In the Book of Mormon I read that the Lord strengthens us and provides the way that we can keep the commandments and do whatever He commands us to do. If He asks us to do something, He'll provide the way. 1 Ne. 17: 3 "And thus we see that the commandments of God must be fulfilled. And if it so be that the children of men keep the commandments of God he doth nourish them, and strengthen them, and provide means whereby they can accomplish the thing which he has commanded them; wherefore, he did provide means for us while we did sojourn in the wilderness."
In the New Testament we read that even while Jesus was being crucified, He called out to His Father to forgive those who were doing this to Him. How forgiving are we? Do we follow the Savior's example in forgiving those who tresspass against us? Luke 23:33-34 "And when they were come to the place, which is called Calvary, there they crucified him, and the malefactors, one on the right hand, and the other on the left. Then said Jesus, Father, forgive them; for they know not what they do. And they parted his raiment, and cast lots."
Some verses with a thought booklet explain the symbolism of baptism. When we're lowered into the water, it's like our old sinful lives are being buried. And when we're raised up out of the water, it's like a new life beginning in Christ. Romans 6:3-13 "Know ye not, that so many of us as were baptized into Jesus Christ were baptized into his death? Therefore we are buried with him by baptism into death: that like as Christ was raised up from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life. For if we have been planted together in the likeness of his death, we shall be also in the likeness of his resurrection: Knowing this, that our old man is crucified with him, that the body of sin might be destroyed, that henceforth we should not serve sin. For he that is dead is freed from sin. Now if we be dead with Christ, we believe that we shall also live with him: Knowing that Christ being raised from the dead dieth no more; death hath no more dominion over him. For in that he died, he died unto sin once: but in that he liveth, he liveth unto God. Likewise reckon ye also yourselves to be dead indeed unto sin, but alive unto God through Jesus Christ our Lord. Let not sin therefore reign in your mortal body, that ye should obey it in the lusts thereof. Neither yield ye your members as instruments of unrighteousness unto sin: but yield yourselves unto God, as those that are alive from the dead, and your members as instruments of righteousness unto God."
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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
Thursday, March 31, 2011
Wednesday, March 30, 2011
Daily Thoughts
In the Book of Mormon I read how the brothers of Nephi rebelled against him and their father and murmured about having left Jeruselem. In fact, they even wanted to kill their father. However, the voice of the Lord came and chastened them so they repented. 1 Ne. 16: 36-39 "And thus they did murmur against my father, and also against me; and they were desirous to return again to Jerusalem. And Laman said unto Lemuel and also unto the sons of Ishmael: Behold, let us slay our father, and also our brother Nephi, who has taken it upon him to be our ruler and our teacher, who are his elder brethren. Now, he says that the Lord has talked with him, and also that angels have ministered unto him. But behold, we know that he lies unto us; and he tells us these things, and he worketh many things by his cunning arts, that he may deceive our eyes, thinking, perhaps, that he may lead us away into some strange wilderness; and after he has led us away, he has thought to make himself a king and a ruler over us, that he may do with us according to his will and pleasure. And after this manner did my brother Laman stir up their hearts to anger. And it came to pass that the Lord was with us, yea, even the voice of the Lord came and did speak many words unto them, and did chasten them exceedingly; and after they were chastened by the voice of the Lord they did turn away their anger, and did repent of their sins, insomuch that the Lord did bless us again with food, that we did not perish."
In the New Testament I read how Jesus told His disciples to pray lest they enter into temptation. If this was important for His disciples, how important is it for us today? We need to be constantly prayerful that we'll be strong enough to resist temptations that come our way. Luke 22:40 "And when he was at the place, he said unto them, Pray that ye enter not into temptation."
Some scriptures with a thought booklet tell us that we need to show ourselves a model of good works and in our teaching show integrity, gravity and sound speech that cannot be centured. We need to live our lives so that no one has anything evil to say about us. In other words, we need to demonstrate by our actions what it is like to live a Christlike life. The thought that went with this, written by Kim Sheard from Fairfax, Virginia, said: One day a high school science teacher told her class that the element sodium is very reactive with water. The students wrote that down. A second teacher gathered her students around a table and had them put on goggles. She then proceeded to drop a postage stamp-sized spquare of sodium into a beaker of water. The woft, shiny metal seemed to mealt at first, then caught fire with a pop and burned brightly until it was consumed. The students gasped and jumped back from the flame. Which students better understood and remembered sodium's reactivity with water: those who were told or those who were shown? In today's scripture passage, Paul instructs Titus to show others Christian principles rather than just telling them what God requires. In the same way, each of us represents Christ through our behavior, and our examples are more helpful to others than mere words. We can demonstrate love, selflessness, concern for others, generosity, and other Christian cfharacter traits through our actions. We can show others how to live Christian lives! Titus 2:7-8 "In all things shewing thyself a pattern of good works: in doctrine shewing uncorruptness, gravity, sincerity, Sound speech, that cannot be condemned; that he that is of the contrary part may be ashamed, having no evil thing to say of you. "
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In the New Testament I read how Jesus told His disciples to pray lest they enter into temptation. If this was important for His disciples, how important is it for us today? We need to be constantly prayerful that we'll be strong enough to resist temptations that come our way. Luke 22:40 "And when he was at the place, he said unto them, Pray that ye enter not into temptation."
Some scriptures with a thought booklet tell us that we need to show ourselves a model of good works and in our teaching show integrity, gravity and sound speech that cannot be centured. We need to live our lives so that no one has anything evil to say about us. In other words, we need to demonstrate by our actions what it is like to live a Christlike life. The thought that went with this, written by Kim Sheard from Fairfax, Virginia, said: One day a high school science teacher told her class that the element sodium is very reactive with water. The students wrote that down. A second teacher gathered her students around a table and had them put on goggles. She then proceeded to drop a postage stamp-sized spquare of sodium into a beaker of water. The woft, shiny metal seemed to mealt at first, then caught fire with a pop and burned brightly until it was consumed. The students gasped and jumped back from the flame. Which students better understood and remembered sodium's reactivity with water: those who were told or those who were shown? In today's scripture passage, Paul instructs Titus to show others Christian principles rather than just telling them what God requires. In the same way, each of us represents Christ through our behavior, and our examples are more helpful to others than mere words. We can demonstrate love, selflessness, concern for others, generosity, and other Christian cfharacter traits through our actions. We can show others how to live Christian lives! Titus 2:7-8 "In all things shewing thyself a pattern of good works: in doctrine shewing uncorruptness, gravity, sincerity, Sound speech, that cannot be condemned; that he that is of the contrary part may be ashamed, having no evil thing to say of you. "
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Tuesday, March 29, 2011
Daily Thoughts
In the Book of Mormon we read the story of how Nephi's bow was broken and they could not obtain food so his family started murmuring against the Lord. Even his father Lehi joined in with the complaining. Nephi, however, remained faithful. He chastised his murmuring family and they humbled themselves and his father inquired of the Lord what they should do. The Liahona directed Nephi where to go to hunt food. He made himself another bow and was sucessful in getting food for the family. When we are suffering with afflictions and trials in our lives, instead of murmuring and complaining, we need to follow Nephi's example--turn to the Lord for help. And then when He does help us, we need to express our gratitude to Him. 1 Ne. 16: 18-32 "And it came to pass that as I, Nephi, went forth to slay food, behold, I did break my bow, which was made of fine steel; and after I did break my bow, behold, my brethren were angry with me because of the loss of my bow, for we did obtain no food. And it came to pass that we did return without food to our families, and being much fatigued, because of their journeying, they did suffer much for the want of food. And it came to pass that Laman and Lemuel and the sons of Ishmael did begin to murmur exceedingly, because of their sufferings and afflictions in the wilderness; and also my father began to murmur against the Lord his God; yea, and they were all exceedingly sorrowful, even that they did murmur against the Lord. Now it came to pass that I, Nephi, having been afflicted with my brethren because of the loss of my bow, and their bows having lost their springs, it began to be exceedingly difficult, yea, insomuch that we could obtain no food. And it came to pass that I, Nephi, did speak much unto my brethren, because they had hardened their hearts again, even unto complaining against the Lord their God. And it came to pass that I, Nephi, did make out of wood a bow, and out of a straight stick, an arrow; wherefore, I did arm myself with a bow and an arrow, with a sling and with stones. And I said unto my father: Whither shall I go to obtain food? And it came to pass that he did inquire of the Lord, for they had humbled themselves because of my words; for I did say many things unto them in the energy of my soul.5 And it came to pass that the voice of the Lord came unto my father; and he was truly chastened because of his murmuring against the Lord, insomuch that he was brought down into the depths of sorrow. And it came to pass that the voice of the Lord said unto him: Look upon the ball, and behold the things which are written.7 And it came to pass that when my father beheld the things which were written upon the ball, he did fear and tremble exceedingly, and also my brethren and the sons of Ishmael and our wives. And it came to pass that I, Nephi, beheld the pointers which were in the ball, that they did work according to the faith and diligence and heed which we did give unto them. And there was also written upon them a new writing, which was plain to be read, which did give us understanding concerning the ways of the Lord; and it was written and changed from time to time, according to the faith and diligence which we gave unto it. And thus we see that by small means the Lord can bring about great things. And it came to pass that I, Nephi, did go forth up into the top of the mountain, according to the directions which were given upon the ball. And it came to pass that I did slay wild beasts, insomuch that I did obtain food for our families. And it came to pass that I did return to our tents, bearing the beasts which I had slain; and now when they beheld that I had obtained food, how great was their joy! And it came to pass that they did humble themselves before the Lord, and did give thanks unto him."
In the New Testament we're told about some of the signs that will be given before the Savior comes in a cloud with great glory. There will be great perplexity, earthquakes and tsunamis. We need to watch and be prepared at all times so we'll be able to excape all the terrible things that will come to pass before the Second Coming of
Christ, so that we'll be worthy to stand before Him. Luke 21:25-27,36 "And there shall be signs in the sun, and in the moon, and in the stars; and upon the earth distress of nations, with perplexity; the sea and the waves roaring; Men's hearts failing them for fear, and for looking after those things which are coming on the earth: for the powers of heaven shall be shaken. And then shall they see the Son of man coming in a cloud with power and great glory. Watch ye therefore, and pray always, that ye may be accounted worthy to escape all these things that shall come to pass, and to stand before the Son of man."
Some scriptures with a thought booklet tell us that faith helps us understand the word and work of God. It is the substance of things hoped for,the evidence of things not seen. Then these scriptures recount example after example of ancient people who centered their faith on Jesus Christ and the miracles that were wrought in their lives as a result. What a legacy of faith these generations of believers have provided for us! Hebrews 11:1-40 "Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen. For by it the elders obtained a good report. Through faith we understand that the worlds were framed by the word of God, so that things which are seen were not made of things which do appear. By faith Abel offered unto God a more excellent sacrifice than Cain, by which he obtained witness that he was righteous, God testifying of his gifts: and by it he being dead yet speaketh. By faith Enoch was translated that he should not see death; and was not found, because God had translated him: for before his translation he had this testimony, that he pleased God. But without faith it is impossible to please him: for he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him. By faith Noah, being warned of God of things not seen as yet, moved with fear, prepared an ark to the saving of his house; by the which he condemned the world, and became heir of the righteousness which is by faith. By faith Abraham, when he was called to go out into a place which he should after receive for an inheritance, obeyed; and he went out, not knowing whither he went. By faith he sojourned in the land of promise, as in a strange country, dwelling in tabernacles with Isaac and Jacob, the heirs with him of the same promise: For he looked for a city which hath foundations, whose builder and maker is God. Through faith also Sara herself received strength to conceive seed, and was delivered of a child when she was past age, because she judged him faithful who had promised. Therefore sprang there even of one, and him as good as dead, so many as the stars of the sky in multitude, and as the sand which is by the sea shore innumerable. These all died in faith, not having received the promises, but having seen them afar off, and were persuaded of them, and embraced them, and confessed that they were strangers and pilgrims on the earth. For they that say such things declare plainly that they seek a country. And truly, if they had been mindful of that country from whence they came out, they might have had opportunity to have returned. But now they desire a better country, that is, an heavenly: wherefore God is not ashamed to be called their God: for he hath prepared for them a city. By faith Abraham, when he was tried, offered up Isaac: and he that had received the promises offered up his only begotten son, Of whom it was said, That in Isaac shall thy seed be called: Accounting that God was able to raise him up, even from the dead; from whence also he received him in a figure. By faith Isaac blessed Jacob and Esau concerning things to come. By faith Jacob, when he was a dying, blessed both the sons of Joseph; and worshipped, leaning upon the top of his staff. By faith Joseph, when he died, made mention of the departing of the children of Israel; and gave commandment concerning his bones. By faith Moses, when he was born, was hid three months of his parents, because they saw he was a proper child; and they were not afraid of the king's commandment. By faith Moses, when he was come to years, refused to be called the son of Pharaoh's daughter; Choosing rather to suffer affliction with the people of God, than to enjoy the pleasures of sin for a season; Esteeming the reproach of Christ greater riches than the treasures in Egypt: for he had respect unto the recompence of the reward. By faith he forsook Egypt, not fearing the wrath of the king: for he endured, as seeing him who is invisible. Through faith he kept the passover, and the sprinkling of blood, lest he that destroyed the firstborn should touch them. By faith they passed through the Red sea as by dry land: which the Egyptians assaying to do were drowned. By faith the walls of Jericho fell down, after they were compassed about seven days. By faith the harlot Rahab perished not with them that believed not, when she had received the spies with peace. And what shall I more say? for the time would fail me to tell of Gedeon, and of Barak, and of Samson, and of Jephthae; of David also, and Samuel, and of the prophets: Who through faith subdued kingdoms, wrought righteousness, obtained promises, stopped the mouths of lions, Quenched the violence of fire, escaped the edge of the sword, out of weakness were made strong, waxed valiant in fight, turned to flight the armies of the aliens. Women received their dead raised to life again: and others were tortured, not accepting deliverance; that they might obtain a better resurrection: And others had trial of cruel mockings and scourgings, yea, moreover of bonds and imprisonment: They were stoned, they were sawn asunder, were tempted, were slain with the sword: they wandered about in sheepskins and goatskins; being destitute, afflicted, tormented; (Of whom the world was not worthy:) they wandered in deserts, and in mountains, and in dens and caves of the earth. And these all, having obtained a good report through faith, received not the promise: God having provided some better thing for us, that they without us should not be made perfect."
