3 nephi 17: 1 - 25
how does understanding the Savior's compassionate nature help you to exercise faith in Him?
--> Christ's compassion allows me to have faith in Him because i know he understands me and where i'm at. He's been through everything i've been through and because of that He can have perfect empathy and sympathy and love for me. in this section of scripture, i love that Christ invites the people to go home and ponder what He's been teaching them, then come back tomorrow ready for more. He truly gives us line upon line.
october.30
3 nephi 16: 1 - 20
in what ways has the Lord manifested Himself to you and your family?
--> through the spirit. i feel Him everyday. in testimony meeting one day, a young man shared that he had never felt the love of God, or at least that he didn't feel it on a daily, regular basis. that felt so sad to me. the love of God is such an integral part of my everyday feeling about myself and those around me - it is so hard to imagine not recognizing or feeling that everyday. that is the way i feel Him most. through the spirit's peace and comfort and guidance/direction.
in what ways has the Lord manifested Himself to you and your family?
--> through the spirit. i feel Him everyday. in testimony meeting one day, a young man shared that he had never felt the love of God, or at least that he didn't feel it on a daily, regular basis. that felt so sad to me. the love of God is such an integral part of my everyday feeling about myself and those around me - it is so hard to imagine not recognizing or feeling that everyday. that is the way i feel Him most. through the spirit's peace and comfort and guidance/direction.
october.29
3 nephi 15: 1 - 24
why should we obey the commandments? how have you been blessed when you have kept the commandments with real intent?
--> obedience brings faith. simply put. if we want more faith, we need to be more obedient. we are promised many blessings as we keep the commandments. i've felt those blessings so so so many times in my life. sometimes when i'm not 100% keeping all the commandments i know i need to be keeping, i recognize an absence of something in my life, and in the end i always attribute that back to my desire and obedience to the commandments of the Lord. He is so good to us.
why should we obey the commandments? how have you been blessed when you have kept the commandments with real intent?
--> obedience brings faith. simply put. if we want more faith, we need to be more obedient. we are promised many blessings as we keep the commandments. i've felt those blessings so so so many times in my life. sometimes when i'm not 100% keeping all the commandments i know i need to be keeping, i recognize an absence of something in my life, and in the end i always attribute that back to my desire and obedience to the commandments of the Lord. He is so good to us.
october.28
3 nephi 14: 1 - 27
what fundamental truths do you learn from Christ's teachings in these verses? how will you incorporate these important teachings into your life?
--> i love the part that asks the question about if you were to ask a brother for a loaf of bread, would he give you a stone? (no!) and just how much Heavenly Father loves us. He desires to give us what we righteously desire. He does not wish to deny us the blessings He has in store for us. i've also always loved verse 20: "by their fruits, ye shall know them". it was an easy answer to give to so many investigators on my mission - that if they doubted anything that the prophet or church leaders did, they could just look at the fruits of their labors and judge if they were good or evil. seems like a good "temperature check" to me!
what fundamental truths do you learn from Christ's teachings in these verses? how will you incorporate these important teachings into your life?
--> i love the part that asks the question about if you were to ask a brother for a loaf of bread, would he give you a stone? (no!) and just how much Heavenly Father loves us. He desires to give us what we righteously desire. He does not wish to deny us the blessings He has in store for us. i've also always loved verse 20: "by their fruits, ye shall know them". it was an easy answer to give to so many investigators on my mission - that if they doubted anything that the prophet or church leaders did, they could just look at the fruits of their labors and judge if they were good or evil. seems like a good "temperature check" to me!
october.27
3 nephi 13: 16 - 34
based on your experience, why might it be difficult to always love and serve God over the things of the world? why is putting God first worth the effort?
--> when we put God first, all other things fall into place, or fall out of our lives. in sunday school the other day, someone was mentioning that we often don't put the things of God first, because other entertainment of the world seems more enticing and exciting in the moment, when really, the things of God will always be better for us, and more eternal! in a world where we have so much going on and create so much busy-ness for ourselves, it takes effort and consistent diligence to make sure the things of God are staying at our priority.
based on your experience, why might it be difficult to always love and serve God over the things of the world? why is putting God first worth the effort?
--> when we put God first, all other things fall into place, or fall out of our lives. in sunday school the other day, someone was mentioning that we often don't put the things of God first, because other entertainment of the world seems more enticing and exciting in the moment, when really, the things of God will always be better for us, and more eternal! in a world where we have so much going on and create so much busy-ness for ourselves, it takes effort and consistent diligence to make sure the things of God are staying at our priority.
october.26
3 nephi 13: 1 - 15
how can our motives for doing righteous works affect the way we do them? what are some righteous motives that might inspire a person to pray or fast in secret?
--> one of my all-time favorite quotes is: "when we are motivated by goals that have deep meaning, by dreams that need completion, by pure love that needs expressing, then we truly live." if we care more about what God thinks than what anyone else thinks, then i believe we get more fulfillment out of whatever acts we are doing because we aren't doing it for the accolades of friends or the world, we aren't doing it to get noticed. we are doing it because we want to do it, to please the Lord, because we know it is the right thing to do, because Christ would do it if He were here, and we are His followers.
how can our motives for doing righteous works affect the way we do them? what are some righteous motives that might inspire a person to pray or fast in secret?
--> one of my all-time favorite quotes is: "when we are motivated by goals that have deep meaning, by dreams that need completion, by pure love that needs expressing, then we truly live." if we care more about what God thinks than what anyone else thinks, then i believe we get more fulfillment out of whatever acts we are doing because we aren't doing it for the accolades of friends or the world, we aren't doing it to get noticed. we are doing it because we want to do it, to please the Lord, because we know it is the right thing to do, because Christ would do it if He were here, and we are His followers.
october.25
3 nephi 12: 25 - 48
as we strive to be perfected, why is it so important to focus on our desires, thoughts, and motivations?
