alma 24: 19 - 30
how do these verses influence your desire to keep your covenants? what can we do to strengthen our desire and ability to keep the covenants we have made with the Lord?
--> one thing that helps me strengthen my resolve to keep my covenants more perfectly is to review them often. whether that be really paying attention during the sacrament prayers or going to the temple often, when i am reminded of what the covenant is, i can keep it better. when i have a spiritual experience hearing those words again, i am reminded of the feelings i had when i first made the covenant. this makes me want to do all i can to honor those covenants i made.
june.29
alma 24: 7 - 18
the word "testimony" appears three times in alma 24:15-18. how did burying their weapns deep in the ground serve as a testimony?
--> they showed that they were willing to give up really the only way of life they knew so far for a higher, better purpose.
the word "testimony" appears three times in alma 24:15-18. how did burying their weapns deep in the ground serve as a testimony?
--> they showed that they were willing to give up really the only way of life they knew so far for a higher, better purpose.
june.28
alma 23: 8 - 24: 6
what do you learn from these verses?
--> i love this story of convert retention. in this chapter, we learn that thousands were taught about the Lord and His gospel. thousands took the covenant of baptism. thousands were converted, and truly converted. in verse 6, it says, "and were converted unto the Lord, and never did fall away." as i've read this story in the past, i've thought about what had to happen in their lives to cause them to never fall away. what kinds of experiences did they need to have to feel the way they felt and be so tied to the gospel. it was a huge life change for them to follow these new teachings, but they were righteous, willing, and totally committed. in verse 18 it says they became an industrious people. i've always thought this connection was interesting... as they came to a knowledge of their Savior and became converted, they began to be more productive in their lives. in my own life, i've seen how when i truly feel confidence in the Lord and have a greater understanding of His plan for me, that eternal perspective causes me to be more productive in every area of my life. the gospel is a
what do you learn from these verses?
--> i love this story of convert retention. in this chapter, we learn that thousands were taught about the Lord and His gospel. thousands took the covenant of baptism. thousands were converted, and truly converted. in verse 6, it says, "and were converted unto the Lord, and never did fall away." as i've read this story in the past, i've thought about what had to happen in their lives to cause them to never fall away. what kinds of experiences did they need to have to feel the way they felt and be so tied to the gospel. it was a huge life change for them to follow these new teachings, but they were righteous, willing, and totally committed. in verse 18 it says they became an industrious people. i've always thought this connection was interesting... as they came to a knowledge of their Savior and became converted, they began to be more productive in their lives. in my own life, i've seen how when i truly feel confidence in the Lord and have a greater understanding of His plan for me, that eternal perspective causes me to be more productive in every area of my life. the gospel is a
june.27
alma 22: 27 - 23: 7
when have you seen the power of God working to help someone else become converted?
--> on my mission i met a woman named sharon. sharon was one of those people that i knew i was sent specifically to calgary, canada to find and teach. we clicked so well. we were great friends. every time we taught her, i could see the spirit working on her. i could see the influence of The Lord helping her process what we were saying, and recognize how it could fit into her life and change her for the better. the power of God is so profound and real. i have seen it work in many peoples' lives, including my own. i have seen and felt the influence of the spirit guiding me to make better choices and become more dedicated and converted. i love the way the Lord is deeply involved in the details of my life and how He helps me learn what i need to learn through beautiful experiences with the spirit. He is so good.
when have you seen the power of God working to help someone else become converted?
--> on my mission i met a woman named sharon. sharon was one of those people that i knew i was sent specifically to calgary, canada to find and teach. we clicked so well. we were great friends. every time we taught her, i could see the spirit working on her. i could see the influence of The Lord helping her process what we were saying, and recognize how it could fit into her life and change her for the better. the power of God is so profound and real. i have seen it work in many peoples' lives, including my own. i have seen and felt the influence of the spirit guiding me to make better choices and become more dedicated and converted. i love the way the Lord is deeply involved in the details of my life and how He helps me learn what i need to learn through beautiful experiences with the spirit. He is so good.
june.26
alma 22: 15 - 26
from what you have learned about what is required to receive eternal life, what do you feel the Lord would ask you to do today so you can draw closer to Him?
--> start my day with a sincere prayer, spend time studying the scriptures, pray for opportunities to serve others, and face the world with confidence in the Savior.
from what you have learned about what is required to receive eternal life, what do you feel the Lord would ask you to do today so you can draw closer to Him?
--> start my day with a sincere prayer, spend time studying the scriptures, pray for opportunities to serve others, and face the world with confidence in the Savior.
june.25
alma 22: 1 - 14
what did you learn about the doctrines of the gospel taught by aaron in these verses?
--> i love the way that aaron approached king lamoni's father. he asked many inspired questions to get a feel for where he was at, then began teaching him doctrine straight from the scriptures. i've always loved this pattern because of its effectiveness. i think sometimes i feel like i need to teach people out of my own wisdom, but really, all the doctrine is right there in the scriptures... just need to open them up and read! i appreciate the model of teaching that ammon and aaron demonstrate in these alma chapters because it gives me a good foundation of where to start when i go out and teach. i especially found this meaningful when i was on my mission. :)
what did you learn about the doctrines of the gospel taught by aaron in these verses?
