In the Book of Mormon I read about how in the Millennial day all men will priase the Lord and He will dwell among them. 2 Ne. 22: 1-6 "And in that day thou shalt say: O Lord, I will praise thee; though thou wast angry with me thine anger is turned away, and thou comfortedest me. Behold, God is my salvation; I will trust, and not be afraid; for the Lord Jehovah is my strength and my song; he also has become my salvation. Therefore, with joy shall ye draw water out of the wells of salvation. And in that day shall ye say: Praise the Lord, call upon his name, declare his doings among the people, make mention that his name is exalted. Sing unto the Lord; for he hath done excellent things; this is known in all the earth. Cry out and shout, thou inhabitant of Zion; for great is the Holy One of Israel in the midst of thee."
In the New Testament I read that we reap what we sow, whether sparingly or bountifully. And we need to give without grudging, with a cheerful heart. It's not just important to do the right things, we also need to do them for the right reasons and with our heart in the right place. 2 Corinthians 9:6-7 "But this I say, He which soweth sparingly shall reap also sparingly; and he which soweth bountifully shall reap also bountifully. Every man according as he purposeth in his heart, so let him give; not grudgingly, or of necessity: for God loveth a cheerful giver."
Some verses with a thought booklet tell us that help comes from the Lord, who does not slumber or sleep, but will preserve us from evil and watch over our comings and goings. Psalms 121:1-8 "I will lift up mine eyes unto the hills, from whence cometh my help. My help cometh from the Lord, which made heaven and earth. He will not suffer thy foot to be moved: he that keepeth thee will not slumber. Behold, he that keepeth Israel shall neither slumber nor sleep. The Lord is thy keeper: the Lord is thy shade upon thy right hand. The sun shall not smite thee by day, nor the moon by night. The Lord shall preserve thee from all evil: he shall preserve thy soul. The Lord shall preserve thy going out and thy coming in from this time forth, and even for evermore."
-----------------------------------------------
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
Tuesday, May 31, 2011
Monday, May 30, 2011
Daily Thoughts
In the Book of Mormon I read about the glorious state of the earth during the time of the Millennium. Wild animals will be tame and the knowledge of the Lord will cover the earth, just water covers the sea. What a great time that will be! 2 Ne. 21: 6-9 "The wolf also shall dwell with the lamb, and the leopard shall lie down with the kid, and the calf and the young lion and fatling together; and a little child shall lead them. And the cow and the bear shall feed; their young ones shall lie down together; and the lion shall eat straw like the ox. And the sucking child shall play on the hole of the asp, and the weaned child shall put his hand on the cockatrice's den. They shall not hurt nor destroy in all my holy mountain, for the earth shall be full of the knowledge of the Lord, as the waters cover the sea."
In the New Testament I read about the contrast between godly sorrow and the sorrow of the world. Godly sorrow causes us to want to repent and do better, but the sorrow of the world just discourages us and makes us want to give up. When we do something wrong and feel bad about it, do we feel hopeless and like there's no use in trying to improve? Or do we have a sincere desire to change and do better? The first step to repentance if feeling sorry for what we've done, but it needs to be godly sorrow that makes us want to repent, not worldly sorrow that makes us feel worthless and like giving up. 2 Corinthians 7:9-10 "Now I rejoice, not that ye were made sorry, but that ye sorrowed to repentance: for ye were made sorry after a godly manner, that ye might receive damage by us in nothing. For godly sorrow worketh repentance to salvation not to be repented of: but the sorrow of the world worketh death."
A verse with a thought booklet is very appropriate for Memorial Day. It tells us that even though Christ was dead, He lives! And He will be alive for evermore! He has the keys of death and hell. Not only does Christ live, but all our loved ones who have died live also, and they will all be resurrected. This is especially comforting to those of us who have lost loved ones. The thought that went with this, written by Douglas Raymond Rose from Grand Prairie, Texas says: As an ordained minister, I recently had the honor of officiating at the memorial service for my uncle. He was my father's oldest brother. All three patriotic Texan brothers entered the U.S. Air Force during World War II. My father wrote home to my mother and me every week, and I loved collecting the colorful stamps for my stamp collection. My stamps served as proof that my Dad was alive and well and would soon be home. I remember the great homecoming we had when he returned home after the war. Now all three brothers are in heaven. But the best is yet to come. I can hardly wait for heaven's Homecoming--when we all go to our eternal home! What a great Memorial Day Homecoming that will be! Revelation 1:18 "I am he that liveth, and was dead; and, behold, I am alive for evermore, Amen; and have the keys of hell and of death."
---------------------------------
In the New Testament I read about the contrast between godly sorrow and the sorrow of the world. Godly sorrow causes us to want to repent and do better, but the sorrow of the world just discourages us and makes us want to give up. When we do something wrong and feel bad about it, do we feel hopeless and like there's no use in trying to improve? Or do we have a sincere desire to change and do better? The first step to repentance if feeling sorry for what we've done, but it needs to be godly sorrow that makes us want to repent, not worldly sorrow that makes us feel worthless and like giving up. 2 Corinthians 7:9-10 "Now I rejoice, not that ye were made sorry, but that ye sorrowed to repentance: for ye were made sorry after a godly manner, that ye might receive damage by us in nothing. For godly sorrow worketh repentance to salvation not to be repented of: but the sorrow of the world worketh death."
A verse with a thought booklet is very appropriate for Memorial Day. It tells us that even though Christ was dead, He lives! And He will be alive for evermore! He has the keys of death and hell. Not only does Christ live, but all our loved ones who have died live also, and they will all be resurrected. This is especially comforting to those of us who have lost loved ones. The thought that went with this, written by Douglas Raymond Rose from Grand Prairie, Texas says: As an ordained minister, I recently had the honor of officiating at the memorial service for my uncle. He was my father's oldest brother. All three patriotic Texan brothers entered the U.S. Air Force during World War II. My father wrote home to my mother and me every week, and I loved collecting the colorful stamps for my stamp collection. My stamps served as proof that my Dad was alive and well and would soon be home. I remember the great homecoming we had when he returned home after the war. Now all three brothers are in heaven. But the best is yet to come. I can hardly wait for heaven's Homecoming--when we all go to our eternal home! What a great Memorial Day Homecoming that will be! Revelation 1:18 "I am he that liveth, and was dead; and, behold, I am alive for evermore, Amen; and have the keys of hell and of death."
---------------------------------
Sunday, May 29, 2011
Daily Thoughts
In the Book of Mormon we read that the hand of the Lord will be stretched out against those who oppress the poor and widows, who rob the fatherless, or who turn away the needy. 2 Ne. 20: 1-4 "Wo unto them that decree unrighteous decrees, and that write grievousness which they have prescribed; To turn away the needy from judgment, and to take away the right from the poor of my people, that widows may be their prey, and that they may rob the fatherless! And what will ye do in the day of visitation, and in the desolation which shall come from far? to whom will ye flee for help? and where will ye leave your glory? Without me they shall bow down under the prisoners, and they shall fall under the slain. For all this his anger is not turned away, but his hand is stretched out still."
In the New Testament we're reminded that someday we'll all come to stand before God to be judged by what we did in this life--whether it be good or bad. We'll be rewarded or punished accordingly. 2 Corinthians 5:10 "For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ; that every one may receive the things done in his body, according to that he hath done, whether it be good or bad."
A verse with a thought booklet asks the question "And who knoweth whether thou art come to the kingdom for such a time as this?" This specifically referred to Esther and her part in saving the Jews during a troubling time in history, but it can equally apply to us in whatever the Lord has in mind for us to do in our lives. We all have specific callings and purposes to our lives--things that we're to do to bless the lives of others. And the Lord has put us into the circumstances and places we're in so that we can fulfill what is needed of us. We just need to be in tune with the Lord so we know we He expects of us, and then we need to be willing to go forth and do it. Esther 4:14 "For if thou altogether holdest thy peace at this time, then shall there enlargement and deliverance arise to the Jews from another place; but thou and thy father's house shall be destroyed: and who knoweth whether thou art come to the kingdom for such a time as this?"
-----------------------------------
In the New Testament we're reminded that someday we'll all come to stand before God to be judged by what we did in this life--whether it be good or bad. We'll be rewarded or punished accordingly. 2 Corinthians 5:10 "For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ; that every one may receive the things done in his body, according to that he hath done, whether it be good or bad."
A verse with a thought booklet asks the question "And who knoweth whether thou art come to the kingdom for such a time as this?" This specifically referred to Esther and her part in saving the Jews during a troubling time in history, but it can equally apply to us in whatever the Lord has in mind for us to do in our lives. We all have specific callings and purposes to our lives--things that we're to do to bless the lives of others. And the Lord has put us into the circumstances and places we're in so that we can fulfill what is needed of us. We just need to be in tune with the Lord so we know we He expects of us, and then we need to be willing to go forth and do it. Esther 4:14 "For if thou altogether holdest thy peace at this time, then shall there enlargement and deliverance arise to the Jews from another place; but thou and thy father's house shall be destroyed: and who knoweth whether thou art come to the kingdom for such a time as this?"
-----------------------------------
Saturday, May 28, 2011
Daily Thoughts
In the Book of Mormon I read a prophetic verse about the Messiah being born. 2 Ne. 19: 6 "For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given; and the government shall be upon his shoulder; and his name shall be called, Wonderful, Counselor, The Mighty God, The Everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace."
In the New Testament we read that eventhough we may be troubled on every side, we don't need to be distressed or in dispair. Even though we may be persecuted and cast down, we are not forsaken or destroyed. As long as we have the Lord with us, we can get through anything! 2 Corinthians 4:8-9 "We are troubled on every side, yet not distressed; we are perplexed, but not in despair; Persecuted, but not forsaken; cast down, but not destroyed;"
Some verses with a thought booklet tell us that it's not enough to just say we love others, we need to show our love by our actions. If we see someone in need and turn our backs o them instead of showing compassion and trying to help them, the love of God does not dwell in us. 1 John 3:17-18 "But whoso hath this world's good, and seeth his brother have need, and shutteth up his bowels of compassion from him, how dwelleth the love of God in him? My little children, let us not love in word, neither in tongue; but in deed and in truth."
---------------------------------------------
In the New Testament we read that eventhough we may be troubled on every side, we don't need to be distressed or in dispair. Even though we may be persecuted and cast down, we are not forsaken or destroyed. As long as we have the Lord with us, we can get through anything! 2 Corinthians 4:8-9 "We are troubled on every side, yet not distressed; we are perplexed, but not in despair; Persecuted, but not forsaken; cast down, but not destroyed;"
Some verses with a thought booklet tell us that it's not enough to just say we love others, we need to show our love by our actions. If we see someone in need and turn our backs o them instead of showing compassion and trying to help them, the love of God does not dwell in us. 1 John 3:17-18 "But whoso hath this world's good, and seeth his brother have need, and shutteth up his bowels of compassion from him, how dwelleth the love of God in him? My little children, let us not love in word, neither in tongue; but in deed and in truth."
---------------------------------------------
Friday, May 27, 2011
Daily Thoughts
In the Book of Mormon I read that we need to seek unto God for revelation, not to qizards or those who have familiar spirits. 2 Ne. 18: 19 "And when they shall say unto you: Seek unto them that have familiar spirits, and unto wizards that peep and mutter—should not a people seek unto their God for the living to hear from the dead?"
In the New Testament we're told to forgive and comfort others, lest they be swallowed up with much sorrow. We need to do whatever we can to show love and compassion toward others, even those who might have offended us. 2 Corinthians 2:7 "So that contrariwise ye ought rather to aforgive him, and comfort him, lest perhaps such a one should be swallowed up with overmuch sorrow."
Some scriptures with a thought booklet reiterate the commandment that we should love one another, as Jesus loved us. He laid down His life for His friends, which is the greatest love a person could show. How much love do we show others? Perhaps we'll gladly give our time to a friend (as long as we're not too busy). We'll be happy to help them out with money (as long as it's not very much). And of course we'll be willing to give them our attention (as long as we're not preoccupied with something else or have something better to do). Does that kind of "love" even come close to what the Savior offered us? John 15:12-13, 17 "This is my commandment, That ye love one another, as I have loved you.Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends. These things I command you, that ye love one another."
-------------------------------------
In the New Testament we're told to forgive and comfort others, lest they be swallowed up with much sorrow. We need to do whatever we can to show love and compassion toward others, even those who might have offended us. 2 Corinthians 2:7 "So that contrariwise ye ought rather to aforgive him, and comfort him, lest perhaps such a one should be swallowed up with overmuch sorrow."
Some scriptures with a thought booklet reiterate the commandment that we should love one another, as Jesus loved us. He laid down His life for His friends, which is the greatest love a person could show. How much love do we show others? Perhaps we'll gladly give our time to a friend (as long as we're not too busy). We'll be happy to help them out with money (as long as it's not very much). And of course we'll be willing to give them our attention (as long as we're not preoccupied with something else or have something better to do). Does that kind of "love" even come close to what the Savior offered us? John 15:12-13, 17 "This is my commandment, That ye love one another, as I have loved you.Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends. These things I command you, that ye love one another."
-------------------------------------
Thursday, May 26, 2011
Daily Thoughts
In the Book of Mormon I read a prophecy that a virgin would bear a son and He would be called Immanuel. 2 Ne. 17: 14 "Therefore, the Lord himself shall give you a sign—Behold, a virgin shall conceive, and shall bear a son, and shall call his name Immanuel."
In the New Testament we read that God is not the author of confusion, but of peace. 1 Corinthians 14:33 "For God is not the author of confusion, but of peace, as in all churches of the saints."
Some verses with a thought booklet go right along with this, saying true wisdom that comes from God edifies and brings forth fruits of peace and righteousness. Bitter envying, strife, and confusion come from a source other than God. James 3:13-18 "Who is a wise man and endued with knowledge among you? let him shew out of a good conversation his works with meekness of wisdom.But if ye have bitter envying and strife in your hearts, glory not, and lie not against the truth.This wisdom descendeth not from above, but is earthly, sensual, devilish.For where envying and strife is, there is confusion and every evil work.But the wisdom that is from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, and easy to be intreated, full of mercy and good fruits, without partiality, and without hypocrisy.And the fruit of righteousness is sown in peace of them that make peace."
--------------------------------------------
In the New Testament we read that God is not the author of confusion, but of peace. 1 Corinthians 14:33 "For God is not the author of confusion, but of peace, as in all churches of the saints."
Some verses with a thought booklet go right along with this, saying true wisdom that comes from God edifies and brings forth fruits of peace and righteousness. Bitter envying, strife, and confusion come from a source other than God. James 3:13-18 "Who is a wise man and endued with knowledge among you? let him shew out of a good conversation his works with meekness of wisdom.But if ye have bitter envying and strife in your hearts, glory not, and lie not against the truth.This wisdom descendeth not from above, but is earthly, sensual, devilish.For where envying and strife is, there is confusion and every evil work.But the wisdom that is from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, and easy to be intreated, full of mercy and good fruits, without partiality, and without hypocrisy.And the fruit of righteousness is sown in peace of them that make peace."
