Daily Thoughts

In the P of GP we read about how the different denominations were contending against each other and all trying to disprove the others.  Joseph Smith History 1:9 "My mind at times was greatly excited, the cry and tumult were so great and incessant. The Presbyterians were most decided against the Baptists and Methodists, and used all the powers of both reason and sophistry to prove their errors, or, at least, to make the people think they were in error. On the other hand, the Baptists and Methodists in their turn were equally zealous in endeavoring to establish their own tenets and disprove all others."

In the New Testament says that our hearts should be knit together in love as we enjoy the riches of understanding and acknowledgement of the mystery of God.  Colossians 2:2 "That their hearts might be comforted, being knit together in love, and unto all riches of the full assurance of understanding, to the acknowledgement of the mystery of God, and of the Father, and of Christ;"

A verse with a thought booklet goes right along with this and says that if we share a common faith with others, we can comfort one another.  It is a great comfort when a fellow believer can remind us of eternal truths, such as that life is eternal and we'll see our loves ones again, or that God will always be with us to help us get through whatever trials come our way.  Romans 1:12 "That is, that I may be comforted together with you by the mutual faith both of you and me."

Daily Thoughts

In the P of GP we read that some of Joseph Smith's family members joined the Presbyterians, but he was considering joining the Methodists.  However, in all the strive and confusion, he realized it was impossible for someone as young and inexperienced as himself to come to a certain conclusion about who was right and who was wrong.  Joseph Smith History 1:7-8  "I was at this time in my fifteenth year. My father's family was proselyted to the Presbyterian faith, and four of them joined that church, namely, my mother, Lucy; my brothers Hyrum and Samuel Harrison; and my sister Sophronia. During this time of great excitement my mind was called up to serious reflection and great uneasiness; but though my feelings were deep and often poignant, still I kept myself aloof from all these parties, though I attended their several meetings as often as occasion would permit. In process of time my mind became somewhat partial to the Methodist sect, and I felt some desire to be united with them; but so great were the confusion and strife among the different denominations, that it was impossible for a person young as I was, and so unacquainted with men and things, to come to any certain conclusion who was right and who was wrong."

In the New Testament we're told not to be unduly concerned about anything, but by prayer and supplication we should give thanks and let our requests be made known to God.  If we do this, the peace of God, which surpasses understanding, will keep our hearts and minds through Jesus Christ.  Instead of worrying and fretting over our problems, we need to turn them over to God in prayer, and give Him thanks for all He does for us.  This will bring peace into our lives.  Philippians 4:6-7 "Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God.  And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus."

A verse with a thought booklet tells us that sometimes we need to be fed spiritually with milk before we're ready for the meat.  We need to learn things line upon line, precept on precept.  1 Corinthians 3:2 "I have fed you with milk, and not with meat: for hitherto ye were not able to bear it, neither yet now are ye able."

Daily Thoughts

In the P of GP we read that when converts joined the various sects, the various parties had confusion and bad feelings toward each other and a great strife of words ensued.  Joseph Smith History 1:6  "For, notwithstanding the great love which the converts to these different faiths expressed at the time of their conversion, and the great zeal manifested by the respective clergy, who were active in getting up and promoting this extraordinary scene of religious feeling, in order to have everybody converted, as they were pleased to call it, let them join what sect they pleased; yet when the converts began to file off, some to one party and some to another, it was seen that the seemingly good feelings of both the priests and the converts were more pretended than real; for a scene of great confusion and bad feeling ensued—priest contending against priest, and convert against convert; so that all their good feelings one for another, if they ever had any, were entirely lost in a strife of words and a contest about opinions."

In the New Testament I read a verse that really struck me.  Having lost my dad in 2009 and my mother in 2010, I find myself still missing them every day and wishing I could have them back in my life.  Of course I know that I will see them again someday, but I still miss them right now.  Often I dream about them, only to wake up and realize all over again that they are gone. But this verse talks about thanking God every time we have someone in remembrance.  I realized that instead of feeling so bad that I am no longer able to see and talk to my parents in my daily life, I need to thank Him, every time I remember my parents--thank Him for the many wonderful years I had with them and for the many wonderful memories we shared.  I'm grateful I had them both for over 50 years--many people lose their parents at a much younger age.  I'm grateful I had good parents who loved me and would have done anything for me--some people are not so fortunate.  I'm grateful for the things they taught me and for all the ways they helped and guided me.  I need to do better, when I remember them, to be grateful and thank God for them.  Philippians 1:3 "I thank my God upon every remembrance of you,"

A verse with a thought booklet reminds us that we can't live by bread alone, but we need every word that proceeds forth from the mouth of God.  It's not enough to feed ourselves physically with the food we eat each day.  We also need to feed ourselves spiritually with the Word of God.  Do we place as high a priority on studying our scriptures every day as we do on the cereal we eat for breakfast or the sandwich we eat with lunch?  Let's make sure we don't starve ourselves spiritually by withholding the spiritual nourishment we need each and every day.  Matthew  4:4 "But he answered and said, It is written, Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceedeth out of the mouth of God."

Daily Thoughts

In the P of GP we read about the great religious excitement in the area where Joseph Smith lived, with different sects contending against each other.  Joseph Smith History 1:5 "Some time in the second year after our removal to Manchester, there was in the place where we lived an unusual excitement on the subject of religion. It commenced with the Methodists, but soon became general among all the sects in that region of country. Indeed, the whole district of country seemed affected by it, and great multitudes united themselves to the different religious parties, which created no small stir and division amongst the people, some crying, "Lo, here!" and others, "Lo, there!" Some were contending for the Methodist faith, some for the Presbyterian, and some for the Baptist."

In the New Testament we read that children should honor and obey their parents and parents should bring up their children in the nurture and admonition of the Lord, not provoking them to wrath.  Ephesians 6:1-4 " Children, obey your parents in the Lord: for this is right.  Honour thy father and mother; (which is the first commandment with promise;)  That it may be well with thee, and thou mayest live long on the earth.  And, ye fathers, provoke not your children to wrath: but bring them up in the nurture and admonition of the Lord."

Some verses with a thought booklet tell us that when we have envy and strife in our lives,there is confusion and every evil work.  But the fruit of righteousness is peace.  James 3:16, 18 "For where envying and strife is, there is confusion and every evil work.  And the fruit of righteousness is sown in peace of them that make peace."

Daily Thoughts

In the P of GP we read that Joseph Smith decided to tell his own story about the  coming forth of the restored church.  He wrote this because of the many false reports which were circulating designed to tarnish the character of the church and thwart its progress.  He wanted to set the record straight as regards to both himself and the church.  Joseph Smith History 1:1-2 "Owing to the many reports which have been put in circulation by evil-disposed and designing persons, in relation to the rise and progress of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, all of which have been designed by the authors thereof to militate against its character as a Church and its progress in the world—I have been induced to write this history, to disabuse the public mind, and put all inquirers after truth in possession of the facts, as they have transpired, in relation both to myself and the Church, so far as I have such facts in my possession.  In this history I shall present the various events in relation to this Church, in truth and righteousness, as they have transpired, or as they at present exist, being now [1838] the eighth year since the organization of the said Church."

