mosiah 19:25 - 20:11
how do these verses help you understand the importance of family? in what ways can you protect them?
-->
"for they fought like lions for their prey". i love that image of the
people fighting for their daughters and family. family means everything
to me and i know my brothers and dad would fight like lions for their
prey if something were to happen to me too. <3
april.29
mosiah 19: 1 - 24
what is the purpose of a warning? who warns you about things you should avoid or things that might be harmful to you?
--> God is all-knowing. He can see the end from the beginning. He knows what is going to happen today just as we know what happened yesterday. He sends and trusts faithful servants to be a voice of warning to His people so they can prepare for things to come. He doesn't reveal everything that will happen, but it is wise to listen to the warnings of the prophets and those called to represent Heavenly Father on Earth. but in order for this advanced notice to be of worth to us, we must do something about it. we must act on it. sometimes we learn painful lessons the hard way when we ignore those warnings, but when we choose to obey, we will be helped and strengthened.
what is the purpose of a warning? who warns you about things you should avoid or things that might be harmful to you?
--> God is all-knowing. He can see the end from the beginning. He knows what is going to happen today just as we know what happened yesterday. He sends and trusts faithful servants to be a voice of warning to His people so they can prepare for things to come. He doesn't reveal everything that will happen, but it is wise to listen to the warnings of the prophets and those called to represent Heavenly Father on Earth. but in order for this advanced notice to be of worth to us, we must do something about it. we must act on it. sometimes we learn painful lessons the hard way when we ignore those warnings, but when we choose to obey, we will be helped and strengthened.
april.28
mosiah 18: 17 - 35
how does your baptismal covenant influence the way you live each day?
--> yesterday in stake conference paige was talking about how many things happen to you when you wear the name badge of the mission. it made me reflect on the happy times of my mission and how different i was back then. i was so conscious of everything i did because i knew i wasn't representing myself, but rather my Savior. everything i did was in His name. somehow that made everything seem easier, but also harder. it was easier to be bold and not care what people thought about me. it was easier to be loving and genuine. it was harder to face rejection because of that increase in love. it was harder because with the increase in righteousness and the spirit, there was an increase in trial and persecution. but with that came increased blessings and peace. the mission was good to me. God is good to me.
when i was reading today and pondering the question that was asked, i was just thinking about why everything had to change when i took that name tag off on april 19, 2012. i still wear the name of Christ every single day, it's just not visible on a name tag. when i was baptized, i took His name upon me and made the commitment to live every day as His disciple. i love that commitment and i wish i thought about it on a more consistent basis. covenants are the way to experience the greatest peace in this life. we are given covenants to make us holy and qualify us for eternal life. i love that.
how does your baptismal covenant influence the way you live each day?
--> yesterday in stake conference paige was talking about how many things happen to you when you wear the name badge of the mission. it made me reflect on the happy times of my mission and how different i was back then. i was so conscious of everything i did because i knew i wasn't representing myself, but rather my Savior. everything i did was in His name. somehow that made everything seem easier, but also harder. it was easier to be bold and not care what people thought about me. it was easier to be loving and genuine. it was harder to face rejection because of that increase in love. it was harder because with the increase in righteousness and the spirit, there was an increase in trial and persecution. but with that came increased blessings and peace. the mission was good to me. God is good to me.
when i was reading today and pondering the question that was asked, i was just thinking about why everything had to change when i took that name tag off on april 19, 2012. i still wear the name of Christ every single day, it's just not visible on a name tag. when i was baptized, i took His name upon me and made the commitment to live every day as His disciple. i love that commitment and i wish i thought about it on a more consistent basis. covenants are the way to experience the greatest peace in this life. we are given covenants to make us holy and qualify us for eternal life. i love that.
april.28
mosiah 18: 1 - 16
how can you relate these verses to yourself or people you've seen accept the gospel?
--> verse 11 has always struck me. alma has been preaching to them the word of God. he gives them the conditions of baptism, then says that if that's the desire of their hearts, what do they have against being baptized. verse 11 says, "and now when the people had heard these words, they clapped their hands for joy, and exclaimed This is the desire of our hearts."
i LOVE watching the joy of the gospel seep into someone's heart. there is a visible light that comes into their eyes and lives when they realize the truthfulness of the gospel and what it can mean to them in their lives. that joy is irreplaceable and cannot be found in any earthly thing. it is a foreshadowing, just a small, small taste of the eternal joy that we can feel in the next life, when all is said and done.
how can you relate these verses to yourself or people you've seen accept the gospel?
--> verse 11 has always struck me. alma has been preaching to them the word of God. he gives them the conditions of baptism, then says that if that's the desire of their hearts, what do they have against being baptized. verse 11 says, "and now when the people had heard these words, they clapped their hands for joy, and exclaimed This is the desire of our hearts."
i LOVE watching the joy of the gospel seep into someone's heart. there is a visible light that comes into their eyes and lives when they realize the truthfulness of the gospel and what it can mean to them in their lives. that joy is irreplaceable and cannot be found in any earthly thing. it is a foreshadowing, just a small, small taste of the eternal joy that we can feel in the next life, when all is said and done.
april.26
mosiah 17: 1 - 20
have you ever seen someone stand up for what is right when it was difficult for them to do? what happened? will you be true to God in all circumstances?
--> a few weeks ago, in my first grade class we had 3 minutes to kill at the end of the day, so i put on a "just dance" song where the kids follow along with the dancer on the screen. they were halfway through the song when a little boy came up and said the following: "miss ence, i don't think i should be watching this because the girl is immodest." i looked at the main girl dancer and she had a tank top belly shirt on. didn't even cross my mind that that would be offensive to 6 year olds. i quickly changed the song and we went on our merry ways.
the day after this event, i got a thank you note from his parents. i felt so embarrassed that i had even put the movie on, but was grateful for these parents for teaching their children at a young age that immodesty isn't something that should be looked at. oh, stay innocent forever!
have you ever seen someone stand up for what is right when it was difficult for them to do? what happened? will you be true to God in all circumstances?
