omni 1: 1 - 11
what do you learn from these verses? why do you feel it was important that they be included in the book of mormon?
--> i've found an interesting comparison between chemish and others who have written on the plates as part of keeping the record. see if you can feel the difference between these 3 attitudes towards the sacred opportunity to write in the plates:
chemish: omni 1:9 "now i, chemish, write what few things i write in the same book with my brother; for behold, i saw the last which he wrote, that he wrote it with his own hand; and he wrote it in the day that he delivered them unto me. and after this manner we keep the records, for it is according to the commandments of our fathers. and i make an end."
moroni: moroni 1:4 "wherefore, i write a few more things, contrary to that which i had supposed; for i had supposed not to have written any more; but i write a few more things, that perhaps they may be of worth unto my brethren, the lamanites, in some future day, according to the will of the Lord."
and how about nephi: 2 nephi 25:23 "for we labor diligently to write, to persuade our children, and also our brethren to believe in Christ, and to be reconciled to God..."
i feel like this is a life lesson to each of us, that whatever the task at hand, whether great or small, seemingly un-doable or insignificant, the attitude with which we face it will determine the effect it can/will have on those that come after us.
march.30
jarom 1: 1 - 15
how has the Lord blessed or prospered you for keeping His commandments? from your experience, what testimony can you share about the Lord and His promises?
--> one promise the Lord has given me through my patriarchal blessing is that if i continue to keep my journal faithfully, it will be a benefit to me in the future. i always thought that benefit would come when i am old and gray, perhaps with alzheimers, when my children would come and read to me stories of my own life (notebook style!) or some future day when my great grandchildren are picking ancestors to study about.
i have seen my journal influence my life in more ways than i can express. it is a place of outlet for me, a place to record my most sacred thoughts, my silliest thoughts, my most embarrassing thoughts, and a record of the life i am trying to build. in my blessing it gives me 3 very specific things to record 1. things i want to pass onto my own children 2. things that build and reinforce my testimony 3. the names of people that make a significant difference in my life.
i've found so much peace and direction through expressing myself through words, on paper, and also as i have gone back through and read my journals from time to time. there is much strength to be gained from previous experiences we go through, and i am grateful for the counsel and promises that come with writing in my journal.
here's some cool quotes from past prophets about the benefits and importance of keeping a journal!
how has the Lord blessed or prospered you for keeping His commandments? from your experience, what testimony can you share about the Lord and His promises?
--> one promise the Lord has given me through my patriarchal blessing is that if i continue to keep my journal faithfully, it will be a benefit to me in the future. i always thought that benefit would come when i am old and gray, perhaps with alzheimers, when my children would come and read to me stories of my own life (notebook style!) or some future day when my great grandchildren are picking ancestors to study about.
i have seen my journal influence my life in more ways than i can express. it is a place of outlet for me, a place to record my most sacred thoughts, my silliest thoughts, my most embarrassing thoughts, and a record of the life i am trying to build. in my blessing it gives me 3 very specific things to record 1. things i want to pass onto my own children 2. things that build and reinforce my testimony 3. the names of people that make a significant difference in my life.
i've found so much peace and direction through expressing myself through words, on paper, and also as i have gone back through and read my journals from time to time. there is much strength to be gained from previous experiences we go through, and i am grateful for the counsel and promises that come with writing in my journal.
here's some cool quotes from past prophets about the benefits and importance of keeping a journal!
march.29
enos 1: 11 - 27
what do these verses teach you about enos' understanding of the teachings of Jesus Christ?
--> in verse 15, enos gives a powerful testimony about his understanding of Jesus Christ. he testifies that he knows that whatever he asks of God will be given to him, if he asks in faith in the name of Christ. i believe that is why he was able to ask for some difficult things, or things that seemed impossible. he had seen evidences that prayer works in his life and desired for those blessings to be given to other people in his life.
i love how much faith is discussed in this chapter. it's all over the place. "my faith began to be unshaken in the Lord". what a great dying testimony.
what do these verses teach you about enos' understanding of the teachings of Jesus Christ?
--> in verse 15, enos gives a powerful testimony about his understanding of Jesus Christ. he testifies that he knows that whatever he asks of God will be given to him, if he asks in faith in the name of Christ. i believe that is why he was able to ask for some difficult things, or things that seemed impossible. he had seen evidences that prayer works in his life and desired for those blessings to be given to other people in his life.
i love how much faith is discussed in this chapter. it's all over the place. "my faith began to be unshaken in the Lord". what a great dying testimony.
march.28
jacob 7: 21 - enos 1 : 10
in enos 1:4, what evidence do you see that enos was sincere as he sought a remission of his sins? in what ways can we show our sincerity as we seek the Lord's forgiveness?
--> one thing that's always impressed me about the story of enos is that he was pondering the words that his father taught him while he was out hunting! especially serving in my current calling, i sometimes wonder if the things i teach the sisters in my ward are sticking, or if they have any sort of effect on the people i come in contact with. often, i believe the most profound moments of learning are long after the lessons have been taught, when people, in their quiet moments, are pondering what they have learned, or when Heavenly Father brings something to their remembrance that they have once heard.
through this thought process, enos is thinking not only about his own sins, but about the sins of his people. he cares for them so deeply and wants to be a good leader. the words "mighty prayer and supplication" give me an image of enos pouring his soul to God, just pleading that the sins might be taken away. supplication means to ask or beg for something earnestly. because he was praying all day and into the night for this, i can imagine the kind of conversation he was having with Heavenly Father. pretty cool to think about.
my mission president, alan archibald, once said this in regards to this chapter: "when we have a growing testimony of the Atonement of Jesus Christ, our desires, concerns, and efforts turn outward and our selfish motives completely disappear." don't you love that?
in enos 1:4, what evidence do you see that enos was sincere as he sought a remission of his sins? in what ways can we show our sincerity as we seek the Lord's forgiveness?