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In the New Testament we're told about some of the signs that will be given before the Savior comes in a cloud with great glory. There will be great perplexity, earthquakes and tsunamis. We need to watch and be prepared at all times so we'll be able to excape all the terrible things that will come to pass before the Second Coming of
Christ, so that we'll be worthy to stand before Him. Luke 21:25-27,36 "And there shall be signs in the sun, and in the moon, and in the stars; and upon the earth distress of nations, with perplexity; the sea and the waves roaring; Men's hearts failing them for fear, and for looking after those things which are coming on the earth: for the powers of heaven shall be shaken. And then shall they see the Son of man coming in a cloud with power and great glory. Watch ye therefore, and pray always, that ye may be accounted worthy to escape all these things that shall come to pass, and to stand before the Son of man."
Some scriptures with a thought booklet tell us that faith helps us understand the word and work of God. It is the substance of things hoped for,the evidence of things not seen. Then these scriptures recount example after example of ancient people who centered their faith on Jesus Christ and the miracles that were wrought in their lives as a result. What a legacy of faith these generations of believers have provided for us! Hebrews 11:1-40 "Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen. For by it the elders obtained a good report. Through faith we understand that the worlds were framed by the word of God, so that things which are seen were not made of things which do appear. By faith Abel offered unto God a more excellent sacrifice than Cain, by which he obtained witness that he was righteous, God testifying of his gifts: and by it he being dead yet speaketh. By faith Enoch was translated that he should not see death; and was not found, because God had translated him: for before his translation he had this testimony, that he pleased God. But without faith it is impossible to please him: for he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him. By faith Noah, being warned of God of things not seen as yet, moved with fear, prepared an ark to the saving of his house; by the which he condemned the world, and became heir of the righteousness which is by faith. By faith Abraham, when he was called to go out into a place which he should after receive for an inheritance, obeyed; and he went out, not knowing whither he went. By faith he sojourned in the land of promise, as in a strange country, dwelling in tabernacles with Isaac and Jacob, the heirs with him of the same promise: For he looked for a city which hath foundations, whose builder and maker is God. Through faith also Sara herself received strength to conceive seed, and was delivered of a child when she was past age, because she judged him faithful who had promised. Therefore sprang there even of one, and him as good as dead, so many as the stars of the sky in multitude, and as the sand which is by the sea shore innumerable. These all died in faith, not having received the promises, but having seen them afar off, and were persuaded of them, and embraced them, and confessed that they were strangers and pilgrims on the earth. For they that say such things declare plainly that they seek a country. And truly, if they had been mindful of that country from whence they came out, they might have had opportunity to have returned. But now they desire a better country, that is, an heavenly: wherefore God is not ashamed to be called their God: for he hath prepared for them a city. By faith Abraham, when he was tried, offered up Isaac: and he that had received the promises offered up his only begotten son, Of whom it was said, That in Isaac shall thy seed be called: Accounting that God was able to raise him up, even from the dead; from whence also he received him in a figure. By faith Isaac blessed Jacob and Esau concerning things to come. By faith Jacob, when he was a dying, blessed both the sons of Joseph; and worshipped, leaning upon the top of his staff. By faith Joseph, when he died, made mention of the departing of the children of Israel; and gave commandment concerning his bones. By faith Moses, when he was born, was hid three months of his parents, because they saw he was a proper child; and they were not afraid of the king's commandment. By faith Moses, when he was come to years, refused to be called the son of Pharaoh's daughter; Choosing rather to suffer affliction with the people of God, than to enjoy the pleasures of sin for a season; Esteeming the reproach of Christ greater riches than the treasures in Egypt: for he had respect unto the recompence of the reward. By faith he forsook Egypt, not fearing the wrath of the king: for he endured, as seeing him who is invisible. Through faith he kept the passover, and the sprinkling of blood, lest he that destroyed the firstborn should touch them. By faith they passed through the Red sea as by dry land: which the Egyptians assaying to do were drowned. By faith the walls of Jericho fell down, after they were compassed about seven days. By faith the harlot Rahab perished not with them that believed not, when she had received the spies with peace. And what shall I more say? for the time would fail me to tell of Gedeon, and of Barak, and of Samson, and of Jephthae; of David also, and Samuel, and of the prophets: Who through faith subdued kingdoms, wrought righteousness, obtained promises, stopped the mouths of lions, Quenched the violence of fire, escaped the edge of the sword, out of weakness were made strong, waxed valiant in fight, turned to flight the armies of the aliens. Women received their dead raised to life again: and others were tortured, not accepting deliverance; that they might obtain a better resurrection: And others had trial of cruel mockings and scourgings, yea, moreover of bonds and imprisonment: They were stoned, they were sawn asunder, were tempted, were slain with the sword: they wandered about in sheepskins and goatskins; being destitute, afflicted, tormented; (Of whom the world was not worthy:) they wandered in deserts, and in mountains, and in dens and caves of the earth. And these all, having obtained a good report through faith, received not the promise: God having provided some better thing for us, that they without us should not be made perfect."
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Monday, March 28, 2011
Daily Thoughts
In the Book of Mormon we read about how the Lord gave Lehi the Liahona--a round ball of curious workmanship which pointed the way for them to go. What will prove interesting is that it will only work when they are doing what's right. This is like the Holy Ghost that we all have. It points us in the direction we should go, but only when we're living our lives in such a way that we are in tune with the Lord. 1 Ne. 16: 10 "And it came to pass that as my father arose in the morning, and went forth to the tent door, to his great astonishment he beheld upon the ground a round ball of curious workmanship; and it was of fine brass. And within the ball were two spindles; and the one pointed the way whither we should go into the wilderness."
In the New Testament we're told to beware of scribes who walk with long robes, take the highest seats of honor, and make a show of saying lengthy prayers while taking advantage of poor widows. In other words, prideful people who make a show of being important while they are unkind to others will stand condemned before God. Luke 20: 46-47 "Beware of the scribes, which desire to walk in long robes, and love greetings in the markets, and the highest seats in the synagogues, and the chief rooms at feasts;Which devour widows' houses, and for a shew make long prayers: the same shall receive greater damnation."
Some verses with a thought booklet tell us that whoever commits sin is of the devil because anyone who has been born of God will be righteouss and love other people. So it's pretty plain to tell the righteous from the wicked--we'll be able to tell by how they act. 1 John 3:7-10 "Little children, let no man deceive you: he that doeth righteousness is righteous, even as he is righteous. He that committeth sin is of the devil; for the devil sinneth from the beginning. For this purpose the Son of God was manifested, that he might destroy the works of the devil. Whosoever is born of God doth not commit sin; for his seed remaineth in him: and he cannot sin, because he is born of God. In this the children of God are manifest, and the children of the devil: whosoever doeth not righteousness is not of God, neither he that loveth not his brother."
In the New Testament we're told to beware of scribes who walk with long robes, take the highest seats of honor, and make a show of saying lengthy prayers while taking advantage of poor widows. In other words, prideful people who make a show of being important while they are unkind to others will stand condemned before God. Luke 20: 46-47 "Beware of the scribes, which desire to walk in long robes, and love greetings in the markets, and the highest seats in the synagogues, and the chief rooms at feasts;Which devour widows' houses, and for a shew make long prayers: the same shall receive greater damnation."
Some verses with a thought booklet tell us that whoever commits sin is of the devil because anyone who has been born of God will be righteouss and love other people. So it's pretty plain to tell the righteous from the wicked--we'll be able to tell by how they act. 1 John 3:7-10 "Little children, let no man deceive you: he that doeth righteousness is righteous, even as he is righteous. He that committeth sin is of the devil; for the devil sinneth from the beginning. For this purpose the Son of God was manifested, that he might destroy the works of the devil. Whosoever is born of God doth not commit sin; for his seed remaineth in him: and he cannot sin, because he is born of God. In this the children of God are manifest, and the children of the devil: whosoever doeth not righteousness is not of God, neither he that loveth not his brother."
Sunday, March 27, 2011
Daily Thoughts
In the Book of Mormon I read that the wicked take the truth to be hard and it cuts them to the very center. If they were righteous, they'd be willing to hearken to the truth and give heed to it and not murmur against it. Nephi exhorted his brothers, once gain, to keep the commandments. 1 Ne. 16: 1-4 "And now it came to pass that after I, Nephi, had made an end of speaking to my brethren, behold they said unto me: Thou hast declared unto us hard things, more than we are able to bear. And it came to pass that I said unto them that I knew that I had spoken hard things against the wicked, according to the truth; and the righteous have I justified, and testified that they should be lifted up at the last day; wherefore, the guilty taketh the truth to be hard, for it cutteth them to the very center. And now my brethren, if ye were righteous and were willing to hearken to the truth, and give heed unto it, that ye might walk uprightly before God, then ye would not murmur because of the truth, and say: Thou speakest hard things against us. And it came to pass that I, Nephi, did exhort my brethren, with all diligence, to keep the commandments of the Lord."
In the New Testament I read a parable of wicked husbandmen who beat servants, sending them away empty, and then killed the son who was sent to them to get fruit from the vineyard. This was actually spoken against the people who persecuted the prophets who had been sent to them and now would kill God's Son as well. Luke 20:9-19 "Then began he to speak to the people this parable; A certain man planted a vineyard, and let it forth to husbandmen, and went into a far country for a long time. And at the season he sent a servant to the husbandmen, that they should give him of the fruit of the vineyard: but the husbandmen beat him, and sent him away empty. And again he sent another servant: and they beat him also, and entreated him shamefully, and sent him away empty. And again he sent a third: and they wounded him also, and cast him out. Then said the lord of the vineyard, What shall I do? I will send my beloved son: it may be they will reverence him when they see him. But when the husbandmen saw him, they reasoned among themselves, saying, This is the heir: come, let us kill him, that the inheritance may be ours. So they cast him out of the vineyard, and killed him. What therefore shall the lord of the vineyard do unto them? He shall come and destroy these husbandmen, and shall give the vineyard to others. And when they heard it, they said, God forbid. And he beheld them, and said, What is this then that is written, The stone which the builders rejected, the same is become the head of the corner? Whosoever shall fall upon that stone shall be broken; but on whomsoever it shall fall, it will grind him to powder. And the chief priests and the scribes the same hour sought to lay hands on him; and they feared the people: for they perceived that he had spoken this parable against them."
In some verses with a thought booklet I read about how a eunuch was sitting in a chariot reading Isaiah when Philip came along and asked him if he understood what he was reading. He did not, and he said he could not understand unless someone explained it to him. How many times I've felt like that while reading Isaiah! Philip did explain to him that the reference to someone being led as a lamb to the laughter but not opening his mouth was a reference to Jesus Christ. How exciting it is when scriptures which have seemed so difficult to understand suddenly make sense, and the puzzle pieces all seem to fit into place. When we get discouraged with scriptures we don't understand, we need to keep reading anyway, with a prayerful heart and seeking knowledge from other inspired people. The scriptures do indeed contain the words of truth and we need to put forth effort to understand them. Acts 8:27-35 "And he arose and went: and, behold, a man of Ethiopia, an eunuch of great authority under Candace queen of the Ethiopians, who had the charge of all her treasure, and had come to Jerusalem for to worship, Was returning, and sitting in his chariot read Esaias the prophet. Then the Spirit said unto Philip, Go near, and join thyself to this chariot. And Philip ran thither to him, and heard him read the prophet Esaias, and said, Understandest thou what thou readest? And he said, How can I, except some man should guide me? And he desired Philip that he would come up and sit with him. The place of the scripture which he read was this, He was led as a sheep to the slaughter; and like a lamb dumb before his shearer, so opened he not his mouth: In his humiliation his judgment was taken away: and who shall declare his generation? for his life is taken from the earth. And the eunuch answered Philip, and said, I pray thee, of whom speaketh the prophet this? of himself, or of some other man? Then Philip opened his mouth, and began at the same scripture, and preached unto him Jesus."
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In the New Testament I read a parable of wicked husbandmen who beat servants, sending them away empty, and then killed the son who was sent to them to get fruit from the vineyard. This was actually spoken against the people who persecuted the prophets who had been sent to them and now would kill God's Son as well. Luke 20:9-19 "Then began he to speak to the people this parable; A certain man planted a vineyard, and let it forth to husbandmen, and went into a far country for a long time. And at the season he sent a servant to the husbandmen, that they should give him of the fruit of the vineyard: but the husbandmen beat him, and sent him away empty. And again he sent another servant: and they beat him also, and entreated him shamefully, and sent him away empty. And again he sent a third: and they wounded him also, and cast him out. Then said the lord of the vineyard, What shall I do? I will send my beloved son: it may be they will reverence him when they see him. But when the husbandmen saw him, they reasoned among themselves, saying, This is the heir: come, let us kill him, that the inheritance may be ours. So they cast him out of the vineyard, and killed him. What therefore shall the lord of the vineyard do unto them? He shall come and destroy these husbandmen, and shall give the vineyard to others. And when they heard it, they said, God forbid. And he beheld them, and said, What is this then that is written, The stone which the builders rejected, the same is become the head of the corner? Whosoever shall fall upon that stone shall be broken; but on whomsoever it shall fall, it will grind him to powder. And the chief priests and the scribes the same hour sought to lay hands on him; and they feared the people: for they perceived that he had spoken this parable against them."
In some verses with a thought booklet I read about how a eunuch was sitting in a chariot reading Isaiah when Philip came along and asked him if he understood what he was reading. He did not, and he said he could not understand unless someone explained it to him. How many times I've felt like that while reading Isaiah! Philip did explain to him that the reference to someone being led as a lamb to the laughter but not opening his mouth was a reference to Jesus Christ. How exciting it is when scriptures which have seemed so difficult to understand suddenly make sense, and the puzzle pieces all seem to fit into place. When we get discouraged with scriptures we don't understand, we need to keep reading anyway, with a prayerful heart and seeking knowledge from other inspired people. The scriptures do indeed contain the words of truth and we need to put forth effort to understand them. Acts 8:27-35 "And he arose and went: and, behold, a man of Ethiopia, an eunuch of great authority under Candace queen of the Ethiopians, who had the charge of all her treasure, and had come to Jerusalem for to worship, Was returning, and sitting in his chariot read Esaias the prophet. Then the Spirit said unto Philip, Go near, and join thyself to this chariot. And Philip ran thither to him, and heard him read the prophet Esaias, and said, Understandest thou what thou readest? And he said, How can I, except some man should guide me? And he desired Philip that he would come up and sit with him. The place of the scripture which he read was this, He was led as a sheep to the slaughter; and like a lamb dumb before his shearer, so opened he not his mouth: In his humiliation his judgment was taken away: and who shall declare his generation? for his life is taken from the earth. And the eunuch answered Philip, and said, I pray thee, of whom speaketh the prophet this? of himself, or of some other man? Then Philip opened his mouth, and began at the same scripture, and preached unto him Jesus."
