Daily Thoughts

In the Book of Mormon I read that the people who had  been converted refused to fight when their enemies came upon them.  Instead they chose to lie down on the ground and praise God as they were being killed.  This so touched their enemies that they repented of their murders and turned to the Lord themselves.  In fact, more people joined the people of God than had been slain.  And from this we can see that the Lord works in many ways for the salvation of His people.  Alma 24: 21-27 "Now when the people saw that they were coming against them they went out to meet them, and prostrated themselves before them to the earth, and began to call on the name of the Lord; and thus they were in this attitude when the Lamanites began to fall upon them, and began to slay them with the sword. And thus without meeting any resistance, they did slay a thousand and five of them; and we know that they are blessed, for they have gone to dwell with their God. Now when the Lamanites saw that their brethren would not flee from the sword, neither would they turn aside to the right hand or to the left, but that they would lie down and perish, and praised God even in the very act of perishing under the sword— Now when the Lamanites saw this they did forbear from slaying them; and there were many whose hearts had swollen in them for those of their brethren who had fallen under the sword, for they repented of the things which they had done. And it came to pass that they threw down their weapons of war, and they would not take them again, for they were stung for the murders which they had committed; and they came down even as their brethren, relying upon the mercies of those whose arms were lifted to slay them. And it came to pass that the people of God were joined that day by more than the number who had been slain; and those who had been slain were righteous people, therefore we have no reason to doubt but what they were saved. And there was not a wicked man slain among them; but there were more than a thousand brought to the knowledge of the truth; thus we see that the Lord worketh in many ways to the salvation of his people."

In the Old Testament I read that some of the people sought priestly offices and the Lord caused the earth to open up and swallow three rebels and their families and then send fire down to consume 250 more. Numbers 16:28-35 "And Moses said, Hereby ye shall know that the Lord hath sent me to do all these works; for I have not done them of mine own mind. If these men die the common death of all men, or if they be visited after the visitation of all men; then the Lord hath not sent me. But if the Lord make a new thing, and the earth open her mouth, and swallow them up, with all that appertain unto them, and they go down quick into the pit; then ye shall understand that these men have provoked the Lord. And it came to pass, as he had made an end of speaking all these words, that the ground clave asunder that was under them: And the earth opened her mouth, and swallowed them up, and their houses, and all the men that appertained unto Korah, and all their goods. They, and all that appertained to them, went down alive into the pit, and the earth closed upon them: and they perished from among the congregation. And all Israel that were round about them fled at the cry of them: for they said, Lest the earth swallow us up also. And there came out a fire from the Lord, and consumed the two hundred and fifty men that offered incense."

Some scriptures with a thought booklet tell us to abstain from fleshly lusts which war against the soul and make sure our conversation is honest.  We need to keep ourselves above reproach so that those who claim we are evildoers will see our good works and glorify God.  If we are true disciples of Christ we need to act the part so others can see that we are His followers, by the way that we live our lives.  1 Peter 2:11-12 "Dearly beloved, I beseech you as strangers and pilgrims, abstain from fleshly lusts, which war against the soul; Having your conversation honest among the Gentiles: that, whereas they speak against you as evildoers, they may by your good works, which they shall behold, glorify God in the day of visitation."

Daily Thoughts

In the Book of Mormon I read that the people who had been converted refused to take up arms against their enemies and instead buried their weapons on war deep in the earth as a witness that they would never again shed the blood of men.  They had repented of the many murders they had committed in the past and did not want to take any chances in committing more murders.  Alma 24:6-19 "Now there was not one soul among all the people who had been converted unto the Lord that would take up arms against their brethren; nay, they would not even make any preparations for war; yea, and also their king commanded them that they should not. Now, these are the words which he said unto the people concerning the matter: I thank my God, my beloved people, that our great God has in goodness sent these our brethren, the Nephites, unto us to preach unto us, and to convince us of the traditions of our wicked fathers. And behold, I thank my great God that he has given us a portion of his Spirit to soften our hearts, that we have opened a correspondence with these brethren, the Nephites. And behold, I also thank my God, that by opening this correspondence we have been convinced of our sins, and of the many murders which we have committed. And I also thank my God, yea, my great God, that he hath granted unto us that we might repent of these things, and also that he hath forgiven us of those our many sins and murders which we have committed, and taken away the guilt from our hearts, through the merits of his Son. And now behold, my brethren, since it has been all that we could do (as we were the most lost of all mankind) to repent of all our sins and the many murders which we have committed, and to get God to take them away from our hearts, for it was all we could do to repent sufficiently before God that he would take away our stain— Now, my best beloved brethren, since God hath taken away our stains, and our swords have become bright, then let us stain our swords no more with the blood of our brethren. Behold, I say unto you, Nay, let us retain our swords that they be not stained with the blood of our brethren; for perhaps, if we should stain our swords again they can no more be washed bright through the blood of the Son of our great God, which shall be shed for the atonement of our sins. And the great God has had mercy on us, and made these things known unto us that we might not perish; yea, and he has made these things known unto us beforehand, because he loveth our souls as well as he loveth our children; therefore, in his mercy he doth visit us by his angels, that the plan of salvation might be made known unto us as well as unto future generations. Oh, how merciful is our God! And now behold, since it has been as much as we could do to get our stains taken away from us, and our swords are made bright, let us hide them away that they may be kept bright, as a testimony to our God at the last day, or at the day that we shall be brought to stand before him to be judged, that we have not stained our swords in the blood of our brethren since he imparted his word unto us and has made us clean thereby. And now, my brethren, if our brethren seek to destroy us, behold, we will hide away our swords, yea, even we will bury them deep in the earth, that they may be kept bright, as a testimony that we have never used them, at the last day; and if our brethren destroy us, behold, we shall go to our God and shall be saved. And now it came to pass that when the king had made an end of these sayings, and all the people were assembled together, they took their swords, and all the weapons which were used for the shedding of man's blood, and they did bury them up deep in the earth. And this they did, it being in their view a testimony to God, and also to men, that they never would use weapons again for the shedding of man's blood; and this they did, vouching and covenanting with God, that rather than shed the blood of their brethren they would give up their own lives; and rather than take away from a brother they would give unto him; and rather than spend their days in idleness they would labor abundantly with their hands. And thus we see that, when these Lamanites were brought to believe and to know the truth, they were firm, and would suffer even unto death rather than commit sin; and thus we see that they buried their weapons of peace, or they buried the weapons of war, for peace."

In the Old Testament we read that the Lord was so displeased because of the people's murmuring and lack of faith that he said only Joshua and Caleb would be allowed to go into the promised land.  The people would need to wander in the wilderness for 40 years.  Numbers 14:26-33 "And the Lord spake unto Moses and unto Aaron, saying, How long shall I bear with this evil congregation, which murmur against me? I have heard the murmurings of the children of Israel, which they murmur against me. Say unto them, As truly as I live, saith the Lord, as ye have spoken in mine ears, so will I do to you: Your carcases shall fall in this wilderness; and all that were numbered of you, according to your whole number, from twenty years old and upward, which have murmured against me, Doubtless ye shall not come into the land, concerning which I sware to make you dwell therein, save Caleb the son of Jephunneh, and Joshua the son of Nun. But your little ones, which ye said should be a prey, them will I bring in, and they shall know the land which ye have despised. But as for you, your carcases, they shall fall in this wilderness. And your children shall wander in the wilderness forty years, and bear your whoredoms, until your carcases be wasted in the wilderness."

A verse with a thought booklet tells us that we don't need to be afraid or discouraged because the Lord goes before us and will be with us--He will never leave us nor forsake us.  The thought that went with this, written by Stacie Roth Miller from Fort Wayne, Indiana says:  "Mommy, don't leave me!" My four-year-old daughter howled as she scrambled down the stairs.  Always on a time crunch to get three small children out the door, I had begun loading Addison's twin baby brothers into our minivan while she was retrieving a last-minute item from her room.  Hearing the commotion downstairs, she grew frantic at the thought of being left behind and burst into tears.  I was surprised, and frankly a little impatient with the strength of her reaction.  Didn't she trust me?  Hadn't I always cared for her with love?  I took a calming breath.  "Honey, I am not going to leave you.  Have I ever left you?"  She sniffed and wiped her eyes.  "No."  The larger truth of that moment pierced me.  I as walking through a hard time in my life, and though it's hard to admit, my faith in God's goodness was wavering.  I was so focused on my current problems that I was forgetting all the times God had proved Himself faithful to me. As I began to recall some of those tough moments, I was reassured that God had never yet left me alone.  And He never will. Faithful Father, I want to never forget the great things you have done for me.  Help me continue to put my trust in you.    Deuteronomy 31:8 "And the Lord, he it is that doth go before thee; he will be with thee, he will not fail thee, neither forsake thee: fear not, neither be dismayed.'