--> one thing that's always impressed me about the story of enos is that he was pondering the words that his father taught him while he was out hunting! especially serving in my current calling, i sometimes wonder if the things i teach the sisters in my ward are sticking, or if they have any sort of effect on the people i come in contact with. often, i believe the most profound moments of learning are long after the lessons have been taught, when people, in their quiet moments, are pondering what they have learned, or when Heavenly Father brings something to their remembrance that they have once heard.
through this thought process, enos is thinking not only about his own sins, but about the sins of his people. he cares for them so deeply and wants to be a good leader. the words "mighty prayer and supplication" give me an image of enos pouring his soul to God, just pleading that the sins might be taken away. supplication means to ask or beg for something earnestly. because he was praying all day and into the night for this, i can imagine the kind of conversation he was having with Heavenly Father. pretty cool to think about.
my mission president, alan archibald, once said this in regards to this chapter: "when we have a growing testimony of the Atonement of Jesus Christ, our desires, concerns, and efforts turn outward and our selfish motives completely disappear." don't you love that?
march.27
jacob 7: 1 - 20
when have you shared your testimony with someone who has criticized your faith?
--> the most prevalent examples of sharing my testimony with people who criticized me is from my full-time mission. the part of alberta i served in is like the utah of canada, meaning that most everyone has heard of the church before. people were very cordial and kind most of the time, even when rejecting, but i appreciated all the opportunities to share my testimony with people that didn't have a belief in the restored gospel of Jesus Christ. i think criticism can build a testimony because you actually have to stand up and defend what you believe. Christ never backed down in the face of criticism, and neither should we.
to read a sweet talk about what a pure testimony is, click here.
when have you shared your testimony with someone who has criticized your faith?
--> the most prevalent examples of sharing my testimony with people who criticized me is from my full-time mission. the part of alberta i served in is like the utah of canada, meaning that most everyone has heard of the church before. people were very cordial and kind most of the time, even when rejecting, but i appreciated all the opportunities to share my testimony with people that didn't have a belief in the restored gospel of Jesus Christ. i think criticism can build a testimony because you actually have to stand up and defend what you believe. Christ never backed down in the face of criticism, and neither should we.
to read a sweet talk about what a pure testimony is, click here.
march.26
jacob 6: 1 - 13
how did jacob describe the Lord? what does it mean to you that the Lord's 'arm of mercy is extended towards you'?
-->the Lord is merciful, He remembers those that labor with Him, He stretches His hands forth all day, everyday, He wants to save us in the kingdom of God, He cleaves unto us, His word is good, He wants to recover His people, He has great power.
the arm of mercy is extended toward me through the Atonement of Jesus Christ. through the Atonement, i can return home. that's my goal.
how did jacob describe the Lord? what does it mean to you that the Lord's 'arm of mercy is extended towards you'?
-->the Lord is merciful, He remembers those that labor with Him, He stretches His hands forth all day, everyday, He wants to save us in the kingdom of God, He cleaves unto us, His word is good, He wants to recover His people, He has great power.
the arm of mercy is extended toward me through the Atonement of Jesus Christ. through the Atonement, i can return home. that's my goal.
march.25
jacob 5: 70 - 77
as you consider your opportunities to serve the Lord, how will you apply the truths we have discussed in jacob 5?
--> i LOVE verse 73 - "...the servants did go and labor with their mights; and the Lord of the vineyard also labored with them..."
when i consider my opportunities to serve, i honestly sometimes get overwhelmed. we are asked to do a lot as latter-day saints, and trying to balance all that with other tasks and duties of life can get stressful. but, i have a testimony and conviction that we will never be asked to do anything that we are not capable of, and that is because of verse 73. this verse brings me comfort and peace time and time again as i think about the amazing fact that Heavenly Father is right there serving with me, laboring in this great work, His great work, every single day. i've felt His presence and continue to feel it every time i do something good. how could He ask us to do things and leave us stranded? nope, He is with us every step of the way. thank goodness, right? :)
as you consider your opportunities to serve the Lord, how will you apply the truths we have discussed in jacob 5?
--> i LOVE verse 73 - "...the servants did go and labor with their mights; and the Lord of the vineyard also labored with them..."
when i consider my opportunities to serve, i honestly sometimes get overwhelmed. we are asked to do a lot as latter-day saints, and trying to balance all that with other tasks and duties of life can get stressful. but, i have a testimony and conviction that we will never be asked to do anything that we are not capable of, and that is because of verse 73. this verse brings me comfort and peace time and time again as i think about the amazing fact that Heavenly Father is right there serving with me, laboring in this great work, His great work, every single day. i've felt His presence and continue to feel it every time i do something good. how could He ask us to do things and leave us stranded? nope, He is with us every step of the way. thank goodness, right? :)
march.24
jacob 5: 49 - 69
when have you felt that the Lord has labored with you as you have participated in His work?
--> every. single. day. i feel that every single day. the Lord is SO good to be so involved in this work. He is constantly guiding and directing me. i love it when i get a thought to do something and follow through with it and a really cool miracle happens because of it. i love the quiet inspirations that He sends me that allow me to be an instrument in His hands.
about 2 weeks ago i had the thought to start up a scripture study group. i frequently attended one in high school with some guys that we often hung out with and i just loved it. i knew the study group would be beneficial to me as well as many of my friends and other sisters in the ward. so we had our first "meeting" last tuesday. towards the end, one of the girls there asked how i was inspired to start this. she then went on to explain that she was inactive for 12 years but during that time was actively going to bible study and loved the intellectual discussion that came with it. 3 years ago, she decided to come back to the lds church, but really missed that scripture study aspect. she's also always struggled with the book of mormon. she looked right at me and said, "you started this class for me. i know it. thank you." my prayers that night were full of thanks to a loving Heavenly Father who is constantly looking out for His children and helping me to help them. i love being an instrument in His hands, and love that He is right next to me doing this work. i couldn't do it without Him, nor would i want to! God is good. church is true.
when have you felt that the Lord has labored with you as you have participated in His work?
--> every. single. day. i feel that every single day. the Lord is SO good to be so involved in this work. He is constantly guiding and directing me. i love it when i get a thought to do something and follow through with it and a really cool miracle happens because of it. i love the quiet inspirations that He sends me that allow me to be an instrument in His hands.
about 2 weeks ago i had the thought to start up a scripture study group. i frequently attended one in high school with some guys that we often hung out with and i just loved it. i knew the study group would be beneficial to me as well as many of my friends and other sisters in the ward. so we had our first "meeting" last tuesday. towards the end, one of the girls there asked how i was inspired to start this. she then went on to explain that she was inactive for 12 years but during that time was actively going to bible study and loved the intellectual discussion that came with it. 3 years ago, she decided to come back to the lds church, but really missed that scripture study aspect. she's also always struggled with the book of mormon. she looked right at me and said, "you started this class for me. i know it. thank you." my prayers that night were full of thanks to a loving Heavenly Father who is constantly looking out for His children and helping me to help them. i love being an instrument in His hands, and love that He is right next to me doing this work. i couldn't do it without Him, nor would i want to! God is good. church is true.
march.23
Jacob 5: 35 - 48
how does the master's care for his vineyard represent the Lord's love for us?
