Daily Thoughts

In the Book of Mormon I read that we need to take upon us the name of Christ and retain it always on our hearts. We need to be steadfast and immovable, always abounding in good works, and we will receive eternal life. Mosiah 5:10-15 "And now it shall come to pass, that whosoever shall not take upon him the name of Christ must be called by some other name; therefore, he findeth himself on the left hand of God. And I would that ye should remember also, that this is the name that I said I should give unto you that never should be blotted out, except it be through transgression; therefore, take heed that ye do not transgress, that the name be not blotted out of your hearts. I say unto you, I would that ye should remember to retain the name written always in your hearts, that ye are not found on the left hand of God, but that ye hear and know the voice by which ye shall be called, and also, the name by which he shall call you. For how knoweth a man the master whom he has not served, and who is a stranger unto him, and is far from the thoughts and intents of his heart? And again, doth a man take an ass which belongeth to his neighbor, and keep him? I say unto you, Nay; he will not even suffer that he shall feed among his flocks, but will drive him away, and cast him out. I say unto you, that even so shall it be among you if ye know not the name by which ye are called. Therefore, I would that ye should be steadfast and immovable, always abounding in good works, that Christ, the Lord God Omnipotent, may seal you his, that you may be brought to heaven, that ye may have everlasting salvation and eternal life, through the wisdom, and power, and justice, and mercy of him who created all things, in heaven and in earth, who is God above all. Amen."

In the Old Testament we read the fulfillment of what the Lord said He would do in sending a flood upon the earth. All flesh that breathed died and only those who were aboard the ark were spared. Genesis 7:11-24 "In the six hundredth year of Noah's life, in the second month, the seventeenth day of the month, the same day were all the fountains of the great deep broken up, and the windows of heaven were opened. And the rain was upon the earth forty days and forty nights. In the selfsame day entered Noah, and Shem, and Ham, and Japheth, the sons of Noah, and Noah's wife, and the three wives of his sons with them, into the ark; They, and every beast after his kind, and all the cattle after their kind, and every creeping thing that creepeth upon the earth after his kind, and every fowl after his kind, every bird of every sort. And they went in unto Noah into the ark, two and two of all flesh, wherein is the breath of life. And they that went in, went in male and female of all flesh, as God had commanded him: and the Lord shut him in. And the flood was forty days upon the earth; and the waters increased, and bare up the ark, and it was lift up above the earth. And the waters prevailed, and were increased greatly upon the earth; and the ark went upon the face of the waters. And the waters prevailed exceedingly upon the earth; and all the high hills, that were under the whole heaven, were covered. Fifteen cubits upward did the waters prevail; and the mountains were covered. And all flesh died that moved upon the earth, both of fowl, and of cattle, and of beast, and of every creeping thing that creepeth upon the earth, and every man: All in whose nostrils was the breath of life, of all that was in the dry land, died. And every living substance was destroyed which was upon the face of the ground, both man, and cattle, and the creeping things, and the fowl of the heaven; and they were destroyed from the earth: and Noah only remained alive, and they that were with him in the ark. And the waters prevailed upon the earth an hundred and fifty days."

A verse with a thought booklet tells us to cast our cares on the Lord and He will sustain us. He won't let the righteous fall. We can trust in the Lord, even during difficult times. Psalm 55:22 "Cast thy burden upon the Lord, and he shall sustain thee: he shall never suffer the righteous to be moved."


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Daily Thoughts

In the Book of Mormon I read that we should give freely to those in need--feeding the poor, clothing the naked, visiting the sick. If we only have enough money for our own needs from day to day and don't have any to give to the poor, but we know we would give if we had it to give, we are held guiltless. But if this is not what is in our hearts, we are condemned. Mosiah 4: 24-26 "And again, I say unto the poor, ye who have not and yet have sufficient, that ye remain from day to day; I mean all you who deny the beggar, because ye have not; I would that ye say in your hearts that: I give not because I have not, but if I had I would give. And now, if ye say this in your hearts ye remain guiltless, otherwise ye are condemned; and your condemnation is just for ye covet that which ye have not received. And now, for the sake of these things which I have spoken unto you—that is, for the sake of retaining a remission of your sins from day to day, that ye may walk guiltless before God—I would that ye should impart of your substance to the poor, every man according to that which he hath, such as feeding the hungry, clothing the naked, visiting the sick and administering to their relief, both spiritually and temporally, according to their wants."

In the Old Testament I read that the world was filled with violence and wickedness so the Lord decided to destroy it. However, He commanded Noah to build an ark so that he and his family, and two of each kind of animal, would be saved from the floods that would come. Noah obeyed all that God commanded him to do. There is safety in obeying what the Lord tells us to do. Genesis 6:12-14, 17-22 "And God looked upon the earth, and, behold, it was corrupt; for all flesh had corrupted his way upon the earth. And God said unto Noah, The end of all flesh is come before me; for the earth is filled with violence through them; and, behold, I will destroy them with the earth. Make thee an ark of gopher wood; rooms shalt thou make in the ark, and shalt pitch it within and without with pitch. And, behold, I, even I, do bring a flood of waters upon the earth, to destroy all flesh, wherein is the breath of life, from under heaven; and every thing that is in the earth shall die. But with thee will I establish my covenant; and thou shalt come into the ark, thou, and thy sons, and thy wife, and thy sons' wives with thee. And of every living thing of all flesh, two of every sort shalt thou bring into the ark, to keep them alive with thee; they shall be male and female. Of fowls after their kind, and of cattle after their kind, of every creeping thing of the earth after his kind, two of every sort shall come unto thee, to keep them alive. And take thou unto thee of all food that is eaten, and thou shalt gather it to thee; and it shall be for food for thee, and for them. Thus did Noah; according to all that God commanded him, so did he."

In a verse with a thought booklet we're reminded that the Lord doesn't judge by outward appearances, but rather sees our heart. Do we often judge people by what they look like? Do we hesitate to say hello to someone merely because of their appearance? Do we neglect to try to be a missionary to someone because they "look" like they'd never accept the gospel? Do we look down on someone simply because they're overweight or of a different race or culture than we are? Some of the most unlikely looking people might have hearts of gold, which we could see if we tried to keep an open mind about them and see them the way the Lord does. 1 Samuel 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."

Daily Thoughts

In the Book of Mormon I read that we should love and serve one another and be willing to give to those in need. We should not have a mind to injure one another, but leave peacefully. We should teach our children not to fight and quarrel with each other because contention is of the devil and when we engage in such activities we are serving the devil. Mosiah 4:13-16 "And ye will not have a mind to injure one another, but to live peaceably, and to render to every man according to that which is his due. And ye will not suffer your children that they go hungry, or naked; neither will ye suffer that they transgress the laws of God, and fight and quarrel one with another, and serve the devil, who is the master of sin, or who is the evil spirit which hath been spoken of by our fathers, he being an enemy to all righteousness.But ye will teach them to walk in the ways of truth and soberness; ye will teach them to love one another, and to serve one another. And also, ye yourselves will succor those that stand in need of your succor; ye will administer of your substance unto him that standeth in need; and ye will not suffer that the beggar putteth up his petition to you in vain, and turn him out to perish."

In the Old Testament we read about the great wickedness of the people and how the Lord was grieved in His heart because of them. He decided that they needed to be destroyed. However, Noah was righteous and found grace in the eyes of the Lord. Genesis 6:5-9 "And God saw that the wickedness of man was great in the earth, and that every imagination of the thoughts of his heart was only evil continually. And it repented the Lord that he had made man on the earth, and it grieved him at his heart. And the Lord said, I will destroy man whom I have created from the face of the earth; both man, and beast, and the creeping thing, and the fowls of the air; for it repenteth me that I have made them. But Noah found grace in the eyes of the Lord. These are the generations of Noah: Noah was a just man and perfect in his generations, and Noah walked with God."

