My daily bread

Honor father and mother

2010-10-05T09:10:00.002-06:00

Today we read scriptures about the stripling warriors obeying with exactness and discussed honoring father and mother. My oldest boy had a very difficult time going to bed and obeying last night. I thought this was a good thing for us to review.

What did you read today?

Starting anew

2010-10-04T16:27:00.002-06:00

General Conference this past weekend has given me a new desire to do better with family scripture study. It doesn't have to be long -- it just has to be consistent.

This morning, I read the scripture in D&C about going to bed early since the kids have been struggling with bedtime. (I made my oldest do chores last night when he wasn't tired enough for bed. Con: He went to bed after 9:30. Pro: my laundry and dishes were put away!)

So. That's today. Read one pertinent verse, discuss. Pray.

I hope someone reads this so I feel accountable to post tomorrow.

Joseph and Potiphar's wife

2010-06-22T14:43:00.003-06:00

Last night for Family Home Evening we had a talk about "stranger danger," though we made sure that our kids were wary of people they knew, too. We talked about yelling "NNNOOOOO!!!!!" as loudly as possible and running away. Telling mom or dad. All that stuff.

Each day for my kids to earn Otter Pops, they have to get dressed, make beds/clean their room, and read scriptures. (I got the idea from her.) It's really more of an incentive for me, but it works. So we pulled out eh Gospel Art Kit for me to tell them a scripture story. And what's one of the first pictures I see? Joseph running from Potiphar's wife. And I realized it was EXACTLY like what we had discussed for family home evening.

I told them about the good guy, Joseph, and how there was someone who wanted him to take off his clothes and touch him in a bad way. I told them that Joseph said, "NNNOOOOO!!!!!" and ran away. Again, we practiced yelling "NNNOOOOO!!!!" at the top of our lungs. The kids laughed, but I think they got the point, too.

And that, my friends, is how the scriptures help you teach your kids about innappropriate touching.

Personal Progress

2010-02-09T14:21:00.002-07:00

I confess that I haven't been great about having my own personal scripture study lately. But I have been good at doing it with my kids. Every weekday since the beginning of the year, we've read scriptures over breakfast. We pull out the new Gospel Art Kit books, pick a picture, and I tell them the story about it. Ammon and Captain Moroni are almost always chosen, but I usually get to sneak in another story as well.

I just hope that I can keep this habit up once the baby comes! I worked hard to establish this as a habit for that very reason -- I knew I needed to start it now rather than later.

I've also been able to keep a fairly clean house since that time. It's kind of embarrassing that that's a big accomplishment, but it is. We deep cleaned all the bedrooms at the beginning of the year and I've been working hard to "maintain" ever since. I've made beds every day (!) and kept the floors clean. I try hard to make sure the kitchen counter is wiped off at least once a day and the kitchen table kept free of clutter.

I love the feeling that it brings to our home. It's so much more peaceful, and walking into the bedrooms doesn't fill me with dread.

We have a new Relief Society presidency and they have introduced a theme for RS for the year. It's D&C 88:119:

"Organize yourselves; prepare every needful thing; and establish a house; even a house of PRAYER, a house of FASTING, a house of FAITH, a house of LEARNING, a house of GLORY, a house of ORDER, a house of GOD."

I am so excited about this. They will be addressing the theme on the first Sunday of every month. I'm anxious to think about/learn/discuss ways to make my home more like a temple.

A Walk with Christ Day 7

2009-12-16T07:55:00.001-07:00

A Walk With Christ: Day 7
The Childhood of Jesus Christ

Prayer:
Pray for the Spirit to guide me to know specifically how I can be a righteous influence to protect and train the children I love.
Song: "Home Can be a Heaven on Earth" Hymns #298, "I Am a Child of God" Hymns #301
Scriptures: Matthew 2:12-23, Luke 2:52

Proclamation on the Family:
"Parents have a sacred duty to rear their children in love and righteousness, to provide for their physical and spiritual needs, to teach them to love and serve on another, to observe the commandments of God, and to be law-abiding citizens."
Happiness in family life is most likely to be achieved when founded upon the teachings of the Lord Jesus Christ. Successful marriages and families are established and maintained on principles of faith, prayer, repentance, forgiveness, respect, love, compassion, work and wholesome recreational activities."
Thought: Pres. Thomas S. Monson: "Let us earnestly follow His direction: 'Suffer the little children to come unto me, and forbid them not: for of such is the kingdom of God.' (Mark 10:14) A popular song includes the words, 'There are angels among us.' These angels are quite frequently the precious little ones God, our Father has entrusted to our earthly care. To them may we teach prayer, inspire faith, live truth, and honor God. Then we shall have heavenly homes and forever families. For what higher gift could we wish? For what greater blessing could we pray? None!"

Questions and Thoughts to Ponder and Apply:
How can I be in tune with the Spirit to hear the spiritual promptings I need to protect my family? Where can I go to flee from the evil facing the children I love? What can I do to protect them from things that would harm them?
How can I strengthen my home to achieve the balance necessary for children (and all of us) to thrive mentally, physically, spiritually, and socially?
Am I achieving happiness in our family life? Am I establishing my home on the foundation of the teachings of Christ? Am I teaching and inspiring the precious little ones entrusted to my earthly care?

Actions:
To receive the Spirit I need to guide my family and me, I will worthily partake of the Sacrament each week (take upon me the name of Christ, always remember Him, and keep His commandments) so that I may receive the promise that I "may always have His Spirit to be with" me. Prayerfully study the Proclamation on the Family. Choose one principle to focus on and make a plan to improve it in your home.

Other Resources:Luke 2: 40-52, the 12-year old Christ teaches in the Temple
Oct. 2004, Ensign pp. 2-7, Pres. Thomas S. Monson,: "Teaching Our Children"

A Walk with Christ Day 6

2009-12-15T07:54:00.000-07:00

A Walk With Chirst: Day 6
Wise Men Seek Him Still
Prayer:
As you go through your day today, pray to recognize the other children of our Heavenly Father seeking to find truth.

Song:"With Wondering Awe" Hymns #210

Scripture: Matthew 2:1-2, Matthew 2:3-12

Thought
"From the Bible dictionary under the word "Magi" we read, "Their identification is not made known in the scriptures, but it is certain that they were righteous men sent on an errand to witness the presence of the Son of God on the earth. Their spiritual capacity is evident: They were able to see the star when others could not; they knew its meaning, and brought gifts to the young child; and they were warned of God in a dream to return to their home by a safe route. Their knowledge was precise and accurate. It seems likely that they were representatives of a branch of the Lord's people somewhere from east of Palestine, who had come, led by the Spirit, to behold the Son of God, and who returned to their people to bear witness that the King Immanuel had indeed been born in the flesh. We are not told how many wise men there were, but tradition usually speaks of three, because the three gifts of gold, myrrh, and frankincense. If they were serving in the capacity of witnesses, there would of necessity have been two or three."

Questions to Ponder:
What am I doing to seek Christ in my life?
What am I doing to help others seek Christ?

Actions:
1. Make sugar cookies in the shape of a star and give to a neighbor or someone you visit teach. Share with them the story of the Wise Men.
2. Make paper stars and place them in different areas of your home or car to help remind you to follow the Star of Bethlehem to seek the Savior.

Other Resources:
Bible Dictionary look under Wise Men
"Twelve Witnesses of Christ's Birth" Liahona, Dec 1992

A Walk with Christ Day 5

2009-12-14T07:53:00.001-07:00

A Walk with Christ: Day 5
Shepherds

Pray:
Pray to know specific ways that you can improve, to strengthen your testimony and that your testimony will allow you to act with courage and without hesitation when you receive spiritual promptings to share the gospel or serve others.

Song: "Far, Far Away On Judea's Plains" Hymns #212

Scripture: Doctrine and Covenants 100:10, Luke 2:8-20

Thought:
"These shepherds bore their special witnesses to family, friends, and neighbors. Their experience was retold in the courts of the temple, and from there was to be told among all nations of the earth. Luke tells us that after the shepherds had seen 'the babe lying in a manger..., they made known abroad the saying which was told them concerning this child; (Luke 2:16-17). such was the declaration of the angel who stood before them that holy night, that these 'good tidings of great joy; should ;be to all people' (Luke 2:10)." ("Twelve Witnesses of Christ's Birth", Joseph Fielding McConkie, Liahona, 1992, December)

Question and thoughts to ponder:
What characteristics/ virtues did the shepherds possess as portrayed by their actions upon hearing the "good tidings"? How should we act when we receive spiritual promptings or counsel from our prophet?