--> when i read this parable, i am always amazed at how well the Lord of the vineyard knows each tree. He knows exactly what each tree needs to thrive and succeed, though it is not the same for all of them. in our lives, the Lord knows exactly what we need as well. He knows us perfectly, and loves us perfectly.
in verse 41, the Lord of the vineyard weeps for the branches that are lost and asks "what more could i have done for my vineyard?" He truly is grieved that He has lost a tree. this is the same as when He sees some of the choices that we are making in our lives, he weeps when we do not do what is right because He can't bear to lose us.
how does the master's care for his vineyard represent the Lord's love for us?
--> when i read this parable, i am always amazed at how well the Lord of the vineyard knows each tree. He knows exactly what each tree needs to thrive and succeed, though it is not the same for all of them. in our lives, the Lord knows exactly what we need as well. He knows us perfectly, and loves us perfectly.
in verse 41, the Lord of the vineyard weeps for the branches that are lost and asks "what more could i have done for my vineyard?" He truly is grieved that He has lost a tree. this is the same as when He sees some of the choices that we are making in our lives, he weeps when we do not do what is right because He can't bear to lose us.
march.22
jacob 5:19 - 24
joseph fielding smith described jacob 5 as "no greater parable was ever recorded." what do you learn from these verses today?
--> one verse that stood out to me today was verse 22. "and the Lord of the vineyard said unto him: counsel me not; i knew that it was a poor spot of ground; wherefore, i said unto thee, i have nourished it this long time, and thou beholdest that it hath brought forth much fruit." this was in response to the servant asking the Lord why he came to plant this tree when he knew it was a poor spot.
i was just thinking about our lives and sometimes we are put in situations that we are confused about or can't figure out why we are in. BUT the Lord knows perfectly why we are kept in certain places. often it is to see how we will bloom and grow in those situations and circumstances. He keeps where He needs us at all times. as long as we are listening to His counsel and guidance, we will be kept safe, and assured that the places we are in are exactly where we need to be.
this principle also helps me to keep the mindset of "what am i supposed to learn from this situation?" "what is it that God would have me do and learn from these circumstances?"
i am grateful for God's eternal plan for me, and the perfect way He is hand-crafting my day, ever single day!
joseph fielding smith described jacob 5 as "no greater parable was ever recorded." what do you learn from these verses today?
--> one verse that stood out to me today was verse 22. "and the Lord of the vineyard said unto him: counsel me not; i knew that it was a poor spot of ground; wherefore, i said unto thee, i have nourished it this long time, and thou beholdest that it hath brought forth much fruit." this was in response to the servant asking the Lord why he came to plant this tree when he knew it was a poor spot.
i was just thinking about our lives and sometimes we are put in situations that we are confused about or can't figure out why we are in. BUT the Lord knows perfectly why we are kept in certain places. often it is to see how we will bloom and grow in those situations and circumstances. He keeps where He needs us at all times. as long as we are listening to His counsel and guidance, we will be kept safe, and assured that the places we are in are exactly where we need to be.
this principle also helps me to keep the mindset of "what am i supposed to learn from this situation?" "what is it that God would have me do and learn from these circumstances?"
i am grateful for God's eternal plan for me, and the perfect way He is hand-crafting my day, ever single day!
march.21
jacob 5: 1 - 18
according to jacob 5:3, what began to happen to the tame olive tree? what does the decay of the tree symbolize?
--> i've always loved the phrase that is repeated over and over in this chapter that "it grieveth me that i should lose this tree". the master of the vineyard can't bear to lose even one tree from his vineyard. he goes to great lengths to nourish and keep all of them.
and so it is with our Heavenly Father in our lives. He can't bear to lose any of us, so He goes to great lengths and gives us chance after second chance time and time again.
when i was working closely with a boy named ferny about a year and a half ago, he said, "i can't believe how far Heavenly Father went out of His way to snatch me up and bring me home." i've thought a lot about that phrase. Heavenly Father didn't go out of His way at all, but He did interfere in many ways to bring Ferny back to the fold. and so He does for us all. because He loves us. so so much. <3
according to jacob 5:3, what began to happen to the tame olive tree? what does the decay of the tree symbolize?
--> i've always loved the phrase that is repeated over and over in this chapter that "it grieveth me that i should lose this tree". the master of the vineyard can't bear to lose even one tree from his vineyard. he goes to great lengths to nourish and keep all of them.
and so it is with our Heavenly Father in our lives. He can't bear to lose any of us, so He goes to great lengths and gives us chance after second chance time and time again.
when i was working closely with a boy named ferny about a year and a half ago, he said, "i can't believe how far Heavenly Father went out of His way to snatch me up and bring me home." i've thought a lot about that phrase. Heavenly Father didn't go out of His way at all, but He did interfere in many ways to bring Ferny back to the fold. and so He does for us all. because He loves us. so so much. <3
march.20
jacob 4: 1 - 18
why do people sometimes reject "words of plainness" and seek instead for things they cannot understand? what are some dangers of overlooking the simple truths of the gospel?
--> i was talking about this very concept this morning with my family during family scripture study. we were talking about when the people of moses simply had to look to the serpent and be healed but because of the easiness of the way, many people didn't do it. they didn't believe that something so simple could heal them - they didn't have the faith to even look.
i was asking my dad what would've happened if they didn't believe it would heal them, but if they looked anyway, did he think they would still be healed. he said that looking was faith enough. by looking, they showed that they believed in the simpleness of the way, no matter how silly it seemed. those that chose to follow the simple command lived.
it's the same in our lives. the gospel principles are simple. when we follow them, we are blessed. enough said.
why do people sometimes reject "words of plainness" and seek instead for things they cannot understand? what are some dangers of overlooking the simple truths of the gospel?