A verse with a thought booklet tells us not to be anxious about anything, but with thanksgiving present our petitions to God. In other words, instead of worrying and trying to solve our problems on our own, we need to turn them over to God and let Him take care of them. The thought that went with this, written by Lynn Karidis from Farmington Hills, Michigan says: It was the most anxiety-producing class I ever took. Though I attended every sessiona and did more homeowrk than was required, I struggled to understand the concepts. The result: I failed calculus. When I took it again, a friend gave me this advice: just memorize the formulas and learn when to apply them. You don't really need to understand how it all works. Just trust that the formulas work. I took her advice and passed the course. Sometimes my life mirrors that calculus class. I pay attention and work hard, but the solutions to life's problems elude me and my anxiety level soars as I struggle to understand my circumstances. The Bible offers good advice about anxiety: the "formula" for peace is to bring all my requests to God. I don't need to lean on my limited understanding to overcome my circumstances. All I need to do is apply God's Word to my life and trust God! Philippians 4:6 "Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God."
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Daily Thoughts

In the Book of Mormon I read that in order to be filled with the love of God and retain a remission of our sins, we need to have faith in God, who created all things, humble ourselves, and repent of our sins, asking
God in all sincerity to forgive us. We need to trust in God and realize that it is only through the Atonement of Christ that we can be saved. Mosiah 4:6-12 "I say unto you, if ye have come to a knowledge of the goodness of God, and his matchless power, and his wisdom, and his patience, and his long-suffering towards the children of men; and also, the atonement which has been prepared from the foundation of the world, that thereby salvation might come to him that should put his trust in the Lord, and should be diligent in keeping his commandments, and continue in the faith even unto the end of his life, I mean the life of the mortal body— I say, that this is the man who receiveth salvation, through the atonement which was prepared from the foundation of the world for all mankind, which ever were since the fall of Adam, or who are, or who ever shall be, even unto the end of the world. And this is the means whereby salvation cometh. And there is none other salvation save this which hath been spoken of; neither are there any conditions whereby man can be saved except the conditions which I have told you. Believe in God; believe that he is, and that he created all things, both in heaven and in earth; believe that he has all wisdom, and all power, both in heaven and in earth; believe that man doth not comprehend all the things which the Lord can comprehend. And again, believe that ye must repent of your sins and forsake them, and humble yourselves before God; and ask in sincerity of heart that he would forgive you; and now, if you believe all these things see that ye do them. And again I say unto you as I have said before, that as ye have come to the knowledge of the glory of God, or if ye have known of his goodness and have tasted of his love, and have received a remission of your sins, which causeth such exceedingly great joy in your souls, even so I would that ye should remember, and always retain in remembrance, the greatness of God, and your own nothingness, and his goodness and long-suffering towards you, unworthy creatures, and humble yourselves even in the depths of humility, calling on the name of the Lord daily, and standing steadfastly in the faith of that which is to come, which was spoken by the mouth of the angel. And behold, I say unto you that if ye do this ye shall always rejoice, and be filled with the love of God, and always retain a remission of your sins; and ye shall grow in the knowledge of the glory of him that created you, or in the knowledge of that which is just and true."

In the Old Testament I read that the ground was cursed for Adam's sake, producing thorns and thistles as well as good food, and that he would earn his bread by the sweat of his brow all the days of his life. Life is meant to be challenging and we're supposed to work hard! We weren't sent here so we could loll around watching TV or playing video games. Having to work is for our best good, and "for our sake." Genesis 3:17-19 "And unto Adam he said, Because thou hast hearkened unto the voice of thy wife, and hast eaten of the tree, of which I commanded thee, saying, Thou shalt not eat of it: cursed is the ground for thy sake; in sorrow shalt thou eat of it all the days of thy life; Thorns also and thistles shall it bring forth to thee; and thou shalt eat the herb of the field; In the sweat of thy face shalt thou eat bread, till thou return unto the ground; for out of it wast thou taken: for dust thou art, and unto dust shalt thou return."


Some verses in a thought booklet tell us that the scriptures make us wise for salvation through faith in Jesus Christ. They are given through the inspiration of God and are valueable for understanding doctrine and for instruction and reproof. They help to perfect us and teach us to have good works. These are all reasons why it's important to study the scriptures every day. 2 Timothy 3:14-17 "But continue thou in the things which thou hast learned and hast been assured of, knowing of whom thou hast learned them; And that from a child thou hast known the holy scriptures, which are able to make thee wise unto salvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus. All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: That the man of God may be perfect, throughly furnished unto all good works."
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Daily Thoughts

In the Book of Mormon I read that the words which the Lord had commanded King Benjamin to speak to the people who stand against them on judgment day and they would be judged accordingly. Those who make evil choices would be filled with guilt because of the abominations and they would be punished with damnation to their souls. Mosiah 3:23-27 "And now I have spoken the words which the Lord God hath commanded me. And thus saith the Lord: They shall stand as a bright testimony against this people, at the judgment day; whereof they shall be judged, every man according to his works, whether they be good, or whether they be evil. And if they be evil they are consigned to an awful view of their own guilt and abominations, which doth cause them to shrink from the presence of the Lord into a state of misery and endless torment, from whence they can no more return; therefore they have drunk damnation to their own souls. Therefore, they have drunk out of the cup of the wrath of God, which justice could no more deny unto them than it could deny that Adam should fall because of his partaking of the forbidden fruit; therefore, mercy could have claim on them no more forever. And their torment is as a lake of fire and brimstone, whose flames are unquenchable, and whose smoke ascendeth up forever and ever. Thus hath the Lord commanded me. Amen."

In the Old Testament I read a verse that tells us God created a help meet for Adam because it is not good that man should be alone. Genesis 2:18 "And the Lord God said, It is not good that the man should be alone; I will make him an help meet for him."

Some scriptures with a thought booklet tell us that the trial of our faith precedes salvation. 1 Peter 1:6-9 "Wherein ye greatly rejoice, though now for a season, if need be, ye are in heaviness through manifold temptations: That the trial of your faith, being much more precious than of gold that perisheth, though it be tried with fire, might be found unto praise and honour and glory at the appearing of Jesus Christ: Whom having not seen, ye love; in whom, though now ye see him not, yet believing, ye rejoice with joy unspeakable and full of glory: Receiving the end of your faith, even the salvation of your souls."

Daily Thoughts

In the Book of Mormon I read that the natural man is an enemy to God and cannot be saved unless he listens to the enticings of the Spirit to put off the natural man and become a saint through the atonement of Jesus Christ. We need to become meek, humble, patient, full of love, and be willing to submit to all things the Lord sees fit to inflict upon us. Sometimes when we're going through trying times, we may become bitter or angry at God. But instead we need to realize that whatever we're going through can strengthen us and help us to grow if we'll turn to the Lord and rely on Him to help us through it. Mosiah 3: 19 "For the natural man is an enemy to God, and has been from the fall of Adam, and will be, forever and ever, unless he yields to the enticings of the Holy Spirit, and putteth off the natural man and becometh a saint through the atonement of Christ the Lord, and becometh as a child, submissive, meek, humble, patient, full of love, willing to submit to all things which the Lord seeth fit to inflict upon him, even as a child doth submit to his father."

In the Old Testament we read that after God had finished creating the heavens and the earth, He rested on the seventh day, and blessed and sanctified it. The Sabbath Day is a special day to rest from our labors. If even God needed to rest after six days or work, how much more so do we? Genesis 2:1-3 "Thus the heavens and the earth were finished, and all the host of them. And on the seventh day God ended his work which he had made; and he rested on the seventh day from all his work which he had made. And God blessed the seventh day, and sanctified it: because that in it he had rested from all his work which God created and made."

Some verses with a thought booklet tell us to glory in tribulations, for they result in teaching us patience and give us experience and hope. We receive the Holy Ghost and the love of God. One blessing follows another, but the beginning of this chain reaction is tribulation. So rather than being something dreaded and avoided, we should rejoice that the Lord loves us enough to give us tribulation, which results in our growth. Romans 5:3-5 "And not only so, but we glory in tribulations also: knowing that tribulation worketh patience; And patience, experience; and experience, hope: And hope maketh not ashamed; because the love of God is shed abroad in our hearts by the Holy Ghost which is given unto us."

Daily Thoughts

In the Book of Mormon I read that there is no other name nor means by which men can be saved, other than Jesus Christ. He is the sole source of our salvation! Mosiah 3:17 "And moreover, I say unto you, that there shall be no other name given nor any other way nor means whereby salvation can come unto the children of men, only in and through the name of Christ, the Lord Omnipotent."

In the New Testament I read that Christ will come quickly and judge every man according to his works. He will bless and reward all those who keep His commandments. Revelation 22:12-14 "And, behold, I come quickly; and my reward is with me, to give every man according as his work shall be. I am Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the end, the first and the last. Blessed are they that do his commandments, that they may have right to the tree of life, and may enter in through the gates into the city."