--------------------------------------------
Wednesday, May 25, 2011
Daily Thoughts
In the Book of Mormon I read the words of Isaiah, how he saw the Lord and his sins were forgiven. 2 Ne. 16: 5-7 "Then said I: Wo is unto me! for I am undone; because I am a man of unclean lips; and I dwell in the midst of a people of unclean lips; for mine eyes have seen the King, the Lord of Hosts. Then flew one of the seraphim unto me, having a live coal in his hand, which he had taken with the tongs from off the altar; And he laid it upon my mouth, and said: Lo, this has touched thy lips; and thine iniquity is taken away, and thy sin purged."
In the New Testament we read familiar words that tell the importance of charity, the pure love of Christ, and talks about the qualities and traits that a person who has true charity will possess. These are things we all need to work toward. 1 Corinthians 13:1-13 "Though I speak with the tongues of men and of angels, and have not charity, I am become as sounding brass, or a tinkling cymbal. And though I have the gift of prophecy, and understand all mysteries, and all knowledge; and though I have all faith, so that I could remove mountains, and have not charity, I am nothing. And though I bestow all my goods to feed the poor, and though I give my body to be burned, and have not charity, it profiteth me nothing. Charity suffereth long, and is kind; charity envieth not; charity vaunteth not itself, is not puffed up, Doth not behave itself unseemly, seeketh not her own, is not easily provoked, thinketh no evil; Rejoiceth not in iniquity, but rejoiceth in the truth; Beareth all things, believeth all things, hopeth all things, endureth all things. Charity never faileth: but whether there be prophecies, they shall fail; whether there be tongues, they shall cease; whether there be knowledge, it shall vanish away. For we know in part, and we prophesy in part. But when that which is perfect is come, then that which is in part shall be done away. When I was a child, I spake as a child, I understood as a child, I thought as a child: but when I became a man, I put away childish things. For now we see through a glass, darkly; but then face to face: now I know in part; but then shall I know even as also I am known. And now abideth faith, hope, charity, these three; but the greatest of these is charity."
In some scriptures with a thought booklet we're told that we are the temples of God and if we defile that temple, God will destroy us. We need to treat our bodies like temples, taking care of them with proper food, exercise, and rest, and not abusing them with addictive substances. We'll be held accountable for how we treat the bodies the Lord has blessed us with. 1 Corinthians 3:16-17 "Know ye not that ye are the temple of God, and that the Spirit of God dwelleth in you? If any man defile the temple of God, him shall God destroy; for the temple of God is holy, which temple ye are."
--------------------------------------------
In the New Testament we read familiar words that tell the importance of charity, the pure love of Christ, and talks about the qualities and traits that a person who has true charity will possess. These are things we all need to work toward. 1 Corinthians 13:1-13 "Though I speak with the tongues of men and of angels, and have not charity, I am become as sounding brass, or a tinkling cymbal. And though I have the gift of prophecy, and understand all mysteries, and all knowledge; and though I have all faith, so that I could remove mountains, and have not charity, I am nothing. And though I bestow all my goods to feed the poor, and though I give my body to be burned, and have not charity, it profiteth me nothing. Charity suffereth long, and is kind; charity envieth not; charity vaunteth not itself, is not puffed up, Doth not behave itself unseemly, seeketh not her own, is not easily provoked, thinketh no evil; Rejoiceth not in iniquity, but rejoiceth in the truth; Beareth all things, believeth all things, hopeth all things, endureth all things. Charity never faileth: but whether there be prophecies, they shall fail; whether there be tongues, they shall cease; whether there be knowledge, it shall vanish away. For we know in part, and we prophesy in part. But when that which is perfect is come, then that which is in part shall be done away. When I was a child, I spake as a child, I understood as a child, I thought as a child: but when I became a man, I put away childish things. For now we see through a glass, darkly; but then face to face: now I know in part; but then shall I know even as also I am known. And now abideth faith, hope, charity, these three; but the greatest of these is charity."
In some scriptures with a thought booklet we're told that we are the temples of God and if we defile that temple, God will destroy us. We need to treat our bodies like temples, taking care of them with proper food, exercise, and rest, and not abusing them with addictive substances. We'll be held accountable for how we treat the bodies the Lord has blessed us with. 1 Corinthians 3:16-17 "Know ye not that ye are the temple of God, and that the Spirit of God dwelleth in you? If any man defile the temple of God, him shall God destroy; for the temple of God is holy, which temple ye are."
--------------------------------------------
Tuesday, May 24, 2011
Daily Thoughts
In the Book of Mormon we read that wo will come unto those who call good evil or evil good and who are wise in their own eyes. This is so true today. Learned men think they know it all. They claim that evil things are okay and that good people who stand up against the evil are bad and intolerant. We need to be careful that we don't get caught up in these wordly views. 2 Ne. 15: 20-21 "Wo unto them that call evil good, and good evil, that put darkness for light, and light for darkness, that put bitter for sweet, and sweet for bitter! Wo unto the wise in their own eyes and prudent in their own sight!"
In the New Testament I read about how there are different spiritual gifts, but they all come from the same Spirit. Just like the physical body has different members with different purposes, but all are necessary, so are members of the church. They have different callings and different spiritual gifts, but all are necessary and needed in the Kingdom of God. 1 Corinthians 12:5-31 "And there are differences of administrations, but the same Lord. And there are diversities of operations, but it is the same God which worketh all in all. But the manifestation of the Spirit is given to every man to profit withal. For to one is given by the Spirit the word of wisdom; to another the word of knowledge by the same Spirit; To another faith by the same Spirit; to another the gifts of healing by the same Spirit; To another the working of miracles; to another prophecy; to another discerning of spirits; to another divers kinds of tongues; to another the interpretation of tongues: But all these worketh that one and the selfsame Spirit, dividing to every man severally as he will. For as the body is one, and hath many members, and all the members of that one body, being many, are one body: so also is Christ. For by one Spirit are we all baptized into one body, whether we be Jews or Gentiles, whether we be bond or free; and have been all made to drink into one Spirit.
For the body is not one member, but many. If the foot shall say, Because I am not the hand, I am not of the body; is it therefore not of the body? And if the ear shall say, Because I am not the eye, I am not of the body; is it therefore not of the body? If the whole body were an eye, where were the hearing? If the whole were hearing, where were the smelling? But now hath God set the members every one of them in the body, as it hath pleased him. And if they were all one member, where were the body? But now are they many members, yet but one body. And the eye cannot say unto the hand, I have no need of thee: nor again the head to the feet, I have no need of you. Nay, much more those members of the body, which seem to be more feeble, are necessary: And those members of the body, which we think to be less honourable, upon these we bestow more abundant honour; and our uncomely parts have more abundant comeliness. For our comely parts have no need: but God hath tempered the body together, having given more abundant honour to that part which lacked: That there should be no schism in the body; but that the members should have the same care one for another. And whether one member suffer, all the members suffer with it; or one member be honoured, all the members rejoice with it. Now ye are the body of Christ, and members in particular. And God hath set some in the church, first apostles, secondarily prophets, thirdly teachers, after that miracles, then gifts of healings, helps, governments, diversities of tongues. Are all apostles? are all prophets? are all teachers? are all workers of miracles? Have all the gifts of healing? do all speak with tongues? do all interpret? But covet earnestly the best gifts: and yet shew I unto you a more excellent way."
A verse with a thought booklet tells us that unless we're willing to forsake all, we cannot be disciples of Christ. We need to put Him first in our lives, above everything and everybody else! Luke 14:33 "So likewise, whosoever he be of you that forsaketh not all that he hath, he cannot be my disciple."
----------------------------------------
In the New Testament I read about how there are different spiritual gifts, but they all come from the same Spirit. Just like the physical body has different members with different purposes, but all are necessary, so are members of the church. They have different callings and different spiritual gifts, but all are necessary and needed in the Kingdom of God. 1 Corinthians 12:5-31 "And there are differences of administrations, but the same Lord. And there are diversities of operations, but it is the same God which worketh all in all. But the manifestation of the Spirit is given to every man to profit withal. For to one is given by the Spirit the word of wisdom; to another the word of knowledge by the same Spirit; To another faith by the same Spirit; to another the gifts of healing by the same Spirit; To another the working of miracles; to another prophecy; to another discerning of spirits; to another divers kinds of tongues; to another the interpretation of tongues: But all these worketh that one and the selfsame Spirit, dividing to every man severally as he will. For as the body is one, and hath many members, and all the members of that one body, being many, are one body: so also is Christ. For by one Spirit are we all baptized into one body, whether we be Jews or Gentiles, whether we be bond or free; and have been all made to drink into one Spirit.
For the body is not one member, but many. If the foot shall say, Because I am not the hand, I am not of the body; is it therefore not of the body? And if the ear shall say, Because I am not the eye, I am not of the body; is it therefore not of the body? If the whole body were an eye, where were the hearing? If the whole were hearing, where were the smelling? But now hath God set the members every one of them in the body, as it hath pleased him. And if they were all one member, where were the body? But now are they many members, yet but one body. And the eye cannot say unto the hand, I have no need of thee: nor again the head to the feet, I have no need of you. Nay, much more those members of the body, which seem to be more feeble, are necessary: And those members of the body, which we think to be less honourable, upon these we bestow more abundant honour; and our uncomely parts have more abundant comeliness. For our comely parts have no need: but God hath tempered the body together, having given more abundant honour to that part which lacked: That there should be no schism in the body; but that the members should have the same care one for another. And whether one member suffer, all the members suffer with it; or one member be honoured, all the members rejoice with it. Now ye are the body of Christ, and members in particular. And God hath set some in the church, first apostles, secondarily prophets, thirdly teachers, after that miracles, then gifts of healings, helps, governments, diversities of tongues. Are all apostles? are all prophets? are all teachers? are all workers of miracles? Have all the gifts of healing? do all speak with tongues? do all interpret? But covet earnestly the best gifts: and yet shew I unto you a more excellent way."
A verse with a thought booklet tells us that unless we're willing to forsake all, we cannot be disciples of Christ. We need to put Him first in our lives, above everything and everybody else! Luke 14:33 "So likewise, whosoever he be of you that forsaketh not all that he hath, he cannot be my disciple."
----------------------------------------
Monday, May 23, 2011
Daily Thoughts
In the Book of Mormon we're told that the righteous will be rewarded and the wicked punished, according to their doings. 2 Ne. 13: 10-11 "Say unto the righteous that it is well with them; for they shall eat the fruit of their doings. Wo unto the wicked, for they shall perish; for the reward of their hands shall be upon them!"
In the New Testament a read I verse that counteracts the old saying, "The devil made me do it!" The devil can't make us do anything! All men have temptations placed before them. But God will never allow us to be tempted beyond what we're able to bear. With every temptation, we'll be given a way to escape, if we're willing to take it. 1 Corinthians 10:13 "There hath no temptation taken you but such as is common to man: but God is faithful, who will not suffer you to be tempted above that ye are able; but will with the temptation also make a way to escape, that ye may be able to bear it."
Some verses with a thought booklet tell us that we need to put the Lord first in our lives, loving Him more than anyone else, and being willing to lose our lives in His service. Matthew 10:37-39 "He that loveth father or mother more than me is not worthy of me: and he that loveth son or daughter more than me is not worthy of me.And he that taketh not his cross, and followeth after me, is not worthy of me.He that findeth his life shall lose it: and he that loseth his life for my sake shall find it."
-------------------------------
In the New Testament a read I verse that counteracts the old saying, "The devil made me do it!" The devil can't make us do anything! All men have temptations placed before them. But God will never allow us to be tempted beyond what we're able to bear. With every temptation, we'll be given a way to escape, if we're willing to take it. 1 Corinthians 10:13 "There hath no temptation taken you but such as is common to man: but God is faithful, who will not suffer you to be tempted above that ye are able; but will with the temptation also make a way to escape, that ye may be able to bear it."
Some verses with a thought booklet tell us that we need to put the Lord first in our lives, loving Him more than anyone else, and being willing to lose our lives in His service. Matthew 10:37-39 "He that loveth father or mother more than me is not worthy of me: and he that loveth son or daughter more than me is not worthy of me.And he that taketh not his cross, and followeth after me, is not worthy of me.He that findeth his life shall lose it: and he that loseth his life for my sake shall find it."
-------------------------------
Sunday, May 22, 2011
Daily Thoughts
In the Book of Mormon I read about how the proud and lofty will be humbled and brought low. It's much better that we humble ourselves so that we don't have to wait for the Lord to humble us. 2 Ne. 12: 11-12 "And it shall come to pass that the lofty looks of man shall be humbled, and the haughtiness of men shall be bowed down, and the Lord alone shall be exalted in that day. For the day of the Lord of Hosts soon cometh upon all nations, yea, upon every one; yea, upon the proud and lofty, and upon every one who is lifted up, and he shall be brought low."
In the New Testament I read that those who preach the gospel also need to live the gospel. In other words, we need to practice what we preach! 1 Corinthians 9:14 "Even so hath the Lord ordained that they which preach the gospel should live of the gospel."
Some verses with a thought booklet tell us that there is no hiding from the Lord! No matter what we do or where we go, He will find us and know what we're up to. Darkness will not hide us from Him either--dark and light are both the same to Him and He sees all that occurs in either. Since we can't hide from the Lord, we'd best make sure we're not doing anything we wouldn't want Him to see us doing! Psalms 139:7-12 "Whither shall I go from thy spirit? or whither shall I flee from thy presence? If I ascend up into heaven, thou art there: if I make my bed in hell, behold, thou art there. If I take the wings of the morning, and dwell in the uttermost parts of the sea; Even there shall thy hand lead me, and thy right hand shall hold me. If I say, Surely the darkness shall cover me; even the night shall be light about me. Yea, the darkness hideth not from thee; but the night shineth as the day: the darkness and the light are both alike to thee."
-----------------------------------------
In the New Testament I read that those who preach the gospel also need to live the gospel. In other words, we need to practice what we preach! 1 Corinthians 9:14 "Even so hath the Lord ordained that they which preach the gospel should live of the gospel."
Some verses with a thought booklet tell us that there is no hiding from the Lord! No matter what we do or where we go, He will find us and know what we're up to. Darkness will not hide us from Him either--dark and light are both the same to Him and He sees all that occurs in either. Since we can't hide from the Lord, we'd best make sure we're not doing anything we wouldn't want Him to see us doing! Psalms 139:7-12 "Whither shall I go from thy spirit? or whither shall I flee from thy presence? If I ascend up into heaven, thou art there: if I make my bed in hell, behold, thou art there. If I take the wings of the morning, and dwell in the uttermost parts of the sea; Even there shall thy hand lead me, and thy right hand shall hold me. If I say, Surely the darkness shall cover me; even the night shall be light about me. Yea, the darkness hideth not from thee; but the night shineth as the day: the darkness and the light are both alike to thee."