Application: What can we do each day, so that "good tidings of great joy" can "be to all people"?

Actions:
1. As you receive answers to your prayer, record it in a journal.
2. Prayerfully set small goals for improvement-write them down.
3. Pray to keep these goals uppermost in your mind throughout the day.
4. Periodically evaluate your progress.

A Walk with Christ Day 4

2009-12-13T08:49:00.001-07:00

A Walk With Christ: Day 4
Christ's Birth - Nativity

Scripture:
Isaiah 9:6
Matthew 1:23

Other Scriptures:
2 Nephi 17:17
Luke 1-2
Matthew 1-2
Alma 7:10
3 Nephi 1:19-20

Song:
"Joy to the World", Hymns #201

Quotation:
"Let us in our lives give to our Lord and Savior the gift of gratitude by living His teachings and following in His footsteps. It was said of Him that he "went about doing good." As we do likewise, the Christmas Spirit will be ours." President Thomas S. Monson, Church News, 14 Dec. 1996

Prayer, Questions to Ponder, Actions to Take:
Today in your prayers ask, How can I show the Joy and gratitude I feel in knowing that Jesus is the Savior of the World? Ponder: In what ways have I felt our Savior's love for others or me today? How is Jesus both Wonderful and a Prince of Peace in my Life? Record your thoughts in a journal or share them with someone or your Heavenly Father in your evening prayer. Or other action: Find one way to "do good" today through an act of secret service. Share a special verse in the scriptures with a friend, family member or in family scripture study that has helped you more fully celebrate the birth of our Savior.

Other Resources:
Merrill J. Bateman, "A Season for Angels," Ensign, Dec 2007, 10-15

A Walk with Christ Day 3

2009-12-12T08:48:00.002-07:00

A Walk With Christ - Day 3
"Mary - Blessed Art Thou Among Women"

Prayer:
Make a commitment with the Lord to be more worthy. Be specific in what you want to repent ofr change in your life. Adopt the motto "I can do hard things."

Song:
"Teach Me to Walk in the Light" Hymn #304
"Mary Lullaby" Children's Songbook" #44

Scripture:
Luke 1:28

Questions:
Mary was found "Worthy to be the mother of Jesus.
1. What were her qualifications to be the mother of Christ?
2. What did the Lord look for in the mother of Christ?

Do you remember what you felt as you gazed into the eyes of a newborn baby? How clean and so pure and so recently from heaven. Just as Mary gazed into her baby's eyes, we can identify with her thoughts and prayers for her little son. We want to teach our children to become worthy to remain clean and pure and to make right choices.
Luke 2:51-56 Mary taught Jesus as a young boy to walk in the light. In the Ensign Nov. 2006, Look Toward Eternity - Elaine S. Dalton writes; Each one of us need to feel and know the importance of living a worthy and pure life. It is our personal worthiness that will qualify us to fulfill our individual earthly missions

Action:
1. Choose one thing that will help you be more worthy. Make a plan and ask Heavenly Father to help you. Be specific and pray and repent.
2. Teach your children to choose to be worthy. Ask them what Mary might teach Jesus when he was a boy.
3. List the qualities of Mary. What would God look for in a mother for Jesus? (read Luke 1,2)
4. Read Elaine S. Dalton's article in the Ensign and choose to help a mother with a newborn baby by having your family do something for them. "They shall walk with me in white, for they are worthy," Elaine S. Dalton. Talk with your children and make this your slogan for the family.

A Walk with Christ Day 2

2009-12-11T07:46:00.003-07:00

A Walk With Christ - Day 2
Elisabeth
Prayer:
Pray to develop a deeper faith in Christ through the study of the lives of Elisabeth and her Family.

Hymns:"Let the Holy Spirit Guide" #143 LDS Hymns
"The Still Small Voice" #106 Children's Songbook

Scriptures:Luke 1:40-41, 46-47

Thought:
"Long years ago and distant miles away, a marvelous miracle occurred. In the days of Herod, king of Judea, there lived a priest named Zacharias and his wife, Elisabeth. "They were ... righteous before God." However, long years of yearning had returned no reward - Zacharias and Elisabeth remained childless. Then appeared to Zacharias the angel the angel Gabriel, who proclaimed: "Fear not, Zacharias: for thy prayer is heard; and thy wife Elisabeth shall bear thee a son, and thou shalt call his name John. He shall be great in the sight of the Lord." Preparing the Way, by Pres. Thomas S. Monson, Ensign Feb 2002

Questions and Thoughts to Ponder and Apply:
How can we remain faithful and avoid discouragement when our sincere prayers are not immediately answered in the way we desire? Do I recognize my answers when I get them? Do I really search for the answers that may not be obvious?
How can we follow the example of Elisabeth and Mary, who had faith enough to know in their hearts the great importance of their children? Am I raising my children to know of their potential in the eyes of God? Through the Aaronic Priesthood and living righteously we are all deemed eligible to the "ministering of angels." Am I listening?

Actions:
Like John the Baptist, we should focus our service on helping others come to Christ.
*Bear your testimony to non-member family or friends
*Invite someone to attend meetings or activities with you
*Magnify your calling, big or small. It is an offering to the Lord.

Other Resources:
Luke 1; Lesson 2: "My Soul Doth Magnify the Lord", New Testament Gospel Doctrine Teacher's Manual, 5; Thomas S. Monson, "Preparing the Way", Ensign, Feb 2002, 2; Elder Merrill J. Bateman, "A Season for Angels", Ensign, Dec 2007, 10-15

A Walk with Christ Day 1

2009-12-10T08:35:00.004-07:00

Tonight is our ward's RS Christmas Dinner. I'm on the enrichment committee (or whatever it's called now) and decided to do an activity I'd done in another ward -- a Walk with Christ.

Each day there are reading assignments to help you focus on Christ. After about 2 weeks worth of reading, you hold the activity. I couldn't remember exactly what I had seen done before, but decided to have women from the ward read little parts as though the were women from the life of Christ. Elisabeth, the woman at the well, Mary and Martha, etc. The evening concludes with a keynote speaker who further addresses you on inviting Christ into your life.

So for the next week or two, I'm going to post the reading assignment here. Here's day 1:

A Walk With Christ - Day 1
Jesus Christ – Always Remember Him
Prayer: Each week on Sunday we have the privilege and blessing to renew our baptismal covenants. We promise to always remember Him in exchange for the blessing of having His spirit with us. As you kick off your walk with Christ – sincerely pray to remember him more often, improve your relationship with Him, and take full advantage of having His spirit to be with you.

Hymns: “I Need Thee Every Hour” Hymns, page 98“ He Sent His Son” Children’s Songbook, page 34“If the Savior Stood Beside Me” Friend Oct 1993, page 14)

Scripture:2 Nephi 25: 26, 3 Nephi 27:27, 3 Nephi 18:7, 11, Moroni 10:32-33

Thought: Thoughts of Jesus (should) be far more frequent and much more constant in all times and seasons of our lives. How often do we think of the Savior? How deeply and how gratefully and how adoringly do we reflect on His life? How central to our lives do we know Him to be? (Howard W. Hunter, Ensign, May 1993)

When you choose to follow Christ, you choose to be changed. . . . Can human hearts be changed? Why, of course! It happens every day . . . It is one of the most widespread of Christ's modern miracles. If it hasn't happened to you—it should. (Ezra Taft Benson, “Born of God,” Ensign, Jul 1989, 2)

Questions to Ponder / Personal Application
*If you could see the Savior standing by your side, throughout the day, would there be a change in you?
*Would you have more courage, show more kindness, be more humble, be more careful of the words you use.
*What would you have to change to be comfortable in His presence?
*How can I follow in Christ’s steps today?
*In all my decisions today I will ask, “What would Christ do?”

Action: In your daily activities, think about how you can focus more on Christ.
Hang the word “REMEMBER” in a place in your home that you often look. Every time you read it, evaluate yourself and how you are doing in remembering the Savior. Is there anything that you need to change?
Spend time over the next two weeks diligently learning about Christ and how to become more like Him.

Other References: www.lds.org.

Scriptures with the kids

2009-10-12T11:05:00.003-06:00

I didn't have a deep and meaningful study today, but I did have a study with my kids. They're 3 and 4, and their boys, so scripture time can be a struggle. (Mostly, they eat before I get out of bed, so making them sit at the table while I eat and try to read to them is hard.)

But I decided I just have to get in the habit. I pulled some Book of Mormon pictures from our Gospel Art kit and we talked about Lehi and Nephi. It was short and I didn't really testify, which I should have. It would've been easy to talk about Nephi "going and doing" and whatnot. I'll have to remember that for tomorrow.

