own salvation and all that we need in order to help those around us.
Where do we start? I recommend starting small and then adding to it. The Lord gives us "line upon line, precept upon precept" (2 Nephi 28:30, page 109). He doesn't expect us to bite off more than we chew, but he expects us to work hard, do our best, and progress each day. When we slip and fall, we can use the amazing blessing of the Atonement to repent of our sins and continue forward, bringing about good as we diligently labor. In a revelation given to Joseph Smith, recorded in D&C 58:27, it says, "Verily I say, men should be anxiously engaged in a good cause, and do many things of their own free will, and bring to pass much righteousness." We can help move the Lord's work along as we serve him with all our heart, might, mind, and strength (D&C 4:2). This service will bless ourselves and others. There is great work to be done and the Lord needs us on His side. One of my favorite Hymns is We Are All Enlisted (Hymn #250). It states:
We are all enlisted till the conflict is o'er;
Happy are we! Happy are we!
Soldiers in the army, there's a bright crown in store;
We shall win and wear it by and by.
Haste to the battle, quick to the field;
Truth is our helmet, buckler, and shield
Stand by our colors; proudly they wave!
We're joyfully, joyfully, marching to our home.
Hark! the sound of battle sounding loudly and clear;
Come join the ranks! Come join the ranks!
We are waiting now for soldiers; who'll volunteer?
Rally round the standard of the cross.
Hark! 'tis our Captain calls you today;
Lose not a moment, make no delay!
Fight for our Savior; come, come away!
We're joyfully, joyfully marching to our home.
Fighting for a kingdom, and the world is our foe;
Happy are we! Happy are we!
Glad to join the army, we will sing as we go;
We shall gain the vict'ry by and by.
Dangers may gather-why should we fear?
Jesus, our Leader, ever is near.
He will protect us, comfort, and cheer.
We're joyfully, joyfully marching to our home.
I love to sing this hymn because it is a happy, joyful tune that inspires me with the Spirit. It excites and readies me for the battle that lies ahead. A battle we must fight daily for the Lord. I know that the Lord will bless us greatly if we work hard for His sake. He promises in Matt. 11:28, "Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavey laden, and I will give you rest." Life is short. We are reminded of this often as we witness the passing of our friends and family, but I know that if we work hard at the Lord's errand we will find His rest in this life and in the next. Serving God will bring us true happiness and joy. This I share in the name of Jesus Christ, Amen.
This chapter is a letter that Mormon has written to his son, Moroni. At this time there were very few believers among the Nephites. In fact, Mormon mentions in verse 20 that the Nephites were more wicked than their enemies, the Lamanites. I believe that the Book of Mormon has come forth to help us in our day and there is something very important that we can learn from Mormon's great example.
There is a lot of work that the Lord needs us to do. It can feel very overwhelming at times. Alma 34:32 (page 295) tells us, "For behold, this life is the time for men to prepare to meet God; yea, behold the day of this life is the day for men to perform their labors." When I read this verse, I feel a heightened sense of and desire to do my duty to God (Alma 7:22, page 206), but I also feel anxiety as I ponder the tasks the Lord needs me to do. I find myself wondering how I can possibly do it all. It is at this point that I remember that the Lord has given us all we need to succeed in gaining our own salvation and all that we need in order to help those around us.
Where do we start? I recommend starting small and then adding to it. The Lord gives us "line upon line, precept upon precept" (2 Nephi 28:30, page 109). He doesn't expect us to bite off more than we chew, but he expects us to work hard, do our best, and progress each day. When we slip and fall, we can use the amazing blessing of the Atonement to repent of our sins and continue forward, bringing about good as we diligently labor. In a revelation given to Joseph Smith, recorded in D&C 58:27, it says, "Verily I say, men should be anxiously engaged in a good cause, and do many things of their own free will, and bring to pass much righteousness." We can help move the Lord's work along as we serve him with all our heart, might, mind, and strength (D&C 4:2). This service will bless ourselves and others. There is great work to be done and the Lord needs us on His side. One of my favorite Hymns is We Are All Enlisted (Hymn #250). It states:
We are all enlisted till the conflict is o'er;
Happy are we! Happy are we!
Soldiers in the army, there's a bright crown in store;
We shall win and wear it by and by.
Haste to the battle, quick to the field;
Truth is our helmet, buckler, and shield
Stand by our colors; proudly they wave!
We're joyfully, joyfully, marching to our home.
Hark! the sound of battle sounding loudly and clear;
Come join the ranks! Come join the ranks!