Daily Thoughts

In the Book of Mormon I read that after the king was converted, he sent a decree among his people that they should not persecute Ammon and his brethren and should allow them free access to preach the gospel in the land.  Because of this, thousands were brought to a knowledge of the Lord.  And they never did fall away.  This shows how much good can come from a righteous leader.  Alma 23:1-7 "Behold, now it came to pass that the king of the Lamanites sent a proclamation among all his people, that they should not lay their hands on Ammon, or Aaron, or Omner, or Himni, nor either of their brethren who should go forth preaching the word of God, in whatsoever place they should be, in any part of their land. Yea, he sent a decree among them, that they should not lay their hands on them to bind them, or to cast them into prison; neither should they spit upon them, nor smite them, nor cast them out of their synagogues, nor scourge them; neither should they cast stones at them, but that they should have free access to their houses, and also their temples, and their sanctuaries. And thus they might go forth and preach the word according to their desires, for the king had been converted unto the Lord, and all his household; therefore he sent his proclamation throughout the land unto his people, that the word of God might have no obstruction, but that it might go forth throughout all the land, that his people might be convinced concerning the wicked traditions of their fathers, and that they might be convinced that they were all brethren, and that they ought not to murder, nor to plunder, nor to steal, nor to commit adultery, nor to commit any manner of wickedness. And now it came to pass that when the king had sent forth this proclamation, that Aaron and his brethren went forth from city to city, and from one house of worship to another, establishing churches, and consecrating priests and teachers throughout the land among the Lamanites, to preach and to teach the word of God among them; and thus they began to have great success. And thousands were brought to the knowledge of the Lord, yea, thousands were brought to believe in the traditions of the Nephites; and they were taught the records and prophecies which were handed down even to the present time. And as sure as the Lord liveth, so sure as many as believed, or as many as were brought to the knowledge of the truth, through the preaching of Ammon and his brethren, according to the spirit of revelation and of prophecy, and the power of God working miracles in them—yea, I say unto you, as the Lord liveth, as many of the Lamanites as believed in their preaching, and were converted unto the Lord, never did fall away. For they became a righteous people; they did lay down the weapons of their rebellion, that they did not fight against God any more, neither against any of their brethren."

In the Old Testament I read that the spies who were sent to Caanan to spy out the land came back with reports of the wonderful fruit there, describing it as a land of milk and honey.  However, most of the spies describes the "giants" of the land and the mighty people who made them look like grasshoppers by comparison.  However, Caleb had faith in the Lord that with His help, they could conquer their enemies.  He said, Let's go up and possess it, for we are well able to overcome it. When we have faith in the Lord, we can accomplish things we never would be able to do otherwise.  But when we lack faith, our fears overcome us.  Numbers 13:27-33 "And they told him, and said, We came unto the land whither thou sentest us, and surely it floweth with milk and honey; and this is the fruit of it. Nevertheless the people be strong that dwell in the land, and the cities are walled, and very great: and moreover we saw the children of Anak there. The Amalekites dwell in the land of the south: and the Hittites, and the Jebusites, and the Amorites, dwell in the mountains: and the Canaanites dwell by the sea, and by the coast of Jordan. And Caleb stilled the people before Moses, and said, Let us go up at once, and possess it; for we are well able to overcome it. But the men that went up with him said, We be not able to go up against the people; for they are stronger than we. And they brought up an evil report of the land which they had searched unto the children of Israel, saying, The land, through which we have gone to search it, is a land that eateth up the inhabitants thereof; and all the people that we saw in it are men of a great stature. And there we saw the giants, the sons of Anak, which come of the giants: and we were in our own sight as grasshoppers, and so we were in their sight."

A verse in a thought booklet reminds us that all the money in the world won't save us from the wrath of God if we are wicked.  So were are our priorities--on seeking riches or on seeking the Lord?  Are we placing our hope on things that will not last?  When we meet the Lord, all of our worldly accomplishments and wealth will count for nothing. Are we preparing ourselves for that day in ways that really count?    Zephaniah 1:18 "Neither their silver nor their gold shall be able to deliver them in the day of the Lord's wrath; but the whole land shall be devoured by the fire of his jealousy: for he shall make even a speedy riddance of all them that dwell in the land."

Daily Thoughts

In the Book of Mormon I read about how after the king had been taught about the atonement by Aaron, he asked what he could do to have eternal life.  Aaron instructed him to call upon God in faith and humility.  The king said he would give away all his sins to know the Lord.  Are we willing to give away all our sins to know God?  Alma 22:15-18 "And it came to pass that after Aaron had expounded these things unto him, the king said: What shall I do that I may have this eternal life of which thou hast spoken? Yea, what shall I do that I may be born of God, having this wicked spirit rooted out of my breast, and receive his Spirit, that I may be filled with joy, that I may not be cast off at the last day? Behold, said he, I will give up all that I possess, yea, I will forsake my kingdom, that I may receive this great joy. But Aaron said unto him: If thou desirest this thing, if thou wilt bow down before God, yea, if thou wilt repent of all thy sins, and will bow down before God, and call on his name in faith, believing that ye shall receive, then shalt thou receive the hope which thou desirest. And it came to pass that when Aaron had said these words, the king did bow down before the Lord, upon his knees; yea, even he did prostrate himself upon the earth, and cried mightily, saying: O God, Aaron hath told me that there is a God; and if there is a God, and if thou art God, wilt thou make thyself known unto me, and I will give away all my sins to know thee, and that I may be raised from the dead, and be saved at the last day. And now when the king had said these words, he was struck as if he were dead."

In the Old Testament I read that Moses sent twelve spies to search the land of Canaan to see whether the land was strong or weak, few or many, fat or lean.  Numbers 13:17-20 "And Moses sent them to spy out the land of Canaan, and said unto them, Get you up this way southward, and go up into the mountain: And see the land, what it is; and the people that dwelleth therein, whether they be strong or weak, few or many; And what the land is that they dwell in, whether it be good or bad; and what cities they be that they dwell in, whether in tents, or in strong holds; And what the land is, whether it be fat or lean, whether there be wood therein, or not. And be ye of good courage, and bring of the fruit of the land. Now the time was the time of the firstripe grapes."

A verse with a thought booklet tells us that our help comes from the Lord, who made heaven and earth.  Look around at all the wondrous creations of God--the majestic mountains, the powerful rivers, the vast oceans, the beautiful flowers with all their variety and color. If He could create all that, don't you think He can handle taking care of your problems in the way that's best for you?  Sometimes that means removing our difficulties, and other times that means strengthening us so that we can bear them.  But we can trust in Him to take care of us in the way that is best.  Psalms 121:2 "My help cometh from the Lord, which made heaven and earth."

Daily Thoughts

In the Book of Mormon I read about how Aaron was able to teach the king about the fall of Adam and about the atonement of Christ.  Because of the atonement, we can repent of our sins and be resurrected from the dead.  Alma 22:12-14 "And it came to pass that when Aaron saw that the king would believe his words, he began from the creation of Adam, reading the scriptures unto the king—how God created man after his own image, and that God gave him commandments, and that because of transgression, man had fallen. And Aaron did expound unto him the scriptures from the creation of Adam, laying the fall of man before him, and their carnal state and also the plan of redemption, which was prepared from the foundation of the world, through Christ, for all whosoever would believe on his name. And since man had fallen he could not merit anything of himself; but the sufferings and death of Christ atone for their sins, through faith and repentance, and so forth; and that he breaketh the bands of death, that the grave shall have no victory, and that the sting of death should be swallowed up in the hopes of glory; and Aaron did expound all these things unto the king."

In the Old Testament we read about the seriousness of murmuring against the Lord's prophet.  Moses own brother and sister were speaking out against Moses because they didn't approve of the women he'd married.  The Lord was so displeased with their murmuring that he struck Miriam down with leprosy.  Moses pleaded with the Lord to heal her, but the Lord said he'd leave her with the leprosy for seven days, during which time she was shut out from the camp.  Numbers 12:1-15 "And Miriam and Aaron spake against Moses because of the Ethiopian woman whom he had married: for he had married an Ethiopian woman.  And they said, Hath the Lord indeed spoken only by Moses? hath he not spoken also by us? And the Lord heard it. (Now the man Moses was very meek, above all the men which were upon the face of the earth.) And the Lord spake suddenly unto Moses, and unto Aaron, and unto Miriam, Come out ye three unto the tabernacle of the congregation. And they three came out. And the Lord came down in the pillar of the cloud, and stood in the door of the tabernacle, and called Aaron and Miriam: and they both came forth. And he said, Hear now my words: If there be a prophet among you, I the Lord will make myself known unto him in a vision, and will speak unto him in a dream. My servant Moses is not so, who is faithful in all mine house. With him will I speak mouth to mouth, even apparently, and not in dark speeches; and the similitude of the Lord shall he behold: wherefore then were ye not afraid to speak against my servant Moses? And the anger of the Lord was kindled against them; and he departed. And the cloud departed from off the tabernacle; and, behold, Miriam became leprous, white as snow: and Aaron looked upon Miriam, and, behold, she was leprous. And Aaron said unto Moses, Alas, my lord, I beseech thee, lay not the sin upon us, wherein we have done foolishly, and wherein we have sinned. Let her not be as one dead, of whom the flesh is half consumed when he cometh out of his mother's womb. And Moses cried unto the Lord, saying, Heal her now, O God, I beseech thee. And the Lord said unto Moses, If her father had but spit in her face, should she not be ashamed seven days? let her be shut out from the camp seven days, and after that let her be received in again. And Miriam was shut out from the camp seven days: and the people journeyed not till Miriam was brought in again."

