In the Old Testament I read that David had wanted to build a House of the Lord but the Lord told him that his son should build it instead. Solomon completed building the House of the Lord and put the ark of the covenant inside. 2 Chr. 6: 7-11 "Now it was in the heart of David my father to build an house for the name of the Lord God of Israel. But the Lord said to David my father, Forasmuch as it was in thine heart to build an house for my name, thou didst well in that it was in thine heart: Notwithstanding thou shalt not build the house; but thy son which shall come forth out of thy loins, he shall build the house for my name. The Lord therefore hath performed his word that he hath spoken: for I am risen up in the room of David my father, and am set on the throne of Israel, as the Lord promised, and have built the house for the name of the Lord God of Israel. And in it have I put the ark, wherein is the covenant of the Lord, that he made with the children of Israel."
In the D&C I read a verse that emphasizes the importance gratitude. In face, it states that if we receive all things with thankfulness, we'll be made glorious and all the things of the earth will be added to us a hundredfold. Indeed, if we're thankful for all things, we'll receive great blessings. Note that this says ALL things, not just good things. It's not so easy to be thankful for the trials and tribulations that come into our life, but they, too, are blessings in disguised. If we allow them to humble us instead of making us angry or bitter, they can strengthen us and help us become the people the Lord wants us to be. We need to be thankful for this too. D&C 78: 19 "And he who receiveth all things with thankfulness shall be made glorious; and the things of this earth shall be added unto him, even an hundred fold, yea, more."
A verse with a thought booklet tells us that we're to love the Lord our God with all our hearts, souls and might. We need to put Him first in our lives. We may not think we worship idols like ancient people do because we don't have graven images that we bow down to, but if we place more importance on any person or thing than we do the Lord, they become like an idol to us. Are we so busy playing video games that we don't have time to read the scriptures? Are we so busy watching TV we don't have time to pray? Are we so caught up in the things of the world that we don't take time to serve our fellowmen? Anything that we put as a higher priority in our lives than the things of the Lord is our own personal "idol." We need to make sure the Lord comes first in our lives and that we love him with all our heart. Deut. 6: 5 "And thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thine heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy might."
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And it shall come to pass in the last days,when the mountain of the Lord's house shall be established in the top of the mountains....The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints
Saturday, October 31, 2009
Friday, October 30, 2009
Daily Thoughts
In the Old Testament I read that Solom finished the House of the Lord and brought in all the things that his father David had dedicated for it. 2 Chr. 5: 1 "Thus all the work that Solomon made for the house of the Lord was finished: and Solomon brought in all the things that David his father had dedicated; and the silver, and the gold, and all the instruments, put he among the treasures of the house of God."
In the D&C I read that we need to pray to the Lord for the Comforter, which will teach us all things that are expedient for us. We need to pray always that we won't faint. If we do this, the Lord will be with us, even unto the end. D&C 75: 10-11 "Calling on the name of the Lord for the Comforter, which shall teach them all things that are expedient for them—Praying always that they faint not; and inasmuch as they do this, I will be with them even unto the end
Some verses with a thought booklet tell us that if we hear the Word of the Lord and do what they say, we're like a wise man who builds his house on a firm foundation so that it will withstand the storms of life that come. But if we hear the Word of the Lord and disregard it, we're like the foolish man who builds his house upon the sand. When storms come, the house will be washed away. We not only need to be hearers of the Word, but doers also. Luke 6: 46-49 "And why call ye me, Lord, Lord, and do not the things which I say? Whosoever cometh to me, and heareth my sayings, and doeth them, I will shew you to whom he is like: He is like a man which built an house, and digged deep, and laid the foundation on a rock: and when the flood arose, the stream beat vehemently upon that house, and could not shake it: for it was founded upon a rock. But he that heareth , and doeth not, is like a man that without a foundation built an house upon the earth; against which the stream did beat vehemently, and immediately it fell; and the ruin of that house was great."
In the D&C I read that we need to pray to the Lord for the Comforter, which will teach us all things that are expedient for us. We need to pray always that we won't faint. If we do this, the Lord will be with us, even unto the end. D&C 75: 10-11 "Calling on the name of the Lord for the Comforter, which shall teach them all things that are expedient for them—Praying always that they faint not; and inasmuch as they do this, I will be with them even unto the end
Some verses with a thought booklet tell us that if we hear the Word of the Lord and do what they say, we're like a wise man who builds his house on a firm foundation so that it will withstand the storms of life that come. But if we hear the Word of the Lord and disregard it, we're like the foolish man who builds his house upon the sand. When storms come, the house will be washed away. We not only need to be hearers of the Word, but doers also. Luke 6: 46-49 "And why call ye me, Lord, Lord, and do not the things which I say? Whosoever cometh to me, and heareth my sayings, and doeth them, I will shew you to whom he is like: He is like a man which built an house, and digged deep, and laid the foundation on a rock: and when the flood arose, the stream beat vehemently upon that house, and could not shake it: for it was founded upon a rock. But he that heareth , and doeth not, is like a man that without a foundation built an house upon the earth; against which the stream did beat vehemently, and immediately it fell; and the ruin of that house was great."
Thursday, October 29, 2009
Daily Thoughts
In the Old Testament I read that Solomon hade a molten sea for the temple which is described very much like the baptismal fonts in our temples today. 2 Chr. 4: 2-4 "Also he made a molten sea of ten cubits from brim to brim, round in compass, and five cubits the height thereof; and a line of thirty cubits did compass it round about. And under it was the similitude of oxen, which did compass it round about: ten in a cubit, compassing the sea round about. Two rows of oxen were cast, when it was cast. It stood upon twelve oxen, three looking toward the north, and three looking toward the west, and three looking toward the south, and three looking toward the east: and the sea was set above upon them, and all their hinder parts were inward."
In the D&C we're told to render ourselves approved in all things and be accouted as wise stewards. D&C 72: 22 "That they also may render themselves approved in all things, and be accounted as wise stewards."
A verse from a thought booklet reminds us to seek first the Kingdom of God and His righteousnes, and all these things will be added unto us. I've found this to be so true in my life. When I put other things ahead of God, nothing seems to turn out well. But when I put God first in my life, the other things seem to fall into place. Matt. 6: 33 "But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you."
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In the D&C we're told to render ourselves approved in all things and be accouted as wise stewards. D&C 72: 22 "That they also may render themselves approved in all things, and be accounted as wise stewards."
A verse from a thought booklet reminds us to seek first the Kingdom of God and His righteousnes, and all these things will be added unto us. I've found this to be so true in my life. When I put other things ahead of God, nothing seems to turn out well. But when I put God first in my life, the other things seem to fall into place. Matt. 6: 33 "But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you."
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Wednesday, October 28, 2009
Daily Thoughts
In the Old Testament I read that Solomon began to build the House of the Lord. 2 Chr. 3: 1 "Then Solomon began to build the house of the Lord at Jerusalem in mount Moriah, where the Lord appeared unto David his father, in the place that David had prepared in the threshingfloor of Ornan the Jebusite."
In the D&C I read that we can confound our enemies that seek to destroy the work of the Lord if we are faithful and keep the commandments. Let them bring their strong reasons against the Lord--no weapon they form will prosper and they will be confounded in the Lord's own time. D&C 71: 7-11 "Wherefore, confound your enemies; call upon them to meet you both in public and in private; and inasmuch as ye are faithful their shame shall be made manifest. Wherefore, let them bring forth their strong reasons against the Lord. Verily, thus saith the Lord unto you—there is no weapon that is formed against you shall prosper; And if any man lift his voice against you he shall be confounded in mine own due time. Wherefore, keep my commandments; they are true and faithful. Even so. Amen."
Some verses with a thought booklet talk about how Jesus' disciples left their nets that they used to fish with, and immediately followed Jesus when He called them to come follow Him. When He calls us, do we immediately leave what we're going and follow Him? Are we quick to obey and put Him first in our lives? He is beckoning us to come unto Him. Will we come? Matt. 4: 18-22 "And Jesus, walking by the sea of Galilee, saw two brethren, Simon called Peter, and Andrew his brother, casting a net into the sea: for they were fishers. And he saith unto them, Follow me, and I will make you fishers of men. And they straightway left their nets, and followed him. And going on from thence, he saw other two brethren, James the son of Zebedee, and John his brother, in a ship with Zebedee their father, mending their nets; and he called them. And they immediately left the ship and their father, and followed him."
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In the D&C I read that we can confound our enemies that seek to destroy the work of the Lord if we are faithful and keep the commandments. Let them bring their strong reasons against the Lord--no weapon they form will prosper and they will be confounded in the Lord's own time. D&C 71: 7-11 "Wherefore, confound your enemies; call upon them to meet you both in public and in private; and inasmuch as ye are faithful their shame shall be made manifest. Wherefore, let them bring forth their strong reasons against the Lord. Verily, thus saith the Lord unto you—there is no weapon that is formed against you shall prosper; And if any man lift his voice against you he shall be confounded in mine own due time. Wherefore, keep my commandments; they are true and faithful. Even so. Amen."
Some verses with a thought booklet talk about how Jesus' disciples left their nets that they used to fish with, and immediately followed Jesus when He called them to come follow Him. When He calls us, do we immediately leave what we're going and follow Him? Are we quick to obey and put Him first in our lives? He is beckoning us to come unto Him. Will we come? Matt. 4: 18-22 "And Jesus, walking by the sea of Galilee, saw two brethren, Simon called Peter, and Andrew his brother, casting a net into the sea: for they were fishers. And he saith unto them, Follow me, and I will make you fishers of men. And they straightway left their nets, and followed him. And going on from thence, he saw other two brethren, James the son of Zebedee, and John his brother, in a ship with Zebedee their father, mending their nets; and he called them. And they immediately left the ship and their father, and followed him."
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Tuesday, October 27, 2009
Daily Thoughts
In the Old Testament I read that Solomon prepared to build the House of the Lord, organizing laborers to do the work. 2 Chr. 2: 1-2, 7-9 "And Solomon determined to build an house for the name of the Lord, and an house for his kingdom. And Solomon told out threescore and ten thousand men to bear burdens, and fourscore thousand to hew in the mountain, and three thousand and six hundred to oversee them. Send me now therefore a man cunning to work in gold, and in silver, and in brass, and in iron, and in purple, and crimson, and blue, and that can skill to grave with the cunning men that are with me in Judah and in Jerusalem, whom David my father did provide. Send me also cedar trees, fir trees, and algum trees, out of Lebanon: for I know that thy servants can skill to cut timber in Lebanon; and, behold, my servants shall be with thy servants, Even to prepare me timber in abundance: for the house which I am about to build shall be wonderful great."
In the D&C I read that when we're given stewardships by the Lord, we'll be held accountable for them in the day of judgment. D&C 70: 4 "And an account of this stewardship will I require of them in the day of judgment."
Some verses with a thought booklet tell us that we should be rooted and grounded in love, which happens when we allow Christ to dwell in our hearts by faith. The love of Christ passes knowledge and fills us with the fulness of God. Eph. 3: 17-19 "That Christ may dwell in your hearts by faith; that ye, being rooted and grounded in love, May be able to comprehend with all saints what is the breadth, and length, and depth, and height; And to know the love of Christ, which passeth knowledge, that ye might be filled with all the fulness of God."
In the D&C I read that when we're given stewardships by the Lord, we'll be held accountable for them in the day of judgment. D&C 70: 4 "And an account of this stewardship will I require of them in the day of judgment."
