Alma Chapter 7:
2: "And even I could not have come now at this time were it not that the judgement-seat hath been given to another, to reign in my stead; and that Lord in much mercy hath granted that I should come unto you"
Doesn't seem earth shattering does it? it probably isn't but it stood out to me. You see I am someone who gets caught up in getting things done. In taking care of business. Sometimes I get so caught up in the administration of things that I don't have time for the ministering. I get so stuck on the things that need to be done that I forget about the people who need to be helped. So I relate to what Alma is saying. He couldn't teach the people himself because he was doing his job. Which was a good thing, but not necessarily the best. (see reference here) He weights what the Lord wants him to do, delegate his responsibilities, and goes out to teach the people. He gives up a high government job to preach of Jesus Christ. Sometime the leaders of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints choose to do. Also young men and women and senior couples do the same things- they leave everything to preach the gospel to those who are willing to listen. Amazing. Alms chooses the Best option and thanks God for allowing him the opportunity.
12: "And he will take upon him death, that he may loose the bands of death which bind his people; and he will take upon him their infirmities, that his bowels may be filled with mercy, according to the flesh, that he may know according to the flesh how to succor his people according to their infirmities."
I have always loved this scripture. It talks of Christ suffering and the reason for it. He who was perfect suffered that he can comfort each of us. He is the only one who truly understands how to heal because He has felt all pain. There is nothing he does not understand.
24: And see that ye have faith, hope, and charity, and then ye will always abound in good works.
"Hope is critical to both faith and charity. When disobedience, disappointment, and procrastination erode faith, hope is there to uphold our faith. When frustration and impatience challenge charity, hope braces our resolve and urges us to care for our fellowmen even without expectation of reward. The brighter our hope, the greater our faith. The stronger our hope, the purer our charity." Dieter F. Uchtdorf (The Infinite Power of Hope)
"The things we hope for lead us to faith, while the things we hope in lead us to charity. The three qualities—faith, hope, and charity—working together, grounded on the truth and light of the restored gospel of Jesus Christ, lead us to abound in good works"
This chapter teaches of Jesus Christ, His mercy and His love. This chapter gives me hope to face the future to know that "Present circumstances will give way to future blessings"
Wednesday, November 30, 2011
Sunday, November 27, 2011
We See Through a Glass Darkly
1 Corinthians 13:12
"For now we see through a glass darkly; but then face to face; now I know in part; but then shall I know even as also I am known"
Glass=mirror
Have you ever looked at yourself in the mirror in the dark? You can only see an outline really. You know you are there, you have an idea of what you should be seeing but its not completely clear. Then you turn on the light, or in this case, lift the veil and then you can see all things clearly, as they truly are.
I love this scripture. We know in part- we have only a fraction of the knowledge of who we are and who we can become. We do not see ourselves and others as God sees each of us. Once we pass through the veil we will know all things, we will see others and ourselves at our highest potential...we will know others and ourselves as God knows each one of us. We will see all we are- and then will we look back and say, "yes I did everything I could to reach my divine potential" or will we look back in sorrow asking ourselves why we sold ourselves short. Or why we didn't treat those around us with the respect and admiration they deserved.
Each of us has incredible potential- I know I forget this sometimes. But this scripture helps me to remember that I can't see everything as clearly as my Father in Heaven sees it-It helps me to remember that each person, including myself, is a child of God-heir to his kingdom and capable of great things!!
He goes on in vs 14 to say,
"And now abideth faith, hope, charity, these three; but the greatest of these is charity"
Remember the worth of souls is great in the sight of God. The souls of those around us, and the one inside each of us. We will see ourselves on day as God sees us- And I hope, for each one of us, that it is a happy day with no regret!
"For now we see through a glass darkly; but then face to face; now I know in part; but then shall I know even as also I am known"
Glass=mirror
Have you ever looked at yourself in the mirror in the dark? You can only see an outline really. You know you are there, you have an idea of what you should be seeing but its not completely clear. Then you turn on the light, or in this case, lift the veil and then you can see all things clearly, as they truly are.
I love this scripture. We know in part- we have only a fraction of the knowledge of who we are and who we can become. We do not see ourselves and others as God sees each of us. Once we pass through the veil we will know all things, we will see others and ourselves at our highest potential...we will know others and ourselves as God knows each one of us. We will see all we are- and then will we look back and say, "yes I did everything I could to reach my divine potential" or will we look back in sorrow asking ourselves why we sold ourselves short. Or why we didn't treat those around us with the respect and admiration they deserved.
Each of us has incredible potential- I know I forget this sometimes. But this scripture helps me to remember that I can't see everything as clearly as my Father in Heaven sees it-It helps me to remember that each person, including myself, is a child of God-heir to his kingdom and capable of great things!!
He goes on in vs 14 to say,
"And now abideth faith, hope, charity, these three; but the greatest of these is charity"
Remember the worth of souls is great in the sight of God. The souls of those around us, and the one inside each of us. We will see ourselves on day as God sees us- And I hope, for each one of us, that it is a happy day with no regret!
Wednesday, November 23, 2011
Your Whole Soul
Mosiah 26:
13-14
13: And now the spirit of Alma was again troubled; and he went and inquired of the Lord what he should do concerning this matter, for he feared that he should do wrong in the sight of God.
14: And it came to pass that after he had poured out his whole soul to God, the voice of the Lord came to him...
I frequently am troubled by a million things every day. Am I going to school? where will I work? who will I date? Etc...small problems to big problems we all are troubled sometimes. But I love that Alma doesn't just sit and stew about his problem, he's thought it out and takes the problem to the Lord.
Lesson: The Lord is the answer to all our troubles, big or small
I love that it says that Alma Poured out his whole soul. That is not a memorized prayer. That is not a 2 second prayer. That is a heartfelt conversation. I think my prayers need to be more of an outpouring of my soul rather than a prayer. I am not even sure I know what it feels like to pour out my WHOLE soul. I do know that its work, its effort- we can't just have everything by simply saying please. We must show that we are sincere in our desires. I also love that his answer comes AFTER he has shown this pouring of faith. He hears the voice of the Lord.
Lesson: sincere prayer brings answers
The next few verses in the chapter are Alma's answer. But his answer doesn't come immediately. The Lord tells him other things before he gets to the answer Alma was seeking. The important thing to take away is that Alma keeps listening. I think sometimes we get caught up in what we want to hear that we neglect all the other things we need to hear. The Lord starts to speak and we tune him out because its not the exact answer to the questions we've asked. But if we wait, the Lord will answer us in the best way possible.
13-14
13: And now the spirit of Alma was again troubled; and he went and inquired of the Lord what he should do concerning this matter, for he feared that he should do wrong in the sight of God.
14: And it came to pass that after he had poured out his whole soul to God, the voice of the Lord came to him...
I frequently am troubled by a million things every day. Am I going to school? where will I work? who will I date? Etc...small problems to big problems we all are troubled sometimes. But I love that Alma doesn't just sit and stew about his problem, he's thought it out and takes the problem to the Lord.
Lesson: The Lord is the answer to all our troubles, big or small
I love that it says that Alma Poured out his whole soul. That is not a memorized prayer. That is not a 2 second prayer. That is a heartfelt conversation. I think my prayers need to be more of an outpouring of my soul rather than a prayer. I am not even sure I know what it feels like to pour out my WHOLE soul. I do know that its work, its effort- we can't just have everything by simply saying please. We must show that we are sincere in our desires. I also love that his answer comes AFTER he has shown this pouring of faith. He hears the voice of the Lord.
Lesson: sincere prayer brings answers
The next few verses in the chapter are Alma's answer. But his answer doesn't come immediately. The Lord tells him other things before he gets to the answer Alma was seeking. The important thing to take away is that Alma keeps listening. I think sometimes we get caught up in what we want to hear that we neglect all the other things we need to hear. The Lord starts to speak and we tune him out because its not the exact answer to the questions we've asked. But if we wait, the Lord will answer us in the best way possible.