--> a good quote from our main man ezra t. benson: "thoughts lead to acts, acts lead to habits, habits lead to character - and our character will determine our eternal destiny." our desires, thoughts, and motivations are the very root of everything that we do. if we can't learn to control those, we can never be perfected.
as we strive to be perfected, why is it so important to focus on our desires, thoughts, and motivations?
--> a good quote from our main man ezra t. benson: "thoughts lead to acts, acts lead to habits, habits lead to character - and our character will determine our eternal destiny." our desires, thoughts, and motivations are the very root of everything that we do. if we can't learn to control those, we can never be perfected.
october.24
3 nephi 12: 1 - 24
whose righteous example has helped you to draw nearer to your Heavenly Father and strengthened your desire to live the gospel?
--> there are some people you are around and just want to be better because of it. one of these people for me is jane thomas. jane is a lovely girl i met in high school and became fast friends with. she is always happy. always smiling. always looking for the good in others. always reaching out to the underdog. always close to the spirit. i cherish my friendship with her and appreciate her righteous influence in my life. whenever i see her, i just think "that's what i want to be like. that's the kind of happiness and attitude i want to have all the time." i've recently been re-connected with jane and it's such a nice blessing to have her more closely in my life again. i love the way she glows and helps everyone around her feel like they can be better :)
whose righteous example has helped you to draw nearer to your Heavenly Father and strengthened your desire to live the gospel?
--> there are some people you are around and just want to be better because of it. one of these people for me is jane thomas. jane is a lovely girl i met in high school and became fast friends with. she is always happy. always smiling. always looking for the good in others. always reaching out to the underdog. always close to the spirit. i cherish my friendship with her and appreciate her righteous influence in my life. whenever i see her, i just think "that's what i want to be like. that's the kind of happiness and attitude i want to have all the time." i've recently been re-connected with jane and it's such a nice blessing to have her more closely in my life again. i love the way she glows and helps everyone around her feel like they can be better :)
october.23
3 nephi 11: 18 - 41
what feelings did you have when you were baptized?
--> i was baptized on may 31, 1997 by my father. i remember feeling lots of things: nervousness because i didn't like being in front of people, excited to wear my new baptism dress, embarrassed when i stepped into the water and the beautiful baptism dress my mother made me to be baptized in floated to the top of the water, happiness when i sang a song with friends then another with my family, love that so many people would come support my big day, and honestly a little confused when people would say "congrats on making this choice to be baptized". i remember thinking that it wasn't really a choice, of course i was going to be baptized. i've often reflected on that attitude... and wished i was better about applying it to every aspect of the gospel. of course i'm going to choose the right. of course i'm going to read my scriptures today. of course i'm going to go to church every week and the temple often. of course my family will never miss an fhe. of course of course of course.
i also remember thinking i would never sin again. about an hour later, at lunch, i hit coleman my brother and the moment i did, i was totally devastated that i was no longer perfect. my mom had a good discussion with me about repentance after that, but it just didn't seem the same. thank goodness i understand it now :)
my baptism day was so special to me, and i will forever be grateful for the CHOICE i made to become a member of the church of Jesus Christ of latter-day saints, and all that entails!
what feelings did you have when you were baptized?
--> i was baptized on may 31, 1997 by my father. i remember feeling lots of things: nervousness because i didn't like being in front of people, excited to wear my new baptism dress, embarrassed when i stepped into the water and the beautiful baptism dress my mother made me to be baptized in floated to the top of the water, happiness when i sang a song with friends then another with my family, love that so many people would come support my big day, and honestly a little confused when people would say "congrats on making this choice to be baptized". i remember thinking that it wasn't really a choice, of course i was going to be baptized. i've often reflected on that attitude... and wished i was better about applying it to every aspect of the gospel. of course i'm going to choose the right. of course i'm going to read my scriptures today. of course i'm going to go to church every week and the temple often. of course my family will never miss an fhe. of course of course of course.
i also remember thinking i would never sin again. about an hour later, at lunch, i hit coleman my brother and the moment i did, i was totally devastated that i was no longer perfect. my mom had a good discussion with me about repentance after that, but it just didn't seem the same. thank goodness i understand it now :)
my baptism day was so special to me, and i will forever be grateful for the CHOICE i made to become a member of the church of Jesus Christ of latter-day saints, and all that entails!
october.22
3 nephi 11: 1 - 17
the people went to the Savior "one by one until they had all gone forth". what does this teach you about how the Savior feels about each one of us? what thoughts and feelings would you have had if you had been among the nephites when the Savior visited them?
--> this has long since been my favorite chapter in the book of mormon. i love everything about it. i love the climax that it is in the book of mormon: the crowning event. i love the Savior's invitation - to BRING people to Him. he didn't just say come and feel my hands and feet, He asked for the people that were sick or afflicted to be brought to Him, meaning the sick and the whole had to come together. the fact that He took time to meet and greet with each person one on one shows such care and concern. He was just as excited to see each of them as they were to see him. He was there to minister and love. this account speaks more to me about what it means to have Christlike love than any other chapter in modern scripture. i like to just imagine myself there. the imagery is so real:
"as they cast their eyes up again towards heaven; and behold they saw a Man descending out of heaven; and he was clothed in a white robe; and he came down and stood in the midst of them; and the eyes of the multitude were turned upon him, and they durst not open their mouths... and he stretched forth his hand and spake unto the people saying: behold, i am Jesus Christ, whom the prophets testified shall come into the world. and behold, i am the light and the life of the world."
the people went to the Savior "one by one until they had all gone forth". what does this teach you about how the Savior feels about each one of us? what thoughts and feelings would you have had if you had been among the nephites when the Savior visited them?