D&C 124-132

2009-08-26T09:04:00.000-06:00

I know it looks like I haven't read my scriptures in weeks, but I actually have been reading. Just not updating my blog. But I have taken notes of things I discovered, or had questions about.

124: 124 -- Hyrum Smith is made patriarch of the church, and then it says he will hold the sealing blessings, the Holy Spirit of Promise. I know that patriarchs now don't hold the sealing powers, but it sure sounded like Hyrum was given them. Do you think at one time they were tied to the patriarchal powers, or was this just a different circumstance?

128:20 -- I think I've talked about this before, but I never found an answer to my question. This verse talkes about the voice of Michael detecting the devil as he appeared as an angel of light on the banks of the Susquehanna River. Have any of you ever heard that story? All I know of church history I've learned from The Work and the Glory, and this account wasn't in there. But I've never heard about it anywhere else. Have you? I don't doubt this account or anything, I'm just curious about it.

Section 130 is simply incredible. There are 3 scriptures mastery scriptures in 23 verses!!
v. 18-19 Whatever principle of intelligence we attain in this life will rise with us in the next, and give us an advantage in the world to come
v. 20-21 When we obtain a blessing, it is by obedience to the law upon which it was predicated
v. 22-23 God the Father and His Son Jesus Christ have bodies of flesh and bone. The Holy ghost has a body of Spirit, which allows Him to dwell in us.

Sections 131 and 132 talk about celestial marriage. Very appropriate sections for me to be reading on my anniversary!

I want to quickly record for my own journaling purposes some recent blessings we've received. As our family will be growing soon, we looked a few weeks ago at purchasing another car. We were going to have to trade in our current car to buy a newer one, when we had originally hoped to keep the car we currently have as a second car. In the end, the bank wouldn't finance the negative equity that we needed to roll into the payments on the next car. So we decided to wait. Well, I guess the decision was made for us.

We had discussed possibly buying a friend's Ford Explorer from him before for about $300. But we knew it also needed about $500 of work to get it running and able to pass safety and emissions. Plus the cost of registering it...........it was going to cost about $1000. Which we just don't have on hand. We decided to start saving, in hopes that we'd be able to pay it in full by the time the baby comes in Feb/March.

Then after talking to him again, he offered to give us his Explorer if we would try to sell his Mustang. Um, SURE! He was going to be flying in from out of state and able to give us the title. That was taken care of for about half the cost of what we expected, and we assumed we've have the next several months to save a bit and get it repaired. But after receiving the title, we discovered we only had two weeks. Well. Great.

We took the Explorer (which we now foundly call Dora) to a friend's car shop. They said that there were a few things they could fix, but all it actually needed to pass safety and emissions was to have the brakes repaired. Which would cost about $120. NOT $500. They repaired it that day.

So this car that we thought would cost us about $1000 actually ended up costing $200.

On the same day we found out the car would be so inexpensive to repair, my husband had a review at work. This marks the end of his second year with the company. About a month ago, he found out that not everyone at the company gets a raise every year, like he thought. For a lot of people, it was every other year. And he got a raise last year. Combine that with the fact that he rarely feels like he's doing a good job, and thought the chances of him getting a raise very pretty slim. He might a a 2-3% raise. A 5% raise was the absolute best-case scenario, and there was only about a 5% chance of that in his book.

Well, his review went wonderfully. He found out he wasn't doing as horrible of a job as he thought he was. And he got a raise. A SIX percent raise. Which he did NOT think was possible.

The reason I'm sharing all this is simply because I want to remember these blessings. I attribute them both directly to the fact that we are faithful tithe-payers. The Lord has truly opened the windows of heaven upon us.

Thoughts? Patriarchal and sealing powers? Devil appearing as angel of light? A blessing of paying your tithing you'd like to share?

Enduring with grace and faith

2009-08-04T11:54:00.002-06:00

These sections of the Doctrine and Covenants written while Joseph Smith was imprisoned in Liberty Jail are some of my favorites. They are just packed with gems for us.

Sec. 122 is a revelation given to Joseph Smith. I can imagine that it gave him a great deal of comfort, while also keeping him humple and aware of things to come.

"...know thou, my son, that all these things shall give thee experience, and shall be for thy good.
"The son of man hath descended below them all. Art thou greater than He?"

"...thy days are known, and thy years shall not be numbered less; therefore, fear not what man can do, forGod shall be with you forever and ever."

Everytime I think my life is hard and I read these verses, I am immediately humbled. Raising young kids is hard? Managing money is hard? Being busy is hard? At least I'm separated from my spouse and my children. At least I'm not unjustly imprisoned. At least I can stand to my full height whenever I want. At least I'm not freezing. At least no one's trying to poison me.

