Daily Thoughts

In the Book of Mormon I read the admonitions of Jacob calling us to repentance and warning us that if we reject his words and harden our hearts, we will go away into the lake of fire and brimstone. We need to enter in at the strait gate and continue in the way which will lead to eternal life. The choice is ours! Jacob 6: 5-13 "Wherefore, my beloved brethren, I beseech of you in words of soberness that ye would repent, and come with full purpose of heart, and cleave unto God as he cleaveth unto you. And while his arm of mercy is extended towards you in the light of the day, harden not your hearts. Yea, today, if ye will hear his voice, harden not your hearts; for why will ye die? For behold, after ye have been nourished by the good word of God all the day long, will ye bring forth evil fruit, that ye must be hewn down and cast into the fire? Behold, will ye reject these words? Will ye reject the words of the prophets; and will ye reject all the words which have been spoken concerning Christ, after so many have spoken concerning him; and deny the good word of Christ, and the power of God, and the gift of the Holy Ghost, and quench the Holy Spirit, and make a mock of the great plan of redemption, which hath been laid for you? Know ye not that if ye will do these things, that the power of the redemption and the resurrection, which is in Christ, will bring you to stand with shame and awful guilt before the bar of God? And according to the power of justice, for justice cannot be denied, ye must go away into that lake of fire and brimstone, whose flames are unquenchable, and whose smoke ascendeth up forever and ever, which lake of fire and brimstone is endless torment. O then, my beloved brethren, repent ye, and enter in at the strait gate, and continue in the way which is narrow, until ye shall obtain eternal life. O be wise; what can I say more? Finally, I bid you farewell, until I shall meet you before the pleasing bar of God, which bar striketh the wicked with awful dread and fear. Amen."

In the New Testament I read some verses that discuss the importance of faith and mentions some of the people in the scriptures who were able to do what they did because of their faith. Indeed, without faith it is impossible to please the Lord. Hebrews 11:6-13 "But without faith it is impossible to please him: for he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him. By faith Noah, being warned of God of things not seen as yet, moved with fear, prepared an ark to the saving of his house; by the which he condemned the world, and became heir of the righteousness which is by faith. By faith Abraham, when he was called to go out into a place which he should after receive for an inheritance, obeyed; and he went out, not knowing whither he went. By faith he sojourned in the land of promise, as in a strange country, dwelling in tabernacles with Isaac and Jacob, the heirs with him of the same promise: For he looked for a city which hath foundations, whose builder and maker is God. Through faith also Sara herself received strength to conceive seed, and was delivered of a child when she was past age, because she judged him faithful who had promised. Therefore sprang there even of one, and him as good as dead, so many as the stars of the sky in multitude, and as the sand which is by the sea shore innumerable. These all died in faith, not having received the promises, but having seen them afar off, and were persuaded of them, and embraced them, and confessed that they were strangers and pilgrims on the earth."

Some scriptures with a thought booklet point out that God created us and that He pronounced everything that He made as good--in fact, as very good! So we are very good! God doesn't make junk! Genesis 1:27, 31 "So God created man in his own image, in the image of God created he him; male and female created he them. And God saw every thing that he had made, and, behold, it was very good. And the evening and the morning were the sixth day."

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Daily Thoughts

In the Book of Mormon I read about how the vineyard was nourished and pruned and cared for in the hopes that it would bear good fruit. But when the Lord of the vineyard came to taste of the fruit, none of it was good, which grieved him very much. Are we sometimes like this vineyard? The Lord nourishes us with tender care, but we don't produce good fruit. I'm sure that when this occurs, it grieves His heart. He doesn't want to lose us! Jacob 5: 27, 31-32, 41, 46-47 "But behold, the servant said unto him: Let us prune it, and dig about it, and nourish it a little longer, that perhaps it may bring forth good fruit unto thee, that thou canst lay it up against the season. And it came to pass that the Lord of the vineyard did taste of the fruit, every sort according to its number. And the Lord of the vineyard said: Behold, this long time have we nourished this tree, and I have laid up unto myself against the season much fruit. But behold, this time it hath brought forth much fruit, and there is none of it which is good. And behold, there are all kinds of bad fruit; and it profiteth me nothing, notwithstanding all our labor; and now it grieveth me that I should lose this tree. And it came to pass that the Lord of the vineyard wept, and said unto the servant: What could I have done more for my vineyard? And now, behold, notwithstanding all the care which we have taken of my vineyard, the trees thereof have become corrupted, that they bring forth no good fruit; and these I had hoped to preserve, to have laid up fruit thereof against the season, unto mine own self. But, behold, they have become like unto the wild olive-tree, and they are of no worth but to be hewn down and cast into the fire; and it grieveth me that I should lose them. But what could I have done more in my vineyard? Have I slackened mine hand, that I have not nourished it? Nay, I have nourished it, and I have digged about it, and I have pruned it, and I have dunged it; and I have stretched forth mine hand almost all the day long, and the end draweth nigh. And it grieveth me that I should hew down all the trees of my vineyard, and cast them into the fire that they should be burned. Who is it that has corrupted my vineyard?"

In the New Testament I read that Jesus Christ offered His sacrifice for our sins and then sat down on the right hand of God. Hebrews 10: 10-12 "By the which will we are sanctified through the offering of the body of Jesus Christ once for all. And every priest standeth daily ministering and offering oftentimes the same sacrifices, which can never take away sins: But this man, after he had offered one sacrifice for sins for ever, sat down on the right hand of God;"

Some verses with a thought booklet tell us that Jesus told the man with a sick child that all things were possible to those who believe. The man's response was that he believed, but asked Jesus to help his unbelief. Indeed, miracles happen to those who have faith. But sometimes we need the Lord to help us with our unbelief. It's not that we don't want to belive. It's just that sometimes we have a hard time believing. Sometimes it's all we can do to pray "Help me with my lack of faith." But He will help us and miracles can and do occur! Mark 9:23-24 "Jesus said unto him, If thou canst believe, all things are possible to him that believeth. And straightway the father of the child cried out, and said with tears, Lord, I believe; help thou mine unbelief."



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Daily Thoughts

In the Book of Mormon we're told to seek counsel from the Lord, who is full of wisdom, rather than counseling the Lord ourselves. When we pray, do we tell the Lord what we want, or do we seek to know His will? Jacob 4: 10 "Wherefore, brethren, seek not to counsel the Lord, but to take counsel from his hand. For behold, ye yourselves know that he counseleth in wisdom, and in justice, and in great mercy, over all his works."


In the New Testament we read that Christ will be merciful to the unrighteousness, and will forgive their sins and remember them no more. What a wonderful thing that we can repent of our sins and the Lord won't remember them anymore! Hebrews 8:12 "For I will be merciful to their unrighteousness, and their sins and their iniquities will I remember no more."

A verse with a thought booklet tells us that if we keep the cammandments, we'll abide in Christ's love, just as He abides in His Father's love. John 15:10 "If ye keep my commandments, ye shall abide in my blove; even as I have kept my Father's commandments, and abide in his love."


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Daily Thoughts

In the Book of Mormon I read that if we're pure in heart and look unto to the Lord with faith and firmness of mind, praying to Him, He'll console us in our afflictions. We need to feast upon the Word of God and His love. Jacob 3: 1-2 "But behold, I, Jacob, would speak unto you that are pure in heart. Look unto God with firmness of mind, and pray unto him with exceeding faith, and he will console you in your afflictions, and he will plead your cause, and send down justice upon those who seek your destruction. O all ye that are pure in heart, lift up your heads and receive the pleasing word of God, and feast upon his love; for ye may, if your minds are firm, forever."