--> this has long since been my favorite chapter in the book of mormon. i love everything about it. i love the climax that it is in the book of mormon: the crowning event. i love the Savior's invitation - to BRING people to Him. he didn't just say come and feel my hands and feet, He asked for the people that were sick or afflicted to be brought to Him, meaning the sick and the whole had to come together. the fact that He took time to meet and greet with each person one on one shows such care and concern. He was just as excited to see each of them as they were to see him. He was there to minister and love. this account speaks more to me about what it means to have Christlike love than any other chapter in modern scripture. i like to just imagine myself there. the imagery is so real:
"as they cast their eyes up again towards heaven; and behold they saw a Man descending out of heaven; and he was clothed in a white robe; and he came down and stood in the midst of them; and the eyes of the multitude were turned upon him, and they durst not open their mouths... and he stretched forth his hand and spake unto the people saying: behold, i am Jesus Christ, whom the prophets testified shall come into the world. and behold, i am the light and the life of the world."
october.21
3 nephi 10: 1 - 19
in what ways is the Savior like a hen protecting her chicks from danger? when have you felt the Savior's invitations to receive His nourishment and protection?
--> i love the image of a mother hen taking all her chickies under her wing, especially in the midst of a storm or danger. they find refuge, warmth, and closeness there. i like to imagine the Savior's loving embrace as He protects us from danger and temptation.
i feel protected all the time. the examples that are coming to mind are all examples of me driving on the road and being protected from some accident, or looking a certain way at the exact right moment to prevent me from something i could've hit or something. even though i'm totally a distracted driver, i'm grateful that i have that protection.
in what ways is the Savior like a hen protecting her chicks from danger? when have you felt the Savior's invitations to receive His nourishment and protection?
--> i love the image of a mother hen taking all her chickies under her wing, especially in the midst of a storm or danger. they find refuge, warmth, and closeness there. i like to imagine the Savior's loving embrace as He protects us from danger and temptation.
i feel protected all the time. the examples that are coming to mind are all examples of me driving on the road and being protected from some accident, or looking a certain way at the exact right moment to prevent me from something i could've hit or something. even though i'm totally a distracted driver, i'm grateful that i have that protection.
october.20
3 nephi 9: 1 - 22
what do you think it means to offer a sacrifice of a "broken heart and a contrite spirit"? what blessings does the Savior promise those who come unto Him with a broken heart and contrite spirit?
--> when i think about a broken heart, i think about a heart that has been through a lot. i think about a heart that is open, humble, teachable, meek. a heart and soul that is ready to hear the word of the Lord and follow it. the word "contrite" means to show repentance and sorrow for wrongdoing (per say). if we have a contrite spirit and a broken heart, we are looking for ways to change and accepting the direction of the Lord, even when it is hard to hear, or hard to implement. Christ promises that He will bless all those that come unto Him. he also says more specifically that those who come unto Him with a broken heart and contrite spirit will be baptized by the spirit and water: two of the greatest blessings we can receive on this earth!
what do you think it means to offer a sacrifice of a "broken heart and a contrite spirit"? what blessings does the Savior promise those who come unto Him with a broken heart and contrite spirit?
--> when i think about a broken heart, i think about a heart that has been through a lot. i think about a heart that is open, humble, teachable, meek. a heart and soul that is ready to hear the word of the Lord and follow it. the word "contrite" means to show repentance and sorrow for wrongdoing (per say). if we have a contrite spirit and a broken heart, we are looking for ways to change and accepting the direction of the Lord, even when it is hard to hear, or hard to implement. Christ promises that He will bless all those that come unto Him. he also says more specifically that those who come unto Him with a broken heart and contrite spirit will be baptized by the spirit and water: two of the greatest blessings we can receive on this earth!
october.19
3 nephi 8: 5 - 25
what signs of the Savior's second coming have already occurred? how do you feel when you recognize something as a clear sign that the Savior's second coming is approaching?
--> there are so many of the signs that have already occurred, or that are occurring right now. i would like to address the second question - how do i feel when i recognize this? part of me likes to think about how cool it is... that i might be alive for His return to earth. part of me gets nervous... thinking about how much i need to do to prepare myself for that day. part of my gets anxious... thinking about all the family and friends that i need to spread the message of the gospel to before that day. part of me gets excited... thinking about the promises given to us in the scriptures and how amazing it will be to have perfect peace on the earth again with the Savior here to rule the government. i know there is much we can read about the second coming and the days following, but there's also a lot of unknowns. things we can't predict or imagine. i'm excited to see that all unfold in its due time. (and i'm happy to wait for that due time!)
what signs of the Savior's second coming have already occurred? how do you feel when you recognize something as a clear sign that the Savior's second coming is approaching?
--> there are so many of the signs that have already occurred, or that are occurring right now. i would like to address the second question - how do i feel when i recognize this? part of me likes to think about how cool it is... that i might be alive for His return to earth. part of me gets nervous... thinking about how much i need to do to prepare myself for that day. part of my gets anxious... thinking about all the family and friends that i need to spread the message of the gospel to before that day. part of me gets excited... thinking about the promises given to us in the scriptures and how amazing it will be to have perfect peace on the earth again with the Savior here to rule the government. i know there is much we can read about the second coming and the days following, but there's also a lot of unknowns. things we can't predict or imagine. i'm excited to see that all unfold in its due time. (and i'm happy to wait for that due time!)
october.18
3 nephi 7: 15 - 8: 4
what principles can we learn from the example of those who repented and followed nephi?
--> the most inspiring thing in this section of verses to me says that there were none who learned the words of the Savior who were not baptized by water. this to me shows of the strength of the word of God, and the power it has to change the lives of those that choose to allow it to change them. when we choose to repent and apply the Savior's words in our lives, we are blessed. simply put.
what principles can we learn from the example of those who repented and followed nephi?
