Daily Thoughts

In the Old Testament we read that Eli's own sons were wicked, but the child Samuel ministered before the Lord. His parents would come visit him every year and his mother would bring little coats for him. Eli blessed Hannah and her husband Elkanah and they were able to have three more sons and two daughters. They were greatly blessed for lending their firstborn son to the Lord. When we sacrifice for the Lord, we too are blssed, sometimes beyond what we could have imagined. 1 Sam. 2: 12, 17-21 "Now the sons of Eli were sons of Belial; they knew not the Lord. Wherefore the sin of the young men was very great before the Lord: for men abhorred the offering of the Lord. But Samuel ministered before the Lord, being a child, girded with a linen ephod. Moreover his mother made him a little coat, and brought it to him from year to year, when she came up with her husband to offer the yearly sacrifice. And Eli blessed Elkanah and his wife, and said, The Lord give thee seed of this woman for the loan which is lent to the Lord. And they went unto their own home. And the Lord visited Hannah, so that she conceived, and bare three sons and two daughters. And the child Samuel grew before the Lord."

In the Book of Mormon I read about the great wickedness of the people and how after Alma and Amulek testified plainly unto them about their need for repentance, the majority of them reacted by becoming angry and wanting to destroy the messengers. They lied and twisted the words they had heard. Then they took the people who did believe and burned them, along with the scriptures, in front of Alma and Amulek who had to watch this awful scene. But they did not burn Alma and Amulek because their work was not yet finished. Alma 14: 1-13 "And it came to pass after he had made an end of speaking unto the people many of them did believe on his words, and began to repent, and to search the scriptures. But the more part of them were desirous that they might destroy Alma and Amulek; for they were angry with Alma, because of the plainness of his words unto Zeezrom; and they also said that Amulek had lied unto them, and had reviled against their law and also against their lawyers and judges. And they were also angry with Alma and Amulek; and because they had testified so plainly against their wickedness, they sought to put them away privily. But it came to pass that they did not; but they took them and bound them with strong cords, and took them before the chief judge of the land. And the people went forth and witnessed against them—testifying that they had reviled against the law, and their lawyers and judges of the land, and also of all the people that were in the land; and also testified that there was but one God, and that he should send his Son among the people, but he should not save them; and many such things did the people testify against Alma and Amulek. Now this was done before the chief judge of the land. And it came to pass that Zeezrom was astonished at the words which had been spoken; and he also knew concerning the blindness of the minds, which he had caused among the people by his lying words; and his soul began to be harrowed up under a consciousness of his own guilt; yea, he began to be encircled about by the pains of hell. And it came to pass that he began to cry unto the people, saying: Behold, I am guilty , and these men are spotless before God. And he began to plead for them from that time forth; but they reviled him, saying: Art thou also possessed with the devil? And they spit upon him, and cast him out from among them, and also all those who believed in the words which had been spoken by Alma and Amulek; and they cast them out, and sent men to cast stones at them. And they brought their wives and children together, and whosoever believed or had been taught to believe in the word of God they caused that they should be cast into the fire; and they also brought forth their records which contained the holy scriptures, and cast them into the fire also, that they might be burned and destroyed by fire. And it came to pass that they took Alma and Amulek, and carried them forth to the place of martyrdom, that they might witness the destruction of those who were consumed by fire. And when Amulek saw the pains of the women and children who were consuming in the fire, he also was pained; and he said unto Alma: How can we witness this awful scene? Therefore let us stretch forth our hands, and exercise the power of God which is in us, and save them from the flames. But Alma said unto him: The Spirit constraineth me that I must not stretch forth mine hand; for behold the Lord receiveth them up unto himself, in glory ; and he doth suffer that they may do this thing, or that the people may do this thing unto them, according to the hardness of their hearts, that the judgments which he shall exercise upon them in his wrath may be just; and the blood of the innocent shall stand as a witness against them, yea, and cry mightily against them at the last day. Now Amulek said unto Alma: Behold, perhaps they will burn us also. And Alma said: Be it according to the will of the Lord. But, behold, our work is not finished; therefore they burn us not."

Some verses with a thought booklet tell us that the Lord truly knows and understands us. There is nothing we can say or do or even think that He is not aware of. And we cannot hide from Him. Anyplace we go, He will find us. Even the darkness shines as daylight to the Lord. Ps. 139: 1-12 "O Lord, thou hast searched me, and known me. Thou knowest my downsitting and mine uprising, thou understandest my thought afar off. Thou compassest my path and my lying down, and art acquainted with all my ways. For there is not a word in my tongue, but, lo, O Lord, thou knowest it altogether. Thou hast beset me behind and before, and laid thine hand upon me. Such knowledge is too wonderful for me; it is high, I cannot attain unto it. Whither shall I go from thy spirit? or whither shall I flee from thy presence? If I ascend up into heaven, thou art there: if I make my bed in hell, behold, thou art there. If I take the wings of the morning, and dwell in the uttermost parts of the sea; Even there shall thy hand lead me, and thy right hand shall hold me. If I say, Surely the darkness shall cover me; even the night shall be light about me. Yea, the darkness hideth not from thee; but the night shineth as the day: the darkness and the light are both alike to thee."

Daily Thoughts

(I'm sending this out early, the night before, because I'll be attending the BYU Women's Conference the next couple of days and won't have time to turn my computer on in the mornings).

In the Old Testament yesterday we read about how the Lord answered Hannah's prayers and gave her a son. Today we read about how she prayed to the Lord in thanks and praise. When the Lord answers our prayers, do we think to thank and praise Him? 1 Sam. 2: 1-2 "And Hannah prayed, and said, My heart rejoiceth in the Lord, mine horn is exalted in the Lord: my mouth is enlarged over mine enemies; because I rejoice in thy salvation. There is none holy as the Lord: for there is none beside thee: neither is there any rock like our God."

In the Book of Mormon I read Alma's admonishment that we should cast off our sins and not procrastinate our the day of our repentance, but should humble ourselves before God and pray continually that we won't be tempted beyond what we can bear and that we'll be lead by the Holy Ghost. We need to be patient, meek, humble, full of love, and long-suffering. We need to have faith in the Lord and love Him with all our hearts. If we do these things, we'll be lifted up at the last day and enter into the rest of the Lord. Alma 13: 27-29 "And now, my brethren, I wish from the inmost part of my heart, yea, with great anxiety even unto pain, that ye would hearken unto my words, and cast off your sins, and not procrastinate the day of your repentance; But that ye would humble yourselves before the Lord, and call on his holy name, and watch and pray continually, that ye may not be tempted above that which ye can bear, and thus be led by the Holy Spirit, becoming humble, meek, submissive, patient, full of love and all long-suffering; Having faith on the Lord; having a hope that ye shall receive eternal life; having the love of God always in your hearts, that ye may be lifted up at the last day and enter into his rest."

A verse with a thought booklet tells us that Abraham was strong in his faith and gave glory to God, being fully convinced that God was able to do what He had promised. We can well follow his righteous example and have faith the the Lord will fulfill His promises and we can safely trust in Him. Rom. 4: 20-21 "He staggered not at the promise of God through unbelief; but was strong in faith, giving glory to God; And being fully persuaded that, what he had promised, he was able also to perform."

Daily Thoughts

Yesterday in the Old Testament we read about how Hannah prayed unto the Lord for a child. Eli the priest, who witnessed her prayer, told her to go in peace, that the Lord would grant her petition. After this she was no longer sad and was able to eat. This shows that she had faith! And indeed, she was able to conceive and brought forth a son, naming him Samuel. After he was weaned, she brought him to the house of the Lord and took him to Eli, lending him to the Lord's service for as long as he lived. When we pray, do we have faith that our prayers will be answered--enough so that we're no longer sad over the things that are troubling us? And do we give our thanks unto the Lord when He answers our prayers? Hannah provides a wonderful example of these things. 1 Sam. 1:17-20, 24-28 "Then Eli answered and said, Go in peace: and the God of Israel grant thee thy petition that thou hast asked of him. And she said, Let thine handmaid find grace in thy sight. So the woman went her way, and did eat, and her countenance was no more sad. And they rose up in the morning early, and worshipped before the Lord, and returned, and came to their house to Ramah: and Elkanah knew Hannah his wife; and the Lord remembered her. Wherefore it came to pass, when the time was come about after Hannah had conceived, that she bare a son, and called his name Samuel, saying, Because I have asked him of the Lord. And when she had weaned him, she took him up with her, with three bullocks, and one ephah of flour, and a bottle of wine, and brought him unto the house of the Lord in Shiloh: and the child was young. And they slew a bullock, and brought the child to Eli. And she said, O my lord, as thy soul liveth, my lord, I am the woman that stood by thee here, praying unto the Lord. For this child I prayed; and the Lord hath given me my petition which I asked of him: Therefore also I have lent him to the Lord; as long as he liveth he shall be lent to the Lord. And he worshipped the Lord there."

