My friend Max sends out daily reminder texts to study the scriptures. It's awesome to always have the reminder to put the Lord first.
Today was a rough day. When Max sent me the scripture reference today, I actually looked it up:
Proverbs 3:5-6
"Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all they ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct they paths."
I'm so thankful for the scriptures and the answers that they provide to prayers and pleadings. I'm so thankful for the gospel and the role it plays in my life. This gospel is the true gospel, and the gospel of true happiness.
Tuesday, October 30, 2012
Monday, October 29, 2012
The Ten Commandments
"And now I read unto you the remainder of the commandments of God, for I perceive that they are not written in your hearts; I perceive that ye have studied and taught iniquity the most part of your lives." (Mosiah 13:11)
I love that the ten commandments are preached in the Book of Mormon. It shows how important they are:
" Although the world has changed, the laws of God remain constant. They have not changed; they will not change. The Ten Commandments are just that—commandments. They are not suggestions."
1. “Thou shalt have no other gods before me” (Exodus 20:3). We should do “all things with an eye single to the glory of God” (D&C 82:19). We should love and serve the Lord with all our heart, might, mind, and strength (see Deuteronomy 6:5; D&C 59:5).
2. “Thou shalt not make unto thee any graven image” (Exodus 20:4). In this commandment, the Lord condemns the worship of idols. Idolatry may take many forms. Some people do not bow before graven images or statues but instead replace the living God with other idols, such as money, material possessions, ideas, or prestige. In their lives, “their treasure is their god”—a god that “shall perish with them” (2 Nephi 9:30).
3. “Thou shalt not take the name of the Lord thy God in vain” (Exodus 20:7).
4. “Remember the sabbath day, to keep it holy” (Exodus 20:8).
5. “Honour thy father and thy mother” (Exodus 20:12). This commandment remains binding throughout our lives and can be understood in several ways: We should honor our fathers and our mothers who are our ancestors; we should be grateful to the father and mother who provided our earthly bodies; we should honor those who raised us in the knowledge of the truth. Above all, we should honor our Heavenly Parents. The way we honor all these fathers and mothers is by keeping the commandments.
6. “Thou shalt not kill” (Exodus 20:13).
7. “Thou shalt not commit adultery” (Exodus 20:14). In a latter-day revelation, the Lord condemned not only adultery, but “anything like unto it” (D&C 59:6). Fornication, homosexuality, and other sexual sins are violations of the seventh commandment.
8. “Thou shalt not steal” (Exodus 20:15). Stealing is a form of dishonesty.
9. “Thou shalt not bear false witness against thy neighbour” (Exodus 20:16). Bearing false witness is another form of dishonesty.
10. “Thou shalt not covet” (Exodus 20:17). Coveting, or envying something that belongs to another, is damaging to the soul. It can consume our thoughts and plague us with constant unhappiness and dissatisfaction. It often leads to other sins and to financial indebtedness.
I can testify that living the commandments bring happiness. I know this because I've done it. Every time I choose to keep one or more of the commandments, I see an increase of the Lord's blessings in my life.
An example of this is when I choose to honor my mom and dad. As a teenager, (well, I still am a teenager, I guess) I found it hard to honor my parents. It was hard to do what they wanted me to do, especially when I was vehemently apposed to it. But every time I obeyed my parents, not only was I happier because they were happy with me, but because I always found out that they were right. (Okay not always, most of the time.) I'm so thankful for my parents and their guidance.
I love that the ten commandments are preached in the Book of Mormon. It shows how important they are:
" Although the world has changed, the laws of God remain constant. They have not changed; they will not change. The Ten Commandments are just that—commandments. They are not suggestions."
1. “Thou shalt have no other gods before me” (Exodus 20:3). We should do “all things with an eye single to the glory of God” (D&C 82:19). We should love and serve the Lord with all our heart, might, mind, and strength (see Deuteronomy 6:5; D&C 59:5).
2. “Thou shalt not make unto thee any graven image” (Exodus 20:4). In this commandment, the Lord condemns the worship of idols. Idolatry may take many forms. Some people do not bow before graven images or statues but instead replace the living God with other idols, such as money, material possessions, ideas, or prestige. In their lives, “their treasure is their god”—a god that “shall perish with them” (2 Nephi 9:30).
3. “Thou shalt not take the name of the Lord thy God in vain” (Exodus 20:7).
4. “Remember the sabbath day, to keep it holy” (Exodus 20:8).
5. “Honour thy father and thy mother” (Exodus 20:12). This commandment remains binding throughout our lives and can be understood in several ways: We should honor our fathers and our mothers who are our ancestors; we should be grateful to the father and mother who provided our earthly bodies; we should honor those who raised us in the knowledge of the truth. Above all, we should honor our Heavenly Parents. The way we honor all these fathers and mothers is by keeping the commandments.
6. “Thou shalt not kill” (Exodus 20:13).
7. “Thou shalt not commit adultery” (Exodus 20:14). In a latter-day revelation, the Lord condemned not only adultery, but “anything like unto it” (D&C 59:6). Fornication, homosexuality, and other sexual sins are violations of the seventh commandment.
8. “Thou shalt not steal” (Exodus 20:15). Stealing is a form of dishonesty.
9. “Thou shalt not bear false witness against thy neighbour” (Exodus 20:16). Bearing false witness is another form of dishonesty.
10. “Thou shalt not covet” (Exodus 20:17). Coveting, or envying something that belongs to another, is damaging to the soul. It can consume our thoughts and plague us with constant unhappiness and dissatisfaction. It often leads to other sins and to financial indebtedness.
I can testify that living the commandments bring happiness. I know this because I've done it. Every time I choose to keep one or more of the commandments, I see an increase of the Lord's blessings in my life.
An example of this is when I choose to honor my mom and dad. As a teenager, (well, I still am a teenager, I guess) I found it hard to honor my parents. It was hard to do what they wanted me to do, especially when I was vehemently apposed to it. But every time I obeyed my parents, not only was I happier because they were happy with me, but because I always found out that they were right. (Okay not always, most of the time.) I'm so thankful for my parents and their guidance.
True to the Faith
I remember in Primary learning about Abinadi, Joseph Smith, John the Baptist, and other prophets were killed for their dedication to the truth. Awful things have happened to saints for standing up for what they believe in. Mobbings, killings, torture...things almost unimaginable for this day and age. I remember sitting in my little metal chair in that small primary room wondering if I had enough courage to be a saint that laid down my life for Christ. I thought I could.
