Sarah's Scripture Study

Hardships Bring Blessings

2010-01-01T12:41:00.000-08:00

Here are some thoughts as I read 1 Nephi 17:
*Verse 20- It’s amazing how much Laman and Lemuel complain against Nephi! They feel the Spirit and change for a time and then they complain all over again! I think that sometimes we do similar things in our lives. We continue to make the same mistakes again and again, even though we are reminded quite often by the Spirit what we are to do. Why is it that this happens? Most likely because we don’t stay close to the Spirit. We allow ourselves to get so caught up in the things of the world and situations in our lives that we forget about Heavenly Father. We fail to put Him first. This leads to doubt, disbelief, and complaining about the things that we know are true.

*Verse 25- Nephi brings up a good point here: Sometimes we must experience hardship in order to get out of a tough situation, which would ultimately cause much more sorrow, pain, and suffering. Heavenly Father gives us situations so that we can overcome our weaknesses. These situations are usually not easy to bear. But, if we do endure them and overcome them with faith, we will learn much and grow according to Heavenly Father’s will.

*Verse 30- The situations that the children of Israel had to bear (while in the wilderness with Moses) were not easy. In fact, they were incredibly challenging. Yet, it was better for them to be in the wilderness and prospering than to be in bondage to the Egyptians. Unfortunately, the people forgot what God had done to protect and preserve them. They could only see the negatives in their situation rather than the positives. This lead to doubt, disbelief, and eventually to them reviling against God.
*Verse 40- Heavenly Father keeps the promises He makes with His children as long as they keep their promises to Him.

WAYS I CAN IMPROVE:
*We all have struggles. Heavenly Father gives us experience and helps us to grow through our trials. Unfortunately, sometimes we forget Him. We forget why we go through trials. During our trials, if we focus on the negative, we forget the blessings and miracles that Heavenly Father is performing in our lives.

*I want to remember Heavenly Father amid my trials. I need to put Him first and focus on the blessings I’ve been given rather than the struggles I’m going through. I need to show gratitude to Heavenly Father through service to Him.

Humbling Ourselves to Draw Closer to Heavenly Father

2009-10-27T19:00:00.000-07:00

Here are some thoughts as I read 3 Nephi 4-5:

*Verses 10, 18- We can learn much from these verses that discuss the spiritual and physical preparation of the Nephites. They humbled themselves. They prepared themselves in all aspects to fight against their enemy. It was only because they were prepared that the Lord blessed them. He provided them with strength as they listened to His counsel. He provided them with counsel because he KNEW that they would listen to it.

*We can all learn from this in our lives. Heavenly Father will bless us with the gift of guidance and of His Spirit. However, He will only do so if we are proving to Him that we will act on that knowledge. I know that sometimes in my life I’ve been praying for the answer, but haven’t been willing to except whatever answer was given to me. We need to prepare and accept the Lord’s will in our preparations, having faith, knowing that He will guide us to the path that we need to follow in our lives.

*Verses 29-33: The people expressed their utmost gratitude unto God for the blessings and freedom which He granted unto them. Shouldn’t we do so too?
*Verse 9- Mormon reminds us that this a true abridgement. There are records that contain all of the proceedings of the Nephites. Where are those now?
*Verse 16- Mormon makes an abridged record based on the records that have gone before. Even in modern day times, that would be a lofty task. But, for Mormon, this was an unbelievable feat! All of the engraving he had to do and the translations into a tongue that was not the language with which he communicated on a daily basis… that is amazing to me!
*Verse 18- I wonder why there are many things which “according to their language” they are not able to write.
*Verse 24- That is what we are doing today… we are bringing in the scattered remnants of the House of Israel. Through missionary work, we are helping to perform this great work.
*Verse 25- Heavenly Father covenanted with the House of Jacob that He would restore it unto the knowledge of the gospel. What a blessing in our lives! I feel this blessing and this promise coming true among us today.

Prepare for Our Battles

2009-10-25T14:34:00.000-07:00

Here are some thoughts as I read 3 Nephi end of 2-3:
*Chapter 2, Verse 18- Because they weren’t unified, they began to fall.
*Chapter 3, Verse 2-4: The leader of the Gadianton robbers, Giddianhi, is grossly misled. He professes to believe in such false traditions and such lies, acting accordingly. Satan tries to get people to see good as evil and evil as good, in the case of the Gadianton robbers.
*Verse 6- Giddianhi gives no reason as to why HE deserves to have the land, but feels he has the right to it.
Verse 9- Giddianhi believes that the “secret” works of the Gadianton robbers are good. How much Satan can lead us to believe magnificent falsehoods! We need to constantly be on our guard in order to protect ourselves from Satan’s temptations.
*Verse 10- Finally Giddianhi gives the reason that HE and HIS FOLLOWERS deserve the Nephites land: Because of the Nephites (supposed) wickedness in retaining from the robbers the rights to the government. It’s amazing that he wrote these words, believing them in full faith.
*Verse 12- The chief governor, Lachoneus, had faith that Heavenly Father would protect them if they cried unto Him in faith and righteousness.
*Verse 15- Lachoneus reminds the people that unless they repent and humble themselves, they will not be saved.
*Verse 19- In times of righteousness, the people chose prophets to the lead the people, both into battle and at the head of their government. They chose these people because they had the spirit and access to revelations for the people.
*Verse 21- The leader of the armies, Gidgiddoni, counseled the people that if they listened to what the Lord said and prepared in the Lord’s way, they would be saved.
*Verse 25- The people prepared both spiritually and temporally for the war which was about to take place. The people didn’t know when the battle was going to happen, but they were prepared in case it did happen.

WAYS I CAN IMPROVE:
*We, too, can prepare now for the battles that lie ahead. We never know what will happen in our lives. We never know when Satan will try us and tempt us. We need to prepare ourselves now and beware of the cunning darts of the adversary. We need to be aware of the manner in which Satan tempts us. We need to pray humbly and fervently, repenting and asking forgiveness. I know that Heavenly Father will bless us in our daily struggles and in our fight against the adversary if we prepare and show that Heavenly Father is our priority.

Faith Precedes the Miracle

2009-10-13T06:16:00.000-07:00

Here are some thoughts as I read Helaman 7-8:
*Verse 24- Nephi chastens the Nephites because of their unbelief. He BOLDLY calls them to repentance by reminding them of the many witnesses they see in their lives. Just like us, all things in heaven and earth testify that there is a God. I’m grateful for my testimony of these things, knowing that God is there. I can see Him around me in the people I talk with, in the opportunities and words He has given me, through the beauty of a sunset. So many ways to see and praise God for what He has given us.
*(Chapter 8) Verse 2- The people are waiting for a sign… at this point, the Nephites don’t believe that Nephi is a true prophet, but they say that if what he prophesied about the chief judge is true, then he MUST be a prophet and they will believe on his words.
*Verse 5- They find out that what Nephi had said was true and begin to believe. It’s better to believe without a sign than to believe after seeing a sign.
*Verse 8- Interesting that people who had forgotten God were so adamant in thinking that God had smitten those 5 men who had fallen to the earth after seeing the truth of the words of Nephi.
*Verse 16- Now the people believe that Nephi was in on the murder of the chief judge to the point that they are blaming him for the murder. Satan sure has a tricky way of getting people to forget God and to believe in their own thoughts rather than using the spirit to guide them.
*Verse 24- He showed unto them a sign and they are angry with him… their hearts are so hardened against Heavenly Father! They have let satan take over!
*Verses 39-41: It’s amazing how the Nephites all saw the same miracles and prophecies come to pass, yet some of them still don’t understand and still cannot believe! Nephi is so strong and bold in his faith. He listens to the spirit and lets it guide him in his thoughts, actions, and words. Because of this, he is a wonderful prophet and an example unto many. He is also given the words he should say because of his faith.

WAYS I CAN IMPROVE:
*I can be like Nephi… I can have faith and seek for the spirit in my life. I can seek to live by the spirit and allow it to guide me, refine me, and improve my character. I’m so grateful to Heavenly Father for my knowledge of the gospel and for the spirit in my life.
*I will work hard not to look for signs in my own life. I want to have and act on faith and remember that FAITH precedes the MIRACLE.

2009-10-06T06:16:00.000-07:00

Here are some thoughts as I read Helaman 5:

*Verse 4- Nephi gives up the judgment seat in order to become a missionary unto the people (with his brother, Lehi) all the rest of his days. This shows that Nephi truly isn’t seeking for power, but to pull it down. He’s seeking to help the people overcome their pride and their temptations. Like his predecessor, he was a good man who loved his God and his people.
*Verse 5- Nephi and Lehi remembered the words of their father. This shows the importance and lasting effect of what we teach our children, but it also shows the diligence of these men to follow and obey their father. A righteous parent truly can affect his/her children. There are numerous examples of that in the scriptures.
*Verses 6-7: Nephi and Lehi were given their names to always remember their forefathers and the righteous examples they set. We also need to remember the sacrifices made and the examples of those who have gone before us. The Book of Mormon is a miraculous record that has come forth to bless us in our day. Many have sacrificed, both in ancient and modern times, to allow me this record. I am truly grateful for their sacrifices to bring me a book that has caused so much joy, peace, and hope in my life.
*Verse 8- We need to make sure that our motivation for righteous choices is the right reason. Sometimes we want certain callings or we want to boast about the service we have done. Instead, we should be doing these things because we love God and our fellow men. If we do things because of this motivation, we lay up a treasure for ourselves in Heaven without price. That treasure is eternal life.
Verses 9-11: Many prophets have preached that the only way to have eternal life is through Jesus Christ, who will redeem people FROM their sins, not IN their sins. This tells us that people need to make the choice to choose righteously and repent. He can only save us if we CHOOSE to repent and draw unto Him.
*Verse 12- We need to build on the rock, which is Jesus Christ. If our foundation is the gospel of Jesus Christ, our faith will be firmly planted and when the temptations come, we will be able to withstand them. This faith and this foundation is sure, but it takes time and daily energy to cultivate and improve upon.
*Verse 18- Nephi and Lehi had power and authority given unto them in their missionary service. Is this similar to callings that we have in our wards and homes? Because of this power and authority, they had power to speak and teach by the spirit. Through this power, they were able to convert many Nephites and Lamanites alike unto the gospel of Jesus Christ. I’m sure this was a hard time to preach, because of so much negativity and hatred among both peoples. Teaching the people wasn’t easy, but they went forward in the strength of Christ to do the work they had been called/compelled to do.

I think that we all can have this power and authority of God in our labors in this life. God will bless us if we are striving to listen to His words and heed His commands.

*Verse 36- It’s amazing the things that happened to protect Lehi and Nephi once they were imprisoned. Heavenly Father used this imprisonment (or trial) as a means to teach others. Lehi and Nephi were an example of faith and prayer in this verse as they turned their heads towards Heaven to converse with the angels of God.
*Verse 41- Although the people in this chapter had a literal cloud of darkness over them, we have a figurative cloud of darkness over us as we sin and fail to repent. The people asked Aminadab what they should do in order to have the cloud of darkness removed. His answer to those people is the same answer to us as sinners, “You must repent, and cry unto the voice, even until ye shall have faith in Christ… and when ye shall do this, the cloud of darkness shall be removed from overshadowing you.”
*Verses 42-43: Once the people repented, they were encircled about in a pillar of fire just like Lehi and Nephi. This signifies the fire of the spirit that encircles us about as we give up our sins to know God again.
*Verse 49-50: The converted people were told to go forth and then convert others through their testimony and strength.

WAYS I CAN IMPROVE:

In many ways, this chapter is an example for our life and our teachings. We first need to dispel the cloud of darkness from our own lives and partake of the spirit of God before we can help others do the same. And once we’ve drawn unto God and partaken of His spirit, we need to teach and bless others. We should want to teach and bless others to gain the same knowledge, power, faith, hope, and strength that we have.
I want to be better about being a positive example unto others. I want to look for ways to serve others and to be a better missionary and example of Jesus Christ.