We are waiting now for soldiers; who'll volunteer?
Rally round the standard of the cross.
Hark! 'tis our Captain calls you today;
Lose not a moment, make no delay!
Fight for our Savior; come, come away!
We're joyfully, joyfully marching to our home.
Fighting for a kingdom, and the world is our foe;
Happy are we! Happy are we!
Glad to join the army, we will sing as we go;
We shall gain the vict'ry by and by.
Dangers may gather-why should we fear?
Jesus, our Leader, ever is near.
He will protect us, comfort, and cheer.
We're joyfully, joyfully marching to our home.
I love to sing this hymn because it is a happy, joyful tune that inspires me with the Spirit. It excites and readies me for the battle that lies ahead. A battle we must fight daily for the Lord. I know that the Lord will bless us greatly if we work hard for His sake. He promises in Matt. 11:28, "Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavey laden, and I will give you rest." Life is short. We are reminded of this often as we witness the passing of our friends and family, but I know that if we work hard at the Lord's errand we will find His rest in this life and in the next. Serving God will bring us true happiness and joy. This I share in the name of Jesus Christ, Amen.
Wednesday, October 21, 2009
Have ye inquired of the Lord?
1 Nephi 15:8 (page 30): "And I said unto them: Have ye inquired of the Lord?"
When Lehi told his family about the vision he had about the tree of life, his sons were confused and didn't understand the meaning of it. Nephi, the youngest, had a righteous desire to have a greater comprehension of his father's dream. 1 Nephi 10:17 & 19 (pages 18-19) states: "And it came to pass after I, Nephi, having heard all the words of my father, concerning the things which he saw in his vision, and also the things which he spake by the power of the Holy Ghost, which power he received by faith on the Son of God-and the Son of God was the Messiah who should come- I , Nephi, was desirious also that I might see, and hear, and know of these things, by the power of the Holy Ghost, which is the gift of God unto all those who diligently seek him...For he that diligently seeketh shall find; and the mysteries of God shall be unfolded unto them, by the power of the Holy Ghost..." Nephi understood the notion ask and ye shall receive. Following this he was given the same vision that his father saw along with an interpretation of the vision and so much more. (1 Nephi 11-14, pages 19-30) After seeing the vision, Nephi returned to where his family was staying, where he found his brothers arguing about the meaning of the vision. After asking them if they went to the Lord for understanding, he stated in 1 Nephi 15:11 (page 31), "Do ye not remember the things which the Lord hath said?-If ye will not harden your hearts, and ask me in faith, believing that ye shall receive, with diligence in keeping my commandments, surely these things shall be made known unto you."
I love what we can learn here about prayer and its importance in our relationship with our Father in Heaven. If we are humble, keep the commandments, and ask in faith, then the Lord will open our minds and help us understand His mysteries. The Lord asks us to put forth effort. He asks us to test our faith. Ether 12:6 (page 509) says, "...for ye receive no witness until after the trial of your faith." We can turn to the Lord for anything, and we should. He is waiting with open arms to give us the answers our souls desire. He wants to comfort and guide us through our lives. He wants to be a part of each and every day. We are His children and He wants to show His love for us. But, we have to do our part. When you feel lost or confused, ask yourself, "have ye inquired of the Lord?"
There are a lot of great examples of this principle, but I want to share the experience of Joseph Smith. When he was fourteen years old, he read James 1:5-6 which states, "If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him. But let him ask in faith, nothing wavering..." After reading this verse, he decided to go to a grove of trees to ask the Lord in prayer which church he should join. This led to his beautiful vision of Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ and later the restoration of the church of Jesus Christ in its fullness-all because a young boy asked in prayer. (You can view a video about Joseph Smith's experience here. First click on "Truth Restored" just above the blue box at the bottom, then click "view video" under The Restoration DVD)
I know that the Lord hears and answers our prayers. I have had countless experiences where He has answered mine. My knowledge of this began when I was just eight years old. I lost my earing and was very worried that I wouldn't find it because it was a very small stud. After searching for some time, I remembered that I had been taught to pray when I needed help. I went into my room and asked the Lord to help me find this lost earing. On completion of my prayer, I decided to resume my search. While walking out to the family room, I stepped on it, poking me in the foot. I laughed at the irony and then realized that there was no irony in it at all. The Lord was waiting to help me. He cared, because I cared.
