Daily Thoughts

In Articles of Faith 5 we read that a man must be called of God by prophecy and by the laying on of hands by someone who has the proper authority. Everything must be done in order ad by the proper authority.  Articles of Faith 5 "We believe that a man must be called of God, by prophecy, and by the laying on of hands by those who are in authority, to preach the Gospel and administer in the ordinances thereof."

In the New Testament we read a verse that tells us quite simply that we should not follow that which is evil, but rather that which is good.  Those who do good are of God but those who do evil have not seen God.  3 John 1:11 "Beloved, follow not that which is evil, but that which is good. He that doeth good is of God: but he that doeth evil hath not seen God."

In some scriptures with a thought booklet we're told that we need to wake up and realize that the time to repent is now!  We may think we have lots of time, but the day of our salvation is nearer than what we believed.  The night is far spent and the day is at hand for us to cast off our works of darkness and put on the armor of light.  We need to stop  our evil living, our envying and strife, and walk honestly, putting on the armor of God. This is not something to be procrastinated until it's too late. Romans 13:11-14 "And that, knowing the time, that now it is high time to awake out of sleep: for now is our salvation nearer than when we believed.  The night is far spent, the day is at hand: let us therefore cast off the works of darkness, and let us put on the armour of light. Let us walk honestly, as in the day; not in rioting and drunkenness, not in chambering and wantonness, not in strife and envying. But put ye on the Lord Jesus Christ, and make not provision for the flesh, to fulfil the lusts thereof."

Daily Thoughts

In Articles of Faith 4 we read about the first principles of the gospel which are faith, repentance, baptism, and receiving the Gift of the Holy Ghost.  Articles of Faith 4 "We believe that the first principles and ordinances of the Gospel are: first, Faith in the Lord Jesus Christ; second, Repentance; third, Baptism by immersion for the remission of sins; fourth, Laying on of hands for the gift of the Holy Ghost."

In the New Testament it tells us that we can have confidence that when we ask anything of God, if it is His will, He will hear us and we can know that He will grant the petitions that we desire.  If it appears that sometimes our prayers are not answered, it may be that we're asking for something that is not God's will and would not really be what is best for us.  We may not be able to see the reasons why God sometimes has to answer no to our requests because we have limited understanding compared to God, but we can trust in Him and know that He'll answer our prayers in the way that is best.  We can have confidence in that!  1 John 5:14-15 "And this is the confidence that we have in him, that, if we ask any thing according to his will, he heareth us:  And if we know that he hear us, whatsoever we ask, we know that we have the petitions that we desired of him."

A verse with a thought booklet tells us that even though we may suffer at the present time, it is nothing when compared to the glory we'll receive in the world to come.  This life is but a small moment compared to eternity, and if we endure it well, we'll receive a wonderful reward which we cannot even imagine.  Romans 8:18 "For I reckon that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory which shall be revealed in us."
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Daily Thoughts

In Articles of Faith 3 we read that because of the Atonement of Jesus Christ, we can all be saved, but we need to receive the necessary ordinances, such as baptism, and we need to keep the commandments. It is by grace that we are saved, after all we can do.  Articles of Faith 3 "We believe that through the Atonement of Christ, all mankind may be saved, by obedience to the laws and ordinances of the Gospel."

In the New Testament we read that we are to love one another, as God loves us.  God is love and those who love are born of God and know Him.  But those who do not manifest love for others, do not know God. It's all about love!  1 John 4:7-8, 11 "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. Beloved, if God so loved us, we ought also to love one another."

A verse with a thought booklet tells us that God gives us peace.   We don't need to be troubled or afraid.  This is not the kind of peace that the world gives, this is true inner peace that we can only have when we are living the way we know God wants us to live.  John 14:27 "Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid."

Daily Thoughts

In Articles of Faith 2 we read that all of us will be punished for our own sins, not for Adam's transgression.   Articles of Faith 2 "We believe that men will be punished for their own sins, and not for Adam's transgression."

In the New Testament we read that in the last days there would be many people who would scoff at the idea of the Second Coming of Christ.  They would say that the world would just continue on as it always had and the Lord was slack concerning His promises.  But they are wrong.  Just as the wicked were destroyed by flood in Noah's day, so will they be destroyed by fire in the last days. The day of the Lord will indeed come, in His own due time.  We don't know when that will be because 1,000 years for us is like a single day to God, but we can know for sure that everything He says will happen will indeed occur. So we need to be prepared and ready for that day and make sure we're without spot and blameless, growing in grace and in the knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. 2 Peter 3:3-16 "Knowing this first, that there shall come in the last days scoffers, walking after their own lusts, And saying, Where is the promise of his coming? for since the fathers fell asleep, all things continue as they were from the beginning of the creation. For this they willingly are ignorant of, that by the word of God the heavens were of old, and the earth standing out of the water and in the water:  Whereby the world that then was, being overflowed with water, perished: But the heavens and the earth, which are now, by the same word are kept in store, reserved unto fire against the day of judgment and perdition of ungodly men.  But, beloved, be not ignorant of this one thing, that one day is with the Lord as a thousand years, and a thousand years as one day. The Lord is not slack concerning his promise, as some men count slackness; but is longsuffering to us-ward, not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance.  But the day of the Lord will come as a thief in the night; in the which the heavens shall pass away with a great noise, and the elements shall melt with fervent heat, the earth also and the works that are therein shall be burned up.  Seeing then that all these things shall be dissolved, what manner of persons ought ye to be in all holy conversation and godliness,  Looking for and hasting unto the coming of the day of God, wherein the heavens being on fire shall be dissolved, and the elements shall melt with fervent heat?  Nevertheless we, according to his promise, look for new heavens and a new earth, wherein dwelleth righteousness. Wherefore, beloved, seeing that ye look for such things, be diligent that ye may be found of him in peace, without spot, and blameless. And account that the longsuffering of our Lord is salvation; even as our beloved brother Paul also according to the wisdom given unto him hath written unto you;  As also in all his epistles, speaking in them of these things; in which are some things hard to be understood, which they that are unlearned and unstable wrest, as they do also the other scriptures, unto their own destruction." 

Some scriptures with a thought booklet tell the story of Zacchaeus, a tax collector, who was willing to climb a sycomore tree in order to see Jesus.  Jesus took notice of him and said he was going to come to his house, which made the man greatly rejoice.  But those around him grumbled about Jesus going to the house of a sinner.  However, Jesus knew the heart of this man, that he was ready to repent and turn his life around.  Jesus came to save the lost!  He welcomes those who are willing to change their lives and come unto Him.  Luke 19:1-10 "And Jesus entered and passed through Jericho. And, behold, there was a man named Zacchæus, which was the chief among the publicans, and he was rich. And he sought to see Jesus who he was; and could not for the press, because he was little of stature.  And he ran before, and climbed up into a sycomore tree to see him: for he was to pass that way.  And when Jesus came to the place, he looked up, and saw him, and said unto him, Zacchæus, make haste, and come down; for to day I must abide at thy house. And he made haste, and came down, and received him joyfully.  And when they saw it, they all murmured, saying, That he was gone to be guest with a man that is a sinner. And Zacchæus stood, and said unto the Lord; Behold, Lord, the half of my goods I give to the poor; and if I have taken any thing from any man by false accusation, I restore him fourfold. And Jesus said unto him, This day is salvation come to this house, forsomuch as he also is a son of Abraham. For the Son of man is come to seek and to save that which was lost."

Daily Thoughts

In Articles of Faith 1 we read about the Godhead which consists of three separate and distinct individuals--God the Father, Jesus Christ, and the Holy Ghost.  Articles of Faith 1 "We believe in God, the Eternal Father, and in His Son, Jesus Christ, and in the Holy Ghost."

In the New Testament we're told that the scriptures are not of any private interpretation.  The scriptures weren't written by the will of man, but they came by prophecy from holy men in former times as they were moved by the Holy Ghost.  2 Peter 1:20-21 "Knowing this first, that no prophecy of the scripture is of any private interpretation.  For the prophecy came not in old time by the will of man: but holy men of God spake as they were moved by the Holy Ghost."

Some scriptures with a thought booklet tell us that we need to forsake wrath and stop being angry.  We need to quit thinking about doing evil because those who do evil will be cut off.  But those who wait upon the Lord will inherit the earth.  Psalms 37:8-9 "Cease from anger, and forsake wrath: fret not thyself in any wise to do evil. For evildoers shall be cut off: but those that wait upon the Lord, they shall inherit the earth."