--> i love the way that aaron approached king lamoni's father. he asked many inspired questions to get a feel for where he was at, then began teaching him doctrine straight from the scriptures. i've always loved this pattern because of its effectiveness. i think sometimes i feel like i need to teach people out of my own wisdom, but really, all the doctrine is right there in the scriptures... just need to open them up and read! i appreciate the model of teaching that ammon and aaron demonstrate in these alma chapters because it gives me a good foundation of where to start when i go out and teach. i especially found this meaningful when i was on my mission. :)
june.24
alma 21: 1 - 23
one of the trials aaron faced was opposition from the amalekites as he taught them. what can we do if someone wants to argue with us about religion or challenge our beliefs?
--> i've learned that when confrontation arises about the church or my beliefs, the best thing to do is stand my ground and continue to bear testimony. we are never going to "convince" anyone to join the church or believe what we have to say, especially if the nature of the conversation is heated already. but we can bear testimony and let them know that what we know is important to us. they always say that it takes two to argue, so if someone wants to argue, just don't. they need to be in the right mindset to have the spirit speak to them about the truthfulness of the things you are sharing with them anyway, so testify and let the spirit do the rest!
one of the trials aaron faced was opposition from the amalekites as he taught them. what can we do if someone wants to argue with us about religion or challenge our beliefs?
--> i've learned that when confrontation arises about the church or my beliefs, the best thing to do is stand my ground and continue to bear testimony. we are never going to "convince" anyone to join the church or believe what we have to say, especially if the nature of the conversation is heated already. but we can bear testimony and let them know that what we know is important to us. they always say that it takes two to argue, so if someone wants to argue, just don't. they need to be in the right mindset to have the spirit speak to them about the truthfulness of the things you are sharing with them anyway, so testify and let the spirit do the rest!
june.23
alma 20: 19 - 30
alma 20:30, what can we learn from the differences in the lot that ammon received compared to what his brethren received?
--> as in all mission calls, ammon was sent exactly where he needed to be sent to make the greatest influence on the people and to learn what he needed to learn. his brothers were also sent exactly where they needed to be sent to have the experiences they needed to have and affect the people they were able to bless. i love talking to people about their mission calls and their service as full-time missionaries because it testifies to me again and again the sacred nature of every mission call. it testifies to me that Heavenly Father really DOES know what He is doing. He sends us exactly where we, and the people we see, need us to be. i love that.
alma 20:30, what can we learn from the differences in the lot that ammon received compared to what his brethren received?
--> as in all mission calls, ammon was sent exactly where he needed to be sent to make the greatest influence on the people and to learn what he needed to learn. his brothers were also sent exactly where they needed to be sent to have the experiences they needed to have and affect the people they were able to bless. i love talking to people about their mission calls and their service as full-time missionaries because it testifies to me again and again the sacred nature of every mission call. it testifies to me that Heavenly Father really DOES know what He is doing. He sends us exactly where we, and the people we see, need us to be. i love that.
june.22
alma 20: 1 - 18
in what ways can we share our testimonies of the Savior and His gospel through our example?
--> there is a girl i know named jane. jane thomas. she's always been a girl that i looked up to and admired. she is optimistic, friendly, and always smiling. she loves the Lord and never lets anything get her down. she is constantly focused on enjoying life and serving people around her. jane thomas, to me, is the ultimate example of sharing a testimony through example. when i am around her, i want to be better. when i am around her, i want to be more like the Savior. when i am around her, i feel better about myself. there is a light in her eyes and true signs that she knows exactly who she is. she is fixed and determined to do what is right and be the light of the Savior to the people that have the lucky chance of being in her life.
in what ways can we share our testimonies of the Savior and His gospel through our example?
--> there is a girl i know named jane. jane thomas. she's always been a girl that i looked up to and admired. she is optimistic, friendly, and always smiling. she loves the Lord and never lets anything get her down. she is constantly focused on enjoying life and serving people around her. jane thomas, to me, is the ultimate example of sharing a testimony through example. when i am around her, i want to be better. when i am around her, i want to be more like the Savior. when i am around her, i feel better about myself. there is a light in her eyes and true signs that she knows exactly who she is. she is fixed and determined to do what is right and be the light of the Savior to the people that have the lucky chance of being in her life.
june.21
alma 19: 22 - 36
what can you do today that might have a good influence on people around you?
--> the best way to know what to do to serve and influence people around you is to kneel in the morning and pray for opportunities to serve - planned and unplanned - then listen to the spirit throughout the day and take advantage of the opportunities He sends your way. the happiest moments in my life are the times when i've done just this.
what can you do today that might have a good influence on people around you?
--> the best way to know what to do to serve and influence people around you is to kneel in the morning and pray for opportunities to serve - planned and unplanned - then listen to the spirit throughout the day and take advantage of the opportunities He sends your way. the happiest moments in my life are the times when i've done just this.
june.20
alma 19: 12 - 21
lamoni, the queen, and ammon were overpowered by the spirit and overpowered with joy. when have you felt the influence of the spirit in a powerful way? when have you felt great joy?