"Now it came to pass that when Abinadi had spoken these words unto them they were wroth with him, and sought to take away his life; but the Lord delivered him out of their hands." (Mosiah 11:26)
"And now it came to pass that when Abinadi had finished these sayings, that the king commanded that the priests should take him and cause that he should be put to death." (Mosiah 17:1)
"Yea, and I will suffer even until death, and I will not recall my words, and they shall stand as a testimony against you. And if ye slay me ye will shed innocent blood, and this shall also stand as a testimony against you at the last day." (Mosiah 17:10)
I don't know if I could be an Abinadi, a Joseph, or a John. I don't know if I could go through the physical trials that they went through. But I know that every saint can come unto Christ and become like Him. I know that I can come unto Him.
"While we know the pow'rs of darkness
Seek to thwart the work of God,
Shall the children of the promise
Cease to grasp the iron rod? No!
True to the faith that our parents have cherished,
True to the truth for which martyrs have perished,
To God's command,
Soul, heart, and hand,
Faithful and true we will ever stand." (True to the Faith)
"Now it came to pass that when Abinadi had spoken these words unto them they were wroth with him, and sought to take away his life; but the Lord delivered him out of their hands." (Mosiah 11:26)
"And now it came to pass that when Abinadi had finished these sayings, that the king commanded that the priests should take him and cause that he should be put to death." (Mosiah 17:1)
"Yea, and I will suffer even until death, and I will not recall my words, and they shall stand as a testimony against you. And if ye slay me ye will shed innocent blood, and this shall also stand as a testimony against you at the last day." (Mosiah 17:10)
I don't know if I could be an Abinadi, a Joseph, or a John. I don't know if I could go through the physical trials that they went through. But I know that every saint can come unto Christ and become like Him. I know that I can come unto Him.
"While we know the pow'rs of darkness
Seek to thwart the work of God,
Shall the children of the promise
Cease to grasp the iron rod? No!
True to the faith that our parents have cherished,
True to the truth for which martyrs have perished,
To God's command,
Soul, heart, and hand,
Faithful and true we will ever stand." (True to the Faith)
Sunday, October 28, 2012
Abinadi
The summer before my junior year, my stake hosted a youth conference called "Moroni's Quest." We went to a place in the mountains for three days and reenacted the Book of Mormon. They recorded each actor before and broadcast their lines, we all dressed up like Lamanites and Nephites, they had dancers and singers...This thing was legit. I even had a line! I was Ishmael's wife. When Laman and Lemuel were binding up Nephi, my line was: "Please! Have mercy upon him! Let him go!" Great line, eh? :) I even fell dramatically to my knees and begged during the performance. I'm pretty much a professional actress, let's face the facts.
One part I really remember about Moroni's Quest was the story of Abinadi. Watching them perform this part of the Book of Mormon was particularly powerful.
"29 And again he said unto them: If ye teach the law of Moses why do ye not keep it? Why do ye set your hearts upon riches? Why do ye commit whoredoms and spend your strength with harlots, yea, and cause this people to commit sin, that the Lord has cause to send me to prophesy against this people, yea, even a great evil against this people?
30 Know ye not that I speak the truth? Yea, ye know that I speak the truth; and you ought to tremble before God."
After Abinadi's sermon, they burned a dummy dressed up like Abinadi. Now every time I read this part of the Book of Mormon, I think back to that weekend during the summer of 2010. If you ever get the opportunity to attend a Moroni's Quest, do it.
One part I really remember about Moroni's Quest was the story of Abinadi. Watching them perform this part of the Book of Mormon was particularly powerful.
"29 And again he said unto them: If ye teach the law of Moses why do ye not keep it? Why do ye set your hearts upon riches? Why do ye commit whoredoms and spend your strength with harlots, yea, and cause this people to commit sin, that the Lord has cause to send me to prophesy against this people, yea, even a great evil against this people?
30 Know ye not that I speak the truth? Yea, ye know that I speak the truth; and you ought to tremble before God."
After Abinadi's sermon, they burned a dummy dressed up like Abinadi. Now every time I read this part of the Book of Mormon, I think back to that weekend during the summer of 2010. If you ever get the opportunity to attend a Moroni's Quest, do it.
Friday, October 26, 2012
scriptures.byu.edu
About a week ago, my Book of Mormon professor introduced us to a tool to help us further understand and appreciate the scriptures. On scriptures.byu.edu, you can select a scripture and it will link you to all talks from general authorities on their database that used that scripture as a source. I’ve loved being able to use this tool. For example, in Mosiah 7, King Limhi tells Ammon of their bondage to the Lamanites. If you go onto the citation source, verse 33 has the most citations. Almost all of these sources cite this scripture in reference to repentance:
33 But if ye will turn to the Lord with full purpose of heart, and put your trust in him, and serve him with all diligence of mind, if ye do this, he will, according to his own will and pleasure, deliver you out of bondage.
“Second, repentance means striving to change. It would mock the Savior’s suffering in the Garden of Gethsemane and on the cross for us to expect that He should transform us into angelic beings with no real effort on our part. Rather, we seek His grace to complement and reward our most diligent efforts.” – D. Todd Christofferson (October, 2011)
Cool, right?
Wednesday, October 24, 2012
Messages From My Missionaries
Today I am doing a post full of some encouraging and inspirational things that missionaries I have been writing said to me. It is truly amazing to see what happens when a person dedicates themselves to serving the Lord. They become new people! I love these missionaries and I am so grateful for their example of service and love.
"No one can truly know exactly how you feel, except our Father and our Savior. Rely on them to help you through. Rely on the Plan. Have faith in the Plan. It really is true. Every last bit of it." Elder Erickson, London South Mission (Jul 30)
"Don't get too worried about the little things in life. They really don't matter. Just roll with the punches and keep moving forward." Elder Erickson, London South Mission (Aug 8)
"I know of the power that comes when you put the Lord first in all that you do, if you show him your faithfulness and commitment to him he will POUR out the blessings with friends family school safety and support in literally all you do! It is incredible to feel that power in all that you do. I keep working and striving to get to that point in my life and have continued to feel an increasing support from him." Elder Holmes, London South Mission (Aug 27)
"Just always keep the Lord first in your life and you will see the blessings hundred fold POURED out into your life in every way possible I KNOW IT. I've seen it and witnessed it in other peoples lives." Elder Holmes, London South Mission (Sep 3)
"First, this life, and specifically the mission is not about me. And second, I can't do this alone. I need to put all my trust in the Lord and allow him to direct my path. (Proverbs 3:15) I tried to rely on my own wisdom, but that will never work. Whether we are on a mission, in school, or anywhere else in life, we need to give up our pride unto the Lord and let Him help you." Elder Gutke, San Antonio, Texas Mission; Spanish speaking (Sep 13)
"In the first missionary lesson that we teach, we teach a lot about prophets. We usually compare the need of a prophet with a people standing behind a huge wall. On the other side of the wall there is Christ and our Heavenly Father. Because we can't see or hear them we're without their guidance. In other words, there's an apostasy. But our Heavenly Father reaches out and calls a prophet to stand on the wall to communicate with our Heavenly Father and to share with us what we need to do. Our Heavenly Father does this because he loves us and doesn't want us to be lost without any direction." Elder Køster, Reno, Nevada Mission (Sep 27)
Tuesday, October 23, 2012
Born of God
During my sophomore year, our stake was given the opportunity to perform "From Cumorah's Hill" by Steven Kapp Perry and Brad Wilcox. I've mentioned this in a previous post, but my voice is far from pleasant to listen to. So when they announced this, I immediately started thinking of ways to convince my mom to not make me participate. She just as quickly thought of responses to my pleadings. So, I participated, but not with a very good attitude.