In the New Testament we're told that after we're taught about Jesus Christ we need to put away our old evil lives and become renewed in spirit and in mind, putting on a new man which God created in righteousness and holiness.  Instead of being angry and giving place to the devil, we need to put all wrath, bitterness, and malice out of our lives.  We need to stop grieving the Spirit of God and be kind and tenderhearted to one another, forgiving each other.  Instead of allowing corrupt conversations to spew forth out of our mouths, we need to use our words to edify and lift others up.  Once we accept Christ into our lives, it should change the person that we are, and it should show in all our words and deeds.  Ephesians 4:20-32 "But ye have not so learned Christ; If so be that ye have heard him, and have been taught by him, as the truth is in Jesus:  That ye put off concerning the former conversation the old man, which is corrupt according to the deceitful lusts;  And be renewed in the spirit of your mind;  And that ye put on the new man, which after God is created in righteousness and true holiness.  Wherefore putting away lying, speak every man truth with his neighbour: for we are members one of another.  Be ye angry, and sin not: let not the sun go down upon your wrath:  Neither give place to the devil.  Let him that stole steal no more: but rather let him labour, working with his hands the thing which is good, that he may have to give to him that needeth.  Let no corrupt communication proceed out of your mouth, but that which is good to the use of edifying, that it may minister grace unto the hearers.  And grieve not the holy Spirit of God, whereby ye are sealed unto the day of redemption.  Let all bitterness, and wrath, and anger, and clamour, and evil speaking, be put away from you, with all malice:  And be ye kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God for Christ's sake hath forgiven you."

A verse with a thought booklet tells us that charity, or the pure love of Christ is kind and long suffering, or patient. It does not envy, is not puffed up or proud.  And it vaunteth not itself.  What does vaunteth mean?  It means to boast, and comes from a Greek word meaning windbag.  Do we spend a lot of time talking about ourselves and little time listening to others?  Are we full of hot air that comes from conceit?  Do we demand that our accomplishments be noticed, and dominate conversations to see that that happens?  These are all things that we need to avoid if we truly want to show charity to others.  1 Corinthians 13:4 "Charity suffereth long, and is kind; charity envieth not; charity vaunteth not itself, is not puffed up," 

Daily Thoughts

In the P of GP we read that it is an evil servant to says that the Lord delays His coming and acts inappropriately.  The Lord will come at an hour when he's not expecting Him and will cut him asunder, appointing him his portion with the hypocrites.  And thus comes the end of the wicked, as prophesied by Moses.  They will be cut off from among the people.  Joseph Smith Matthew 1:51-55 "But if that evil servant shall say in his heart: My lord delayeth his coming,  And shall begin to smite his fellow-servants, and to eat and drink with the drunken, The lord of that servant shall come in a day when he looketh not for him, and in an hour that he is not aware of,  And shall cut him asunder, and shall appoint him his portion with the hypocrites; there shall be weeping and gnashing of teeth.  And thus cometh the end of the wicked, according to the prophecy of Moses, saying: They shall be cut off from among the people; but the end of the earth is not yet, but by and by."

In the New Testament we read some verses that are often misunderstood by many people in the world.  They state that we are saved by the grace of God, through faith, and not by our works.  Does this mean, as some people seem to think, that all we have to do is say "I believe" and no matter what sins we commit, we'll be saved?  Of course not!  Many other scriptures clarify that we need to keep the commandments and that those who do evil and don't repent will not receive eternal life.  What these verses are trying to say that no matter what good works we do, they are not sufficient to save us.  We cannot of our own power save ourselves.  It is only through the grace of God that Jesus Christ atoned for our sins so that we have the ability to repent and be forgiven.  We need to have faith in Jeus Christ, and not place our faith in our own good works, boasting of the good things we do and thinking that because of them, we can be saved without needing Jesus Christ.  We all need the atonement of Christ.  We have all sinned and fallen short, and none of us is good enough to be saved because of anything we can do.  But we do need to repent and keep the commandments.  We're saved by grace, AFTER all we can do.  Ephesians 2:8-9 "For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God:  Not of works, lest any man should boast."

A scripture with a thought booklet tells us that to be carnally minded is death, but to be spiritually minded is life and peace. The thoughts that we think are of vital importance and determine not only the type of person that we are, but our eternal destiny.  Romans 8:6 "For to be carnally minded is death; but to be spiritually minded is life and peace." 

Daily Thoughts

In the P of GP we read that whoever is found o be a faithful servant when the Lord comes will be made a ruler.  Joseph Smith Matthew 1:49-50 "Who, then, is a faithful and wise servant, whom his lord hath made ruler over his household, to give them meat in due season?  Blessed is that servant whom his lord, when he cometh, shall find so doing; and verily I say unto you, he shall make him ruler over all his goods."

In the New Testament we read that we reap what we sow.  If we do evil deeds, we'll reap corruption.  If we follow the Spirit, we'll reap everlasting life.  So let's not be weary in well doing because if we don't faint, we'll in due season reap our reward.  Galatians 6:7-9 "Be not deceived; God is not mocked: for whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap.  For he that soweth to his flesh shall of the flesh reap corruption; but he that soweth to the Spirit shall of the Spirit reap life everlasting.  And let us not be weary in well doing: for in due season we shall reap, if we faint not."

A verse with a thought booklet says that having a sound heart gives life to the flesh, but envy rots the bones.  Harboring envy is dangerous to our heath.  It also injures our spirits.  And it can destroy relationships.  Proverbs 14:30 "A sound heart is the life of the flesh: but envy the rottenness of the bones.

Daily Thoughts

In the P of GP we read about how two will be grinding at a mill and one will be taken and another left.  And two will be working in a field and one will be taken and another left.  So we need to watch and be prepared for we don't know what hour the Lord will come.  Joseph Smith Matthew 1:44-48 "Then shall be fulfilled that which is written, that in the last days, two shall be in the field, the one shall be taken, and the other left;  Two shall be grinding at the mill, the one shall be taken, and the other left;  And what I say unto one, I say unto all men; watch, therefore, for you know not at what hour your Lord doth come. But know this, if the good man of the house had known in what watch the thief would come, he would have watched, and would not have suffered his house to have been broken up, but would have been ready. Therefore be ye also ready, for in such an hour as ye think not, the Son of Man cometh."

In the New Testament we read a list of works of the flesh which would cause the person who does them to not inherit the Kingdom of God vs. the fruits of the Spirit which a follower of Christ would do.  We need to make sure we're not guilty of anything on the first list, while trying to live our lives in accordance with the things on the second list. Read each list carefully.  It's easy to find things on the first list that we don't think we have a problem with (murder, adultery, witchcraft, drunkenness) but what about hatred, strife, and envying? Do we truly love and get along with everyone and have nothing but good feelings toward them?  And read carefully the second list.  How well do we exhibit these qualities in our everyday lives? These verses provide a good recipe for examining ourselves to see how we really measure up.   Galatians 5:19-23 "Now the works of the flesh are manifest, which are these; Adultery, fornication, uncleanness, lasciviousness, Idolatry, witchcraft, hatred, variance, emulations, wrath, strife, seditions, heresies, Envyings, murders, drunkenness, revellings, and such like: of the which I tell you before, as I have also told you in time past, that they which do such things shall not inherit the kingdom of God. But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, Meekness, temperance: against such there is no law."

A verse with a thought booklet tells us that even though the heavens and the earth might pass away, the words of the Lord will not pass away.  When the Lord says something, He means it.  If He says He'll do something, we can count on it and if He says something will happen, we can be 100% sure that it will come to pass. God's word is eternal.  Matthew 24:35 "Heaven and earth shall pass away, but my words shall not pass away."

Daily Thoughts

In the P o GP we read that just as we can look at a fig tree and be able to tell when summer is at hand, so we can look at the signs and know that Christ's coming is at hand.  But the actual day and hour, no one knows. Just like in the days of Noah when men were eating, drinking and marrying until they were overtaken by the flood, so will the Second Coming of Christ taken many by surprise.  Joseph Smith Matthew 1:38-43 "Now learn a parable of the fig tree—When its branches are yet tender, and it begins to put forth leaves, you know that summer is nigh at hand;  So likewise, mine elect, when they shall see all these things, they shall know that he is near, even at the doors;  But of that day, and hour, no one knoweth; no, not the angels of God in heaven, but my Father only.  But as it was in the days of Noah, so it shall be also at the coming of the Son of Man; For it shall be with them, as it was in the days which were before the flood; for until the day that Noah entered into the ark they were eating and drinking, marrying and giving in marriage;  And knew not until the flood came, and took them all away; so shall also the coming of the Son of Man be."