When I was a teenager, I had a seminary teacher share with us that if we needed to feel the Lord's love, all we needed to do was ask Him and He would be unable to hold His love from us. I decided that I wanted to try this out because like all teenagers, I was needing comfort and guidance. After dinner, I took solitary in my bedroom, kneeled next to my bed, and prayed. Instantly after asking the Lord if He loved me, my entire body was filled with warmth. I began to cry at the overwhelming outpouring of love that I felt. I can not explain it with words, but I know and will always know that my Father in Heaven loves me very much.
I know that the power of prayer is real. I know that we can turn to our Father in Heaven for answers. He will enlighten our minds with His Spirit. He will give us a greater understanding of His teachings. He will comfort us in times of need and He will strenthen us when we are weak. I hope and pray that you will do as Nephi and "inquire of the Lord". This I share in the name of Jesus Christ, Amen.
When Lehi told his family about the vision he had about the tree of life, his sons were confused and didn't understand the meaning of it. Nephi, the youngest, had a righteous desire to have a greater comprehension of his father's dream. 1 Nephi 10:17 & 19 (pages 18-19) states: "And it came to pass after I, Nephi, having heard all the words of my father, concerning the things which he saw in his vision, and also the things which he spake by the power of the Holy Ghost, which power he received by faith on the Son of God-and the Son of God was the Messiah who should come- I , Nephi, was desirious also that I might see, and hear, and know of these things, by the power of the Holy Ghost, which is the gift of God unto all those who diligently seek him...For he that diligently seeketh shall find; and the mysteries of God shall be unfolded unto them, by the power of the Holy Ghost..." Nephi understood the notion ask and ye shall receive. Following this he was given the same vision that his father saw along with an interpretation of the vision and so much more. (1 Nephi 11-14, pages 19-30) After seeing the vision, Nephi returned to where his family was staying, where he found his brothers arguing about the meaning of the vision. After asking them if they went to the Lord for understanding, he stated in 1 Nephi 15:11 (page 31), "Do ye not remember the things which the Lord hath said?-If ye will not harden your hearts, and ask me in faith, believing that ye shall receive, with diligence in keeping my commandments, surely these things shall be made known unto you."
I love what we can learn here about prayer and its importance in our relationship with our Father in Heaven. If we are humble, keep the commandments, and ask in faith, then the Lord will open our minds and help us understand His mysteries. The Lord asks us to put forth effort. He asks us to test our faith. Ether 12:6 (page 509) says, "...for ye receive no witness until after the trial of your faith." We can turn to the Lord for anything, and we should. He is waiting with open arms to give us the answers our souls desire. He wants to comfort and guide us through our lives. He wants to be a part of each and every day. We are His children and He wants to show His love for us. But, we have to do our part. When you feel lost or confused, ask yourself, "have ye inquired of the Lord?"
There are a lot of great examples of this principle, but I want to share the experience of Joseph Smith. When he was fourteen years old, he read James 1:5-6 which states, "If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him. But let him ask in faith, nothing wavering..." After reading this verse, he decided to go to a grove of trees to ask the Lord in prayer which church he should join. This led to his beautiful vision of Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ and later the restoration of the church of Jesus Christ in its fullness-all because a young boy asked in prayer. (You can view a video about Joseph Smith's experience here. First click on "Truth Restored" just above the blue box at the bottom, then click "view video" under The Restoration DVD)
I know that the Lord hears and answers our prayers. I have had countless experiences where He has answered mine. My knowledge of this began when I was just eight years old. I lost my earing and was very worried that I wouldn't find it because it was a very small stud. After searching for some time, I remembered that I had been taught to pray when I needed help. I went into my room and asked the Lord to help me find this lost earing. On completion of my prayer, I decided to resume my search. While walking out to the family room, I stepped on it, poking me in the foot. I laughed at the irony and then realized that there was no irony in it at all. The Lord was waiting to help me. He cared, because I cared.
When I was a teenager, I had a seminary teacher share with us that if we needed to feel the Lord's love, all we needed to do was ask Him and He would be unable to hold His love from us. I decided that I wanted to try this out because like all teenagers, I was needing comfort and guidance. After dinner, I took solitary in my bedroom, kneeled next to my bed, and prayed. Instantly after asking the Lord if He loved me, my entire body was filled with warmth. I began to cry at the overwhelming outpouring of love that I felt. I can not explain it with words, but I know and will always know that my Father in Heaven loves me very much.
I know that the power of prayer is real. I know that we can turn to our Father in Heaven for answers. He will enlighten our minds with His Spirit. He will give us a greater understanding of His teachings. He will comfort us in times of need and He will strenthen us when we are weak. I hope and pray that you will do as Nephi and "inquire of the Lord". This I share in the name of Jesus Christ, Amen.
