Here are some thoughts as I read Alma 18:
*Verse 10- Ammon kept the commandments of Lamoni in exactness. Because he was so faithful as a servant, he made a big impression on the king. We, too, can be a good example unto others by being true to our word. When we say we will do something, we should do it. Being true to our word reflects well on our characters and leaves a big impact on those with whom we come in contact.
*Verse 17- Even after he has served the king so much and performed a great miracle requiring much power and strength, Ammon is still humble in seeking to serve the king as his servant.
*Ammon’s example of service and the miracles he performed through the spirit and holy priesthood opened the way for the king to listen to his message about the gospel of Jesus Christ.
*Ammon taught missionary lessons unto the king, starting at the beginning and working chronologically up to his present time. He did this so that the king could understand their history and the plan of redemption. Missionaries today follow after the same pattern.
*Verse 40- King Lamoni readily believes the words which Ammon tells him. He is truly faithful. This shows the power of Ammon’s words and acts.
*Verse 43- King Lamoni lays as if dead and his family mourn over his body “after the manner of the Lamanites.” I wonder what this means. How did Lamanite mourning differ from that of Nephite mourning over their dead? Maybe it differed because the Nephites believed in life after death and the Lamanites didn’t?
WAYS I CAN IMPROVE:
*I can show forth integrity by being true to my word. I can serve others willingly and faithfully in order to be an example and disciple of Jesus Christ. As I teach others about the gospel, I can teach them line upon line and precept upon precept.
*This week, I plan on meeting up with an old friend from high school. I want to give her a Book of Mormon. In order to better teach her about the gospel, I can show forth true friendship and kindness. I can pray to have the spirit with me to guide me, like Ammon was guided. I can stay close to the spirit through regular scripture study and repenting of those thoughts and acts that may not keep the Holy Ghost close to me.
Tuesday, August 18, 2009
Monday, July 27, 2009
Commandments & Civic Responsibility
Here are some thoughts as I read Mosiah 29:
*Verse 10- We also need to be mindful and do those things which will promote peace. We can learn from the past (be it our own past mistakes or the mistakes of others) to change our ways now and in the future.
*Verse 17- One wicked leader can bring down an entire nation. Leaders are an important organ in the body of a nation. Leaders are at the heart. We elect those leaders. We have a responsibility to choose the best leaders that abide by our standards and will lead the people to higher ground, rather than to murky swamps.
*Verse 22- It’s hard to get a leader out of power who also has powerful friends. We should beware of giving someone too much power, for fear that that person could remain a leader by means of abusing his/her power. Leaders sometimes have powerful friends and powerful agendas.
*Verse 25- Judges are chosen by the voice of the people… if the voice of the people becomes wicked, so do the judges.
*Verse 30- Having many leaders elected by the people means that the choices of the people are answered on their own heads.
*Verse 40- King Mosiah was a righteous king, revered by his people for his honesty and for the way in which he ruled. He was a humble man more interested in the rights of his people than in his own power. We can learn a lot from him as a leader.
*Verse 45- It says that Alma the Elder “lived to fulfill the commandments of God.” Let us hope that that may be said of us as we pass from this life to the next!
WAYS I CAN IMPROVE:
*Mosiah was a faithful, positive leader. Because of his example, humility, and kindness, he helped set up a system that would improve the lives of the people. We see here the importance of our own system and the responsibility that is placed on our own heads for the leaders we elect and the actions that we take. I want to do more research in order to make sure I understand the implications of how I vote.
*I want to work hard to promote peace with those around me. I want to keep the commandments of God, for I know that in keeping His commandments, I am protected from so many hardships and sins. I’m grateful for the commandments and guidelines Heavenly Father has set forth to protect us and to help us know the way to have His spirit to always be with us. I know that by following His spirit, I will be a peacemaker, I will be able to help the lives of others. I look forward to serving and helping others.
*Verse 10- We also need to be mindful and do those things which will promote peace. We can learn from the past (be it our own past mistakes or the mistakes of others) to change our ways now and in the future.
*Verse 17- One wicked leader can bring down an entire nation. Leaders are an important organ in the body of a nation. Leaders are at the heart. We elect those leaders. We have a responsibility to choose the best leaders that abide by our standards and will lead the people to higher ground, rather than to murky swamps.
*Verse 22- It’s hard to get a leader out of power who also has powerful friends. We should beware of giving someone too much power, for fear that that person could remain a leader by means of abusing his/her power. Leaders sometimes have powerful friends and powerful agendas.
*Verse 25- Judges are chosen by the voice of the people… if the voice of the people becomes wicked, so do the judges.
*Verse 30- Having many leaders elected by the people means that the choices of the people are answered on their own heads.
*Verse 40- King Mosiah was a righteous king, revered by his people for his honesty and for the way in which he ruled. He was a humble man more interested in the rights of his people than in his own power. We can learn a lot from him as a leader.
*Verse 45- It says that Alma the Elder “lived to fulfill the commandments of God.” Let us hope that that may be said of us as we pass from this life to the next!