--> bible dictionary: earnest - "the Lord gives us his Holy Spirit in this life as a foretaste of the joy of eternal life." so, the times when i feel the greatest joy are the times when i'm overcome with the spirit. there are many times i could speak to, but one that i was just thinking about this morning happened a few years ago when i was up at utah state going to school. i had the opportunity to sing in a ces fireside and was attending one of the practices. i was sitting in the institute gym, surrounded by hundreds of other students and we were singing a song, i don't even remember what song it was now... but i do remember feeling so light and happy and almost like i was being carried away in the music. there was such a light in the room and i looked around and just felt so overwhelmed with peace and the joy of the gospel.
the first night in the mtc as a full-time missionary, i was sitting at the dinner table in the noisy cafeteria, missionaries all around... and felt that same joy as i looked around in awe at all the amazing young men and women i was surrounded by. all these people have chosen to give up the world and serve the Lord for 18 months to 2 years. i was astounded and felt so humbled to be part of that beautiful group.
when i sat in the sealing room of the draper temple watching my dear cousin aliska get sealed to her husband nelson, i again felt that same overwhelming, carry-me-away type of joy. the spirit is amazing.
i could go on for paragraphs about the times when i have felt the spirit strongest and have felt the joy that can only come through living the gospel of Jesus Christ. of all the things in the world to be grateful for, i am so grateful for the companionship of the Spirit and for that foretaste of eternal joy that we can feel! life is oh so good.
lamoni, the queen, and ammon were overpowered by the spirit and overpowered with joy. when have you felt the influence of the spirit in a powerful way? when have you felt great joy?
--> bible dictionary: earnest - "the Lord gives us his Holy Spirit in this life as a foretaste of the joy of eternal life." so, the times when i feel the greatest joy are the times when i'm overcome with the spirit. there are many times i could speak to, but one that i was just thinking about this morning happened a few years ago when i was up at utah state going to school. i had the opportunity to sing in a ces fireside and was attending one of the practices. i was sitting in the institute gym, surrounded by hundreds of other students and we were singing a song, i don't even remember what song it was now... but i do remember feeling so light and happy and almost like i was being carried away in the music. there was such a light in the room and i looked around and just felt so overwhelmed with peace and the joy of the gospel.
the first night in the mtc as a full-time missionary, i was sitting at the dinner table in the noisy cafeteria, missionaries all around... and felt that same joy as i looked around in awe at all the amazing young men and women i was surrounded by. all these people have chosen to give up the world and serve the Lord for 18 months to 2 years. i was astounded and felt so humbled to be part of that beautiful group.
when i sat in the sealing room of the draper temple watching my dear cousin aliska get sealed to her husband nelson, i again felt that same overwhelming, carry-me-away type of joy. the spirit is amazing.
i could go on for paragraphs about the times when i have felt the spirit strongest and have felt the joy that can only come through living the gospel of Jesus Christ. of all the things in the world to be grateful for, i am so grateful for the companionship of the Spirit and for that foretaste of eternal joy that we can feel! life is oh so good.
june.19
alma 18: 24 - 19: 11
why do you think it is important to teach about the creation and the fall when we teach about the atonement of Jesus Christ?
--> when we understand completely the creation and the fall, we understand the need for the atonement. on the mission, president archibald always encouraged us to spend adequate time talking about the apostacy of the church, because the more people we taught understood the apostacy, the more they would understand the dire need for a restoration. it's like a diamond shining against black velvet, as they explain in preach my gospel. the same goes for the fall and the atonement.
the atonement is the most significant event to happen on this earth. because of the atonement of Jesus Christ, everyone will live again! we will all be resurrected and be able to live forever in the state we have chosen by our actions and dedication to the gospel of Jesus Christ and our covenants. because of the atonement of Jesus Christ, i can have my sins and the things i do wrong cleansed and washed away. i can be forgiven for the mistakes i make over and over. i am empowered to be better and do better and become something that i could never be on my own. i am eternally grateful for the daily blessings of the atonement of Jesus Christ in my life. i know that the Savior came to earth to fulfill a sacred mission that the Father set out for Him, and because of this mission that was fulfilled, i can experience eternal happiness with those that i love the most!
why do you think it is important to teach about the creation and the fall when we teach about the atonement of Jesus Christ?
--> when we understand completely the creation and the fall, we understand the need for the atonement. on the mission, president archibald always encouraged us to spend adequate time talking about the apostacy of the church, because the more people we taught understood the apostacy, the more they would understand the dire need for a restoration. it's like a diamond shining against black velvet, as they explain in preach my gospel. the same goes for the fall and the atonement.
the atonement is the most significant event to happen on this earth. because of the atonement of Jesus Christ, everyone will live again! we will all be resurrected and be able to live forever in the state we have chosen by our actions and dedication to the gospel of Jesus Christ and our covenants. because of the atonement of Jesus Christ, i can have my sins and the things i do wrong cleansed and washed away. i can be forgiven for the mistakes i make over and over. i am empowered to be better and do better and become something that i could never be on my own. i am eternally grateful for the daily blessings of the atonement of Jesus Christ in my life. i know that the Savior came to earth to fulfill a sacred mission that the Father set out for Him, and because of this mission that was fulfilled, i can experience eternal happiness with those that i love the most!
june.18
alma 18: 8 - 23
after ammon protects the king's flocks, he then teaches the king the gospel of Jesus Christ. what have been some "unique" situations when you shared your testimony when you may not have thought you would?