In the Book of Mormon I read that after the people were sancified by the Holy Ghost and had their garments made spotless before God, they could not look upon sin except with abhorrence. Does sin sometimes look enticing to us? If we truly are humble and repentant, sin will seem abhorrent to us, which indeed it is. Wickedness never was happiness and only by living the gospel will we find eternal joy and be able to enter into the rest of the Lord. Alma 13: 12-13 "Now they, after being sanctified by the Holy Ghost, having their garments made white, being pure and spotless before God, could not look upon sin save it were with abhorrence; and there were many, exceedingly great many, who were made pure and entered into the rest of the Lord their God. And now, my brethren, I would that ye should humble yourselves before God, and bring forth fruit meet for repentance, that ye may also enter into that rest."

A verse with a thought booklet tells us to rejoice evermore. How do we do that? The verses following give us some clues--we need to pray always give thanks in all things. A grateful heart is a happy heart and if we're constantly expressing our thanks to the Lord, we'll find much more joy in life. 1 Thes. 5: 16-18 "Rejoice evermore. Pray without ceasing. In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you."

Daily Thoughts

In the Old Testament we read that Hannah was childless and was so grieved over this fact that she wept and would not eat. She took her tribulations to the Lord, praying to Him in the bitterness of her soul, as she wept sore. When we have problems that are distressing us and tearing at our hearts, do we likewise turn to the Lord? 1 Sam. 1: 8-10 "Then said Elkanah her husband to her, Hannah, why weepest thou? and why eatest thou not? and why is thy heart grieved? am not I better to thee than ten sons? So Hannah rose up after they had eaten in Shiloh, and after they had drunk. Now Eli the priest sat upon a seat by a post of the temple of the Lord. And she was in bitterness of soul, and prayed unto the Lord, and wept sore."

In the Book of Mormon we're told that it is the plan of redemption that if we'll repent of our sins and not harden our hearts, the Lord will have mercy on us and we'll receive a remission of our sins through the atonement of the Only Begotten, and we'll be able to enter into our rest. However, this will not be possible if we harden our hearts and persist in doiing iniquity. Alma 12: 33-35 "But God did call on men, in the name of his Son, (this being the plan of redemption which was laid) saying: If ye will repent, and harden not your hearts, then will I have mercy upon you, through mine Only Begotten Son; Therefore, whosoever repenteth, and hardeneth not his heart, he shall have claim on mercy through mine Only Begotten Son, unto a remission of his sins; and these shall enter into my rest. And whosoever will harden his heart and will do iniquity, behold, I swear in my wrath that he shall not enter into my rest."

Some verses with a thought booklet demonstrate how we can turn to the Lord in times of trouble and distress. He will have mercy upon us to forgive us for our sins and comfort us when we're suffering pain and afflictions. Ps. 25: 16-18 "Turn thee unto me, and have mercy upon me; for I am desolate and afflicted. The troubles of my heart are enlarged: O bring thou me out of my distresses. Look upon mine affliction and my pain; and forgive all my sins."

Daily Thoughts

In the Old Testament I read that Boaz married Ruth and she bore a son. This son would later be an ancester of Jesus Christ. Ruth, with all her faithfulnes to her mother in law, was greatly blessed by the Lord. Ruth 4: 13 "So Boaz took Ruth, and she was his wife: and when he went in unto her, the Lord gave her conception, and she bare a son."

In the Book of Mormon I read that the mysteries of God are revealed to those who do not harden their hearts, but those who do harden their hearts are given only a portion of the word until they know nothing concerning the mysteries of God and are lead captive by the devil. Alma 12: 10-11 "And therefore, he that will harden his heart, the same receiveth the lesser portion of the word; and he that will not harden his heart, to him is given the greater portion of the word, until it is given unto him to know the mysteries of God until he know them in full. And they that will harden their hearts, to them is given the lesser portion of the word until they know nothing concerning his mysteries; and then they are taken captive by the devil, and led by his will down to destruction. Now this is what is meant by the chains of hell."

A verse with a thought booklet tells us that God can enlarge our steps under us so that our feet don't slip. If we rely on the Lord to help us, He can guide our steps and keep us from stumbling and falling in our walk through life. Ps. 18: 36 "Thou hast enlarged my steps under me, that my feet did not slip."

Daily Thoughts

In the Old Testament I read how Boaz took notice of Ruth's devotion to her mother in law. He told her the Lord would reward her for her faithfulness. Ruth 2: 10-12 "Then she fell on her face, and bowed herself to the ground, and said unto him, Why have I found grace in thine eyes, that thou shouldest take knowledge of me, seeing I am a stranger? And Boaz answered and said unto her, It hath fully been shewed me, all that thou hast done unto thy mother in law since the death of thine husband: and how thou hast left thy father and thy mother, and the land of thy nativity, and art come unto a people which thou knewest not heretofore. The Lord recompense thy work, and a full reward be given thee of the Lord God of Israel, under whose wings thou art come to trust."

In the Book of Mormon I read that Jesus Christ came into the world to provide redeption to His people. He took their sins upon Him so that they could be forgiven, if they would be willing to repent of their sins. However, for the wicked who refuse to repent, it's as if there had been no redemption made. Jesus Christ also opened the door for the resurrection of the deaqd. This will come to all regardless of it they are righteous or wicked. All will be raised from the dead and not so much as a hair on their head will be lost. Alma 11: 40-45 "And he shall come into the world to redeem his people; and he shall take upon him the transgressions of those who believe on his name; and these are they that shall have eternal life, and salvation cometh to none else. Therefore the wicked remain as though there had been no redemption made, except it be the loosing of the bands of death; for behold, the day cometh that all shall rise from the dead and stand before God, and be judged according to their works. Now, there is a death which is called a temporal death; and the death of Christ shall loose the bands of this temporal death, that all shall be raised from this temporal death. The spirit and the body shall be reunited again in its perfect form; both limb and joint shall be restored to its proper frame, even as we now are at this time; and we shall be brought to stand before God, knowing even as we know now, and have a bright recollection of all our guilt. Now, this restoration shall come to all, both old and young, both bond and free, both male and female, both the wicked and the righteous; and even there shall not so much as a hair of their heads be lost; but every thing shall be restored to its perfect frame, as it is now, or in the body, and shall be brought and be arraigned before the bar of Christ the Son, and God the Father, and the Holy Spirit, which is cone Eternal God, to be judged according to their works, whether they be good or whether they be evil. Now, behold, I have spoken unto you concerning the death of the mortal body, and also concerning the resurrection of the mortal body. I say unto you that this mortal body is raised to an immortal body, that is from death, even from the first death unto life, that they can die no more; their spirits uniting with their bodies, never to be divided; thus the whole becoming spiritual and immortal, that they can no more see corruption."

A verse with a thought booklet tells us that God's way is perfect, His word has been tried, and He is a buckler for all those who trust in Him. What is a buckler? According to the Bible Dictionary, it is a shield. So if we put our trust in God, He will be a shield to us. Ps. 18: 30 "As for God, his way is perfect: the word of the Lord is tried: he is a buckler to all those that trust in him."

Daily Thoughts

In the Old Testament I read the words of Ruth as she told her mother in law that she would not leave her but would lodge where she would lodge and make her people to be her own. She would stay with her and nothing but death would part them. This is a wonderful example of love and loyalty. Ruth 1: 16-17 "And Ruth said, Intreat me not to leave thee, or to return from following after thee: for whither thou goest, I will go; and where thou lodgest, I will lodge: thy people shall be my people, and thy God my God: Where thou diest, will I die, and there will I be buried: the Lord do so to me, and more also, if ought but death part thee and me."

In the Book of Mormon I read about how the people's wickedness was ripening them for destruction. In fact, if was only because of the prayers of the righteous among them that they were being spared. And they were warned by Amulek that if they should cast out the righteous from among them, the Lord would not stay His hand. This just made the people more angry with Amulek, who told them that they had allowed Satan to get great hold upon their hearts, to blind their eyes so they could not understand the truth when it was spoken to them. It is very sad indeed when people allow Satan to take hold of their hearts so that they have no understanding of the truth even when it is spoken plainly unto them. Alma 10: 22-25 "Yea, and I say unto you that if it were not for the prayers of the righteous, who are now in the land, that ye would even now be visited with utter destruction; yet it would not be by flood, as were the people in the days of Noah, but it would be by famine, and by pestilence, and the sword. But it is by the prayers of the righteous that ye are spared; now therefore, if ye will cast out the righteous from among you then will not the Lord stay his hand; but in his fierce anger he will come out against you; then ye shall be smitten by famine, and by pestilence, and by the sword; and the time is soon at hand except ye repent. And now it came to pass that the people were more angry with Amulek, and they cried out, saying: This man doth revile against our laws which are just, and our wise lawyers whom we have selected. But Amulek stretched forth his hand, and cried the mightier unto them, saying: O ye wicked and perverse generation, why hath Satan got such great hold upon your hearts? Why will ye yield yourselves unto him that he may have power over you, to blind your eyes, that ye will not understand the words which are spoken, according to their truth?"

