Daily Thoughts

In the D&C we're told to cease contending with each other and speaking evil of others.  D&C 136:23 "Cease to contend one with another; cease to speak evil one of another."

In the New Testament we read that if a homeowner had known wha hour a thief would come and break in, he would have watched and been prepared for him.  But just like a thief comes when he's not expected, so will Christ come at an hour when we don't expect Him.  So we need to be prepared at all times. Those who are ready for His coming and are watching for Him, will be blessed.  Luke 12:37-40 "Blessed are those servants, whom the lord when he cometh shall find watching: verily I say unto you, that he shall gird himself, and make them to sit down to meat, and will come forth and serve them.  And if he shall come in the second watch, or come in the third watch, and find them so, blessed are those servants. And this know, that if the goodman of the house had known what hour the thief would come, he would have watched, and not have suffered his house to be broken through.  Be ye therefore ready also: for the Son of man cometh at an hour when ye think not."

A verse with a thought booklet tells us to always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks us to give the reason for the hope that we have. When we have the light of the gospel in our lives, it brings us joy and hope that we want to share with others.  There are two ways of sharing the gospel.  One way is to tell other people what they should be doing.  Often people get defensive when told what they need to improve in their lives and many people resent being told what to do.  The other way of sharing the gospel is by simply saying, "Here's what helped me." By sharing our own personal experiences and telling people what the gospel has done in our lives, people are usually less threatened.  If we talk about answers to prayer, how God has strengthened us during difficult times, or how the Lord has performed miracles in our lives, we give people a reason for our faith.  Do you have a story you can share?  1 Peter 3:15 "But sanctify the Lord God in your hearts: and be ready always to give an answer to every man that asketh you a reason of the hope that is in you with meekness and fear:"

Daily Thoughts

In the D&C we read that if a man seeks to build himself up instead of seeking the counsel of the Lord, he will have no power and his folly will manifest itself.  D&C 136: 19 " And if any man shall seek to build up himself, and seeketh not my counsel, he shall have no power, and his folly shall be made manifest."

In the New Testament we read about how valuable we are to God.  Even sparrows which are of little monetary value are not forgotten by God.  How much more are we worth than sparrows?  Even the very hairs of our head are numbered to God.  Luke 12:6-7 "Are not five sparrows sold for two farthings, and not one of them is forgotten before God?  But even the very hairs of your head are all numbered. Fear not therefore: ye are of more value than many sparrows."

In some verses with a thought booklet we read that the Lord is full of grace and compassion and is good to all, with his tender mercies being shown to all His works.  He is slow to anger and greatly to be praised.  Psalms 145:8-10 "The Lord is gracious, and full of compassion; slow to anger, and of great mercy. The Lord is good to all: and his tender mercies are over all his works.  All thy works shall praise thee, O Lord; and thy saints shall bless thee."

Daily Thoughts

In the D&C we read that if we do what the Lord requires of us, we have no need to fear our enemies who have no power to stop the work of the Lord.  D&C 136: 17 "Go thy way and do as I have told you, and fear not thine enemies; for they shall not have power to stop my work."

In the New Testament we read that if we ask we'll receive and if we seek we'll find.  If an earthly father with all his imperfections will give good things to his children, how much more so will our Heavenly Father give good things to those who ask.  Luke 11:9-13 "And I say unto you, Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you. For every one that asketh receiveth; and he that seeketh findeth; and to him that knocketh it shall be opened. If a son shall ask bread of any of you that is a father, will he give him a stone? or if he ask a fish, will he for a fish give him a serpent?  Or if he shall ask an egg, will he offer him a scorpion?  If ye then, being evil, know how to give good gifts unto your children: how much more shall your heavenly Father give the Holy Spirit to them that ask him?"

Some verses with a thought booklet tell us that the law of the Lord is perfect and the judgments of the Lord are true and righteous.  When we keep the statutes of the Lord, it makes our hearts rejoice and when we keep the commandments, it will enlighten our eyes and give us a great reward.  The word of God is more desirable than gold and sweeter than honey.  The Lord is our strength and our redeemer and we need to make sure that the words of our mouth and the things we meditate upon are acceptable in His sight.  Psalms 19:7-14 "The law of the Lord is perfect, converting the soul: the testimony of the Lord is sure, making wise the simple.  The statutes of the Lord are right, rejoicing the heart: the commandment of the Lord is pure, enlightening the eyes. The fear of the Lord is clean, enduring for ever: the judgments of the Lord are true and righteous altogether.  More to be desired are they than gold, yea, than much fine gold: sweeter also than honey and the honeycomb. Moreover by them is thy servant warned: and in keeping of them there is great reward.  Who can understand his errors? cleanse thou me from secret faults.  Keep back thy servant also from presumptuous sins; let them not have dominion over me: then shall I be upright, and I shall be innocent from the great transgression. Let the words of my mouth, and the meditation of my heart, be acceptable in thy sight, O Lord, my strength, and my redeemer."

Daily Thoughts

In the D&C we read about the how the prophet Joseph Smith and his brother Hyrum were martyred in the Carthage Jail.  We read about the great accomplishments of Joseph Smith during his short lifetime and about how he was murdered in cold blood.  D&C 135:1-5 "To seal the testimony of this book and the Book of Mormon, we announce the martyrdom of Joseph Smith the Prophet, and Hyrum Smith the Patriarch. They were shot in Carthage jail, on the 27th of June, 1844, about five o'clock p.m., by an armed mob—painted black—of from 150 to 200 persons. Hyrum was shot first and fell calmly, exclaiming: I am a dead man! Joseph leaped from the window, and was shot dead in the attempt, exclaiming: O Lord my God! They were both shot after they were dead, in a brutal manner, and both received four balls. John Taylor and Willard Richards, two of the Twelve, were the only persons in the room at the time; the former was wounded in a savage manner with four balls, but has since recovered; the latter, through the providence of God, escaped, without even a hole in his robe.  Joseph Smith, the Prophet and Seer of the Lord, has done more, save Jesus only, for the salvation of men in this world, than any other man that ever lived in it. In the short space of twenty years, he has brought forth the Book of Mormon, which he translated by the gift and power of God, and has been the means of publishing it on two continents; has sent the fulness of the everlasting gospel, which it contained, to the four quarters of the earth; has brought forth the revelations and commandments which compose this book of Doctrine and Covenants, and many other wise documents and instructions for the benefit of the children of men; gathered many thousands of the Latter-day Saints, founded a great city, and left a fame and name that cannot be slain. He lived great, and he died great in the eyes of God and his people; and like most of the Lord's anointed in ancient times, has sealed his mission and his works with his own blood; and so has his brother Hyrum. In life they were not divided, and in death they were not separated! When Joseph went to Carthage to deliver himself up to the pretended requirements of the law, two or three days previous to his assassination, he said: "I am going like a lamb to the slaughter; but I am calm as a summer's morning; I have a conscience void of offense towards God, and towards all men. I shall die innocent, and it shall yet be said of me—he was murdered in cold blood."—The same morning, after Hyrum had made ready to go—shall it be said to the slaughter? yes, for so it was—he read the following paragraph, near the close of the twelfth chapter of Ether, in the Book of Mormon, and turned down the leaf upon it: And it came to pass that I prayed unto the Lord that he would give unto the Gentiles grace, that they might have charity. And it came to pass that the Lord said unto me: If they have not charity it mattereth not unto thee, thou hast been faithful; wherefore thy garments shall be made clean. And because thou hast seen thy weakness, thou shalt be made strong, even unto the sitting down in the place which I have prepared in the mansions of my Father. And now I … bid farewell unto the Gentiles; yea, and also unto my brethren whom I love, until we shall meet before the judgment-seat of Christ, where all men shall know that my garments are not spotted with your blood. The testators are now dead, and their testament is in force."

In the New Testament we read that in order to follow Jesus, we need to deny ourselves and take up His cross.  If we gain the whole world but lose our own souls, we have nothing.  If we're ashamed of Christ and His words, He will likewise be ashamed of us.  Luke 9:23-26 "And he said to them all, If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow me. For whosoever will save his life shall lose it: but whosoever will lose his life for my sake, the same shall save it.  For what is a man advantaged, if he gain the whole world, and lose himself, or be cast away?  For whosoever shall be ashamed of me and of my words, of him shall the Son of man be ashamed, when he shall come in his own glory, and in his Father's, and of the holy angels."