And then on top of this, Joseph is reminded that as bad as all that is, Christ descended even lower.

~~~~

The next section is a letter that Joseph wrote to the saints as they were being driven from their homes, and he was still imprisoned.

After talking about their duty to spread the gospel throughout the world, he says, "Therefore, dearly beloved brethren, let us cheerfully do all things that lie in our power; and then may we stand still, with the upmost assuarnce, to see the salvation of God, and for his arm to be revealed."

Isn't that a fantastic scripture? What a perfect guideline for enduring our trials, or simply doing what we should be doing. Do it cheerfully, do all you can, then let God do the rest.

Comfort and guidance

2009-07-31T08:14:00.005-06:00

"O God, where are thou? And where is the pavilion that covereth thy hiding place? . . .

"My son, peace be unto they soul; thine adversity and thine affictions shall be but a small moment;
And then, if thou endure it well, God shall exalt thee on high; thou shalt triumph over all thy foes."

These verses from D&C 121 are quite popular, but never fail to bring feelings of peace, comfort, and humility to me.

I also really like the next, less-quoted verses. "Thy friends do stand by thee, and they shall hail thee again with warm hearts and friendly hands. Thou art not yet as Job; they friends do not contend against thee, neither charge thee with transgression, as they did Job."

Most of us, when eduring hardships, rely heavily on the strength and wisdom of our friends. Can you imagine if they were gone? And not only gone, but acting against you?

Later on in the section, Joseph Smith discuss the rights of the priesthood.

"Behold, many are called, but few are chosen. Any why are they not chosen?
"Because their hearts are set so much upon the things of this world, and aspire to the honors of men, that they do not learn this one lesson --
"That the rights of the priesthood are inseperably connected with the powers of heaven, and that the powers of heaven cannot be controlled nor handled only upon the principles of righteousness.
"That they might be conferred upon us, it is true; but when we undertake to cover our sins, or to gratify our pride, our vain ambition, or to exercise control or dominion or compulsion upon the souls of the children of men, in any degree of unrighteousness, behold, the heavens withdraw themselves; the Spirit of the Lords is grieved; and when it is withdrawn, Amen (or in other words, Adios!) to the power and authority of that man."

Now obviously, this doesn't just pertain to men. I do think that Joseph Smith is referring to the men of the priesthood specifically here, but there are applications for all members of the church. All those who have been endowed have some rights of the priesthood.

I find it interesting that many are called, but only few are chosen because of their own choices. I think it might be easy for some to say that the Lord didn't "choose" them. But that is not the case. If the Lord calls you, it's up to you to decide whether you are "chosen" or not. (Elder Bednar taught that.)

A few verses later, Joseph gives the "do's" of the priesthood, as compared to his previous list of "don'ts." (Should there be two apostrophes in that?)

"No power or influence can or ought to be maintained by virtue of the priesthood, only by persuasion, by long-suffering, by gentleness and meekness, and by love unfeigned;
"By kindness, and pure knowlege, which shall greatly enlarge the soul without hypocrisy, and without guile--
"Reproving betimes with sharpness, when moved upon by the Holy Ghost; and then showing forth afterwards and increase of love toward him who thou hast reproved, lest he esteem thee to be his enemy."

I think this is not just a guide to priesthood government, but a guide for us as mothers and members of the church.

One note I have in my scriptures regarding the last verse is what reproving meant in the 1830's edition of Webster's. "Correcting quickly with clarity and truth." That sheds some light on the verse. I think this is obviously a guide to disciplining children. Correctly quickly (and quietly, if possible) with clarity, then afterward, making sure they know you still love them. You may not approve of all their choices, but you love them regardless.

One other thing that stood out to me when reading these verses today is the "pure knowledge" mentioned in v. 42. I think it was Elder Maxwell that mentioned that sometimes in the church, then men have a tendency to be the scholars, and the women offer the compassionate service. He said that while those things are good, they are not gender-specific roles. The women need to become better scholars, and the men need to work on their compassionate service!!

So that's what I thought of when I read "pure knowledge." My husband has a masterful memory, and has spent much more time studying the scriptures and doctrine of the church than I have. (Mostly because he prepared for and served a mission.) I ask him all kinds of doctrine-related questions frequently, and he always knows the answer. As soon as he explains it, it makes complete sense and reminds me that I've heard it before. But he is definately the Church "scholar" in our household. I need to be more like that.

So........what are your thoughts on D&D 121?

Notes from stake conference

2009-06-27T18:23:00.003-06:00

One of the plusses of living in Utah is having general authorities or other high(ish) ranking church leaders come to our stake conferences. (For notes from last stake conference with Elder Glen L. Pace, click here.) This session, President {I-didn't-catch-his-first-name} Danes of the Provo Temple presidency and his wife, Jana, came to speak to us. You can probably guess what they talked about: the temple.

Sister Danes shared some thoughts from the prophets about the temple. President Benson said that there is a power associated with the temple. Our families will be protected if we attend. Our children will be safeguarded.

Who doesn't want that kind of protection for their families and children? Why isn't the temple more of a priority for me?

President Hickley promised, "Come to the temple and life will be better for you."

My life could use some bettering!

Then President Danes spoke. As he spoke, I thought (and wrote in my notebook), I need to go to the temple. Others (living) need me to go to the temple. Others (dead) need me to go to the temple.

Why isn't the temple more of a priority for me?!?

We become holier by worshipping in a holy place.

Joseph Smith taught that spiritual rebirth requires the Spirit of God through the ordinances. (Of the temple and otherwise.) Pres. Danes elaborated that this rebirthing process is accelerated every time we go to the temple.

Why would I want to slow the process?!?

Pres. Danes then shared numerous sacred experiences. I don't think this is right forum for me to repeat those happenings, even though they weren't his own, but recorded experiences of prophets. I just don't think a public access blog is the right place to repeat the experiences. Suffice it to say, the temples truly are the house of God, and His Son, Jesus Christ, and the Holy Ghost. And when the prophets and apostles testify of Christ, theirs truly is a special witness.

Other thoughts and impressions from his talk:

I need the blessings of the temple!

Do I really want to serve? Go to the temple. Every time I go, I leave a better person. (Pres. Hinkley, I think.)

There is a difference between members who infrequently rush to the temple, and those who consistently serve and worship there.

p.s. thanks to Michaela and Gigi. I needed a kick in the pants! I promise to try extra hard to post regularly!

I'm taking my children to the temple.

2009-06-05T07:42:00.002-06:00

A few months ago, the temple in Draper, Utah had an open house before it was dedicated. My husband and I have been to an open house before, so we decided we wouldn't go. Our kids are only 3 and 4 and we knew they'd be too young to understand or remember anything.

We we wrong. I've heard several stories of children younger than mine understanding that the temple is a special place. They can identify pictures of Christ. There is a different, sacred feel to the temple (even before it's dedicated) that children can feel, perhaps more acutely than adults. And it's not like they have to behave the way we do in a temple session.

After hearing different accounts of the great experiences people had with their children and grandchildren, I really regretted not going to the open house.

Then they annouced the Oquirrh Mountain temple open house just a month later!! I didn't realize the two were being built at the same time! So I have tickets. We're actually going when my family comes to visit us in a few weeks. I am so excited. I need to start preparing my children for it.

Today, I read D&C 97. The Lord is telling the people of Kirtland to build a temple. He tells them to do it quickly, so that "they may be perfected in the understanding of their ministry, in theory, in principle, and in doctine, in all things pertaining to the kingdom of God on the earth," (v. 14).

I know that the temple in Kirtland housed the School of the Prophets, and this verse could quite possibly be referring to what would happen in Kirtland, specifically. But I think it pertains to all temples. The temple is where we learn the mysteries of God.

I'm excited to take my children there.

If you love them......

2009-05-11T08:24:00.005-06:00

.....you will chasten them.

Since yesterday was Mother's Day, I've still got motherhood on my mind. So when I read D&C 95:1, "Verily, thus saith the Lord unto you whom I love, and whom I love I also chasten ..." I thought of my children.

Being a parent sometimes means saying no. It means giving reprimands and punishments. We do these things because we love our children and want what's best for them. I always try to remember D&C 121:43, that talks about showing forth an outpouring of love after a rebuke. (For the record, I didn't know the reference off the top of my head. I had to look it up. Lest you think I'm a master scriptorian.Ü) I try to make sure my boys know that I still love them, I'm just not happy about what they chose to do.

V. 4 has some language I've never heard before. (Or at least never paid attention to.) It talks about the Lord preparing his apostles to prune the vineyard that the Lord may "bring to pass his strange act." The footnotes go to two other verses, one in D&C 101 and one in Isaiah. These verses also use the phrase "stange act," butt there is no further clarification. Do you think it just means the Restoration? Like us being a peculiar people? The Church is "strange" compared to the ways of the world? Or do you think it could mean something else?

The nest verse talks about many being called, but few being chosen. Those who are not chosen are thay way because of a "grievious sin." Those who are chosen will be able to enter the house of the Lord and receive their endowments.

I've mentioned before that I've been able to hear Elder Bednar teach on many occasions at BYU-I. I once heard him talking about D&C 121:34, which is a wider-known scripture about many being called and few being chosen. I remember he taught that the Lord does the calling, but we do the choosing. By our actions, we decided ourselves whether or not we will be chosen. D&C 121:35 answers the question as to why some are not chosen. "Because their hearts are set so much upon the things of this world, and aspire to the honors of men..."

And of course, this "being chosen" doesn't end with being endowed. I think that's just the beginning of our journey -- to remain chosen.

Light, intelligence, and truth -- D&C 93 pt. 2

2009-05-07T08:23:00.004-06:00

"Intelligence, or the light of truth, was not created or made, neither indeed can be," vs. 29. It's a difficult concept to grasp, that intelligences weren't created.

I like the next verse a lot:

"All truth is independent in that sphere in which God has placed it, to act for itself, as all intelligence also; otherwise there is no existence."

When I attended BYU-Idaho, Elder Bednar was the president of the school. I heard him speak on many occasions, and almost every time he spoke he brought up acting and choosing for ourselves. So that phrase really sticks out to me. 2 Nephi mentions it, too -- things to act or be acted upon. Are we going to choose to act, or be acted upon? Act, or react?

V. 31 says, "Behold, here is the agency of man, and here is the condemnation of man; because that which was from thebegining is plainly manifest unto them, and they receive not the light."

So being intelligent means acting for yourself -- making choices.

"The glory of God is intelligence, or, in other words, light and truth. Light and truth forsake the evil one," vs. 36-37.

Being intelligent means forsaking the evil one.

Something to think about.....

Know what you worship -- D&C 93 pt.1

2009-05-06T09:00:00.004-06:00

This is such a fabulous section.

In reading this section, I was really impressed by howindebted we are to Jesus Christ. His Atonement for our sins comes to mind, of course, but section 93 discusses other things.

He was the beginning. The world was made by Him. The light and the life of man is through Him. Man was mad by Him. All things were made by Him.

He is the Creator and Savior of all.

But even the Savior was not mighty at first. "And He received not of the fulness at first, but continued from grace to frace, until He received a fulness," v. 13.

The next verse is interesting, too. "And thus was he called the Son of God, becuase he received not of the fulness at the first."

**So maybe that means that to become true children of our Father in Heaven, we also need to patiently progress grace for grace.**

The next verses talk about the Holy Ghost appearing as a dove, then the voice of God saying This is my beloved Son. Then Christ received a fulness of the glory of the Father, and had all power.

The wording of these verses make me think that these events were related. That once Christ had taken appropriate steps to enter God's kingdom (baptism and the Holy Ghost), He was given of the fulness. he was now fully prepared for His ministry. --Does that sound right? Or do you think Christ received of the fulness at another time?

I also love v. 19. "I give unto you these saying that you many understand and know how to worship, and know what you worship, that you may come unto the Father in my name, and in due time receive of his fulness."

Joseph Smith taught in the Lectures on Faith that for anyone to exercise faith in God, he (among other things) needs a correct idea of His character, perfections, and attributes.

D&C 93 definately teaches us a lot about Christ and helps us know what who and what we worship.

I have more to write down, but not the time. Tune in tomorrow!

All things shall work together

2009-05-04T08:33:00.002-06:00

D&C 90:24 reads:

"Search diligently, pray always, and be believing, and all things shall work together for your good, if ye walk uprightly and remember the covenant wherewith ye have covenanted one with another."

I also like vs. 18: "Set in order your houses; keep slothfulness and uncleanness far from you."

I believe this is my admonishment for the day. (Funny how many times I interpret the phrase "Clean your home!" from D&C!!)

Cease to be idle

2009-05-03T22:36:00.001-06:00

Another favorite passage of mine from D&C 88 are verses 123-126.

"See that ye love one another; cease to be covetous; learn to impart one to another as the gospel requires.
"Cease to be idle; cease to be unclean, cease to find fauly one with another; cease to sleep longer than is needful; retire to they bed early, that ye may not be weary; arise early, thay your bodies and your minds may be invigorated.
"And above all things, clothe yourselves with the bond of charity, as with a mantle, which is the bond of perfectness and peace.
"Pray always that ye may not faint, until I come. Behold, and lot, I will come quickly, and receive you unto myself. Amen."