A verse with a thought booklet asks the question "Is anything too hard for the Lord?" And of course the answer is no! This particular reference is to Sarah having a child even though she's been barren all her life and is now well past the age of childbearing--a seemingly impossible thing. However, with God all things are possible. The next time we're faced with a seemingly impossible situation, we need to turn to the Lord in faith and know that if it is His will, He can do anything. Genesis 18:14 "Is any thing too hard for the Lord? At the time appointed I will return unto thee, according to the time of life, and Sarah shall have a son."

Daily Thoughts

In the Book of Mormon I read about how Jesus Christ would be crucified and He would atone for the sins of the world, so that all men who would have faith and be willing to repent could be saved. Christ would be resurrected and judge the children of men with a righteous judgment. Mosiah 3:8-13 "And he shall be called Jesus Christ, the Son of God, the Father of heaven and earth, the Creator of all things from the beginning; and his mother shall be called Mary. And lo, he cometh unto his own, that salvation might come unto the children of men even through faith on his name; and even after all this they shall consider him a man, and say that he hath a devil, and shall scourge him, and shall crucify him. And he shall rise the third day from the dead; and behold, he standeth to judge the world; and behold, all these things are done that a righteous judgment might come upon the children of men. For behold, and also his blood atoneth for the sins of those who have fallen by the transgression of Adam, who have died not knowing the will of God concerning them, or who have ignorantly sinned. But wo, wo unto him who knoweth that he rebelleth against God! For salvation cometh to none such except it be through repentance and faith on the Lord Jesus Christ. And the Lord God hath sent his holy prophets among all the children of men, to declare these things to every kindred, nation, and tongue, that thereby whosoever should believe that Christ should come, the same might receive remission of their sins, and rejoice with exceedingly great joy, even as though he had already come among them."

In the New Testament I read that Satan will be bound during the Millennium so he will have no more power to deceive the nations for a thousands years. The saints who were persecuted and killed for witnessing for Christ will receive their reward and will reign with Christ. The dead will all stand before God to be judged out of the books according to what their works were. Revelation 20:1-15 "And I saw an angel come down from heaven, having the key of the bottomless pit and a great chain in his hand. And he laid hold on the dragon, that old serpent, which is the Devil, and Satan, and bound him a thousand years, And cast him into the bottomless pit, and shut him up, and set a seal upon him, that he should deceive the nations no more, till the thousand years should be fulfilled: and after that he must be loosed a little season. And I saw thrones, and they sat upon them, and judgment was given unto them: and I saw the souls of them that were beheaded for the witness of Jesus, and for the word of God, and which had not worshipped the beast, neither his image, neither had received his mark upon their foreheads, or in their hands; and they lived and reigned with Christ a thousand years. But the rest of the dead lived not again until the thousand years were finished. This is the first resurrection. Blessed and holy is he that hath part in the first resurrection: on such the second death hath no power, but they shall be priests of God and of Christ, and shall reign with him a thousand years. And when the thousand years are expired, Satan shall be loosed out of his prison, And shall go out to deceive the nations which are in the four quarters of the earth, Gog and Magog, to gather them together to battle: the number of whom is as the sand of the sea. And they went up on the breadth of the earth, and compassed the camp of the saints about, and the beloved city: and fire came down from God out of heaven, and devoured them. And the devil that deceived them was cast into the lake of fire and brimstone, where the beast and the false prophet are, and shall be tormented day and night for ever and ever. And I saw a great white throne, and him that sat on it, from whose face the earth and the heaven fled away; and there was found no place for them. And I saw the dead, small and great, stand before God; and the books were opened: and another book was opened, which is the book of life: and the dead were judged out of those things which were written in the books, according to their works. And the sea gave up the dead which were in it; and death and hell delivered up the dead which were in them: and they were judged every man according to their works. And death and hell were cast into the lake of fire. This is the second death. And whosoever was not found written in the book of life was cast into the lake of fire."

Some verses with a thought booklet tell us that even if the fields produce no food and there are no flocks in the stalls, we can still rejoice in the Lord who is our strength. It's not so easy to still praise the Lord in times of famine and need, but if we will continue to trust in Him and rely on Him, He can give us strength to deal with whatever comes our way. External circumstances should not stop us from finding joy in God. Even in the most difficult circumstances, we can find comfort and strength by turning to the Lord. Habakkuk 3:17-19 "Although the fig tree shall not blossom, neither shall fruit be in the vines; the labour of the olive shall fail, and the fields shall yield no meat; the flock shall be cut off from the fold, and there shall be no herd in the stalls: Yet I will rejoice in the Lord, I will joy in the God of my salvation. The Lord God is my strength, and he will make my feet like hinds' feet, and he will make me to walk upon mine high places. To the chief singer on my stringed instruments."

Daily Thoughts

In the Book of Mormon, King Benjamin prophesied about the coming of Jesus Christ in the flesh, and about how He would perform miracles, healing the sick and raising the dead and casting out devils. He would suffer and die for our sins. Mosiah 3:5-8 "For behold, the time cometh, and is not far distant, that with power, the Lord Omnipotent who reigneth, who was, and is from all eternity to all eternity, shall come down from heaven among the children of men, and shall dwell in a tabernacle of clay, and shall go forth amongst men, working mighty miracles, such as healing the sick, raising the dead, causing the lame to walk, the blind to receive their sight, and the deaf to hear, and curing all manner of diseases. And he shall cast out devils, or the evil spirits which dwell in the hearts of the children of men. And lo, he shall suffer temptations, and pain of body, hunger, thirst, and fatigue, even more than man can suffer, except it be unto death; for behold, blood cometh from every pore, so great shall be his anguish for the wickedness and the abominations of his people. And he shall be called Jesus Christ, the Son of God, the Father of heaven and earth, the Creator of all things from the beginning; and his mother shall be called Mary."

In the New Testament we read that those who make war with the Lamb of God will be overcome by the Lord, who is King of Kings. And those who are with Him are called and chosen and faithful. Revelation 17:14 "These shall make war with the Lamb, and the Lamb shall overcome them: for he is Lord of lords, and King of kings: and they that are with him are called, and chosen, and faithful."

A verse with a thought booklet tells us that the Lord will instruct us about which way to go and will counsel with us. We just need to be in tune and listen! Psalms 32:8 "I will instruct thee and teach thee in the way which thou shalt go: I will guide thee with mine eye."
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Daily Thoughts

In the Book of Mormon we read about the blessed and happy state of the righteous and how those who keep the commandments will be rewarded. But we're also told that those who have been taught the commandments but choose to transgress them will receive a punishment of never ending torment. They are choosing to withdraw themselves from the Spirit of the Lord. Notice it's not that the Lord wants to withdraw from us, it's that we're listing to obey the evil spirit so that the Lord can have no place in us because He cannot dewll in unholy temples. What a sad state of doom awaits those who rebel against the Lord. But how happy they will be who choose to keep the commandments and obey the Lord. This is a choice we all need to make. Let's choose wisely. Mosiah 2:36-41 "And now, I say unto you, my brethren, that after ye have known and have been taught all these things, if ye should transgress and go contrary to that which has been spoken, that ye do withdraw yourselves from the Spirit of the Lord, that it may have no place in you to guide you in wisdom's paths that ye may be blessed, prospered, and preserved— I say unto you, that the man that doeth this, the same cometh out in open rebellion against God; therefore he listeth to obey the evil spirit, and becometh an enemy to all righteousness; therefore, the Lord has no place in him, for he dwelleth not in unholy temples. Therefore if that man repenteth not, and remaineth and dieth an enemy to God, the demands of divine justice do awaken his immortal soul to a lively sense of his own guilt, which doth cause him to shrink from the presence of the Lord, and doth fill his breast with guilt, and pain, and anguish, which is like an unquenchable fire, whose flame ascendeth up forever and ever. And now I say unto you, that mercy hath no claim on that man; therefore his final doom is to endure a never-ending torment. O, all ye old men, and also ye young men, and you little children who can understand my words, for I have spoken plainly unto you that ye might understand, I pray that ye should awake to a remembrance of the awful situation of those that have fallen into transgression. And moreover, I would desire that ye should consider on the blessed and happy state of those that keep the commandments of God. For behold, they are blessed in all things, both temporal and spiritual; and if they hold out faithful to the end they are received into heaven, that thereby they may dwell with God in a state of never-ending happiness. O remember, remember that these things are true; for the Lord God hath spoken it."