A verse with a thought booklet tells us that our faith is more precious than gold when tried with fire. We need to come through trials and challenges to make our faith strong and prove ourselves. Cashmere wool is very expensive. It's made from the down of goats who live in some of the most inhospitable places in the world. The worse the climate and the harsher the conditions they live in, the better their coats are. Many years ago some sweater makers tried relocating their goats to a more mild climate and the results were that their goats stopped growing their valuable wool. We need trials and tribulations to make us strong! 1 Pet. 1: 7 "That the trial of your faith, being much more precious than of gold that perisheth, though it be tried with fire, might be found unto praise and honour and glory at the appearing of Jesus Christ:"

Daily Thoughts

In the Old Testament I read that after Samson married a Philistine woman he put forth a riddle to his companions and told them he'd give them 30 changes of garments if they could solve it. They got his wife to get the answer out of him. He slew 30 men to get the garments, was very angry and went back to his father's house. His wife was then given to his friend. Judg. 14: 12-20 "And Samson said unto them, I will now put forth a riddle unto you: if ye can certainly declare it me within the seven days of the feast, and find it out, then I will give you thirty sheets and thirty change of garments: But if ye cannot declare it me, then shall ye give me thirty sheets and thirty change of garments. And they said unto him, Put forth thy riddle, that we may hear it. And he said unto them, Out of the eater came forth meat, and out of the strong came forth sweetness. And they could not in three days expound the riddle. And it came to pass on the seventh day, that they said unto Samson's wife, Entice thy husband, that he may declare unto us the riddle, lest we burn thee and thy father's house with fire: have ye called us to take that we have? is it not so? And Samson's wife wept before him, and said, Thou dost but hate me, and lovest me not: thou hast put forth a riddle unto the children of my people, and hast not told it me. And he said unto her, Behold, I have not told it my father nor my mother, and shall I tell it thee? And she wept before him the seven days, while their feast lasted: and it came to pass on the seventh day, that he told her, because she lay sore upon him: and she told the riddle to the children of her people. And the men of the city said unto him on the seventh day before the sun went down, What is sweeter than honey? and what is stronger than a lion? And he said unto them, If ye had not plowed with my heifer, ye had not found out my riddle. And the Spirit of the Lord came upon him, and he went down to Ashkelon, and slew thirty men of them, and took their spoil, and gave change of garments unto them which expounded the riddle. And his anger was kindled, and he went up to his father's house. But Samson's wife was given to his companion, whom he had used as his friend."

In the Book of Mormon I read that we will reap the rewards of our works. If we're righteous, we'll receive salvation through Jesus Christ, and if we're wicked we'll receive damnation, according to the power and captivation of the devil. Alma 9: 28 "Therefore, prepare ye the way of the Lord, for the time is at hand that all men shall reap a reward of their works, according to that which they have been—if they have been righteous they shall reap the salvation of their souls, according to the power and deliverance of Jesus Christ; and if they have been evil they shall reap the damnation of their souls, according to the power and captivation of the devil."

A verse with a thought booklet tells us that if we love God, all things will work together for our good. This can be reassuring in times of trial or problems. We can know that even though what we're going through is very challenging and difficult at the time, it will all work for our good in the eternal scheme of things. Rom. 8: 28 "And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose."

Daily Thoughts

In the Old Testament I read that Israel did evil in the sight of the Lord, so the Lord delivered them to the hands of the Philistines for forty years. However, an angel comes to Monoah's wife, who is barren, and promises her a son who will deliver Israel out of the hands of the Philistines. She bares a son and names him Samson. Judg. 13: 1-5, 24 "And the children of Israel did evil again in the sight of the Lord; and the Lord delivered them into the hand of the Philistines forty years. And there was a certain man of Zorah, of the family of the Danites, whose name was Manoah; and his wife was barren, and bare not. And the angel of the Lord appeared unto the woman, and said unto her, Behold now, thou art barren, and bearest not: but thou shalt conceive, and bear a son. Now therefore beware, I pray thee, and drink not wine nor strong drink, and eat not any unclean thing: For, lo, thou shalt conceive, and bear a son; and no razor shall come on his head: for the child shall be a Nazarite unto God from the womb: and he shall begin to deliver Israel out of the hand of the Philistines. And the woman bare a son, and called his name Samson: and the child grew, and the Lord blessed him."

In the Book of Mormon I read that we need to be humble, submissive, full of patience and long-suffering, and that we need to be diligent in keeping the commandments of God at all times. We can ask Him for anything we stand in need of, and need to thank Him for the blessings He's bestowed upon us. We need to have faith, hope, and charity, and abound in good works. Lots of great ideas in these verses, and things we can all work on to improve our lives. Alma 7: 23-24 "And now I would that ye should be humble, and be submissive and gentle; easy to be entreated; full of patience and long-suffering; being temperate in all things; being diligent in keeping the commandments of God at all times; asking for whatsoever things ye stand in need, both spiritual and temporal; always returning thanks unto God for whatsoever things ye do receive. And see that ye have faith, hope, and charity, and then ye will always abound in good works."

I'm always amazed at how often different scriptures I'm reading seem to tie in together. Some verses with a thought booklet emphasize faith and charity, two things brought up in the Book of Mormon verses above. We need to stand fast in faith and let all things be done in charity. Charity is the pure love of Christ. So in doing all things in charity, this means that it's not only important that we do good works and serve others, but we need to do so with love. When we serve, what is our motivation? Do we want to "do our duty" or be seen as a good person by others? Or do we truly have the love of Christ for our fellowmen and want to serve them because of this love? 1 Cor. 16: 13-14 "Watch ye, stand fast in the faith, quit you like men, be strong. Let all your things be done with charity."

Daily Thoughts

In the Old TestamentI read how the children of Israel again returned to idolatry, serving other gods, and the Lord's anger was against them so He sold them into the hands of the Philistines and the children of Ammon. When Israel was sore distressed they returned to the Lord and cried for Him to help them. This seems to be a continuing cycle--the people become wicked, they suffer the punishments of God as a result, so then they repent and return to the Lord--until the next time....Judg. 10: 6-10 "And the children of Israel did evil again in the sight of the Lord , and served Baalim, and Ashtaroth, and the gods of Syria, and the gods of Zidon, and the gods of Moab, and the gods of the children of Ammon, and the gods of the Philistines, and forsook the Lord, and served not him. And the anger of the Lord was hot against Israel, and he sold them into the hands of the Philistines, and into the hands of the children of Ammon. And that year they vexed and oppressed the children of Israel: eighteen years, all the children of Israel that were on the other side Jordan in the land of the Amorites, which is in Gilead. Moreover, the children of Ammon passed over Jordan to fight also against Judah, and against Benjamin, and against the house of Ephraim; so that Israel was sore distressed. And the children of Israel cried unto the Lord, saying, We have sinned against thee, both because we have forsaken our God, and also served Baalim."

In the Book of Mormon I read about how Jesus would be born of Mary and would take upon Himself much suffering, even suffering death. He would atone for our sins so that we could be forgiven if we are willing to repent and be baptized and take upon ourselves a covenant to keep the commandments. If we're willing to do these things, we'll have eternal life. Alma 7: 10-16 "And behold, he shall be born of Mary, at Jerusalem which is the land of our forefathers, she being a virgin, a precious and chosen vessel, who shall be overshadowed and conceive by the power of the Holy Ghost, and bring forth a son, yea, even the Son of God. And he shall go forth, suffering pains and afflictions and temptations of every kind; and this that the word might be fulfilled which saith he will ctake upon him the pains and the sicknesses of his people. And he will take upon him death, that he may loose the bands of death which bind his people; and he will take upon him their infirmities, that his bowels may be filled with mercy, according to the flesh, that he may know according to the flesh how to succor his people according to their infirmities. Now the Spirit knoweth all things; nevertheless the Son of God suffereth according to the flesh that he might ctake upon him the sins of his people, that he might blot out their transgressions according to the power of his deliverance; and now behold, this is the testimony which is in me. Now I say unto you that ye must repent , and be born again; for the Spirit saith if ye are not born again ye cannot inherit the kingdom of heaven; therefore come and be baptized unto repentance, that ye may be washed from your sins, that ye may have faith on the Lamb of God, who taketh away the sins of the world, who is mighty to save and to cleanse from all unrighteousness. Yea, I say unto you come and fear not, and lay aside every sin, which easily doth beset you, which doth bind you down to destruction, yea, come and go forth, and show unto your God that ye are willing to repent of your sins and enter into a covenant with him to keep his commandments, and witness it unto him this day by going into the waters of baptism. And whosoever doeth this, and keepeth the commandments of God from thenceforth, the same will remember that I say unto him, yea, he will remember that I have said unto him, he shall have eternal life, according to the testimony of the Holy Spirit, which testifieth in me."