Practices were long and boring. The only part I liked about them was being able to see my friends and the boy I had a crush on. Other than that, it was painfully dull to sit there and listen. However, as we came closer and closer to our performance, a song started to get stuck in my head. This song, "Born of God," consistently played through my head during the week:
How could I change?
How I had tried.
How I had failed
Time after time.
Needing a strength
More than my own,
Leaving my faith
In God, alone.
How I had prayed
Seeking for peace,
How could I change?
How could I be
Born of God, born of God,
A new creation as at first.
Born of God, praising God
For the wonder of a second birth.
I began to love this song. I loved the feeling I had when I listened to it. I loved the idea of being reborn, and born of God. It is still one of my favorite gospel songs, and I listen to it periodically. Every time I do, I get those same feelings.
In Mosiah 5, King Benjamin's people get these same feelings of joy from being born of God.
2 And they all cried with one voice, saying: Yea, we believe all the words which thou hast spoken unto us; and also, we know of their surety and truth, because of the Spirit of the Lord Omnipotent, which has wrought a mighty change in us, or in our hearts, that we have no more disposition to do evil, but to do good continually.
3 And we, ourselves, also, through the infinite goodness of God, and the manifestations of his Spirit, have great views of that which is to come; and were it expedient, we could prophesy of all things.
4 And it is the faith which we have had on the things which our king has spoken unto us that has brought us to this great knowledge, whereby we do rejoice with such exceedingly great joy.
5 And we are willing to enter into a covenant with our God to do his will, and to be obedient to his commandments in all things that he shall command us, all the remainder of our days, that we may not bring upon ourselves a never-ending torment, as has been spoken by the angel, that we may not drink out of the cup of the wrath of God.
The people changed. They had no more disposition to do evil, but to do good continually. They were born of God.
"And now, because of the covenant which ye have made ye shall be called the children of Christ, his sons, and his daughters; for behold, this day he hath spiritually begotten you; for ye say that your hearts are changed through faith on his name; therefore, ye are born of him and have become his sons and his daughters."
(Here's a link to "Born of God." It's awesome. Listen to it!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Iu6PFBnDLYg )
Practices were long and boring. The only part I liked about them was being able to see my friends and the boy I had a crush on. Other than that, it was painfully dull to sit there and listen. However, as we came closer and closer to our performance, a song started to get stuck in my head. This song, "Born of God," consistently played through my head during the week:
How could I change?
How I had tried.
How I had failed
Time after time.
Needing a strength
More than my own,
Leaving my faith
In God, alone.
How I had prayed
Seeking for peace,
How could I change?
How could I be
Born of God, born of God,
A new creation as at first.
Born of God, praising God
For the wonder of a second birth.
I began to love this song. I loved the feeling I had when I listened to it. I loved the idea of being reborn, and born of God. It is still one of my favorite gospel songs, and I listen to it periodically. Every time I do, I get those same feelings.
In Mosiah 5, King Benjamin's people get these same feelings of joy from being born of God.
2 And they all cried with one voice, saying: Yea, we believe all the words which thou hast spoken unto us; and also, we know of their surety and truth, because of the Spirit of the Lord Omnipotent, which has wrought a mighty change in us, or in our hearts, that we have no more disposition to do evil, but to do good continually.
3 And we, ourselves, also, through the infinite goodness of God, and the manifestations of his Spirit, have great views of that which is to come; and were it expedient, we could prophesy of all things.
4 And it is the faith which we have had on the things which our king has spoken unto us that has brought us to this great knowledge, whereby we do rejoice with such exceedingly great joy.
5 And we are willing to enter into a covenant with our God to do his will, and to be obedient to his commandments in all things that he shall command us, all the remainder of our days, that we may not bring upon ourselves a never-ending torment, as has been spoken by the angel, that we may not drink out of the cup of the wrath of God.
The people changed. They had no more disposition to do evil, but to do good continually. They were born of God.
"And now, because of the covenant which ye have made ye shall be called the children of Christ, his sons, and his daughters; for behold, this day he hath spiritually begotten you; for ye say that your hearts are changed through faith on his name; therefore, ye are born of him and have become his sons and his daughters."
(Here's a link to "Born of God." It's awesome. Listen to it!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Iu6PFBnDLYg )
Monday, October 22, 2012
Notice the Needs
Mosiah 4:26 "...I would that ye should impart of your substance to the poor, every man according to that which he hath, such as feeding the hungry, clothing the naked, visiting the sick and administering to their relief, both spiritually and temporally, according to their wants."
In the October 2011 Priesthood Session, Dieter F. Uchtdorf gave a talk about serving and providing for the poor. He highlighted the strengths of the welfare program, and the duty that every member has to impart of their substances to the poor. "Too often we notice the needs around us, hoping that someone from far away will magically appear to meet those needs. Perhaps we wait for experts with specialized knowledge to solve specific problems. When we do this, we deprive our neighbor of the service we could render, and we deprive ourselves of the opportunity to serve."
My parents are an amazing example to me of service. They are always looking for ways to help someone in need. When we were younger, we had a jar that we kept in the closet in our hallway. Over the year, we would drop spare change into that jar. At the end of the year, we would count the money and use it in some way to help others. I love the sound of the coins cascading out of the jar onto the floor. I remember keeping a little notebook by my side to keep tally of how many nickels, dimes, pennies, and quarters I had counted. The gleam of those silver and copper coins was exciting and exhilarating. My little eyes always grew wide at the end of our count when I realized how much money was sitting on the floor. Then we would put that money to good use. Whether donating it to a local organization or buying presents for a needy neighbor, I always felt that thrill of joy that comes with service. I'm so grateful for parents who helped instill a love of service in me when I was very young.