In the New Testament I read about how the patience of the faithful saints who keep the commandments will be rewarded. They will be blessed and be able to rest from their labors. The good works they did will follow them and they'll be rewarded accordingly. Revelation 14:12-13 "Here is the patience of the saints: here are they that keep the commandments of God, and the faith of Jesus. And I heard a voice from heaven saying unto me, Write, Blessed are the dead which die in the Lord from henceforth: Yea, saith the Spirit, that they may rest from their labours; and their works do follow them."

A verse with a thought booklet tells us that we should each use whatever gift we've been given by God to serve others, as faithful stewards. We've all been blessed with special talents and abilities. We need to use these gifts to bless the lives of others. 1 Peter 4:10 "As every man hath received the gift, even so minister the same one to another, as good stewards of the manifold grace of God."

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Daily Thoughts

In the Book of Mormon we're warned to beward of allowing contentions to arise among us, because in doing so we're obeying the evil spirit. Contention is, indeed, of the devil! Mosiah 2:32 "But, O my people, beware lest there shall arise contentions among you, and ye list to obey the evil spirit, which was spoken of by my father Mosiah."

In the New Testament we read that the gospel would be restored in the last days by angelic ministry and preached to every nation, kindred, tongue, and people. Revelation 13:6-7 "And he opened his mouth in blasphemy against God, to blaspheme his name, and his tabernacle, and them that dwell in heaven. And it was given unto him to make war with the saints, and to overcome them: and power was given him over all kindreds, and tongues, and nations."

Some scriptures with a thought booklet tell us that the Lord will give wisdom, knowledge, and understanding to those who are righteous and walk uprightly. If we want revelation from the Lord, we need to live worthy to receive it. Proverbs 2:6-7 "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."

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Daily Thoughts

In the Book of Mormon we read that no matter what we do, we'll always be indebted to God who give us breath. When we keep His commandments, He immediatley blesses us, so He had paid us and we're still indebted to Him. Mosiah 2:21-24 "I say unto you that if ye should serve him who has created you from the beginning, and is preserving you from day to day, by lending you breath, that ye may live and move and do according to your own will, and even supporting you from one moment to another—I say, if ye should serve him with all your whole souls yet ye would be unprofitable servants. And behold, all that he requires of you is to keep his commandments; and he has promised you that if ye would keep his commandments ye should prosper in the land; and he never doth vary from that which he hath said; therefore, if ye do keep his commandments he doth bless you and prosper you. And now, in the first place, he hath created you, and granted unto you your lives, for which ye are indebted unto him. And secondly, he doth require that ye should do as he hath commanded you; for which if ye do, he doth immediately bless you; and therefore he hath paid you. And ye are still indebted unto him, and are, and will be, forever and ever; therefore, of what have ye to boast?"

In the New Testament we're told about the war in heaven in which Michael (Adam) and his angels fought against the dragon (Satan) and his angels. Of course Satan did not prevail and he and his angels were cast out of heaven. But this made him angry and now he comes down to earth to tempt us. However, he still cannot prevail. The blood of the Lamb, or the atonement of Jesus Christ, has overcome the devil. So we can rejoice! Revelation 12:7-12 "And there was war in heaven: Michael and his angels fought against the dragon; and the dragon fought and his angels, And prevailed not; neither was their place found any more in heaven. And the great dragon was cast out, that old serpent, called the Devil, and Satan, which deceiveth the whole world: he was cast out into the earth, and his angels were cast out with him. And I heard a loud voice saying in heaven, Now is come salvation, and strength, and the kingdom of our God, and the power of his Christ: for the accuser of our brethren is cast down, which accused them before our God day and night. And they overcame him by the blood of the Lamb, and by the word of their testimony; and they loved not their lives unto the death. Therefore rejoice, ye heavens, and ye that dwell in them. Woe to the inhabiters of the earth and of the sea! for the devil is come down unto you, having great wrath, because he knoweth that he hath but a short time."

Some verses with a thought booklet tells us not to be anxious about anything, but in every situation, with thanksgiving, present our requests to God, who will give us peace that surpasses all understanding. This doesn't say that all our requests will be answered exactly like we want them to be. Rather, the Lord answers our prayers in the way that is best, and will give us peace if we'll seek for Him. Some people think of God like a vending machine. With a vending machine, you are supposed to put money in and get your desired product out. But it doesn't always work that way. Sometimes the vending machine won't accept your worn dollar or if doesn't give you what you want even after it takes your money. Some people take out their anger and frustration on the machine--beating on it or vandalizing it. People who think of the Lord as a vending machine think that they can put in their requests (or rather orders) and if they don't get back what they want, they grumble and complain against God, getting angry and frustrated. Prayers don't work that way and we're only hurting ourselves spiritually when we have that attitude. We need to trust in the Lord, knowing that however He answers our prayers will be for our best good. And if we'll turn to Him, we can find peace, no matter what our circumstances are. 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."

Daily Thoughts

In the Book of Mormon we read that when we are in the service of our fellow beings, we are only in the service of our God. So if we want to serve God, we need to serve one another. Mosiah 2:17 "And behold, I tell you these things that ye may learn wisdom; that ye may learn that when ye are in the service of your fellow beings ye are only in the service of your God."

In the New Teatament we're told that Christ will reign over all the earth and the kingdoms of the world will become the Kingdoms of Christ. Revelation 11:15 "And the seventh angel sounded; and there were great voices in heaven, saying, The kingdoms of this world are become the kingdoms of our Lord, and of his Christ; and he shall reign for ever and ever."

A verse with a thought booklet talks about how the Holy Ghost can guide us. Our ears shall hear a word telling us which way to go and that we should walk in it, directing us to go to the left or right. If we're in tune with the Spirit, we won't have to wonder which paths our lives should take. We're be guided and directed. Isaiah 30:21 "And thine ears shall hear a word behind thee, saying, This is the way, walk ye in it, when ye turn to the right hand, and when ye turn to the left."
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Daily Thoughts

In the Book of Mormon I read that those who were unfaithful did not prosper or progress, and they were smitten with sore afflictions to stir them up in remembrance of their duty. Mosiah 1:17 "Therefore, as they were unfaithful they did not prosper nor progress in their journey, but were driven back, and incurred the displeasure of God upon them; and therefore they were smitten with famine and sore afflictions, to stir them up in remembrance of their duty"

In the New Testament we read that the mysteries of God have been declared to His servants, the prophets. Revelation 10:7 "But in the days of the voice of the seventh angel, when he shall begin to sound, the mystery of God should be finished, as he hath declared to his servants the prophets."


A verse with a thought booklet tells us that as children of God, we can overcome because the One who is in us is grater than he that is in the world. God is more powerful than the world or anything in it, and with Him on our side, we can overcome anything. We have nothing to fear. 1 John 4:4 "Ye are of God, little children, and have overcome them: because greater is he that is in you, than he that is in the world."

Daily Thoughts

In the Book of Mormon King Benjamin admonished his sons to search the scriptures diligently and keep the commandments. If they would do these things, they would prosper in the land. Mosiah 1:6-7 "O my sons, I would that ye should remember that these sayings are true, and also that these records are true. And behold, also the plates of Nephi, which contain the records and the sayings of our fathers from the time they left Jerusalem until now, and they are true; and we can know of their surety because we have them before our eyes. And now, my sons, I would that ye should remember to search them diligently, that ye may profit thereby; and I would that ye should keep the commandments of God, that ye may prosper in the land according to the promises which the Lord made unto our fathers."


In the New Testament I read about the terriby calamities that would befall men when the day of the wrath of God would come--earthquakes, stars falling from the heavens, and men wishing the mountains would fall on them to hide them from the face of God. Revelation 6:12-17 "And I beheld when he had opened the sixth seal, and, lo, there was a great earthquake; and the sun became black as sackcloth of hair, and the moon became as blood; And the stars of heaven fell unto the earth, even as a fig tree casteth her untimely figs, when she is shaken of a mighty wind. And the heaven departed as a scroll when it is rolled together; and every mountain and island were moved out of their places. And the kings of the earth, and the great men, and the rich men, and the chief captains, and the mighty men, and every bondman, and every free man, hid themselves in the dens and in the rocks of the mountains; And said to the mountains and rocks, Fall on us, and hide us from the face of him that sitteth on the throne, and from the wrath of the Lamb: For the great day of his wrath is come; and who shall be able to stand?"