--> i was talking about this very concept this morning with my family during family scripture study. we were talking about when the people of moses simply had to look to the serpent and be healed but because of the easiness of the way, many people didn't do it. they didn't believe that something so simple could heal them - they didn't have the faith to even look.
i was asking my dad what would've happened if they didn't believe it would heal them, but if they looked anyway, did he think they would still be healed. he said that looking was faith enough. by looking, they showed that they believed in the simpleness of the way, no matter how silly it seemed. those that chose to follow the simple command lived.
it's the same in our lives. the gospel principles are simple. when we follow them, we are blessed. enough said.
march.19
jacob 3: 1 - 14
how has praying with faith helped you during a time of trial?
--> my first transfer as a missionary i was so down. i was with a trainer that i didn't get along with. i had no friends in the mission. i had no idea what i was doing. my back was in excruciating pain everyday. i didn't know we were being disobedient. i was feeling overwhelmed. there were some days when i didn't feel the spirit because i was so mad at my companion for one thing or another.
i remember one afternoon, after lunch, just going into the bathroom (only place you can be alone as a missionary...) and sobbing. just pleading that Heavenly Father would allow me to love this companion. the day that my prayers changed to that from "help me get through this" was the day that transfer turned around. i never liked that woman, but i grew to love her and the things i could learn from her, for better or worse. i applied the scripture in moroni 7:48 which says to pray to the Father with all the energy of heart that you may be filled with His love.
i prayed with so much faith that the Lord could heal my circumstances by changing my attitude about them. it wasn't immediate, but as i put my trust in Him and took steps in the right direction, i learned to love my circumstances. looking back now, it was a perfect start to my mission, and things could only go up from there.
"hope is the use of faith when despair is easier." i will always love this quote because to me, it embodies the perfect use of hope and faith in our lives. despair will always be easier, but faith will always bring lasting blessings and peace.
the church is true. no doubt about it.
how has praying with faith helped you during a time of trial?
--> my first transfer as a missionary i was so down. i was with a trainer that i didn't get along with. i had no friends in the mission. i had no idea what i was doing. my back was in excruciating pain everyday. i didn't know we were being disobedient. i was feeling overwhelmed. there were some days when i didn't feel the spirit because i was so mad at my companion for one thing or another.
i remember one afternoon, after lunch, just going into the bathroom (only place you can be alone as a missionary...) and sobbing. just pleading that Heavenly Father would allow me to love this companion. the day that my prayers changed to that from "help me get through this" was the day that transfer turned around. i never liked that woman, but i grew to love her and the things i could learn from her, for better or worse. i applied the scripture in moroni 7:48 which says to pray to the Father with all the energy of heart that you may be filled with His love.
i prayed with so much faith that the Lord could heal my circumstances by changing my attitude about them. it wasn't immediate, but as i put my trust in Him and took steps in the right direction, i learned to love my circumstances. looking back now, it was a perfect start to my mission, and things could only go up from there.
"hope is the use of faith when despair is easier." i will always love this quote because to me, it embodies the perfect use of hope and faith in our lives. despair will always be easier, but faith will always bring lasting blessings and peace.
the church is true. no doubt about it.
march.18
jacob 2: 17 - 35
based on today's verses, why do you think the Lord delights in chastity?
--> rather than give my opinion on this one, i'm going to again pull from our dear elder bednar. he is just so eloquent and i've come to love this talk, "we believe in being chaste." i also love this one, "the moral force of women" by elder christofferson. enjoy!
based on today's verses, why do you think the Lord delights in chastity?
--> rather than give my opinion on this one, i'm going to again pull from our dear elder bednar. he is just so eloquent and i've come to love this talk, "we believe in being chaste." i also love this one, "the moral force of women" by elder christofferson. enjoy!
march.17
jacob 2: 1 - 16
why is it important to remember that all our blessings come from our Heavenly Father?
--> ...because they all do...! Heavenly Father expects us to be grateful for the things that we have. we have everything because of Him.
in other news, my favorite verse in this chapter is actually verse 8 where it says, "the pleasing word of God... healeth the wounded soul." i love that so much that i wrote it underneath the title of the book of mormon in my scriptures. i testify that the word of God truly does heal the wounded soul! what a blessing to have the scriptures to indulge and immerse ourselves in. as we do that, we are indeed healed.
why is it important to remember that all our blessings come from our Heavenly Father?
--> ...because they all do...! Heavenly Father expects us to be grateful for the things that we have. we have everything because of Him.
in other news, my favorite verse in this chapter is actually verse 8 where it says, "the pleasing word of God... healeth the wounded soul." i love that so much that i wrote it underneath the title of the book of mormon in my scriptures. i testify that the word of God truly does heal the wounded soul! what a blessing to have the scriptures to indulge and immerse ourselves in. as we do that, we are indeed healed.
march.16
jacob 1: 1 - 19
just as jacob is called to teach his people, why is it a blessing to have parents and church leaders who warn us of sinful attitudes and behaviors?
--> i haven't always appreciated my parents' advice, but now that i'm getting "older" (and hopefully a mite wiser), i can see just how wise their advice and corrections were. turns out, they totally have an understanding of the gospel that far outweighs mine, and they totally knew what they were talking about all along. the funny thing about life is that we have to do a lot of discovery on our own. but i am grateful for righteous parents that are willing to work with me and help me to become better. they aren't perfect, but they are trying, and doing a mighty good job. i've always loved being an ence. it's a pretty good life around here. and the reason is, they have founded everything they do on the teachings of the gospel of Jesus Christ and based their parenting styles on the way that the Savior would parent if He were here. i hope to pattern that same style when i have a family of my own one day!
just as jacob is called to teach his people, why is it a blessing to have parents and church leaders who warn us of sinful attitudes and behaviors?
--> i haven't always appreciated my parents' advice, but now that i'm getting "older" (and hopefully a mite wiser), i can see just how wise their advice and corrections were. turns out, they totally have an understanding of the gospel that far outweighs mine, and they totally knew what they were talking about all along. the funny thing about life is that we have to do a lot of discovery on our own. but i am grateful for righteous parents that are willing to work with me and help me to become better. they aren't perfect, but they are trying, and doing a mighty good job. i've always loved being an ence. it's a pretty good life around here. and the reason is, they have founded everything they do on the teachings of the gospel of Jesus Christ and based their parenting styles on the way that the Savior would parent if He were here. i hope to pattern that same style when i have a family of my own one day!
march.15
2 nephi 33: 1 - 15
what is the difference between a message going unto someone's heart and a message going into someone's heart. when have you felt that a gospel message entered your heart?