(P.S., In case anyone is interested, I've listed a few websites of trustworthy causes that could use any and all help. I've either been personally involved with these organizations, or I've had close friends or family involved in these organizations.
http://amigosofhonduras.org/
http://guadalupeschoolslc.org/
http://www.ksl.com/?nid=256&sid=2218390 )
In the October 2011 Priesthood Session, Dieter F. Uchtdorf gave a talk about serving and providing for the poor. He highlighted the strengths of the welfare program, and the duty that every member has to impart of their substances to the poor. "Too often we notice the needs around us, hoping that someone from far away will magically appear to meet those needs. Perhaps we wait for experts with specialized knowledge to solve specific problems. When we do this, we deprive our neighbor of the service we could render, and we deprive ourselves of the opportunity to serve."
My parents are an amazing example to me of service. They are always looking for ways to help someone in need. When we were younger, we had a jar that we kept in the closet in our hallway. Over the year, we would drop spare change into that jar. At the end of the year, we would count the money and use it in some way to help others. I love the sound of the coins cascading out of the jar onto the floor. I remember keeping a little notebook by my side to keep tally of how many nickels, dimes, pennies, and quarters I had counted. The gleam of those silver and copper coins was exciting and exhilarating. My little eyes always grew wide at the end of our count when I realized how much money was sitting on the floor. Then we would put that money to good use. Whether donating it to a local organization or buying presents for a needy neighbor, I always felt that thrill of joy that comes with service. I'm so grateful for parents who helped instill a love of service in me when I was very young.
(P.S., In case anyone is interested, I've listed a few websites of trustworthy causes that could use any and all help. I've either been personally involved with these organizations, or I've had close friends or family involved in these organizations.
http://amigosofhonduras.org/
http://guadalupeschoolslc.org/
http://www.ksl.com/?nid=256&sid=2218390 )
Sunday, October 21, 2012
Inspiration
There are several people that I look to for inspiration. Inspiration to be happy, inspiration to keep going, inspiration to be a better person, just inspiration. So I want to do a blog post about my inspirations:
Coach Downs:
In eighth grade, I had no friends, which was just a continuation of seventh grade year for me. I had just recently moved to Farmington, and I knew close to no one. On top of that I was in my awkward stage. Yes, the awkward stage. I had braces. I had recently plucked my eyebrows too short. I had long bangs that I hid behind. I. Was. Awkward.
I was lucky enough to get Coach Downs as my health teacher. I had never had him as a teacher before, but everyone raved about him. He was one of those people that can make anyone smile. So, on my first day of health, I headed straight to the back corner desk where I always sat. There I didn't disturb anyone, and no one disturbed me. Except for this time. Coach Downs came back into my "safe zone" and made an effort to talk to me. On the first day. Who does that?! Coach Downs.
Coach has remained one of my friends and confidantes throughout the years. There's been several times when I turned to Coach when I felt like I had no one else to turn to. If I ever become a teacher, I want to be a teacher like Coach Downs.
Anne Frank:
I love Anne for several reasons, but the main reason being: She wrote. She wrote her feelings, her dreams, her passions. In the middle of a very difficult time, she saw the beauty around her and she wrote about it. I love to write, and love that she loved to write. I feel like she and I could have been good friends. This spring I had the opportunity to travel to Europe, and I got to see her annex. It was so surreal to walk through the tiny rooms that she called home. At the end of my visit, I bought a postcard with a picture of her journal on it to remind me to never give up writing. Anne didn't!
Stephanie Nielson:
Awhile ago, my mom showed me this youtube video of a woman named Stephanie. She was in a plane accident with her husband where she nearly died. She has pushed through seemingly insurmountable obstacles through faith in the Lord. Watch the clip!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KHDvxPjsm8E
I'm so grateful for all the examples I have in my life. I seriously could write a post every day about the people who mean the most to me. Maybe I will start doing some shout-outs. Maybe not. We will see. Nonetheless, I am so grateful for people in my life who exemplify Christ in all their actions and words.
Coach Downs:
In eighth grade, I had no friends, which was just a continuation of seventh grade year for me. I had just recently moved to Farmington, and I knew close to no one. On top of that I was in my awkward stage. Yes, the awkward stage. I had braces. I had recently plucked my eyebrows too short. I had long bangs that I hid behind. I. Was. Awkward.
I was lucky enough to get Coach Downs as my health teacher. I had never had him as a teacher before, but everyone raved about him. He was one of those people that can make anyone smile. So, on my first day of health, I headed straight to the back corner desk where I always sat. There I didn't disturb anyone, and no one disturbed me. Except for this time. Coach Downs came back into my "safe zone" and made an effort to talk to me. On the first day. Who does that?! Coach Downs.
Coach has remained one of my friends and confidantes throughout the years. There's been several times when I turned to Coach when I felt like I had no one else to turn to. If I ever become a teacher, I want to be a teacher like Coach Downs.
Anne Frank:
I love Anne for several reasons, but the main reason being: She wrote. She wrote her feelings, her dreams, her passions. In the middle of a very difficult time, she saw the beauty around her and she wrote about it. I love to write, and love that she loved to write. I feel like she and I could have been good friends. This spring I had the opportunity to travel to Europe, and I got to see her annex. It was so surreal to walk through the tiny rooms that she called home. At the end of my visit, I bought a postcard with a picture of her journal on it to remind me to never give up writing. Anne didn't!
Stephanie Nielson:
Awhile ago, my mom showed me this youtube video of a woman named Stephanie. She was in a plane accident with her husband where she nearly died. She has pushed through seemingly insurmountable obstacles through faith in the Lord. Watch the clip!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KHDvxPjsm8E
I'm so grateful for all the examples I have in my life. I seriously could write a post every day about the people who mean the most to me. Maybe I will start doing some shout-outs. Maybe not. We will see. Nonetheless, I am so grateful for people in my life who exemplify Christ in all their actions and words.
Saturday, October 20, 2012
Mosiah 2
6 And they pitched their tents round about the temple, every man having his tent with the door thereof towards the temple, that thereby they might remain in their tents and hear the words which king Benjamin should speak unto them
The part I love most about this scripture is that they pitched their tents with the door towards the temple.
When I was little, we had a big, brick fireplace. Above the mantle was a photograph of the Bountiful temple. My parents would take us on Sunday walks around the temple. We would often sing "I Love to See the Temple" in my home.
Do you get where I'm going with this? My parents raised us to appreciate the temple. I feel like that is what the parents in King Benjamin's time were teaching their children--an appreciation and love of the temple.
The part I love most about this scripture is that they pitched their tents with the door towards the temple.
When I was little, we had a big, brick fireplace. Above the mantle was a photograph of the Bountiful temple. My parents would take us on Sunday walks around the temple. We would often sing "I Love to See the Temple" in my home.