2009-10-05T06:16:00.000-07:00

Here are some thoughts as I read Helaman 4:

*Verses 1-3: I’m always amazed by those people who dissented away from the Nephites! It’s amazing to me that one day they could love their country and their lands so much, and the next day they are offended and go to their enemies to seek war against their own kin. It just shows the power Satan has over us, if we let him. We need to be ever watchful so that we don’t become like these Nephite dissenters, abandoning everything we know and becoming a traitor to our country and people all because of a contention blown out of proportion by selfishness and greed.
*Verse 11: The Nephites suffered death and great losses at the Lamanites’ hands because of the Nephites great wickedness. This leads me to consider why. Why did they suffer and lose so much? It’s because they were no longer led by the spirit. They were also no longer united with their brethren in the same cause and the same truth.

*This verse teaches us a great lesson: That we need the spirit to lead us into righteous paths and to guide us when we are unsure the best way to proceed. It also teaches us that we need to be unified in our beliefs and desires. When we are one in faith and action, we become strong and immovable. Satan and his cunning associates cannot shake us, because we will band together, strengthening one another in order to overcome temptations of all kinds.
*Another interesting aspect of this verse is that those people who were wicked were “among those also who professed to belong to the church of God.” Are we among those who “profess” to belong to the church but don’t live it? May there NEVER come a day that I profess to belong to something which I don’t believe in and show my belief through my actions.

*Verse 12-13: These verses go even further to expound upon those who belonged to the church but did not live according to its principles. It states that their actions and their unbelief were related to the pride of their possessions. They allowed this to consume them and to cause them to do wicked and harsh things to their brethren.

*And because they boasted in their own strength, “they were left in their own strength.” Essentially, the people got exactly what they wanted. They wanted to say nothing of God and everything about their own power, so they got it.

*Verse 16: The people repent and are able to regain one half of their property and lands. Repentance allows the Lord to help them to prosper when they are humbly seeking Him.
*Verse 25: The Lord not only will NOT strive to be with wicked people, but He can NOT dwell in those who reject Him. He will not take away our agency. It’s up to us to choose to have Him a part of our lives or choose to go it on our own.

WAYS I CAN IMPROVE:

*I need to be ever-mindful of the wiles of Satan. Satan is cunning and can quickly redirect us down false paths if we let him. I need to HUMBLY strive to have the Spirit always with me as a constant companion. I know that if I do so, I will be united with God and with my brethren. We can band together to strengthen one another in time’s of trial and hardship.

Prayer, Faith, & Consistency

2009-10-01T06:16:00.000-07:00

Here are some thoughts as I read Alma (end of) 62-63:

Verses 49-51: In spite of their prosperity, the people remembered Heavenly Father and continually called upon His name. Because of their humility, the Lord blessed them according to His word. He will do the same for us if we are living worthy of His blessings. He won’t always bless us in the way we want Him to, but He will bless us according to our covenants and our needs.
Verse 12- Interesting that the records went forth throughout the land (except for the sacred parts)… the scriptures were used even then to teach and edify people.

WAYS I CAN IMPROVE:

I need to pray unto God continually. Additionally, I need to be better about studying these scriptures with which we are so blessed to have! I am so blessed in my life, but I hinder my own progression by not waking up earlier to study and pray. I am exhausted from not sleeping very well, but I know that Heavenly Father will endow me with His spirit and power if I am seeking Him and His guidance. I want Him in my life. I’m striving to have the spirit, but I know that I can do better by waking up a little earlier to study, ponder, and pray.

Firm & Undaunted

2009-09-24T12:11:00.000-07:00

Here are some thoughts as I read Alma 57:

Verses 20- It’s amazing that the 2,000 stripling warriors were able to have so much strength and energy! It says that they were “firm and undaunted,” yet they were so young and inexperienced.
Verse 21- This verse gives us the reason why they were able to fight with such strength and force in such a miraculous way. Not only did they obey every command with exactness, but they were faithful. They had listened to the words of their mothers and had obtained strength from their mothers’ faith, which they used to establish their own faith. Heavenly Father blessed them because of their obedience and faith.
- We can learn from this that we should also be obedient to the covenants we have made with Heavenly Father and that we should also keep them with exactness. Those commandments and covenants we have made can act as a shield between us and the adversary to protect us and keep us out of harm’s way.
- We can also learn from the stripling warriors’ faith and how they obtained it. Two aspects of this are important: First, the example of their mothers. Because of the examples, righteousness, and faith of their mothers, they taught their boys the truth of the gospel. They learned the truths of the gospel and learned how to be obedient to every command the Lord gives. Second, they used this faith as a foundation to build upon with their own faith. They didn’t rest solely on their mothers’ faith to carry them through. They acted on their own faith in order to fight the way they did. In the end, they were saved and their faith had carried them
  through positively.
Verses 25-26- It’s amazing and miraculous how the army of Helaman ALL survived a second battle. They all received wounds, but they all were alive! This shows the power of their faith and how they worked according to their faith. They knew the Lord was with them. They knew what they had to do and they acted on it. We, too, need to act on our own faith. We need to act on those things that we know in our lives in order to increase our faith and our obedience to the Lord’s commands.
Verses 36-37- Heavenly Father kept His promise to the people of Nephi. He promised that they would be preserved it they would be faithful in keeping His commands. Because the Nephites were faithful, he preserved them. If we are faithful to God’s commands in our lives, He will bless us with promised blessings and power.

WAYS I CAN IMPROVE:

I want to work hard now to remain faithful and to act in accordance with the covenants I have made with Heavenly Father. I know that if I do this, I will be blessed by Heavenly Father. I also know that I will continue to establish positive habits in my life so that eventually when we have children, I can teach them faith and share my testimony like the mothers of the army of Helaman did.
Another parallel that we can make from these verses is about missionary work. Essentially, everyone who begins to learn about the gospel rests on the faith and testimony of others for a time. After a while, investigators obtain their own testimony. However, I see that we are all strengthened by the stories of faith and testimony shared weekly at church. I learn and grow because of those who share and participate. I know that it is my responsibility to share my testimony as well with new investigators and those at church. Sometimes we need the faith of others to buoy us up and to remind us of those covenants we have made.

Sincerity in Missionary Work

2009-08-18T12:12:00.000-07:00

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.

Commandments & Civic Responsibility

2009-07-27T08:10:00.000-07:00

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.

Peace through Christ's Atonement

2009-07-25T09:30:00.000-07:00

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.

Positive News of the Gospel

2009-07-24T08:24:00.000-07:00

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.

Staying Positive

2009-07-23T06:34:00.000-07:00

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.

Pure in Heart

2009-06-16T09:19:00.000-07:00

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.

Rejoice, O my Heart

2009-05-12T08:54:00.000-07:00

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.

Gratitude through Action

2009-05-07T09:43:00.000-07:00

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.

Taking A Stand

2009-05-05T18:25:00.000-07:00

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.

Be the Change You Wish to See in the World

2009-05-04T18:23:00.000-07:00

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.

New Journal Format & Thoughts on 1 Nephi 19

2009-05-03T18:03:00.000-07:00

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.

Asking in Humility

2009-04-27T08:56:00.000-07:00

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.

This Morning's Scattered Bullet Points...

2009-04-13T22:38:00.000-07:00

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.

Easter's Reminder of the Comfort Jesus Provides

2009-04-12T22:43:00.000-07:00

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.

Praise for General Conference

2009-04-07T09:16:00.000-07:00

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.

Beginning Again...

2009-04-07T08:48:00.000-07:00

Here are some thoughts as I’m reading in 1st Nephi, chapter 1 this morning:
*Because Nephi’s parents taught him well, he was able to have faith in his father’s words.
*Nephi’s father, Lehi, expressed exceedingly LOVE and faith as he prayed for his people. Because of this great love and faith, he was able to feel the spirit and see a vision.
*Version 14 Lehi says to the Lord, “Because thou art merciful, thou wilt not suffer those who come unto thee that they shall perish!” I have faith that this is true in our lives still today. I know that Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ will not spare us from suffering and trials, but I do know that they will be there to guide us and comfort us along the way.
*In verse 18, Lehi goes forth prophesying unto the people of the things he saw. Imagine how hard this would be! I bet Joseph Smith related to this passage of scripture particularly because he understood what it meant to proclaim to the people the vision you had, even though people mocked and scorned.
*They were able to do this because “the tender mercies of the Lord are over all those whom he hath chosen, because of their faith, to make them mighty even unto the power of deliverance” (1 Nephi 1:20). Heavenly Father delivered Joseph Smith time and again just as He delivered Lehi from death in Jerusalem. Heavenly Father also will provide tender mercies for us as we strive to follow Him and do what He has asked us to do, in spite of the hardships that may arise because of it.

End of Another Journey

2009-04-03T14:38:00.000-07:00

I finished The Book of Mormon a few days ago. Finishing The Book of Mormon is always anti-climactic for me. I always think that there will be fireworks and a a large celebration springing out of The Book of Mormon as I read through Moroni's final admonitions. None of those things happened this time. What did happen is a renewed peace and knowledge that The Book of Mormon is true. I love this book. I love its words and the comfort they provide in my life. The admonitions in The Book of Mormon on how to live a better life help me to improve and to be more charitable. I am grateful for this book and the opportunity that I have to read it again and again. Each time I read it, I realize something new. Here's to another beginning of The Book of Mormon!

Overcoming Revenge and Hard Feelings

2009-03-23T09:27:00.001-07:00

We know the outcome of the Book of Ether long before we even begin reading the book. In fact, we find out the outcome of the Jaredite people earlier in the Book of Mormon (Omni 1:21) when Coriantumr is found with the 24 Jaredite plates.

However, as I approach the end of the Book of Ether for the 20-something time, I am still surprised and shocked at the destruction that takes place. I guess what has shocked me most this time reading is that the reason this civilization ended is that these people became so blinded in their hatred. These people were blessed of the Lord and allowed themselves to get so caught up in their pride and love of riches/power, that it became the achilles heel to their civilization.

The most poignant example of this is with Shiz and Coriantumr. In Ether 14, Coriantumr battles all men who are opposed to him, killing off all of them in order to retain his power in the land. Finally, he kills off Lib. Shiz, Lib's brother, decides to continue the war against Coriantumr and avenge his brother's death. Millions of people are forced to join the cause and/or die because of the greed for power. Dead, rotting, smelly bodies were strewn all over the land because there were so many dead and not enough people to bury them. "Nevertheless, Shiz did no cease to pursue Coriantumr; for he had sworn to avenge himself upon Coriantumr of the blood of his brother, who had been slain" (Ether 14:24). It's amazing to me that with all of this blood and carnage, how selfish Shiz was. He could have stopped the war and tried to save his people. Yet, he was so overcome with revenge rather than forgiveness that he (and OF COURSE Coriantumr) allowed an entire race to be killed off. He had the power to forgive, but decided instead to sacrifice his life and the lives of millions of people in order to exact revenge.

Now, I know that we HOPEFULLY won't be forced to make a decision in such circumstances during our lifetimes. But, we are forced daily to deal with other people in situations where it may be easier to be angry and spiteful than to forgive others. I know that forgiving others and overcoming our anger for someone who has wronged us will not only help to alleviate hard feelings, but it will provide an example for which others will gladly follow.

Shiz had the opportunity to end the war, but he continued fighting out of revenge.

Power of Scriptural Knowledge

2009-03-23T09:17:00.000-07:00

Ether chapter 12 is one of the most quoted chapters of the Book of Mormon. As I read through it, however, I recognized an aspect about that chapter I hadn't before.

The chapter begins with an account of Ether, a Jaredite prophet, who went forth preaching unto the Jaredite people of faith and hope. And "Ether did prophesy great and marvelous things unto the people, which they did not believe, because they saw them not" (Ether 12:5). Moroni then pauses the record of Ether to recount the wonders and marvels Heavenly Father has done by faith. In his account, Moroni includes references to a wide array of scriptures not only from the Book of Mormon, but from The Bible also.