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Saturday, March 26, 2011
Daily Thoughts
In the Book of Mormon I read that the wicked cannot dwell with God, but there is a place of filthiness prepared for them. The wicked will be judged for their works and will not be able to taste the fruit of the tree of life, which is precious and desirable and the greatest of all the gifts of God. 1 Ne. 15: 33-36 "Wherefore, if they should die in their wickedness they must be cast off also, as to the things which are spiritual, which are pertaining to righteousness; wherefore, they must be brought to stand before God, to be judged of their works; and if their works have been filthiness they must needs be filthy; and if they be filthy it must needs be that they cannot dwell in the kingdom of God; if so, the kingdom of God must be filthy also. But behold, I say unto you, the kingdom of God is not filthy, and there cannot any unclean thing enter into the kingdom of God; wherefore there must needs be a place of filthiness prepared for that which is filthy. And there is a place prepared, yea, even that awful hell of which I have spoken, and the devil is the preparator of it; wherefore the final state of the souls of men is to dwell in the kingdom of God, or to be cast out because of that justice of which I have spoken. Wherefore, the wicked are rejected from the righteous, and also from that tree of life, whose fruit is most precious and most desirable above all other fruits; yea, and it is the greatest of all the gifts of God. And thus I spake unto my brethren. Amen."
In the New Testament I read a comparison between a Pharisee who thought he was very righteous and was quite prideful about it, and a publican who was humble and repentant. Jesus said the publican was more justified before God than the Pharisee was. Do we sometimes think that we're so righteous we don't need to repent? Do we look down on "sinners" and think we're better than they are? If so, need to humble ourselves before God, the way this publican did, or we're not going to find ourselves exalted at the last day. Luke 18:9-14 "And he spake this parable unto certain which trusted in themselves that they were righteous, and despised others: Two men went up into the temple to pray; the one a Pharisee, and the other a publican. The Pharisee stood and prayed thus with himself, God, I thank thee, that I am not as other men are, extortioners, unjust, adulterers, or even as this publican. I fast twice in the week, I give tithes of all that I possess. And the publican, standing afar off, would not lift up so much as his eyes unto heaven, but smote upon his breast, saying, God be merciful to me a sinner. I tell you, this man went down to his house justified rather than the other: for every one that exalteth himself shall be abased; and he that humbleth himself shall be exalted."
Some verses with a thought booklet tell us to rejoice evermore. That sounds like something great to do, but how do we accomplish it? Sometimes our circumstances are bad and situations come our way that are very difficult to deal with. The next two verses give us some answers. We are to pray without ceasing and give thanks in everything. If we're in a constant frame of mind of prayer and are always giving thanks in all things (not just the good things) we're going to be grateful for what we have and look at things in a positive light. This is going to cause us to rejoice! So if things are looking pretty grim for us right now, it may be time to turn to prayer in an attitude of giving things for the blessings we have, and also thanking the Lord for sending us trials to strenghten us and humble us and turn us to Him. 1 Thessalonians 5: 16-18 "Rejoice evermore. Pray without ceasing. In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you."
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In the New Testament I read a comparison between a Pharisee who thought he was very righteous and was quite prideful about it, and a publican who was humble and repentant. Jesus said the publican was more justified before God than the Pharisee was. Do we sometimes think that we're so righteous we don't need to repent? Do we look down on "sinners" and think we're better than they are? If so, need to humble ourselves before God, the way this publican did, or we're not going to find ourselves exalted at the last day. Luke 18:9-14 "And he spake this parable unto certain which trusted in themselves that they were righteous, and despised others: Two men went up into the temple to pray; the one a Pharisee, and the other a publican. The Pharisee stood and prayed thus with himself, God, I thank thee, that I am not as other men are, extortioners, unjust, adulterers, or even as this publican. I fast twice in the week, I give tithes of all that I possess. And the publican, standing afar off, would not lift up so much as his eyes unto heaven, but smote upon his breast, saying, God be merciful to me a sinner. I tell you, this man went down to his house justified rather than the other: for every one that exalteth himself shall be abased; and he that humbleth himself shall be exalted."
Some verses with a thought booklet tell us to rejoice evermore. That sounds like something great to do, but how do we accomplish it? Sometimes our circumstances are bad and situations come our way that are very difficult to deal with. The next two verses give us some answers. We are to pray without ceasing and give thanks in everything. If we're in a constant frame of mind of prayer and are always giving thanks in all things (not just the good things) we're going to be grateful for what we have and look at things in a positive light. This is going to cause us to rejoice! So if things are looking pretty grim for us right now, it may be time to turn to prayer in an attitude of giving things for the blessings we have, and also thanking the Lord for sending us trials to strenghten us and humble us and turn us to Him. 1 Thessalonians 5: 16-18 "Rejoice evermore. Pray without ceasing. In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you."
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Friday, March 25, 2011
Daily Thoughts
In the Book of Mormon I read that Nephi's brothers asked him what the meaning of the iron rod was and he explained that it is the word of God. And if we hold tightly to it, the adversary will not have power over us to blind us and lead us away to destruction. Nephi exported them, with all the power and energy of his soul, to keep the commandments always in all things and give heed to the word of God. We need to take heed in our own lives that we do this, and keep on the path that will lead us to God. 1 Ne. 15: 23-25 "And they said unto me: What meaneth the rod of iron which our father saw, that led to the tree? And I said unto them that it was the word of God; and whoso would hearken unto the word of God, and would hold fast unto it, they would never perish; neither could the temptations and the fiery darts of the adversary overpower them unto blindness, to lead them away to destruction. Wherefore, I, Nephi, did exhort them to give heed unto the word of the Lord; yea, I did exhort them with all the energies of my soul, and with all the faculty which I possessed, that they would give heed to the word of God and remember to keep his commandments always in all things."
In the New Testament I read the story of the ten lepers. Jesus healed all ten of them but only one paused to give thanks and glorify God. Jesus asked where the other nine were. We are given so many blessings in our lives. Do we take them for granted, like the nine lepers who were healed? Or do we pause to give thanks and glorify God who has poured out so many wonderful blessings to us? Luke 17:12-19 "And as he entered into a certain village, there met him ten men that were lepers, which stood afar off: And they lifted up their voices, and said, Jesus, Master, have mercy on us. And when he saw them, he said unto them, Go shew yourselves unto the priests. And it came to pass, that, as they went, they were cleansed. And one of them, when he saw that he was healed, turned back, and with a loud voice glorified God, And fell down on his face at his feet, giving him thanks: and he was a Samaritan. And Jesus answering said, Were there not ten cleansed? but where are the nine? There are not found that returned to give glory to God, save this stranger. And he said unto him, Arise, go thy way: thy faith hath made thee whole."
Some verses with a thought booklet remind us that when we do missionary work, we can sow the seeds and someone else may do the watering, but it is God who produces the increase. We might have a very eloquent way of teaching the gospel to others, but it is the Holy Ghost who converts a a person and causes their hearts to change. We can't take credit for this ourselves. We have nothing to brag about in bringing others to Christ. We of ourselves cannot change a person's heart. It takes God to do that. But we can try our best to be a good instrument in His hands to touch other people. 1 Corinthians 3:5-6 "Who then is Paul, and who is Apollos, but ministers by whom ye believed, even as the Lord gave to every man? I have planted, Apollos watered; but God gave the increase."
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In the New Testament I read the story of the ten lepers. Jesus healed all ten of them but only one paused to give thanks and glorify God. Jesus asked where the other nine were. We are given so many blessings in our lives. Do we take them for granted, like the nine lepers who were healed? Or do we pause to give thanks and glorify God who has poured out so many wonderful blessings to us? Luke 17:12-19 "And as he entered into a certain village, there met him ten men that were lepers, which stood afar off: And they lifted up their voices, and said, Jesus, Master, have mercy on us. And when he saw them, he said unto them, Go shew yourselves unto the priests. And it came to pass, that, as they went, they were cleansed. And one of them, when he saw that he was healed, turned back, and with a loud voice glorified God, And fell down on his face at his feet, giving him thanks: and he was a Samaritan. And Jesus answering said, Were there not ten cleansed? but where are the nine? There are not found that returned to give glory to God, save this stranger. And he said unto him, Arise, go thy way: thy faith hath made thee whole."
Some verses with a thought booklet remind us that when we do missionary work, we can sow the seeds and someone else may do the watering, but it is God who produces the increase. We might have a very eloquent way of teaching the gospel to others, but it is the Holy Ghost who converts a a person and causes their hearts to change. We can't take credit for this ourselves. We have nothing to brag about in bringing others to Christ. We of ourselves cannot change a person's heart. It takes God to do that. But we can try our best to be a good instrument in His hands to touch other people. 1 Corinthians 3:5-6 "Who then is Paul, and who is Apollos, but ministers by whom ye believed, even as the Lord gave to every man? I have planted, Apollos watered; but God gave the increase."
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Thursday, March 24, 2011
Daily Thoughts
In the Book of Mormon I read the contrast between Nephi and his brothers, Laman and Lemuel, in how they handled trying to understand the things their father had taught them, which were difficult to understand. Nephi inquired of the Lord and diligently sought to understand them. As a result, he received visions of his own and was shown the things his father saw. But his brothers, who had hardened their hearts, just grumbled and complained about not understqnding, and said they didn't bother inquiring of the Lord because He "maketh no such thing known unto us." They didn't bother keeping the commandments and they didn't bother to pray. Was it any wonder the Lord did not reveal things to them? If we expect to get answers from the Lord, we need to do our part--keep the commandments and diligently ask in faith. 1 Ne. 15: 1-11 "And it came to pass that after I, Nephi, had been carried away in the spirit, and seen all these things, I returned to the tent of my father. And it came to pass that I beheld my brethren, and they were disputing one with another concerning the things which my father had spoken unto them. For he truly spake many great things unto them, which were hard to be understood, save a man should inquire of the Lord; and they being hard in their hearts, therefore they did not look unto the Lord as they ought. And now I, Nephi, was grieved because of the hardness of their hearts, and also, because of the things which I had seen, and knew they must unavoidably come to pass because of the great wickedness of the children of men. And it came to pass that I was overcome because of my afflictions, for I considered that mine afflictions were great above all, because of the destruction of my people, for I had beheld their fall. And it came to pass that after I had received strength I spake unto my brethren, desiring to know of them the cause of their disputations. And they said: Behold, we cannot understand the words which our father hath spoken concerning the natural branches of the olive-tree, and also concerning the Gentiles. And I said unto them: Have ye inquired of the Lord? And they said unto me: We have not; for the Lord maketh no such thing known unto us. Behold, I said unto them: How is it that ye do not keep the commandments of the Lord? How is it that ye will perish, because of the hardness of your hearts? Do ye not remember the things which the Lord hath said?—If ye will not harden your hearts, and ask me in faith, believing that ye shall receive, with diligence in keeping my commandments, surely these things shall be made known unto you."
In the New Testament I read the parable of the lost sheep and about how a shepherd who has lost one sheep will go and look for it, even though he had 99 other sheep. And when he finds it, he will rejoice. So does God rejoice over one lost soul who returns to Him. And a woman who loses a coin will search diligently until she finds it and rejoice with her friends that she has found it. So likewise will God rejoice over one sinner who repents. We are value to God. Every one of us is precious in His sight. Luke 15:2-10 "And the Pharisees and scribes murmured, saying, This man receiveth sinners, and eateth with them. And he spake this parable unto them, saying, What man of you, having an hundred sheep, if he lose one of them, doth not leave the ninety and nine in the wilderness, and go after that which is lost, until he find it? And when he hath found it, he layeth it on his shoulders, rejoicing. And when he cometh home, he calleth together his friends and neighbours, saying unto them, Rejoice with me; for I have found my sheep which was lost. I say unto you, that likewise joy shall be in heaven over one sinner that repenteth, more than over ninety and nine just persons, which need no repentance. Either what woman having ten pieces of silver, if she lose one piece, doth not light a candle, and sweep the house, and seek diligently till she find it? And when she hath found it, she calleth her friends and her neighbours together, saying, Rejoice with me; for I have found the piece which I had lost. Likewise, I say unto you, there is joy in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner that repenteth."
A verse with a thought booklet tells us to love each other with brotherly affection and take delight in honoring each other. The most important thing we can do in this life is to love and serve each other. If we're too busy to take time with another person when they might need us, then perhaps we're too busy. Romans 12:10 "Be kindly affectioned one to another with brotherly love; in honour preferring one another;"
In the New Testament I read the parable of the lost sheep and about how a shepherd who has lost one sheep will go and look for it, even though he had 99 other sheep. And when he finds it, he will rejoice. So does God rejoice over one lost soul who returns to Him. And a woman who loses a coin will search diligently until she finds it and rejoice with her friends that she has found it. So likewise will God rejoice over one sinner who repents. We are value to God. Every one of us is precious in His sight. Luke 15:2-10 "And the Pharisees and scribes murmured, saying, This man receiveth sinners, and eateth with them. And he spake this parable unto them, saying, What man of you, having an hundred sheep, if he lose one of them, doth not leave the ninety and nine in the wilderness, and go after that which is lost, until he find it? And when he hath found it, he layeth it on his shoulders, rejoicing. And when he cometh home, he calleth together his friends and neighbours, saying unto them, Rejoice with me; for I have found my sheep which was lost. I say unto you, that likewise joy shall be in heaven over one sinner that repenteth, more than over ninety and nine just persons, which need no repentance. Either what woman having ten pieces of silver, if she lose one piece, doth not light a candle, and sweep the house, and seek diligently till she find it? And when she hath found it, she calleth her friends and her neighbours together, saying, Rejoice with me; for I have found the piece which I had lost. Likewise, I say unto you, there is joy in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner that repenteth."
A verse with a thought booklet tells us to love each other with brotherly affection and take delight in honoring each other. The most important thing we can do in this life is to love and serve each other. If we're too busy to take time with another person when they might need us, then perhaps we're too busy. Romans 12:10 "Be kindly affectioned one to another with brotherly love; in honour preferring one another;"
Wednesday, March 23, 2011
Daily Thoughts
In the Book of Mormon I read that the number of people who belong to the Church of the Lamb of God would be few in number because of the great wickedness that would prevail upon the face of the earth. However, even though they would be few in number they would be scattered upon all the face of the earth. This is true today--the members of Christ's church are few in number but they are found in all parts of the world. 1 Ne. 14: 12 "And it came to pass that I beheld the church of the Lamb of God, and its numbers were few, because of the wickedness and abominations of the whore who sat upon many waters; nevertheless, I beheld that the church of the Lamb, who were the saints of God, were also upon all the face of the earth; and their dominions upon the face of the earth were small, because of the wickedness of the great whore whom I saw."
In the New Testament I read that those who exalt themselves will be abased and those who humble themselves will be exalted. Have you ever known somebody who couldn't stop bragging about themselves and extolling their own virtues? Were you impressed with them or ready to gag? Someone who is full of himself really doesn't have room for anybody else in his life. But a humble person is a joy to be around. Luke 14:11 "For whosoever exalteth himself shall be abased; and he that humbleth himself shall be exalted."