Some verses with a thought booklet tell us that we should be rooted and grounded in love, which happens when we allow Christ to dwell in our hearts by faith. The love of Christ passes knowledge and fills us with the fulness of God. Eph. 3: 17-19 "That Christ may dwell in your hearts by faith; that ye, being rooted and grounded in love, May be able to comprehend with all saints what is the breadth, and length, and depth, and height; And to know the love of Christ, which passeth knowledge, that ye might be filled with all the fulness of God."
Monday, October 26, 2009
Daily Thoughts
In the Old Testament I read that God appeared to Solomon and asked him what he wanted Him to give him. Solomon asked for wisdom so that he could judge the people wisely. Because he didn't ask for wealth or fame or a long life for himself, God grated him the wisdom that he asked for and also for the things he didn't ask for. If we're unselfish in what we ask God to give us, often He'll grant us blessings in ways we haven't asked. 2 Chr. 1: 7, 10-12 "In that night did God appear unto Solomon, and said unto him, Ask what I shall give thee. Give me now wisdom and knowledge, that I may go out and come in before this people: for who can judge this thy people, that is so great? And God said to Solomon, Because this was in thine heart, and thou hast not asked riches, wealth, or honour, nor the life of thine enemies, neither yet hast asked long life; but hast asked wisdom and knowledge for thyself, that thou mayest judge my people, over whom I have made thee king: Wisdom and knowledge is granted unto thee; and I will give thee riches, and wealth, and honour, such as none of the kings have had that have been before thee, neither shall there any after thee have the like."
In the D&C I read that we're to teach our children to repent, have faith in the Lord, and to pray and walk uprightly before the Lord. They need to be baptized when eight years old and receive the Holy Ghost by the laying on of hands. If parents do not teach their children properly, the sin will be upon the heads of the parents. D&C 68:25-28 "And again, inasmuch as parents have children in Zion, or in any of her stakes which are organized, that teach them not to understand the doctrine of repentance, faith in Christ the Son of the living God, and of baptism and the gift of the Holy Ghost by the laying on of the hands, when eight years old, the sin be upon the heads of the parents. For this shall be a law unto the inhabitants of Zion, or in any of her stakes which are organized. And their children shall be baptized for the remission of their sins when eight years old, and receive the laying on of the hands. And they shall also teach their children to pray, and to walk uprightly before the Lord."
A verse with a thought booklet tells us to not merely be hearers of the Word of God, but doers also. We need to ACT on what we know. If we listen to the Word of God, but don't do what we hear, we're only deceiving ourselves. James 1: 22 "But be ye doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving your own selves."
In the D&C I read that we're to teach our children to repent, have faith in the Lord, and to pray and walk uprightly before the Lord. They need to be baptized when eight years old and receive the Holy Ghost by the laying on of hands. If parents do not teach their children properly, the sin will be upon the heads of the parents. D&C 68:25-28 "And again, inasmuch as parents have children in Zion, or in any of her stakes which are organized, that teach them not to understand the doctrine of repentance, faith in Christ the Son of the living God, and of baptism and the gift of the Holy Ghost by the laying on of the hands, when eight years old, the sin be upon the heads of the parents. For this shall be a law unto the inhabitants of Zion, or in any of her stakes which are organized. And their children shall be baptized for the remission of their sins when eight years old, and receive the laying on of the hands. And they shall also teach their children to pray, and to walk uprightly before the Lord."
A verse with a thought booklet tells us to not merely be hearers of the Word of God, but doers also. We need to ACT on what we know. If we listen to the Word of God, but don't do what we hear, we're only deceiving ourselves. James 1: 22 "But be ye doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving your own selves."
Sunday, October 25, 2009
Daily Thoughts
In the Old Testament I read that David died at a good old age and his son Solomon reigned in his stead. The Lord magnified Solomon and bestowed royal majesty upon him. All Israel obeyed Solomon and submitted themselves unto him. 1 Chr. 29: 23-28 "Then Solomon sat on the throne of the Lord as king instead of David his father, and prospered; and all Israel obeyed him. And all the princes, and the mighty men, and all the sons likewise of king David, submitted themselves unto Solomon the king. And the Lord magnified Solomon exceedingly in the sight of all Israel, and bestowed upon him such royal majesty as had not been on any king before him in Israel. Thus David the son of Jesse reigned over all Israel. And the time that he reigned over Israel was forty years; seven years reigned he in Hebron, and thirty and three years reigned he in Jerusalem. And he died in a good old age, full of days, riches, and honour: and Solomon his son reigned in his stead."
In the D&C we're told that whatever the servants of the Lord speak as moved upon by the Holy Ghost is as scripture, and is the word of the Lord. We need to pay very careful heed to what the Lord's servants say, because when they're speaking the things the Lord has directed them to speak, through His Spirit, it is as if He Himself is speaking to us. D&C 68: 3-5 "And this is the ensample unto them, that they shall speak as they are moved upon by the Holy Ghost. And whatsoever they shall speak when moved upon by the Holy Ghost shall be scripture, shall be the will of the Lord, shall be the mind of the Lord, shall be the word of the Lord, shall be the voice of the Lord, and the power of God unto salvation. Behold, this is the promise of the Lord unto you, O ye my servants."
A verse with a thought booklet tells us that just as God loves us, we likewise should love one another. 1 Jn. 4: 11 "Beloved, if God so loved us, we ought also to love one another."
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In the D&C we're told that whatever the servants of the Lord speak as moved upon by the Holy Ghost is as scripture, and is the word of the Lord. We need to pay very careful heed to what the Lord's servants say, because when they're speaking the things the Lord has directed them to speak, through His Spirit, it is as if He Himself is speaking to us. D&C 68: 3-5 "And this is the ensample unto them, that they shall speak as they are moved upon by the Holy Ghost. And whatsoever they shall speak when moved upon by the Holy Ghost shall be scripture, shall be the will of the Lord, shall be the mind of the Lord, shall be the word of the Lord, shall be the voice of the Lord, and the power of God unto salvation. Behold, this is the promise of the Lord unto you, O ye my servants."
A verse with a thought booklet tells us that just as God loves us, we likewise should love one another. 1 Jn. 4: 11 "Beloved, if God so loved us, we ought also to love one another."
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Saturday, October 24, 2009
Daily Thoughts
In the Old Testament I read that David blessed and praised the Lord and acknowledged that all things come from Him. The point is made that when we give to the Lord, we're really only giving back what He gave to us in the first place. 1 Chr. 29: 10-14 "Wherefore David blessed the Lord before all the congregation: and David said, Blessed be thou, Lord God of Israel our father, for ever and ever. Thine, O Lord, is the greatness, and the power, and the glory, and the victory, and the majesty: for all that is in the heaven and in the earth is thine; thine is the kingdom, O Lord, and thou art exalted as head above all. Both riches and honour bcome of thee, and thou reignest over all; and in thine hand is power and might; and in thine hand it is to make great, and to give strength unto all. Now therefore, our God, we thank thee, and praise thy glorious name. But who am I, and what is my people, that we should be able to offer so willingly after this sort? for all things come of thee, and of thine own have we given thee."
In the D&C I read that the keys of the kingdom of God have been committed to manon the earth and from this the gospel will roll forth unto the ends of the earth until it has filled the whole earth. We can certainly see this happening today! This is preparation for the Second Coming of Christ. D&C 65: 2-3 "The keys of the kingdom of God are committed unto man on the earth, and from thence shall the gospel roll forth unto the ends of the earth, as the stone which is cut out of the mountain without hands shall roll forth, until it has filled the whole earth. Yea, a voice crying—Prepare ye the way of the Lord, prepare ye the supper of the Lamb, make ready for the Bridegroom."
Some verses with a thought booklet tell us that when the righteous pray unto the Lord, He hears them and delivers them from their troubles. When we're humble and contrite, the Lord is near to us. Ps. 34: 17-19 "The righteous cry, and the Lord heareth, and delivereth them out of all their troubles. The Lord is nigh unto them that are of a broken heart; and saveth such as be of a contrite spirit. Many are the afflictions of the righteous: but the Lord delivereth him out of them all."
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In the D&C I read that the keys of the kingdom of God have been committed to manon the earth and from this the gospel will roll forth unto the ends of the earth until it has filled the whole earth. We can certainly see this happening today! This is preparation for the Second Coming of Christ. D&C 65: 2-3 "The keys of the kingdom of God are committed unto man on the earth, and from thence shall the gospel roll forth unto the ends of the earth, as the stone which is cut out of the mountain without hands shall roll forth, until it has filled the whole earth. Yea, a voice crying—Prepare ye the way of the Lord, prepare ye the supper of the Lamb, make ready for the Bridegroom."
Some verses with a thought booklet tell us that when the righteous pray unto the Lord, He hears them and delivers them from their troubles. When we're humble and contrite, the Lord is near to us. Ps. 34: 17-19 "The righteous cry, and the Lord heareth, and delivereth them out of all their troubles. The Lord is nigh unto them that are of a broken heart; and saveth such as be of a contrite spirit. Many are the afflictions of the righteous: but the Lord delivereth him out of them all."
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Friday, October 23, 2009
Daily Thoughts
In the Old Testament I read that David gave Solomon the pattern and materials to build the temple and exhorted him to be strong and of good courage for the Lord would not forsake him or fail him, but would help him complete the work he needed to do. 1 Chr. 28: 11-21 "Then David gave to Solomon his son the pattern of the porch, and of the houses thereof, and of the treasuries thereof, and of the upper chambers thereof, and of the inner parlours thereof, and of the place of the mercy seat, And the pattern of all that he had by the spirit, of the courts of the house of the Lord, and of all the chambers round about, of the treasuries of the house of God, and of the treasuries of the dedicated things: Also for the courses of the priests and the Levites, and for all the work of the service of the house of the Lord, and for all the vessels of service in the house of the Lord. He gave of gold by weight for things of gold, for all instruments of all manner of service; silver also for all instruments of silver by weight, for all instruments of every kind of service: Even the weight for the candlesticks of gold, and for their lamps of gold, by weight for every candlestick, and for the lamps thereof: and for the candlesticks of silver by weight, both for the candlestick, and also for the lamps thereof, according to the use of every candlestick. And by weight he gave gold for the tables of shewbread, for every table; and likewise silver for the tables of silver: Also pure gold for the fleshhooks, and the bowls, and the cups: and for the golden basons he gave gold by weight for every bason; and likewise silver by weight for every bason of silver: And for the altar of incense refined gold by weight; and gold for the pattern of the chariot of the cherubims, that spread out their wings, and covered the ark of the covenant of the Lord. All this, said David, the Lord made me understand in writing by his hand upon me, even all the works of this pattern. And David said to Solomon his son, Be strong and of good courage, and do it: fear not, nor be dismayed: for the Lord God, even my God, will be with thee; he will not fail thee, nor forsake thee, until thou hast finished all the work for the service of the house of the Lord. And, behold, the courses of the priests and the Levites, even they shall be with thee for all the service of the house of God: and there shall be with thee for all manner of workmanship every willing skilful man, for any manner of service: also the princes and all the people will be wholly at thy commandment."
In the D&C I read the importance of forgiving other people. In fact, if we're not willing to forgive those who have tresspassed against us, we're guilty of the greater sin. The Lord can forgive whome He wants, but of us it is required to forgive all men. That's pretty strong language! D&C 64: 9-10 "Wherefore, I say unto you, that ye ought to forgive one another; for he that forgiveth not his brother his trespasses standeth condemned before the Lord; for there remaineth in him the greater sin. I, the Lord, will forgive whom I will forgive, but of you it is required to forgive all men."