WAYS I CAN IMPROVE:
*Mosiah was a faithful, positive leader. Because of his example, humility, and kindness, he helped set up a system that would improve the lives of the people. We see here the importance of our own system and the responsibility that is placed on our own heads for the leaders we elect and the actions that we take. I want to do more research in order to make sure I understand the implications of how I vote.
*I want to work hard to promote peace with those around me. I want to keep the commandments of God, for I know that in keeping His commandments, I am protected from so many hardships and sins. I’m grateful for the commandments and guidelines Heavenly Father has set forth to protect us and to help us know the way to have His spirit to always be with us. I know that by following His spirit, I will be a peacemaker, I will be able to help the lives of others. I look forward to serving and helping others.
Saturday, July 25, 2009
Peace through Christ's Atonement
Here are some thoughts as I read Mosiah 28:
*Verses 1-2: They wanted to teach others about Christ, because they loved the gospel, they loved the people, and they wanted to have peace. They knew that the gospel of Jesus Christ brings peace to those who abide by its principles. Am I living in a peaceful manner with those I come in contact with? Am I living the gospel of Jesus Christ in such a way that those around me (most especially family members) can tell that I love the Lord and want to serve Him?
*Verse 4: “They were the very vilest of sinners.” This verse truly shows the power of the Atonement of Jesus Christ. It reflects His mercy, justice, and love. Because of the atonement of Jesus Christ, even the very vilest of sinners has the opportunity to repent and change. Even the very vilest of sinners has HOPE in the gospel of Jesus Christ. This also shows me that I, too, can change. I have the opportunity to overcome my struggles and mistakes. Through the atonement of Jesus Christ, I am able to repent and improve myself. I am able to overcome the natural man and put away my selfish desires to serve those around me. I know that I am happier when I serve others and when I am doing what Heavenly Father has asked me to do.
*Verse 6: Mosiah consults the Lord for an answer. We have that priviledge as well. We need to make sure that we use it in faith, knowing that Heavenly Father will guide us according to His will.
*Verse 18: The people of Mosiah were very desirous to have the knowledge that the scriptures provide. The rejoiced in that knowledge. Why? It could be so that they could learn from the mistakes of others in order to keep from repeating those mistakes. I need to continue to learn from the scriptures. I, too, rejoice in knowledge and learning. I know that as I learn and act on what I know, I become a better person.
WAYS I CAN IMPROVE:
*I know that I can be living in a more peaceful manner with my family members. Through the Atonement of Jesus Christ, I can gain strength to overcome my inadequacies. It takes faith and prayer to do so, as well as listening when the spirit directs me. I need to have a prayer in my heart and stay consistent at scripture reading to show Heavenly Father that HE is the number on priority in my life. I want to abide by His will and treat others in a manner that He would want them to be treated.
*Verses 1-2: They wanted to teach others about Christ, because they loved the gospel, they loved the people, and they wanted to have peace. They knew that the gospel of Jesus Christ brings peace to those who abide by its principles. Am I living in a peaceful manner with those I come in contact with? Am I living the gospel of Jesus Christ in such a way that those around me (most especially family members) can tell that I love the Lord and want to serve Him?
*Verse 4: “They were the very vilest of sinners.” This verse truly shows the power of the Atonement of Jesus Christ. It reflects His mercy, justice, and love. Because of the atonement of Jesus Christ, even the very vilest of sinners has the opportunity to repent and change. Even the very vilest of sinners has HOPE in the gospel of Jesus Christ. This also shows me that I, too, can change. I have the opportunity to overcome my struggles and mistakes. Through the atonement of Jesus Christ, I am able to repent and improve myself. I am able to overcome the natural man and put away my selfish desires to serve those around me. I know that I am happier when I serve others and when I am doing what Heavenly Father has asked me to do.
*Verse 6: Mosiah consults the Lord for an answer. We have that priviledge as well. We need to make sure that we use it in faith, knowing that Heavenly Father will guide us according to His will.
*Verse 18: The people of Mosiah were very desirous to have the knowledge that the scriptures provide. The rejoiced in that knowledge. Why? It could be so that they could learn from the mistakes of others in order to keep from repeating those mistakes. I need to continue to learn from the scriptures. I, too, rejoice in knowledge and learning. I know that as I learn and act on what I know, I become a better person.
WAYS I CAN IMPROVE:
*I know that I can be living in a more peaceful manner with my family members. Through the Atonement of Jesus Christ, I can gain strength to overcome my inadequacies. It takes faith and prayer to do so, as well as listening when the spirit directs me. I need to have a prayer in my heart and stay consistent at scripture reading to show Heavenly Father that HE is the number on priority in my life. I want to abide by His will and treat others in a manner that He would want them to be treated.
Friday, July 24, 2009
Positive News of the Gospel
Here are some thoughts as I read Mosiah 27:
*Heavenly Father answers prayers, sometimes in diverse ways (as in this case where an angel came), but He answers our prayers through our faith.
*Verses 24-28: We are so blessed to have a knowledge of the gospel! Heavenly Father has also seen fit to snatch us out of an everlasting burning to provide us with peace and comfort. Because we have been given this knowledge, it is our responsibility to help others and to pass that knowledge onto them. I am so grateful for this knowledge and for the opportunity that I have to overcome the mistakes of the past to renew myself and be better. I’m thankful for the atonement of Jesus Christ which allows me the opportunity to repent and change my behavior little by little, until I am a better, more selfless person.