--> a few weeks ago, in my first grade class we had 3 minutes to kill at the end of the day, so i put on a "just dance" song where the kids follow along with the dancer on the screen. they were halfway through the song when a little boy came up and said the following: "miss ence, i don't think i should be watching this because the girl is immodest." i looked at the main girl dancer and she had a tank top belly shirt on. didn't even cross my mind that that would be offensive to 6 year olds. i quickly changed the song and we went on our merry ways.
the day after this event, i got a thank you note from his parents. i felt so embarrassed that i had even put the movie on, but was grateful for these parents for teaching their children at a young age that immodesty isn't something that should be looked at. oh, stay innocent forever!
april.25
mosiah 16: 1 - 15
because of the atonement of Jesus Christ, all people will be resurrected. what does this mean to you?
--> i think verse 7 says it all. "and if Christ had not risen from the dead, or have broken the bands of death that the grave should have no victory, and that death should have no sting, there could have been no resurrection."
because of Him, we will live again. because of Him, i will be reunited with family members and loved ones that have gone before me. because of Him, when i die, i will keep living. He is the reason. i love Him for that. this knowledge brings me so much joy and peace. this life is not the end!
to read more about the resurrection and why it should be a really big deal to you, click here.
because of the atonement of Jesus Christ, all people will be resurrected. what does this mean to you?
--> i think verse 7 says it all. "and if Christ had not risen from the dead, or have broken the bands of death that the grave should have no victory, and that death should have no sting, there could have been no resurrection."
because of Him, we will live again. because of Him, i will be reunited with family members and loved ones that have gone before me. because of Him, when i die, i will keep living. He is the reason. i love Him for that. this knowledge brings me so much joy and peace. this life is not the end!
to read more about the resurrection and why it should be a really big deal to you, click here.
april.24
mosiah 15: 10 - 31
how do these verses influence your understanding of the atonement?
--> i love the prophet thomas s. monson. i love our previous prophet gordon b. hinckley. i love reading about prophets in the new and old testament, the book of mormon, and the other modern day prophets and the things they were willing to do to witness of the Savior Jesus Christ. prophets have been chastised for their teachings and beliefs for generations. when i think about all the people who have faced so many hard things for the Savior, i can't help but be in awe at the atonement. there are many reasons i know the atonement really happened and was personal for me, but this morning, my testimony was strengthened in thinking about all the good people who have faced terrible things to testify of the Savior and His atonement.
how do these verses influence your understanding of the atonement?
--> i love the prophet thomas s. monson. i love our previous prophet gordon b. hinckley. i love reading about prophets in the new and old testament, the book of mormon, and the other modern day prophets and the things they were willing to do to witness of the Savior Jesus Christ. prophets have been chastised for their teachings and beliefs for generations. when i think about all the people who have faced so many hard things for the Savior, i can't help but be in awe at the atonement. there are many reasons i know the atonement really happened and was personal for me, but this morning, my testimony was strengthened in thinking about all the good people who have faced terrible things to testify of the Savior and His atonement.
april.23
mosiah 14:1 - 15:9
the word "betwixt" means between. what do you think it means that the Savior stands betwixt us and justice? what do you think it means to satisfy the demands of justice?
--> justice and mercy have to work hand-in-hand in God's eternal plan. God is perfectly just: there are conditions and stipulations that have to be met in order to qualify for eternal life in His presence. Christ, on the other hand, is merciful. by coming to this earth and completing His mission, which included and climaxed with the Atonement, He paid the price for our sins, therefore satisfying the demands of justice. He stands as the mediator between us and Heavenly Father. because of His perfect mercy, it will all work out.
elder holland wrote a bomb message about justice and mercy. check it out here.
the word "betwixt" means between. what do you think it means that the Savior stands betwixt us and justice? what do you think it means to satisfy the demands of justice?
--> justice and mercy have to work hand-in-hand in God's eternal plan. God is perfectly just: there are conditions and stipulations that have to be met in order to qualify for eternal life in His presence. Christ, on the other hand, is merciful. by coming to this earth and completing His mission, which included and climaxed with the Atonement, He paid the price for our sins, therefore satisfying the demands of justice. He stands as the mediator between us and Heavenly Father. because of His perfect mercy, it will all work out.
elder holland wrote a bomb message about justice and mercy. check it out here.
april.22
mosiah 13:5 - 35
what do you think it means to have the commandments written in our hearts?
--> the heart is the life of the body. without it, we would die. it carries blood to each part of our bodies so that our bodies can work properly. i like that so many spiritual things are related to the heart. it has such a physical connotation, as well as a spiritual one. the heart and soul of a person.
i was pondering one day at efy when someone said that the gospel wasn't just something they did, it was who they were. i thought a lot about this statement, and if i could say the same about myself. after much reflection, i was pleased that i, too, could say that the principles and commandments weren't just things that i monotonously did, but they were actually part of me, they made up who i was.
i spoke with a man on my mission many times as we taught him, and he would always comment on what good people we were. we would tell him time and time again that it was because of the things we knew to be true that we acted and did the things we did. because of our knowledge of a Savior, Jesus Christ, we lived our lives a certain way. he would always ask us to look at our lives without the gospel and determine if we would still be good people. i guess he had a good argument from his perspective, but i couldn't even imagine taking the gospel out of my life because it's so engrained in who i am, i wouldn't even know how to imagine myself without it. it was impossible. i am not perfect, nor do i follow every commandment perfectly, but i am pleased with the feeling i get when i feel like i follow the commandments out of love and desire, because they are written in my heart, rather than our of duty or necessity.
what do you think it means to have the commandments written in our hearts?