--> the most inspiring thing in this section of verses to me says that there were none who learned the words of the Savior who were not baptized by water. this to me shows of the strength of the word of God, and the power it has to change the lives of those that choose to allow it to change them. when we choose to repent and apply the Savior's words in our lives, we are blessed. simply put.
october.17
3 nephi 7: 1 - 14
how and why is satan trying to divide the people today?
--> he is trying to divide them for the same purpose he's always been trying to divide people: because he is doing everything he can to fight against the plan and will of Heavenly Father. satan can't have a body. he can't come to earth as a mortal and learn and progress and experience the joy, hope, love, and peace that we feel, or have hope for a resurrection and eternal life someday... so he works his hardest to ensure that he takes as many as he can down with him.
the "how" is also an easy question - though uniquely crafted to each individual on the earth. the scary thing is that satan knows us really well... better than we know ourselves, actually. he knows what our weaknesses are and how to tempt us so we fall. there's a reason the scriptures and the brethren of the church are constantly talking about the importance of doing the simple things: reading scriptures, praying daily, attending church to renew our baptismal covenant, serving others, and staying faithful to the covenants we have made. it is these small fortifications that will help us to build the solid foundation to stay strong against the temptations of the devil.
how and why is satan trying to divide the people today?
--> he is trying to divide them for the same purpose he's always been trying to divide people: because he is doing everything he can to fight against the plan and will of Heavenly Father. satan can't have a body. he can't come to earth as a mortal and learn and progress and experience the joy, hope, love, and peace that we feel, or have hope for a resurrection and eternal life someday... so he works his hardest to ensure that he takes as many as he can down with him.
the "how" is also an easy question - though uniquely crafted to each individual on the earth. the scary thing is that satan knows us really well... better than we know ourselves, actually. he knows what our weaknesses are and how to tempt us so we fall. there's a reason the scriptures and the brethren of the church are constantly talking about the importance of doing the simple things: reading scriptures, praying daily, attending church to renew our baptismal covenant, serving others, and staying faithful to the covenants we have made. it is these small fortifications that will help us to build the solid foundation to stay strong against the temptations of the devil.
october.16
3 nephi 6: 15 - 30
what do these verses teach about the relationship between pride and satan's power to tempt us?
--> satan leads these people away by enticing them with riches, and the "vain things of the world". as they became more and more set on those things, their attention is diverted further and further from the Lord and things of an eternal nature. the saddest verse is verse 18 - "they did not sin ignorantly, for they knew the will of God concerning them, for it had been taught unto them, therefore they did willfully rebel against God". pride has a way of creeping in and overtaking our ability to think coherently because we have a cloudy view of what really matters. there is a great sermon on pride that was given in general conference years ago. if you'd like to read that, click here.
what do these verses teach about the relationship between pride and satan's power to tempt us?
--> satan leads these people away by enticing them with riches, and the "vain things of the world". as they became more and more set on those things, their attention is diverted further and further from the Lord and things of an eternal nature. the saddest verse is verse 18 - "they did not sin ignorantly, for they knew the will of God concerning them, for it had been taught unto them, therefore they did willfully rebel against God". pride has a way of creeping in and overtaking our ability to think coherently because we have a cloudy view of what really matters. there is a great sermon on pride that was given in general conference years ago. if you'd like to read that, click here.
october.15
3 nephi 5: 20 - 6: 14
what actions can we take to help ourselves remain humble and faithful in any circumstance?
--> i think the contrast in verse 13 of chapter 6 is interesting... it talks about how the same things were happening to all the people, but different people responded differently. some were humble in their afflictions, some got riled up. some responded with faith and hope to their trials, others turned bitter and against God. some chose pride, others chose to be humble, and so on. in verse 14, it talks about the righteous people being firm and steadfast in following the word of the Lord. they were "immovable" - which is a word i've always liked because it signifies constant and unwavering determination. and perhaps the kicker for the whole verse and section is this phrase "they were willing with all diligence to keep the commandments of the Lord". no matter what they were asked, they had the resolve to follow what the Lord wanted them to do. i have a long way to go until i reach this point of dedication, but hope to get there someday :)
what actions can we take to help ourselves remain humble and faithful in any circumstance?
--> i think the contrast in verse 13 of chapter 6 is interesting... it talks about how the same things were happening to all the people, but different people responded differently. some were humble in their afflictions, some got riled up. some responded with faith and hope to their trials, others turned bitter and against God. some chose pride, others chose to be humble, and so on. in verse 14, it talks about the righteous people being firm and steadfast in following the word of the Lord. they were "immovable" - which is a word i've always liked because it signifies constant and unwavering determination. and perhaps the kicker for the whole verse and section is this phrase "they were willing with all diligence to keep the commandments of the Lord". no matter what they were asked, they had the resolve to follow what the Lord wanted them to do. i have a long way to go until i reach this point of dedication, but hope to get there someday :)
october.14
3 nephi 5: 1 - 19
according to these verses, what is the role of a disciple of Christ? what are some ways we can fulfill this role?
--> the phrase that stuck out to me the most in this passage was, "they did serve God with diligence, both day and night." when i think of a true disciple of Christ, i think of someone who's mind and heart and will is so aligned with the heart, mind, and will of God, that they are not only doing what Christ was do, but they are being what Christ would be and what Christ is. they have dedicated their lives - both in the day and in the night - to helping others and serving as Jesus would serve if He were still here. this passage also speaks about the importance of forsaking all sin and repenting. constantly trying to be better, more holy, more pure.
one of the challenges of living in the time that we do now, is the busy nature of our schedule. we have so many things going on that remembering to serve can be pushed to the back burner. it doesn't seem urgent, so it is easier to forget and not make a priority. i love what elder christensen says in his book "the power of everyday missionaries" - that every calling we have is a missionary calling. everything we do in this life, everywhere we go, gives us opportunity to be like Christ and serve as His disciple.
according to these verses, what is the role of a disciple of Christ? what are some ways we can fulfill this role?