*Verses 32-33: No sooner does Alma gain a testimony of the gospel, but he begins to share the great joy of the gospel with others. What a great example he is unto us in this regard! He felt the love of the gospel so deep in his heart that he couldn’t help but share it with others. Even though he was smitten and persecuted for his beliefs, he continued on sharing and helped others to strengthen their faith.
*Verses 36-37: We, too, can be instruments in the Lord’s hands in helping others. Whether it’s at church, or with someone in the line in the grocery store, we can bless the lives of others through our own positive energy and happiness.
WAYS I CAN IMPROVE:
I want to strive to be positive and happy with all those around me. Trials happen, people are rude… but I can choose how I react to those things. I don’t have to let negative energy take over when frustrations arise. I can stay positive, I can help others, I can be a good example to those around me. I want to keep peace in my life and help others to feel that same peace in their lives. I can search and listen for ways to bless others through Heavenly Father’s spirit.
*Heavenly Father answers prayers, sometimes in diverse ways (as in this case where an angel came), but He answers our prayers through our faith.
*Verses 24-28: We are so blessed to have a knowledge of the gospel! Heavenly Father has also seen fit to snatch us out of an everlasting burning to provide us with peace and comfort. Because we have been given this knowledge, it is our responsibility to help others and to pass that knowledge onto them. I am so grateful for this knowledge and for the opportunity that I have to overcome the mistakes of the past to renew myself and be better. I’m thankful for the atonement of Jesus Christ which allows me the opportunity to repent and change my behavior little by little, until I am a better, more selfless person.
*Verses 32-33: No sooner does Alma gain a testimony of the gospel, but he begins to share the great joy of the gospel with others. What a great example he is unto us in this regard! He felt the love of the gospel so deep in his heart that he couldn’t help but share it with others. Even though he was smitten and persecuted for his beliefs, he continued on sharing and helped others to strengthen their faith.
*Verses 36-37: We, too, can be instruments in the Lord’s hands in helping others. Whether it’s at church, or with someone in the line in the grocery store, we can bless the lives of others through our own positive energy and happiness.
WAYS I CAN IMPROVE:
I want to strive to be positive and happy with all those around me. Trials happen, people are rude… but I can choose how I react to those things. I don’t have to let negative energy take over when frustrations arise. I can stay positive, I can help others, I can be a good example to those around me. I want to keep peace in my life and help others to feel that same peace in their lives. I can search and listen for ways to bless others through Heavenly Father’s spirit.
Thursday, July 23, 2009
Staying Positive
WAYS I CAN IMPROVE:
I think it’s important to analyze my life every so often to determine what ways I can improve myself and what part of my life needs cleansing. I know that ever subtly I begin to allow things into my life (be it anger, negative music choices, etc.) that bring me down and keep me from staying positive. I want to consistently rid myself of negativity in order to stay positive and keep the spirit with me.
Here are some thoughts as I read Mosiah 26:
*Verse 1- I wonder why the kids did not believe the traditions of their parents. Did their parents not live the laws and the commandments? Were their parents not an example unto their children? It just makes me wonder why the next generation changed so drastically. I understand that King Benjamin had had a big impact on the parents, but I just wonder why the kids didn’t want to live after their parents’ examples. Makes you realize the importance of raising children up right, the importance of being an example to our children and instilling in them at a young age, the desire to learn and improve, especially in gospel matters.
*Verse 5- Hearing how quickly the number of the “people of God” changed, it’s amazing to realize how quickly we can make choices that will take us out of the church. As the scriptures say, there are many diverse ways to commit sin: be it through drinking alcohol or succumbing to sex before marriage or infidelity after marriage, or not forgiving ourselves or others. Yes, there are many ways to commit sin. But, there are also set tools and guidelines to follow to help keep us from the pain that accompanies sin.
*Verse 6- People were deceived by the flattering words of others. Are we sometimes so deceived? Do we sometimes watch shows because their funny, yet crude and sometimes inappropriate? Do we listen to music that is against our own beliefs, yet we listen because we like the beat or the instrumentation of the piece? We, too, can be deceived by the flattering words of those around us to participate in activities (listening, speaking, social, etc.) that normally we would not.
*Verse 13- He didn’t know how to handle the situation, so he prayed and asked because he had faith and KNEW that Heavenly Father would provide guidance to him.
I think it’s important to analyze my life every so often to determine what ways I can improve myself and what part of my life needs cleansing. I know that ever subtly I begin to allow things into my life (be it anger, negative music choices, etc.) that bring me down and keep me from staying positive. I want to consistently rid myself of negativity in order to stay positive and keep the spirit with me.
Here are some thoughts as I read Mosiah 26:
*Verse 1- I wonder why the kids did not believe the traditions of their parents. Did their parents not live the laws and the commandments? Were their parents not an example unto their children? It just makes me wonder why the next generation changed so drastically. I understand that King Benjamin had had a big impact on the parents, but I just wonder why the kids didn’t want to live after their parents’ examples. Makes you realize the importance of raising children up right, the importance of being an example to our children and instilling in them at a young age, the desire to learn and improve, especially in gospel matters.