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Daily Thoughts

In the P of GP we read Oliver Cowdery's description of receiving the Aaronic Priesthood from John the Baptist. Joseph Smith History footnote  "This was not long desired before it was realized. The Lord, who is rich in mercy, and ever willing to answer the consistent prayer of the humble, after we had called upon Him in a fervent manner, aside from the abodes of men, condescended to manifest to us His will. On a sudden, as from the midst of eternity, the voice of the Redeemer spake peace to us, while the veil was parted and the angel of God came down clothed with glory, and delivered the anxiously looked for message, and the keys of the Gospel of repentance. What joy! what wonder! what amazement! While the world was racked and distracted—while millions were groping as the blind for the wall, and while all men were resting upon uncertainty, as a general mass, our eyes beheld, our ears heard, as in the 'blaze of day'; yes, more—above the glitter of the May sunbeam, which then shed its brilliancy over the face of nature! Then his voice, though mild, pierced to the center, and his words, 'I am thy fellow-servant,' dispelled every fear. We listened, we gazed, we admired! 'Twas the voice of an angel from glory, 'twas a message from the Most High! And as we heard we rejoiced, while His love enkindled upon our souls, and we were wrapped in the vision of the Almighty! Where was room for doubt? Nowhere; uncertainty had fled, doubt had sunk no more to rise, while fiction and deception had fled forever! But, dear brother, think, further think for a moment, what joy filled our hearts, and with what surprise we must have bowed, (for who would not have bowed the knee for such a blessing?) when we received under his hand the Holy Priesthood as he said, 'Upon you my fellow-servants, in the name of Messiah, I confer this Priesthood and this authority, which shall remain upon earth, that the Sons of Levi may yet offer an offering unto the Lord in righteousness!' I shall not attempt to paint to you the feelings of this heart, nor the majestic beauty and glory which surrounded us on this occasion; but you will believe me when I say, that earth, nor men, with the eloquence of time, cannot begin to clothe language in as interesting and sublime a manner as this holy personage. No; nor has this earth power to give the joy, to bestow the peace, or comprehend the wisdom which was contained in each sentence as they were delivered by the power of the Holy Spirit! Man may deceive his fellow-men, deception may follow deception, and the children of the wicked one may have power to seduce the foolish and untaught, till naught but fiction feeds the many, and the fruit of falsehood carries in its current the giddy to the grave; but one touch with the finger of his love, yes, one ray of glory from the upper world, or one word from the mouth of the Savior, from the bosom of eternity, strikes it all into insignificance, and blots it forever from the mind. The assurance that we were in the presence of an angel, the certainty that we heard the voice of Jesus, and the truth unsullied as it flowed from a pure personage, dictated by the will of God, is to me past description, and I shall ever look upon this expression of the Savior's goodness with wonder and thanksgiving while I am permitted to tarry; and in those mansions where perfection dwells and sin never comes, I hope to adore in that day which shall never cease."

In the New Testament we read that God resists the proud but gives grace to the humble.  So we need to humble ourselves before God so that He may exalt us in due time.  1 Peter 5:5-6 "Likewise, ye younger, submit yourselves unto the elder. Yea, all of you be subject one to another, and be clothed with humility: for God resisteth the proud, and giveth grace to the humble.  Humble yourselves therefore under the mighty hand of God, that he may exalt you in due time:"

Some verses with a thought booklet elaborate on this idea as we read the story of the Pharisee and the publican, or tax collector.  The first man have a haughty and proud prayer, giving thanks that he was so righteous and that he wasn't like the sinner beside him.  He bragged about the good things he did in a very self righteous manner.  On the other hand, the tax collector gave a humble prayer, asking God for mercy.  Jesus said that the second man was more justified before God than the first.  He who humbles himself before God will be exalted, and he who exalted himself will be abased. In reading this story, we need to ask ourselves who we are more like.  Do we realize that we are sinners and humbly come before God in a repentant frame of mind?  Or do we think we're so good we don't need to repent and tend to look down on others, thinking how much better we are than they are?   Luke 18:11-19 "The Pharisee stood and prayed thus with himself, God, I thank thee, that I am not as other men are, extortioners, unjust, adulterers, or even as this publican.  I fast twice in the week, I give tithes of all that I possess.  And the publican, standing afar off, would not lift up so much as his eyes unto heaven, but smote upon his breast, saying, God be merciful to me a sinner.  I tell you, this man went down to his house justified rather than the other: for every one that exalteth himself shall be abased; and he that humbleth himself shall be exalted. And they brought unto him also infants, that he would touch them: but when his disciples saw it, they rebuked them.  But Jesus called them unto him, and said, Suffer little children to come unto me, and forbid them not: for of such is the kingdom of God.  Verily I say unto you, Whosoever shall not receive the kingdom of God as a little child shall in no wise enter therein. And a certain ruler asked him, saying, Good Master, what shall I do to inherit eternal life?  And Jesus said unto him, Why callest thou me good? none is good, save one, that is, God."

Daily Thoughts

In the P of GP we read Oliver Cowdery's description of acting as Joseph Smith's scribe in translating the Book of Mormon.   Joseph Smith History footnote  "Oliver Cowdery describes these events thus: "These were days never to be forgotten—to sit under the sound of a voice dictated by the inspiration of heaven, awakened the utmost gratitude of this bosom! Day after day I continued, uninterrupted, to write from his mouth, as he translated with the Urim and Thummim, or, as the Nephites would have said, 'Interpreters,' the history or record called 'The Book of Mormon.' To notice, in even few words, the interesting account given by Mormon and his faithful son, Moroni, of a people once beloved and favored of heaven, would supersede my present design; I shall therefore defer this to a future period, and, as I said in the introduction, pass more directly to some few incidents immediately connected with the rise of this Church, which may be entertaining to some thousands who have stepped forward, amid the frowns of bigots and the calumny of hypocrites, and embraced the Gospel of Christ. No men, in their sober senses, could translate and write the directions given to the Nephites from the mouth of the Savior, of the precise manner in which men should build up His Church, and especially when corruption had spread an uncertainty over all forms and systems practiced among men, without desiring a privilege of showing the willingness of the heart by being buried in the liquid grave, to answer a 'good conscience by the resurrection of Jesus Christ.' After writing the account given of the Savior's ministry to the remnant of the seed of Jacob, upon this continent, it was easy to be seen, as the prophet said it would be, that darkness covered the earth and gross darkness the minds of the people. On reflecting further it was as easy to be seen that amid the great strife and noise concerning religion, none had authority from God to administer the ordinances of the Gospel. For the question might be asked, have men authority to administer in the name of Christ, who deny revelations, when His testimony is no less than the spirit of prophecy, and His religion based, built, and sustained by immediate revelations, in all ages of the world when He has had a people on earth? If these facts were buried, and carefully concealed by men whose craft would have been in danger if once permitted to shine in the faces of men, they were no longer to us; and we only waited for the commandment to be given 'Arise and be baptized.'

In the New Testament we read that when we suffer fiery trials, we should not be surprised and think that some strange thing has happened to us.  But rather we should rejoice and be happy when we are reproached in the name of Christ, for when we are made partakers of Christ's suffering, the spirit of glory and of God rests upon us.  1 Peter 4:12-14 "Beloved, think it not strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you, as though some strange thing happened unto you:  But rejoice, inasmuch as ye are partakers of Christ's sufferings; that, when his glory shall be revealed, ye may be glad also with exceeding joy.  If ye be reproached for the name of Christ, happy are ye; for the spirit of glory and of God resteth upon you: on their part he is evil spoken of, but on your part he is glorified."

In a verse with a thought booklet, Go tells Zerubbabel that a mountain in front of him will become a plain.  In other words, God can change a mountain that is too high to climb into a plain that is easy to cross.  In this case, it probably wasn't a literal mountain, but rather the mountainous task of rebuilding the temple, which seemed like an impossible job.  But with God, nothing is impossible!  So when we're facing having to do something that seems like an uncrossable mountain in front of us, we need to remember that God can turn a mountain into a plain.  If we trust in Him, we can do impossible things.  Zechariah 4:7 "Who art thou, O great mountain? before Zerubbabel thou shalt become a plain: and he shall bring forth the headstone thereof with shoutings, crying, Grace, grace unto it."

