Daily Thoughts

In the D&C we read that all men sin, but we can be forgiven for our transgressions and have them blotted out forever.  D&C 109:34 "O Jehovah, have mercy upon this people, and as all men sin forgive the transgressions of thy people, and let them be blotted out forever."

In the New Testament we read that Jesus was born of Mary, a virgin, and would save His people from their sins.  This fulfilled prophesy.  Matthew 1:21-23 "And she shall bring forth a son, and thou shalt call his name Jesus: for he shall save his people from their sins.  Now all this was done, that it might be fulfilled which was spoken of the Lord by the prophet, saying,  Behold, a virgin shall be with child, and shall bring forth a son, and they shall call his name Emmanuel, which being interpreted is, God with us."

Some verses with a thought booklet tell us we need to do good and that sacrifices are pleasing unto God.  But also mentioned is we need to give thanks to God and to offer up the "sacrifice of praise" continually.  Why would it be a sacrifice to praise God?  Sometimes we go through very difficult times.  Maybe we're struggling with illness, or we've lost a loved one, or we're having trouble with finances or relationships.  Whatever our troubles, do we sometimes have a difficult time giving thanks and praising God while things are not going well for us?  In yet, we're told to give thanks and praise to God CONTINUALLY, which would mean even during our times of trial.  Are we willing to make the sacrifice to do this?  Hebrews 13:15-16 "By him therefore let us offer the sacrifice of praise to God continually, that is, the fruit of our lips giving thanks to his name.  But to do good and to communicate forget not: for with such sacrifices God is well pleased."