In the New Testament we read that we are the sons of God, and can cry unto Him in our hearts "Abba, Father."  As a son, not a servant, we are heirs of God through Jesus Christ.  Galatians 4:6-7 "And because ye are sons, God hath sent forth the Spirit of his Son into your hearts, crying, Abba, Father. Wherefore thou art no more a servant, but a son; and if a son, then an heir of God through Christ."

In some scriptures with a thought booklet we hear a man ask a question many of us might have wondered about--what exactly do we need to do to inherit eternal life?  Jesus' answer was amazingly simple.  We just need to love the Lord our God with all our hearts, strength, and souls, and to love our neighbors as ourselves.  It's all about love!  Luke 10:25-28 "And, behold, a certain lawyer stood up, and tempted him, saying, Master, what shall I do to inherit eternal life?  He said unto him, What is written in the law? how readest thou?  And he answering said, Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy strength, and with all thy mind; and thy neighbour as thyself.  And he said unto him, Thou hast answered right: this do, and thou shalt live."

Daily Thoughts

In the P of GP we read that whoever treasures up the Word of God will not be deceived and will see the Son of Man coming, with His angels before Him sounding trumpets.  Joseph Smith Matthew 1:37 "And whoso treasureth up my word, shall not be deceived, for the Son of Man shall come, and he shall send his angels before him with the great sound of a trumpet, and they shall gather together the remainder of his elect from the four winds, from one end of heaven to the other."

In the New Testament we're told to be perfect and live in peace with one another, being of one mind.  Living in this way will bring us comfort and the love and peace of God.  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."

A verse with a thought booklet tells us to be strong and of good courage.  There is no reason to be afraid or feel dismayed for the Lord our God will be with us wherever we go.  What a comfort these words can be!  Joshua 1:9 "Have not I commanded thee? Be strong and of a good courage; be not afraid, neither be thou dismayed: for the Lord thy God is with thee whithersoever thou goest."

Daily Thoughts

In the P of GP we read about how after the days of tribulation, the sign of the Son of Man will appear in the heavens and all will see Him coming in the clouds with great glory.  Joseph Smith Matthew 1:36 "And, as I said before, after the tribulation of those days, and the powers of the heavens shall be shaken, then shall appear the sign of the Son of Man in heaven, and then shall all the tribes of the earth mourn; and they shall see the Son of Man coming in the clouds of heaven, with power and great glory;"

In the New Testament we read Paul's account of some of the trials and persecutions he suffered--beaten beaten, stoned, robbed, shipwrecked, suffering from hunger, thirst and cold, and barely escaping from the hands of Damascus by being let down through a window in a basket from a wall. But through all that,  he continued to try to take care of all the churches and to ear witness of God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.   2 Corinthians 11:24-33 "Of the Jews five times received I forty stripes save one.  Thrice was I beaten with rods, once was I stoned, thrice I suffered shipwreck, a night and a day I have been in the deep;  In journeyings often, in perils of waters, in perils of robbers, in perils by mine own countrymen, in perils by the heathen, in perils in the city, in perils in the wilderness, in perils in the sea, in perils among false brethren;  In weariness and painfulness, in watchings often, in hunger and thirst, in fastings often, in cold and nakedness.  Beside those things that are without, that which cometh upon me daily, the care of all the churches.  Who is weak, and I am not weak? who is offended, and I burn not?  If I must needs glory, I will glory of the things which concern mine infirmities.  The God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, which is blessed for evermore, knoweth that I lie not.  In Damascus the governor under Aretas the king kept the city of the Damascenes with a garrison, desirous to apprehend me: And through a window in a basket was I let down by the wall, and escaped his hands."

In a verse with a thought booklet were told to take ever opportunity do good for all men, especially those of faith.  Do we seek for opportunities to serve and bless the lives of others?  If we'll pray and let the Lord know we're willing, He will prompt us on ways we can help others and guide us to be sensitive to their needs. And it's not just in big ways that we can help others, but it is often in small acts of kindness that we can make a difference in many lives.  Galatians 6:10 "As we have therefore opportunity, let us do good unto all men, especially unto them who are of the household of faith."

Daily Thoughts (Again)

Somebody let me know that the previous Daily Thoughts I sent out came out blank.  Sorry about that.  Here they are again.  If anybody has problems getting them, I appreciate you letting me know. 

In the P of GP we read about how the sun will be darkened and the stars will fall from heaven.  All the words of the Lord will be fulfilled.  Joseph Smith Matthew 1:33-35 "And immediately after the tribulation of those days, the sun shall be darkened, and the moon shall not give her light, and the stars shall fall from heaven, and the powers of heaven shall be shaken.  Verily, I say unto you, this generation, in which these things shall be shown forth, shall not pass away until all I have told you shall be fulfilled.  Although, the days will come, that heaven and earth shall pass away; yet my words shall not pass away, but all shall be fulfilled."

In the New Testament we read that God loves a cheerful giver who does not give grudgingly or because they're forced to do it.  When we give, we need to make sure we do it with the right attitude, grateful for the opportunity we have to help others.  2 Corinthians 9:7 "Every man according as he purposeth in his heart, so let him give; not grudgingly, or of necessity: for God loveth a cheerful giver."

Some scriptures with a thought booklet tell us that after Joseph was unjustly imprisoned, the Lord was still with him and prospered him even in the circumstances he was in.  The keeper of the prison even put Joseph in charge of the other prisoners. Sometime we find ourselves in less than ideal circumstances.  But if we'll continually turn to the Lord and do our best to obey Him, He will still help us, guide us, and direct our lives so that we can be the best that we can be.  No matter what our situation is, the Lord can use us.  Genesis 39:20-23 "And Joseph's master took him, and put him into the prison, a place where the king's prisoners were bound: and he was there in the prison. But the Lord was with Joseph, and shewed him mercy, and gave him favour in the sight of the keeper of the prison.  And the keeper of the prison committed to Joseph's hand all the prisoners that were in the prison; and whatsoever they did there, he was the doer of it.  The keeper of the prison looked not to any thing that was under his hand; because the Lord was with him, and that which he did, the Lord made it to prosper."

Daily Thoughts

Daily Thoughts

In the P of GP we continue to read about what will occur in the last days, and about how God's elect will be gathered together and there will be wars and rumors of wars, earthquakes and pestilences.  The love of many will wax cold.  But we don't need to fear because those who are not overcome will be saved.  Joseph Smith Matthew 1:27-30 "And now I show unto you a parable. Behold, wheresoever the carcass is, there will the eagles be gathered together; so likewise shall mine elect be gathered from the four quarters of the earth. And they shall hear of wars, and rumors of wars. Behold I speak for mine elect's sake; for nation shall rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom; there shall be famines, and pestilences, and earthquakes, in divers places. And again, because iniquity shall abound, the love of men shall wax cold; but he that shall not be overcome, the same shall be saved."

In the New Testament we read about the difference between godly sorrow that leads to repentance and the sorrow of the world which leads to death.  If we're feeling utterly hopeless, like we've sinned so much that it's too late to change, we can know that these feelings of discouragement come from Satan, not God.  Godly sorrow causes us to want to turn our lives around and do better.  It gives us hope and turns us toward the Lord, not away from Him. We need to remember that if we're willing to repent and change our lives, our Heavenly Father will welcome us back with open arms.  2 Corinthians 7:9-10 "Now I rejoice, not that ye were made sorry, but that ye sorrowed to repentance: for ye were made sorry after a godly manner, that ye might receive damage by us in nothing.  For godly sorrow worketh repentance to salvation not to be repented of: but the sorrow of the world worketh death." 