Daily Thoughts

In the P of GP we read about how the minds of Joseph Smith and Oliver Cowdery were enlightened so that they could have a greater understanding of the scriptures than they ever had previously.  But through all this, they still suffered from much persecution by others.   Joseph Smith History 1: 74-75 "Our minds being now enlightened, we began to have the scriptures laid open to our understandings, and the true meaning and intention of their more mysterious passages revealed unto us in a manner which we never could attain to previously, nor ever before had thought of. In the meantime we were forced to keep secret the circumstances of having received the Priesthood and our having been baptized, owing to a spirit of persecution which had already manifested itself in the neighborhood.  We had been threatened with being mobbed, from time to time, and this, too, by professors of religion. And their intentions of mobbing us were only counteracted by the influence of my wife's father's family (under Divine providence), who had become very friendly to me, and who were opposed to mobs, and were willing that I should be allowed to continue the work of translation without interruption; and therefore offered and promised us protection from all unlawful proceedings, as far as in them lay."

In the New Testament we read about how Christ suffered for our sins.  Even though there was no sin in Him, He bore our sins so that we couldbe saved.  He was reviled, but did not revile in return.  He suffered, but did not threaten those who hurt Him.  By His stripes, we were healed.  We were like seep who had gone astray, but we were rescued by our Shepherd. 1 Peter 2:21-25 "For even hereunto were ye called: because Christ also suffered for us, leaving us an example, that ye should follow his steps: Who did no sin, neither was guile found in his mouth:  Who, when he was reviled, reviled not again; when he suffered, he threatened not; but committed himself to him that judgeth righteously:  Who his own self bare our sins in his own body on the tree, that we, being dead to sins, should live unto righteousness: by whose stripes ye were healed.  For ye were as sheep going astray; but are now returned unto the Shepherd and Bishop of your souls."

Some scriptures with a thought booklet tell us that those who minister to others and provide service are the greatest in the Kingdom of God.  Even Jesus Christ came not to be ministered unto, but so that He could give His life to save us.  Matthew 20:26-28 "But it shall not be so among you: but whosoever will be great among you, let him be your minister;  And whosoever will be chief among you, let him be your servant: Even as the Son of man came not to be ministered unto, but to minister, and to give his life a ransom for many."

Daily Thoughts

In the P of GP we read about how as soon as Joseph Smith and Oliver Cowdery arose from the waters of baptism, they were filled with the spirit and were able to prophecy.   Joseph Smith History 1:73  "Immediately on our coming up out of the water after we had been baptized, we experienced great and glorious blessings from our Heavenly Father. No sooner had I baptized Oliver Cowdery, than the Holy Ghost fell upon him, and he stood up and prophesied many things which should shortly come to pass. And again, so soon as I had been baptized by him, I also had the spirit of prophecy, when, standing up, I prophesied concerning the rise of this Church, and many other things connected with the Church, and this generation of the children of men. We were filled with the Holy Ghost, and rejoiced in the God of our salvation."

In the New Testament we read that we are not redeemed by gold and silver, but through the precious blood of Jesus Christ, who was without spot or blemish and who was foreordained from the foundation of the world to be our Redeemer.  1 Peter 1:18-19 "Forasmuch as ye know that ye were not redeemed with corruptible things, as silver and gold, from your vain conversation received by tradition from your fathers;  But with the precious blood of Christ, as of a lamb without blemish and without spot:"

Some verses with a thought booklet tell us that Jesus told His disciples that He was going to be betrayed, mocked, scourged, and crucified but that He would rise again on the third day.  Jesus knew what was going to happen to Him (as we read in the paragraph above, it was foreordained from the foundation of the world).  But not only was He going to suffer and die, but He was going to rise again!  Matthew 20:17-19 "And Jesus going up to Jerusalem took the twelve disciples apart in the way, and said unto them, Behold, we go up to Jerusalem; and the Son of man shall be betrayed unto the chief priests and unto the scribes, and they shall condemn him to death,  And shall deliver him to the Gentiles to mock, and to scourge, and to crucify him: and the third day he shall rise again."

Daily Thoughts

In the P of GP we read about how Joseph Smith and Oliver Cowdery inquired of the Lord regarding baptism, after having read about it in the book they were translating.  They were then visited by a heavenly messenger, John the Baptist, who conferred the Aaronic Priesthood upon them and instructed them to baptize each other.  Joseph Smith History 1: 68-72 "We still continued the work of translation, when, in the ensuing month (May, 1829), we on a certain day went into the woods to pray and inquire of the Lord respecting baptism for the remission of sins, that we found mentioned in the translation of the plates. While we were thus employed, praying and calling upon the Lord, a messenger from heaven descended in a cloud of light, and having laid his hands upon us, he ordained us, saying: Upon you my fellow servants, in the name of Messiah, I confer the Priesthood of Aaron, which holds the keys of the ministering of angels, and of the gospel of repentance, and of baptism by immersion for the remission of sins; and this shall never be taken again from the earth until the sons of Levi do offer again an offering unto the Lord in righteousness.  He said this Aaronic Priesthood had not the power of laying on hands for the gift of the Holy Ghost, but that this should be conferred on us hereafter; and he commanded us to go and be baptized, and gave us directions that I should baptize Oliver Cowdery, and that afterwards he should baptize me.  Accordingly we went and were baptized. I baptized him first, and afterwards he baptized me—after which I laid my hands upon his head and ordained him to the Aaronic Priesthood, and afterwards he laid his hands on me and ordained me to the same Priesthood—for so we were commanded. The messenger who visited us on this occasion and conferred this Priesthood upon us, said that his name was John, the same that is called John the Baptist in the New Testament, and that he acted under the direction of Peter, James and John, who held the keys of the Priesthood of Melchizedek, which Priesthood, he said, would in due time be conferred on us, and that I should be called the first Elder of the Church, and he (Oliver Cowdery) the second. It was on the fifteenth day of May, 1829, that we were ordained under the hand of this messenger, and baptized."


In the New Testament we're told that God resists the proud but grants grace to the humble. If we're willing to humble ourselves before God, He will lift us up. James 4:6, 10 "But he giveth more grace. Wherefore he saith, God resisteth the proud, but giveth grace unto the humble.  Humble yourselves in the sight of the Lord, and he shall lift you up."

Going right along with this, some scriptures with a thought booklet tell us that he who is greatest in the Kingdom of Heaven is someone who humbles himself as a little child.  This doesn't mean that we need to be childish and immature, but that we need to be childlike in our faith and humility--teachable and trusting, willing to submit to the will of the Lord.  Matthew 18: 3-4 "And said, Verily I say unto you, Except ye be converted, and become as little children, ye shall not enter into the kingdom of heaven. Whosoever therefore shall humble himself as this little child, the same is greatest in the kingdom of heaven."

Daily Thoughts

In the P of GP we read about how Oliver Cowdery came to see Joseph Smith and then served as his scribe as he began to translate the Book of Mormon.  Joseph Smith History 1: 66-67  "On the 5th day of April, 1829, Oliver Cowdery came to my house, until which time I had never seen him. He stated to me that having been teaching school in the neighborhood where my father resided, and my father being one of those who sent to the school, he went to board for a season at his house, and while there the family related to him the circumstances of my having received the plates, and accordingly he had come to make inquiries of me.  Two days after the arrival of Mr. Cowdery (being the 7th of April) I commenced to translate the Book of Mormon, and he began to write for me."

In the New Testament we read that it's not enough to merely hear the Word of God.  We need to obey the Word of God and actually do what it tells us to do.  Pure religion means to visit the fatherless and widows in their affliction, and keep ourselves unspotted from the world. If we simply listen to God's word but don't put it into action, we're deceiving ourselves.  James 1:22, 27 "But be ye doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving your own selves. Pure religion and undefiled before God and the Father is this, To visit the fatherless and widows in their affliction, and to keep himself unspotted from the world."

A verse with a thought booklet tells us that when a man comes unto Christ, he becomes a new creature and his old life with his old sins pass away. When we accept Jesus Christ, it changes us. 2 Corinthians 5:17 "Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new."