-----------------------------------------
Saturday, May 21, 2011
Daily Thoughts
In the Book of Mormon I read how Jacob delighted in proving the truth to the people regarding Jesus Christ. He delighted in the covenants of the Lord and in His grace, mercy, and power. Do we delight in the things of the Lord and in teaching them to others? 2 Ne. 11: 4-6 "Behold, my soul delighteth in proving unto my people the truth of the coming of Christ; for, for this end hath the law of Moses been given; and all things which have been given of God from the beginning of the world, unto man, are the typifying of him. And also my soul delighteth in the covenants of the Lord which he hath made to our fathers; yea, my soul delighteth in his grace, and in his justice, and power, and mercy in the great and eternal plan of deliverance from death. And my soul delighteth in proving unto my people that save Christ should come all men must perish."
In the New Testament we're told to abide in whatever calling has been given to us. We should not try to do other people's callings or even think about ways we could do their callings better than they are doing them. Instead, we need to focus our energies on doing the best we can in what we've been called to do. 1 Corinthians 7:20 "Let every man abide in the same calling wherein he was called."
A verse with a thought booklet tell us that just as God loves each one of us, we also need to one one another. 1 John 4:11 "Beloved, if God so loved us, we ought also to love one another."
-------------------------------------
In the New Testament we're told to abide in whatever calling has been given to us. We should not try to do other people's callings or even think about ways we could do their callings better than they are doing them. Instead, we need to focus our energies on doing the best we can in what we've been called to do. 1 Corinthians 7:20 "Let every man abide in the same calling wherein he was called."
A verse with a thought booklet tell us that just as God loves each one of us, we also need to one one another. 1 John 4:11 "Beloved, if God so loved us, we ought also to love one another."
-------------------------------------
Friday, May 20, 2011
Daily Thoughts
In the Book of Mormon we're told that we can choose eternal life or everlasting death. We can choose to be reconciled with God who will save us through His grace, or we can choose to follow the devil. The choice is ours to make. 2 Ne. 10: 23-25 "Therefore, cheer up your hearts, and remember that ye are free to act for yourselves—to choose the way of everlasting death or the way of eternal life. Wherefore, my beloved brethren, reconcile yourselves to the will of God, and not to the will of the devil and the flesh; and remember, after ye are reconciled unto God, that it is only in and through the grace of God that ye are saved. Wherefore, may God raise you from death by the power of the resurrection, and also from everlasting death by the power of the atonement, that ye may be received into the eternal kingdom of God, that ye may praise him through grace divine. Amen."
In the New Testament I read that we need to select our friends carefully and avoid keeping company with sinners. Often we become like the people we spend time with. So if we choose righteous friends, it will help us do what's right also. 1 Corinthians 5:11 "But now I have written unto you not to keep company, if any man that is called a brother be a fornicator, or covetous, or an idolater, or a railer, or a drunkard, or an extortioner; with such an one no not to eat."
In some scriptures with a thought booklet we're shown the way to tell who is a true follower of Christ from someone who follows the devil. Someone who follows Christ will be righteous and will show love to other people. But a person who sins and does wickedly, is following Satan. The kind of works a person does shows the kind of person that they are. 1 John 4:7-11 "Beloved, let us love one another: for love is of God; and every one that loveth is born of God, and knoweth God. He that loveth not knoweth not God; for God is love. In this was manifested the love of God toward us, because that God sent his only begotten Son into the world, that we might live through him. Herein is love, not that we loved God, but that he loved us, and sent his Son to be the propitiation for our sins. Beloved, if God so loved us, we ought also to love one another."
---------------------------------
In the New Testament I read that we need to select our friends carefully and avoid keeping company with sinners. Often we become like the people we spend time with. So if we choose righteous friends, it will help us do what's right also. 1 Corinthians 5:11 "But now I have written unto you not to keep company, if any man that is called a brother be a fornicator, or covetous, or an idolater, or a railer, or a drunkard, or an extortioner; with such an one no not to eat."
In some scriptures with a thought booklet we're shown the way to tell who is a true follower of Christ from someone who follows the devil. Someone who follows Christ will be righteous and will show love to other people. But a person who sins and does wickedly, is following Satan. The kind of works a person does shows the kind of person that they are. 1 John 4:7-11 "Beloved, let us love one another: for love is of God; and every one that loveth is born of God, and knoweth God. He that loveth not knoweth not God; for God is love. In this was manifested the love of God toward us, because that God sent his only begotten Son into the world, that we might live through him. Herein is love, not that we loved God, but that he loved us, and sent his Son to be the propitiation for our sins. Beloved, if God so loved us, we ought also to love one another."
---------------------------------
Thursday, May 19, 2011
Daily Thoughts
In the Book of Mormon I read that the Jews would crucfy Christ because of their iniquities and because they choose to stiffen their necks against Him. 2 Ne. 10: 2-5 "For behold, the promises which we have obtained are promises unto us according to the flesh; wherefore, as it has been shown unto me that many of our children shall perish in the flesh because of unbelief, nevertheless, God will be merciful unto many; and our children shall be restored, that they may come to that which will give them the true knowledge of their Redeemer. Wherefore, as I said unto you, it must needs be expedient that Christ—for in the last night the angel spake unto me that this should be his name—should come among the Jews, among those who are the more wicked part of the world; and they shall crucify him—for thus it behooveth our God, and there is none other nation on earth that would crucify their God. For should the mighty miracles be wrought among other nations they would repent, and know that he be their God. But because of priestcrafts and iniquities, they at Jerusalem will stiffen their necks against him, that he be crucified."
In the New Testament I read about how we cannot hope to understand the things of God without the Spirit. We can't teach the things of God using the wisdom of man, for they'll seem like foolishness to the natural man. Spiritual things can only be spiritually discerned. If we want to teach something of a spiritual nature to another person, we cannot possibly hope to do so unless we have the Spirit with us. And if we hope to understand spiritual things, we likewise need to have the Spirit with us, or none of it will make sense to us. 1 Corinthians 2:4-14 "And my speech and my preaching was not with enticing words of man's wisdom, but in demonstration of the Spirit and of power: That your faith should not stand in the wisdom of men, but in the power of God. Howbeit we speak wisdom among them that are perfect: yet not the wisdom of this world, nor of the princes of this world, that come to nought: But we speak the wisdom of God in a mystery, even the hidden wisdom, which God ordained before the world unto our glory:
Which none of the princes of this world knew: for had they known it, they would not have crucified the Lord of glory. But as it is written, Eye hath not seen, nor ear heard, neither have entered into the heart of man, the things which God hath prepared for them that love him. But God hath revealed them unto us by his Spirit: for the Spirit searcheth all things, yea, the deep things of God. For what man knoweth the things of a man, save the spirit of man which is in him? even so the things of God knoweth no man, but the Spirit of God. Now we have received, not the spirit of the world, but the spirit which is of God; that we might know the things that are freely given to us of God. Which things also we speak, not in the words which man's wisdom teacheth, but which the Holy Ghost teacheth; comparing spiritual things with spiritual. But the natural man receiveth not the things of the Spirit of God: for they are foolishness unto him: neither can he know them, because they are spiritually discerned."
Going along with this, a verse with a thought booklet tells us that when we are led by the Spirit of God, we can know that we are the children of God. Having the Spirit convinces us of this sacred truth, and what a difference knowing who we are can make in our lives. How very important to have the Spirit in our lives! Romans 8:14 "For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, they are the sons of God."
--------------------------------------------
In the New Testament I read about how we cannot hope to understand the things of God without the Spirit. We can't teach the things of God using the wisdom of man, for they'll seem like foolishness to the natural man. Spiritual things can only be spiritually discerned. If we want to teach something of a spiritual nature to another person, we cannot possibly hope to do so unless we have the Spirit with us. And if we hope to understand spiritual things, we likewise need to have the Spirit with us, or none of it will make sense to us. 1 Corinthians 2:4-14 "And my speech and my preaching was not with enticing words of man's wisdom, but in demonstration of the Spirit and of power: That your faith should not stand in the wisdom of men, but in the power of God. Howbeit we speak wisdom among them that are perfect: yet not the wisdom of this world, nor of the princes of this world, that come to nought: But we speak the wisdom of God in a mystery, even the hidden wisdom, which God ordained before the world unto our glory:
Which none of the princes of this world knew: for had they known it, they would not have crucified the Lord of glory. But as it is written, Eye hath not seen, nor ear heard, neither have entered into the heart of man, the things which God hath prepared for them that love him. But God hath revealed them unto us by his Spirit: for the Spirit searcheth all things, yea, the deep things of God. For what man knoweth the things of a man, save the spirit of man which is in him? even so the things of God knoweth no man, but the Spirit of God. Now we have received, not the spirit of the world, but the spirit which is of God; that we might know the things that are freely given to us of God. Which things also we speak, not in the words which man's wisdom teacheth, but which the Holy Ghost teacheth; comparing spiritual things with spiritual. But the natural man receiveth not the things of the Spirit of God: for they are foolishness unto him: neither can he know them, because they are spiritually discerned."
Going along with this, a verse with a thought booklet tells us that when we are led by the Spirit of God, we can know that we are the children of God. Having the Spirit convinces us of this sacred truth, and what a difference knowing who we are can make in our lives. How very important to have the Spirit in our lives! Romans 8:14 "For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, they are the sons of God."
--------------------------------------------
Wednesday, May 18, 2011
Daily Thoughts
In the Book of Mormon I read that we need to shake off the chains of sin that bind us and come unto God who is the rock of our salvation. John Taylor said, "Man sleeps the sleep of death, but the spirit lives where the record of his deeds is kept--that does not die--man cannot kill it; there is no decay associated with it, and it still retains in all its vividness the remembrance of that which transpired before the separatino by death of the body and the ever-living spirit. Man sleeps for a time in the grave, and by-and-by he rises again from the dead and goes to judgment; and then the secret thoughts of all men are revealed before Him with whom we have to do; we cannot hide them; it would be in vain for a man to say then, I did not do so-and-so; the command would be, Unravel and reaad the record which he has made of himself, and let it testify in relation to these things, and all could gaze upon it. If a man has acted fraudulently against his neighbor--has committed murder, or adultery, or anything else, and wants to cover it up, that record will stare him in the face, he tells the story himself, and bears witness against himself. It is not because somebody has been things, or heard anything by which a man will be judged and condemned, but it is because that record that is written by the man himself in the tablets of his own mind--that record that cannot lie--will in that day be unfolded before God and angels, and those who shall sit as judges." 2 Ne. 9: 44-49 "O, my beloved brethren, remember my words. Behold, I take off my garments, and I shake them before you; I pray the God of my salvation that he view me with his all-searching eye; wherefore, ye shall know at the last day, when all men shall be judged of their works, that the God of Israel did witness that I shook your iniquities from my soul, and that I stand with brightness before him, and am rid of your blood. O, my beloved brethren, turn away from your sins; shake off the chains of him that would bind you fast; come unto that God who is the rock of your salvation. Prepare your souls for that glorious day when justice shall be administered unto the righteous, even the day of judgment, that ye may not shrink with awful fear; that ye may not remember your awful guilt in perfectness, and be constrained to exclaim: Holy, holy are thy judgments, O Lord God Almighty—but I know my guilt; I transgressed thy law, and my transgressions are mine; and the devil hath obtained me, that I am a prey to his awful misery. But behold, my brethren, is it expedient that I should awake you to an awful reality of these things? Would I harrow up your souls if your minds were pure? Would I be plain unto you according to the plainness of the truth if ye were freed from sin? Behold, if ye were holy I would speak unto you of holiness; but as ye are not holy, and ye look upon me as a teacher, it must needs be expedient that I teach you the consequences of sin. Behold, my soul abhorreth sin, and my heart delighteth in righteousness; and I will praise the holy name of my God."
In the New Testament we're told that there should be no divisions or schisms among us but that we should all speak the same things. We need to have unity among ourselves. 1 Corinthians 1:10 "Now I beseech you, brethren, by the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that ye all speak the same thing, and that there be no divisions among you; but that ye be perfectly joined together in the same mind and in the same judgment."
A verse with a thought booklet tells us that God loved us so much that even while we were still sinners, Christ died for us. The most powerful force in the world is love! Romans 5:8 "But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us."
---------------------------------------------
In the New Testament we're told that there should be no divisions or schisms among us but that we should all speak the same things. We need to have unity among ourselves. 1 Corinthians 1:10 "Now I beseech you, brethren, by the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that ye all speak the same thing, and that there be no divisions among you; but that ye be perfectly joined together in the same mind and in the same judgment."
A verse with a thought booklet tells us that God loved us so much that even while we were still sinners, Christ died for us. The most powerful force in the world is love! Romans 5:8 "But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us."
---------------------------------------------
Tuesday, May 17, 2011
Daily Thoughts
In the Book of Mormon I read that it is awful to transgress the laws of God and yield to the enticings of the devil. To be carnally minded is death but to be spiritually minded is eternal life. 2 Ne. 9: 39 "O, my beloved brethren, remember the awfulness in transgressing against that Holy God, and also the awfulness of yielding to the enticings of that cunning one. Remember, to be carnally-minded is death, and to be spiritually-minded is life eternal."
In the New Testament we're told to avoid people who cause divisions or stumbling blocks or who with their fancy speeches lead others astray, contrary to true doctrine. They serve themselves, rather than Jesus Christ. Sometimes there's a fine line between trying to help someone find their way and just getting sucked into contention and arguing with them. If someone is sincerely seeking after truth, we can talk to them, with help from the Lord, and the interaction can be beneficial. But if someone has their own agenda and there is no reasoning with them, and the interchanges are lacking in the Spirit, sometimes all we can do is avoid these people. Romans 16:17-18 "Now I beseech you, brethren, mark them which cause divisions and offences contrary to the doctrine which ye have learned; and avoid them. For they that are such serve not our Lord Jesus Christ, but their own belly; and by good words and fair speeches deceive the hearts of the simple."
A verse with a thought booklet tells us that we each have our own work to do. Instead of concerning ourselves with what someone else does or does not do, we need to make sure that we fulfill the assignments we have been given. Galatians 6:4 "But let every man prove his own work, and then shall he have rejoicing in himself alone, and not in another."
-------------------------------------
In the New Testament we're told to avoid people who cause divisions or stumbling blocks or who with their fancy speeches lead others astray, contrary to true doctrine. They serve themselves, rather than Jesus Christ. Sometimes there's a fine line between trying to help someone find their way and just getting sucked into contention and arguing with them. If someone is sincerely seeking after truth, we can talk to them, with help from the Lord, and the interaction can be beneficial. But if someone has their own agenda and there is no reasoning with them, and the interchanges are lacking in the Spirit, sometimes all we can do is avoid these people. Romans 16:17-18 "Now I beseech you, brethren, mark them which cause divisions and offences contrary to the doctrine which ye have learned; and avoid them. For they that are such serve not our Lord Jesus Christ, but their own belly; and by good words and fair speeches deceive the hearts of the simple."