--> the heart is the life of the body. without it, we would die. it carries blood to each part of our bodies so that our bodies can work properly. i like that so many spiritual things are related to the heart. it has such a physical connotation, as well as a spiritual one. the heart and soul of a person.
i was pondering one day at efy when someone said that the gospel wasn't just something they did, it was who they were. i thought a lot about this statement, and if i could say the same about myself. after much reflection, i was pleased that i, too, could say that the principles and commandments weren't just things that i monotonously did, but they were actually part of me, they made up who i was.
i spoke with a man on my mission many times as we taught him, and he would always comment on what good people we were. we would tell him time and time again that it was because of the things we knew to be true that we acted and did the things we did. because of our knowledge of a Savior, Jesus Christ, we lived our lives a certain way. he would always ask us to look at our lives without the gospel and determine if we would still be good people. i guess he had a good argument from his perspective, but i couldn't even imagine taking the gospel out of my life because it's so engrained in who i am, i wouldn't even know how to imagine myself without it. it was impossible. i am not perfect, nor do i follow every commandment perfectly, but i am pleased with the feeling i get when i feel like i follow the commandments out of love and desire, because they are written in my heart, rather than our of duty or necessity.
april.21
mosiah 12:17 - 13:4
why is knowing the commandment not enough to qualify us for salvation?
--> i have a quote hanging on my mirror that cute hannah jenkins gave us in relief society one day. it says "knowing that the gospel is true is the essence of a testimony. consistently being true to the gospel is the essence of conversion."
we also hear time and time again that faith without works is dead. we can believe in something all we want, proclaim it from the rooftops, even, but until we act on what we believe, it is dead to us. we won't be judged on how much we know, but how much we do. ultimately, Heavenly Father's plan is that the more we come to know about Him and the gospel, the more we will be inspired to do righteous things. as we do those righteous things, we are given more light and knowledge, and the process of growth and change continues.
i am grateful for this refining process, and the capacity to go and do what i know to be true.
why is knowing the commandment not enough to qualify us for salvation?
--> i have a quote hanging on my mirror that cute hannah jenkins gave us in relief society one day. it says "knowing that the gospel is true is the essence of a testimony. consistently being true to the gospel is the essence of conversion."
we also hear time and time again that faith without works is dead. we can believe in something all we want, proclaim it from the rooftops, even, but until we act on what we believe, it is dead to us. we won't be judged on how much we know, but how much we do. ultimately, Heavenly Father's plan is that the more we come to know about Him and the gospel, the more we will be inspired to do righteous things. as we do those righteous things, we are given more light and knowledge, and the process of growth and change continues.
i am grateful for this refining process, and the capacity to go and do what i know to be true.
april.20
happy easter!
mosiah 12: 1 - 16
abinadi boldly testifies of Jesus Christ in these verses. today we celebrate Christ's resurrection. what is your personal testimony of the Lord Jesus Christ.
--> 1 nephi 15:14 says "they shall come to a knowledge of their Redeemer and the very points of His doctrine, that they may know how to come unto Him and be saved."
i've often thought about how we come to know. i believe in Jesus Christ. i believe that He lived a great life and performed miracles and loved the people He served. i believe that He died for me to atone for my sins and provide the way back home. but how do you come to know? what has to happen in our lives before we can say, with surety, i know Jesus Christ lives!
today, i am writing to you as a witness of Jesus Christ. i, sara michelle ence, know that Jesus Christ is the Savior of the world because of the following reasons:
- i feel peace enter my heart when i hear or sing the song "i stand all amazed"
- there have been multiple days this year when i knew i couldn't pick myself up off my bed and go throughout the simple tasks of the day. i knelt in prayer and pleaded with Heavenly Father to be with me, and as i stood, physically felt picked up and carried
- my best friend annie flew here from california in december just to come to church with me, after 6 years of invitations and dead ends
- i have prayed about the book of mormon and gained a witness for myself of its truth. the purpose of that book, the very intent it was written, was to convince jew and gentile alike that Jesus is the Christ. so, because i know the book of mormon is true, i know that Jesus Christ is my Savior. He lives
- a mission companion and i felt inspired to change our plans and stop by a certain house at a specific time, to discover we saved a woman from suicide
- i've sat across the desk from a loving bishop as he said the words, "sister ence, you are forgiven of this sin" and literally felt a tangible weight being taken off my shoulders, allowing a certain happiness to flow back into my life
- i watched bill maki give up everything he had and enter the waters of baptism for a God he didn't even know existed yet
- i've sat in church and listened to heartfelt testimony from countless members about the power of the atonement and the power of change and conversion
- i sat with president tingey on april 19, 2012 and heard him say the words, "well done, thou good and faithful servant, the Lord has accepted your service"
- i felt a certain peace at the funeral of my uncle steve barlow, knowing that although it seemed unfair that he was taken from this earth when he was in the way that he was, that it was part of God's perfect plan, and that we will indeed be with him again
- i felt inspired to change my lesson just one hour before giving it to the relief society when colin dumke bore an inspired testimony of the power of righteous women in the world. with that inspiration to change the lesson came the words to say in a time of need, and one of the most powerful relief society lessons i've been a part of
- -
i testify that there are tangible evidences all over our lives that Jesus Christ lives, that He is intimately involved in the details of our lives. that He cares. i invite each of you to open your eyes and see those evidences everyday. open your eyes and stand in awe at the love Jesus offers you.
He lives. and that is the most beautiful truth i know.
mosiah 12: 1 - 16
abinadi boldly testifies of Jesus Christ in these verses. today we celebrate Christ's resurrection. what is your personal testimony of the Lord Jesus Christ.
--> 1 nephi 15:14 says "they shall come to a knowledge of their Redeemer and the very points of His doctrine, that they may know how to come unto Him and be saved."
i've often thought about how we come to know. i believe in Jesus Christ. i believe that He lived a great life and performed miracles and loved the people He served. i believe that He died for me to atone for my sins and provide the way back home. but how do you come to know? what has to happen in our lives before we can say, with surety, i know Jesus Christ lives!