--> the phrase that stuck out to me the most in this passage was, "they did serve God with diligence, both day and night." when i think of a true disciple of Christ, i think of someone who's mind and heart and will is so aligned with the heart, mind, and will of God, that they are not only doing what Christ was do, but they are being what Christ would be and what Christ is. they have dedicated their lives - both in the day and in the night - to helping others and serving as Jesus would serve if He were still here. this passage also speaks about the importance of forsaking all sin and repenting. constantly trying to be better, more holy, more pure.
one of the challenges of living in the time that we do now, is the busy nature of our schedule. we have so many things going on that remembering to serve can be pushed to the back burner. it doesn't seem urgent, so it is easier to forget and not make a priority. i love what elder christensen says in his book "the power of everyday missionaries" - that every calling we have is a missionary calling. everything we do in this life, everywhere we go, gives us opportunity to be like Christ and serve as His disciple.
october.13
3 nephi 4: 15 - 33
have you had an experience in which you relied on God and He helped you endure or overcome a trial?
--> at the beginning of this school year, i was really struggling with one certain boy in my class. i have a lot of trouble kids this year, but one in particular, i just hadn't figured out how to manage or deal with him yet. one night, after a particularly challenging day (in fact, the 2nd worst day in my teaching career...), i just pled that i would be able to know how to solve this issue with this boy and know how to use his mother for the support i needed. that night, his mom called for a meeting the next day. i worried about the meeting all night and all the next school day. when it came time for the meeting, i was so calm and the meeting went perfectly. we were both able to express our feelings and points of view about the situation, and talk through some solutions together. i won't say that the issue is completely solved now... in fact, every day is a struggle with this little guy. but things are improving and i feel that i am being inspired more and more every day to know how to handle him, how to interact with him, and how to help him be what he needs to be. in talking to my principal, she was mentioning that she was impressed that i was able to approach the situation with such tact and a calm demeanor. i replied that the only reason was because i was able to rely on God for His strength and help. every day i am constantly praying to know how to help these little ones, and every day, i am understanding more and more how i needed to treat them, or what to say, or what they will respond to. God is so good to us. He desires to help us in our weaknesses and trials!
have you had an experience in which you relied on God and He helped you endure or overcome a trial?
--> at the beginning of this school year, i was really struggling with one certain boy in my class. i have a lot of trouble kids this year, but one in particular, i just hadn't figured out how to manage or deal with him yet. one night, after a particularly challenging day (in fact, the 2nd worst day in my teaching career...), i just pled that i would be able to know how to solve this issue with this boy and know how to use his mother for the support i needed. that night, his mom called for a meeting the next day. i worried about the meeting all night and all the next school day. when it came time for the meeting, i was so calm and the meeting went perfectly. we were both able to express our feelings and points of view about the situation, and talk through some solutions together. i won't say that the issue is completely solved now... in fact, every day is a struggle with this little guy. but things are improving and i feel that i am being inspired more and more every day to know how to handle him, how to interact with him, and how to help him be what he needs to be. in talking to my principal, she was mentioning that she was impressed that i was able to approach the situation with such tact and a calm demeanor. i replied that the only reason was because i was able to rely on God for His strength and help. every day i am constantly praying to know how to help these little ones, and every day, i am understanding more and more how i needed to treat them, or what to say, or what they will respond to. God is so good to us. He desires to help us in our weaknesses and trials!
october.12
3 nephi 4: 1 - 14
when have you felt protected by God? how can we show gratitude for that protection?
--> last night, actually, i felt incredibly protected by the Lord. julie hanks and i went up to logan for the homecoming festivities. we decided to drive back late, late after the game. we got on the road at 12:30am. it was earlyyyyy and i was tired. i had 3 passengers. the drive home isn't the easiest... it's down sardine canyon, then a pretty straight shot to SLC, but there is always construction and windy roads, etc. my eyes were so heavy as i drove and i kept thinking i just need to push through and keep my eyes open! there were 2 times when i drifted a bit and it startled me awake... i've only started to fall asleep at the wheel 2 times in my life, and last night was one of them... this morning when i was thinking more clearly in the shower, i just had this feeling that i had a guardian angel looking after me last night that shook me awake. i didn't hit the rumble strips either time that i drifted, i just shook awake. i am so grateful for the way the Lord protects and watches over us. i'm sure that it occurs more often than we realize.
there is a picture floating around out there that has a man getting hit by a rock in the first frame as he screams "ouch!" in the second frame, you see Christ standing with open arms, being pelted by all kinds of rocks and leaning His head back and saying, "sorry, did i miss one?" when i saw this photo again the other week, it was a nice reminder that the Lord is truly watching out for us and it is impossible to imagine what our lives would be like if He weren't in it. i am grateful for Him and the protection He gives me daily. i could be better about vocalizing that gratitude in my daily prayers. something to work on this week.
when have you felt protected by God? how can we show gratitude for that protection?