As I read through this chapter, I not only felt of Moroni's admonition for us to have faith, but I also felt the power of scriptural knowledge. Because Moroni knew the scriptures well, he was able to use them to share his testimony and admonish others to do so. He recalled specific stories and was able to use them as faith-inspiring examples.

We can learn a lot from Moroni, whose love and knowledge of the scriptures is evident. He not only abridged the scriptures, he studied them and understood them. Because of that, his words are able to bless our lives today. His example exhibits true faith and power.

Brother of Jared, Part II

2009-03-15T11:42:00.000-07:00

One of my favorite parts of The Book of Mormon is the account of the Brother of Jared. A few years ago, I was struggling between several different decisions. I felt like I was begging and pleading Heavenly Father to give me an answer to a situation I was going through. No matter how much I begged and plead, I still felt like I wasn't receiving an answer. This was so hard for me!

And then I began rereading the account of the Brother of Jared in my scripture reading. He asked Heavenly Father for help in two aspects: 1, what to do so that they could breath in their ships; 2, what to do in order for them to have light crossing the ocean. Heavenly Father answered the first of Jared's requests and then turned the second request into a question by saying, "Therefore what will ye that I should prepare for you that ye may have light when ye are swallowed up in the depths of the sea?" (Ether 2:25).

Rather than giving the Brother of Jared a direct answer, Heavenly Father asks him to study it out for himself and come to Heavenly Father with an answer. I realized after reading this that is how Heavenly Father often answers my prayers. I come to Him without having done the proper research myself. I ask questions without having thought of what I think would be the best solution or answer, expecting to be enlightened when I haven't given any "thought save it were to ask" him. What can I say? I'm lazy like that. I want everything handed to me on a silver platter rather than actually having to work for it.

That's why I love this story. The Brother of Jared thought about and made up his mind to act, and then in humility he came to Heavenly Father letting him know of his decision. Because of this, the Brother of Jared as blessed for his faith and humility. He was so blessed that he was able to see first the finger of the Lord and then the entire body of the Savior. In fact, the Savior said of this, "Never have I shown myself unto any man whom I have created, for never has man believed in me as thou hast," (Ether 3:15). What a powerful example of what faith, work, preparation, and humility can do to bless our lives and provide answers to prayers.

The Brother of Jared, Part I

2009-03-04T08:35:00.000-08:00

(Please refer to President Eyring's article about the Brother of Jared)

Every time I begin reading Ether, I am impressed by the Brother of Jared. He is such a faithful, humble man. Because of his exceeding faith, he was able to do and see many wonderful things. But, I'm getting ahead of myself...

In Ether chapter 1, the account of the Jaredite people begins at the Tower of Babel. The Lord has begun to confound the language of the people and sworn "in His wrath that [the people] should be scattered upon all the face of the earth" (Ether 1:33). Jared did not want his language and the language of his family to be confounded. He knew that his brother (hereafter Mahonri Moriancumer) was a "large and mighty man, and a man highly favored of the Lord." Therefore, Jared said unto his brother, "Cry unto the Lord, that he will not confound us that we may not understand our words" (Ether 1:34). And, listening to the advice of his brother, Mahonri did so.

Because he did so, the Lord had compassion on them and did not confound their language. In fact, Jared again entreated his brother to pray to stop the Lord from confounding the language of their friends (and I'm sure loved ones). Mahonri did so and the Lord again blessed them that the language of their friends were also not confounded.

And a third time, Jared asked his brother to pray to the Lord about where they should go saying, "And who knoweth but the Lord will carry us forth into a land which is choice above all the earth? And if it so be, let us be faithful unto the Lord that we may receive it for our inheritance" (Ether 1:38).

Mahonri listens to his brother, prays, and is instructed of the Lord to gather animals, seeds, and provisions and to journey into the wilderness. Because Mahonri listened to his brother, their whole family was blessed.

This account tells me a few things about Jared and his brother. First of all, Jared was a wise man too, who probably felt and was guided by the spirit to ask his brother to inquire after these certain blessings. I'm not sure, however, why he asked Mahonri to speak with the Lord and why Jared himself did not do it. It could have something to do with a patriarchal order. Either way, Mahonri inquired with faith and received an answer. He was humble enough to allow his brother to counsel him and to also be counseled of the Lord. Through his humility and faith, he changed all the lives around him for the better. I need to work on my humility, allowing myself to be counseled of the Lord and even by family and friends. Sometimes I get so stuck in my ways, that I won't allow myself to change, even if it is for the better. Thanks for your example, Mahonri!

Tools to Improve

2009-03-03T08:56:00.000-08:00

Heavenly Father has provided a plan for us to come down to earth, live for a short time, experience life, be tested, (hopefully) make righteous choices, and return back to Him. Yes, it's true that while we're here, we don't remember anything about the time before this life. But, He has provided some wonderful tools to assist us in improving ourselves while we're here. Sadly, we don't always use the tools and knowledge we have been given to assist ourselves.

The situation with the Nephites in Moroni chapter 5 reminded me of this conundrum. Why is it that we complain about our situation, yet don't use the tools available to us in order to change our situation? The Nephites are awaiting further battle with the Lamanites. They know that they're outnumbered. They know that they are most likely going to die. They've been told what they need to do in order to win the battle and survive, yet they don't do it. "... for they repented not of their iniquities, but did struggle for their lives without calling upon that Being who created them" (Mormon 5:2). All they had to do was turn towards God and change their ways. These Nephites were aware of the prophecies and what it took to improve themselves and their situation. But they struggled and died because they didn't use those tools.

How often do we want to change things and seek to improve our own situation without calling on Heavenly Father to do so? How often are we unwilling to repent and change our ways, yet if we did so, we know we'd be happier and more at peace? I know that I complain about situations in my life that only I am in control of. If I changed myself, my life would be better. I'd have more peace and those around me would too. So, why don't I change? I know I do change, albeit VERY SLOWLY. I could improve myself faster if I stopped being lazy and took the time to do so. Change certainly is not easy, especially when we're dealing with our own issues that have been around for years. But positive change is possible. I know that I need to get up off my lazy butt to make it happen! I am the only one who can improve my life. I may not be able to change my situation, but as Viktor Frankl said, "When we cannot change a situation... we are challenged to change ourselves."

Understanding the Atonement

2009-03-03T08:54:00.001-08:00

Last Sunday morning was a little bit tough for me. An issue I've been dealing with for quite some time seemed harder than ever. And I broke down in sobs. I prayed and asked for strength and guidance of how best to deal with this problem. I was heartbroken and emotional. I prayed and fasted and waited for the comfort and peace that I know the Lord provides to all of us when we ask.

As I drove to church, it came. You see, on Sundays, I don't listen to music in my car. Instead, I listen to CDs from past general conferences. The CD I happened to pop in the night before began with the talk by Elder Wirthlin entitled, "Come What May and Love It." I listened to it twice on the way to church. (In fact, I probably listen to that talk at least once or twice a week!) But somehow, I heard different messages this time that I hadn't heard before. Heavenly Father answered my prayer. He provided the comfort and peace I needed through the words of His humble servant and disciple, the late Joseph B. Wirthlin. I'm so grateful for the righteous and humble men that lead and guide our church.

In Elder Wirthlin's talk, the message that really stuck out when all was said and done was a message of the atonement. Not only can we receive strength through Christ's atonement, but we can also get to know Christ better through His atonement. Let me explain. When we go through trials, as all of us do, we are able to draw on the atonement for strength. We're able to turn to Jesus Christ, the ONE PERSON who knows EXACTLY how we're feeling, because he went through all things. We can find much strength and comfort in that.

Additionally, however, we learn to be more like Christ through our trials. When we go through struggles, we understand even more what He went through. And we're able to relate to others better as well. What an amazing blessing that comes from those struggles we deal with daily! I feel truly grateful.

I know that as we experience trials, we can improve ourselves and those around us. As Heavenly Father said to Joseph Smith about all of the trials that he would deal with,

"... know thou, my son [or daughter], that all these things shall give thee experience, and shall be for they good. The Son of Man hath descended below them all. Art thou greater than he? Therefore, hold on thy way... Thy days are known, and thy years shall not be numbered less; therefore, fear not what man can do, for God shall be with you forever and ever" (Doctrine and Covenants 122:7-9).

Standing at Judgment

2009-02-26T10:01:00.001-08:00

Recently, I had a discussion with a friend about the judging that will take place after this life. She and I both have family members who've gone through some hard times and may not have made the best decisions. However, we both remain fairly confident that these people will be able to repent of their sins and return to live with God after they die. I know that God will not judge us based on the worst thing that we've ever done, but will judge us based on all of our deeds, both good and bad. Heavenly Father loves us and wants us to return unto Him. I feel strongly that if we're trying to live as He has asked us, that He will help us to return to live with Him again.

As I was reading in Mormon chapter 3, it provides a little more insight into the judging that will take place after this life. In this chapter, it mentions that former (and probably even current) apostles will also act as judges for the people. In fact, it mentions in verse 19 that the Nephites will be judged by Christ's first apostles as well as by the apostles Jesus chose while on the American continent.

Will we also be judged by apostles both current and past? What is the reasoning behind this judging from multiple apostles, if we ALL must stand before the judgment seat of Christ as well (Mormon 3:20)? Is the order of judges set up by the Nephites indicative of the type of judging that will happen hereafter?

It's interesting to consider the "judgment" that is mentioned so many times throughout the scriptures. We know that we will be judged, but I know that I don't always live my life as if I will be. I guess I need to better myself in order to get ready for the eventual judgment that will take place.

Serve Based on Need

2009-02-14T12:31:00.000-08:00

In 3 Nephi chapter 17, our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, teaches us all a valuable lesson about preparation and service.

Jesus came to visit the Nephites after his resurrection and had spent much time teaching them about his laws and gospel. One day, after teaching them, he asks them, "Go ye unto your homes, and ponder upon the things which I have said, and ask of the Father, in my name, that ye may understand, and prepare your minds for the morrow, and I come unto you again" (3 Nephi 17:3). We can learn so much from this simple scripture about meditation and PREPARATION to hear the Lord's word, be it at general conference, while reading the scriptures, or during sacrament meeting. We need to take time to ponder His words in order to improve our minds and allow ourselves to receive line upon line, precept upon precept.

Shortly after this verse, the Savior mentions how He now has plans to go unto the Father and then to show Himself unto the lost tribes of Israel. However, after looking out at the multitude and seeing them in tears, they ask Him to forgo His plans and stay with them a little longer. And he does. He gives up His plan to stay and administer unto the people. He heals their sick, prays for the people, blesses their children, angels are seen - in short, miracles happen.

Through this story, we can see that The Savior of the World sacrificed His time for these people. He dropped His plans and served these people in the way they needed Him to serve. Hopefully we all learn through this example to serve willingly, even when we may have other demands pressing upon us. Taking time to do what we should and be guided by Heavenly Father's Spirit oftentimes requires sacrifice, but it ALWAYS provides blessings.

Another important aspect of this story is that the people ASKED when they were in need. We all want to be tough and act like we don't need anything or help from anyone. This just isn't true. Sometimes we need to ask for help. We need to communicate a need so that we can bless someone else's life through the service we allow them to offer to us.

Two Paths, Two Choices

2009-01-23T08:15:00.000-08:00

3 Nephi Chapters 5-6 are rich with missionary work, true repentance and ultimate conversion. Sadly, however as the people begin to be righteous and to prosper in chapter 6, we read, "And now there was nothing in all the land to hinder the people from prospering continually, except they should fall into transgression" (3 Nephi 6:5). And fall into transgression they did... within a year, some people began to be prideful because of their wealth "even unto great persecutions" (3 Nephi 6:10). Eventually, the church was broken up because of riches and class distinctions, except for "a few of the Lamanites who were converted to the true faith; and they would not depart from it, for they were firm, and steadfast, and immovable, willing with all diligence to keep the commandments of the Lord" (3 Nephi 6:14).