Sunday, November 20, 2011
Submit Cheerfully and With Patience
Mosiah 24
13: And it came to pass that the voice of the Lord came to them in their afflictions, saying: Lift up your heads and be of good comfort, for I know of the covenant which ye have made unto me; and I will covenant with my people and deliver them out of bondage.
14: And I will also ease the burdens which are put upon your shoulders, that even you cannot feel them upon your backs, even while you are in bondage; and this will I do that ye may stand as witnesses for me hereafter, and that ye may know of a surety that I, the Lord God, do visit my people in their afflictions.
It has always been interesting here that God hears the cries of his children but does not REMOVE the burden they are carrying. but instead strengthens his children so the load is not so heavy to bear. He strengthens them and their 'burden' is made light.
John Taylor said: “I do not desire trials. I do not desire affliction….I used to think, if I were
the Lord, I would not suffer people to be tried as they are. But I have changed my mind on that subject. Now I think I would, if I were the Lord, because it purges out the meanness and corruption that stick around the Saints, like flies around molasses….I have seen men tempted so sorely that finally they would say, ‘I’ll be damned if I’ll stand it any longer.’ Well, you will be damned if you do not…We have learned many things through suffering. We call it suffering. I call it a school of experience.” (The Gospel Kingdom, pp. 332-4 as taken from Latter-day Commentary on the Book of Mormon compiled by K. Douglas Bassett, p. 228)
Joseph Smith said: “[From Liberty Jail, in a time of anguish and deep suffering for the gospel’s sake, the Prophet Joseph Smith wrote the following message to the Saints] Dear
brethren, do not think that our hearts faint, as though some strange thing had happened unto us, for we have seen and been assured of all these things beforehand, and have an assurance of a better hope than that of our persecutors. Therefore God hath made broad our shoulders for the burden. We glory in our tribulation, because we know that God is with us, that He is our friend, and that he will save our souls.” (Teachings of the Prophet Joseph Smith, p. 123 as taken from Latter-day Commentary on the Book of Mormon compiled by K. Douglas Bassett, p. 229)
Thomas S. Monson said: “Remember that this work is not yours and mine alone. It is the Lord’s work, and when we are on the Lord’s errand, we are entitled to the Lord’s help. Remember that the Lord will shape the back to bear the burden placed upon it.” (Ensign, May 1992, p. 48 as taken from Latter-day Commentary on the Book of Mormon compiled by K. Douglas Bassett, p. 229)
George Q. Cannon said: “My theory is that when a man is conscious or a people are conscious that he or they are in the path of duty, doing that which is right in the sight of God, they should always be happy, no matter what the circumstances may be which surround them. I think that God has created us to be happy, and my belief is that he placed happiness within the reach of all, and it is man’s own fault if he is not happy and does not enjoy himself every day of his life. This is one of my reasons for liking my religion…because it bestows full happiness and joy upon its believers. They can be happy in the midst of the most adverse circumstances; they can rejoice when their lives are imperiled.” (Gospel Truths, p. 125 as taken from Latter-day Commentary on the Book of Mormon compiled by K. Douglas Bassett, p. 228)
15: And now it came to pass that the burdens which were laid upon Alma and his brethren were made light; yea, the Lord did strengthen them that they could bear up their burdens with ease, and they did submit cheerfully and with patience to all the will of the Lord.
They submitted CHEERFULLY and with PATIENCE. They didn't complain but instead found joy in their lives even though times were hard. They waited on the timing of the Lord.
Neal A. Maxwell: Concerning his personal suffering, Joseph was promised, “Thy heart shall be enlarged.” An enlarged Joseph wrote from Liberty Jail, “It seems to me that my heart will always be more tender after this than ever it was before… I think I never could have felt as I now do if I had not suffered. Ensign, May 1992,387.
If we are serious about our discipleship, Jesus will eventually request each of us to do those very
things which are most difficult for us to do… Sometimes the best people have the worst experiences, because they are the most ready to learn. Church New, 10 Aug 2002. The submission of one’s will is really the only uniquely personal thing we have to place on God’s altar. The many other things we “give,” brothers and sisters, are actually the things He has already given or loaned to us. However, when you and I finally submit ourselves by letting our individual wills be swallowed up in God’s will, then we are really giving something to Him! It is the only possession which is truly ours to give! CR, Oct. 1995, 30)
13: And it came to pass that the voice of the Lord came to them in their afflictions, saying: Lift up your heads and be of good comfort, for I know of the covenant which ye have made unto me; and I will covenant with my people and deliver them out of bondage.
14: And I will also ease the burdens which are put upon your shoulders, that even you cannot feel them upon your backs, even while you are in bondage; and this will I do that ye may stand as witnesses for me hereafter, and that ye may know of a surety that I, the Lord God, do visit my people in their afflictions.
It has always been interesting here that God hears the cries of his children but does not REMOVE the burden they are carrying. but instead strengthens his children so the load is not so heavy to bear. He strengthens them and their 'burden' is made light.
John Taylor said: “I do not desire trials. I do not desire affliction….I used to think, if I were
the Lord, I would not suffer people to be tried as they are. But I have changed my mind on that subject. Now I think I would, if I were the Lord, because it purges out the meanness and corruption that stick around the Saints, like flies around molasses….I have seen men tempted so sorely that finally they would say, ‘I’ll be damned if I’ll stand it any longer.’ Well, you will be damned if you do not…We have learned many things through suffering. We call it suffering. I call it a school of experience.” (The Gospel Kingdom, pp. 332-4 as taken from Latter-day Commentary on the Book of Mormon compiled by K. Douglas Bassett, p. 228)
Joseph Smith said: “[From Liberty Jail, in a time of anguish and deep suffering for the gospel’s sake, the Prophet Joseph Smith wrote the following message to the Saints] Dear
brethren, do not think that our hearts faint, as though some strange thing had happened unto us, for we have seen and been assured of all these things beforehand, and have an assurance of a better hope than that of our persecutors. Therefore God hath made broad our shoulders for the burden. We glory in our tribulation, because we know that God is with us, that He is our friend, and that he will save our souls.” (Teachings of the Prophet Joseph Smith, p. 123 as taken from Latter-day Commentary on the Book of Mormon compiled by K. Douglas Bassett, p. 229)
Thomas S. Monson said: “Remember that this work is not yours and mine alone. It is the Lord’s work, and when we are on the Lord’s errand, we are entitled to the Lord’s help. Remember that the Lord will shape the back to bear the burden placed upon it.” (Ensign, May 1992, p. 48 as taken from Latter-day Commentary on the Book of Mormon compiled by K. Douglas Bassett, p. 229)
George Q. Cannon said: “My theory is that when a man is conscious or a people are conscious that he or they are in the path of duty, doing that which is right in the sight of God, they should always be happy, no matter what the circumstances may be which surround them. I think that God has created us to be happy, and my belief is that he placed happiness within the reach of all, and it is man’s own fault if he is not happy and does not enjoy himself every day of his life. This is one of my reasons for liking my religion…because it bestows full happiness and joy upon its believers. They can be happy in the midst of the most adverse circumstances; they can rejoice when their lives are imperiled.” (Gospel Truths, p. 125 as taken from Latter-day Commentary on the Book of Mormon compiled by K. Douglas Bassett, p. 228)
15: And now it came to pass that the burdens which were laid upon Alma and his brethren were made light; yea, the Lord did strengthen them that they could bear up their burdens with ease, and they did submit cheerfully and with patience to all the will of the Lord.
They submitted CHEERFULLY and with PATIENCE. They didn't complain but instead found joy in their lives even though times were hard. They waited on the timing of the Lord.
Neal A. Maxwell: Concerning his personal suffering, Joseph was promised, “Thy heart shall be enlarged.” An enlarged Joseph wrote from Liberty Jail, “It seems to me that my heart will always be more tender after this than ever it was before… I think I never could have felt as I now do if I had not suffered. Ensign, May 1992,387.