~~~~~~It's a bit ironic that I read this scripture the day after I stayed up till 1 am.

I love this entire passage. I need to work on not being covetous. And not being idle. And being more charitable. And reading my scriptures daily. :o)

My visiting teachers were going to come last week, but one of them hurt her back and wasn't able to make the appointment. The next day, they were and on my doorstep with a small hand out from the message. About scripture study. I knew she was in a lot of pain, but she still made an effort. And it's because God knew I needed a gentle reminder about studying my scriptures.

More thoughts from D&C 88 -- I love the temple!

2009-04-05T09:29:00.004-06:00

I had the opportunity to attend the temple yesterday morning. As I was sitting in the chapel, I read this verse:

v. 63 "Draw near unto me and I will draw near unto you; seek me diligently and ye shall find me; ask, and ye shall receive; knock, and it shall be opened unto you."

I read this verse and thought, Lord, I am drawing near to you. This, more than any other place on earth, is where I can physically draw nearest to you. And let me just tell you.......I drew near to Him, and He drew near to me. I had such a marvelous temple experience.

For the first time ever, I was able to sit in the celestial room until I was good and ready to leave. I didn't have to worry about the time, or paying a sitter, or the room being crowded. I just sat and prayed. And the Lord spoke to me. The temple is such a place of peace. I am no longer needlessly worrying about things. It is in the Lord's hands. I know what I need to do, and the Lord will take care of the rest.

A few more verses about the temple:

v. 74 "And I give unto you, who are the first laborers in this last kingdom, a commandment that you assemble yourselves together, and organize yourselves, and prepare yourselves, and sanctify yourselves; yea, purify your hearts, and cleanse your hands and your feet before me, that I may make you clean."

v. 119 "Organize yourselves; perpare every needful thing; and establish a house, even a house of prayer, a house of fasting, a house of faith, a house of learning, a house of glory, a house of order, a house of God."

I know that last verse is specifically about the temple, but it is also a model for our homes.
I actually want this scripture illustrated by that one lady who did "return with honor" and "rules of our home" -- you know who I'm talking about? I'd love to have an artistic rendering of this scripture framed in my home.

I just have to close with my gratitude for the temple. I made a goal to go soon, and though things happened that could have easily kept me away, I was too determined to go to let anything stop me. I am grateful for the reminder of covenants I made. I am so grateful for the direct access the temple provides to the Godhead. If you truly draw near unto the Lord, He will draw near unto you.

D&C 88 -- seeketh her own

2009-04-05T09:12:00.005-06:00

v. 40 "For intelligence cleaveth unto intelligence; wisdom receiveth wisdom; truth embraceth truth; virtue loveth virtue; light cleaveth unto light; mercy hath compassion on mercy and claimeth her own; justice continueth its course and claimeth its own; judgment goeth before before the face of him who sitteth upon the throne and governeth and executeth all things."

I love all the different verbs that this passage gives. Cleave makes me think of something that was once one, then was divided, and is now being brought back together. Receive connotates happily welcoming. Embrace of course means to hug, or bring to your bosom. Love is fairly easy -- "loving truth" to me means cherishing it.

I love that mercy has compassion and claimeth her own. If there ever were a synonym for mercy, it would be compassion. While mercy has compassion, justice must continue on and marck forward. And judgement is reserved for God. Something I could do a better job remembering.

D&C 88 pt. 2 -- measure of my creation

2009-04-03T12:00:00.001-06:00

I read a lot about light, that I'm not ready to discuss yet. Still trying to figure out what I think about it, and how I'm going to say it.

A bit later in the section, it talks about the celestial law. The law you are able to abide (telestial, terrestrial, or celestial) determines which kingdom you will reside in. It also talks about the earth, and how it needs to be sanctified from all unrighteousness (US) so it can be prepared for the celestial glory.

I also like v. 25. "And again, verily I say unto you, the earth abideth the law of a celestial kingdom, for it filleth the measure of its vreation, and transgresseth not he law --"

It sounds as though part of abiding the celestial law is filling the measure of your creation.

What is the measure of my creation?

While procreation is definatately part (and one I'm thinking about a lot these days) I don't think that's all there is to it. I know that we all made promises (?covenants?) in the pre-mortal life, most likely things like marrying in the temple and raising a righteous posterity. Have you heard this? Anyone know a source? I don't have time to look right now.

But reading this made me want to go to the temple and ponder this question. What is the measure of my creation, and what specifically do I need to be doing to fill it?

D&C 88 pt. 1

2009-03-25T07:57:00.002-06:00

I've been browsing this section for the last week and a half, and I'm finally posting some thoughts.

The first few verses talk about the Holy Ghost, and the Holy Spirit of Promise. Vs. 2-3 read, "Wherefore, I now send upon you another Comforter, even upon you my friends, that it may abide in your hearts, even the Holy Spirit of Promise; which other Comforter is the same that I promised unto my disciples, as is recorded in the testimony of John.

"This Comforter is the promise which I give unto you of eternal life, even the glory of the celestial kingdom."

Is this having your calling and election amde sure? Or is the Holy Ghost you receive after baptism accompanied by as promise of eternal life if you heed it's promptings? Is it the same thing? As far as I know, the Holy Spirit of Promise always refers to the sealing powers, but it sounds like it's more directly linked to the Holy Ghost here.

Stand in Holy Places

2009-03-12T09:21:00.005-06:00

I just love this scripture. It's D&C 87:8. "Wherefore, stand ye in holy places, and be not moved, until the day of the Lord come; for behold, it cometh quickly, saith the Lord. Amen."

This verse of course makes me think of the temple. The ultimate holy place we should be standing in. {I need to go to the temple more often.}

But I think God meant more than going to the temple. Our homes should be holy places. The Bibe Dictionary says "only the home can complare with the temple in sacredness." {Is my home a sacred place? What needs to change? cleanliness, media that allow in}

And as far as the "be not moved," I think that refers to our convictions and values. Are they really convictions, or just things we think might be a good idea? This verse reminds me of Mosiah 5:15, "Therefore, I would that ye should be steadfast and immoveable, always abounding in good works..."

I need to make the places I stand holy. I need to be steadfast and immoveable in my testimony, and my actions, for they really do speak louder than words. (I may be careful about the language I use and what my children say, but what about the stuff on TV?)

---On another note, this section is the prophesy of the Civil War. It makes me wonder if the Lord has revealed specific things about wars to more recent prophets.........And therefore makes me think we should listen when they tell us to have food storage and get out of debt.

Eight-four Weighty-door crushing the oath and covenANT of the priesthood

2009-03-10T21:23:00.003-06:00

I will forever remember that section 84 is about the oath and covenant of the priesthood. Thanks, Sister Cessna!

......and no, pammycake, I didn't stop posting here. Thanks for the nudge. I've been losing steam with the scripture reading. Actually, I've read some, but haven't posted. (I've actually read scriptures with my kids while eating breakfast the past two days. I hope I can stick with that, but we'll see.)

--So section 84. I'm not all the way through it, but here are a few things that have caught my attention thus far:

v. 25 It was the hard-heartedness of the Israelites that chased the Melchizedek priesthood from the earth. It left with Moses, not to return again till John the Baptist (who was ordained by an angel at 8 days old.) I'm not sure I knew the Melchizedek priesthood had left the earth with Moses. I think I thought the sons of Levi had both priesthoods.......so this was good for me to learn.

v. 49 "And the whole world lieth in sin, and groaneth under darkness and under the bondage of sin." v. 53 "And by this you man know the righteous from the wicked, and that the whole world groaneth under sin and darkness even now."