today, i am writing to you as a witness of Jesus Christ. i, sara michelle ence, know that Jesus Christ is the Savior of the world because of the following reasons:
- i feel peace enter my heart when i hear or sing the song "i stand all amazed"
- there have been multiple days this year when i knew i couldn't pick myself up off my bed and go throughout the simple tasks of the day. i knelt in prayer and pleaded with Heavenly Father to be with me, and as i stood, physically felt picked up and carried
- my best friend annie flew here from california in december just to come to church with me, after 6 years of invitations and dead ends
- i have prayed about the book of mormon and gained a witness for myself of its truth. the purpose of that book, the very intent it was written, was to convince jew and gentile alike that Jesus is the Christ. so, because i know the book of mormon is true, i know that Jesus Christ is my Savior. He lives
- a mission companion and i felt inspired to change our plans and stop by a certain house at a specific time, to discover we saved a woman from suicide
- i've sat across the desk from a loving bishop as he said the words, "sister ence, you are forgiven of this sin" and literally felt a tangible weight being taken off my shoulders, allowing a certain happiness to flow back into my life
- i watched bill maki give up everything he had and enter the waters of baptism for a God he didn't even know existed yet
- i've sat in church and listened to heartfelt testimony from countless members about the power of the atonement and the power of change and conversion
- i sat with president tingey on april 19, 2012 and heard him say the words, "well done, thou good and faithful servant, the Lord has accepted your service"
- i felt a certain peace at the funeral of my uncle steve barlow, knowing that although it seemed unfair that he was taken from this earth when he was in the way that he was, that it was part of God's perfect plan, and that we will indeed be with him again
- i felt inspired to change my lesson just one hour before giving it to the relief society when colin dumke bore an inspired testimony of the power of righteous women in the world. with that inspiration to change the lesson came the words to say in a time of need, and one of the most powerful relief society lessons i've been a part of
- -
i testify that there are tangible evidences all over our lives that Jesus Christ lives, that He is intimately involved in the details of our lives. that He cares. i invite each of you to open your eyes and see those evidences everyday. open your eyes and stand in awe at the love Jesus offers you.
He lives. and that is the most beautiful truth i know.
april.19
mosiah 11: 16 - 29
in mosiah 11:29, we read that "the eyes of the people were blinded." how had these people become blind to the truth? how can you relate these verses to today?
--> the story of the people of king noah is the perfect example of what riotous living can do to the spirit. i'm sure that king noah didn't intend to be totally apostate when he was first put in as king. but small choices here and there led him to be spiritually ignorant and eventually totally spiritually dead. he led many people astray by his rationalizations and justifications. the way he viewed the gospel and manipulated it to fit his lifestyle was dangerous and damaged a nation.
i believe in the power of consistent, correct choices. nobody falls away from the church overnight. it's through small decisions that eventually take us further and further away from the light. there are definitely things in my life that i have become blinded by, and need to repent. always room for growth. there is danger in justifying or rationalizing commandments to fit what you believe to be true in your life. God's word stands, and is immovable.
in mosiah 11:29, we read that "the eyes of the people were blinded." how had these people become blind to the truth? how can you relate these verses to today?
--> the story of the people of king noah is the perfect example of what riotous living can do to the spirit. i'm sure that king noah didn't intend to be totally apostate when he was first put in as king. but small choices here and there led him to be spiritually ignorant and eventually totally spiritually dead. he led many people astray by his rationalizations and justifications. the way he viewed the gospel and manipulated it to fit his lifestyle was dangerous and damaged a nation.
i believe in the power of consistent, correct choices. nobody falls away from the church overnight. it's through small decisions that eventually take us further and further away from the light. there are definitely things in my life that i have become blinded by, and need to repent. always room for growth. there is danger in justifying or rationalizing commandments to fit what you believe to be true in your life. God's word stands, and is immovable.
april.18
mosiah 11: 1 - 15
what can we do when people all around us are living unrighteously?
--> stay steadfast and immovable. be an example. show your light. i love the verse in mosiah 16:9 which says "He is the light and life of the world; yea, a light that is endless that can never be darkened..." when i think about the power of being an example, i think about this light. in a world where righteousness is more and more unpopular every day, it's important to stand by the Savior and let that light shine. first you have to know what you stand for, and have a strong testimony of the important principles of the gospel. then, you can stand up for what you believe even when everyone else around you can't.
what can we do when people all around us are living unrighteously?
--> stay steadfast and immovable. be an example. show your light. i love the verse in mosiah 16:9 which says "He is the light and life of the world; yea, a light that is endless that can never be darkened..." when i think about the power of being an example, i think about this light. in a world where righteousness is more and more unpopular every day, it's important to stand by the Savior and let that light shine. first you have to know what you stand for, and have a strong testimony of the important principles of the gospel. then, you can stand up for what you believe even when everyone else around you can't.
april.17
mosiah 10: 1 - 22
to whom can you go to for help in your efforts to forgive? how can you avoid feelings of offense and anger in the future?
--> i love president james e. faust's talk entitled "the healing power of forgiveness". from personal experience, i can say it truly is a power to be able to forgive someone. it lifts a burden and brings back peace when things are resolved. read his talk here.
if you're looking for a great book to read about forgiveness, check out the peacegiver by james l. ferrell. this book changed my life.
to whom can you go to for help in your efforts to forgive? how can you avoid feelings of offense and anger in the future?
--> i love president james e. faust's talk entitled "the healing power of forgiveness". from personal experience, i can say it truly is a power to be able to forgive someone. it lifts a burden and brings back peace when things are resolved. read his talk here.
if you're looking for a great book to read about forgiveness, check out the peacegiver by james l. ferrell. this book changed my life.
april.16
mosiah 9: 1 - 9
what are the dangers of making decisions without counseling the Lord?
--> this is the perfect question for me to think about this week. i have made lots of mistakes in some relationships i have this week and have been regretting making some rash decisions without first counseling with the Lord. nothing big or life-threatening, but some feelings have been hurt and there could've been a lot of heartache saved if i had been more attentive to the spirit in my life the past few days.
i have a testimony of making an accounting with the Lord about everything. He wants to hear from us, and wants to be a part of our lives. He wants us to know what His will for us is, but He won't reveal it unless we ask. so often in my life i am quick to run to a friend or family member for advice or to dump my woes on, but sometimes i forget to ask the one that has all the answers and the perfect guidance - my Heavenly Father. He is all-knowing and all-seeing and this question was an inspired reminder for me to trust in Him more and in man less.
what are the dangers of making decisions without counseling the Lord?