Some scriptures with a thought booklet tell us that even if our crops fail and our herds disappear, we can still rejoice in the Lord, the God our our salvation.  He is our strength! Even if everything else in our life goes wrong, we can turn to the Lord and He will get is through it.  We can trust in Him, even when going through the trials and tribulations of life.  This isn't easy to do when we lose our job, or develop cancer, or our marriage falls apart. But we can always trust in God, who is faithful.  Take comfort!  Even when life is barren, God never fails His people.  If we trust in Him, He will strengthen us and help us get through all our trials.  All these things will give us experience and  be for our good, and if we endure them well, He'll eventually exhalt us on high.   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.
19 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 I read about how Aaron had tried to preach to the people, teaching them out of the scriptures about how Christ had died for them and there was no redemption except through Him.  However, they would not hear his words and were angry with him, mocking him.  Few would believe the words which he taught.  He and his brethren were cast into prison and suffered much until Ammon had them released and they were fed and clothed. Alma 21:9-14 "Now Aaron began to open the scriptures unto them concerning the coming of Christ, and also concerning the resurrection of the dead, and that there could be no redemption for mankind save it were through the death and sufferings of Christ, and the atonement of his blood. And it came to pass as he began to expound these things unto them they were angry with him, and began to mock him; and they would not hear the words which he spake. Therefore, when he saw that they would not hear his words, he departed out of their synagogue, and came over to a village which was called Ani-Anti, and there he found Muloki preaching the word unto them; and also Ammah and his brethren. And they contended with many about the word. And it came to pass that they saw that the people would harden their hearts, therefore they departed and came over into the land of Middoni. And they did preach the word unto many, and few believed on the words which they taught. Nevertheless, Aaron and a certain number of his brethren were taken and cast into prison, and the remainder of them fled out of the land of Middoni unto the regions round about. And those who were cast into prison suffered many things, and they were delivered by the hand of Lamoni and Ammon, and they were fed and clothed."

In the Old Testament I read that when the people complained, the Lord was angry and displeased when he heard their murmurs.  In fact, He was so upset with them that He sent fire to burn them up.  Next time we're tempted to complain and murmur, let's remember how unhappy it makes the Lord and try to have a more cheerful attitude.  Numbers 11:1 "And when the people complained, it displeased the Lord: and the Lord heard it; and his anger was kindled; and the fire of the Lord burnt among them, and consumed them that were in the uttermost parts of the camp."


A verse with a thought booklet tells us that the Lord is good and will be a strong hold during troubled days for those who trust in Him.  He knows each one of us! Nahum 1:7 "The Lord is good, a strong hold in the day of trouble; and he knoweth them that trust in him."

Daily Thoughts

In the Book of Mormon I read that when Ammon and Lamoni had Ammon's brethren released out of prison, they were very sad at the poor condition they were in and how much they had suffered at the hands of wicked and hardened people.  But they had been patient in all their sufferings.  How patient are we when we are going through difficult circumstances?  Alma 20:28-30 "And it came to pass that Ammon and Lamoni proceeded on their journey towards the land of Middoni. And Lamoni found favor in the eyes of the king of the land; therefore the brethren of Ammon were brought forth out of prison. And when Ammon did meet them he was exceedingly sorrowful, for behold they were naked, and their skins were worn exceedingly because of being bound with strong cords. And they also had suffered hunger, thirst, and all kinds of afflictions; nevertheless they were patient in all their sufferings. And, as it happened, it was their lot to have fallen into the hands of a more hardened and a more stiffnecked people; therefore they would not hearken unto their words, and they had cast them out, and had smitten them, and had driven them from house to house, and from place to place, even until they had arrived in the land of Middoni; and there they were taken and cast into prison, and bound with strong cords, and kept in prison for many days, and were delivered by Lamoni and Ammon."

In the Old Testament we read about how the Lord commanded the children of Israel, through Moses, to make two trumpets. These were to be used to call them to assembly and for journeying and also to sound an alarm if they went into war against their enemies that oppressed them, as a reminder that the Lord had saved them from their enemies. And in their days of gladness and solemn days, they should blow the trumpets over their burnt offerings and sacrifices, that they would be a memorial before God that He is the Lord.  Sounds like these trumpets were to be blown on various occasions for various reasons, but was sometimes used to remind them of things they needed to remember.    Numbers 10:1-10 "And the Lord spake unto Moses, saying, Make thee two trumpets of silver; of a whole piece shalt thou make them: that thou mayest use them for the calling of the assembly, and for the journeying of the camps. And when they shall blow with them, all the assembly shall assemble themselves to thee at the door of the tabernacle of the congregation. And if they blow but with one trumpet, then the princes, which are heads of the thousands of Israel, shall gather themselves unto thee. When ye blow an alarm, then the camps that lie on the east parts shall go forward. When ye blow an alarm the second time, then the camps that lie on the south side shall take their journey: they shall blow an alarm for their journeys. But when the congregation is to be gathered together, ye shall blow, but ye shall not sound an alarm. And the sons of Aaron, the priests, shall blow with the trumpets; and they shall be to you for an ordinance for ever throughout your generations. And if ye go to war in your land against the enemy that oppresseth you, then ye shall blow an alarm with the trumpets; and ye shall be remembered before the Lord your God, and ye shall be saved from your enemies. Also in the day of your gladness, and in your solemn days, and in the beginnings of your months, ye shall blow with the trumpets over your burnt offerings, and over the sacrifices of your peace offerings; that they may be to you for a memorial before your God: I am the Lord your God."


Some scriptures from a thought booklet tell us that sheep recognize the voice of their shepherd and will follow him, rather than the voice of a stranger.  We need to become so well acquainted with our Savior, the Good Shepherd, that we recognize His voice and willingly follow Him. If we get a phone call from a friend we know well, we don't need to ask who they are.  We know immediately.  Do we know our Savior well enough that we likewise can recognize His voice?  John 10:1-5 "Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that entereth not by the door into the sheepfold, but climbeth up some other way, the same is a thief and a robber. But he that entereth in by the door is the shepherd of the sheep. To him the porter openeth; and the sheep hear his voice: and he calleth his own sheep by name, and leadeth them out. And when he putteth forth his own sheep, he goeth before them, and the sheep follow him: for they know his voice. And a stranger will they not follow, but will flee from him: for they know not the voice of strangers."

Daily Thoughts

In the Book of Mormon we read about how the multitude who were gathered together contended about why the king and his servants had fallen to the ground.  One man tried to slay Ammon but was struck down dead because Ammon's father had been promised that he would be protected.  There was so much contention regarding why these things were happening, that Abish, who had brought the people together, was brought to tears.  She then took the queen by the hand and revived her, who stood up and praised God.  She likewise revived King Lamoni who witnessed to the marvelous things he had beheld.  Many people who heard their words were converted and baptized and the church was able to be established among them.  Alma 19:19-36 "And now the people began to murmur among themselves; some saying that it was a great evil that had come upon them, or upon the king and his house, because he had suffered that the Nephite should remain in the land. But others rebuked them, saying: The king hath brought this evil upon his house, because he slew his servants who had had their flocks scattered at the waters of Sebus. And they were also rebuked by those men who had stood at the waters of Sebus and scattered the flocks which belonged to the king, for they were angry with Ammon because of the number which he had slain of their brethren at the waters of Sebus, while defending the flocks of the king. Now, one of them, whose brother had been slain with the sword of Ammon, being exceedingly angry with Ammon, drew his sword and went forth that he might let it fall upon Ammon, to slay him; and as he lifted the sword to smite him, behold, he fell dead. Now we see that Ammon could not be slain, for the Lord had said unto Mosiah, his father: I will spare him, and it shall be unto him according to thy faith—therefore, Mosiah trusted him unto the Lord. And it came to pass that when the multitude beheld that the man had fallen dead, who lifted the sword to slay Ammon, fear came upon them all, and they durst not put forth their hands to touch him or any of those who had fallen; and they began to marvel again among themselves what could be the cause of this great power, or what all these things could mean. And it came to pass that there were many among them who said that Ammon was the Great Spirit, and others said he was sent by the Great Spirit; But others rebuked them all, saying that he was a monster, who had been sent from the Nephites to torment them. And there were some who said that Ammon was sent by the Great Spirit to afflict them because of their iniquities; and that it was the Great Spirit that had always attended the Nephites, who had ever delivered them out of their hands; and they said that it was this Great Spirit who had destroyed so many of their brethren, the Lamanites. And thus the contention began to be exceedingly sharp among them. And while they were thus contending, the woman servant who had caused the multitude to be gathered together came, and when she saw the contention which was among the multitude she was exceedingly sorrowful, even unto tears. And it came to pass that she went and took the queen by the hand, that perhaps she might raise her from the ground; and as soon as she touched her hand she arose and stood upon her feet, and cried with a loud voice, saying: O blessed Jesus, who has saved me from an awful hell! O blessed God, have mercy on this people! And when she had said this, she clasped her hands, being filled with joy, speaking many words which were not understood; and when she had done this, she took the king, Lamoni, by the hand, and behold he arose and stood upon his feet. And he, immediately, seeing the contention among his people, went forth and began to rebuke them, and to teach them the words which he had heard from the mouth of Ammon; and as many as heard his words believed, and were converted unto the Lord. But there were many among them who would not hear his words; therefore they went their way. And it came to pass that when Ammon arose he also administered unto them, and also did all the servants of Lamoni; and they did all declare unto the people the selfsame thing—that their hearts had been changed; that they had no more desire to do evil. And behold, many did declare unto the people that they had seen angels and had conversed with them; and thus they had told them things of God, and of his righteousness.  And it came to pass that there were many that did believe in their words; and as many as did believe were baptized; and they became a righteous people, and they did establish a church among them. And thus the work of the Lord did commence among the Lamanites; thus the Lord did begin to pour out his Spirit upon them; and we see that his arm is extended to all people who will repent and believe on his name."