If we are serious about our discipleship, Jesus will eventually request each of us to do those very
things which are most difficult for us to do… Sometimes the best people have the worst experiences, because they are the most ready to learn. Church New, 10 Aug 2002. The submission of one’s will is really the only uniquely personal thing we have to place on God’s altar. The many other things we “give,” brothers and sisters, are actually the things He has already given or loaned to us. However, when you and I finally submit ourselves by letting our individual wills be swallowed up in God’s will, then we are really giving something to Him! It is the only possession which is truly ours to give! CR, Oct. 1995, 30)
Hush Your Fears
Mosiah 23
21: Nevertheless the Lord seeth fit to chasten his people; yea, he trieth their patience and their faith.
22: Nevertheless-whosoever putteth his trust in him the same shall be lifted up at the last day. Yea, and thus it was with this people.
Neal A. Maxwell said: “Faith … includes faith in God’s developmental purposes, ... Still, some of us have trouble when God’s tutoring is applied to us! We plead for exemption more than we do for sanctification.” (Ensign, May 1991, p. 90.)
Howard W. Hunter said: “Mormon surely knew that no pain we suffer, no trial that we experience is wasted. It ministers to our education, to the development of such qualities as patience, faith, fortitude and humility. All that we suffer and all that we endure, especially
when we endure it patiently, builds up our characters, purifies our hearts, expands our souls, and makes us more tender and charitable, more worthy to be called the children of God.” (Ensign, Nov. 1987, p. 60 as taken from Latter-day Commentary on the Book of Mormon compiled by K. Douglas Bassett, p. 316)
Notwithstanding their desires for righteousness and the covenant that they had made with the Lord, the people of Alma were sorely tried and tested. Such is the purpose of mortality. Faith and obedience do not excuse one from the vicissitudes of a lone and dreary world, do not preclude the constant buffetings of Satan and his hosts. DCBM 2:285.
The Lord’s people must be tried as by fire. It is great challenges that produce great people, and great difficulties that produce great faith.
Of the Savior – and, by extension, all who seek society with him – we are told, “Though he were a Son, yet learned he obedience by the things which he suffered; and being made perfect, he became the author of eternal salvation unto all them that obey him. We can hardly lay claim to any attribute of godliness unless we have been tried and tested on the matter. It is meaningless to say that someone is filled with love if he has never been in a situation that evokes hate; that he is courageous if he has never been in a situation that elicits fear; that he is generous if he has never been called upon to share; and so forth. It was an epic trial that merited for Abraham the title Father of the Faithful. There are no conquering heroes unless there are great battles to be fought. DCBM 2:285-86.
Neal A. Maxwell: Patience is not indifference. Actually, it is caring very much, but being willing, nevertheless, to submit both to the Lord and to what the scriptures call the “process of time.” Patience is tied very closely to faith in our Heavenly Father. Actually, when we are unduly impatient, we are suggesting that we know what is best—better than does God. Or, at least, we are asserting that our timetable is better than his. We read in Mosiah about how the Lord simultaneously tries the patience of his people even as he tries their faith (see Mosiah 23:21). One is not only to endure—but to endure well and gracefully those things which the
Lord “seeth fit to inflict upon [us]” (Mosiah 3:19), just as did a group of ancient American Saints who were beating unusual burdens but who submitted “cheerfully and with patience to all the will of the Lord” (Mosiah 24:15). Sometimes that which we are doing is correct enough but simply needs to be persisted in—patiently—not for a minute or a moment but sometimes for years. Patience is a willingness, in a sense, to watch the unfolding purposes of God with a sense of wonder and awe—rather than pacing up and down within the cell of our circumstance. Too much anxious opening of the oven door and the cake falls instead of rising! So it is with us. If we are always selfishly taking our temperature to see if we are happy, we won’t be. Whereas faith and patience are companions, so are selfishness and impatience. Patience is, therefore, clearly not fatalistic, shoulder-shrugging resignation; it is accepting a divine rhythm to life; it is obedience prolonged. Patience stoutly resists pulling up the daisies to see how the roots are doing! Ensign, Oct. 1980, 28-30)
We are tried and tested, but if we put our faith in God he will fulfill his promises to each of us and we will be happy.
27: But Alma went forth and stood among them, and exhorted them that they should not be frightened, but that they should remember the Lord their God and he would deliver them.
28: Therefore they hushed their fears, and began to cry unto the Lord...
Put your faith in God and he will deliver you. Faith and fear cannot exist simultaneously in the same place- Hush your fears. I need to remember this. I get all anxious about how things are going to turn out but I just need to have faith and hush my own fears.
21: Nevertheless the Lord seeth fit to chasten his people; yea, he trieth their patience and their faith.
22: Nevertheless-whosoever putteth his trust in him the same shall be lifted up at the last day. Yea, and thus it was with this people.
Neal A. Maxwell said: “Faith … includes faith in God’s developmental purposes, ... Still, some of us have trouble when God’s tutoring is applied to us! We plead for exemption more than we do for sanctification.” (Ensign, May 1991, p. 90.)
Howard W. Hunter said: “Mormon surely knew that no pain we suffer, no trial that we experience is wasted. It ministers to our education, to the development of such qualities as patience, faith, fortitude and humility. All that we suffer and all that we endure, especially
when we endure it patiently, builds up our characters, purifies our hearts, expands our souls, and makes us more tender and charitable, more worthy to be called the children of God.” (Ensign, Nov. 1987, p. 60 as taken from Latter-day Commentary on the Book of Mormon compiled by K. Douglas Bassett, p. 316)
Notwithstanding their desires for righteousness and the covenant that they had made with the Lord, the people of Alma were sorely tried and tested. Such is the purpose of mortality. Faith and obedience do not excuse one from the vicissitudes of a lone and dreary world, do not preclude the constant buffetings of Satan and his hosts. DCBM 2:285.
The Lord’s people must be tried as by fire. It is great challenges that produce great people, and great difficulties that produce great faith.
Of the Savior – and, by extension, all who seek society with him – we are told, “Though he were a Son, yet learned he obedience by the things which he suffered; and being made perfect, he became the author of eternal salvation unto all them that obey him. We can hardly lay claim to any attribute of godliness unless we have been tried and tested on the matter. It is meaningless to say that someone is filled with love if he has never been in a situation that evokes hate; that he is courageous if he has never been in a situation that elicits fear; that he is generous if he has never been called upon to share; and so forth. It was an epic trial that merited for Abraham the title Father of the Faithful. There are no conquering heroes unless there are great battles to be fought. DCBM 2:285-86.
Neal A. Maxwell: Patience is not indifference. Actually, it is caring very much, but being willing, nevertheless, to submit both to the Lord and to what the scriptures call the “process of time.” Patience is tied very closely to faith in our Heavenly Father. Actually, when we are unduly impatient, we are suggesting that we know what is best—better than does God. Or, at least, we are asserting that our timetable is better than his. We read in Mosiah about how the Lord simultaneously tries the patience of his people even as he tries their faith (see Mosiah 23:21). One is not only to endure—but to endure well and gracefully those things which the
Lord “seeth fit to inflict upon [us]” (Mosiah 3:19), just as did a group of ancient American Saints who were beating unusual burdens but who submitted “cheerfully and with patience to all the will of the Lord” (Mosiah 24:15). Sometimes that which we are doing is correct enough but simply needs to be persisted in—patiently—not for a minute or a moment but sometimes for years. Patience is a willingness, in a sense, to watch the unfolding purposes of God with a sense of wonder and awe—rather than pacing up and down within the cell of our circumstance. Too much anxious opening of the oven door and the cake falls instead of rising! So it is with us. If we are always selfishly taking our temperature to see if we are happy, we won’t be. Whereas faith and patience are companions, so are selfishness and impatience. Patience is, therefore, clearly not fatalistic, shoulder-shrugging resignation; it is accepting a divine rhythm to life; it is obedience prolonged. Patience stoutly resists pulling up the daisies to see how the roots are doing! Ensign, Oct. 1980, 28-30)
We are tried and tested, but if we put our faith in God he will fulfill his promises to each of us and we will be happy.
27: But Alma went forth and stood among them, and exhorted them that they should not be frightened, but that they should remember the Lord their God and he would deliver them.
28: Therefore they hushed their fears, and began to cry unto the Lord...
Put your faith in God and he will deliver you. Faith and fear cannot exist simultaneously in the same place- Hush your fears. I need to remember this. I get all anxious about how things are going to turn out but I just need to have faith and hush my own fears.
