Daily Thoughts

In the Book of Mormon we read the Lamanites were fighting with such fierceness and anger that the Nephites began to shrink and flee from them. But Moroni inspired them with thoughts of their lands, liberty,and freedom from bondage. The Nephies then turned upon the Lamanites and cried unto the Lord for help. This was a turning point in the battle and the Lamanites began to flee before them, to the waters of the river Sidon, even though there ere twice as many Lamanites as there were Nephites. The Nephites were able to surround the Lamanites on both sides of the river. This caused the Lamanites to far, and when Moroni saw this he commanded that his men should stop shedding their blood. Alma 43:48-54 "And it came to pass that when the men of Moroni saw the fierceness and the anger of the Lamanites, they were about to shrink and flee from them. And Moroni, perceiving their intent, sent forth and inspired their hearts with these thoughts—yea, the thoughts of their lands, their liberty, yea, their freedom from bondage. And it came to pass that they turned upon the Lamanites, and they cried with one voice unto the Lord their God, for their liberty and their freedom from bondage. And they began to stand against the Lamanites with power; and in that selfsame hour that they cried unto the Lord for their freedom, the Lamanites began to flee before them; and they fled even to the waters of Sidon. Now, the Lamanites were more numerous, yea, by more than double the number of the Nephites; nevertheless, they were driven insomuch that they were gathered together in one body in the valley, upon the bank by the river Sidon. Therefore the armies of Moroni encircled them about, yea, even on both sides of the river, for behold, on the east were the men of Lehi. Therefore when Zerahemnah saw the men of Lehi on the east of the river Sidon, and the armies of Moroni on the west of the river Sidon, that they were encircled about by the Nephites, they were struck with terror.  Now Moroni, when he saw their terror, commanded his men that they should stop shedding their blood."

In the New Testament we read about the stoning of Stephen, who testified right to the end of his life.  He told the people who were able to kill him that they were following the example of their wicked fathers who likewise persecuted and murdered the prophets who prophesied of the coming of Christ, who they likewise killed.
They received the Law but did not keep it. When the council members heard these words they were enraged and ground their teeth at Stephen.  They shrieked and covered their ears so they wouldn't have to listen to him. Then they charged at him and battered him with stones. As he was dying, Stephen saw God the Father with Jesus standing beside Him, and he prayed that the Lord would not hold this sin against those who were killing him.  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 steadfastly 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."

A verse with a thought booklet tells Judah not to be dismayed or afraid because of the greatness of the multitude who was ready to fight against them. The battle was not theirs, but the Lord's. If the Lord is on our side, it doesn't matter who is on the other side or how numerous they are.  The Lord will prevail and we have nothing to fear. Have you ever noticed how the full moon seems to be much larger when it's near the horizon than when it's higher in the sky overhead? The actual size of the moon doesn't change, but our perspective changes.  When the moon is on the horizon we compare it to nearer objects such as mountains, trees, or buildings.  It looks large in comparison.  But when it's over our heads, there is nothing next to it to compare it to and it looks smaller.  Likewise, when we worry about future problems that might arise they loom large to us. We think, "How am I going to handle this?"  Instead, we should be asking, "How will God help me handle whatever comes next?" When we compare our problems to our own puny ability to manage them on our own, they look huge. But viewed from the perspective of God's role in our life, our problems shrink down to a manageable size.  2 Chronicles 20:15 "And he said, Hearken ye, all Judah, and ye inhabitants of Jerusalem, and thou king Jehoshaphat, Thus saith the Lord unto you, Be not afraid nor dismayed by reason of this great multitude; for the battle is not yours, but God's."
 

Daily Thoughts

In the Book of Mormon we read that the Lamanites fought fiercely, having been inspired to anger by the Zoramites and Amalekites and wanting to obtain power. But the Nephites were inspired by a better cause, fighting to protect their homes, their liberty, their families, and their rights to worship their God. The Lord had told them they were justified in fighting to defend their families and as long as they were not guilty of attacking first or second, they did not need to stand by and allow themselves to be slain by the hand of their enemies.  Alma 43:43-47 "Now in this case the Lamanites did fight exceedingly; yea, never had the Lamanites been known to fight with such exceedingly great strength and courage, no, not even from the beginning. And they were inspired by the Zoramites and the Amalekites, who were their chief captains and leaders, and by Zerahemnah, who was their chief captain, or their chief leader and commander; yea, they did fight like dragons, and many of the Nephites were slain by their hands, yea, for they did smite in two many of their head-plates, and they did pierce many of their breastplates, and they did smite off many of their arms; and thus the Lamanites did smite in their fierce anger.  Nevertheless, the Nephites were inspired by a better cause, for they were not fighting for monarchy nor power but they were fighting for their homes and their liberties, their wives and their children, and their all, yea, for their rites of worship and their church.  And they were doing that which they felt was the duty which they owed to their God; for the Lord had said unto them, and also unto their fathers, that: Inasmuch as ye are not guilty of the first offense, neither the second, ye shall not suffer yourselves to be slain by the hands of your enemies.  And again, the Lord has said that: Ye shall defend your families even unto bloodshed. Therefore for this cause were the Nephites contending with the Lamanites, to defend themselves, and their families, and their lands, their country, and their rights, and their religion."

In the New Testament we read that the council members were furious and wanted to kill the apostles.  One council member who was well respected by the people stood up and asked the council members to consider carefully what they intended to do to those people. He reminded them of other people who had come teaching the people in the past and who had gained quite a following.  But eventually their followers scattered and they were forgotten. He recommended that they distance themselves from these men.  If their activity is of human origin, it will end in ruin.  But if originates with God, nothing they could do would be able to stop it. Instead, they would find themselves fighting God.  The council was convinced by his reasoning. The apostles were ordered again not to speak of Jesus and allowed to go. The apostles rejoiced, and continued to teach of Jesus, both in the temple and in the houses.  Acts 5:33-42 "When they heard that, they were cut to the heart, and took counsel to slay them.  Then stood there up one in the council, a Pharisee, named Gamaliel, a doctor of the law, had in reputation among all the people, and commanded to put the apostles forth a little space;  And said unto them, Ye men of Israel, take heed to yourselves what ye intend to do as touching these men.  For before these days rose up Theudas, boasting himself to be somebody; to whom a number of men, about four hundred, joined themselves: who was slain; and all, as many as obeyed him, were scattered, and brought to nought.  After this man rose up Judas of Galilee in the days of the taxing, and drew away much people after him: he also perished; and all, even as many as obeyed him, were dispersed.  And now I say unto you, Refrain from these men, and let them alone: for if this counsel or this work be of men, it will come to nought:  But if it be of God, ye cannot overthrow it; lest haply ye be found even to fight against God.  And to him they agreed: and when they had called the apostles, and beaten them, they commanded that they should not speak in the name of Jesus, and let them go. And they departed from the presence of the council, rejoicing that they were counted worthy to suffer shame for his name.  And daily in the temple, and in every house, they ceased not to teach and preach Jesus Christ."

In a verse  with a thought booklet we're told that if well have faith even as a grain of mustard seed, we can move mountains.  Indeed, with God, nothing is impossible.  Matthew 17:20 "And Jesus said unto them, Because of your unbelief: for verily I say unto you, If ye have faith as a grain of mustard seed, ye shall say unto this mountain, Remove hence to yonder place; and it shall remove; and nothing shall be impossible unto you."

Daily Thoughts

In the Book of Mormon we read that the Nephites concealed their army and they were able to take the Lamanites by surprise as they crossed a river, encircling them. A battle ensued. The Lamanites were getting the worst of it, for their lack of armor. The Lamanites became frightened, due to the great destruction among them, and they began to flee. However, the Nephites pursued them and continued to attack them.  Alma 43:34-42 "And it came to pass that the Lamanites came up on the north of the hill, where a part of the army of Moroni was concealed. And as the Lamanites had passed the hill Riplah, and came into the valley, and began to cross the river Sidon, the army which was concealed on the south of the hill, which was led by a man whose name was Lehi, and he led his army forth and encircled the Lamanites about on the east in their rear.  And it came to pass that the Lamanites, when they saw the Nephites coming upon them in their rear, turned them about and began to contend with the army of Lehi. And the work of death commenced on both sides, but it was more dreadful on the part of the Lamanites, for their nakedness was exposed to the heavy blows of the Nephites with their swords and their cimeters, which brought death almost at every stroke.  While on the other hand, there was now and then a man fell among the Nephites, by their swords and the loss of blood, they being shielded from the more vital parts of the body, or the more vital parts of the body being shielded from the strokes of the Lamanites, by their breastplates, and their armshields, and their head-plates; and thus the Nephites did carry on the work of death among the Lamanites.  And it came to pass that the Lamanites became frightened, because of the great destruction among them, even until they began to flee towards the river Sidon. And they were pursued by Lehi and his men; and they were driven by Lehi into the waters of Sidon, and they crossed the waters of Sidon. And Lehi retained his armies upon the bank of the river Sidon that they should not cross.  And it came to pass that Moroni and his army met the Lamanites in the valley, on the other side of the river Sidon, and began to fall upon them and to slay them.  And the Lamanites did flee again before them, towards the land of Manti; and they were met again by the armies of Moroni."