Some verses with a thought booklet tell us how precious little children are in the sight of God and how if we place a stumbling block before one of these little ones, it would be better for us to have a great millstone fastened around our neck and be drowned in the depth of the sea. The thought that went with this, written by Wilma Musser from Mechanicsburg, Pennsylvania, illistrates this point very well, as she describes something she vividly remembers from her own childhood, which must have happened 70 or 80 years ago. Here's what she said: Many years ago I was playing next door with a neighbor girl when a woman came to visit the girl's mother. I do not know if we were making a nuisance of ourselves, or if she just wanted privacy, but she wanted us to play outdoors. I remember that the woman suggested that we make a clover chain to go all the way around the house. She even promised us a quarter a piece if we completed the task. Back in those Great Depression days so long ago, a quarter was a fortune to a young child. Hour after hour in the hot sun we tied clover stems together and dreamed aloud of spending our quarters. I shall never forget the let-down feeling I had when she said before she left that she had no quarters or even pennies for us. This was the first time I remember being etrayed by an adult. Could I ever trust a grownup again? I determined that day that I would never make a promise I could not keep. Much later I decided that I would never knowingly do anything to destroy a young child's faith. Matthew 18:1-6 "At the same time came the disciples unto Jesus, saying, Who is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven? And Jesus called a little child unto him, and set him in the midst of them, And said, Verily I say unto you, Except ye be converted, and become as little children, ye shall not enter into the kingdom of heaven. Whosoever therefore shall humble himself as this little child, the same is greatest in the kingdom of heaven. And whoso shall receive one such little child in my name receiveth me. But whoso shall offend one of these little ones which believe in me, it were better for him that a millstone were hanged about his neck, and that he were drowned in the depth of the sea."

Daily Thoughts

In the Book of Mormon I read that King Benjamin taught his sons that their language and knowledge of the Lord was able to be passed down to them because of the records which were kept. Mosiah 1:3-5 "And he also taught them concerning the records which were engraven on the plates of brass, saying: My sons, I would that ye should remember that were it not for these plates, which contain these records and these commandments, we must have suffered in ignorance, even at this present time, not knowing the mysteries of God. For it were not possible that our father, Lehi, could have remembered all these things, to have taught them to his children, except it were for the help of these plates; for he having been taught in the language of the Egyptians therefore he could read these engravings, and teach them to his children, that thereby they could teach them to their children, and so fulfilling the commandments of God, even down to this present time. I say unto you, my sons, were it not for these things, which have been kept and preserved by the hand of God, that we might read and understand of his mysteries, and have his commandments always before our eyes, that even our fathers would have dwindled in unbelief, and we should have been like unto our brethren, the Lamanites, who know nothing concerning these things, or even do not believe them when they are taught them, because of the traditions of their fathers, which are not correct."

In the New Testament I read that we need to hold fast and repent The Lord will come as a thief in the night and we don't know what hour He will come upon us. So we need to be prepared at all times. Revelation 3:3 "Remember therefore how thou hast received and heard, and hold fast, and repent. If therefore thou shalt not watch, I will come on thee as a thief, and thou shalt not know what hour I will come upon thee."

A verse with a thought booklet tells us to give thanks in all things. It's easy to give thanks for the blessings in our lives--not so easy to give thanks in ALL things when some of those things aren't so good. Do we give thanks for our trials and tribulations? For illnesses? For financial hardships? For natural disasters? All these things can bring us closer to the Lord and make us stronger if we'll turn to Him in times of trouble. And that is something to be thankful for. 1 Thessalonians 5:18 "In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you."
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Daily Thoughts

In the Book of Mormon I read that Kind Benjamin was able to once again establish peace in the land, in spite of contentions and false prophets. He spoke the word of God with power and used much sharpness because of the stiffneckedness of the people, and labored with all his might. Words of Mormon 1:14-18 "And in the strength of the Lord they did contend against their enemies, until they had slain many thousands of the Lamanites. And it came to pass that they did contend against the Lamanites until they had driven them out of all the lands of their inheritance. And it came to pass that after there had been false Christs, and their mouths had been shut, and they punished according to their crimes; And after there had been false prophets, and false preachers and teachers among the people, and all these having been punished according to their crimes; and after there having been much contention and many dissensions away unto the Lamanites, behold, it came to pass that king Benjamin, with the assistance of the holy prophets who were among his people— For behold, king Benjamin was a holy man, and he did reign over his people in righteousness; and there were many holy men in the land, and they did speak the word of God with power and with authority; and they did use much sharpness because of the stiffneckedness of the people— Wherefore, with the help of these, king Benjamin, by laboring with all the might of his body and the faculty of his whole soul, and also the prophets, did once more establish peace in the land."

In the New Testament we're told not to fear tribulation, for if we are faithful throughout our lives, we will receive a crown. We will be rewarded if we endure to the end. Revelation 2:10 "Fear none of those things which thou shalt suffer: behold, the devil shall cast some of you into prison, that ye may be tried; and ye shall have tribulation ten days: be thou faithful unto death, and I will give thee a crown of life."

A verse with a thought booklet talks about Jesus as the bread of life. Our ancestors who ate manna are now dead, but those who eat the bread of the Savior will live forever. John 6:58 "This is that bread which came down from heaven: not as your fathers did eat manna, and are dead: he that eateth of this bread shall live for ever."


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Daily Thoughts

In the Book of Mormon I read Mormon's words as he was about to deliver up the plates to his son Moroni, who he felt would witness the entire destruction of their people. Can you imagine the feelings of his heart at this time? Mormon 1:1-2 "And now I, Mormon, being about to deliver up the record which I have been making into the hands of my son Moroni, behold I have witnessed almost all the destruction of my people, the Nephites. And it is many hundred years after the coming of Christ that I deliver these records into the hands of my son; and it supposeth me that he will witness the entire destruction of my people. But may God grant that he may survive them, that he may write somewhat concerning them, and somewhat concerning Christ, that perhaps some day it may profit them."

In the New Testament we're told to keep ourselves in the love of God, looking for the mercy of Jesus Christ unto eternal life. Jude 1:21 "Keep yourselves in the love of God, looking for the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ unto eternal life."

Some verses with a thought booklet tell the story of Peter healing a lame man. One thing that strikes me about this story is that Peter told the man that he had no silver or gold to give him, but "such as I have give I thee" which was to heal him through the power of God, and allow him to walk. What gifts and talents has the Lord given us that we can use to bless the lives of others? Maybe we don't have a lot of money to donate to those in need, but we do have ways we can give of ourselves, our time and our talents, to serve other people. And "such as we have" we need to be willing to give. Acts 3:2-7 "And a certain man lame from his mother's womb was carried, whom they laid daily at the gate of the temple which is called Beautiful, to ask alms of them that entered into the temple; Who seeing Peter and John about to go into the temple asked an alms. And Peter, fastening his eyes upon him with John, said, Look on us. And he gave heed unto them, expecting to receive something of them. Then Peter said, Silver and gold have I none; but such as I have give I thee: In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth rise up and walk. And he took him by the right hand, and lifted him up: and immediately his feet and ankle bones received strength."


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Daily Thoughts

In the Book of Mormon I read that we need to offer up our whole souls as an offering to God and continue in fasting and prayer, enduring to the end. If we do things things, we'll be saved. Omni 1: 26 "And now, my beloved brethren, I would that ye should come unto Christ, who is the Holy One of Israel, and partake of his salvation, and the power of his redemption. Yea, come unto him, and offer your whole souls as an offering unto him, and continue in fasting and praying, and endure to the end; and as the Lord liveth ye will be saved."

In the New Testament I read that when we walk in the Lord's commandments, that is showing love for Him. 2 John 1:6 "And this is love, that we walk after his commandments. This is the commandment, That, as ye have heard from the beginning, ye should walk in it."


A verse with a thought booklet tells us that the Lord will be a strength to the poor and needy and those in distress and will provide refuge from the storm and shade from the heat. We can safely trust in the Lord! Isaiah 25:4 "For thou hast been a strength to the poor, a strength to the needy in his distress, a refuge from the storm, a shadow from the heat, when the blast of the terrible ones is as a storm against the wall."