Daily Thoughts

In the P of GP we read about how Martin Harris took a copy of some of the characters from the plates to Professor Charles Anthon who attested to their authenticity and signed a statement to that effect.  However, when Martin Harris told him how Joseph had found the plates, Mr. Anthon said that there was no such thing as the administering of angels and he tore up his statement.   Joseph Smith History 1:63-65 "Sometime in this month of February, the aforementioned Mr. Martin Harris came to our place, got the characters which I had drawn off the plates, and started with them to the city of New York. For what took place relative to him and the characters, I refer to his own account of the circumstances, as he related them to me after his return, which was as follows: "I went to the city of New York, and presented the characters which had been translated, with the translation thereof, to Professor Charles Anthon, a gentleman celebrated for his literary attainments. Professor Anthon stated that the translation was correct, more so than any he had before seen translated from the Egyptian. I then showed him those which were not yet translated, and he said that they were Egyptian, Chaldaic, Assyriac, and Arabic; and he said they were true characters. He gave me a certificate, certifying to the people of Palmyra that they were true characters, and that the translation of such of them as had been translated was also correct. I took the certificate and put it into my pocket, and was just leaving the house, when Mr. Anthon called me back, and asked me how the young man found out that there were gold plates in the place where he found them. I answered that an angel of God had revealed it unto him.  "He then said to me, 'Let me see that certificate.' I accordingly took it out of my pocket and gave it to him, when he took it and tore it to pieces, saying that there was no such thing now as ministering of angels, and that if I would bring the plates to him he would translate them. I informed him that part of the plates were sealed, and that I was forbidden to bring them. He replied, 'I cannot read a sealed book.' I left him and went to Dr. Mitchell, who sanctioned what Professor Anthon had said respecting both the characters and the translation."

In the New Testament we read that Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today, and forever.  He does not change.  If He spoke to men and performed miracles in days gone by, He does so today.  If certain things were sins years ago, they are still sins today.  Men may change and the precepts of men change through time, but God does not.  Hebrews 13:8 "Jesus Christ the same yesterday, and to day, and for ever."

A verse with a thought booklet tells us that to be true disciples of Christ, we must bear His cross and follow Him.  To be a follower of Christ demands our loyalty to Him over anything and everyone else.  It requires our obedience and willingness to sacrifice.  It requires our remaining committed to the end.  Luke 14:27 "And whosoever doth not bear his cross, and come after me, cannot be my disciple."

Daily Thoughts

In the P of GP we read about the continued persecution of Joseph Smith and his family and all the falsehoods which were spread regarding them. Joseph and Emma then returned to her father's home where Joseph began to translate the plates.  Also at this time they meant Martin Harris who was very helpful to them.   Joseph Smith History 1:61-62 "The excitement, however, still continued, and rumor with her thousand tongues was all the time employed in circulating falsehoods about my father's family, and about myself. If I were to relate a thousandth part of them, it would fill up volumes. The persecution, however, became so intolerable that I was under the necessity of leaving Manchester, and going with my wife to Susquehanna county, in the State of Pennsylvania. While preparing to start—being very poor, and the persecution so heavy upon us that there was no probability that we would ever be otherwise—in the midst of our afflictions we found a friend in a gentleman by the name of Martin Harris, who came to us and gave me fifty dollars to assist us on our journey. Mr. Harris was a resident of Palmyra township, Wayne county, in the State of New York, and a farmer of respectability. By this timely aid was I enabled to reach the place of my destination in Pennsylvania; and immediately after my arrival there I commenced copying the characters off the plates. I copied a considerable number of them, and by means of the Urim and Thummim I translated some of them, which I did between the time I arrived at the house of my wife's father, in the month of December, and the February following."

In the New Testament we read about the faith that Moses had--enough faith that he choose to suffer affliction with the Israelites rather than live as the son of Pharaoh's daughter who had adopted him when he was a baby.  He showed faith when he forsook Egypt and didn't fear the wrath of the king, having the faith to part the Red Sea and pass through on dry ground.  Hebrews 11:23-29 "By faith Moses, when he was born, was hid three months of his parents, because they saw he was a proper child; and they were not afraid of the king's commandment.  By faith Moses, when he was come to years, refused to be called the son of Pharaoh's daughter;  Choosing rather to suffer affliction with the people of God, than to enjoy the pleasures of sin for a season;  Esteeming the reproach of Christ greater riches than the treasures in Egypt: for he had respect unto the recompence of the reward.  By faith he forsook Egypt, not fearing the wrath of the king: for he endured, as seeing him who is invisible. Through faith he kept the passover, and the sprinkling of blood, lest he that destroyed the firstborn should touch them.  By faith they passed through the Red sea as by dry land: which the Egyptians assaying to do were drowned."

Some familiar verses with a thought booklet tell us that the Lord is our Sepherd and we shall not want.  He makes us lie down in green pastures and leads us beside the still waters, restoring our soul and leading us in the paths of righteousness.  He'll even walk with us through the valley of the shadow of death.  Goodness and mercy will follow us all the days of our lives and then we will dwell in the house of the Lord forever.  Psalms 23:1-6 "The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want.  He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: he leadeth me beside the still waters.  He restoreth my soul: he leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for his name's sake.  Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me.  Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies: thou anointest my head with oil; my cup runneth over.  Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life: and I will dwell in the house of the Lord for ever."

Daily Thoughts

In the P of GP we read that Joseph Smith finally did obtain the plates and it became evident to him why he'd been cautioned so strongly regarding them.  The persecution increased and wicked people tried everything in their power to obtain the plates.  Joseph Smith History 1:59-60 "At length the time arrived for obtaining the plates, the Urim and Thummim, and the breastplate. On the twenty-second day of September, one thousand eight hundred and twenty-seven, having gone as usual at the end of another year to the place where they were deposited, the same heavenly messenger delivered them up to me with this charge: that I should be responsible for them; that if I should let them go carelessly, or through any neglect of mine, I should be cut off; but that if I would use all my endeavors to preserve them, until he, the messenger, should call for them, they should be protected.  I soon found out the reason why I had received such strict charges to keep them safe, and why it was that the messenger had said that when I had done what was required at my hand, he would call for them. For no sooner was it known that I had them, than the most strenuous exertions were used to get them from me. Every stratagem that could be invented was resorted to for that purpose. The persecution became more bitter and severe than before, and multitudes were on the alert continually to get them from me if possible. But by the wisdom of God, they remained safe in my hands, until I had accomplished by them what was required at my hand. When, according to arrangements, the messenger called for them, I delivered them up to him; and he has them in his charge until this day, being the second day of May, one thousand eight hundred and thirty-eight."

In the New Testament we read that we need to have confidence that we'll receive our reward.  It is only AFTER we've done the will of God that we'll receive the promised blessings.  So we need to have patience and faith.  Hebrews 10:35-36 "Cast not away therefore your confidence, which hath great recompence of reward.  For ye have need of patience, that, after ye have done the will of God, ye might receive the promise."

Some scriptures with a thought booklet go right along with this. They recount the story of how the Lord cut off the waters of the Jordan River, which He caused to stand in a heap, so that Israel could pass over on dry ground.  However, before this miracle could happen, the priests bearing the ark of the covenant had to actually put their feet in the water. In other words, they had to trust in God enough to take action before anything actually happened.  Often this is the case in our lives as well.  We have to actually act upon our faith before the miracles take place.  We have to accept the scary church calling and attempt to do it before the Lord will step in and help us.  We have to actually pay our tithing before the financial blessings occur.  We have to step out and "get our feet wet" sometimes, proving that we have faith in the Lord, before the miracles happen.  Joshua 3:7-17 "And the Lord said unto Joshua, This day will I begin to magnify thee in the sight of all Israel, that they may know that, as I was with Moses, so I will be with thee. And thou shalt command the priests that bear the ark of the covenant, saying, When ye are come to the brink of the water of Jordan, ye shall stand still in Jordan. And Joshua said unto the children of Israel, Come hither, and hear the words of the Lord your God.  And Joshua said, Hereby ye shall know that the living God is among you, and that he will without fail drive out from before you the Canaanites, and the Hittites, and the Hivites, and the Perizzites, and the Girgashites, and the Amorites, and the Jebusites. Behold, the ark of the covenant of the Lord of all the earth passeth over before you into Jordan.  Now therefore take you twelve men out of the tribes of Israel, out of every tribe a man. And it shall come to pass, as soon as the soles of the feet of the priests that bear the ark of the Lord, the Lord of all the earth, shall rest in the waters of Jordan, that the waters of Jordan shall be cut off from the waters that come down from above; and they shall stand upon an heap. And it came to pass, when the people removed from their tents, to pass over Jordan, and the priests bearing the ark of the covenant before the people;  And as they that bare the ark were come unto Jordan, and the feet of the priests that bare the ark were dipped in the brim of the water, (for Jordan overfloweth all his banks all the time of harvest,) That the waters which came down from above stood and rose up upon an heap very far from the city Adam, that is beside Zaretan: and those that came down toward the sea of the plain, even the salt sea, failed, and were cut off: and the people passed over right against Jericho.  And the priests that bare the ark of the covenant of the Lord stood firm on dry ground in the midst of Jordan, and all the Israelites passed over on dry ground, until all the people were passed clean over Jordan."