And going right along with this, some verses with a thought booklet tell us that we need to diligently keep the commandments which the Lord has given us and do that which is right and good in the sight of God. Deut. 6: 17-18 "Ye shall diligently keep the commandments of the Lord your God, and his testimonies, and his statutes, which he hath commanded thee. And thou shalt do that which is right and good in the sight of the Lord: that it may be well with thee, and that thou mayest go in and possess the good land which the Lord sware unto thy fathers,"

Daily Thoughts

In the Old Testament I read that after Gideon died, the people returned to idolatry and did not remember the Lord their God who had delivered them from the hands of their enemies. How sad it is that people seem to be so quick to forget God and all He does for them. Judges 8: 32-34 "And Gideon the son of Joash died in a good old age, and was buried in the sepulchre of Joash his father, in Ophrah of the Abi-ezrites. And it came to pass, as soon as Gideon was dead, that the children of Israel turned again, and went a whoring after Baalim, and made Baal-berith their god. And the children of Israel remembered not the Lord their God, who had delivered them out of the hands of all their enemies on every side:"


In the Book of Mormon I read the words of Alma calling the people to repentance and asking them if they were going to persist in their wicked doings, such as pride, setting their hearts on the things of the world, and withholding their substance from helping the poor. They were told that if they persisted in these things and refused to repent, they would be hewn down and cast into the fire. Alma 5: 36, 51, 53 "For behold, the time is at hand that whosoever bringeth forth not good fruit, or whosoever doeth not the works of righteousness, the same have cause to wail and mourn. And also the Spirit saith unto me, yea, crieth unto me with a mighty voice, saying: Go forth and say unto this people—Repent, for except ye repent ye can in nowise inherit the kingdom of heaven. And now my beloved brethren, I say unto you, can ye withstand these sayings; yea, can ye lay aside these things, and trample the Holy One under your feet; yea, can ye be puffed up in the pride of your hearts; yea, will ye still persist in the wearing of costly apparel and setting your hearts upon the vain things of the world, upon your riches? Yea, will ye persist in supposing that ye are better one than another; yea, will ye persist in the persecution of your brethren, who humble themselves and do walk after the holy order of God, wherewith they have been brought into this church, having been sanctified by the Holy Spirit, and they do bring forth works which are meet for repentance— Yea, and will you persist in turning your backs upon the poor, and the needy, and in withholding your substance from them? And finally, all ye that will persist in your wickedness, I say unto you that these are they who shall be hewn down and cast into the fire except they speedily repent."

Some verses with a thought booklet go right along with some of the ideas of the Book of Mormon verses mentioned above. They talk about how riches can be a temptation and a snare to people who set their hearts on them. If we lust after money and covet worldly things, it can cause us to err from the faith. If we have food and clothing, we need to be content. We came into this world with nothing and we'll leave it with nothing of a wordly nature. We need to set things into proper perspective and love the things of the Lord more than love money. The love of money (not money itself) is the root of all evil. 1 Tim. 6: 6-10 "But godliness with contentment is great gain. For we brought nothing into this world, and it is certain we can carry nothing out. And having food and raiment let us be therewith content. But they that will be rich fall into temptation and a snare, and into many foolish and hurtful lusts, which drown men in destruction and perdition. For the love of money is the root of all evil: which while some coveted after, they have erred from the faith, and pierced themselves through with many sorrows."

Daily Thoughts

In the Old Testament I read that the people wanted Gideon and his son to rule over them, because he'd been able to deliver them from their enemies. However, Gideon told the people that he would not rule over them, neither his son, but that the Lord should rule over them. Judg. 8: 22-23 "Then the men of Israel said unto Gideon, Rule thou over us, both thou, and thy son, and thy son's son also: for thou hast delivered us from the hand of Midian. And Gideon said unto them, I will not rule over you, neither shall my son rule over you: the Lord shall rule over you."

In the Book of Mormon I read some verses that ask some very thought provoking questions that cause us to reflect on whether or not we're prepared to meet God. They go on to talk about the necessity of repentance and how if we follow the Lord we'll do works of righteousness and reep eternal rewards. But if we bring forth evil works, we are hearkening to the devil and our wages will be death. Alma 5: 26-42 "And now behold, I say unto you, my brethren, if ye have experienced a change of heart, and if ye have felt to sing the song of redeeming love, I would ask, can ye feel so now? Have ye walked, keeping yourselves blameless before God? Could ye say, if ye were called to die at this time, within yourselves, that ye have been sufficiently humble? That your garments have been cleansed and made white through the blood of Christ, who will come to redeem his people from their sins? Behold, are ye stripped of pride ? I say unto you, if ye are not ye are not prepared to meet God. Behold ye must prepare quickly; for the kingdom of heaven is soon at hand, and such an one hath not eternal life. Behold, I say, is there one among you who is not stripped of envy? I say unto you that such an one is not prepared; and I would that he should prepare quickly, for the hour is close at hand, and he knoweth not when the time shall come; for such an one is not found guiltless. And again I say unto you, is there one among you that doth make a mock of his brother, or that heapeth upon him persecutions? Wo unto such an one, for he is not prepared, and the time is at hand that he must repent or he cannot be saved! Yea, even wo unto all ye workers of iniquity; repent, repent, for the Lord God hath spoken it! Behold, he sendeth an invitation unto all men, for the arms of mercy are extended towards them, and he saith: Repent, and I will receive you. Yea, he saith: Come unto me and ye shall partake of the fruit of the tree of life; yea, ye shall eat and drink of the bread and the waters of life freely; Yea, come unto me and bring forth works of righteousness, and ye shall not be hewn down and cast into the fire— For behold, the time is at hand that whosoever bringeth forth not good fruit, or whosoever doeth not the works of righteousness, the same have cause to wail and mourn. O ye workers of iniquity; ye that are puffed up in the vain things of the world, ye that have professed to have known the ways of righteousness nevertheless have gone astray, as sheep having no shepherd, notwithstanding a shepherd hath called after you and is still calling after you, but ye will not hearken unto his voice! Behold, I say unto you, that the good shepherd doth call you; yea, and in his own name he doth call you, which is the name of Christ; and if ye will not hearken unto the voice of the good shepherd, to the name by which ye are called, behold, ye are not the sheep of the good shepherd. And now if ye are not the sheep of the good shepherd, of what fold are ye? Behold, I say unto you, that the devil is your shepherd, and ye are of his fold; and now, who can deny this? Behold, I say unto you, whosoever denieth this is a liar and a child of the devil. For I say unto you that whatsoever is good cometh from God, and whatsoever is evil cometh from the devil. Therefore, if a man bringeth forth agood works he hearkeneth unto the voice of the good shepherd, and he doth follow him; but whosoever bringeth forth evil works, the same becometh a child of the devil, for he hearkeneth unto his voice, and doth follow him. And whosoever doeth this must receive his wages of him; therefore, for his wages he receiveth death, as to things pertaining unto righteousness, being dead unto all good works."

A verse with a thought booklet tells us to draw near to the Lord with a full assurance of faith. Heb. 10: 22 "Let us draw near with a true heart in full assurance of faith, having our hearts sprinkled from an evil conscience, and our bodies washed with pure water."

Daily Thoughts

In the Old Testament I read how Gideon, with his mere 300 men was able to defeat the Midianites. They frightened them with trumpets and lights so that they fought among themselves and did flee. Judg. 7: 19-23 "So Gideon, and the hundred men that were with him, came unto the outside of the camp in the beginning of the middle watch; and they had but newly set the watch: and they blew the trumpets, and brake the pitchers that were in their hands. And the three companies blew the trumpets, and brake the pitchers, and held the lamps in their left hands, and the trumpets in their right hands to blow withal: and they cried, The sword of the Lord, and of Gideon. And they stood every man in his place round about the camp: and all the host ran, and cried, and fled. And the three hundred blew the trumpets, and the Lord set every man's sword against his fellow, even throughout all the host: and the host fled to Beth-shittah in Zererath, and to the border of Abel-meholah, unto Tabbath. And the men of Israel gathered themselves together out of Naphtali, and out of Asher, and out of all Manasseh, and pursued after the Midianites."