--> this is the perfect question for me to think about this week. i have made lots of mistakes in some relationships i have this week and have been regretting making some rash decisions without first counseling with the Lord. nothing big or life-threatening, but some feelings have been hurt and there could've been a lot of heartache saved if i had been more attentive to the spirit in my life the past few days.
i have a testimony of making an accounting with the Lord about everything. He wants to hear from us, and wants to be a part of our lives. He wants us to know what His will for us is, but He won't reveal it unless we ask. so often in my life i am quick to run to a friend or family member for advice or to dump my woes on, but sometimes i forget to ask the one that has all the answers and the perfect guidance - my Heavenly Father. He is all-knowing and all-seeing and this question was an inspired reminder for me to trust in Him more and in man less.
april.15
mosiah 8: 1 - 21
how has your life been blessed by modern-day prophets, seers, and revelators?
--> i was blessed to grow up in a house where my parents honor, sustain, and revere the brethren that lead The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. i was blessed with parents who are faithfully committed to do whatever the prophet asks them to do. i knew from an early age that it would be important for me to gain a strong testimony of the prophet and other leaders of the church. and so i did. with all of my heart i believe that God has called a representative to speak for Him on the earth today. that man is currently president thomas s. monson. he receive revelation for the church as a whole, and for the world. he tells us the things God wants us to know. i can say from personal experience that when i choose to follow the prophet, my life is happier. i am blessed with an added measure of the spirit, and with the confirmation that i am following the path that would lead to happiness. i love general conference time and have been loving the opportunity to read the conference talks given by the blessed prophets, seers, and revelators that we have living on the Earth today. God is good to give us inspired leaders.
to read more about a prophet and why he's important, click here.
how has your life been blessed by modern-day prophets, seers, and revelators?
--> i was blessed to grow up in a house where my parents honor, sustain, and revere the brethren that lead The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. i was blessed with parents who are faithfully committed to do whatever the prophet asks them to do. i knew from an early age that it would be important for me to gain a strong testimony of the prophet and other leaders of the church. and so i did. with all of my heart i believe that God has called a representative to speak for Him on the earth today. that man is currently president thomas s. monson. he receive revelation for the church as a whole, and for the world. he tells us the things God wants us to know. i can say from personal experience that when i choose to follow the prophet, my life is happier. i am blessed with an added measure of the spirit, and with the confirmation that i am following the path that would lead to happiness. i love general conference time and have been loving the opportunity to read the conference talks given by the blessed prophets, seers, and revelators that we have living on the Earth today. God is good to give us inspired leaders.
to read more about a prophet and why he's important, click here.
april.14
mosiah 7: 18 - 33
what principles can we learn from limhi and his people about the effect of recognizing and feeling sorrow for our sins?
--> i like the promise at the very end of the chapter, in verse 33: "if ye will turn to the Lord with full purpose of heart and put your trust in him, and serve him with all diligence of mind, if ye do this, he will, according to his will and pleasure, deliver you out of bondage."
for the people of king limhi, they saw this as a physical release out of bondage, as they were trapped by the lamanites. but for us today, this relates completely to the repentance process. when we sin, we are in spiritual bondage to the devil. he has a hold on our hearts, no matter how small that hold is. as we sin more, that hold becomes stronger and we lost the spirit little by little. Heavenly Father has given us the way to be freed from that bondage. by repenting, or turning our hearts to God. i love that in this verse he couples turning to God with serving Him. it is not enough to abandon the sin, we must replace it with something of greater value. the promise is fulfilled when we have turned away from sin with full purpose of heart - resolving to abandon it for good and replace it with better alternatives. the phrase "according to his will and pleasure" has always intrigued me, but today as i read it, i picture a loving God who can't wait to bless us when we turn to Him. when we meet His conditions, He pours out His spirit on us. what a beautiful blessing.
what principles can we learn from limhi and his people about the effect of recognizing and feeling sorrow for our sins?
--> i like the promise at the very end of the chapter, in verse 33: "if ye will turn to the Lord with full purpose of heart and put your trust in him, and serve him with all diligence of mind, if ye do this, he will, according to his will and pleasure, deliver you out of bondage."
for the people of king limhi, they saw this as a physical release out of bondage, as they were trapped by the lamanites. but for us today, this relates completely to the repentance process. when we sin, we are in spiritual bondage to the devil. he has a hold on our hearts, no matter how small that hold is. as we sin more, that hold becomes stronger and we lost the spirit little by little. Heavenly Father has given us the way to be freed from that bondage. by repenting, or turning our hearts to God. i love that in this verse he couples turning to God with serving Him. it is not enough to abandon the sin, we must replace it with something of greater value. the promise is fulfilled when we have turned away from sin with full purpose of heart - resolving to abandon it for good and replace it with better alternatives. the phrase "according to his will and pleasure" has always intrigued me, but today as i read it, i picture a loving God who can't wait to bless us when we turn to Him. when we meet His conditions, He pours out His spirit on us. what a beautiful blessing.
april.13
mosiah 7:8 - 17
what did you learn from these verses today?
--> one insight i love from this story is in verse 17, when king limhi gathers the people together at the temple to hear him speak. i love the temple. i love the symbolism of the temple. i love that i learn something new every time i go there. i love that the temple is such a holy place of peace and comfort, set apart from the world. i love the connection to hearing the words of the prophet and the temple. we don't have to go to the temple to hear the voice of the Lord. we can hear it through His prophets on the earth, we can hear it through personal revelation, we can hear it in so many ways if we are searching for it. i am grateful for the temple and the beauty therein.
what did you learn from these verses today?
--> one insight i love from this story is in verse 17, when king limhi gathers the people together at the temple to hear him speak. i love the temple. i love the symbolism of the temple. i love that i learn something new every time i go there. i love that the temple is such a holy place of peace and comfort, set apart from the world. i love the connection to hearing the words of the prophet and the temple. we don't have to go to the temple to hear the voice of the Lord. we can hear it through His prophets on the earth, we can hear it through personal revelation, we can hear it in so many ways if we are searching for it. i am grateful for the temple and the beauty therein.
april.12
mosiah 6:1 - 7:7
what does it mean to you to take upon yourself the name of Jesus Christ?