In the New Testament we read that it is impossible for God to lie and we can be consoled in knowing that we can flea to Him for refuge. We can lay hold upon this hope, which is sure and steadfast. Hebrews 6:18-19 "That by two immutable things, in which it was impossible for God to lie, we might have a strong consolation, who have fled for refuge to lay hold upon the hope set before us: Which hope we have as an anchor of the soul, both sure and stedfast, and which entereth into that within the veil;"

Some verses with a thought booklet talk about how Thomas doubted the resurrection of Jesus Christ until he actually saw Him and was able to touch the nailprints in His hands and put his hand into His side. Jesusw told him he was blessed for believing, but those who can believe without seeing are even more blessed. Even though we have not seen Jesus, do we have faith in Him and know that He lives? One thing of note is how kind and loving Jesus was with Thomas, even when he showed doubts. Instead of scolding him, He invited him to do exactly what he said he'd need to do in order to believe. And then he gently told him to stop doubting and believe. Jesus understood Thomas' doubts and He understands our questions as well. But rather than admonishing us, He invites us to rediscover Him in ways to reassure us. John 20:24-29 "But Thomas, one of the twelve, called Didymus, was not with them when Jesus came. The other disciples therefore said unto him, We have seen the Lord. But he said unto them, Except I shall see in his hands the print of the nails, and put my finger into the print of the nails, and thrust my hand into his side, I will not believe. And after eight days again his disciples were within, and Thomas with them: then came Jesus, the doors being shut, and stood in the midst, and said, Peace be unto you. Then saith he to Thomas, Reach hither thy finger, and behold my hands; and reach hither thy hand, and thrust it into my side: and be not faithless, but believing. And Thomas answered and said unto him, My Lord and my God. Jesus saith unto him, Thomas, because thou hast seen me, thou hast believed: blessed are they that have not seen, and yet have believed."




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Daily Thoughts

In the Book of Mormon I read that it is a great sin to look down on other people who have less than we do and be prideful our our wealth. Such pride will destroy our souls. We need to think of others like unto ourselves and only seek for riches with the intent to do good and help other people. Jacob 2: 13-19 "And the hand of providence hath smiled upon you most pleasingly, that you have obtained many riches; and because some of you have obtained more abundantly than that of your brethren ye are lifted up in the pride of your hearts, and wear stiff necks and high heads because of the costliness of your apparel, and persecute your brethren because ye suppose that ye are better than they. And now, my brethren, do ye suppose that God justifieth you in this thing? Behold, I say unto you, Nay. But he condemneth you, and if ye persist in these things his judgments must speedily come unto you. O that he would show you that he can pierce you, and with one glance of his eye he can smite you to the dust! O that he would rid you from this iniquity and abomination. And, O that ye would listen unto the word of his commands, and let not this pride of your hearts destroy your souls! Think of your brethren like unto yourselves, and be familiar with all and free with your substance, that they may be rich like unto you. But before ye seek for riches, seek ye for the kingdom of God. And after ye have obtained a hope in Christ ye shall obtain riches, if ye seek them; and ye will seek them for the intent to do good—to clothe the naked, and to feed the hungry, and to liberate the captive, and administer relief to the sick and the afflicted."

In the New Testament we read that Christ was touched with the feeling of our infirmities and was tempted in all points just like we are, but was still without sin. There is no temptation we can go through that Jesus was not also tempted with, but He remained steadfast and perfect. Hebrews 4:15 "For we have not an high priest which cannot be touched with the feeling of our infirmities; but was in all points tempted like as we are, yet without sin."

Some verses with a thought booklet tell us that keeping the commandments and obeying the law will help us have a long life and give us peace. The commandments are for our benefit. Sin will not bring us happiness nor peace. Proverbs 3:1-2 "My son, forget not my law; but let thine heart keep my commandments:For length of days, and long life, and peace, shall they add to thee."


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Daily Thoughts

In the Book of Mormon I read that Jacob labored diligently with the people, trying to persuade them to come unto Christ and partake of the goodness of God. He did what he could to teach them to believe in Christ and fulfill what his brother Nephi had commanded him to do. Jacob 1: 7-8 "Wherefore we labored diligently among our people, that we might persuade them to come unto Christ, and partake of the goodness of God, that they might enter into his rest, lest by any means he should swear in his wrath they should not enter in, as in the provocation in the days of temptation while the children of Israel were in the wilderness. Wherefore, we would to God that we could persuade all men not to rebel against God, to provoke him to anger, but that all men would believe in Christ, and view his death, and suffer his cross and bear the shame of the world; wherefore, I, Jacob, take it upon me to fulfil the commandment of my brother Nephi."

In the New Testament we read that Jesus suffered every temptation so he is able to succour us when we are tempted. He knows what we're going through! He understands. There is no temptation we could be tempted with that He wasn't also tempted with. But He resisted them all, and with His help, we can too. Hebrews 2:18 "For in that he himself hath suffered being tempted, he is able to succour them that are tempted."

Some verses with a thought booklet tell us that as far as it possible, we should live peaceably with all men. That's a lot easier to do with some men than others, but we need to do the best we can with ALL men. We need to be honest with everyone and not retaliate when people are evil toward us. Romans 12:17-18 "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."

Daily Thoughts

In the Book of Mormon I read that many people harden their hearts against the Holy Spirit so that it has no place in them, and they cast away the Word of God as a thing of naught. We need to be careful that we are not guilty of these things. 2 Ne. 33: 2 "But behold, there are many that harden their hearts against the Holy Spirit, that it hath no place in them; wherefore, they cast many things away which are written and esteem them as things of naught."

In the New Testament I read that we need to deny ourselves worldly lusts and ungodliness, and live righteously. Because of the atonement of Jesus Christ, we can be purified and become His peculiar people, full of good works, and we can look forward with blessed hope to the glorious appearing of our Savior Jesus Christ. Titus 2:11-14 "For the grace of God that bringeth salvation hath appeared to all men, Teaching us that, denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, we should live soberly, righteously, and godly, in this present world; Looking for that blessed hope, and the glorious appearing of the great God and our Saviour Jesus Christ; Who gave himself for us, that he might redeem us from all iniquity, and purify unto himself a peculiar people, zealous of good works."

Some verses with a thought booklet describe an amazing scene where a valley full of dry bones came to life as flesh again covered the bones and breath returned to them. I would imagine this would be a small taste of what will happen when the dead are resurrected. Everyone who has ever died will live again! Ezekiel 37:1-14 "The hand of the Lord was upon me, and carried me out in the spirit of the Lord, and set me down in the midst of the valley which was full of bones, And caused me to pass by them round about: and, behold, there were very many in the open valley; and, lo, they were very dry. And he said unto me, Son of man, can these bones live? And I answered, O Lord God, thou knowest. Again he said unto me, Prophesy upon these bones, and say unto them, O ye dry bones, hear the word of the Lord. Thus saith the Lord God unto these bones; Behold, I will cause breath to enter into you, and ye shall live: And I will lay sinews upon you, and will bring up flesh upon you, and cover you with skin, and put breath in you, and ye shall live; and ye shall know that I am the Lord. So I prophesied as I was commanded: and as I prophesied, there was a noise, and behold a shaking, and the bones came together, bone to his bone. And when I beheld, lo, the sinews and the flesh came up upon them, and the skin covered them above: but there was no breath in them. Then said he unto me, Prophesy unto the wind, prophesy, son of man, and say to the wind, Thus saith the Lord God; Come from the four winds, O breath, and breathe upon these slain, that they may live.
So I prophesied as he commanded me, and the breath came into them, and they lived, and stood up upon their feet, an exceeding great army. Then he said unto me, Son of man, these bones are the whole house of Israel: behold, they say, Our bones are dried, and our hope is lost: we are cut off for our parts. Therefore prophesy and say unto them, Thus saith the Lord God; Behold, O my people, I will open your graves, and cause you to come up out of your graves, and bring you into the land of Israel. And ye shall know that I am the Lord, when I have opened your graves, O my people, and brought you up out of your graves, And shall put my spirit in you, and ye shall live, and I shall place you in your own land: then shall ye know that I the Lord have spoken it, and performed it, saith the Lord."