Daily Thoughts

In the P of GP we read that Joseph Smith married Emma Hale.  Her family was much opposed to the marriage because of his continuing to assert that he had seen visions from God.  So after their marriage they returned to Joseph's family and he farmed with his father for the season.  Joseph Smith History 1:57-58 "During the time that I was thus employed, I was put to board with a Mr. Isaac Hale, of that place; it was there I first saw my wife (his daughter), Emma Hale. On the 18th of January, 1827, we were married, while I was yet employed in the service of Mr. Stoal. Owing to my continuing to assert that I had seen a vision, persecution still followed me, and my wife's father's family were very much opposed to our being married. I was, therefore, under the necessity of taking her elsewhere; so we went and were married at the house of Squire Tarbill, in South Bainbridge, Chenango county, New York. Immediately after my marriage, I left Mr. Stoal's, and went to my father's, and farmed with him that season."

In the New Testament we read that Jesus Christ bore the sins of many and to those who look for Him, He will appear a second time, without sin unto salvation.  Christ will come again!  Hebrews 9:28 "So Christ was once offered to bear the sins of many; and unto them that look for him shall he appear the second time without sin unto salvation."

A verse with a thought booklet tells us that every good and perfect gift we have come from God, who never changes.  We can count on Him, and have so much to thank Him for!  James 1:17 "Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and cometh down from the Father of lights, with whom is no variableness, neither shadow of turning."

Daily Thoughts

In the P of GP we read about how Joseph Smith's family was of limited means so they had to find work where they could get it.  Joseph got a job with Josiah Stoal digging for silver. Also at this time, Joseph's brother Alvin died.  Joseph Smith History 1:55-56 "As my father's worldly circumstances were very limited, we were under the necessity of laboring with our hands, hiring out by day's work and otherwise, as we could get opportunity. Sometimes we were at home, and sometimes abroad, and by continuous labor were enabled to get a comfortable maintenance.  In the year 1823 my father's family met with a great affliction by the death of my eldest brother, Alvin. In the month of October, 1825, I hired with an old gentleman by the name of Josiah Stoal, who lived in Chenango county, State of New York. He had heard something of a silver mine having been opened by the Spaniards in Harmony, Susquehanna county, State of Pennsylvania; and had, previous to my hiring to him, been digging, in order, if possible, to discover the mine. After I went to live with him, he took me, with the rest of his hands, to dig for the silver mine, at which I continued to work for nearly a month, without success in our undertaking, and finally I prevailed with the old gentleman to cease digging after it. Hence arose the very prevalent story of my having been a money-digger."

In the New Testament we read that a day will come when the laws of God will be written upon every person's heart and be in every person's mind.  They will be the Lord's people and He will be their God.  It will not be necessary to tell friends and neighbors about the Lord, because everyone will already know about Him.  And the Lord will be merciful to them and forgive their sins, remembering them o more.  Hebrews 8:10-12 "For this is the covenant that I will make with the house of Israel after those days, saith the Lord; I will put my laws into their mind, and write them in their hearts: and I will be to them a God, and they shall be to me a people:  And they shall not teach every man his neighbour, and every man his brother, saying, Know the Lord: for all shall know me, from the least to the greatest. For I will be merciful to their unrighteousness, and their sins and their iniquities will I remember no more."

Some scriptures with a thought booklet tell us that evil men love darkness rather than light, because the light exposes their sins and their deeds are reproved. Have you ever noticed that when the sun comes out after dreary weather, you suddenly notice that your windows in your home or car need cleaning?  Smudges and dirt that went unnoticed before, become evident in the light of the sun.  Likewise, when we allow the light of God's Word to shine in our lives, as we pray and study the scriptures, we become aware of sins that were previously undetected, or of attitudes that need to change. The Light of God's love can help us clean up our lives and make the changes that are needed. But we can't make changes unless we know something is wrong, and only by allowing Light into our lives will we be able to see clearly.  John 3:19-20 "And this is the condemnation, that light is come into the world, and men loved darkness rather than light, because their deeds were evil.  For every one that doeth evil hateth the light, neither cometh to the light, lest his deeds should be reproved."

Daily Thoughts

In the P of GP we read that Joseph was commanded not to take the plates at that time, but to return to the place at the same time every year, at which time he received additional instruction.  Joseph Smith History 1:53-54 "I made an attempt to take them out, but was forbidden by the messenger, and was again informed that the time for bringing them forth had not yet arrived, neither would it, until four years from that time; but he told me that I should come to that place precisely in one year from that time, and that he would there meet with me, and that I should continue to do so until the time should come for obtaining the plates. Accordingly, as I had been commanded, I went at the end of each year, and at each time I found the same messenger there, and received instruction and intelligence from him at each of our interviews, respecting what the Lord was going to do, and how and in what manner his kingdom was to be conducted in the last days."

In the New Testament we read that even though Jesus was the Son of God, He still  needed to learn obedience by the things which He suffered.  If even Jesus needed to go through suffering, how much more so do we need to go through trials and tribulations in order to be refined and perfected and learn to obey God. Hebrews 5:8 "Though he were a Son, yet learned he obedience by the things which he suffered;"

In a verse with a thought booklet the Lord tells Jacob that he should fear not to go down into Egypt, for the Lord wold make of him a great nation.  Sometimes the Lord sends us into unknown, scary situations that are out of our comfort zones.  But if we will trust in the Lord we have no need to fear, and eventually good will come of it.  He will be with us to help and guide us.  We don't need to face the unknown alone. Genesis 46:3 "And he said, I am God, the God of thy father: fear not to go down into Egypt; for I will there make of thee a great nation:"   

Daily Thoughts

In the P of GP we read about the place where the plates were deposited, and a description of them and what was buried with them. Joseph Smith History 1:51-52 " Convenient to the village of Manchester, Ontario county, New York, stands a hill of considerable size, and the most elevated of any in the neighborhood. On the west side of this hill, not far from the top, under a stone of considerable size, lay the plates, deposited in a stone box. This stone was thick and rounding in the middle on the upper side, and thinner towards the edges, so that the middle part of it was visible above the ground, but the edge all around was covered with earth.  Having removed the earth, I obtained a lever, which I got fixed under the edge of the stone, and with a little exertion raised it up. I looked in, and there indeed did I behold the plates, the Urim and Thummim, and the breastplate, as stated by the messenger. The box in which they lay was formed by laying stones together in some kind of cement. In the bottom of the box were laid two stones crossways of the box, and on these stones lay the plates and the other things with them."

In the New Testament we read that we need to take heed that we don't allow unbelief to harden our hearts.  We need to exhort one another on a daily basis to avoid the deceitfulness of sin.  We need to allow the beginnings of our confidence in Christ to be steadfast unto the end.  Hebrews 3:12-14 "Take heed, brethren, lest there be in any of you an evil heart of unbelief, in departing from the living God.  But exhort one another daily, while it is called To day; lest any of you be hardened through the deceitfulness of sin.  For we are made partakers of Christ, if we hold the beginning of our confidence steadfast unto the end;"

A verse with a thought booklet describes how David thirsts for God and longs for Him like a dry and thirsty land seeks for water. Is this how we feel in seeking after God?  Do we want Him in our lives as much as we'd want water if we were in a dry desert? Imagine you're trekking in the heat of the sun at high noon in a hot and dry desert.  Your jug of water is empty.  Your throat is parched.  Finally you read an oasis where there is precious water! You can think of nothing else as you race toward it!  Imagine how much you would want that water and than ask yourself if this is how much you desire God in your life.   Psalms 63:1 "O God, thou art my God; early will I seek thee: my soul thirsteth for thee, my flesh longeth for thee in a dry and thirsty land, where no water is;"

Daily Thoughts

In the P of GP we read that Joseph Smith arose and tried to go about his daily work, but he was so exhausted from being up all night that he could not. His father noticed that something was wrong and sent him home, but on his way home Moroni again visited him and told him to go and tell his father about what had happened.  When Joseph told his father, he told him that this was of God and that he should obey what he was told to do. Joseph Smith then went to the place where the plates were deposited.  Joseph Smith History 1:48-50 "I shortly after arose from my bed, and, as usual, went to the necessary labors of the day; but, in attempting to work as at other times, I found my strength so exhausted as to render me entirely unable. My father, who was laboring along with me, discovered something to be wrong with me, and told me to go home. I started with the intention of going to the house; but, in attempting to cross the fence out of the field where we were, my strength entirely failed me, and I fell helpless on the ground, and for a time was quite unconscious of anything.  The first thing that I can recollect was a voice speaking unto me, calling me by name. I looked up, and beheld the same messenger standing over my head, surrounded by light as before. He then again related unto me all that he had related to me the previous night, and commanded me to go to my father and tell him of the vision and commandments which I had received. I obeyed; I returned to my father in the field, and rehearsed the whole matter to him. He replied to me that it was of God, and told me to go and do as commanded by the messenger. I left the field, and went to the place where the messenger had told me the plates were deposited; and owing to the distinctness of the vision which I had had concerning it, I knew the place the instant that I arrived there."