In the Old Testament we read about how the Lord was able to communicate with the children of Israel about whether He wanted they to journey or whether He wanted them to pitch their tents and remain.  He sent a loud by day and a pillar of fire by night.  If the cloud stayed over the tabernacle, that was in indication to remain, whether it be for a day or a year.  And if it moved, they would need to move.  Numbers 9:15-23 "And on the day that the tabernacle was reared up the cloud covered the tabernacle, namely, the tent of the testimony: and at even there was upon the tabernacle as it were the appearance of fire, until the morning. So it was alway: the cloud covered it by day, and the appearance of fire by night. And when the cloud was taken up from the tabernacle, then after that the children of Israel journeyed: and in the place where the cloud abode, there the children of Israel pitched their tents. At the commandment of the Lord the children of Israel journeyed, and at the commandment of the Lord they pitched: as long as the cloud abode upon the tabernacle they rested in their tents. And when the cloud tarried long upon the tabernacle many days, then the children of Israel kept the charge of the Lord, and journeyed not. And so it was, when the cloud was a few days upon the tabernacle; according to the commandment of the Lord they abode in their tents, and according to the commandment of the Lord they journeyed. And so it was, when the cloud abode from even unto the morning, and that the cloud was taken up in the morning, then they journeyed: whether it was by day or by night that the cloud was taken up, they journeyed. Or whether it were two days, or a month, or a year, that the cloud tarried upon the tabernacle, remaining thereon, the children of Israel abode in their tents, and journeyed not: but when it was taken up, they journeyed. At the commandment of the Lord they rested in the tents, and at the commandment of the Lord they journeyed: they kept the charge of the Lord, at the commandment of the Lord by the hand of Moses."


Some verses with a thought booklet tell us that the Lord is a refuge for the oppressed and will provide a refuge in times of trouble to all those who put their trust in Him.  Picture a violent storm, wind lashing the trees, rain gushing over a precipice where a mother bird sits on a nest, her wings sheltering her young.  That is the way the Lord will protect us against the storms of life if we'll put our trust in Him.  He will be there for us. Psalms 9:9-10 "The Lord also will be a refuge for the oppressed, a refuge in times of trouble. And they that know thy name will put their trust in thee: for thou, Lord, hast not forsaken them that seek thee."

Daily Thoughts

In the Book of Mormon I read that King Lamoni arose on the appointed day and bore witness that he had seen his Redeemer.  His wife and his servants were so overcome by the Spirit that they all fell to the earth in a trance, except one woman named Abish who had already been converted years earlier.  When she saw this scene she thought it would be a good missionary opportunity to help others come to Christ so she ran out and told other people to come, who witnessed all these people fallen to the earth.  Alma 19:12-18 "And it came to pass that he arose, according to the words of Ammon; and as he arose, he stretched forth his hand unto the woman, and said: Blessed be the name of God, and blessed art thou. For as sure as thou livest, behold, I have seen my Redeemer; and he shall come forth, and be born of a woman, and he shall redeem all mankind who believe on his name. Now, when he had said these words, his heart was swollen within him, and he sunk again with joy; and the queen also sunk down, being overpowered by the Spirit. Now Ammon seeing the Spirit of the Lord poured out according to his prayers upon the Lamanites, his brethren, who had been the cause of so much mourning among the Nephites, or among all the people of God because of their iniquities and their traditions, he fell upon his knees, and began to pour out his soul in prayer and thanksgiving to God for what he had done for his brethren; and he was also overpowered with joy; and thus they all three had sunk to the earth. Now, when the servants of the king had seen that they had fallen, they also began to cry unto God, for the fear of the Lord had come upon them also, for it was they who had stood before the king and testified unto him concerning the great power of Ammon. And it came to pass that they did call on the name of the Lord, in their might, even until they had all fallen to the earth, save it were one of the Lamanitish women, whose name was Abish, she having been converted unto the Lord for many years, on account of a remarkable vision of her father— Thus, having been converted to the Lord, and never having made it known, therefore, when she saw that all the servants of Lamoni had fallen to the earth, and also her mistress, the queen, and the king, and Ammon lay prostrate upon the earth, she knew that it was the power of God; and supposing that this opportunity, by making known unto the people what had happened among them, that by beholding this scene it would cause them to believe in the power of God, therefore she ran forth from house to house, making it known unto the people. And they began to assemble themselves together unto the house of the king. And there came a multitude, and to their astonishment, they beheld the king, and the queen, and their servants prostrate upon the earth, and they all lay there as though they were dead; and they also saw Ammon, and behold, he was a Nephite."

In the Old Testament I read that the Levites were consecrated and set apart by the laying on of hands.  They are the Lord's in place of the firstborn of every family.  They are the gift to Aaron and his sons to do the service of the tabernacle.  Numbers 7:10-18 "And the princes offered for dedicating of the altar in the day that it was anointed, even the princes offered their offering before the altar. And the Lord said unto Moses, They shall offer their offering, each prince on his day, for the dedicating of the altar. And he that offered his offering the first day was Nahshon the son of Amminadab, of the tribe of Judah: And his offering was one silver charger, the weight thereof was an hundred and thirty shekels, one silver bowl of seventy shekels, after the shekel of the sanctuary; both of them were full of fine flour mingled with oil for a meat offering: One spoon of ten shekels of gold, full of incense: One young bullock, one ram, one lamb of the first year, for a burnt offering: One kid of the goats for a sin offering: And for a sacrifice of peace offerings, two oxen, five rams, five he goats, five lambs of the first year: this was the offering of Nahshon the son of Amminadab. On the second day Nethaneel the son of Zuar, prince of Issachar, did offer:"

Some verses with a thought booklet tell us that Jesus is the Good Shepherd who knows His sheep and they know Him.  He lays down His life for His sheep.  We are His sheep and He lovingly laid down His life for each of us. When we face opposition or struggles in this world, we can take comfort from Jesus' promises to care for us, lead us, and carry us through our difficulties.   John 10:14-15 "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."
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Daily Thoughts

In the Book of Mormon I read that the queen  called Ammon to come to her because she didn't know what to do about her husband.  Some thought that he was dead and told her to bury him.  Ammon told her he was not dead and that he would wake up the next day.  She showed forth faith to believe him.  Alma 19:1-10 "And it came to pass that after two days and two nights they were about to take his body and lay it in a sepulcher, which they had made for the purpose of burying their dead. Now the queen having heard of the fame of Ammon, therefore she sent and desired that he should come in unto her. And it came to pass that Ammon did as he was commanded, and went in unto the queen, and desired to know what she would that he should do. And she said unto him: The servants of my husband have made it known unto me that thou art a prophet of a holy God, and that thou hast power to do many mighty works in his name; Therefore, if this is the case, I would that ye should go in and see my husband, for he has been laid upon his bed for the space of two days and two nights; and some say that he is not dead, but others say that he is dead and that he stinketh, and that he ought to be placed in the sepulchre; but as for myself, to me he doth not stink. Now, this was what Ammon desired, for he knew that king Lamoni was under the power of God; he knew that the dark veil of unbelief was being cast away from his mind, and the light which did light up his mind, which was the light of the glory of God, which was a marvelous light of his goodness—yea, this light had infused such joy into his soul, the cloud of darkness having been dispelled, and that the light of everlasting life was lit up in his soul, yea, he knew that this had overcome his natural frame, and he was carried away in God— Therefore, what the queen desired of him was his only desire. Therefore, he went in to see the king according as the queen had desired him; and he saw the king, and he knew that he was not dead. And he said unto the queen: He is not dead, but he sleepeth in God, and on the morrow he shall rise again; therefore bury him not. And Ammon said unto her: Believest thou this? And she said unto him: I have had no witness save thy word, and the word of our servants; nevertheless I believe that it shall be according as thou hast said. And Ammon said unto her: Blessed art thou because of thy exceeding faith; I say unto thee, woman, there has not been such great faith among all the people of the Nephites."

In the Old Testament I read rather repetitive descriptions of what was offered on each of twelve days, describing silver chargers and golden spoons, and young bullocks, rams, lambs and goats.  I wondered why these offerings were important enough to detail them in such a manner.  But record keeping is important and everything we donate to the church, even today, is recorded.  Here's what was given on the fifth day.  Numbers 7:36-41 "On the fifth day Shelumiel the son of Zurishaddai, prince of the children of Simeon, did offer: His offering was one silver charger, the weight whereof was an hundred and thirty shekels, one silver bowl of seventy shekels, after the shekel of the sanctuary; both of them full of fine flour mingled with oil for a meat offering: One golden spoon of ten shekels, full of incense: One young bullock, one ram, one lamb of the first year, for a burnt offering: One kid of the goats for a sin offering: And for a sacrifice of peace offerings, two oxen, five rams, five he goats, five lambs of the first year: this was the offering of Shelumiel the son of Zurishaddai."

Some verses with a thought booklet tells us that God delights in mercy and will pardon our iniquity.  He will have compassion upon us and will cast all our sins into the depths of the sea.  What a wonderful picture of what happens when we repent--the Lord casting our sins into the depths of the sea!  Micah 7:18-19 "Who is a God like unto thee, that pardoneth iniquity, and passeth by the transgression of the remnant of his heritage? he retaineth not his anger for ever, because he delighteth in mercy. He will turn again, he will have compassion upon us; he will subdue our iniquities; and thou wilt cast all their sins into the depths of the sea."