In the New Testament we read that the community of believers were one in heart and mind.  They didn't claim that any possession was theirs, but held everything in common. Those who owned properties or houses would sell them and donate the proceeds from the sales, placing it in the care of the apostles so it could be distributed to anyone who was in need. As a result there was no needy among them. Living this way requires great love toward others, and unselfishness. If we have an abundance of worldly goods and see that others have great need, how willing are we to share what we have?  Acts 4:32-37 "And the multitude of them that believed were of one heart and of one soul: neither said any of them that ought of the things which he possessed was his own; but they had all things common.  And with great power gave the apostles witness of the resurrection of the Lord Jesus: and great grace was upon them all.  Neither was there any among them that lacked: for as many as were possessors of lands or houses sold them, and brought the prices of the things that were sold,  And laid them down at the apostles' feet: and distribution was made unto every man according as he had need.  And Joses, who by the apostles was surnamed Barnabas, (which is, being interpreted, The son of consolation,) a Levite, and of the country of Cyprus,  Having land, sold it, and brought the money, and laid it at the apostles' feet."

Some scriptures with a thought booklet tell us that we are the offspring of God and all nations are of one blood. When we seek God and feel after Him, He is not far from us and we will find Him. In Him we live and move and have our being.  Acts 17:26-28 "And hath made of one blood all nations of men for to dwell on all the face of the earth, and hath determined the times before appointed, and the bounds of their habitation;  That they should seek the Lord, if haply they might feel after him, and find him, though he be not far from every one of us:  For in him we live, and move, and have our being; as certain also of your own poets have said, For we are also his offspring."

Daily Thoughts

n the Book of Mormon we read that the Lamanites were afraid to come against the Nephites in the borders of Jershon, but went into the wilderness hoping to take possession of the land of Manti. Moroni sent spies to watch them and also made inquiries about what the Lord wanted them to do. The word of the Lord came to Alma who informed the messengers of Moroni that the armies of the Lamanites were planning to attack Manti, which was a weaker part of the land. So Moroni took many warriors to the land of Manti so they were prepared for the Lamanites when they came. He knew that his only desire was to defend the liberty of the Nephites and he was justified in using statagem against the Lamanites.   Alma 43: 22-33 "Behold, now it came to pass that they durst not come against the Nephites in the borders of Jershon; therefore they departed out of the land of Antionum into the wilderness, and took their journey round about in the wilderness, away by the head of the river Sidon, that they might come into the land of Manti and take possession of the land; for they did not suppose that the armies of Moroni would know whither they had gone. But it came to pass, as soon as they had departed into the wilderness Moroni sent spies into the wilderness to watch their camp; and Moroni, also, knowing of the prophecies of Alma, sent certain men unto him, desiring him that he should inquire of the Lord whither the armies of the Nephites should go to defend themselves against the Lamanites.  And it came to pass that the word of the Lord came unto Alma, and Alma informed the messengers of Moroni, that the armies of the Lamanites were marching round about in the wilderness, that they might come over into the land of Manti, that they might commence an attack upon the weaker part of the people. And those messengers went and delivered the message unto Moroni. Now Moroni, leaving a part of his army in the land of Jershon, lest by any means a part of the Lamanites should come into that land and take possession of the city, took the remaining part of his army and marched over into the land of Manti.  And he caused that all the people in that quarter of the land should gather themselves together to battle against the Lamanites, to defend their lands and their country, their rights and their liberties; therefore they were prepared against the time of the coming of the Lamanites. And it came to pass that Moroni caused that his army should be secreted in the valley which was near the bank of the river Sidon, which was on the west of the river Sidon in the wilderness. And Moroni placed spies round about, that he might know when the camp of the Lamanites should come.  And now, as Moroni knew the intention of the Lamanites, that it was their intention to destroy their brethren, or to subject them and bring them into bondage that they might establish a kingdom unto themselves over all the land; And he also knowing that it was the only desire of the Nephites to preserve their lands, and their liberty, and their church, therefore he thought it no sin that he should defend them by stratagem; therefore, he found by his spies which course the Lamanites were to take. Therefore, he divided his army and brought a part over into the valley, and concealed them on the east, and on the south of the hill Riplah;  And the remainder he concealed in the west valley, on the west of the river Sidon, and so down into the borders of the land Manti.  And thus having placed his army according to his desire, he was prepared to meet them."

In the New Testament we read the wonderful story of the man lame from birth being healed.  He was begging for alms at the temple gate. Peter told him he had no money, but such as he had he would give him.  Then he commanded him to rise up and walk.  Imagine spending your entire life being carried around by others and suddenly your legs and ankles which have never carried weight are given strength and you can walk.  Not only was this man walking, he was leaping and rejoicing and praising God for this miracle!  And all who saw him were amazed.  Acts 3:1-10 "Now Peter and John went up together into the temple at the hour of prayer, being the ninth hour.  And a certain man lame from his mother's womb was carried, whom they laid daily at the gate of the temple which is called Beautiful, to ask alms of them that entered into the temple; Who seeing Peter and John about to go into the temple asked an alms.  And Peter, fastening his eyes upon him with John, said, Look on us. And he gave heed unto them, expecting to receive something of them.  Then Peter said, Silver and gold have I none; but such as I have give I thee: In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth rise up and walk. And he took him by the right hand, and lifted him up: and immediately his feet and ankle bones received strength. And he leaping up stood, and walked, and entered with them into the temple, walking, and leaping, and praising God.  And all the people saw him walking and praising God:  And they knew that it was he which sat for alms at the Beautiful gate of the temple: and they were filled with wonder and amazement at that which had happened unto him."

A verse with a thought booklet tells us to be of good courage, for if we hope in the Lord, He will strengthen us.  Psalms 31:24 "Be of good courage, and he shall strengthen your heart, all ye that hope in the Lord."

Daily Thoughts

In the Book of Mormon we read that the people of Anti-Nephi-Lehi had made a covenant not to take up arms, but they were under the protection of the Nephites. The armies of both sides gathered.  Moroni was the leader of the Nephites and prepared his warriors with shields and breastplates to protect themselves. The armies of Zerahemnah had no such protection, but only their weapons of war. Even though their numbers were greater than the Nephites, they feared the Nephites because of the armor that they wore.  Alma 43: 11-21 "Yea, and they also knew the extreme hatred of the Lamanites towards their brethren, who were the people of Anti-Nephi-Lehi, who were called the people of Ammon—and they would not take up arms, yea, they had entered into a covenant and they would not break it—therefore, if they should fall into the hands of the Lamanites they would be destroyed.  And the Nephites would not suffer that they should be destroyed; therefore they gave them lands for their inheritance. And the people of Ammon did give unto the Nephites a large portion of their substance to support their armies; and thus the Nephites were compelled, alone, to withstand against the Lamanites, who were a compound of Laman and Lemuel, and the sons of Ishmael, and all those who had dissented from the Nephites, who were Amalekites and Zoramites, and the descendants of the priests of Noah. Now those descendants were as numerous, nearly, as were the Nephites; and thus the Nephites were obliged to contend with their brethren, even unto bloodshed.  And it came to pass as the armies of the Lamanites had gathered together in the land of Antionum, behold, the armies of the Nephites were prepared to meet them in the land of Jershon.  Now, the leader of the Nephites, or the man who had been appointed to be the chief captain over the Nephites—now the chief captain took the command of all the armies of the Nephites—and his name was Moroni; And Moroni took all the command, and the government of their wars. And he was only twenty and five years old when he was appointed chief captain over the armies of the Nephites. And it came to pass that he met the Lamanites in the borders of Jershon, and his people were armed with swords, and with cimeters, and all manner of weapons of war.  And when the armies of the Lamanites saw that the people of Nephi, or that Moroni, had prepared his people with breastplates and with arm-shields, yea, and also shields to defend their heads, and also they were dressed with thick clothing—  Now the army of Zerahemnah was not prepared with any such thing; they had only their swords and their cimeters, their bows and their arrows, their stones and their slings; and they were naked, save it were a skin which was girded about their loins; yea, all were naked, save it were the Zoramites and the Amalekites; But they were not armed with breastplates, nor shields—therefore, they were exceedingly afraid of the armies of the Nephites because of their armor, notwithstanding their number being so much greater than the Nephites."