A verse with a thought booklet tells us that David was able to prevail against Goliath with just a sling and a stone--not even using a sword. We, too, can prevail against loomingly large problems if we'll trust in God. Our difficulties will shrink in proportion to our faith in God, and what seemed like a great challenge will diminish as we see things from a spiritual perspective. 1 Samuel 17:50 "So David prevailed over the Philistine with a sling and with a stone, and smote the Philistine, and slew him; but there was no sword in the hand of David."
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In the New Testament I read that those who exalt themselves will be abased and those who humble themselves will be exalted. Have you ever known somebody who couldn't stop bragging about themselves and extolling their own virtues? Were you impressed with them or ready to gag? Someone who is full of himself really doesn't have room for anybody else in his life. But a humble person is a joy to be around. Luke 14:11 "For whosoever exalteth himself shall be abased; and he that humbleth himself shall be exalted."
A verse with a thought booklet tells us that David was able to prevail against Goliath with just a sling and a stone--not even using a sword. We, too, can prevail against loomingly large problems if we'll trust in God. Our difficulties will shrink in proportion to our faith in God, and what seemed like a great challenge will diminish as we see things from a spiritual perspective. 1 Samuel 17:50 "So David prevailed over the Philistine with a sling and with a stone, and smote the Philistine, and slew him; but there was no sword in the hand of David."
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Tuesday, March 22, 2011
Daily Thoughts
In the Book of Mormon I read that wo would come unto those who harden their hearts against the Lamb of God. A marvelous work would come forth and those who are convinced of it will receive eternal life. However, those who harden their hearts against it will be destroyed, both temporally and spiritually, and be captive to the devil. There are great consequences to our decision to either obey the will of the Lord or turn from it and harden our hearts. 1 Ne. 14: 6-7 "Therefore, wo be unto the Gentiles if it so be that they harden their hearts against the Lamb of God. For the time cometh, saith the Lamb of God, that I will work a great and a marvelous work among the children of men; a work which shall be everlasting, either on the one hand or on the other—either to the convincing of them unto peace and life eternal, or unto the deliverance of them to the hardness of their hearts and the blindness of their minds unto their being brought down into captivity, and also into destruction, both temporally and spiritually, according to the captivity of the devil, of which I have spoken."
In the New Testament I read that where much is given, much is required. If somebody knows and understands the commandments of God disregards them and rebells against them, they'll be punished harshly. But if someone who doesn't know any better does the same thing, they won't be punished as much. We're judged by what we know. We've been taught the gospel and we know better, so we'd better obey! Luke 12:47-48 "And that servant, which knew his lord's will, and prepared not himself, neither did according to his will, shall be beaten with many stripes. But he that knew not, and did commit things worthy of stripes, shall be beaten with few stripes. For unto whomsoever much is given, of him shall be much required: and to whom men have committed much, of him they will ask the more."
Some verses with a thought booklet tell about how wise the ant is who stores up food for future needs and how being lazy and sleeping too much brings poverty. This is true not only of temporal things, but of spiritual things as well. As we study the scriptures and attend our church meetings, we're building up our spiritual reserves. So when times of trial come, we don't overreact with worry and stress--we trust in the Lord with faith to help us get through it. Just like wise ants store up provisions for lean times, we need to diligently prepare for the needs of our soul. Not only will an abundant spiritual harvest benefit us, but we'll have plenty to share with others as well. Proverbs 6:6-11 "Go to the ant, thou sluggard; consider her ways, and be wise: Which having no guide, overseer, or ruler, Provideth her meat in the summer, and gathereth her food in the harvest. How long wilt thou sleep, O sluggard? when wilt thou arise out of thy sleep? Yet a little sleep, a little slumber, a little folding of the hands to sleep: So shall thy poverty come as one that travelleth, and thy want as an armed man."
In the New Testament I read that where much is given, much is required. If somebody knows and understands the commandments of God disregards them and rebells against them, they'll be punished harshly. But if someone who doesn't know any better does the same thing, they won't be punished as much. We're judged by what we know. We've been taught the gospel and we know better, so we'd better obey! Luke 12:47-48 "And that servant, which knew his lord's will, and prepared not himself, neither did according to his will, shall be beaten with many stripes. But he that knew not, and did commit things worthy of stripes, shall be beaten with few stripes. For unto whomsoever much is given, of him shall be much required: and to whom men have committed much, of him they will ask the more."
Some verses with a thought booklet tell about how wise the ant is who stores up food for future needs and how being lazy and sleeping too much brings poverty. This is true not only of temporal things, but of spiritual things as well. As we study the scriptures and attend our church meetings, we're building up our spiritual reserves. So when times of trial come, we don't overreact with worry and stress--we trust in the Lord with faith to help us get through it. Just like wise ants store up provisions for lean times, we need to diligently prepare for the needs of our soul. Not only will an abundant spiritual harvest benefit us, but we'll have plenty to share with others as well. Proverbs 6:6-11 "Go to the ant, thou sluggard; consider her ways, and be wise: Which having no guide, overseer, or ruler, Provideth her meat in the summer, and gathereth her food in the harvest. How long wilt thou sleep, O sluggard? when wilt thou arise out of thy sleep? Yet a little sleep, a little slumber, a little folding of the hands to sleep: So shall thy poverty come as one that travelleth, and thy want as an armed man."
Monday, March 21, 2011
Daily Thoughts
In the Book of Mormon I read that if the Gentiles will hearken to the word of God and not harden their hearts, they'll receive the same blessings that the House of Israel will receive and be numbered among them. 1 Ne. 14: 1-2 "And it shall come to pass, that if the Gentiles shall hearken unto the Lamb of God in that day that he shall manifest himself unto them in word, and also in power, in very deed, unto the taking away of their stumbling blocks— And harden not their hearts against the Lamb of God, they shall be numbered among the seed of thy father; yea, they shall be numbered among the house of Israel; and they shall be a blessed people upon the promised land forever; they shall be no more brought down into captivity; and the house of Israel shall no more be confounded."
In the New Testament I read that instead of being overly concerned about what we have to eat or clothes we have to wear, we should seek first the Kingdom of God and His righteousness and all these things will be added unto us. If God can feed the fowls and clothe the grass in the field, we need to realize that we're of much more value to Him than birds and grass and trust in Him to take care of us. Luke 12:22-31 "And he said unto his disciples, Therefore I say unto you, Take no thought for your life, what ye shall eat; neither for the body, what ye shall put on. The life is more than meat, and the body is more than raiment. Consider the ravens: for they neither sow nor reap; which neither have storehouse nor barn; and God feedeth them: how much more are ye better than the fowls? And which of you with taking thought can add to his stature one cubit? If ye then be not able to do that thing which is least, why take ye thought for the rest? Consider the lilies how they grow: they toil not, they spin not; and yet I say unto you, that Solomon in all his glory was not arrayed like one of these. If then God so clothe the grass, which is to day in the field, and to morrow is cast into the oven; how much more will he clothe you, O ye of little faith? And seek not ye what ye shall eat, or what ye shall drink, neither be ye of doubtful mind. For all these things do the nations of the world seek after: and your Father knoweth that ye have need of these things. But rather seek ye the kingdom of God; and all these things shall be added unto you."
A scripture with a thought booklet is an often quoted verse telling is that nothing is impossible with God. The thought that went with this, written by Kyle Waalen from Oak Forest, Illinois says: As humans we are ultimately limited, but with God we can accomplish great things. This does not mean we will be wildly successful by worldly standards, but by God's standards. Our desires are not always God's desires. No matter how hard we work, we won't achieve our God-given goals without God's involvement. God helped numerous people in the Bible to overcome obstacles in order to achieve great things for His kingdom. They were not millionaires or famous all0stars, but they were champions for the Lord. When we are faced with daunting tasks and overwhelming situations, it's important to remember that with God nothing is impossible. Luke 1:37 "For with God nothing shall be impossible."
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In the New Testament I read that instead of being overly concerned about what we have to eat or clothes we have to wear, we should seek first the Kingdom of God and His righteousness and all these things will be added unto us. If God can feed the fowls and clothe the grass in the field, we need to realize that we're of much more value to Him than birds and grass and trust in Him to take care of us. Luke 12:22-31 "And he said unto his disciples, Therefore I say unto you, Take no thought for your life, what ye shall eat; neither for the body, what ye shall put on. The life is more than meat, and the body is more than raiment. Consider the ravens: for they neither sow nor reap; which neither have storehouse nor barn; and God feedeth them: how much more are ye better than the fowls? And which of you with taking thought can add to his stature one cubit? If ye then be not able to do that thing which is least, why take ye thought for the rest? Consider the lilies how they grow: they toil not, they spin not; and yet I say unto you, that Solomon in all his glory was not arrayed like one of these. If then God so clothe the grass, which is to day in the field, and to morrow is cast into the oven; how much more will he clothe you, O ye of little faith? And seek not ye what ye shall eat, or what ye shall drink, neither be ye of doubtful mind. For all these things do the nations of the world seek after: and your Father knoweth that ye have need of these things. But rather seek ye the kingdom of God; and all these things shall be added unto you."
A scripture with a thought booklet is an often quoted verse telling is that nothing is impossible with God. The thought that went with this, written by Kyle Waalen from Oak Forest, Illinois says: As humans we are ultimately limited, but with God we can accomplish great things. This does not mean we will be wildly successful by worldly standards, but by God's standards. Our desires are not always God's desires. No matter how hard we work, we won't achieve our God-given goals without God's involvement. God helped numerous people in the Bible to overcome obstacles in order to achieve great things for His kingdom. They were not millionaires or famous all0stars, but they were champions for the Lord. When we are faced with daunting tasks and overwhelming situations, it's important to remember that with God nothing is impossible. Luke 1:37 "For with God nothing shall be impossible."
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Sunday, March 20, 2011
Daily Thoughts
In the Book of Mormon I read about the coming forth of latter-day scripture which establishes the truths found in the Bible and makes known plain and precious things, such as the fact that we must come to the Savior or we cannot be saved. He will manifest Himself to all nations and peoples, both Jews and Gentiles. 1 Nephi 13: 38-42 "And it came to pass that I beheld the remnant of the seed of my brethren, and also the book of the Lamb of God, which had proceeded forth from the mouth of the Jew, that it came forth from the Gentiles unto the remnant of the seed of my brethren. And after it had come forth unto them I beheld other books, which came forth by the power of the Lamb, from the Gentiles unto them, unto the convincing of the Gentiles and the remnant of the seed of my brethren, and also the Jews who were scattered upon all the face of the earth, that the records of the prophets and of the twelve apostles of the Lamb are true. And the angel spake unto me, saying: These last records, which thou hast seen among the Gentiles, shall establish the truth of the first, which are of the twelve apostles of the Lamb, and shall make known the plain and precious things which have been taken away from them; and shall make known to all kindreds, tongues, and people, that the Lamb of God is the Son of the Eternal Father, and the Savior of the world; and that all men must come unto him, or they cannot be saved. And they must come according to the words which shall be established by the mouth of the Lamb; and the words of the Lamb shall be made known in the records of thy seed, as well as in the records of the twelve apostles of the Lamb; wherefore they both shall be established in one; for there is one God and one Shepherd over all the earth. And the time cometh that he shall manifest himself unto all nations, both unto the Jews and also unto the Gentiles; and after he has manifested himself unto the Jews and also unto the Gentiles, then he shall manifest himself unto the Gentiles and also unto the Jews, and the last shall be first, and the first shall be last."
In the New Testament we're told that if we ask, it will be given to us. Just like a father gives good things to his children, our Heavenly Father wants to bless us with good things also. Luke 11:9-13 "And I say unto you, Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you. For every one that asketh receiveth; and he that seeketh findeth; and to him that knocketh it shall be opened. If a son shall ask bread of any of you that is a father, will he give him a stone? or if he ask a fish, will he for a fish give him a serpent? Or if he shall ask an egg, will he offer him a scorpion? If ye then, being evil, know how to give good gifts unto your children: how much more shall your heavenly Father give the Holy Spirit to them that ask him?"
In a verse with a thought booklet David pleads with the Lord to create in him a clean heart and renew a right spirit within him. This is a prayer we all need to make at times, when our heart is not right with God. If we humbly come to the Lord and plead for Him to help us, He can renew our spirits and make our hearts right before Him. And through the Atoning sacrifice of Jesus Christ, our lives can be made clean. Psalms 51:10 "Create in me a clean heart, O God; and renew a right spirit within me."
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In the New Testament we're told that if we ask, it will be given to us. Just like a father gives good things to his children, our Heavenly Father wants to bless us with good things also. Luke 11:9-13 "And I say unto you, Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you. For every one that asketh receiveth; and he that seeketh findeth; and to him that knocketh it shall be opened. If a son shall ask bread of any of you that is a father, will he give him a stone? or if he ask a fish, will he for a fish give him a serpent? Or if he shall ask an egg, will he offer him a scorpion? If ye then, being evil, know how to give good gifts unto your children: how much more shall your heavenly Father give the Holy Spirit to them that ask him?"
In a verse with a thought booklet David pleads with the Lord to create in him a clean heart and renew a right spirit within him. This is a prayer we all need to make at times, when our heart is not right with God. If we humbly come to the Lord and plead for Him to help us, He can renew our spirits and make our hearts right before Him. And through the Atoning sacrifice of Jesus Christ, our lives can be made clean. Psalms 51:10 "Create in me a clean heart, O God; and renew a right spirit within me."
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Saturday, March 19, 2011
Daily Thoughts
In the Book of Mormon I read that even though many plain and precious things were taken away by the great and abominable church, the gospel would be restored by the gift and power of God and the Holy Ghost would come with power on those who endure to the end. They will be lifted up at the last day. What a wonderful blessing it is to live in a day and time when the gospel is on the earth! 1 Nephi 13:34-37 "And it came to pass that the angel of the Lord spake unto me, saying: Behold, saith the Lamb of God, after I have visited the remnant of the house of Israel—and this remnant of whom I speak is the seed of thy father—wherefore, after I have visited them in judgment, and smitten them by the hand of the Gentiles, and after the Gentiles do stumble exceedingly, because of the most plain and precious parts of the gospel of the Lamb which have been kept back by that abominable church, which is the mother of harlots, saith the Lamb—I will be merciful unto the Gentiles in that day, insomuch that I will bring forth unto them, in mine own power, much of my gospel, which shall be plain and precious, saith the Lamb. For, behold, saith the Lamb: I will manifest myself unto thy seed, that they shall write many things which I shall minister unto them, which shall be plain and precious; and after thy seed shall be destroyed, and dwindle in unbelief, and also the seed of thy brethren, behold, these things shall be hid up, to come forth unto the Gentiles, by the gift and power of the Lamb. And in them shall be written my gospel, saith the Lamb, and my rock and my salvation. And blessed are they who shall seek to bring forth my Zion at that day, for they shall have the gift and the power of the Holy Ghost; and if they endure unto the end they shall be lifted up at the last day, and shall be saved in the everlasting kingdom of the Lamb; and whoso shall publish peace, yea, tidings of great joy, how beautiful upon the mountains shall they be."