A verse with a thought booklet tells us not to feel put down because of our youth, but to be examples of believers in all we say and do, having charity, faith, and purity.  Teaching primary for over 30 years taught me that there is much we can learn from the young.  I was humbled so many times when the children taught me, instead of the other way around.  We should never underestimate a person just because of their age.  I remember one time in a primary sharing time the lady who was conducting asked the children if they knew what the word atonement meant.  Only a little 3 year old in the front of the room raised his hand.  So at first she ignored him and pointed to some of the older kids in the back, asking them if they knew.  They did not.  The little 3 year old was still patiently raising his hand so finally she called on him.  Instead of answering in his eat, it got up and stood in the front o the room and then with tears streaming down his little face he taught the children about how Jesus Christ had hung on he cross and suffered and died for their sins because He loved every one of them.  He this little boy with tears of emotion exclaimed, "And I love Jesus SO much!"  I've never heard a better lesson taught on the atonement of Jesus Christ.  And it was taught by a 3 year old!  I was so excited when this little boy was old enough to come into my class.  He did not disappoint me.  At the age of 7, he would raise his hand during my lessons and say, "I was just reading a scripture that goes right along with this.  Could I share it with the class?"  Then he'd open his scriptures and read something that added to the lesson.  If my lesson called for the reading or telling of a story from the scriptures, I soon learned that this boy could do a better job of telling it than I could.  So I'd let him.  It didn't matter what the story was.  If it was in the scriptures, all I had to do was mention it and then he'd retell it--Noah and the Ark, Daniel in the Lions Den, Samuel the Lamanite, the Ten Lepers, the Stripling Soldiers.  He could tell the stories on the spot and do a beautiful job.  After he was old enough to move into the older class, I really missed him.  I had to return to teaching the classes on my own without his help and realized how much I'd relied on him. I asked his dad once, "Who teaches your son so much about the scriptures, you or your wife?"  He answered.  "Neither one of us.  He just studies the scriptures on his own." He's 19 years old now and serving a mission in Singapore.  And I can just imagine what a wonderful missionary he must be!  1 Timothy 4:12 "Let no man despise thy youth; but be thou an example of the believers, in word, in conversation, in charity, in spirit, in faith, in purity."

Daily Thoughts

In the P of GP we read about how in the last days many false Christs would arise.  But if we hear about Christ coming to some secret place, we can believe it not because when He comes it will be like the light of the morning which comes out of the east and shines to the west, covering the whole earth.  Joseph Smith Matthew 1:21-26 " Behold, these things I have spoken unto you concerning the Jews; and again, after the tribulation of those days which shall come upon Jerusalem, if any man shall say unto you, Lo, here is Christ, or there, believe him not;  For in those days there shall also arise false Christs, and false prophets, and shall show great signs and wonders, insomuch, that, if possible, they shall deceive the very elect, who are the elect according to the covenant.  Behold, I speak these things unto you for the elect's sake; and you also shall hear of wars, and rumors of wars; see that ye be not troubled, for all I have told you must come to pass; but the end is not yet.  Behold, I have told you before;  Wherefore, if they shall say unto you: Behold, he is in the desert; go not forth: Behold, he is in the secret chambers; believe it not;  For as the light of the morning cometh out of the east, and shineth even unto the west, and covereth the whole earth, so shall also the coming of the Son of Man be."

In the New Testament we read that just as Jesus Christ was raised from the dead, we likewise shall be resurrected.  Our afflictions will be but a moment when compared to eternal glory.  2 Corinthians 4:14, 17 "Knowing that he which raised up the Lord Jesus shall raise up us also by Jesus, and shall present us with you.  For our light affliction, which is but for a moment, worketh for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory;"


Some scriptures with a thought booklet remind us of the power of the words we speak.  They can bless those around us or they can be like deadly poison to harm them.  The story is told of a mother in a grocery store who was loudly telling everyone in earshot about how terrible her children were--criticizing and belittling them.  The children were looking ashamed and you could see that their little spirits were being crushed by their mother's harsh words.  How do we use our words--to built and lift, or to tear down?  The choice is ours.  James 3:8-10 "But the tongue can no man tame; it is an unruly evil, full of deadly poison. Therewith bless we God, even the Father; and therewith curse we men, which are made after the similitude of God.  Out of the same mouth proceedeth blessing and cursing. My brethren, these things ought not so to be."

Daily Thoughts

In the P of GP we read about the great tribulations that will come upon the Jews in the last days. In fact, if those days weren't shortened, none would be left alive.  Joseph Smith Matthew 1:18-20 "For then, in those days, shall be great tribulation on the Jews, and upon the inhabitants of Jerusalem, such as was not before sent upon Israel, of God, since the beginning of their kingdom until this time; no, nor ever shall be sent again upon Israel.  All things which have befallen them are only the beginning of the sorrows which shall come upon them.  And except those days should be shortened, there should none of their flesh be saved; but for the elect's sake, according to the covenant, those days shall be shortened."

In the New Testament we read that one of the ways we can prove ourselves to be obedient is if we forgive each other. In fact, one of Satan's devices that he uses to gain advantage over us is if we harbor unforgiveness in our hearts.  2 Corinthians 2:9-11 "For to this end also did I write, that I might know the proof of you, whether ye be obedient in all things.  To whom ye forgive any thing, I forgive also: for if I forgave any thing, to whom I forgave it, for your sakes forgave I it in the person of Christ;  Lest Satan should get an advantage of us: for we are not ignorant of his devices."

A verse with a thought booklet tells us that if we give all that we possess to the poor and needy but don't have love in our hearts, it's to no avail and we gain nothing.  It's not just important to do the right things, but we need to do them for the right reasons, with love in our hearts.  I volunteer in a nursing home one day a week and I've had some of the residents there tell me that they can see a difference among the various staff there.  They say some of them are obviously just there for a paycheck.  They do the minimum they can get away with and really don't care about the needs of the residents.  However, other staff members really care.  They go the extra mile to be helpful and want to do their best to meet the needs of those they work with.  Which type of person are we?  Whether we're giving of our time or of our money, do we really love those we're giving to? Does it show in our attitude? When we go home or visiting teaching, do we really care about the people we're visiting and sincerely want to serve them?  Or are we just eager to check their names off the list so we can say we're done? When a neighbor asks for help are we eager to serve and grateful for the opportunity to be of service, or are we grumbling under our breath wishing we were home watching TV? Are our hearts really in the right place?  1 Corinthians 13: 3 "And though I bestow all my goods to feed the poor, and though I give my body to be burned, and have not charity, it profiteth me nothing."

Daily Thoughts

In the P of GP we read about how Jesus foretold the events that would precede His second coming.  Wickedness would abound and the followers of Christ would be persecuted.  False prophets would arise and deceive many.  However, those we remain steadfast and are not overcome will be saved.  Joseph Smith Matthew 1:5-11 "And Jesus answered, and said unto them: Take heed that no man deceive you; For many shall come in my name, saying—I am Christ—and shall deceive many; Then shall they deliver you up to be afflicted, and shall kill you, and ye shall be hated of all nations, for my name's sake; And then shall many be offended, and shall betray one another, and shall hate one another;  And many false prophets shall arise, and shall deceive many;  And because iniquity shall abound, the love of many shall wax cold;  But he that remaineth steadfast and is not overcome, the same shall be saved."

In the New Testament God is described as the God of all comfort and the Father of mercies.  He comforts us in all our tribulations so that we'll be able to comfort others in their troubles. Sometimes when we're going through something difficult, it really helps to talk to someone else who has been through the same thing and know that they understand.  This may be the reason we need to go through certain trials in our lives, so that we can give understanding comfort to others in the future who might be suffering through the same things we have gone through.  2 Corinthians 1:3-4 "Blessed be God, even the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies, and the God of all comfort;  Who comforteth us in all our tribulation, that we may be able to comfort them which are in any trouble, by the comfort wherewith we ourselves are comforted of God."