A verse with a thought booklet tells us that we each have our own work to do. Instead of concerning ourselves with what someone else does or does not do, we need to make sure that we fulfill the assignments we have been given. Galatians 6:4 "But let every man prove his own work, and then shall he have rejoicing in himself alone, and not in another."
-------------------------------------
Monday, May 16, 2011
Daily Thoughts
In the Book of Mormon I read a verse that really condemns liars. It says they will be thrust down to hell! And notice it doesn't distinguish between little white lies and worse lies. It just says liars will be thrust down to hell. Very important that we be honest in all our dealings. 2 Ne. 9: 34 "Wo unto the liar, for he shall be thrust down to hell."
In the New Testament I read wonderful instructions on how we should deal with other people. We should love them, be kind to them, and do our best to get along with them. If they treat us unkindly, we should still do whatever we can to help them. Instead of letting evil overcome us, we should overcome evil with good. Romans 12:9-21 "Let love be without dissimulation. Abhor that which is evil; cleave to that which is good. Be kindly affectioned one to another with brotherly love; in honour preferring one another; Not slothful in business; fervent in spirit; serving the Lord; Rejoicing in hope; patient in tribulation; continuing instant in prayer; Distributing to the necessity of saints; given to hospitality. Bless them which persecute you: bless, and curse not. Rejoice with them that do rejoice, and weep with them that weep. Be of the same mind one toward another. Mind not high things, but condescend to men of low estate. Be not wise in your own conceits. Recompense to no man evil for evil. Provide things honest in the sight of all men. If it be possible, as much as lieth in you, live peaceably with all men. Dearly beloved, avenge not yourselves, but rather give place unto wrath: for it is written, Vengeance is mine; I will repay, saith the Lord. Therefore if thine enemy hunger, feed him; if he thirst, give him drink: for in so doing thou shalt heap coals of fire on his head. Be not overcome of evil, but overcome evil with good."
A verse from a thought booklet is a comfort to me, and should be a comfort to anyone who has lost a loved one. Christ was raised from the dead, will never die again, and death has no more dominion over Him. And because He was resurrected, we and all our loved ones will be resurrected also. Death will have no power over any of us. Romans 6:9 "Knowing that Christ being raised from the dead dieth no more; death hath no more dominion over him."
--------------------------------------------
In the New Testament I read wonderful instructions on how we should deal with other people. We should love them, be kind to them, and do our best to get along with them. If they treat us unkindly, we should still do whatever we can to help them. Instead of letting evil overcome us, we should overcome evil with good. Romans 12:9-21 "Let love be without dissimulation. Abhor that which is evil; cleave to that which is good. Be kindly affectioned one to another with brotherly love; in honour preferring one another; Not slothful in business; fervent in spirit; serving the Lord; Rejoicing in hope; patient in tribulation; continuing instant in prayer; Distributing to the necessity of saints; given to hospitality. Bless them which persecute you: bless, and curse not. Rejoice with them that do rejoice, and weep with them that weep. Be of the same mind one toward another. Mind not high things, but condescend to men of low estate. Be not wise in your own conceits. Recompense to no man evil for evil. Provide things honest in the sight of all men. If it be possible, as much as lieth in you, live peaceably with all men. Dearly beloved, avenge not yourselves, but rather give place unto wrath: for it is written, Vengeance is mine; I will repay, saith the Lord. Therefore if thine enemy hunger, feed him; if he thirst, give him drink: for in so doing thou shalt heap coals of fire on his head. Be not overcome of evil, but overcome evil with good."
A verse from a thought booklet is a comfort to me, and should be a comfort to anyone who has lost a loved one. Christ was raised from the dead, will never die again, and death has no more dominion over Him. And because He was resurrected, we and all our loved ones will be resurrected also. Death will have no power over any of us. Romans 6:9 "Knowing that Christ being raised from the dead dieth no more; death hath no more dominion over him."
--------------------------------------------
Sunday, May 15, 2011
Daily Thoughts
In the Book of Mormon I read that those who are rich as to the things of the world and who are not compassionate to the poor will perish with their riches. 2 Ne. 9:30 "But wo unto the rich, who are rich as to the things of the world. For because they are rich they despise the poor, and they persecute the meek, and their hearts are upon their treasures; wherefore, their treasure is their god. And behold, their treasure shall perish with them also."
In the New Testament we read that God is full of wisdom and knowledge, even beyond our understanding. Romans 11:33 "O the depth of the riches both of the wisdom and knowledge of God! how unsearchable are his judgments, and his ways past finding out!"
A verse from a thought booklet tells us to be still and know that the Lord is God. The thought that went with this, written by Doris Mueller from Valley Park, Missouri, says: Most of us live in a world of incessant noise--radio talk shows in our cars, television sitcoms and news commentary in our family rooms, even a headset when we are walking or jogging. And everywhere--on the street, in the park, at the supermarket, even at the theater--the ever present cell phone intrudes on our consciousness. There seems to be no respite from the cacophony of civilization. But shouldn't there be? Don't you find yourself at times (as I do) longing for a moment of quiet? We need regular opportunities to center ourselves, to be calm and meditate, to pray and read God's world. Let us resolve to set aside a time every day in which to read the Scriptures, meditate, and worship God. We also need a space--an easy chair in the den, a back bedroom, or even a park bench. Then we can turn off the radio, the television, and the telephones so that we can truly let ourselves be quiet as we listen for God's still, small voice in the unaccustomed silence. Psalm 46:10 "Be still, and know that I am God: I will be exalted among the heathen, I will be exalted in the earth."
--------------------------------------------
In the New Testament we read that God is full of wisdom and knowledge, even beyond our understanding. Romans 11:33 "O the depth of the riches both of the wisdom and knowledge of God! how unsearchable are his judgments, and his ways past finding out!"
A verse from a thought booklet tells us to be still and know that the Lord is God. The thought that went with this, written by Doris Mueller from Valley Park, Missouri, says: Most of us live in a world of incessant noise--radio talk shows in our cars, television sitcoms and news commentary in our family rooms, even a headset when we are walking or jogging. And everywhere--on the street, in the park, at the supermarket, even at the theater--the ever present cell phone intrudes on our consciousness. There seems to be no respite from the cacophony of civilization. But shouldn't there be? Don't you find yourself at times (as I do) longing for a moment of quiet? We need regular opportunities to center ourselves, to be calm and meditate, to pray and read God's world. Let us resolve to set aside a time every day in which to read the Scriptures, meditate, and worship God. We also need a space--an easy chair in the den, a back bedroom, or even a park bench. Then we can turn off the radio, the television, and the telephones so that we can truly let ourselves be quiet as we listen for God's still, small voice in the unaccustomed silence. Psalm 46:10 "Be still, and know that I am God: I will be exalted among the heathen, I will be exalted in the earth."
--------------------------------------------
Saturday, May 14, 2011
Daily Thoughts
In the Book of Mormon I read that awful will be the state of a person who knows the commandments of God but chooses to transgress them and wastes the day of his probation here on this earth. Men who think they are wise enough to disregard the counsel of God are really foolish and they will perish. 2 Ne. 9: 27-28 "But wo unto him that has the law given, yea, that has all the commandments of God, like unto us, and that transgresseth them, and that wasteth the days of his probation, for awful is his state! O that cunning plan of the evil one! O the vainness, and the frailties, and the foolishness of men! When they are learned they think they are wise, and they hearken not unto the counsel of God, for they set it aside, supposing they know of themselves, wherefore, their wisdom is foolishness and it profiteth them not. And they shall perish."
In the New Testament I read that Israel was chosen, or foreordained according to the election of grace. However, they hardened their hearts and killed the prophets. The Gentiles were then grated into the House of Israel and will receive salvation if they are righteous. But they should not be lifted up in pride because of this. They will still be rejected if they turn to sin, and the Israelites will still be saved if they repent and return to the Lord. Romans 11:1-12 "I say then, Hath God cast away his people? God forbid. For I also am an Israelite, of the seed of Abraham, of the tribe of Benjamin. God hath not cast away his people which he foreknew. Wot ye not what the scripture saith of Elias? how he maketh intercession to God against Israel, saying, Lord, they have killed thy prophets, and digged down thine altars; and I am left alone, and they seek my life. But what saith the answer of God unto him? I have reserved to myself seven thousand men, who have not bowed the knee to the image of Baal. Even so then at this present time also there is a remnant according to the election of grace. And if by grace, then is it no more of works: otherwise grace is no more grace. But if it be of works, then is it no more grace: otherwise work is no more work. What then? Israel hath not obtained that which he seeketh for; but the election hath obtained it, and the rest were blinded (According as it is written, God hath given them the spirit of slumber, eyes that they should not see, and ears that they should not hear;) unto this day. And David saith, Let their table be made a snare, and a trap, and a stumblingblock, and a recompence unto them: Let their eyes be darkened, that they may not see, and bow down their back alway. I say then, Have they stumbled that they should fall? God forbid: but rather through their fall salvation is come unto the Gentiles, for to provoke them to jealousy. Now if the fall of them be the riches of the world, and the diminishing of them the riches of the Gentiles; how much more their fulness?"
A verse with a thought booklet tells the Israelites that they are a chosen people, special unto the Lord. They need to keep themselves holy and righteous. But as we read in the New Testament verses above, this all depends on righteousness. Wicked Israelites are rejected and righteous Gentiles are grafted into the House of Israel, so they too are special people unto the Lord if they are willing to come unto Christ and keep His commandments. Deuteronomy 7:6 "For thou art an holy people unto the Lord thy God: the Lord thy God hath chosen thee to be a special people unto himself, above all people that are upon the face of the earth."
-------------------------------------
In the New Testament I read that Israel was chosen, or foreordained according to the election of grace. However, they hardened their hearts and killed the prophets. The Gentiles were then grated into the House of Israel and will receive salvation if they are righteous. But they should not be lifted up in pride because of this. They will still be rejected if they turn to sin, and the Israelites will still be saved if they repent and return to the Lord. Romans 11:1-12 "I say then, Hath God cast away his people? God forbid. For I also am an Israelite, of the seed of Abraham, of the tribe of Benjamin. God hath not cast away his people which he foreknew. Wot ye not what the scripture saith of Elias? how he maketh intercession to God against Israel, saying, Lord, they have killed thy prophets, and digged down thine altars; and I am left alone, and they seek my life. But what saith the answer of God unto him? I have reserved to myself seven thousand men, who have not bowed the knee to the image of Baal. Even so then at this present time also there is a remnant according to the election of grace. And if by grace, then is it no more of works: otherwise grace is no more grace. But if it be of works, then is it no more grace: otherwise work is no more work. What then? Israel hath not obtained that which he seeketh for; but the election hath obtained it, and the rest were blinded (According as it is written, God hath given them the spirit of slumber, eyes that they should not see, and ears that they should not hear;) unto this day. And David saith, Let their table be made a snare, and a trap, and a stumblingblock, and a recompence unto them: Let their eyes be darkened, that they may not see, and bow down their back alway. I say then, Have they stumbled that they should fall? God forbid: but rather through their fall salvation is come unto the Gentiles, for to provoke them to jealousy. Now if the fall of them be the riches of the world, and the diminishing of them the riches of the Gentiles; how much more their fulness?"
A verse with a thought booklet tells the Israelites that they are a chosen people, special unto the Lord. They need to keep themselves holy and righteous. But as we read in the New Testament verses above, this all depends on righteousness. Wicked Israelites are rejected and righteous Gentiles are grafted into the House of Israel, so they too are special people unto the Lord if they are willing to come unto Christ and keep His commandments. Deuteronomy 7:6 "For thou art an holy people unto the Lord thy God: the Lord thy God hath chosen thee to be a special people unto himself, above all people that are upon the face of the earth."
-------------------------------------
Friday, May 13, 2011
Daily Thoughts
In the Book of Mormon I read that all men may be saved if they will repent, because of the atonement of Christ and how He suffered the pains of every living creature. 2 Ne. 9: 20-21 "O how great the holiness of our God! For he knoweth all things, and there is not anything save he knows it. And he cometh into the world that he may save all men if they will hearken unto his voice; for behold, he suffereth the pains of all men, yea, the pains of every living creature, both men, women, and children, who belong to the family of Adam."
In the New Testament I read that to be carnally minded is death but to be spiritually minded is life and peace. What do we think about when we don't have to think about anything in particular? Are our thought righteous or are they evil? The answer to that question will determine our happiness and our eternal destiny. Romans 8:6 "For to be carnally minded is death; but to be spiritually minded is life and peace."
Some verses with a thought booklet tell the story of the prodigal son. As we read about the father in this story rejoicing over his son coming home, even though the son had sinned, we can liken it unto our Heavenly Father who rejoices over us when we turn from lives of sin to come back to Him. Even when we do wrong, He still loves us, as our Father, and rejoices when we're willing to repent and come back. He's waiting with open arms to welcome us back! Luke 15:11-24 "And he said, A certain man had two sons: And the younger of them said to his father, Father, give me the portion of goods that falleth to me. And he divided unto them his living. And not many days after the younger son gathered all together, and took his journey into a far country, and there wasted his substance with riotous living. And when he had spent all, there arose a mighty famine in that land; and he began to be in want. And he went and joined himself to a citizen of that country; and he sent him into his fields to feed swine. And he would fain have filled his belly with the husks that the swine did eat: and no man gave unto him. And when he came to himself, he said, How many hired servants of my father's have bread enough and to spare, and I perish with hunger! I will arise and go to my father, and will say unto him, Father, I have sinned against heaven, and before thee, And am no more worthy to be called thy son: make me as one of thy hired servants. And he arose, and came to his father. But when he was yet a great way off, his father saw him, and had compassion, and ran, and fell on his neck, and kissed him. And the son said unto him, Father, I have sinned against heaven, and in thy sight, and am no more worthy to be called thy son. But the father said to his servants, Bring forth the best robe, and put it on him; and put a ring on his hand, and shoes on his feet: And bring hither the fatted calf, and kill it; and let us eat, and be merry: For this my son was dead, and is alive again; he was lost, and is found. And they began to be merry."
-------------------------------
In the New Testament I read that to be carnally minded is death but to be spiritually minded is life and peace. What do we think about when we don't have to think about anything in particular? Are our thought righteous or are they evil? The answer to that question will determine our happiness and our eternal destiny. Romans 8:6 "For to be carnally minded is death; but to be spiritually minded is life and peace."
