2 nephi 21:1 - 22:6
2 nephi 22:1 - 6, isaiah describes the spirit of worship that people will have during the millenium. how can we develop that same attitude today?
--> an attitude of worship is developed just like anything else in our lives - over time and through many experiences, bad and good. for me, everything in the gospel is more than just something we do... it is literally who we are. when people spend time around me, i don't want them to say, "she's lds." i want them to say "she's a disciple of jesus christ." i want them to recognize that the attitude of worship in my life makes me who i am, every single day.
for me, that attitude is developed through the small and simple things. things that we hear about all the time like scripture study and prayer, taking the sacrament each week, serving others. the reason we are asked to do these things over and over forever are so that attitude of worship can shape who we are. so we can be more like our Savior Jesus Christ every. single. day.
february.27
2 nephi 20:12 - 34
2 nephi 20:15 - isaiah teaches about the ingratitude of the king of assyria. why is it important to always be grateful?
--> in 2013, my year-long focus was on gratitude. i was inspired by a talk i heard in late 2012 about the effect gratitude can have on your lives, and decided to put his promises to the test myself. each night in 2012, i would record one highlight of my day, and 2-3 things i was grateful for. in addition, i wrote 52 thank you notes that year, one each week.
now, a year later, i can honestly say that 2013 was a great year of learning for me. it was one of the hardest years of my life so far, but also had some of the greatest joys. i attribute being able to find that joy to my focus on gratitude. when we have an attitude of gratitude, our lives are more bearable and more full of the spirit. we realize that no matter how hard things may be or seem, we still have so so soooo many tender mercies to be grateful for. they are truly all around us. God is so good to us. we owe all that we have to Him. why not take a little extra time to be grateful for those things.
2 nephi 20:15 - isaiah teaches about the ingratitude of the king of assyria. why is it important to always be grateful?
--> in 2013, my year-long focus was on gratitude. i was inspired by a talk i heard in late 2012 about the effect gratitude can have on your lives, and decided to put his promises to the test myself. each night in 2012, i would record one highlight of my day, and 2-3 things i was grateful for. in addition, i wrote 52 thank you notes that year, one each week.
now, a year later, i can honestly say that 2013 was a great year of learning for me. it was one of the hardest years of my life so far, but also had some of the greatest joys. i attribute being able to find that joy to my focus on gratitude. when we have an attitude of gratitude, our lives are more bearable and more full of the spirit. we realize that no matter how hard things may be or seem, we still have so so soooo many tender mercies to be grateful for. they are truly all around us. God is so good to us. we owe all that we have to Him. why not take a little extra time to be grateful for those things.
february.26
2 nephi 19:1 - 20:11
in 2 nephi 19:6 there are words used to describe the Savior. what words would you use to describe the Savior and your relationship with Him and why?
--> if you've never taken the time to read through the bible dictionary entry "Christ, names of", you should do yourself a favor and check it out. every now and again during the sacrament i will pull this section out and just read all the names that Christ is referred to in the scriptures as.
one of my very favorite titles from that section of scripture is "the spiritual rock". we talk a lot about building a foundation on something that will never falter. we talk a lot about mediums that are strong and those that are weak. we make comparisons and analogies and tell stories to relate this to that. but when it all comes down to it, the Savior, Jesus Christ, HE is the rock, the spiritual rock, on whom we must build and put everything on.
as a latter-day saint woman, it can be overwhelming to think about all the things i am asked to do. in reality, you could find enough stuff to do in your religion to keep you occupied and overly busy 24/7. (luckily Heavenly Father doesn't require that). in the midst of all the programs and activities and events and numbers and requirements, it's important to remember why they all exist, and why i'm doing everything i'm doing. this spiritual title of Christ suggests just why: because He is the spiritual rock. He is the center of everything and the most important why we could ever have in our lives. when i remember that, suddenly i don't feel so overwhelmed anymore. life is good.
in 2 nephi 19:6 there are words used to describe the Savior. what words would you use to describe the Savior and your relationship with Him and why?
--> if you've never taken the time to read through the bible dictionary entry "Christ, names of", you should do yourself a favor and check it out. every now and again during the sacrament i will pull this section out and just read all the names that Christ is referred to in the scriptures as.
one of my very favorite titles from that section of scripture is "the spiritual rock". we talk a lot about building a foundation on something that will never falter. we talk a lot about mediums that are strong and those that are weak. we make comparisons and analogies and tell stories to relate this to that. but when it all comes down to it, the Savior, Jesus Christ, HE is the rock, the spiritual rock, on whom we must build and put everything on.
as a latter-day saint woman, it can be overwhelming to think about all the things i am asked to do. in reality, you could find enough stuff to do in your religion to keep you occupied and overly busy 24/7. (luckily Heavenly Father doesn't require that). in the midst of all the programs and activities and events and numbers and requirements, it's important to remember why they all exist, and why i'm doing everything i'm doing. this spiritual title of Christ suggests just why: because He is the spiritual rock. He is the center of everything and the most important why we could ever have in our lives. when i remember that, suddenly i don't feel so overwhelmed anymore. life is good.
february.25
2 nephi 18:1 - 22
just as isaiah trusted in God, when have you turned to God for strength when you were initially tempted to turn to other sources? how did God help you? what did you learn from the experience?