Saturday, November 19, 2011
Nevertheless The Lord Did Hear Their Cries
Mosiah 21:15
"And now the Lord was slow to hear their cry because of their iniquities; nevertheless the Lord did hear their cries, and began to soften the hearts of the Lamanites that they began to ease their burdens; yet the Lord did not see fit to deliver them out of bondage"
Here the people of Limhi are suffering by the hand of the Lamanites and they are begging to Lord to remove their burden. It may sound harsh that the Lord does not answer this plea right away but these people had been warned. They were told they would suffer if they did not repent. But why let them suffer? Because repentance is not cheap or easy.
"The Lord who is patient and long-suffering even with evil may be equally slow to redeem the transgressor. The seeds of iniquity are not easily uprooted; time and suffering are a part of the healing process. The blessings of heaven are not cheaply obtained. One hardly merits the company of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob and the exalted of all ages by the mere profession of faith or the lamentation for sin. A merely verbal repentance is hardly good training for the discipline necessary in keeping the commandments"
D&C 101:7-8 - 7
7. They were slow to hearken unto the voice of the Lord their God; therefore, the Lord their God is slow to hearken unto their prayers, to answer them in the day of their trouble.
8. In the day of their peace they esteemed lightly my counsel; but, in the day of their trouble, of necessity they feel after me.
I think we are all guilty of this sometime. We want to do what we want to do when we want to do it. We don't want someone to cramp our style or infringe upon our lifestyle. But when the tables turn and we need help or comfort then we fall upon our knees and beg the Lord for his help. But how fair is that. If you had a friend who never listened, never really talked to you and then one day came to your home and was begging you to sacrifice in order to do them a favor...how willing would you be to help the person who couldn't care less what you did the other 365 days of the year. That being said, I love the highlighted part of the scripture...'Nevertheless the Lord did hear their cries'. He does hear each one of us. But he also knows what is best for each of us and like any good parent, sometimes he has to allow us to cry in order for us to learn valuable lessons that will make us better in the end. We cannot have everything we want the instant we want it if we are going to be worthwhile individuals. He loves us, and because he loves us, our prayers sometimes remain unanswered.
"And now the Lord was slow to hear their cry because of their iniquities; nevertheless the Lord did hear their cries, and began to soften the hearts of the Lamanites that they began to ease their burdens; yet the Lord did not see fit to deliver them out of bondage"
Here the people of Limhi are suffering by the hand of the Lamanites and they are begging to Lord to remove their burden. It may sound harsh that the Lord does not answer this plea right away but these people had been warned. They were told they would suffer if they did not repent. But why let them suffer? Because repentance is not cheap or easy.
"The Lord who is patient and long-suffering even with evil may be equally slow to redeem the transgressor. The seeds of iniquity are not easily uprooted; time and suffering are a part of the healing process. The blessings of heaven are not cheaply obtained. One hardly merits the company of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob and the exalted of all ages by the mere profession of faith or the lamentation for sin. A merely verbal repentance is hardly good training for the discipline necessary in keeping the commandments"
D&C 101:7-8 - 7
7. They were slow to hearken unto the voice of the Lord their God; therefore, the Lord their God is slow to hearken unto their prayers, to answer them in the day of their trouble.
8. In the day of their peace they esteemed lightly my counsel; but, in the day of their trouble, of necessity they feel after me.
I think we are all guilty of this sometime. We want to do what we want to do when we want to do it. We don't want someone to cramp our style or infringe upon our lifestyle. But when the tables turn and we need help or comfort then we fall upon our knees and beg the Lord for his help. But how fair is that. If you had a friend who never listened, never really talked to you and then one day came to your home and was begging you to sacrifice in order to do them a favor...how willing would you be to help the person who couldn't care less what you did the other 365 days of the year. That being said, I love the highlighted part of the scripture...'Nevertheless the Lord did hear their cries'. He does hear each one of us. But he also knows what is best for each of us and like any good parent, sometimes he has to allow us to cry in order for us to learn valuable lessons that will make us better in the end. We cannot have everything we want the instant we want it if we are going to be worthwhile individuals. He loves us, and because he loves us, our prayers sometimes remain unanswered.
Thursday, November 17, 2011
In My Anger
Mosiah Chapter 20 (read here)
Background: King Noah is dead. His priests are hiding out in the wilderness because they cowardly left their families to save their own lives. Noah's son, Limhi, has taken over the kingdom and entered into an oath with the king of the Lamanites. They pay half of all their income to the Lamanites and are in turn left to live in peace.
In this chapter, the priests of Noah kidnap 24 of the daughters of the Lamanites and in his rage, the Lamanite king attacks Limhi's People. So before asking questions he assumes they are guilty and goes in and starts killing people. Limhi fights back. The Lamanite king is wounded and brought to Limhi to explain his actions. Limhi in turn explains about his father and his priests. They then explain everything to the Lamanite people and they are at peace once again.
What I find interesting about this chapter is that the killing was needless and could have been completely avoided if everyone has stopped to ask some questions before charging in.
The king says in verse 15 "...I have broken the oath because they people did carry away the daughters of my people; therefore, in my anger I did cause my people to come up to war against thy people"
lesson: don't act in anger.
also verses 26-26
"And it came to pass that they followed the king, and went forth without arms to meet the Lamanites. And it came to pass that they did meet the Lamanites; and the king of the Lamanites did bow himself down before them, and did plead in behalf of the people of Limhi.
And when the Lamanites saw the people of Limhi, that they were without arms, they had compassion on them and were pacified towards them, and returned with their king in peace to their own land"
Without arms or without defense. They were not defensive. In the first part of the chapter the Lamanites get angry and come at the people of Limhi, to which the people of Limhi then defend themselves and their families. But then the Leader is wounded and humbled and must listen to Limhi's point of view. They are pacified and they part in peace.
Lesson: Don't act in anger. Ask questions. Understand an other's point of view. Be humble and not defensive. offensive behavior inspires defensive tactics from the opposing party. If you want to understand and solve a problem don't approach in anger, it will only cause unnecessary casualties.
Background: King Noah is dead. His priests are hiding out in the wilderness because they cowardly left their families to save their own lives. Noah's son, Limhi, has taken over the kingdom and entered into an oath with the king of the Lamanites. They pay half of all their income to the Lamanites and are in turn left to live in peace.
In this chapter, the priests of Noah kidnap 24 of the daughters of the Lamanites and in his rage, the Lamanite king attacks Limhi's People. So before asking questions he assumes they are guilty and goes in and starts killing people. Limhi fights back. The Lamanite king is wounded and brought to Limhi to explain his actions. Limhi in turn explains about his father and his priests. They then explain everything to the Lamanite people and they are at peace once again.
What I find interesting about this chapter is that the killing was needless and could have been completely avoided if everyone has stopped to ask some questions before charging in.
The king says in verse 15 "...I have broken the oath because they people did carry away the daughters of my people; therefore, in my anger I did cause my people to come up to war against thy people"
lesson: don't act in anger.
also verses 26-26
"And it came to pass that they followed the king, and went forth without arms to meet the Lamanites. And it came to pass that they did meet the Lamanites; and the king of the Lamanites did bow himself down before them, and did plead in behalf of the people of Limhi.
And when the Lamanites saw the people of Limhi, that they were without arms, they had compassion on them and were pacified towards them, and returned with their king in peace to their own land"
Without arms or without defense. They were not defensive. In the first part of the chapter the Lamanites get angry and come at the people of Limhi, to which the people of Limhi then defend themselves and their families. But then the Leader is wounded and humbled and must listen to Limhi's point of view. They are pacified and they part in peace.
Lesson: Don't act in anger. Ask questions. Understand an other's point of view. Be humble and not defensive. offensive behavior inspires defensive tactics from the opposing party. If you want to understand and solve a problem don't approach in anger, it will only cause unnecessary casualties.