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Daily Thoughts

In the Book of Mormon I read that the devil teaches us that we should not pray, but it's very important that we do pray always. We should ignore Satan when we don't feel like praying. 2 Ne. 32: 8-9 "And now, my beloved brethren, I perceive that ye ponder still in your hearts; and it grieveth me that I must speak concerning this thing. For if ye would hearken unto the Spirit which teacheth a man to pray ye would know that ye must pray; for the evil spirit teacheth not a man to pray, but teacheth him that he must not pray. But behold, I say unto you that ye must pray always, and not faint; that ye must not perform any thing unto the Lord save in the first place ye shall pray unto the Father in the name of Christ, that he will consecrate thy performance unto thee, that thy performance may be for the welfare of thy soul."

In the New Testament I read the words of Paul, saying he had fought a good fight and finished his course, having kept the faith. And now he expected to receive a great reward from the Lord, the righteous judge. Likewise, if we continue faithful and endure to the end, we will be rewarded with a crown of righteousness. 2 Timothy 4:6-8 "For I am now ready to be offered, and the time of my departure is at hand. I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith: Henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, shall give me at that day: and not to me only, but unto all them also that love his appearing."

In a verse with a thought booklet we're told that our mortal trials are nothing when compared to eternal glory. They are but a small moment. 2 Corinthians 4:17 "For our light affliction, which is but for a moment, worketh for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory;"

Daily Thoughts

In the Book of Mormon we're told that unless we endure to the end, we cannot be saved. But if we press forward with a steadfastness in Christ, feasting upon the word of Christ and enduring to the end, we will have eternal life. 2 Ne. 31: 16, 20 "And now, my beloved brethren, I know by this that unless a man shall endure to the end, in following the example of the Son of the living God, he cannot be saved. Wherefore, ye must press forward with a steadfastness in Christ, having a perfect brightness of hope, and a love of God and of all men. Wherefore, if ye shall press forward, feasting upon the word of Christ, and endure to the end, behold, thus saith the Father: Ye shall have eternal life."

In the New Testament we read about the wickedness that would exist in the latter days--men would be selfish, proud, disobedient, unthankful, traitors, ever learning but never able to come to a knowledge of the truth. Sounds like a good description of today's world. 2 Timothy 3:1-7 "This know also, that in the last days perilous times shall come. For men shall be lovers of their own selves, covetous, boasters, proud, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, unthankful, unholy, Without natural affection, trucebreakers, false accusers, incontinent, fierce, despisers of those that are good, Traitors, heady, highminded, lovers of pleasures more than lovers of God;
Having a form of godliness, but denying the power thereof: from such turn away. For of this sort are they which creep into houses, and lead captive silly women laden with sins, led away with divers lusts, Ever learning, and never able to come to the knowledge of the truth."

Some verses with a thought booklet tell the story of the martyrdom of Stephen. Evil people all down through the ages have killed the prophets. They did not want to hear what they had to say and wanted to shut them up. In this case, the people stopped up their ears so they wouldn't have to listen to Stephen. But even as he was being stoned to death, he was asking the Lord to forgive those who were killiing him. What an example of forgiveness! Acts 7:51-60 "Ye stiffnecked and uncircumcised in heart and ears, ye do always resist the Holy Ghost: as your fathers did, so do ye. Which of the prophets have not your fathers persecuted? and they have slain them which shewed before of the coming of the Just One; of whom ye have been now the betrayers and murderers: Who have received the law by the disposition of angels, and have not kept it. When they heard these things, they were cut to the heart, and they gnashed on him with their teeth. But he, being full of the Holy Ghost, looked up stedfastly into heaven, and saw the glory of God, and Jesus standing on the right hand of God, And said, Behold, I see the heavens opened, and the Son of man standing on the right hand of God. Then they cried out with a loud voice, and stopped their ears, and ran upon him with one accord, And cast him out of the city, and stoned him: and the witnesses laid down their clothes at a young man's feet, whose name was Saul. And they stoned Stephen, calling upon God, and saying, Lord Jesus, receive my spirit. And he kneeled down, and cried with a loud voice, Lord, lay not this sin to their charge. And when he had said this, he fell asleep."

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Daily Thoughts

In the Book of Mormon we read that it was necessary that Christ be baptized to fulfill all righteousness. Now if it was necessary that He be baptized, even though He was without sin, how much more important is it for us to be baptized? 2 Ne. 31: 4-5 "Wherefore, I would that ye should remember that I have spoken unto you concerning that prophet which the Lord showed unto me, that should baptize the Lamb of God, which should take away the sins of the world. And now, if the Lamb of God, he being holy, should have need to be baptized by water, to fulfil all righteousness, O then, how much more need have we, being unholy, to be baptized, yea, even by water!"

In the New Testament we read that God doesn't give us a spirit of fear, but of power, love and a sound mind. So when we're feeling fearful, we can know that that is not coming from God. We can turn to Him for strength and help in time of trouble. Faith casts out fear. 2 Timotny 1:7 "For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind."

A verse with a thought booklet tells us that the Lord lead the Israelites with a pillar of cloud by day and pillar of fire by night. These provided landmarkts to people traveling in unfamiliar territory. Likewise, when we are in unfamiliar situations--perhaps a new job or relationship, or a challenging situation where we're not sure which way to turn, we can look to the Lord for guidance and direction. Prayer and scripture study can provide spiritual landmarks to show us the way, just like the pillars of clouds and fire guided the ancient Israelites on their journey. Exodus 13:21 "And the Lord went before them by day in a pillar of a cloud, to lead them the way; and by night in a pillar of fire, to give them light; to go by day and night:"

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Daily Thoughts

In the Book of Mormon we read that the time will speedily come when the wicked will be destroyed by fire but the righetous will be spared.  Now is the time to repent!  2 Ne. 30: 10 "For the time speedily cometh that the Lord God shall cause a great division among the people, and the wicked will he destroy; and he will spare his people, yea, even if it so be that he must destroy the wicked by fire."

In the New Testament I read that the love of money is the root of all evil.  We need to be content with what we have.  If we have food and clothing, we have much to be grateful for.  We bring nothing into this world and we'll take nothing out of it.  So setting our hearts on the riches of the world will become a snare which will drown us in destruction.  1 Timothy 6:7-10 "For we brought nothing into this world, and it is certain we can carry nothing out. And having food and raiment let us be therewith content. But they that will be rich fall into temptation and a snare, and into many foolish and hurtful lusts, which drown men in destruction and perdition. For the love of money is the root of all evil: which while some coveted after, they have erred from the faith, and pierced themselves through with many sorrows."