In some scriptures with a thought booklet we read the familiar story of Daniel in the lion's den.  When faced with capital punishment if he disobeyed the king's decree Daniel still refused to refrain from praying.  How committed are we to prayer? Determined enough that we'd continue even if it meant we'd be killed?  In yet Daniel showed forth so much faith that even when he was thrown into a den of lions, the Lord shut up their mouths so they did not hurt him.   Daniel 6:6-23 "Then these presidents and princes assembled together to the king, and said thus unto him, King Darius, live for ever.  All the presidents of the kingdom, the governors, and the princes, the counsellors, and the captains, have consulted together to establish a royal statute, and to make a firm decree, that whosoever shall ask a petition of any God or man for thirty days, save of thee, O king, he shall be cast into the den of lions. Now, O king, establish the decree, and sign the writing, that it be not changed, according to the law of the Medes and Persians, which altereth not. Wherefore king Darius signed the writing and the decree. Now when Daniel knew that the writing was signed, he went into his house; and his windows being open in his chamber toward Jerusalem, he kneeled upon his knees three times a day, and prayed, and gave thanks before his God, as he did aforetime.  Then these men assembled, and found Daniel praying and making supplication before his God.  Then they came near, and spake before the king concerning the king's decree; Hast thou not signed a decree, that every man that shall ask a petition of any God or man within thirty days, save of thee, O king, shall be cast into the den of lions? The king answered and said, The thing is true, according to the law of the Medes and Persians, which altereth not. Then answered they and said before the king, That Daniel, which is of the children of the captivity of Judah, regardeth not thee, O king, nor the decree that thou hast signed, but maketh his petition three times a day.  Then the king, when he heard these words, was sore displeased with himself, and set his heart on Daniel to deliver him: and he laboured till the going down of the sun to deliver him. Then these men assembled unto the king, and said unto the king, Know, O king, that the law of the Medes and Persians is, That no decree nor statute which the king establisheth may be changed. Then the king commanded, and they brought Daniel, and cast him into the den of lions. Now the king spake and said unto Daniel, Thy God whom thou servest continually, he will deliver thee.  And a stone was brought, and laid upon the mouth of the den; and the king sealed it with his own signet, and with the signet of his lords; that the purpose might not be changed concerning Daniel. Then the king went to his palace, and passed the night fasting: neither were instruments of musick brought before him: and his sleep went from him. Then the king arose very early in the morning, and went in haste unto the den of lions. And when he came to the den, he cried with a lamentable voice unto Daniel: and the king spake and said to Daniel, O Daniel, servant of the living God, is thy God, whom thou servest continually, able to deliver thee from the lions?  Then said Daniel unto the king, O king, live for ever.  My God hath sent his angel, and hath shut the lions' mouths, that they have not hurt me: forasmuch as before him innocency was found in me; and also before thee, O king, have I done no hurt. Then was the king exceeding glad for him, and commanded that they should take Daniel up out of the den. So Daniel was taken up out of the den, and no manner of hurt was found upon him, because he believed in his God."

Daily Thoughts

In the D&C we continue to read about the rights of governments.  They have the right to enact laws to protect all citizens in the exercise of their religious beliefs, but they don't have a right to deprive them of their rights to worship.  Government has a right to punish criminals according to their offenses, but religious societies should not inflict punishments other than excommunicate them and withdraw them from fellowship.  D&C 134:7-10 "We believe that rulers, states, and governments have a right, and are bound to enact laws for the protection of all citizens in the free exercise of their religious belief; but we do not believe that they have a right in justice to deprive citizens of this privilege, or proscribe them in their opinions, so long as a regard and reverence are shown to the laws and such religious opinions do not justify sedition nor conspiracy. We believe that the commission of crime should be punished according to the nature of the offense; that murder, treason, robbery, theft, and the breach of the general peace, in all respects, should be punished according to their criminality and their tendency to evil among men, by the laws of that government in which the offense is committed; and for the public peace and tranquility all men should step forward and use their ability in bringing offenders against good laws to punishment.  We do not believe it just to mingle religious influence with civil government, whereby one religious society is fostered and another proscribed in its spiritual privileges, and the individual rights of its members, as citizens, denied.  We believe that all religious societies have a right to deal with their members for disorderly conduct, according to the rules and regulations of such societies; provided that such dealings be for fellowship and good standing; but we do not believe that any religious society has authority to try men on the right of property or life, to take from them this world's goods, or to put them in jeopardy of either life or limb, or to inflict any physical punishment upon them. They can only excommunicate them from their society, and withdraw from them their fellowship."

In the New Testament we read that a woman with great faith was healed from just touching the robe of Jesus.  And even though He was in a great throng of people all around Him, He perceived that power had gone forth from Him.  The woman told Him what she had done and He told her to be comforted and go in peace, for her faith had made her whole.  Luke 8:43-48 "And a woman having an issue of blood twelve years, which had spent all her living upon physicians, neither could be healed of any, Came behind him, and touched the border of his garment: and immediately her issue of blood stanched. And Jesus said, Who touched me? When all denied, Peter and they that were with him said, Master, the multitude throng thee and press thee, and sayest thou, Who touched me?  And Jesus said, Somebody hath touched me: for I perceive that virtue is gone out of me.  And when the woman saw that she was not hid, she came trembling, and falling down before him, she declared unto him before all the people for what cause she had touched him, and how she was healed immediately.  And he said unto her, Daughter, be of good comfort: thy faith hath made thee whole; go in peace."

Some verses with a thought booklet tell us to hold fast to the profession of our faith, not wavering, and encourage exhort one another to love and do good works. Hebrews 10:23-25 "Let us hold fast the profession of our faith without wavering; (for he is faithful that promised;)  And let us consider one another to provoke unto love and to good works: Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as the manner of some is; but exhorting one another: and so much the more, as ye see the day approaching."

Daily Thoughts

In the D&C we read about what we believe the purpose of government is and what they should and should not do.  We need to show honor and respect to our government leaders.  Government has the right to punish the guilty, but should not dictate how the people worship nor infringe upon their rights and liberties.  D&C 134:1-6 "We believe that governments were instituted of God for the benefit of man; and that he holds men accountable for their acts in relation to them, both in making laws and administering them, for the good and safety of society.  We believe that no government can exist in peace, except such laws are framed and held inviolate as will secure to each individual the free exercise of conscience, the right and control of property, and the protection of life.  We believe that all governments necessarily require civil officers and magistrates to enforce the laws of the same; and that such as will administer the law in equity and justice should be sought for and upheld by the voice of the people if a republic, or the will of the sovereign. We believe that religion is instituted of God; and that men are amenable to him, and to him only, for the exercise of it, unless their religious opinions prompt them to infringe upon the rights and liberties of others; but we do not believe that human law has a right to interfere in prescribing rules of worship to bind the consciences of men, nor dictate forms for public or private devotion; that the civil magistrate should restrain crime, but never control conscience; should punish guilt, but never suppress the freedom of the soul.  We believe that all men are bound to sustain and uphold the respective governments in which they reside, while protected in their inherent and inalienable rights by the laws of such governments; and that sedition and rebellion are unbecoming every citizen thus protected, and should be punished accordingly; and that all governments have a right to enact such laws as in their own judgments are best calculated to secure the public interest; at the same time, however, holding sacred the freedom of conscience.  We believe that every man should be honored in his station, rulers and magistrates as such, being placed for the protection of the innocent and the punishment of the guilty; and that to the laws all men owe respect and deference, as without them peace and harmony would be supplanted by anarchy and terror; human laws being instituted for the express purpose of regulating our interests as individuals and nations, between man and man; and divine laws given of heaven, prescribing rules on spiritual concerns, for faith and worship, both to be answered by man to his Maker."

In the New Testament we read about how a woman who was a sinner came to Jesus weeping and washing his feet with her tears, and annointing them with ointment.  Jesus was criticized for this, with people saying if He was truly a prophet he would have known this was a wicked woman.  But then Jesus told them a story of two debtors, one who owed just a little and one who owed much, and how the creditor forgave them both.  Jesus asked which debtor would love the creditor more.  They said it would be the one who had been forgiven much.  Jesus then told them that likewise a sinner who had been forgiven much would love the Lord more.  He then told the woman her sins were forgiven and she could go in peace.  Luke 7:36-50 "And one of the Pharisees desired him that he would eat with him. And he went into the Pharisee's house, and sat down to meat.  And, behold, a woman in the city, which was a sinner, when she knew that Jesus sat at meat in the Pharisee's house, brought an alabaster box of ointment,  And stood at his feet behind him weeping, and began to wash his feet with tears, and did wipe them with the hairs of her head, and kissed his feet, and anointed them with the ointment. Now when the Pharisee which had bidden him saw it, he spake within himself, saying, This man, if he were a prophet, would have known who and what manner of woman this is that toucheth him: for she is a sinner.  And Jesus answering said unto him, Simon, I have somewhat to say unto thee. And he saith, Master, say on.  There was a certain creditor which had two debtors: the one owed five hundred pence, and the other fifty.  And when they had nothing to pay, he frankly forgave them both. Tell me therefore, which of them will love him most? Simon answered and said, I suppose that he, to whom he forgave most. And he said unto him, Thou hast rightly judged. And he turned to the woman, and said unto Simon, Seest thou this woman? I entered into thine house, thou gavest me no water for my feet: but she hath washed my feet with tears, and wiped them with the hairs of her head.  Thou gavest me no kiss: but this woman since the time I came in hath not ceased to kiss my feet. My head with oil thou didst not anoint: but this woman hath anointed my feet with ointment. Wherefore I say unto thee, Her sins, which are many, are forgiven; for she loved much: but to whom little is forgiven, the same loveth little.  And he said unto her, Thy sins are forgiven. And they that sat at meat with him began to say within themselves, Who is this that forgiveth sins also?  And he said to the woman, Thy faith hath saved thee; go in peace."

Some scriptures with a thought booklet tell us that everything we have comes from the Lord and we should give thanks to Him and praise Him.  When we give offerings to the Lord we're really giving Him what is already His for He's the one who gave it to us to begin with.  1 Chronicles 29:11-14 "Thine, O Lord, is the greatness, and the power, and the glory, and the victory, and the majesty: for all that is in the heaven and in the earth is thine; thine is the kingdom, O Lord, and thou art exalted as head above all.  Both riches and honour come of thee, and thou reignest over all; and in thine hand is power and might; and in thine hand it is to make great, and to give strength unto all.  Now therefore, our God, we thank thee, and praise thy glorious name.  But who am I, and what is my people, that we should be able to offer so willingly after this sort? for all things come of thee, and of thine own have we given thee."