Thursday, October 15, 2009
Teach Them
Mosiah 4:14-15 (page 156): "And ye will not suffer your children that they go hungry, or naked; neither will ye suffer that they transgress the laws of God, and fight and quarrel one with another,... But ye will teach them to walk in the ways of truth and soberness; ye will teach them to love one another, and to serve one another."
As a mother of two young children, I have often pondered what I need to teach my children and how. I have stressed about what I need to do in order to keep them from the dangers of the world. There have been times when I've allowed myself to take comfort in the time that I have before my children become teenagers, but I have realized that this false hope will only bring procrastination and failure. In a world filled with deception and filth, it is imperative that we begin teaching our children while they are young. Deuteronomy 6:6-7 states, "And these words, which I command thee this day, shall be in thine heart: And thou shalt teach them diligently unto thy children, and shalt talk of them when thou sittest in thine house, and when thou walkest by the way, and when thou liest down, and when thou risest up."
It can be difficult at times to explain the gospel of Jesus Christ to our children, especially when they are young, but it can be done and it should be. We are given great hope and motivation in Proverbs 22:6 which says, "Train up a child in the way he should go: and when he is old, he will not depart from it." This doesn't mean that our children might not stray. They are still capable of making their own decisions, but it teaches us the importance of helping our children build strong foundations while they are young. Alma 37:33 (page 303) tells us that we should "teach them to withstand every temptation of the devil, with their faith on the Lord Jesus Christ."
Today is the time for our children to have strong, sound testimonies of the Savior and His gospel. They will be faced with the unimaginable. Satan will conjure up his greatest storms and attack from all sides. How in the world do we as parents prepare our precious little ones for the spiritual war that lies ahead? As a young mother, I do not profess to have the perfect answer, but I find comfort and guidance in the scriptures and in the words of the prophets and apostles.
1 Timothy 4:12 says, "...be thou an example of the believers, in word, in conversation, in charity, in spirit, in faith, in purity." I have often heard the saying that actions speak louder than words, and while I believe that is true, I also believe that words are also desperately needed. 2 Nephi 25:26 (page 100) states: "And we talk of Christ, we rejoice in Christ, we preach of Christ, we prophesy of Christ, and we write according to our prophecies, that our children may know to what source they may look for a remission of their sins."
We need to teach and live the gospel of Jesus Christ. It is not enough to teach our children only occassionally. It is not enough to live the principles of the gospel only on Sunday. If we are to "train our [children] in the way [they] should go" as stated in Proverbs, we must continually teach by word and deed each and every day. We must take every opportunity to guide them with love. If we do this, they will know of our faith and testimony of Jesus Christ, and they will look to us as they develop their own testimonies. We can be a light and an example that they will follow as they tackle the challenges of life. We can be "instruments in the Lord's hands unto the salvation of many souls (Alma 17:11, page 251), including our children. I know that the gospel of Jesus Christ is true. I know that it is the only true source of happiness. If we teach our children the principles of the gospel of Jesus Christ, they will gain their own testimonies, find true happiness, and work out their salvation. I share this in the name of Jesus Christ, Amen.
As a mother of two young children, I have often pondered what I need to teach my children and how. I have stressed about what I need to do in order to keep them from the dangers of the world. There have been times when I've allowed myself to take comfort in the time that I have before my children become teenagers, but I have realized that this false hope will only bring procrastination and failure. In a world filled with deception and filth, it is imperative that we begin teaching our children while they are young. Deuteronomy 6:6-7 states, "And these words, which I command thee this day, shall be in thine heart: And thou shalt teach them diligently unto thy children, and shalt talk of them when thou sittest in thine house, and when thou walkest by the way, and when thou liest down, and when thou risest up."
It can be difficult at times to explain the gospel of Jesus Christ to our children, especially when they are young, but it can be done and it should be. We are given great hope and motivation in Proverbs 22:6 which says, "Train up a child in the way he should go: and when he is old, he will not depart from it." This doesn't mean that our children might not stray. They are still capable of making their own decisions, but it teaches us the importance of helping our children build strong foundations while they are young. Alma 37:33 (page 303) tells us that we should "teach them to withstand every temptation of the devil, with their faith on the Lord Jesus Christ."
Today is the time for our children to have strong, sound testimonies of the Savior and His gospel. They will be faced with the unimaginable. Satan will conjure up his greatest storms and attack from all sides. How in the world do we as parents prepare our precious little ones for the spiritual war that lies ahead? As a young mother, I do not profess to have the perfect answer, but I find comfort and guidance in the scriptures and in the words of the prophets and apostles.