A verse with a thought booklet tells us that if we seek God with all our hearts, we will find Him.  Jeremiah 29:13 "And ye shall seek me, and find me, when ye shall search for me with all your heart." 

Daily Thoughts

In the P of GP we read about how Eve was created as a helpmeet for Adam.  Abraham 5: 14-18 "And the Gods said: Let us make an help meet for the man, for it is not good that the man should be alone, therefore we will form an help meet for him. And the Gods caused a deep sleep to fall upon Adam; and he slept, and they took one of his ribs, and closed up the flesh in the stead thereof;  And of the rib which the Gods had taken from man, formed they a woman, and brought her unto the man.
  And Adam said: This was bone of my bones, and flesh of my flesh; now she shall be called Woman, because she was taken out of man; Therefore shall a man leave his father and his mother, and shall cleave unto his wife, and they shall be one flesh."

In the New Testament we read about the reality of the resurrection of the dead.  Christ died for our sins, was buried and rose again the third day. Just like Adam, all men die, but because of Jesus Christ, all men shall be made alive. So our corruptible bodies must put on incorrputible and our mortal bodies put on immortality. And death is swallowed up in victory. Thanks to God, Jesus Christ won victory over death. We need to remain steadfast and immoveable, always abounding in the work of the Lord and knowing that our labors are not in vain.   1 Corinthians 15:3-4, 22, 53-58 "For I delivered unto you first of all that which I also received, how that Christ died for our sins according to the scriptures;  And that he was buried, and that he rose again the third day according to the scriptures: For as in Adam all die, even so in Christ shall all be made alive. For this corruptible must put on incorruption, and this mortal must put on immortality. So when this corruptible shall have put on incorruption, and this mortal shall have put on immortality, then shall be brought to pass the saying that is written, Death is swallowed up in victory.  O death, where is thy sting? O grave, where is thy victory? The sting of death is sin; and the strength of sin is the law.  But thanks be to God, which giveth us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ. Therefore, my beloved brethren, be ye stedfast, unmoveable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, forasmuch as ye know that your labour is not in vain in the Lord."

Some verses with a thought booklet tell us that we are saved by hope.  But hope is not something that we have already seen and know.  We hope for things we have not seen, but which we patiently wait for.  We need patience and faith to realize that God's gifts don't necessarily come in the manner we ask for, but they always come in His way, and His perfect timing.  Romans 8:24-25 "For we are saved by hope: but hope that is seen is not hope: for what a man seeth, why doth he yet hope for? But if we hope for that we see not, then do we with patience wait for it."

Daily Thoughts

In the P of GP we read about how before anything was actually created, it was planned ahead of time.  Abraham 5:4-7 "And the Gods came down and formed these the generations of the heavens and of the earth, when they were formed in the day that the Gods formed the earth and the heavens,  According to all that which they had said concerning every plant of the field before it was in the earth, and every herb of the field before it grew; for the Gods had not caused it to rain upon the earth when they counseled to do them, and had not formed a man to till the ground. But there went up a mist from the earth, and watered the whole face of the ground. And the Gods formed man from the dust of the ground, and took his spirit (that is, the man's spirit), and put it into him; and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life, and man became a living soul."

In the New Testament we read a wonderful discourse about charity, or the pure love of Christ.  Charity excels and exceeds almost all else.  1 Corinthians 13:1-13 "Though I speak with the tongues of men and of angels, and have not charity, I am become as sounding brass, or a tinkling cymbal.  And though I have the gift of prophecy, and understand all mysteries, and all knowledge; and though I have all faith, so that I could remove mountains, and have not charity, I am nothing.  And though I bestow all my goods to feed the poor, and though I give my body to be burned, and have not charity, it profiteth me nothing. Charity suffereth long, and is kind; charity envieth not; charity vaunteth not itself, is not puffed up,  Doth not behave itself unseemly, seeketh not her own, is not easily provoked, thinketh no evil;  Rejoiceth not in iniquity, but rejoiceth in the truth; Beareth all things, believeth all things, hopeth all things, endureth all things.  Charity never faileth: but whether there be prophecies, they shall fail; whether there be tongues, they shall cease; whether there be knowledge, it shall vanish away. For we know in part, and we prophesy in part.  But when that which is perfect is come, then that which is in part shall be done away.  When I was a child, I spake as a child, I understood as a child, I thought as a child: but when I became a man, I put away childish things.  For now we see through a glass, darkly; but then face to face: now I know in part; but then shall I know even as also I am known.  And now abideth faith, hope, charity, these three; but the greatest of these is charity."

Continuing right along with this idea are some verses with a thought booklet that tells us that we need to love one another because God is love.  If we love others, we're born of God and can know Him. But if we don't love others, we can't now God. 1 John 4:7-8 "Beloved, let us love one another: for love is of God; and every one that loveth is born of God, and knoweth God.  He that loveth not knoweth not God; for God is love."

Daily Thoughts

In the P of GP we read about how the Gods rested the seventh day and did not do any work.  Abraham 5:2 " And the Gods said among themselves: On the seventh time we will end our work, which we have counseled; and we will rest on the seventh time from all our work which we have counseled."

In the New Testament we read that we will never be tempted above what we can bear.  But when any temptation comes to us, a way of escaping it will be provided by the Lord. So we can't use the excuse "the devil made me do it!"  The devil can't make us do anything.  If we'll allow the Lord to help us, we can resist any temptation that comes along.  1 Corinthians 10:13 "There hath no temptation taken you but such as is common to man: but God is faithful, who will not suffer you to be tempted above that ye are able; but will with the temptation also make a way to escape, that ye may be able to bear it."

A verse with a thought booklet gives us some insight into jut how the Lord can help us resist temptation.  It tells us that the Lord gives us power when we feel faint and when we have no might, He increases our strength.  So if we're feeling weak and vulnerable, we can pray to the Lord and ask Him to help us.  He will give us the strength we need.  Isaiah 40: 29 "He giveth power to the faint; and to them that have no might he increaseth strength."

Daily Thoughts

In the P of GP we read about how the Gods planned and organized the creation of the earth and the life thereon, including man created in the image of God.  Abraham 4:24-31 "And the Gods prepared the earth to bring forth the living creature after his kind, cattle and creeping things, and beasts of the earth after their kind; and it was so, as they had said.  And the Gods organized the earth to bring forth the beasts after their kind, and cattle after their kind, and every thing that creepeth upon the earth after its kind; and the Gods saw they would obey.  And the Gods took counsel among themselves and said: Let us go down and form man in our image, after our likeness; and we will give them dominion over the fish of the sea, and over the fowl of the air, and over the cattle, and over all the earth, and over every creeping thing that creepeth upon the earth. So the Gods went down to organize man in their own image, in the image of the Gods to form they him, male and female to form they them. And the Gods said: We will bless them. And the Gods said: We will cause them to be fruitful and multiply, and replenish the earth, and subdue it, and to have dominion over the fish of the sea, and over the fowl of the air, and over every living thing that moveth upon the earth.  And the Gods said: Behold, we will give them every herb bearing seed that shall come upon the face of all the earth, and every tree which shall have fruit upon it; yea, the fruit of the tree yielding seed to them we will give it; it shall be for their meat.  And to every beast of the earth, and to every fowl of the air, and to every thing that creepeth upon the earth, behold, we will give them life, and also we will give to them every green herb for meat, and all these things shall be thus organized.  And the Gods said: We will do everything that we have said, and organize them; and behold, they shall be very obedient. And it came to pass that it was from evening until morning they called night; and it came to pass that it was from morning until evening that they called day; and they numbered the sixth time."