In the New Testament we read about the wonderful day of Pentecost when all were filled with the Holy Ghost, flames of fire seemed to be alighting on each of them, and they began to speak other languages as the Spirit enabled them to speak.  People from other countries were amazed that each could hear them speaking in their native languages.  This surprised and bewildered them and they questioned what it could mean.  What a wondrous day this must have been!  Acts 2:1-12 "And when the day of Pentecost was fully come, they were all with one accord in one place.  And suddenly there came a sound from heaven as of a rushing mighty wind, and it filled all the house where they were sitting.  And there appeared unto them cloven tongues like as of fire, and it sat upon each of them.  And they were all filled with the Holy Ghost, and began to speak with other tongues, as the Spirit gave them utterance.  And there were dwelling at Jerusalem Jews, devout men, out of every nation under heaven. Now when this was noised abroad, the multitude came together, and were confounded, because that every man heard them speak in his own language.  And they were all amazed and marvelled, saying one to another, Behold, are not all these which speak Galilæans? And how hear we every man in our own tongue, wherein we were born?  Parthians, and Medes, and Elamites, and the dwellers in Mesopotamia, and in Judæa, and Cappadocia, in Pontus, and Asia, Phrygia, and Pamphylia, in Egypt, and in the parts of Libya about Cyrene, and strangers of Rome, Jews and proselytes, Cretes and Arabians, we do hear them speak in our tongues the wonderful works of God. And they were all amazed, and were in doubt, saying one to another, What meaneth this?"

In some verses with a thought booklet we read that we can call upon the Lord in the day of our distress and when we are feeling fear and sorrow, and He will hear our voice.  Our cries will come before Him, into His ears. He is our fortress and refuge.  We can safely trust in Him.  Psalms 18:1-6 "I will love thee, O Lord, my strength.  The Lord is my rock, and my fortress, and my deliverer; my God, my strength, in whom I will trust; my buckler, and the horn of my salvation, and my high tower. I will call upon the Lord, who is worthy to be praised: so shall I be saved from mine enemies.  The sorrows of death compassed me, and the floods of ungodly men made me afraid. The sorrows of hell compassed me about: the snares of death prevented me.  In my distress I called upon the Lord, and cried unto my God: he heard my voice out of his temple, and my cry came before him, even into his ears."

Daily Thoughts

In the Book of Mormon we read that the Zoramites and other dissenters became Lamanites and they were making preparations for war against the Nephites.  Their leader was Zerahemnah who wanted to stir up the Lamanites to anger against the Nephites.  He wanted to usurp power over them and bring them into bondage. The desire of the Nephites was to preserve their rights and freedoms and liberty, and to be able to worship God according to their desires.  Alma 43: 3- 10 "And now I return to an account of the wars between the Nephites and the Lamanites, in the eighteenth year of the reign of the judges.  For behold, it came to pass that the Zoramites became Lamanites; therefore, in the commencement of the eighteenth year the people of the Nephites saw that the Lamanites were coming upon them; therefore they made preparations for war; yea, they gathered together their armies in the land of Jershon. And it came to pass that the Lamanites came with their thousands; and they came into the land of Antionum, which is the land of the Zoramites; and a man by the name of Zerahemnah was their leader.  And now, as the Amalekites were of a more wicked and murderous disposition than the Lamanites were, in and of themselves, therefore, Zerahemnah appointed chief captains over the Lamanites, and they were all Amalekites and Zoramites. Now this he did that he might preserve their hatred towards the Nephites, that he might bring them into subjection to the accomplishment of his designs.  For behold, his designs were to stir up the Lamanites to anger against the Nephites; this he did that he might usurp great power over them, and also that he might gain power over the Nephites by bringing them into bondage. And now the design of the Nephites was to support their lands, and their houses, and their wives, and their children, that they might preserve them from the hands of their enemies; and also that they might preserve their rights and their privileges, yea, and also their liberty, that they might worship God according to their desires. For they knew that if they should fall into the hands of the Lamanites, that whosoever should worship God in spirit and in truth, the true and the living God, the Lamanites would destroy."

In the New Testament we read that Jesus asked Peter three times if he loved Him, and Peter answered all three times that he did.  Jesus then instructed him to feed His sheep. Remember that Peter had denied Jesus three times, before His crucifixion.  Perhaps allowing Peter to affirm three times his love for the Savior was a way of allowing him to repent of his denials.  There's also something we can all learn from this--that if we truly love the Lord, we will feed His sheep.  John 21:15-17 "So when they had dined, Jesus saith to Simon Peter, Simon, son of Jonas, lovest thou me more than these? He saith unto him, Yea, Lord; thou knowest that I love thee. He saith unto him, Feed my lambs.  He saith to him again the second time, Simon, son of Jonas, lovest thou me? He saith unto him, Yea, Lord; thou knowest that I love thee. He saith unto him, Feed my sheep.  He saith unto him the third time, Simon, son of Jonas, lovest thou me? Peter was grieved because he said unto him the third time, Lovest thou me? And he said unto him, Lord, thou knowest all things; thou knowest that I love thee. Jesus saith unto him, Feed my sheep."

Some verses with a thought booklet warn us nothing we do will be covered up and all our secrets will be revealed.  We can't commit secret sins without everyone eventually knowing, even if it doesn't happen until the next life, unless we repent. The story is told of a power failure knocking out a woman' answering machine.  She had to record a new greeting and try to reset the time but struggled to figure out how to do it.  It kept giving the wrong time.  She angrily yelled at the machine "I can't figure this stupid thing out" and added a few cuss words to express her frustration.  A few weeks later she was away from home and tried to call her daughter there, who wasn't home either.  She was shocked when she heard her answering machine greeting, "I can't figure this stupid thing out" with some expletives added!  She was embarrassed to think how many friends might have heard this--friends who might have thought she was a nice calm person until this message exposed her in an angry outburst.  So likewise, if we don't repent, our secret acts that we think no one will ever know about will be revealed to the world.  Luke 12:1-3 "In the mean time, when there were gathered together an innumerable multitude of people, insomuch that they trode one upon another, he began to say unto his disciples first of all, Beware ye of the leaven of the Pharisees, which is hypocrisy.  For there is nothing covered, that shall not be revealed; neither hid, that shall not be known. Therefore whatsoever ye have spoken in darkness shall be heard in the light; and that which ye have spoken in the ear in closets shall be proclaimed upon the housetops."

Daily Thoughts

In the Book of Mormon we read that Alma and his sons went forth to preach to the people and declare the word of God unto them. They preached the truth according to the Spirit of prophesy and revelation. Alma 43: 1-2 "And now it came to pass that the sons of Alma did go forth among the people, to declare the word unto them. And Alma, also, himself, could not rest, and he also went forth. Now we shall say no more concerning their preaching, except that they preached the word, and the truth, according to the spirit of prophecy and revelation; and they preached after the holy order of God by which they were called."

In the New Testament we read that the scriptures are written so that we will believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God. And believing, we will have life in His name.  John 20:31 "But these are written, that ye might believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God; and that believing ye might have life through his name."

A verse with a thought booklet tells us hat God is not the author of confusion, but of peace.  1 Corinthians 14:33 "For God is not the author of confusion, but of peace, as in all churches of the saints."

Daily Thoughts

In the Book of Mormon we read that mercy cannot rob justice. God brings about His eternal purposes which were prepared from the foundation of the world. Those who are willing to come will partake of salvation and redemption, but those who refuse will suffer destruction and misery. No one is compelled to come, but their decision will bring consequences. Those who desired to do evil and refused to repent will suffer evil consequences. We need to never deny the justice of God as an excuse to avoid repentance. Instead,we need to allow the mercy of God to have full sway in our hearts to bring us unto humble repentance. Alma 43: 25-31 "What, do ye suppose that mercy can rob justice? I say unto you, Nay; not one whit. If so, God would cease to be God.  And thus God bringeth about his great and eternal purposes, which were prepared from the foundation of the world. And thus cometh about the salvation and the redemption of men, and also their destruction and misery. Therefore, O my son, whosoever will come may come and partake of the waters of life freely; and whosoever will not come the same is not compelled to come; but in the last day it shall be restored unto him according to his deeds.  If he has desired to do evil, and has not repented in his days, behold, evil shall be done unto him, according to the restoration of God.  And now, my son, I desire that ye should let these things trouble you no more, and only let your sins trouble you, with that trouble which shall bring you down unto repentance. O my son, I desire that ye should deny the justice of God no more. Do not endeavor to excuse yourself in the least point because of your sins, by denying the justice of God; but do you let the justice of God, and his mercy, and his long-suffering have full sway in your heart; and let it bring you down to the dust in humility. And now, O my son, ye are called of God to preach the word unto this people. And now, my son, go thy way, declare the word with truth and soberness, that thou mayest bring souls unto repentance, that the great plan of mercy may have claim upon them. And may God grant unto you even according to my words. Amen."

In the New Testament we read that Jesus' Kingdom was not of this world. He was born and came into this world for one reason--to testify to the truth.  And whoever accepts the truth, listens to His voice.  John 18:36-37 "Jesus answered, My kingdom is not of this world: if my kingdom were of this world, then would my servants fight, that I should not be delivered to the Jews: but now is my kingdom not from hence. Pilate therefore said unto him, Art thou a king then? Jesus answered, Thou sayest that I am a king. To this end was I born, and for this cause came I into the world, that I should bear witness unto the truth. Every one that is of the truth heareth my voice."

A verse with a thought booklet asks the question of whose approval we seek--that of other people or that of God?  If our main goal is to please other people rather than God, we are not the servants of Christ. It really doesn't matter what others think of us, as long as our lives are pleasing to the Lord. His is the only approval that is really important.  Galatians 1:10 "For do I now persuade men, or God? or do I seek to please men? for if I yet pleased men, I should not be the servant of Christ."