1 Timothy 4:12 says, "...be thou an example of the believers, in word, in conversation, in charity, in spirit, in faith, in purity." I have often heard the saying that actions speak louder than words, and while I believe that is true, I also believe that words are also desperately needed. 2 Nephi 25:26 (page 100) states: "And we talk of Christ, we rejoice in Christ, we preach of Christ, we prophesy of Christ, and we write according to our prophecies, that our children may know to what source they may look for a remission of their sins."
We need to teach and live the gospel of Jesus Christ. It is not enough to teach our children only occassionally. It is not enough to live the principles of the gospel only on Sunday. If we are to "train our [children] in the way [they] should go" as stated in Proverbs, we must continually teach by word and deed each and every day. We must take every opportunity to guide them with love. If we do this, they will know of our faith and testimony of Jesus Christ, and they will look to us as they develop their own testimonies. We can be a light and an example that they will follow as they tackle the challenges of life. We can be "instruments in the Lord's hands unto the salvation of many souls (Alma 17:11, page 251), including our children. I know that the gospel of Jesus Christ is true. I know that it is the only true source of happiness. If we teach our children the principles of the gospel of Jesus Christ, they will gain their own testimonies, find true happiness, and work out their salvation. I share this in the name of Jesus Christ, Amen.
Thursday, October 8, 2009
Receive it with Gladness
2 Nephi 28:28 (page 109): "And in fine, wo unto all those who tremble, and are angry because of the truth of God! For behold, he that is built upon the rock receiveth it with gladness; and he that is built upon a sandy foundation trembleth lest he shall fall."
This chapter in the Book of Mormon prophesies about the last days - a time that Latter-day Saints, along with other Christians, believe that we are living in. This chapter warns of apostacy and how Satan will lead people astray from the church of God. What can we do in order to keep ourselves from falling away and becoming lost? How can we withstand the temptations that are thrown at us? 2 Nephi 31:19-20 (page 114) states: "And now, my beloved brethren, after ye have gotten into this strait and narrow path, I would ask if all is done? Behold, I say unto you, Nay; for ye have not come thus far save it were by the word of Christ with unshaken faith in him, relying wholly upon the merits of him who is mighty to save. Wherefore, ye must press forward with a steadfastness in Christ, having a perfect brightness of hope, and a love of God and of all men. Wherefore, if ye shall press forward, feasting upon the word of Christ, and endure to the end, behold, thus saith the Father: Ye shall have eternal life."
There is a lot of information in these two verses that should be studied, but for today's motto, I would like to focus on the importance of "feasting on the word of Christ". Isaiah 40:8 says: "The grass withereth, the flower fadeth: but the word of our God shall stand for ever." Latter-day Saints believe that the word of God comes from two sources: the scriptures and the modern day prophets and apostles called of God. It is not enough to simply hear or know the word of God. We must act according to the word. Sometimes the Lord may tell us things that are not easy to hear. We might disagree politically. We may feel that the task is too difficult. It may seem trite or unneeded. It is at these moments that we must check ourselves and realign our hearts and souls with God. As it stated in second Nephi, "he that is built upon the rock receiveth it with gladness." In verse 30 (page 109) it continues, stating: "For behold, thus saith the Lord God; I will give unto the children of men line upon line, precept upon precept, here a little and there a little; and blessed are those who hearken unto my precepts, and lend an ear unto my counsel, for they shall learn wisdom; for unto him that receiveth I will give more; and from them that shall say, We have enough, from them shall be taken away even that which they have." I love the promised blessing that we will learn wisdom as we receive the counsel of God and as we continue to receive it, He will continue to give more.
This last weekend was General Conference where Latter-day Saints around the world listen to the prophet and apostles speak. Some may say that they are just a bunch of old men, what would they know, but I testify that they are called of God. They testify of Him and give us His guidance. As I listened to the talks, I wondered how I could receive their messages with gladness. I felt renewed strength to do as President Gordon B. Hinckley often counseled and to "try a little harder to be a little better". Talking about the people of Berea, Acts 17:11 states: "These were more noble than those in Thessalonica, in that they received the word with all readiness of mind, and searched the scriptures daily, whether those things were so". It is my hope and prayer that we will be as the people of Berea and be ready to receive and act upon the word of God with gladness. I know that the word of God will lead us on the path to eternal life. This I share in the name of Jesus Christ, Amen.