And then in verse 15, we find out the reasons for the iniquities and problems,

"Now the cause of this iniquity of the people was this -- Satan had great power, unto the stirring up of the people to do all manner of iniquity, and to the puffing them up with pride, tempting them to seek for power, and authority, and riches, and the vain things of the world."

And this, friends, is the clencher: "Now they did not sin ignorantly, for they KNEW the will of God concerning them, for it had been brought unto them; therefore they did willfully rebel against God" (3 Nephi 6:18). They knew that they were going against God's will for them. How many of us do the same?

We have a choice to make: we can either allow constant advertisement of Satan's temptations to influence us and follow down that path of iniquity (which ultimately leads to unhappiness), or we can follow the soft-spoken voice of our Heavenly Father and Our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. Satan wraps his empty promises in a huge package with lots of bows and ribbons. Satan's package is empty: He wants us to spend eternity in misery with him. Satan seeks to take away our agency and choice.

While on the other hand, Heavenly Father will NEVER take away our choices. His package appears to be subtle and humble, but it contains the greatest gift of all: the opportunity of eternal life spent with our Father in Heaven and our family and friends.

So, which path will YOU follow? There are only two choices.

Obeying God's Commands

2009-01-20T08:28:00.000-08:00

In the beginning of 3rd Nephi, we find the land and people in a frightened state. The Gadianton robbers (a group of plundering, murdering thieves) has begun to take over the land and the righteous Nephites and Lamanites fear that nowhere is safe from these murderers who were coming against them in open war and rebellion.

Rather than continuing to fear, the Nephites (including Lamanites turned Nephites) called Gidgiddoni as their chief captain, "someone that had the spirit of revelation and also prophecy" (3 Nephi 3:19). Because the Nephites had repented and were strong in the gospel, they recognized it was important to be led by a righteous man who called upon God for strength and guidance. They had faith that God would lead this righteous man and, as a result, them.

Some of the people asked Gidgiddoni to pray unto the Lord to protect as they rashly went up into the mountain to fight against the Gadianton robbers. Understanding that at this point, they would die if they went to fight against the Gadianton robbers, he said that they needed to prepare themselves first. And they did. They listened to Gidgiddoni as he told them to all gather in the center of the land with their flocks and all of their sustenance. They fortified and strengthened themselves physically and spiritually (through repentance, faith, and prayer).

I do not think it was easy for them to do this. I'm sure it was not easy to move everyone to one place and to leave your homes, not knowing if you would ever return. But, the people had faith and it won them the war. Because they had the Lord on their side, they won the war against the Gadianton robbers and were able to erase them entirely from their lands and people (for a time).

Moral of the story: It is not always easy to obey Heavenly Father and his commands. Sometimes we don't even know why we're told to do something (just like the Nephites), but we know that we should do it. If we have faith and prepare ourselves in every way possible, Heavenly Father will use our obedience to open doors for us. He will teach us lessons, He will help our faith to grow beyond what we thought we were capable of.

The Impact We Have

2009-01-19T09:37:00.000-08:00

In our own way, we all impact those around us. Sometimes people will tell us what something we said or did meant to them. And sometimes we will never know the impact we had on a life. That doesn't mean that we should get discouraged or give up. You never know what you've done to help someone else.

I bring this up courtesy of Samuel, the Lamanite. He is a good example to us of doing what Heavenly Father asked of him, without knowing what the effect of his actions would be. Samuel was told to preach to the Nephites, even though it could cost him his life (they were very angry at him for preaching to them and were seeking to kill him as a consequence). Although it was difficult, he did so and was protected. As soon as he was finished preaching, the scripture says that he got off the wall, walked out of the land, and "He was never heard of more among the Nephites" (Helaman 16:8). Samuel did what he was asked to do and never was able to see the fruit of his labors. He converted many people unto the gospel of Jesus Christ. Chapters later in 3rd Nephi, Samuel, the Lamanit is mentioned again when the prophecies he made came to pass. The people remembered Samuel and his preachings. He had an impact on the people, even though he was never aware of the impact he had.

Has that happened to us? Have we helped someone without even knowing it? Or, have we been helping without letting that person know what he/she has done for us?

I want to strive to help those around me a little more, to be a little bit more Christlike in my actions. I also want to remember to say thank you to those who have helped me, even in small ways. Showing gratitude helps people to know the impact that they have had in our lives.

Lessons Learned from the Lamanites

2009-01-15T08:56:00.000-08:00

Generally, when the term "Lamanites" is mentioned, I am apt to think of a wild, ferocious, and a wicked people. However, in the end of the book of Helaman Samuel, the Lamanite, proves me wrong in that regard and reminds us all that repentance is possible for anyone, if we truly believe.

As Samuel continues his preaching from the wall, he reminds the Nephites (and us all) of the reason why Heavenly Father chastens us: because He loves us and wants us to return to Him.

And then Samuel reminds us of the true nature of the gospel and the true nature of the God we love. Samuel tells us of the repentance and CHANGE of the Lamanites and how, through true conversion, they have changed their lives and their ways. It's amazing to hear how much the gospel has changed the lives of the Lamanites and their families. These Lamanites had such a strong testimony that they had such an aversion to sin (like their predecessors) that they'd rather die than to go to war against anyone again.

Of their righteousness, Samuel said, "And now, because of their steadfastness when they do believe... for because of their firmness when they are once enlightened, behold, the Lord shall bless them and prolong their days, notwithstanding their iniquity" (Helaman 15:10).

After church on Sunday I began writing about my gratitude for the gospel and for the opportunity I have to go to church. I know that the gospel of Jesus Christ has changed my life for the better. I hope that I can remain true and steadfast, that I can repent as the Lamanites repented, with true conversion and with a true desire to change for the better.

Strength as Samuel the Lamanite

2009-01-13T08:30:00.000-08:00

The nature of man is interesting to me. Sometimes we are so slow to forget our own convictions! This is seen time and again in The Book of Mormon, specifically throughout the book of Helaman. The people are chastened, they are humbled, the repent, begin to prosper again, again are prideful and forget their conversion. This cycle repeats itself so often that it's hard to keep track of how many times the Nephites adhere to the gospel and then stop because of temptation.

Enter Samuel the Lamanite. Because of the preaching of Lehi and Nephi many Lamanites (including Samuel) was converted. Once he was converted and saw the wickedness of the Nephites, he was told that he should preach to them. After trying once and being thrown out of the city, he was set on leaving and going to another place to preach. However, we felt strongly what he needed to say and that it needed to be said to the people of this city. So he got on top of the city wall and preached to the people according to what the Lord told him.

Imagining the difficulty of Samuel in this situation is crucial to seeing how hard it sometimes can be to DO what we are told to do. It is not always easy to stay strong. It is not easy to maintain a close, real relationship with our Father in Heaven. Choosing to sacrifice rather than to indulge selfishly can be very difficult. But, Heavenly Father will bless us and does bless us as we are trying to do what he asks us to do.

We will be tempted and we won't be perfect, but as long as we keep our resolve to do what we've been asked to do, we can overcome and make the best of our circumstances and lives. The gospel of Jesus Christ is about repentance, meaning positive change. It is about the love of a Savior who died so that we can have the opportunity to repent and a Father in Heaven who provided and allowed that sacrifice for us. We can and must take strength in that sacrifice and that Godly love.

Humility Brings Blessings

2009-01-02T15:57:00.000-08:00

Recently I've been thinking about pride. My own pride and the hindrance it brings upon me and my relationships with others. I know that we all have pride in some form. I also know that we have the ability to better ourselves. I really am striving to stop being prideful towards others and to begin improving myself. I know that I can do this as I humble myself and seek to put Heavenly Father first in my life.

Having said that, a big reason why pride has been on my mind relates to the scriptures. The "pride cycle" is continually recurring in the part of The Book of Mormon I'm reading. For those of you who don't know, the pride cycle basically consists of prospering, then having pride (in many forms... forgetting God, giving credit to yourself for blessings given from God, etc.), being chastened, becoming humble (once again searching for God and recognizing his hand in your life), and then once again prospering. The cycle usually repeats time and again.

Helaman chapter 4, is a perfect example of the pride cycle. The Nephites forget God, become prideful and contentious, are chastened (through a war with the Lamanites), and then repent and humble themselves because of their loss and hardships. Verse 13 is the culmination of the pride cycle: "And because of this their great wickedness, and their boastings in their own strength, they were left in their own strength; therefore they did not prosper, but were afflicted and smitten..." Once they realize their hardships and see that the prophecies given by former prophets are now coming to pass, the people decide to repent and to change their ways.

Through this experience, the Nephites realized that when they allowed pride to enter in to their hearts, they "had become weak... the Spirit of the Lord did no more preserve them" (Helaman 4:24). I have felt this way before. Although my own pride has never led me to the extent of the Nephites' wickedness, it has had an effect on my life. It also has kept me from having the Spirit as my guide, similar to the Nephites.

All of this serves as a reminder to me that I need to be better about keeping myself in check. Rather than being compelled to be humble because of my circumstances, I should become humble because I want to be closer to God. I know that if I am humbly trying to serve God and am keeping him as a BIG priority in my life, I will be blessed.

Before You Know It...

2008-12-31T08:57:00.000-08:00

Helaman 3 reminds me of a situation I've seen many times with myself and friends. If we are not careful, we will end up far from where we want to be on the gospel path... before we know it.

In the beginning of Helaman chapter 3, it is mentioned that during the 43rd year of the reign of the judges there was NO CONTENTION among all of the people of Nephi, save it were a LITTLE pride which was in the church. This pride did cause some dissensions among the people, but was settled by the end of that same year.

Fast forward a few years and many Nephites started migrating north. They figured out how to work cement, built houses, and became prosperous in that part of the land. These people even kept many records of their proceedings in this land. That is, until they began to fall into transgression "...becoming wicked, and wild, and ferocious..." (Helaman 3:16). What caused this big change from being righteous to wickedness in such a short amount of time?

I truly think that the key word is found in verse 1 of Helaman 3: PRIDE. Initially, the problems began when pride entered into their hearts. (To read an excellent discourse on PRIDE, see this talk written by President Ezra Taft Benson.) Sure, they may have "settled" the issue at one point. But they didn't keep their pride in check. They allowed themselves to fall.

We must be aware of the temptations of Satan. As Mosiah said, "...if ye do not watch yourselves, and your thoughts, and your words, and your deeds, and observe the commandments of God, and continue in the faith of what ye have heard concerning the coming of our Lord, even unto the end of your lives, ye must perish. And now, O man, remember, and perish not" (Mosiah 4:30).

These once righteous men and women (some of them a part of the people of Ammon and maybe even a part of Helaman's army) did not take heed to this counsel. They allowed themselves to make mistakes and to stay away from God's Spirit because they did not keep themselves in check. May we beware of pride. May we remmeber to keep our thoughts, actions, and deeds clean. May we perservere until the end of our days by trying to overcome pride and those temptations that befall us. That is my hope for myself and my loved ones.

Secrecy, Deception & Lies

2008-12-29T12:06:00.000-08:00

People are hurt by lies, deception, and secrecy. Whether it is in a family or as an individual, secrecy and deception eat away at our very core. When we are not open with other people about those things we should be, it hurts. Sometimes the hurt is only within, but sometimes the hurt is felt more keenly by others.

Recently, I've been dealing with a situation where secrecy was involved. The person kept a secret thinking that it would spare me from unnecessary hurt. But, because the secret was kept for so long, it hurt me worse than if I had known from the get-go. Time and again I've seen over the years that it is better to be open and deal with the consequences, then to wait. When you do, the situation seems to amplify to a much higher level.