Daily Thoughts

In the Book of Mormon we read that if there was no law there could be no sin nor repentance nor punishment for sin. If there was no law given against sin, men wouldn't be afraid to sin. Neither justice nor mercy would have claim on him. If the works of justice were destroyed, God would cease to be God.  But of course God does not cease to be God and mercy claims those who repent, through the atonement of Christ. The dead are resurrected and brought back into the presence of God where they are judged for their works. Both justice and mercy are served and none but the truly penitent are saved.  Alma 43: 16-24 "Now, repentance could not come unto men except there were a punishment, which also was eternal as the life of the soul should be, affixed opposite to the plan of happiness, which was as eternal also as the life of the soul.  Now, how could a man repent except he should sin? How could he sin if there was no law? How could there be a law save there was a punishment? Now, there was a punishment affixed, and a just law given, which brought remorse of conscience unto man. Now, if there was no law given—if a man murdered he should die—would he be afraid he would die if he should murder?  And also, if there was no law given against sin men would not be afraid to sin.  And if there was no law given, if men sinned what could justice do, or mercy either, for they would have no claim upon the creature?  But there is a law given, and a punishment affixed, and a repentance granted; which repentance, mercy claimeth; otherwise, justice claimeth the creature and executeth the law, and the law inflicteth the punishment; if not so, the works of justice would be destroyed, and God would cease to be God.  But God ceaseth not to be God, and mercy claimeth the penitent, and mercy cometh because of the atonement; and the atonement bringeth to pass the resurrection of the dead; and the resurrection of the dead bringeth back men into the presence of God; and thus they are restored into his presence, to be judged according to their works, according to the law and justice.  For behold, justice exerciseth all his demands, and also mercy claimeth all which is her own; and thus, none but the truly penitent are saved."

In the New Testament we read that we are to love one another, just as Jesus loves us, and the Father loves Him.  Just as Jesus kept the Father's commandments, so must we keep His commandments.  If we do this, we will find joy.  John 15:9-12 "As the Father hath loved me, so have I loved you: continue ye in my love.  If ye keep my commandments, ye shall abide in my love; even as I have kept my Father's commandments, and abide in his love.  These things have I spoken unto you, that my joy might remain in you, and that your joy might be full.  This is my commandment, That ye love one another, as I have loved you."

A verse with a thought booklet admonishes us to bear one another's burdens. When we see another person struggling, are we willing to give them our time and a listening ear?  Do we try to help them? Sometimes just a word of encouragement can make all the difference to someone who is going through a difficult time.  Galatians 6:2 "Bear ye one another's burdens, and so fulfil the law of Christ."

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Daily Thoughts

In the Book of Mormon we read that if it wasn't for the plan of redemption, those who die would be cut off from the presence of the Lord. There would be no way to reclaim them from their fallen state caused by their own disobedience. This life is a probationary or preparatory state, and both mercy and justice need to be served. All mankind were fallen and were in the grasp of justice, but the atonement allowed for a plan of mercy. Jesus atoned for our sins to appease the demands of justice.  Alma 42: 11-15 "And now remember, my son, if it were not for the plan of redemption, (laying it aside) as soon as they were dead their souls were miserable, being cut off from the presence of the Lord.  And now, there was no means to reclaim men from this fallen state, which man had brought upon himself because of his own disobedience;  Therefore, according to justice, the plan of redemption could not be brought about, only on conditions of repentance of men in this probationary state, yea, this preparatory state; for except it were for these conditions, mercy could not take effect except it should destroy the work of justice. Now the work of justice could not be destroyed; if so, God would cease to be God. And thus we see that all mankind were fallen, and they were in the grasp of justice; yea, the justice of God, which consigned them forever to be cut off from his presence.  And now, the plan of mercy could not be brought about except an atonement should be made; therefore God himself atoneth for the sins of the world, to bring about the plan of mercy, to appease the demands of justice, that God might be a perfect, just God, and a merciful God also."

In the New Testament we read that the way to tell if we are Jesus' disciples is if we show love for one another.  This reminds me of an online Christian discussion group in which various people were arguing bitterly with one another about points of doctrine.  Some were pointing to others and claiming that they were not Christians. I quoted this scripture to the group and stated that the way to tell if a person was a Christian or not is if they follow the example of our Savior and show love for others. John 13:34-35 "A new commandment I give unto you, That ye love one another; as I have loved you, that ye also love one another.  By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to another."

A verse with a thought booklet reminds us to keep the Golden Rule, to do unto others as we would have others do unto us.  What a wonderful world this would be if everyone did this!  Luke 6:31 "And as ye would that men should do to you, do ye also to them likewise."

Daily Thoughts

n the Book of Mormon we read that it is not unjust that a sinner is consigned to a state of misery. This life is a probationary time, a time to repent and serve God. Our first parents, Adam and Eve, were cut off both temporally and spiritually from the presence of the Lord. But it was expedient that mankind should be reclaimed from this spiritual death. Men became carnal, sensual and devilish and this probationary state was a time for them to prepare.  Alma 42:1-10 "And now, my son, I perceive there is somewhat more which doth worry your mind, which ye cannot understand—which is concerning the justice of God in the punishment of the sinner; for ye do try to suppose that it is injustice that the sinner should be consigned to a state of misery.  Now behold, my son, I will explain this thing unto thee. For behold, after the Lord God sent our first parents forth from the garden of Eden, to till the ground, from whence they were taken—yea, he drew out the man, and he placed at the east end of the garden of Eden, cherubim, and a flaming sword which turned every way, to keep the tree of life— Now, we see that the man had become as God, knowing good and evil; and lest he should put forth his hand, and take also of the tree of life, and eat and live forever, the Lord God placed cherubim and the flaming sword, that he should not partake of the fruit—  And thus we see, that there was a time granted unto man to repent, yea, a probationary time, a time to repent and serve God. For behold, if Adam had put forth his hand immediately, and partaken of the tree of life, he would have lived forever, according to the word of God, having no space for repentance; yea, and also the word of God would have been void, and the great plan of salvation would have been frustrated.  But behold, it was appointed unto man to die—therefore, as they were cut off from the tree of life they should be cut off from the face of the earth—and man became lost forever, yea, they became fallen man.  And now, ye see by this that our first parents were cut off both temporally and spiritually from the presence of the Lord; and thus we see they became subjects to follow after their own will.  Now behold, it was not expedient that man should be reclaimed from this temporal death, for that would destroy the great plan of happiness.  Therefore, as the soul could never die, and the fall had brought upon all mankind a spiritual death as well as a temporal, that is, they were cut off from the presence of the Lord, it was expedient that mankind should be reclaimed from this spiritual death.  Therefore, as they had become carnal, sensual, and devilish, by nature, this probationary state became a state for them to prepare; it became a preparatory state."

In the New Testament we read that whoever serves the Lord must follow Him and go wherever He goes.  The Father will honor whoever serves Jesus.  John 12:26 "If any man serve me, let him follow me; and where I am, there shall also my servant be: if any man serve me, him will my Father honour."

Some scriptures with a thought booklet tell us that we should not walk in the vanity of our minds, having our understanding darkened and being alienated from God because of the blindness of our hearts.  When we give ourselves over to lasciviousness, greediness, and uncleanness, we become past feeling.  Ephesians 4:17-19 "This I say therefore, and testify in the Lord, that ye henceforth walk not as other Gentiles walk, in the vanity of their mind,  Having the understanding darkened, being alienated from the life of God through the ignorance that is in them, because of the blindness of their heart: Who being past feeling have given themselves over unto lasciviousness, to work all uncleanness with greediness."

Daily Thoughts

In the Book of Mormon we read that those who repent will be rewarded unto righteousness.  They are redeemed by the Lord through the Atonement of Jesus Christ. Everyone will be judged for their works, whether good or bad. We will not be restored from sin to happiness unless we repent because wickedness never was happiness. Restoration condemns the sinner and does not justify him at all.  Alma 41:7-15 "These are they that are redeemed of the Lord; yea, these are they that are taken out, that are delivered from that endless night of darkness; and thus they stand or fall; for behold, they are their own judges, whether to do good or do evil.  Now, the decrees of God are unalterable; therefore, the way is prepared that whosoever will may walk therein and be saved.  And now behold, my son, do not risk one more offense against your God upon those points of doctrine, which ye have hitherto risked to commit sin.  Do not suppose, because it has been spoken concerning restoration, that ye shall be restored from sin to happiness. Behold, I say unto you, wickedness never was happiness.  And now, my son, all men that are in a state of nature, or I would say, in a carnal state, are in the gall of bitterness and in the bonds of iniquity; they are without God in the world, and they have gone contrary to the nature of God; therefore, they are in a state contrary to the nature of happiness.  And now behold, is the meaning of the word restoration to take a thing of a natural state and place it in an unnatural state, or to place it in a state opposite to its nature? O, my son, this is not the case; but the meaning of the word restoration is to bring back again evil for evil, or carnal for carnal, or devilish for devilish—good for that which is good; righteous for that which is righteous; just for that which is just; merciful for that which is merciful.  Therefore, my son, see that you are merciful unto your brethren; deal justly, judge righteously, and do good continually; and if ye do all these things then shall ye receive your reward; yea, ye shall have mercy restored unto you again; ye shall have justice restored unto you again; ye shall have a righteous judgment restored unto you again; and ye shall have good rewarded unto you again.  For that which ye do send out shall return unto you again, and be restored; therefore, the word restoration more fully condemneth the sinner, and justifieth him not at all."