This chapter in the Book of Mormon prophesies about the last days - a time that Latter-day Saints, along with other Christians, believe that we are living in. This chapter warns of apostacy and how Satan will lead people astray from the church of God. What can we do in order to keep ourselves from falling away and becoming lost? How can we withstand the temptations that are thrown at us? 2 Nephi 31:19-20 (page 114) states: "And now, my beloved brethren, after ye have gotten into this strait and narrow path, I would ask if all is done? Behold, I say unto you, Nay; for ye have not come thus far save it were by the word of Christ with unshaken faith in him, relying wholly upon the merits of him who is mighty to save. Wherefore, ye must press forward with a steadfastness in Christ, having a perfect brightness of hope, and a love of God and of all men. Wherefore, if ye shall press forward, feasting upon the word of Christ, and endure to the end, behold, thus saith the Father: Ye shall have eternal life."
There is a lot of information in these two verses that should be studied, but for today's motto, I would like to focus on the importance of "feasting on the word of Christ". Isaiah 40:8 says: "The grass withereth, the flower fadeth: but the word of our God shall stand for ever." Latter-day Saints believe that the word of God comes from two sources: the scriptures and the modern day prophets and apostles called of God. It is not enough to simply hear or know the word of God. We must act according to the word. Sometimes the Lord may tell us things that are not easy to hear. We might disagree politically. We may feel that the task is too difficult. It may seem trite or unneeded. It is at these moments that we must check ourselves and realign our hearts and souls with God. As it stated in second Nephi, "he that is built upon the rock receiveth it with gladness." In verse 30 (page 109) it continues, stating: "For behold, thus saith the Lord God; I will give unto the children of men line upon line, precept upon precept, here a little and there a little; and blessed are those who hearken unto my precepts, and lend an ear unto my counsel, for they shall learn wisdom; for unto him that receiveth I will give more; and from them that shall say, We have enough, from them shall be taken away even that which they have." I love the promised blessing that we will learn wisdom as we receive the counsel of God and as we continue to receive it, He will continue to give more.
This last weekend was General Conference where Latter-day Saints around the world listen to the prophet and apostles speak. Some may say that they are just a bunch of old men, what would they know, but I testify that they are called of God. They testify of Him and give us His guidance. As I listened to the talks, I wondered how I could receive their messages with gladness. I felt renewed strength to do as President Gordon B. Hinckley often counseled and to "try a little harder to be a little better". Talking about the people of Berea, Acts 17:11 states: "These were more noble than those in Thessalonica, in that they received the word with all readiness of mind, and searched the scriptures daily, whether those things were so". It is my hope and prayer that we will be as the people of Berea and be ready to receive and act upon the word of God with gladness. I know that the word of God will lead us on the path to eternal life. This I share in the name of Jesus Christ, Amen.
Please watch the video at the bottom of this page: Another Testament: Reflections of Christ. It is truly beautiful and reminds me of how grateful I am for my Savior Jesus Christ. It is only through His atonement that we may repent of our sins and be able to return to our Father in Heaven. May we always reflect on His life, His purpose, His gospel. This I share in the name of Jesus Christ, Amen.
Thursday, October 1, 2009
Take Courage
1 Nephi 4:35(page 9): "And it came to pass that Zoram did take courage at the words which I spake. Now Zoram was the name of the servant; and he promised that he would go down into the wilderness unto our father. Yea, and he also made an oath unto us that he would tarry with us from that time forth."
For any who may be unfamiliar with the Book of Mormon, Nephi, the person who wrote the first part of the Book of Mormon, has convinced Zoram to leave Jerusalem, travel across the wilderness with Nephi's family and eventually cross the ocean to the land of promise. As I have thought about this verse, I have wondered what it means to take courage.
There are several great verses in the scriptures about courage. One of my favorites is Deuteronomy 31:6 which states: "Be strong and of a good courage, fear not, nor be afraid of them: for the LORD thy God, he it is that doth go with thee; he will not fail thee, nor forsake thee." There is a story in the Book of Mormon, a favorite among Latter-Day Saints, about two thousand stripling warriors with great courage. In Alma 53:20 (page 343-344) it describes them saying, "And they were all young men, and they were exceedingly valiant for courage, and also for strength and activity; but behold, this was not all-they were men who were true at all times in whatsoever thing they were entrusted." Other verses, Alma 56:47-48 (page 350-351) also describe these warriors saying, "Now they never had fought, yet they did not fear death; and they did think more upon the liberty of their fathers than they did upon their lives; yea, they had been taught by their mothers, that if they did not doubt, God would deliver them. And they rehearsed unto me the words of their mothers, saying: We do not doubt our mothers knew it."