Some scriptures with a thought booklet talk about Jesus as the Good Shepherd who lays down His life for His sheep.  He willingly gave His life for our sake, because He loves us so much!  John 10:11-18 "I am the good shepherd: the good shepherd giveth his life for the sheep. But he that is an hireling, and not the shepherd, whose own the sheep are not, seeth the wolf coming, and leaveth the sheep, and fleeth: and the wolf catcheth them, and scattereth the sheep. The hireling fleeth, because he is an hireling, and careth not for the sheep. I am the good shepherd, and know my sheep, and am known of mine. As the Father knoweth me, even so know I the Father: and I lay down my life for the sheep. And other sheep I have, which are not of this fold: them also I must bring, and they shall hear my voice; and there shall be one fold, and one shepherd. 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."

Daily Thoughts

In the Book of Mormon we read the foolishness of people who think that because they have a Bible, they have enough of the Word of God.  The Book of Mormon is actually an added witness of Christ and shows that God is an impartial God who speaks to more than one nation.  2 Ne. 29: 6-10 "Thou fool, that shall say: A Bible, we have got a Bible, and we need no more Bible. Have ye obtained a Bible save it were by the Jews? Know ye not that there are more nations than one? Know ye not that I, the Lord your God, have created all men, and that I remember those who are upon the isles of the sea; and that I rule in the heavens above and in the earth beneath; and I bring forth my word unto the children of men, yea, even upon all the nations of the earth? Wherefore murmur ye, because that ye shall receive more of my word? Know ye not that the testimony of two nations is a witness unto you that I am God, that I remember one nation like unto another? Wherefore, I speak the same words unto one nation like unto another. And when the two nations shall run together the testimony of the two nations shall run together also. And I do this that I may prove unto many that I am the same yesterday, today, and forever; and that I speak forth my words according to mine own pleasure. And because that I have spoken one word ye need not suppose that I cannot speak another; for my work is not yet finished; neither shall it be until the end of man, neither from that time henceforth and forever. Wherefore, because that ye have a Bible ye need not suppose that it contains all my words; neither need ye suppose that I have not caused more to be written."

In the New Testament I read Paul's description of latter-day apostasy that would occur.  He talked about how people would depart from the faith, give heed to doctrines of devils, and speak lies in hypocrisy.  1 Timothy 4:1-2 "Now the Spirit speaketh expressly, that in the latter times some shall depart from the faith, giving heed to seducing spirits, and doctrines of devils; Speaking lies in hypocrisy; having their conscience seared with a hot iron;"

A verse with a thought booklet tells us to reverence the Lord and depart from evil, instead of thinking we know it all and depending on our own wisdom.  Proverbs 3:7 "Be not wise in thine own eyes: fear the Lord, and depart from evil."

Daily Thoughts

In the Book of Mormon we read about the foolish false doctrines that the devil likes to spread. He loves to stir people up to anger against that which is good. He'll lull them away into carnal security, telling them all is well, or that they don't need any more of the word of God because they have enough already. We need to stop putting our trust in man and rely on the Holy Ghost. 2 Ne. 28: 19-31 "For the kingdom of the devil must shake, and they which belong to it must needs be stirred up unto repentance, or the devil will grasp them with his everlasting chains, and they be stirred up to anger, and perish; For behold, at that day shall he rage in the hearts of the children of men, and stir them up to anger against that which is good. And others will he pacify, and lull them away into carnal security, that they will say: All is well in Zion; yea, Zion prospereth, all is well—and thus the devil cheateth their souls, and leadeth them away carefully down to hell. And behold, others he flattereth away, and telleth them there is no hell; and he saith unto them: I am no devil, for there is none—and thus he whispereth in their ears, until he grasps them with his awful chains, from whence there is no deliverance. Yea, they are grasped with death, and hell; and death, and hell, and the devil, and all that have been seized therewith must stand before the throne of God, and be judged according to their works, from whence they must go into the place prepared for them, even a lake of fire and brimstone, which is endless torment. Therefore, wo be unto him that is at ease in Zion! Wo be unto him that crieth: All is well! Yea, wo be unto him that hearkeneth unto the precepts of men, and denieth the power of God, and the gift of the Holy Ghost! Yea, wo be unto him that saith: We have received, and we need no more! And in fine, wo unto all those who tremble, and are angry because of the truth of God! For behold, he that is built upon the rock receiveth it with gladness; and he that is built upon a sandy foundation trembleth lest he shall fall. Wo be unto him that shall say: We have received the word of God, and we need no more of the word of God, for we have enough! For behold, thus saith the Lord God: I will give unto the children of men line upon line, precept upon precept, here a little and there a little; and blessed are those who hearken unto my precepts, and lend an ear unto my counsel, for they shall learn wisdom; for unto him that receiveth I will give more; and from them that shall say, We have enough, from them shall be taken away even that which they have. Cursed is he that putteth his trust in man, or maketh flesh his arm, or shall hearken unto the precepts of men, save their precepts shall be given by the power of the Holy Ghost."

In the New Testament we read the Jesus Christ came into the world to save sinners, which includes every one of us. 1 Timothy 1:15 "This is a faithful saying, and worthy of all acceptation, that Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners; of whom I am chief."

Some verses with a thought booklet tell us that we should not let sin rule us, nor should be let our lusts reign over us and gain cominion over us. Rather, we should yield ourselves to God and become insturmnets of His righteousness. Romans 6:11-14 "Likewise reckon ye also yourselves to be dead indeed unto sin, but alive unto God through Jesus Christ our Lord. Let not sin therefore reign in your mortal body, that ye should obey it in the lusts thereof. Neither yield ye your members as instruments of unrighteousness unto sin: but yield yourselves unto God, as those that are alive from the dead, and your members as instruments of righteousness unto God. For sin shall not have dominion over you: for ye are not under the law, but under grace."

Daily Thoughts

In the Book of Mormon we read about the awful state of the proud and wicked. Wo unto them for they shall be thrust down to hell! Those are pretty strong words! They preach false doctrines and try to pervert the right way of the Lord. They revile against the word of God and say it is of no worth. However, if they repent of their wickedness, they will not be destroyed. 2 Ne. 28: 14-17 "They wear stiff necks and high heads; yea, and because of pride, and wickedness, and abominations, and whoredoms, they have all gone astray save it be a few, who are the humble followers of Christ; nevertheless, they are led, that in many instances they do err because they are taught by the precepts of men. O the wise, and the learned, and the rich, that are puffed up in the pride of their hearts, and all those who preach false doctrines, and all those who commit whoredoms, and pervert the right way of the Lord, wo, wo, wo be unto them, saith the Lord God Almighty, for they shall be thrust down to hell! Wo unto them that turn aside the just for a thing of naught and revile against that which is good, and say that it is of no worth! For the day shall come that the Lord God will speedily visit the inhabitants of the earth; and in that day that they are fully ripe in iniquity they shall perish. But behold, if the inhabitants of the earth shall repent of their wickedness and abominations they shall not be destroyed, saith the Lord of Hosts."


In the New Testament we're told to "rejoice evermore." So being joyful is actually something we're commanded to do in the scriptures--and not just during good times or when things are going well, but evermore. And how are we supposed to do that? How are we supposed to find joy in life even when going through trials and tribulations? Perhaps the next verse gives us a key to that. We're told to pray without ceasing. Perhaps continually turning to our Heavenly Father in prayer is what will bring us joy, even during difficult times. 1 Thessalonians 5:16-17 "Rejoice evermore. Pray without ceasing."