In the New Testament we read about how God has spoken to man down through the ages through His prophets, and then He spoke by His Son, who is in His express image and who purged our sins and then sat down on the right hand of God.  Hebrews 1:1-3 "God, who at sundry times and in divers manners spake in time past unto the fathers by the prophets,  Hath in these last days spoken unto us by his Son, whom he hath appointed heir of all things, by whom also he made the worlds; Who being the brightness of his glory, and the express image of his person, and upholding all things by the word of his power, when he had by himself purged our sins, sat down on the right hand of the Majesty on high;"

Some verses with a thought booklet tell us that if we refuse to forgive, Satan can get advantage over us.  Unforgiveness is one of Satan's devices, and we should not be ignorant of it.  2 Corinthians 2:10-11 "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."

Daily Thoughts

In the P of GP we read about how the angel Moroni appeared to Joseph Smith two addition times, emphasizing to him that he should not be tempted to use the gold plates for monetary gain, but only for the purposes that God would command him.  He also repeated the same things he had taught him in the previous visits. After Moroni left a third time, the cock crowed and Joseph found that it was now morning and these visits had taken the entire night.  This is a good example of why repetition is often necessary when we are trying to learn something.  Frequently, when we hear something taught once or twice, it doesn't really sink in.  But after it's been repeated, we finally get it. This is why it's important to continue reading the scriptures over and over again, even if we're already read them once.    Joseph Smith History 1:44-47 "I lay musing on the singularity of the scene, and marveling greatly at what had been told to me by this extraordinary messenger; when, in the midst of my meditation, I suddenly discovered that my room was again beginning to get lighted, and in an instant, as it were, the same heavenly messenger was again by my bedside. He commenced, and again related the very same things which he had done at his first visit, without the least variation; which having done, he informed me of great judgments which were coming upon the earth, with great desolations by famine, sword, and pestilence; and that these grievous judgments would come on the earth in this generation. Having related these things, he again ascended as he had done before.  By this time, so deep were the impressions made on my mind, that sleep had fled from my eyes, and I lay overwhelmed in astonishment at what I had both seen and heard. But what was my surprise when again I beheld the same messenger at my bedside, and heard him rehearse or repeat over again to me the same things as before; and added a caution to me, telling me that Satan would try to tempt me (in consequence of the indigent circumstances of my father's family), to get the plates for the purpose of getting rich. This he forbade me, saying that I must have no other object in view in getting the plates but to glorify God, and must not be influenced by any other motive than that of building his kingdom; otherwise I could not get them.  After this third visit, he again ascended into heaven as before, and I was again left to ponder on the strangeness of what I had just experienced; when almost immediately after the heavenly messenger had ascended from me for the third time, the cock crowed, and I found that day was approaching, so that our interviews must have occupied the whole of that night."

In the New Testament we read Paul's statement toward the end of his life in which he was ready to meet his maker--having fought a good fight and finished his course, keeping the faith.  He could therefor expect to receive his crown of righteousness, as can all those who likewise love the Lord and look forward to His coming.  We might ask ourselves how well we are doing at faithfully living our lives so tat we can also say, at the end of our lives, that we have fought a good fight and finished our course, having kept the faith.  2 Timothy 4:7-8 "I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith:  Henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, shall give me at that day: and not to me only, but unto all them also that love his appearing."

In a verse with a thought booklet we're told that we need to praise and give thanks to the Lord, for He is good and His steadfast love and mercy endures forever.  Psalm 106:1 "Praise ye the Lord. O give thanks unto the Lord; for he is good: for his mercy endureth for ever."

Daily Thoughts

In the P of GP we read Moroni continued t insstruct Joseph Smith, telling him that the time to receive the gold plates had not yet come, but that when he did receive them he should not show them to anyone except those the Lord commanded him to show them to.  Then Moroni and the great light in the room disappeared.  Joseph Smith History 1:42-43 "Again, he told me, that when I got those plates of which he had spoken—for the time that they should be obtained was not yet fulfilled—I should not show them to any person; neither the breastplate with the Urim and Thummim; only to those to whom I should be commanded to show them; if I did I should be destroyed. While he was conversing with me about the plates, the vision was opened to my mind that I could see the place where the plates were deposited, and that so clearly and distinctly that I knew the place again when I visited it.  After this communication, I saw the light in the room begin to gather immediately around the person of him who had been speaking to me, and it continued to do so until the room was again left dark, except just around him; when, instantly I saw, as it were, a conduit open right up into heaven, and he ascended till he entirely disappeared, and the room was left as it had been before this heavenly light had made its appearance."

In the New Testament we read about the perilous times which will exist in the last days and a description of the evil that will prevail.  Sounds very much like the days we're living in now.  2 Timothy 3:1-7 "This know also, that in the last days perilous times shall come.  For men shall be lovers of their own selves, covetous, boasters, proud, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, unthankful, unholy,  Without natural affection, trucebreakers, false accusers, incontinent, fierce, despisers of those that are good,  Traitors, heady, highminded, lovers of pleasures more than lovers of God;  Having a form of godliness, but denying the power thereof: from such turn away.  For of this sort are they which creep into houses, and lead captive silly women laden with sins, led away with divers lusts,  Ever learning, and never able to come to the knowledge of the truth."

A verse with a thought booklet tells us to rejoice in every good thing the Lord has given us.  We all have trials in our lives, but we still have much to be thankful for.  The Lord has give us many wonderful blessings and appreciating them brings us joy.  Deuteronomy 26:11 "And thou shalt rejoice in every good thing which the Lord thy God hath given unto thee, and unto thine house, thou, and the Levite, and the stranger that is among you."

Daily Thoughts

In the P of GP we read about how Moroni taught Joseph Smith from the scriptures, quoting some of them a little differently from how they read in our Bible.  Joseph Smith History 1: 36-41 "After telling me these things, he commenced quoting the prophecies of the Old Testament. He first quoted part of the third chapter of Malachi; and he quoted also the fourth or last chapter of the same prophecy, though with a little variation from the way it reads in our Bibles. Instead of quoting the first verse as it reads in our books, he quoted it thus:  For behold, the day cometh that shall burn as an oven, and all the proud, yea, and all that do wickedly shall burn as stubble; for they that come shall burn them, saith the Lord of Hosts, that it shall leave them neither root nor branch.  And again, he quoted the fifth verse thus: Behold, I will reveal unto you the Priesthood, by the hand of Elijah the prophet, before the coming of the great and dreadful day of the Lord.  He also quoted the next verse differently: And he shall plant in the hearts of the children the promises made to the fathers, and the hearts of the children shall turn to their fathers. If it were not so, the whole earth would be utterly wasted at his coming.  In addition to these, he quoted the eleventh chapter of Isaiah, saying that it was about to be fulfilled. He quoted also the third chapter of Acts, twenty-second and twenty-third verses, precisely as they stand in our New Testament. He said that that prophet was Christ; but the day had not yet come when "they who would not hear his voice should be cut off from among the people," but soon would come.  He also quoted the second chapter of Joel, from the twenty-eighth verse to the last. He also said that this was not yet fulfilled, but was soon to be. And he further stated that the fulness of the Gentiles was soon to come in. He quoted many other passages of scripture, and offered many explanations which cannot be mentioned here."

In the New Testament we read that those who have worldly wealth should not be high-minded nor place their trust in their riches.  Rather, they should place their trust in the living God and do good, willing to distribute their riches to others.  If they do this, they will be laying a foundation to lay hold on eternal life.  1 Timothy 6:17-19 "Charge them that are rich in this world, that they be not highminded, nor trust in uncertain riches, but in the living God, who giveth us richly all things to enjoy;  That they do good, that they be rich in good works, ready to distribute, willing to communicate;  Laying up in store for themselves a good foundation against the time to come, that they may lay hold on eternal life."