Daily Thoughts

In the Book of Mormon I read that King Lamoni believed all the words which Ammon taught him, cried unto the Lord for mercy, and fell into a trance as if he was dead.  Alma 18:39-43 "But this is not all; for he expounded unto them the plan of redemption, which was prepared from the foundation of the world; and he also made known unto them concerning the coming of Christ, and all the works of the Lord did he make known unto them. And it came to pass that after he had said all these things, and expounded them to the king, that the king believed all his words. And he began to cry unto the Lord, saying: O Lord, have mercy; according to thy abundant mercy which thou hast had upon the people of Nephi, have upon me, and my people. And now, when he had said this, he fell unto the earth, as if he were dead. And it came to pass that his servants took him and carried him in unto his wife, and laid him upon a bed; and he lay as if he were dead for the space of two days and two nights; and his wife, and his sons, and his daughters mourned over him, after the manner of the Lamanites, greatly lamenting his loss."

In the Old Testament I read a wonderful blessing that the Lord spoke unto Moses for the benefit of the children of Israel.  Numbers 6:22-27 "And the Lord spake unto Moses, saying, Speak unto Aaron and unto his sons, saying, On this wise ye shall bless the children of Israel, saying unto them, The Lord bless thee, and keep thee: The Lord make his face shine upon thee, and be gracious unto thee: The Lord lift up his countenance upon thee, and give thee peace. And they shall put my name upon the children of Israel; and I will bless them."

Some scriptures with a thought booklet tell about how Paul and Silas suffered much as they were stripped of their clothing and beaten with many strips, and then cast into prison with their feet put into stocks. So what did they do in these circumstances?  They prayed and sang praises to God! And what was the result?  A mighty earthquake rocked the foundations of the prison and shook it so badly that all the doors opened and everyone's bands were loosed. They were free!  Can we turn to the Lord in praise when we're going through difficulties? The Lord does hear and answer our prayers!    Acts 16:22-26 "And the multitude rose up together against them: and the magistrates rent off their clothes, and commanded to beat them. And when they had laid many stripes upon them, they cast them into prison, charging the jailor to keep them safely: Who, having received such a charge, thrust them into the inner prison, and made their feet fast in the stocks. And at midnight Paul and Silas prayed, and sang praises unto God: and the prisoners heard them. And suddenly there was a great earthquake, so that the foundations of the prison were shaken: and immediately all the doors were opened, and every one's bands were loosed."

Daily Thoughts

In the Book of Mormon I read about how Ammon was able to teach King Lamoni all the things found in the Holy Scriptures, from the time of Adam down to the time Lehi had left Jerusalem.  Alma 18:36 "Now when Ammon had said these words, he began at the creation of the world, and also the creation of Adam, and told him all the things concerning the fall of man, and rehearsed and laid before him the records and the holy scriptures of the people, which had been spoken by the prophets, even down to the time that their father, Lehi, left Jerusalem."

In the Old Testament we read that a sinner must confess and make restitution to gain forgiveness.  Numbers 5:5-7 "And the Lord spake unto Moses, saying, Speak unto the children of Israel, When a man or woman shall commit any sin that men commit, to do a trespass against the Lord, and that person be guilty; Then they shall confess their sin which they have done: and he shall recompense his trespass with the principal thereof, and add unto it the fifth part thereof, and give it unto him against whom he hath trespassed."

A verse with a thought booklet tells us to purify our souls by obeying the truth and loving one another fervently with a pure heart.  1 Peter 1:22 "Seeing ye have purified your souls in obeying the truth through the Spirit unto unfeigned love of the brethren, see that ye love one another with a pure heart fervently:"

Daily Thoughts

In the Book of Mormon we read that when the servants of King Lamoni told him about how Ammon preserved the flocks of the king and how the people who had scattered the flocks had no power to slay him, he was astonished and wondered if Ammon was the Great Spirit.  Because Ammon had shown forth such great power over his enemies, King Lamoni took notice and was now teachable.  Alma 18:1-3 "And it came to pass that king Lamoni caused that his servants should stand forth and testify to all the things which they had seen concerning the matter. And when they had all testified to the things which they had seen, and he had learned of the faithfulness of Ammon in preserving his flocks, and also of his great power in contending against those who sought to slay him, he was astonished exceedingly, and said: Surely, this is more than a man. Behold, is not this the Great Spirit who doth send such great punishments upon this people, because of their murders? And they answered the king, and said: Whether he be the Great Spirit or a man, we know not; but this much we do know, that he cannot be slain by the enemies of the king; neither can they scatter the king's flocks when he is with us, because of his expertness and great strength; therefore, we know that he is a friend to the king. And now, O king, we do not believe that a man has such great power, for we know he cannot be slain."

In the Old Testament I read about how different families of the Levites were told to pitch on different sides of the tabernacle and given various assignments, such as keeping charge of the sanctuary with the ark, table candlestick and altar, or having custody of the boards, bars, pillars, and sockets thereof, and all the vessels.  We too, have our own assignments and callings, and things we are charged to do. Our callings may be different than somebody else's, but they are all important and we all need to work together to do the Lord's work. Numbers 3:30-38 "And the chief of the house of the father of the families of the Kohathites shall be Elizaphan the son of Uzziel. And their charge shall be the ark, and the table, and the candlestick, and the altars, and the vessels of the sanctuary wherewith they minister, and the hanging, and all the service thereof. And Eleazar the son of Aaron the priest shall be chief over the chief of the Levites, and have the oversight of them that keep the charge of the sanctuary. Of Merari was the family of the Mahlites, and the family of the Mushites: these are the families of Merari. And those that were numbered of them, according to the number of all the males, from a month old and upward, were six thousand and two hundred. And the chief of the house of the father of the families of Merari was Zuriel the son of Abihail: these shall pitch on the side of the tabernacle northward. And under the custody and charge of the sons of Merari shall be the boards of the tabernacle, and the bars thereof, and the pillars thereof, and the sockets thereof, and all the vessels thereof, and all that serveth thereto,
And the pillars of the court round about, and their sockets, and their pins, and their cords. But those that encamp before the tabernacle toward the east, even before the tabernacle of the congregation eastward, shall be Moses, and Aaron and his sons, keeping the charge of the sanctuary for the charge of the children of Israel; and the stranger that cometh nigh shall be put to death."

Some verses with a thought booklet describes how the Lord, the Good Shepherd, gathers His lost sheep, feeding them, binding up those who are broken and strengthening those who are sick. Our Savior will gather up and look after His scattered flock.  When we're going through trials in our lives, we're like lost sheep, but we can know that God loves us and will never forsake us.  No matter where we are or how lost we feel, God will hear our prayers.  Ezekiel 34:11-16 "For thus saith the Lord God; Behold, I, even I, will both search my sheep, and seek them out. As a shepherd seeketh out his flock in the day that he is among his sheep that are scattered; so will I seek out my sheep, and will deliver them out of all places where they have been scattered in the cloudy and dark day. And I will bring them out from the people, and gather them from the countries, and will bring them to their own land, and feed them upon the mountains of Israel by the rivers, and in all the inhabited places of the country. I will feed them in a good pasture, and upon the high mountains of Israel shall their fold be: there shall they lie in a good fold, and in a fat pasture shall they feed upon the mountains of Israel. I will feed my flock, and I will cause them to lie down, saith the Lord God.  I will seek that which was lost, and bring again that which was driven away, and will bind up that which was broken, and will strengthen that which was sick: but I will destroy the fat and the strong; I will feed them with judgment."
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Daily Thoughts

In the Book of Mormon we read about how the Lord was with Ammon when he contended with the men who scattered the king's flocks.  Ammon was able to slay a number of them with a sling and cut off the arms of all those who raised clubs against him.  The Lord had promised Ammon's father that he would be delivered from the hands of the Lamanites, so he was protected against the harm they tried to inflict upon him.  The Lord keeps His promises!   Alma 17: 34-39 "Therefore, they did as Ammon commanded them, and he went forth and stood to contend with those who stood by the waters of Sebus; and they were in number not a few. Therefore they did not fear Ammon, for they supposed that one of their men could slay him according to their pleasure, for they knew not that the Lord had promised Mosiah that he would deliver his sons out of their hands; neither did they know anything concerning the Lord; therefore they delighted in the destruction of their brethren; and for this cause they stood to scatter the flocks of the king. But Ammon stood forth and began to cast stones at them with his sling; yea, with mighty power he did sling stones amongst them; and thus he slew a certain number of them insomuch that they began to be astonished at his power; nevertheless they were angry because of the slain of their brethren, and they were determined that he should fall; therefore, seeing that they could not hit him with their stones, they came forth with clubs to slay him. But behold, every man that lifted his club to smite Ammon, he smote off their arms with his sword; for he did withstand their blows by smiting their arms with the edge of his sword, insomuch that they began to be astonished, and began to flee before him; yea, and they were not few in number; and he caused them to flee by the strength of his arm. Now six of them had fallen by the sling, but he slew none save it were their leader with his sword; and he smote off as many of their arms as were lifted against him, and they were not a few. And when he had driven them afar off, he returned and they watered their flocks and returned them to the pasture of the king, and then went in unto the king, bearing the arms which had been smitten off by the sword of Ammon, of those who sought to slay him; and they were carried in unto the king for a testimony of the things which they had done."