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Daily Thoughts

In the Book of Mormon I read that the people Mosiah discovered had not had records with them so their language had become corrupt and they'd lost knowledge of their Creator. How very important the scriptures are! Without them, we soon lose spiritual knowledge. Omni 1:17 "And at the time that Mosiah discovered them, they had become exceedingly numerous. Nevertheless, they had had many wars and serious contentions, and had fallen by the sword from time to time; and their language had become corrupted; and they had brought no records with them; and they denied the being of their Creator; and Mosiah, nor the people of Mosiah, could understand them."

In the New Testament we read about the connection between loving God and loving our fellowmen. We cannot love God and hate our brother. If we claim to do so, we are liars. How can we love God, who we haven't seen, and hate our brother, who we have seen? But if we love God, we'll love our brother also. And it's a commandment to love both! 1 John 4:20-21 "If a man say, I love God, and hateth his brother, he is a liar: for he that loveth not his brother whom he hath seen, how can he love God whom he hath not seen? And this commandment have we from him, That he who loveth God love his brother also."

A verse with a thought booklet tells us that God is our refuge and strength and gives us ever present help in times of trouble. When we're faced with trials and difficulties, we can turn to Him. We can depend on Him to help us in every kind of trouble. No matter what kind of life situation we are going through, we have secure protection in the Lord. Psalms 46:1 "God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble."

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Daily Thoughts

In the Book of Mormon I read a verse that always gives me a little chuckle. Chemish was given the plates and told to write something on them before he passed them on to someone else. So he wrote this verse, which pretty much says nothing! Talk about fulfiling an obligation by doing the absolute minimum. But as funny as this is, we need to look at our own lives and ask ourselves if this is sometimes the way we fulfill our church callings. "Hi, I'm your home teacher. Everybody okay here? Great! See you next month." Well, I can check them off my list. Do we mumble a few rote words that we're really not even listening to and say "amen" before going to bed, instead of saying a heartfelt prayer? Do we show up at our church meetings and daydream or take a snooze instead of trying put our heart into partaking of the sacrament and gaining spiritual insights? Do we really do our best to fulfill what the Lord expects of us or do we just go through the motions so we can claim we did something? Let's not be like Chemish who basically said he was told to write something so here he was writing something. The end. Omni 1:9 "Now I, Chemish, write what few things I write, in the same book with my brother; for behold, I saw the last which he wrote, that he wrote it with his own hand; and he wrote it in the day that he delivered them unto me. And after this manner we keep the records, for it is according to the commandments of our fathers. And I make an end."

In the New Testament we're told that righteous people will do good and will love others. And they'll show that love with their actions. Wicked people will follow the devil and commit sin. They will hate their brothers and even kill them. It's as easy to tell the wicked from the righteous as it is to see those who hate and commit sin vs. those who love others and try to do good for them. 1 John 3:7-18 "Little children, let no man deceive you: he that doeth righteousness is righteous, even as he is righteous. He that committeth sin is of the devil; for the devil sinneth from the beginning. For this purpose the Son of God was manifested, that he might destroy the works of the devil. Whosoever is born of God doth not commit sin; for his seed remaineth in him: and he cannot sin, because he is born of God. In this the children of God are manifest, and the children of the devil: whosoever doeth not righteousness is not of God, neither he that loveth not his brother. For this is the message that ye heard from the beginning, that we should love one another. Not as Cain, who was of that wicked one, and slew h Marvel not, my brethren, if the world hate you. We know that we have passed from death unto life, because we love the brethren. He that loveth not his brother abideth in death. Whosoever hateth his brother is a murderer: and ye know that no murderer hath eternal life abiding in him. Hereby perceive we the love of God, because he laid down his life for us: and we ought to lay down our lives for the brethren. 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."

Some scriptures with a thought booklet go right along with this thought, telling us that the two most important commandments are to love the Lord and to love our fellowmen. Love is what it's all about! 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 that the Lord wold not allow the wicked to be kept from falling into the hands of their enemies. Indeed, those who refused to keep the commandments would not prosper in the land. However, the righteous would be spared and not perish. In other words, the righteous are rewarded and the wicked punished. Omni 1:5-7 "Behold, it came to pass that three hundred and twenty years had passed away, and the more wicked part of the Nephites were destroyed. For the Lord would not suffer, after he had led them out of the land of Jerusalem and kept and preserved them from falling into the hands of their enemies, yea, he would not suffer that the words should not be verified, which he spake unto our fathers, saying that: Inasmuch as ye will not keep my commandments ye shall not prosper in the land. Wherefore, the Lord did visit them in great judgment; nevertheless, he did spare the righteous that they should not perish, but did deliver them out of the hands of their enemies."

In the New Testament we read that in order to abide in the light, we need to love others. If we claim that we're in the light but hate our brother, we are actually in darkness which blinds our eyes so we don't know which way to go. 1 John 2:9-11 "He that saith he is in the light, and hateth his brother, is in darkness even until now. He that loveth his brother abideth in the light, and there is none occasion of stumbling in him. But he that hateth his brother is in darkness, and walketh in darkness, and knoweth not whither he goeth, because that darkness hath blinded his eyes."

A verse with a thought booklet tells us that the heavens declare the glory of God the firmament shows the work of His hands. Have you ever been out in nature and felt closer to God, who created such a beautiful world for us to live in? His creations testify of Him and reflect His wisdom, power, and beauty. Psalms 19:1 "The heavens declare the glory of God; and the firmament sheweth his handywork."

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Daily Thoughts

In the Book of Mormon I read that the people multiplied and prospered, and made preparations to war against the Lamanites should they come against them. The prophets warned the people that they needed to keep the commandments of God or they would be destroyed from off the face of the land. They diligently taught the people to believe in the Messiah who would come. Jarom 1:8-11 "And we multiplied exceedingly, and spread upon the face of the land, and became exceedingly rich in gold, and in silver, and in precious things, and in fine workmanship of wood, in buildings, and in machinery, and also in iron and copper, and brass and steel, making all manner of tools of every kind to till the ground, and weapons of war—yea, the sharp pointed arrow, and the quiver, and the dart, and the javelin, and all preparations for war. And thus being prepared to meet the Lamanites, they did not prosper against us. But the word of the Lord was verified, which he spake unto our fathers, saying that: Inasmuch as ye will keep my commandments ye shall prosper in the land. And it came to pass that the prophets of the Lord did threaten the people of Nephi, according to the word of God, that if they did not keep the commandments, but should fall into transgression, they should be destroyed from off the face of the land. Wherefore, the prophets, and the priests, and the teachers, did labor diligently, exhorting with all long-suffering the people to diligence; teaching the law of Moses, and the intent for which it was given; persuading them to look forward unto the Messiah, and believe in him to come as though he already was. And after this manner did they teach them."

In the New Testament we read that a person who returns to their old sins is like a dog turning to his own vomit or a sow that has been cleaned wallowing in the mire. It would have been better for us to never have known the truth than to know it and turn away from it. Where much is given, much is expected. 2 Peter 2:21-22 "For it had been better for them not to have known the way of righteousness, than, after they have known it, to turn from the holy commandment delivered unto them. But it is happened unto them according to the true proverb, The dog is turned to his own vomit again; and the sow that was washed to her wallowing in the mire."

Two different scriptures from two different thought booklets brought home the same message today--so it must be something the Lord wanted me to remember. Instead of rendering evil for evil, we should do that which is good to all men. Just because someone is unkind to you, that doesn't give you a right to be unkind back. Love others and do good to all. This is what the Lord expects of us. 1 Peter 3:8-9 "Finally, be ye all of one mind, having compassion one of another, love as brethren, be pitiful, be courteous: Not rendering evil for evil, or railing for railing: but contrariwise blessing; knowing that ye are thereunto called, that ye should inherit a blessing." 1 Thessalonians 5:15 "See that none render evil for evil unto any cman; but ever follow that which is good, both among yourselves, and to all men."

Daily Thoughts

In the Book of Mormon I read that because of the hardness of the hearts of the people, the Lord sent people full of the Spirit to preach to them. He was longsuffering toward the wicked, giving them every opportunity to repent instead of immediately sweeping them off the face of the land. Jarom 1: 3-4 "Behold, it is expedient that much should be done among this people, because of the hardness of their hearts, and the deafness of their ears, and the blindness of their minds, and the stiffness of their necks; nevertheless, God is exceedingly merciful unto them, and has not as yet swept them off from the face of the land. And there are many among us who have many revelations, for they are not all stiffnecked. And as many as are not stiffnecked and have faith, have communion with the Holy Spirit, which maketh manifest unto the children of men, according to their faith."