--> in the heat of any trial, there are always the looming thoughts such as "why me?" "what have i done to deserve this?" "when will this end?" "is there no stop to this pain?" etc. with each trial we face, each hard thing we go through, there is an opportunity to be bitter or be better. i choose to be better and turn to God because i honestly couldn't make it through my trials without Him.
the past year and a half of my life, i've had some pretty crazy health challenges. the typical doctor-can't-figure-out-what's-wrong-so-trial-and-error-a-hundred-times thing was my life for the past many months. but the funny thing about challenges is, life still goes on even when they're happening. you still have to get up and go to school, go to work, take care of life's comings and goings, be social, smile about it. there have been countless days in the past year and a half that i literally COULD NOT get out of bed and make it through the day without the Lord picking me up and carrying me. God helps us when we ask.
my favorite scripture in the entire universe is found in mosiah 24:14. it says this: (and picture Christ saying this to YOU) "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. 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 burens with ease."
in these verses, it doesn't say that the Lord took away their burdens, but rather He gave them strength to bear them, so they seemed lighter. I HAVE SEEN THIS IN MY LIFE TIME AND TIME AGAIN. God always provides us with strength when we need it, and even when we think we don't. from the countless experiences i have leaned on Him with all my might, i can testify that He loves us. He is aware of us everyday. He is waiting to help us in our times of trouble and our times of happiness too. i love my Savior, Jesus Christ, and love the healing that comes through a trust in Him.
just as isaiah trusted in God, when have you turned to God for strength when you were initially tempted to turn to other sources? how did God help you? what did you learn from the experience?
--> in the heat of any trial, there are always the looming thoughts such as "why me?" "what have i done to deserve this?" "when will this end?" "is there no stop to this pain?" etc. with each trial we face, each hard thing we go through, there is an opportunity to be bitter or be better. i choose to be better and turn to God because i honestly couldn't make it through my trials without Him.
the past year and a half of my life, i've had some pretty crazy health challenges. the typical doctor-can't-figure-out-what's-wrong-so-trial-and-error-a-hundred-times thing was my life for the past many months. but the funny thing about challenges is, life still goes on even when they're happening. you still have to get up and go to school, go to work, take care of life's comings and goings, be social, smile about it. there have been countless days in the past year and a half that i literally COULD NOT get out of bed and make it through the day without the Lord picking me up and carrying me. God helps us when we ask.
my favorite scripture in the entire universe is found in mosiah 24:14. it says this: (and picture Christ saying this to YOU) "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. 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 burens with ease."
in these verses, it doesn't say that the Lord took away their burdens, but rather He gave them strength to bear them, so they seemed lighter. I HAVE SEEN THIS IN MY LIFE TIME AND TIME AGAIN. God always provides us with strength when we need it, and even when we think we don't. from the countless experiences i have leaned on Him with all my might, i can testify that He loves us. He is aware of us everyday. He is waiting to help us in our times of trouble and our times of happiness too. i love my Savior, Jesus Christ, and love the healing that comes through a trust in Him.
february.24
2 nephi 16:1 - 17:25
isaiah chapters are often challenging to understand but always full of symbolism and lessons. what do you learn from these verses as isaiah is called to prophecy?
--> one phrase that really sticks out to me in this passage is in verse 10 - "understand with their heart, and be converted and be healed." we are all seeking healing and conversion. we are naturally drawn to things that we are passionate about. we have an innate desire to connect with other people and understand things in a way that will benefit our lives. in this particular verse, isaiah is given council that people will see marvelous things but won't perceive what's happened, they will hear marvelous things, but won't understand. his call is to go and "shut their eyes" so they can understand with their heart. then, and only then, when spirit speaks to spirit, will they be converted and true healing will occur.
how true that is in our world today as well.
isaiah chapters are often challenging to understand but always full of symbolism and lessons. what do you learn from these verses as isaiah is called to prophecy?
--> one phrase that really sticks out to me in this passage is in verse 10 - "understand with their heart, and be converted and be healed." we are all seeking healing and conversion. we are naturally drawn to things that we are passionate about. we have an innate desire to connect with other people and understand things in a way that will benefit our lives. in this particular verse, isaiah is given council that people will see marvelous things but won't perceive what's happened, they will hear marvelous things, but won't understand. his call is to go and "shut their eyes" so they can understand with their heart. then, and only then, when spirit speaks to spirit, will they be converted and true healing will occur.
how true that is in our world today as well.
february.23
2 nephi 15:1 - 30
what does 2 nephi 15:20 mean to you?
--> "wo unto them that call evil good, and good evil, that put darkness for light, and light for darkness, that put bitter for sweet, and sweet for bitter."
satan is an enemy to God's plan. he has been from the beginning, and ever will be. this verse in particular makes me think more seriously about satan's plan to thwart God in His work and glory. there are many times when evil is presented as good and good as evil, to persuade us a certain way, or to convince us to believe certain things. satan teaches truth with his lies and it s so easy to be misled. that's why to me, one of THE greatest gifts we have is the gift of the Holy Ghost - to guide us and direct us, to allow us to see true light, in its purest form, and to steer us away from temptation and evil. without the spirit, my life would be meaningless and much more difficult.
to read more about the influence of the Holy Spirit and the important roles He can play in your life, click here.
what does 2 nephi 15:20 mean to you?
--> "wo unto them that call evil good, and good evil, that put darkness for light, and light for darkness, that put bitter for sweet, and sweet for bitter."
satan is an enemy to God's plan. he has been from the beginning, and ever will be. this verse in particular makes me think more seriously about satan's plan to thwart God in His work and glory. there are many times when evil is presented as good and good as evil, to persuade us a certain way, or to convince us to believe certain things. satan teaches truth with his lies and it s so easy to be misled. that's why to me, one of THE greatest gifts we have is the gift of the Holy Ghost - to guide us and direct us, to allow us to see true light, in its purest form, and to steer us away from temptation and evil. without the spirit, my life would be meaningless and much more difficult.
to read more about the influence of the Holy Spirit and the important roles He can play in your life, click here.
february.22
2 nephi 13:6 - 14:6
what can we do to make our homes and church wards places of refuge in the world?