Some scriptures with a thought booklet tell us that the Lord rebukes and chastens those He loves, so we need to repent.  He stands at the door and knocks and if we will open the door, He will come to us and we'll be able to be with Him and sit with Him in His throne. Revelation 3:19-21 "As many as I love, I rebuke and chasten: be zealous therefore, and repent. Behold, I stand at the door, and knock: if any man hear my voice, and open the door, I will come in to him, and will sup with him, and he with me.  To him that overcometh will I grant to sit with me in my throne, even as I also overcame, and am set down with my Father in his throne."

Daily Thoughts

In the P of GP we read that Moroni told Joseph Smith about the gold plates and how they contained a fullness of the gospel.  He also told them about other things deposited with the plates.   Joseph Smith History 1:33-35 "He called me by name, and said unto me that he was a messenger sent from the presence of God to me, and that his name was Moroni; that God had a work for me to do; and that my name should be had for good and evil among all nations, kindreds, and tongues, or that it should be both good and evil spoken of among all people.  He said there was a book deposited, written upon gold plates, giving an account of the former inhabitants of this continent, and the source from whence they sprang. He also said that the fulness of the everlasting Gospel was contained in it, as delivered by the Savior to the ancient inhabitants; Also, that there were two stones in silver bows—and these stones, fastened to a breastplate, constituted what is called the Urim and Thummim—deposited with the plates; and the possession and use of these stones were what constituted "seers" in ancient or former times; and that God had prepared them for the purpose of translating the book."

In the New Testament we're told that the love of money is the root of all evil.  Notice that this says "the love of money" not money itself.  There is nothing wrong with having money if we put it to good use to help other people and provide our families with the necessities of life.  It's when we covet worldly things and place more importance on riches than we do on the things of God that we'll get our lives off track and end up with many sorrows.  If we're satisfied with having sufficient money for our needs, we'll be content.  But if we want more and more money just for the sake of accumulating wealth or acquiring  more luxuries, we'll never feel like we have enough and will never be happy with what we have.  1 Timothy 6:6-10 "But godliness with contentment is great gain. For we brought nothing into this world, and it is certain we can carry nothing out. And having food and raiment let us be therewith content. But they that will be rich fall into temptation and a snare, and into many foolish and hurtful lusts, which drown men in destruction and perdition.  For the love of money is the root of all evil: which while some coveted after, they have erred from the faith, and pierced themselves through with many sorrows."

A verse with a thought booklet tells us that the Lord will wait for us to come to Him so that He can show us His love and mercy and compassion and so that He can bless us.  He is waiting for us with open arms, beckoning us to come to Him. The story is told of a little boy who was careless while playing with his baseball and broke a window in the garage at his home. He left a note for his parents, "I am sorry.  I am at Jim's house.  Love, scared Matthew."  As his mother started walking toward Jim's house to retrieve him, she was thinking, "It's okay.  It was an accident.  Don't be afraid to come to me when you're scared.  You're my child.  I love you." When she saw her son, she opened up her arms and they hugged each other. We need to remember that Heavenly Father loves us, even when we mess up.  We are His child.  He will welcome us with open arms if we'll come to Him.   Isaiah 30:18 "And therefore will the Lord wait, that he may be gracious unto you, and therefore will he be exalted, that he may have mercy upon you: for the Lord is a God of judgment: blessed are all they that wait for him."

Daily Thoughts

In the P of GP we read that Joseph Smith prayed for forgiveness of his weaknesses and imperfections and was visited by the angel Moroni. He describes Moroni and then said that at first he was afraid, but the fear soon left him.  Joseph Smith History 1:29-32 " In consequence of these things, I often felt condemned for my weakness and imperfections; when, on the evening of the above-mentioned twenty-first of September, after I had retired to my bed for the night, I betook myself to prayer and supplication to Almighty God for forgiveness of all my sins and follies, and also for a manifestation to me, that I might know of my state and standing before him; for I had full confidence in obtaining a divine manifestation, as I previously had one. While I was thus in the act of calling upon God, I discovered a light appearing in my room, which continued to increase until the room was lighter than at noonday, when immediately a personage appeared at my bedside, standing in the air, for his feet did not touch the floor. He had on a loose robe of most exquisite whiteness. It was a whiteness beyond anything earthly I had ever seen; nor do I believe that any earthly thing could be made to appear so exceedingly white and brilliant. His hands were naked, and his arms also, a little above the wrist; so, also, were his feet naked, as were his legs, a little above the ankles. His head and neck were also bare. I could discover that he had no other clothing on but this robe, as it was open, so that I could see into his bosom.  Not only was his robe exceedingly white, but his whole person was glorious beyond description, and his countenance truly like lightning. The room was exceedingly light, but not so very bright as immediately around his person. When I first looked upon him, I was afraid; but the fear soon left me."

In the New Testament we read about idlers who wander about from house to house, gossiping about things they shouldn't be talking about and being busybodies. We can all probably think of someone who fits this description, but we need to ask ourselves if we're ever guilty of acting like this as well. We need to fill our time with enough productive activities so we're not tempted to spend our time spreading gossip.  1 Timothy 5:13 "And withal they learn to be idle, wandering about from house to house; and not only idle, but tattlers also and busybodies, speaking things which they ought not."  

Some scriptures with a thought booklet relate the parable of the unjust servant. It seems incredible that someone who had been forgiven such an enormous debt could be so unforgiving of a small debt that was owed to him by someone else. Sometimes we're like this.  We commit sins which we ask the Lord to forgive us for, but then we turn around and refuse to forgive a friend or loved one for something that they've done to offend us.  But unless we're willing to forgive others, the Lord will likewise not be willing to forgive us.  Matthew 18:23-35 "Therefore is the kingdom of heaven likened unto a certain king, which would take account of his servants.  And when he had begun to reckon, one was brought unto him, which owed him ten thousand talents.  But forasmuch as he had not to pay, his lord commanded him to be sold, and his wife, and children, and all that he had, and payment to be made.  The servant therefore fell down, and worshipped him, saying, Lord, have patience with me, and I will pay thee all.  Then the lord of that servant was moved with compassion, and loosed him, and forgave him the debt.  But the same servant went out, and found one of his fellowservants, which owed him an hundred pence: and he laid hands on him, and took him by the throat, saying, Pay me that thou owest. And his fellowservant fell down at his feet, and besought him, saying, Have patience with me, and I will pay thee all.  And he would not: but went and cast him into prison, till he should pay the debt. So when his fellowservants saw what was done, they were very sorry, and came and told unto their lord all that was done.  Then his lord, after that he had called him, said unto him, O thou wicked servant, I forgave thee all that debt, because thou desiredst me:  Shouldest not thou also have had compassion on thy fellowservant, even as I had pity on thee?  And his lord was wroth, and delivered him to the tormentors, till he should pay all that was due unto him. So likewise shall my heavenly Father do also unto you, if ye from your hearts forgive not every one his brother their trespasses."

Daily Thoughts

In the P of GP we read that after Joseph Smith had his first vision, he continued on with his normal life, suffering persecution at the hands of many different types of people. Even though he wasn't guilty of any major sins, he felt that he was guilty of levity and that his behavior was not consistent with what it should be by someone called of God as he was.   Joseph Smith History 1:27-28 "I continued to pursue my common vocations in life until the twenty-first of September, one thousand eight hundred and twenty-three, all the time suffering severe persecution at the hands of all classes of men, both religious and irreligious, because I continued to affirm that I had seen a vision.  During the space of time which intervened between the time I had the vision and the year eighteen hundred and twenty-three—having been forbidden to join any of the religious sects of the day, and being of very tender years, and persecuted by those who ought to have been my friends and to have treated me kindly, and if they supposed me to be deluded to have endeavored in a proper and affectionate manner to have reclaimed me—I was left to all kinds of temptations; and, mingling with all kinds of society, I frequently fell into many foolish errors, and displayed the weakness of youth, and the foibles of human nature; which, I am sorry to say, led me into divers temptations, offensive in the sight of God. In making this confession, no one need suppose me guilty of any great or malignant sins. A disposition to commit such was never in my nature. But I was guilty of levity, and sometimes associated with jovial company, etc., not consistent with that character which ought to be maintained by one who was called of God as I had been. But this will not seem very strange to any one who recollects my youth, and is acquainted with my native cheery temperament."

In the New Testament we read that we labor for God and even suffer reproach from others because we trust in Him, because He is the living God and is our Savior.  1 Timothy 4:10 "For therefore we both labour and suffer reproach, because we trust in the living God, who is the Saviour of all men, specially of those that believe."