There are many things that we can learn from these scriptures, but as I pondered them, I realized that to take courage is to take faith. A seminary teacher in high school shared an example of faith that really influenced me and has helped me to better understand the principle of faith. It comes from the movie Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade. At the end of this movie, Indiana must face three challenges before he can reach the chamber that is home to the Holy Grail. The third and final challenge is "the path of God". In this challenge, Indiana Jones must cross a giant chasm that is too far to jump across and appears to be bottomless. He is fearful of the abyss, knowing he must cross it, but not completely understanding how it can be possible. Exclaiming, "it's a leap of faith," Indiana Jones must decide what he believes. Standing tall, he lifts his leg into the air and crosses, appearing to walk on air. At what point does Indiana Jones exercise faith? Is it when he has his leg high in the air, preparing for the step? No. It isn't until he shifts his weight and begins to fall forward. It is at this moment that he has reached a point of no return. He has taken all of his courage, acting upon faith and putting his life into the hands of the Lord. What relief must have come as his foot touched upon the invisible walkway there before him.
Sometimes the Lord requires us to "walk into the dark" in order to "find the light." We may find ourselves on unchartered waters, confused, lost, and scared, but there is hope. Moroni 7:41 (page 524) states: "And what is it that ye shall hope for? Behold I say unto you that ye shall have hope through the atonement of Christ and the power of the resurrection, to be raised unto life eternal, and this because of your faith in him, according to the promise." As we make our way through life, the Lord has given us all that we need to find happiness and joy in this life and the life here after. We must swallow our fear with faith as we make decisions to keep the commandments of the Lord. I know that Jesus Christ is our Savior and Redeemer. I have hope in His atonement, knowing that He has made it possible for me to return to live with my Father in Heaven. The world may cause us to question these beliefs, but if we act upon the Spirit of the Lord and take that first step, mustering our courage and faith, we can find the truth and peace that our soul may seek. That first step is the hardest. Once we know that there is that invisible walkway, like in Indiana Jones, it is easier to take the second step and continue forward. I hope that you will have faith and take courage as you tackle the challenges that come your way. This I share in the name of Jesus Christ, Amen.
For any who may be unfamiliar with the Book of Mormon, Nephi, the person who wrote the first part of the Book of Mormon, has convinced Zoram to leave Jerusalem, travel across the wilderness with Nephi's family and eventually cross the ocean to the land of promise. As I have thought about this verse, I have wondered what it means to take courage.
There are several great verses in the scriptures about courage. One of my favorites is Deuteronomy 31:6 which states: "Be strong and of a good courage, fear not, nor be afraid of them: for the LORD thy God, he it is that doth go with thee; he will not fail thee, nor forsake thee." There is a story in the Book of Mormon, a favorite among Latter-Day Saints, about two thousand stripling warriors with great courage. In Alma 53:20 (page 343-344) it describes them saying, "And they were all young men, and they were exceedingly valiant for courage, and also for strength and activity; but behold, this was not all-they were men who were true at all times in whatsoever thing they were entrusted." Other verses, Alma 56:47-48 (page 350-351) also describe these warriors saying, "Now they never had fought, yet they did not fear death; and they did think more upon the liberty of their fathers than they did upon their lives; yea, they had been taught by their mothers, that if they did not doubt, God would deliver them. And they rehearsed unto me the words of their mothers, saying: We do not doubt our mothers knew it."
There are many things that we can learn from these scriptures, but as I pondered them, I realized that to take courage is to take faith. A seminary teacher in high school shared an example of faith that really influenced me and has helped me to better understand the principle of faith. It comes from the movie Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade. At the end of this movie, Indiana must face three challenges before he can reach the chamber that is home to the Holy Grail. The third and final challenge is "the path of God". In this challenge, Indiana Jones must cross a giant chasm that is too far to jump across and appears to be bottomless. He is fearful of the abyss, knowing he must cross it, but not completely understanding how it can be possible. Exclaiming, "it's a leap of faith," Indiana Jones must decide what he believes. Standing tall, he lifts his leg into the air and crosses, appearing to walk on air. At what point does Indiana Jones exercise faith? Is it when he has his leg high in the air, preparing for the step? No. It isn't until he shifts his weight and begins to fall forward. It is at this moment that he has reached a point of no return. He has taken all of his courage, acting upon faith and putting his life into the hands of the Lord. What relief must have come as his foot touched upon the invisible walkway there before him.