This morning, I was reminded of this pain I'm dealing with as I was reading in Helaman chapter 1. Chapter 1 begins with the death of Pahoran, the current chief judge of the land. Because of jealousy, power-seeking, and greed, three of his sons seek after the office of chief judge. Rather than being unified, they cause a rift among the people. The people became angry and one of the brothers was sentenced to death for rebellion against the government. Eventually, the brother elected was murdered by Kishkumen and his followers, who took a secret oath to never tell the secrets. This secret hurt those followers as it did the society they eventually plundered. This deception caused such a problem and temptation and led to even more deception and temptation.

As Sir Walter Scott so aptly wrote, "Oh what a tangled web we weave, when first we practice to deceive."

I know that sometimes we get caught in a situation where we have been keeping a secret from someone. If you are in that situation, don't make it worse for yourself. Do your best to be honest and get out of that situation. I know that a burden will be lifted from your shoulders. You'll feel better and the people around you will also be bettered from your honesty. I know it's not always easy to get out of the "tangled web" we create for ourselves. But, I do know that life will be better once you do work to get out of that situation!

"If ye are not one ye are not mine"

2008-12-10T07:52:00.000-08:00

Doctrine and Covenants 38:27
"I say unto you, be one; and if ye are not one ye are not mine."

After several years of prosperity among the Nephites, the Lamanites come against them again to take away their lands. And this time, the Lamanites start to succeed. You want to know WHY they succeeded? Because the Nephites were not unified.

Shortly before the Lamanites invaded, a group of Nephites (who came to be known as the king-men) decided that they did not agree with the leader of the land on a law and wanted to establish king instead to rule over the land. Having a king had serious consequences throughout the land, most of which had to do with removing the freedoms the people had.

As the Lamanites began marching into the land for war, the king-men said they would teach the Nephites all a lesson and not fight against the Lamanites. At that point, the Captain of the Nephite army, Moroni, had a choice to make. March to fight off the Lamanites or take care of the problems of dissenters within his own land. He opted for the latter. His army defeated and "humbled" those dissenters that did not lose their lives in the process.

Because Moroni was forced to take so much time, resources, and energy to fight this battle with the king-men, the Lamanites had time to take over several of the fortified Nephite cities. If the king-men would have been unified with the rest of the army, this may not have happened.

What can we learn from this in our lives? Well, I'm reminded of a recent conference talk by President Eyring in which we spoke about having our hearts knit as one. (You can read the full talk HERE.)

Although we all live in different circumstances and have different opinions and beliefs, it is very important that we remain unified and forgiving. Satan wants us to be angry. He wants us to hate others for their beliefs and perspectives that differ from our own. God wants us to seek for understanding in others, not hate. He wants us to serve and help others, even (and maybe ESPECIALLY) those whose beliefs differ from our own. As we are seeking to understand each other and find common ground, we WILL become more unified. Our lives will improve as will the lives of those around us.

Weaknesses and Strengths

2008-12-07T09:40:00.000-08:00

War. War. War. The Lamanites seem intent upon it in order to conquer land they feel is rightfully theirs. Isn't it interesting what perspective and knowledge can give you as you read about the wars between the Nephites and Lamanites?

One central theme that seems to be reoccuring throughout the war chapters is that of preparation. When the Nephites were prepared for battle - both spiritually and temporally - they were able to win the battle. When they were not, they lost. One such example of this is in Alma chapter 48.

Nephite dissenters had gone over to join the Lamanite army. This meant that those dissenters knew about the Nephite army. They knew their strongholds in the land and their weaknesses as well. The Lamanites planned an attack based on this knowledge: "While Amalickiah had thus been obtaining power by fraud and deceit, Moroni on the other hand, had been preparing the minds of the people to be faithful unto the Lord their God." Moroni strengthened his army spiritually BEFORE he strengthened them physically. Additionally, he was aware of their places of weakness and he strengthened and fortified those places.

There is much that we can learn from this. Ether 12:27 says, "And if men come unto me I will show unto them their weakness... for if they humble themselves before me, and have faith in me, then will I make weak things become strong unto them."

Moroni was aware of his weaknesses. In humility, he desired to improve his weakness in order to save his people. For he was "a man whose heart did swell with thanksgiving to his God, for the many privileges and blessings which he bestowed upon his people; a man who did labor exceedingly for the welfare and safety of his people" (Alma 48:12). Moroni worked hard to serve and he always gave thanks unto God for the blessings he had been given, even in hard times.

We all have weaknesses. Satan is as much aware of our weaknesses as we are. In fact, he is probably MORE aware of them. He seeks on every hand to battle against us and attack our weak parts, knowing how to take us down. If we do not fortify ourselves and prepare ourselves accordingly, then we will not win the battle against him. We need to be aware of our weaknesses and ask Heavenly Father in faith to help us to improve them. Heavenly Father WILL guide us if he humbly ask him and if we truly desire to improve ourselves, always giving thanks for what we have been given.

Hopefully if we do so, we can be described like Moroni in Alma chapter 48 verse 17, which says,

"Yea, verily, verily I say unto you, if all men had been, and were, and ever would be like unto Moroni, behold, the very powers of hell would have been shaken forever; yeah, the devil would never have power over the hearts of the children of men."

Decisions & Consequences

2008-12-06T22:54:00.001-08:00

For the second time this week (the first being last Sunday), I've been confronted with the consequences of some decisions I made earlier this year. When I made the decisions, I knew there would be consequences. I felt bad for the decisions I made and wished I hadn't made them. Several times since then have I been reminded of said decisions and my regrets for having made them. However, it wasn't until this week that the full weight of my decisions hit me smack in the face. And I mean one of those stinging smacks that leaves a red mark and lingers. A smack so hard it hurt and immediately caused tears to well up in my eyes.

It happened so suddenly. I didn't expect in the middle of a conversation with a perfect stranger to be reminded of my negative choices and the fact that these choices are still hindering me now. I was reminded that although we may make a choice, we may NOT choose the consequence. There was a consequence assigned to that choice long before the choice was made. As Newton said, "To every action there is an opposite and equal reaction." Although Newton was talking about the Laws of Motion when he said that, I believe that also applies to our choices. There are consequences for our actions. Some call it karma. Others call it God's laws. No matter what you call it, we all must succumb to the consequences of the choices we make.

I apologize for being so cryptic. I'm purposely being ambiguous because I really don't want to delve into my decisions. I do, however, want to remind you to make sure you think about your decisions before you make them. I know that because of this experience, I will definitely be more careful and deliberate in the choices I make in my life.

If Ye Prepare, Ye Shall Not Fear

2008-12-01T22:57:00.000-08:00

As we look at the world around us, we can see that troubled times are happening both in and out of our country. For me, contemplating on these troubled times can cause me much anxiety! I know that many of the current events have been foretold in scripture and by revelation from latter-day prophets. The unknown in any of its forms can be unsettling. However, we can take comfort that if we're doing our best to prepare ourselves, we truly should have nothing to fear for the Lord will guide us and direct us.

I was led tonight to contemplate this as I read about the Nephite vs. Lamanite wars that started in Alma chapter 43. The Nephites were faithful in many ways. They knew who their prophet was and trusted in him and the revelations he received from the Lord. In addition to being faithful, they also TOOK ACTION. They did all they could to ensure that they could protect their families, homes, and religion. These Nephites did not just sit at home praying that everything would turn out okay. Nor did they allow the fear in their hearts to take over and keep them from improving themselves.

I'm sure it was NOT easy for them to know that they were severely outnumbered by Nephite-dissenters and Lamanites alike. It must have been incredibly unsettling to be in their situation! I can't even imagine knowing that people who were once your brothers now had an extreme loathing and hatred for you so much so that they wanted nothing more (and nothing less) than to kill you and your families and take your land and substance.

Rather than giving up in such discouraging circumstances, they prayed and went to work.

In a conference talk given by President Thomas S. Monson in April of 1989, he shared a story that gives us insight into this topic:

A mammoth 747 jetliner, while flying over the Pacific, sustained a gigantic tear in its side, ejecting nine passengers to their deaths and threatening the lives of all. When the pilot, Captain David Cronin, was interviewed, having brought the craft back safely to Honolulu, he was asked, “What did you do when the plane ripped open? How did you cope?”

Captain Cronin replied, “I prayed, then went to work.”

My brethren, this is an inspired plan for each of us to follow: Pray, and then go to work.

That is exactly what the Nephites did. They prayed and went to work. They prepared themselves as much as they could with breastplates and shields, armor and weapons of diffent kinds. And you know what? Their preparation frightened the enemy and helped them to win the battle. (Of course it also helped that they turned to their prophet, Alma, for guidance who was able to give them revelation from the Lord of how to win the war. Granted, if they hadn't been spiritually prepared, Alma wouldn't have been able to receive that revelation for the people.)

All of this reminds me of the scripture in Doctrine and Covenants 38:30, which says "If ye are prepared, ye shall not fear." (President Hinckley addressed the men in a priesthood conference talk so titled which you can find here.) I know that if we are doing our best to uphold God's laws and to keep His commandments, we will be both guided and blessed. Yes, we do live in troubled times as the Nephites did. Let us remain faithful in word and deed. Let us do our best to keep ourselves spiritually and temporally prepared for whatever the future holds.

Parenting & Father's Blessing

2008-11-26T07:39:00.000-08:00

As I'm reading through the chapters in Alma where Alma (the younger who is now old) is talking to each of his sons individually, I have realized something for maybe the first time. Alma may be giving father's blessings to his sons before they go on their missions.

After 20-something times of reading the Book of Mormon, it all of a sudden seemed clear to me that he may be blessing his sons before they part ways again. I don't know if I'm right/wrong or just plain making it up. What do you think?

If he IS giving his children father's blessings, he is a wonderful example to us of how to parent adult children. He is trying to be a support to his children through giving a father's blessing. He also wants to provide guidance and remind his children of the principles they've been taught since they were young. He provides examples of his personal experiences to help encourage his sons on the path of righteousness.

Sure, he is a little harsher and more long-winded with Corianton because of Corianton's life choices. You have to admire the fact that he is trying to understand Corianton, "And now, my son, I perceive there is somewhat more which doth worry your mind, which ye cannot understand..." (Alma 42:1). He is seeking to help a wayward son. It is evident that Alma is taking much more time with the wayward son who does not understand than he did with the other children. He loves all of his sons, but he sees the need to help this one who has fallen off the path. Maybe Alma understands Corianton so well because of Alma's own sinful history.

This suggests something to me: There are many ways to relate to our children. Not all children can or should be raised the same way. We should take time to follow the spirit to guide us how to raise each and every child.

No Time to Waste

2008-11-16T10:31:00.000-08:00

Life is short. And there is much to do during our mortal sojourn in order to better ourselves so we can feel prepared to see our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, again. I was just reading this morning in Teaching of the Presidents of the Church: Joseph Smith manual, the one that we’re studying this year in Relief Society and Priesthood. Chapter 21’s teaching focus on the second coming of the Lord and millennial reign of the Lord. After first when I was reading through it, I started feeling anxiety. Terrible things are going to happen to the earth and its inhabitants before the Lord comes again. That frightens me! It even mentions how even the righteous won’t be exempt from this. We are subject to the flesh just as any man, meaning we can get all manner or diseases or have any manner of afflictions happen to us. It’s scary!

However, as I continued reading, I felt a little more peace, but it still is scary to think about all that is going to happen to usher in the second coming of the Lord. We need to use our time wisely NOW for we don’t know when we will be called to action. Life is short. It could be over tomorrow or in 3,000 tomorrows. We don’t know when. But one thing is sure, it will be over at some point. And we don’t want to look back feeling as if we could have done more or should have done more to better ourselves and those around us. We don’t want to feel as if we weren’t prepared.