In the New Testament we read about how the chief priests and Pharisees wanted to kill Jesus because of the many miracles that He was performing.  They were afraid that if they let Him go on like that, everyone would believe in Him.  They also plotted to kill Lazarus who Jesus had raised from the dead because he was a walking miracle and seeing him caused many people to desert them and believe in Jesus.  How very sad that instead of rejoicing in these miracles and becoming believers themselves, these people wanted to murder in order to try to prevent other people from believing. John 11:47-48; 12:10-11 "Then gathered the chief priests and the Pharisees a council, and said, What do we? for this man doeth many miracles.  If we let him thus alone, all men will believe on him: and the Romans shall come and take away both our place and nation. But the chief priests consulted that they might put Lazarus also to death;  Because that by reason of him many of the Jews went away, and believed on Jesus."

In some scriptures with a thought booklet we read that even if troubles surround us on every side and perplex us, we do not need to be distressed or in despair. We can be persecuted without being forsaken, and cast down without being destroyed. Our afflictions are but for a moment and work for us a far more eternal weight of glory.  Instead of looking at things that are visible to the eye, which are temporal, we need to look for the things which are not seen, but which are eternal.    2 Corinthians 4:8-9, 17-18 "We are troubled on every side, yet not distressed; we are perplexed, but not in despair; Persecuted, but not forsaken; cast down, but not destroyed; For our light affliction, which is but for a moment, worketh for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory; While we look not at the things which are seen, but at the things which are not seen: for the things which are seen are temporal; but the things which are not seen are eternal."

Daily Thoughts

In the Book of Mormon we read about how in the resurrection, every part of the body will be restored to itself. Men will be judged according to their works.  If their works and the desires of the hearts were good in this life, they will be restored to that which is good.  If their works and the desires of their hearts were evil, they will have evil restored to them.  People will get what they deserve, whether happiness in the Kingdom of God or endless misery in the kingdom of the devil.   Alma 41:1-6 "And now, my son, I have somewhat to say concerning the restoration of which has been spoken; for behold, some have wrested the scriptures, and have gone far astray because of this thing. And I perceive that thy mind has been worried also concerning this thing. But behold, I will explain it unto thee. I say unto thee, my son, that the plan of restoration is requisite with the justice of God; for it is requisite that all things should be restored to their proper order. Behold, it is requisite and just, according to the power and resurrection of Christ, that the soul of man should be restored to its body, and that every part of the body should be restored to itself.  And it is requisite with the justice of God that men should be judged according to their works; and if their works were good in this life, and the desires of their hearts were good, that they should also, at the last day, be restored unto that which is good.  And if their works are evil they shall be restored unto them for evil. Therefore, all things shall be restored to their proper order, every thing to its natural frame—mortality raised to immortality, corruption to incorruption—raised to endless happiness to inherit the kingdom of God, or to endless misery to inherit the kingdom of the devil, the one on one hand, the other on the other—  The one raised to happiness according to his desires of happiness, or good according to his desires of good; and the other to evil according to his desires of evil; for as he has desired to do evil all the day long even so shall he have his reward of evil when the night cometh.  And so it is on the other hand. If he hath repented of his sins, and desired righteousness until the end of his days, even so he shall be rewarded unto righteousness."

In the New Testament we read about the difference between a shepherd and a hired sheep herder.  A hired sheep herder doesn't care about the sheep.  If a wolf comes, he'll run away.  But a true shepherd knows and loves his sheep, and they know him and recognize his voice.  Jesus is the Good Shepherd, and we are His sheep.  He loves us so much that He was willing to give His lie for us. John 10:11-18 "I am the good shepherd: the good shepherd giveth his life for the sheep.  But he that is an hireling, and not the shepherd, whose own the sheep are not, seeth the wolf coming, and leaveth the sheep, and fleeth: and the wolf catcheth them, and scattereth the sheep. The hireling fleeth, because he is an hireling, and careth not for the sheep.  I am the good shepherd, and know my sheep, and am known of mine.  As the Father knoweth me, even so know I the Father: and I lay down my life for the sheep.  And other sheep I have, which are not of this fold: them also I must bring, and they shall hear my voice; and there shall be one fold, and one shepherd.  Therefore doth my Father love me, because I lay down my life, that I might take it again.  No man taketh it from me, but I lay it down of myself. I have power to lay it down, and I have power to take it again. This commandment have I received of my Father."

A verse with a thought booklet tells us that if we put our trust in the Lord, He will preserve us.  We can take refuge in Him.  Psalms 16:1 "Preserve me, O God: for in thee do I put my trust."

Daily Thoughts

In the Book of Mormon we read Alma's further explanation of the resurrection. It doesn't just mean the righteous being consigned to a state of happiness and the wicked being consigned to a state of misery, but rather it means the actual reuniting of the spirit and the body. It doesn't really matter when this will happen, but it will happen to everyone. Everything will be restored to their proper and perfect frame and not even one hair will be lost. The righteous will shine forth in the Kingdom of God and the wicked will be cast out and drink the dregs of a bitter cup.  Alma 40:15-26 "Now, there are some that have understood that this state of happiness and this state of misery of the soul, before the resurrection, was a first resurrection. Yea, I admit it may be termed a resurrection, the raising of the spirit or the soul and their consignation to happiness or misery, according to the words which have been spoken. And behold, again it hath been spoken, that there is a first resurrection, a resurrection of all those who have been, or who are, or who shall be, down to the resurrection of Christ from the dead.  Now, we do not suppose that this first resurrection, which is spoken of in this manner, can be the resurrection of the souls and their consignation to happiness or misery. Ye cannot suppose that this is what it meaneth.  Behold, I say unto you, Nay; but it meaneth the reuniting of the soul with the body, of those from the days of Adam down to the resurrection of Christ.  Now, whether the souls and the bodies of those of whom has been spoken shall all be reunited at once, the wicked as well as the righteous, I do not say; let it suffice, that I say that they all come forth; or in other words, their resurrection cometh to pass before the resurrection of those who die after the resurrection of Christ.  Now, my son, I do not say that their resurrection cometh at the resurrection of Christ; but behold, I give it as my opinion, that the souls and the bodies are reunited, of the righteous, at the resurrection of Christ, and his ascension into heaven.  But whether it be at his resurrection or after, I do not say; but this much I say, that there is a space between death and the resurrection of the body, and a state of the soul in happiness or in misery until the time which is appointed of God that the dead shall come forth, and be reunited, both soul and body, and be brought to stand before God, and be judged according to their works.  Yea, this bringeth about the restoration of those things of which has been spoken by the mouths of the prophets. The soul shall be restored to the body, and the body to the soul; yea, and every limb and joint shall be restored to its body; yea, even a hair of the head shall not be lost; but all things shall be restored to their proper and perfect frame. And now, my son, this is the restoration of which has been spoken by the mouths of the prophets—  And then shall the righteous shine forth in the kingdom of God.  But behold, an awful death cometh upon the wicked; for they die as to things pertaining to things of righteousness; for they are unclean, and no unclean thing can inherit the kingdom of God; but they are cast out, and consigned to partake of the fruits of their labors or their works, which have been evil; and they drink the dregs of a bitter cup."

In the New Testament we read about the opposition that Jesus faced.  People accused Him of having a demon. He would speak the truth to them, but they would not believe Him. He pointed out to them He was trying to bring glory to His Father, and that whoever would keep His word, wold never die.  They argued that Abraham and the prophets had died.  Jesus told them that Abraham had seen their day and rejoiced over it.  They picked up stones to throw at Jesus, but He left the temple.  John 8:48-59 "Then answered the Jews, and said unto him, Say we not well that thou art a Samaritan, and hast a devil?  Jesus answered, I have not a devil; but I honour my Father, and ye do dishonour me. And I seek not mine own glory: there is one that seeketh and judgeth. Verily, verily, I say unto you, If a man keep my saying, he shall never see death.  Then said the Jews unto him, Now we know that thou hast a devil. Abraham is dead, and the prophets; and thou sayest, If a man keep my saying, he shall never taste of death. Art thou greater than our father Abraham, which is dead? and the prophets are dead: whom makest thou thyself?  Jesus answered, If I honour myself, my honour is nothing: it is my Father that honoureth me; of whom ye say, that he is your God:  Yet ye have not known him; but I know him: and if I should say, I know him not, I shall be a liar like unto you: but I know him, and keep his saying.  Your father Abraham rejoiced to see my day: and he saw it, and was glad.  Then said the Jews unto him, Thou art not yet fifty years old, and hast thou seen Abraham?  Jesus said unto them, Verily, verily, I say unto you, Before Abraham was, I am. Then took they up stones to cast at him: but Jesus hid himself, and went out of the temple, going through the midst of them, and so passed by." 