In the Book of Mormon I read that there began to be much pride among the people of the church who were becoming wealthy and had many expensive things. This was the beginning of strife and envy and contention among the people, and became a stumbling block to those who did not belong to the church and caused the church to fail in it's progress. Do we ever find ourselves prideful or looking down on people who have less than we do? Could we prove to be a stumbling block to others because of our actions or attitudes? We go on to read that there were some humble followers of Christ who looked forward to His coming with faith and knew that He would redeem them from their sins and bring about the resurrection from the dead. These humble followers were trying to do what was right and giving to the poor and sharing what they had. But they were being persecuted. Alma was saddened to see these things happening among the people, but the Spirit of the Lord did not fail him. Alma 4: 6-15 "And it came to pass in the eighth year of the reign of the judges, that the people of the church began to wax proud, because of their exceeding riches, and their fine silks, and their fine-twined linen, and because of their many flocks and herds, and their gold and their silver, and all manner of precious things, which they had obtained by their industry; and in all these things were they lifted up in the pride of their eyes, for they began to wear very costly apparel. Now this was the cause of much affliction to Alma, yea, and to many of the people whom Alma had consecrated to be teachers, and priests, and elders over the church; yea, many of them were sorely grieved for the wickedness which they saw had begun to be among their people. For they saw and beheld with great sorrow that the people of the church began to be lifted up in the pride of their eyes, and to set their hearts upon riches and upon the vain things of the world, that they began to be scornful, one towards another, and they began to persecute those that did not believe according to their own will and pleasure. And thus, in this eighth year of the reign of the judges, there began to be great contentions among the people of the church; yea, there were envyings, and strife, and malice, and persecutions, and pride, even to exceed the pride of those who did not belong to the church of God. And thus ended the eighth year of the reign of the judges; and the wickedness of the church was a great stumbling-block to those who did not belong to the church; and thus the church began to fail in its progress. And it came to pass in the commencement of the ninth year, Alma saw the wickedness of the church, and he saw also that the example of the church began to lead those who were unbelievers on from one piece of iniquity to another, thus bringing on the destruction of the people. Yea, he saw great inequality among the people, some lifting themselves up with their pride, despising others, turning their backs upon the needy and the naked and those who were hungry, and those who were athirst, and those who were sick and afflicted. Now this was a great cause for lamentations among the people, while others were abasing themselves, succoring those who stood in need of their succor, such as imparting their substance to the poor and the needy, feeding the hungry, and suffering all manner of afflictions, for Christ's sake, who should come according to the spirit of prophecy; Looking forward to that day, thus retaining a remission of their sins; being filled with great joy because of the resurrection of the dead, according to the will and power and deliverance of Jesus Christ from the bands of death. And now it came to pass that Alma, having seen the afflictions of the humble followers of God, and the persecutions which were heaped upon them by the remainder of his people, and seeing all their inequality, began to be very sorrowful; nevertheless the Spirit of the Lord did not fail him."

Some verses with a thought booklet talk about three different kinds of sins. 1) Errors--sins we commit which we may not even be aware of unless someone points them out to us. 2) Secret faults--things we're aware we're doing but which we try to keep hidden and secret from others. 3) Presumptuous or willful sins--things we know are wrong but which we rebelliously do anyway. But we're reassured that whether our sins are unintentional or willful, hidden or known, the Lord can forgive us for them and cleanse us from them. He is our strength and our Redeemer. Ps. 19: 12-14 "Who can understand his errors? cleanse thou me from secret faults. Keep back thy servant also from presumptuous sins; let them not have dominion over me: then shall I be upright, and I shall be innocent from the great transgression. Let the words of my mouth, and the meditation of my heart, be acceptable in thy sight, O Lord, my strength, and my redeemer."

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Daily Thoughts

In the Old Testament I read that the Lord wanted the Israelites to have no doubt in their minds that they did not defeat the Midianites by their own strength--they only did it with the help of the Lord. So the Lord told Gideon various ways to reduce the numbers of Israelites going to battle. First they told everybody who was afraid to go home. 22,000 of the 32,000 departed. Of the 10,000 left they then told them to drink some water. Those who bent down and lapped the water like a dog were eliminated. Only those who cupped their hands to drink remained. This reduced the numbers even further, down from having 32,000 men to only 300 men. Compare this to the number of the enemy they were to fight, who are described like grasshoppers for multitude and their camels without number, like the sand by the sea. Judg. 7: 2-7, 12 "And the Lord said unto Gideon, The people that are with thee are too many for me to give the Midianites into their hands, lest Israel vaunt themselves against me, saying, Mine own hand hath saved me. Now therefore go to, proclaim in the ears of the people, saying, Whosoever is afearful and afraid, let him return and depart early from mount Gilead. And there returned of the people twenty and two thousand; and there remained ten thousand. And the Lord said unto Gideon, The people are yet too many; bring them down unto the water, and I will try them for thee there: and it shall be, that of whom I say unto thee, This shall go with thee, the same shall go with thee; and of whomsoever I say unto thee, This shall not go with thee, the same shall not go. So he brought down the people unto the water: and the Lord said unto Gideon, Every one that lappeth of the water with his tongue, as a dog lappeth, him shalt thou set by himself; likewise every one that boweth down upon his knees to drink. And the number of them that lapped, putting their hand to their mouth, were three hundred men: but all the rest of the people bowed down upon their knees to drink water. And the Lord said unto Gideon, By the three hundred men that lapped will I save you, and deliver the Midianites into thine hand: and let all the other people go every man unto his place. And the Midianites and the Amalekites and all the children of the east lay along in the valley like grasshoppers for multitude; and their camels were without number, as the sand by the sea side for multitude."

In the Book of Mormon I read that the Lamanites and Amlicites were almost as numerous as the sand of the sea, but the Lord strengthened the Nephites and delivered them from this vast army fighting against them. This goes right along with the Old Testament verses we just read. If we have the Lord on our side, it doesn't matter who is against us. With the Lord strenghtening us, we can handle any situation. Alma 2: 27-28 "And behold, as they were crossing the river Sidon, the Lamanites and the Amlicites, being as numerous almost, as it were, as the sands of the sea, came upon them to destroy them. Nevertheless, the Nephites being strengthened by the hand of the Lord, having prayed mightily to him that he would deliver them out of the hands of their enemies, therefore the Lord did hear their cries, and did strengthen them, and the Lamanites and the Amlicites did fall before them."

Some verses with a thought booklet tells us that victory over death comes through Jesus Christ and that our corruptible bodies will become incorruptible. 1 Cor. 15: 53-55, 57 "For this corruptible must put on incorruption, and this mortal must put on immortality. So when this corruptible shall have put on incorruption, and this mortal shall have put on immortality, then shall be brought to pass the saying that is written, Death is swallowed up in victory. O death, where is thy sting? O grave, where is thy victory? But thanks be to God, which giveth us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ."

Daily Thoughts

In the Old Testament I read about how Gideon continued to doubt that the Lord would help him defeat the Midianites so he asked for a sign. First he put some fleece on the ground and asked the Lord to put dew on the fleece but not on the ground around it. The Lord did so. Then this still did not satisfy him so he asked the Lord to put dew on the ground but not on the fleece, so the Lord did that also. Are we sometimes like Gideon in this way too? Does the Lord tell us something and we doubt and need proof of it? And then when we get the proof we ask for, do we need even more proof? We need to be more believing and show forth more faith and trust in the Lord. Judges 6: 36-40 "And Gideon said unto God, If thou wilt save Israel by mine hand, as thou hast said, Behold, I will put a fleece of wool in the floor; and if the dew be on the fleece only, and it be dry upon all the earth beside, then shall I know that thou wilt save Israel by mine hand, as thou hast said. And it was so: for he rose up early on the morrow, and thrust the fleece together, and wringed the dew out of the fleece, a bowl full of water. And Gideon said unto God, Let not thine anger be hot against me, and I will speak but this once: let me prove, I pray thee, but this once with the fleece; let it now be dry only upon the fleece, and upon all the ground let there be dew. And God did so that night: for it was dry upon the fleece only, and there was dew on all the ground."

In the Book of Mormon I read about how the people were generous and willing to give to those who stood in need--helping the poor and the sick and afflicted. The Lord prospered them so they had an abundance of food, precious metals, and fine cloth. They used these things to give to all who stood in need and they did not set their hearts upon the things of the world. Alma 1: 27-30 "And they did impart of their substance, every man according to that which he had, to the poor, and the needy, and the sick, and the afflicted; and they did not wear costly apparel, yet they were neat and comely. And thus they did establish the affairs of the church; and thus they began to have continual peace again, notwithstanding all their persecutions. And now, because of the steadiness of the church they began to be exceedingly rich , having abundance of all things whatsoever they stood in need—an abundance of flocks and herds, and fatlings of every kind, and also abundance of grain, and of gold, and of silver, and of precious things, and abundance of silk and fine-twined linen, and all manner of good homely cloth. And thus, in their prosperous circumstances, they did not send away any who were naked , or that were hungry, or that were athirst, or that were sick, or that had not been nourished; and they did not set their hearts upon riches; therefore they were liberal to all, both old and young, both bond and free, both male and female, whether out of the church or in the church, having no respect to persons as to those who stood in need."