Some verses with a thought booklet shows Jesus teaching his disciples that even though princes exercise dominion and authority over others, we should instead seek to serve and minister to those aornd us. We need to follow the example of our Savior who came not to be ministered unto, but to give His life for us. Matthew 20:25-28 "But Jesus called them unto him, and said, Ye know that the princes of the Gentiles exercise dominion over them, and they that are great exercise authority upon them. But it shall not be so among you: but whosoever will be great among you, let him be your minister; And whosoever will be chief among you, let him be your servant: Even as the Son of man came not to be ministered unto, but to minister, and to give his life a ransom for many."


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Daily Thoughts

In the Book of Mormon we read about the false churches that would be built up in the last days and the false doctrines that would be preached--vain and foolish things like that miracles have ceased and that God will justify in committing a little sin. People would be lifted up in the pride of their hearts. 2 Ne. 28: 3-12 "For it shall come to pass in that day that the churches which are built up, and not unto the Lord, when the one shall say unto the other: Behold, I, I am the Lord's; and the others shall say: I, I am the Lord's; and thus shall every one say that hath built up churches, and not unto the Lord— And they shall contend one with another; and their priests shall contend one with another, and they shall teach with their learning, and deny the Holy Ghost, which giveth utterance. And they deny the power of God, the Holy One of Israel; and they say unto the people: Hearken unto us, and hear ye our precept; for behold there is no God today, for the Lord and the Redeemer hath done his work, and he hath given his power unto men; Behold, hearken ye unto my precept; if they shall say there is a miracle wrought by the hand of the Lord, believe it not; for this day he is not a God of miracles; he hath done his work. Yea, and there shall be many which shall say: Eat, drink, and be merry, for tomorrow we die; and it shall be well with us. And there shall also be many which shall say: Eat, drink, and be merry; nevertheless, fear God—he will justify in committing a little sin; yea, lie a little, take the advantage of one because of his words, dig a pit for thy neighbor; there is no harm in this; and do all these things, for tomorrow we die; and if it so be that we are guilty, God will beat us with a few stripes, and at last we shall be saved in the kingdom of God. Yea, and there shall be many which shall teach after this manner, false and vain and foolish doctrines, and shall be puffed up in their hearts, and shall seek deep to hide their counsels from the Lord; and their works shall be in the dark. And the blood of the saints shall cry from the ground against them. Yea, they have all gone out of the way; they have become corrupted. Because of pride, and because of false teachers, and false doctrine, their churches have become corrupted, and their churches are lifted up; because of pride they are puffed up."

In the New Testament we read that whoever despises his fellowmen also despises God. We don't need people to tell us that we need to have brotherly love one toward another--God Himself taught us to love one another. Love is the most important commandment! 1 Thessalonians 4:8-9 "He therefore that despiseth, despiseth not man, but God, who hath also given unto us his holy Spirit. But as touching brotherly love ye need not that I write unto you: for ye yourselves are taught of God to love one another."

A verse with a thought booklet tells us that the dead will also have an opportunity to hear the voice of the Lord, and those who are willing to listen shall live. Not everyone has an opportunity to learn about the gospel in this life, but all will be given that opportunity in the next. This is why temple work is so important. John 5:25 "Verily, verily, I say unto you, The hour is coming, and now is, when the dead shall hear the voice of the Son of God: and they that hear shall live."
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Daily Thoughts

In the Book of Mormon I read that the deaf would hear the words of the Book of Mormon, and the blind would see out of the darkness. I believe this refers to spiritual deafness and spiritual blindness. Elder Bruce R. McConkie explained that spiritual deafness describes the state of those who are lacking in spirituality, whose spirit ears are not attuned to the whisperings of the still small voice of the Spirit. Similarly, spiritual blindness is the identifying mark which singles out those who are unable to see the hand of God manifest in the affairs of men. Such have unbelief and blindness of heart, they are hard in their hearts and blind in their minds. 2 Ne. 27: 29 "And in that day shall the deaf hear the words of the book, and the eyes of the blind shall see out of obscurity and out of darkness."

In the New Testament I read about how true ministers of the gospel preach in a godly manner, with love and gentleness, and realizing the great trust that God has placed in them to speak the true gospel and labor among His people. 1 Thessalonians 2:4-9 "But as we were allowed of God to be put in trust with the gospel, even so we speak; not as pleasing men, but God, which trieth our hearts. For neither at any time used we flattering words, as ye know, nor a cloke of covetousness; God is witness: Nor of men sought we glory, neither of you, nor yet of others, when we might have been burdensome, as the apostles of Christ. But we were gentle among you, even as a nurse cherisheth her children: So being affectionately desirous of you, we were willing to have imparted unto you, not the gospel of God only, but also our own souls, because ye were dear unto us. For ye remember, brethren, our labour and travail: for labouring night and day, because we would not be chargeable unto any of you, we preached unto you the gospel of God."

A verse from a thought booklet talks about how Jesus died on the cross, saying "It is finished" and gave up the ghost. He was not a quitter, He finished what Heavenly Father had sent Him to do, and saw it through to the end. Do we endure to the end and finish what we start out to do, finishing the tasks the Lord has given us? John 19:30 "When Jesus therefore had received the vinegar, he said, It is finished: and he bowed his head, and gave up the ghost."


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Daily Thoughts

In the Book of Mormon I read that the Lord would proceed to do a marvelous work and a wonder in a day when people would draw near to Him with their mouths but their hearts would be far from Him. This would cause the "wisdom" of the "wise" to perish and wo would be unto those who sought to hide from the counsel of the Lord. 2 Ne. 27: 25-27 "Forasmuch as this people draw near unto me with their mouth, and with their lips do honor me, but have removed their hearts far from me, and their fear towards me is taught by the precepts of men— Therefore, I will proceed to do a marvelous work among this people, yea, a marvelous work and a wonder, for the wisdom of their wise and learned shall perish, and the understanding of their prudent shall be hid. And wo unto them that seek deep to hide their counsel from the Lord! And their works are in the dark; and they say: Who seeth us, and who knoweth us? And they also say: Surely, your turning of things upside down shall be esteemed as the potter's clay. But behold, I will show unto them, saith the Lord of Hosts, that I know all their works. For shall the work say of him that made it, he made me not? Or shall the thing framed say of him that framed it, he had no understanding?"

In the New Testament I read that we need to put off all anger, wrath, lies, and filthy communications out of our mouths. Instead we need to be kind, humble, meek, and forgiving of one another, and above all be charitable. We need to let the Word of Christ dwell with us and teach other people. We need to do all things in the name of the Lord and give thanks to Him. Colossians 3: 8-17 ""But now ye also put off all these; anger, wrath, malice, blasphemy, filthy communication out of your mouth. Lie not one to another, seeing that ye have put off the old man with his deeds; And have put on the new man, which is renewed in knowledge after the image of him that created him: Where there is neither Greek nor Jew, circumcision nor uncircumcision, Barbarian, Scythian, bond nor free: but Christ is all, and in all. Put on therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, bowels of mercies, kindness, humbleness of mind, meekness, longsuffering; Forbearing one another, and forgiving one another, if any man have a quarrel against any: even as Christ forgave you, so also do ye. And above all these things put on charity, which is the bond of perfectness. And let the peace of God rule in your hearts, to the which also ye are called in one body; and be ye thankful. Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom; teaching and admonishing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord. And whatsoever ye do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God and the Father by him."