In the New Testament I read the parable of the Good Samaritan. A man fell among thieves and was left at the side of the road injured. A priest and a Levite, who you would think would help him, just passed by him looking the other way. But a Samaritan (who was not considered a friend to the Jews) stopped to help him. We, likewise, need to do whatever we can to help other people, even if they're not within our usual circle of friends. If it is without our power to do good to someone, we need to do it. Luke 10:30-37 "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."
Some verses with a thought booklet warn us to be ready for when Christ comes again so that the day won't catch us unawares. Just like in the days of Noah the floods came and destroyed them and in the day of Sodom and Gomorrah, fire rained down from heaven, so shall it be in the day when the Son of Man will be revealed. Luke 17: 26-30 "And as it was in the days of Noe, so shall it be also in the days of the Son of man. They did eat, they drank, they married wives, they were given in marriage, until the day that Noe entered into the ark, and the flood came, and destroyed them all. Likewise also as it was in the days of Lot; they did eat, they drank, they bought, they sold, they planted, they builded; But the same day that Lot went out of Sodom it rained fire and brimstone from heaven, and destroyed them all. Even thus shall it be in the day when the Son of man is revealed."
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In the New Testament I read the parable of the Good Samaritan. A man fell among thieves and was left at the side of the road injured. A priest and a Levite, who you would think would help him, just passed by him looking the other way. But a Samaritan (who was not considered a friend to the Jews) stopped to help him. We, likewise, need to do whatever we can to help other people, even if they're not within our usual circle of friends. If it is without our power to do good to someone, we need to do it. Luke 10:30-37 "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."
Some verses with a thought booklet warn us to be ready for when Christ comes again so that the day won't catch us unawares. Just like in the days of Noah the floods came and destroyed them and in the day of Sodom and Gomorrah, fire rained down from heaven, so shall it be in the day when the Son of Man will be revealed. Luke 17: 26-30 "And as it was in the days of Noe, so shall it be also in the days of the Son of man. They did eat, they drank, they married wives, they were given in marriage, until the day that Noe entered into the ark, and the flood came, and destroyed them all. Likewise also as it was in the days of Lot; they did eat, they drank, they bought, they sold, they planted, they builded; But the same day that Lot went out of Sodom it rained fire and brimstone from heaven, and destroyed them all. Even thus shall it be in the day when the Son of man is revealed."
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Friday, March 18, 2011
Daily Thoughts
In the Book of Mormon I read about Nephi's prophesying about how the Bible would have plain and precious parts of it changed and removed by the great and abominable church who sought to pervert the ways of the Lord. This caused some people to stumble insomuch that Satan had great power over them.1 Ne. 13: 20-29 "And it came to pass that I, Nephi, beheld that they did prosper in the land; and I beheld a book, and it was carried forth among them. And the angel said unto me: Knowest thou the meaning of the book? And I said unto him: I know not. And he said: Behold it proceedeth out of the mouth of a Jew. And I, Nephi, beheld it; and he said unto me: The book that thou beholdest is a record of the Jews, which contains the covenants of the Lord, which he hath made unto the house of Israel; and it also containeth many of the prophecies of the holy prophets; and it is a record like unto the engravings which are upon the plates of brass, save there are not so many; nevertheless, they contain the covenants of the Lord, which he hath made unto the house of Israel; wherefore, they are of great worth unto the Gentiles. And the angel of the Lord said unto me: Thou hast beheld that the book proceeded forth from the mouth of a Jew; and when it proceeded forth from the mouth of a Jew it contained the fulness of the gospel of the Lord, of whom the twelve apostles bear record; and they bear record according to the truth which is in the Lamb of God. Wherefore, these things go forth from the Jews in purity unto the Gentiles, according to the truth which is in God. And after they go forth by the hand of the twelve apostles of the Lamb, from the Jews unto the Gentiles, thou seest the formation of that great and abominable church, which is most abominable above all other churches; for behold, they have taken away from the gospel of the Lamb many parts which are plain and most precious; and also many covenants of the Lord have they taken away. And all this have they done that they might pervert the right ways of the Lord, that they might blind the eyes and harden the hearts of the children of men. Wherefore, thou seest that after the book hath gone forth through the hands of the great and abominable church, that there are many plain and precious things taken away from the book, which is the book of the Lamb of God. And after these plain and precious things were taken away it goeth forth unto all the nations of the Gentiles; and after it goeth forth unto all the nations of the Gentiles, yea, even across the many waters which thou hast seen with the Gentiles which have gone forth out of captivity, thou seest—because of the many plain and precious things which have been taken out of the book, which were plain unto the understanding of the children of men, according to the plainness which is in the Lamb of God—because of these things which are taken away out of the gospel of the Lamb, an exceedingly great many do stumble, yea, insomuch that Satan hath great power over them."
In the New Testament we read about Jesus stilling the storm. When we have storms in our lives, if we turn to our Savior, He can bring us peace and calm as well. If we don't believe that, we need to have more faith! Luke 8:22-25 "Now it came to pass on a certain day, that he went into a ship with his disciples: and he said unto them, Let us go over unto the other side of the lake. And they launched forth. But as they sailed he fell asleep: and there came down a storm of wind on the lake; and they were filled with water, and were in jeopardy. And they came to him, and awoke him, saying, Master, master, we perish. Then he arose, and rebuked the wind and the raging of the water: and they ceased, and there was a calm. And he said unto them, Where is your faith? And they being afraid wondered, saying one to another, What manner of man is this! for he commandeth even the winds and water, and they obey him."
Some verses with a thought booklet tell us how Jesus called some fishermen to come follow Him and they immediately left their nets and ships and followed Him. How willing are we to do whatever the Lord requires of us, even if it means leaving behind things that are familiar to us or a life that's comfortable. Are we willing to give up the life we're accustomed to in order to follow wherever the Lord leads us? Matthew 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 New Testament we read about Jesus stilling the storm. When we have storms in our lives, if we turn to our Savior, He can bring us peace and calm as well. If we don't believe that, we need to have more faith! Luke 8:22-25 "Now it came to pass on a certain day, that he went into a ship with his disciples: and he said unto them, Let us go over unto the other side of the lake. And they launched forth. But as they sailed he fell asleep: and there came down a storm of wind on the lake; and they were filled with water, and were in jeopardy. And they came to him, and awoke him, saying, Master, master, we perish. Then he arose, and rebuked the wind and the raging of the water: and they ceased, and there was a calm. And he said unto them, Where is your faith? And they being afraid wondered, saying one to another, What manner of man is this! for he commandeth even the winds and water, and they obey him."
Some verses with a thought booklet tell us how Jesus called some fishermen to come follow Him and they immediately left their nets and ships and followed Him. How willing are we to do whatever the Lord requires of us, even if it means leaving behind things that are familiar to us or a life that's comfortable. Are we willing to give up the life we're accustomed to in order to follow wherever the Lord leads us? Matthew 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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Thursday, March 17, 2011
I read about how the people who crossed the ocean to America hymbled themselves before the Lord so that He was with them. When the armies from their mother country fought against them, God deliered them. Again Nephi prophesied of these things (the Revolutionary War) hundreds of years before they occurred. 1 Ne. 13: 16-19 "And it came to pass that I, Nephi, beheld that the Gentiles who had gone forth out of captivity did humble themselves before the Lord; and the power of the Lord was with them. And I beheld that their mother Gentiles were gathered together upon the waters, and upon the land also, to battle against them. And I beheld that the power of God was with them, and also that the wrath of God was upon all those that were gathered together against them to battle. And I, Nephi, beheld that the Gentiles that had gone out of captivity were delivered by the power of God out of the hands of all other nations."
In the New Testament I read about the sinful woman who annointed Christ's feet and who was forgiven by Him. When Jesus was criticized for allowing such a sinful woman to touch Him, He pointed out that someone who has much to be forgiven for loves much. No matter how bad our sins, if we humbly come before the Lord, we can be forgiven. Luke 7:37-50 "And, behold, a woman in the city, which was a sinner, when she knew that Jesus sat at meat in the Pharisee’s house, brought an alabaster box of ointment, And stood at his feet behind him weeping, and began to wash his feet with tears, and did wipe them with the hairs of her head, and kissed his feet, and anointed them with the ointment. Now when the Pharisee which had bidden him saw it, he spake within himself, saying, This man, if he were a prophet, would have known who and what manner of woman this is that toucheth him: for she is a sinner. And Jesus answering said unto him, Simon, I have somewhat to say unto thee. And he saith, Master, say on. There was a certain creditor which had two debtors: the one owed five hundred pence, and the other fifty. And when they had nothing to pay, he frankly forgave them both. Tell me therefore, which of them will love him most? Simon answered and said, I suppose that he, to whom he forgave most. And he said unto him, Thou hast rightly judged. And he turned to the woman, and said unto Simon, Seest thou this woman? I entered into thine house, thou gavest me no water for my feet: but she hath washed my feet with tears, and wiped them with the hairs of her head. Thou gavest me no kiss: but this woman since the time I came in hath not ceased to kiss my feet. My head with oil thou didst not anoint: but this woman hath anointed my feet with ointment.
Wherefore I say unto thee, Her sins, which are many, are forgiven; for she loved much: but to whom little is forgiven, the same loveth little. And he said unto her, Thy sins are forgiven. And they that sat at meat with him began to say within themselves, Who is this that forgiveth sins also? And he said to the woman, Thy faith hath saved thee; go in peace."
A verse with a thought booklet tells us to bear one another's burdens. Does God send people into our lives so that we can help and serve them, or bring healing into hurting lives? The thought that went with this, written by Charles P. Axe from Hermitage, Pennsylvania says: A woman named Lilly, whom I did not know, linked my name at the end of a devotion I had written with her husban's school ports reminiscings. her husband was my former teammate, Rick. As a result, they contacted me. Today, after five years and much correspondence I am still in awe as to how God helped us to connect. Because He did, I've been blessed, my burden of being alone in prison has been lightened. While the WHO might be unforeseen and the WHY not initially clear, the apostle Paul is specific as to what we are to do as occasion and opportunity open up to us--"do good". Obeying his words can help someone like me through a difficult time. And it can bless you, too, as a recent letter from Rick and Lily blessed me: "Our lives are better for having known you." Galatians 6:2 "Bear ye one another’s burdens, and so fulfil the law of Christ."
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In the New Testament I read about the sinful woman who annointed Christ's feet and who was forgiven by Him. When Jesus was criticized for allowing such a sinful woman to touch Him, He pointed out that someone who has much to be forgiven for loves much. No matter how bad our sins, if we humbly come before the Lord, we can be forgiven. Luke 7:37-50 "And, behold, a woman in the city, which was a sinner, when she knew that Jesus sat at meat in the Pharisee’s house, brought an alabaster box of ointment, And stood at his feet behind him weeping, and began to wash his feet with tears, and did wipe them with the hairs of her head, and kissed his feet, and anointed them with the ointment. Now when the Pharisee which had bidden him saw it, he spake within himself, saying, This man, if he were a prophet, would have known who and what manner of woman this is that toucheth him: for she is a sinner. And Jesus answering said unto him, Simon, I have somewhat to say unto thee. And he saith, Master, say on. There was a certain creditor which had two debtors: the one owed five hundred pence, and the other fifty. And when they had nothing to pay, he frankly forgave them both. Tell me therefore, which of them will love him most? Simon answered and said, I suppose that he, to whom he forgave most. And he said unto him, Thou hast rightly judged. And he turned to the woman, and said unto Simon, Seest thou this woman? I entered into thine house, thou gavest me no water for my feet: but she hath washed my feet with tears, and wiped them with the hairs of her head. Thou gavest me no kiss: but this woman since the time I came in hath not ceased to kiss my feet. My head with oil thou didst not anoint: but this woman hath anointed my feet with ointment.
Wherefore I say unto thee, Her sins, which are many, are forgiven; for she loved much: but to whom little is forgiven, the same loveth little. And he said unto her, Thy sins are forgiven. And they that sat at meat with him began to say within themselves, Who is this that forgiveth sins also? And he said to the woman, Thy faith hath saved thee; go in peace."
A verse with a thought booklet tells us to bear one another's burdens. Does God send people into our lives so that we can help and serve them, or bring healing into hurting lives? The thought that went with this, written by Charles P. Axe from Hermitage, Pennsylvania says: A woman named Lilly, whom I did not know, linked my name at the end of a devotion I had written with her husban's school ports reminiscings. her husband was my former teammate, Rick. As a result, they contacted me. Today, after five years and much correspondence I am still in awe as to how God helped us to connect. Because He did, I've been blessed, my burden of being alone in prison has been lightened. While the WHO might be unforeseen and the WHY not initially clear, the apostle Paul is specific as to what we are to do as occasion and opportunity open up to us--"do good". Obeying his words can help someone like me through a difficult time. And it can bless you, too, as a recent letter from Rick and Lily blessed me: "Our lives are better for having known you." Galatians 6:2 "Bear ye one another’s burdens, and so fulfil the law of Christ."
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Wednesday, March 16, 2011
Daily Thoughts
In the Book of Mormon I read about Columbus sailing across the ocean to the promised land, then more people following him, who scattered the native Americans. All this was prophesied by Nephi hundreds of years before it occurred. 1 Ne. 13: 10-14 "And it came to pass that I looked and beheld many waters; and they divided the Gentiles from the seed of my brethren. And it came to pass that the angel said unto me: Behold the wrath of God is upon the seed of thy brethren. And I looked and beheld a man among the Gentiles, who was separated from the seed of my brethren by the many waters; and I beheld the Spirit of God, that it came down and wrought upon the man; and he went forth upon the many waters, even unto the seed of my brethren, who were in the promised land. And it came to pass that I beheld the Spirit of God, that it wrought upon other Gentiles; and they went forth out of captivity, upon the many waters. And it came to pass that I beheld many multitudes of the Gentiles upon the land of promise; and I beheld the wrath of God, that it was upon the seed of my brethren; and they were scattered before the Gentiles and were smitten."
In the New Testament we read about how wrong it is to find fault with others when we often have worse faults ourselves. We need to cast the beam out of our own eyes before we can see clearly to help our brother remove the speck out of his eye. Luke 6:41-42 "And why beholdest thou the mote that is in thy brother's eye, but perceivest not the beam that is in thine own eye? Either how canst thou say to thy brother, Brother, let me pull out the mote that is in thine eye, when thou thyself beholdest not the beam that is in thine own eye? Thou hypocrite, cast out first the beam out of thine own eye, and then shalt thou see clearly to pull out the mote that is in thy brother's eye."