Some verses with a thought booklet tell us that the Lord can search us and know everything about us, including everything we do, everything we say,  and everything we think. He knows our hearts and understands us perfectly. He can see if there is any wicked way in us, and can lead us in the way we should go to receive everlasting life. Do we remember in our prayers, to ask God to show us any ways that our lives are not pleasing to Him, and ask for His help to overcome our faults? Psalms 139:1-4,23-24  "O Lord, thou hast searched me, and known me. Thou knowest my downsitting and mine uprising, thou understandest my thought afar off. Thou compassest my path and my lying down, and art acquainted with all my ways.  For there is not a word in my tongue, but, lo, O Lord, thou knowest it altogether. Search me, O God, and know my heart: try me, and know my thoughts:  And see if there be any wicked way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting."

Daily Thoughts

In the Book of Mormon we read that Christ would bring to pass the resurrection of all men--the righteous would go to paradise and the wicked to outer darkness to await the day of their resurrection.  Alma 40:1-14 "Now my son, here is somewhat more I would say unto thee; for I perceive that thy mind is worried concerning the resurrection of the dead.  Behold, I say unto you, that there is no resurrection—or, I would say, in other words, that this mortal does not put on immortality, this corruption does not put on incorruption—until after the coming of Christ. Behold, he bringeth to pass the resurrection of the dead. But behold, my son, the resurrection is not yet. Now, I unfold unto you a mystery; nevertheless, there are many mysteries which are kept, that no one knoweth them save God himself. But I show unto you one thing which I have inquired diligently of God that I might know—that is concerning the resurrection.  Behold, there is a time appointed that all shall come forth from the dead. Now when this time cometh no one knows; but God knoweth the time which is appointed.  Now, whether there shall be one time, or a second time, or a third time, that men shall come forth from the dead, it mattereth not; for God knoweth all these things; and it sufficeth me to know that this is the case—that there is a time appointed that all shall rise from the dead. Now there must needs be a space betwixt the time of death and the time of the resurrection.  And now I would inquire what becometh of the souls of men from this time of death to the time appointed for the resurrection?  Now whether there is more than one time appointed for men to rise it mattereth not; for all do not die at once, and this mattereth not; all is as one day with God, and time only is measured unto men.  Therefore, there is a time appointed unto men that they shall rise from the dead; and there is a space between the time of death and the resurrection. And now, concerning this space of time, what becometh of the souls of men is the thing which I have inquired diligently of the Lord to know; and this is the thing of which I do know.  And when the time cometh when all shall rise, then shall they know that God knoweth all the times which are appointed unto man.  Now, concerning the state of the soul between death and the resurrection—Behold, it has been made known unto me by an angel, that the spirits of all men, as soon as they are departed from this mortal body, yea, the spirits of all men, whether they be good or evil, are taken home to that God who gave them life.  And then shall it come to pass, that the spirits of those who are righteous are received into a state of happiness, which is called paradise, a state of rest, a state of peace, where they shall rest from all their troubles and from all care, and sorrow.  And then shall it come to pass, that the spirits of the wicked, yea, who are evil—for behold, they have no part nor portion of the Spirit of the Lord; for behold, they chose evil works rather than good; therefore the spirit of the devil did enter into them, and take possession of their house—and these shall be cast out into outer darkness; there shall be weeping, and wailing, and gnashing of teeth, and this because of their own iniquity, being led captive by the will of the devil.  Now this is the state of the souls of the wicked, yea, in darkness, and a state of awful, fearful looking for the fiery indignation of the wrath of God upon them; thus they remain in this state, as well as the righteous in paradise, until the time of their resurrection."

In the New Testament we're told that whoever sins is a slave to sin.  Do we want to remain free and in control of our own lives?  If so, we need to avoid sin.  John 8:34 "Jesus answered them, Verily, verily, I say unto you, Whosoever committeth sin is the servant of sin."

A verse with a thought booklet tells us that if we love Jesus and our Heavenly Father, we will keep the commandments. And if we do this, the Lord will love us and manifest Himself unto us.  John 14:21 "He that hath my commandments, and keepeth them, he it is that loveth me: and he that loveth me shall be loved of my Father, and I will love him, and will manifest myself to him."

Daily Thoughts

In the Book of Mormon we read that we should not seek for riches and the vain things of the world, which cannot be carried with us into the next life. Jesus Christ came to take away the sins of the world, both the people who were born before His ministry on earth and those who would be born afterwards. Every soul is precious in the sight of God and these glad tidings are for all people of all time periods.  Alma 39:14-19 "Seek not after riches nor the vain things of this world; for behold, you cannot carry them with you. And now, my son, I would say somewhat unto you concerning the coming of Christ. Behold, I say unto you, that it is he that surely shall come to take away the sins of the world; yea, he cometh to declare glad tidings of salvation unto his people.  And now, my son, this was the ministry unto which ye were called, to declare these glad tidings unto this people, to prepare their minds; or rather that salvation might come unto them, that they may prepare the minds of their children to hear the word at the time of his coming.  And now I will ease your mind somewhat on this subject. Behold, you marvel why these things should be known so long beforehand. Behold, I say unto you, is not a soul at this time as precious unto God as a soul will be at the time of his coming?  Is it not as necessary that the plan of redemption should be made known unto this people as well as unto their children? Is it not as easy at this time for the Lord to send his angel to declare these glad tidings unto us as unto our children, or as after the time of his coming?"

In the New Testament we read that Jesus told the people that if they truly believed Moses, they would also believe Him because Moses wrote about Him and prophesied about Him.  If they don't believe the writings of Moses, how could they believe in the words of Christ?  John 5:45-47 "Do not think that I will accuse you to the Father: there is one that accuseth you, even Moses, in whom ye trust.  For had ye believed Moses, ye would have believed me: for he wrote of me.  But if ye believe not his writings, how shall ye believe my words?"

Some verses with a thought booklet command us not to judge others.  God will judge us by the same measure that we use to judge other people.  Sometimes we criticize some small fault in someone else when we ourselves are guilty of a much greater fault.  The story is told of a man who took great delight in sitting at a mall and engaging in people watching. He noted that some people were thin and others obese.  Some were better looking or better dressed than others.  He loved to find things in his people watching that made him feel superior. However, one day his heart convicted him in his judgmental watching of others.  So instead he began sitting in te mall and saying silent prayers in behalf of the people that he saw.  He began to see them all as beloved children of God, each unique in their own way. How d we see others?  It is God's job to judge others.  It is our job to love them.  Matthew 7:1-5 "Judge not, that ye be not judged. For with what judgment ye judge, ye shall be judged: and with what measure ye mete, it shall be measured to you again.  And why beholdest thou the mote that is in thy brother's eye, but considerest not the beam that is in thine own eye? Or how wilt thou say to thy brother, Let me pull out the mote out of thine eye; and, behold, a beam is in thine own eye?  Thou hypocrite, first cast out the beam out of thine own eye; and then shalt thou see clearly to cast out the mote out of thy brother's eye."

Daily Thoughts

In the Book of Mormon we read that Alma admonished Corianton to repent of his sins and forsake them. He should take counsel from his brothers and not allow his heart to be lead away by Satan. Because he had allowed his heart to be lead away, the Zormanites saw his wickedness and some of them refused to believe in the word of God because of it. Alma told Corianton that he needed to turn from his wickedness and refrain from his iniquities. He needed to turn to the Lord with all his heart. Alma 39:9-13 "Now my son, I would that ye should repent and forsake your sins, and go no more after the lusts of your eyes, but cross yourself in all these things; for except ye do this ye can in nowise inherit the kingdom of God. Oh, remember, and take it upon you, and cross yourself in these things.  And I command you to take it upon you to counsel with your elder brothers in your undertakings; for behold, thou art in thy youth, and ye stand in need to be nourished by your brothers. And give heed to their counsel. Suffer not yourself to be led away by any vain or foolish thing; suffer not the devil to lead away your heart again after those wicked harlots. Behold, O my son, how great iniquity ye brought upon the Zoramites; for when they saw your conduct they would not believe in my words.  And now the Spirit of the Lord doth say unto me: Command thy children to do good, lest they lead away the hearts of many people to destruction; therefore I command you, my son, in the fear of God, that ye refrain from your iniquities;  That ye turn to the Lord with all your mind, might, and strength; that ye lead away the hearts of no more to do wickedly; but rather return unto them, and acknowledge your faults and that wrong which ye have done."

In the New Testament we read that the day will come when all those who have died will hear the voice of the Lord.  Those who have done good will receive the resurrection of life, but those who have done wickedly will receive the resurrection of judgment.  John 5:28-29 "Marvel not at this: for the hour is coming, in the which all that are in the graves shall hear his voice,  And shall come forth; they that have done good, unto the resurrection of life; and they that have done evil, unto the resurrection of damnation."