Some verses with a thought booklet talk about Jesus being the vine, His disciples being the branches, and the Father being the husbandman. If we are true disciples of Christ, we will bear much fruit and our prayers will be answered. But if we don't abide in Him, we will not be able to bear fruit and will be cast into the fire and burned. Heavenly Father will prune His vineyard, cutting off the branches that bear no fruit, so that what is left will be more fruitful. The thought that went with this, written by L. Ariel Marcus from Greensboro, North Carolina, talks about this pruning. She says: Have you ever seen a tree that has recently been pruned? It looks pitiful. It is nakes--no fruit, no leaves, only bare branches bearing scars where limbs have been removed. Pruning is a process that all fruit-bearing trees must go through. Only the branches that have fruit-bearing potential are pruned; diseased and infected branches are cut off because they could inhitib the tree's growth. The pruniing branches are cut off because they could inhibit the tree's growth. The pruning process encourages a strong structure so that the branches can withstand severe weather. When a tree is properly pruned, it will produce more fruit and live longer. If you have been slectged for spiritual pruning, know that our Father, the Master Gardener, sees your potential. His keen eye has determined what must be removed from your life so that you can bear more fruit, be stronger, and live longer. Trust the Gardener. Trust His techniques, His judgment, and His decisions. When the spring comes again, your fruit will bloom and you will again be bountiful. Dear God, I submit to your pruning proces so that I can produce even more fruit for your glory and be a blessing to your people. John 5:1-8 "I am the true vine, and my Father is the husbandman. Every branch in me that beareth not fruit he taketh away: and every branch that beareth fruit, he purgeth it, that it may bring forth more fruit. Now ye are clean through the word which I have spoken unto you. Abide in me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit of itself, except it abide in the vine; no more can ye, except ye abide in me. I am the vine, ye are the branches: He that abideth in me, and I in him, the same bringeth forth much fruit: for without me ye can do nothing. If a man abide not in me, he is cast forth as a branch, and is withered; and men gather them, and cast them into the fire, and they are burned. If ye abide in me, and my words abide in you, ye shall ask what ye will, and it shall be done unto you. Herein is my Father glorified, that ye bear much fruit; so shall ye be my disciples."

Daily Thoughts

In the Book of Mormon I read that the Lord is a God of miracles and is the same yesterday, today, and forever. He works according to men's faith. Just as He performed miracles in days of old that we can read about in scriptures, He will provide miracles in our lives today. If we aren't seeing miracles in our lives, it isn't because God has changed, it's because we're lacking in faith. 2 Ne. 27: 23 "For behold, I am God; and I am a God of miracles; and I will show unto the world that I am the same yesterday, today, and forever; and I work not among the children of men save it be according to their faith."

In the New Testament I read that we need to set our affections on and seek for things above, rather than on earthly things. Colossians 3:1-2 "If ye then be risen with Christ, seek those things which are above, where Christ sitteth on the right hand of God. Set your affection on things above, not on things on the earth."

A verse with a thought booklet tell us that faith will shield us from the fierty darts of the wicked. Faith is actually a protection to us! Ephesians 6:16 "Above all, taking the shield of faith, wherewith ye shall be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked."


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Daily Thoughts

In the Book of Mormon is says that in the last days, darkness and apostasy would cover the earth. In fact, is says that the people would be drunken with iniquity. Sounds like a pretty good description of the world today. 2 Ne. 27: 1 "But, behold, in the last days, or in the days of the Gentiles—yea, behold all the nations of the Gentiles and also the Jews, both those who shall come upon this land and those who shall be upon other lands, yea, even upon all the lands of the earth, behold, they will be drunken with iniquity and all manner of abominations—"

In the New Testament I read that when we are baptized, we are buried under the water and then rise up from it, symbolizing the burial of our old lives of sin, and the birth of a new life where we have been forgiven of our sins and are new creatures in Christ. Colossians 2:12-13 "Buried with him in baptism, wherein also ye are risen with him through the faith of the operation of God, who hath raised him from the dead.And you, being dead in your sins and the uncircumcision of your flesh, hath he quickened together with him, having forgiven you all trespasses;"


A verse with a thought booklet tells us that loving God means keeping His commandments, which are not grievious. Every commandment we've been given is for our benefit and growth and we will be blessed as we obey. Indeed, if we love God we will WANT to obey His commandments. 1 John 5:3 "For this is the love of God, that we keep his commandments: and his commandments are not grievous."


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Daily Thoughts

In the Book of Mormon I read some of the commandments we've been commanded to obey--not stealing, not envying, not taking the name of the Lord in vain. Whoever does these things will perish. But God invites all to come unto Him and does not deny anyone who will repent and obey His commandments. All are alike unto God, no matter what their race, gender, or social status is. 2 Ne. 26: 32-33 "And again, the Lord God hath commanded that men should not murder; that they should not lie; that they should not steal; that they should not take the name of the Lord their God in vain; that they should not envy; that they should not have malice; that they should not contend one with another; that they should not commit whoredoms; and that they should do none of these things; for whoso doeth them shall perish. For none of these iniquities come of the Lord; for he doeth that which is good among the children of men; and he doeth nothing save it be plain unto the children of men; and he inviteth them all to come unto him and partake of his goodness; and he denieth none that come unto him, black and white, bond and free, male and female; and he remembereth the heathen; and all are alike unto God, both Jew and Gentile."

In the New Testament I read that through the Atonement of Christ, we can be reconciled to God and presented to Him holy and unreproveable, if we will but continue grounded in the faith and not allow ourselves to be moved away from the hope of the gospel. Colossians 1:21-23 "And you, that were sometime alienated and enemies in your mind by wicked works, yet now hath he reconciled In the body of his flesh through death, to present you holy and unblameable and unreproveable in his sight: If ye continue in the faith grounded and settled, and be not moved away from the hope of the gospel, which ye have heard, and which was preached to every creature which is under heaven; whereof I Paul am made a minister;"


A verse in the New Testament is one we'd be wise to commit to memory so we can recall it during times of trial. If we allow Christ to strenthen us, there is nothing we can't accomplish! Philippians 4:13 "I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me."



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Daily Thoughts

In the Book of Mormon I read that all men are priviledged to partake of the goodness of God, and no one is forbidden. Salvation is offered to anyone who will repent. 2 Ne. 26: 27-28 "Hath he commanded any that they should not partake of his salvation? Behold I say unto you, Nay; but he hath given it free for all men; and he hath commanded his people that they should persuade all men to repentance. Behold, hath the Lord commanded any that they should not partake of his goodness? Behold I say unto you, Nay; but all men are privileged the one like unto the other, and none are forbidden."

In the New Testament I read that we should not be undly concerned about anything, but rather give thanks to God and make our requests known in prayer. If we do this, we'll feel peace in our hearts and minds through Jesus Christ. It does is no good to be overly worried over everything--we need to turn our problems over to the Lord in prayer and trust in Him. Philippians 4:6-7 "Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God. And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus."

Some scriptures with a thought booklet tell us that God is our rock, He is perfect, and we can trust in Him. He gives us strength, holds us up, and enlarges our feet under us so we don't slip and fall. Psalms 18:30-36 "As for God, his way is perfect: the word of the Lord is tried: he is a buckler to all those that trust in him. For who is God save the Lord? or who is a rock save our God? It is God that girdeth me with strength, and maketh my way perfect. He maketh my feet like hinds' feet, and setteth me upon my high places. He teacheth my hands to war, so that a bow of steel is broken by mine arms. Thou hast also given me the shield of thy salvation: and thy right hand hath holden me up, and thy gentleness hath made me great. Thou hast enlarged my steps under me, that my feet did not slip."