Daily Thoughts

In the D&C we read that those who repent and sanctify themselves before the Lord will receive eternal life.  However, those who refuse to hearken to the voice of the Lord will be cut off from among the Lord's people.  The proud and those who do wickedly will burn up, as in an oven. The time to repent is now!  D&C 133:62-64 "And unto him that repenteth and sanctifieth himself before the Lord shall be given eternal life.  And upon them that hearken not to the voice of the Lord shall be fulfilled that which was written by the prophet Moses, that they should be cut off from among the people.  And also that which was written by the prophet Malachi: For, behold, the day cometh that shall burn as an oven, and all the proud, yea, and all that do wickedly, shall be stubble; and the day that cometh shall burn them up, saith the Lord of hosts, that it shall leave them neither root nor branch."

In the New Testament we read about the healing of the centurion's servant.  The centurian showed great humility. Others spoke highly of him, saying how he had built them a synagogue, but when Jesus came near to his house, the man told Him he was not worthy to have Jesus enter his house.  He told Jesus that he had soldiers under his authority that he could command and they would do it, so likewise he wanted Jesus to heal his servant from a distance.  He showed great faith and humility and Jesus did indeed make his servant whole.  Luke 7:2-10 "And a certain centurion's servant, who was dear unto him, was sick, and ready to die. And when he heard of Jesus, he sent unto him the elders of the Jews, beseeching him that he would come and heal his servant.  And when they came to Jesus, they besought him instantly, saying, That he was worthy for whom he should do this: For he loveth our nation, and he hath built us a synagogue.  Then Jesus went with them. And when he was now not far from the house, the centurion sent friends to him, saying unto him, Lord, trouble not thyself: for I am not worthy that thou shouldest enter under my roof:  Wherefore neither thought I myself worthy to come unto thee: but say in a word, and my servant shall be healed. For I also am a man set under authority, having under me soldiers, and I say unto one, Go, and he goeth; and to another, Come, and he cometh; and to my servant, Do this, and he doeth it. When Jesus heard these things, he marvelled at him, and turned him about, and said unto the people that followed him, I say unto you, I have not found so great faith, no, not in Israel.  And they that were sent, returning to the house, found the servant whole that had been sick."

Some scriptures with a thought booklet tell us that we should not keep the loving kindness of the Lord to ourselves but should preach righteousness to those around us.  Let's not keep the truths of the gospel hidden, but rather share our knowledge of the Lord with others.  Psalms 40:9-10 "I have preached righteousness in the great congregation: lo, I have not refrained my lips, O Lord, thou knowest.  I have not hid thy righteousness within my heart; I have declared thy faithfulness and thy salvation: I have not concealed thy lovingkindness and thy truth from the great congregation."

Daily Thoughts

In the D&C we read about how the wicked will be brought to judgment and destroyed, but God will show kindness, mercy and love toward those who repent and keep His commandments.  The graves will be opened and the righteous will stand on the right hand of the Lamb and be made partakers of glory.  The commandments were given so the weak could be prepared for this day. D&C 133:50-60 "And his voice shall be heard: I have trodden the wine-press alone, and have brought judgment upon all people; and none were with me;  And I have trampled them in my fury, and I did tread upon them in mine anger, and their blood have I sprinkled upon my garments, and stained all my raiment; for this was the day of vengeance which was in my heart.  And now the year of my redeemed is come; and they shall mention the loving kindness of their Lord, and all that he has bestowed upon them according to his goodness, and according to his loving kindness, forever and ever.  In all their afflictions he was afflicted. And the angel of his presence saved them; and in his love, and in his pity, he redeemed them, and bore them, and carried them all the days of old; Yea, and Enoch also, and they who were with him; the prophets who were before him; and Noah also, and they who were before him; and Moses also, and they who were before him;  And from Moses to Elijah, and from Elijah to John, who were with Christ in his resurrection, and the holy apostles, with Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, shall be in the presence of the Lamb.  And the graves of the saints shall be opened; and they shall come forth and stand on the right hand of the Lamb, when he shall stand upon Mount Zion, and upon the holy city, the New Jerusalem; and they shall sing the song of the Lamb, day and night forever and ever.  And for this cause, that men might be made partakers of the glories which were to be revealed, the Lord sent forth the fulness of his gospel, his everlasting covenant, reasoning in plainness and simplicity— To prepare the weak for those things which are coming on the earth, and for the Lord's errand in the day when the weak shall confound the wise, and the little one become a strong nation, and two shall put their tens of thousands to flight.  And by the weak things of the earth the Lord shall thresh the nations by the power of his Spirit.   And for this cause these commandments were given; they were commanded to be kept from the world in the day that they were given, but now are to go forth unto all flesh—"

In the New Testament we read that we should rejoice and leap for joy if we are hated and  persecuted for Christ's sake because our reward will be great in heaven.  Prophets down through the ages have likewise been mistreated for the gospel's sake.  But people have always spoken well of false prophets who tell them what they want to hear. So if people want nothing to do with us after we stand up for what is right, we should be happy knowing that our lives are pleasing to the Lord and we'll receive an eternal reward.  Luke 6:22-23, 26 "Blessed are ye, when men shall hate you, and when they shall separate you from their company, and shall reproach you, and cast out your name as evil, for the Son of man's sake. Rejoice ye in that day, and leap for joy: for, behold, your reward is great in heaven: for in the like manner did their fathers unto the prophets.  Woe unto you, when all men shall speak well of you! for so did their fathers to the false prophets."

Some verses with a thought booklet describe in detail some of the persecutions that disciples of Christ went through in ancient days.  Paul and Silas cast an evil spirit out of a woman that others were using for gain by soothsaying.  When the evil spirit departed from her, her masters could no longer profit from her and were very angry.  So they stirred up people to anger against Paul and Silas and caused them to be beaten and thrown into prison and their feet put into stocks. But instead of despairing, they prayed and sang praises unto God.  Acts 16:16-25 "And it came to pass, as we went to prayer, a certain damsel possessed with a spirit of divination met us, which brought her masters much gain by soothsaying:  The same followed Paul and us, and cried, saying, These men are the servants of the most high God, which shew unto us the way of salvation. And this did she many days. But Paul, being grieved, turned and said to the spirit, I command thee in the name of Jesus Christ to come out of her. And he came out the same hour. And when her masters saw that the hope of their gains was gone, they caught Paul and Silas, and drew them into the marketplace unto the rulers, And brought them to the magistrates, saying, These men, being Jews, do exceedingly trouble our city, And teach customs, which are not lawful for us to receive, neither to observe, being Romans.  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."

Daily Thoughts

In the D&C we read that the gospel will be preached to every kindred, tongue and people.  The hour of judgment will come.  We need to call upon God day and night.  D&C 133:37-40 "And this gospel shall be preached unto every nation, and kindred, and tongue, and people.  And the servants of God shall go forth, saying with a loud voice: Fear God and give glory to him, for the hour of his judgment is come; And worship him that made heaven, and earth, and the sea, and the fountains of waters—  Calling upon the name of the Lord day and night, saying: O that thou wouldst rend the heavens, that thou wouldst come down, that the mountains might flow down at thy presence."

In the New Testament we read that Jesus withdrew Himself and went into the wilderness to pray.  Even Jesus needed to go and find a quiet, private place to pray and commune with His Father.  We likewise need to try to find a quiet place, away from noise and people and TV's where we can talk to our Father in Heaven and listen for the still, small voice.  Luke 5:16 "And he withdrew himself into the wilderness, and prayed."

In a verse with a thought booklet we read that we should be of one mind and live in peace with one another, and the God of love and peace will be with us and comfort us.  2 Corinthians 13:11 "Finally, brethren, farewell. Be perfect, be of good comfort, be of one mind, live in peace; and the God of love and peace shall be with you."

Daily Thoughts

In the D&C we read about how we need to prepare for when the Lord comes.  His voice will be heard by all people and great wonders will occur.  D&C 133:19-34 "Wherefore, prepare ye for the coming of the Bridegroom; go ye, go ye out to meet him.  For behold, he shall stand upon the mount of Olivet, and upon the mighty ocean, even the great deep, and upon the islands of the sea, and upon the land of Zion.  And he shall utter his voice out of Zion, and he shall speak from Jerusalem, and his voice shall be heard among all people;  And it shall be a voice as the voice of many waters, and as the voice of a great thunder, which shall break down the mountains, and the valleys shall not be found.  He shall command the great deep, and it shall be driven back into the north countries, and the islands shall become one land; And the land of Jerusalem and the land of Zion shall be turned back into their own place, and the earth shall be like as it was in the days before it was divided.  And the Lord, even the Savior, shall stand in the midst of his people, and shall reign over all flesh.  And they who are in the north countries shall come in remembrance before the Lord; and their prophets shall hear his voice, and shall no longer stay themselves; and they shall smite the rocks, and the ice shall flow down at their presence. And an highway shall be cast up in the midst of the great deep. Their enemies shall become a prey unto them, And in the barren deserts there shall come forth pools of living water; and the parched ground shall no longer be a thirsty land. And they shall bring forth their rich treasures unto the children of Ephraim, my servants.  And the boundaries of the everlasting hills shall tremble at their presence. And there shall they fall down and be crowned with glory, even in Zion, by the hands of the servants of the Lord, even the children of Ephraim. And they shall be filled with songs of everlasting joy.  Behold, this is the blessing of the everlasting God upon the tribes of Israel, and the richer blessing upon the head of Ephraim and his fellows."