*Verse 5- Hearing how quickly the number of the “people of God” changed, it’s amazing to realize how quickly we can make choices that will take us out of the church. As the scriptures say, there are many diverse ways to commit sin: be it through drinking alcohol or succumbing to sex before marriage or infidelity after marriage, or not forgiving ourselves or others. Yes, there are many ways to commit sin. But, there are also set tools and guidelines to follow to help keep us from the pain that accompanies sin.
*Verse 6- People were deceived by the flattering words of others. Are we sometimes so deceived? Do we sometimes watch shows because their funny, yet crude and sometimes inappropriate? Do we listen to music that is against our own beliefs, yet we listen because we like the beat or the instrumentation of the piece? We, too, can be deceived by the flattering words of those around us to participate in activities (listening, speaking, social, etc.) that normally we would not.
*Verse 13- He didn’t know how to handle the situation, so he prayed and asked because he had faith and KNEW that Heavenly Father would provide guidance to him.
Tuesday, June 16, 2009
Pure in Heart
Here are some thoughts as I read Jacob 3:
*Verse 1- Heavenly Father will be there for us if we are humble and willing to let Him.
*Pure in heart? What does that mean? I think it means that we’re striving to have our will in line with Heavenly Father’s will. It means that we’re doing all we can to avoid temptation and to keep our minds and thoughts clean. It means having love and charity towards those around us, just as Christ has for us.
*We’re told in verses 1 and 2 that if we’re pure in heart that we should pray unto Heavenly Father and receive the pleasing word of God. If we do so, we will feast upon His love, He will console us in our afflictions, send down justice upon those who seek our destruction, and our minds will be firm forever.
*Verse 7- We can learn from those around us, just as the Lamanites at that time were a better example unto the Nephites.
*Verse 9- We should not judge those around us. Just because we think that something someone is doing is wrong, we should still point the finger at ourselves and strive to be bettering ourselves. We also should seek to understand those around us rather than judging them negatively. We never know why someone has said or done something.
*Verse 10- The way we act WILL have an effect upon our children or future children. We need to be the best people NOW in order to improve families for the future.
*WAYS I CAN IMPROVE:
*I can strive to have my heart pure by thinking positively and praying for Heavenly Father’s guidance. I know that if I’m striving to do and be what my Heavenly Father has asked me, my life will be blessed and I will feel His love in my life.
*Rather than focusing on others, I can focus on bettering myself. I can change no one, but I can change my attitude. Just as I don’t want to be judged for my acts or words, I should not judge others for their acts. I should look for the best in others and help them to achieve their potential.
*Verse 1- Heavenly Father will be there for us if we are humble and willing to let Him.
*Pure in heart? What does that mean? I think it means that we’re striving to have our will in line with Heavenly Father’s will. It means that we’re doing all we can to avoid temptation and to keep our minds and thoughts clean. It means having love and charity towards those around us, just as Christ has for us.
*We’re told in verses 1 and 2 that if we’re pure in heart that we should pray unto Heavenly Father and receive the pleasing word of God. If we do so, we will feast upon His love, He will console us in our afflictions, send down justice upon those who seek our destruction, and our minds will be firm forever.
*Verse 7- We can learn from those around us, just as the Lamanites at that time were a better example unto the Nephites.
*Verse 9- We should not judge those around us. Just because we think that something someone is doing is wrong, we should still point the finger at ourselves and strive to be bettering ourselves. We also should seek to understand those around us rather than judging them negatively. We never know why someone has said or done something.
*Verse 10- The way we act WILL have an effect upon our children or future children. We need to be the best people NOW in order to improve families for the future.
*WAYS I CAN IMPROVE:
*I can strive to have my heart pure by thinking positively and praying for Heavenly Father’s guidance. I know that if I’m striving to do and be what my Heavenly Father has asked me, my life will be blessed and I will feel His love in my life.
*Rather than focusing on others, I can focus on bettering myself. I can change no one, but I can change my attitude. Just as I don’t want to be judged for my acts or words, I should not judge others for their acts. I should look for the best in others and help them to achieve their potential.
Tuesday, May 12, 2009
Rejoice, O my Heart
Here are some thoughts as I read 2 Nephi 4:
*Nephi says that his soul delights in the scriptures and ponders them. They are for our profit and learning.
*Verse 20- Heavenly Father was Nephi’s support in his afflictions and He will be our support too. Heavenly Father blessed Nephi, guided him, and removed his enemies from him. God blessed Nephi for his diligence, even if Nephi wasn’t perfect. Heavenly Father will bless us as well. He will be there to guide and comfort us ONLY as we are striving to live worthy of those blessings. He will do so ONLY as we are keeping His commandments and do our best to draw near unto Him.
*Verses 26-27- If I have felt the Spirit, why should I succumb to sin? I don’t have to “give way to temptations.” As Nephi said, “Awake, my soul! No longer droop in sin. Rejoice, O my heart, and give place no more for the enemy of my soul” (2 Nephi 4:28).