My thoughts: I wonder if all the turmoil the physical world is undergoing right now is a direct affect of sin. Global warming, earthquakes, hurricanes, etc. Human kind, along with animals and the earth, are all God's creation. We are part of a big whole, a team, if you will. When one member of the team isn't pulling their weight, the whole team suffers. I'm not thinking "We all should be living green" or anything, but that our sins are somehow affecting how the earth does it's business.

--Now that I'm writing it all out, it seems a little weird, and it's not sounding quite like I had pictured it. It feels a little zen/karma-ish, but maybe you know what I mean. (?)

v. 101 "The earth hath travailed and brought forth her strength." This, of course, makes me think of a woman in labor. Maybe these last days before the earth is renewed can be likened to labor. That's definately not a time of peace (not naturally, at least!). So maybe all this upheaval is the earth's way of preparing for Christ's second coming, as well.

Remember what Uncle Ben used to say to Peter Parker?

2009-03-03T07:52:00.002-07:00

"With great priveledge come great responsibility."

Sounds a lot like D&C 82:3 "For of him unto whom much is given much is required; and he who sins against the greater light shall receive the greater condemnation."

Another verse I like from this section is v. 14. "For Zion must increase in beauty, and in holiness; her borders must be enlarged; herstakes must be strengthened; yea, verily I say unto you, Zion must arise and put on her beautiful garments."

As members of the Church and laborers in Zion, much is given and therefore much is required. We must be holier. I think that's a personal thing -- we all must improve our own holiness. Zion's borders must be enlarged -- missionary work. This is more of a team effort, as is strengthening our stakes.

As a youth, I remember hearing this scripture specifically in reference to our stake. Where I grew up, a move across the city usually meant you were still in the same stake. By the time I left for college, I knew nearly every [active] member of our stake. (And their sons!) There was a time that there was a lot of division between the wards. At youth dance, there wasn't a lot of intermixing. Then our stake split, and there was only half the amount of youth as before. We HAD to come together. And it was so great. I'm still friends with people from all over that stake, and I'm so grateful that as youth we were able to come together. Now, many of us are married and living in the same stake. They aren't all in the same ward, and so when they get together for stake functions, the previous associations and strength are already there.

I wish that I felt that kind of strength and unity here in Utah. I know that alot of this just takes time. But while some people here may see their ward as their extended family, I don't think anyone views their stake as an extension of that. People just don't need members of their stake like they might elsewhere in the world.

Anyway.........much is given, and much is required. Including strengthening the stakes of Zion.

The Book of Revelation revealed

2009-02-27T15:58:00.002-07:00

D&C 77 is Joseph Smith asking questions about the Book of Revelation. You'd think this section would be pretty straight forward, but I actually had a lot of questions about the answers. Let me just say again, I'm so glad I found my husband's D&C study guide!!

Refering to the seals, and each seal representing 1000 years or a 'day' in the Lord's time, 'Whitney' (it only gives a last name. Newel? Orson?) says that, "these 7 days do not include the period of our planet's creation and preparation as a swelling place for man." So it's okay that dinosaurs were here 150 million years ago. :o)

There's a lot that's going to happen before Christ comes to reign. The temple built in Jackson County (something I'm particularly excited about), Christ coming to that temple, the two witnesses slain in Jerusalem who will rise after 3 days.....yes, lots to happen.

**I've been reading this section since Monday, and just haven't posted about it. But there are some good sections coming up I hope I can get excited about.

Clarification on D&C 76

2009-02-23T10:18:00.000-07:00

I did an unChristlike thing yesterday afternoon. My husband had been asleep for a few hours and I woke him up to ask him some of questions about section 76. (See last two posts.) He knows more about the doctrines of the gospel that anyone else I know. And I learned a lot. I hope he forgives me. :o)

Accepting Christ, but not the fulness of the Father, means not "becoming." Not being sanctified. It refers to those who believe that Christ is their Savior and have faith in Him, but haven't really gone beyond that to becoming a saint. These will inherit the terrestrial kingdom.

We also discussed what it means to "deny the Holy Ghost." You have to first "accept" him. So those who will dwell in the telestial kingdom who "receive not a testimony of Christ....[but also] deny not the Holy Spirit," haven't actually gained a knowledge that they have rejected. (Make sense? That's 76:82-83.)

In my mind, I've always pictured spirit paradise and prison very literally. I see us all walking around this gloriously beautiful place. Meadows, flowers, etc. We're all meeting up with relatives and talking and simply experiencing great joy. Those in "prison" I've always pictured as being in a type of prison. Holding cells, if you will, till missionaries get to them to teach them the gospel. And I've always wondered how spirits could be there and not accept the gospel. How could they not see that it was all true? Also, how could they NOT feel the Spirit testifying to them? And how could they still reject it? Isn't that kind of "denying" the Holy Ghost?

In a sense, it is. But it's not denying the Spirit as it refers to sons of perdition.

My husband taught me that spirit paradise and prison aren't quite as literal as I've pictured. The spirit world is more like this world than we know. And the term "prison" doesn't describe an actual prison as much as it describes the state they are in spiritually. They cannot progress. They are "damned," if you will. They aren't locked up, unable to go anywhere, patiently waiting to be taught the gospel. They are continuing their existence much as they did on earth. The truth will not be glaringly obvious. They could very easily say, "Look. You were wrong. I'm not in hell or even in prison! It was just a bunch of baloney."

This makes more sense to me.

Superman (husband) also pulled out his D&C student manual. Nearly every verse of section 76 has a quote by a prophet or apostle to explain it. I'll share a few with you.

Vs. 26-40 talk about sons of perdition. Joseph Smith taught, "What must a man do to commit the unpardonable sin? he must receive the Holy Ghost, have the heavens opened unto him, and know God, and then sin against Him. After a man has sinned aginst the Holy Ghost, there is no repentance for him. He has got to say that the sun does not shine while he sees it; he has got to deny Jesus Christ when the heavens have been opened unto him, and to deny the plan of salvation with his eyes open to the truth of it; and from that time he begins to be an enemy."

Vs. 37-39 raised a question in my mind. They read, "And the only ones [sons of perdition] on whom the second death shall have any power; Yea, verily, the ones who shall not be redeemed in the due time of the Lord, after the suffeings of his wrath. For all the rest shall be brough forth by the resurrection of the dead, thought the triumph and the glory of the Lamb, who was slain, who was in the bosom of the Father before the worlds were made."

The beginning seems pretty clear. Sons of perdition will have no redemption, not no resurrection. It says the second death will have power on them. The first death is that of the body, the second death is that of the spirit. So while they'll be resurrected, they have basically denied their right to the saving power of Christ's atonement. (Makes sense. If they truly know who He is and what He's done and still deny Him, the Atonement would have no saving power for them.)

But when it says, "For all the rest shall be brought forth by the resurrection of the dead...." it sounds like everyone but the sons of perdition will be resurrected.

This is simply me (and apparently many others) not understanding the language used. Pres. Geaorge Q. Cannon said, "A careful reading of these verses, however, and especially of the preceding paragraphs, will show that the Lord does not, in this language, exclude even the sons of perdition from the resurrection. It is plain that the intention is to refer to them explicitly as the only ones on who the second death shall have any power: 'for all the rest shall be brought forth by the resurrection of the dead, through the triumph and the glory of the Lamb.' This excluded class are the only ones on whom the second death shall have any power, and 'the only ones who shall not be redeemed in the due time of the Lord, after the suffering of his wrath.'

"This is by no means to say that they are to have no ressurection. Jesus our Lord and Savior died for all, and all will be reurrected -- good and bad, white and black, people of every rase, whether sinners or not; and no matter how great their sins may be, the resurrection of their bodies is sure. Jesus has died for them, and they all will be redeemed from the grave through the atonement which he has made."

Another question addressed is from 76:72-74. Do those who receive the gospel in the spirit world inherit the terrestial kingdom?

"A simple answer to this question is, yes, they will receive the terrestrial kingdom if they had heard the gospel in mortality and did not accept it. If they have not had that oppuortunity in mortality and fummy accept the gospell int he spirit world, they can inherit the celestial kingdom." (This is not a GA quote, but simply what the manual says.) It goes on with quotes from Melvin J. Ballard, Joseph Fielding Smith, and Bruce R. McConkie, but I think that summary is sufficient for this.

D&C 75:81-85 Those who inherit the telestial glory will pass through hell. I learned about this is D&C 19. This hell will not be endless, but the depths of which we know not. These people are those who do not receive a testimony of Christ, and therefore must atone for their own sins. When they are through, they will have earned a "glory" in the teletial kingdom.