A verse with a thought booklet says that we should welcome the rebuke of a righteous man--it is a kindness to us. Sometimes the very best friend we can have is someone with the courage to tell us when we are wrong. This is illustrated by a thought written by Sharon Foster which says: It's been years since I've seen Rachel Rowe, but I still consider her my friend. I met her in Alabama while she and I were in an Army-sponsored technical writing/editing program. She was smart, quirky, and could make a mean bowl of bean dip. But what I came to appreciate most about Rachel was that she was the kind of friend who had the courage to tell you when you were wrong. I grew up in a family of sassy-tongued people. As a matter of pride and to protect myself, I developed my own tongue to a legendary sharpness. I was a word-slinger and I always had my weapon ready. I took pleasure in knowing that I could take out any bully, regardless of size, with just a few well-placed words. One day I was offended by a man in the office where Rachel and I worked. I don't recollect what he said, but I do recall that he had embarassed me in front of several people. Without batting an eye, I pulled out my weapon, took off the safety, and let him have it right between the eyes. Just before I turned to walk away, I saw tears in his eyes. A couple of days later Rachel came by my house to visit. I was happy to see her, and it didn't hurt that she'd brought a bag of tortilla chips and a bowl of bean dip. While we dipped and munched, she told me that what I had done wasn't kind; I'd used my gift of words for evil rather than for good. Far more than for her winning ways with a bean, I admired Rachel for her honesty and courage, and for loving me enough to tell me the truth. Lord, bless those who have the courage to speak the truth with love. Help me to be numbered among them. Ps. 141: 5 "Let the righteous smite me; it shall be a kindness: and let him reprove me; it shall be an excellent oil, which shall not break my head: for yet my prayer also shall be in their calamities."

Daily Thoughts

The Lord sent an angel to Gideon and told him the Lord was with him and he should go with his might against the Midianites. Gideon made excuses about why this could not be. He pointed out that the Lord was no longer doing miracles like he'd heard his fathers talk about that were done in days of old. He said his family was poor and he was least in his father's house. So who was he to save Israel? But the Lord assured him that He would be with him and he could do this. Aren't we sometimes like Gideon? The Lord calls us to do some difficult task and we make up excuses about why we can't do it. After all, aren't there other people who could do a better job than we could--people more qualified? But the fact is that the Lord helps those He calls to do a work and if we'll trust in Him, we can do anything He asks of us. Judges 6: 11-16 "And there came an angel of the Lord, and sat under an oak which was in Ophrah, that pertained unto Joash the Abi-ezrite: and his son Gideon threshed wheat by the winepress, to hide it from the Midianites. And the angel of the Lord appeared unto him, and said unto him, The Lord is with thee, thou mighty man of valour. And Gideon said unto him, Oh my Lord, if the Lord be with us, why then is all this befallen us? and where be all his miracles which our fathers told us of, saying, Did not the Lord bring us up from Egypt? but now the Lord hath forsaken us, and delivered us into the hands of the Midianites. And the Lord looked upon him, and said, Go in this thy might, and thou shalt save Israel from the hand of the Midianites: have not I sent thee? And he said unto him, Oh my Lord, wherewith shall I save Israel? behold, my family is poor in Manasseh, and I am the least in my father's house. And the Lord said unto him, Surely I will be with thee, and thou shalt smite the Midianites as one man."

In the Book of Mormon I read about how a man named Nehor went about preaching false doctrine to the people--telling them that it didn't matter what they did because everybody would be saved. He preached the kind of doctrine that people wanted to hear so they gave him money and he became wealthy and lifted up in pride. A righteous man named Gideon tried to admonish him with the true word of God, but Nehor slew him with the sword. He was taken before Alma for judgment and was sentenced to death. However, unfortunately, this did not end the spreading of priestcraft because many people loved the vain things of the world and continued to go about preaching false doctrines for the sake of riches and honor. Alma 1: 4-16 "And he also testified unto the people that all mankind should be saved at the last day, and that they need not fear nor tremble, but that they might lift up their heads and rejoice; for the Lord had created all men, and had also redeemed all men; and, in the end, all men should have eternal life. And it came to pass that he did teach these things so much that many did believe on his words, even so many that they began to support him and give him money. And he began to be lifted up in the pride of his heart, and to wear very costly apparel, yea, and even began to establish a church after the manner of his preaching. And it came to pass as he was going, to preach to those who believed on his word, he met a man who belonged to the church of God, yea, even one of their teachers ; and he began to contend with him sharply, that he might lead away the people of the church; but the man withstood him, admonishing him with the words of God. Now the name of the man was Gideon; and it was he who was an instrument in the hands of God in delivering the people of Limhi out of bondage. Now, because Gideon withstood him with the words of God he was wroth with Gideon, and drew his sword and began to smite him. Now Gideon being stricken with many years, therefore he was not able to withstand his blows, therefore he was slain by the sword. And the man who slew him was taken by the people of the church, and was brought before Alma, to be judged according to the crimes which he had committed. And it came to pass that he stood before Alma and pleaded for himself with much boldness. But Alma said unto him: Behold, this is the first time that priestcraft has been introduced among this people. And behold, thou art not only guilty of priestcraft, but hast endeavored to enforce it by the sword; and were priestcraft to be enforced among this people it would prove their entire destruction. And thou hast shed the blood of a righteous man, yea, a man who has done much good among this people; and were we to spare thee his blood would come upon us for vengeance. Therefore thou art condemned to die, according to the law which has been given us by Mosiah, our last king; and it has been acknowledged by this people; therefore this people must abide by the law. And it came to pass that they took him; and his name was Nehor ; and they carried him upon the top of the hill Manti, and there he was caused, or rather did acknowledge, between the heavens and the earth, that what he had taught to the people was contrary to the word of God; and there he suffered an ignominious death. Nevertheless, this did not put an end to the spreading of priestcraft through the land; for there were many who loved the vain things of the world, and they went forth preaching false doctrines; and this they did for the sake of riches and honor."

Some scriptures with a thought booklet tell us that if we claim to have no sin, we are liars and are deceiving ourselves. However, if we confess our sins and are willing to repent, we can be forgiven through the atonement of Christ, whose blood cleanses us from all sin. We need to walk in light and in fellowship with one another and with the Lord. If we claim to have fellowship with the Lord but walk in darkness, the truth is not in us. 1 Jn. 1: 6-10 "If we say that we have fellowship with him, and walk in darkness, we lie, and do not the truth: But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship one with another, and the blood of Jesus Christ his Son cleanseth us from all sin. If we say that we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us. If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. If we say that we have not sinned, we make him a liar, and his word is not in us."

Daily Thoughts

In the Old Testament I read that the children of Israel were wicked so the Lord delivered them up to the hands of the Midianites for seven years. They were greately impoverished at the hands of the Midianites and cried unto the Lord for help. After they prayed for help, the Lord sent them a prophet who reminded them that He had delivered them out of the hand of the Egyptians. Judges 6: 1-2, 6-10 "And the children of Israel did evil in the sight of the Lord: and the Lord delivered them into the hand of Midian seven years. And the hand of Midian prevailed against Israel: and because of the Midianites the children of Israel made them the dens which are in the mountains, and caves, and strong holds. And Israel was greatly impoverished because of the Midianites; and the children of Israel cried unto the Lord. And it came to pass, when the children of Israel cried unto the Lord because of the Midianites, That the Lord sent a prophet unto the children of Israel, which said unto them, Thus saith the Lord God of Israel, I brought you up from Egypt, and brought you forth out of the house of bondage; And I delivered you out of the hand of the Egyptians, and out of the hand of all that oppressed you, and drave them out from before you, and gave you their land; And I said unto you, I am the Lord your God; fear not the gods of the Amorites, in whose land ye dwell: but ye have not obeyed my voice."

In the Book of Mormon I read that Mosiah was a very great king and the people loved him very much. He was not a tyrant who sought for gain or who delighted in the shedding of blood. But rather he had sought to establish peace in the land and had labored to serve his people and deliver them from bondage. Mosiah 29: 40 "And they did wax strong in love towards Mosiah; yea, they did esteem him more than any other man; for they did not look upon him as a tyrant who was seeking for gain, yea, for that lucre which doth corrupt the soul; for he had not exacted riches of them, neither had he delighted in the shedding of blood; but he had established peace in the land, and he had granted unto his people that they should be delivered from all manner of bondage; therefore they did esteem him, yea, exceedingly, beyond measure."