--> one thing i love about my home is that my mom has many pictures, quotes, sayings, etc. all around that remind me of our values. whether it be a picture of the temple or a statue of Christ or just a cool saying about family, everywhere you look is a visual reminder of what we believe and stand for. i appreciate this so much. home is a safe place. it should always be a safe place. what makes it feel safe is the feeling of the spirit. those visual reminders are one of the ways my mom brings the spirit into our home on a daily basis.
what can we do to make our homes and church wards places of refuge in the world?
--> one thing i love about my home is that my mom has many pictures, quotes, sayings, etc. all around that remind me of our values. whether it be a picture of the temple or a statue of Christ or just a cool saying about family, everywhere you look is a visual reminder of what we believe and stand for. i appreciate this so much. home is a safe place. it should always be a safe place. what makes it feel safe is the feeling of the spirit. those visual reminders are one of the ways my mom brings the spirit into our home on a daily basis.
february.21
2 nephi 12:1 - 13:5
in 2 nephi 12:8, isaiah spoke of the land being "full of idols". what are some forms of isolatry today?
--> to me, an idol is anything that people put before God. there are many types and forms of idolatry today. for some if could be money. could be pride. could be facebook. could be the accordion. really anything that we put more priority on than Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ.
cool article entitled "refusing to worship today's graven images". click here.
in 2 nephi 12:8, isaiah spoke of the land being "full of idols". what are some forms of isolatry today?
--> to me, an idol is anything that people put before God. there are many types and forms of idolatry today. for some if could be money. could be pride. could be facebook. could be the accordion. really anything that we put more priority on than Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ.
cool article entitled "refusing to worship today's graven images". click here.
february.20
2 nephi 10:18 - 11:8
what have you learned about the Savior that helps you to feel hope?
--> verse 24 says "it is only in and through the grace of God that ye are saved." i find hope in the fact that the Savior performed the atonement for me because it is THE only way that i can find eternal happiness. i find hope in the fact that this life is a temporary state, that one day we will be able to leave this "frail existence" and find greater "mansions up above". because of Jesus Christ, this is possible. i find hope in the fact that the grace of Jesus Christ carries me through everyday.
to read the best talk i've yet found on the grace of the Savior and what it means for us, click here.
what have you learned about the Savior that helps you to feel hope?
--> verse 24 says "it is only in and through the grace of God that ye are saved." i find hope in the fact that the Savior performed the atonement for me because it is THE only way that i can find eternal happiness. i find hope in the fact that this life is a temporary state, that one day we will be able to leave this "frail existence" and find greater "mansions up above". because of Jesus Christ, this is possible. i find hope in the fact that the grace of Jesus Christ carries me through everyday.
to read the best talk i've yet found on the grace of the Savior and what it means for us, click here.
february.19
2 nephi 9:50 - 10:17
2 nephi 9:50 - 51, what do you think jacob meant when he said to drink, eat and "delight in fatness"?
--> i like the context of this whole verse. to not spend money for things that are of no worth. to feast upon things that won't perish. to labor only for things that will satisfy. to enjoy righteousness. allowing your soul to delight in fatness, to me, means to relish the things that are good about life. the very next verse says "let your hearts rejoice". when we focus on the good things in life, our soul will be fulfilled and feel "fat".
2 nephi 9:50 - 51, what do you think jacob meant when he said to drink, eat and "delight in fatness"?
--> i like the context of this whole verse. to not spend money for things that are of no worth. to feast upon things that won't perish. to labor only for things that will satisfy. to enjoy righteousness. allowing your soul to delight in fatness, to me, means to relish the things that are good about life. the very next verse says "let your hearts rejoice". when we focus on the good things in life, our soul will be fulfilled and feel "fat".
february.18
2 nephi 9:31 - 49
jacob teaches many powerful lessons in these verses. which verses influenced you most today?
--> the verse that stood out to me the most today was verse 46 "prepare your souls for that glorious day when justice shall be administered unto the righteous".
the scriptures are full of many beautiful and timeless truths that help us to prepare ourselves for judgment day. in the process of preparing us for that day (that no one knows when will come), it makes us better people here and now. i really love that concept. the Lord's blessings are available for all who will qualify themselves to receive them.
what are you doing to prepare yourself for eternity?
jacob teaches many powerful lessons in these verses. which verses influenced you most today?
--> the verse that stood out to me the most today was verse 46 "prepare your souls for that glorious day when justice shall be administered unto the righteous".
the scriptures are full of many beautiful and timeless truths that help us to prepare ourselves for judgment day. in the process of preparing us for that day (that no one knows when will come), it makes us better people here and now. i really love that concept. the Lord's blessings are available for all who will qualify themselves to receive them.
what are you doing to prepare yourself for eternity?
february.17
2 nephi 9:15 - 30
through the Atonement of Jesus Christ, we can overcome the consequences of our sins as we _____________.
--> take steps into the light. we are always moving somewhere. are we going forward or backward? are we gaining truth and light or losing it? every minute of everyday is a gift. a gift that we can choose to progress or regress. through the Atonement of Jesus Christ, we can progress and overcome mistakes we have made.
so, take that first step!
click here to listen to one of my favorite songs about that first step.
through the Atonement of Jesus Christ, we can overcome the consequences of our sins as we _____________.
--> take steps into the light. we are always moving somewhere. are we going forward or backward? are we gaining truth and light or losing it? every minute of everyday is a gift. a gift that we can choose to progress or regress. through the Atonement of Jesus Christ, we can progress and overcome mistakes we have made.
so, take that first step!
click here to listen to one of my favorite songs about that first step.
february.16
2 nephi 9:1 - 14
how can you apply the power of the Atonement in your life?