--> last night, actually, i felt incredibly protected by the Lord. julie hanks and i went up to logan for the homecoming festivities. we decided to drive back late, late after the game. we got on the road at 12:30am. it was earlyyyyy and i was tired. i had 3 passengers. the drive home isn't the easiest... it's down sardine canyon, then a pretty straight shot to SLC, but there is always construction and windy roads, etc. my eyes were so heavy as i drove and i kept thinking i just need to push through and keep my eyes open! there were 2 times when i drifted a bit and it startled me awake... i've only started to fall asleep at the wheel 2 times in my life, and last night was one of them... this morning when i was thinking more clearly in the shower, i just had this feeling that i had a guardian angel looking after me last night that shook me awake. i didn't hit the rumble strips either time that i drifted, i just shook awake. i am so grateful for the way the Lord protects and watches over us. i'm sure that it occurs more often than we realize.
there is a picture floating around out there that has a man getting hit by a rock in the first frame as he screams "ouch!" in the second frame, you see Christ standing with open arms, being pelted by all kinds of rocks and leaning His head back and saying, "sorry, did i miss one?" when i saw this photo again the other week, it was a nice reminder that the Lord is truly watching out for us and it is impossible to imagine what our lives would be like if He weren't in it. i am grateful for Him and the protection He gives me daily. i could be better about vocalizing that gratitude in my daily prayers. something to work on this week.
october.11
3 nephi 3: 11 - 26
how can we fortify our homes against the attacks of the adversary? why are temporal preparations, such as getting an education and home storage, important in the last days?
--> i feel like this topic and question gets brought up on this insta feed a lot. and my answers never change: read your scriptures, pray everyday, go to church, stay in the temple, and serve. the small things become the big things.
temporal preparations are important because the prophet asked us to do them. they know things that are to come and have asked us to get our affairs in order. if we are prepared, we will be able to focus our efforts on other people.
how can we fortify our homes against the attacks of the adversary? why are temporal preparations, such as getting an education and home storage, important in the last days?
--> i feel like this topic and question gets brought up on this insta feed a lot. and my answers never change: read your scriptures, pray everyday, go to church, stay in the temple, and serve. the small things become the big things.
temporal preparations are important because the prophet asked us to do them. they know things that are to come and have asked us to get our affairs in order. if we are prepared, we will be able to focus our efforts on other people.
october.10
3 nephi 3: 1 - 10
what are some examples of how the adversary might use flattery (insincere or excessive praise) on youth today? what are some false promises or empty threats that the adversary might use?
--> two words: social media. social media is a beautiful tool to keep in contact with friends and family over the world, to share the gospel, and to spread goodness and light, but of course it's also a tool for destruction if we aren't careful. i find myself falling victim to the "perfection syndrome" of thinking everyone around me has perfect lives because of what they choose to post. it's so easy to gain self-esteem from how many likes you get on pictures. it's so easy to check social media multiple times a day for fear of missing out. it's so easy to feel like you have to portray yourself a certain way on the internet. satan hammers lies into us on the internet and we have to decide how to deal with them. it's not a matter of if we will see or be exposed to them or not, it's a matter of how we will respond!
what are some examples of how the adversary might use flattery (insincere or excessive praise) on youth today? what are some false promises or empty threats that the adversary might use?
--> two words: social media. social media is a beautiful tool to keep in contact with friends and family over the world, to share the gospel, and to spread goodness and light, but of course it's also a tool for destruction if we aren't careful. i find myself falling victim to the "perfection syndrome" of thinking everyone around me has perfect lives because of what they choose to post. it's so easy to gain self-esteem from how many likes you get on pictures. it's so easy to check social media multiple times a day for fear of missing out. it's so easy to feel like you have to portray yourself a certain way on the internet. satan hammers lies into us on the internet and we have to decide how to deal with them. it's not a matter of if we will see or be exposed to them or not, it's a matter of how we will respond!
october.9
3 nephi 2: 1 - 19
why do you think forgetting spiritual experiences can make us vulnerable to satan? what can we do to ensure that we do not forget the spiritual experiences we have had?
--> i am a strong believer in writing in journals and making a record of our lives. i have always loved keeping a journal and writing down things that make a difference in my life. when i got my patriarchal blessing, it emphasized the importance of continuing to keep my journal faithfully. it says that i should record the people that make a significance in my life, record the things that i want to pass down to my children, and record the things that build and reinforce my testimony. when we take the time to write down the things that mean the most to us and the spiritual experiences that we have, we can remember them better and reflect on them often. i LOVE to look back on my journals and remember the things i've learned in the past to help me in the present and future. forgetting spiritual experiences can make us vulnerable to satan because he makes us doubt the things that we know.
why do you think forgetting spiritual experiences can make us vulnerable to satan? what can we do to ensure that we do not forget the spiritual experiences we have had?
--> i am a strong believer in writing in journals and making a record of our lives. i have always loved keeping a journal and writing down things that make a difference in my life. when i got my patriarchal blessing, it emphasized the importance of continuing to keep my journal faithfully. it says that i should record the people that make a significance in my life, record the things that i want to pass down to my children, and record the things that build and reinforce my testimony. when we take the time to write down the things that mean the most to us and the spiritual experiences that we have, we can remember them better and reflect on them often. i LOVE to look back on my journals and remember the things i've learned in the past to help me in the present and future. forgetting spiritual experiences can make us vulnerable to satan because he makes us doubt the things that we know.
october.8
3 nephi 1: 15 - 30
how can knowing that the Lord will fulfill the words of the prophets help you when someone ridicules your standards or persecutes you for your beliefs?
--> it doesn't matter what the world thinks... the Lord's perceptions of us are what eternally matter. having confidence in the testimony that you have is the perfect way to combat the persecution and ridicule that we face. an eternal perspective is a beautiful way to view life. one of my goals in life is to perfect my heart and my intentions so that the persecutions and wiles of the world don't affect my resolve or my self-esteem. it's a noble task, but possible with the help of the Lord.
how can knowing that the Lord will fulfill the words of the prophets help you when someone ridicules your standards or persecutes you for your beliefs?
--> it doesn't matter what the world thinks... the Lord's perceptions of us are what eternally matter. having confidence in the testimony that you have is the perfect way to combat the persecution and ridicule that we face. an eternal perspective is a beautiful way to view life. one of my goals in life is to perfect my heart and my intentions so that the persecutions and wiles of the world don't affect my resolve or my self-esteem. it's a noble task, but possible with the help of the Lord.
october.7
3 nephi 1: 1 - 14
even though many great signs and miracles took place among the people, what reason did the wicked give for persecuting the righteous? why do signs usually fail to convince the wicked to change?