In the New Testament we read a verse that tells us that if we're going to preach the gospel we also need to live the gospel.  We need to practice what we preach.  1 Corinthians 9:14 "Even so hath the Lord ordained that they which preach the gospel should live of the gospel."

In a verse with a thought booklet we read a verse in which Samuel tells the people that he will try to teach them and good and right way to live and also says something very interesting.  He says that he will not sin against the Lord by ceasing to pray for them.  We often think of sin as doing something big like stealing, lying, or committing adultery.  But have you ever considered that it could be a sin to neglect praying for those in need?  It's important to take time in our prayers to address the concerns of our family and friends or others we're aware of who need the Lord's help. Did you do this in your prayer this morning?  If not, it's not to late to say another prayer right now. Can you think of someone who is struggling or going through difficult challenges right now who can use your prayers?  1 Samuel 12:23 "Moreover as for me, God forbid that I should sin against the Lord in ceasing to pray for you: but I will teach you the good and the right way:"

Daily Thoughts

In the P of GP we read about how Heavenly Father wanted to send someone to earth to help us.  Jesus offered to come, and so did Satan, but God chose Jesus, which made Satan very angry.  Abraham 3:27-28 "And the Lord said: Whom shall I send? And one answered like unto the Son of Man: Here am I, send me. And another answered and said: Here am I, send me. And the Lord said: I will send the first. And the second was angry, and kept not his first estate; and, at that day, many followed after him."

In the New Testament we read that if any man loves God, that man will be known by God.  1 Corinthians 8:3 "But if any man love God, the same is known of him."

Some verses with a thought booklet tell us that God hears and answers the prayers of all those who reverence Him.  He will not turn away from our prayers nor turn away His mercy from us.  However, if we regard iniquity in our heart, the Lord will not hear us.  We need to keep our lives and our thoughts pure in order to keep the line of communication open between us and the Lord.  Isaiah 66:16-20 "For by fire and by his sword will the Lord plead with all flesh: and the slain of the Lord shall be many. They that sanctify themselves, and purify themselves in the gardens behind one tree in the midst, eating swine's flesh, and the abomination, and the mouse, shall be consumed together, saith the Lord.  For I know their works and their thoughts: it shall come, that I will gather all nations and tongues; and they shall come, and see my glory.  And I will set a sign among them, and I will send those that escape of them unto the nations, to Tarshish, Pul, and Lud, that draw the bow, to Tubal, and Javan, to the isles afar off, that have not heard my fame, neither have seen my glory; and they shall declare my glory among the Gentiles.  And they shall bring all your brethren for an offering unto the Lord out of all nations upon horses, and in chariots, and in litters, and upon mules, and upon swift beasts, to my holy mountain Jerusalem, saith the Lord, as the children of Israel bring an offering in a clean vessel into the house of the Lord."

Daily Thoughts

In the P of GP we read that this earth is a probationary time for us in which we can prove ourselves to see if we're willing to do all things that the Lord has commanded us. Those who kept their first estate (in the spirit world before we were born) were added upon and allowed to come to this earth.  And those who keep their second estate (here on this earth) will have glory added upon their heads forever and ever.  Abraham 3:25-26 "And we will prove them herewith, to see if they will do all things whatsoever the Lord their God shall command them; And they who keep their first estate shall be added upon; and they who keep not their first estate shall not have glory in the same kingdom with those who keep their first estate; and they who keep their second estate shall have glory added upon their heads for ever and ever."

In the New Testament we read that the unrighteous will not be saved.  But if those who commit sin repent, they are washed clean and justified through Jesus Christ.  1 Corinthians 6:9-11 "Know ye not that the unrighteous shall not inherit the kingdom of God? Be not deceived: neither fornicators, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, nor effeminate, nor abusers of themselves with mankind, Nor thieves, nor covetous, nor drunkards, nor revilers, nor extortioners, shall inherit the kingdom of God.  And such were some of you: but ye are washed, but ye are sanctified, but ye are justified in the name of the Lord Jesus, and by the Spirit of our God."

Some verses with a thought booklet remind us of the great value we have with the Lord.  Even a sparrow cannot fall to the ground without the Father knowing it.  We are of much more worth than many sparrows.  Even the very hairs of our head of numbered to Him.  Matthew 10:29-31 "Are not two sparrows sold for a farthing? and one of them shall not fall on the ground without your Father.  But the very hairs of your head are all numbered.  Fear ye not therefore, ye are of more value than many sparrows."

Daily Thoughts

In the P of GP we read that the Lord showed Abraham the intellegences that existed before the world was created. There were many noble and great ones and among them there were some that the Lord foreordained to be His rulers, including Abraham.  He was chosen before he was born. Abraham 3:22-23 "Now the Lord had shown unto me, Abraham, the intelligences that were organized before the world was; and among all these there were many of the noble and great ones;  And God saw these souls that they were good, and he stood in the midst of them, and he said: These I will make my rulers; for he stood among those that were spirits, and he saw that they were good; and he said unto me: Abraham, thou art one of them; thou wast chosen before thou wast born."

In the New Testament we read that we are the temples of God.  We need to treat our body like a temple and which is not to be defiled. We need to take good care of our bodies, which house our spirits.  1 Corinthians 3:16-17 "Know ye not that ye are the temple of God, and that the Spirit of God dwelleth in you?  If any man defile the temple of God, him shall God destroy; for the temple of God is holy, which temple ye are."

Some verses with a thought booklet tell us that it is a good thing to give thanks unto the Lord.  Every morning we can thank Him for His kindness and every evening we can rejoice in all His faithfulness.  Day and night we can pray to the Lord with gratitude in our hearts.  Psalms 92:1-2 "It is a good thing to give thanks unto the Lord, and to sing praises unto thy name, O most High:  To shew forth thy lovingkindness in the morning, and thy faithfulness every night,"

Daily Thoughts

In the P of GP we read that the Lord showed Abraham the stars in the sky and told him that his seed would be as numerous as they are, and as numerous as the sands of the sea.  Abraham 3:14 "And it was in the night time when the Lord spake these words unto me: I will multiply thee, and thy seed after thee, like unto these; and if thou canst count the number of sands, so shall be the number of thy seeds."

In the New Testament we read that things of the Spirit can only be understand by the Spirit.  Those who are not spiritually minded but who only have worldly wisdom will think that spiritual things sound foolish to them.  God reveals spiritual things by His Spirit and we cannot possibly hope to understand them except by His Spirit. The enticing words of men's wisdom are as nothing when compared to speaking with the power of God.  1 Corinthians 2:4-16 "And my speech and my preaching was not with enticing words of man's wisdom, but in demonstration of the Spirit and of power:  That your faith should not stand in the wisdom of men, but in the power of God.  Howbeit we speak wisdom among them that are perfect: yet not the wisdom of this world, nor of the princes of this world, that come to nought: But we speak the wisdom of God in a mystery, even the hidden wisdom, which God ordained before the world unto our glory: Which none of the princes of this world knew: for had they known it, they would not have crucified the Lord of glory.  But as it is written, Eye hath not seen, nor ear heard, neither have entered into the heart of man, the things which God hath prepared for them that love him.  But God hath revealed them unto us by his Spirit: for the Spirit searcheth all things, yea, the deep things of God.  For what man knoweth the things of a man, save the spirit of man which is in him? even so the things of God knoweth no man, but the Spirit of God.  Now we have received, not the spirit of the world, but the spirit which is of God; that we might know the things that are freely given to us of God.  Which things also we speak, not in the words which man's wisdom teacheth, but which the Holy Ghost teacheth; comparing spiritual things with spiritual.  But the natural man receiveth not the things of the Spirit of God: for they are foolishness unto him: neither can he know them, because they are spiritually discerned. But he that is spiritual judgeth all things, yet he himself is judged of no man.  For who hath known the mind of the Lord, that he may instruct him? But we have the mind of Christ."