The mission of Christ and degrees of glory

2009-02-22T13:39:00.001-07:00

(D&C 76 continued)

This is Christ's mission, and the gospel that we are to preach: Christ came into the world to be crucified for the world, and to bear the sins of the world, and to sanctify the world, and to cleanse it from all unrighteousness. (v. 41)

I can't think of any other verse off the top of my head that so completely illustrates Christ's mission. He came to atone for our sins, that we may enter God's presence again. He came to "bear," (I think share) our sins, and to truly empathize with us. The sanctification spoken of is, to me, the personal process we all must undergo to become Christlike. I think it refers to the sanctification of our hearts. Cleansing the world from unrighteousness is more along the lines of destroying the wicked at the 2nd Coming. I suppose this could also refers to cleansing unrighteous people, making them righteous. (That sounds harsh, but I can't find words to say it differently.)

The nest verses list the qualities of those who will be in the celestial kingdom, then the terrestial. Referring to the latter, vs. 76-77 says, "These are they who receive of his glory, but not of his fulness. These are they who receive of the presence of the Son, but not of the fulness of the Father." -->What does that mean? Maybe those who accept Christ as their Savior, but not the entire gospel that the Father has set up? I guess since there are people like that on earth, and our character remains the same, there will be people like that in heaven.

vs. 81-89 talk about the telestial kingdom. While these people are those who do not receive the gospel or testimony of Christ, they did NOT deny the Holy Ghost. (Earlier in the section they are described as sons of perdition.)

I'm going to have to figure out how it's possible to have been in spirit prison, have the gospel preached to you, and still not accept it.

THIS IS A GREAT SECTION!!! D&C 76

2009-02-19T09:55:00.000-07:00

I am so excited to have reached this section!! Let's just dive right in.

I usually don't talk about the first few verses of a section, because they're almost always the same. "God is wonderful and marvelous." But I really like these first few verses. "Great is his wisdom, marvelous are his ways, and the extent of his doings none can find out. His purposes fail not, neither are there any who can stay his hand." Wouldn't it be cool to have done so many marvelous things, no one would ever know the extent of them? Someday, folks. Someday.

The Lord is merciful and gracious to those who fear him, and he delights to honor those who serve him in righteousness and truth.

v. 10 "For by my Spirit will I enlighten them, and by my power will I make known unto them the secrets of my will." I love this verse. I think we all seek to know God's will for us, but often times we aren't sure of what it is. We are reminded here that it is through His Spirit. We know what we must to do have that Spirit with us, and we know how to ask and how to interpret those answers. Sometimes I just need to be reminded, I guess.

This section holds an oft-quoted passage of Joseph Smith's testimony of Christ.

While JS and Sidney Rigdon were working on the translation of the Bible on day, they came upon a verse that made them stop to ponder and meditate on it's meaning. As they were pondering, they beheld a vision.

vs. 22-24 "...And now after the many testimonies which have been given of him, this is the testimony, last of all, which we give of him: That he lives!

"For we saw him, even on the right hand of God; and we heard the voice bearing record that he is the Only Begotten of the Father --

"That by him, and throught him, and of him, the worlds are and were created, and the inhabitants thereof are begotten sons and daughters unto God."

They also saw in the vision Lucifer. He was a son of the morning. I think that this is one of the reasons Satan is who he is. From what I understand, Lucifer was one of the great ones in the pre-earth life. He probably knew more than most, and was highly favored of God the Father. Because of this position, his rebellion was more treacherous than if it had been Joe the Plummer. He was given greater light and knowledge, and turned away from it.

v. 29 tells us that "[Satan] maketh war with the saints of God, and encompasseth them round about."

This is such a scary image. This powerful son of the morning has literally declared war on the saints of God. He has us encircled, looking for any weakness that he can capitalize on. But whenever I think of this, I remember when Elisha was protected from the King of Syria's army. (2 Kings 6:14-17) They had encircled Elisha's city by night, and when his servants awoke in the morning, they were scared.

Elisha said, "Fear not: for they that be with us are more than they that be with them." Then Elisha prayed that their eyes amy be opened, and the veil was pulled from their eyes. The saw that the mountain was full of horses and chariots of fire to protect Elisha.

The same is true for us in our battle against Satan. They that be with us are more than they that be with them.

Isn't that a comforting thought?

It's funny how I learn things when I blog about them.

2009-02-18T08:12:00.000-07:00

I don't know why scripture study is always a problem for me. I was doing so well for a while......but I've struggled recently. I'll think about reading, then just think, "Boring. I don't want to do that right now." That's horrible!! I wish that scripture study wasn't such a hard thing for me, but it is. I have read some over the past few days, but nothing that really stuck out to me, so I didn't blog about it.

But I've just GOT to do it. I have to keep going even when I don't want to, or I'm never going to want to read.

Section 68 is longer than most as has some good stuff. It talks about the literal descendants of Aaron having a right to the priesthood and office of bishop. But if a literal descendant can't be find, a high priest may act as bishop. Now, correct me if I'm wrong, but the tribe of Levi is the priestly tribe, right? Aren't they the sons of Aaron? But because their duty was to the temple, they weren't given any land -- they aren't one of the 12 tribes. So no one would ever through a patriarchal blessing find that they were of the tribe of Levi.

I didn't put all this together till just now. I've always been confused and thought that at any time, a guy could find out through his patriarchal blessing that he was of the tribe of Levi and then he would be an active bishop for the rest of his life. That was always so weird to me.........but I just realized that there isn't a tribe of Levi, so it's not really a problem. (I hope I put all those pieces together correctly!)

Another passage I like is vs. 25-28. It talks about our duties as parents. If we do not teach our children to understand the doctrine of repentance, faith in Christ, baptism and repentance, their sins will be on our heads.

When I first read this, I thought it meant that if we fail to teach our children correctly, all their sins would be upon our heads. Which is SO SCARY. But that's not what God is telling us. He says that if we fail to teach them these saving doctrines, fail to have them baptized, THEN the sin is on our heads. It's our responsibility to teach them as young children. We are to prepare them for baptism. Once they are baptized, they are accountable for their own sins. (Funny how this is all making sense now!) It's still our job to teach and guide them, but their sins will no longer be upon our heads.

We are to teach our children to pray and walk uprightly before the Lord. That about sums it up, I suppose.

--With both of these passages, I came in with preconceived notions about what they meant. But as I started to think and write about them, the Holy Ghost clarified things for me and taught me truth. I'm grateful for what I learned today.--

The work of motherhood

2009-02-13T08:18:00.000-07:00

"Wherefore, be not weary in well-doing, for ye are laying the foundation of a great work. And out of small things proceedeth that which is great," D&C 63:33

If there ever was well-doing on the earth, it is the work of mothering. And if there ever were a common complaint from mothers (at least ones with young children!), it would be that they are weary.

Which is why I love this scripture. I need to remember that I truly am laying the foundation of a great work. My children are going to be the leaders of tomorrow, whether in a large or small capacity.

When I typed that, I thought, I don't really know or have control over whether they will be well-known leaders. But I may have more control than I think. Are my children going to be raised in a home where we study the scriptures every day? Will we have FHE each week where they have opportunities to bear their testimonies? Are we going to take General Conference seriously? Are we going to have a gospel-centered home? All these things will increase they likelihood that they will have strong testimonies and greater knowledge of gospel principles. I play a HUGE part in determining what kind of men my boys will become.

The next phrase says, "Out of small things proceedeth that which is great." All those things I listed are "small things." Teaching them to pray *morning* and night. Talking about Christ, and more than on Sunday or in FHE. Developing spiritual habits. All small things that yield great results.

So whenever I'm weary, I need to remember that the things I do directly affect the kind of people my children will grow to be. Instead of yelling when I get weary, maybe I should kneel with my children in prayer. When I grumble about cleaning up another mess or doing the dishes again, I should remember that having a clean home means the Spirit is more likely to be there, and I'm more likely to be happy.

I think this is a scripture I need to copy down and put somewhere I will see often.

p.s. This all made me think of Elder Ballard's talk from April 2008 about young mothers. It is one of my all-time favorites.

Forgiveness

2009-02-12T07:46:00.000-07:00

Why do those who do not forgive stand in greater condemnation than those who committed the original offenses? (D&C 64:10)

Again, I am going to pass on a lesson I learned from The Peavegiver.

We all know that Christ atoned for our sins. That He paid for MY sins and YOUR sins. But do we know that He paid for the sins of others? The sins committed against us? Do we really know that?