--> i love the talk by elder oaks called "taking upon us the name of Christ". i feel like it illustrates beautifully what it means, in so many senses, to take upon us His name. you can read this talk by clicking on the link below. but i would just like to summarize what he says.
first, to take upon us His name means to renew the covenant or promise that we made when we were baptized.
secondly, we take upon us His name when we become a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. this church bears His name, and because of the covenant which we make (which is talked about in these verses in mosiah), we also bear His name.
third, we take His name upon us whenever we declare publicly our belief in Him. whether formally or in casual conversation.
fourth, when we take upon us His name, we covenant to serve Him. it's an obligation. if we love the Lord, we will do the work of His kingdom.
elder oaks suggests that when we take the sacrament, we don't take His name upon us, but we signify that we are willing to do so. this suggests a later covenant (he suggests the temple or perhaps in the last days or after death) when we will fully take upon us Christ's name, and be called as He is called. mosiah 5:9 says "and whosoever doeth this (enters the covenant with God to be obedient all our lives), shall be found at the right hand of God, for he shall know the name by which he is called' for he shall be called by the name of Christ."
think about that for a minute!
to read elder oaks' talk, click here.
what does it mean to you to take upon yourself the name of Jesus Christ?
--> i love the talk by elder oaks called "taking upon us the name of Christ". i feel like it illustrates beautifully what it means, in so many senses, to take upon us His name. you can read this talk by clicking on the link below. but i would just like to summarize what he says.
first, to take upon us His name means to renew the covenant or promise that we made when we were baptized.
secondly, we take upon us His name when we become a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. this church bears His name, and because of the covenant which we make (which is talked about in these verses in mosiah), we also bear His name.
third, we take His name upon us whenever we declare publicly our belief in Him. whether formally or in casual conversation.
fourth, when we take upon us His name, we covenant to serve Him. it's an obligation. if we love the Lord, we will do the work of His kingdom.
elder oaks suggests that when we take the sacrament, we don't take His name upon us, but we signify that we are willing to do so. this suggests a later covenant (he suggests the temple or perhaps in the last days or after death) when we will fully take upon us Christ's name, and be called as He is called. mosiah 5:9 says "and whosoever doeth this (enters the covenant with God to be obedient all our lives), shall be found at the right hand of God, for he shall know the name by which he is called' for he shall be called by the name of Christ."
think about that for a minute!
to read elder oaks' talk, click here.
april.11
mosiah 5: 1 - 15
have you ever felt that you needed to change spiritually? what did you do about it? if you have experienced a change, have you maintained that change to this day?
--> of course i've felt that i needed to change. i do all the time. just last year, i was really struggling to make the time to study my scriptures daily. i never thought i would be "that girl", "that returned missionary" that had a hard time with that. i mean, i know it's super important, VITAL, to my progression, but was just finding it more difficult to fit in than i would like to admit.
so, when this bofm365 challenge came out, i was so excited, and decided to start this blog to motivate me to read and write my thoughts down every day. i haven't been as diligent about keeping a study journal since being home from the mission, and this blog has helped me get back in the habit of at least writing something down when i read. i am grateful for that. i am still not perfect and sometimes (like this week) let days go by without reading, but i feel overall that i am doing better about motivating myself, and it helps to have specific questions to study each day.
spiritual change is hard to maintain, but i appreciate the extra measure of the spirit that comes with it when we make a commitment to that change. conversion is change, and when we chose to follow Christ, we choose to be changed. i love that about this gospel.
have you ever felt that you needed to change spiritually? what did you do about it? if you have experienced a change, have you maintained that change to this day?
--> of course i've felt that i needed to change. i do all the time. just last year, i was really struggling to make the time to study my scriptures daily. i never thought i would be "that girl", "that returned missionary" that had a hard time with that. i mean, i know it's super important, VITAL, to my progression, but was just finding it more difficult to fit in than i would like to admit.
so, when this bofm365 challenge came out, i was so excited, and decided to start this blog to motivate me to read and write my thoughts down every day. i haven't been as diligent about keeping a study journal since being home from the mission, and this blog has helped me get back in the habit of at least writing something down when i read. i am grateful for that. i am still not perfect and sometimes (like this week) let days go by without reading, but i feel overall that i am doing better about motivating myself, and it helps to have specific questions to study each day.
spiritual change is hard to maintain, but i appreciate the extra measure of the spirit that comes with it when we make a commitment to that change. conversion is change, and when we chose to follow Christ, we choose to be changed. i love that about this gospel.
april.10
mosiah 4: 16 - 30
according to king benjamin, how are we al beggars? how can this understanding help us be more compassionate to others?
--> we are all beggars because we all depend on God for life. without him we would have no food or raiment or riches or life or hope for a life after this. the next verse teaches us how this knowledge can help us be understanding to others. it says, "if God, who has created you, on whom you are dependent for your lives and for all that ye have and are, doth grant unto you whatsoever ye ask that is right, in faith, believing that ye shall receive, i then, how ye ought to impart of the substance that ye have one to another." it goes on to talk about not judging your neighbor and doing all things in wisdom and order and kindness and seeking for light. i love that mindset.
to read an inspiring article about being beggars before God, click here.
according to king benjamin, how are we al beggars? how can this understanding help us be more compassionate to others?
--> we are all beggars because we all depend on God for life. without him we would have no food or raiment or riches or life or hope for a life after this. the next verse teaches us how this knowledge can help us be understanding to others. it says, "if God, who has created you, on whom you are dependent for your lives and for all that ye have and are, doth grant unto you whatsoever ye ask that is right, in faith, believing that ye shall receive, i then, how ye ought to impart of the substance that ye have one to another." it goes on to talk about not judging your neighbor and doing all things in wisdom and order and kindness and seeking for light. i love that mindset.
to read an inspiring article about being beggars before God, click here.
april.9
mosiah 4: 4 - 15
how does remembering God's power, goodness, and love influence our willingness to obey Him?