In the New Testament we read that we are to share what we have with others.  If we have an abundance of what we need and we see that someone else has nothing, we are to give to them.  Luke 3:11 "He answereth and saith unto them, He that hath two coats, let him impart to him that hath none; and he that hath meat, let him do likewise."

Some verses with a thought booklet tell us that in order to see the Kingdom of God.  Nicodemus questioned how a man could be born again--could he enter a second time into his mother's womb?  Jesus explained that a man must be born of water and of the spirit--in other words, be baptized by water and given the Holy Ghost.  John 3:3-6 "Jesus answered and said unto him, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God. Nicodemus saith unto him, How can a man be born when he is old? can he enter the second time into his mother's womb, and be born? Jesus answered, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born of water and of the Spirit, he cannot enter into the kingdom of God. That which is born of the flesh is flesh; and that which is born of the Spirit is spirit."

Daily Thoughts

In the D&C we read that the elders in the church are to go forth among all nations and proclaim the gospel, calling people to repentance.  D&C 133:7-16 "Yea, verily I say unto you again, the time has come when the voice of the Lord is unto you: Go ye out of Babylon; gather ye out from among the nations, from the four winds, from one end of heaven to the other. Send forth the elders of my church unto the nations which are afar off; unto the islands of the sea; send forth unto foreign lands; call upon all nations, first upon the Gentiles, and then upon the Jews. And behold, and lo, this shall be their cry, and the voice of the Lord unto all people: Go ye forth unto the land of Zion, that the borders of my people may be enlarged, and that her stakes may be strengthened, and that Zion may go forth unto the regions round about. Yea, let the cry go forth among all people: Awake and arise and go forth to meet the Bridegroom; behold and lo, the Bridegroom cometh; go ye out to meet him. Prepare yourselves for the great day of the Lord. Watch, therefore, for ye know neither the day nor the hour. Let them, therefore, who are among the Gentiles flee unto Zion.  And let them who be of Judah flee unto Jerusalem, unto the mountains of the Lord's house. Go ye out from among the nations, even from Babylon, from the midst of wickedness, which is spiritual Babylon. But verily, thus saith the Lord, let not your flight be in haste, but let all things be prepared before you; and he that goeth, let him not look back lest sudden destruction shall come upon him.  Hearken and hear, O ye inhabitants of the earth. Listen, ye elders of my church together, and hear the voice of the Lord; for he calleth upon all men, and he commandeth all men everywhere to repent."

In the New Testament we read bout how a faithful man named Simeon who had received the knowledge by revelation that he would not see death until he had seen Jesus Christ.  The Spirit led him to the temple where Mary and Joseph had brought Jesus and Simeon took the baby into his arms and gave a prayer of thanks to God, knowing that having beheld him he could now depart this life in peace, having seen the salvation of God prepared for His people.  Being able to behold the Christ child was a tender mercy granted by God to a faithful man who had lived a righteous life. Luke 2:25-33 "And, behold, there was a man in Jerusalem, whose name was Simeon; and the same man was just and devout, waiting for the consolation of Israel: and the Holy Ghost was upon him. And it was revealed unto him by the Holy Ghost, that he should not see death, before he had seen the Lord's Christ.  And he came by the Spirit into the temple: and when the parents brought in the child Jesus, to do for him after the custom of the law,  Then took he him up in his arms, and blessed God, and said,  Lord, now lettest thou thy servant depart in peace, according to thy word:  For mine eyes have seen thy salvation, Which thou hast prepared before the face of all people;  A light to lighten the Gentiles, and the glory of thy people Israel.  And Joseph and his mother marvelled at those things which were spoken of him."

Some scriptures with a thought booklet tell us that we are precious beyond measure in the sight of God.  He created us and redeemed us and He will be with us, whether we're facing mighty rivers or raging fires.  He is our God and we are His people and He loves us.  A woman told a story about how she spent weeks nursing a sick goldfish back to health.  Miraculously, he survived and thrived. He became her favorite and she'd watch particularly for him when she'd feed her fish.  She had invested time and effort into him, so he became more valuable to her.  Imagine how much our Savior must love and value us after He suffered and died for us. We are of infinite worth to Him.  Isaiah 43:1-4 "But now thus saith the Lord that created thee, O Jacob, and he that formed thee, O Israel, Fear not: for I have redeemed thee, I have called thee by thy name; thou art mine.  When thou passest through the waters, I will be with thee; and through the rivers, they shall not overflow thee: when thou walkest through the fire, thou shalt not be burned; neither shall the flame kindle upon thee.  For I am the Lord thy God, the Holy One of Israel, thy Saviour: I gave Egypt for thy ransom, Ethiopia and Seba for thee. Since thou wast precious in my sight, thou hast been honourable, and I have loved thee: therefore will I give men for thee, and people for thy life."

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Daily Thoughts

In the D&C we're told to go out from Babylon (the wickedness of the world) and to be clean.  We need to call solemn assemblies and pray unto the Lord. D&C 133:5-6 "Go ye out from Babylon. Be ye clean that bear the vessels of the Lord. Call your solemn assemblies, and speak often one to another. And let every man call upon the name of the Lord."

In the New Testament we read the wonderful story of the birth of Jesus Christ.  Luke 2:1-16 "And it came to pass in those days, that there went out a decree from Cæsar Augustus, that all the world should be taxed.  (And this taxing was first made when Cyrenius was governor of Syria.)  And all went to be taxed, every one into his own city.  And Joseph also went up from Galilee, out of the city of Nazareth, into Judæa, unto the city of David, which is called Bethlehem; (because he was of the house and lineage of David:)  To be taxed with Mary his espoused wife, being great with child.  And so it was, that, while they were there, the days were accomplished that she should be delivered. And she brought forth her firstborn son, and wrapped him in swaddling clothes, and laid him in a manger; because there was no room for them in the inn.  And there were in the same country shepherds abiding in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night. And, lo, the angel of the Lord came upon them, and the glory of the Lord shone round about them: and they were sore afraid.  And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people.  For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord. And this shall be a sign unto you; Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger. And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God, and saying, Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men. And it came to pass, as the angels were gone away from them into heaven, the shepherds said one to another, Let us now go even unto Bethlehem, and see this thing which is come to pass, which the Lord hath made known unto us.  And they came with haste, and found Mary, and Joseph, and the babe lying in a manger."

A verse with a thought booklet warns us against anger and tells us how it stirs up strife.  But a person who is slow to wrath appeases contention. We need to be able to guard ourselves against losing our tempers and learn to remain calm.  Proverbs 15:18 "A wrathful man stirreth up strife: but he that is slow to anger appeaseth strife."

Daily Thoughts

In the D&C we read that eternal life is to know God and Jesus Christ whom He has sent, and to receive their law.  D&C 132: 24 "This is eternal lives—to know the only wise and true God, and Jesus Christ, whom he hath sent. I am he. Receive ye, therefore, my law."

In the New Testament we read the story of Zacharias and Elizabeth who were elderly but had never been able to have children.  When an angel came to Zacharias in the temple and brought him glad tidings that he was about to have a son, a very special son with a wonderful mission to perform, Zacharias doubted and asked for a sign to prove that this was true.  So he got a sign.  Because of his unbelief he was struck dumb and was unable to speak until after the baby was born.  We need to be very careful when because of lack of faith we start asking for signs.  We might get a sign we don't like!  Luke 1:5-20 "There was in the days of Herod, the king of Judæa, a certain priest named Zacharias, of the course of Abia: and his wife was of the daughters of Aaron, and her name was Elisabeth.  And they were both righteous before God, walking in all the commandments and ordinances of the Lord blameless. And they had no child, because that Elisabeth was barren, and they both were now well stricken in years. And it came to pass, that while he executed the priest's office before God in the order of his course,  According to the custom of the priest's office, his lot was to burn incense when he went into the temple of the Lord.  And the whole multitude of the people were praying without at the time of incense.  And there appeared unto him an angel of the Lord standing on the right side of the altar of incense.  And when Zacharias saw him, he was troubled, and fear fell upon him.  But the angel said unto him, Fear not, Zacharias: for thy prayer is heard; and thy wife Elisabeth shall bear thee a son, and thou shalt call his name John. And thou shalt have joy and gladness; and many shall rejoice at his birth. For he shall be great in the sight of the Lord, and shall drink neither wine nor strong drink; and he shall be filled with the Holy Ghost, even from his mother's womb. And many of the children of Israel shall he turn to the Lord their God.  And he shall go before him in the spirit and power of Elias, to turn the hearts of the fathers to the children, and the disobedient to the wisdom of the just; to make ready a people prepared for the Lord. And Zacharias said unto the angel, Whereby shall I know this? for I am an old man, and my wife well stricken in years.  And the angel answering said unto him, I am Gabriel, that stand in the presence of God; and am sent to speak unto thee, and to shew thee these glad tidings.  And, behold, thou shalt be dumb, and not able to speak, until the day that these things shall be performed, because thou believest not my words, which shall be fulfilled in their season."

Some scriptures with a thought booklet tell us that the righteous will be blessed and the ungodly will perish.  These verses also tell us that the righteous should not keep company with sinners, but should delight in the law and meditate upon it day and night.  Psalms 1:1-6 "Blessed is the man that walketh not in the counsel of the ungodly, nor standeth in the way of sinners, nor sitteth in the seat of the scornful. But his delight is in the law of the Lord; and in his law doth he meditate day and night. And he shall be like a tree planted by the rivers of water, that bringeth forth his fruit in his season; his leaf also shall not wither; and whatsoever he doeth shall prosper. The ungodly are not so: but are like the chaff which the wind driveth away. Therefore the ungodly shall not stand in the judgment, nor sinners in the congregation of the righteous. For the Lord knoweth the way of the righteous: but the way of the ungodly shall perish."