Some verses with a thought booklet tell the story of the prodigal son. As we read about the father in this story rejoicing over his son coming home, even though the son had sinned, we can liken it unto our Heavenly Father who rejoices over us when we turn from lives of sin to come back to Him. Even when we do wrong, He still loves us, as our Father, and rejoices when we're willing to repent and come back. He's waiting with open arms to welcome us back! Luke 15:11-24 "And he said, A certain man had two sons: And the younger of them said to his father, Father, give me the portion of goods that falleth to me. And he divided unto them his living. And not many days after the younger son gathered all together, and took his journey into a far country, and there wasted his substance with riotous living. And when he had spent all, there arose a mighty famine in that land; and he began to be in want. And he went and joined himself to a citizen of that country; and he sent him into his fields to feed swine. And he would fain have filled his belly with the husks that the swine did eat: and no man gave unto him. And when he came to himself, he said, How many hired servants of my father's have bread enough and to spare, and I perish with hunger! I will arise and go to my father, and will say unto him, Father, I have sinned against heaven, and before thee, And am no more worthy to be called thy son: make me as one of thy hired servants. And he arose, and came to his father. But when he was yet a great way off, his father saw him, and had compassion, and ran, and fell on his neck, and kissed him. And the son said unto him, Father, I have sinned against heaven, and in thy sight, and am no more worthy to be called thy son. But the father said to his servants, Bring forth the best robe, and put it on him; and put a ring on his hand, and shoes on his feet: And bring hither the fatted calf, and kill it; and let us eat, and be merry: For this my son was dead, and is alive again; he was lost, and is found. And they began to be merry."
-------------------------------
Thursday, May 12, 2011
Daily Thoughts
In the Book of Mormon I read that we will all come before the judgment seat of God one day and will be judged according to what are lives have been like. If we were righteous, we'll be righteous still and we'll receive joy forever and if we were evil, we'll still be filthy and will punished accordingly. 2 Ne. 9: 15-18 "And it shall come to pass that when all men shall have passed from this first death unto life, insomuch as they have become immortal, they must appear before the judgment-seat of the Holy One of Israel; and then cometh the judgment, and then must they be judged according to the holy judgment of God. And assuredly, as the Lord liveth, for the Lord God hath spoken it, and it is his eternal word, which cannot pass away, that they who are righteous shall be righteous still, and they who are filthy shall be filthy still; wherefore, they who are filthy are the devil and his angels; and they shall go away into everlasting fire, prepared for them; and their torment is as a lake of fire and brimstone, whose flame ascendeth up forever and ever and has no end. O the greatness and the justice of our God! For he executeth all his words, and they have gone forth out of his mouth, and his law must be fulfilled. But, behold, the righteous, the saints of the Holy One of Israel, they who have believed in the Holy One of Israel, they who have endured the crosses of the world, and despised the shame of it, they shall inherit the kingdom of God, which was prepared for them from the foundation of the world, and their joy shall be full forever."
In the New Testament I read that we become servants of whoever we yield ourselves to obey. If we yield ourselves to wickedness, we will be free from righteousness and the end result will be death. On the other hand, if we choose righteousness, we'll be free from sin and become and servants of God. And we'll receive eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord. Romans 6:16-23 "Know ye not, that to whom ye yield yourselves servants to obey, his servants ye are to whom ye obey; whether of sin unto death, or of obedience unto righteousness? But God be thanked, that ye were the servants of sin, but ye have obeyed from the heart that form of doctrine which was delivered you. Being then made free from sin, ye became the servants of righteousness. I speak after the manner of men because of the infirmity of your flesh: for as ye have yielded your members servants to uncleanness and to iniquity unto iniquity; even so now yield your members servants to righteousness unto holiness. For when ye were the servants of sin, ye were free from righteousness. What fruit had ye then in those things whereof ye are now ashamed? for the end of those things is death. But now being made free from sin, and become servants to God, ye have your fruit unto holiness, and the end everlasting life. For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord."
Some verses with a thought booklet admonish us to put off the old, corrupt man that we once were and be renewed in the spirits of our minds, putting on a new man of righteousness and true holiness. Ephesians 4:22-24 "That ye put off concerning the former conversation the old man, which is corrupt according to the deceitful lusts;
And be renewed in the spirit of your mind; And that ye put on the new man, which after God is created in righteousness and true holiness."
-----------------------------------------
In the New Testament I read that we become servants of whoever we yield ourselves to obey. If we yield ourselves to wickedness, we will be free from righteousness and the end result will be death. On the other hand, if we choose righteousness, we'll be free from sin and become and servants of God. And we'll receive eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord. Romans 6:16-23 "Know ye not, that to whom ye yield yourselves servants to obey, his servants ye are to whom ye obey; whether of sin unto death, or of obedience unto righteousness? But God be thanked, that ye were the servants of sin, but ye have obeyed from the heart that form of doctrine which was delivered you. Being then made free from sin, ye became the servants of righteousness. I speak after the manner of men because of the infirmity of your flesh: for as ye have yielded your members servants to uncleanness and to iniquity unto iniquity; even so now yield your members servants to righteousness unto holiness. For when ye were the servants of sin, ye were free from righteousness. What fruit had ye then in those things whereof ye are now ashamed? for the end of those things is death. But now being made free from sin, and become servants to God, ye have your fruit unto holiness, and the end everlasting life. For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord."
Some verses with a thought booklet admonish us to put off the old, corrupt man that we once were and be renewed in the spirits of our minds, putting on a new man of righteousness and true holiness. Ephesians 4:22-24 "That ye put off concerning the former conversation the old man, which is corrupt according to the deceitful lusts;
And be renewed in the spirit of your mind; And that ye put on the new man, which after God is created in righteousness and true holiness."
-----------------------------------------
Wednesday, May 11, 2011
Daily Thoughts
In the Book of Mormon I read that after death the wicked will have a perfect recollection of all their guilt and uncleanness. But the righteous will have a perfect knowledge of their purity and they will be clothed with the robe of righteousness. 2 Ne. 9: 14 "Wherefore, we shall have a perfect knowledge of all our guilt, and our uncleanness, and our nakedness; and the righteous shall have a perfect knowledge of their enjoyment, and their righteousness, being clothed with purity, yea, even with the robe of righteousness."
In the New Testament I read about how baptism is in similitude of the death, burial and resurrection of Christ. We're buried under the water, with our old sins and our old evil lives dying, and as we rise out of the water, we're new creatures in Christ and begin our new lives in Him. This is why baptism by immersion is so important. Simply sprinkling with water could not provide this kind of symbolism. Romans 6:3-11 "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."
Some verses with a thought booklet remind us to not just look out for our own interests, but the interests of others as well. We need to have love and unity among us and esteem others as well as ourselves. If we care for others, even when our own burdens are heavy, the Lord will take care of us as well. Philippians 2:1-4 "If there be therefore any consolation in Christ, if any comfort of love, if any fellowship of the Spirit, if any bowels and mercies, Fulfil ye my joy, that ye be likeminded, having the same love, being of one accord, of one mind. Let nothing be done through strife or vainglory; but in lowliness of mind let each esteem other better than themselves. Look not every man on his own things, but every man also on the things of others."
-------------------------------------
In the New Testament I read about how baptism is in similitude of the death, burial and resurrection of Christ. We're buried under the water, with our old sins and our old evil lives dying, and as we rise out of the water, we're new creatures in Christ and begin our new lives in Him. This is why baptism by immersion is so important. Simply sprinkling with water could not provide this kind of symbolism. Romans 6:3-11 "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."
Some verses with a thought booklet remind us to not just look out for our own interests, but the interests of others as well. We need to have love and unity among us and esteem others as well as ourselves. If we care for others, even when our own burdens are heavy, the Lord will take care of us as well. Philippians 2:1-4 "If there be therefore any consolation in Christ, if any comfort of love, if any fellowship of the Spirit, if any bowels and mercies, Fulfil ye my joy, that ye be likeminded, having the same love, being of one accord, of one mind. Let nothing be done through strife or vainglory; but in lowliness of mind let each esteem other better than themselves. Look not every man on his own things, but every man also on the things of others."
-------------------------------------
Tuesday, May 10, 2011
Daily Thoughts
In the Book of Mormon we're told the Atonement of Christ ransoms man from the fall and that even though our bodies will die, we will be resurrected. The Atonement saves men from death, hell, and the devil. 2 Ne. 9: 5-11 "Yea, I know that ye know that in the body he shall show himself unto those at Jerusalem, from whence we came; for it is expedient that it should be among them; for it behooveth the great Creator that he suffereth himself to become subject unto man in the flesh, and die for all men, that all men might become subject unto him. For as death hath passed upon all men, to fulfil the merciful plan of the great Creator, there must needs be a power of resurrection, and the resurrection must needs come unto man by reason of the fall; and the fall came by reason of transgression; and because man became fallen they were cut off from the presence of the Lord. Wherefore, it must needs be an infinite atonement—save it should be an infinite atonement this corruption could not put on incorruption. Wherefore, the first judgment which came upon man must needs have remained to an endless duration. And if so, this flesh must have laid down to rot and to crumble to its mother earth, to rise no more. O the wisdom of God, his mercy and grace! For behold, if the flesh should rise no more our spirits must become subject to that angel who fell from before the presence of the Eternal God, and became the devil, to rise no more. And our spirits must have become like unto him, and we become devils, angels to a devil, to be shut out from the presence of our God, and to remain with the father of lies, in misery, like unto himself; yea, to that being who beguiled our first parents, who transformeth himself nigh unto an angel of light, and stirreth up the children of men unto secret combinations of murder and all manner of secret works of darkness. O how great the goodness of our God, who prepareth a way for our escape from the grasp of this awful monster; yea, that monster, death and hell, which I call the death of the body, and also the death of the spirit. And because of the way of deliverance of our God, the Holy One of Israel, this death, of which I have spoken, which is the temporal, shall deliver up its dead; which death is the grave."
In the New Testament we're told that all have sinned and come short of the glory of God. None of us is perfect. We all need to repent and we're all in need of the Atonement of Jesus Christ. And none of us has the right to judge other people when we ourselves are also guilty of sin. Romans 3:23 "For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God;"
Some verses with a thought booklet contrain a plea to Israel to return to the Lord and stop thinking that idols made with hands are their gods. The Lord can take away our iniquity and heal us, for He loves us. Hosea 14:1-4 "O Israel, return unto the Lord thy God; for thou hast fallen by thine iniquity. Take with you words, and turn to the Lord: say unto him, Take away all iniquity, and receive us graciously: so will we render the calves of our lips. Asshur shall not save us; we will not ride upon horses: neither will we say any more to the work of our hands, Ye are our gods: for in thee the fatherless findeth mercy. I will heal their backsliding, I will love them freely: for mine anger is turned away from him."
---------------------------------
In the New Testament we're told that all have sinned and come short of the glory of God. None of us is perfect. We all need to repent and we're all in need of the Atonement of Jesus Christ. And none of us has the right to judge other people when we ourselves are also guilty of sin. Romans 3:23 "For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God;"
Some verses with a thought booklet contrain a plea to Israel to return to the Lord and stop thinking that idols made with hands are their gods. The Lord can take away our iniquity and heal us, for He loves us. Hosea 14:1-4 "O Israel, return unto the Lord thy God; for thou hast fallen by thine iniquity. Take with you words, and turn to the Lord: say unto him, Take away all iniquity, and receive us graciously: so will we render the calves of our lips. Asshur shall not save us; we will not ride upon horses: neither will we say any more to the work of our hands, Ye are our gods: for in thee the fatherless findeth mercy. I will heal their backsliding, I will love them freely: for mine anger is turned away from him."
---------------------------------
(no subject)
In the Book of Mormon we're told the Atonement of Christ ransoms man from the fall and that even though our bodies will die, we will be resurrected. The Atonement saves men from death, hell, and the devil. 2 Ne. 9: 5-11 "Yea, I know that ye know that in the body he shall show himself unto those at Jerusalem, from whence we came; for it is expedient that it should be among them; for it behooveth the great Creator that he suffereth himself to become subject unto man in the flesh, and die for all men, that all men might become subject unto him. For as death hath passed upon all men, to fulfil the merciful plan of the great Creator, there must needs be a power of resurrection, and the resurrection must needs come unto man by reason of the fall; and the fall came by reason of transgression; and because man became fallen they were cut off from the presence of the Lord. Wherefore, it must needs be an infinite atonement—save it should be an infinite atonement this corruption could not put on incorruption. Wherefore, the first judgment which came upon man must needs have remained to an endless duration. And if so, this flesh must have laid down to rot and to crumble to its mother earth, to rise no more. O the wisdom of God, his mercy and grace! For behold, if the flesh should rise no more our spirits must become subject to that angel who fell from before the presence of the Eternal God, and became the devil, to rise no more. And our spirits must have become like unto him, and we become devils, angels to a devil, to be shut out from the presence of our God, and to remain with the father of lies, in misery, like unto himself; yea, to that being who beguiled our first parents, who transformeth himself nigh unto an angel of light, and stirreth up the children of men unto secret combinations of murder and all manner of secret works of darkness. O how great the goodness of our God, who prepareth a way for our escape from the grasp of this awful monster; yea, that monster, death and hell, which I call the death of the body, and also the death of the spirit. And because of the way of deliverance of our God, the Holy One of Israel, this death, of which I have spoken, which is the temporal, shall deliver up its dead; which death is the grave."
In the New Testament we're told that all have sinned and come short of the glory of God. None of us is perfect. We all need to repent and we're all in need of the Atonement of Jesus Christ. And none of us has the right to judge other people when we ourselves are also guilty of sin. Romans 3:23 "For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God;"
Some verses with a thought booklet contrain a plea to Israel to return to the Lord and stop thinking that idols made with hands are their gods. The Lord can take away our iniquity and heal us, for He loves us. Hosea 14:1-4 "O Israel, return unto the Lord thy God; for thou hast fallen by thine iniquity. Take with you words, and turn to the Lord: say unto him, Take away all iniquity, and receive us graciously: so will we render the calves of our lips. Asshur shall not save us; we will not ride upon horses: neither will we say any more to the work of our hands, Ye are our gods: for in thee the fatherless findeth mercy. I will heal their backsliding, I will love them freely: for mine anger is turned away from him."
---------------------------------
In the New Testament we're told that all have sinned and come short of the glory of God. None of us is perfect. We all need to repent and we're all in need of the Atonement of Jesus Christ. And none of us has the right to judge other people when we ourselves are also guilty of sin. Romans 3:23 "For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God;"
Some verses with a thought booklet contrain a plea to Israel to return to the Lord and stop thinking that idols made with hands are their gods. The Lord can take away our iniquity and heal us, for He loves us. Hosea 14:1-4 "O Israel, return unto the Lord thy God; for thou hast fallen by thine iniquity. Take with you words, and turn to the Lord: say unto him, Take away all iniquity, and receive us graciously: so will we render the calves of our lips. Asshur shall not save us; we will not ride upon horses: neither will we say any more to the work of our hands, Ye are our gods: for in thee the fatherless findeth mercy. I will heal their backsliding, I will love them freely: for mine anger is turned away from him."