--> the wicked said that the sign hadn't come so the righteous' prayers were in vain. they attributed the sign not coming to their lack of faith, and told them their joy had also been in vain. it's interesting to note that as the prophecies from the prophets about the coming of the Savior increased, the persecutions increased as well.
in the scriptures it says "a wicked and idolatrous generation seeketh after a sign". signs fail to convince the wicked because seeing isn't believing. the Lord has designed a specific way to experience the truth for ourselves and come to know what we need to know about Him and His teaching, and it isn't seeing a physical sign. when justin brown was giving his farewell speech for his mission, he said that all the spoken words that day didn't matter, but rather the feelings that you experienced as you were listening.
even though many great signs and miracles took place among the people, what reason did the wicked give for persecuting the righteous? why do signs usually fail to convince the wicked to change?
--> the wicked said that the sign hadn't come so the righteous' prayers were in vain. they attributed the sign not coming to their lack of faith, and told them their joy had also been in vain. it's interesting to note that as the prophecies from the prophets about the coming of the Savior increased, the persecutions increased as well.
in the scriptures it says "a wicked and idolatrous generation seeketh after a sign". signs fail to convince the wicked because seeing isn't believing. the Lord has designed a specific way to experience the truth for ourselves and come to know what we need to know about Him and His teaching, and it isn't seeing a physical sign. when justin brown was giving his farewell speech for his mission, he said that all the spoken words that day didn't matter, but rather the feelings that you experienced as you were listening.
october.6
helaman 16: 9 - 25
how can we tell if we are beginning to reject the words of the prophet in our personal lives? what will happen to us if we reject the Lord's latter day prophets?
--> to me, one of the "radars" i can use to take a spiritual "temperature" is rationalization. i find that the more i am trying to rationalize things that i am doing in my life, the further i am drifting from the teachings of the prophets and the Savior. rationalization and justification are one of satan's greatest tools. once we start justifying the choices we are making, we step further and further away from the light. unfortunately, that is a prevalent attitude in the world today. also, comparing our righteousness with other people's righteousness can be detrimental to our salvation because we start thinking things like "well, i'm not perfect, but i'm not as bad as _____" or "as long as i don't do _____ like ____ did, i'm ok...".
how can we tell if we are beginning to reject the words of the prophet in our personal lives? what will happen to us if we reject the Lord's latter day prophets?
--> to me, one of the "radars" i can use to take a spiritual "temperature" is rationalization. i find that the more i am trying to rationalize things that i am doing in my life, the further i am drifting from the teachings of the prophets and the Savior. rationalization and justification are one of satan's greatest tools. once we start justifying the choices we are making, we step further and further away from the light. unfortunately, that is a prevalent attitude in the world today. also, comparing our righteousness with other people's righteousness can be detrimental to our salvation because we start thinking things like "well, i'm not perfect, but i'm not as bad as _____" or "as long as i don't do _____ like ____ did, i'm ok...".
october.5
helaman 15: 7 - 16: 8
why do you think people respond to prophets and their messages in different ways? how will you choose to respond to the messages from conference this weekend?
--> different people are at different places in their lives, and we all have different views and beliefs and levels of spirituality. depending on where we are at in our lives, we respond to different things in different ways. (could i say the word "different" three more times? hah). it all comes down to agency. we choose to respond to messages from the Lord in different ways.
i sometimes find myself overwhelmed after conference weekend because as much of a spiritual uplifting it is, it is a rebuking too... and causes me to think about all the things that i need to be doing better, or things that i have been slacking off in. because there are so many talks and messages all in such a short period of time, it's hard to really soak it all in and get out of each talk what the Lord wants me to. so... in the days, weeks, and months that follow conference, i find the greater spiritual enlightenment comes when i take the time to study and apply the things that have been taught. lately i have been listening to conference talks in the morning as i get ready and it has made all the difference in my day. to respond to the messages this time around, i would like to do the same - listen to them in the morning over and over, and also read them and highlight them and apply them in ways that are specific to me.
why do you think people respond to prophets and their messages in different ways? how will you choose to respond to the messages from conference this weekend?
--> different people are at different places in their lives, and we all have different views and beliefs and levels of spirituality. depending on where we are at in our lives, we respond to different things in different ways. (could i say the word "different" three more times? hah). it all comes down to agency. we choose to respond to messages from the Lord in different ways.
i sometimes find myself overwhelmed after conference weekend because as much of a spiritual uplifting it is, it is a rebuking too... and causes me to think about all the things that i need to be doing better, or things that i have been slacking off in. because there are so many talks and messages all in such a short period of time, it's hard to really soak it all in and get out of each talk what the Lord wants me to. so... in the days, weeks, and months that follow conference, i find the greater spiritual enlightenment comes when i take the time to study and apply the things that have been taught. lately i have been listening to conference talks in the morning as i get ready and it has made all the difference in my day. to respond to the messages this time around, i would like to do the same - listen to them in the morning over and over, and also read them and highlight them and apply them in ways that are specific to me.
october.4
helaman 14: 20 - 15: 6
how is the Lord's chastening a sign of His love?
--> He chastens whom He loveth because He wants us to come unto Him. sometimes we need the chastening to wake up and realize what is going on that we need to fix. the reason we are here is to prepare ourselves to live with Him again. the Lord chastening us proves that He wants to be steadily involved in our lives and He cares so much about what we do with our lives.
how is the Lord's chastening a sign of His love?