--> working with venture outdoors, i am able to meet lots of non-members. in fact, it's probably the place that i meet the most non-members. a few years ago we started working with the forest service and i became good friends with a dear lady that works there and helped us out with the festival a few years in a row. i left on my mission and we of course lost touch, but she was happy to greet me when i got back, etc.
i had never had a religious discussion with this woman past telling her why i was serving a mission... but one day she e-mailed me out of the blue and asked me to tell her what missionaries do and what it would be like to meet with them. i was so shocked she would ask because she hadn't seemed interested before, just seemed like she was asking to be polite. so i sent her back an e-mail explaining what mission life was like and bearing my testimony to her while telling her a little bit about my experience in canada. she then told me her neighbors had invited her and her family to meet with the missionaries to hear a message and she just wasn't sure she was ready. we had a nice discussion about this and the gospel. in the end she decided she wasn't ready to meet with them, but she thanked me for sharing my thoughts and said she knew she could ask me questions anytime and that i wouldn't judge her. baby steps, right? :)
after ammon protects the king's flocks, he then teaches the king the gospel of Jesus Christ. what have been some "unique" situations when you shared your testimony when you may not have thought you would?
--> working with venture outdoors, i am able to meet lots of non-members. in fact, it's probably the place that i meet the most non-members. a few years ago we started working with the forest service and i became good friends with a dear lady that works there and helped us out with the festival a few years in a row. i left on my mission and we of course lost touch, but she was happy to greet me when i got back, etc.
i had never had a religious discussion with this woman past telling her why i was serving a mission... but one day she e-mailed me out of the blue and asked me to tell her what missionaries do and what it would be like to meet with them. i was so shocked she would ask because she hadn't seemed interested before, just seemed like she was asking to be polite. so i sent her back an e-mail explaining what mission life was like and bearing my testimony to her while telling her a little bit about my experience in canada. she then told me her neighbors had invited her and her family to meet with the missionaries to hear a message and she just wasn't sure she was ready. we had a nice discussion about this and the gospel. in the end she decided she wasn't ready to meet with them, but she thanked me for sharing my thoughts and said she knew she could ask me questions anytime and that i wouldn't judge her. baby steps, right? :)
june.17
alma 17: 32 - 18: 7
what can you apply to your own life from these verses?
--> one thing i love about these verses is the attitude of ammon that comes forth. when he is with the people at the waters, letting the sheep get a drink, the nephites come and scatter the flocks. the servants of the king know that this makes the king very upset, and is usually grounds for killing the servants. when the group comes to scatter the flocks, they are all in despair, but in verse 29 it says, "now they wept because of the fear of being slain. now when ammon saw this his heart was swollen within him with joy; for said he, i will show forth my power unto these my fellow-servants, or the power which is in me, in restoring these flocks unto the king, that i may win the hearts of these my fellow-servants, that i may lead them to believe in my words." in the very next verse it says that ammon termed these people to be his brethren. i LOVE what this says about his attitude. he had missionary work on the brain and took a simple situation with joy as an opportunity to show them the power of God so he could teach them more. as we know in the coming verses and chapter, it totally worked. sometimes when difficult things happen, it's easy to be like the lamanite servants and cry and weep in despair. how great would it be if we could adopt the attitude of ammon, and see every opportunity as a way to show and feel God's love and power in our lives and the lives of others. i love reading about ammon. he is the MAN.
what can you apply to your own life from these verses?
--> one thing i love about these verses is the attitude of ammon that comes forth. when he is with the people at the waters, letting the sheep get a drink, the nephites come and scatter the flocks. the servants of the king know that this makes the king very upset, and is usually grounds for killing the servants. when the group comes to scatter the flocks, they are all in despair, but in verse 29 it says, "now they wept because of the fear of being slain. now when ammon saw this his heart was swollen within him with joy; for said he, i will show forth my power unto these my fellow-servants, or the power which is in me, in restoring these flocks unto the king, that i may win the hearts of these my fellow-servants, that i may lead them to believe in my words." in the very next verse it says that ammon termed these people to be his brethren. i LOVE what this says about his attitude. he had missionary work on the brain and took a simple situation with joy as an opportunity to show them the power of God so he could teach them more. as we know in the coming verses and chapter, it totally worked. sometimes when difficult things happen, it's easy to be like the lamanite servants and cry and weep in despair. how great would it be if we could adopt the attitude of ammon, and see every opportunity as a way to show and feel God's love and power in our lives and the lives of others. i love reading about ammon. he is the MAN.
june.16
alma 17: 18 - 31
what do you think is significant about ammon telling the king "i will be thy servant"? when have you seen service lead to opportunities to share the gospel?