---------------------------------
Monday, May 9, 2011
Daily Thoughts
In the Book of Mormon we're told not to fear the revilings of men, for they will be destroyed like a moth eats a
garment. But the righteousness of the Lord will last forever! Aren't we silly to be afraid of men who will die like grass and yet forget about God who created all things? He will comfort us if we'll allow Him to. 2 Ne. 8: 7-8, 12-13 "Hearken unto me, ye that know righteousness, the people in whose heart I have written my law, fear ye not the reproach of men, neither be ye afraid of their revilings. For the moth shall eat them up like a garment, and the worm shall eat them like wool. But my righteousness shall be forever, and my salvation from generation to generation. I am he; yea, I am he that comforteth you. Behold, who art thou, that thou shouldst be afraid of man, who shall die, and of the son of man, who shall be made like unto grass? And forgettest the Lord thy maker, that hath stretched forth the heavens, and laid the foundations of the earth, and hast feared continually every day, because of the fury of the oppressor, as if he were ready to destroy? And where is the fury of the oppressor?"
In the New Testament we read that people who comdemn other people for doing something that they themselves are also guilty of will not excape the judgment of God. Often it is the case that people judge other people harshly for doing something they they also do. They see the faults of others as if they were looking through a magnifying glass, but fail to recognize their own sins. Romans 2:3 "And thinkest thou this, O man, that judgest them which do such things, and doest the same, that thou shalt escape the judgment of God?"
A verse with a thought booklet tells us that God hears us when we seek Him, and He can deliver us from all our fears. What do we do when we're beset with worries and fears? Do we fret and put ourselves into a tizzy? Or do we turn our problems over to the Lord and allow Him to help and comfort us? Psalms 34:4 "I sought the Lord, and he heard me, and delivered me from all my fears."
--------------------------------------------
garment. But the righteousness of the Lord will last forever! Aren't we silly to be afraid of men who will die like grass and yet forget about God who created all things? He will comfort us if we'll allow Him to. 2 Ne. 8: 7-8, 12-13 "Hearken unto me, ye that know righteousness, the people in whose heart I have written my law, fear ye not the reproach of men, neither be ye afraid of their revilings. For the moth shall eat them up like a garment, and the worm shall eat them like wool. But my righteousness shall be forever, and my salvation from generation to generation. I am he; yea, I am he that comforteth you. Behold, who art thou, that thou shouldst be afraid of man, who shall die, and of the son of man, who shall be made like unto grass? And forgettest the Lord thy maker, that hath stretched forth the heavens, and laid the foundations of the earth, and hast feared continually every day, because of the fury of the oppressor, as if he were ready to destroy? And where is the fury of the oppressor?"
In the New Testament we read that people who comdemn other people for doing something that they themselves are also guilty of will not excape the judgment of God. Often it is the case that people judge other people harshly for doing something they they also do. They see the faults of others as if they were looking through a magnifying glass, but fail to recognize their own sins. Romans 2:3 "And thinkest thou this, O man, that judgest them which do such things, and doest the same, that thou shalt escape the judgment of God?"
A verse with a thought booklet tells us that God hears us when we seek Him, and He can deliver us from all our fears. What do we do when we're beset with worries and fears? Do we fret and put ourselves into a tizzy? Or do we turn our problems over to the Lord and allow Him to help and comfort us? Psalms 34:4 "I sought the Lord, and he heard me, and delivered me from all my fears."
--------------------------------------------
Sunday, May 8, 2011
Daily Thoughts
In the Book of Mormon we're told that the Lord will comfort Zion and gather Israel in the last days. His judgment will be a light to the people. 2 Ne. 8: 3-5 "For the Lord shall comfort Zion, he will comfort all her waste places; and he will make her wilderness like Eden, and her desert like the garden of the Lord. Joy and gladness shall be found therein, thanksgiving and the voice of melody. Hearken unto me, my people; and give ear unto me, O my nation; for a law shall proceed from me, and I will make my judgment to rest for a light for the people. My righteousness is near; my salvation is gone forth, and mine arm shall judge the people. The isles shall wait upon me, and on mine arm shall they trust."
In the New Testament I read a familiar verse in which Paul tells us that he is not ashamed of the gospel of Christ, for it is the power of God unto salvation to everyone who believes. We, likewise, should not be ashamed to stand up for our beliefs. The gospel indeed is the power of God unto salvation. This is good news worth sharing! Romans 1:16 "For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ: for it is the power of God unto salvation to every one that believeth; to the Jew first, and also to the Greek."
Some scriptures with a thought booklet prophesy of the Messiah long before Jesus was born on the earth. They talk about His humiliation and sufferings and how He makes His soul an offering for our sins and makes intercession for our transgressions. With His stripes, we are healed! He paid the price for our sins so we wouldn't have to, if we're willing to have faith in Him and repent. Isaiah 53:1-6 "Who hath believed our report? and to whom is the arm of the Lord revealed? For he shall grow up before him as a tender plant, and as a root out of a dry ground: he hath no form nor comeliness; and when we shall see him, there is no beauty that we should desire him. He is despised and rejected of men; a man of sorrows, and acquainted with grief: and we hid as it were our faces from him; he was despised, and we esteemed him not. Surely he hath borne our griefs, and carried our sorrows: yet we did esteem him stricken, smitten of God, and afflicted. But he was wounded for our transgressions, he was bruised for our iniquities: the chastisement of our peace was upon him; and with his stripes we are healed. All we like sheep have gone astray; we have turned every one to his own way; and the Lord hath laid on him the iniquity of us all."
---------------------------------------
In the New Testament I read a familiar verse in which Paul tells us that he is not ashamed of the gospel of Christ, for it is the power of God unto salvation to everyone who believes. We, likewise, should not be ashamed to stand up for our beliefs. The gospel indeed is the power of God unto salvation. This is good news worth sharing! Romans 1:16 "For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ: for it is the power of God unto salvation to every one that believeth; to the Jew first, and also to the Greek."
Some scriptures with a thought booklet prophesy of the Messiah long before Jesus was born on the earth. They talk about His humiliation and sufferings and how He makes His soul an offering for our sins and makes intercession for our transgressions. With His stripes, we are healed! He paid the price for our sins so we wouldn't have to, if we're willing to have faith in Him and repent. Isaiah 53:1-6 "Who hath believed our report? and to whom is the arm of the Lord revealed? For he shall grow up before him as a tender plant, and as a root out of a dry ground: he hath no form nor comeliness; and when we shall see him, there is no beauty that we should desire him. He is despised and rejected of men; a man of sorrows, and acquainted with grief: and we hid as it were our faces from him; he was despised, and we esteemed him not. Surely he hath borne our griefs, and carried our sorrows: yet we did esteem him stricken, smitten of God, and afflicted. But he was wounded for our transgressions, he was bruised for our iniquities: the chastisement of our peace was upon him; and with his stripes we are healed. All we like sheep have gone astray; we have turned every one to his own way; and the Lord hath laid on him the iniquity of us all."
---------------------------------------
Saturday, May 7, 2011
Daily Thoughts
In the Book of Mormon I read Jacob's prophecies that after those from Jerusalem should be slain and carried away captive, they would return again and the Holy One of Israel would manifest Himself to them in the flesh. They would crucify Him after they hardened their hearts against Him. The judgments of God would come upon them and they would be driven to and fro and afflicted. However the Lord would be merciful to them and they would be gathered again and come to the knowledge of their Redeemer. 2 Ne. 6: 8-11 "And now I, Jacob, would speak somewhat concerning these words. For behold, the Lord has shown me that those who were at Jerusalem, from whence we came, have been slain and carried away captive. Nevertheless, the Lord has shown unto me that they should return again. And he also has shown unto me that the Lord God, the Holy One of Israel, should manifest himself unto them in the flesh; and after he should manifest himself they should scourge him and crucify him, according to the words of the angel who spake it unto me. And after they have hardened their hearts and stiffened their necks against the Holy One of Israel, behold, the judgments of the Holy One of Israel shall come upon them. And the day cometh that they shall be smitten and afflicted. Wherefore, after they are driven to and fro, for thus saith the angel, many shall be afflicted in the flesh, and shall not be suffered to perish, because of the prayers of the faithful; they shall be scattered, and smitten, and hated; nevertheless, the Lord will be merciful unto them, that when they shall come to the knowledge of their Redeemer, they shall be gathered together again to the lands of their inheritance."
In the New Testament I read how Paul quoted Isaiah in his prophecy about people who would hear but not understand and see but not perceive. Their ears would be dull of hearing and their eyes closed because their hearts had waxed gross. They refused to see and hear the gospel and would not understand with their hearts, because they did not want to be converted or healed. What a very sad state to be in! Do we ever hear things preached that we'd really rather not hear? Would we prefer not to be reminded of things we should be doing, nor chastized for things we're doing wrong? If we turn a deaf ear against such teachings, we too are fulfilling this prophecy by Isaiah from so long again. Acts 28:25-27 "And when they agreed not among themselves, they departed, after that Paul had spoken one word, Well spake the Holy Ghost by Esaias the prophet unto our fathers, Saying, Go unto this people, and say, Hearing ye shall hear, and shall not understand; and seeing ye shall see, and not perceive: For the heart of this people is waxed gross, and their ears are dull of hearing, and their eyes have they closed; lest they should see with their eyes, and hear with their ears, and understand with their heart, and should be converted, and I should heal them."
Some scriptures with a thought booklet remind us that Jesus laid down his life for us willingly. No one had the power to take his life from Him. He had power to lay down his life and He had power to take it up again. And He did this for us, because He loves us so much! John 10:17-18 "Therefore doth my Father love me, because I lay down my life, that I might take it again. No man taketh it from me, but I lay it down of myself. I have power to lay it down, and I have power to take it again. This commandment have I received of my Father."
-------------------------------------
In the New Testament I read how Paul quoted Isaiah in his prophecy about people who would hear but not understand and see but not perceive. Their ears would be dull of hearing and their eyes closed because their hearts had waxed gross. They refused to see and hear the gospel and would not understand with their hearts, because they did not want to be converted or healed. What a very sad state to be in! Do we ever hear things preached that we'd really rather not hear? Would we prefer not to be reminded of things we should be doing, nor chastized for things we're doing wrong? If we turn a deaf ear against such teachings, we too are fulfilling this prophecy by Isaiah from so long again. Acts 28:25-27 "And when they agreed not among themselves, they departed, after that Paul had spoken one word, Well spake the Holy Ghost by Esaias the prophet unto our fathers, Saying, Go unto this people, and say, Hearing ye shall hear, and shall not understand; and seeing ye shall see, and not perceive: For the heart of this people is waxed gross, and their ears are dull of hearing, and their eyes have they closed; lest they should see with their eyes, and hear with their ears, and understand with their heart, and should be converted, and I should heal them."
Some scriptures with a thought booklet remind us that Jesus laid down his life for us willingly. No one had the power to take his life from Him. He had power to lay down his life and He had power to take it up again. And He did this for us, because He loves us so much! John 10:17-18 "Therefore doth my Father love me, because I lay down my life, that I might take it again. No man taketh it from me, but I lay it down of myself. I have power to lay it down, and I have power to take it again. This commandment have I received of my Father."
-------------------------------------
Friday, May 6, 2011
Daily Thoughts
In the Book of Mormon I read that Nephi built a temple in the land. 2 Ne. 5: 16 "And I, Nephi, did build a temple; and I did construct it after the manner of the temple of Solomon save it were not built of so many precious things; for they were not to be found upon the land, wherefore, it could not be built like unto Solomon's temple. But the manner of the construction was like unto the temple of Solomon; and the workmanship thereof was exceedingly fine."
In the New Testament I read about the perilous voyage of Paul to Rome. He warned the people not to try to sail because it was too dangerous, but they refused to listen to him. They got into a terrible storm in which their very lives were in peril. However, an angel comforted Paul and told him that no lives would be lost. So after that he had no fear. And indeed, all 266 people on board were spared. When we're traveling through storms of life, we can turn to the Lord for comfort and safety. He keeps His promises. Acts 27:9-25, 41-44 "Now when much time was spent, and when sailing was now dangerous, because the fast was now already past, Paul admonished them, And said unto them, Sirs, I perceive that this voyage will be with hurt and much damage, not only of the lading and ship, but also of our lives. Nevertheless the centurion believed the master and the owner of the ship, more than those things which were spoken by Paul. And because the haven was not commodious to winter in, the more part advised to depart thence also, if by any means they might attain to Phenice, and there to winter; which is an haven of Crete, and lieth toward the south west and north west. And when the south wind blew softly, supposing that they had obtained their purpose, loosing thence, they sailed close by Crete. But not long after there arose against it a tempestuous wind, called Euroclydon. And when the ship was caught, and could not bear up into the wind, we let her drive. And running under a certain island which is called Clauda, we had much work to come by the boat: Which when they had taken up, they used helps, undergirding the ship; and, fearing lest they should fall into the quicksands, strake sail, and so were driven. And we being exceedingly tossed with a tempest, the next day they lightened the ship; And the third day we cast out with our own hands the tackling of the ship. And when neither sun nor stars in many days appeared, and no small tempest lay on us, all hope that we should be saved was then taken away. But after long abstinence Paul stood forth in the midst of them, and said, Sirs, ye should have hearkened unto me, and not have loosed from Crete, and to have gained this harm and loss. And now I exhort you to be of good cheer: for there shall be no loss of any man's life among you, but of the ship. For there stood by me this night the angel of God, whose I am, and whom I serve, Saying, Fear not, Paul; thou must be brought before Cæsar: and, lo, God hath given thee all them that sail with thee. Wherefore, sirs, be of good cheer: for I believe God, that it shall be even as it was told me. And falling into a place where two seas met, they ran the ship aground; and the forepart stuck fast, and remained unmoveable, but the hinder part was broken with the violence of the waves. And the soldiers' counsel was to kill the prisoners, lest any of them should swim out, and escape. But the centurion, willing to save Paul, kept them from their purpose; and commanded that they which could swim should cast themselves first into the sea, and get to land: And the rest, some on boards, and some on broken pieces of the ship. And so it came to pass, that they escaped all safe to land."
Some verses with a thought booklet talk about how Caleb was willing to go and possess the land because he had faith that God will help them win their battle. However, the other people were too afraid to try because they saw the inhabitants of the land as "giants" and too strong for them. When we have God on our side, we can overcome any obstacle. We just need to have faith. Do we sometimes judge ourselves as being too small or too weak for a task that God has given us to do? God is greater than any obstacle that might be in our way. So if we think we're not capable of doing something, we're probably right that we can't do it on our own. But with God's help, we can do anything and everything He's asked us to do. God is greater than any giant in our lives! We just need to trust in Him. Numbers 13:30-33 "And Caleb stilled the people before Moses, and said, Let us go up at once, and possess it; for we are well able to overcome it. But the men that went up with him said, We be not able to go up against the people; for they are stronger than we. And they brought up an evil report of the land which they had searched unto the children of Israel, saying, The land, through which we have gone to search it, is a land that eateth up the inhabitants thereof; and all the people that we saw in it are men of a great stature. And there we saw the giants, the sons of Anak, which come of the giants: and we were in our own sight as grasshoppers, and so we were in their sight."