Daily Thoughts

In the D&C we read yesterday that if people marry but it is not by God's word, their marriage will not be valid in the life to come.  However, today we read a verse in the D&C that tells us that if we marry by the word of God and make an everlasting covenant by the Holy Spirit of promise, it will be in full force in the eternities to come, and they will have exaltation and glory sealed upon their heads.  D&C 132: 19 "And again, verily I say unto you, if a man marry a wife by my word, which is my law, and by the new and everlasting covenant, and it is sealed unto them by the Holy Spirit of promise, by him who is anointed, unto whom I have appointed this power and the keys of this priesthood; and it shall be said unto them—Ye shall come forth in the first resurrection; and if it be after the first resurrection, in the next resurrection; and shall inherit thrones, kingdoms, principalities, and powers, dominions, all heights and depths—then shall it be written in the Lamb's Book of Life, that he shall commit no murder whereby to shed innocent blood, and if ye abide in my covenant, and commit no murder whereby to shed innocent blood, it shall be done unto them in all things whatsoever my servant hath put upon them, in time, and through all eternity; and shall be of full force when they are out of the world; and they shall pass by the angels, and the gods, which are set there, to their exaltation and glory in all things, as hath been sealed upon their heads, which glory shall be a fulness and a continuation of the seeds forever and ever."

In the New Testament we read Jesus' admonition to his disciples that they must go into all the world and preach the gospel to every creature.  Mark 16:15 "And he said unto them, Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature."

A scripture with a thought booklet goes right along with this.  It tells us that after we have heard the truths of the gospel, we should teach them to other faithful men so they can likewise teach others.  This is the way the gospel is spread--through people who have been taught teaching others. The blessings of the gospel are too good to keep to ourselves.  2 Timothy 2:2 "And the things that thou hast heard of me among many witnesses, the same commit thou to faithful men, who shall be able to teach others also."

Daily Thoughts

In the D&C we read that everything in this world that is not by the the Lord or His word will eventually be thrown down and have an end.  It will not remain after men are dead or after the resurrection.  Everything not by God will be shaken and destroyed.  So anyone who marries in the world, and it is not by God or His word, will only have their marriage last in this life.  It will have no force in the life to come.  D&C 132:13-15 "And everything that is in the world, whether it be ordained of men, by thrones, or principalities, or powers, or things of name, whatsoever they may be, that are not by me or by my word, saith the Lord, shall be thrown down, and shall not remain after men are dead, neither in nor after the resurrection, saith the Lord your God.  For whatsoever things remain are by me; and whatsoever things are not by me shall be shaken and destroyed. Therefore, if a man marry him a wife in the world, and he marry her not by me nor by my word, and he covenant with her so long as he is in the world and she with him, their covenant and marriage are not of force when they are dead, and when they are out of the world; therefore, they are not bound by any law when they are out of the world."

In the New Testament we read about the influence of peer pressure to get people to do things they know are wrong.  Pilate knew that Jesus had been delivered up because of envy and that He had done nothing wrong.  So Pilate wanted to release Him.  But when the chief priests were able to incite the people to demand crucifixion for Jesus, Pilate caved in and gave them what they wanted.  Are we able to stand up for what is right, even when we're among a crowd clamoring to do something wrong and encouraging us to do the same?  Do we want to please God, or like Pilate are we "willing to content the people?"  Mark 15:9-15 "But Pilate answered them, saying, Will ye that I release unto you the King of the Jews?  For he knew that the chief priests had delivered him for envy.  But the chief priests moved the people, that he should rather release Barabbas unto them.  And Pilate answered and said again unto them, What will ye then that I shall do unto him whom ye call the King of the Jews?  And they cried out again, Crucify him.  Then Pilate said unto them, Why, what evil hath he done? And they cried out the more exceedingly, Crucify him. And so Pilate, willing to content the people, released Barabbas unto them, and delivered Jesus, when he had scourged him, to be crucified."

Some scriptures with a thought booklet tell us that if we lack wisdom, we can ask of God and it will be given to us, but we need to ask with unwavering faith.  A person who doubts is like a wave of the sea, blown and tossed by the wind, and such a person should not think that he can receive anything from the Lord. Part of having faith is trusting in the Lord and being willing to receive guidance from Him.  When we pray for guidance, sometimes what we really want is God's support for something we already have in mind.  That is backwards.  Instead of asking God to guide us, we're really asking God to let US guide Him.  We're trying to get God to serve us instead of the other way around.  This role reversal is not right.  We need to have God's goals in mind, not ours, and we need to believe that God will answer us. When we allow Him to guide our lives instead of trying to do it our own way, we can avoid being tossed about by the wind.  James 1:5-7 "If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him. But let him ask in faith, nothing wavering. For he that wavereth is like a wave of the sea driven with the wind and tossed. For let not that man think that he shall receive any thing of the Lord."

Daily Thoughts

In the D&C we read that the Lord's house is a house of order, and not a house of confusion.  D&C 132: 8 "Behold, mine house is a house of order, saith the Lord God, and not a house of confusion."

In the New Testament we read about the Last Supper and how Jesus gave His disciples bread and the cup, blessed them, and told them to eat and drink in remembrance of His body and blood which He would sacrifice for them. Likewise today we are able to partake of the sacrament every week in church and should do so in remembrance of Jesus' atoning sacrifice.  Mark 14:22-24 "And as they did eat, Jesus took bread, and blessed, and brake it, and gave to them, and said, Take, eat: this is my body.  And he took the cup, and when he had given thanks, he gave it to them: and they all drank of it. And he said unto them, This is my blood of the new testament, which is shed for many."

A verse with a thought booklet tells us why our prayers sometimes seem like they go unanswered. Sometimes we ask "amiss"-- asking for things that are wrong for us or having the wrong motives.  We can't expect God to answer our requests if our motives are sinful.  For example, you would be foolish to pray for God's help in robbing a bank or stealing someone's spouse from them.  But if our motives are wrong, they're usually more subtle than that.  Sometimes we pray for things just to look good to other people or because we want to avoid challening situations that would strenghten us and help us grow.  What would really be for our best good and the good of those around us?  When we seek to align our will with that of God, fewer of our prayers will be asking amiss and we'll find that God will grant the righteous desires of our hearts.  But we always need to trust in God that He will answer our prayers in the way that is best, even if we don't always understand why.  James 4:3 "Ye ask, and receive not, because ye ask amiss, that ye may consume it upon your lusts."

Daily Thoughts

Sometimes people say that ignorance is bliss or that what you don't know can't hurt you.  But the D&C tells us that a man cannot be saved in ignorance.  So it must be important for us to study and learn the things we need to know.  D&C 131:6 "It is impossible for a man to be saved in ignorance."

In the New Testament we read about how Judas betrayed Jesus in exchange for money.  Jesus knew that one of His disciples would betray Him and said that it would be better for that man that he had never been born.  Mark 14:10-11, 17-21 "And Judas Iscariot, one of the twelve, went unto the chief priests, to betray him unto them. And when they heard it, they were glad, and promised to give him money. And he sought how he might conveniently betray him. And in the evening he cometh with the twelve. And as they sat and did eat, Jesus said, Verily I say unto you, One of you which eateth with me shall betray me. And they began to be sorrowful, and to say unto him one by one, Is it I? and another said, Is it I? And he answered and said unto them, It is one of the twelve, that dippeth with me in the dish. The Son of man indeed goeth, as it is written of him: but woe to that man by whom the Son of man is betrayed! good were it for that man if he had never been born."

Some scriptures with a thought booklet are a plea for understanding of God's word, and wanting the Lord to teach the way of His statues.  If we understand God's law, we can keep it.  A couple went to a play that they didn't really understand and wished that the author of the play was there so they could ask him to explain.  Sometimes we read scriptures we don't understand.  But we can turn to the author, the Lord, in prayer and ask Him to help us understand.  Unlike the playwright, He is available to enlighten us and help us gain understanding.  We just need to ask.  Psalms 119:33-35 "Teach me, O Lord, the way of thy statutes; and I shall keep it unto the end. Give me understanding, and I shall keep thy law; yea, I shall observe it with my whole heart.  Make me to go in the path of thy commandments; for therein do I delight."

Daily Thoughts

In the D&C we read that there is a low irrevocably decreed in heaven that blessings are predicated upon obedience to laws.  If we expect to receive the rewards, we need to obey the laws pertaining to those blessings.  In other words, we can't expect good health if we disobey the Word of Wisdom and we can't expect the Lord to bless us financially if we refuse to pay our tithing.  D&C 130:20-21 "There is a law, irrevocably decreed in heaven before the foundations of this world, upon which all blessings are predicated— And when we obtain any blessing from God, it is by obedience to that law upon which it is predicated."