--> i love elder bednar's talk about this very topic. rather than give you my own opinions about it, let's just read it straight from him. i've linked this talk in an earlier post, but it's just that good. click here.
what is the difference between a message going unto someone's heart and a message going into someone's heart. when have you felt that a gospel message entered your heart?
--> i love elder bednar's talk about this very topic. rather than give you my own opinions about it, let's just read it straight from him. i've linked this talk in an earlier post, but it's just that good. click here.
march.14
2 nephi 32: 1 - 9
2 nephi 32:3 - what does it mean to "feast upon the words of Christ"? when has His word told you "all things that ye should do?"
--> i will always remember an object lesson we had in young womens one day. we walked into church and there was a massive thanksgiving feast out on the table. fancy dishes, 3 turkeys, many beautiful dishes of potatoes, yams, beans, homemade rolls, any kind of pie you would want, etc. etc. etc.
as the lesson started, different people would come up to the table and say ridiculous things, like "i just don't have time to eat today." "i'll eat next week." "i'm too tired to eat right now." "i really don't like this food." "i think i'll eat just a little bit today and save the rest for later." etc. then, the last boy that got up just gorged himself in everything. he talked with his mouthful about how delicious everything was, and just couldn't shove the food into his mouth fast enough.
i've often thought about this lesson in relation to feasting on the words of Christ. the message to follow the feast was a perfect message about the materials we have before us, and how we don't take advantage of them, or don't get what we could be getting from them because we are too lazy or too tired or just don't make it a priority. we would never consider going a day without feeding our bodies. we need food to survive. how, then, can we go for days starving our spirits?
i am preaching to myself here. there are few days during a typical week when i actually sit down and feast on the scriptures. reading this again this week has inspired me to be better at that. because, it's usually when we are feasting that we get the best revelation :)
2 nephi 32:3 - what does it mean to "feast upon the words of Christ"? when has His word told you "all things that ye should do?"
--> i will always remember an object lesson we had in young womens one day. we walked into church and there was a massive thanksgiving feast out on the table. fancy dishes, 3 turkeys, many beautiful dishes of potatoes, yams, beans, homemade rolls, any kind of pie you would want, etc. etc. etc.
as the lesson started, different people would come up to the table and say ridiculous things, like "i just don't have time to eat today." "i'll eat next week." "i'm too tired to eat right now." "i really don't like this food." "i think i'll eat just a little bit today and save the rest for later." etc. then, the last boy that got up just gorged himself in everything. he talked with his mouthful about how delicious everything was, and just couldn't shove the food into his mouth fast enough.
i've often thought about this lesson in relation to feasting on the words of Christ. the message to follow the feast was a perfect message about the materials we have before us, and how we don't take advantage of them, or don't get what we could be getting from them because we are too lazy or too tired or just don't make it a priority. we would never consider going a day without feeding our bodies. we need food to survive. how, then, can we go for days starving our spirits?
i am preaching to myself here. there are few days during a typical week when i actually sit down and feast on the scriptures. reading this again this week has inspired me to be better at that. because, it's usually when we are feasting that we get the best revelation :)
march.13
2 nephi 31: 1 - 21
many of the most important teachings of the gospel are in these verses. what do you like most about this chapter?
--> this chapter always brings me back to my canada days as a full-time missionary. we studied and taught the doctrine of Christ a ton. like, everyday. i came to love this chapter more than any other in the book of mormon.
one verse that really stood out to me today was verse 2, when nephi says that he must speak a few words concerning the doctrine of Christ. not that he should or wants to, but must. he feels so converted and touched by the words, that he can't bear to live without telling them to someone.
verse 3 goes on to say that "the Lord God giveth light unto the understanding, for He speaketh unto men according to their language, unto their underestanding."
i have always loved this verse because it proves to me that God loves us so much that He will speak to us in a way that we, personally will understand. He will always help us understand the gospel in a way that we will get it.
many of the most important teachings of the gospel are in these verses. what do you like most about this chapter?
--> this chapter always brings me back to my canada days as a full-time missionary. we studied and taught the doctrine of Christ a ton. like, everyday. i came to love this chapter more than any other in the book of mormon.
one verse that really stood out to me today was verse 2, when nephi says that he must speak a few words concerning the doctrine of Christ. not that he should or wants to, but must. he feels so converted and touched by the words, that he can't bear to live without telling them to someone.
verse 3 goes on to say that "the Lord God giveth light unto the understanding, for He speaketh unto men according to their language, unto their underestanding."
i have always loved this verse because it proves to me that God loves us so much that He will speak to us in a way that we, personally will understand. He will always help us understand the gospel in a way that we will get it.
march.12
2 nephi 30: 1 - 18
why is it helpful to know that righteousness will eventually triumph over wickedness?
--> the world is getting more and more wicked every day. it scares me to think about the kind of world my children will grow up in, because it already seems so evil now. it brings me great hope to know that someday the righteous will win. everyone on this earth once picked Christ as their Savior. some, while here, have lost their way and are rejecting the very person who made it possible for them to come here and get a mortal body. but in the end, all will be made right through the atonement of Jesus Christ. we know the outcome of the "war", we know that if we follow the commandments and teachings of the Savior, all will work together for our good. what a beautiful blessing. what a beautiful promise. what a beautiful life.
why is it helpful to know that righteousness will eventually triumph over wickedness?
--> the world is getting more and more wicked every day. it scares me to think about the kind of world my children will grow up in, because it already seems so evil now. it brings me great hope to know that someday the righteous will win. everyone on this earth once picked Christ as their Savior. some, while here, have lost their way and are rejecting the very person who made it possible for them to come here and get a mortal body. but in the end, all will be made right through the atonement of Jesus Christ. we know the outcome of the "war", we know that if we follow the commandments and teachings of the Savior, all will work together for our good. what a beautiful blessing. what a beautiful promise. what a beautiful life.
march.11
2 nephi 29: 1 - 14
how have these verses increased your appreciation for the book of mormon?