Some scriptures with a thought booklet tell us how Jonah was called by the Lord to go preach to the city of Nineveh and call them to repentance. But instead of doing what the Lord asked him to do, he choose to run away. Do we sometimes do similar things? Do we turn down church callings with a list of excuses? Do we feel promptings to do certain things but never get around to doing them? If the Lord calls, we need to obey. Jonah 1:1-3 "Now the word of the Lord came unto Jonah the son of Amittai, saying, Arise, go to Nineveh, that great city, and cry against it; for their wickedness is come up before me. But Jonah rose up to flee unto Tarshish from the presence of the Lord, and went down to Joppa; and he found a ship going to Tarshish: so he paid the fare thereof, and went down into it, to go with them unto Tarshish from the presence of the Lord."
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In the New Testament we read about how wrong it is to find fault with others when we often have worse faults ourselves. We need to cast the beam out of our own eyes before we can see clearly to help our brother remove the speck out of his eye. Luke 6:41-42 "And why beholdest thou the mote that is in thy brother's eye, but perceivest not the beam that is in thine own eye? Either how canst thou say to thy brother, Brother, let me pull out the mote that is in thine eye, when thou thyself beholdest not the beam that is in thine own eye? Thou hypocrite, cast out first the beam out of thine own eye, and then shalt thou see clearly to pull out the mote that is in thy brother's eye."
Some scriptures with a thought booklet tell us how Jonah was called by the Lord to go preach to the city of Nineveh and call them to repentance. But instead of doing what the Lord asked him to do, he choose to run away. Do we sometimes do similar things? Do we turn down church callings with a list of excuses? Do we feel promptings to do certain things but never get around to doing them? If the Lord calls, we need to obey. Jonah 1:1-3 "Now the word of the Lord came unto Jonah the son of Amittai, saying, Arise, go to Nineveh, that great city, and cry against it; for their wickedness is come up before me. But Jonah rose up to flee unto Tarshish from the presence of the Lord, and went down to Joppa; and he found a ship going to Tarshish: so he paid the fare thereof, and went down into it, to go with them unto Tarshish from the presence of the Lord."
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Tuesday, March 15, 2011
Daily Thoughts
In the Book of Mormon I read about the great and abominable church, which was founded by the devil and which sought to slay the saints of God. 1 Ne. 13: 4-6 "And it came to pass that I saw among the nations of the Gentiles the formation of a great church. And the angel said unto me: Behold the formation of a church which is most abominable above all other churches, which slayeth the saints of God, yea, and tortureth them and bindeth them down, and yoketh them with a yoke of iron, and bringeth them down into captivity. And it came to pass that I beheld this great and abominable church; and I saw the devil that he was the founder of it."
In the New Testament I read that Jesus withdraw himself into the wilderness to pray. Even Jesus needed to recharge His batteries by going to a quiet place where He could be alone to pray. We, likewise, need to follow His example and find a quiet time to be alone with God and pour out our hearts to Him. Luke 5:16 "And he withdrew himself into the wilderness, and prayed."
Some scriptures with a thought booklet remind us that we should not to do good things just to be seen by other people so they'll think well of us. When we do good things in secret, our Heavenly Father always sees what we do and He will reward us openly. We need to do good things in order to serve God and other people because we love them--not for any worldly recognition we might receive. Matthew 6:1-6 "Take heed that ye do not your alms before men, to be seen of them: otherwise ye have no reward of your Father which is in heaven. Therefore when thou doest thine alms, do not sound a trumpet before thee, as the hypocrites do in the synagogues and in the streets, that they may have glory of men. Verily I say unto you, They have their reward. But when thou doest alms, let not thy left hand know what thy right hand doeth: That thine alms may be in secret: and thy Father which seeth in secret himself shall reward thee openly. And when thou prayest, thou shalt not be as the hypocrites are: for they love to pray standing in the synagogues and in the corners of the streets, that they may be seen of men. Verily I say unto you, They have their reward. But thou, when thou prayest, enter into thy closet, and when thou hast shut thy door, pray to thy Father which is in secret; and thy Father which seeth in secret shall reward thee openly."
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In the New Testament I read that Jesus withdraw himself into the wilderness to pray. Even Jesus needed to recharge His batteries by going to a quiet place where He could be alone to pray. We, likewise, need to follow His example and find a quiet time to be alone with God and pour out our hearts to Him. Luke 5:16 "And he withdrew himself into the wilderness, and prayed."
Some scriptures with a thought booklet remind us that we should not to do good things just to be seen by other people so they'll think well of us. When we do good things in secret, our Heavenly Father always sees what we do and He will reward us openly. We need to do good things in order to serve God and other people because we love them--not for any worldly recognition we might receive. Matthew 6:1-6 "Take heed that ye do not your alms before men, to be seen of them: otherwise ye have no reward of your Father which is in heaven. Therefore when thou doest thine alms, do not sound a trumpet before thee, as the hypocrites do in the synagogues and in the streets, that they may have glory of men. Verily I say unto you, They have their reward. But when thou doest alms, let not thy left hand know what thy right hand doeth: That thine alms may be in secret: and thy Father which seeth in secret himself shall reward thee openly. And when thou prayest, thou shalt not be as the hypocrites are: for they love to pray standing in the synagogues and in the corners of the streets, that they may be seen of men. Verily I say unto you, They have their reward. But thou, when thou prayest, enter into thy closet, and when thou hast shut thy door, pray to thy Father which is in secret; and thy Father which seeth in secret shall reward thee openly."
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Monday, March 14, 2011
Daily Thoughts
In the Book of Mormon I read that Nephi saw that the people would become a dark and loathsome and filthy people, full of idleness and wickedness and dwlindling in unbelief. They would have many wars among each other. What a sad state for them to fall into after being such an enlightened people at one time. 1 Ne. 12: 21-23 "And I saw them gathered together in multitudes; and I saw wars and rumors of wars among them; and in wars and rumors of wars I saw many generations pass away. And the angel said unto me: Behold these shall dwindle in unbelief. And it came to pass that I beheld, after they had dwindled in unbelief they became a dark, and loathsome, and a filthy people, full of idleness and all manner of abominations."
In the New Testament we read about Jesus healing the sick. Luke 4:38-40 "And he arose out of the synagogue, and entered into Simon's house. And Simon's wife's mother was taken with a great fever; and they besought him for her. And he stood over her, and rebuked the fever; and it left her: and immediately she arose and ministered unto them. Now when the sun was setting, all they that had any sick with divers diseases brought them unto him; and he laid his hands on every one of them, and healed them."
The days of Jesus healing people are not over. Some verses with a thought booklet talk about the joyous day after Christ comes again when the blind will see, the deaf will hear, the lame will leap and dance, and the dumb will sing. Sickness and disabilities will be done away with and all will be made whole! Can you just imagine that joyous day when crutches are thrown aside and wheelchairs are abandoned! Jesus Christ is coming and we can look forward to that wondrous event! Isaiah 35:5-6 "Then the eyes of the blind shall be opened, and the ears of the deaf shall be unstopped. hen shall the lame man leap as an hart, and the tongue of the dumb sing: for in the wilderness shall waters break out, and streams in the desert."
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In the New Testament we read about Jesus healing the sick. Luke 4:38-40 "And he arose out of the synagogue, and entered into Simon's house. And Simon's wife's mother was taken with a great fever; and they besought him for her. And he stood over her, and rebuked the fever; and it left her: and immediately she arose and ministered unto them. Now when the sun was setting, all they that had any sick with divers diseases brought them unto him; and he laid his hands on every one of them, and healed them."
The days of Jesus healing people are not over. Some verses with a thought booklet talk about the joyous day after Christ comes again when the blind will see, the deaf will hear, the lame will leap and dance, and the dumb will sing. Sickness and disabilities will be done away with and all will be made whole! Can you just imagine that joyous day when crutches are thrown aside and wheelchairs are abandoned! Jesus Christ is coming and we can look forward to that wondrous event! Isaiah 35:5-6 "Then the eyes of the blind shall be opened, and the ears of the deaf shall be unstopped. hen shall the lame man leap as an hart, and the tongue of the dumb sing: for in the wilderness shall waters break out, and streams in the desert."
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Sunday, March 13, 2011
Daily Thoughts
In the Book of Mormon I read that an angel told Nephi that the fountain of filthy water which Lehi had seen in his dream represented the depths of hell. The mists of darkness that he had seen represented the temptations of the devil which will lead us away so that we perish unless we resist them. The great and spacious building which Lehi saw was representative of the pride and vain imaginations of people. These interpretations help us to understand Lehi's dream so we can liken it to us and understand what we need to do and what we need to avoid to partake of the fruit of the tree, or the love of God. 1 Ne. 12: 16-18 "And the angel spake unto me, saying: Behold the fountain of filthy water which thy father saw; yea, even the river of which he spake; and the depths thereof are the depths of hell. And the mists of darkness are the temptations of the devil, which blindeth the eyes, and hardeneth the hearts of the children of men, and leadeth them away into broad roads, that they perish and are lost. And the large and spacious building, which thy father saw, is vain imaginations and the pride of the children of men. And a great and a terrible gulf divideth them; yea, even the word of the justice of the Eternal God, and the Messiah who is the Lamb of God, of whom the Holy Ghost beareth record, from the beginning of the world until this time, and from this time henceforth and forever."
In the New Testament we're told that if we have more than what we need, we should share with others who have none. Luke 3:11 "He answereth and saith unto them, He that hath two coats, let him impart to him that hath none; and he that hath meat, let him do likewise."
A verse with a thought booklet says that the Lord is our rock and our fortress and He will lead and guide us. We can lean on the Lord for stability and count on Him to protect us and lead us in the way we should go. He can provide a refuge and a shelter for us from powers that tear at our peace. When we feel overwhelmed by the world, we can turn to our Savior. Only He can provide security for the frightened soul. Psalms 31:3 "For thou art my rock and my fortress; therefore for thy name's sake lead me, and guide me."
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In the New Testament we're told that if we have more than what we need, we should share with others who have none. Luke 3:11 "He answereth and saith unto them, He that hath two coats, let him impart to him that hath none; and he that hath meat, let him do likewise."
A verse with a thought booklet says that the Lord is our rock and our fortress and He will lead and guide us. We can lean on the Lord for stability and count on Him to protect us and lead us in the way we should go. He can provide a refuge and a shelter for us from powers that tear at our peace. When we feel overwhelmed by the world, we can turn to our Savior. Only He can provide security for the frightened soul. Psalms 31:3 "For thou art my rock and my fortress; therefore for thy name's sake lead me, and guide me."
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Saturday, March 12, 2011
Daily Thoughts
In the Book of Mormon I read about Nephi's vision of the great destruction that would come upon the land right before Jesus Christ would come down and show Himself to the people. This would occur after the resurrection of Christ, when Christ came to the American continent and showed Himself to the Nephites. 1 Ne. 12: 4-6 "And it came to pass that I saw a mist of darkness on the face of the land of promise; and I saw lightnings, and I heard thunderings, and earthquakes, and all manner of tumultuous noises; and I saw the earth and the rocks, that they rent; and I saw mountains tumbling into pieces; and I saw the plains of the earth, that they were broken up; and I saw many cities that they were sunk; and I saw many that they were burned with fire; and I saw many that did tumble to the earth, because of the quaking thereof. And it came to pass after I saw these things, I saw the vapor of darkness, that it passed from off the face of the earth; and behold, I saw multitudes who had not fallen because of the great and terrible judgments of the Lord. And I saw the heavens open, and the Lamb of God descending out of heaven; and he came down and showed himself unto them."
In the New Testament I read a couple of verses that give us insight into the childhood of Jesus. Not much is known about His growing up years, but we are told that as He grew physically, He waxed strong in spirit, was filled with wisdom and grace, and increased in favor with God and man. Luke 2:40, 52 "And the child grew, and waxed strong in spirit, filled with wisdom: and the grace of God was upon him. And Jesus increased in wisdom and stature, and in favour with God and man."
Some verses with a thought booklet tell us to love our neighbor as ourself and not try to take revenge or hold grudges against other people. Even though we may reprove a neighbor and not tolerate his sin, we don't need to hate him. Leviticus 19:17-18 "Thou shalt not hate thy brother in thine heart: thou shalt in any wise rebuke thy neighbour, and not suffer sin upon him. Thou shalt not avenge, nor bear any grudge against the children of thy people, but thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself: I am the Lord."
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In the New Testament I read a couple of verses that give us insight into the childhood of Jesus. Not much is known about His growing up years, but we are told that as He grew physically, He waxed strong in spirit, was filled with wisdom and grace, and increased in favor with God and man. Luke 2:40, 52 "And the child grew, and waxed strong in spirit, filled with wisdom: and the grace of God was upon him. And Jesus increased in wisdom and stature, and in favour with God and man."
Some verses with a thought booklet tell us to love our neighbor as ourself and not try to take revenge or hold grudges against other people. Even though we may reprove a neighbor and not tolerate his sin, we don't need to hate him. Leviticus 19:17-18 "Thou shalt not hate thy brother in thine heart: thou shalt in any wise rebuke thy neighbour, and not suffer sin upon him. Thou shalt not avenge, nor bear any grudge against the children of thy people, but thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself: I am the Lord."
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Friday, March 11, 2011
Daily Thoughts
In the Book of Mormon I read the interpretation of the great and spacious building which Lehi saw in his dream. Nephi was shown that this represented the pride of the world. But great would be the fall of it. All those who fight against the apostles of the Lamb will be destroyed. 1 Ne. 11: 35-36 "And the multitude of the earth was gathered together; and I beheld that they were in a large and spacious building, like unto the building which my father saw. And the angel of the Lord spake unto me again, saying: Behold the world and the wisdom thereof; yea, behold the house of Israel hath gathered together to fight against the twelve apostles of the Lamb. And it came to pass that I saw and bear record, that the great and spacious building was the pride of the world; and it fell, and the fall thereof was exceedingly great. And the angel of the Lord spake unto me again, saying: Thus shall be the destruction of all nations, kindreds, tongues, and people, that shall fight against the twelve apostles of the Lamb."
In the New Testament I read about the birth of Jesus Christ. He was born in a manger because there was no room in the inn, and wrapped in swaddling clothes. An angel announced His birth to the shepherds who were in their fields at night, and brought them these good tidings of great joy--that a Savior had been born. Luke 2:6-11 "And so it was, that, while they were there, the days were accomplished that she should be delivered. And she brought forth her firstborn son, and wrapped him in swaddling clothes, and laid him in a manger; because there was no room for them in the inn. And there were in the same country shepherds abiding in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night. And, lo, the angel of the Lord came upon them, and the glory of the Lord shone round about them: and they were sore afraid. And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord."