--> one way i can apply the power of the Atonement in my life is to kneel down daily and repent of my sins. the Atonement was performed for much, much more than just to provide a remission of my sins. but i feel eternally indebted to my Savior, Jesus Christ, that this gift is available in my life. i make mistakes every single day, but like nephi says, "how great the goodness of our God, who prepared a way for our escape". the best way to show gratitude for that escape is to use the Atonement daily as i repent.
to repent means to change, to turn your heart and will toward God. a change that is lasting and permanent. a change that reaches you at the very core and turns your very desires towards God. i also feel like i have a reason to "life up [my] heart forever" because of this beautiful blessing.
God is good.
to watch one of my very favorite movies about the lifting power of the Atonement, click here.
how can you apply the power of the Atonement in your life?
--> one way i can apply the power of the Atonement in my life is to kneel down daily and repent of my sins. the Atonement was performed for much, much more than just to provide a remission of my sins. but i feel eternally indebted to my Savior, Jesus Christ, that this gift is available in my life. i make mistakes every single day, but like nephi says, "how great the goodness of our God, who prepared a way for our escape". the best way to show gratitude for that escape is to use the Atonement daily as i repent.
to repent means to change, to turn your heart and will toward God. a change that is lasting and permanent. a change that reaches you at the very core and turns your very desires towards God. i also feel like i have a reason to "life up [my] heart forever" because of this beautiful blessing.
God is good.
to watch one of my very favorite movies about the lifting power of the Atonement, click here.
february.15
2 nephi 8:1 - 25
how does the Savior express His desire to redeem His covenant people in this chapter?
--> i really love verse 22. "thus saith thy Lord, the Lord and thy God pleadeth the cause of his people; behold, i have taken out of thine hand the cup of trembling, the dregs of the cup of my fury; thou shalt no more drink it again."
the word "pleadeth" really stood out to me this morning. Christ wants us so badly to make the right choices. He wants us to be healed and cleansed. He will ever be there, pleading our cause. His desire to redeem all who would have Him to be their Savior is so strong that He submitted to the will of the Father and endured the most excruciating pain that anyone will ever go through. the Atonement was an individual act. it was done for you as an individual. He loves us. He wants us to come home. but the process isn't always easy. which is why He sits, pleading our cause.
i love the phrase that keeps recurring in this section of scripture - "put on strength". when said in this way, it's like we are putting on strength like a clothing item. this shows me that strength, like happiness, can be a choice. the experiences we go through and face are meant to build our strength and help us along the way, but ultimately, we have to choose to get up each morning and "put on" that strength. when we feel the Lord in our lives, it's easier to put on that strength and choose to be strong because we know He will always be right there with us, pleading our cause. for this i am eternally grateful!
how does the Savior express His desire to redeem His covenant people in this chapter?
--> i really love verse 22. "thus saith thy Lord, the Lord and thy God pleadeth the cause of his people; behold, i have taken out of thine hand the cup of trembling, the dregs of the cup of my fury; thou shalt no more drink it again."
the word "pleadeth" really stood out to me this morning. Christ wants us so badly to make the right choices. He wants us to be healed and cleansed. He will ever be there, pleading our cause. His desire to redeem all who would have Him to be their Savior is so strong that He submitted to the will of the Father and endured the most excruciating pain that anyone will ever go through. the Atonement was an individual act. it was done for you as an individual. He loves us. He wants us to come home. but the process isn't always easy. which is why He sits, pleading our cause.
i love the phrase that keeps recurring in this section of scripture - "put on strength". when said in this way, it's like we are putting on strength like a clothing item. this shows me that strength, like happiness, can be a choice. the experiences we go through and face are meant to build our strength and help us along the way, but ultimately, we have to choose to get up each morning and "put on" that strength. when we feel the Lord in our lives, it's easier to put on that strength and choose to be strong because we know He will always be right there with us, pleading our cause. for this i am eternally grateful!
februrary.14
2 nephi 6:8 - 7:11
in 2 nephi 6:11, jacob promised that "the Lord would be merciful" to israel. in these verses and your life, what ways do you see the Lord's mercy?
--> i believe verse 9 sums up the greatest act of mercy that God has given us. "the Lord God, the Holy One of Israel, should manifest himself unto them in the flesh; and after he should manifest himself they should scourge him and crucify him...and when they shall come to the knowledge of their Redeemer, they shall be gathered together again to the lands of their inheritance."
we have a Savior, Jesus Christ, who was sent to earth to pay the price for our sins. He suffered everything we have faced. He knows us. He know YOU. because He died and was resurrected, we will all be resurrected and given the opportunity to live with our families forever in a state of never-ending happiness. He is there to ease the burdens on your shoulders, even that you cannot feel them upon your backs. He is there to cleanse you of sin and qualify you for eternal life in His presence. He is there to lift you up when your shoulders hang down and your knees are feeble. He is there to give you confidence in the face of fear. He is there to give you peace in your times of turmoil. He is a friend to the friendless. He is there to walk beside you and carry you, when necessary. He is there to bring comfort and healing to even the deepest of wounds. He is there to triumph with you during your times of joy, to celebrate your victories with you! He is there when your heart is full of gratitude and love. HE IS THERE. He is always there.
that, to me, is THE greatest mercy i will ever receive. on this day of love, this valentines day, my heart is overflowing with love and gratitude for my dear Savior. He is my everything.
to read more about our beloved Savior, click here.
in 2 nephi 6:11, jacob promised that "the Lord would be merciful" to israel. in these verses and your life, what ways do you see the Lord's mercy?