*Heavenly Father wants us to use the power of the infinite atonement in our lives. If we are staying strong in keeping the commandments and improving our relationship with Heavenly Father, He will make way for the Spirit in our hearts. He will allow the Spirit to work within us and to remove our desire to sin. We will still be tempted, but we won’t succumb as easily if we’re truly striving to have Heavenly Father with us always.
*In prayer, Nephi clearly expresses his faith and trust in God. He asks for Heavenly Father’s help in overcoming temptation and for guidance to resolve the problems he is currently facing.
*WAYS I CAN IMPROVE:
I can make Heavenly Father a priority in my life. I need to put my trust in Heavenly Father and not in man. I know that He will guide and direct me if I am striving to keep the commandments and to make Him a part of my life. The only person whose actions I can determine are my own. Pray to Heavenly Father and get to know my Lord and Savior Jesus Christ better. By better understanding His life and atonement better, I can draw closer to Him and be able to become more like Him.
*Nephi says that his soul delights in the scriptures and ponders them. They are for our profit and learning.
*Verse 20- Heavenly Father was Nephi’s support in his afflictions and He will be our support too. Heavenly Father blessed Nephi, guided him, and removed his enemies from him. God blessed Nephi for his diligence, even if Nephi wasn’t perfect. Heavenly Father will bless us as well. He will be there to guide and comfort us ONLY as we are striving to live worthy of those blessings. He will do so ONLY as we are keeping His commandments and do our best to draw near unto Him.
*Verses 26-27- If I have felt the Spirit, why should I succumb to sin? I don’t have to “give way to temptations.” As Nephi said, “Awake, my soul! No longer droop in sin. Rejoice, O my heart, and give place no more for the enemy of my soul” (2 Nephi 4:28).
*Heavenly Father wants us to use the power of the infinite atonement in our lives. If we are staying strong in keeping the commandments and improving our relationship with Heavenly Father, He will make way for the Spirit in our hearts. He will allow the Spirit to work within us and to remove our desire to sin. We will still be tempted, but we won’t succumb as easily if we’re truly striving to have Heavenly Father with us always.
*In prayer, Nephi clearly expresses his faith and trust in God. He asks for Heavenly Father’s help in overcoming temptation and for guidance to resolve the problems he is currently facing.
*WAYS I CAN IMPROVE:
I can make Heavenly Father a priority in my life. I need to put my trust in Heavenly Father and not in man. I know that He will guide and direct me if I am striving to keep the commandments and to make Him a part of my life. The only person whose actions I can determine are my own. Pray to Heavenly Father and get to know my Lord and Savior Jesus Christ better. By better understanding His life and atonement better, I can draw closer to Him and be able to become more like Him.
Thursday, May 7, 2009
Gratitude through Action
Here are some thoughts as I read 2 Nephi 1:
*It’s always amazing to me how much the Lord has blatantly blessed the family of Lehi… MANY miracles have occurred to get them to the promised land, including the visitation of angels, the liahona’s appearance and guidance through the forest and across the sea, the instruction and building of the ship for those who had never built a ship before, and the fact that they actually made it SAFELY to the promised land! They have been blessed with so much, but how quick some of them (namely, Laman and Lemuel) are to forget all of the blessings that they’ve been given. How quickly they are to turn against their own family members and against the God who clearly loves them and desires their happiness.
*Am I like Laman and Lemuel? Do I quickly forget all that the Lord has done for me? Do I also turn against family members who have been there for me along the journey and have blessed my life?
*I know that I live a blessed life. I have been given much and have never truly wanted for anything. I need to remember what I’ve been given and express gratitude to Heavenly Father for my multitude of blessings. He has given me much. He has blessed me with His spirit. Through my actions and adhering to God’s commands, I can prove my gratitude.
*It’s always amazing to me how much the Lord has blatantly blessed the family of Lehi… MANY miracles have occurred to get them to the promised land, including the visitation of angels, the liahona’s appearance and guidance through the forest and across the sea, the instruction and building of the ship for those who had never built a ship before, and the fact that they actually made it SAFELY to the promised land! They have been blessed with so much, but how quick some of them (namely, Laman and Lemuel) are to forget all of the blessings that they’ve been given. How quickly they are to turn against their own family members and against the God who clearly loves them and desires their happiness.
*Am I like Laman and Lemuel? Do I quickly forget all that the Lord has done for me? Do I also turn against family members who have been there for me along the journey and have blessed my life?
*I know that I live a blessed life. I have been given much and have never truly wanted for anything. I need to remember what I’ve been given and express gratitude to Heavenly Father for my multitude of blessings. He has given me much. He has blessed me with His spirit. Through my actions and adhering to God’s commands, I can prove my gratitude.
Tuesday, May 5, 2009
Taking A Stand
Here are some thoughts as I read in 1 Nephi 21:
*It’s amazing to me what the Lord has done for me and continues to do for me. I am so grateful that I KNOW that He has not forsaken me and will not forget me. He wants me to be with Him. I thank Heavenly Father for that knowledge that I have. I know that it won’t be easy. As verse 23 says, “For they shall not be ashamed that wait for me,” indicating that people will try to make me feel ashamed. The world wants me to feel ashamed for believing in and following Christ. But, I know that I’m doing what is right, even if it is hard. I know that if I’m humble and obedient to God’s commands, that I’ll be blessed of Him. The world doesn’t matter. No one else’s opinion matters. Only that I know that I’m striving to be righteous and return to live with Heavenly Father in His kingdom.