Some verses with a thought booklet tell us that if we truly love God, we will also love others.  If we say we love God but hate our brother, we are liars.  How can a person not love his brother that he has seen, but love God that he has not seen?  1 John 4:20-21 "If a man say, I love God, and hateth his brother, he is a liar: for he that loveth not his brother whom he hath seen, how can he love God whom he hath not seen?  And this commandment have we from him, That he who loveth God love his brother also."

Daily Thoughts

In the Book of Mormon we read what Alma had to say to his son Corianton. He was disappointed in Corianton for not following the righteous example of his brother. He had boasted of his own strength, forsaken his ministry, and gone to a harlot, Isabel. He had committed grave sins which would not be easy to be forgiven of. Alma told Corianton that he would not be able to hide his sins from God and unless he repented, they would stand against him at the last day.  Alma 39:1-8 "And now, my son, I have somewhat more to say unto thee than what I said unto thy brother; for behold, have ye not observed the steadiness of thy brother, his faithfulness, and his diligence in keeping the commandments of God? Behold, has he not set a good example for thee?  For thou didst not give so much heed unto my words as did thy brother, among the people of the Zoramites. Now this is what I have against thee; thou didst go on unto boasting in thy strength and thy wisdom.  And this is not all, my son. Thou didst do that which was grievous unto me; for thou didst forsake the ministry, and did go over into the land of Siron among the borders of the Lamanites, after the harlot Isabel.  Yea, she did steal away the hearts of many; but this was no excuse for thee, my son. Thou shouldst have tended to the ministry wherewith thou wast entrusted. Know ye not, my son, that these things are an abomination in the sight of the Lord; yea, most abominable above all sins save it be the shedding of innocent blood or denying the Holy Ghost?  For behold, if ye deny the Holy Ghost when it once has had place in you, and ye know that ye deny it, behold, this is a sin which is unpardonable; yea, and whosoever murdereth against the light and knowledge of God, it is not easy for him to obtain forgiveness; yea, I say unto you, my son, that it is not easy for him to obtain a forgiveness.  And now, my son, I would to God that ye had not been guilty of so great a crime. I would not dwell upon your crimes, to harrow up your soul, if it were not for your good. But behold, ye cannot hide your crimes from God; and except ye repent they will stand as a testimony against you at the last day."

In the New Testament we read that those who believe in the Son will have eternal life, but those who do not won't have life, but will receive the wrath of God instead. Faith in our Savior is vital to our eternal life.  John 3:36 "He that believeth on the Son hath everlasting life: and he that believeth not the Son shall not see life; but the wrath of God abideth on him."

Some scriptures with a thought booklet tell about how after Joseph's brothers sold him as a slave into Egypt, many years later Joseph was able to save their lives by providing them wit food during a famine that lasted 7 years.  The brothers were very ashamed for what they had done to Joseph, but he told them not to be upset with themselves because God had used something that seemed bad to do something good--providing food during the famine.  Sometimes we encounter bad circumstances in our lives, but God can make good come from it if we'll trust in Him.  Genesis 45:1-11 "Then Joseph could not refrain himself before all them that stood by him; and he cried, Cause every man to go out from me. And there stood no man with him, while Joseph made himself known unto his brethren.  And he wept aloud: and the Egyptians and the house of Pharaoh heard.  And Joseph said unto his brethren, I am Joseph; doth my father yet live? And his brethren could not answer him; for they were troubled at his presence.  And Joseph said unto his brethren, Come near to me, I pray you. And they came near. And he said, I am Joseph your brother, whom ye sold into Egypt.  Now therefore be not grieved, nor angry with yourselves, that ye sold me hither: for God did send me before you to preserve life.  For these two years hath the famine been in the land: and yet there are five years, in the which there shall neither be earing nor harvest.  And God sent me before you to preserve you a posterity in the earth, and to save your lives by a great deliverance.  So now it was not you that sent me hither, but God: and he hath made me a father to Pharaoh, and lord of all his house, and a ruler throughout all the land of Egypt. Haste ye, and go up to my father, and say unto him, Thus saith thy son Joseph, God hath made me lord of all Egypt: come down unto me, tarry not:  And thou shalt dwell in the land of Goshen, and thou shalt be near unto me, thou, and thy children, and thy children's children, and thy flocks, and thy herds, and all that thou hast:  And there will I nourish thee; for yet there are five years of famine; lest thou, and thy household, and all that thou hast, come to poverty."

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Daily Thoughts

In the Book of Mormon we read that Alma admonished Shiblon to continue to teach the word of God and refrain from pridefulness. He told him to bridle all his passions, refrain from idleness, and be filled with love. He should pray in humility and ask for forgiveness. This is great advice for all of us. Alma 38:10-15 "And now, as ye have begun to teach the word even so I would that ye should continue to teach; and I would that ye would be diligent and temperate in all things. See that ye are not lifted up unto pride; yea, see that ye do not boast in your own wisdom, nor of your much strength. Use boldness, but not overbearance; and also see that ye bridle all your passions, that ye may be filled with love; see that ye refrain from idleness.  Do not pray as the Zoramites do, for ye have seen that they pray to be heard of men, and to be praised for their wisdom.  Do not say: O God, I thank thee that we are better than our brethren; but rather say: O Lord, forgive my unworthiness, and remember my brethren in mercy—yea, acknowledge your unworthiness before God at all times.  And may the Lord bless your soul, and receive you at the last day into his kingdom, to sit down in peace. Now go, my son, and teach the word unto this people. Be sober. My son, farewell."

In the New Testament we read Jesus prophesying about His own resurrection--that they would destroy the temple of His body but in three days He would raise it up again. John 2:19-22 "Jesus answered and said unto them, Destroy this temple, and in three days I will raise it up. Then said the Jews, Forty and six years was this temple in building, and wilt thou rear it up in three days?  But he spake of the temple of his body.  When therefore he was risen from the dead, his disciples remembered that he had said this unto them; and they believed the scripture, and the word which Jesus had said."

Some scriptures with a thought booklet are again ones we could do well to memorize. When we keep our mind on the Lord and trust in Him, we will experience perfect peace.  Isaiah 26:3-4 "Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on thee: because he trusteth in thee.  Trust ye in the Lord for ever: for in the Lord JEHOVAH is everlasting strength:"

Daily Thoughts

In the Book of Mormon we read that Alma was able to teach Shiblon, not because he knew those things of himself, but because the Spirit had taught him. Alma then recounted how he had been born again and been visited by an angel.  He had suffered great anguish of soul which had been replaced by great joy and peace after he received a remission of his sins, through the atonement of Jesus Christ. It is only through Christ that we can be saved. Alma 38:6-9 "Now, my son, I would not that ye should think that I know these things of myself, but it is the Spirit of God which is in me which maketh these things known unto me; for if I had not been born of God I should not have known these things.  But behold, the Lord in his great mercy sent his angel to declare unto me that I must stop the work of destruction among his people; yea, and I have seen an angel face to face, and he spake with me, and his voice was as thunder, and it shook the whole earth.  And it came to pass that I was three days and three nights in the most bitter pain and anguish of soul; and never, until I did cry out unto the Lord Jesus Christ for mercy, did I receive a remission of my sins. But behold, I did cry unto him and I did find peace to my soul.  And now, my son, I have told you this that ye may learn wisdom, that ye may learn of me that there is no other way or means whereby man can be saved, only in and through Christ. Behold, he is the life and the light of the world. Behold, he is the word of truth and righteousness."

In the New Testament we read about how John the baptized testified that Jesus was the Lamb of God who had been sent to take away the sins of the world.  John 1:29 "The next day John seeth Jesus coming unto him, and saith, Behold the Lamb of God, which taketh away the sin of the world."

A verse with a thought booklet is one we all should memorize, so we can repeat it to ourselves in times when we're called upon t do difficult or even seemingly impossible things.  Philippians 4:13 "I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me."

Daily Thoughts

In the Book of Mormon we read Shiblon had shown great patience in dealing with the Zoramites and had suffered much persecution under their hands. When we place our trust in God, we'll be delivered from our tribulations and be lifted up at the last day.  Alma 38:3-5 "I say unto you, my son, that I have had great joy in thee already, because of thy faithfulness and thy diligence, and thy patience and thy long-suffering among the people of the Zoramites.  For I know that thou wast in bonds; yea, and I also know that thou wast stoned for the word's sake; and thou didst bear all these things with patience because the Lord was with thee; and now thou knowest that the Lord did deliver thee.  And now my son, Shiblon, I would that ye should remember, that as much as ye shall put your trust in God even so much ye shall be delivered out of your trials, and your troubles, and your afflictions, and ye shall be lifted up at the last day."