A verse in a thought booklet tells us that Jesus is the way, the truth and the life and no one can come unto the Father but by Him. Sometimes it's hard to discern the real from the fake. A woman was complaining about her hat getting wet in a sudden rainstorm, not wanting the silk flowers on it to get ruined. But her 3 year old grandson reassured her that rain was good for flowers! Jesus Christ is the "real thing" and we need to make sure we're not deceived by thinking that we can return to our Heavenly Father by some other way. We can't. We need to be able to tell the real from the fake. John 14: 6 "Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me."
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In the D&C I read the importance of forgiving other people. In fact, if we're not willing to forgive those who have tresspassed against us, we're guilty of the greater sin. The Lord can forgive whome He wants, but of us it is required to forgive all men. That's pretty strong language! D&C 64: 9-10 "Wherefore, I say unto you, that ye ought to forgive one another; for he that forgiveth not his brother his trespasses standeth condemned before the Lord; for there remaineth in him the greater sin. I, the Lord, will forgive whom I will forgive, but of you it is required to forgive all men."
A verse in a thought booklet tells us that Jesus is the way, the truth and the life and no one can come unto the Father but by Him. Sometimes it's hard to discern the real from the fake. A woman was complaining about her hat getting wet in a sudden rainstorm, not wanting the silk flowers on it to get ruined. But her 3 year old grandson reassured her that rain was good for flowers! Jesus Christ is the "real thing" and we need to make sure we're not deceived by thinking that we can return to our Heavenly Father by some other way. We can't. We need to be able to tell the real from the fake. John 14: 6 "Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me."
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Thursday, October 22, 2009
Daily Thoughts
In the Old Testament I read that David assembled the leaders of Israel and appointed Solomon to be the king and to bild the House of the Lord that David had wanted to build but which the Lord told him he oculdn't build because of all the wars that he had fought. David exhorted Solomon and all the people to serve God and keep His commandments. 1 Chr. 28: 1-10 "And David assembled all the princes of Israel, the princes of the tribes, and the captains of the companies that ministered to the king by course, and the captains over the thousands, and captains over the hundreds, and the stewards over all the substance and possession of the king, and of his sons, with the officers, and with the mighty men, and with all the valiant men, unto Jerusalem. Then David the king stood up upon his feet, and said, Hear me, my brethren, and my people: As for me, I had in mine heart to build an house of rest for the ark of the covenant of the Lord, and for the footstool of our God, and had made ready for the building: But God said unto me, Thou shalt not build an house for my name, because thou hast been a man of war, and hast shed blood. Howbeit the Lord God of Israel chose me before all the house of my father to be king over Israel for ever: for he hath chosen Judah to be the ruler; and of the house of Judah, the house of my father; and among the sons of my father he liked me to make me king over all Israel: And of all my sons, (for the Lord hath given me many sons,) he hath chosen Solomon my son to sit upon the throne of the kingdom of the Lord over Israel. And he said unto me, Solomon thy son, he shall build my house and my courts: for I have chosen him to be my son, and I will be his father. Moreover I will establish his kingdom for ever, if he be constant to do my commandments and my judgments, as at this day. Now therefore in the sight of all Israel the congregation of the Lord, and in the audience of our God, keep and seek for all the commandments of the Lord your God: that ye may possess this good land, and leave it for an inheritance for your children after you for ever. And thou, Solomon my son, know thou the God of thy father, and serve him with a perfect heart and with a willing mind: for the Lord searcheth all hearts, and understandeth all the imaginations of the thoughts: if thou seek him, he will be found of thee; but if thou forsake him, he will cast thee off for ever. Take heed now; for the Lord hath chosen thee to build an house for the sanctuary: be strong, and do it."
In the D&C we're told that faith doesn't come from seeing signs; but rather signs follow faith and only come by the will of God, not man. I once knew someone who said they'd believe if only they received a sign. But that's the totally wrong order! The witness is given AFTER the trial of our faith. D&C 63: 8-10 "Verily, I say unto you, there are those among you who seek signs, and there have been such even from the beginning; But, behold, faith cometh not by signs, but signs follow those that believe. Yea, signs come by faith, not by the will of men, nor as they please, but by the will of God."
A verse with a thought booklet talks about being no more strangers but being fellow citizens with the saints and of the household of God. What a wonderful thing to be in a church where there is fellowship and belonging. We may now always feel that way, however. If we don't, we need to do our part to make other people feel welcomed and comfortable at church. It's a two way street! Eph. 2:19 "Now therefore ye are no more strangers and foreigners, but fellowcitizens with the saints, and of the household of God;"
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In the D&C we're told that faith doesn't come from seeing signs; but rather signs follow faith and only come by the will of God, not man. I once knew someone who said they'd believe if only they received a sign. But that's the totally wrong order! The witness is given AFTER the trial of our faith. D&C 63: 8-10 "Verily, I say unto you, there are those among you who seek signs, and there have been such even from the beginning; But, behold, faith cometh not by signs, but signs follow those that believe. Yea, signs come by faith, not by the will of men, nor as they please, but by the will of God."
A verse with a thought booklet talks about being no more strangers but being fellow citizens with the saints and of the household of God. What a wonderful thing to be in a church where there is fellowship and belonging. We may now always feel that way, however. If we don't, we need to do our part to make other people feel welcomed and comfortable at church. It's a two way street! Eph. 2:19 "Now therefore ye are no more strangers and foreigners, but fellowcitizens with the saints, and of the household of God;"
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Wednesday, October 21, 2009
Daily Thoughts
In the Old Testament I read that the Lord would not allow David to build the House of the Lord that he wanted to build because he had shed too much blood in the many battles he had fought. So David gathered up materials and workman to build the house and left it up to his son Solomon to build the house after his death. 1 Chr. 22: 2-11, 14-19 "And David commanded to gather together the strangers that were in the land of Israel; and he set masons to hew wrought stones to build the house of God. And David prepared iron in abundance for the nails for the doors of the gates, and for the joinings; and brass in abundance without weight; Also cedar trees in abundance: for the Zidonians and they of Tyre brought much cedar wood to David. And David said, Solomon my son is young and tender, and the house that is to be builded for the Lord must be exceeding magnifical, of fame and of glory throughout all countries: I will therefore now make preparation for it. So David prepared abundantly before his death. Then he called for Solomon his son, and charged him to build an house for the Lord God of Israel. And David said to Solomon, My son, as for me, it was in my mind to build an house unto the name of the Lord my God: But the word of the Lord came to me, saying, Thou hast shed blood abundantly, and hast made great wars: thou shalt not build an house unto my name, because thou hast shed much blood upon the earth in my sight. Behold, a son shall be born to thee, who shall be a man of rest; and I will give him arest from all his enemies round about: for his name shall be Solomon, and I will give peace and quietness unto Israel in his days. He shall build an house for my name; and he shall be my son, and I will be his father; and I will establish the throne of his kingdom over Israel for ever. Now, my son, the Lord be with thee; and prosper thou, and build the house of the Lord thy God, as he hath said of thee. Now, behold, in my trouble I have prepared for the house of the Lord an hundred thousand talents of gold, and a thousand thousand talents of silver; and of brass and iron without weight; for it is in abundance: timber also and stone have I prepared; and thou mayest add thereto. Moreover there are workmen with thee in abundance, hewers and workers of stone and timber, and all manner of cunning men for every manner of work. Of the gold, the silver, and the brass, and the iron, there is no number. Arise therefore, and be doing, and the Lord be with thee. David also commanded all the princes of Israel to help Solomon his son, saying, Is not the Lord your God with you? and hath he not given you rest on every side? for he hath given the inhabitants of the land into mine hand; and the land is subdued before the Lord, and before his people. Now set your heart and your soul to seek the Lord your God; arise therefore, and build ye the sanctuary of the Lord God, to bring the ark of the covenant of the Lord, and the holy vessels of God, into the house that is to be built to the name of the Lord."
In the D&C I read that the Lord's anger is kindled against those who hide their talents and are afraid to open their mouths because of the fear of men. Unless they're more faithful, what they have will be taken away from them. I know it's easy for me to sit back quietly and say nothing, so this is a scary verse! D&C 60: 2-3 "But with some I am not well pleased, for they will not open their mouths, but they hide the talent which I have given unto them, because of the fear of man. Wo unto such, for mine anger is kindled against them. And it shall come to pass, if they are not more faithful unto me, it shall be taken away, even that which they have."
A verse with a thought booklet tells us that we receive the promise of the Spirit through faith. Gal. 3: 14 "That the blessing of Abraham might come on the Gentiles through Jesus Christ; that we might receive the promise of the Spirit through faith."
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In the D&C I read that the Lord's anger is kindled against those who hide their talents and are afraid to open their mouths because of the fear of men. Unless they're more faithful, what they have will be taken away from them. I know it's easy for me to sit back quietly and say nothing, so this is a scary verse! D&C 60: 2-3 "But with some I am not well pleased, for they will not open their mouths, but they hide the talent which I have given unto them, because of the fear of man. Wo unto such, for mine anger is kindled against them. And it shall come to pass, if they are not more faithful unto me, it shall be taken away, even that which they have."
A verse with a thought booklet tells us that we receive the promise of the Spirit through faith. Gal. 3: 14 "That the blessing of Abraham might come on the Gentiles through Jesus Christ; that we might receive the promise of the Spirit through faith."
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Tuesday, October 20, 2009
Daily Thoughts
In the Old Testament I read that the Lord was displeased with David after he numbered the people. David realized that he had done foolishly, but the Lord was so displeased with him that he sent an angel to give him three choices of punishments--three years of famine, three months of being destroyed by their foes, or three days of pestilance. He got the three days of pestilance and 70,000 men fell. 1 Chr. 21: 7-14 "And God was displeased with this thing; therefore he smote Israel. And David said unto God, I have sinned greatly, because I have done this thing: but now, I beseech thee, do away the iniquity of thy servant; for I have done very foolishly. And the Lord spake unto Gad, David's seer, saying, Go and tell David, saying, Thus saith the Lord, I offer thee three things: choose thee one of them, that I may do it unto thee. So Gad came to David, and said unto him, Thus saith the Lord, Choose thee Either three years' famine; or three months to be destroyed before thy foes, while that the sword of thine enemies overtaketh thee; or else three days the sword of the Lord, even the pestilence, in the land, and the angel of the Lord destroying throughout all the coasts of Israel. Now therefore advise thyself what word I shall bring again to him that sent me. And David said unto Gad, I am in a great strait: let me fall now into the hand of the Lord; for very great are his mercies: but let me not fall into the hand of man. So the Lord sent pestilence upon Israel: and there fell of Israel seventy thousand men."
In the D&C I read that we need to love the Lord and other people and keep the commandments. We need to thank the Lord in all things. The Lord's wrath is kindled against those who confess not His hand in all things and who do not obey the commandments. If we're righteous we'll receive our reward, which is peace in this world and eternal life in the world to come. D&C 59: 5-7, 21, 23 "Wherefore, I give unto them a commandment, saying thus: Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, with all thy might, mind, and strength; and in the name of Jesus Christ thou shalt serve him. Thou shalt love thy neighbor as thyself. Thou shalt not steal; neither commit adultery, nor kill, nor do anything like unto it. Thou shalt thank the Lord thy God in all things. And in nothing doth man offend God, or against none is his wrath kindled, save those who confess not his hand in all things, and obey not his commandments. But learn that he who doeth the works of righteousness shall receive his reward, even peace in this world, and eternal life in the world to come."