In the New Testament we're told to humble ourselves before God, and He will exalt us in time. And we can cast all our cares upon Him, for He cares for us. What a comfort that is to know that we don't need to go through our trials alone. 1 Peter 5:6-7 "Humble yourselves therefore under the mighty hand of God, that he may exalt you in due time: Casting all your care upon him; for he careth for you."

In some scriptures with a thought booklet we're told that the Lord neither slumbers nor sleeps, but is our keeper, preserving us from all evil day and night. We can safely trust in the Lord. Psalms 121:4-8 "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."
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Daily Thoughts

In the Book of Mormon I read Enos' remarks at the end of his life. He knew he was going to die soon, but had a sure knowledge of his Reedeemer and knew that in Him he would first rest. He did not fear standing before the Lord, but knew that he would enjoy seeing His face and being told that there was a place prepared for him in the mansions of the Father. If we live righteously and remain close to the Lord, there will be no fear in death. It will be a joyous occasion for us! Enos 1: 27 "And I soon go to the place of my rest, which is with my Redeemer; for I know that in him I shall rest. And I rejoice in the day when my mortal shall put on immortality, and shall stand before him; then shall I see his face with pleasure, and he will say unto me: Come unto me, ye blessed, there is a place prepared for you in the mansions of my Father. Amen."

In the New Testament we read that we should not think it strange when we suffer fiery trials. Instead we should rejoice that in some small way we can partake of the suffering that Christ went through, that we may also share in His joy when His glory is revealed. The road to eternal life is not without trials and tribulations! 1 Peter 4:12-13 "Beloved, think it not strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you, as though some strange thing happened unto you: But rejoice, inasmuch as ye are partakers of Christ's sufferings; that, when his glory shall be revealed, ye may be glad also with exceeding joy."


A verse with a thought booklet tells us that Jesus is the bread of life and if we come unto Him and have faith in Him, we'll never hunger nor thirst. Over a billion people in the world suffer from lack of food every day. They are physically hungry. But how many people in the world are spiritually hungry? Probably far more. If we have a spiritual emptiness in our lives, the only way to satisfy it is through coming unto Christ. John 6:35 "And Jesus said unto them, I am the bread of life: he that cometh to me shall never hunger; and he that believeth on me shall never thirst."

Daily Thoughts

In the Book of Mormon I read that when we pray and labor with all diligence, the Lord will grant us our desires according to our faith. Enos 1:12 "And it came to pass that after I had prayed and labored with all diligence, the Lord said unto me: I will grant unto thee according to thy desires, because of thy faith."

In the New Testament we read about how to react when we're unjustly accused or punished for things we're not guilty of. We should follow Christ's example, who suffered for our sins even though He was innocent of any wrongdoing whatsoever. It's much easier to be patient when we're buffeted for things we did wrong--not so easy to bear with patience when we suffer for things that are not our fault. 1 Peter 2:19-25 "For this is thankworthy, if a man for conscience toward God endure grief, suffering wrongfully. For what glory is it, if, when ye be buffeted for your faults, ye shall take it patiently? but if, when ye do well, and suffer for it, ye take it patiently, this is acceptable with God. For even hereunto were ye called: because Christ also suffered for us, leaving us an example, that ye should follow his steps: Who did no sin, neither was guile found in his mouth: Who, when he was reviled, reviled not again; when he suffered, he threatened not; but committed himself to him that judgeth righteously: Who his own self bare our sins in his own body on the tree, that we, being dead to sins, should live unto righteousness: by whose stripes ye were healed. For ye were as sheep going astray; but are now returned unto the Shepherd and Bishop of your souls."

In some scriptures with a thought booklet I read that what divides the "sheep from the goats" is how we treat other people. If we visit the sick and give food to the hungry, we're actually performing these services to the Lord and will be rewarded accordingly. But if we neglect the needy, it's as if we're treating the Lord that way, and will receive our punishment. Whatever we do, or neglect to do, for our fellow brothers and sisters, we do for the Lord. Matthew 25: 31-46 "When the Son of man shall come in his glory, and all the holy angels with him, then shall he sit upon the throne of his glory: And before him shall be gathered all nations: and he shall separate them one from another, as a shepherd divideth his sheep from the goats: And he shall set the sheep on his right hand, but the goats on the left. Then shall the King say unto them on his right hand, Come, ye blessed of my Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world: For I was an hungred, and ye gave me meat: I was thirsty, and ye gave me drink: I was a stranger, and ye took me in: Naked, and ye clothed me: I was sick, and ye visited me: I was in prison, and ye came unto me. Then shall the righteous answer him, saying, Lord, when saw we thee an hungred, and fed thee? or thirsty, and gave thee drink? When saw we thee a stranger, and took thee in? or naked, and clothed thee? Or when saw we thee sick, or in prison, and came unto thee? And the King shall answer and say unto them, Verily I say unto you, Inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of these my brethren, ye have done it unto me. Then shall he say also unto them on the left hand, Depart from me, ye cursed, into everlasting fire, prepared for the devil and his angels: For I was an hungred, and ye gave me no meat: I was thirsty, and ye gave me no drink: I was a stranger, and ye took me not in: naked, and ye clothed me not: sick, and in prison, and ye visited me not. Then shall they also answer him, saying, Lord, when saw we thee an hungred, or athirst, or a stranger, or naked, or sick, or in prison, and did not minister unto thee? Then shall he answer them, saying, Verily I say unto you, Inasmuch as ye did it not to one of the least of these, ye did it not to me. And these shall go away into everlasting punishment: but the righteous into life eternal."

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Daily Thoughts

In the Book of Mormon I read about how Enos prayed all day and into the night before he was told that his sins were forgiven him. Can you imagine praying that long? I remember one time I decided to try praying for one hour. It seemed like that hour went on forever and even though I was praying for everybody I could think of, I was running out of things to pray for. I can't even imagine trying to pray all day and all night. But because Enos prayed in faith, his guilt was swept away. Enos 1:2-6 "And I will tell you of the wrestle which I had before God, before I received a remission of my sins.Behold, I went to hunt beasts in the forests; and the words which I had often heard my father speak concerning eternal life, and the joy of the saints, sunk deep into my heart. And my soul hungered; and I kneeled down before my Maker, and I cried unto him in mighty prayer and supplication for mine own soul; and all the day long did I cry unto him; yea, and when the night came I did still raise my voice high that it reached the heavens. And there came a voice unto me, saying: Enos, thy sins are forgiven thee, and thou shalt be blessed. And I, Enos, knew that God could not lie; wherefore, my guilt was swept away."

In the New Testament I read that the trial of our faith precedes salvation. The end result of our faith is the salvation of our souls, and is more precious than gold that perishes. 1 Peter 1:7-9 "That the trial of your faith, being much more precious than of gold that perisheth, though it be tried with fire, might be found unto praise and honour and glory at the appearing of Jesus Christ: Whom having not seen, ye love; in whom, though now ye see him not, yet believing, ye rejoice with joy unspeakable and full of glory: Receiving the end of your faith, even the salvation of your souls."

Some verses with a thought booklet talk about how God loved the world so much that He gave His only Begotten Son who came to save us and give us everlasting life. John 3:16-17 "For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life. For God sent not his Son into the world to condemn the world; but that the world through him might be saved."

Daily Thoughts

In the Book of Mormon I read that after Sherem died, peace was again restored among the people and the love of God abounded. The people returned to studying the scriptures instead of listening to that wicked man. Jacob 7:23 "And it came to pass that peace and the love of God was restored again among the people; and they searched the scriptures, and hearkened no more to the words of this wicked man."

In the New Testament we're told to draw near to the Lord and He will draw near to us. We need to cleanse our hands and purify our hearts and submit ourselves to God. If we resist the devil, he will flee from us. James 4:7-8 "Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you. Draw nigh to God, and he will draw nigh to you. Cleanse your hands, ye sinners; and purify your hearts, ye double minded."

Some verses with a thought booklet tell us that we should be content with what we have rather than covet what other people have. The Lord will be our helper and will never leave us nor forsake us, so we should not fear what man can do to us. We have much to be thankful for--our family, health, food to eat, and life itself are all precious gifts to be grateful for. We don't know what the future holds and we may go through difficult times, but we can be assured that God will give us His continuous love and care. He is our helper in this perilous life. Hebrews 13:5-6 "Let your conversation be without covetousness; and be content with such things as ye have: for he hath said, I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee. So that we may boldly say, The Lord is my helper, and I will not fear what man shall do unto me."