A verse with a thought booklet tells us that God loves us with an everlasting love and with loving kindness draws us to Him.  Jeremiah 31:3 "The Lord hath appeared of old unto me, saying, Yea, I have loved thee with an everlasting love: therefore with lovingkindness have I drawn thee."

Daily Thoughts

In the P of GP we read that the Lord talked to Abraham face to face and showed him the works which His hands had made.  They were so many that Abraham could not see the end thereof.  Abraham 3:11-12 "Thus I, Abraham, talked with the Lord, face to face, as one man talketh with another; and he told me of the works which his hands had made;  And he said unto me: My son, my son (and his hand was stretched out), behold I will show you all these. And he put his hand upon mine eyes, and I saw those things which his hands had made, which were many; and they multiplied before mine eyes, and I could not see the end thereof."

In the New Testament we're told to all speak the same thing and to have no divisions among us--being unified and perfectly joined together, having the same mind and same judgment.  1 Corinthians 1:10 "Now I beseech you, brethren, by the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that ye all speak the same thing, and that there be no divisions among you; but that ye be perfectly joined together in the same mind and in the same judgment."

Some verses with a thought booklet tell us that the Lord hears our prayers and supplications and inclines His ears toward us.  So we should love the Lord and continue calling upon Him as long as we live.  No matter what pains or sorrows surround us, we can beseech Him and He will deliver our souls.  He is merciful and deals bountifully with us. There is no way we can possibly repay the Lord for all His benefits toward us. We need to make sure we take some time today and every day to call upon God and give Him thanks for all He does for us.  Psalms 116:1-8, 12  "I love the Lord, because he hath heard my voice and my supplications. Because he hath inclined his ear unto me, therefore will I call upon him as long as I live. The sorrows of death compassed me, and the pains of hell gat hold upon me: I found trouble and sorrow. Then called I upon the name of the Lord; O Lord, I beseech thee, deliver my soul. Gracious is the Lord, and righteous; yea, our God is merciful. The Lord preserveth the simple: I was brought low, and he helped me.  Return unto thy rest, O my soul; for the Lord hath dealt bountifully with thee. For thou hast delivered my soul from death, mine eyes from tears, and my feet from falling.  What shall I render unto the Lord for all his benefits toward me?"

Daily Thoughts

In the P of GP we read that the Lord told Abraham to tell people that Sarai was his sister so they would not kill him to have her for themselves.  Abraham 2:22-25 "And it came to pass when I was come near to enter into Egypt, the Lord said unto me: Behold, Sarai, thy wife, is a very fair woman to look upon;  Therefore it shall come to pass, when the Egyptians shall see her, they will say—She is his wife; and they will kill you, but they will save her alive; therefore see that ye do on this wise:  Let her say unto the Egyptians, she is thy sister, and thy soul shall live. And it came to pass that I, Abraham, told Sarai, my wife, all that the Lord had said unto me—Therefore say unto them, I pray thee, thou art my sister, that it may be well with me for thy sake, and my soul shall live because of thee."

In the New Testament we're told to avoid people who cause divisions and who teach doctrines contrary to what we have learned.  I've learned that some people ask honest questions about the gospel because they want to understand.  We need o do our best to teach these people the truth.  But other people just want to contend and raise doubts about the faith.  They try to find fault and criticize.  If it becomes evident that their hearts are hardened to the point that they already have their minds made up and won't even listen to what we have to say, sometimes it is better to just let them go and avoid contact with them.  If all we can do is contend with them, the Spirit won't be present.  And when it comes to things of the gospel, the Spirit is absolutely essential in order for learning to take place.  Romans 16: 17 "Now I beseech you, brethren, mark them which cause divisions and offences contrary to the doctrine which ye have learned; and avoid them."

Some verses with a thought booklet demonstrate why it is important to obey the word of God and how rebelling against it lead to the people stoning Stephen who testified against their wickedness.  They did not want to hear what he had to say.  In fact, they stopped up their ears so they wouldn't have to listen.  It is sad indeed when people are so hard hearted that they refuse to hear the truth and in fact become angry and hateful when people try to teach them, even lashing out at those who try.  Acts 7:51-60 "Ye stiffnecked and uncircumcised in heart and ears, ye do always resist the Holy Ghost: as your fathers did, so do ye.  Which of the prophets have not your fathers persecuted? and they have slain them which shewed before of the coming of the Just One; of whom ye have been now the betrayers and murderers:  Who have received the law by the disposition of angels, and have not kept it. When they heard these things, they were cut to the heart, and they gnashed on him with their teeth.  But he, being full of the Holy Ghost, looked up stedfastly into heaven, and saw the glory of God, and Jesus standing on the right hand of God, And said, Behold, I see the heavens opened, and the Son of man standing on the right hand of God.  Then they cried out with a loud voice, and stopped their ears, and ran upon him with one accord, And cast him out of the city, and stoned him: and the witnesses laid down their clothes at a young man's feet, whose name was Saul. And they stoned Stephen, calling upon God, and saying, Lord Jesus, receive my spirit.  And he kneeled down, and cried with a loud voice, Lord, lay not this sin to their charge. And when he had said this, he fell asleep."

Daily Thoughts

In the P of GP we read that Abraham took his wife and nephew and all their substance , and the souls they had won in Haran and departed. As they journeyed they dwelt in tents.  Abraham built an altar in the land of Jershon and made offerings to the Lord.  He prayed that the famine would abate and his father would not perish. Abraham continued to travel and built altars and prayed unto the Lord as he went. Abraham 2:15-21 "And I took Sarai, whom I took to wife when I was in Ur, in Chaldea, and Lot, my brother's son, and all our substance that we had gathered, and the souls that we had won in Haran, and came forth in the way to the land of Canaan, and dwelt in tents as we came on our way; Therefore, eternity was our covering and our rock and our salvation, as we journeyed from Haran by the way of Jershon, to come to the land of Canaan.  Now I, Abraham, built an altar in the land of Jershon, and made an offering unto the Lord, and prayed that the famine might be turned away from my father's house, that they might not perish.  And then we passed from Jershon through the land unto the place of Sechem; it was situated in the plains of Moreh, and we had already come into the borders of the land of the Canaanites, and I offered sacrifice there in the plains of Moreh, and called on the Lord devoutly, because we had already come into the land of this idolatrous nation.  And the Lord appeared unto me in answer to my prayers, and said unto me: Unto thy seed will I give this land.  And I, Abraham, arose from the place of the altar which I had built unto the Lord, and removed from thence unto a mountain on the east of Bethel, and pitched my tent there, Bethel on the west, and Hai on the east; and there I built another altar unto the Lord, and called again upon the name of the Lord. And I, Abraham, journeyed, going on still towards the south; and there was a continuation of a famine in the land; and I, Abraham, concluded to go down into Egypt, to sojourn there, for the famine became very grievous."

In the New Testament we read about how God is patient and gives us consolation and we need to be like minded toward one another. Just as God shows love and compassion toward us, we need to follow His example and do the same for others.  Romans 15: 5 "Now the God of patience and consolation grant you to be likeminded one toward another according to Christ Jesus:"

Going right along with this, some verses with a thought booklet specifically tell us how we should treat others.  We should edify and lift one another, now allowing any corrupt communication to proceed out of our mouths, and avoiding all bitterness, anger, malice, wrath and evil speaking. We need to be kind and tenderhearted to one another, being willing to forgive each other just as God has forgiven us.  Ephesians 4:29-32 "Let no corrupt communication proceed out of your mouth, but that which is good to the use of edifying, that it may minister grace unto the hearers.  And grieve not the holy Spirit of God, whereby ye are sealed unto the day of redemption. Let all bitterness, and wrath, and anger, and clamour, and evil speaking, be put away from you, with all malice:  And be ye kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God for Christ's sake hath forgiven you."