In the Old Testament I read that the Levites were appointed to attend the tabernacle.  Numbers 1:50-53 "But thou shalt appoint the Levites over the tabernacle of testimony, and over all the vessels thereof, and over all things that belong to it: they shall bear the tabernacle, and all the vessels thereof; and they shall minister unto it, and shall encamp round about the tabernacle. And when the tabernacle setteth forward, the Levites shall take it down: and when the tabernacle is to be pitched, the Levites shall set it up: and the stranger that cometh nigh shall be put to death. And the children of Israel shall pitch their tents, every man by his own camp, and every man by his own standard, throughout their hosts. But the Levites shall pitch round about the tabernacle of testimony, that there be no wrath upon the congregation of the children of Israel: and the Levites shall keep the charge of the tabernacle of testimony."

In some verses with a thought booklet I read about the great joy and wonderful blessings  that await those who have faith and endure their heavy trials and tribulations that come to them in this life.  If we truly love the Lord, even though we haven't seen Him, we can have hope of a wonderful resurrection through Jesus Christ.  1 Peter 1:3-9 "Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, which according to his abundant mercy hath begotten us again unto a lively hope by the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, To an inheritance incorruptible, and undefiled, and that fadeth not away, reserved in heaven for you, Who are kept by the power of God through faith unto salvation ready to be revealed in the last time. 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"
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Daily Thoughts

In the Book of Mormon I read that when Ammon went to the land of the Lamanites to try to preach the gospel to them, he was taken before the king.  Ammon expressed a desire to dwell with the Lamanites and turned down an offer to marry the king's daughter, but instead wanted to be the king's servant.  Sometimes humbly offering to serve is a way to win people's hearts.   Alma 17:22-25 "And the king inquired of Ammon if it were his desire to dwell in the land among the Lamanites, or among his people. And Ammon said unto him: Yea, I desire to dwell among this people for a time; yea, and perhaps until the day I die. And it came to pass that king Lamoni was much pleased with Ammon, and caused that his bands should be loosed; and he would that Ammon should take one of his daughters to wife. But Ammon said unto him: Nay, but I will be thy servant. Therefore Ammon became a servant to king Lamoni. And it came to pass that he was set among other servants to watch the flocks of Lamoni, according to the custom of the Lamanites."


In the Old Testament we read that one of the commandments the Lord gave Moses on Mount Sinai for the children of Israel was the law of tithing.  Leviticus 27:30, 34 "And all the tithe of the land, whether of the seed of the land, or of the fruit of the tree, is the Lord's: it is holy unto the Lord.These are the commandments, which the Lord commanded Moses for the children of Israel in mount Sinai."

Some scriptures with a thought booklet recount the story of Jonah.  The Lord told him to to preach to the wicked people of Nineveh.  Instead of obeying, Jonah tried to run away by boarding a ship and setting sail.  But the Lord wasn't about to let Jonah off the hook.  He sent a huge storm which raged so much everybody aboard the ship feared for their lives, and it did not cease until the sailors threw Jonah into the ocean.  We might think Jonah was crazy for trying to run away from the Lord.  But don't we do similar things when we ignore the promptings of the Spirit to talk to a certain coworker about the gospel?  Or when we're asked to work on a church welfare assignment and we make up excuses?  Or when we don't fulfill our church callings the way we should?  Or when we're lax about doing or home or visiting teaching? Are we so foolish that we think we can run away from the responsibilities that the Lord has given to us?  We probably won't be swallowed by a giant fish in the ocean the way Jonah was, but sooner or later there will be consequences for our lack of faithfulness.  Jonah 1:1-16 "Now the word of the Lord came unto Jonah the son of Amittai, saying, Arise, go to Nineveh, that great city, and cry against it; for their wickedness is come up before me. But Jonah rose up to flee unto Tarshish from the presence of the Lord, and went down to Joppa; and he found a ship going to Tarshish: so he paid the fare thereof, and went down into it, to go with them unto Tarshish from the presence of the Lord. But the Lord sent out a great wind into the sea, and there was a mighty tempest in the sea, so that the ship was like to be broken. Then the mariners were afraid, and cried every man unto his god, and cast forth the wares that were in the ship into the sea, to lighten it of them. But Jonah was gone down into the sides of the ship; and he lay, and was fast asleep. So the shipmaster came to him, and said unto him, What meanest thou, O sleeper? arise, call upon thy God, if so be that God will think upon us, that we perish not.  And they said every one to his fellow, Come, and let us cast lots, that we may know for whose cause this evil is upon us. So they cast lots, and the lot fell upon Jonah. Then said they unto him, Tell us, we pray thee, for whose cause this evil is upon us; What is thine occupation? and whence comest thou? what is thy country? and of what people art thou? And he said unto them, I am an Hebrew; and I fear the Lord, the God of heaven, which hath made the sea and the dry land. Then were the men exceedingly afraid, and said unto him, Why hast thou done this? For the men knew that he fled from the presence of the Lord, because he had told them. Then said they unto him, What shall we do unto thee, that the sea may be calm unto us? for the sea wrought, and was tempestuous. And he said unto them, Take me up, and cast me forth into the sea; so shall the sea be calm unto you: for I know that for my sake this great tempest is upon you. Nevertheless the men rowed hard to bring it to the land; but they could not: for the sea wrought, and was tempestuous against them. Wherefore they cried unto the Lord, and said, We beseech thee, O Lord, we beseech thee, let us not perish for this man's life, and lay not upon us innocent blood: for thou, O Lord, hast done as it pleased thee. So they took up Jonah, and cast him forth into the sea: and the sea ceased from her raging. Then the men feared the Lord exceedingly, and offered a sacrifice unto the Lord, and made vows."
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Daily Thoughts

In the Book of Mormon I read about how the Sons of Mosiah had prayed unto the Lord for direction and had been comforted and commanded to go to the wicked Lamanites to preach the gospel.  Can you imagine how scary it would be to go preach to a wild and hardened and ferocious people who delighted in murder and plunder?  In yet they were willing to do this because they wanted to bring these people to repentance so they could enjoy the blessings of salvation and a knowledge of the truth.  Alma 17:9-16 "And it came to pass that they journeyed many days in the wilderness, and they fasted much and prayed much that the Lord would grant unto them a portion of his Spirit to go with them, and abide with them, that they might be an instrument in the hands of God to bring, if it were possible, their brethren, the Lamanites, to the knowledge of the truth, to the knowledge of the baseness of the traditions of their fathers, which were not correct. And it came to pass that the Lord did visit them with his Spirit, and said unto them: Be comforted. And they were comforted. And the Lord said unto them also: Go forth among the Lamanites, thy brethren, and establish my word; yet ye shall be patient in long-suffering and afflictions, that ye may show forth good examples unto them in me, and I will make an instrument of thee in my hands unto the salvation of many souls. And it came to pass that the hearts of the sons of Mosiah, and also those who were with them, took courage to go forth unto the Lamanites to declare unto them the word of God. And it came to pass when they had arrived in the borders of the land of the Lamanites, that they separated themselves and departed one from another, trusting in the Lord that they should meet again at the close of their harvest; for they supposed that great was the work which they had undertaken. And assuredly it was great, for they had undertaken to preach the word of God to a wild and a hardened and a ferocious people; a people who delighted in murdering the Nephites, and robbing and plundering them; and their hearts were set upon riches, or upon gold and silver, and precious stones; yet they sought to obtain these things by murdering and plundering, that they might not labor for them with their own hands. Thus they were a very indolent people, many of whom did worship idols, and the curse of God had fallen upon them because of the traditions of their fathers; notwithstanding the promises of the Lord were extended unto them on the conditions of repentance. Therefore, this was the cause for which the sons of Mosiah had undertaken the work, that perhaps they might bring them unto repentance; that perhaps they might bring them to know of the plan of redemption."

In the Old Testament I read that if the people would confess their iniquity and trespases which they have trespassed against, the Lord, He would remember the covenants which He made with their fathers.  The Lord is willing to show mercy to those who repent.  Leviticus 26:40-46 "If they shall confess their iniquity, and the iniquity of their fathers, with their trespass which they trespassed against me, and that also they have walked contrary unto me; And that I also have walked contrary unto them, and have brought them into the land of their enemies; if then their uncircumcised hearts be humbled, and they then accept of the punishment of their iniquity: Then will I remember my covenant with Jacob, and also my covenant with Isaac, and also my covenant with Abraham will I remember; and I will remember the land. The land also shall be left of them, and shall enjoy her sabbaths, while she lieth desolate without them: and they shall accept of the punishment of their iniquity: because, even because they despised my judgments, and because their soul abhorred my statutes. And yet for all that, when they be in the land of their enemies, I will not cast them away, neither will I abhor them, to destroy them utterly, and to break my covenant with them: for I am the Lord their God. But I will for their sakes remember the covenant of their ancestors, whom I brought forth out of the land of Egypt in the sight of the heathen, that I might be their God: I am the Lord. These are the statutes and judgments and laws, which the Lord made between him and the children of Israel in mount Sinai by the hand of Moses."

In a verse from a thought booklet, Paul tells us to follow him even as He follows Jesus Christ.  Do we live our lives as followers of Jesus Christ to such an extent that we could tell other people to follow us as we follow the Lord?  If our children or others are looking to us as examples, are we making sure that we're following Christ so those who are following us will stay on the right path and not be lead astray?  1 Corinthians 11:1 "Be ye followers of me, even as I also am of Christ."
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Daily Thoughts

In the Book of Mormon I read about how Alma met up with the sons of Mosiah, who had been with him when the angel had first appeared to him.  And what caused him to rejoice was that they were still his brethren in the Lord, and had waxed strong in righteousness.  They had given themselves to prayer, fasting and scripture study and were filled with the spirit of revelation.  Have you ever met an old friend after many years and rejoiced because they were still your brother or sister in the gospel?  That is, indeed, a cause for rejoicing.  Alma 17:1-3 "And now it came to pass that as Alma was journeying from the land of Gideon southward, away to the land of Manti, behold, to his astonishment, he met with the sons of Mosiah journeying towards the land of Zarahemla. Now these sons of Mosiah were with Alma at the time the angel first appeared unto him; therefore Alma did rejoice exceedingly to see his brethren; and what added more to his joy, they were still his brethren in the Lord; yea, and they had waxed strong in the knowledge of the truth; for they were men of a sound understanding and they had searched the scriptures diligently, that they might know the word of God. But this is not all; they had given themselves to much prayer, and fasting; therefore they had the spirit of prophecy, and the spirit of revelation, and when they taught, they taught with power and authority of God."