Daily Thoughts

In the Book of Mormon I read that Sherem demanded a sign before he would believe. The sign he was given was that God smote him. After this he confessed that Jesus was the Christ and that he had lied to the people, having been deceived by the devil. After this confession, he gave up the ghost and died. A sad end for a wicked man. Jacob 7:13-20 "And it came to pass that he said unto me: Show me a sign by this power of the Holy Ghost, in the which ye know so much. And I said unto him: What am I that I should tempt God to show unto thee a sign in the thing which thou knowest to be true? Yet thou wilt deny it, because thou art of the devil. Nevertheless, not my will be done; but if God shall smite thee, let that be a sign unto thee that he has power, both in heaven and in earth; and also, that Christ shall come. And thy will, O Lord, be done, and not mine. And it came to pass that when I, Jacob, had spoken these words, the power of the Lord came upon him, insomuch that he fell to the earth. And it came to pass that he was nourished for the space of many days. And it came to pass that he said unto the people: Gather together on the morrow, for I shall die; wherefore, I desire to speak unto the people before I shall die. And it came to pass that on the morrow the multitude were gathered together; and he spake plainly unto them and denied the things which he had taught them, and confessed the Christ, and the power of the Holy Ghost, and the ministering of angels. And he spake plainly unto them, that he had been deceived by the power of the devil. And he spake of hell, and of eternity, and of eternal punishment. And he said: I fear lest I have committed the unpardonable sin, for I have lied unto God; for I denied the Christ, and said that I believed the scriptures; and they truly testify of him. And because I have thus lied unto God I greatly fear lest my case shall be awful; but I confess unto God. And it came to pass that when he had said these words he could say no more, and he gave up the ghost."

In the New Testament we read that faith without works is dead. It does us no good to say we believe and then have our actions not back up that belief. James 2:14-26 "What doth it profit, my brethren, though a man say he hath faith, and have not works? can faith save him? If a brother or sister be naked, and destitute of daily food, And one of you say unto them, Depart in peace, be ye warmed and filled; notwithstanding ye give them not those things which are needful to the body; what doth it profit? Even so faith, if it hath not works, is dead, being alone. Yea, a man may say, Thou hast faith, and I have works: shew me thy faith without thy works, and I will shew thee my faith by my works. Thou believest that there is one God; thou doest well: the devils also believe, and tremble. But wilt thou know, O vain man, that faith without works is dead? Was not Abraham our father justified by works, when he had offered Isaac his son upon the altar? Seest thou how faith wrought with his works, and by works was faith made perfect? And the scripture was fulfilled which saith, Abraham believed God, and it was imputed unto him for righteousness: and he was called the Friend of God. Ye see then how that by works a man is justified, and not by faith only. Likewise also was not Rahab the harlot justified by works, when she had received the messengers, and had sent them out another way? For as the body without the spirit is dead, so faith without works is dead also."

Some verses with a thought booklet tell us that even though Jesus Christ had no sin, He suffered for our sins and by His stripes we are healed. We are like sheep going astray, but are now returned to our Shepherd. 1 Peter 2:21-25 "For even hereunto were ye called: because Christ also suffered for us, leaving us an example, that ye should follow his steps: Who did no sin, neither was guile found in his mouth: Who, when he was reviled, reviled not again; when he suffered, he threatened not; but committed himself to him that judgeth righteously: Who his own self bare our sins in his own body on the tree, that we, being dead to sins, should live unto righteousness: by whose stripes ye were healed. For ye were as sheep going astray; but are now returned unto the Shepherd and Bishop of your souls."

Daily Thoughts

In the Book of Mormon we read that Jacob was able to confound Sherem in all his words because he had the Spirit with him. Sherem claimed to believe in the scriptures, but denied that Jesus Christ would come. However, Jacob pointed out that the scriptures truly testify of Jesus Christ and all the prophets have testified of him. Indeed, if it were not for the atonement of Christ, all mankind would be lost. Jacob 7:8-12 "But behold, the Lord God poured in his Spirit into my soul, insomuch that I did confound him in all his words. And I said unto him: Deniest thou the Christ who shall come? And he said: If there should be a Christ, I would not deny him; but I know that there is no Christ, neither has been, nor ever will be. And I said unto him: Believest thou the scriptures? And he said, Yea. And I said unto him: Then ye do not understand them; for they truly testify of Christ. Behold, I say unto you that none of the prophets have written, nor prophesied, save they have spoken concerning this Christ. And this is not all—it has been made manifest unto me, for I have heard and seen; and it also has been made manifest unto me by the power of the Holy Ghost; wherefore, I know if there should be no atonement made all mankind must be lost."

In the New Testament I read that we need to let our brotherly love continue and don't forget to show kindness to strangers. We may be entertaining strangers unawares. Hebrews 13:1-2 "Let brotherly love continue. Be not forgetful to entertain strangers: for thereby some have entertained angels unawares."

A verse with a thought booklet tells us that we can put our trust under the shadow of God's wings, for His loving kindness is excellent. He loves us! He is our ultimate refuge and source of goodness. In His unfailing love, He provides for us. And we can safely trust in His protecting care. Psalms 36:7 "How excellent is thy lovingkindness, O God! therefore the children of men put their atrust under the shadow of thy wings."

Daily Thoughts

In the Book of Mormon I read about how Sherem tried to lead the people astray with his flattery and ability to give persuasive speeches. He tried to shake the faith of Jacob in spite of the great revelations he had received. But Jacob was true and faithful and could not be shaken in his faith. Jacob 7: 1-5 "And now it came to pass after some years had passed away, there came a man among the people of Nephi, whose name was Sherem. And it came to pass that he began to preach among the people, and to declare unto them that there should be no Christ. And he preached many things which were flattering unto the people; and this he did that he might overthrow the doctrine of Christ. And he labored diligently that he might lead away the hearts of the people, insomuch that he did lead away many hearts; and he knowing that I, Jacob, had faith in Christ who should come, he sought much opportunity that he might come unto me. And he was learned, that he had a perfect knowledge of the language of the people; wherefore, he could use much flattery, and much power of speech, according to the power of the devil. And he had hope to shake me from the faith, notwithstanding the many revelations and the many things which I had seen concerning these things; for I truly had seen angels, and they had ministered unto me. And also, I had heard the voice of the Lord speaking unto me in very word, from time to time; wherefore, I could not be shaken."

In the New Testament we read about the chastening of the Lord. He chastening those that He loves, just like a loving father chastens his children. Even though chastisement is hard to bear at the time, it is for our good and is necessary to help us be the kind of people we need to be. Hebrews 12:5-11 "And ye have forgotten the exhortation which speaketh unto you as unto children, My son, despise not thou the chastening of the Lord, nor faint when thou art rebuked of him: For whom the Lord loveth he chasteneth, and scourgeth every son whom he receiveth. If ye endure chastening, God dealeth with you as with sons; for what son is he whom the father chasteneth not? But if ye be without chastisement, whereof all are partakers, then are ye bastards, and not sons. Furthermore we have had fathers of our flesh which corrected us, and we gave them reverence: shall we not much rather be in subjection unto the Father of spirits, and live? For they verily for a few days chastened us after their own pleasure; but he for our profit, that we might be partakers of his holiness. Now no chastening for the present seemeth to be joyous, but grievous: nevertheless afterward it yieldeth the peaceable fruit of righteousness unto them which are exercised thereby."

Some scriptures with a thought booklet say that the law and commandments should be our meditation all day long. We should love them, for they give us wisdom and understanding and keep us from the evil way. The Words of the Lord should be sweeter to us than honey. Is this how we feel about the Word of God and His commandments? Psalms 119:97-104 "O how love I thy law! it is my meditation all the day. Thou through thy commandments hast made me wiser than mine enemies: for they are ever with me. I have more understanding than all my teachers: for thy testimonies are my meditation. I understand more than the ancients, because I keep thy precepts. I have refrained my feet from every evil way, that I might keep thy word. I have not departed from thy judgments: for thou hast taught me. How sweet are thy words unto my taste! yea, sweeter than honey to my mouth! Through thy precepts I get understanding: therefore I hate every false way."

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