WAYS I CAN IMPROVE:
*Be kinder to those around me. Truly pray for patience to see others as Jesus sees them. Additionally, I can be more grateful for the knowledge I have. I can be proud that I am a member of Christ’s church. I can stick up for my beliefs and feelings.
*It’s amazing to me what the Lord has done for me and continues to do for me. I am so grateful that I KNOW that He has not forsaken me and will not forget me. He wants me to be with Him. I thank Heavenly Father for that knowledge that I have. I know that it won’t be easy. As verse 23 says, “For they shall not be ashamed that wait for me,” indicating that people will try to make me feel ashamed. The world wants me to feel ashamed for believing in and following Christ. But, I know that I’m doing what is right, even if it is hard. I know that if I’m humble and obedient to God’s commands, that I’ll be blessed of Him. The world doesn’t matter. No one else’s opinion matters. Only that I know that I’m striving to be righteous and return to live with Heavenly Father in His kingdom.
WAYS I CAN IMPROVE:
*Be kinder to those around me. Truly pray for patience to see others as Jesus sees them. Additionally, I can be more grateful for the knowledge I have. I can be proud that I am a member of Christ’s church. I can stick up for my beliefs and feelings.
Monday, May 4, 2009
Be the Change You Wish to See in the World
Here are some thoughts as I read in 1 Nephi 20:
*Verse 10- “For behold, I have refined thee, I have chosen thee in the furnace of affliction.” We are chosen in our hard times. This scripture shows that it’s during our trials that our true colors stand out. It is through our trials that we are tested and strengthened or we are tested and do not withstand the tests given unto us. I want to be the former. I want to be tested and proved true in the midst of my trials. I do not want to be like those of Nephi’s family who complained against him. Oh, how hard it must have been to be in their position and not know how it all was going to work out. I know that Heavenly Father provides a way for us to make it through our trials. He is there the entire time buoying us up and allowing US to choose the high road or the low road. He wants us to improve because of our trials, not digress in spite of them. I must remember that as I go through hard times.
WAYS I CAN IMPROVE:
*Look for the roses amongst the thorns. See the positive. Come out on top of my trials rather than underneath them. Grow through the experiences I’m having rather than allowing myself to get downtrodden.
*Verse 10- “For behold, I have refined thee, I have chosen thee in the furnace of affliction.” We are chosen in our hard times. This scripture shows that it’s during our trials that our true colors stand out. It is through our trials that we are tested and strengthened or we are tested and do not withstand the tests given unto us. I want to be the former. I want to be tested and proved true in the midst of my trials. I do not want to be like those of Nephi’s family who complained against him. Oh, how hard it must have been to be in their position and not know how it all was going to work out. I know that Heavenly Father provides a way for us to make it through our trials. He is there the entire time buoying us up and allowing US to choose the high road or the low road. He wants us to improve because of our trials, not digress in spite of them. I must remember that as I go through hard times.
WAYS I CAN IMPROVE:
*Look for the roses amongst the thorns. See the positive. Come out on top of my trials rather than underneath them. Grow through the experiences I’m having rather than allowing myself to get downtrodden.
Sunday, May 3, 2009
New Journal Format & Thoughts on 1 Nephi 19
I'm trying a new scripture journal format, which includes writing my thoughts as I read and includes a section at the end of WAYS I CAN IMPROVE based on what I read that day. In that way, I hope that I can be able to better myself by truly pondering and implementing ways I can improve based on my insights while reading the scriptures.
Here are some thoughts as I read in 1 Nephi 19:
*Verse 9 says, “And because of their iniquity, the world shall judge Him to be a thing of naught…” Even though this scripture was written about the time period when Christ actually lived on the earth, this scripture, sadly, captures how the world is today. Because of iniquity, people judge Christ and say that He really didn’t live, or that His sacrifice wasn’t as great as the scriptures say it was. Some people don’t even believe in Christ and instead mock and scorn those that do believe. There are those who say that they believe, when in reality their actions speak differently.
*I want to live my life so that the Savior’s suffering was worth it. I don’t want to waste what He did through actions and an unrepentant attitude. I want to live my life so that those who know me want to know Jesus Christ. I know that we can live as examples to the world, even in this world of sin and iniquity. I can be better.
*There is yet time to repent and to change. There is time to come unto our Savior and better ourselves for eternal life.
*Verse 23- Like Nephi, we also need to liken all scriptures unto us. If we don’t, we’re not using the scriptures correctly. These scriptures were given unto us for our profit and learning. They were given unto us to better us and to help us to improve ourselves in this life. We can only improve ourselves IF we are trying to liken them unto ourselves.
WAYS I CAN IMPROVE: Be more diligent at scripture study. I can TRULY apply the scriptures to my life in order to repent and better myself.
*I can remember my Savior and His suffering for me. I can use the power of the atonement in my life, not only to repent, but also as a source of comfort and strength.
*I can live my life according to the covenants I have made with Heavenly Father and I will make with him in the temple.