In the New Testament we read about how after Jesus was resurrected, the women who visited His tomb were told by two angels that He had risen, and asked them why they were searching for the living among the dead.  They also reminded the women that Jesus had prophesied of his crucifixion and resurrection.  Luke 24:1-8 " Now upon the first day of the week, very early in the morning, they came unto the sepulchre, bringing the spices which they had prepared, and certain others with them.  And they found the stone rolled away from the sepulchre.  And they entered in, and found not the body of the Lord Jesus.  And it came to pass, as they were much perplexed thereabout, behold, two men stood by them in shining garments:  And as they were afraid, and bowed down their faces to the earth, they said unto them, Why seek ye the living among the dead?  He is not here, but is risen: remember how he spake unto you when he was yet in Galilee,  Saying, The Son of man must be delivered into the hands of sinful men, and be crucified, and the third day rise again.  And they remembered his words,"

Some verses with a thought booklet should encourage us to be able to stand up against other people in defending our faith.  If we confess the Lord before other people, He will confess us before the angels of God.  But if we deny Him, He'll deny us. Luke 12:8-9 "Also I say unto you, Whosoever shall confess me before men, him shall the Son of man also confess before the angels of God:  But he that denieth me before men shall be denied before the angels of God."

Daily Thoughts

In the Book of Mormon we read Alma's commandments to his son Shiblon.  He told them that if he kept the commandments of God, he would prosper, but if not he would be cuff off from God's presence. Alma commended Shiblon for being steadfast in his faithfulness. He had looked to God in his youth and Alma had hope that he would continue on that course and endure to the end.  Alma 38:1-2 "My son, give ear to my words, for I say unto you, even as I said unto Helaman, that inasmuch as ye shall keep the commandments of God ye shall prosper in the land; and inasmuch as ye will not keep the commandments of God ye shall be cut off from his presence. And now, my son, I trust that I shall have great joy in you, because of your steadiness and your faithfulness unto God; for as you have commenced in your youth to look to the Lord your God, even so I hope that you will continue in keeping his commandments; for blessed is he that endureth to the end."

In the New Testament we read an example of caving in to peer pressure.  Pilot knew Jesus was not guilty of death, but the people kept insisting that He be crucified.  Pilot suggested that Jesus just be whipped and set free, but the people were adamant that Jesus be killed, even preferring that a rioter and murderer be set free before Jesus be allowed to go free  Instead of standing up for what he knew to be right, Pilot gave in to the demands of the crowd and turned Jesus over to be crucified.  When we know something is right, do we have the courage to stand our ground, even if we're alone?  Or, like Pilot, do we allow the demands of others to sway us?  Luke 23: 13-25 "And Pilate, when he had called together the chief priests and the rulers and the people,  Said unto them, Ye have brought this man unto me, as one that perverteth the people: and, behold, I, having examined him before you, have found no fault in this man touching those things whereof ye accuse him:  No, nor yet Herod: for I sent you to him; and, lo, nothing worthy of death is done unto him.  I will therefore chastise him, and release him.  (For of necessity he must release one unto them at the feast.)  And they cried out all at once, saying, Away with this man, and release unto us Barabbas:  (Who for a certain sedition made in the city, and for murder, was cast into prison.) Pilate therefore, willing to release Jesus, spake again to them.  But they cried, saying, Crucify him, crucify him.  And he said unto them the third time, Why, what evil hath he done? I have found no cause of death in him: I will therefore chastise him, and let him go.  And they were instant with loud voices, requiring that he might be crucified. And the voices of them and of the chief priests prevailed. And Pilate gave sentence that it should be as they required. And he released unto them him that for sedition and murder was cast into prison, whom they had desired; but he delivered Jesus to their will."

A verse with a thought booklet reminds us that instead of allowing ourselves to be overcome by evil, we need to overcome evil with good.  Romans 12:21 "Be not overcome of evil, but overcome evil with good."

Daily Thoughts

In the Book of Mormon we read that the Liahona was given to direct the people which way they should go. It worked through faith. When faith ceases, so do miracles. When people do not heed the word of the Lord, they do not prosper. We need to look to God and live. Alma 37:38-47 "And now, my son, I have somewhat to say concerning the thing which our fathers call a ball, or director—or our fathers called it Liahona, which is, being interpreted, a compass; and the Lord prepared it.  And behold, there cannot any man work after the manner of so curious a workmanship. And behold, it was prepared to show unto our fathers the course which they should travel in the wilderness.  And it did work for them according to their faith in God; therefore, if they had faith to believe that God could cause that those spindles should point the way they should go, behold, it was done; therefore they had this miracle, and also many other miracles wrought by the power of God, day by day.  Nevertheless, because those miracles were worked by small means it did show unto them marvelous works. They were slothful, and forgot to exercise their faith and diligence and then those marvelous works ceased, and they did not progress in their journey;  Therefore, they tarried in the wilderness, or did not travel a direct course, and were afflicted with hunger and thirst, because of their transgressions.  And now, my son, I would that ye should understand that these things are not without a shadow; for as our fathers were slothful to give heed to this compass (now these things were temporal) they did not prosper; even so it is with things which are spiritual.  For behold, it is as easy to give heed to the word of Christ, which will point to you a straight course to eternal bliss, as it was for our fathers to give heed to this compass, which would point unto them a straight course to the promised land.  And now I say, is there not a type in this thing? For just as surely as this director did bring our fathers, by following its course, to the promised land, shall the words of Christ, if we follow their course, carry us beyond this vale of sorrow into a far better land of promise.  O my son, do not let us be slothful because of the easiness of the way; for so was it with our fathers; for so was it prepared for them, that if they would look they might live; even so it is with us. The way is prepared, and if we will look we may live forever. And now, my son, see that ye take care of these sacred things, yea, see that ye look to God and live. Go unto this people and declare the word, and be sober. My son, farewell."

In the New Testament we read that when Jesus' disciples were arguing about which one of them was the greatest, Jesus told them that he who is the greatest will be a servant.  Indeed, Jesus served others and we should follow His example.  Luke 22:24-27 "And there was also a strife among them, which of them should be accounted the greatest. And he said unto them, The kings of the Gentiles exercise lordship over them; and they that exercise authority upon them are called benefactors.  But ye shall not be so: but he that is greatest among you, let him be as the younger; and he that is chief, as he that doth serve.  For whether is greater, he that sitteth at meat, or he that serveth? is not he that sitteth at meat? but I am among you as he that serveth."

A verse with a thought booklet tells us that if or hearts don't condemn us, we'll have confidence before God and receive from Him whatever we ask.  Do we know in our hearts, this day, that we are right before God?  Are we keeping His commandments and doing things that are pleasing in His sight? 1 John 3:21-22 "Beloved, if our heart condemn us not, then have we confidence toward God.  And whatsoever we ask, we receive of him, because we keep his commandments, and do those things that are pleasing in his sight."

Daily Thoughts

In the Book of Mormon we read that Helaman was told not to trust in the works of darkness but to preach repentance unto the people, as well as faith in the Lord. He should teach the people to be meek, never weary of good works, and to keep the commandments of God. They should direct all their thoughts unto God and pray unto Him continually. We should counsel with the Lord in all our doings and we'll be lifted up at the last day.  Alma 37:32-37 "And now, my son, remember the words which I have spoken unto you; trust not those secret plans unto this people, but teach them an everlasting hatred against sin and iniquity.  Preach unto them repentance, and faith on the Lord Jesus Christ; teach them to humble themselves and to be meek and lowly in heart; teach them to withstand every temptation of the devil, with their faith on the Lord Jesus Christ. Teach them to never be weary of good works, but to be meek and lowly in heart; for such shall find rest to their souls.  O, remember, my son, and learn wisdom in thy youth; yea, learn in thy youth to keep the commandments of God.  Yea, and cry unto God for all thy support; yea, let all thy doings be unto the Lord, and whithersoever thou goest let it be in the Lord; yea, let all thy thoughts be directed unto the Lord; yea, let the affections of thy heart be placed upon the Lord forever. 

 Counsel with the Lord in all thy doings, and he will direct thee for good; yea, when thou liest down at night lie down unto the Lord, that he may watch over you in your sleep; and when thou risest in the morning let thy heart be full of thanks unto God; and if ye do these things, ye shall be lifted up at the last day."

In the New Testament we read that spies were sent to watch Jesus, pretending to be sincere but really wanting to ensnare Him.  They asked Him questions to try to trap Him, such as whether they should pay taxes to Ceasar, but Jesus was able to confound them, leaving them astonished and speechless.  Luke 20:20-26 "And they watched him, and sent forth spies, which should feign themselves just men, that they might take hold of his words, that so they might deliver him unto the power and authority of the governor.  And they asked him, saying, Master, we know that thou sayest and teachest rightly, neither acceptest thou the person of any, but teachest the way of God truly:  Is it lawful for us to give tribute unto Cæsar, or no?  But he perceived their craftiness, and said unto them, Why tempt ye me?  Shew me a penny. Whose image and superscription hath it? They answered and said, Cæsar's.  And he said unto them, Render therefore unto Cæsar the things which be Cæsar's, and unto God the things which be God's.  And they could not take hold of his words before the people: and they marvelled at his answer, and held their peace."

A verse with a thought booklet tells us that instead of conforming ourselves to the standards of the world, we need to be transformed, to the renewing of our minds, so that we can prove to be good and acceptable to God and obey His will.  Romans 12:2 "And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God."