--> i believe verse 9 sums up the greatest act of mercy that God has given us. "the Lord God, the Holy One of Israel, should manifest himself unto them in the flesh; and after he should manifest himself they should scourge him and crucify him...and when they shall come to the knowledge of their Redeemer, they shall be gathered together again to the lands of their inheritance."
we have a Savior, Jesus Christ, who was sent to earth to pay the price for our sins. He suffered everything we have faced. He knows us. He know YOU. because He died and was resurrected, we will all be resurrected and given the opportunity to live with our families forever in a state of never-ending happiness. He is there to ease the burdens on your shoulders, even that you cannot feel them upon your backs. He is there to cleanse you of sin and qualify you for eternal life in His presence. He is there to lift you up when your shoulders hang down and your knees are feeble. He is there to give you confidence in the face of fear. He is there to give you peace in your times of turmoil. He is a friend to the friendless. He is there to walk beside you and carry you, when necessary. He is there to bring comfort and healing to even the deepest of wounds. He is there to triumph with you during your times of joy, to celebrate your victories with you! He is there when your heart is full of gratitude and love. HE IS THERE. He is always there.
that, to me, is THE greatest mercy i will ever receive. on this day of love, this valentines day, my heart is overflowing with love and gratitude for my dear Savior. He is my everything.
to read more about our beloved Savior, click here.
february.13
2 nephi 5:26 - 6:7
what do you think it means to "live after the manner of happiness"?
--> when i was serving a full-time mission in calgary, canada, i discovered this scripture on a particularly optimistic day. i was reading and during my studies just shouted out, "yes!! that's it!!" from then on, it's become a life motto, ya know, like one of those sayings i'm totally going to print off in vinyl and hang on my wall one day!
i've thought a lot about how happiness is a choice in the past few years. i feel blessed to have met some really incredible people with some really unbelievable challenges. there are some that are bitter, some that are "meh", and some that find true joy in the journey and use their challenges as a way to sympathize with others and draw closer to the Savior. the third group is choosing to be happy and is noticeably such. if i didn't know anything about their lives, i would think nothing was wrong with them. this is the type of person i want to be. to SEEK after the manner of happiness so i can live after it, too.
true happiness comes in and through following the teachings of the gospel of the Savior Jesus Christ. i know that with all my heart because i see that pattern in my life. want to live after the manner of happiness? be a more dedicated disciple of Jesus Christ. the end.
what do you think it means to "live after the manner of happiness"?
--> when i was serving a full-time mission in calgary, canada, i discovered this scripture on a particularly optimistic day. i was reading and during my studies just shouted out, "yes!! that's it!!" from then on, it's become a life motto, ya know, like one of those sayings i'm totally going to print off in vinyl and hang on my wall one day!
i've thought a lot about how happiness is a choice in the past few years. i feel blessed to have met some really incredible people with some really unbelievable challenges. there are some that are bitter, some that are "meh", and some that find true joy in the journey and use their challenges as a way to sympathize with others and draw closer to the Savior. the third group is choosing to be happy and is noticeably such. if i didn't know anything about their lives, i would think nothing was wrong with them. this is the type of person i want to be. to SEEK after the manner of happiness so i can live after it, too.
true happiness comes in and through following the teachings of the gospel of the Savior Jesus Christ. i know that with all my heart because i see that pattern in my life. want to live after the manner of happiness? be a more dedicated disciple of Jesus Christ. the end.
february.12
2 nephi 5:10-25
in what ways does hard work contribute to happiness?
in what ways does hard work contribute to happiness?
--> "the harder the conflict, the more glorious the triumph.
what we obtain too cheaply we esteem too lightly."
- thomas paine.
what we obtain too cheaply we esteem too lightly."
- thomas paine.
"happiness... is most likely to be achieved when
founded upon the teachings of the Lord Jesus Christ."
- the family, a proclamation to the world
founded upon the teachings of the Lord Jesus Christ."
- the family, a proclamation to the world
february.11
2 nephi 4:28 - 5:9
why is it important to continue to be faithful when our prayers are not answered immediately or in the way we desire?
--> i think more often than not our prayers aren't answered immediately. that's one of the tests of this life, to trust that God really is in charge and has everything under control. that He will reveal what needs to be revealed when it needs to be revealed. and that all answers to prayers will come at the perfectly opportune time when they are supposed to come. i've also found that more often than not, the answers to my prayers come little by little, through a long process, as i continue to make the right decisions, or make a choice at all and start going one direction. then, and only then, can the Lord confirm or deny my actions and give me peace i need to continue on the path i chose. if i were to lose faith along the way, perhaps the whole answer wouldn't come, or i would miss part of it. the Lord allows us to face things that will test our patience everyday, so we can be "more fit for His kingdom".
to listen to a beautiful arrangement of one of my favorite hymns, where i took that last line from, click here.
why is it important to continue to be faithful when our prayers are not answered immediately or in the way we desire?
--> i think more often than not our prayers aren't answered immediately. that's one of the tests of this life, to trust that God really is in charge and has everything under control. that He will reveal what needs to be revealed when it needs to be revealed. and that all answers to prayers will come at the perfectly opportune time when they are supposed to come. i've also found that more often than not, the answers to my prayers come little by little, through a long process, as i continue to make the right decisions, or make a choice at all and start going one direction. then, and only then, can the Lord confirm or deny my actions and give me peace i need to continue on the path i chose. if i were to lose faith along the way, perhaps the whole answer wouldn't come, or i would miss part of it. the Lord allows us to face things that will test our patience everyday, so we can be "more fit for His kingdom".
to listen to a beautiful arrangement of one of my favorite hymns, where i took that last line from, click here.
january.10
2 nephi 4:1 - 27
what are some truths you have learned from your parents and grandparents?