--> the cap stone of this chapter for me is verse 8, where he talks about God loving all nations the same, and if He gave a witness to one nation, why wouldn't He give it to another? God is the same yesterday, today, and forever. He always has been and always will be. He has provided multiple witnesses of truth through the bible and book of mormon.
i also like verse 10 - "because that ye have a bible, ye need not suppose that it contains all my words; neither need ye suppose that i have not caused more to be written." this goes nicely with the article of faith #9 - "we believe all the God has revealed, all that He does now reveal, and we believe He will yet reveal many great and important things pertaining to the kingdom of God." i believe that God has always revealed truth to His children on earth. that hasn't changed. He revealed truth through prophets, which became the bible, He revealed more truth through prophets, which became the book of mormon, and He still reveals truth through prophets today.
to hear the living prophet speak, tune in on april 5 and 6 for the lds annual general conference! click here to listen.
how have these verses increased your appreciation for the book of mormon?
--> the cap stone of this chapter for me is verse 8, where he talks about God loving all nations the same, and if He gave a witness to one nation, why wouldn't He give it to another? God is the same yesterday, today, and forever. He always has been and always will be. He has provided multiple witnesses of truth through the bible and book of mormon.
i also like verse 10 - "because that ye have a bible, ye need not suppose that it contains all my words; neither need ye suppose that i have not caused more to be written." this goes nicely with the article of faith #9 - "we believe all the God has revealed, all that He does now reveal, and we believe He will yet reveal many great and important things pertaining to the kingdom of God." i believe that God has always revealed truth to His children on earth. that hasn't changed. He revealed truth through prophets, which became the bible, He revealed more truth through prophets, which became the book of mormon, and He still reveals truth through prophets today.
to hear the living prophet speak, tune in on april 5 and 6 for the lds annual general conference! click here to listen.
march.10
2 nephi 28: 17 - 32
2 nephi 28:24, why do you think it's dangerous for people to be "at east in zion", thinking no improvement is needed?
--> i once heard a quote that said, "we are either gaining or losing truth and light every moment of every day." since i heard that, i've often thought about the small decisions in my life everyday and if they are causing me to lose light and truth or allowing me to gain it. it's easy to plateau in this life, to flat line, to become stagnant. if we allow that to happen, we cease progression. progression takes work and conscious effort. it takes a continual awareness of what is good and right and what it will take to get there. becoming at ease in zion brings the pride we talked about in the last post. my belief is that we should always take time to celebrate the small victories that we have, but never become too satisfied with our progress, for there is always more to do. i love that about life. there is always more to accomplish and a better person to become. God knows us perfectly now, but He also perfectly sees who we can become. because of this, He hand-crafts and tailors circumstances and situations in our lives that allow us to experience what we need to experience to become what He knows we can be. if we are at ease in zion, we will miss those opportunities. God is good. gospel is true.
2 nephi 28:24, why do you think it's dangerous for people to be "at east in zion", thinking no improvement is needed?
--> i once heard a quote that said, "we are either gaining or losing truth and light every moment of every day." since i heard that, i've often thought about the small decisions in my life everyday and if they are causing me to lose light and truth or allowing me to gain it. it's easy to plateau in this life, to flat line, to become stagnant. if we allow that to happen, we cease progression. progression takes work and conscious effort. it takes a continual awareness of what is good and right and what it will take to get there. becoming at ease in zion brings the pride we talked about in the last post. my belief is that we should always take time to celebrate the small victories that we have, but never become too satisfied with our progress, for there is always more to do. i love that about life. there is always more to accomplish and a better person to become. God knows us perfectly now, but He also perfectly sees who we can become. because of this, He hand-crafts and tailors circumstances and situations in our lives that allow us to experience what we need to experience to become what He knows we can be. if we are at ease in zion, we will miss those opportunities. God is good. gospel is true.
march.9
2 nephi 28: 1 - 16
in what ways do pride and false teachings influence people?
--> the verses about eating, drinking, and being merry have always caused me to think about the danger in writing our own laws for earth life. i think so many people who make choices that would lead them away from Heavenly Father and His teachings develop an attitude that they can live the life they want, pay for it later, and everything will be fine, "at last we shall be saved in the kingdom of God". how false that is. and also how sad.
i personally receive so many blessings and beautiful feelings of comfort, peace, and happiness from following the teachings of the Savior, Jesus Christ. why would i want to every do anything to deny myself of those feelings or blessings? "the natural man is an enemy to God, and has been, from the fall of Adam". the natural man in us is prideful and has irrational views of how this life should be. but deep inside us is rooted a faithful spirit that chose to come to earth and live according to the principles we knew to be true - the principles that would one day take us home.
in what ways do pride and false teachings influence people?
--> the verses about eating, drinking, and being merry have always caused me to think about the danger in writing our own laws for earth life. i think so many people who make choices that would lead them away from Heavenly Father and His teachings develop an attitude that they can live the life they want, pay for it later, and everything will be fine, "at last we shall be saved in the kingdom of God". how false that is. and also how sad.
i personally receive so many blessings and beautiful feelings of comfort, peace, and happiness from following the teachings of the Savior, Jesus Christ. why would i want to every do anything to deny myself of those feelings or blessings? "the natural man is an enemy to God, and has been, from the fall of Adam". the natural man in us is prideful and has irrational views of how this life should be. but deep inside us is rooted a faithful spirit that chose to come to earth and live according to the principles we knew to be true - the principles that would one day take us home.
march.8
2 nephi 27:12 - 35
what do you think nephi meant when he said that witnesses will establish God's word? when have you shared your testimony of the book of mormon with others?
--> the work of the Lord is great, but He couldn't accomplish His purposes without us. we play a very vital role in bringing all His children back to Him. everything we are blessed with, we are expected to use to help other people. if we are blessed with a strong testimony of truth, we should witness to the world and share what we know to be true, allowing others to feel and experience what we have felt and experienced.
the time in my life when i was most consistently sharing my testimony of the book of mormon and gospel truths was when i served as a full-time missionary. it was a beautiful time of life, to have my sole focus be on understanding the gospel better so i could teach others how to come unto Christ. through study and prayer, diligence, and following the Spirit, my companions and i were led to many great people that were searching for truth. we were also led to people that weren't actively searching, or didn't know they were searching yet. it was a pleasure to be able to stand before them as witnesses of Jesus Christ and bear solid testimony of the truths i knew to be true. this brought greater happiness to my heart than i had before, or since felt.
the way this gospel is set up is nothing short of miraculous and perfect. God knows what He is doing. He gives us many opportunities everyday to share our testimonies and be that witness of His truths, whether in word or deed. am i taking advantage of every opportunity that is placed before me? better yet, am i actively praying to have those opportunities come my way throughout my busy days?
what do you think nephi meant when he said that witnesses will establish God's word? when have you shared your testimony of the book of mormon with others?