Wednesday, November 16, 2011
I will not recall my words
Mosiah 17:9-10
This chapter ties to the few previous. Abinadi is a prophet of God. He has come to call king Noah and his people to repentance. They are not following the laws of God and are angry with Abinadi for calling them out. He is arrested and brought before the king and his priests. He teaches about Christ and his atonement. The priests accuse him of blasphemy in his assertion that Christ will be among men. One Priest, Alma, believes the words of Abinadi and asks the king to spare his life. This makes the king angry and he sends out men to kill Alma. Alma hides and is not harmed. The priests of Noah tell Abinidi that he will be put to death unless he recalls his words against their people.
Abinadi says these words to king Noah:
9. Now Abinadi said unto him: I say unto you, I will not recall the words which I have spoken unto you concerning this people, for they are true; and that ye may know of their surety I have suffered myself that I have fallen into your hands.
10. Yea, and I will suffer even until death, and I will not recall my words, and they shall stand as a testimony against you. And if ye slay me ye will shed innocent blood, and this shall also stand as a testimony against you at the last day.
At this King Noah gets scared and is on the verge of freeing Abinidi but his evil priests stir up the King's pride and Abinidi is sentenced to death by fire. I LOVE these chapters. That sounds maybe a little gruesome but Abinadi is my favorite prophet in the Book Of Mormon. His courage, testimony, and integrity are incredible. He walks into a city where everyone hates him, he preaches of Christ and tells the highest ranking government official that he is wicked and needs to repent. He teaches of the atonement and love of Christ and begs them to be humble and repent. He is offered a way out of his punishment but on pain of death he refuses to retract his words because they are true. He has such faith in the Lord and in his divine calling. He had strength, "yea, and I will suffer even until death, and I will not recall my words..."
Tuesday, November 15, 2011
In the Strength of the Lord
Mosiah 9:17-19
"yea, in the strength of the Lord did we go forth to battle...."
"And God hear our cries and did answer our prayers; and we did go forth in his might; yea, we did go forth against the Lamanites, and in one day and a night we did slay tree thousand and forty-three; we did slay them even until we had driven them out of our land."
"And I, myself, with mine own hands, did help to bury their dead. And behold, to our great sorrow and lamentation, two hundred and seventy-nine of our brethren were slain."
Perhaps that doesn't sound like an earth shattering revelation. many of my friends find the scriptures about wars and battles boring but I find them just as enlightening as anything else.
1. They prayed before going out to face a challenge. They were strengthened by the Lord and had a sure foundation.
2. God hears and answers prayers
3. God will strengthen you as you face your trials
4. Impossible things can be accomplished with the help of the lord --
they only lost 279 compared to the lamanites 3,043
The Lord will protect his people, if not always physically, he will protect them spiritually. The Lord will answer prayers in his own way and his own time.
"yea, in the strength of the Lord did we go forth to battle...."
"And God hear our cries and did answer our prayers; and we did go forth in his might; yea, we did go forth against the Lamanites, and in one day and a night we did slay tree thousand and forty-three; we did slay them even until we had driven them out of our land."
"And I, myself, with mine own hands, did help to bury their dead. And behold, to our great sorrow and lamentation, two hundred and seventy-nine of our brethren were slain."
Perhaps that doesn't sound like an earth shattering revelation. many of my friends find the scriptures about wars and battles boring but I find them just as enlightening as anything else.
1. They prayed before going out to face a challenge. They were strengthened by the Lord and had a sure foundation.
2. God hears and answers prayers
3. God will strengthen you as you face your trials
4. Impossible things can be accomplished with the help of the lord --
they only lost 279 compared to the lamanites 3,043
The Lord will protect his people, if not always physically, he will protect them spiritually. The Lord will answer prayers in his own way and his own time.
Monday, November 14, 2011
Look Up
Mosiah 7: 18-19
"...O ye, my people, lift up your heads and be comforted.."
"Therefore, lift up your heads, and rejoice, and put your trust in God. "
so often we hang our heads in defeat but these scriptures, this chapter especially, repeatedly tells us to lift up our heads and rejoice. To lift up our heads and be comforted. That when we face trials we should look to God to heal us.
There was a talk given in General Conference this last October that talked about this very thing. (See whole talk HERE)
"... if we...exercise our faith and look to God for help, we will not be overwhelmed with the burdens of life. We will not feel incapable of doing what we are called to do or need to do. We will be strengthened, and our lives will be filled with peace and joy. We will come to realize that most of what we worry about is not of eternal significance—and if it is, the Lord will help us. But we must have the faith to look up and the courage to follow His direction."
"...O ye, my people, lift up your heads and be comforted.."
"Therefore, lift up your heads, and rejoice, and put your trust in God. "
so often we hang our heads in defeat but these scriptures, this chapter especially, repeatedly tells us to lift up our heads and rejoice. To lift up our heads and be comforted. That when we face trials we should look to God to heal us.
There was a talk given in General Conference this last October that talked about this very thing. (See whole talk HERE)
"... if we...exercise our faith and look to God for help, we will not be overwhelmed with the burdens of life. We will not feel incapable of doing what we are called to do or need to do. We will be strengthened, and our lives will be filled with peace and joy. We will come to realize that most of what we worry about is not of eternal significance—and if it is, the Lord will help us. But we must have the faith to look up and the courage to follow His direction."
Friday, November 11, 2011
See that ye do them
Mosiah 4:9-10
Believe in God; believe that he is, and that he created all things, both in heaven and in earth; believe that he has all wisdom, and all power, both in heaven and in earth; believe that man doth not comprehend all the things which the Lord can comprehend.
And again, believe that ye must repent of your sins and forsake them, and humble yourselves before God; and ask in sincerity of heart that he would forgive you; and now, if you believe all these things see that ye do them.
I love these verses. Such a plain and simple statement of belief. But the part that stands out to me is the last line in verse ten...see that ye do them. It is one thing to believe silently and on your own but it takes a whole new level of courage and faith to actually act on the things we believe. Actions become public. Actions in and of themselves are a testimony to the world.
It is easy to believe that through Christs atonement sin can be forgiven. It is much harder for us to believe that OUR sin will be forgiven. And even if we believe that Jesus Christ and our Father in Heaven will forgive us...we don't always forgive ourselves. But if we believe...then we need to act. We need to humble ourselves and follow the direction we receive from our wise father...
Believe in God; believe that he is, and that he created all things, both in heaven and in earth; believe that he has all wisdom, and all power, both in heaven and in earth; believe that man doth not comprehend all the things which the Lord can comprehend.
And again, believe that ye must repent of your sins and forsake them, and humble yourselves before God; and ask in sincerity of heart that he would forgive you; and now, if you believe all these things see that ye do them.
I love these verses. Such a plain and simple statement of belief. But the part that stands out to me is the last line in verse ten...see that ye do them. It is one thing to believe silently and on your own but it takes a whole new level of courage and faith to actually act on the things we believe. Actions become public. Actions in and of themselves are a testimony to the world.
It is easy to believe that through Christs atonement sin can be forgiven. It is much harder for us to believe that OUR sin will be forgiven. And even if we believe that Jesus Christ and our Father in Heaven will forgive us...we don't always forgive ourselves. But if we believe...then we need to act. We need to humble ourselves and follow the direction we receive from our wise father...
Wednesday, November 9, 2011
Unprofitable Servants
Mosiah 2:21-22
I say unto you that if ye should serve him who has created you from the beginning, and is preserving you from day to day, by lending you breath, that ye may live and move and do according to your own will, and even supporting you from one moment to another-I say, if ye should serve him with all your whole souls yet ye would be unprofitable servants.
And behold, all that he requires of you is to keep his commandments; and he has promised you that if ye would keep his commandments ye should prosper in the land; and he never doth vary from that which he hath said; therefore, if ye do keep his commandments he doth bless you and prosper you.
I love these verses because King Benjamin really illustrates our relationship with God and also shows us the nature of our Heavenly Father. It makes me feel awful for ever complaining.
1. we are given life and a body
2. we are given our agency to choose for ourselves
3. we are supported in our trials and in the things that we need
4. God always follows through-he never falls short on his promises
we are given so much and all he asks in return is that we follow his commandments. And then when we do- we are blessed again with prosperity, peace, and happiness. So no matter how much we try and repay him by serving and keeping the commandments we are still in his debt. It just made me realize just how good I have things. I should be grateful for the blessings in my life and for a loving Father in Heaven who gives and gives and really doesn't ask for much in return.