Some scriptures with a thought booklet remind us that we ask God in faith, we will receive.  If we knock, it will be opened unto us.  Just like a father will give bread to his son instead of a stone, so our Heavenly Father wants to give good gifts to us because He loves us.  But if we want to receive, we need to ask.  Matthew 7:7-11 "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.  Or what man is there of you, whom if his son ask bread, will he give him a stone? Or if he ask a fish, will he give him a serpent?  If ye then, being evil, know how to give good gifts unto your children, how much more shall your Father which is in heaven give good things to them that ask him?"

Daily Thoughts

In the P of GP we read that Joseph Smith's mind was satisfied that he should join none of the churches, and he had found out for himself that the testimony of James was true--that we could ask God and receive answers.  Joseph Smith History 1: 26  "I had now got my mind satisfied so far as the sectarian world was concerned—that it was not my duty to join with any of them, but to continue as I was until further directed. I had found the testimony of James to be true—that a man who lacked wisdom might ask of God, and obtain, and not be upbraided."

In the New Testament we're told not to be weary in well doing.  Several years ago when I was feeling sorry for myself for having to provide service to a sick friend continually, day after day, this scripture popped into my mind and it helped to renew me and give me a better attitude and helped me continue to serve more cheerfully.  2 Thessalonians 3:13 "But ye, brethren, be not weary in well doing."

Some scriptures with a thought booklet exhort us to have patience.  The Lord will come and those who have patience to endure, like Job did, will receive His tender mercy. It's hard not to be impatient, but just like the farmer needs to wait patiently for his crops to yield their fruit, we need to wait patiently for the Lord.  James 5:7-11 "Be patient therefore, brethren, unto the coming of the Lord. Behold, the husbandman waiteth for the precious fruit of the earth, and hath long patience for it, until he receive the early and latter rain.  Be ye also patient; stablish your hearts: for the coming of the Lord draweth nigh. Grudge not one against another, brethren, lest ye be condemned: behold, the judge standeth before the door. Take, my brethren, the prophets, who have spoken in the name of the Lord, for an example of suffering affliction, and of patience.  Behold, we count them happy which endure. Ye have heard of the patience of Job, and have seen the end of the Lord; that the Lord is very pitiful, and of tender mercy."
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Daily Thoughts

In the P of GP we read that despite the persecution heaped upon him, Joseph Smith could not deny the vision which he had had, and nothing could make him deny it.  Joseph Smith History 1:24-25  "However, it was nevertheless a fact that I had beheld a vision. I have thought since, that I felt much like Paul, when he made his defense before King Agrippa, and related the account of the vision he had when he saw a light, and heard a voice; but still there were but few who believed him; some said he was dishonest, others said he was mad; and he was ridiculed and reviled. But all this did not destroy the reality of his vision. He had seen a vision, he knew he had, and all the persecution under heaven could not make it otherwise; and though they should persecute him unto death, yet he knew, and would know to his latest breath, that he had both seen a light and heard a voice speaking unto him, and all the world could not make him think or believe otherwise. So it was with me. I had actually seen a light, and in the midst of that light I saw two Personages, and they did in reality speak to me; and though I was hated and persecuted for saying that I had seen a vision, yet it was true; and while they were persecuting me, reviling me, and speaking all manner of evil against me falsely for so saying, I was led to say in my heart: Why persecute me for telling the truth? I have actually seen a vision; and who am I that I can withstand God, or why does the world think to make me deny what I have actually seen? For I had seen a vision; I knew it, and I knew that God knew it, and I could not deny it, neither dared I do it; at least I knew that by so doing I would offend God, and come under condemnation."

In the New Testament we're told to comfort each other and edify other people.  When someone is sad, to we do our best to comfort them?  Do we try to build other people up and lift their spirits?  1 Thessalonians 5:11 "Wherefore comfort yourselves together, and edify one another, even as also ye do."

Some scriptures with a thought booklet tell of the woman take in adultery who was brought before Jesus.  The men who brought her were prepared to stone her for her sins.  Jesus told them that whoever was without sin among them should cast the first stone.  They all examined their hearts and realized that they, too, were guilty of sin, and they all slunk away.  Jesus told the woman to go and sin no more.  Often we're quick to condemn other people and find fault with them for things they've done wrong.  But who among us is perfect?  We've all done things that are wrong and we're all guilty.  We're all in need to repentance and the atonement of Jesus Christ.  None of us has the right to judge someone else.  It's our job to live our own lives the best we can and to love other people, not find fault with them.  John 8:3-11 "And the scribes and Pharisees brought unto him a woman taken in adultery; and when they had set her in the midst,  They say unto him, Master, this woman was taken in adultery, in the very act.  Now Moses in the law commanded us, that such should be stoned: but what sayest thou? This they said, tempting him, that they might have to accuse him. But Jesus stooped down, and with his finger wrote on the ground, as though he heard them not. So when they continued asking him, he lifted up himself, and said unto them, He that is without sin among you, let him first cast a stone at her.  And again he stooped down, and wrote on the ground.  And they which heard it, being convicted by their own conscience, went out one by one, beginning at the eldest, even unto the last: and Jesus was left alone, and the woman standing in the midst. When Jesus had lifted up himself, and saw none but the woman, he said unto her, Woman, where are those thine accusers? hath no man condemned thee? She said, No man, Lord. And Jesus said unto her, Neither do I condemn thee: go, and sin no more."

Daily Thoughts

In the P of GP we read that Joseph Smith went home and told his mother that he had found out for himself that Presbyterianism was not true.  The adversary was aware even when Joseph Smith was still young, that he would prove to be a disturber and annoyer of his kingdom, so the powers of darkness combined against him and soon opposition and persecution arose against him. Ministers scoffed at his account.   Joseph Smith History 1:20-23  "He again forbade me to join with any of them; and many other things did he say unto me, which I cannot write at this time. When I came to myself again, I found myself lying on my back, looking up into heaven. When the light had departed, I had no strength; but soon recovering in some degree, I went home. And as I leaned up to the fireplace, mother inquired what the matter was. I replied, "Never mind, all is well—I am well enough off." I then said to my mother, "I have learned for myself that Presbyterianism is not true." It seems as though the adversary was aware, at a very early period of my life, that I was destined to prove a disturber and an annoyer of his kingdom; else why should the powers of darkness combine against me? Why the opposition and persecution that arose against me, almost in my infancy?  Some few days after I had this vision, I happened to be in company with one of the Methodist preachers, who was very active in the before mentioned religious excitement; and, conversing with him on the subject of religion, I took occasion to give him an account of the vision which I had had. I was greatly surprised at his behavior; he treated my communication not only lightly, but with great contempt, saying it was all of the devil, that there were no such things as visions or revelations in these days; that all such things had ceased with the apostles, and that there would never be any more of them.  I soon found, however, that my telling the story had excited a great deal of prejudice against me among professors of religion, and was the cause of great persecution, which continued to increase; and though I was an obscure boy, only between fourteen and fifteen years of age, and my circumstances in life such as to make a boy of no consequence in the world, yet men of high standing would take notice sufficient to excite the public mind against me, and create a bitter persecution; and this was common among all the sects—all united to persecute me. It caused me serious reflection then, and often has since, how very strange it was that an obscure boy, of a little over fourteen years of age, and one, too, who was doomed to the necessity of obtaining a scanty maintenance by his daily labor, should be thought a character of sufficient importance to attract the attention of the great ones of the most popular sects of the day, and in a manner to create in them a spirit of the most bitter persecution and reviling. But strange or not, so it was, and it was often the cause of great sorrow to myself."

In the New Testament we're told to love one another.  When we despise other people, we're actually hating God.  1 Thessalonians 4:8-9 "He therefore that despiseth, despiseth not man, but God, who hath also given unto us his holy Spirit.  But as touching brotherly love ye need not that I write unto you: for ye yourselves are taught of God to love one another."

In some scriptures with a thought booklet we read about the power and majesty of God who created all things.  Jeremiah 10:6, 12-13 "Forasmuch as there is none like unto thee, O Lord; thou art great, and thy name is great in might. He hath made the earth by his power, he hath established the world by his wisdom, and hath stretched out the heavens by his discretion.  When he uttereth his voice, there is a multitude of waters in the heavens, and he causeth the vapours to ascend from the ends of the earth; he maketh lightnings with rain, and bringeth forth the wind out of his treasures."

P.S. on Women's Conference Notes

On my notes from the last class I described a video.  Here in a link to that video.  Read my notes about what this women went through with her first husband before watching this happy ending.  http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RGbbHGtmIY8