In the Old Testament I read about the wonderful blessings that the Lord would heap upon the people if they would be righteous and keep His commandments.  However, I also read about the great punishments that would fall upon the people if they decided to disobey.  Whether we're blessed or cursed is our own decision, depending on how we choose to obey the commandments of God.  Leviticus 26:3-33 "If ye walk in my statutes, and keep my commandments, and do them; Then I will give you rain in due season, and the land shall yield her increase, and the trees of the field shall yield their fruit. And your threshing shall reach unto the vintage, and the vintage shall reach unto the sowing time: and ye shall eat your bread to the full, and dwell in your land safely. And I will give peace in the land, and ye shall lie down, and none shall make you afraid: and I will rid evil beasts out of the land, neither shall the sword go through your land. And ye shall chase your enemies, and they shall fall before you by the sword. And five of you shall chase an hundred, and an hundred of you shall put ten thousand to flight: and your enemies shall fall before you by the sword. For I will have respect unto you, and make you fruitful, and multiply you, and establish my covenant with you. And ye shall eat old store, and bring forth the old because of the new. And I will set my tabernacle among you: and my soul shall not abhor you. And I will walk among you, and will be your God, and ye shall be my people. I am the Lord your God, which brought you forth out of the land of Egypt, that ye should not be their bondmen; and I have broken the bands of your yoke, and made you go upright. But if ye will not hearken unto me, and will not do all these commandments; And if ye shall despise my statutes, or if your soul abhor my judgments, so that ye will not do all my commandments, but that ye break my covenant: I also will do this unto you; I will even appoint over you terror, consumption, and the burning ague, that shall consume the eyes, and cause sorrow of heart: and ye shall sow your seed in vain, for your enemies shall eat it. And I will set my face against you, and ye shall be slain before your enemies: they that hate you shall reign over you; and ye shall flee when none pursueth you. And if ye will not yet for all this hearken unto me, then I will punish you seven times more for your sins. And I will break the pride of your power; and I will make your heaven as iron, and your earth as brass: And your strength shall be spent in vain: for your land shall not yield her increase, neither shall the trees of the land yield their fruits. And if ye walk contrary unto me, and will not hearken unto me; I will bring seven times more plagues upon you according to your sins. I will also send wild beasts among you, which shall rob you of your children, and destroy your cattle, and make you few in number; and your high ways shall be desolate. And if ye will not be reformed by me by these things, but will walk contrary unto me; Then will I also walk contrary unto you, and will punish you yet seven times for your sins. And I will bring a sword upon you, that shall avenge the quarrel of my covenant: and when ye are gathered together within your cities, I will send the pestilence among you; and ye shall be delivered into the hand of the enemy. And when I have broken the staff of your bread, ten women shall bake your bread in one oven, and they shall deliver you your bread again by weight: and ye shall eat, and not be satisfied. And if ye will not for all this hearken unto me, but walk contrary unto me; Then I will walk contrary unto you also in fury; and I, even I, will chastise you seven times for your sins. And ye shall eat the flesh of your sons, and the flesh of your daughters shall ye eat. And I will destroy your high places, and cut down your images, and cast your carcases upon the carcases of your idols, and my soul shall abhor you. And I will make your cities waste, and bring your sanctuaries unto desolation, and I will not smell the savour of your sweet odours. And I will bring the land into desolation: and your enemies which dwell therein shall be astonished at it. And I will scatter you among the heathen, and will draw out a sword after you: and your land shall be desolate, and your cities waste."

Some verses with a thought booklet emphasize the importance of studying the scriptures.  They come from the mouth of God and are useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting, and training in righteousness.  They help us gain faith in Jesus Christ and help to perfect us and encourage us in doing good works.  Sounds like we can all profit much from reading the scriptures!  2 Timothy 3:15-17 "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."

Daily Thoughts

In the Book of Mormon I read about how Alma and Amulek went forth preaching repentance to the people, showing no respect of persons but treating everyone equally.  They were able to establish the church throughout the land.   Alma 16:13-17 "And Alma and Amulek went forth preaching repentance to the people in their temples, and in their sanctuaries, and also in their synagogues, which were built after the manner of the Jews. And as many as would hear their words, unto them they did impart the word of God, without any respect of persons, continually. And thus did Alma and Amulek go forth, and also many more who had been chosen for the work, to preach the word throughout all the land. And the establishment of the church became general throughout the land, in all the region round about, among all the people of the Nephites. And there was no inequality among them; the Lord did pour out his Spirit on all the face of the land to prepare the minds of the children of men, or to prepare their hearts to receive the word which should be taught among them at the time of his coming— That they might not be hardened against the word, that they might not be unbelieving, and go on to destruction, but that they might receive the word with joy, and as a branch be grafted into the true vine, that they might enter into the rest of the Lord their God."


In the Old Testament we read that if we're to live safely in the land, we should keep the statutes and judgments of the Lord.  There is safety in keeping the commandments.  Leviticus 25:18 "Wherefore ye shall do my statutes, and keep my judgments, and do them; and ye shall dwell in the land in safety."

Some verses with a thought booklet give us a needed reminder that NOTHING shall be able to separate us from the love of God.  The thought that went with this, written by Margie Harding from Greensboro, Maryland says:  I am always awed when I read this scripture.  Consider the limitless height of the sky and the depth of the oceans.  Isn't that exactly the image Paul is trying to create?  No boundaries.  Everything else in life has boundaries; everything can stop.  Even air can be taken, and ruined, via pollution.  Daytime stops and turns into night.  Our childhoods have boundaries, as we grow into adults and time continues its changes.  Weather changes, moods change.  Everything changes with time--except God.  God doesn't change.  Neither does his love.  God promised that in scripture.  God is the one constant in our lives.  He is there even though we may not be.  God loves us, though our hearts falter.  His love knows no boundaries.  Nothing can separate us from God unless we allow it.  God doesn't change; we do.  Romans 8:35, 38-39 "Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? shall tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or peril, or sword? For I am persuaded, that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor powers, nor things present, nor things to come, Nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature, shall be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord."
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Daily Thoughts

In the Book of Mormon we read that Alma established a church in Sidom and began to baptize people. However, the people in the land of Ammonihah remained hard hearted and wicked, refusing to believe in repentance of their sins.  Alma 15:13-15 "And Alma established a church in the land of Sidom, and consecrated priests and teachers in the land, to baptize unto the Lord whosoever were desirous to be baptized. And it came to pass that they were many; for they did flock in from all the region round about Sidom, and were baptized. But as to the people that were in the land of Ammonihah, they yet remained a hard-hearted and a stiffnecked people; and they repented not of their sins, ascribing all the power of Alma and Amulek to the devil; for they were of the profession of Nehor, and did not believe in the repentance of their sins."

In the Old Testament I read that we need to keep the Sabbath Day holy.  We can do work on six days, but on the seventh day, the Sabbath, no work should be done. This commandments is repeated many times in the scriptures, so it must be very important indeed.  Leviticus 23:3 "Six days shall work be done: but the seventh day is the sabbath of rest, an holy convocation; ye shall do no work therein: it is the sabbath of the Lord in all your dwellings."

A verse with a thought booklet tells us that even though we may walk in the midst of trouble, the Lord will preserve us and deliver us.   Psalms 138:7 "Though I walk in the midst of trouble, thou wilt revive me: thou shalt stretch forth thine hand against the wrath of mine enemies, and thy right hand shall save me."

Daily Thoughts

In the Book of Mormon I read about how Alma and Amulek were delivered out of prison by the power of God--having the walls of the prison crumble around them and everyone in the prison except for them being killed.  Alma 14:26-29 "And Alma cried, saying: How long shall we suffer these great afflictions, O Lord? O Lord, give us strength according to our faith which is in Christ, even unto deliverance. And they broke the cords with which they were bound; and when the people saw this, they began to flee, for the fear of destruction had come upon them. And it came to pass that so great was their fear that they fell to the earth, and did not obtain the outer door of the prison; and the earth shook mightily, and the walls of the prison were rent in twain, so that they fell to the earth; and the chief judge, and the lawyers, and priests, and teachers, who smote upon Alma and Amulek, were slain by the fall thereof. And Alma and Amulek came forth out of the prison, and they were not hurt; for the Lord had granted unto them power, according to their faith which was in Christ. And they straightway came forth out of the prison; and they were loosed from their bands; and the prison had fallen to the earth, and every soul within the walls thereof, save it were Alma and Amulek, was slain; and they straightway came forth into the city. Now the people having heard a great noise came running together by multitudes to know the cause of it; and when they saw Alma and Amulek coming forth out of the prison, and the walls thereof had fallen to the earth, they were struck with great fear, and fled from the presence of Alma and Amulek even as a goat fleeth with her young from two lions; and thus they did flee from the presence of Alma and Amulek."