A verse with a thought booklet tells us that God is rich in mercy toward us because of His great love for us. His mercy is not based on just some superficial kindness, but it comes from a heart full of love! Eph. 2: 4 "But God, who is rich in mercy, for his great love wherewith he loved us,"
In the D&C I read that we need to love the Lord and other people and keep the commandments. We need to thank the Lord in all things. The Lord's wrath is kindled against those who confess not His hand in all things and who do not obey the commandments. If we're righteous we'll receive our reward, which is peace in this world and eternal life in the world to come. D&C 59: 5-7, 21, 23 "Wherefore, I give unto them a commandment, saying thus: Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, with all thy might, mind, and strength; and in the name of Jesus Christ thou shalt serve him. Thou shalt love thy neighbor as thyself. Thou shalt not steal; neither commit adultery, nor kill, nor do anything like unto it. Thou shalt thank the Lord thy God in all things. And in nothing doth man offend God, or against none is his wrath kindled, save those who confess not his hand in all things, and obey not his commandments. But learn that he who doeth the works of righteousness shall receive his reward, even peace in this world, and eternal life in the world to come."
A verse with a thought booklet tells us that God is rich in mercy toward us because of His great love for us. His mercy is not based on just some superficial kindness, but it comes from a heart full of love! Eph. 2: 4 "But God, who is rich in mercy, for his great love wherewith he loved us,"
Monday, October 19, 2009
Daily Thoughts
In the Old Testament I read about how David sinned by numbering Israel. I remember reading this as a teenager and thinking it was strange that counting the people would be considered a sin. Wasn't that just like taking a census? But it showed a lack of faith in the Lord. With the Lord on their side, they could prevail against their enemies no matter how few in number they were. But David was seeking reassurance that he could defeat his enemies according to how many soldiers he had to fight them. If he truly trusted in the Lord, those numbers wouldn't make any difference. 1 Chr. 21: 1-5 "And Satan stood up against Israel, and provoked David to number Israel. And David said to Joab and to the rulers of the people, Go, number Israel from Beer-sheba even to Dan; and bring the number of them to me, that I may know it. And Joab answered, The Lord make his people an hundred times so many more as they be: but, my lord the king, are they not all my lord's servants? why then doth my lord require this thing? why will he be a cause of trespass to Israel? Nevertheless the king's word prevailed against Joab. Wherefore Joab departed, and went throughout all Israel, and came to Jerusalem. And Joab gave the sum of the number of the people unto David. And all they of Israel were a athousand thousand and an hundred thousand men that drew sword: and Judah was four hundred threescore and ten thousand men that drew sword."
In the D&C I read that if we repent of our sins the Lord will remember them no more. And a way to tell if a man has repented is that he will confess and forsake his sins. D&C 58: 42-43 "Behold, he who has repented of his sins, the same is forgiven, and I, the Lord, remember them no more. By this ye may know if a man repenteth of his sins—behold, he will confess them and forsake them."
Some verses with a thought booklet tell us that we were once dead in sins and trespasses, but Christ has quickened us, even though we once walked according to the lusts of the flesh and did what Satan wanted us to do. Eph. 2: 1-3 "And you hath he quickened, who were dead in trespasses and sins; Wherein in time past ye walked according to the course of this world, according to the prince of the power of the air, the spirit that now worketh in the children of disobedience: Among whom also we all had our conversation in times past in the lusts of our flesh, fulfilling the desires of the flesh and of the mind; and were by nature the children of wrath, even as others."
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In the D&C I read that if we repent of our sins the Lord will remember them no more. And a way to tell if a man has repented is that he will confess and forsake his sins. D&C 58: 42-43 "Behold, he who has repented of his sins, the same is forgiven, and I, the Lord, remember them no more. By this ye may know if a man repenteth of his sins—behold, he will confess them and forsake them."
Some verses with a thought booklet tell us that we were once dead in sins and trespasses, but Christ has quickened us, even though we once walked according to the lusts of the flesh and did what Satan wanted us to do. Eph. 2: 1-3 "And you hath he quickened, who were dead in trespasses and sins; Wherein in time past ye walked according to the course of this world, according to the prince of the power of the air, the spirit that now worketh in the children of disobedience: Among whom also we all had our conversation in times past in the lusts of our flesh, fulfilling the desires of the flesh and of the mind; and were by nature the children of wrath, even as others."
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Sunday, October 18, 2009
Daily Thoughts
In the Old Testament I read that David reigned over all Isreal with justice. 1 Chronicles 18:14 "So David reigned over all Israel, and executed judgment and justice among all his people."
In the D&C I read that if we must be compelled in all things, we're a slothful servant. It isn't meet that the Lord needs to command in all things, but we should be willing to do whatever we can to help others and be anxiously engaged in good things of our own free will. We shouldn't wait until we're commanded, and then keep the commandments with slothfulness. If we do that, we'll lose our reward. D&C 58: 26-29 "For behold, it is not meet that I should command in all things; for he that is compelled in all things, the same is a slothful and not a wise servant; wherefore he receiveth no reward. Verily I say, men should be anxiously engaged in a good cause, and do many things of their own free will, and bring to pass much righteousness;8 For the power is in them, wherein they are agents unto themselves. And inasmuch as men do good they shall in nowise lose their reward. But he that doeth not anything until he is commanded, and receiveth a commandment with doubtful heart, and keepeth it with slothfulness, the same is damned."
A verse with a thought booklet tells us that the Lord can change our hearts, making our hard, stony hearts flesh and putting a new spirit within us. If there are things about ourselves we're having trouble changing, we can turn the problem over to the Lord and allow Him to bring about the change in us. Ezek. 36: 26 "A new heart also will I give you, and a new spirit will I put within you: and I will take away the stony heart out of your flesh, and I will give you an heart of flesh."
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In the D&C I read that if we must be compelled in all things, we're a slothful servant. It isn't meet that the Lord needs to command in all things, but we should be willing to do whatever we can to help others and be anxiously engaged in good things of our own free will. We shouldn't wait until we're commanded, and then keep the commandments with slothfulness. If we do that, we'll lose our reward. D&C 58: 26-29 "For behold, it is not meet that I should command in all things; for he that is compelled in all things, the same is a slothful and not a wise servant; wherefore he receiveth no reward. Verily I say, men should be anxiously engaged in a good cause, and do many things of their own free will, and bring to pass much righteousness;8 For the power is in them, wherein they are agents unto themselves. And inasmuch as men do good they shall in nowise lose their reward. But he that doeth not anything until he is commanded, and receiveth a commandment with doubtful heart, and keepeth it with slothfulness, the same is damned."
A verse with a thought booklet tells us that the Lord can change our hearts, making our hard, stony hearts flesh and putting a new spirit within us. If there are things about ourselves we're having trouble changing, we can turn the problem over to the Lord and allow Him to bring about the change in us. Ezek. 36: 26 "A new heart also will I give you, and a new spirit will I put within you: and I will take away the stony heart out of your flesh, and I will give you an heart of flesh."
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Saturday, October 17, 2009
Daily Thoughts
In the Old Testament I read that David took gold and silver and brass from the nations he conquered and dedicated them to the Lord. Solomon was later able to use these materials to build the house of the Lord. 1 Chronicles 18: 7-11 "And David took the shields of gold that were on the servants of Hadarezer, and brought them to Jerusalem. Likewise from Tibhath, and from Chun, cities of Hadarezer, brought David very much brass, wherewith Solomon made the brasen sea, and the pillars, and the vessels of brass. Now when Tou king of Hamath heard how David had smitten all the host of Hadarezer king of Zobah; He sent Hadoram his son to king David, to enquire of his welfare, and to congratulate him, because he had fought against Hadarezer, and smitten him; (for Hadarezer had war with Tou;) and with him all manner of vessels of gold and silver and brass. Them also king David dedicated unto the Lord, with the silver and the gold that he brought from all these nations; from Edom, and from Moab, and from the children of Ammon, and from the Philistines, and from Amalek."
In the D&C we're told that after much tribulation, come the blessings. We need to keep the commandments and endure, and our blessings will be so great that we can't even imagine them. D&C 58: 2-4 "For verily I say unto you, blessed is he that keepeth my commandments, whether in life or in death; and he that is faithful in tribulation, the reward of the same is greater in the kingdom of heaven. Ye cannot behold with your natural eyes, for the present time, the design of your God concerning those things which shall come hereafter, and the glory which shall follow after much tribulation. For after much tribulation come the blessings. Wherefore the day cometh that ye shall be crowned with much glory; the hour is not yet, but is nigh at hand."
A verse with a thought booklet tells us to always give thanks unto the Lord for all things. Do we recognize where all our blessings come from? Are we appreciative of them? Are we thankful even for the trials in our lives which strenghten us and refine us? We need to give prayers of thanks at all times. Eph. 5: 20 "Giving thanks always for all things unto God and the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ;"
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In the D&C we're told that after much tribulation, come the blessings. We need to keep the commandments and endure, and our blessings will be so great that we can't even imagine them. D&C 58: 2-4 "For verily I say unto you, blessed is he that keepeth my commandments, whether in life or in death; and he that is faithful in tribulation, the reward of the same is greater in the kingdom of heaven. Ye cannot behold with your natural eyes, for the present time, the design of your God concerning those things which shall come hereafter, and the glory which shall follow after much tribulation. For after much tribulation come the blessings. Wherefore the day cometh that ye shall be crowned with much glory; the hour is not yet, but is nigh at hand."
A verse with a thought booklet tells us to always give thanks unto the Lord for all things. Do we recognize where all our blessings come from? Are we appreciative of them? Are we thankful even for the trials in our lives which strenghten us and refine us? We need to give prayers of thanks at all times. Eph. 5: 20 "Giving thanks always for all things unto God and the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ;"
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Friday, October 16, 2009
Daily Thoughts
In the Old Testament I read that David was able to subdue all his enemies and the Lord preserved him wherever he went. 1 Chronicles 18:1-6 "Now after this it came to pass, that David smote the Philistines, and subdued them, and took Gath and her towns out of the hand of the Philistines. And he smote Moab; and the Moabites became David's servants, and brought gifts. And David smote Hadarezer king of Zobah unto Hamath, as he went to stablish his dominion by the river Euphrates. And David took from him a thousand chariots, and seven thousand horsemen, and twenty thousand footmen: David also houghed all the chariot horses, but reserved of them an hundred chariots. And when the Syrians of Damascus came to help Hadarezer king of Zobah, David slew of the Syrians two and twenty thousand men. Then David put garrisons in Syria-damascus; and the Syrians became David's servants, and brought gifts. Thus the Lord preserved David whithersoever he went."
In the D&C we read that wo be unto rich men who refuse to help the poor, for their riches will canker their souls. Also, wo unto poor men who are never satisfied, who refuse to labor for what they need, and who greedily seek to lay their hands on other men's goods. But blessed are the poor who are humble and pure in heart, for they shall see the Kingdom of God. D&C 56: 16-18 "Wo unto you rich men, that will not give your substance to the poor, for your riches will canker your souls; and this shall be your lamentation in the day of visitation, and of judgment, and of indignation: The harvest is past, the summer is ended, and my soul is not saved! Wo unto you poor men, whose hearts are not broken, whose spirits are not contrite, and whose bellies are not satisfied, and whose hands are not stayed from laying hold upon other men's goods, whose eyes are full of greediness, and who will not labor with your own hands!8 But blessed are the poor who are pure in heart, whose hearts are broken, and whose spirits are contrite, for they shall see the kingdom of God coming in power and great glory unto their deliverance; for the fatness of the earth shall be theirs."