Benjamin tells us that God does not vary from what he says...so if he says he will bless us for our obedience then he will. Makes me wonder why we all fight so hard against being obedient. If we truly believe that God keeps his promises, then why do we not strive to receive those promised blessings?
Ezra Taft Benson once said, "When obedience ceases to be an irritant and becomes our quest, at that moment God will endow us with power"
Goal: to have faith in the nature of God and to be obedient to his commandments
I say unto you that if ye should serve him who has created you from the beginning, and is preserving you from day to day, by lending you breath, that ye may live and move and do according to your own will, and even supporting you from one moment to another-I say, if ye should serve him with all your whole souls yet ye would be unprofitable servants.
And behold, all that he requires of you is to keep his commandments; and he has promised you that if ye would keep his commandments ye should prosper in the land; and he never doth vary from that which he hath said; therefore, if ye do keep his commandments he doth bless you and prosper you.
I love these verses because King Benjamin really illustrates our relationship with God and also shows us the nature of our Heavenly Father. It makes me feel awful for ever complaining.
1. we are given life and a body
2. we are given our agency to choose for ourselves
3. we are supported in our trials and in the things that we need
4. God always follows through-he never falls short on his promises
we are given so much and all he asks in return is that we follow his commandments. And then when we do- we are blessed again with prosperity, peace, and happiness. So no matter how much we try and repay him by serving and keeping the commandments we are still in his debt. It just made me realize just how good I have things. I should be grateful for the blessings in my life and for a loving Father in Heaven who gives and gives and really doesn't ask for much in return.
Benjamin tells us that God does not vary from what he says...so if he says he will bless us for our obedience then he will. Makes me wonder why we all fight so hard against being obedient. If we truly believe that God keeps his promises, then why do we not strive to receive those promised blessings?
Ezra Taft Benson once said, "When obedience ceases to be an irritant and becomes our quest, at that moment God will endow us with power"
Goal: to have faith in the nature of God and to be obedient to his commandments
Tuesday, November 8, 2011
Hear My Father's Voice
Tonight I read a scripture I've read at least 100 times. But never before have I made the connection I made tonight. It is in the first chapter of Mosiah. King Benjamin is dying and asks his son Mosiah to gather the people together so that he may confer the kingdom publicly to Mosiah.
18: And now, it came to pass that Mosiah went and did as his father had commanded him, and proclaimed unto all the people who were in the land of Zarahemla that thereby they might gather themselves together, to go up to the temple to hear the words which his father should speak unto them.
Secular translation: Mosiah did as he was told and gathered the people together to hear the political statement made by a dying king.
Scriptural translation: Mosiah was obedient in following the commandments of the king. He exhorts his fellow saints to gather at the temple to hear the words of his father.
Application for us: The prophet is asking us to gather ourselves in the temple- which is the house of God- to hear the words of our Father.
I don't know how I missed that. I guess I always just take it literally. But tonight it was an invitation for me to be more diligent in keeping the commandments and in attending the temple so that I can receive direction and guidance for my own life.
In the dedicatory prayer of the Kirtland Temple, the Prophet Joseph Smith petitioned the Father “that thy servants may go forth from this house armed with thy power, and that thy name may be upon them” (D&C 109:22). He also asked for a blessing “over thy people upon whom thy name shall be put in this house” (v. 26). And as the Lord appeared in and accepted the Kirtland Temple as His house, He declared, “For behold, I have accepted this house, and my name shall be here; and I will manifest myself to my people in mercy in this house” (D&C 110:7).
The Lord will manifest himself in mercy in his house- How can I choose not to have that? I can't.
Elder Bednar said,
"I bear solemn witness that the fire of the covenant will burn in the heart of every faithful member of this Church who shall worship and honorably hold a name and standing in the Lord’s holy house. Jesus the Christ is our Redeemer and Savior. He lives, and He directs the affairs of His Church through revelation to His anointed servants. Of these things I bear witness in the sacred name of the Lord Jesus Christ, amen" (See whole talk here)
18: And now, it came to pass that Mosiah went and did as his father had commanded him, and proclaimed unto all the people who were in the land of Zarahemla that thereby they might gather themselves together, to go up to the temple to hear the words which his father should speak unto them.
Secular translation: Mosiah did as he was told and gathered the people together to hear the political statement made by a dying king.
Scriptural translation: Mosiah was obedient in following the commandments of the king. He exhorts his fellow saints to gather at the temple to hear the words of his father.
Application for us: The prophet is asking us to gather ourselves in the temple- which is the house of God- to hear the words of our Father.
I don't know how I missed that. I guess I always just take it literally. But tonight it was an invitation for me to be more diligent in keeping the commandments and in attending the temple so that I can receive direction and guidance for my own life.
In the dedicatory prayer of the Kirtland Temple, the Prophet Joseph Smith petitioned the Father “that thy servants may go forth from this house armed with thy power, and that thy name may be upon them” (D&C 109:22). He also asked for a blessing “over thy people upon whom thy name shall be put in this house” (v. 26). And as the Lord appeared in and accepted the Kirtland Temple as His house, He declared, “For behold, I have accepted this house, and my name shall be here; and I will manifest myself to my people in mercy in this house” (D&C 110:7).
The Lord will manifest himself in mercy in his house- How can I choose not to have that? I can't.
Elder Bednar said,
"I bear solemn witness that the fire of the covenant will burn in the heart of every faithful member of this Church who shall worship and honorably hold a name and standing in the Lord’s holy house. Jesus the Christ is our Redeemer and Savior. He lives, and He directs the affairs of His Church through revelation to His anointed servants. Of these things I bear witness in the sacred name of the Lord Jesus Christ, amen" (See whole talk here)
Monday, November 7, 2011
For a Wise Purpose
Omni 1:26
And now my beloved brethren, I would that ye should come unto Christ, who is the Holy One of Israel, and partake of his salvation, and the power of his redemption. Yea, come unto him, and offer your whole souls as an offering unto him, and continue in fasting and praying, and endure to the end; and as the Lord liveth ye will be saved.
The highlighted portion is the part I think people, myself included, struggle with. You have a testimony of Jesus Christ and you master fasting and you are pretty good with your prayers...but do we offer our WHOLE SOULS? I think most of the time we offer what's easy. Do we offer to give up our favorite hobby? or friends who aren't great influences? do we offer our pride?
"We must be willing to place all that we have- not just our possessions (they may be the easiest things of all to give up), but also our ambition and pride and stubbornness and vanity- we must place it all on the alter of God, kneel in silent submission, and willingly walk away" -Jeffrey R. Holland.
We must do the work. We must COME unto Christ and WILLINGLY offer our WHOLE souls.
Words of Mormon 1:7
And I do this for a wise purpose; for thus it whispereth me, according to the workings of the Spirit of the Lord which is in me. And now, I do not know all things; but the Lord knoweth all things which are to come; wherefore, he worketh in me to do according to his will.
Another one on faith. But there are several things that strike me about this verse
1. he trusts the Lord completely-he knows he wouldn't ask him to do something that wasn't going to serve a purpose at some point
2. The spirit of the Lord whispers- a still small voice inside that each person must learn to discern, to hear, and to follow
3. Recognizes his own limitations in opposition to the Lord's strength. We as mortals are limited in our scope of knowledge.
4. He is humble and submissive to the will of the Lord. He will do what has been asked and not ask questions even though he does not understand.
Recognizing and trusting in the wise purposes of the Lord would be beneficial for me to practice in my own life.
And now my beloved brethren, I would that ye should come unto Christ, who is the Holy One of Israel, and partake of his salvation, and the power of his redemption. Yea, come unto him, and offer your whole souls as an offering unto him, and continue in fasting and praying, and endure to the end; and as the Lord liveth ye will be saved.
The highlighted portion is the part I think people, myself included, struggle with. You have a testimony of Jesus Christ and you master fasting and you are pretty good with your prayers...but do we offer our WHOLE SOULS? I think most of the time we offer what's easy. Do we offer to give up our favorite hobby? or friends who aren't great influences? do we offer our pride?