--> to me, these things give a sense of humility. i owe everything i am or ever will be to my Heavenly Father. He is daily shaping my life into what He needs it to be. He is giving me experiences to help me overcome what i need to overcome and develop into the disciple that i am destined to be. understanding who i am and where i came from and how i am related to God - that He is literally my Father - helps me have a greater desire to obey whatever it is He asks me to do.
brigham young once said, "mormonism' has made me all i am; and the grace, the power, and the wisdom of God will make me all that i ever will be, either in time or in eternity." ... when we understand the depth of that thought, obeying God becomes a joy, not a burden.
how does remembering God's power, goodness, and love influence our willingness to obey Him?
--> to me, these things give a sense of humility. i owe everything i am or ever will be to my Heavenly Father. He is daily shaping my life into what He needs it to be. He is giving me experiences to help me overcome what i need to overcome and develop into the disciple that i am destined to be. understanding who i am and where i came from and how i am related to God - that He is literally my Father - helps me have a greater desire to obey whatever it is He asks me to do.
brigham young once said, "mormonism' has made me all i am; and the grace, the power, and the wisdom of God will make me all that i ever will be, either in time or in eternity." ... when we understand the depth of that thought, obeying God becomes a joy, not a burden.
april.8
mosiah 3: 19 - 4: 3
what can you do to more fully yield to the enticings of the Holy Spirit? what will you do over the next week to improve in this area of your life?
--> i need to take time to unplug from the world. there are few moments in my day when i'm completely detached from technology. sadly, that's what my world has come to. the ever-so urgent texts are always buzzing, social media crowds much of my time every day, and it's kinda sad. i recognize that i am unable to feel the spirit when i am always plugged in because i am easily distracted.
my goal for this week is to unplug for the 30 minutes that i study my scriptures. put my phone in the other room so it's not a distraction at all, and just be. i also know if i spent more time on my knees than on facebook, that would benefit my life in ways i probably can't comprehend. my other goal this week will be to have a sincere, heart-felt kneeling, out-loud prayer every night and morning this week. i'll let you know how it goes! :)
what can you do to more fully yield to the enticings of the Holy Spirit? what will you do over the next week to improve in this area of your life?
--> i need to take time to unplug from the world. there are few moments in my day when i'm completely detached from technology. sadly, that's what my world has come to. the ever-so urgent texts are always buzzing, social media crowds much of my time every day, and it's kinda sad. i recognize that i am unable to feel the spirit when i am always plugged in because i am easily distracted.
my goal for this week is to unplug for the 30 minutes that i study my scriptures. put my phone in the other room so it's not a distraction at all, and just be. i also know if i spent more time on my knees than on facebook, that would benefit my life in ways i probably can't comprehend. my other goal this week will be to have a sincere, heart-felt kneeling, out-loud prayer every night and morning this week. i'll let you know how it goes! :)
april.7
mosiah 3: 1 - 18
what does mosiah 3:7 help you understand about the Savior's mission? what are your feelings as you think about what the Savior has done for you?
--> i like the phrase "even more than man can suffer" because it reminds me that no matter how hard or annoying or painful my life experiences are, they can never compare to what the Savior experienced. He dealt with things i could never comprehend or deal with. He suffered for me so He could run to my aid and comfort me during my struggles.
He is hope.
what does mosiah 3:7 help you understand about the Savior's mission? what are your feelings as you think about what the Savior has done for you?
--> i like the phrase "even more than man can suffer" because it reminds me that no matter how hard or annoying or painful my life experiences are, they can never compare to what the Savior experienced. He dealt with things i could never comprehend or deal with. He suffered for me so He could run to my aid and comfort me during my struggles.
He is hope.
april.6
mosiah 2: 28 - 41
what similarities do you see in king benjamin's teachings that are also being taught by modern day prophets and leaders?
--> verse 41 caps it all off for me. "..consider on the blessed and happy state of those that keep the commandments of God. for behold, they are blessed in all things, both temporal and spiritual; and if they hold out faithful to the end they are received into heaven, that thereby they may dwell with God in a state of never-ending happiness. o remember, remember that these things are true; for the Lord God hath spoken it."
whenever prophets speak about commandments from the Lord, they always couple it with promised blessings. the principles of the Lord are eternal... the doctrines of the church never change... of course prophets today will be teaching the same things that king benjamin and other prophets in the scriptures taught. "the course of the Lord is one eternal round", after all.
what similarities do you see in king benjamin's teachings that are also being taught by modern day prophets and leaders?
--> verse 41 caps it all off for me. "..consider on the blessed and happy state of those that keep the commandments of God. for behold, they are blessed in all things, both temporal and spiritual; and if they hold out faithful to the end they are received into heaven, that thereby they may dwell with God in a state of never-ending happiness. o remember, remember that these things are true; for the Lord God hath spoken it."
whenever prophets speak about commandments from the Lord, they always couple it with promised blessings. the principles of the Lord are eternal... the doctrines of the church never change... of course prophets today will be teaching the same things that king benjamin and other prophets in the scriptures taught. "the course of the Lord is one eternal round", after all.
april.5
mosiah 2: 9 - 27
what do you think it means to open our ears and hearts to those who are called to teach?
--> i like that it distinguishes a difference between opening your ears and opening your hearts. you can open your ears and hear all kinds of things, but until you open your heart, those things won't make a difference or have any meaning in your life.
one thing i love about being a member of this church is that there is no paid clergy. we all take our turns in different callings, or positions, in the church. because of this, anyone could be called to teach a lesson in a sunday class, or give a sermon during the main congregational gathering. sometimes it's easy to criticize the people that are called because they may not be as eloquent a speaker or as entertaining as we would hope, but it's important to remember that they are the ones who have been called at that particular time to teach, and are therefore given the spirit needed to deliver an effective message.
what do you think it means to open our ears and hearts to those who are called to teach?