Do you get where I'm going with this? My parents raised us to appreciate the temple. I feel like that is what the parents in King Benjamin's time were teaching their children--an appreciation and love of the temple.
Friday, October 19, 2012
Thursday, October 18, 2012
His purposes.
The Words of Mormon has a theme of trusting in the Lord's timing and purposes.
7 And I do this for a a wise purpose; for thus it whispereth me, according to the workings of the Spirit of the Lord which is in me. And now, I do not know all things; but the Lord knoweth all things which are to come; wherefore, he worketh in me to do according to his will.
An experience I've had with trusting in His purposes is choosing what school to go to. I couldn't decide between USU or BYU. After much praying, I decided on BYU. At the time, I didn't really know why I was going to BYU. I had no clue why BYU was better for me than USU. At this point, I've seen several reason why I need to be here, and I know I'll continue to see His purposes for sending me here.
7 And I do this for a a wise purpose; for thus it whispereth me, according to the workings of the Spirit of the Lord which is in me. And now, I do not know all things; but the Lord knoweth all things which are to come; wherefore, he worketh in me to do according to his will.
An experience I've had with trusting in His purposes is choosing what school to go to. I couldn't decide between USU or BYU. After much praying, I decided on BYU. At the time, I didn't really know why I was going to BYU. I had no clue why BYU was better for me than USU. At this point, I've seen several reason why I need to be here, and I know I'll continue to see His purposes for sending me here.
Wednesday, October 17, 2012
Ancestry
Jarom and Omni are very brief, and full of history. This emphasized to me the importance of family history and journaling.
This summer, I took a trip to Texas to visit my Granny Jan and Grandpa Ron. While there, they went through some of my ancestors' things. They showed us pictures, letters, and various other things. I LOVED it. I could just feel the history of them. I looked at the pictures and imagined what life was like at that very moment that it was caught on camera. I held my grandpa's childhood doll and wondered what kind of kid he was growing up.
This experience made me appreciate family keepsakes, family history, and ancestry. But perhaps the most important part of family history work is temple work. I am so grateful for my ancestors, and that through this gospel, I can live with them forever. Now instead of just imagining the moments in the photographs, I can ask them what it was like. I'm so grateful for my ancestors and for their sacrifices and lives.
This summer, I took a trip to Texas to visit my Granny Jan and Grandpa Ron. While there, they went through some of my ancestors' things. They showed us pictures, letters, and various other things. I LOVED it. I could just feel the history of them. I looked at the pictures and imagined what life was like at that very moment that it was caught on camera. I held my grandpa's childhood doll and wondered what kind of kid he was growing up.
This experience made me appreciate family keepsakes, family history, and ancestry. But perhaps the most important part of family history work is temple work. I am so grateful for my ancestors, and that through this gospel, I can live with them forever. Now instead of just imagining the moments in the photographs, I can ask them what it was like. I'm so grateful for my ancestors and for their sacrifices and lives.
Tuesday, October 16, 2012
Problem Solved
Once, during one of my particularly hard days, my dad put aside his work and took me on a motorcycle ride and to ice cream. That might not seem like a big deal, but my dad putting aside work is a really big deal.
So. This is what I really want to work on. I've been slacking. I need to pay more attention to the people around me. The people that I love.
Monday, October 15, 2012
Wrestling...with the Spirit
The Book of Enos has always impressed me with the action words he uses to describe his prayer. Words like "wrestle," "sunk," "hungered," "supplication," "cry," and "struggling." These are definitely not words that I would use to describe my daily prayers. So that got me thinking, "How can I make my prayers more meaningful?"
One thing that I've tried before and found success in is praying out loud. Doing this makes the conversation with my Heavenly Father real. I also find it easier to focus on what I am actually saying when I say it out loud.
My friend Morgan once gave me the idea of praying everywhere. She often wouldn't have time to pray in the morning before school, so she would pray on the way to school. I do this, too. Even though it is probably better for me to kneel down, I love praying when I'm walking around campus.
Something I've heard of but never tried is writing down specific things that you are praying about before you pray. This supposedly helps solidify what you are going to pray about before you do, as well as it provides inspiration and guidance.
I have one quick story I want to share about prayer:
The summer before my junior year, I had the opportunity to spend two months in Europe with my family. I had a wonderful time with them. Then, as planned, four members of my family went home, leaving myself and my sister to stay with some friends we have in Europe. The first two weeks were some of the hardest times I had ever experienced. I am not usually one to get homesick, but I was more homesick than I thought humanly possible. I was in a strange country with my little sister, I had no grasp of the language whatsoever, and I was struggling to get along with our host family. So, when I felt like I was completely alone, I turned to the Lord. I can testify that He supported me and was there for me. I am so grateful for the gift of prayer, and that I can turn to my Father in Heaven always.
One thing that I've tried before and found success in is praying out loud. Doing this makes the conversation with my Heavenly Father real. I also find it easier to focus on what I am actually saying when I say it out loud.
My friend Morgan once gave me the idea of praying everywhere. She often wouldn't have time to pray in the morning before school, so she would pray on the way to school. I do this, too. Even though it is probably better for me to kneel down, I love praying when I'm walking around campus.
Something I've heard of but never tried is writing down specific things that you are praying about before you pray. This supposedly helps solidify what you are going to pray about before you do, as well as it provides inspiration and guidance.
I have one quick story I want to share about prayer:
The summer before my junior year, I had the opportunity to spend two months in Europe with my family. I had a wonderful time with them. Then, as planned, four members of my family went home, leaving myself and my sister to stay with some friends we have in Europe. The first two weeks were some of the hardest times I had ever experienced. I am not usually one to get homesick, but I was more homesick than I thought humanly possible. I was in a strange country with my little sister, I had no grasp of the language whatsoever, and I was struggling to get along with our host family. So, when I felt like I was completely alone, I turned to the Lord. I can testify that He supported me and was there for me. I am so grateful for the gift of prayer, and that I can turn to my Father in Heaven always.
Sunday, October 14, 2012
Lead, Kindly Light
Today our closing hymn in Sacrament meeting was hymn number 97, Lead, Kindly Light. When we started singing it (well, I should say when everyone else started singing it. I don't sing. Not because I don't want to, but because I can't. My voice is not a pleasant sound.) I felt an overwhelming peace come over me. Not that I was searching for peace. Not that it had been a rough day or week. It was just a comfortable, reassuring feeling. Some words in the hymn really stuck out to me:
"I loved to choose and see my path; but now, Lead thou me on!"
I am a very opinionated, strong-willed, independent person. I don't like being told what to do. So something I've been working on is putting His will in place of my own. It is so hard to make that decision! To decide that I'm no longer going to control my life, but instead put it in the hands of my Father in Heaven. But I know that by doing so, I can become the person I need to be.