"We must be willing to place all that we have- not just our possessions (they may be the easiest things of all to give up), but also our ambition and pride and stubbornness and vanity- we must place it all on the alter of God, kneel in silent submission, and willingly walk away" -Jeffrey R. Holland.
We must do the work. We must COME unto Christ and WILLINGLY offer our WHOLE souls.
Words of Mormon 1:7
And I do this for a wise purpose; for thus it whispereth me, according to the workings of the Spirit of the Lord which is in me. And now, I do not know all things; but the Lord knoweth all things which are to come; wherefore, he worketh in me to do according to his will.
Another one on faith. But there are several things that strike me about this verse
1. he trusts the Lord completely-he knows he wouldn't ask him to do something that wasn't going to serve a purpose at some point
2. The spirit of the Lord whispers- a still small voice inside that each person must learn to discern, to hear, and to follow
3. Recognizes his own limitations in opposition to the Lord's strength. We as mortals are limited in our scope of knowledge.
4. He is humble and submissive to the will of the Lord. He will do what has been asked and not ask questions even though he does not understand.
Recognizing and trusting in the wise purposes of the Lord would be beneficial for me to practice in my own life.
Sunday, November 6, 2011
Short and to the point...
The book of Enos:
Enos tells of his guilt and his struggle for forgiveness- his mighty prayer unto the Lord and then in v5-8 he says,
5. And there came a voice unto me, saying : Enos, they sins are forgiven thee, and thou shalt be blessed.
6. And I, Enos, knew that God could not lie; wherefore, my guilt was swept away.
7. And I said: Lord, how is it done?
8. And he said unto me: "because of thy faith in Christ, whom thou hast never before heard nor seen. And many years pass away before he shall manifest himself in the flesh; Wherefore, go to, thy faith hath made the whole"
Several things stand out to me here.
1. Enos knew the nature and character of God. He knew that he could not lie. He had faith in his word. So when he said Enos was forgiven, Enos was able to believe him and forgive himself. He didn't hold on to the guilt but put it behind him and moved forward with his life.
2. Enos has a conversation with God. Its not just a prayer where Enos asks for things and then runs away...he is receiving revelation.
3. Faith was the key to his forgiveness and peace of mind. without his faith in Christ, Enos could have prayed all year and never felt forgiven. But because of his faith, when the Lord said he was forgiven- he allowed himself to believe it and was able to feel clean. He could have just as easily beaten himself up over and over for past mistakes and said, like so many people do, "well I believe the Lord will forgive that person- but I should not have messed up. He can't possibly forgive me." but he didn't say that. He prayed, he received, he believed.
V 12 and 15 :
12. And it came to pass that after I had prayed and labored with all diligence, the Lord said unto me: I will grand unto thee according to they desires, because of thy faith.
15. Wherefore, I knowing that the Lord God was able to preserve our records, I cried unto him continually, for he had said unto me: whatsoever thing yes shall ask in faith, believing that ye shall receive in the name of Christ, ye shall receive it.
Again with Faith. Are we understanding how important it is in our life? I guess I always knew it was key but i didn't realize just how much control I have in determining the course of my life.
What does Enos teach us about faith?
1. We must ask.
2. We mus labor w/ ALL diligence
3. pray continually
4. believe you will receive
I think the only other thing I will add to this is in V12- "according to thy desires"...I don't think this means we get whatever we want if we follow these steps. But if we educate our desires- so that they are righteous desires and in line with the will of the Lord then yes we can have whatever we desire. The Lord wants us to be happy. But we must ask for things that are right for us and at the right time. We must pray continually so that we can align our will with that of the Lord- and then we will never ask for that which is not right for us.
V16-17:
16.And I had faith, and I did cry unto God that he would preserve the records; and he covenanted with me that he would bring them forth unto the Lamanites in his own due time.
17. And I, Enos, knew it would be according to the covenant which he had made; where for my soul did rest.
we learn:
1. the Lord communicates with his children
2. The Lord fulfills his promises
3. He fulfills his promises in his own due time
4. when you get and answer- your sould can be at rest
we cannot rush the Lord. Enos got what he wanted, it just wasn't on his time schedule. Once we have received our answers from the Lord we need to let go. Have faith in his promises and don't worry so much about when and how. The Lord sees the end from the beginning and he knows when and how things will happen.
He closes in V. 27 by saying,
...And I rejoice in the day when my mortal shall put on the immortality, and shall stand before him; then shall I see his face with pleasure, and he will say unto me; Come unto me, ye blessed, there is a place prepared for you in the mansions of my father.
I can only hope to say the same thing when my time on this earth is complete.
" Some blessings come soon, some come late, and some don't come until heaven; but for those who embrace the gospel of Jesus Christ, they come." -Jeffrey R. Holland
Lesson: Have faith in the Lord's promises and wait on his timing.
Enos tells of his guilt and his struggle for forgiveness- his mighty prayer unto the Lord and then in v5-8 he says,
5. And there came a voice unto me, saying : Enos, they sins are forgiven thee, and thou shalt be blessed.
6. And I, Enos, knew that God could not lie; wherefore, my guilt was swept away.
7. And I said: Lord, how is it done?
8. And he said unto me: "because of thy faith in Christ, whom thou hast never before heard nor seen. And many years pass away before he shall manifest himself in the flesh; Wherefore, go to, thy faith hath made the whole"
Several things stand out to me here.
1. Enos knew the nature and character of God. He knew that he could not lie. He had faith in his word. So when he said Enos was forgiven, Enos was able to believe him and forgive himself. He didn't hold on to the guilt but put it behind him and moved forward with his life.
2. Enos has a conversation with God. Its not just a prayer where Enos asks for things and then runs away...he is receiving revelation.
3. Faith was the key to his forgiveness and peace of mind. without his faith in Christ, Enos could have prayed all year and never felt forgiven. But because of his faith, when the Lord said he was forgiven- he allowed himself to believe it and was able to feel clean. He could have just as easily beaten himself up over and over for past mistakes and said, like so many people do, "well I believe the Lord will forgive that person- but I should not have messed up. He can't possibly forgive me." but he didn't say that. He prayed, he received, he believed.
V 12 and 15 :
12. And it came to pass that after I had prayed and labored with all diligence, the Lord said unto me: I will grand unto thee according to they desires, because of thy faith.
15. Wherefore, I knowing that the Lord God was able to preserve our records, I cried unto him continually, for he had said unto me: whatsoever thing yes shall ask in faith, believing that ye shall receive in the name of Christ, ye shall receive it.
Again with Faith. Are we understanding how important it is in our life? I guess I always knew it was key but i didn't realize just how much control I have in determining the course of my life.
What does Enos teach us about faith?
1. We must ask.
2. We mus labor w/ ALL diligence
3. pray continually
4. believe you will receive
I think the only other thing I will add to this is in V12- "according to thy desires"...I don't think this means we get whatever we want if we follow these steps. But if we educate our desires- so that they are righteous desires and in line with the will of the Lord then yes we can have whatever we desire. The Lord wants us to be happy. But we must ask for things that are right for us and at the right time. We must pray continually so that we can align our will with that of the Lord- and then we will never ask for that which is not right for us.
V16-17:
16.And I had faith, and I did cry unto God that he would preserve the records; and he covenanted with me that he would bring them forth unto the Lamanites in his own due time.
17. And I, Enos, knew it would be according to the covenant which he had made; where for my soul did rest.
we learn:
1. the Lord communicates with his children
2. The Lord fulfills his promises
3. He fulfills his promises in his own due time
4. when you get and answer- your sould can be at rest
we cannot rush the Lord. Enos got what he wanted, it just wasn't on his time schedule. Once we have received our answers from the Lord we need to let go. Have faith in his promises and don't worry so much about when and how. The Lord sees the end from the beginning and he knows when and how things will happen.
He closes in V. 27 by saying,
...And I rejoice in the day when my mortal shall put on the immortality, and shall stand before him; then shall I see his face with pleasure, and he will say unto me; Come unto me, ye blessed, there is a place prepared for you in the mansions of my father.