A verse in the Old Testament tells us that if we don't keep all the statutes and judgments of God, we will be spued out.  Leviticus 20:22 "Ye shall therefore keep all my statutes, and all my judgments, and do them: that the land, whither I bring you to dwell therein, spue you not out."

Some verses with a thought booklet exhort us to take heed that we don't allow an evil heart of unbelief to enter into us, causing us to depart from the living God.  Instead we need to exhort and encourage one another on a daily basis to prevent anyone becoming hardened through the deceitfulness of sin.  We need to be sensitive to opportunities to provide an encouraging word to those who are struggling.  Our action might be just the thing needed to thaw a heart that is feeling a little cold or give that encouraging word to allow a discouraged person to continue on with their journey and not give up.  Hebrews 3:12-13 "Take heed, brethren, lest there be in any of you an evil heart of unbelief, in departing from the living God. But exhort one another daily, while it is called To day; lest any of you be hardened through the deceitfulness of sin."

Daily Thoughts

In the Book of Mormon I read about the terrible martyrdom of women and children who believed in the word of God. They were burned by fire, as well as the scriptures, while Alma and Amulek were forced to watch the awful scene. Amulek suggested to Alma that he stretch forth his hands to exercise the power of God to save these people from the flames, but Alma said he felt constrained by the Spirit from doing so. Sometimes the Lord allows the wicked to do evil things against good people so that His judgments may be just. But good people who die as martyrs will receive great rewards in heaven. Alma 14: 8-11 "And they brought their wives and children together, and whosoever believed or had been taught to believe in the word of God they caused that they should be cast into the fire; and they also brought forth their records which contained the holy scriptures, and cast them into the fire also, that they might be burned and destroyed by fire. And it came to pass that they took Alma and Amulek, and carried them forth to the place of martyrdom, that they might witness the destruction of those who were consumed by fire. And when Amulek saw the pains of the women and children who were consuming in the fire, he also was pained; and he said unto Alma: How can we witness this awful scene? Therefore let us stretch forth our hands, and exercise the power of God which is in us, and save them from the flames. But Alma said unto him: The Spirit constraineth me that I must not stretch forth mine hand; for behold the Lord receiveth them up unto himself, in glory; and he doth suffer that they may do this thing, or that the people may do this thing unto them, according to the hardness of their hearts, that the judgments which he shall exercise upon them in his wrath may be just; and the blood of the innocent shall stand as a witness against them, yea, and cry mightily against them at the last day."

In the Old Testament I read a verse that says we should love our neighbor as ourselves and not avenge them nor bear any grudges against them. Leviticus 19:18 "Thou shalt not avenge, nor bear any grudge against the children of thy people, but thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself: I am the Lord."

A verse with a thought booklet tells us to bear one another's burdens, which fulfills the law of Christ. If we are to be Christ's disciples, we need to have compassion and understanding toward others and be willing to encourage and help them through their difficult situations. Galatians 6:2 "Bear ye one another's burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ."

Daily Thoughts

In the Book of Mormon I read that many of the people listened to Alma's preaching, repented of their sins, and began to search the scriptures. However, most of the people just became angry with Alma and Amulek because they hated anyone who testified so plainly against their sins. Alma 14:1-3 "And it came to pass after he had made an end of speaking unto the people many of them did believe on his words, and began to repent, and to search the scriptures. But the more part of them were desirous that they might destroy Alma and Amulek; for they were angry with Alma, because of the plainness of his words unto Zeezrom; and they also said that Amulek had lied unto them, and had reviled against their law and also against their lawyers and judges. And they were also angry with Alma and Amulek; and because they had testified so plainly against their wickedness, they sought to put them away privily."

In the Old Testament I read that those who commit abominations shall be cut off. We are commanded to keep the ordinances of the Lord. Leviticus 18: 29-30 "For whosoever shall commit any of these abominations, even the souls that commit them shall be cut off from among their people. Therefore shall ye keep mine ordinance, that ye commit not any one of these abominable customs, which were committed before you, and that ye defile not yourselves therein: I am the Lord your God."

Some scriptures with a thought booklet tell us that the Lord is merciful and will not stay angry if we repent and return unto Him. We need to acknowledge our iniquity and turn from our backsliding. The Lord loves us and is eager to forgive! Jeremiah 3:12-14 "Go and proclaim these words toward the north, and say, Return, thou backsliding Israel, saith the Lord; and I will not cause mine anger to fall upon you: for I am merciful, saith the Lord, and I will not keep anger for ever. Only acknowledge thine iniquity, that thou hast transgressed against the Lord thy God, and hast scattered thy ways to the strangers under every green tree, and ye have not obeyed my voice, saith the Lord. Turn, O backsliding children, saith the Lord; for I am married unto you: and I will take you one of a city, and two of a family, and I will bring you to Zion:"

Daily Thoughts

In the Book of Mormon, Alma pleaded with the people to repent of their sins, and continually pray that they would be able to resist temptation.  He told them to be humble, meet, submission, patient, and full of love and long suffering.  He told them that if they would do these things and have faith in the Lord, they would be lifted up at the last day and enter into His rest.  Alma  13: 27-29 "And now, my brethren, I wish from the inmost part of my heart, yea, with great anxiety even unto pain, that ye would hearken unto my words, and cast off your sins, and not procrastinate the day of your repentance; But that ye would humble yourselves before the Lord, and call on his holy name, and watch and pray continually, that ye may not be tempted above that which ye can bear, and thus be led by the Holy Spirit, becoming humble, meek, submissive, patient, full of love and all long-suffering; Having faith on the Lord; having a hope that ye shall receive eternal life; having the love of God always in your hearts, that ye may be lifted up at the last day and enter into his rest."

In the Old Testament I read that the so called gay lifestyle is an abomination to the Lord.  Just because something is accepted by the people of the world does not make it right, and just because it may not be politically correct to take a stance against something that the Lord has declared to be a sin, that doesn't change the commandments of the Lord.  Leviticus 18:22 "Thou shalt not lie with mankind, as with womankind: it is abomination."

Some verses with a thought booklet show two sides to the Lord. On the one hand, he shows fury and indignation against the wicked, but on the other hand He is slow to anger and is a strong hold in the day of trouble to those who trust in Him.  He has great power.  The Lord is someone we definitely want to stay on the right side of!  Nahum 1:3-7 "The Lord is slow to anger, and great in power, and will not at all acquit the wicked: the Lord hath his way in the whirlwind and in the storm, and the clouds are the dust of his feet. He rebuketh the sea, and maketh it dry, and drieth up all the rivers: Bashan languisheth, and Carmel, and the flower of Lebanon languisheth. The mountains quake at him, and the hills melt, and the earth is burned at his presence, yea, the world, and all that dwell therein. Who can stand before his indignation? and who can abide in the fierceness of his anger? his fury is poured out like fire, and the rocks are thrown down by him. The Lord is good, a strong hold in the day of trouble; and he knoweth them that trust in him."

Daily Thoughts

In the Book of Mormon I read that if we wrest the scriptures, it will be to our own destruction.  Now is the time to repent!  Alma  13:20-21 "Now I need not rehearse the matter; what I have said may suffice. Behold, the scriptures are before you; if ye will wrest them it shall be to your own destruction. And now it came to pass that when Alma had said these words unto them, he stretched forth his hand unto them and cried with a mighty voice, saying: Now is the time to repent, for the day of salvation draweth nigh;"

In the Old Testament I read that the children of Israel needed to offer their sacrifices to the true Lord, and not to devils or other gods.  If they disobeyed this, they cold be cut off from among the people.  Leviticus 17: 7-9 "And they shall no more offer their sacrifices unto devils, after whom they have gone a whoring. This shall be a statute for ever unto them throughout their generations. And thou shalt say unto them, Whatsoever man there be of the house of Israel, or of the strangers which sojourn among you, that offereth a burnt offering or sacrifice, And bringeth it not unto the door of the tabernacle of the congregation, to offer it unto the Lord; even that man shall be cut off from among his people."

Some verses with a thought booklet say, in essence, "Don't worry."  If God will take care of the fowls in the air and the lilies in the field, we can trust that He'll take care of us.  Instead of worrying where our next meal is coming from, we need to have faith.  Worry is a conscious choice.  We can choose to refrain from worry and live in faith.  Faith is the opposite of worry and allows us to let go of what is troubling us and release it to God.  Matthew 6:25-34 "Therefore I say unto you, Take no thought for your life, what ye shall eat, or what ye shall drink; nor yet for your body, what ye shall put on. Is not the life more than meat, and the body than raiment? Behold the fowls of the air: for they sow not, neither do they reap, nor gather into barns; yet your heavenly Father feedeth them. Are ye not much better than they? Which of you by taking thought can add one cubit unto his stature? And why take ye thought for raiment? Consider the lilies of the field, how they grow; they toil not, neither do they spin: And yet I say unto you, That even Solomon in all his glory was not arrayed like one of these. Wherefore, if God so clothe the grass of the field, which to day is, and to morrow is cast into the oven, shall he not much more clothe you, O ye of little faith? Therefore take no thought, saying, What shall we eat? or, What shall we drink? or, Wherewithal shall we be clothed? (For after all these things do the Gentiles seek:) for your heavenly Father knoweth that ye have need of all these things. But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you. Take therefore no thought for the morrow: for the morrow shall take thought for the things of itself. Sufficient unto the day is the evil thereof."
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