Mosiah 24:15 "And now it came to pass that the burdens which were laid upon Alma and his brethren were made light; year, the Lord did strengthen them that they could bear up their burdens with ease, and they did submit cheerfully and with patience to all the will of the Lord."
I know that if I rely on the Lord, all will fall into place. As my roommate Kristi said the other day, "Have faith in the Lord's timing, take a leap of faith, and trust that everything will fall into place."
"I loved to choose and see my path; but now, Lead thou me on!"
I am a very opinionated, strong-willed, independent person. I don't like being told what to do. So something I've been working on is putting His will in place of my own. It is so hard to make that decision! To decide that I'm no longer going to control my life, but instead put it in the hands of my Father in Heaven. But I know that by doing so, I can become the person I need to be.
Mosiah 24:15 "And now it came to pass that the burdens which were laid upon Alma and his brethren were made light; year, the Lord did strengthen them that they could bear up their burdens with ease, and they did submit cheerfully and with patience to all the will of the Lord."
I know that if I rely on the Lord, all will fall into place. As my roommate Kristi said the other day, "Have faith in the Lord's timing, take a leap of faith, and trust that everything will fall into place."
Where is the Pavilion?
"Although His time is not always our time, we can be sure that the Lord keeps His promises. For any of you who now feel that He is hard to reach, I testify that the day will come that we all will see Him face to face. Just as there is nothing now to obscure His view of us, there will be nothing to obscure our view of Him. We will all stand before Him, in person. Like my granddaughter, we want to see Jesus Christ now, but our certain reunion with Him at the judgment bar will be more pleasing if we first do the things that make Him as familiar to us as we are to Him. As we serve Him, we become like Him, and we feel closer to Him as we approach that day when nothing will hide our view." ~President Eyring
http://www.lds.org/general-conference/2012/10/where-is-the-pavilion?lang=eng
http://www.lds.org/general-conference/2012/10/where-is-the-pavilion?lang=eng
Saturday, October 13, 2012
Random Scripture Day
Ether 12:4 "Wherefore, whoso believeth in God might with surety hope for a better world, yea, even a place at the right hand of God, which hope cometh of faith, maketh an anchor to the souls of men, which would make them sure and steadfast, always abounding in good works, being led to glorify God."
During sophomore year, I was on a walk with a friend of mine. Her grandpa had just passed away that day, and many other things were going on that made everything feel so...hopeless. It was a dark, cold walk home by myself back to my house. Feeling really discouraged, I came upon this scripture during my reading that night. "...whoso believeth in God might with SURETY hope for a better world..." These words comforted me so much. Life is hard. We all face trials that make us want to give up. But, we know that there is a bright, eternal outcome. We know who wins the battle between good and evil. We know better than to give up.
During sophomore year, I was on a walk with a friend of mine. Her grandpa had just passed away that day, and many other things were going on that made everything feel so...hopeless. It was a dark, cold walk home by myself back to my house. Feeling really discouraged, I came upon this scripture during my reading that night. "...whoso believeth in God might with SURETY hope for a better world..." These words comforted me so much. Life is hard. We all face trials that make us want to give up. But, we know that there is a bright, eternal outcome. We know who wins the battle between good and evil. We know better than to give up.
Thursday, October 11, 2012
O be wise.
Jacob 6 is filled with a lot of rhetorical questions like:
"harden not your hearts; for why will ye die?"
"For behold, after ye have been nourished by the good word of God all the day long, will ye bring forth evil fruit, that ye must be hewn down and cast into the fire?"
"Behold, will ye reject these words?"
"O be wise; what can I say more?"
We all know the answers to these questions. We all know what we should be doing. "O be wise; what can I say more?"
"harden not your hearts; for why will ye die?"
"For behold, after ye have been nourished by the good word of God all the day long, will ye bring forth evil fruit, that ye must be hewn down and cast into the fire?"
"Behold, will ye reject these words?"
"O be wise; what can I say more?"
We all know the answers to these questions. We all know what we should be doing. "O be wise; what can I say more?"
Olive trees and other such things.
Jacob 5 is all about the Gentiles and the Jews, and the comparison of them to an olive tree. Frankly, it is really hard to understand. I get lost in all the details about what represents what. So, here is MY simplified view of what this is about:
Our Heavenly Father has many children. They can be separated into two main groups: the Jews and the Gentiles. Both groups have ups and downs and promises made to them. In the last days, all the lost tribes of Israel will be gathered in the sense that all will receive the gospel.
***(All of this is my own interpretation and may be entirely wrong. However, I'm too tired at the moment to research it out. Feel free to comment and correct me.)***
The main point I gather from this chapter though is that God loves His children. All of them. He is no respector of persons. He loves us infinitely and eternally. He will keep the promises He has made, as long as we keep our promises to Him and continue in righteousness. I testify that you and I have a Father in Heaven who loves us more than we can comprehend with our finite minds. Our bodies are finite, but His love is infinite. I'm so grateful for this knowledge and truth. It brings such peace and happiness into my life.
Our Heavenly Father has many children. They can be separated into two main groups: the Jews and the Gentiles. Both groups have ups and downs and promises made to them. In the last days, all the lost tribes of Israel will be gathered in the sense that all will receive the gospel.
***(All of this is my own interpretation and may be entirely wrong. However, I'm too tired at the moment to research it out. Feel free to comment and correct me.)***
The main point I gather from this chapter though is that God loves His children. All of them. He is no respector of persons. He loves us infinitely and eternally. He will keep the promises He has made, as long as we keep our promises to Him and continue in righteousness. I testify that you and I have a Father in Heaven who loves us more than we can comprehend with our finite minds. Our bodies are finite, but His love is infinite. I'm so grateful for this knowledge and truth. It brings such peace and happiness into my life.
Tuesday, October 9, 2012
Similarities
I have decided that Jacob, Nephi's brother is a LOT like Elder Holland. Both are men who are not afraid in the least to state things the way they are. They say it how it is, and accept any worldly repercussions. I love this plainness and this truth. I imagine Jacob emphatically speaking his words unto the Nephites like Elder Holland. I imagine he had fiery eyes and a passionate spirit about that which he was preaching.
Jacob 2:9 "Wherefore, it burdeneth my soul that I should be constrained, because of the strict commandment which I have received from God, to admonish you according to your crimes, to enlarge wounds of those who are already wounded, instead of consoling and healing their wounds; and those who have not been wounded, instead of feasting upon the pleasing work of God have daggers placed to pierce their souls and wound their delicate minds."
Holy. Cow. Jacob spoke the truth. He chose to speak the word of God in all circumstances. I'm so impressed with example and teachings.