--> i like that it distinguishes a difference between opening your ears and opening your hearts. you can open your ears and hear all kinds of things, but until you open your heart, those things won't make a difference or have any meaning in your life.
one thing i love about being a member of this church is that there is no paid clergy. we all take our turns in different callings, or positions, in the church. because of this, anyone could be called to teach a lesson in a sunday class, or give a sermon during the main congregational gathering. sometimes it's easy to criticize the people that are called because they may not be as eloquent a speaker or as entertaining as we would hope, but it's important to remember that they are the ones who have been called at that particular time to teach, and are therefore given the spirit needed to deliver an effective message.
april.4
mosiah 1: 15 - 28
in these verses, people gathered to hear the words of the prophet king benjamin. what can you do to spiritually prepare to hear the words of our prophet and church leaders at general conference this weekend?
--> i get the most out of general conference when i pray for weeks before about questions that i have. when i do this, all of my questions are answered, whether through something that is exactly said in the talks, the music that is sung, or in the spiritual impressions i receive as i am listening to all the above.
to read more about how you can prepare for general conference this weekend, click here.
in these verses, people gathered to hear the words of the prophet king benjamin. what can you do to spiritually prepare to hear the words of our prophet and church leaders at general conference this weekend?
--> i get the most out of general conference when i pray for weeks before about questions that i have. when i do this, all of my questions are answered, whether through something that is exactly said in the talks, the music that is sung, or in the spiritual impressions i receive as i am listening to all the above.
to read more about how you can prepare for general conference this weekend, click here.
april.3
mosiah 1: 1 - 14
king benjamin teaches his sons the importance of the scriptures. what would your life be like if you never had the scriptures?
--> first of all, i LOVE this section of the book of mormon. the sermon by king benjamin is, to me, one of the most poignant and timeless sections of scripture in the book of mormon. i find it all relevant and applicable to my life at whatever stage i'm in.
the scriptures have surely changed my life, and continue to do so every time i read them. though they were written years ago, i find peace and comfort, direction and guidance in the words i read. they are useless if we just read and don't apply. it is when we "liken" them to ourselves that they take full grasp of our spirit and direct us how they should.
consistency in scripture reading is difficult for me, but i know that that is the key for getting the most out of my studies. my life without the scriptures would be bland. it is the way Heavenly Father communicates with me. there's a famous saying in our church - "if you want to talk to God, get on your knees, if you want God to talk to you, read the scriptures". there are so many answers - all of life's answers - inside the pages of that book. it is true. i know it with all my heart and will say that until i die!
king benjamin teaches his sons the importance of the scriptures. what would your life be like if you never had the scriptures?
--> first of all, i LOVE this section of the book of mormon. the sermon by king benjamin is, to me, one of the most poignant and timeless sections of scripture in the book of mormon. i find it all relevant and applicable to my life at whatever stage i'm in.
the scriptures have surely changed my life, and continue to do so every time i read them. though they were written years ago, i find peace and comfort, direction and guidance in the words i read. they are useless if we just read and don't apply. it is when we "liken" them to ourselves that they take full grasp of our spirit and direct us how they should.
consistency in scripture reading is difficult for me, but i know that that is the key for getting the most out of my studies. my life without the scriptures would be bland. it is the way Heavenly Father communicates with me. there's a famous saying in our church - "if you want to talk to God, get on your knees, if you want God to talk to you, read the scriptures". there are so many answers - all of life's answers - inside the pages of that book. it is true. i know it with all my heart and will say that until i die!
april.2
words of mormon 1: 1 - 18
think about mormon's willingness to follow spiritual promptings. how can our willingness to follow spiritual promptings influence our lives? how can this willingness influence the lives of others?
--> lately i have had my testimony confirmed multiple times that we are sent to be the answers to other people's prayers. Heavenly Father answers prayers through us. He helps other people through us. We are literally His hands.
on a personal note, i am the happiest when i am following the promptings of the spirit. i will often have thoughts that i don't understand, or think twice about, but when i follow through, i usually find out the reason for that thought later. a prompting can be as large as an audible voice (i've never had that...) or as small as a general impression or feeling, like "i should ____". i know a lot of people struggle with the idea of "how can i know if this is the spirit or if it's my own thoughts?" to that i echo what i heard in general conference years ago - if we are living right, any good thought is a thought from the spirit.
to read more on the topic of spiritual impressions, click here.
think about mormon's willingness to follow spiritual promptings. how can our willingness to follow spiritual promptings influence our lives? how can this willingness influence the lives of others?
--> lately i have had my testimony confirmed multiple times that we are sent to be the answers to other people's prayers. Heavenly Father answers prayers through us. He helps other people through us. We are literally His hands.
on a personal note, i am the happiest when i am following the promptings of the spirit. i will often have thoughts that i don't understand, or think twice about, but when i follow through, i usually find out the reason for that thought later. a prompting can be as large as an audible voice (i've never had that...) or as small as a general impression or feeling, like "i should ____". i know a lot of people struggle with the idea of "how can i know if this is the spirit or if it's my own thoughts?" to that i echo what i heard in general conference years ago - if we are living right, any good thought is a thought from the spirit.
to read more on the topic of spiritual impressions, click here.
april.1
omni 1: 12 - 30
in omni 1:26, what does it mean to you to come unto Christ? how has reading for 4 months helped you come unto Christ?
--> elder christofferson said this:
"our invitation to the world is to come unto Christ. 'coming unto Christ' is an abbreviation, a way of describing in 3 words the plan of salvation. it means to obtain the fruits of His atonement and resurrection - ultimately eternal life. eternal life is dependent on the exercise of our moral agency, but is possible only through the grace of Jesus Christ. to come unto Him means to do what is required to lay hold upon that grace - the pardoning, redeeming power of His infinite, redeeming sacrifice."
well put. i am a believer.
in omni 1:26, what does it mean to you to come unto Christ? how has reading for 4 months helped you come unto Christ?
--> elder christofferson said this:
"our invitation to the world is to come unto Christ. 'coming unto Christ' is an abbreviation, a way of describing in 3 words the plan of salvation. it means to obtain the fruits of His atonement and resurrection - ultimately eternal life. eternal life is dependent on the exercise of our moral agency, but is possible only through the grace of Jesus Christ. to come unto Him means to do what is required to lay hold upon that grace - the pardoning, redeeming power of His infinite, redeeming sacrifice."
well put. i am a believer.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)