In the New Testament we read that the greatest commandment of all is to love the Lord with all our hearts and souls, and the second greatest commandments is to love others as we love ourselves.  The most important thing we can do is to show forth love, which is more important than offerings or sacrifices.  Do we really believe this and live our lives accordingly?  Have we ever been guilty of paying our tithing but treating someone unkindly?  Do we make sure we attend our church meetings but neglect our elderly neighbor who needs assistance?  Do we strictly obey the Word of Wisdom but have a holier than thou attitude toward those who don't? Do we avoid using profanity in our speech but love to spread juicy bits of gossip against others?  Perhaps we need to rethink some of these things and place a higher priority on showing love.  Mark 12:28-34 "And one of the scribes came, and having heard them reasoning together, and perceiving that he had answered them well, asked him, Which is the first commandment of all? And Jesus answered him, The first of all the commandments is, Hear, O Israel; The Lord our God is one Lord:  And thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind, and with all thy strength: this is the first commandment. And the second is like, namely this, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself. There is none other commandment greater than these.  And the scribe said unto him, Well, Master, thou hast said the truth: for there is one God; and there is none other but he:  And to love him with all the heart, and with all the understanding, and with all the soul, and with all the strength, and to love his neighbour as himself, is more than all whole burnt offerings and sacrifices.  And when Jesus saw that he answered discreetly, he said unto him, Thou art not far from the kingdom of God. And no man after that durst ask him any question." 

Some verses with a thought  booklet give a good example of people not listening to the Lord.  When the Lord, through His prophet Moses, told the people not to try to go to battle against their enemies for He was not with them due to their rebellion against Him and their failure to keep His commandments, they did not listen.  They further rebelled and fought the Amorites anyway.  And just as the Lord said would happen, they were defeated.  Then they turned weeping to the Lord, but He would not hear them or hearken to their voice.  If we refuse to listen to the Lord, do you think He's going to listen to us?  Deuteronomy  1:42-45 "And the Lord said unto me, Say unto them, Go not up, neither fight; for I am not among you; lest ye be smitten before your enemies. So I spake unto you; and ye would not hear, but rebelled against the commandment of the Lord, and went presumptuously up into the hill. And the Amorites, which dwelt in that mountain, came out against you, and chased you, as bees do, and destroyed you in Seir, even unto Hormah.  And ye returned and wept before the Lord; but the Lord would not hearken to your voice, nor give ear unto you."

Daily Thoughts

In the D&C we read that whatever knowledge and intelligence we receive in this life will rise with us in the resurrection.  And if a person gains more knowledge through their diligence and study than another person, they'll have so much the advantage in the life to come.  D&C 130:18-19 "Whatever principle of intelligence we attain unto in this life, it will rise with us in the resurrection. And if a person gains more knowledge and intelligence in this life through his diligence and obedience than another, he will have so much the advantage in the world to come."

In the New Testament we read about how Jesus was hungry and seeing leaves on a fig tree a long way off, went to it hoping to find fruit, even though it wasn't the season for figs. He found no fruit, but only the showy leaves.  He cursed the fig tree and when they came upon it later, it had withered and died.  We might ask ourselves why he was so upset with this fig tree. After all, figs weren't in season.  Other fig trees didn't bear fruit either.  But this fig tree was full of leaves out of season, looking like it might bear fruit.  In other words, it looked like a fruit bearing tree, even though it wasn't.  It was a hypocrite, pretending to be something it was not. Likewise I think the Lord will be displeased with us if we only appear to be righteous, making a show of looking like we're doing the right things, but in actuality bearing no fruit.  Mark 11:12-14, 20-21 "And on the morrow, when they were come from Bethany, he was hungry:  And seeing a fig tree afar off having leaves, he came, if haply he might find any thing thereon: and when he came to it, he found nothing but leaves; for the time of figs was not yet.  And Jesus answered and said unto it, No man eat fruit of thee hereafter for ever. And his disciples heard it. And in the morning, as they passed by, they saw the fig tree dried up from the roots.  And Peter calling to remembrance saith unto him, Master, behold, the fig tree which thou cursedst is withered away."

Some verses with a thought booklet tell us that trials of our faith can be more precious than gold.  The riches of the world will eventually perish.  But when we are able to prove ourselves during times of tribulation, the end result of our faith will be salvation to our souls and joy unspeakable.  1 Peter 1:7-9 "That the trial of your faith, being much more precious than of gold that perisheth, though it be tried with fire, might be found unto praise and honour and glory at the appearing of Jesus Christ:  Whom having not seen, ye love; in whom, though now ye see him not, yet believing, ye rejoice with joy unspeakable and full of glory:  Receiving the end of your faith, even the salvation of your souls."

Daily Thoughts

In the D&C we're told that in the next life we'll have the same sociality there that we enjoy in this life, but it will be coupled with eternal glory.  D&C 130: 2 "And that same sociality which exists among us here will exist among us there, only it will be coupled with eternal glory, which glory we do not now enjoy."

In the New Testament we read that those who make great sacrifices to follow the Lord will have it made up to them a hundred fold and in the world to come they shall obtain eternal life. We will be richly rewarded for anything we give up or for any persecution we receive for the gospel's sake. It will all be worth it!  Mark 10:28-30 "Then Peter began to say unto him, Lo, we have left all, and have followed thee.  And Jesus answered and said, Verily I say unto you, There is no man that hath left house, or brethren, or sisters, or father, or mother, or wife, or children, or lands, for my sake, and the gospel's,  But he shall receive an hundredfold now in this time, houses, and brethren, and sisters, and mothers, and children, and lands, with persecutions; and in the world to come eternal life." 

Some verses with a thought booklet tell us that the Lord is good to those who wait for Him and seek Him.  We need to have hope for salvation and quietly wait for it.  Lamentations 3:25-26 "The Lord is good unto them that wait for him, to the soul that seeketh him. It is good that a man should both hope and quietly wait for the salvation of the Lord."

Daily Thoughts

In the D&C we read that the day of the Lord is at hand and those who will be able to abide the day of His coming will be those who have been refined and purified.  D&C 128:24 "Behold, the great day of the Lord is at hand; and who can abide the day of his coming, and who can stand when he appeareth? For he is like a refiner's fire, and like fuller's soap; and he shall sit as a refiner and purifier of silver, and he shall purify the sons of Levi, and purge them as gold and silver, that they may offer unto the Lord an offering in righteousness. Let us, therefore, as a church and a people, and as Latter-day Saints, offer unto the Lord an offering in righteousness; and let us present in his holy temple, when it is finished, a book containing the records of our dead, which shall be worthy of all acceptation."

In the New Testament we read some verses in which Jesus tells us that if we truly have faith, all things are possible for us.  A man who wanted his son healed cried out with tears, saying he did believe, but wanted Jesus to help his unbelief.  Sometimes I've felt like that.  I've had faith, but wondered if it was strong enough, praying to the Lord to increase my faith. Indeed, if our faith is sufficient, miracles will occur.  Mark 9:23-24 "Jesus said unto him, If thou canst believe, all things are possible to him that believeth.  And straightway the father of the child cried out, and said with tears, Lord, I believe; help thou mine unbelief."

In some scriptures with a thought booklet we read that God is our salvation and glory; He is our rock and with Him we shall not be moved.  We can trust in Him at all times and pour out our hearts to Him, and He will be a refuge for us.  Psalms 62:5-8 " My soul, wait thou only upon God; for my expectation is from him. He only is my rock and my salvation: he is my defence; I shall not be moved.  In God is my salvation and my glory: the rock of my strength, and my refuge, is in God. Trust in him at all times; ye people, pour out your heart before him: God is a refuge for us. Selah."

Daily Thoughts

In the D&C we read that all creation can rejoice in the Lord and His salvation, in immortality and eternal life, kingdoms, principalities and powers. We should go forward, not backward, in courage--on to the victory!  D&C 128:22-23 "Brethren, shall we not go on in so great a cause? Go forward and not backward. Courage, brethren; and on, on to the victory! Let your hearts rejoice, and be exceedingly glad. Let the earth break forth into singing. Let the dead speak forth anthems of eternal praise to the King Immanuel, who hath ordained, before the world was, that which would enable us to redeem them out of their prison; for the prisoners shall go free. Let the mountains shout for joy, and all ye valleys cry aloud; and all ye seas and dry lands tell the wonders of your Eternal King! And ye rivers, and brooks, and rills, flow down with gladness. Let the woods and all the trees of the field praise the Lord; and ye solid rocks weep for joy! And let the sun, moon, and the morning stars sing together, and let all the sons of God shout for joy! And let the eternal creations declare his name forever and ever! And again I say, how glorious is the voice we hear from heaven, proclaiming in our ears, glory, and salvation, and honor, and immortality, and eternal life; kingdoms, principalities, and powers!"

In the New Testament we read that Jesus told His disciples that He would be rejected, suffer, be killed, and be resurrected after three days. He knew what was going to happen to Him.  Peter rebuked Him, not wanting to believe that these things would happen, but Jesus turned and rebuked Peter, telling him to savor the things of God not of men. It is more important to do the Lord's will and draw near to Him than it is to avoid suffering.   Mark 8:31-33 "And he began to teach them, that the Son of man must suffer many things, and be rejected of the elders, and of the chief priests, and scribes, and be killed, and after three days rise again. And he spake that saying openly. And Peter took him, and began to rebuke him.  But when he had turned about and looked on his disciples, he rebuked Peter, saying, Get thee behind me, Satan: for thou savourest not the things that be of God, but the things that be of men."

A verse with a thought booklet tells us that one day we will all appear before the judgment seat of Christ and be judged by what we have done in life according to whether we have been righteous or evil.  This day will come to all of us and we'll be rewarded or punished according to our deeds.  2 Corinthians 5:10 "For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ; that every one may receive the things done in his body, according to that he hath done, whether it be good or bad."