Jacob 2:9 "Wherefore, it burdeneth my soul that I should be constrained, because of the strict commandment which I have received from God, to admonish you according to your crimes, to enlarge wounds of those who are already wounded, instead of consoling and healing their wounds; and those who have not been wounded, instead of feasting upon the pleasing work of God have daggers placed to pierce their souls and wound their delicate minds."
Holy. Cow. Jacob spoke the truth. He chose to speak the word of God in all circumstances. I'm so impressed with example and teachings.
Monday, October 8, 2012
Come and follow Him.
"And he said unto the children of men: Follow thou me."
These words all come from either chapters in 1 Nephi, 2 Nephi, or Jacob. This is an obvious pattern. Nephi, Jacob, and Joseph were all intent on convincing people to follow and come unto Christ. They knew how important these things were. Another thing to point out about these words is that they are ACTION words. They are not passive--they require work from the individual. We have to make the effort, we have to knock, we have to come, we have to follow. Christ is always there with an outstretched hand. It is up to us to take it.
"Can we follow Jesus save we shall be willing to keep the commandments of the Father?"
"Unless a man shall endure to the end, in following the example of the Son of the living God, he cannot be saved."
"Wherefore we labored diligently among our people, that we might persuade them to come unto Christ."
"Come up hither to hear the pleasing word of God."
"For the fulness of mine intent is that I may persuade men to come unto the God of Abraham, and the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob, and be saved."
These words all come from either chapters in 1 Nephi, 2 Nephi, or Jacob. This is an obvious pattern. Nephi, Jacob, and Joseph were all intent on convincing people to follow and come unto Christ. They knew how important these things were. Another thing to point out about these words is that they are ACTION words. They are not passive--they require work from the individual. We have to make the effort, we have to knock, we have to come, we have to follow. Christ is always there with an outstretched hand. It is up to us to take it.
Sunday, October 7, 2012
Lovest thou me?
John 21:15-17
15 So when they had dined, Jesus saith to Simon Peter, Simon, son of Jonas, lovest thou me more than these? He saith unto him, Yea, Lord; thou knowest that I love thee. He saith unto him, Feed my lambs.
16 He saith to him again the second time, Simon, son of Jonas, lovest thou me? He saith unto him, Yea, Lord; thou knowest that I love thee. He saith unto him, Feed my sheep.
17 He saith unto him the third time, Simon, son of Jonas, lovest thou me? Peter was grieved because he said unto him the third time, Lovest thou me? And he said unto him, Lord, thou knowest all things; thou knowest that I love thee. Jesus saith unto him, Feed my sheep.
Elder Holland discussed this in his talk this morning in General Conference. He had such an amazing, powerful spirit about him. "Do you love me?" "Do. You. Love. Me." This has had such a big impact on me. How do I show The Lord that I love him? How can I feed His sheep?
This weekend has changed my life along with the lives of thousands of saints, and may I say it has changed the world. I'm so thankful for the prophet, for conference, and the power of the Holy Ghost.
15 So when they had dined, Jesus saith to Simon Peter, Simon, son of Jonas, lovest thou me more than these? He saith unto him, Yea, Lord; thou knowest that I love thee. He saith unto him, Feed my lambs.
16 He saith to him again the second time, Simon, son of Jonas, lovest thou me? He saith unto him, Yea, Lord; thou knowest that I love thee. He saith unto him, Feed my sheep.
17 He saith unto him the third time, Simon, son of Jonas, lovest thou me? Peter was grieved because he said unto him the third time, Lovest thou me? And he said unto him, Lord, thou knowest all things; thou knowest that I love thee. Jesus saith unto him, Feed my sheep.
Elder Holland discussed this in his talk this morning in General Conference. He had such an amazing, powerful spirit about him. "Do you love me?" "Do. You. Love. Me." This has had such a big impact on me. How do I show The Lord that I love him? How can I feed His sheep?
This weekend has changed my life along with the lives of thousands of saints, and may I say it has changed the world. I'm so thankful for the prophet, for conference, and the power of the Holy Ghost.
The Field is Ready to Harvest
D&C 31:5 "Therefore, thrust in your sickle with all your soul..."
Today has been an overwhelming day with the announcements made in General Conference. Young women can now go on missions when they are nineteen. I turn nineteen in February. My whole life plan has potentially changed. It's utterly amazing. I'm so grateful for General Conference. I'm so grateful for the inspiration that can be felt.
Today has been an overwhelming day with the announcements made in General Conference. Young women can now go on missions when they are nineteen. I turn nineteen in February. My whole life plan has potentially changed. It's utterly amazing. I'm so grateful for General Conference. I'm so grateful for the inspiration that can be felt.
Friday, October 5, 2012
Glory in.
2 Nephi 33:6
"I glory in plainness; I glory in truth; I glory in my Jesus, for he hath redeemed my soul from hell."
I wonder if we took the time to glory in these things rather than in things we usually find glory in what our world would be like. What if instead of finding glory in having the newest car, we gloried in plainness? What if instead of finding glory in dishonest business practices to get promoted, we gloried in truth? What if instead of finding glory in every inconsequential thing the world would shove in our face...we gloried in Jesus?
It is really, really easy to caught up in the things of little worth nowadays. Even while I'm attending BYU, a church school, I find myself getting caught up in my grades, in my social standing, in drama. I wonder how my life would be if I put Jesus Christ first in everything. Like everything. I wonder what kind of light and spirit would fill my life.
"I glory in plainness; I glory in truth; I glory in my Jesus, for he hath redeemed my soul from hell."
I wonder if we took the time to glory in these things rather than in things we usually find glory in what our world would be like. What if instead of finding glory in having the newest car, we gloried in plainness? What if instead of finding glory in dishonest business practices to get promoted, we gloried in truth? What if instead of finding glory in every inconsequential thing the world would shove in our face...we gloried in Jesus?
It is really, really easy to caught up in the things of little worth nowadays. Even while I'm attending BYU, a church school, I find myself getting caught up in my grades, in my social standing, in drama. I wonder how my life would be if I put Jesus Christ first in everything. Like everything. I wonder what kind of light and spirit would fill my life.
Thursday, October 4, 2012
Tongue of Angels
So as I am sitting here getting ready to read and post, I'm listening to U2. I love U2. I was raised on U2. I can name almost any of their songs, sing any of their tunes, remember any of their lyrics. Every road trip we went on as kids was narrated by Bono and U2. U2 is synonymous with happiness for me. Anyways, I'm listening to "Still Haven't Found What I'm Looking For". One of the lines says, "Spoke with the tongue of angels." WELL GUESS WHAT!