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Daily Thoughts

In the Book of Mormon we're told that those who are lifted up in pride stumble. And false churches can provide stumbling blocks when they preach their own wisdom and discount the miracles of God, seeking after gain. 2 Ne. 26: 20 "And the Gentiles are lifted up in the pride of their eyes, and have stumbled, because of the greatness of their stumbling block, that they have built up many churches; nevertheless, they put down the power and miracles of God, and preach up unto themselves their own wisdom and their own learning, that they may get gain and grind upon the face of the poor."

In the New Testament we're admonished to not be so selfish. Instead of only looking out for ourselves and things that concern us, we need to also look on the things that concern others. Philippians 2:4 "Look not every man on his own things, but every man also on the things of others."

Some verses with a thought booklet tell us that if we seek, we'll find and if we knock, it will be opened unto us. Prayers truly are answered! They're not always answered the way we want, but they are always answered in the way that's best for us. Matthew 7:7-8 "Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you: For every one that asketh receiveth; and he that seeketh findeth; and to him that knocketh it shall be opened."

Daily Thoughts

In the Book of Mormon I read about how the wicked would be destroyed but the rightous who hearken to the prophets in spite of persecution will not perish. 2 Ne. 26: 4-8 "Wherefore, all those who are proud, and that do wickedly, the day that cometh shall burn them up, saith the Lord of Hosts, for they shall be as stubble. And they that kill the prophets, and the saints, the depths of the earth shall swallow them up, saith the Lord of Hosts; and mountains shall cover them, and whirlwinds shall carry them away, and buildings shall fall upon them and crush them to pieces and grind them to powder. And they shall be visited with thunderings, and lightnings, and earthquakes, and all manner of destructions, for the fire of the anger of the Lord shall be kindled against them, and they shall be as stubble, and the day that cometh shall consume them, saith the Lord of Hosts. O the pain, and the anguish of my soul for the loss of the slain of my people! For I, Nephi, have seen it, and it well nigh consumeth me before the presence of the Lord; but I must cry unto my God: Thy ways are just. But behold, the righteous that hearken unto the words of the prophets, and destroy them not, but look forward unto Christ with steadfastness for the signs which are given, notwithstanding all persecution—behold, they are they which shall not perish."

In the New Testament I read about how we need to take upon us the whole armor of God, so that we can withstand the fiery darts of Satan. We need to protect ourselves against temptations, and we need to pray always. Ephesians 6:13-18 "Wherefore take unto you the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand. Stand therefore, having your loins girt about with truth, and having on the breastplate of righteousness; And your feet shod with the preparation of the gospel of peace; Above all, taking the shield of faith, wherewith ye shall be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked. And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God: Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, and watching thereunto with all perseverance and supplication for all saints;"

Some verses with a thought booklet tell us the importance of love. Loving God and loving our fellowmen are the two most important commandments of all. If we keep these, we're not far from the Kingdom of God. Mark 12:28-34 "And one of the scribes came, and having heard them reasoning together, and perceiving that he had answered them well, asked him, Which is the first commandment of all? And Jesus answered him, The first of all the commandments is, Hear, O Israel; The Lord our God is one Lord: And thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind, and with all thy strength: this is the first commandment. And the second is like, namely this, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself. There is none other commandment greater than these. And the scribe said unto him, Well, Master, thou hast said the truth: for there is one God; and there is none other but he: And to love him with all the heart, and with all the understanding, and with all the soul, and with all the strength, and to love his neighbour as himself, is more than all whole burnt offerings and sacrifices. And when Jesus saw that he answered discreetly, he said unto him, Thou art not far from the kingdom of God. And no man after that durst ask him any question."

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Daily Thoughts

In the Book of Mormon I read a verse that is centered on Jesus Christ--we talk of Him, we rejoice in Him, we preach of Him. We look to Him for the remission of our sins. He should be the center of everything we do. 2 Ne. 25: 26 "And we talk of Christ, we rejoice in Christ, we preach of Christ, we prophesy of Christ, and we write according to our prophecies, that our children may know to what source they may look for a remission of their sins."

In the New Testament we read about the importance of the words we speak. We should not allow any corrupt communication to come out of our mouths--no bitterness, malice, anger, or evil speaking. Instead, we should be kind, forgiving, tenderhearted and loving toward each other and use our words to edify and lift other people. Our words are important--they can build other up or tear others down. When we use our words to hurt other people, the Spirit is grieved. Let's make sure what we say is a blessing to those we come in contact with. Ephesians 4:29-32 "Let no corrupt communication proceed out of your mouth, but that which is good to the use of edifying, that it may minister grace unto the hearers. And grieve not the holy Spirit of God, whereby ye are sealed unto the day of redemption. Let all bitterness, and wrath, and anger, and clamour, and evil speaking, be put away from you, with all malice: And be ye kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God for Christ's sake hath forgiven you."

A verse with a thought booklet tells us that even when we get old and have gray hair, the Lord will sustain us and carry us. He has made us and he will deliver us. We can trust in the Lord to be with us all the days of our lives. Isaiah 46:4 "And even to your old age I am he; and even to hoar hairs will I carry you: I have made, and I will bear; even I will carry, and will deliver you."


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Daily Thoughts

In the Book of Mormon I read about how the Lord delivered the children of Israel up out of the land of Egypt. After they were bitten by poisenous serpents, they only had to look at the brass serpent to be healed. The Lord gave Moses power to smite the rock and water would come forth. There is no other name given but Jesus Christ by which man may be saved. 2 Ne. 25: 20 "And now, my brethren, I have spoken plainly that ye cannot err. And as the Lord God liveth that brought Israel up out of the land of Egypt, and gave unto Moses power that he should heal the nations after they had been bitten by the poisonous serpents, if they would cast their eyes unto the serpent which he did raise up before them, and also gave him power that he should smite the rock and the water should come forth; yea, behold I say unto you, that as these things are true, and as the Lord God liveth, there is none other name given under heaven save it be this Jesus Christ, of which I have spoken, whereby man can be saved."

In the New Testament I read about the great love that God has for us, and how rich in mercy He is toward us. Ephesians 2:4 "But God, who is rich in mercy, for his great love wherewith he loved us,"

A verse from a thought booklet tells how Jesus healed a man. Jesus asked him to stretch forth his hand, and it was restored like his other hand. If we're in need of healing--physically, emotionally, or spiritually--we can turn to the Lord for healing. But we need to "stretch forth our hand" or reach out to Him. We can do this by calling upon Him in prayer. Matthew 12:13 "Then saith he to the man, Stretch forth thine hand. And he stretched it forth; and it was restored whole, like as the other."
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Daily Thoughts

In the Book of Mormon I read that Lord would proceed to do a marvelous work and a wonder among the children of men. He would bring forth words to convince the people that Jesus is the Christ. 2 Ne. 25: 17-18 "And the Lord will set his hand again the second time to restore his people from their lost and fallen state. Wherefore, he will proceed to do a marvelous work and a wonder among the children of men. Wherefore, he shall bring forth his words unto them, which words shall judge them at the last day, for they shall be given them for the purpose of convincing them of the true Messiah, who was rejected by them; and unto the convincing of them that they need not look forward any more for a Messiah to come, for there should not any come, save it should be a false Messiah which should deceive the people; for there is save one Messiah spoken of by the prophets, and that Messiah is he who should be rejected of the Jews."