--> today is my dad's birthday, so this weekend as we've been celebrating, i've been thinking a lot about him and all the good he has done for my life. i have a solid testimony that we are placed in the families that we are placed in for a good reason - to help each other learn and grow in ways we wouldn't otherwise be able to without them. we are given the perfect combinations of people in our lives. people come and go, fade into and out of our lives based on the time, season, and different experiences we go through, but our families remain consistent. we're never getting rid of them!
my dad has taught me to love God with all my heart, put my whole heart and soul into everything, and to never take life too seriously. i appreciate the opportunity to hear his testimony and watch the way he leads our family on a daily basis. he's not perfect, but he's motivated to be better everyday, and that, to me, is one of the greatest quality a girl could look up to and hope to attain.
love you, dad!
what are some truths you have learned from your parents and grandparents?
--> today is my dad's birthday, so this weekend as we've been celebrating, i've been thinking a lot about him and all the good he has done for my life. i have a solid testimony that we are placed in the families that we are placed in for a good reason - to help each other learn and grow in ways we wouldn't otherwise be able to without them. we are given the perfect combinations of people in our lives. people come and go, fade into and out of our lives based on the time, season, and different experiences we go through, but our families remain consistent. we're never getting rid of them!
my dad has taught me to love God with all my heart, put my whole heart and soul into everything, and to never take life too seriously. i appreciate the opportunity to hear his testimony and watch the way he leads our family on a daily basis. he's not perfect, but he's motivated to be better everyday, and that, to me, is one of the greatest quality a girl could look up to and hope to attain.
love you, dad!
february.9
2 nephi 3:6 - 25
when have you experienced the power of the book of mormon in your life or seen its influence in the lives of friends or family members?
--> in 2010, i decided i wanted to read the book of mormon in one sitting. i had a week in the summer between my job ending and school starting again, so it was perfect. i got up each morning at 8 and read straight through the day for 9 or so hours. i took a break in the evenings then got up the next morning and did the same thing. i finished the whole book in 4 days. it wasn't that impressive, i don't think... i've read other books faster than that... but one thing i did gain from reading it so fast was a nice overview of the story line of the book, and how every single thing that happens in it is connected somehow. i was also amazed to find all the patterns that are in the book - whether in the stories, or teachings of the Savior, or just things that the prophets taught or said. it was incredible to see the similarities.
i have had many powerful experiences in my life with coming to know the book of mormon is the word of God. it is the most correct book on the earth and THE most powerful testimony and witness we have of the Savior, Jesus Christ. i love this book with all my heart and know that when i take the time to dedicated myself to studying its principles AND applying them to my life, i am happier. when i make time to read, i somehow have time to do other things i need to accomplish throughout the day or week.
to read more about the book of mormon and how it can bless you, click here.
when have you experienced the power of the book of mormon in your life or seen its influence in the lives of friends or family members?
--> in 2010, i decided i wanted to read the book of mormon in one sitting. i had a week in the summer between my job ending and school starting again, so it was perfect. i got up each morning at 8 and read straight through the day for 9 or so hours. i took a break in the evenings then got up the next morning and did the same thing. i finished the whole book in 4 days. it wasn't that impressive, i don't think... i've read other books faster than that... but one thing i did gain from reading it so fast was a nice overview of the story line of the book, and how every single thing that happens in it is connected somehow. i was also amazed to find all the patterns that are in the book - whether in the stories, or teachings of the Savior, or just things that the prophets taught or said. it was incredible to see the similarities.
i have had many powerful experiences in my life with coming to know the book of mormon is the word of God. it is the most correct book on the earth and THE most powerful testimony and witness we have of the Savior, Jesus Christ. i love this book with all my heart and know that when i take the time to dedicated myself to studying its principles AND applying them to my life, i am happier. when i make time to read, i somehow have time to do other things i need to accomplish throughout the day or week.
to read more about the book of mormon and how it can bless you, click here.
february.8
2 nephi 2:22 - 3:5
2 nephi 2:30 - who do you know that has "chosen the good part" like lehi? in what ways would you like to follow their example?
--> after lehi gives a great discourse about agency and choosing eternal life over eternal damnation, choosing light over darkness, goodness over bad, he says to them "i have chosen the good part". this is such a loving display of "hey, here's some things i've learned through my life, and hey, i did it and it totally works!" they had a great example to follow and saw through that example what joy and peace a life close to the Savior could bring.
my mom is a perfect example of choosing the good part. just one example is whenever someone is speaking poorly about someone - whether it be a disagreement they had with someone else or petty gossip, or even a passing comment about someone, my mom chooses to always see the good in people. she's they type that will say something nice about that person and build them up. as you know, being around people like that, it's hard to ever gossip about someone again because you know they won't join in. i know she will always choose the good part in terms of the way she speaks about people when they're not around. i love that about her and wish to adopt that. i feel about my mom the way nephi felt about lehi - a great example to follow and pattern life after.
2 nephi 2:30 - who do you know that has "chosen the good part" like lehi? in what ways would you like to follow their example?
--> after lehi gives a great discourse about agency and choosing eternal life over eternal damnation, choosing light over darkness, goodness over bad, he says to them "i have chosen the good part". this is such a loving display of "hey, here's some things i've learned through my life, and hey, i did it and it totally works!" they had a great example to follow and saw through that example what joy and peace a life close to the Savior could bring.
my mom is a perfect example of choosing the good part. just one example is whenever someone is speaking poorly about someone - whether it be a disagreement they had with someone else or petty gossip, or even a passing comment about someone, my mom chooses to always see the good in people. she's they type that will say something nice about that person and build them up. as you know, being around people like that, it's hard to ever gossip about someone again because you know they won't join in. i know she will always choose the good part in terms of the way she speaks about people when they're not around. i love that about her and wish to adopt that. i feel about my mom the way nephi felt about lehi - a great example to follow and pattern life after.
january.7
2 nephi 2:11 - 21
in Heavenly Father's plan of salvation, why do you think it is important that we act for ourselves? how do we sometimes wait to be acted upon rather than act for ourselves?