Some verses with a thought booklet tell us about the wonderful fellowship that existed among the early church members. They devoted themselves to the teachings of the aposles and gathered to worship, study scripture, and offer prayer. And they had so much love for one another that they willingly shared whatever they had. Those with plenty freely gave to those who lacked. Signs and miracles took place among them, and the church was added to daily by those who desired to be saved. What a wonderful time in which to live among a loving community of commited saints. What are we doing today to help our churches become loving communities of believers? Are we doing our part to generously give to those in need? Do we help to spread the gospel to those who don't know about it? Do we fellowship and love others? Are we living our lives so that miracles occur regularly? Acts 2: 42-47 "And they continued stedfastly in the apostles' doctrine and fellowship, and in breaking of bread, and in prayers. And fear came upon every soul: and many wonders and signs were done by the apostles. And all that believed were together, and had all things common; And sold their possessions and goods, and parted them to all men, as every man had need. And they, continuing daily with one accord in the temple, and breaking bread from house to house, did eat their meat with gladness and singleness of heart, Praising God, and having favour with all the people. And the Lord added to the church daily such as should be saved."

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Daily Thoughts

Yesterday we read about how the children of Israel were evil so the Lord was angry with them and their served Chushan-rishathaim for either years. Today we read that the children of Israel cried unto the Lord who raised up a deliverer for them. After this the land had rest for 40 years, but then the people just beccome wicked once again. This is a cycle that is repeated over and over again. The people are wicked so the Lord is angry and punishes them. Then they return to Him and He delivers them. But they don't stay richteous, and the cycle just repeats itself. Judges 3: 9-12 "And when the children of Israel cried unto the Lord, the Lord raised up a deliverer to the children of Israel, who delivered them, even Othniel the son of Kenaz, Caleb's younger brother. And the Spirit of the Lord came upon him, and he judged Israel, and went out to war: and the Lord delivered Chushan-rishathaim king of Mesopotamia into his hand; and his hand prevailed against Chushan-rishathaim. And the land had rest forty years. And Othniel the son of Kenaz died. And the children of Israel did evil again in the sight of the Lord: and the Lord strengthened Eglon the king of Moab against Israel, because they had done evil in the sight of the Lord."

In the Book of Mormon I read that governing by the voice of the people can be a good thing because usually the majority of the people will want what is right and a lesser portion of the people will want something that is wrong. However, if the day ever comes when the majority of the people choose something that is contrary to that which is right, that is the time when the judgments of God will come upon them. Mosiah 29: 26-27 "Now it is not common that the voice of the people desireth anything contrary to that which is right; but it is common for the lesser part of the people to desire that which is not right; therefore this shall ye observe and make it your law—to do your business by the voice of the people. And if the time comes that the voice of the people doth choose iniquity, then is the time that the judgments of God will come upon you; yea, then is the time he will visit you with great destruction even as he has hitherto visited this land."

A verse with a thought booklet tells us that we need to set our affections on things above (spiritual things pertaining to the Lord) rather than on things on the earth (money and possessions, etc.) What is really of most importance to us? We can see where our heart really is by our actions and how we spend our time. Are we too busy watching TV or playing on the computer to take time to pray and read our scriptures? Are we too busy with work and recreation to do a good job at our church callings? Some things to ponder. Col. 3: 2 "Set your affection on things above, not on things on the earth."
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Daily Thoughts

In the Old Testament I read that the children of Israel lived among the people of other nations and intermarried with them. They forgot the Lord their God and served the gods of the land in which they lived. They did evil and the anger of the Lord was hot against them. Judg. 3: 5-8 "And the children of Israel dwelt among the Canaanites, Hittites, and Amorites, and Perizzites, and Hivites, and Jebusites: And they took their daughters to be their wives, and gave their daughters to their sons, and served their gods. And the children of Israel did evil in the sight of the Lord, and forgat the Lord their God, and served Baalim and the groves. Therefore the anger of the Lord was hot against Israel, and he sold them into the hand of Chushan-rishathaim king of Mesopotamia: and the children of Israel served Chushan-rishathaim eight years."

In the Book of Mormon I read a verse that tells us it is better to be judged of God than be judged of men because the judgments of men are not always just but God always judges justly. He knows the thoughts and intents of our hearts. He knows all the extenuating circumstances. We as humans are very imperfect when we try to judge someone else. We have not walked in their shoes and we don't know how we ourselves would have reacted had we been in the same situation. Let's leave the judging to God. Mosiah 29: 12 "Now it is better that a man should be judged of God than of man, for the judgments of God are always just, but the judgments of man are not always just."

A verse with a thought booklet tells us that if we trust in the Lord and have hope in the Lord, we will be blessed. Jer. 17: 7 "Blessed is the man that trusteth in the Lord, and whose hope the Lord is."
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Daily Thoughts

In the Old Testament I read that Joshua died at the age of 110 and was buried, and all that generation also died. Then another generation came up who knew not the Lord nor the works He had done. They did evil and served Baalim. They forsook the Lord who had brought them out of Egypt and served other gods, the gods of the people around them. This made the Lord very angry and instead of being with them, He was against them for evil and delivered them unto the hands of those who spoiled them. Judges 2:8-15 "And Joshua the son of Nun, the servant of the Lord, died, being an hundred and ten years old. And they buried him in the border of his inheritance in Timnath-heres, in the mount of Ephraim, on the north side of the hill Gaash. And also all that generation were gathered unto their fathers: and there arose another generation after them, which knew not the Lord, nor yet the works which he had done for Israel. And the children of Israel did evil in the sight of the Lord, and served Baalim: And they forsook the Lord God of their fathers, which brought them out of the land of Egypt, and followed other gods, of the gods of the people that were round about them, and bowed themselves unto them, and provoked the Lord to anger. And they forsook the Lord, and served Baal and Ashtaroth. And the anger of the Lord was hot against Israel, and he delivered them into the hands of spoilers that spoiled them, and he sold them into the hands of their enemies round about, so that they could not any longer stand before their enemies. Whithersoever they went out, the hand of the Lord was against them for evil, as the Lord had said, and as the Lord had sworn unto them: and they were greatly distressed."

In the Book of Mormon I read Alma the Younger's description of his own conversion--how he was in the darkest abyss of sin, racked with torment, but through the mercy of the Lord and His Redemption, Alma was able to repent of his sins and now his soul was pained no more. Isn't it wonderful that through the atonement of Jesus Christ we can be forgiven of our sins and our pain can be turned to joy? Mosiah 27: 28-29 "Nevertheless, after wading through much tribulation, repenting nigh unto death, the Lord in mercy hath seen fit to snatch me out of an everlasting burning, and I am born of God. My soul hath been redeemed from the gall of bitterness and bonds of iniquity. I was in the darkest abyss; but now I behold the marvelous light of God. My soul was racked with eternal torment; but I am snatched, and my soul is pained no more."

Some verses with a thought booklet are very appropriate for Easter Sunday--telling of the resurrection of Jesus Christ. Matt. 28: 1-10 "In the end of the sabbath, as it began to dawn toward the first day of the week, came Mary Magdalene and the other Mary to see the sepulchre. And, behold, there was a great earthquake: for the angel of the Lord descended from heaven, and came and rolled back the stone from the door, and sat upon it. His countenance was like lightning, and his raiment white as snow: And for fear of him the keepers did shake, and became as dead men. And the angel answered and said unto the women, Fear not ye: for I know that ye seek Jesus, which was crucified. He is not here: for he is risen, as he said. Come, see the place where the Lord lay. And go quickly, and tell his disciples that he is risen from the dead; and, behold, he goeth before you into Galilee; there shall ye see him: lo, I have told you. And they departed quickly from the sepulchre with fear and great joy; and did run to bring his disciples word. And as they went to tell his disciples, behold, Jesus met them, saying, All hail. And they came and held him by the feet, and worshipped him. Then said Jesus unto them, Be not afraid: go tell my brethren that they go into Galilee, and there shall they see me."

Daily Thoughts

In the Old Testament I read that an angel rebuked Israel for not serving the Lord and not throwing down the altars of the people as they'd been commanded to do. So because of this, instead of the Lord driving out the people from before them as He would have done, the people would remain to be thorns in their sides and a snare unto them. Judges 2:1-3 "And an angel of the Lord came up from Gilgal to Bochim, and said, I made you to go up out of Egypt, and have brought you unto the land which I sware unto your fathers; and I said, I will never break my covenant with you. And ye shall make no league with the inhabitants of this land; ye shall throw down their altars: but ye have not obeyed my voice: why have ye done this? Wherefore I also said, I will not drive them out from before you; but they shall be as thorns in your sides, and their gods shall be a snare unto you."