I can only hope to say the same thing when my time on this earth is complete.
" Some blessings come soon, some come late, and some don't come until heaven; but for those who embrace the gospel of Jesus Christ, they come." -Jeffrey R. Holland
Lesson: Have faith in the Lord's promises and wait on his timing.
Friday, November 4, 2011
O Be Wise...
Jacob 6:12:
"O be wise; what can I say more?"
Short and to the point. I love this scripture. But what exactly is wisdom? Wisdom is based on knowledge. How much do you know and can you apply that knowledge correctly?
"Since knowledge is an acquaintance with, or clear perception of, facts; and wisdom is the capacity of judging soundly and dealing broadly with facts; especially in their practical application to life and conduct, it follows that wisdom is a product of, and is dependent upon knowledge." -Marion G Romney
so what if we don't have the knowledge? Can we still be wise? Yes.
"the inspiration of the Lord can and often does compensate for unknown facts—that is, for lack of knowledge" -Marion G Romney
The Lord knows all. So by following divine inspiration-it is as if we know all the facts. (see talk)
So to be wise we must have knowledge but we must also be humble. (D&C 136:32-33)
32 Let him that is ignorant learn wisdom by humbling himself and calling upon the Lord his God, that his eyes may be opened that he may see, and his ears opened that he may hear;
33 For my Spirit is sent forth into the world to enlighten the humble and contrite, and to the condemnation of the ungodly.
O be wise- learn all you can so you are able to make smart choices, but be humble enough to rely upon the Lord for inspiration in all things. That is how we act with wisdom. What can I say more?
"O be wise; what can I say more?"
Short and to the point. I love this scripture. But what exactly is wisdom? Wisdom is based on knowledge. How much do you know and can you apply that knowledge correctly?
"Since knowledge is an acquaintance with, or clear perception of, facts; and wisdom is the capacity of judging soundly and dealing broadly with facts; especially in their practical application to life and conduct, it follows that wisdom is a product of, and is dependent upon knowledge." -Marion G Romney
so what if we don't have the knowledge? Can we still be wise? Yes.
"the inspiration of the Lord can and often does compensate for unknown facts—that is, for lack of knowledge" -Marion G Romney
The Lord knows all. So by following divine inspiration-it is as if we know all the facts. (see talk)
So to be wise we must have knowledge but we must also be humble. (D&C 136:32-33)
32 Let him that is ignorant learn wisdom by humbling himself and calling upon the Lord his God, that his eyes may be opened that he may see, and his ears opened that he may hear;
33 For my Spirit is sent forth into the world to enlighten the humble and contrite, and to the condemnation of the ungodly.
O be wise- learn all you can so you are able to make smart choices, but be humble enough to rely upon the Lord for inspiration in all things. That is how we act with wisdom. What can I say more?
Thursday, November 3, 2011
A New Vantage Point
1st thought: Jacob 4:10
"Wherefore, brethren, seek not to council the Lord, but to take counsel from his hand. For behold, ye yourselves know that he counseleth in wisdom, and in justice, and in great mercy, over all his works"
I am guilty of telling the Lord what's best for me. It has occurred to me recently that I am a VERY good listener to everyone except the spirit of the Lord. Sometimes I'm good at it. When it concerns others- as in service opportunities or direction for my Sunday school lessons. But when it comes to listening to direction for myself...well...I kind of stink at that. I like to be in control. So trusting is really hard for me- but I think this scripture is interesting because he says "ye yourselves know he counseleth in wisdom..." I do know. I know that I am a daughter of God. I know he loves me. I know he has a plan for me and he wants me to be happy. I know all this...and still sometimes my faith is lacking and I somehow can convince myself that my plan is better...even though I can't see very far down the road. wouldn't it be smarter to take direction from someone with a less limited vantage point? Someone who knows everything and only has your best interest in mind? yes. the answer is yes.
My second thought for the evening is found in Jacob 4:18:
"Behold, my beloved brethren, I will unfold this mystery unto you; if I do not, by any means, get shaken from my firmness in the spirit, and stumble because of my over anxiety for you"
Why is this scripture interesting to me? because he illustrates a very important principle. Worry and anxiety overshadow faith. This is a man who spends all of chapter 4 bearing testimony of Jesus Christ and his atonement. He bears testimony of the prophets and the Holy Ghost-and then he tells us that he is suffering from anxiety for the welfare of his people. That this anxiety causes him to lose his firmness of faith-which will in turn rob him of the spirit of prophecy and revelation. Faith and Fear cannot exist in the same heart at the same time. This I know. But fear, anxiety, and stress are the unwanted house guest that just won't go away. Faith must fight a never ending battle for every inch of space. This scripture just reminds me that even the prophets have had to fight the same battle for ownership. Like Jacob, I have a testimony of Jesus Christ and his atonement. But sometimes I slip and let my worries cheat me of my faith. Not that the fear robs me of my testimony..I always have that. But rather my fear robs me of the faith to move mountains...it robs me of the faith to change lives and make miracles happen.
"Wherefore, brethren, seek not to council the Lord, but to take counsel from his hand. For behold, ye yourselves know that he counseleth in wisdom, and in justice, and in great mercy, over all his works"
I am guilty of telling the Lord what's best for me. It has occurred to me recently that I am a VERY good listener to everyone except the spirit of the Lord. Sometimes I'm good at it. When it concerns others- as in service opportunities or direction for my Sunday school lessons. But when it comes to listening to direction for myself...well...I kind of stink at that. I like to be in control. So trusting is really hard for me- but I think this scripture is interesting because he says "ye yourselves know he counseleth in wisdom..." I do know. I know that I am a daughter of God. I know he loves me. I know he has a plan for me and he wants me to be happy. I know all this...and still sometimes my faith is lacking and I somehow can convince myself that my plan is better...even though I can't see very far down the road. wouldn't it be smarter to take direction from someone with a less limited vantage point? Someone who knows everything and only has your best interest in mind? yes. the answer is yes.
My second thought for the evening is found in Jacob 4:18:
"Behold, my beloved brethren, I will unfold this mystery unto you; if I do not, by any means, get shaken from my firmness in the spirit, and stumble because of my over anxiety for you"
Why is this scripture interesting to me? because he illustrates a very important principle. Worry and anxiety overshadow faith. This is a man who spends all of chapter 4 bearing testimony of Jesus Christ and his atonement. He bears testimony of the prophets and the Holy Ghost-and then he tells us that he is suffering from anxiety for the welfare of his people. That this anxiety causes him to lose his firmness of faith-which will in turn rob him of the spirit of prophecy and revelation. Faith and Fear cannot exist in the same heart at the same time. This I know. But fear, anxiety, and stress are the unwanted house guest that just won't go away. Faith must fight a never ending battle for every inch of space. This scripture just reminds me that even the prophets have had to fight the same battle for ownership. Like Jacob, I have a testimony of Jesus Christ and his atonement. But sometimes I slip and let my worries cheat me of my faith. Not that the fear robs me of my testimony..I always have that. But rather my fear robs me of the faith to move mountains...it robs me of the faith to change lives and make miracles happen.
Wednesday, November 2, 2011
Scripture Journal Disclaimer
On this blog you will find my own personal thoughts, feelings, and insights about the scriptures I read in my own personal study. They will be in no particular order or theme. I do not profess to be a doctrinal scholar and the things I write are strictly my own thoughts- If you don't like what I write, well, don't read my blog. Most of my thoughts will be based on scriptures found in the King James version of the bible, the Book of Mormon, and the Doctrine and Covenants. I may from time to time throw in talks and quotes from General Authorities if I so choose. It depends on what I'm studying for the day. I may go over several scripture or maybe just one verse that stands out. I hope that my thoughts and studies will be inspiring to someone...and if not, at least writing my thoughts will help solidify them for me. Please feel free to comment on my posts as long as they are not argumentative. I am not looking to debate any of my thoughts or ideas. This is my study journal and like I said, if you disagree, no one is forcing you to keep reading. If you would like to express ideas arguing against my own- I suggest you start your own blog-this one is not for you. To everyone else please enjoy!
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