As I continued reading through the Joseph Smith manual, I prayed for peace about the frightening aspects of the second coming. Shortly afterwards, chapter 21 discussed wearing the Armor of God. I gained a lot of peace reading that section, because I know that I can and SHOULD be doing all I can now to be righteous and prepare for the future. That includes knowing what the signs of the times are. If I am not prepared, I won’t know what is coming. If I am prepared, I will have all tools necessary to do my best as a Latter-Day Saint of God to deal with what is thrown at me. I want to be able to stand without shame in front of Christ, knowing that I did all I could do to better myself and His kingdom. I need to be living that way now, starting this minute. There is no time to waste.

A Gospel of Positive Change

2008-11-11T17:49:00.000-08:00

Life is about change, both positive and negative. However, it is how we deal with the changes that come our way that defines us as a human being. Some changes are in our control and some changes are not. In times when he cannot control something that happens to us, is when our actions are the most telling of our character. After surviving years in a concentration camp, Viktor E. Frankl said in his book Man's Search for Meaning, "When we cannot change a situation, we are challenged to change ourselves."

I often refer to this quote and remind myself that the ONLY thing I have control over is myself. I am the only person I can change. I cannot change ANYONE else, no matter how hard I try. That is the power of the gospel plan: We are all given agency and cannot take agency away from those around us. They must choose and act for themselves as we choose and act for ourselves. We can and should, however, be a good example to those around us. The way we act can help influence others to change.

Alma chapters 24-25 is a prime example of this. It was not easy for these Lamanites to CHANGE their ways and accept the gospel. But once they did, they were converted. They knew that they'd do anything to keep themselves from committing those same sins again. In fact, they were so adamant about this, they buried their weapons so that they would never commit their sin (murder) again. They removed the temptation from their lives and buried it, signifying to themselves and to Heavenly Father of their positive change of heart. What would you and I bury to show Heavenly Father we want to turn our hearts to Him and away from our sinful natures? Here these people were, murderers and the vilest of sinners, but Heavenly Father forgave them and allowed them to repent. We would do good to learn from their examples.

Shortly after their conversion, their brethren, the Lamanites, came to fight against them. These converted Lamanites (now called Ant-Nephi-Lehis) did not take up arms to fight back, for they would rather DIE than to commit sin. (I wish I could do be at that point!) Because of their example of peace, of true repentance, and conversion, many of those fighting against them also decided to put down their weapons and be converted to the gospel.

This is why I love the gospel of Jesus Christ. Heavenly Father loves every single one of us so much. He wants us to return to Him. He has prepared a way for us to turn to Him through His son, Jesus Christ. We can choose to progress and change ourselves for the better. No matter what we've done, we CAN change, we can progress. And, through the process of our own repentance and conversion, we can be examples to those around of us strength.

I'm eternally grateful for this gospel of positive change. Thank goodness I have the power to take control of my life to improve. I know that only I can make the changes needed to progress towards my eternal goals.

A Change of Heart = True Conversion

2008-11-05T09:47:00.000-08:00

Whether you have been a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints your entire life, or whether you just became a member yesterday, each of us must go through a process of conversion in order to obtain a testimony.

While reading in Alma chapter 23 today about the conversion of the Lamanites by Alma and the sons of Mosiah, a verse stuck out to me that I'd like to share. Verse 5 says, "as many as the Lamanites as believed in their preaching, and were converted unto the Lord, never did fall away." The statement that the NEVER did fall away is a bold one. Many people in and out of our church have been converted to Christ. How many of those people have now fallen away from various Christian religions? How is it that some people can fall away from the teachings of Christ so easily while others persevere?

After considering this topic this morning, I know that there are a plethora of reasons why people fall away: family, disinterest in organized religion, the actions and choices of church members and leaders, disagreement on doctrine, to name a few. The list is seemingly endless. It's easy to give up one something rather than to try and understand it and to work through our faith. I think that we can all learn something from the Lamanites turned Christian. They had a true conversion, which I'm sure included prayer, searching, and seeking the confirmation of the Spirit to know that the teachings were true. I KNOW that their conversion included faith and withstanding trials. Do you think it was easy for them to make a choice to be put to death rather than to sin again? I don't think it was easy at all. But, they would rather DIE than to make their same mistakes again.

I want to learn from their example. I want to make sure that when I ask Heavenly Father for forgiveness that I also ask to have a true change of heart and courage to remain faithful even during times when it may not be easy so to do.

Seeking for Understanding Breaks Down Walls

2008-10-29T09:33:00.000-07:00

Alma, the younger did not live a perfect life. In fact, he was one of the vilest of sinners before he found God. In his younger years, he and his friends purposefully tried to lead people away from the Church of Christ. It took an angel to wake him up to God's reality and to how Alma had been wasting away his life.

This tells me a few things about God and a few things about Alma. First of all, it shows to me the power of God's love. Heavenly Father loves us so much. Even when we are making foul choices, He still wants to help us. He still cares for us and wants to provide us with His spirit. He knows it's not too late for us to change and improve ourselves. It's lake Elder Uchtdorf's talk "The Point of Safe Return." There is no point of no return. God anxiously awaits the day He can have us in His arms. He longs to comfort us and to be there for us, but we must open the door and turn to Him. We can repent, we can change, we can improve. We have to make the choice so to do. Alma is proof of these statements.

I truly feel that Alma is a better missionary and friend because of his harried past. He is a good missionary because he has experienced sin. He understands what it takes to repent and change, and because of that, he is not judgmental. Because of his experience, he didn't judge Zeezrom. Instead, he saw Zeerom's potential of gospel growth and taught him the gospel. Zeezrom then became a missionary himself. We can all learn a lesson from this story.

Now, I am by no means encouraging sinning in order to understand those around us. We will sin whether or not we try. I am, however, encouraging all of us to be better at understanding those around us. It feels good to be understood and loved. It feels good to know that you are not being judged by those around you. As we strive to truly understand our family, friends, spouses, neighbors, coworkers, we will know better how to serve and love them. Our lives will be happier and less contentious as will the lives of those around us. Seeking for TRUE understanding can break down walls and build bridges.

Trusting in Church Leaders

2008-10-29T09:11:00.000-07:00

As I was reading in Alma 14 a few days ago, I had a thought come to me that I'd like to share. Sometimes it can be difficult to trust in church leadership. You may not agree with a bishop on the way things are run or don't think he is qualified enough. There are many reasons why it can be hard to trust in God's choice for the callings chosen in a ward, stake, or even in general callings. But, Heavenly Father puts people into those callings for a reason. It may be for those people to grow, and it may be for those around them to grow (or hopefully both!). When we raise our hand in church on Sunday to sustain someone, we are agreeing that we will support this person and trust in his/her leadership role in our ward.

Now on to Alma and my thought: Alma and Amulek had been preaching in Ammonihah like they had been inspired to do. It didn't seem like they were making a dent in the people there. After much effort and preaching, they were thrown into prison by many unbelievers. Additionally, those who actually had believed on Alma and Amulek's words, were being martyred for their faith. Alma and Amulek were forced to watch those they had taught be burned at the stake. They were taunted and goaded about their beliefs. As they stood there witnessing this horrorific death of men, women, and children, Amulek asked Alma if they could stretch forth their hands and exercise the power of God to save the people from the flames. But, Alma replied that the spirit kept him from doing that and he went on to explain why. Don't you think it was hard for Amulek to continue standing by his church leader as he watched those people calling out gut-wrenching, agonizing screams? I do. I think it definitely would have been hard to continue listening to Alma, even if he said he was doing it because of the spirit. But, Amulek listened nonetheless and he did so in faith knowing that Alma was a leader of Christ's church.

If Amulek could listen in such a troubling situation, don't you think that you and I can learn from his example? Sometimes we may not always understand why church leaders do certain things, but the beautiful thing is that we ALL have access to personal revelation. We can ask Heavenly Father to allow us His peace of mind, if it be His will. We can ask Heavenly Father to know that these leaders have been called of Him and take comfort knowing they are guided by our Father in Heaven.

(Of course, there may be exceptions to this, but in general, we should trust and sustain our church leaders in their callings.)

Listening to Spiritual Impressions

2008-10-21T08:34:00.000-07:00

The Lord speaks to those who are prepared to hear Him. He does it through His Holy Spirit. Generally, His voice is quiet and peaceful, and if we don't turn down the noise of everyday life, we might miss out on beautiful guidance and blessings in our lives.

How many times have you or I missed inspiration from the Spirit? How many times have we heard and not obeyed? I have an example of just such an experience.

A few year ago, one of my close friends (and boyfriend at the time) had been praying and fasting about a particular topic. He was seeking an answer that he wasn't willing to listen to. After fasting on one Sunday in July, he felt received a VERY distinct answer to his searching. However, rather than heed the answer he KNEW he had received, instead he disobeyed and went down a path of his own choosing. The Spirit was trying to lead him out of temptations' way. Because he didn't listen, he ended up in some very bad situations which took him some time to recover from spirtually and otherwise. Additionally, he told me during this time that he knew the Spirit was not speaking to him, not only because he rejected a clear answer he got, but also because of choices he made due to the rejected answer. His choice affected not only his life, but my life and others' lives as well.

Thank goodness there are also many positive situations in which the reverse is true. Reading in Alma this morning, just such a situation was brought to my attention. In Alma chapter 8 Alma, the younger, goes to Ammonihah to preach the Gospel of Jesus Christ to the people. He is rejected and leaves the city. On his way out, an angel of the Lord came to him (the same one who had come to him when he was leading people away from the church)to tell him to go back to Ammonihah and to preach there. Now, this was a much more OBVIOUS way of Jesus Christ to speak with him. We most likely won't have an angel come to us and tell us what we are to do. But, Alma listened, even though he didn't know what the outcome would be. He listened to what he was told and, more importantly, did it. He took action. Because of his faith and action, Heavenly Father blessed Alma with everything he would need in order to convert many people to the gospel of Jesus Christ. He affected many lives positively and converted and baptized many people as well.

Are we listening? Are we willing to be an instrument in the Lord's hand, no matter the cost? The many things we are called to do may not be easy, but, through faith, Heavenly Father will always provide a way for us to accomplish His commandments. Our Father in Heaven loves and is aware of you and of me. I know that as we act in faith to follow His Spirit, we will be guided and blessed beyond anything we can imagine. I have seen this power many times in my life. I'm grateful for it.

Kingly Selflessness

2008-10-13T08:19:00.001-07:00

King Mosiah was a righteous king. He worked the land with his own hands to provide sustenance for himself and for his family. Through his position as king, he did not seek power or gain. He was not puffed up in pride. He had a firm testimony of Jesus Christ and his faithful prayers (coupled with Alma's) enabled an angel to appear to his sons. He was a good man.

As King Mosiah neared the end of his life, he realized it was time to prepare and choose a new king. Because of his sons' conversion to the gospel, they all would rather serve missions than to be king. King Mosiah is left with a dilemma. I am awed with how he handles this dilemma.

Mosiah recognizes the potential problems in this situation: If he chooses someone outside of his family, his sons could potentially come back someday to steal the kingdom from the other king, trying to rightly claim the throne. Additionally, he sees that maybe having a king isn't such a good idea after all. One person ruling the entire nation means that the nation could fall prey to a wicked king, like they did in the past. Mosiah decides to stop potential sin before it even starts. He decides to implement a system of judges after having the people vote on it. He truly was a wise, selfless king who thought only for the good of the people and not for himself. He was going to die anyway and wouldn't see what would happen during the reign of the next king, but he loved his people enough to set up a system that would hopefully work for, not against, them.

I see the need to learn from Mosiah's wise counsel. Mosiah stopped sin before it even started. He learned from his own and others' past mistakes and chose a different path. He recognized a potential problem and sought to keep a way from it ever happening.

I know that there have been times in my life where I knew a problem was likely to arise if I put myself in a situation. Yet, I went into that situation anyway. And the problems did arise. And I had to deal with them! How much better would our lives be if we listen to the spirit, if we kept ourselves out of potentially sinful situations. It is better to avoid temptation and sin altogether than to put ourselves in a situation where we know we might sin.