Some verses with a thought booklet tell us how important our words are. A fool's words will cause contention, possibly even leading to violence. Foolish words can lead to destruction and be a snare to the soul. Someone who spreads tales causes deep wounds to the other person. We need to be careful about what we say. Our words can have great impact on us and others. Proverbs 18:6-8 "A fool's lips enter into contention, and his mouth calleth for strokes. A fool's mouth is his destruction, and his lips are the snare of his soul. The words of a talebearer are as wounds, and they go down into the innermost parts of the belly."
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In the New Testament I read about the birth of Jesus Christ. He was born in a manger because there was no room in the inn, and wrapped in swaddling clothes. An angel announced His birth to the shepherds who were in their fields at night, and brought them these good tidings of great joy--that a Savior had been born. Luke 2:6-11 "And so it was, that, while they were there, the days were accomplished that she should be delivered. And she brought forth her firstborn son, and wrapped him in swaddling clothes, and laid him in a manger; because there was no room for them in the inn. And there were in the same country shepherds abiding in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night. And, lo, the angel of the Lord came upon them, and the glory of the Lord shone round about them: and they were sore afraid. And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord."
Some verses with a thought booklet tell us how important our words are. A fool's words will cause contention, possibly even leading to violence. Foolish words can lead to destruction and be a snare to the soul. Someone who spreads tales causes deep wounds to the other person. We need to be careful about what we say. Our words can have great impact on us and others. Proverbs 18:6-8 "A fool's lips enter into contention, and his mouth calleth for strokes. A fool's mouth is his destruction, and his lips are the snare of his soul. The words of a talebearer are as wounds, and they go down into the innermost parts of the belly."
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Thursday, March 10, 2011
Daily Thoughts
In the Book of Mormon I read that Nephi was able to see in vision the life and ministry of Jesus Christ and how He was able to heal the sick and cast out devils. Nephi also saw the crucifixion of Jesus and how He was slain upon the cross for the sins of the world. 1 Ne. 11: 1 27-33 "And I looked and beheld the Redeemer of the world, of whom my father had spoken; and I also beheld the prophet who should prepare the way before him. And the Lamb of God went forth and was baptized of him; and after he was baptized, I beheld the heavens open, and the Holy Ghost come down out of heaven and abide upon him in the form of a dove. And I beheld that he went forth ministering unto the people, in power and great glory; and the multitudes were gathered together to hear him; and I beheld that they cast him out from among them. And I also beheld twelve others following him. And it came to pass that they were carried away in the Spirit from before my face, and I saw them not. And it came to pass that the angel spake unto me again, saying: Look! And I looked, and I beheld the heavens open again, and I saw angels descending upon the children of men; and they did minister unto them. And he spake unto me again, saying: Look! And I looked, and I beheld the Lamb of God going forth among the children of men. And I beheld multitudes of people who were sick, and who were afflicted with all manner of diseases, and with devils and unclean spirits; and the angel spake and showed all these things unto me. And they were healed by the power of the Lamb of God; and the devils and the unclean spirits were cast out. And it came to pass that the angel spake unto me again, saying: Look! And I looked and beheld the Lamb of God, that he was taken by the people; yea, the Son of the everlasting God was judged of the world; and I saw and bear record. And I, Nephi, saw that he was lifted up upon the cross and slain for the sins of the world."
In the New Testament we read about the resurrection of Jesus Christ. What a wonderful blessing it is to know that Jesus made resurrection possible for us and our loved ones. Mark 16: 1-7 "And when the sabbath was past, Mary Magdalene, and Mary the mother of James, and Salome, had bought sweet spices, that they might come and anoint him. And very early in the morning the first day of the week, they came unto the sepulchre at the rising of the sun. And they said among themselves, Who shall roll us away the stone from the door of the sepulchre? And when they looked, they saw that the stone was rolled away: for it was very great. And entering into the sepulchre, they saw a young man sitting on the right side, clothed in a long white garment; and they were affrighted. And he saith unto them, Be not affrighted: Ye seek Jesus of Nazareth, which was crucified: he is risen; he is not here: behold the place where they laid him. But go your way, tell his disciples and Peter that he goeth before you into Galilee: there shall ye see him, as he said unto you."
Some scriptures with a thought booklet tell about how Job suffered with sore boils from head to toe and his wife advised him to curse God and die. But he maintained his integrity, expressing his willingness to not only receive good from the Lord, but bad as well. How do we react when we're suffering sore trials and tribulations? Are we bitter toward God or do we maintain our integrity no matter what our circumstances? Job 2:7-10 "So went Satan forth from the presence of the Lord, and smote Job with sore boils from the sole of his foot unto his crown. And he took him a potsherd to scrape himself withal; and he sat down among the ashes. Then said his wife unto him, Dost thou still retain thine integrity? curse God, and die. But he said unto her, Thou speakest as one of the foolish women speaketh. What? shall we receive good at the hand of God, and shall we not receive evil? In all this did not Job sin with his lips."
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In the New Testament we read about the resurrection of Jesus Christ. What a wonderful blessing it is to know that Jesus made resurrection possible for us and our loved ones. Mark 16: 1-7 "And when the sabbath was past, Mary Magdalene, and Mary the mother of James, and Salome, had bought sweet spices, that they might come and anoint him. And very early in the morning the first day of the week, they came unto the sepulchre at the rising of the sun. And they said among themselves, Who shall roll us away the stone from the door of the sepulchre? And when they looked, they saw that the stone was rolled away: for it was very great. And entering into the sepulchre, they saw a young man sitting on the right side, clothed in a long white garment; and they were affrighted. And he saith unto them, Be not affrighted: Ye seek Jesus of Nazareth, which was crucified: he is risen; he is not here: behold the place where they laid him. But go your way, tell his disciples and Peter that he goeth before you into Galilee: there shall ye see him, as he said unto you."
Some scriptures with a thought booklet tell about how Job suffered with sore boils from head to toe and his wife advised him to curse God and die. But he maintained his integrity, expressing his willingness to not only receive good from the Lord, but bad as well. How do we react when we're suffering sore trials and tribulations? Are we bitter toward God or do we maintain our integrity no matter what our circumstances? Job 2:7-10 "So went Satan forth from the presence of the Lord, and smote Job with sore boils from the sole of his foot unto his crown. And he took him a potsherd to scrape himself withal; and he sat down among the ashes. Then said his wife unto him, Dost thou still retain thine integrity? curse God, and die. But he said unto her, Thou speakest as one of the foolish women speaketh. What? shall we receive good at the hand of God, and shall we not receive evil? In all this did not Job sin with his lips."
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Wednesday, March 9, 2011
Daily Thoughts
In the Book of Mormon I read that Nephi was able to see Jesus going forth among the children of men and saw many worshipping at His feet. He was also able to understand the interpretation of the vision of the tree of life that his father had seen--that the rod of iron represented the Word of God and the tree represented the love of God. 1 Ne. 11: 24-25 "And after he had said these words, he said unto me: Look! And I looked, and I beheld the Son of God going forth among the children of men; and I saw many fall down at his feet and worship him. And it came to pass that I beheld that the rod of iron, which my father had seen, was the word of God, which led to the fountain of living waters, or to the tree of life; which waters are a representation of the love of God; and I also beheld that the tree of life was a representation of the love of God."
In the New Testament I read about the crucifixion of Jesus and all He suffered for us. Mark 15:16-37 "And the soldiers led him away into the hall, called Prætorium; and they call together the whole band. And they clothed him with purple, and platted a crown of thorns, and put it about his head, And began to salute him, Hail, King of the Jews! And they smote him on the head with a reed, and did spit upon him, and bowing their knees worshipped him. And when they had mocked him, they took off the purple from him, and put his own clothes on him, and led him out to crucify him. And they compel one Simon a Cyrenian, who passed by, coming out of the country, the father of Alexander and Rufus, to bear his cross. And they bring him unto the place Golgotha, which is, being interpreted, The place of a skull. And they gave him to drink wine mingled with myrrh: but he received it not. And when they had crucified him, they parted his garments, casting lots upon them, what every man should take. And it was the third hour, and they crucified him. And the superscription of his accusation was written over, The King of the Jews. And with him they crucify two thieves; the one on his right hand, and the other on his left. And the scripture was fulfilled, which saith, And he was numbered with the transgressors. And they that passed by railed on him, wagging their heads, and saying, Ah, thou that destroyest the temple, and buildest it in three days, Save thyself, and come down from the cross. Likewise also the chief priests mocking said among themselves with the scribes, He saved others; himself he cannot save. Let Christ the King of Israel descend now from the cross, that we may see and believe. And they that were crucified with him reviled him. And when the sixth hour was come, there was darkness over the whole land until the ninth hour. And at the ninth hour Jesus cried with a loud voice, saying, Eloi, Eloi, lama sabachthani? which is, being interpreted, My God, my God, why hast thou forsaken me? And some of them that stood by, when they heard it, said, Behold, he calleth Elias. And one ran and filled a spunge full of vinegar, and put it on a reed, and gave him to drink, saying, Let alone; let us see whether Elias will come to take him down. And Jesus cried with a loud voice, and gave up the ghost."
Some verses with a thought booklet talks about extoling the greatness and majesty of God every day, forever and ever. Some people remember the Lord around Christmastime and then put away thoughts of Him when they put away their Christmas decorations and take down their tree. Some people think about God on Sundays when they attend church, but they forget about Him the rest of the week. But we are to praise God EVERY day! And when we take the sacrament every week we covenant to ALWAYS remember Him. Every day should be a day to remember the Lord and all He has done for us. Psalms 145:1-2 "I will extol thee, my God, O king; and I will bless thy name for ever and ever. Every day will I bless thee; and I will praise thy name for ever and ever."
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In the New Testament I read about the crucifixion of Jesus and all He suffered for us. Mark 15:16-37 "And the soldiers led him away into the hall, called Prætorium; and they call together the whole band. And they clothed him with purple, and platted a crown of thorns, and put it about his head, And began to salute him, Hail, King of the Jews! And they smote him on the head with a reed, and did spit upon him, and bowing their knees worshipped him. And when they had mocked him, they took off the purple from him, and put his own clothes on him, and led him out to crucify him. And they compel one Simon a Cyrenian, who passed by, coming out of the country, the father of Alexander and Rufus, to bear his cross. And they bring him unto the place Golgotha, which is, being interpreted, The place of a skull. And they gave him to drink wine mingled with myrrh: but he received it not. And when they had crucified him, they parted his garments, casting lots upon them, what every man should take. And it was the third hour, and they crucified him. And the superscription of his accusation was written over, The King of the Jews. And with him they crucify two thieves; the one on his right hand, and the other on his left. And the scripture was fulfilled, which saith, And he was numbered with the transgressors. And they that passed by railed on him, wagging their heads, and saying, Ah, thou that destroyest the temple, and buildest it in three days, Save thyself, and come down from the cross. Likewise also the chief priests mocking said among themselves with the scribes, He saved others; himself he cannot save. Let Christ the King of Israel descend now from the cross, that we may see and believe. And they that were crucified with him reviled him. And when the sixth hour was come, there was darkness over the whole land until the ninth hour. And at the ninth hour Jesus cried with a loud voice, saying, Eloi, Eloi, lama sabachthani? which is, being interpreted, My God, my God, why hast thou forsaken me? And some of them that stood by, when they heard it, said, Behold, he calleth Elias. And one ran and filled a spunge full of vinegar, and put it on a reed, and gave him to drink, saying, Let alone; let us see whether Elias will come to take him down. And Jesus cried with a loud voice, and gave up the ghost."
Some verses with a thought booklet talks about extoling the greatness and majesty of God every day, forever and ever. Some people remember the Lord around Christmastime and then put away thoughts of Him when they put away their Christmas decorations and take down their tree. Some people think about God on Sundays when they attend church, but they forget about Him the rest of the week. But we are to praise God EVERY day! And when we take the sacrament every week we covenant to ALWAYS remember Him. Every day should be a day to remember the Lord and all He has done for us. Psalms 145:1-2 "I will extol thee, my God, O king; and I will bless thy name for ever and ever. Every day will I bless thee; and I will praise thy name for ever and ever."
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Tuesday, March 8, 2011
Daily Thoughts
In the Book of Mormon I read that Nephi was able to see the Son of God being born to Mary, a virgin, and was able to understand that it was through the love of God, which is most desirable above all things. What a marvelous manifestation this must have been! 1 Ne. 11: 13-22 "And it came to pass that I looked and beheld the great city of Jerusalem, and also other cities. And I beheld the city of Nazareth; and in the city of Nazareth I beheld a virgin, and she was exceedingly fair and white. And it came to pass that I saw the heavens open; and an angel came down and stood before me; and he said unto me: Nephi, what beholdest thou? And I said unto him: A virgin, most beautiful and fair above all other virgins. And he said unto me: Knowest thou the condescension of God? And I said unto him: I know that he loveth his children; nevertheless, I do not know the meaning of all things. And he said unto me: Behold, the virgin whom thou seest is the mother of the Son of God, after the manner of the flesh. And it came to pass that I beheld that she was carried away in the Spirit; and after she had been carried away in the Spirit for the space of a time the angel spake unto me, saying: Look! And I looked and beheld the virgin again, bearing a child in her arms. And the angel said unto me: Behold the Lamb of God, yea, even the Son of the Eternal Father! Knowest thou the meaning of the tree which thy father saw? And I answered him, saying: Yea, it is the love of God, which sheddeth itself abroad in the hearts of the children of men; wherefore, it is the most desirable above all things."
In the New Testament we read about how Christ sufferes so much in the Garden of Gethsemane that He prayed to His Father, asking if the cup could pass from Him. Nevertheless, He said that not His will, but the Father's be done. What a wonderful example of how to pray when we're going through terrible trials. No matter what we're suffering, it cannot compare to what Jesus suffered. And even though we may pray for relief from our pain and tribulations, we always need to acknowledge that God's will, not ours, be done. We need to be willing to submit ourselves to the Lord, no matter what we're going through. Mark 14:35-36 "And he went forward a little, and fell on the ground, and prayed that, if it were possible, the hour might pass from him. And he said, Abba, Father, all things are possible unto thee; take away this cup from me: nevertheless not what I will, but what thou wilt."
Some verses with a thought booklet tell us that the whole duty of man is to fear (or revere) God and keep His commandments. God will judge us for every act and every secret thought, whether it be good or evil. Ecclesiastes 12:13-14 "Let us hear the conclusion of the whole matter: Fear God, and keep his commandments: for this is the whole duty of man. For God shall bring every work into judgment, with every secret thing, whether it be good, or whether it be evil."