A verse with a thought booklet gives the admonition that we should feed the Lord's flock. The thought that went with this recounted how some starving and neglected horses had been confiscated by the sheriff's office and veterinarians and volunteers were working together to try to nurse them back to health. One of the volunteers was very angry at the people responsible for the poor condition of the horses and asked herself, "Who would let these horses starve like this?" Then the thought came to her that she was allowing the people around her to spiritually starve, by not doing what she could to share the gospel with them. What are we doing to feed His sheep? 1 Pet. 5: 2 "Feed the flock of God which is among you, taking the oversight thereof, not by constraint, but willingly; not for filthy lucre, but of a ready mind;"
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In the D&C we read that wo be unto rich men who refuse to help the poor, for their riches will canker their souls. Also, wo unto poor men who are never satisfied, who refuse to labor for what they need, and who greedily seek to lay their hands on other men's goods. But blessed are the poor who are humble and pure in heart, for they shall see the Kingdom of God. D&C 56: 16-18 "Wo unto you rich men, that will not give your substance to the poor, for your riches will canker your souls; and this shall be your lamentation in the day of visitation, and of judgment, and of indignation: The harvest is past, the summer is ended, and my soul is not saved! Wo unto you poor men, whose hearts are not broken, whose spirits are not contrite, and whose bellies are not satisfied, and whose hands are not stayed from laying hold upon other men's goods, whose eyes are full of greediness, and who will not labor with your own hands!8 But blessed are the poor who are pure in heart, whose hearts are broken, and whose spirits are contrite, for they shall see the kingdom of God coming in power and great glory unto their deliverance; for the fatness of the earth shall be theirs."
A verse with a thought booklet gives the admonition that we should feed the Lord's flock. The thought that went with this recounted how some starving and neglected horses had been confiscated by the sheriff's office and veterinarians and volunteers were working together to try to nurse them back to health. One of the volunteers was very angry at the people responsible for the poor condition of the horses and asked herself, "Who would let these horses starve like this?" Then the thought came to her that she was allowing the people around her to spiritually starve, by not doing what she could to share the gospel with them. What are we doing to feed His sheep? 1 Pet. 5: 2 "Feed the flock of God which is among you, taking the oversight thereof, not by constraint, but willingly; not for filthy lucre, but of a ready mind;"
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Thursday, October 15, 2009
Daily Thoughts
In the Old Testament I read that David wanted to build a house of the Lord. At first Nathan approves and tells him to go ahead, but then the Lord tells him to tell David that he should not build it but that after his death, his son will build it. 1 Chr. 17: 1-4, 11-12 "Now it came to pass, as David sat in his house, that David said to Nathan the prophet, Lo, I dwell in an house of cedars, but the ark of the covenant of the Lord remaineth under curtains. Then Nathan said unto David, Do all that is in thine heart; for God is with thee. And it came to pass the same night, that the word of God came to Nathan, saying, Go and tell David my servant, Thus saith the Lord, Thou shalt not build me an house to dwell in: And it shall come to pass, when thy days be expired that thou must go to be with thy fathers, that I will raise up thy seed after thee, which shall be of thy sons; and I will establish his kingdom. He shall build me an house, and I will stablish his throne for ever."
In the D&C we're told to be patient in tribulations and seek after the Lord, for the Lord will come quickly and reward us and we'll find rest to our souls. D&C 54: 10 "And again, be patient in tribulation until I come; and, behold, I come quickly, and my reward is with me, and they who have sought me early shall find rest to their souls. Even so. Amen."
Some verses from a thought booklet tell us some qualities and traits we need which will help us enter into the Kingdom of God. And if we're lacking in these, it means we've forgotten that we're purged from our old sins. Some of these qualities are: faith, virtue, knowledge, godliness, brotherly kindness, and charity. We need to put these things into practice in our lives. 2 Pet. 1: 4-11 "Whereby are given unto us exceeding great and precious promises: that by these ye might be partakers of the divine nature, having escaped the corruption that is in the world through lust. And beside this, giving all diligence, add to your faith virtue; and to virtue knowledge; And to knowledge temperance; and to temperance patience; and to patience godliness; And to godliness brotherly kindness; and to brotherly kindness charity. For if these things be in you, and abound, they make you that ye shall neither be barren nor unfruitful in the knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ. But he that lacketh these things is blind, and cannot see afar off, and hath forgotten that he was purged from his old sins. Wherefore the rather, brethren, give diligence to make your calling and election sure: for if ye do these things, ye shall never fall: For so an entrance shall be ministered unto you abundantly into the everlasting kingdom of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ."
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In the D&C we're told to be patient in tribulations and seek after the Lord, for the Lord will come quickly and reward us and we'll find rest to our souls. D&C 54: 10 "And again, be patient in tribulation until I come; and, behold, I come quickly, and my reward is with me, and they who have sought me early shall find rest to their souls. Even so. Amen."
Some verses from a thought booklet tell us some qualities and traits we need which will help us enter into the Kingdom of God. And if we're lacking in these, it means we've forgotten that we're purged from our old sins. Some of these qualities are: faith, virtue, knowledge, godliness, brotherly kindness, and charity. We need to put these things into practice in our lives. 2 Pet. 1: 4-11 "Whereby are given unto us exceeding great and precious promises: that by these ye might be partakers of the divine nature, having escaped the corruption that is in the world through lust. And beside this, giving all diligence, add to your faith virtue; and to virtue knowledge; And to knowledge temperance; and to temperance patience; and to patience godliness; And to godliness brotherly kindness; and to brotherly kindness charity. For if these things be in you, and abound, they make you that ye shall neither be barren nor unfruitful in the knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ. But he that lacketh these things is blind, and cannot see afar off, and hath forgotten that he was purged from his old sins. Wherefore the rather, brethren, give diligence to make your calling and election sure: for if ye do these things, ye shall never fall: For so an entrance shall be ministered unto you abundantly into the everlasting kingdom of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ."
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Wednesday, October 14, 2009
Daily Thoughts
In the Old Testament I read that we need to declare the glory of God to all nations. Their gods are just idols, but the Lord created the heavens and all glory and honour need to be given to Him. We need to give thanks unto Him, for His mercy endures forever. 1 Chr. 16: 24-34 "Declare his glory among the heathen; his marvellous works among all nations. For great is the Lord, and greatly to be praised: he also is to be feared above all gods. For all the gods of the people are idols: but the Lord made the heavens. Glory and honour are in his presence; strength and gladness are in his place. Give unto the Lord, ye kindreds of the people, give unto the Lord glory and strength. Give unto the Lord the glory due unto his name: bring an offering, and come before him: worship the Lord in the beauty of holiness. Fear before him, all the earth: the world also shall be stable, that it be not moved. Let the heavens be glad, and let the earth rejoice: and let men say among the nations, The Lord reigneth. Let the sea roar, and the fulness thereof: let the fields rejoice, and all that is therein. Then shall the trees of the wood sing out at the presence of the Lord, because he cometh to judge the earth. O give athanks unto the Lord; for he is good; for his mercy endureth for ever."
In the D&C we're given a pattern to discern if someone is speaking by the Spirit and is of God. This is important to know because Satan is abraod in the land and seeks to deceive. A person who is of God will pray and have a contrite spirit. His language will be meek and will edify. He will obey the ordinances of God. However, a person who is overcome and does not bring forth fruits according to this pattern, is not of God. D&C 52: 14-19 "And again, I will give unto you a pattern in all things, that ye may not be deceived; for Satan is abroad in the land, and he goeth forth deceiving the nations— Wherefore he that prayeth, whose spirit is contrite, the same is accepted of me if he obey mine cordinances. He that speaketh, whose spirit is contrite, whose language is meek and edifieth, the same is of God if he obey mine ordinances. And again, he that trembleth under my power shall be made strong, and shall bring forth fruits of praise and wisdom, according to the revelations and truths which I have given you. And again, he that is overcome and bringeth not forth fruits, even according to this pattern, is not of me. Wherefore, by this pattern ye shall know the spirits in all cases under the whole heavens."
A verse with a thought booklet talks about how a great ship that is driven forth by fierce winds can be turned about with a very small rudder. There can be great power in small things! The thought that went with this, written by Douglas Raymond Rose from Grand Prairie, Texas, says: "Did you empty out all your pockets?" my wife asked. It was wash day and we were sorting the clothes. "Yes," I answered, silently hoping I as right. When we began to move the wet clothes into the dryer, guess what? Small bits of wet white tissue were stuck to everyting! Now I had to take time to pick bits of wet tiessue off the clothes. And for days, I kept finding more tiny pieces of tissue on the floor-all because I wouldn't take a few seconds to check my pockets! Always remember the power of the small. Small acts can have far-reaching effects. We must never overlook the details of our spiritual life: prayer, Bible reading, a gentle word, simple acts of kindness--such things may seem small but a lack of them can greatly hinder us. Excuse me, but I have to go now and empty out some pockets. James 3: 4 "Behold also the ships, which though they be so great, and are driven of fierce winds, yet are they turned about with a very small helm, whithersoever the governor listeth."
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In the D&C we're given a pattern to discern if someone is speaking by the Spirit and is of God. This is important to know because Satan is abraod in the land and seeks to deceive. A person who is of God will pray and have a contrite spirit. His language will be meek and will edify. He will obey the ordinances of God. However, a person who is overcome and does not bring forth fruits according to this pattern, is not of God. D&C 52: 14-19 "And again, I will give unto you a pattern in all things, that ye may not be deceived; for Satan is abroad in the land, and he goeth forth deceiving the nations— Wherefore he that prayeth, whose spirit is contrite, the same is accepted of me if he obey mine cordinances. He that speaketh, whose spirit is contrite, whose language is meek and edifieth, the same is of God if he obey mine ordinances. And again, he that trembleth under my power shall be made strong, and shall bring forth fruits of praise and wisdom, according to the revelations and truths which I have given you. And again, he that is overcome and bringeth not forth fruits, even according to this pattern, is not of me. Wherefore, by this pattern ye shall know the spirits in all cases under the whole heavens."
A verse with a thought booklet talks about how a great ship that is driven forth by fierce winds can be turned about with a very small rudder. There can be great power in small things! The thought that went with this, written by Douglas Raymond Rose from Grand Prairie, Texas, says: "Did you empty out all your pockets?" my wife asked. It was wash day and we were sorting the clothes. "Yes," I answered, silently hoping I as right. When we began to move the wet clothes into the dryer, guess what? Small bits of wet white tissue were stuck to everyting! Now I had to take time to pick bits of wet tiessue off the clothes. And for days, I kept finding more tiny pieces of tissue on the floor-all because I wouldn't take a few seconds to check my pockets! Always remember the power of the small. Small acts can have far-reaching effects. We must never overlook the details of our spiritual life: prayer, Bible reading, a gentle word, simple acts of kindness--such things may seem small but a lack of them can greatly hinder us. Excuse me, but I have to go now and empty out some pockets. James 3: 4 "Behold also the ships, which though they be so great, and are driven of fierce winds, yet are they turned about with a very small helm, whithersoever the governor listeth."
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Tuesday, October 13, 2009
Daily Thoughts
In the Old Testament I read that we need to give thanks unto the Lord, pray to Him, and sing praises to His name. If we seek him continually, He will give us strength. We need to keep in remembrance all the wonderful things that He has done. 1 Chr. 16: 8-12 "Give thanks unto the Lord, call upon his name, make known his deeds among the people. Sing unto him, sing psalms unto him, talk ye of all his wondrous works. Glory ye in his holy name: let the heart of them rejoice that seek the Lord. Seek the Lord and his strength, seek his face continually. Remember his marvellous works that he hath done, his wonders, and the judgments of his mouth;"
In the D&C I read a verse that tells us that whoever is a faithful, just, and wise steward will receive eternal life and enter into the joy of the Lord. If we do what's right and endure to the end, we'll receive a wonderful reward. D&C 51: 19 "And whoso is found a faithful, a just, and a wise steward shall enter into the joy of his Lord, and shall inherit eternal life."