Writing Blesses Others

2008-10-06T09:08:00.000-07:00

As I was reading in Mosiah last night about how Alma and his followers make it back to Zarahemla. Mosiah shared with the people the records that Alma had kept from the time he left Zarahemla until the time he returned (this record included many hardships, including being in bondage to the Lamanites and then miraculously escaping from the Lamanites). As Mosiah read these records to the people, this was their response:

"And now, when Mosiah had made an end of reading the records, his peole were struck with wonder and amazement. For they knew not what to think... when they thought of the immediate goodness of God, and his power in delivering Alma and his brethren out of the hands of the Lamanites and of bondage, they did raise their voices and give thanks to God." Mosiah 25: 7-10

Keeping those records and sharing them at an appropriate time increased everyone's faith and testimony. It is important to remember that those records weren't perfect and Alma did not only share positive experiences, but especially negative ones. Those hardships provided faith-building experiences that Alma couldn't have received otherwise.

What does this tell us about our own lives and experiences? We have been asked many times to keep journals in one form or another. Journaling doesn't necessarily mean for us to detail our entire day or to share only positive experiences. It means that we share faith-building experiences that may lift up ourselves as well as others.

Elder Eyring shared a talk about finding ways to remember God's kindness in our lives in the October 2007 general conference. He said that he writes in a journal everyday. A few years ago, he gave copies of that book to his children. It has helped them to come closer to the Lord and to know of Elder Eyrings testimony. May we also be able to do this for ourselves and our posterity. I know that as we recognize the Lord's hand in our lives, we will be more grateful and will be more positive. Others will see and benefit from this positive action in our lives.

Enjoying General Conference

2008-10-04T15:43:00.001-07:00

As I was listening to the General Conference of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints today, I was overwhelmed with the love I feel towards the God who has provided us with His wonderful church. I know that this church is true. I know that those prophets, apostles, and general authority that bore testimony today did so out of love and gratitude for the same gift I have. They are God's leaders He has chosen for His church during this time.

I've waited for weeks to hear their words. I'm so glad for the uplifting messages I've been able to hear. I'm grateful for the answers to prayers that God has provided for me. I know that I will live a better, happier life if I abide by the principles set out in today's conference session. If you didn't get to hear conference today, you can do so here.

I enjoyed all of the talks today. Here are a few that stood out to me. First, President Monson. I know that he is a prophet. I loved the fact that he introduced conference today by speaking first in the morning session. He loves us, he wants the best for us, he is praying for us. He is God's prophet on the earth today. I'm so thankful for that knowledge.

Secondly, I appreciated the openness and candor of the real-life experiences from Elder Joseph Wirthlin's life shared during his talk. I truly want to abide by the principles of when the going gets tough, just laugh! I've been thinking about that concept lately and it was something I really needed to hear.

The next talk that comes to mind is Lawrence Coburn (can't quite remember the last name) whose knowledge and use of the scriptures in his talk astounded me. He obviously studies the scriptures and used them to support his testimony througout his entire talk. I loved his fervor and ZEAL for the gospel and for the redeeming power of our Savior, Jesus Christ. His passion for Jesus Christ was evident in every word he spoke. I only hope that I can live my life closer to Jesus Christ as a result of his talk.

And last, but certainly not least, I loved Elder Bednar's talk.

Elder Bednar has meant so much to me over the past eight and a half years. He is the reason I went to BYU-Idaho (long story that involves meeting him and me telling him I was going to BYU not RICKS COLLEGE). I have spoken and met with him in various capacities over the years through leadership at BYU-Idaho, because of my exceptional academic standing, as well as during MANY FHE meetings throughout my time there. I love his testimony. I love when he speaks. I have learned so much from him during devotional talks and meetings over the years. Before he was called to be an apostle, I had a spiritual prompting that he was going to be called and I was fortunate enough to actually be 20 feet away in the conference center when he was announced as an apostle. I feel very fortunate to have had these experiences and this witness that he is an apostle chosen by God to serve us during this time.

His talk today about prayer was presented in a unique way. God prepared the world spiritually before he created it physically. Elder Bednar likened this idea to us, saying that we, too, need to prepare ourselves spiritually before we can go out and create our day. I loved that principle. It shows us that even God prepared and took time to research and think every aspect out! (Boy, am I grateful! If he didn't work out the kinks spiritually before he created us physicaly, some of us could have 3 eyes and 4 noses.) It is important for us to remember this principle and that even God did his homework. How much more must we take time to prepare spiritually for what lies ahead of us!

Additionally, Elder Bednar talked about connecting our prayers from morning to night. Make them meaningful and show our gratitude. These are basic principles, but presented in a new light brought this epiphany to my soul. I know that when I am close to my Heavenly Father through prayer and love, I am happier and kinder towards those around me. I'm so grateful for this knowledge and opportunity I have to improve myself and my life!

Misunderstandings Create Conflict

2008-09-30T08:43:00.000-07:00

Many of us have been a part of a misunderstanding. Whether you're the person being misunderstood, or you're misunderstanding someone else, it can be frustrating! The key to quickly resolving misunderstandings in order to abstain from further conflict is to effectively communicate. That ambiguous word: communicate. Discuss the problem in a kind way so that everyone feels valued. If misunderstandings are not cleared up, it can lead to major problems in a relationship or otherwise.

No one likes to be misunderstood, especially the potential wrath that may be associated with negative misinterpretations or misunderstandings. Just such an example occurs in Mosiah, chapter 20.

After the death (by fire) of his wicked father, King Noah, King Limhi takes control of the land. He is more wise than his father and more obedient to God's commandments. In order to preserve the lives and land of his people, he has entered into a contract with the Lamanites to give up 50% of their increase. That's a lot, but hey, it saved the people's lives after his father's big mistakes.

Things are going fine and dandy for King Limhi until he sees the Lamanites busting into his land to war. Not understanding why the Lamanites were breaking their contract, he immediately gathers his army and fights off the Lamanites. It isn't until the Lamanite king is brought to him that King Limhi begins understanding what went wrong. Thanks to Gideon, King Limhi is able to clarify what really happened to the Lamanite daughters and the war ends (for now).

You see, wicked King Noah had some wicked priests. These wicked, COWARDLY priests left their wives and children when the Lamanites had invaded and killed King Noah. These wicked priests left to save their own skins. Consequently, they felt pretty sheepish for so doing and didn't feel like they could come back to the people of Limhi. Enter dancing Lamanite daughters deep in the woods... the wicked priests catch sight of the daughters, capture 24 of them, and voila! A war starts among the Lamanites and the people of Limhi because the Lamanites ASSUME it was the people of Limhi that took the daughters.

The moral of the story is that the war wouldn't have started had the Lamanites actually peacefully come to the people of Limhi to find out what had happened. Because the king of the Lamanites acted out of anger, rather than trying to gain understanding, a war ensued and many people lost their lives (the king of the Lamanites ALMOST being one of them). It is better to try to understand a situation rather than making assumptions about it. Take time to ask before you assume. You might be able to stave off your own proverbial war.

Peer Pressure in The Book of Mormon

2008-09-28T11:09:00.000-07:00

As I'm reading through The Book of Mormon, I find many instances of peer pressure. Whether it's with Laman and Lemuel and the children of Ishmael or if it's with King Noah and his priests, pressure to act as (or because) others do is ever present.

While I've recently been reading through the middle of Mosiah, I have come upon the chapters with Abinidi. Abinidi was a great prophet in The Book of Mormon. He was not afraid of the gospel of Christ. He stood firm in his faith to the end of his life. He acted on what the spirit told him to do. He lived a righteous life. Abinidi was a great example of the type of person we should strive to become. His life most definitely was NOT easy. Do you think it was easy to know that he most likely was going to be killed for trying to do what was right? I don't. It's not easy for us in our lives either. There are temptations on every side trying to get us to leave a Heavenly Father and Savior that we love. We must stand strong and firm in our beliefs, no matter how hard the temptations may be.

An aside here... This reminds me of The Screwtape Letters by C.S. Lewis. C.S. Lewis was a fantastic author and Christian. If you haven't read this book, I would suggest so doing. It truly opened my eyes to see how much Satan is trying to tempt us and in what small and simple ways.

I see many of these same principles in The Book of Mormon. After Abinidi told wicked King Noah and his priests that he could not touch him without being killed, they believed him and left hime alone. At this point, Abinidi expounded unto them the basic principles of the gospel. He let them know how they should and could change their lives from lives of selfishness and idolatry to lives of happiness and righteousness. For better or worse, King Noah and his priests listened to what Abinidi had to say.

Once Abinidi was finished, they bound him and cast him into prison. After three days, they told him that he would be put to death for saying that God was going to come on the earth. (Apparently, they didn't believe in freedom of speech or freedom of religion at the time... unless, of course, it benefited themselves.) Abinidi would not back down. He would not recant what he had said, all along knowing in his heart this would most likely mean death.

Now, I know that King Noah was a wicked man. But, I truly believe that he wanted to allow Abinidi to live. This is evidenced in verse 11 in Chapter 17: "And now King Noah was about to release him, for he feared the judgments of God would come upon him." He believed what Abinidi had said, even if he chose not to act on it. He believed it and feared it so much so that he was willing to release Abinidi. Here's where the peer pressure comes in...

"But the priests lifted up their voices against him, and began to accuse him, saying: He has reviled the king. Therefore the king was stirred up in anger against him, and he delivered him up that he might be slain. And it came to pass that they took him and bound him, and scourged his skin with faggots, yea, even unto death." (verses 11-12)

Misery loves company and King Noah has it in spades with his priests. He allowed his priests to make up his mind for him. Was he trying to please God or man? The answer is obvious.

But, I ask myself... am I trying to please God or man? What is the purpose in my actions? Do I let myself get talked into believing or doing something I know is contrary to the gospel because the media or my friend says so? We must watch ourselves, our thoughts, our actions, and our deeds always. (see Mosiah 4:30) We must be cognizant of those inconspicuous, conniving, duplicitous temptations that Satan plants into our minds... be mindful in order to throw them out.

Learning from King Benjamin's Leadership

2008-09-14T08:47:00.000-07:00

As I was reading in Mosiah 2 today, I just felt really strongly that King Benjamin is a fine example of a leader. If only we could have such a leader in charge of our country! King Benjamin worked FOR his people. He served them all the days of his life. He did not become king because was not seeking power. He became king because he was called to that position and did not shirk his responsibility. And as king, he did not allow people to "plunder or murder." King Benjamin did not expect others to pay him an exorbitant amount of money in order to be there leader. He served them because he KNEW the principle that if you're in the service of your fellow beings, you are in the service of your God (Mosiah 2:17). Not only did he know this, but he lived it and taught through his words and example. What an amazing man!

In his farewell speech to his people (beginning in chapter 2), there are two parts that always stands out to me. First off, I love how he encourages us to have gratitude towards our Heavenly Father who gave us everything and without whom we are nothing. It is such a SIMPLE principle, yet often overlooked in our daily lives. Last week, I taught gospel doctrine. The topic was the "Pride Cycle" as found in The Book of Mormon. Our class came to the consensus that it is only through recognizing God's hand in our lives that we are able to get out of the pride cycle. King Benjamin taught his people this early on. Sadly, many of them missed the boat on that principle in later years and suffered accordingly.

(Nobility of work is portrayed as Book of Mormon's King Benjamin labors to support himself. Photo by Nestor Curbelo.)

Another principle King Benjamin taught is that of simplicity. He makes the gospel incredibly simple for all: Keep the commandments and God will bless you. It's as simple as that! The commandments include loving one another (service), loving God (gratitude), and many other actions that we should be taking or abstaining from to keep the spirit in our lives. Truly, if we follow the commandments to a tee, will have a clear conscience, just like King Benjamin. If we don't, we may be among those who suffer. I know that I'm not perfect at keeping the commandments, but I know that when I'm striving to do my best, Heavenly Father blesses me immensely. My life may not goes as I want it to go, but I see that everthing that has happened has blessed me greater than I could have imagined MY WAY.