Daily Thoughts

In the D&C we read that the gospel is a voice of gladness for both the living and the dead.  D&C 128: 19 "Now, what do we hear in the gospel which we have received? A voice of gladness! A voice of mercy from heaven; and a voice of truth out of the earth; glad tidings for the dead; a voice of gladness for the living and the dead; glad tidings of great joy. How beautiful upon the mountains are the feet of those that bring glad tidings of good things, and that say unto Zion: Behold, thy God reigneth! As the dews of Carmel, so shall the knowledge of God descend upon them!"

In the New Testament we read about how the Pharisees criticized Jesus for eating without first washing His hands, which was against their tradition.  But Jesus explained that instead of being defiled by what we eat, which passes in and out of us, we are actually defiled by what is in our hearts.  It is out of our hearts that evil thoughts take seed and bring forth sins like adultery and murder. Instead of worrying about cleansing our hands, cups, and pots, we should worry about cleansing our thoughts and the people that we are from within.  Mark 7:1-9, 14-23 "Then came together unto him the Pharisees, and certain of the scribes, which came from Jerusalem. And when they saw some of his disciples eat bread with defiled, that is to say, with unwashen, hands, they found fault. For the Pharisees, and all the Jews, except they wash their hands oft, eat not, holding the tradition of the elders.  And when they come from the market, except they wash, they eat not. And many other things there be, which they have received to hold, as the washing of cups, and pots, brasen vessels, and of tables. Then the Pharisees and scribes asked him, Why walk not thy disciples according to the tradition of the elders, but eat bread with unwashen hands?  He answered and said unto them, Well hath Esaias prophesied of you hypocrites, as it is written, This people honoureth me with their lips, but their heart is far from me.  Howbeit in vain do they worship me, teaching for doctrines the commandments of men. For laying aside the commandment of God, ye hold the tradition of men, as the washing of pots and cups: and many other such like things ye do.  And he said unto them, Full well ye reject the commandment of God, that ye may keep your own tradition. And when he had called all the people unto him, he said unto them, Hearken unto me every one of you, and understand: There is nothing from without a man, that entering into him can defile him: but the things which come out of him, those are they that defile the man. If any man have ears to hear, let him hear.  And when he was entered into the house from the people, his disciples asked him concerning the parable. And he saith unto them, Are ye so without understanding also? Do ye not perceive, that whatsoever thing from without entereth into the man, it cannot defile him;  Because it entereth not into his heart, but into the belly, and goeth out into the draught, purging all meats?  And he said, That which cometh out of the man, that defileth the man.  For from within, out of the heart of men, proceed evil thoughts, adulteries, fornications, murders,  Thefts, covetousness, wickedness, deceit, lasciviousness, an evil eye, blasphemy, pride, foolishness: All these evil things come from within, and defile the man."

A verse with a thought booklet tells us that without faith it is impossible to please God because anyone who comes to Him must believe that He exists and that He rewards those who earnestly seek Him.  Hebrews 11:6 "But without faith it is impossible to please him: for he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him."

Daily Thoughts

In the D&C we read about how the hearts of the fathers and children will turn to each other and how neither can be made perfect without the other.  We need to perform baptisms for our dead ancestors who cannot do this work for themselves.  D&C 128:16-18 "And now, in relation to the baptism for the dead, I will give you another quotation of Paul, 1 Corinthians 15:29: Else what shall they do which are baptized for the dead, if the dead rise not at all? Why are they then baptized for the dead?  And again, in connection with this quotation I will give you a quotation from one of the prophets, who had his eye fixed on the restoration of the priesthood, the glories to be revealed in the last days, and in an especial manner this most glorious of all subjects belonging to the everlasting gospel, namely, the baptism for the dead; for Malachi says, last chapter, verses 5th and 6th: Behold, I will send you Elijah the prophet before the coming of the great and dreadful day of the Lord: And he shall turn the heart of the fathers to the children, and the heart of the children to their fathers, lest I come and smite the earth with a curse.  I might have rendered a plainer translation to this, but it is sufficiently plain to suit my purpose as it stands. It is sufficient to know, in this case, that the earth will be smitten with a curse unless there is a welding link of some kind or other between the fathers and the children, upon some subject or other—and behold what is that subject? It is the baptism for the dead. For we without them cannot be made perfect; neither can they without us be made perfect. Neither can they nor we be made perfect without those who have died in the gospel also; for it is necessary in the ushering in of the dispensation of the fulness of times, which dispensation is now beginning to usher in, that a whole and complete and perfect union, and welding together of dispensations, and keys, and powers, and glories should take place, and be revealed from the days of Adam even to the present time. And not only this, but those things which never have been revealed from the foundation of the world, but have been kept hid from the wise and prudent, shall be revealed unto babes and sucklings in this, the dispensation of the fulness of times."

In the New Testament we read that when Jesus was among the people He grew up with, they questioned that He was a prophet.  They knew Him as a carpenter, they knew His family who lived in their midst. Because of their unbelief, Jesus was unable to do many mighty miracles other than heal a few sick people.  Faith is required to perform miracles, and where faith is lacking, the miracles cease.  Mark 6:3-6 "Is not this the carpenter, the son of Mary, the brother of James, and Joses, and of Juda, and Simon? and are not his sisters here with us? And they were offended at him. But Jesus said unto them, A prophet is not without honour, but in his own country, and among his own kin, and in his own house.  And he could there do no mighty work, save that he laid his hands upon a few sick folk, and healed them.  And he marvelled because of their unbelief. And he went round about the villages, teaching."

Some verses with a thought booklet tell us that even though many sorrows will come to the wicked, if we trust in the Lord and are upright in heart, His mercy will compass us about and we can rejoice, be glad, and shout for joy!  Wickedness never was happiness, but we can find joy in serving the Lord.  Psalms 32:10-11 "Many sorrows shall be to the wicked: but he that trusteth in the Lord, mercy shall compass him about. Be glad in the Lord, and rejoice, ye righteous: and shout for joy, all ye that are upright in heart."

Daily Thoughts

In the D&C we read about how baptism by immersion is necessary, and how the baptismal font is a similitude of the grave. D&C 128:12-14 "Herein is glory and honor, and immortality and eternal life—The ordinance of baptism by water, to be immersed therein in order to answer to the likeness of the dead, that one principle might accord with the other; to be immersed in the water and come forth out of the water is in the likeness of the resurrection of the dead in coming forth out of their graves; hence, this ordinance was instituted to form a relationship with the ordinance of baptism for the dead, being in likeness of the dead. Consequently, the baptismal font was instituted as a similitude of the grave, and was commanded to be in a place underneath where the living are wont to assemble, to show forth the living and the dead, and that all things may have their likeness, and that they may accord one with another—that which is earthly conforming to that which is heavenly, as Paul hath declared, 1 Corinthians 15:46, 47, and 48:  Howbeit that was not first which is spiritual, but that which is natural; and afterward that which is spiritual. The first man is of the earth, earthy; the second man is the Lord from heaven. As is the earthy, such are they also that are earthy; and as is the heavenly, such are they also that are heavenly. And as are the records on the earth in relation to your dead, which are truly made out, so also are the records in heaven. This, therefore, is the sealing and binding power, and, in one sense of the word, the keys of the kingdom, which consist in the key of knowledge."

In the New Testament we read about how a tiny mustard seed can grow into a large tree with branches shooting out and birds lodging in it.  This is likened to the Kingdom of God which starts out small but from that tiny seed grows into something mighty.  Mark 4:30-32 "And he said, Whereunto shall we liken the kingdom of God? or with what comparison shall we compare it?  It is like a grain of mustard seed, which, when it is sown in the earth, is less than all the seeds that be in the earth: But when it is sown, it groweth up, and becometh greater than all herbs, and shooteth out great branches; so that the fowls of the air may lodge under the shadow of it."

Some verses with a thought booklet exhort us to meditate upon the words of God and give ourselves wholly.  This will not only profit us, but we will be able to serve as an example to others as well.  If we continue steadfastly in the doctrines of the gospel, not only will we be saved, but also those who listen to us and follow our example.  1 Timothy 4:15-16 " Meditate upon these things; give thyself wholly to them; that thy profiting may appear to all.  Take heed unto thyself, and unto the doctrine; continue in them: for in doing this thou shalt both save thyself, and them that hear thee."

Daily Thoughts

In the D&C we read about the great persecutions and tribulations that Joseph Smith suffered at the hands of wicked men.  In fact, he needed to leave for a time to get away from them.  But he said that all the saints could rejoice and be glad, knowing that God would mete out a just recompense on the heads of all their oppressors.  D&C 127:1-3 "Forasmuch as the Lord has revealed unto me that my enemies, both in Missouri and this State, were again in the pursuit of me; and inasmuch as they pursue me without a cause, and have not the least shadow or coloring of justice or right on their side in the getting up of their prosecutions against me; and inasmuch as their pretensions are all founded in falsehood of the blackest dye, I have thought it expedient and wisdom in me to leave the place for a short season, for my own safety and the safety of this people. I would say to all those with whom I have business, that I have left my affairs with agents and clerks who will transact all business in a prompt and proper manner, and will see that all my debts are canceled in due time, by turning out property, or otherwise, as the case may require, or as the circumstances may admit of. When I learn that the storm is fully blown over, then I will return to you again. And as for the perils which I am called to pass through, they seem but a small thing to me, as the envy and wrath of man have been my common lot all the days of my life; and for what cause it seems mysterious, unless I was ordained from before the foundation of the world for some good end, or bad, as you may choose to call it. Judge ye for yourselves. God knoweth all these things, whether it be good or bad. But nevertheless, deep water is what I am wont to swim in. It all has become a second nature to me; and I feel, like Paul, to glory in tribulation; for to this day has the God of my fathers delivered me out of them all, and will deliver me from henceforth; for behold, and lo, I shall triumph over all my enemies, for the Lord God hath spoken it. Let all the saints rejoice, therefore, and be exceedingly glad; for Israel's God is their God, and he will mete out a just recompense of reward upon the heads of all their oppressors."