In the New Testament we read that God will not be mocked--we sow what we reap, and we'll be rewarded or punished accordingly. We should not be weary in well doing because we'll reap everlasting life if we continue faithful. We need to take every opportunity to do good to all men. Galatians 6:7-10 "Be not deceived; God is not mocked: for whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap. For he that soweth to his flesh shall of the flesh reap corruption; but he that soweth to the Spirit shall of the Spirit reap life everlasting. And let us not be weary in well doing: for in due season we shall reap, if we faint not. As we have therefore opportunity, let us do good unto all men, especially unto them who are of the household of faith."

A verse with a thought booklet reminds us to seek first the Kingdom of God and His righteousness, and the other things we need will be added unto us. I've found this to be so true in my own life. If I put God first, other things seem to fall into place. If I pay tithing first, I seem to have sufficient money for what I need. If I put prayer and scripture study first in my day, the other things I have to do seem to get accomplished better. If I keep the Sabbath Day holy, I seem to accomplish more the other six days of the week than I would have by working seven. If we're in doubt about what our priorities should be, we need to remember to always put God and His commandments first in our lives, and things will work out better for us in the end. Matthew 6:33 "But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you."

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Daily Thoughts

In the Book of Mormon I read that people would reject Jesus because of their iniquity and the hardness of their hearts. They would crucify Him but He would rise from the dead after three days. Those who believe on Him will be saved. 2 Ne. 25: 12-13 "But, behold, they shall have wars, and rumors of wars; and when the day cometh that the Only Begotten of the Father, yea, even the Father of heaven and of earth, shall manifest himself unto them in the flesh, behold, they will reject him, because of their iniquities, and the hardness of their hearts, and the stiffness of their necks. Behold, they will crucify him; and after he is laid in a sepulchre for the space of three days he shall rise from the dead, with healing in his wings; and all those who shall believe on his name shall be saved in the kingdom of God. Wherefore, my soul delighteth to prophesy concerning him, for I have seen his day, and my heart doth magnify his holy name."

In the New Testament we're told to bear one another's burdens. Do we do what we can to lighten the loads of others, and help them when they're in need? Galatians 6:2 "Bear ye one another's burdens, and so fulfil the law of Christ."

A verse with a thought booklet reminds us that even though men judge us by outward appearances, the Lord looks at our hearts. How do we see other people? Can we look behind shabby clothes to see a loving, concerned person? Can we look beyond a foreign accent or a different colored skin to see a brother or sister--a fellow child of God? If we truly saw other people the way the Lord saw them, we'd be filled with love and compassion. 1 Samurl 16:7 "But the Lord said unto Samuel, Look not on his countenance, or on the height of his stature; because I have refused him: for the Lord seeth not as man seeth; for man looketh on the outward appearance, but the Lord looketh on the heart."
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Daily Thoughts

In the Book of Mormon, Nephi tells us that he delights in the words of Isaiah who spoke many things which can be difficult to understand. However, he says Isaiah's words are plain to those who are filled with the Spirit of prophecy. I've always had trouble understanding Isaiah, but realize that I need to seek help from the Lord and try to be atuned to the Spirit so that I can understand better. Not an easy task! But there is much of value in Isaiah's words and it's important to try to understand what he's saying. 2 Ne. 25: 1-5 "Now I, Nephi, do speak somewhat concerning the words which I have written, which have been spoken by the mouth of Isaiah. For behold, Isaiah spake many things which were hard for many of my people to understand; for they know not concerning the manner of prophesying among the Jews. For I, Nephi, have not taught them many things concerning the manner of the Jews; for their works were works of darkness, and their doings were doings of abominations. Wherefore, I write unto my people, unto all those that shall receive hereafter these things which I write, that they may know the judgments of God, that they come upon all nations, according to the word which he hath spoken. Wherefore, hearken, O my people, which are of the house of Israel, and give ear unto my words; for because the words of Isaiah are not plain unto you, nevertheless they are plain unto all those that are filled with the spirit of prophecy. But I give unto you a prophecy, according to the spirit which is in me; wherefore I shall prophesy according to the plainness which hath been with me from the time that I came out from Jerusalem with my father; for behold, my soul delighteth in plainness unto my people, that they may learn. Yea, and my soul delighteth in the words of Isaiah, for I came out from Jerusalem, and mine eyes hath beheld the things of the Jews, and I know that the Jews do understand the things of the prophets, and there is none other people that understand the things which were spoken unto the Jews like unto them, save it be that they are taught after the manner of the things of the Jews."

In the New Testament we read that when we are baptized, we put on Christ. It doesn't matter if we're Jew or Gentile, male or female, bond or free--we're all one in Christ. Galatians 3:27-28 "For as many of you as have been baptized into Christ have put on Christ. There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither bond nor free, there is neither male nor female: for ye are all one in Christ Jesus."

Some verses with a thought booklet seemed to speak words I needed to hear, as my mind has been on many troubling things that have caused me to worry. I needed a reminder that only one thing is needful--to sit at Jesus' feet and listen to His words. While reading this scripture, try replacing the words "Martha, Martha" with your own name. Luke 10:41-42 "And Jesus answered and said unto her, Martha, Martha, thou art careful and troubled about many things: But one thing is needful: and Mary hath chosen that good part, which shall not be taken away from her."
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Daily Thoughts

In the New Testament I read that the gospel is not of man, but of God. And we are taught it by revelation from God. This is why we need to have the Spirit with us if we are to teach the gospel. But I certify you, brethren, that the gospel which was preached of me is not after man. For I neither received it of man, neither was I taught it, but by the revelation of Jesus Christ."

A verse in a thought booklet says we should delight in the commandments and love them. Do we do this? Do we look upon commandments as restrictions we hate and wish we could disregard them? Or do we look upon commandments as things the Lord has instructed us to do because they're for our best good and will make us happy? It's like the story of the man who resented the seatbelt law and hated how it restricted him, but grudgingly buckled up because he was tired of paying fines for breaking the law. Then one day he was in an accidcent where his car rolled several times and his life was saved because he had his seatbelt on. Suddenly he realized that the law was for his protection and best good, and he no longer resented it. We need to look on the commandments this way--knowing they're there for our best good and to protect us. Then we can truly learn to love the commandments and delight in them. Psalms 119:47 "And I will delight myself in thy commandments, which I have loved."

Daily Thoughts

In the New Testament I read that sometimes the Lord gives us and infirmities so that we can triumph over them and become stronger. Apparently, Paul had a "thorn in the flesh" that he prayed three times for the Lord to remove. But the Lord did not see fit to do so, saying that his strength could be made perfect in weakness. Sometimes the Lord does heal us and take away our afflictions--but sometimes it's for our own best good that we endure and allow our infirmities to make us stronger. 2 Corinthians 12:7-10 "And lest I should be exalted above measure through the abundance of the revelations, there was given to me a thorn in the flesh, the messenger of Satan to buffet me, lest I should be exalted above measure. For this thing I besought the Lord thrice, that it might depart from me. And he said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness. Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me. Therefore I take pleasure in infirmities, in reproaches, in necessities, in persecutions, in distresses for Christ's sake: for when I am weak, then am I strong."

A verse with a thought booklet tells us that while Jesus was hanging on the cross, He asked His Father to forgive those who were crucifying Him. When we have trouble forgiving other people we need to ask ourselves if what they have done is anywhere near as bad as what those people were doing to Jesus--crucifying Him when He had done nothing to deserve it. The people we're called on to forgive have probably not done anything near as bad to us as what those people did to Jesus, in yet He forgave them. We need to follow His example and freely forgive those who have wronged us. Then said Jesus, Father, forgive them; for they know not what they do. And they parted his raiment, and cast lots."