--> the ultimate example of a servant leader is Jesus Christ. He came to earth and served everyone He came in contact with. whether he was walking down the street or in someone's home, walking around the city, or preaching to a congregation, He was always looking for ways to bless and serve the people around Him.
ammon followed the Savior's perfect example when he approached the king with the servant leader mindset. he didn't try to shove the gospel down his throat first. he asked to be a humble servant, and he did it out of the love of his heart. he wasn't seeking ulterior motives. as he served the king and the king's people, the king grew to love him and trust him. it was then that he listened to the words of ammon. what a great example.
what do you think is significant about ammon telling the king "i will be thy servant"? when have you seen service lead to opportunities to share the gospel?
--> the ultimate example of a servant leader is Jesus Christ. He came to earth and served everyone He came in contact with. whether he was walking down the street or in someone's home, walking around the city, or preaching to a congregation, He was always looking for ways to bless and serve the people around Him.
ammon followed the Savior's perfect example when he approached the king with the servant leader mindset. he didn't try to shove the gospel down his throat first. he asked to be a humble servant, and he did it out of the love of his heart. he wasn't seeking ulterior motives. as he served the king and the king's people, the king grew to love him and trust him. it was then that he listened to the words of ammon. what a great example.
june.15
alma 17: 1 - 17
what are some things people can learn about the gospel as they see our good examples?
--> we claim to be full of the joy of the gospel. we claim to have life's answers to happiness and peace. on my mission, there was a lady we brought to church one day. she was touched by the speakers and the music. she loved the feeling there. but, she was confused about the members she met. she was confused because many were on their phones the entire meeting. many were playing games on their ipads or answering emails during the talks. the same pattern applied throughout sunday school and relief society. she was also amazed at some of the conversations she overheard. people gossiping about other people. people talking poorly about the teachers or people in the ward leadership. the next time we visited her, she said, "for a church that claims to have so much happiness, your members don't seem very satisfied with their church experience." this hit me so hard. i am totally guilty of pulling out my phone during church. i am guilty of talking about church leaders or teachers or other members of the congregation. but this lady's comments make me think twice about how what i am saying and doing reflects what i believe. to be a good example of what this gospel really means to me, i need to be positive and happy, let the light and joy of the gospel show through my eyes and the things i choose to talk about with other people, and consistently do what i am supposed to do. the people i know that have become the most interested in the gospel are the people that have seen righteous examples of a positive lifestyle of a disciple of Jesus Christ - consistent over time. that is a lesson to me.
what are some things people can learn about the gospel as they see our good examples?
--> we claim to be full of the joy of the gospel. we claim to have life's answers to happiness and peace. on my mission, there was a lady we brought to church one day. she was touched by the speakers and the music. she loved the feeling there. but, she was confused about the members she met. she was confused because many were on their phones the entire meeting. many were playing games on their ipads or answering emails during the talks. the same pattern applied throughout sunday school and relief society. she was also amazed at some of the conversations she overheard. people gossiping about other people. people talking poorly about the teachers or people in the ward leadership. the next time we visited her, she said, "for a church that claims to have so much happiness, your members don't seem very satisfied with their church experience." this hit me so hard. i am totally guilty of pulling out my phone during church. i am guilty of talking about church leaders or teachers or other members of the congregation. but this lady's comments make me think twice about how what i am saying and doing reflects what i believe. to be a good example of what this gospel really means to me, i need to be positive and happy, let the light and joy of the gospel show through my eyes and the things i choose to talk about with other people, and consistently do what i am supposed to do. the people i know that have become the most interested in the gospel are the people that have seen righteous examples of a positive lifestyle of a disciple of Jesus Christ - consistent over time. that is a lesson to me.
june.14
alma 16: 1 - 21
how can these verses help us prepare ourselves and others for the Second Coming of Jesus Christ?
--> one thing that stuck out to me reading this time around was all the things that the priests were preaching against - lying, deceiving, envying, strife, malice, reviling, stealing, robbing, plundering, murdering, adultery, lasciviousness, etc. if they were preaching against these things back then, how much more should we be avoiding them now?
one thing i love about the chapters before the Savior comes is that it is the exact pattern of how we can prepare ourselves for the coming of the Savior in our day. they were so eager for Him to come. they did all they could to prepare themselves. am i doing what i need to do to prepare myself to meet the Savior? it's the little things.
how can these verses help us prepare ourselves and others for the Second Coming of Jesus Christ?
--> one thing that stuck out to me reading this time around was all the things that the priests were preaching against - lying, deceiving, envying, strife, malice, reviling, stealing, robbing, plundering, murdering, adultery, lasciviousness, etc. if they were preaching against these things back then, how much more should we be avoiding them now?
one thing i love about the chapters before the Savior comes is that it is the exact pattern of how we can prepare ourselves for the coming of the Savior in our day. they were so eager for Him to come. they did all they could to prepare themselves. am i doing what i need to do to prepare myself to meet the Savior? it's the little things.
june.13
alma 15: 5 - 19
what blessings have you received as you have sacrificed to live the gospel and trust in the Lord?