--> i love what a lady wrote on bofm365: "i think it's important to act for ourselves to gain confidence in our ability to choose. i am grateful he lets me choose my path and learn from my choices - i also know that He is there helping me along the way."
to add to that, i feel like there is quite the sense of accomplishment and achievement when i make the correct choice. we are rewarded in so many ways. as much as i get discouraged with all the opposition in life, i feel verse 13 explains why it has to be that way so well... (go look it up, i don't want to type it out, ha ha). all these things, as lehi says here, are for our profit and learning. going through the process of making a right decision, or a wrong decision, even, is necessary for us to learn and grow and become who we are meant to be.
the more good choices we make, the more blessings, peace, and happiness we receive. through the good and the poor choices, we can learn a lot about ourselves and about the nature of God the Father. He is so good to us, and by giving us the right to choose, we will eventually end up exactly where we are meant to be. agency, the ability to choose, is one of my FAVORITE principles of the gospel!
in Heavenly Father's plan of salvation, why do you think it is important that we act for ourselves? how do we sometimes wait to be acted upon rather than act for ourselves?
--> i love what a lady wrote on bofm365: "i think it's important to act for ourselves to gain confidence in our ability to choose. i am grateful he lets me choose my path and learn from my choices - i also know that He is there helping me along the way."
to add to that, i feel like there is quite the sense of accomplishment and achievement when i make the correct choice. we are rewarded in so many ways. as much as i get discouraged with all the opposition in life, i feel verse 13 explains why it has to be that way so well... (go look it up, i don't want to type it out, ha ha). all these things, as lehi says here, are for our profit and learning. going through the process of making a right decision, or a wrong decision, even, is necessary for us to learn and grow and become who we are meant to be.
the more good choices we make, the more blessings, peace, and happiness we receive. through the good and the poor choices, we can learn a lot about ourselves and about the nature of God the Father. He is so good to us, and by giving us the right to choose, we will eventually end up exactly where we are meant to be. agency, the ability to choose, is one of my FAVORITE principles of the gospel!
february.6
2 nephi 1:30 - 2:10
what can you learn from the counsel lehi gave to zoram and his sons?
--> i love in verse 31 where lehi tells zoram, "because thou hast been faithful thy seed shall be blessed". i recognize that in life, whatever we do affects so many people besides ourselves. i look up to my ancestors and their examples. i appreciate their histories and their life experiences, the legacy that they left me. i can see first-hand how their righteous influence is benefiting their posterity for years and years to come. this makes me excited knowing that my righteous influence can affect not only people i come in contact with here, but my children and grandchildren and great-grandchildren, and people that will live long after i'm gone. pretty cool. pretty cool indeed.
what can you learn from the counsel lehi gave to zoram and his sons?
--> i love in verse 31 where lehi tells zoram, "because thou hast been faithful thy seed shall be blessed". i recognize that in life, whatever we do affects so many people besides ourselves. i look up to my ancestors and their examples. i appreciate their histories and their life experiences, the legacy that they left me. i can see first-hand how their righteous influence is benefiting their posterity for years and years to come. this makes me excited knowing that my righteous influence can affect not only people i come in contact with here, but my children and grandchildren and great-grandchildren, and people that will live long after i'm gone. pretty cool. pretty cool indeed.
february.5
2 nephi 1:13 - 29
if you were to leave some final words of counsel with your family, what would you say?
if you were to leave some final words of counsel with your family, what would you say?
--> stay close to the Lord.
pray often.
love deeply.
take care of yourself.
enjoy the little things.
reach out.
choose happiness.
live in peace.
february.4
2 nephi 1:1-12
what is an example of a great thing the Lord has done for you and your family?
--> what a loaded question. the Lord has done innumerable great things for my family. i'd say tonight in particular, i'm feeling grateful for the many, many temples that are in utah. it's such a blessing to be so close to so many temples. i love the temple with all my heart and can't believe utah will soon have 17!!
to read more about why mormons build temples, click here.
what is an example of a great thing the Lord has done for you and your family?
--> what a loaded question. the Lord has done innumerable great things for my family. i'd say tonight in particular, i'm feeling grateful for the many, many temples that are in utah. it's such a blessing to be so close to so many temples. i love the temple with all my heart and can't believe utah will soon have 17!!
to read more about why mormons build temples, click here.
february.3
1 nephi 22:11 - 31
in our day, God asks that all church members assist in gathering "His children from the four quarters of the earth". how do you think those who are gathered feel about those who have gathered them?
--> this past week i received the beautiful news that a man i worked tirelessly with on my full-time mission has finally made the decision to be baptized!! i love this man with all my heart and couldn't be more thrilled that he's finally chosen to take this big step in his life. this week as i've been speaking with him and other people i know from that area, i have been reminded just how special missionaries are to their converts. i said to one man about this man who will be baptized, "i cherish my visits with that man." and he responded, "he feels the same. you are a major part of his conversion, sara. i hope you know that. the Lord opened his heart through you." what a blessing to be an influence in other people's lives, especially in the important work of leading people to the light.
i love verse 12 in this chapter: "...and they shall be brought out of obscurity and out of darkness; and they shall know that the Lord is their Savior and their Redeemer, the Mighty One of Israel." as we lead people to the Savior we are leading them out of the darkness. the people that we lead and help will feel so much gratitude and love towards us, a greater measure than they now feel. i believe that because i've seen it time and time again in my own life when i help people find God. we are all a family, here to help our brothers and sisters come home.
for some easy ideas about how to share the gospel, click here or here.
in our day, God asks that all church members assist in gathering "His children from the four quarters of the earth". how do you think those who are gathered feel about those who have gathered them?