Here are some thoughts as I read in 1 Nephi 19:
*Verse 9 says, “And because of their iniquity, the world shall judge Him to be a thing of naught…” Even though this scripture was written about the time period when Christ actually lived on the earth, this scripture, sadly, captures how the world is today. Because of iniquity, people judge Christ and say that He really didn’t live, or that His sacrifice wasn’t as great as the scriptures say it was. Some people don’t even believe in Christ and instead mock and scorn those that do believe. There are those who say that they believe, when in reality their actions speak differently.
*I want to live my life so that the Savior’s suffering was worth it. I don’t want to waste what He did through actions and an unrepentant attitude. I want to live my life so that those who know me want to know Jesus Christ. I know that we can live as examples to the world, even in this world of sin and iniquity. I can be better.
*There is yet time to repent and to change. There is time to come unto our Savior and better ourselves for eternal life.
*Verse 23- Like Nephi, we also need to liken all scriptures unto us. If we don’t, we’re not using the scriptures correctly. These scriptures were given unto us for our profit and learning. They were given unto us to better us and to help us to improve ourselves in this life. We can only improve ourselves IF we are trying to liken them unto ourselves.
WAYS I CAN IMPROVE: Be more diligent at scripture study. I can TRULY apply the scriptures to my life in order to repent and better myself.
*I can remember my Savior and His suffering for me. I can use the power of the atonement in my life, not only to repent, but also as a source of comfort and strength.
*I can live my life according to the covenants I have made with Heavenly Father and I will make with him in the temple.
Monday, April 27, 2009
Asking in Humility
As I read last night in 1 Nephi chapter 15, I had a few insights that I’d like to write down. In the beginning of the chapter, Nephi talks about how, after he saw a vision about the tree of life, he returned to the tent of his father to find his brothers disputing over his father’s words. Nephi said, “For he truly spake many great things unto them, which were hard to be understood, save a man should inquire of the Lord; and they being hard in their hearts, therefore they did not look unto the Lord as they ought” (1 Nephi 15:3).
Nephi inquired of his brethren the reason for their contentions. They responded saying, “Behold, we cannot understand the words which our father hath spoken…” (1 Nephi 15:7). And Nephi said unto them, “Have ye inquired of the Lord?” (1 Nephi 15:8). The reason for their misunderstanding becomes evident in their response, “We have not; the Lord maketh no such thing known unto us” (1 Nephi 15:9).
Laman and Lemuel lacked faith. In spite of all they had been taught, in spite of all the miracles they had seen, in spite of an angel of God coming to speak to them, they still doubted the validity of God. Because they lacked faith, they didn’t take the time to ask Heavenly Father, assuming that He wouldn’t answer them. Was this an excuse? Were they just lazy?
There are ways that we all are like Laman and Lemuel. At times, we fail to call on our Heavenly Father for answers or for clarification. However, Nephi provides a way for us all to improve, “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” (1 Nephi 15:11).
I know that Heavenly Father is there and wants to bless us, but we must choose to come unto Him through our words and our actions. If we are doing out part, in His own time, He will clarify any questions we have concerning the gospel or our lives.
Nephi inquired of his brethren the reason for their contentions. They responded saying, “Behold, we cannot understand the words which our father hath spoken…” (1 Nephi 15:7). And Nephi said unto them, “Have ye inquired of the Lord?” (1 Nephi 15:8). The reason for their misunderstanding becomes evident in their response, “We have not; the Lord maketh no such thing known unto us” (1 Nephi 15:9).
Laman and Lemuel lacked faith. In spite of all they had been taught, in spite of all the miracles they had seen, in spite of an angel of God coming to speak to them, they still doubted the validity of God. Because they lacked faith, they didn’t take the time to ask Heavenly Father, assuming that He wouldn’t answer them. Was this an excuse? Were they just lazy?
There are ways that we all are like Laman and Lemuel. At times, we fail to call on our Heavenly Father for answers or for clarification. However, Nephi provides a way for us all to improve, “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” (1 Nephi 15:11).
I know that Heavenly Father is there and wants to bless us, but we must choose to come unto Him through our words and our actions. If we are doing out part, in His own time, He will clarify any questions we have concerning the gospel or our lives.
Monday, April 13, 2009
This Morning's Scattered Bullet Points...
Here are some thoughts as I read in Doctrine & Covenants, Section 5:
*Heavenly Father has provided a wonderful plan for us!
*The most important gift of that plan is that we have the ability to receive eternal life.
*In addition to that supreme gift, He provides us with other gifts along the way. He provides us with peace and comfort. He provides us with earthly and spiritual comforts and knowledge.
*How can people say that God doesn’t love us, or that there isn’t a God, when it is evident in everything around us? How ungrateful can people be to say that there is no God?
*People struggle with finding the purpose of this life, if there be any. We’re blessed with the knowledge that there is a God and He has masterfully created a plan for us. The odds are stacked on our side. We only have to do our best, to overcome our faults and mistakes, in order to return to Him. Sure, life isn’t always easy, but God is there to love and protect us, if we are living worthy of that love and protection.