A verse from a thought booklet tells us that if we love the Lord, we'll keep His commandments. John 14: 15 "If ye love me, keep my commandments."
In the D&C I read a verse that tells us that whoever is a faithful, just, and wise steward will receive eternal life and enter into the joy of the Lord. If we do what's right and endure to the end, we'll receive a wonderful reward. D&C 51: 19 "And whoso is found a faithful, a just, and a wise steward shall enter into the joy of his Lord, and shall inherit eternal life."
A verse from a thought booklet tells us that if we love the Lord, we'll keep His commandments. John 14: 15 "If ye love me, keep my commandments."
Monday, October 12, 2009
Daily Thoughts
In the Old Testament I read that after the ark of God was sent in the midst of the tent that David had pitched for it, they offered sacrifices and peace offerings before God. Then David blessed the people in the name of the Lord. 1 Chr. 16: 1-2 "So they brought the ark of God, and set it in the midst of the tent that David had pitched for it: and they offered burnt sacrifices and peace offerings before God. And when David had made an end of offering the burnt offerings and the peace offerings, he blessed the people in the name of the Lord."
In the D&C I read that we are to preach the gospel by the Spirit which is sent forth to teach the truth. Indeed, it is the Spirit that converts people to the gospel and if we try to teach without the Spirit, we will fail miserably. D&C 50: 13-14 "Wherefore, I the Lord ask you this question—unto what were ye ordained? To preach my gospel by the Spirit, even the Comforter which was sent forth to teach the truth."
A verse with a thought booklet talks about loving the law and meditating upon it all day long. Is this how we feel about the law of God? Do we constantly meditate about keeping the commandments? Ps. 119: 97 "O how love I thy law! it is my meditation all the day."
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In the D&C I read that we are to preach the gospel by the Spirit which is sent forth to teach the truth. Indeed, it is the Spirit that converts people to the gospel and if we try to teach without the Spirit, we will fail miserably. D&C 50: 13-14 "Wherefore, I the Lord ask you this question—unto what were ye ordained? To preach my gospel by the Spirit, even the Comforter which was sent forth to teach the truth."
A verse with a thought booklet talks about loving the law and meditating upon it all day long. Is this how we feel about the law of God? Do we constantly meditate about keeping the commandments? Ps. 119: 97 "O how love I thy law! it is my meditation all the day."
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Sunday, October 11, 2009
Daily Thoughts
In the Old Testament I read about how the chldren of Israel brought up the ark of the covenant of the Lord with singing and musical instruments. What a joyous occasion this must have been! 1 Chr. 15: 27-28 "And David was clothed with a robe of fine linen, and all the Levites that bare the ark, and the singers, and Chenaniah the master of the song with the singers: David also had upon him an ephod of linen. Thus all Israel brought up the ark of the covenant of the Lord with shouting, and with sound of the cornet, and with trumpets, and with cymbals, making a noise with psalteries and harps."
In the D&C I read that we need to repent of all our sins and if we ask, it will be given to us. D&C 49: 26 "Behold, I say unto you, go forth as I have commanded you; repent of all your sins; ask and ye shall receive; knock and it shall be opened unto you."
Some verses with a thought booklet admonish us to forgive others if we expect our Heavenly Father to forgive us. We all have things for which we need to be forgiven, so it's important that we be willing to forgive others as well. Matt. 6: 12, 14-15 "And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors. For if ye forgive men their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you: But if ye forgive not men their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses."
In the D&C I read that we need to repent of all our sins and if we ask, it will be given to us. D&C 49: 26 "Behold, I say unto you, go forth as I have commanded you; repent of all your sins; ask and ye shall receive; knock and it shall be opened unto you."
Some verses with a thought booklet admonish us to forgive others if we expect our Heavenly Father to forgive us. We all have things for which we need to be forgiven, so it's important that we be willing to forgive others as well. Matt. 6: 12, 14-15 "And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors. For if ye forgive men their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you: But if ye forgive not men their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses."
Saturday, October 10, 2009
Daily Thoughts
In the Old Testament I read about how David told the Levites to sanctify themselves so that they could bring up the ark of God to the place he had prepared for it. 1 Chr. 15: 11-12 "And David called for Zadok and Abiathar the priests, and for the Levites, for Uriel, Asaiah, and Joel, Shemaiah, and Eliel, and Amminadab, And said unto them, Ye are the chief of the fathers of the Levites: sanctify yourselves, both ye and your brethren, that ye may bring up the ark of the Lord God of Israel unto the place that I have prepared for it."
In the D&C we read that we've all been given various spiritual gifts to benefit other people. Different people have different spiritual gifts but they are all necessary and needed. D&C 46: 10-26 "And again, verily I say unto you, I would that ye should always remember, and always retain in your minds what those gifts are, that are given unto the church. For all have not every gift given unto them; for there are many gifts, and to every man is given a gift by the Spirit of God. To some is given one, and to some is given another, that all may be profited thereby. To some it is given by the Holy Ghost to know that Jesus Christ is the Son of God, and that he was crucified for the sins of the world. To others it is given to believe on their words, that they also might have eternal life if they continue faithful. And again, to some it is given by the Holy Ghost to know the differences of administration, as it will be pleasing unto the same Lord, according as the Lord will, suiting his mercies according to the conditions of the children of men. And again, it is given by the Holy Ghost to some to know the diversities of operations, whether they be of God, that the manifestations of the Spirit may be given to every man to profit withal. And again, verily I say unto you, to some is given, by the Spirit of God, the word of wisdom. To another is given the word of knowledge, that all may be taught to be wise and to have knowledge. And again, to some it is given to have faith to be healed; And to others it is given to have faith to heal. And again, to some is given the working of miracles; And to others it is given to prophesy; And to others the discerning of spirits. And again, it is given to some to speak with tongues; And to another is given the interpretation of tongues. And all these gifts come from God, for the benefit of the children of God."
A verse from a thought booklet asks, Don't you know? Haven't you heard? The Lord is the everlasting God, the Creator, and He doesn't faint or get weary. Isa. 40: 28 "Hast thou not known? hast thou not heard, that the everlasting God, the Lord, the Creator of the ends of the earth, fainteth not, neither is weary? there is no searching of his understanding."
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In the D&C we read that we've all been given various spiritual gifts to benefit other people. Different people have different spiritual gifts but they are all necessary and needed. D&C 46: 10-26 "And again, verily I say unto you, I would that ye should always remember, and always retain in your minds what those gifts are, that are given unto the church. For all have not every gift given unto them; for there are many gifts, and to every man is given a gift by the Spirit of God. To some is given one, and to some is given another, that all may be profited thereby. To some it is given by the Holy Ghost to know that Jesus Christ is the Son of God, and that he was crucified for the sins of the world. To others it is given to believe on their words, that they also might have eternal life if they continue faithful. And again, to some it is given by the Holy Ghost to know the differences of administration, as it will be pleasing unto the same Lord, according as the Lord will, suiting his mercies according to the conditions of the children of men. And again, it is given by the Holy Ghost to some to know the diversities of operations, whether they be of God, that the manifestations of the Spirit may be given to every man to profit withal. And again, verily I say unto you, to some is given, by the Spirit of God, the word of wisdom. To another is given the word of knowledge, that all may be taught to be wise and to have knowledge. And again, to some it is given to have faith to be healed; And to others it is given to have faith to heal. And again, to some is given the working of miracles; And to others it is given to prophesy; And to others the discerning of spirits. And again, it is given to some to speak with tongues; And to another is given the interpretation of tongues. And all these gifts come from God, for the benefit of the children of God."
A verse from a thought booklet asks, Don't you know? Haven't you heard? The Lord is the everlasting God, the Creator, and He doesn't faint or get weary. Isa. 40: 28 "Hast thou not known? hast thou not heard, that the everlasting God, the Lord, the Creator of the ends of the earth, fainteth not, neither is weary? there is no searching of his understanding."
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Friday, October 9, 2009
Daily Thoughts
In the Old Testament I read about how David prepared a place for the ark and taught that only the Levites were authorized to carry it. 1 Chr. 15: 1-3 "And David made him houses in the city of David, and prepared a place for the ark of God, and pitched for it a tent. Then David said, None ought to carry the ark of God but the Levites: for them hath the Lord chosen to carry the ark of God, and to minister unto him for ever. And David gathered all Israel together to Jerusalem, to bring up the ark of the Lord unto his place, which he had prepared for it."
In the D&C we're told that we're to walk uprightly before God and ask Him in all things, doing all things with prayer and thanksgiving. If we do this, we won't be deceived. D&C 46: 7 "But ye are commanded in all things to ask of God, who giveth liberally; and that which the Spirit testifies unto you even so I would that ye should do in all holiness of heart, walking uprightly before me, cconsidering the end of your salvation, doing all things with prayer and thanksgiving, that ye may not be seduced by evil spirits, or doctrines of devils, or the commandments of men; for some are of men, and others of devils."
A verse with a thought booklet reminds us that God will give His angels charge over us and guard us in all we do. What a wonderful blessing it is to know that Heavenly Father is watching over us. Ps. 91: 11 "For he shall give his angels charge over thee, to keep thee in all thy ways."
In the D&C we're told that we're to walk uprightly before God and ask Him in all things, doing all things with prayer and thanksgiving. If we do this, we won't be deceived. D&C 46: 7 "But ye are commanded in all things to ask of God, who giveth liberally; and that which the Spirit testifies unto you even so I would that ye should do in all holiness of heart, walking uprightly before me, cconsidering the end of your salvation, doing all things with prayer and thanksgiving, that ye may not be seduced by evil spirits, or doctrines of devils, or the commandments of men; for some are of men, and others of devils."
A verse with a thought booklet reminds us that God will give His angels charge over us and guard us in all we do. What a wonderful blessing it is to know that Heavenly Father is watching over us. Ps. 91: 11 "For he shall give his angels charge over thee, to keep thee in all thy ways."
Thursday, October 8, 2009
Daily Thoughts
In the Old Testament I read about how David fetched the ark of God. While it was being transported in a cart, the oxen stumbled and Uzza put forth his hand to steady the ark. He was not authorized to touch the ark and the anger of the Lord was kindled against him and he was struck dead. At first glance, this seems pretty harsh! After all, wasn't Uzza just trying to save the ark from falling? But this was the ark of God. If the ark really was in danger, couldn't the Lord save it? Sometimes people stretch forth their hands trying to "save" the work of God when they have no authority to do so. We need to trust the Lord to take care of His work in His own way and through His own authorized servants and not stretch forth our hands to fix things that are not within our jurisdiction. 1 Chr. 13: 6-10 "And David went up, and all Israel, to Baalah, that is, to Kirjath-jearim, which belonged to Judah, to bring up thence the ark of God the Lord, that dwelleth between the cherubims, whose name is called on it. And they carried the ark of God in a new cart out of the house of Abinadab: and Uzza and Ahio drave the cart. And David and all Israel played before God with all their might, and with singing, and with harps, and with psalteries, and with timbrels, and with cymbals, and with trumpets. And when they came unto the threshingfloor of Chidon, Uzza put forth his hand to hold the ark; for the oxen stumbled. And the anger of the Lord was kindled against Uzza, and he smote him, because he put his hand to the ark: and there he died before God."
In the D&C I read that Jesus' disciples were troubled when told about all the calamities that would come before His Second Coming. But He told them not to be troubled because these things needed to happen before His promises could be fulfilled. Some troubling times are ahead of us, but wonderful things are yet to come and we can look forward to them in faith. D&C 45: 34-35 "And now, when I the Lord had spoken these words unto my disciples, they were troubled. And I said unto them: Be not troubled, for, when all these things shall come to pass, ye may know that the promises which have been made unto you shall be fulfilled."