--> the work of the Lord is great, but He couldn't accomplish His purposes without us. we play a very vital role in bringing all His children back to Him. everything we are blessed with, we are expected to use to help other people. if we are blessed with a strong testimony of truth, we should witness to the world and share what we know to be true, allowing others to feel and experience what we have felt and experienced.
the time in my life when i was most consistently sharing my testimony of the book of mormon and gospel truths was when i served as a full-time missionary. it was a beautiful time of life, to have my sole focus be on understanding the gospel better so i could teach others how to come unto Christ. through study and prayer, diligence, and following the Spirit, my companions and i were led to many great people that were searching for truth. we were also led to people that weren't actively searching, or didn't know they were searching yet. it was a pleasure to be able to stand before them as witnesses of Jesus Christ and bear solid testimony of the truths i knew to be true. this brought greater happiness to my heart than i had before, or since felt.
the way this gospel is set up is nothing short of miraculous and perfect. God knows what He is doing. He gives us many opportunities everyday to share our testimonies and be that witness of His truths, whether in word or deed. am i taking advantage of every opportunity that is placed before me? better yet, am i actively praying to have those opportunities come my way throughout my busy days?
march.7
2 nephi 26:31 - 27:11
what insights can you share from reading these verses? what do they mean to you?
--> "He inviteth them all to come unto Him and partake of His goodness; and He denieth none that come unto Him, black and white, bond and free, male and female; and He remembereth the heathen and all are alike unto God"
i've always felt like this verse embodied our message to the world. Christ invites every single person to come unto Him. there are many in the world that believe we are a secret cult or secret religion, with many things to hide. especially the work that goes on in our sacred temples. but the truth is, we are living our lives to invite others to come unto Christ. all people are God's children, so all people are invited to come unto Him.
the qualifications for salvation are universal and achievable by all through God's plan and the mercy of the Savior. as this verse says, He will deny no one. that to me is such a testimony of God's love for us!
what insights can you share from reading these verses? what do they mean to you?
--> "He inviteth them all to come unto Him and partake of His goodness; and He denieth none that come unto Him, black and white, bond and free, male and female; and He remembereth the heathen and all are alike unto God"
i've always felt like this verse embodied our message to the world. Christ invites every single person to come unto Him. there are many in the world that believe we are a secret cult or secret religion, with many things to hide. especially the work that goes on in our sacred temples. but the truth is, we are living our lives to invite others to come unto Christ. all people are God's children, so all people are invited to come unto Him.
the qualifications for salvation are universal and achievable by all through God's plan and the mercy of the Savior. as this verse says, He will deny no one. that to me is such a testimony of God's love for us!
march.6
2 nephi 26:12 - 30
when have you witnessed the blessings mentioned in 2 nephi 26:13? what are some different ways the Lord manifests Himself to us?
--> the key to this phrase is, "by the power of the Holy Ghost". "He manifesteth Himself unto all those who believe in Him by the power of the Holy Ghost."
i have never seen God the Father or His Son, Jesus Christ in this life. i have never had a heavenly manifestation from an angel, nor have i been blessed with visions or dreams of the Savior. i have, however, received manifestations from the Holy Ghost, or Holy Spirit. these manifestations come daily!
the main role of the Holy Ghost is to testify of Jesus Christ. any time we feel the Spirit, our testimony that God exists should grow. any time we feel the Spirit, we should be grateful for the manifestations of peace, comfort, happiness, love, and joy that we feel because of it.
the Godhead are inseparably connected in unity and purpose. but, as 3 distinct and individual beings, they have separate roles to accomplish the work of the Father.
i love the promise at the end of this verse, that those manifestations will come to "every nation, kindred, tongue, and people." the miracles of the Lord are available to all! what are you doing today to qualify yourself for the Spirit?
to read more about the Holy Ghost and what role He can play in your life, click here.
when have you witnessed the blessings mentioned in 2 nephi 26:13? what are some different ways the Lord manifests Himself to us?
--> the key to this phrase is, "by the power of the Holy Ghost". "He manifesteth Himself unto all those who believe in Him by the power of the Holy Ghost."
i have never seen God the Father or His Son, Jesus Christ in this life. i have never had a heavenly manifestation from an angel, nor have i been blessed with visions or dreams of the Savior. i have, however, received manifestations from the Holy Ghost, or Holy Spirit. these manifestations come daily!
the main role of the Holy Ghost is to testify of Jesus Christ. any time we feel the Spirit, our testimony that God exists should grow. any time we feel the Spirit, we should be grateful for the manifestations of peace, comfort, happiness, love, and joy that we feel because of it.
the Godhead are inseparably connected in unity and purpose. but, as 3 distinct and individual beings, they have separate roles to accomplish the work of the Father.
i love the promise at the end of this verse, that those manifestations will come to "every nation, kindred, tongue, and people." the miracles of the Lord are available to all! what are you doing today to qualify yourself for the Spirit?
to read more about the Holy Ghost and what role He can play in your life, click here.
march.5
2 nephi 25:27 - 26:11
in 2 nephi 25:29, what do you feel it means to worship with "all your might, mind, and strength, and your whole soul"?
--> the purpose of our life is to use the experiences we have been given to become more like our Savior, Jesus Christ. to me, worshiping Him with all my might, mind, and strength means to give myself up to Him. to make everything in my life centered around Him. to allow myself to become a better person by making Christ the center of my everyday actions, the most present thought in my mind, and the one i talk to most throughout the day. to always be thinking about - and working toward - how i can improve as an individual, and what more i could be doing to help others come unto Him.
being a disciple of Christ isn't an action, it's a mindset. and a very important mindset to have.
in 2 nephi 25:29, what do you feel it means to worship with "all your might, mind, and strength, and your whole soul"?