In the Book of Mormon I read some verses dealing with the subject of forgiveness. They are a comfort to those of us who think we've sinned so many times we can't possibly be forgiven so we may as well give up--they tell us that as many times as we'll repent, the Lord will forgive us. But they also warn us that we need to be willing to forgive other people their trespasses against us. If we're unwilling to forgive others, we ourselves will come under condemnation. Mosiah 26: 30-31 "Yea, and as often as my people repent will I forgive them their trespasses against me. And ye shall also forgive one another your trespasses; for verily I say unto you, he that forgiveth not his neighbor's trespasses when he says that he repents, the same hath brought himself under condemnation."

Some verses with a thought booklet talk about the change that comes into our lives as we accept Jesus Christ as our Savior--we put off the old person we once were, the corrupt person full of deceiptful lusts, and become a new person full of righteousness and holiness, a person that God created us to be! Do we reflect, in the person that we are, that we truly have the Lord in our lives? Can a person see by our actions that we are a true follower of Christ? Can they see His image in our counterances? Eph. 4: 22-24 "That ye put off concerning the former conversation the bold man, which is corrupt according to the deceitful lusts; And be renewed in the spirit of your mind; And that ye put on the new man, which after God is created in brighteousness and true holiness."

Daily Thoughts

In the Old Testament I read that Joshua died at the age of 110 and was buried in Timnath-serah. After his death, Isreal continued serving the Lord as they had while he was alive, and in all the days of the elders who outlived Joshua. Josh. 24: 29-30 "And it came to pass after these things, that Joshua the son of Nun, the servant of the Lord, died, being an hundred and ten years old. And they buried him in the border of his inheritance in Timnath-serah, which is in mount Ephraim, on the north side of the hill of Gaash."

In the Book of Mormon I read that some of the people were so full of unbelief that they could not understand the word of God and their hearts were hardened. They would not believe in the coming of Christ or in the resurrection of the dead. They refused to pray or to be baptized and separated themselves from the people of God. Not only that, but they used flattery and persuasion to encourage some of the people in the church to commit sin, which caused them to be admonished by the church for their wickedness. It's very sad when wicked people seek to drag others down into their wickedness. We need to make sure that we don't allow other people to be a bad influence on us and deceive us. Mosiah 26: 2-6 "They did not believe what had been said concerning the resurrection of the dead, neither did they believe concerning the coming of Christ. And now because of their unbelief they could not understand the word of God; and their hearts were hardened. And they would not be baptized; neither would they join the achurch. And they were a separate people as to their faith, and remained so ever after, even in their carnal and sinful state; for they would not call upon the Lord their God. And now in the reign of Mosiah they were not half so numerous as the people of God; but because of the dissensions among the brethren they became more numerous. For it came to pass that they did deceive many with their flattering words, who were in the church, and did cause them to commit many sins; therefore it became expedient that those who committed sin, that were in the church, should be admonished by the church."

Some scriptures with a thought booklet talk about the tender mercy of God that gives light to those who sit in darkness and in the shadow of death, and guides our feet in the way of peace. Indeed, if we'll allow ourselves to be guided by the Lord in all we do, we'll have light in our lives instead of darkness, and we'll have peace even when death approaches. Luke 1: 78-79 "Through the tender mercy of our God; whereby the dayspring from on high hath visited us, To give light to them that sit in darkness and in the shadow of death, to guide our feet into the way of peace."

Daily Thoughts

In the Old Testament I read some verses that are often quoted. Joshua is admonishing the people to serve God in sincerity and truth and put away other gods. He then told them they would need to choose whom they would serve--the gods of the nations in whose land they dwell, or the true and living God of their fathers. But as for Joshua and his family, he will serve the Lord. Can we say the same things? When faced with the choice of following the commandments of the Lord or following the ways of the world, what will our choice be? Josh. 24: 14-15 "Now therefore fear the Lord, and serve him in sincerity and in truth: and put away the gods which your fathers served on the other side of the flood, and in Egypt; and serve ye the Lord. And if it seem evil unto you to serve the Lord, choose you this day whom ye will serve; whether the gods which your fathers served that were on the other side of the flood, or the gods of the Amorites, in whose land ye dwell: but as for me and my house, we will serve the Lord."

Yesterday we read in the Book of Mormon about how the Lord strenghtened the people so they could bear their burdens with ease. Today we read that because of the faith a patience of the people, the Lord delivered the people from bondage by causing the Lamanites to fall into a profound sleep, allowing the Nephites to escape. The people were very grateful to God for this wonderful miracle, realizing that it was only by the power of God that they could gain their freedom. Their hearts were lifted up in praise to Him. When God hears and answers our prayers, do we remember to thank Him? Mosiah 24: 16-22 "And it came to pass that so great was their faith and their patience that the voice of the Lord came unto them again, saying: Be of good comfort, for on the morrow I will deliver you out of bondage. And he said unto Alma: Thou shalt go before this people, and I will go with thee and deliver this people out of bondage. Now it came to pass that Alma and his people in the night-time gathered their flocks together, and also of their grain; yea, even all the night-time were they gathering their flocks together. And in the morning the Lord caused a deep sleep to come upon the Lamanites, yea, and all their task-masters were in a profound sleep. And Alma and his people departed into the wilderness; and when they had traveled all day they pitched their tents in a valley, and they called the valley Alma, because he led their way in the wilderness. Yea, and in the valley of Alma they poured out their thanks to God because he had been merciful unto them, and eased their burdens , and had delivered them out of bondage; for they were in bondage, and none could deliver them except it were the Lord their God. And they gave thanks to God, yea, all their men and all their women and all their children that could speak lifted their voices in the praises of their God."

Some verses with a thought booklet tell us that we show our love for God by keeping His commandments. John 14: 15, 21 "If ye love me, keep my commandments. He that hath my commandments, and keepeth them, he it is that loveth me: and he that loveth me shall be loved of my Father, and I will love him, and will manifest myself to him."


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Fw: Daily Thoughts 4

In the Old Testament I read that sun and moon stood still and the sun did not set for a whole day. Josh. 10: 12-13 "Then spake Joshua to the Lord in the day when the Lord delivered up the Amorites before the children of Israel, and he said in the sight of Israel, Sun, stand thou still upon Gibeon; and thou, Moon, in the valley of Ajalon. And the sun stood still, and the moon stayed, until the people had avenged themselves upon their enemies. Is not this written in the book of Jasher? So the sun stood still in the midst of heaven, and hasted not to go down about a whole day."

In the Book of Mormon I read that Alma commanded the people to have no contentions among them, but that they should be knit together in unity and love with one another. Can you imagine what a wonderful, joyful world this would be if we all lived our lives that way? Mosiah 18: 21 "And he commanded them that there should be no contention one with another, but that they should look forward with one eye, having one faith and one baptism, having their hearts knit together in unity and in love one towards another."

Some verses with a thought booklet tell the story of Jesus walking on water and Peter trying to walk out toward him. At first Peter was able to look at Christ and go toward Him, but then he became distracted by the wind and waves and began to sink as his fears overcame him. However, Jesus took him by the hand, raising him up, and told him he should not have doubted. The thought that went with this, written by Timothy S. Walton from Santa Fe Springs, California says: As a child, I visited the ocean. My dad waded to knee-deep water and called for me to join him. Waves crashed toward me with a deafening roar, and my heart raced. But my trust in Dad overcame all else and I ran toward him. The first swell pulled my feet from under me and plunged me into the watery abyss. Suddenly, strong arms ripped me from the depths and brought me close to my father's chest. I was safe. When all of our senses speak fear and danger, and we would prefer the safety of the ship's hull, Jesus calls us to come to Him. He asks us to forsake security and join Him in the stormy battle. Growth and victory are never found in safe places. They come in the company of winds and waves. Trusting like a child, we must run toward Jesus, knowing that even if we fall, His hand will find us. Matt. 14: 24-32 "But the ship was now in the midst of the sea, tossed with waves: for the wind was contrary. And in the fourth watch of the night Jesus went unto them, walking on the sea. And when the disciples saw him walking on the sea, they were troubled, saying, It is a spirit; and they cried out for fear. But straightway Jesus spake unto them, saying, Be of good cheer; it is I; be not afraid. And Peter answered him and said, Lord, if it be thou, bid me come unto thee on the water. And he said, Come. And when Peter was come down out of the ship, he walked on the water, to go to Jesus. But when he saw the wind boisterous, he was afraid; and beginning to sink, he cried, saying, Lord, save me. And immediately Jesus stretched forth his hand, and caught him, and said unto him, O thou of little faith, wherefore didst thou doubt? And when they were come into the ship, the wind ceased."