2 Nephi 32:2 "Do ye not remember that I said unto you that after ye had received the Holy Ghost ye could speak with the tongue of angels?" Okay, no I'm not saying that Bono speaks with the tongue of angels. I just found it really ironic that it correlated so well with my scripture study. True story.
But going back to the scriptures: 2 Nephi 32:3 "Angels speak by the power of the Holy Ghost; wherefore they speak the words of Christ. Wherefore, I said unto you, feast upon the words of Christ; for behold, the words of Christ will tell you all things what ye should do." I've already shared one experience with you about how the words of Christ and His prophets told me what I should do. Since I've been little, I've been taught to turn to the scriptures and to the Lord in prayer when I need help. I can testify that there are always answers of what we should do when we feast upon the words of Christ. Whether it be the words of the scriptures, the words of the prophets, or words of the Holy Ghost, He is always there to guide us. No matter how complex or simple the situation.
"When we read and study the scriptures often, we can grow closer to Heavenly Father and understand His message to us as His children. Through the scriptures, He teaches us sweet lessons that we can use as a guide for our lives." -Elder Kent F. Richardson of the Seventy
This quote came from the Friend for October of this year. Yes, my friends, a special witness of Christ was telling the children of this church the importance of studying the scriptures to find guidance and peace. If the children know it, we should know it.
2 Nephi 32:2 "Do ye not remember that I said unto you that after ye had received the Holy Ghost ye could speak with the tongue of angels?" Okay, no I'm not saying that Bono speaks with the tongue of angels. I just found it really ironic that it correlated so well with my scripture study. True story.
But going back to the scriptures: 2 Nephi 32:3 "Angels speak by the power of the Holy Ghost; wherefore they speak the words of Christ. Wherefore, I said unto you, feast upon the words of Christ; for behold, the words of Christ will tell you all things what ye should do." I've already shared one experience with you about how the words of Christ and His prophets told me what I should do. Since I've been little, I've been taught to turn to the scriptures and to the Lord in prayer when I need help. I can testify that there are always answers of what we should do when we feast upon the words of Christ. Whether it be the words of the scriptures, the words of the prophets, or words of the Holy Ghost, He is always there to guide us. No matter how complex or simple the situation.
"When we read and study the scriptures often, we can grow closer to Heavenly Father and understand His message to us as His children. Through the scriptures, He teaches us sweet lessons that we can use as a guide for our lives." -Elder Kent F. Richardson of the Seventy
This quote came from the Friend for October of this year. Yes, my friends, a special witness of Christ was telling the children of this church the importance of studying the scriptures to find guidance and peace. If the children know it, we should know it.
Wednesday, October 3, 2012
Endure to the End
2 Nephi 31 is an amazing chapter. It is full of principles of repentance, baptism, redemption, and salvation. The part I love most about this chapter is that Nephi emphasizes enduring to the end so much. It really wouldn't make sense just to say that baptism saves a person. To say so trivializes the importance of the Atonement. If all we needed to do was be baptized, then why would the Savior come to die for us? Why would He make that great sacrifice? He made that sacrifice so that we can repent and endure, because baptism alone is not enough.
Another thing I loved about this chapter was the point that Nephi made that the works of God are plain. He has a gospel that is easy to understand. He doesn't work by darkness, nor through complicated means. The gospel is plain and true, easy to understand.
Anyways. This chapters is really, really good, and I'd really encourage you to read it!
Another thing I loved about this chapter was the point that Nephi made that the works of God are plain. He has a gospel that is easy to understand. He doesn't work by darkness, nor through complicated means. The gospel is plain and true, easy to understand.
Anyways. This chapters is really, really good, and I'd really encourage you to read it!
Tuesday, October 2, 2012
2 Nephi 25-30
These five chapters are all prophesies of Nephi. I could pick a lot of things apart and discuss soo much, but what really impressed me with these chapters that I haven't necessarily picked up on before was the fact that Nephi was a prophet. Okay, that sounds sooo stupid, but I just love seeing that he is a prophet not just because of prophesies he makes, but the leader he is. He was a king and leader for his people. Today, President Monson isn't our king, but he is definitely our leader. He has all the same gifts that Nephi and other ancient prophets had. Sometimes it's easy in the church to pay more attention to ancient and dead prophets rather than our prophets today. With General Conference coming up this weekend, I am really excited to hear from our prophets. I want to be more dedicated in my listening and application of the principles that they teach us. Yay for prophets, yay for General Conference!
Monday, October 1, 2012
Plainness and Persuasion
In 2 Nephi 25, Nephi talks a lot about the plainness of the words of Isaiah and the truth that he speaks. But the verse I particularly liked quite a bit was verse 23: "For we labor diligently to write, to persuade our children, and also our brethren, to believe in Christ and to be reconciled to God; for we know that it is by grace that we are saved, after all we can do."
There a couple things in the verse I want to pick apart, the first being "We labor diligently." I just got two letters from missionaries today, and I am so grateful for them! They are laboring diligently to bring people unto Christ and unto this gospel. So, I've been thinking, how can I be a member missionary? It's kinda hard because I'm attending BYU, a church school. But, I know that there are little ways that I can be a good influence to those around me. One of the big ways I'm working on is being happy. I know that being happy will make others happy, and that I can be a positive influence on others. Sometimes that's all someone needs. A smile, a hug, a joke. Something to encourage them to look up. So, readers, this is what I am working on.
As far as my second point in this verse: "For we know that it is by grace that we are saved, after all we can do." I love this point. First, it emphasizes that we need to work for our salvation. We can't simply just believe and be saved. It takes work and dedication. Secondly, it states the beautiful truth that we are saved by His grace. His atonement made it possible for us to be saved after all that we do, because even if we did all that we could, we still couldn't be saved without Him. I'm so grateful for His saving grace.
There a couple things in the verse I want to pick apart, the first being "We labor diligently." I just got two letters from missionaries today, and I am so grateful for them! They are laboring diligently to bring people unto Christ and unto this gospel. So, I've been thinking, how can I be a member missionary? It's kinda hard because I'm attending BYU, a church school. But, I know that there are little ways that I can be a good influence to those around me. One of the big ways I'm working on is being happy. I know that being happy will make others happy, and that I can be a positive influence on others. Sometimes that's all someone needs. A smile, a hug, a joke. Something to encourage them to look up. So, readers, this is what I am working on.
As far as my second point in this verse: "For we know that it is by grace that we are saved, after all we can do." I love this point. First, it emphasizes that we need to work for our salvation. We can't simply just believe and be saved. It takes work and dedication. Secondly, it states the beautiful truth that we are saved by His grace. His atonement made it possible for us to be saved after all that we do, because even if we did all that we could, we still couldn't be saved without Him. I'm so grateful for His saving grace.
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