--> the blessings that come to mind today are:
- peace of mind
- peace of heart
- direction
- guidance
- eternal perspective
- confidence
- great friends
- safety and protection
- JOY!
what blessings have you received as you have sacrificed to live the gospel and trust in the Lord?
--> the blessings that come to mind today are:
- peace of mind
- peace of heart
- direction
- guidance
- eternal perspective
- confidence
- great friends
- safety and protection
- JOY!
june.12
alma 14: 23 - 15: 4
what are some ways that people can exercise faith in Jesus Christ during difficult times?
--> i love the plea alma gives to the Lord in verse 15. he says, "o Lord, give us strength according to our faith which is in Christ, even unto deliverance." he asks for strength to bear the difficulties he is facing. he asks for strength to make it through the challenges that lie ahead. he doesn't ask for the Lord to take the burdens away, but asks for strength to make it through and deal with it adequately. in verse 28, it says, "the Lord had granted unto them power, according to their faith which was in Christ." their faith was properly rooted in the Savior, and they were blessed with answers to their prayers because of their specific pleas and their immense faith. i aim to have that kind of faith in the Lord so that i can ask for things that the Lord can grant to me.
what are some ways that people can exercise faith in Jesus Christ during difficult times?
--> i love the plea alma gives to the Lord in verse 15. he says, "o Lord, give us strength according to our faith which is in Christ, even unto deliverance." he asks for strength to bear the difficulties he is facing. he asks for strength to make it through the challenges that lie ahead. he doesn't ask for the Lord to take the burdens away, but asks for strength to make it through and deal with it adequately. in verse 28, it says, "the Lord had granted unto them power, according to their faith which was in Christ." their faith was properly rooted in the Savior, and they were blessed with answers to their prayers because of their specific pleas and their immense faith. i aim to have that kind of faith in the Lord so that i can ask for things that the Lord can grant to me.
june.11
alma 14: 6 - 22
how did alma's words show his trust in the Lord? how can we do the same?
--> verse 13 is the crowning statement of alma's testimony and trust in the Lord: "be it according to the will of the Lord." our ultimate goal in this life is to turn the only thing that we possess completely - our will - to the Lord. once we trust the Lord enough to give up everything to Him, that to me is when we have really "made it". often we think we know better for ourselves, or we have too many fears to give up our will completely, but the times in my life when i have turned it all over to the Lord, i have been immensely happy! He rewards us thousands of times more than the sacrifice it is to give up our will. God is good.
how did alma's words show his trust in the Lord? how can we do the same?
--> verse 13 is the crowning statement of alma's testimony and trust in the Lord: "be it according to the will of the Lord." our ultimate goal in this life is to turn the only thing that we possess completely - our will - to the Lord. once we trust the Lord enough to give up everything to Him, that to me is when we have really "made it". often we think we know better for ourselves, or we have too many fears to give up our will completely, but the times in my life when i have turned it all over to the Lord, i have been immensely happy! He rewards us thousands of times more than the sacrifice it is to give up our will. God is good.
june.10
alma13: 21 - 14: 5
what can we learn from alma as we read these verses?
--> ah there are just so many good verses in this section of scripture! a few favorite phrases:
- "they are made known unto us in plain terms, that we may understand". in other words, the gospel is so simple that you can't disbelieve. we can all understand.
- "i wish from the inmost part of my heart yea, with great anxiety even unto pain, that ye would hearken unto my words." i often thought about this phrase during my mission... did i feel that kind of urgency about people accepting the gospel?
- "having faith on the Lord, having a hope that ye shall receive eternal life." just living your life in a way that looks forward to the future and looks forward with hope in the promises of the Lord. His promises will be fulfilled. i know it.
- "having the love of God always in your hearts." one of the greatest feelings in the world is to look at someone and feel for them the way Heavenly Father feels for them. we can pray for that love to be in our hearts at all times. just takes some consistent effort to keep it there :)
- "now is the time to repent." not tomorrow, not next week, not when Christ comes, but now.
- "and now we only wait to hear the joyful news declared unto us." the gospel is a message of joy.
- "angels are declaring it unto many at this time in our land; and this for the purpose of preparing the hearts of the children of men to receive his word at the time of his coming in his glory." i often thought about this scripture on the mission as well... people are being prepared in this land. this land of salt lake city. that land of calgary, canada. THIS land. wherever we are, people are being prepared. the question is, are we in tune enough and diligent enough about praying for opportunities to see those people that are ready to accept the gospel so we can invite?
what can we learn from alma as we read these verses?
--> ah there are just so many good verses in this section of scripture! a few favorite phrases:
- "they are made known unto us in plain terms, that we may understand". in other words, the gospel is so simple that you can't disbelieve. we can all understand.
- "i wish from the inmost part of my heart yea, with great anxiety even unto pain, that ye would hearken unto my words." i often thought about this phrase during my mission... did i feel that kind of urgency about people accepting the gospel?