A verse with a thought booklet talks about the importance of humility. If we humble ourselves, we'll be exalted, but if we exalt ourselves, we'll be abased. Much better to humble ourselves than to be forced into humility. Luke 14: 11 "For whosoeveraexalteth himself shall be abased; and he that humbleth himself shall be exalted."
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In the D&C I read that Jesus' disciples were troubled when told about all the calamities that would come before His Second Coming. But He told them not to be troubled because these things needed to happen before His promises could be fulfilled. Some troubling times are ahead of us, but wonderful things are yet to come and we can look forward to them in faith. D&C 45: 34-35 "And now, when I the Lord had spoken these words unto my disciples, they were troubled. And I said unto them: Be not troubled, for, when all these things shall come to pass, ye may know that the promises which have been made unto you shall be fulfilled."
A verse with a thought booklet talks about the importance of humility. If we humble ourselves, we'll be exalted, but if we exalt ourselves, we'll be abased. Much better to humble ourselves than to be forced into humility. Luke 14: 11 "For whosoeveraexalteth himself shall be abased; and he that humbleth himself shall be exalted."
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Wednesday, October 7, 2009
Daily Thoughts
In the Old Testament I read about why Saul died--for his transgressions and inquiring after one who had a familiar spirit instead of after the Lord. 1 Chr. 10: 13-14 "So Saul died for his transgression which he committed against the Lord, even against the word of the Lord, which he kept not, and also for asking counsel of one that had a familiar spirit, to enquire of it; And enquired not of the Lord: therefore he slew him, and turned the kingdom unto David the son of Jesse."
In the D&C I read that in the last days there would be wars and rumors of war, the earth would be in commotion, people would say that Christ delayed His coming, iniquity shall abound, and the love of many would wax cold. Sounds like our day, doesn't it? D&C 45: 26-27 "And in athat day shall be heard of wars and rumors of wars, and the whole earth shall be in commotion, and men's hearts shall fail them, and they shall say that Christ delayeth his coming until the end of the earth. And the love of men shall wax cold, and iniquity shall abound."
Some verses with a thought booklet tell us to give thanks to the Lord and call upon His name. We shoule remember and tell other people about all His wondrous works, and seek after the Lord. Ps. 105: 1-5 "O give thanks unto the Lord; call upon his name: make known his deeds among the people. Sing unto him, sing psalms unto him: talk ye of all his wondrous works. Glory ye in his holy name: let the heart of them rejoice that seek the Lord. Seek the Lord, and his strength: seek his face evermore. Remember his marvellous works that he hath done; his wonders, and the judgments of his mouth;"
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In the D&C I read that in the last days there would be wars and rumors of war, the earth would be in commotion, people would say that Christ delayed His coming, iniquity shall abound, and the love of many would wax cold. Sounds like our day, doesn't it? D&C 45: 26-27 "And in athat day shall be heard of wars and rumors of wars, and the whole earth shall be in commotion, and men's hearts shall fail them, and they shall say that Christ delayeth his coming until the end of the earth. And the love of men shall wax cold, and iniquity shall abound."
Some verses with a thought booklet tell us to give thanks to the Lord and call upon His name. We shoule remember and tell other people about all His wondrous works, and seek after the Lord. Ps. 105: 1-5 "O give thanks unto the Lord; call upon his name: make known his deeds among the people. Sing unto him, sing psalms unto him: talk ye of all his wondrous works. Glory ye in his holy name: let the heart of them rejoice that seek the Lord. Seek the Lord, and his strength: seek his face evermore. Remember his marvellous works that he hath done; his wonders, and the judgments of his mouth;"
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Tuesday, October 6, 2009
Daily Thoughts
In the Old Testament I read about how tghe Philistines defeated Isreal in battle and Saul and his three sons died. 1 Chr. 10: 1-7 "Now the Philistines fought against Israel; and the men of Israel fled from before the Philistines, and fell down slain in mount Gilboa. And the Philistines followed hard after Saul, and after his sons; and the Philistines slew Jonathan, and Abinadab, and Malchi-shua, the sons of Saul. And the battle went sore against Saul, and the archers hit him, and he was wounded of the archers. Then said Saul to his armour-bearer, Draw thy sword, and thrust me through therewith; lest these uncircumcised come and abuse me. But his armourbearer would not; for he was sore afraid. So Saul took a sword, and fell upon it. And when his armourbearer saw that Saul was dead, he fell likewise on the sword, and died. So Saul died, and his three sons, and all his house died together. And when all the men of Israel that were in the valley saw that they fled, and that Saul and his sons were dead, then they forsook their cities, and fled: and the Philistines came and dwelt in them."
In the D&C I read that if we re faithful, exercise faith in Jesus Christ, and assemble ourselves together, the Lord will pour out His Spirit upon us. D&C 44: 2 "And it shall come to pass, that inasmuch as they are faithful, and exercise faith in me, I will pour out my Spirit upon them in the day that they assemble themselves together."
Some verses with a thought booklet tell us that nothing can separate us from the love of God. Rom. 8: 38-39 "For I am persuaded, that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor powers, nor things present, nor things to come, Nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature, shall be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord."
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In the D&C I read that if we re faithful, exercise faith in Jesus Christ, and assemble ourselves together, the Lord will pour out His Spirit upon us. D&C 44: 2 "And it shall come to pass, that inasmuch as they are faithful, and exercise faith in me, I will pour out my Spirit upon them in the day that they assemble themselves together."
Some verses with a thought booklet tell us that nothing can separate us from the love of God. Rom. 8: 38-39 "For I am persuaded, that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor powers, nor things present, nor things to come, Nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature, shall be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord."
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Monday, October 5, 2009
Daily Thoughts
In the Old Testament I read that Jehoiachin king of Judah was shown favor in Babylon, removed out of prison and given bread continually all the days of his life. 2 Kgs. 25: 27-30 "And it came to pass in the seven and thirtieth year of the captivity of Jehoiachin king of Judah, in the twelfth month, on the seven and twentieth day of the month, that Evil-merodach king of Babylon in the year that he began to reign did lift up the head of Jehoiachin king of Judah out of prison; And he spake kindly to him, and set his throne above the throne of the kings that were with him in Babylon; And changed his prison garments: and he did eat bread continually before him all the days of his life. And his allowance was a continual allowance given him of the king, a daily rate for every day, all the days of his life."
In the D&C I read that we are to purge out iniquity from among us and sanctify ourselves before the Lord. D&C 43: 11 "Purge ye out the iniquity which is among you; sanctify yourselves before me;"
A verse quoted in my reading today tells us to speak the truth with love. We need to be honest in our communications with others, but we also need to do so with love and kindness. Blurting out hurtful "truths" with no tact or regard for others' feelngs may not be the best thing. We need to let the Spirit be our guide in being both truthful and showing love in all we say to others. Eph. 4: 15 "But speaking the truth in love, may grow up into him in all things, which is the head, even Christ:"
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In the D&C I read that we are to purge out iniquity from among us and sanctify ourselves before the Lord. D&C 43: 11 "Purge ye out the iniquity which is among you; sanctify yourselves before me;"
A verse quoted in my reading today tells us to speak the truth with love. We need to be honest in our communications with others, but we also need to do so with love and kindness. Blurting out hurtful "truths" with no tact or regard for others' feelngs may not be the best thing. We need to let the Spirit be our guide in being both truthful and showing love in all we say to others. Eph. 4: 15 "But speaking the truth in love, may grow up into him in all things, which is the head, even Christ:"
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Sunday, October 4, 2009
Daily Thoughts
In the Old Testament I read that Nebuchadnezzar burnt the house of the Lord and all the houses of Jerusalem with fire. 2 Kgs. 25: 8-9 "And in the fifth month, on the seventh day of the month, which is the nineteenth year of king Nebuchadnezzar king of Babylon, came Nebuzar-adan, captain of the guard, a servant of the king of Babylon, unto Jerusalem: And he burnt the house of the Lord, and the king's house, and all the houses of Jerusalem, and every great man's house burnt he with fire."
In the D&C we're told not to be idle, for the idler should not eat the bread nor wear the garments of the laborer. It's wrong to sit around doing nothing and expect other people to feed and clothe us. We need to be willing to work for what we receive. And by doing so we'll be happier and have more self respect. D&C 42: 42 "Thou shalt not be idle; for he that is idle shall not eat the bread nor wear the garments of the laborer."
Some verses with a thought booklet tell about how the King put forth a decree that anyone who would put forth a petition to any god or man except the king for 30 days would be put into a den of lions. However, even after Daniel found out about this decree, it did not stop him from praying as usual and giving his thanks unto God. What courage he showed in the face of great danger. It was not afraid to do what was right, even with dire consequences. Of course the Lord did save him by shutting up the mouths of the lions so they didn't hurt him, but that doesn't change the fact that he was willing to do the right thing even if it meant possible death. How firm are we in our convictions and our willingness to do what is right? Dan. 6: 7-10 "All the presidents of the kingdom, the governors, and the princes, the counsellors, and the captains, have consulted together to establish a royal statute, and to make a firm decree, that whosoever shall ask a petition of any God or man for thirty days, save of thee, O king, he shall be cast into the den of lions. Now, O king, establish the decree, and sign the writing, that it be not changed, according to the law of the Medes and Persians, which altereth not. Wherefore king Darius signed the writing and the decree. Now when Daniel knew that the writing was signed, he went into his house; and his windows being open in his chamber toward Jerusalem, he kneeled upon his knees three times a day, and prayed, and gave thanks before his God, as he did foretime."
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In the D&C we're told not to be idle, for the idler should not eat the bread nor wear the garments of the laborer. It's wrong to sit around doing nothing and expect other people to feed and clothe us. We need to be willing to work for what we receive. And by doing so we'll be happier and have more self respect. D&C 42: 42 "Thou shalt not be idle; for he that is idle shall not eat the bread nor wear the garments of the laborer."
Some verses with a thought booklet tell about how the King put forth a decree that anyone who would put forth a petition to any god or man except the king for 30 days would be put into a den of lions. However, even after Daniel found out about this decree, it did not stop him from praying as usual and giving his thanks unto God. What courage he showed in the face of great danger. It was not afraid to do what was right, even with dire consequences. Of course the Lord did save him by shutting up the mouths of the lions so they didn't hurt him, but that doesn't change the fact that he was willing to do the right thing even if it meant possible death. How firm are we in our convictions and our willingness to do what is right? Dan. 6: 7-10 "All the presidents of the kingdom, the governors, and the princes, the counsellors, and the captains, have consulted together to establish a royal statute, and to make a firm decree, that whosoever shall ask a petition of any God or man for thirty days, save of thee, O king, he shall be cast into the den of lions. Now, O king, establish the decree, and sign the writing, that it be not changed, according to the law of the Medes and Persians, which altereth not. Wherefore king Darius signed the writing and the decree. Now when Daniel knew that the writing was signed, he went into his house; and his windows being open in his chamber toward Jerusalem, he kneeled upon his knees three times a day, and prayed, and gave thanks before his God, as he did foretime."
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Saturday, October 3, 2009
Daily Thoughts
In the Old Testament I read that Nebuchadnezzar besieged Jerusalem and captured Zedekiah, slaying his sons, putting out his eyes, binding him, and sending him to Babylon. 2 Kgs. 25: 1-7 "And it came to pass in the ninth year of his reign, in the tenth month, in the tenth day of the month, that Nebuchadnezzar king of Babylon came, he, and all his host, against Jerusalem, and pitched against it; and they built forts against it round about. And the city was besieged unto the eleventh year of king Zedekiah. And on the ninth day of the fourth month the famine prevailed in the city, and there was no bread for the people of the land. And the city was broken up, and all the men of war fled by night by the way of the gate between two walls, which is by the king's garden: (now the Chaldees were against the city round about:) and the king went the way toward the plain. And the army of the Chaldees pursued after the king, and overtook him in the plains of Jericho: and all his army were scattered from him. So they took the king, and brought him up to the king of Babylon to Riblah; and they gave judgment upon him. And they slew the sons of Zedekiah before his eyes, and put out the eyes of Zedekiah, and bound him with fetters of brass, and carried him to Babylon."