Sometimes the Lord requires us to "walk into the dark" in order to "find the light." We may find ourselves on unchartered waters, confused, lost, and scared, but there is hope. Moroni 7:41 (page 524) states: "And what is it that ye shall hope for? Behold I say unto you that ye shall have hope through the atonement of Christ and the power of the resurrection, to be raised unto life eternal, and this because of your faith in him, according to the promise." As we make our way through life, the Lord has given us all that we need to find happiness and joy in this life and the life here after. We must swallow our fear with faith as we make decisions to keep the commandments of the Lord. I know that Jesus Christ is our Savior and Redeemer. I have hope in His atonement, knowing that He has made it possible for me to return to live with my Father in Heaven. The world may cause us to question these beliefs, but if we act upon the Spirit of the Lord and take that first step, mustering our courage and faith, we can find the truth and peace that our soul may seek. That first step is the hardest. Once we know that there is that invisible walkway, like in Indiana Jones, it is easier to take the second step and continue forward. I hope that you will have faith and take courage as you tackle the challenges that come your way. This I share in the name of Jesus Christ, Amen.
Friday, September 25, 2009
Liken All Scripture
1 Nephi 19:23 (page 46) "And I did read many things unto them which were written in the books of Moses; but that I might more fully persuade them to believe in the Lord their Redeemer I did read unto them that which was written by the prophet Isaiah; for I did liken all scriptures unto us that it might be for our profit and learning."
I chose this to be my first motto because it expresses my intent perfectly. I hope to use the scriptures and apply them to life, today. We live in a crazy, mixed up world, but if we search the words of the Lord, ponder them, pray about them, and apply them to what may be happening to us at this time then we will gain greater understanding and receive inspiration in our decision making.
I have had countless experiences where the scriptures have helped me with personal struggles and questions. They have broadened my understanding of the purpose of life and the role of Jesus Christ in the plan of God. When I first read Helaman 5:12 (page 378) it touched me to my very core. It states, "And now, my sons, remember, remember that it is upon the rock of our Redeemer, who is Christ, the Son of God, that ye must build your foundation; that when the devil shall send forth his mighty winds, yea, his shafts in the whirlwind, yea, when all his hail and his mighty storm shall beat upon you, it shall have no power over you to drag you down to the gulf of misery and endless wo, because of the rock upon which ye are built, which is a sure foundation, a foundation whereon if men build they cannot fall."
To this day this remains as my favorite verse in the Book of Mormon. I turn to it often because it helps keep me grounded on what is fundamentally most important-my belief and testimony in Jesus Christ. This verse has truley been for my "profit and learning". If we use the scriptures to our advantage, we can have numerous experiences where our hearts will be touched and our minds will be opened. We will feel the Spirit of the Lord teach us and recognize it as such. I'm grateful for the moments in my life where I have felt the Lords love and guidance through the words of the scriptures. This I share in the name of Jesus Christ, Amen.
I chose this to be my first motto because it expresses my intent perfectly. I hope to use the scriptures and apply them to life, today. We live in a crazy, mixed up world, but if we search the words of the Lord, ponder them, pray about them, and apply them to what may be happening to us at this time then we will gain greater understanding and receive inspiration in our decision making.
I have had countless experiences where the scriptures have helped me with personal struggles and questions. They have broadened my understanding of the purpose of life and the role of Jesus Christ in the plan of God. When I first read Helaman 5:12 (page 378) it touched me to my very core. It states, "And now, my sons, remember, remember that it is upon the rock of our Redeemer, who is Christ, the Son of God, that ye must build your foundation; that when the devil shall send forth his mighty winds, yea, his shafts in the whirlwind, yea, when all his hail and his mighty storm shall beat upon you, it shall have no power over you to drag you down to the gulf of misery and endless wo, because of the rock upon which ye are built, which is a sure foundation, a foundation whereon if men build they cannot fall."
To this day this remains as my favorite verse in the Book of Mormon. I turn to it often because it helps keep me grounded on what is fundamentally most important-my belief and testimony in Jesus Christ. This verse has truley been for my "profit and learning". If we use the scriptures to our advantage, we can have numerous experiences where our hearts will be touched and our minds will be opened. We will feel the Spirit of the Lord teach us and recognize it as such. I'm grateful for the moments in my life where I have felt the Lords love and guidance through the words of the scriptures. This I share in the name of Jesus Christ, Amen.
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