--> this past week i received the beautiful news that a man i worked tirelessly with on my full-time mission has finally made the decision to be baptized!! i love this man with all my heart and couldn't be more thrilled that he's finally chosen to take this big step in his life. this week as i've been speaking with him and other people i know from that area, i have been reminded just how special missionaries are to their converts. i said to one man about this man who will be baptized, "i cherish my visits with that man." and he responded, "he feels the same. you are a major part of his conversion, sara. i hope you know that. the Lord opened his heart through you." what a blessing to be an influence in other people's lives, especially in the important work of leading people to the light.
i love verse 12 in this chapter: "...and they shall be brought out of obscurity and out of darkness; and they shall know that the Lord is their Savior and their Redeemer, the Mighty One of Israel." as we lead people to the Savior we are leading them out of the darkness. the people that we lead and help will feel so much gratitude and love towards us, a greater measure than they now feel. i believe that because i've seen it time and time again in my own life when i help people find God. we are all a family, here to help our brothers and sisters come home.
for some easy ideas about how to share the gospel, click here or here.
february.2
1 nephi 21:22 - 22:10
in 1 nephi 22:7-8, how can sharing the gospel be like carrying others in our arms or on our shoulders?
--> the time in my life when i was the most dedicated to sharing the gospel was when i served as a full-time missionary for the church from september 2010 - april 2012. there was never a time in my life when i was happier, more in tune with the spirit, and had a greater desire to lift other people up with the blessings and joy and light that a knowledge of the Savior, Jesus Christ brings into life. from my experience in calgary, canada, i can testify that as we share the gospel with people, we are literally lifting them up. we lift their spirits, their morals, their standards, their hope, their beliefs, their self worth and their confidence. also, when i think of someone being carried on someone else's shoulders, i think of a sports team that has just won a championship game and is lifting the star player to celebrate. i think of a small girl on the shoulders of her dad. the gospel is in place for personal salvation, but is a team effort. without the influence of each other we would be able to make our way through life in a decent manner, but never live it to the fullest. Heavenly Father has surrounded us with wonderful people to help us grow, learn, discover, and lift. i am ever grateful for the good people in my life that continue to share their testimonies of the gospel with me, to lift me up and help me stay on the path that will lead me home.
in 1 nephi 22:7-8, how can sharing the gospel be like carrying others in our arms or on our shoulders?
--> the time in my life when i was the most dedicated to sharing the gospel was when i served as a full-time missionary for the church from september 2010 - april 2012. there was never a time in my life when i was happier, more in tune with the spirit, and had a greater desire to lift other people up with the blessings and joy and light that a knowledge of the Savior, Jesus Christ brings into life. from my experience in calgary, canada, i can testify that as we share the gospel with people, we are literally lifting them up. we lift their spirits, their morals, their standards, their hope, their beliefs, their self worth and their confidence. also, when i think of someone being carried on someone else's shoulders, i think of a sports team that has just won a championship game and is lifting the star player to celebrate. i think of a small girl on the shoulders of her dad. the gospel is in place for personal salvation, but is a team effort. without the influence of each other we would be able to make our way through life in a decent manner, but never live it to the fullest. Heavenly Father has surrounded us with wonderful people to help us grow, learn, discover, and lift. i am ever grateful for the good people in my life that continue to share their testimonies of the gospel with me, to lift me up and help me stay on the path that will lead me home.
february.1
1 nephi 21:1 - 21
why do you think people sometimes feel that the Lord has forgotten them? what experiences have helped you know that the Lord has not forgotten you?
--> even amidst the hardest of challenges, there are SO many tender mercies and things that happen that prove to me that the Lord never has, nor ever will, forget about me. i am amazed at the perfect way my life pans out. it's not perfect, but i can tell it is perfectly planned. from the people i am surrounded by at specific times in my life to the experiences i am given to the opportunities that arise to the challenges i face, the Lord's hand is in it. He is. 100%.
when we face hard things, it's easy to think that the Lord has forgotten us. we tend to think, "why me?" or "what have i done to deserve this?" or "how long will this suffering last?". sometimes those questions lead to anger or animosity to the very person that is cradling us every step of the way. He is there to carry us when our burdens are too much. He is there to listen as we pour out our hearts to Him. He gives us challenges so that we can come unto Him. so often we resent the very things that are meant to draw us closer to the Savior. with a greater perspective and understanding of the Lord's plan for me personally, i find that i am able to combat life's challenges with a more positive attitude and look for the ways God has not forgotten me, rather than dwelling on the reasons it may seem He has.
to read a powerful talk entitled "you are not forgotten", click here.
why do you think people sometimes feel that the Lord has forgotten them? what experiences have helped you know that the Lord has not forgotten you?
--> even amidst the hardest of challenges, there are SO many tender mercies and things that happen that prove to me that the Lord never has, nor ever will, forget about me. i am amazed at the perfect way my life pans out. it's not perfect, but i can tell it is perfectly planned. from the people i am surrounded by at specific times in my life to the experiences i am given to the opportunities that arise to the challenges i face, the Lord's hand is in it. He is. 100%.
when we face hard things, it's easy to think that the Lord has forgotten us. we tend to think, "why me?" or "what have i done to deserve this?" or "how long will this suffering last?". sometimes those questions lead to anger or animosity to the very person that is cradling us every step of the way. He is there to carry us when our burdens are too much. He is there to listen as we pour out our hearts to Him. He gives us challenges so that we can come unto Him. so often we resent the very things that are meant to draw us closer to the Savior. with a greater perspective and understanding of the Lord's plan for me personally, i find that i am able to combat life's challenges with a more positive attitude and look for the ways God has not forgotten me, rather than dwelling on the reasons it may seem He has.
to read a powerful talk entitled "you are not forgotten", click here.
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