Daily Thoughts

In the Pearl of Great Price we read about how great and powerful the Lord is and how He is willing to pour our wonderful blessings to those who obey Him.  The Lord told Abraham that his seed would be blessed with the priesthood, the gospel, and life eternal. Abraham 2:7-12 "For I am the Lord thy God; I dwell in heaven; the earth is my footstool; I stretch my hand over the sea, and it obeys my voice; I cause the wind and the fire to be my chariot; I say to the mountains—Depart hence—and behold, they are taken away by a whirlwind, in an instant, suddenly.  My name is Jehovah, and I know the end from the beginning; therefore my hand shall be over thee. And I will make of thee a great nation, and I will bless thee above measure, and make thy name great among all nations, and thou shalt be a blessing unto thy seed after thee, that in their hands they shall bear this ministry and Priesthood unto all nations;  And I will bless them through thy name; for as many as receive this Gospel shall be called after thy name, and shall be accounted thy seed, and shall rise up and bless thee, as their father; And I will bless them that bless thee, and curse them that curse thee; and in thee (that is, in thy Priesthood) and in thy seed (that is, thy Priesthood), for I give unto thee a promise that this right shall continue in thee, and in thy seed after thee (that is to say, the literal seed, or the seed of the body) shall all the families of the earth be blessed, even with the blessings of the Gospel, which are the blessings of salvation, even of life eternal.  Now, after the Lord had withdrawn from speaking to me, and withdrawn his face from me, I said in my heart: Thy servant has sought thee earnestly; now I have found thee;"

In the New Testament we're told not to judge each other, for we'll all stand before the judgment seat of Christ.  He is the only one who can rightly judge. We'll all have to account to God for ourselves.  So let's stop judging each other and putting stumbling blocks in each other's way.  Romans 14:10-13 "But why dost thou judge thy brother? or why dost thou set at nought thy brother? for we shall all stand before the judgment seat of Christ.  For it is written, As I live, saith the Lord, every knee shall bow to me, and every tongue shall confess to God.  So then every one of us shall give account of himself to God. Let us not therefore judge one another any more: but judge this rather, that no man put a stumblingblock or an occasion to fall in his brother's way." 

A verse with a thought booklet tells us to sing of the great mercy and love of the Lord forever and tell other people of His faithfulness.  Think back to the last week or the last month and try to remember times when the Lord has helped you through difficult experiences or answered your prayers or times when you felt close to Him or received insights while reading scriptures.  Reflect on the ways that you've experienced God's amazing love and care.  Then take time to thank and praise Him, and tell others about what God has done for you and what He means in your life. Maybe it's just something simple like praying to find a lost item and the finding it. Or how when you attended church someone said something that was jut what you needed to hear. Or the time you were driving through a terrible blizzard and the Lord helped you reach your destination in safety.  Or the time you were feeling lonely or depressed and a friend felt like they should call you. Or maybe you were having dire financial problems and couldn't see how you were going to pay your bills, but you paid your tithing anyway--only to have things miraculously work out so you had what you needed (I think anybody who pays their tithing has had that happen to them). Think about how you've been blessed with a healthy body or a loving family or a job or a home to live in or even a devoted pet to greet you when you come home.  If you have trouble thinking of anything, ask God to help you, and to open your eyes so that you can more clearly see what He has done for you.  Psalms 89:1 "I will sing of the mercies of the Lord for ever: with my mouth will I make known thy faithfulness to all generations."

Daily Thoughts

In the P of GP we read that Abraham's father returned to his idolatry, but Abraham prayed unto the Lord for direction.  The Lord told Abraham to take his nephew Lot and leave Haran and the Lord would make Abraham a minister to bear His name in a strange land. The Lord also promised to give Abraham's seed an everlasting possession if they would hearken to His voice.  Abraham is a good example of continuing in righteousness even though his father did not, and of turning to the Lord to find out what the Lord wanted him to do.  When we obey the Lord, He blesses us.  Abraham 2:5-6 "And the famine abated; and my father tarried in Haran and dwelt there, as there were many flocks in Haran; and my father turned again unto his idolatry, therefore he continued in Haran.  But I, Abraham, and Lot, my brother's son, prayed unto the Lord, and the Lord appeared unto me, and said unto me: Arise, and take Lot with thee; for I have purposed to take thee away out of Haran, and to make of thee a minister to bear my name in a strange land which I will give unto thy seed after thee for an everlasting possession, when they hearken to my voice."

In the New Testament we read much good advice about the ways we should live our lives.  We should love one another, treat each other with kindness and respect.  We should be patient in our tribulations and pray always.  We should bless those who persecute us, and give our enemies those things they stand in need of.  We should no seek for revenge, for vengeance belongs to the Lord.  But e should try to live peaceably with all men, as much as is in our power.  We should be honest in all our doings.  We should rejoice with those who rejoice and weep with those who mourn.  Romans 12:9-21 "Let love be without dissimulation. Abhor that which is evil; cleave to that which is good.  Be kindly affectioned one to another with brotherly love; in honour preferring one another; Not slothful in business; fervent in spirit; serving the Lord;  Rejoicing in hope; patient in tribulation; continuing instant in prayer;  Distributing to the necessity of saints; given to hospitality.  Bless them which persecute you: bless, and curse not.  Rejoice with them that do rejoice, and weep with them that weep.  Be of the same mind one toward another. Mind not high things, but condescend to men of low estate. Be not wise in your own conceits.  Recompense to no man evil for evil. Provide things honest in the sight of all men.  If it be possible, as much as lieth in you, live peaceably with all men. Dearly beloved, avenge not yourselves, but rather give place unto wrath: for it is written, Vengeance is mine; I will repay, saith the Lord.  Therefore if thine enemy hunger, feed him; if he thirst, give him drink: for in so doing thou shalt heap coals of fire on his head.  Be not overcome of evil, but overcome evil with good."

Some scriptures with a thought booklet teach us that we need to good examples to others and live our lives above reproach.  Titus 2:7-8 "In all things shewing thyself a pattern of good works: in doctrine shewing uncorruptness, gravity, sincerity, Sound speech, that cannot be condemned; that he that is of the contrary part may be ashamed, having no evil thing to say of you."

Daily Thoughts

In the P of GP we read that the Lord told Abraham to leave the land of Ur and go to a land that He would show him.  So he obeyed and left Ur, and took other family members with him.  When the Lord tells us to do something, how quickly and unquestioningly are we willing to obey?  Abraham 2:3-4 "Now the Lord had said unto me: Abraham, get thee out of thy country, and from thy kindred, and from thy father's house, unto a land that I will show thee. Therefore I left the land of Ur, of the Chaldees, to go into the land of Canaan; and I took Lot, my brother's son, and his wife, and Sarai my wife; and also my father followed after me, unto the land which we denominated Haran."

In the New Testament we read that we have no more right to complain against God for how we were made than a painting has to complain against a painter, a pot has to complain against the potter, or anything else that was created has to complain against the person who made it.  Romans 9:20 "Nay but, O man, who art thou that repliest against God? Shall the thing formed say to him that formed it, Why hast thou made me thus?"

A verse with a thought booklet goes along with this thought, telling us that we were awesomely and wonderfully made and we should praise God for it.  His works are marvelous and we are one of those works!  Have you taken time today to thank the Lord for your body and all the wonderful things it can do?  This is something we often take for granted but it is a great blessing to be thankful for.  Psalms 139:14 "I will praise thee; for I am fearfully and wonderfully made: marvellous are thy works; and that my soul knoweth right well."    
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