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In the New Testament we read about how Christ sufferes so much in the Garden of Gethsemane that He prayed to His Father, asking if the cup could pass from Him. Nevertheless, He said that not His will, but the Father's be done. What a wonderful example of how to pray when we're going through terrible trials. No matter what we're suffering, it cannot compare to what Jesus suffered. And even though we may pray for relief from our pain and tribulations, we always need to acknowledge that God's will, not ours, be done. We need to be willing to submit ourselves to the Lord, no matter what we're going through. Mark 14:35-36 "And he went forward a little, and fell on the ground, and prayed that, if it were possible, the hour might pass from him. And he said, Abba, Father, all things are possible unto thee; take away this cup from me: nevertheless not what I will, but what thou wilt."
Some verses with a thought booklet tell us that the whole duty of man is to fear (or revere) God and keep His commandments. God will judge us for every act and every secret thought, whether it be good or evil. Ecclesiastes 12:13-14 "Let us hear the conclusion of the whole matter: Fear God, and keep his commandments: for this is the whole duty of man. For God shall bring every work into judgment, with every secret thing, whether it be good, or whether it be evil."
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Monday, March 7, 2011
Daily Thoughts
In the Book of Mormon I read that Nephi was able to see the tree of life, just as his father had seen. It was beautiful and precious above all. 1 Ne. 11: 8-9 "And it came to pass that the Spirit said unto me: Look! And I looked and beheld a tree; and it was like unto the tree which my father had seen; and the beauty thereof was far beyond, yea, exceeding of all beauty; and the whiteness thereof did exceed the whiteness of the driven snow. And it came to pass after I had seen the tree, I said unto the Spirit: I behold thou hast shown unto me the tree which is precious above all."
In the New Testament we read about the poor widow who gave two mites to the treasury and Jesus commended her because she gave all that she had. He said she actually gave more than the rich who donated a lot, but it was actually only a small portion of their wealth and they could easily afford it. The Lord loves those who have little to give, but who sacrifice to share what little they have. Mark 12:41-44 "And Jesus sat over against the treasury, and beheld how the people cast money into the treasury: and many that were rich cast in much. And there came a certain poor widow, and she threw in two mites, which make a farthing. And he called unto him his disciples, and saith unto them, Verily I say unto you, That this poor widow hath cast more in, than all they which have cast into the treasury: For all they did cast in of their abundance; but she of her want did cast in all that she had, even all her living."
Some verses with a thought booklet say how unwise it would be for anyone to strive with their maker. Can you imagine clay arguing with the potter who fashioned it? Think of all the creations of God--all the plants and animals and natural wonders, the stars in the heavens. Isn't it ridiculous for puny man to think he knows more than the Surpreme Being who created him? Isaiah 45:9-13 "Woe unto him that striveth with his Maker! Let the potsherd strive with the potsherds of the earth. Shall the clay say to him that fashioneth it, What makest thou? or thy work, He hath no hands? Woe unto him that saith unto his father, What begettest thou? or to the woman, What hast thou brought forth? Thus saith the Lord, the Holy One of Israel, and his Maker, Ask me of things to come concerning my sons, and concerning the work of my hands command ye me. I have made the earth, and created man upon it: I, even my hands, have stretched out the heavens, and all their host have I commanded. I have raised him up in righteousness, and I will direct all his ways: he shall build my city, and he shall let go my captives, not for price nor reward, saith the Lord of hosts."
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In the New Testament we read about the poor widow who gave two mites to the treasury and Jesus commended her because she gave all that she had. He said she actually gave more than the rich who donated a lot, but it was actually only a small portion of their wealth and they could easily afford it. The Lord loves those who have little to give, but who sacrifice to share what little they have. Mark 12:41-44 "And Jesus sat over against the treasury, and beheld how the people cast money into the treasury: and many that were rich cast in much. And there came a certain poor widow, and she threw in two mites, which make a farthing. And he called unto him his disciples, and saith unto them, Verily I say unto you, That this poor widow hath cast more in, than all they which have cast into the treasury: For all they did cast in of their abundance; but she of her want did cast in all that she had, even all her living."
Some verses with a thought booklet say how unwise it would be for anyone to strive with their maker. Can you imagine clay arguing with the potter who fashioned it? Think of all the creations of God--all the plants and animals and natural wonders, the stars in the heavens. Isn't it ridiculous for puny man to think he knows more than the Surpreme Being who created him? Isaiah 45:9-13 "Woe unto him that striveth with his Maker! Let the potsherd strive with the potsherds of the earth. Shall the clay say to him that fashioneth it, What makest thou? or thy work, He hath no hands? Woe unto him that saith unto his father, What begettest thou? or to the woman, What hast thou brought forth? Thus saith the Lord, the Holy One of Israel, and his Maker, Ask me of things to come concerning my sons, and concerning the work of my hands command ye me. I have made the earth, and created man upon it: I, even my hands, have stretched out the heavens, and all their host have I commanded. I have raised him up in righteousness, and I will direct all his ways: he shall build my city, and he shall let go my captives, not for price nor reward, saith the Lord of hosts."
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Sunday, March 6, 2011
Daily Thoughts
In the Book of Mormon I read that Nephi desired to see the things that his father had seen in vision and because of his great faith and his righteous desires, this was granted unto him. 1 Ne. 11: 1-6 "For it came to pass after I had desired to know the things that my father had seen, and believing that the Lord was able to make them known unto me, as I sat pondering in mine heart I was caught away in the Spirit of the Lord, yea, into an exceedingly high mountain, which I never had before seen, and upon which I never had before set my foot. And the Spirit said unto me: Behold, what desirest thou? And I said: I desire to behold the things which my father saw. And the Spirit said unto me: Believest thou that thy father saw the tree of which he hath spoken? And I said: Yea, thou knowest that I believe all the words of my father. And when I had spoken these words, the Spirit cried with a loud voice, saying: Hosanna to the Lord, the most high God; for he is God over all the earth, yea, even above all. And blessed art thou, Nephi, because thou believest in the Son of the most high God; wherefore, thou shalt behold the things which thou hast desired."
In the New Testament I read that if we're ashamed of the Lord and His words, even as we live in a wicked and sinful generation, He will likewise be ashemed of us when He comes in His glory. It's not easy to stand up for what is right in an evil world, but it's important that we do so. Mark 8:38 "Whosoever therefore shall be ashamed of me and of my words in this adulterous and sinful generation; of him also shall the Son of man be ashamed, when he cometh in the glory of his Father with the holy angels."
Some verses with a thought booklet tell the parable of the wise man building his house on a firm foundation which withstood the storms and a foolish man building his house on the sand, which fell when the going got rough. The thought that went with this, written by Andy Clapp from Graham, North Carolina says: It was a beautiful home, even featured in a movie based on a book by Nicholas Sparks. As we drove closer, we saw a sign that said the house had been condemned due to its proximity to the ocean. Turns out that the ocean was closing in on it. All of its beauty and grandeur was for naught, as its foundation would soon crumble. The moments of glory that this house had known would be in the past, never to be seen again. If our lives are not build on the foundation of Christ, then all those things in our lives, no matter how important or incredible they may seem, will be washed away. That house that seemed so glorious will not last. If our lives are built on Christ, they will not meet the same fate, however, for the glory of Christ lives on forever. Dear Lord, show us the things in our lives that are not of you. Help each of us to continue to build our foundations on you. Matthew 7:24-27 "Therefore whosoever heareth these sayings of mine, and doeth them, I will liken him unto a wise man, which built his house upon a rock:And the rain descended, and the floods came, and the winds blew, and beat upon that house; and it fell not: for it was founded upon a rock.And every one that heareth these sayings of mine, and doeth them not, shall be likened unto a foolish man, which built his house upon the sand:And the rain descended, and the floods came, and the winds blew, and beat upon that house; and it fell: and great was the fall of it."
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In the New Testament I read that if we're ashamed of the Lord and His words, even as we live in a wicked and sinful generation, He will likewise be ashemed of us when He comes in His glory. It's not easy to stand up for what is right in an evil world, but it's important that we do so. Mark 8:38 "Whosoever therefore shall be ashamed of me and of my words in this adulterous and sinful generation; of him also shall the Son of man be ashamed, when he cometh in the glory of his Father with the holy angels."
Some verses with a thought booklet tell the parable of the wise man building his house on a firm foundation which withstood the storms and a foolish man building his house on the sand, which fell when the going got rough. The thought that went with this, written by Andy Clapp from Graham, North Carolina says: It was a beautiful home, even featured in a movie based on a book by Nicholas Sparks. As we drove closer, we saw a sign that said the house had been condemned due to its proximity to the ocean. Turns out that the ocean was closing in on it. All of its beauty and grandeur was for naught, as its foundation would soon crumble. The moments of glory that this house had known would be in the past, never to be seen again. If our lives are not build on the foundation of Christ, then all those things in our lives, no matter how important or incredible they may seem, will be washed away. That house that seemed so glorious will not last. If our lives are built on Christ, they will not meet the same fate, however, for the glory of Christ lives on forever. Dear Lord, show us the things in our lives that are not of you. Help each of us to continue to build our foundations on you. Matthew 7:24-27 "Therefore whosoever heareth these sayings of mine, and doeth them, I will liken him unto a wise man, which built his house upon a rock:And the rain descended, and the floods came, and the winds blew, and beat upon that house; and it fell not: for it was founded upon a rock.And every one that heareth these sayings of mine, and doeth them not, shall be likened unto a foolish man, which built his house upon the sand:And the rain descended, and the floods came, and the winds blew, and beat upon that house; and it fell: and great was the fall of it."
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Saturday, March 5, 2011
Daily Thoughts
In the Book of Mormon I read that those who seek to do wickedly in the days of their probation will be found unclean at the judgment bar of God. And no unclean thing can dwell with God, so they'll be cast off forever. This is why it's so important that we repent NOW while there is still time! 1 Ne. 10: 21 "Wherefore, if ye have sought to do wickedly in the days of your probation, then ye are found unclean before the judgment-seat of God; and no unclean thing can dwell with God; wherefore, ye must be cast off forever."
In the New Testament I read that the Pharisees criticized Jesus and his followers for eating without washing their hands. Jesus reproved them for their false traditions and cememonies which they placed more importance on than keeping their inner lives and thoughts clean. Mark 7: 3-9, 14-23 "For the Pharisees, and all the Jews, except they wash their hands oft, eat not, holding the tradition of the elders. And when they come from the market, except they wash, they eat not. And many other things there be, which they have received to hold, as the washing of cups, and pots, brasen vessels, and of tables. Then the Pharisees and scribes asked him, Why walk not thy disciples according to the tradition of the elders, but eat bread with unwashen hands? He answered and said unto them, Well hath Esaias prophesied of you hypocrites, as it is written, This people honoureth me with their lips, but their heart is far from me. Howbeit in vain do they worship me, teaching for doctrines the commandments of men. For laying aside the commandment of God, ye hold the tradition of men, as the washing of pots and cups: and many other such like things ye do. And he said unto them, Full well ye reject the commandment of God, that ye may keep your own tradition.And when he had called all the people unto him, he said unto them, Hearken unto me every one of you, and understand: There is nothing from without a man, that entering into him can defile him: but the things which come out of him, those are they that defile the man. If any man have ears to hear, let him hear. And when he was entered into the house from the people, his disciples asked him concerning the parable. And he saith unto them, Are ye so without understanding also? Do ye not perceive, that whatsoever thing from without entereth into the man, it cannot defile him; Because it entereth not into his heart, but into the belly, and goeth out into the draught, purging all meats? And he said, That which cometh out of the man, that defileth the man. For from within, out of the heart of men, proceed evil thoughts, adulteries, fornications, murders, Thefts, covetousness, wickedness, deceit, lasciviousness, an evil eye, blasphemy, pride, foolishness: All these evil things come from within, and defile the man."
Some scriptures with a thought booklet tell us that if we claim to abide in the Lord, we will walk as He walked. If we know the Lord, we will keep His commandments. If someone says they know and love the Lord, but break His commandments, they are a liar. We show our love for the Lord by doing what He told us to do and trying to live the kind of life that He did. 1 John 2:3-6 "And hereby we do know that we know him, if we keep his commandments. He that saith, I know him, and keepeth not his commandments, is a liar, and the truth is not in him. But whoso keepeth his word, in him verily is the love of God perfected: hereby know we that we are in him. He that saith he abideth in him ought himself also so to walk, even as he walked."
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In the New Testament I read that the Pharisees criticized Jesus and his followers for eating without washing their hands. Jesus reproved them for their false traditions and cememonies which they placed more importance on than keeping their inner lives and thoughts clean. Mark 7: 3-9, 14-23 "For the Pharisees, and all the Jews, except they wash their hands oft, eat not, holding the tradition of the elders. And when they come from the market, except they wash, they eat not. And many other things there be, which they have received to hold, as the washing of cups, and pots, brasen vessels, and of tables. Then the Pharisees and scribes asked him, Why walk not thy disciples according to the tradition of the elders, but eat bread with unwashen hands? He answered and said unto them, Well hath Esaias prophesied of you hypocrites, as it is written, This people honoureth me with their lips, but their heart is far from me. Howbeit in vain do they worship me, teaching for doctrines the commandments of men. For laying aside the commandment of God, ye hold the tradition of men, as the washing of pots and cups: and many other such like things ye do. And he said unto them, Full well ye reject the commandment of God, that ye may keep your own tradition.And when he had called all the people unto him, he said unto them, Hearken unto me every one of you, and understand: There is nothing from without a man, that entering into him can defile him: but the things which come out of him, those are they that defile the man. If any man have ears to hear, let him hear. And when he was entered into the house from the people, his disciples asked him concerning the parable. And he saith unto them, Are ye so without understanding also? Do ye not perceive, that whatsoever thing from without entereth into the man, it cannot defile him; Because it entereth not into his heart, but into the belly, and goeth out into the draught, purging all meats? And he said, That which cometh out of the man, that defileth the man. For from within, out of the heart of men, proceed evil thoughts, adulteries, fornications, murders, Thefts, covetousness, wickedness, deceit, lasciviousness, an evil eye, blasphemy, pride, foolishness: All these evil things come from within, and defile the man."
Some scriptures with a thought booklet tell us that if we claim to abide in the Lord, we will walk as He walked. If we know the Lord, we will keep His commandments. If someone says they know and love the Lord, but break His commandments, they are a liar. We show our love for the Lord by doing what He told us to do and trying to live the kind of life that He did. 1 John 2:3-6 "And hereby we do know that we know him, if we keep his commandments. He that saith, I know him, and keepeth not his commandments, is a liar, and the truth is not in him. But whoso keepeth his word, in him verily is the love of God perfected: hereby know we that we are in him. He that saith he abideth in him ought himself also so to walk, even as he walked."
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