--------------------------------------------
In the New Testament I read about the perilous voyage of Paul to Rome. He warned the people not to try to sail because it was too dangerous, but they refused to listen to him. They got into a terrible storm in which their very lives were in peril. However, an angel comforted Paul and told him that no lives would be lost. So after that he had no fear. And indeed, all 266 people on board were spared. When we're traveling through storms of life, we can turn to the Lord for comfort and safety. He keeps His promises. Acts 27:9-25, 41-44 "Now when much time was spent, and when sailing was now dangerous, because the fast was now already past, Paul admonished them, And said unto them, Sirs, I perceive that this voyage will be with hurt and much damage, not only of the lading and ship, but also of our lives. Nevertheless the centurion believed the master and the owner of the ship, more than those things which were spoken by Paul. And because the haven was not commodious to winter in, the more part advised to depart thence also, if by any means they might attain to Phenice, and there to winter; which is an haven of Crete, and lieth toward the south west and north west. And when the south wind blew softly, supposing that they had obtained their purpose, loosing thence, they sailed close by Crete. But not long after there arose against it a tempestuous wind, called Euroclydon. And when the ship was caught, and could not bear up into the wind, we let her drive. And running under a certain island which is called Clauda, we had much work to come by the boat: Which when they had taken up, they used helps, undergirding the ship; and, fearing lest they should fall into the quicksands, strake sail, and so were driven. And we being exceedingly tossed with a tempest, the next day they lightened the ship; And the third day we cast out with our own hands the tackling of the ship. And when neither sun nor stars in many days appeared, and no small tempest lay on us, all hope that we should be saved was then taken away. But after long abstinence Paul stood forth in the midst of them, and said, Sirs, ye should have hearkened unto me, and not have loosed from Crete, and to have gained this harm and loss. And now I exhort you to be of good cheer: for there shall be no loss of any man's life among you, but of the ship. For there stood by me this night the angel of God, whose I am, and whom I serve, Saying, Fear not, Paul; thou must be brought before Cæsar: and, lo, God hath given thee all them that sail with thee. Wherefore, sirs, be of good cheer: for I believe God, that it shall be even as it was told me. And falling into a place where two seas met, they ran the ship aground; and the forepart stuck fast, and remained unmoveable, but the hinder part was broken with the violence of the waves. And the soldiers' counsel was to kill the prisoners, lest any of them should swim out, and escape. But the centurion, willing to save Paul, kept them from their purpose; and commanded that they which could swim should cast themselves first into the sea, and get to land: And the rest, some on boards, and some on broken pieces of the ship. And so it came to pass, that they escaped all safe to land."
Some verses with a thought booklet talk about how Caleb was willing to go and possess the land because he had faith that God will help them win their battle. However, the other people were too afraid to try because they saw the inhabitants of the land as "giants" and too strong for them. When we have God on our side, we can overcome any obstacle. We just need to have faith. Do we sometimes judge ourselves as being too small or too weak for a task that God has given us to do? God is greater than any obstacle that might be in our way. So if we think we're not capable of doing something, we're probably right that we can't do it on our own. But with God's help, we can do anything and everything He's asked us to do. God is greater than any giant in our lives! We just need to trust in Him. Numbers 13:30-33 "And Caleb stilled the people before Moses, and said, Let us go up at once, and possess it; for we are well able to overcome it. But the men that went up with him said, We be not able to go up against the people; for they are stronger than we. And they brought up an evil report of the land which they had searched unto the children of Israel, saying, The land, through which we have gone to search it, is a land that eateth up the inhabitants thereof; and all the people that we saw in it are men of a great stature. And there we saw the giants, the sons of Anak, which come of the giants: and we were in our own sight as grasshoppers, and so we were in their sight."
--------------------------------------------
Thursday, May 5, 2011
Daily Thoughts
In the Book of Mormon I read that those who followed Nephi into the wilderness kept the commandments of God
and prospered exceedingly. Nephi brought the records engraven on the plates and also the Liahona with him. 2 Ne. 5: 9-13 "And all those who were with me did take upon them to call themselves the people of Nephi. And we did
observe to keep the judgments, and the statutes, and the commandments of the Lord in all things, according to the
law of Moses. And the Lord was with us; and we did prosper exceedingly; for we did sow seed, and we did reap again in abundance. And we began to raise flocks, and herds, and animals of every kind. And I, Nephi, had also brought the records which were engraven upon the plates of brass; and also the ball, or compass, which was prepared for my father by the hand of the Lord, according to that which is written. And it came to pass that we began to prosper exceedingly, and to multiply in the land."
In the New Testament I read that Paul said he tried to exercise himself to have a conscience void of offence toward God and toward man. I remember Joseph Smith saying something similar. This is something we all need to strive to do. Acts 24: 16 "And herein do I exercise myself, to have always a conscience void of offence toward God, and toward men."
Some scriptures with a thought booklet tell us that the gospel is preached by the power of the spirit and not man's wisdom. Our faith should not stand in the wisdom of men, but in the power of God. The wisdom of the world will come to nought. If people had understood the things of God, they would not have crucified the Lord of glory. 1 Corinthians 2:5-8 "That your faith should not stand in the wisdom of men, but in the power of God. Howbeit we speak wisdom among them that are perfect: yet not the wisdom of this world, nor of the princes of this world, that come to nought: But we speak the wisdom of God in a mystery, even the hidden wisdom, which God ordained before the world unto our glory: Which none of the princes of this world knew: for had they known it, they would not have crucified the Lord of glory."
and prospered exceedingly. Nephi brought the records engraven on the plates and also the Liahona with him. 2 Ne. 5: 9-13 "And all those who were with me did take upon them to call themselves the people of Nephi. And we did
observe to keep the judgments, and the statutes, and the commandments of the Lord in all things, according to the
law of Moses. And the Lord was with us; and we did prosper exceedingly; for we did sow seed, and we did reap again in abundance. And we began to raise flocks, and herds, and animals of every kind. And I, Nephi, had also brought the records which were engraven upon the plates of brass; and also the ball, or compass, which was prepared for my father by the hand of the Lord, according to that which is written. And it came to pass that we began to prosper exceedingly, and to multiply in the land."
In the New Testament I read that Paul said he tried to exercise himself to have a conscience void of offence toward God and toward man. I remember Joseph Smith saying something similar. This is something we all need to strive to do. Acts 24: 16 "And herein do I exercise myself, to have always a conscience void of offence toward God, and toward men."
Some scriptures with a thought booklet tell us that the gospel is preached by the power of the spirit and not man's wisdom. Our faith should not stand in the wisdom of men, but in the power of God. The wisdom of the world will come to nought. If people had understood the things of God, they would not have crucified the Lord of glory. 1 Corinthians 2:5-8 "That your faith should not stand in the wisdom of men, but in the power of God. Howbeit we speak wisdom among them that are perfect: yet not the wisdom of this world, nor of the princes of this world, that come to nought: But we speak the wisdom of God in a mystery, even the hidden wisdom, which God ordained before the world unto our glory: Which none of the princes of this world knew: for had they known it, they would not have crucified the Lord of glory."
Wednesday, May 4, 2011
Daily Thoughts
In the Book of Mormon I read that Nephi's brothers became so angry and hateful towards him that they sought to kill him. The Lord warned him that he would take his family and all those who would go with him and flee into the wilderness for safety. 2 Ne. 5: 1-6 "Behold, it came to pass that I, Nephi, did cry much unto the Lord my God, because of the anger of my brethren. But behold, their anger did increase against me, insomuch that they did seek to take away my life. Yea, they did murmur against me, saying: Our younger brother thinks to rule over us; and we have had much trial because of him; wherefore, now let us slay him, that we may not be afflicted more because of his words. For behold, we will not have him to be our ruler; for it belongs unto us, who are the elder brethren, to rule over this people. Now I do not write upon these plates all the words which they murmured against me. But it sufficeth me to say, that they did seek to take away my life. And it came to pass that the Lord did warn me, that I, Nephi, should depart from them and flee into the wilderness, and all those who would go with me. Wherefore, it came to pass that I, Nephi, did take my family, and also Zoram and his family, and Sam, mine elder brother and his family, and Jacob and Joseph, my younger brethren, and also my sisters, and all those who would go with me. And all those who would go with me were those who believed in the warnings and the revelations of God; wherefore, they did hearken unto my words."
In the New Testament we read about the persecution that Paul suffered. More than 40 men bound themselves with an oath that they would neither eat nor drink until they had succeeded in killing Paul. Acts 23:12-13 "And when it was day, certain of the Jews banded together, and bound themselves under a curse, saying that they would neither eat nor drink till they had killed Paul. And they were more than forty which had made this conspiracy."
A verse with a thought booklet tells us that the Lord is righteous so He loves righteousness. The upright will behold His face. When we're faced with choices to make, we need to decide what is more important--to have the approval of the world, or to have the approval of God. Would we rather set aside worldly wealth and great possessions to leave behind when we die, or to have treasures in heaven? Psalms 11:7 "For the righteous Lord loveth righteousness; his countenance doth behold the upright."
-----------------------------------------
In the New Testament we read about the persecution that Paul suffered. More than 40 men bound themselves with an oath that they would neither eat nor drink until they had succeeded in killing Paul. Acts 23:12-13 "And when it was day, certain of the Jews banded together, and bound themselves under a curse, saying that they would neither eat nor drink till they had killed Paul. And they were more than forty which had made this conspiracy."
A verse with a thought booklet tells us that the Lord is righteous so He loves righteousness. The upright will behold His face. When we're faced with choices to make, we need to decide what is more important--to have the approval of the world, or to have the approval of God. Would we rather set aside worldly wealth and great possessions to leave behind when we die, or to have treasures in heaven? Psalms 11:7 "For the righteous Lord loveth righteousness; his countenance doth behold the upright."
-----------------------------------------
Tuesday, May 3, 2011
Daily Thoughts
In the Book of Mormon I read how Nephi glories in the Lord and said that he would trust in Him forever. He asks some interesting questions: Why should we yield to sin which destroys our peace and afflicts our souls? Why do we allow ourselves to get angry with other people? We need to rejoice in the Lord and always trust in Him. He will answer our prayers and be our Rock. 2 Ne. 4: 26-35 "O then, if I have seen so great things, if the Lord in his condescension unto the children of men hath visited men in so much mercy, why should my heart weep and my soul linger in the valley of sorrow, and my flesh waste away, and my strength slacken, because of mine afflictions? And why should I yield to sin, because of my flesh? Yea, why should I give way to temptations, that the evil one have place in my heart to destroy my peace and afflict my soul? Why am I angry because of mine enemy? Awake, my soul! No longer droop in sin. Rejoice, O my heart, and give place no more for the enemy of my soul. Do not anger again because of mine enemies. Do not slacken my strength because of mine afflictions. Rejoice, O my heart, and cry unto the Lord, and say: O Lord, I will praise thee forever; yea, my soul will rejoice in thee, my God, and the rock of my salvation. O Lord, wilt thou redeem my soul? Wilt thou deliver me out of the hands of mine enemies? Wilt thou make me that I may shake at the appearance of sin? May the gates of hell be shut continually before me, because that my heart is broken and my spirit is contrite! O Lord, wilt thou not shut the gates of thy righteousness before me, that I may walk in the path of the low valley, that I may be strict in the plain road! O Lord, wilt thou encircle me around in the robe of thy righteousness! O Lord, wilt thou make a way for mine escape before mine enemies! Wilt thou make my path straight before me! Wilt thou not place a stumbling block in my way—but that thou wouldst clear my way before me, and hedge not up my way, but the ways of mine enemy. O Lord, I have trusted in thee, and I will trust in thee forever. I will not put my trust in the arm of flesh; for I know that cursed is he that putteth his trust in the arm of flesh. Yea, cursed is he that putteth his trust in man or maketh flesh his arm. Yea, I know that God will give liberally to him that asketh. Yea, my God will give me, if I ask not amiss; therefore I will lift up my voice unto thee; yea, I will cry unto thee, my God, the rock of my righteousness. Behold, my voice shall forever ascend up unto thee, my rock and mine everlasting God. Amen."
In the New Testament I read the story of Paul's conversion to the gospel, as he recounted it. Acts 22:3-16 "I am verily a man which am a Jew, born in Tarsus, a city in Cilicia, yet brought up in this city at the feet of Gamaliel, and taught according to the perfect manner of the law of the fathers, and was zealous toward God, as ye all are this day. And I persecuted this way unto the death, binding and delivering into prisons both men and women. As also the high priest doth bear me witness, and all the estate of the elders: from whom also I received letters unto the brethren, and went to Damascus, to bring them which were there bound unto Jerusalem, for to be punished. And it came to pass, that, as I made my journey, and was come nigh unto Damascus about noon, suddenly there shone from heaven a great light round about me. And I fell unto the ground, and heard a voice saying unto me, Saul, Saul, why persecutest thou me? And I answered, Who art thou, Lord? And he said unto me, I am Jesus of Nazareth, whom thou persecutest. And they that were with me saw indeed the light, and were afraid; but they heard not the voice of him that spake to me. And I said, What shall I do, Lord? And the Lord said unto me, Arise, and go into Damascus; and there it shall be told thee of all things which are appointed for thee to do. And when I could not see for the glory of that light, being led by the hand of them that were with me, I came into Damascus. And one Ananias, a devout man according to the law, having a good report of all the Jews which dwelt there, Came unto me, and stood, and said unto me, Brother Saul, receive thy sight. And the same hour I looked up upon him. And he said, The God of our fathers hath chosen thee, that thou shouldest know his will, and see that Just One, and shouldest hear the voice of his mouth. For thou shalt be his witness unto all men of what thou hast seen and heard. And now why tarriest thou? arise, and be baptized, and wash away thy sins, calling on the name of the Lord."
Some verses with a thought booklet tell us that in order to gain wisdom, knowledge, and understanding, we need to seek after it and ask the Lord for it. We also need to walk uprightly and do what is right. Proverbs 2:1-7 "My son, if thou wilt receive my words, and hide my commandments with thee; So that thou incline thine ear unto wisdom, and apply thine heart to understanding; Yea, if thou criest after knowledge, and liftest up thy voice for understanding; If thou seekest her as silver, and searchest for her as for hid treasures; Then shalt thou understand the fear of the Lord, and find the knowledge of God. For the Lord giveth wisdom: out of his mouth cometh knowledge and understanding. He layeth up sound wisdom for the righteous: he is a buckler to them that walk uprightly."