Thoughts as I read 1 Nephi chapter 6:
*The scriptures are important… Nephi states that his purpose in writing is to persuade men to come unto God. He also says that he “will give a commandment unto [his] seed, that they shall not occupy these plates with things which are not of worth unto the children of men” (1 Nephi 6:6). The scriptures are important to us in our day to provide knowledge, strength, and comfort. We need to use them in order to have power in our lives, for knowledge (especially spiritual knowledge) is truly power.
*Heavenly Father has provided a wonderful plan for us!
*The most important gift of that plan is that we have the ability to receive eternal life.
*In addition to that supreme gift, He provides us with other gifts along the way. He provides us with peace and comfort. He provides us with earthly and spiritual comforts and knowledge.
*How can people say that God doesn’t love us, or that there isn’t a God, when it is evident in everything around us? How ungrateful can people be to say that there is no God?
*People struggle with finding the purpose of this life, if there be any. We’re blessed with the knowledge that there is a God and He has masterfully created a plan for us. The odds are stacked on our side. We only have to do our best, to overcome our faults and mistakes, in order to return to Him. Sure, life isn’t always easy, but God is there to love and protect us, if we are living worthy of that love and protection.
Thoughts as I read 1 Nephi chapter 6:
*The scriptures are important… Nephi states that his purpose in writing is to persuade men to come unto God. He also says that he “will give a commandment unto [his] seed, that they shall not occupy these plates with things which are not of worth unto the children of men” (1 Nephi 6:6). The scriptures are important to us in our day to provide knowledge, strength, and comfort. We need to use them in order to have power in our lives, for knowledge (especially spiritual knowledge) is truly power.
Sunday, April 12, 2009
Easter's Reminder of the Comfort Jesus Provides
Here are some thoughts about Easter I wrote in my journal:
Today is Easter Sunday, and as such, I’d like to talk my Savior. I’m am eternally indebted and grateful for His atoning sacrifice. I know that He died for me and loves me. I listened to Elder Jeffrey R. Holland’s recent talk about Jesus Christ and his complete (and then some!) understanding of us because of His infinite atonement. He felt lonely and pain such that we’ll never feel. He went through so much in his short 34 years that we will NEVER have to experience. And he did it all so that we might live. He did it all for the glory of others, not for himself. It’s amazing and unfathomable to me that He gave his life for everyone around Him, save himself. “Glory be to God,” he said. He was the most selfless person that walked the earth and He invites us to partake of His atonement, to utilize that power in our lives so that we can be comforted, so that we can hope. I know that my Redeemer lives. He loves me as an individual. I thank my God for that sacrifice of His son. I know that allowing His ONLY BEGOTTEN SON to die feeling utterly alone was difficult, but He allowed it to happen because God loves us. He saw the bigger picture. He knew what the outcome would be. Thank you, Heavenly Father, for thy love, for thy care, for this atonement that provides me with hope, strength, and the gift of eternal life. I am trying my best to live up to the gift I’ve been given.
Tuesday, April 7, 2009
Praise for General Conference
Words cannot adequately express my gratitude for General Conference this past weekend. Like many, General Conference always seems to happen exactly when I need the spiritual sustenance it provides without fail. I am thankful for the leaders of our church who prayed and studied laboriously to create messages Heavenly Father wanted ME to hear. I downloaded all of the talks on Sunday and created CDs. I'm excited to listen to these messages over and over to remind myself how I can better my life and draw closer to my Heavenly Father and my Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.
Here are some talks I particularly enjoyed:
*Elder Robert D. Hale's talk on overcoming debt- This is something I've really been working on this year. Although I only have a car loan and student loans to pay, I feel the need to be careful of my spending in order to save and have no debt. This talk was very insightful and provided a good guide for me (as well as for Evan and I together) to determine that I will not spend my money on things that I don't need to.
*Elder D. Todd Christopherson's talk on keeping our covenants- I am preparing to go to the temple to receive my endowments this year. Recently, I've really been contemplating and praying about the temple. This talk helped me to see the power that is given to those who make AND KEEP sacred covenants with Heavenly Father.
*Along those same lines were two talks about the temple, Elder David A. Bednar's talk (see posting about last general conference) and Elder Gary E. Stevenson's talk. As Elder Bednar would say, these two talks in particular were a tender mercies from the Lord. He knew what I needed to hear about the temple, He knew that I needed Elder Bednar to speak about the temple. I gained so much power, strength, and understanding because of these words. I know that, as Elder Bednar said, there is protecting power in the covenants made and kept in the temple. And that, as Elder Stevenson said, we are never lost (proverbially) when we can see the temple.
There are a million other talks I also loved... Elder Holland's talk on the Savior's atonement and how because he suffered, He can now help us to NEVER feel alone. Or, President Uchtdorf's talk on the path of discipleship. Elder Oaks talk about service and love also inspired me to look outside of myself to work on improving the charity I have for others.
Time will not allow me to mention all of the insights I gained from general conference. I do want to say that I know that these men and women are called of God to lead our church in these latter days. I know that President Monson is a prophet of God. I appreciate his words, his cautions, and his guidance, for I know that they come from God, Our Heavenly Father. I want to adhere my life to the principles mentioned during conference. I hope that little by little I can progress as I try to so do.
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