--> the purpose of our life is to use the experiences we have been given to become more like our Savior, Jesus Christ. to me, worshiping Him with all my might, mind, and strength means to give myself up to Him. to make everything in my life centered around Him. to allow myself to become a better person by making Christ the center of my everyday actions, the most present thought in my mind, and the one i talk to most throughout the day. to always be thinking about - and working toward - how i can improve as an individual, and what more i could be doing to help others come unto Him.
being a disciple of Christ isn't an action, it's a mindset. and a very important mindset to have.
march.4
2 nephi 25: 14 - 26
what does it mean that, because of Jesus Christ, we can be saved by grace, after all we can do?
--> i gained a new perspective on grace when i read brad wilcox's talk His grace is sufficient. in this talk, he spoke about a girl that was concerned with her life. she said that she believed in the promise of the Lord that He would "fill the gap" between the best she could do and the standard she needed to meet. her question was, who fills the gap between where i am now, and the best i can do?
listening to the rest of His thoughts about this, and studying grace throughout my full-time mission, i have come to realize that grace really is "a divine means of help or strength, given through the bounteous mercy and love of Jesus Christ... it is an enabling power." something "needed by every soul" and something that suffices with "total effort on the part of the recipient."
thinking about grace in this way, i realized that Christ is with us 100% of the time. when we're doing our worst, mediocre job, or when we're doing our best and on a high. as long as we are living the gospel of Jesus Christ and trying to improve, Christ will be with us to give us that divine means of help and strength.
there are many ways to look at that phrased question up at the top of this post, depending on which word of the sentence you emphasize. but when it all comes down to it, Jesus Christ is the most merciful being to ever walk this earth. He has paid the price for everything we will do or feel, and because of that, can offer the divine means of help and strength that we need to enable us to accomplish what it is He would have us accomplish, and face the trials we are given.
how grateful i am for the grace of the Savior, Jesus Christ, who takes my hand everyday and walks me through this beautifully challenging thing we call life.
what does it mean that, because of Jesus Christ, we can be saved by grace, after all we can do?
--> i gained a new perspective on grace when i read brad wilcox's talk His grace is sufficient. in this talk, he spoke about a girl that was concerned with her life. she said that she believed in the promise of the Lord that He would "fill the gap" between the best she could do and the standard she needed to meet. her question was, who fills the gap between where i am now, and the best i can do?
listening to the rest of His thoughts about this, and studying grace throughout my full-time mission, i have come to realize that grace really is "a divine means of help or strength, given through the bounteous mercy and love of Jesus Christ... it is an enabling power." something "needed by every soul" and something that suffices with "total effort on the part of the recipient."
thinking about grace in this way, i realized that Christ is with us 100% of the time. when we're doing our worst, mediocre job, or when we're doing our best and on a high. as long as we are living the gospel of Jesus Christ and trying to improve, Christ will be with us to give us that divine means of help and strength.
there are many ways to look at that phrased question up at the top of this post, depending on which word of the sentence you emphasize. but when it all comes down to it, Jesus Christ is the most merciful being to ever walk this earth. He has paid the price for everything we will do or feel, and because of that, can offer the divine means of help and strength that we need to enable us to accomplish what it is He would have us accomplish, and face the trials we are given.
how grateful i am for the grace of the Savior, Jesus Christ, who takes my hand everyday and walks me through this beautifully challenging thing we call life.
march.3
2 nephi 25:1 - 13
nephi emphasizes the importance of isaiah's prophecies. what stood out to you most about isaiah's teachings?
--> i love how many times isaiah uses the phrase "my soul delighteth". as a member of the church of Jesus Christ of latter day saints, we have much to rejoice about!
nephi emphasizes the importance of isaiah's prophecies. what stood out to you most about isaiah's teachings?
--> i love how many times isaiah uses the phrase "my soul delighteth". as a member of the church of Jesus Christ of latter day saints, we have much to rejoice about!
march.2
2 nephi 24:1 - 32
what evidence of happiness and hope do you see in these verses?
--> i really like verse 7, "the whole earth is at rest, and is quiet, they break forth into singing." a lot of this chapter and a lot of scripture is about the doom and gloom of the world: the wickedness that we are facing on a daily basis and the terrible animosity that will come when the second coming is nearer. i love verses full of hope and peace. this simple verse reminds me that although things are going to get much worse before they get better, there will be a time when all will be made right and everything will be at peace again. Jesus Christ lives, and because He lives, we will live again too, in a state of never-ending happiness and peace, surrounded by those that we love the most. i love this truth.
what evidence of happiness and hope do you see in these verses?
--> i really like verse 7, "the whole earth is at rest, and is quiet, they break forth into singing." a lot of this chapter and a lot of scripture is about the doom and gloom of the world: the wickedness that we are facing on a daily basis and the terrible animosity that will come when the second coming is nearer. i love verses full of hope and peace. this simple verse reminds me that although things are going to get much worse before they get better, there will be a time when all will be made right and everything will be at peace again. Jesus Christ lives, and because He lives, we will live again too, in a state of never-ending happiness and peace, surrounded by those that we love the most. i love this truth.
march.1
2 nephi 23:1 - 22
in 2 nephi 32:22, we learn that you can take comfort if you are righteous. how can you strive to stay obedient?
--> elder richard g. scott gave a great talk once entitled "the transforming power of faith and character", in which he talked about consistent, correct choices. that alliteration has stuck with me ever since i heard that talk. being obedient is all about being consist. we are given many opportunities to show our obedience every single day. whether it be paying our tithing or reading our scriptures, attending the temple, or doing our visiting teaching, etc. etc. the church is full of many wonderful commandments that make us better people. as we keep those commandments, we are blessed beyond our ability to comprehend, and our faith grows as well. i love the way elder scott puts it, so just read his talk. really though, it'll change your life! click here.
in 2 nephi 32:22, we learn that you can take comfort if you are righteous. how can you strive to stay obedient?
--> elder richard g. scott gave a great talk once entitled "the transforming power of faith and character", in which he talked about consistent, correct choices. that alliteration has stuck with me ever since i heard that talk. being obedient is all about being consist. we are given many opportunities to show our obedience every single day. whether it be paying our tithing or reading our scriptures, attending the temple, or doing our visiting teaching, etc. etc. the church is full of many wonderful commandments that make us better people. as we keep those commandments, we are blessed beyond our ability to comprehend, and our faith grows as well. i love the way elder scott puts it, so just read his talk. really though, it'll change your life! click here.
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