In the New Testament we read the story of the man sick with palsy whose friends lowered him down into the house where Jesus was so that he could be healed.  This is an example of putting faith into action.  They had so much faith that Jesus could heal their friend, that they went to extreme lenghts to reach Him.  How much effort are we willing to put into drawing close to the Lord?  Mark 2:1-5, 11-12 "And again he entered into Capernaum after some days; and it was noised that he was in the house. And straightway many were gathered together, insomuch that there was no room to receive them, no, not so much as about the door: and he preached the word unto them. And they come unto him, bringing one sick of the palsy, which was borne of four.  And when they could not come nigh unto him for the press, they uncovered the roof where he was: and when they had broken it up, they let down the bed wherein the sick of the palsy lay.  When Jesus saw their faith, he said unto the sick of the palsy, Son, thy sins be forgiven thee. I say unto thee, Arise, and take up thy bed, and go thy way into thine house. And immediately he arose, took up the bed, and went forth before them all; insomuch that they were all amazed, and glorified God, saying, We never saw it on this fashion."

A verse with a thought booklet tells us that faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.  I remember visiting San Francisco years ago and only being able to see part of the Golden Gate bridge because of the fog.  In yet people who live in the area do not panic because they can't see the whole bridge.  They start driving on one end and trust that they'll come out safely on the other end, even though it's invisible at the moment. The bridge is still there even though it's hidden.  Fog doesn't change our landmarks, it only changes our ability to SEE those landmarks. With faith, the situation is similar.  There are days when God's work can clearly be seen in our lives.  Other days fogs of doubt creep in.  Having faith is like knowing landmarks are still there even when fog covers them up.  We trust that God is still there even when there is no visible evidence of Him.  Even on days when we can't see Him at work in our lives, we can trust that He is still there watching over us. And we can know that if we endure in faith, the fog will eventually lift and sunnier days will come.  Hebrews 11:1 "Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen."

Daily Thoughts

In the D&C we read that  Brigham Young was commended for his service to the Lord and told that he would be relieved from future travel abroad so that he could spend more time with his family.  D&C 126:1-3 " Dear and well-beloved brother, Brigham Young, verily thus saith the Lord unto you: My servant Brigham, it is no more required at your hand to leave your family as in times past, for your offering is acceptable to me.  I have seen your labor and toil in journeyings for my name.  I therefore command you to send my word abroad, and take especial care of your family from this time, henceforth and forever. Amen."

In the New Testament we read about how Jesus healed a leper who had asked Jesus to heal him, if that was His will.  Jesus said it was His will and then cleansed him.  When we pray to the Lord for healing or help, it's important that we always pray "Thy will be done."  Our prayers will always be answered in the way that is best for us, even if we can't see it.  Sometimes the Lord answers yes to our prayers, sometimes no, and sometimes yes but later.  We need to trust that the Lord will give us the things that are for our best good.  Mark 1:40-42 "And there came a leper to him, beseeching him, and kneeling down to him, and saying unto him, If thou wilt, thou canst make me clean. And Jesus, moved with compassion, put forth his hand, and touched him, and saith unto him, I will; be thou clean.  And as soon as he had spoken, immediately the leprosy departed from him, and he was cleansed."

Some scriptures with a thought booklet tell us that we are to be in the world but not of the world and we need to keep ourselves from the evils of the world.  However, the world hates those who keep the word of God, just like it hated Jesus Himself.  The word of God is truth and it will sanctify us. Sometimes we may think it would be easier to live separately and apart from other people so we could live our religion in peace with no opposition.  But by being in the world, others can see our example and we can possibly do some good in spreading the word of God.  The Lord has sent us out into the world for just such a purpose. John 17:14-18 "I have given them thy word; and the world hath hated them, because they are not of the world, even as I am not of the world.  I pray not that thou shouldest take them out of the world, but that thou shouldest keep them from the evil.  They are not of the world, even as I am not of the world.  Sanctify them through thy truth: thy word is truth.  As thou hast sent me into the world, even so have I also sent them into the world."

Daily Thoughts

In the D&C we read that Joseph Smith was the presiding elder over the entire church and was a translator, revelator, seer and prophet.  D&C 124:125 "I give unto you my servant Joseph to be a presiding elder over all my church, to be a translator, a revelator, a seer, and prophet."

In the New Testament we read a verse that tells us we need to be watchful and pray in order to withstand temptation because even though the spirit may be wiling, the flesh is weak.  We all need to turn to the Lord for help, as well as putting forth our own best efforts.  Matthew 26:41 "Watch and pray, that ye enter not into temptation: the spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak."

A verse with a thought booklet tells us not to be ashamed of the gospel of Jesus Christ because it is the power of God unto salvation to all who believe.  Do we sometimes prefer to be quiet about our being followers of Jesus Christ?  Do we feel uncomfortable standing out in support of the principles of the gospel, which may not be very popular in today's world?  What do we have to be ashamed of?  The gospel is the power of God unto salvation!  This is nothing to be ashamed of!  Romans 1:16 "For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ: for it is the power of God unto salvation to every one that believeth; to the Jew first, and also to the Greek."

Daily Thoughts

In the D&C we read that the Lord commanded that a House of God, or temple, be built.  There was not a place on the earth where baptisms of the dead could be performed or the fullness of the priesthood could be revealed.  D&C 124:28-30, 38-40 "For there is not a place found on earth that he may come to and restore again that which was lost unto you, or which he hath taken away, even the fulness of the priesthood.  For a baptismal font there is not upon the earth, that they, my saints, may be baptized for those who are dead— For this ordinance belongeth to my house, and cannot be acceptable to me, only in the days of your poverty, wherein ye are not able to build a house unto me. For, for this cause I commanded Moses that he should build a tabernacle, that they should bear it with them in the wilderness, and to build a house in the land of promise, that those ordinances might be revealed which had been hid from before the world was. Therefore, verily I say unto you, that your anointings, and your washings, and your baptisms for the dead, and your solemn assemblies, and your memorials for your sacrifices by the sons of Levi, and for your oracles in your most holy places wherein you receive conversations, and your statutes and judgments, for the beginning of the revelations and foundation of Zion, and for the glory, honor, and endowment of all her municipals, are ordained by the ordinance of my holy house, which my people are always commanded to build unto my holy name. And verily I say unto you, let this house be built unto my name, that I may reveal mine ordinances therein unto my people;"

In the New Testament we read about how the wicked will be separated from the righteous, just as sheep are divided from the goats.  The righteous will inherit the Kingdom prepared for them, and the wicked will receive their punishment.  A key factor in this separation will be in how they treated their fellowman.  If we feed the hungry, give drink to the thirsty, clothe the naked,  and visit the sick and those in prison, it's like we were doing those things to the Lord.  And likewise if we neglect to do those things to those in need, it's like we're neglecting the Lord.  Matthew 25:31-46 "When the Son of man shall come in his glory, and all the holy angels with him, then shall he sit upon the throne of his glory: And before him shall be gathered all nations: and he shall separate them one from another, as a shepherd divideth his sheep from the goats:  And he shall set the sheep on his right hand, but the goats on the left. Then shall the King say unto them on his right hand, Come, ye blessed of my Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world:  For I was an hungred, and ye gave me meat: I was thirsty, and ye gave me drink: I was a stranger, and ye took me in:  Naked, and ye clothed me: I was sick, and ye visited me: I was in prison, and ye came unto me. Then shall the righteous answer him, saying, Lord, when saw we thee an hungred, and fed thee? or thirsty, and gave thee drink?  When saw we thee a stranger, and took thee in? or naked, and clothed thee? Or when saw we thee sick, or in prison, and came unto thee? And the King shall answer and say unto them, Verily I say unto you, Inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of these my brethren, ye have done it unto me.  Then shall he say also unto them on the left hand, Depart from me, ye cursed, into everlasting fire, prepared for the devil and his angels:  For I was an hungred, and ye gave me no meat: I was thirsty, and ye gave me no drink:  I was a stranger, and ye took me not in: naked, and ye clothed me not: sick, and in prison, and ye visited me not.  Then shall they also answer him, saying, Lord, when saw we thee an hungred, or athirst, or a stranger, or naked, or sick, or in prison, and did not minister unto thee? Then shall he answer them, saying, Verily I say unto you, Inasmuch as ye did it not to one of the least of these, ye did it not to me. And these shall go away into everlasting punishment: but the righteous into life eternal."

Some verses with a thought booklet go hand in hand with the verses we just read above.  They tell about how the wicked will be separated from the righteous, just like a full net from a fishing expedition needs to have the good edible fish separated from the bad, which are cast away.  The wicked will be cast into the furnace of fire where there will be wailing and gnashing of teeth.  We need to make sure we're among the righteous when this great parting of the ways occurs so that we can enjoy our eternal reward.  Matthew 13:47-50 "Again, the kingdom of heaven is like unto a net, that was cast into the sea, and gathered of every kind:  Which, when it was full, they drew to shore, and sat down, and gathered the good into vessels, but cast the bad away. So shall it be at the end of the world: the angels shall come forth, and sever the wicked from among the just,  And shall cast them into the furnace of fire: there shall be wailing and gnashing of teeth."