Coming to Testimony like Enos

2008-09-10T16:58:00.002-07:00

As I was reading Enos today, a few parts of it really struck me.

Enos 1:3 reads, "...the words which I had often heard my father speak concerning eternal life, and the joy of the saints, sunk deep into my heart."

After enough says this, he kneels down to pray and ask forgiveness for his sins all day long and receives a remission of his sins as well as hears the voice of God. There are many valuable lessons contained in only this part of the story. First off, I truly believe that this is how many of us start to have a solid testimony of the gospel of Jesus Christ. Even if we live our whole lives with a knowledge of the gospel, like Enos--who remembered the words of his father, but clearly did not believe them for himself before this time--we must also pray to gain our own testimony. We may be praying about a specific part of the gospel we want to understand better, or we may be praying in general to gain our own testimony of the gospel of Jesus Christ. Whatever it may be, we come to a real testimony in the same away: by exhibiting faith and then acting upon it.

All of this reminds me of a talk Elder Bednar gave when he was president of BYU-Idaho. He spoke on how vital it is for us to work everyday to keep our testimonies. If we don't continue to act on it, if we don't pray for guidance and strength from our Heavenly Father, if we don't recognize in humble gratitude those things that Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ have provided in our lives, then we will surely lose our testimonies over time. A testimony is like a fire. You must continue to feed a fire or else it will burn out.

All in all, I love Enos for his faith, diligence, and love of his fellow men (even his "enemies," the Lamanites). He exhibits such great faith that his will comes in line with the Lord's will, as in when he wishes for the scriptures to be preserved, which was clearly Heavenly Father's plan from the beginning. I know that if we, too, exhibit faith, Heavenly Father will guide our paths and provide us with our own strength.

Learning to Learn

2008-08-31T12:23:00.000-07:00

As I was reading in The Book of Mormon this morning, I just had this overwhelming feeling of love for this book. I know that it is true. I am so grateful for its contents. I was reading a few of my favorite chapters this morning at the end of 2 Nephi (specifically chapter 29 to the end of 31). A few of the verses scattered throughout these chapters have really helped me to answer a question that’s been on my mind this last week.

As I’m preparing for school, I’ve become overwhelmed with the thought of how much improvement I need to make in my life. Not only professionally, but religiously and exercise-ishly as well. Sometimes I want to take on too much at one time and want to know everything and be perfect at EVERYTHING as well. That is just not how life works. And thinking that way severely overwhelms me to the point of not knowing where to start and THUS not starting anything! It’s really frustrating.

Like I said, I’ve been thinking about how to study better and how exactly to go about improving myself. The following are a few verses I read this morning that I felt helped me to see that learning comes little by little.

2 Nephi 28:30 “For behold, thus saith the Lord God: I will give unto the children of men line upon line, precept upon precept, here a little and there a little; and blessed are those who hearken unto my precepts, and lend an ear unto my counsel, for they shall learn wisdom; for unto him that receiveth I will give more; and from them that say, We have enough, from them shall be taken away even that which they have.”

This scriptures reminds me that if I am desiring to learn and striving to learn, I will learn. I most likely will not gain knowledge all at once, but I will gain knowledge little by little. We can’t possibly learn everything all at once. Our brains would explode and we wouldn’t know how to comprehend it. As a teacher, I KNOW that learning happens when you build upon previous knowledge slowly but surely. I need to apply this to my life. Additionally, I need to remember to prioritize my life so that Heavenly Father is first!

Another scripture I feel relates to this same idea is in 2 Nephi 31:3 – “For my soul delighteth in plainness; for after this manner doth the Lord God work among the children of men. For the Lord God giveth light unto men according to their language, unto their understanding.”

I truly take comfort in the fact that Heavenly Father knows how I learn. He knows me and he provides learning opportunities for me in SIMPLE ways according to my understanding and knowledge. WOW! That is such a powerful concept. Heavenly Father truly is a master teacher, because he uses the ultimate guidelines to teach us in SIMPLE ways. He delights in plainness. He is NOT out to confuse us or taunt us with vast knowledge we cannot understand. However, he will provide ways for us to improve so that we can attain that vast knowledge over time and according to the style in which we learn best. Thank you Heavenly Father!

While all of this didn’t answer my question directly, I do feel like I need to make my learning more focused and more consistent. If I don’t act like learning is a priority in my life, it won’t be! I need to delineate time for learning, both secularly and spiritually, in order to improve my life.

Attitudes of Gratitude

2008-08-17T23:15:00.001-07:00

I was thinking today how grateful I am to be a part of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. No matter what happens during my week, every Sunday I look forward to attending church. I love Sundays! I love how I get time to be at peace with myself and my life. I get time to forget about the pressing demands of the world and to focus on my Savior. I have time on Sunday to reevaluate my life in order to improve for the coming week. Sunday is such a great day to fill my spiritual reservoir, to remind me of what life’s all about, and to just help me to chill out. Today, thankfully, was no different.

Lately, life has been a little stressful with preparing for an entirely new teaching position as well as getting ready for my little sister’s wedding this week. Needless to say, tensions have been high around my house! It was such a relief to be able to go to church with my family and just enjoy feeling of Heavenly Father’s spirit. I actually went to church twice: once with my family and then once with my boyfriend to our normal church congregation. I feel like I gained MUCH needed spiritual insight today. I had been praying in my heart all week about ways to overcome some current issues. I felt like I received answers to those prayers today at church. I am incredibly blessed to be able to attend our church and feel of God’s love and peace for me. Additionally, I know that attending church also helps Evan to search for ways to improve himself as well. All in all, I want to say that I know that our church is true. There are many Christian denominations that have SO much truth, wisdom, and love… they’re just missing a few key pieces. I’m thankful for the knowledge I have that Jesus Christ is my Savior and Redeemer. I’m thankful for a God that blesses me in ways I cannot foretell nor imagine. I know that it is through His Spirit that I am able to gain a testimony of these truths.

Lift and Be Lifted

2008-07-31T15:38:00.000-07:00

We cannot expect to lift others unless we stand on higher ground ourselves.
— Gordon B. Hinckley

Recently, I’ve been reading my Book of Mormon in German so that I can keep up on my German for my upcoming teaching job.

As I was reading it this afternoon, somehow the wording of the language helped me to see Lehi’s dream of the tree of life a little differently. Lehi first describes himself as walking up to the tree of life and eating the fruit. Next, he notices his family (with the exception of Laman and Lemuel) and he describes them as not knowing where they should go. After having experienced the joy felt from partaking worthily of the fruit, he sees them and beckons to them to come and partake also. He guides them to the iron rod and helps them to get to the tree of life.

For some reason this really hit me today because it’s so analogous to our lives. We’re all on our own journeys through life, yet we sometimes aren’t sure of the way. Fortunately, we are blessed with family, friends, and religious leaders who can sometimes see more clearly than we do.

Similarly, we also can provide that guidance for others as well. Once you’ve tasted of the fruit of the gospel of Jesus Christ, you want to help others to feel that same joy as well.

It just reminded me of how we need to guide and support others through life, just as we need to be humble enough to accept that same assistance in return.

Pride is NOT a Virtue

2008-07-21T16:35:00.001-07:00

I’d like to think of myself as a non-judgmental person, humble person. Before yesterday, I had never considered myself to be self-righteous or preachy. However, if it quacks like a duck, flies like a duck, and–heaven forbid–looks like a duck, you probably wouldn’t call it a cow. I am a duck.

This is how the story goes. Yesterday I was minding my business studying my scriptures in German before church when I decided to go downstairs and see what the fam was up to. On my way down, I encountered my sister’s children playing games and feeding their pets on a kids’ online site called Webkinz. A Sunday rule for the kids is no internet usage. I reminded them of this rule and prompted them to come downstairs and play games with me instead. They conceded. Now, this situation did not bother me.

What bothered me was what happened when I was on my way downstairs. I saw the kids’ parents both on the internet. I know this isn’t a big deal, but for some reason it just really bothered me that I was trying to help them keep their rule, while they were not even keeping it themselves. Can anyone say double standard? Needless to say, I was irritated. However, rather than being tactful, I judged them and said it aloud. I was angry and I wanted them to “keep the Sabbath daily holy” in the way I thought they should.

It wasn’t until later, after getting frustrated with my boyfriend for the same thing, that I realized I have become what I’ve always hated. I had been self-righteous and acting out of pride. Sure, I think that I’m right. I think it’s more important to spend the day worshipping Heavenly Father in a way other than perusing the internet. But, that’s what I think. That only applies to me. I do not wish to take away anyone’s right to choice, but that’s how I was acting yesterday.

As Evan and I were driving to church and the true nature of how I had been acting came to my mind, I was shamed for the pride I had shown. How dare I think that I’m better than someone else because of a mundane and immaterial choice in Sabbath day pursuits?

Needless to say, I now see that I must be on my guard at all times in order to beware of pride in all of its forms. I am not better than those of the Nephites and the Lamanites who were prideful. Pride led to their downfall time and again. I do not wish for this same occurrence in my life.

I know I am not better than anyone else. I have much to learn about life and the ways being kind and humble.

Reading 1 Nephi 17

2008-07-10T10:21:00.000-07:00

Today I read in 1 Nephi 17. I had a few thoughts about this chapter as I was reading it. First off, the faith of Nephi is amazing! When Heavenly Father commands it, he does it without question. Because of his knowledge of the scriptures, he takes faith in Moses and others. He knows the scriptures and has applied them to himself. I know that Nephi isn’t perfect, but his faith is a perfect pattern for us to follow.

On the flipside, Laman and Lemuel are “swift to do iniquity but slow to remember the Lord” (1 Nephi 17:45). They are incredibly prideful. They can’t listen to their younger brother based on the principle that he is younger than they are. Rather than listen humbly when he rebukes them, they instead become severely angry to point of wanting to kill him. Don’t they realize at this point that without Nephi, they can’t get anywhere? Don’t they see that they most likely couldn’t make it back to Jerusalem if they tried? I don’t know why they continue to defy the Lord and His commandments. It’s probably the ease of the way. For them, it’s MUCH easier to just do what comes naturally rather than to love and help and support. Faith is hard, and they are not willing to pay the price to continue their faith. Sadly, they allow Satan to rule their lives rather than making a choice for themselves.

All of this truly makes me wonder how I would respond if I were in this situation. Would I give up? Would I believe that the Lord had told Nephi to build a ship in order to cross the ocean? It would be fairly hard to believe. But, hopefully, I would have faith enough or the sense enough to pray—as Nephi did—to ask Heavenly Father the truth of what was said.

Reading 1 Nephi 15:26-17:1

2008-07-09T10:20:00.000-07:00

Today I read in 1 Nephi 15:26-17:1. As I was reading through, I was impressed by the fact that Laman and Lemuel humbled themselves and repented several times throughout the chapter. This made me realize that the real difference between Laman and Lemuel and Nephi is the fact that they gave up and succumbed to having a bad attitude. They did not choose to endure to the end. Even as I was reading through, I also noticed that Laman and Lemuel were not without knowledge. They had the same knowledge and opportunities as Nephi did. However, they CHOSE to go against that knowledge. They were lazy, had a bad attitude, and did not continue to endure to the end. It takes a lot to make it through this life and stay true to the gospel of Jesus Christ! They had what it took to do it, they just didn’t want it badly enough. Thus, they succumbed to the temptations of Satan rather than choose the harder, better path.

What this helps me to realize in my life is that I also make mistakes. It’s important to see that learning is life-long. Just because one humbles his or herself once, does not mean that is enough. Constantly we need to be learning from the situations in which Heavenly Father puts us. I want to be like Nephi. I want to stay strong. I want to repent of my mistakes and change them to improve myself and those around me. I want to have a positive outlook in the face of adversity.