- "having faith on the Lord, having a hope that ye shall receive eternal life." just living your life in a way that looks forward to the future and looks forward with hope in the promises of the Lord. His promises will be fulfilled. i know it.
- "having the love of God always in your hearts." one of the greatest feelings in the world is to look at someone and feel for them the way Heavenly Father feels for them. we can pray for that love to be in our hearts at all times. just takes some consistent effort to keep it there :)
- "now is the time to repent." not tomorrow, not next week, not when Christ comes, but now.
- "and now we only wait to hear the joyful news declared unto us." the gospel is a message of joy.
- "angels are declaring it unto many at this time in our land; and this for the purpose of preparing the hearts of the children of men to receive his word at the time of his coming in his glory." i often thought about this scripture on the mission as well... people are being prepared in this land. this land of salt lake city. that land of calgary, canada. THIS land. wherever we are, people are being prepared. the question is, are we in tune enough and diligent enough about praying for opportunities to see those people that are ready to accept the gospel so we can invite?
june.9
alma 13: 10 - 20
how have you been blessed through the service of church leaders?
--> leaders of this church serve tirelessly for free for the benefit of others. just last night i was having a conversation with a good friend about the blessings that serving others brings to our lives. it is a multi-faceted blessing chain, hah. i am grateful for the opportunity we have in this church to serve in many different capacities. we are all created equal and at any given time can have any given calling. each calling is for our benefit and to help us grow. we are asked to give our hearts and are given many blessings in return. what a beautiful system. i am grateful for amazing church leaders that fast and pray and work hard to do what the Lord would have them do in their respective callings.... they are a blessing to me and many in their stewardship!
how have you been blessed through the service of church leaders?
--> leaders of this church serve tirelessly for free for the benefit of others. just last night i was having a conversation with a good friend about the blessings that serving others brings to our lives. it is a multi-faceted blessing chain, hah. i am grateful for the opportunity we have in this church to serve in many different capacities. we are all created equal and at any given time can have any given calling. each calling is for our benefit and to help us grow. we are asked to give our hearts and are given many blessings in return. what a beautiful system. i am grateful for amazing church leaders that fast and pray and work hard to do what the Lord would have them do in their respective callings.... they are a blessing to me and many in their stewardship!
june.8
alma 12: 28 - 13: 9
what blessings have come into your life through the priesthood?
--> there are many blessings that come to my life through the priesthood. today, i'd just like to simply say that i am grateful for the sealing power that the priesthood provides, that allows my family to be bound here on earth and in heaven for this life and eternity.
what blessings have come into your life through the priesthood?
--> there are many blessings that come to my life through the priesthood. today, i'd just like to simply say that i am grateful for the sealing power that the priesthood provides, that allows my family to be bound here on earth and in heaven for this life and eternity.
june.7
alma 12: 20 - 27
how has knowing the purpose of life helped guide you?
--> i especially love verse 24 in this section of scripture. "this life became a probationary state; a time to prepare to meet God". this simple sentence gives me so much direction and hope. i am an expectations kind of girl. i need to know what is expected of me, and then i can accomplish it. i know that one of the main purposes of my life here on earth is to prepare to be with God again. with that end goal in mind, i know that all the things we are asked to do in the meantime are a means to that end. in verse 32, it says "therefore God gave unto them commandments after having made known unto them the plan of redemption." Heavenly Father taught them the plan, showed them the end goal, then showed them how to get there... what commandments they would have to keep to make it happen for them in their lives. this is a perfect system. i love that.
how has knowing the purpose of life helped guide you?
--> i especially love verse 24 in this section of scripture. "this life became a probationary state; a time to prepare to meet God". this simple sentence gives me so much direction and hope. i am an expectations kind of girl. i need to know what is expected of me, and then i can accomplish it. i know that one of the main purposes of my life here on earth is to prepare to be with God again. with that end goal in mind, i know that all the things we are asked to do in the meantime are a means to that end. in verse 32, it says "therefore God gave unto them commandments after having made known unto them the plan of redemption." Heavenly Father taught them the plan, showed them the end goal, then showed them how to get there... what commandments they would have to keep to make it happen for them in their lives. this is a perfect system. i love that.
june.6
alma 12: 1 - 19
what is the relationship between the condition of our hearts and our ability to receive spiritual truth?
--> if we have a "soft heart", we have a humble heart that is ready and willing to learn. our heart is where our true intentions lie. in verse 10 it talks about those that don't harden their hearts are given a greater portion of the word. there is clearly a connection. we need to do what is necessary to keep our hearts open and humbly, ready to learn and grow.
what is the relationship between the condition of our hearts and our ability to receive spiritual truth?
--> if we have a "soft heart", we have a humble heart that is ready and willing to learn. our heart is where our true intentions lie. in verse 10 it talks about those that don't harden their hearts are given a greater portion of the word. there is clearly a connection. we need to do what is necessary to keep our hearts open and humbly, ready to learn and grow.
june.5
alma 11: 21 - 46
how do you think being sensitive to the promptings of the Holy Ghost can help us overcome temptation?