-------------------------------
In the New Testament I read the story of Paul's conversion to the gospel, as he recounted it. Acts 22:3-16 "I am verily a man which am a Jew, born in Tarsus, a city in Cilicia, yet brought up in this city at the feet of Gamaliel, and taught according to the perfect manner of the law of the fathers, and was zealous toward God, as ye all are this day. And I persecuted this way unto the death, binding and delivering into prisons both men and women. As also the high priest doth bear me witness, and all the estate of the elders: from whom also I received letters unto the brethren, and went to Damascus, to bring them which were there bound unto Jerusalem, for to be punished. And it came to pass, that, as I made my journey, and was come nigh unto Damascus about noon, suddenly there shone from heaven a great light round about me. And I fell unto the ground, and heard a voice saying unto me, Saul, Saul, why persecutest thou me? And I answered, Who art thou, Lord? And he said unto me, I am Jesus of Nazareth, whom thou persecutest. And they that were with me saw indeed the light, and were afraid; but they heard not the voice of him that spake to me. And I said, What shall I do, Lord? And the Lord said unto me, Arise, and go into Damascus; and there it shall be told thee of all things which are appointed for thee to do. And when I could not see for the glory of that light, being led by the hand of them that were with me, I came into Damascus. And one Ananias, a devout man according to the law, having a good report of all the Jews which dwelt there, Came unto me, and stood, and said unto me, Brother Saul, receive thy sight. And the same hour I looked up upon him. And he said, The God of our fathers hath chosen thee, that thou shouldest know his will, and see that Just One, and shouldest hear the voice of his mouth. For thou shalt be his witness unto all men of what thou hast seen and heard. And now why tarriest thou? arise, and be baptized, and wash away thy sins, calling on the name of the Lord."
Some verses with a thought booklet tell us that in order to gain wisdom, knowledge, and understanding, we need to seek after it and ask the Lord for it. We also need to walk uprightly and do what is right. Proverbs 2:1-7 "My son, if thou wilt receive my words, and hide my commandments with thee; So that thou incline thine ear unto wisdom, and apply thine heart to understanding; Yea, if thou criest after knowledge, and liftest up thy voice for understanding; If thou seekest her as silver, and searchest for her as for hid treasures; Then shalt thou understand the fear of the Lord, and find the knowledge of God. For the Lord giveth wisdom: out of his mouth cometh knowledge and understanding. He layeth up sound wisdom for the righteous: he is a buckler to them that walk uprightly."
-------------------------------
Monday, May 2, 2011
Daily Thoughts
In the Book of Mormon I read about how Nephi's soul delighted in the scriptures and the things of the Lord. He continually pondered on them. Do we delight in the scriptures or do we read them out of a sense of duty? And after we've read them do we ponder on them continually throughout the day or do we think, "Well, got that chore done. Now on to other things!" When we truly learn to love the Word of God and delight in pondering on it, our lives will change dramatically! 2 Ne. 4: 15-16 "And upon these I write the things of my soul, and many of the scriptures which are engraven upon the plates of brass. For my soul delighteth in the scriptures, and my heart pondereth them, and writeth them for the learning and the profit of my children. Behold, my soul delighteth in the things of the Lord; and my heart pondereth continually upon the things which I have seen and heard."
In the New Testament I read that it is more blessed to give than to receive and we ought to labor to support the weak, as Jesus taught. Acts 20:35 "I have shewed you all things, how that so labouring ye ought to support the weak, and to remember the words of the Lord Jesus, how he said, It is more blessed to give than to receive."
In some verses with a thought booklet we're told that we preach of Christ and His crucifixion. This is a stumbling block to the Jews and to the Greeks it sounds like foolishness. But to those who will believe, whether Jews or Greeks or whatever, it is the power and wisdom of God. Even though hearing about Jesus Christ may sound like foolishness to the world, when we place our faith on Christ and His Atonement, we are spiritually renewed and receive the hope of eternal life. 1 Corinthians 1:23-24 "But we preach Christ crucified, unto the Jews a stumblingblock, and unto the Greeks foolishness; But unto them which are called, both Jews and Greeks, Christ the power of God, and the wisdom of God."
In the New Testament I read that it is more blessed to give than to receive and we ought to labor to support the weak, as Jesus taught. Acts 20:35 "I have shewed you all things, how that so labouring ye ought to support the weak, and to remember the words of the Lord Jesus, how he said, It is more blessed to give than to receive."
In some verses with a thought booklet we're told that we preach of Christ and His crucifixion. This is a stumbling block to the Jews and to the Greeks it sounds like foolishness. But to those who will believe, whether Jews or Greeks or whatever, it is the power and wisdom of God. Even though hearing about Jesus Christ may sound like foolishness to the world, when we place our faith on Christ and His Atonement, we are spiritually renewed and receive the hope of eternal life. 1 Corinthians 1:23-24 "But we preach Christ crucified, unto the Jews a stumblingblock, and unto the Greeks foolishness; But unto them which are called, both Jews and Greeks, Christ the power of God, and the wisdom of God."
Sunday, May 1, 2011
Today's Daily Thoughts
In the Book of Mormon I read about how Lehi counseled and blessed his children before he died. He told them that if they kept the commandments, they would be blessed and prospered in the land, but if they would not keep the commandments, they'd be cut off from the presence of the Lord. 2 Ne. 4: 3-5, 12 "Wherefore, after my father had made an end of speaking concerning the prophecies of Joseph, he called the children of Laman, his sons, and his daughters, and said unto them: Behold, my sons, and my daughters, who are the sons and the daughters of my first-born, I would that ye should give ear unto my words. For the Lord God hath said that: Inasmuch as ye shall keep my commandments ye shall prosper in the land; and inasmuch as ye will not keep my commandments ye shall be cut off from my presence. But behold, my sons and my daughters, I cannot go down to my grave save I should leave a blessing upon you; for behold, I know that if ye are brought up in the way ye should go ye will not depart from it. And it came to pass after my father, Lehi, had spoken unto all his household, according to the feelings of his heart and the Spirit of the Lord which was in him, he waxed old. And it came to pass that he died, and was buried."
In the New Testament I read about the uproar caused by Paul's missionary efforts. The craftsmen who created idols to worship were very upset at Paul teaching against worshipping gods made with hands because this would disturb their employment. Acts 19:23-28 "And the same time there arose no small stir about that way.
For a certain man named Demetrius, a silversmith, which made silver shrines for Diana, brought no small gain unto the craftsmen; Whom he called together with the workmen of like occupation, and said, Sirs, ye know that by this craft we have our wealth. Moreover ye see and hear, that not alone at Ephesus, but almost throughout all Asia, this Paul hath persuaded and turned away much people, saying that they be no gods, which are made with hands: So that not only this our craft is in danger to be set at nought; but also that the temple of the great goddess Diana should be despised, and her magnificence should be destroyed, whom all Asia and the world worshippeth. And when they heard these sayings, they were full of wrath, and cried out, saying, Great is Diana of the Ephesians."
Some scriptures with a thought booklet remind us to praise God and thank Him for all the blessings that He has given us. When we have an attitude of gratitude, it makes all the difference in the world in how happy we are. When we can appreciate the things around us instead of finding fault, we can find joy in life. This is illustrated in the thought that went with this, written by Andy Clapp from Bigsonville, North Carolina. He said: I had gotten lost int he struggles of daily life. Every morning I awoke with a horrible attitude, dreading at least one portion of the day ahead. On the days that I worked, I could not stand the thought of going in to the office. On the days that I was off, I had to deal with our dog's lack of housetraining and excessive barking. There was something each day that irritated me, and I could not overlook the ongoing annoyances. Finally, I decided to spend an entire day praising God. I prayed the night before in preparation, and the next day I experienced a shift in my life. God revealed so many things that I had overlooked while I was struggling. My eyes caught the beauty of nature. I breathed in the fresh air. I realized anew God's daily provisions of food and shelter. That night, I praised God for the day that He had given me. Our lives are very different when we are consumed with praise. Praise keeps us looking for God rather than focusing on the negative things in our lives. Dear Lord, we want to focus on the positives of life instead of the negatives. Remind us of all the blessings we have to be thankful for each day. Psalms 113: 1-9 "Praise ye the Lord. Praise, O ye servants of the Lord, praise the name of the Lord. Blessed be the name of the Lord from this time forth and for evermore. From the rising of the sun unto the going down of the same the Lord's name is to be praised. The Lord is high above all nations, and his glory above the heavens. Who is like unto the Lord our God, who dwelleth on high, Who humbleth himself to behold the things that are in heaven, and in the earth! He raiseth up the poor out of the dust, and lifteth the needy out of the dunghill; That he may set him with princes, even with the princes of his people. He maketh the barren woman to keep house, and to be a joyful mother of children. Praise ye the Lord."
In the New Testament I read about the uproar caused by Paul's missionary efforts. The craftsmen who created idols to worship were very upset at Paul teaching against worshipping gods made with hands because this would disturb their employment. Acts 19:23-28 "And the same time there arose no small stir about that way.
For a certain man named Demetrius, a silversmith, which made silver shrines for Diana, brought no small gain unto the craftsmen; Whom he called together with the workmen of like occupation, and said, Sirs, ye know that by this craft we have our wealth. Moreover ye see and hear, that not alone at Ephesus, but almost throughout all Asia, this Paul hath persuaded and turned away much people, saying that they be no gods, which are made with hands: So that not only this our craft is in danger to be set at nought; but also that the temple of the great goddess Diana should be despised, and her magnificence should be destroyed, whom all Asia and the world worshippeth. And when they heard these sayings, they were full of wrath, and cried out, saying, Great is Diana of the Ephesians."
Some scriptures with a thought booklet remind us to praise God and thank Him for all the blessings that He has given us. When we have an attitude of gratitude, it makes all the difference in the world in how happy we are. When we can appreciate the things around us instead of finding fault, we can find joy in life. This is illustrated in the thought that went with this, written by Andy Clapp from Bigsonville, North Carolina. He said: I had gotten lost int he struggles of daily life. Every morning I awoke with a horrible attitude, dreading at least one portion of the day ahead. On the days that I worked, I could not stand the thought of going in to the office. On the days that I was off, I had to deal with our dog's lack of housetraining and excessive barking. There was something each day that irritated me, and I could not overlook the ongoing annoyances. Finally, I decided to spend an entire day praising God. I prayed the night before in preparation, and the next day I experienced a shift in my life. God revealed so many things that I had overlooked while I was struggling. My eyes caught the beauty of nature. I breathed in the fresh air. I realized anew God's daily provisions of food and shelter. That night, I praised God for the day that He had given me. Our lives are very different when we are consumed with praise. Praise keeps us looking for God rather than focusing on the negative things in our lives. Dear Lord, we want to focus on the positives of life instead of the negatives. Remind us of all the blessings we have to be thankful for each day. Psalms 113: 1-9 "Praise ye the Lord. Praise, O ye servants of the Lord, praise the name of the Lord. Blessed be the name of the Lord from this time forth and for evermore. From the rising of the sun unto the going down of the same the Lord's name is to be praised. The Lord is high above all nations, and his glory above the heavens. Who is like unto the Lord our God, who dwelleth on high, Who humbleth himself to behold the things that are in heaven, and in the earth! He raiseth up the poor out of the dust, and lifteth the needy out of the dunghill; That he may set him with princes, even with the princes of his people. He maketh the barren woman to keep house, and to be a joyful mother of children. Praise ye the Lord."
Yesterday's Daily Thoughts
Oops! I goofed. Yesterday I mistakenly sent out the Daily Thoughts for Friday again. This was the one meant for yesterday. Sorry!
In the Book of Mormon I read a prophecy about the coming forth of the Book of Mormon and how it, along with the Bible, would be used to confound false doctrine and bring knowledge in the latter days. 2 Ne. 3: 12 "Wherefore, the fruit of thy loins shall write; and the fruit of the loins of Judah shall write; and that which shall be written by the fruit of thy loins, and also that which shall be written by the fruit of the loins of Judah, shall grow together, unto the confounding of false doctrines and laying down of contentions, and establishing peace among the fruit of thy loins, and bringing them to the knowledge of their fathers in the latter days, and also to the knowledge of my covenants, saith the Lord."
In the New Testament I read we are the offspring of God and as such, in Him we live and move and have our being. How silly to worship idols made of gold of silver or that are graven by men. If we're the offspring of God, how could God be made of manmade things? Sons and daughters are like their parents. So it would only make sence that God would look like we do, not a graven image or even like a spirit essence without a body. Acts 17: 28-29 "For in him we live, and move, and have our being; as certain also of your own poets have said, For we are also his offspring. Forasmuch then as we are the offspring of God, we ought not to think that the Godhead is like unto gold, or silver, or stone, graven by art and man's device."
Some verses with a thought booklet explain the importance of being perfectly united in the same mind and same judgment. There should be no divisions among us, and no contentions about doctrine. We should all teach the same thing. 1 Corinthians 1:10-13 "Now I beseech you, brethren, by the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that ye all speak the same thing, and that there be no divisions among you; but that ye be perfectly joined together in the same mind and in the same judgment. For it hath been declared unto me of you, my brethren, by them which are of the house of Chloe, that there are contentions among you. Now this I say, that every one of you saith, I am of Paul; and I of Apollos; and I of Cephas; and I of Christ. Is Christ divided? was Paul crucified for you? or were ye baptized in the name of Paul?"
-----------------------------------------------------
In the Book of Mormon I read a prophecy about the coming forth of the Book of Mormon and how it, along with the Bible, would be used to confound false doctrine and bring knowledge in the latter days. 2 Ne. 3: 12 "Wherefore, the fruit of thy loins shall write; and the fruit of the loins of Judah shall write; and that which shall be written by the fruit of thy loins, and also that which shall be written by the fruit of the loins of Judah, shall grow together, unto the confounding of false doctrines and laying down of contentions, and establishing peace among the fruit of thy loins, and bringing them to the knowledge of their fathers in the latter days, and also to the knowledge of my covenants, saith the Lord."
In the New Testament I read we are the offspring of God and as such, in Him we live and move and have our being. How silly to worship idols made of gold of silver or that are graven by men. If we're the offspring of God, how could God be made of manmade things? Sons and daughters are like their parents. So it would only make sence that God would look like we do, not a graven image or even like a spirit essence without a body. Acts 17: 28-29 "For in him we live, and move, and have our being; as certain also of your own poets have said, For we are also his offspring. Forasmuch then as we are the offspring of God, we ought not to think that the Godhead is like unto gold, or silver, or stone, graven by art and man's device."
Some verses with a thought booklet explain the importance of being perfectly united in the same mind and same judgment. There should be no divisions among us, and no contentions about doctrine. We should all teach the same thing. 1 Corinthians 1:10-13 "Now I beseech you, brethren, by the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that ye all speak the same thing, and that there be no divisions among you; but that ye be perfectly joined together in the same mind and in the same judgment. For it hath been declared unto me of you, my brethren, by them which are of the house of Chloe, that there are contentions among you. Now this I say, that every one of you saith, I am of Paul; and I of Apollos; and I of Cephas; and I of Christ. Is Christ divided? was Paul crucified for you? or were ye baptized in the name of Paul?"
-----------------------------------------------------
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)