--> He chastens whom He loveth because He wants us to come unto Him. sometimes we need the chastening to wake up and realize what is going on that we need to fix. the reason we are here is to prepare ourselves to live with Him again. the Lord chastening us proves that He wants to be steadily involved in our lives and He cares so much about what we do with our lives.
october.3
helaman 14: 1 - 19
how has your belief in the Savior led you to repent and strive to be more like Him?
--> the more i learn about the Savior, His teachings, and His life, the more I want to be like him. the more i read about the Savior, the more the desire to learn about Him increases. He is grace, truth, light, hope, love, and peace. He is eternal and endless. He is unconditionally loving us and reaching for us to repent and access the Atonement He made for us.
how has your belief in the Savior led you to repent and strive to be more like Him?
--> the more i learn about the Savior, His teachings, and His life, the more I want to be like him. the more i read about the Savior, the more the desire to learn about Him increases. He is grace, truth, light, hope, love, and peace. He is eternal and endless. He is unconditionally loving us and reaching for us to repent and access the Atonement He made for us.
october.2
helaman 13: 21 - 39
how are the statements and attitudes we read about in helaman 13:27 apparent in our day? what are some ways people seek happiness in doing iniquity?
--> especially in a day like today, where an independent, abrasive attitude is becoming the popular norm, these verses are completely applicable and even a bit foreshadowing. there is sin and iniquity all around us. so many guilty pleasures in the world that people indulge in. and we all have something we struggle with. satan makes wickedness look so appealing. i went to a concert a few weeks ago at usana amphitheater and kept looking around at all the people drinking and kept thinking to myself that those people were having SO much fun right then. they had no cares in the world. just letting loose, hanging with their friends, listening to good music, soaking in the moment, dancing like crazy, guys hanging on them. sometimes that life looks appealing to me. but then i realized that that kind of happiness is so fleeting. they'll wake up the next morning and all the memories of the night will be just happy memories (if they remember anything at all...). i know it's much more important to seek the things of the Lord and seek the things that will bring eternal happiness. but sometimes that is hard when the messages that are coming at us from all angles show that wickedness actually does look like happiness. but what you don't see in all those faces is the guilt and unhappiness afterwards. you don't see the hangover in the morning or the regret in their heart when they've made a poor choice. i am grateful for the knowledge of the gospel that i have, and for the resolve to follow the prophet and prepare for the Savior's second coming. i am far from perfect, but i'd like to think i'm perfectly trying to be better each and every day.
how are the statements and attitudes we read about in helaman 13:27 apparent in our day? what are some ways people seek happiness in doing iniquity?
--> especially in a day like today, where an independent, abrasive attitude is becoming the popular norm, these verses are completely applicable and even a bit foreshadowing. there is sin and iniquity all around us. so many guilty pleasures in the world that people indulge in. and we all have something we struggle with. satan makes wickedness look so appealing. i went to a concert a few weeks ago at usana amphitheater and kept looking around at all the people drinking and kept thinking to myself that those people were having SO much fun right then. they had no cares in the world. just letting loose, hanging with their friends, listening to good music, soaking in the moment, dancing like crazy, guys hanging on them. sometimes that life looks appealing to me. but then i realized that that kind of happiness is so fleeting. they'll wake up the next morning and all the memories of the night will be just happy memories (if they remember anything at all...). i know it's much more important to seek the things of the Lord and seek the things that will bring eternal happiness. but sometimes that is hard when the messages that are coming at us from all angles show that wickedness actually does look like happiness. but what you don't see in all those faces is the guilt and unhappiness afterwards. you don't see the hangover in the morning or the regret in their heart when they've made a poor choice. i am grateful for the knowledge of the gospel that i have, and for the resolve to follow the prophet and prepare for the Savior's second coming. i am far from perfect, but i'd like to think i'm perfectly trying to be better each and every day.
october.1
helaman 13: 1 - 20
in what ways does the Lord give the warnings mentioned in these verses? how do these verses apply to us today?
--> just like the Lord sent samuel the prophet to the nephites, He will always send a prophet to teach us and warn us of things to come. if we stay close to the prophet and follow his counsel, we will know what to do when a situation arises. the things that samuel taught were the same things that are taught by prophets today. things that will help us prepare for what is to come, whatever it may be: exercising faith, repenting, praying to the Father for help and forgiveness, reaching out to help and invite others to come back to God, soften our hearts, return to God, etc.
the people in this chapter were hearing about the coming of the Savior into the world. they were given specific signs to look for to show them when he would arrive. they were taught how to draw near to the Savior when He did come. i've heard that the best way to prepare and know about what it will be like for the Savior to come a second time will be to study and follow what the righteous people did to prepare for His coming the first time. i've always loved the story of samuel the lamanite - it's been one of my favorites ever since i was a little girl. i love that the Savior is finally being born and that the way is being prepared for Him to come again, perhaps in my lifetime.
in what ways does the Lord give the warnings mentioned in these verses? how do these verses apply to us today?
--> just like the Lord sent samuel the prophet to the nephites, He will always send a prophet to teach us and warn us of things to come. if we stay close to the prophet and follow his counsel, we will know what to do when a situation arises. the things that samuel taught were the same things that are taught by prophets today. things that will help us prepare for what is to come, whatever it may be: exercising faith, repenting, praying to the Father for help and forgiveness, reaching out to help and invite others to come back to God, soften our hearts, return to God, etc.
the people in this chapter were hearing about the coming of the Savior into the world. they were given specific signs to look for to show them when he would arrive. they were taught how to draw near to the Savior when He did come. i've heard that the best way to prepare and know about what it will be like for the Savior to come a second time will be to study and follow what the righteous people did to prepare for His coming the first time. i've always loved the story of samuel the lamanite - it's been one of my favorites ever since i was a little girl. i love that the Savior is finally being born and that the way is being prepared for Him to come again, perhaps in my lifetime.
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