--> in my patriarchal blessing it mentions that being warned of impending danger and temptation is a gift of the spirit, and that as i respond willingly to the whisperings of the spirit, this gift would remain with me throughout my life. i have seen this to be true time and time again. in fact, in the last general conference, sister reeves talked about how the greatest filter in the world - the one that would help us overcome temptation and keep us safe more than any software we could buy - is a deep and abiding testimony and listening to the promptings of the Holy Ghost.
read the rest of sister reeves amazing talk here.
how do you think being sensitive to the promptings of the Holy Ghost can help us overcome temptation?
--> in my patriarchal blessing it mentions that being warned of impending danger and temptation is a gift of the spirit, and that as i respond willingly to the whisperings of the spirit, this gift would remain with me throughout my life. i have seen this to be true time and time again. in fact, in the last general conference, sister reeves talked about how the greatest filter in the world - the one that would help us overcome temptation and keep us safe more than any software we could buy - is a deep and abiding testimony and listening to the promptings of the Holy Ghost.
read the rest of sister reeves amazing talk here.
june.4
alma 11: 1 - 20
why do you think the Lord found it important to include these verses in the book of mormon? what did you learn from today's reading?
--> i've always wondered the same thing: why was it necessary that these verses were included in the book? i think it makes sense when you think about how the church was run by order. all things had an order and by recording things like this, this order could be met.
why do you think the Lord found it important to include these verses in the book of mormon? what did you learn from today's reading?
--> i've always wondered the same thing: why was it necessary that these verses were included in the book? i think it makes sense when you think about how the church was run by order. all things had an order and by recording things like this, this order could be met.
june.3
alma 10: 17 - 32
what are some of the destructive consequences that come to individuals or groups of people when they disobey God's commandments?
--> probably the consequence that scares me the most is spiritual separation from Heavenly Father. any decision we make in life takes us closer or further away from the light. the more poor choices we make, the further we distance ourselves from the spirit and from His light. disobeying God's commandments is a sure way to disqualify ourselves from the Lord's blessings. without the spirit, life soon loses meaning and eventually, you don't even remember what it feels like to feel the spirit. this is what scares me most. i saw it on my mission time and time again. just know i always need to make righteous decisions to keep the spirit with me!
what are some of the destructive consequences that come to individuals or groups of people when they disobey God's commandments?
--> probably the consequence that scares me the most is spiritual separation from Heavenly Father. any decision we make in life takes us closer or further away from the light. the more poor choices we make, the further we distance ourselves from the spirit and from His light. disobeying God's commandments is a sure way to disqualify ourselves from the Lord's blessings. without the spirit, life soon loses meaning and eventually, you don't even remember what it feels like to feel the spirit. this is what scares me most. i saw it on my mission time and time again. just know i always need to make righteous decisions to keep the spirit with me!
june.2
alma 10: 1 - 16
how have you seen blessings come to others because you or someone else responded to the Lord's call? how do these experiences influence your desire to listen for and obey calls from the Lord?
--> the conversion story of amulek always intrigues me. on the mission we would always joke that we wished for an amulek to come out of the rich houses of okotoks or dewinton, ha ha. amulek makes an interesting statement that he was called many times but didn't hear. and that though he had so many riches and wonderful friends, he didn't know the mysteries of God, and thus his life wasn't fulfilled like it could've been. his testimony is so powerful. i admire amulek. and because he finally responded to the call, thousands were blessed. he and alma made quite the pair!
i wish i was better at treating every call from the Lord a sacred responsibility. sometimes i get promptings to do something and brush them aside, or talk myself out of them for fear of this or that, but i want to be better. i know there are great blessings that come when i put my trust in the Lord and do exactly what He asks. i've seen it time and time again. (so why is it so hard to remember?!)
how have you seen blessings come to others because you or someone else responded to the Lord's call? how do these experiences influence your desire to listen for and obey calls from the Lord?
--> the conversion story of amulek always intrigues me. on the mission we would always joke that we wished for an amulek to come out of the rich houses of okotoks or dewinton, ha ha. amulek makes an interesting statement that he was called many times but didn't hear. and that though he had so many riches and wonderful friends, he didn't know the mysteries of God, and thus his life wasn't fulfilled like it could've been. his testimony is so powerful. i admire amulek. and because he finally responded to the call, thousands were blessed. he and alma made quite the pair!
i wish i was better at treating every call from the Lord a sacred responsibility. sometimes i get promptings to do something and brush them aside, or talk myself out of them for fear of this or that, but i want to be better. i know there are great blessings that come when i put my trust in the Lord and do exactly what He asks. i've seen it time and time again. (so why is it so hard to remember?!)
june.1
alma 9: 19 - 34
what gifts and blessings have you experienced because you are a member of the Lord's church? what does the Lord expect of us because of the gifts and blessings that we have received?
--> with great calling comes great responsibility.
the blessings i receive from Heavenly Father on a daily basis are endless and impossible to count.
what gifts and blessings have you experienced because you are a member of the Lord's church? what does the Lord expect of us because of the gifts and blessings that we have received?
--> with great calling comes great responsibility.
the blessings i receive from Heavenly Father on a daily basis are endless and impossible to count.
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