In the D&C I read a familiar verse saying that if we don't have the Spirit, we should not teach. That's how essential the Spirit is in teaching spiritual things. And how we we get the Spirit? By the prayer of faith. We should not even attempt to teach a lesson by merely studying the lesson manual. Before we even open the book we need to pray and ask the Lord to bless us with His Spirit so we can be inspired on how to teach the lesson and know what we're to say. In my many years of teaching primary children I cannot tell you how many times the Spirit has inspired me to say certain things or emphasize certain points and it turned out to be exactly what those children needed. I had no way of knowing that except through the Spirit. D&C 42: 14 "And the Spirit shall be given unto you by the prayer of faith; and if ye receive not the Spirit ye shall not teach."
A verse with a thought booklet tell of Daniel receiving strength and told he was loved. He was told to fear not and have peace. We should know, even during our troubled moments, that we are beloved of God and He will strengthen us through whatever we're called upon to bear. Dan. 10: 19 "And said, O man greatly beloved, fear not: peace be unto thee, be strong, yea, be strong. And when he had spoken unto me, I was strengthened, and said, Let my lord speak; for thou hast strengthened me."
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In the D&C I read a familiar verse saying that if we don't have the Spirit, we should not teach. That's how essential the Spirit is in teaching spiritual things. And how we we get the Spirit? By the prayer of faith. We should not even attempt to teach a lesson by merely studying the lesson manual. Before we even open the book we need to pray and ask the Lord to bless us with His Spirit so we can be inspired on how to teach the lesson and know what we're to say. In my many years of teaching primary children I cannot tell you how many times the Spirit has inspired me to say certain things or emphasize certain points and it turned out to be exactly what those children needed. I had no way of knowing that except through the Spirit. D&C 42: 14 "And the Spirit shall be given unto you by the prayer of faith; and if ye receive not the Spirit ye shall not teach."
A verse with a thought booklet tell of Daniel receiving strength and told he was loved. He was told to fear not and have peace. We should know, even during our troubled moments, that we are beloved of God and He will strengthen us through whatever we're called upon to bear. Dan. 10: 19 "And said, O man greatly beloved, fear not: peace be unto thee, be strong, yea, be strong. And when he had spoken unto me, I was strengthened, and said, Let my lord speak; for thou hast strengthened me."
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Friday, October 2, 2009
Daily Thoughts
In the Old Testament I read that the king of Babylon made his Uncle Mattaniah king and chantged his name to Zedekiah. He did that which was evil in the sight of the Lord and rebelled against the king of Babylon. 2 Kgs. 24: 17-20 "And the king of Babylon made Mattaniah his father's brother king in his stead, and changed his name to Zedekiah. Zedekiah was twenty and one years old when he began to reign, and he reigned eleven years in Jerusalem. And his mother's name was Hamutal, the daughter of Jeremiah of Libnah. And he did that which was evil in the sight of the Lord, according to all that Jehoiakim had done. For through the anger of the Lord it came to pass in Jerusalem and Judah, until he had cast them out from his presence, that Zedekiah rebelled against the king of Babylon."
In the D&C I read about how James Covill received the word of God with gladness and covenanted that he would obey the commandments, but then the fear of persecution, the cares of the world, and the temptations of the devil caused him to reject the word and break his covenants. It is important that we not only receive the word of God, but that we endure to the end and remain faithful. D&C 40: 1-3 "Behold, verily I say unto you, that the heart of my servant James Covill was right before me, for he covenanted with me that he would obey my word. And he received the word with gladness, but straightway Satan tempted him; and the fear of persecution and the cares of the world caused him to reject the word. Wherefore he broke my covenant, and it remaineth with me to do with him as seemeth me good. Amen."
A verse with a thought booklet tells us that Christ, out of His poverty, brought us eternal riches. It was a sacrifice for Him to do what He did for us and did not come without cost to Him. We need to follow His example when we serve others. It isn't enough to do random acts of kindness when it's convenient for us or when it's easy. Sometimes we're called upon to act at times when it doesn't fit into our schedule or we have other things we'd rather be doing. To become more like Jesus, we need to be willing to care for the people God sends into our lives even when it costs us. 2 Cor. 8: 9 "For ye know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that, though he was rich, yet for your sakes he became poor, that ye through his poverty might be rich."
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In the D&C I read about how James Covill received the word of God with gladness and covenanted that he would obey the commandments, but then the fear of persecution, the cares of the world, and the temptations of the devil caused him to reject the word and break his covenants. It is important that we not only receive the word of God, but that we endure to the end and remain faithful. D&C 40: 1-3 "Behold, verily I say unto you, that the heart of my servant James Covill was right before me, for he covenanted with me that he would obey my word. And he received the word with gladness, but straightway Satan tempted him; and the fear of persecution and the cares of the world caused him to reject the word. Wherefore he broke my covenant, and it remaineth with me to do with him as seemeth me good. Amen."
A verse with a thought booklet tells us that Christ, out of His poverty, brought us eternal riches. It was a sacrifice for Him to do what He did for us and did not come without cost to Him. We need to follow His example when we serve others. It isn't enough to do random acts of kindness when it's convenient for us or when it's easy. Sometimes we're called upon to act at times when it doesn't fit into our schedule or we have other things we'd rather be doing. To become more like Jesus, we need to be willing to care for the people God sends into our lives even when it costs us. 2 Cor. 8: 9 "For ye know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that, though he was rich, yet for your sakes he became poor, that ye through his poverty might be rich."
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Thursday, October 1, 2009
Daily Thoughts
In the Old Testament I read that Jehoiachin began to reign and did that which was evil. The king of Babylon beseiged Jerusalem and took Jehoiachin captive, as well as his servants and officers. He carried away the treasure in the house of the Lord which Solomon had put there. 2 Kgs. 24: 8-15 "Jehoiachin was eighteen years old when he began to reign, and he reigned in Jerusalem three months. And his mother's name was Nehushta, the daughter of Elnathan of Jerusalem. And he did that which was evil in the sight of the Lord, according to all that his father had done. At that time the servants of Nebuchadnezzar king of Babylon came up against Jerusalem, and the city was besieged. And Nebuchadnezzar king of Babylon came against the city, and his servants did besiege it. And Jehoiachin the king of Judah went out to the king of Babylon , he, and his mother, and his servants, and his princes, and his officers: and the king of Babylon took him in the eighth year of his reign. And he carried out thence all the treasures of the house of the Lord, and the treasures of the king's house, and cut in pieces all the vessels of gold which Solomon king of Israel had made in the temple of the Lord, as the Lord had said. And he carried away all Jerusalem, and all the princes, and all the mighty men of valour, even ten thousand captives, and all the craftsmen and smiths: none remained, save the poorest sort of the people of the land. And he carried away Jehoiachin to Babylon, and the king's mother, and the king's wives, and his officers, and the mighty of the land, those carried he into captivity from Jerusalem to Babylon."
In the D&C I read that whoever receives the gospel, receives the Lord. And the gospel consists of repentance, baptism, and receiving the Holy Ghost. D&C 39: 5-6 "And verily, verily, I say unto you, he that receiveth my gospel receiveth me; and he that receiveth not my gospel receiveth not me. And this is my gospel—repentance and baptism by water, and then cometh the baptism of fire and the Holy Ghost, even the Comforter, which showeth all things, and teacheth the peaceable things of the kingdom."
Some scriptures with a thought booklet tell the story of the Good Samaritan. The message of this story is that we need to show kindness and love to everyone, even someone we might consider an enemy. In the story two religious men, a priest and a Levite, ignored a man in need, but a Samaritan (who would have been despised as an enemy) tended to the man's needs. We need to look around every day to see if there is anyone who could use our help in any way. We need to be sensitive to the needs of others and do whatever we can when it's in our power to help them. Luke 10: 25-37 "And, behold, a certain lawyer stood up, and tempted him, saying, Master, what shall I do to inherit eternal life? He said unto him, What is written in the law? how readest thou? And he answering said, Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy strength, and with all thy mind; and thy neighbour as thyself. And he said unto him, Thou hast answered right: this do, and thou shalt live. But he, willing to justify himself, said unto Jesus, And who is my neighbour? And Jesus answering said, A certain man went down from Jerusalem to Jericho, and fell among thieves, which stripped him of his raiment, and wounded him, and departed, leaving him half dead. And by chance there came down a certain priest that way: and when he saw him, he passed by on the other side. And likewise a Levite, when he was at the place, came and looked on him, and passed by on the other side. But a certain Samaritan, as he journeyed, came where he was: and when he saw him, he had compassion on him, And went to him, and bound up his wounds, pouring in oil and wine, and set him on his own beast, and brought him to an inn, and took care of him. And on the morrow when he departed, he took out two pence, and gave them to the host, and said unto him, Take care of him; and whatsoever thou spendest more, when I come again, I will repay thee. Which now of these three, thinkest thou, was neighbour unto him that fell among the thieves? And he said, He that shewed mercy on him. Then said Jesus unto him, Go, and do thou likewise."
In the D&C I read that whoever receives the gospel, receives the Lord. And the gospel consists of repentance, baptism, and receiving the Holy Ghost. D&C 39: 5-6 "And verily, verily, I say unto you, he that receiveth my gospel receiveth me; and he that receiveth not my gospel receiveth not me. And this is my gospel—repentance and baptism by water, and then cometh the baptism of fire and the Holy Ghost, even the Comforter, which showeth all things, and teacheth the peaceable things of the kingdom."
Some scriptures with a thought booklet tell the story of the Good Samaritan. The message of this story is that we need to show kindness and love to everyone, even someone we might consider an enemy. In the story two religious men, a priest and a Levite, ignored a man in need, but a Samaritan (who would have been despised as an enemy) tended to the man's needs. We need to look around every day to see if there is anyone who could use our help in any way. We need to be sensitive to the needs of others and do whatever we can when it's in our power to help them. Luke 10: 25-37 "And, behold, a certain lawyer stood up, and tempted him, saying, Master, what shall I do to inherit eternal life? He said unto him, What is written in the law? how readest thou? And he answering said, Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy strength, and with all thy mind; and thy neighbour as thyself. And he said unto him, Thou hast answered right: this do, and thou shalt live. But he, willing to justify himself, said unto Jesus, And who is my neighbour? And Jesus answering said, A certain man went down from Jerusalem to Jericho, and fell among thieves, which stripped him of his raiment, and wounded him, and departed, leaving him half dead. And by chance there came down a certain priest that way: and when he saw him, he passed by on the other side. And likewise a Levite, when he was at the place, came and looked on him, and passed by on the other side. But a certain Samaritan, as he journeyed, came where he was: and when he saw him, he had compassion on him, And went to him, and bound up his wounds, pouring in oil and wine, and set him on his own beast, and brought him to an inn, and took care of him. And on the morrow when he departed, he took out two pence, and gave them to the host, and said unto him, Take care of him; and whatsoever thou spendest more, when I come again, I will repay thee. Which now of these three, thinkest thou, was neighbour unto him that fell among the thieves? And he said, He that shewed mercy on him. Then said Jesus unto him, Go, and do thou likewise."
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