The reason it is a greater sin not to forgive is that it means we don't adequately understand Christ's Atonement. It as if we are saying, "I know that you paid for my sins. Thanks, by the way. But what this person did was just TOO MUCH. The price you paid doesn't cover what he/she did to me. Your Atonement is insufficient for this crime."

Christ has taken the sins of all onto Himself. He has said, "Let me pay for this." In so doing, the balance of justice is with Him. In the classic creditor/debtor/mediator scenario, Christ is the mediator, while we see God as the creditor and us as the debtor. But let's look at this a bit differently. Let's put ourselves, the offended, in place of the creditor. Somebody "owes" us something. The person who has wronged us is the debtor, and Christ is still the mediator. He steps in to pay for what the creditor has taken from us.

If someone owed me $100 and wasn't able to pay me when they said they would, I'd be mad. But if a friend of that person came to me and said, "Here's your $100. From now on, they'll owe me the money. But you take this and don't worry about it anymore," I'd be okay with that. It's no longer my problem. I wouldn't refuse the money just because it didn't come from the debtor, because I trust that the mediator who gave me the money would expect repayment from the debtor.

So when Christ says, "Listen. I've paid for this. I know they hurt you, but let me take care of it. Give your burden to me. I'll make sure justice is served, but you don't need to worry about it anymore," we must accept His offering. He is a completely innocent party, but is taking the guilt on Himself. We know that he didn't actually commit the sin, but He's acting as if He did, so we can forgive. It's easy to forgive someone who didn't do anything wrong. What is there to forgive? Nothing. Nothing.

If we don't forgive those who have sinned against us, it's like we're not forgiving Christ.

Back on the horse

2009-02-11T07:55:00.000-07:00

So much for reading everyday. I've missed 4 days. To be honest, I read a little bit on some of those days, but not all. And I obviously didn't post. But I'm making myself get back in the habit today.

D&C 63

• Signs come to those tho believe. They follow faith. I know we've heard this preached often, but when it comes time for us to exercise our faith, we always want to have the proof first. At least I do. The point of signs is to teach us trust, and to reward our faith. I need to remember that the next time I need to exercise faith -- that the reward comes after. (This is what makes is a reward, by definition!)

• I found the scripture that answers my question about death in the millenium. V. 51 says that children shall grow up till they become old, then shall be changed in the twinkling of an eye.

• Another phrase that caught my attention is in v. 59. "Behold, I am from above, and my power lieth beneath." A few years ago my husband wrote a paper for a religion class about faith. In it he discussed faith and power as it relates to God and man. He said that God's power is dependant on the faith of His children. As long as they have an exercise faith, God has power. (I am not describing this nearly as eloquently as he did!) I don't remember all the details, but that's the basic principle. And this scripture backs it up. His power lies beneath, with us.

D&C 61

2009-02-06T08:58:00.001-07:00

In the beginning, God blessed the waters. But through John the Beloved, he cursed them in the last days.

"Wherefore, the days will come that no flesh shall be safe upon the waters," v. 15

I don't think I caught that before.

In the days of Adam, God cursed the land, but in the last days he has blessed it that we may "partake the fatness thereof," v.17

In this section God is very specific about some of the commands he issues -- when it's safe to travel on water, where to preach -- but about other things, He says just to do as "seemeth [them] good, it mattereth not to me."

I think this can easily be directly applied to our lives. Sometimes, God has very specific things He needs us to do. Other times, it doesn't matter so much. He trusts our judgement.

The Sabbath -- D&C 59

2009-02-05T08:11:00.000-07:00

To keep ourselves unspotted from the world we are to go unto the house of prayer to offer up our sacraments. (v.9) We offer a broken heart and contrite spirit, then take the bread and water to repent and show our commitment to keep God's commands.

The Sabbath was appointed unto us to rest from our labors, and pay our devotions to the most High. We are to offer our oblations (footnote sayd time, talents or means) unto God. (v.12)

I've often thought it somewhat ironic that Sunday is supposed to be a day of rest, when it is often the busiest day for me. I've never been bitter or sarcastic about it, but made of joke of it like I know many do.

But after reading v. 12, I don't think I'll joke about it anymore. God knew there is much to be done to build His kingdom, and much of that work would be done on Sundays. While they are a day of rest from our worldly cares and labors, they are not a day of rest from the things of God. We are supposed to offer our time and talents to God on that day.

There were some things about fasting that I found interesting -- I've never caught them before. Vs. 13-14 say: And on this day thou shalt do none other thing, only let they food be prepared with singleness of heart that thy fasting may be perfect, or, in other words, that thy joy may be full. Verily, this is fasting and prayer, or in other words, rejoicing and prayer.

God is telling us that fasting should be rejoicing. We are to prepare our food in simplicity, so that we aren't spending 2 hours in the kitchen while we're fasting. If we follow this, then fasting will be more of a joy, which it should be. I'll be the first to admit that spending any time in the kitchen on fast Sunday takes the joy out of fasting. God isn't giving us a commandment to prepare the easiest meals on Sunday, but trying to help us. If we want our fast to be perfect, and not resent the fact that we aren't eating, just don't spend a lot of time in the kitchen!!

Another verse I like is 21. "And in nothing doth man offend God, or against none is his wrath kindled, save those who confess not his hand in all things, and obey not his commands."

Showing our gratitude is pretty important.

Highlights from D&C 58 (a really great section)

2009-02-04T08:37:00.000-07:00

After much tribulation come the blessings. v.4

It is not meet that God should command in all things; for he that is complelled in all things, the same is a slothful servane and not a wise sevant; wherefore he receiveth no reward. v.26

As a teenager, we had a few chores around the house. Usually mom would just tell us what needed to be done, and my brother and I would decided among ourselves. But if my mom didn't tell us anything, nothing would get done. One day she cited this scripture to us, saying that she didn't always have to tell us what to do. It was okay for us to look around for ourselves and find things to do. I remember that lesson to this day, but I think I still need to learn it and let it become part of me.

"[Wo]Men should be anxiously engaged in a good cause, and do many things of their own free will, and bring to pass much righteousness."

Isn't that a great scripture? It reminds me to not be so lazy. But another thought I had when reading it -- While we should counsel with the Lord in all things, sometimes He'll tell us that all options we're considering are good and it's up to us. Do you think this is true?

Whoa. Check out the next verse. "But he that doeth not anything until he is commanded, and receiveth a commandment with a doubtful heart, and keepeth it with slothfulness, the same is damned."

Okay. Now I'm scared. There have been times where I am very doubtful that something is indeed the Lord's will. Have I messed up royally?

You have many things to do and to repent of.

2009-02-03T09:07:00.000-07:00

Your sins are not pardoned, because you seek to counsel in your own ways.

Your hearts are not satisfied....

Wo unto you rich men, that will not give your substance to the poor, for your riches canker your souls.

Wo unto you poor men, whose hearts are not broken, whose spirits are not contrite, and whose bellies are not satisfied, and whose hands are not stayed from laying hold upon other men's goods, whose eyes are full of greediness, and who will not labor with your own hands! (D&C 56:14-17)

Reading this makes me realize how wonderful the law of consecration will be, when it is lived perfectly.

v.18 Blessed are the poor who are pure in heart.....they shall rejoice when Christ comes. Their generations will inherit the earth. I just realized what a great promise this is. The poor, the meek, will inherit the earth. What an inheritance for a poor person!!

D&C 51

2009-02-02T21:46:00.001-07:00

The law of consecration.

I remember learning about it in seminary and thinking, "Isn't this Communism? And isn't Communism bad?"

Communism is only bad because it is prone to corruption. Consecration, praticed by charitable Christians, and moderated by perfectly just leaders, is the law of the Lord.

(Sorry these are so short. It's late, and I'm just trying to make sure I write something everyday.)

thoughts

2009-02-01T09:53:00.000-07:00

For today's post, see this.

That which is of God is light

2009-01-31T09:02:00.000-07:00

I'm finding a lot of good stuff in section 50.

When the word is preached by the spirit of truth and received in that same spirit, both understand one another, and both are edified and rejoice together. (50:21-22) I think this verse is particularly relevant to missionaries and teachers. You MUST teach with the spirit, and if those you are teaching have that spirit as well, they will learn truth.

What can you do to ensure the Spirit will be present? I think one of the best things is simply to pray for it. Keep contention out of the classroom. While it's important to have "pizazz" and make the lessons memorable, the lessons *I* remember are the ones where the Spirit touched me. When the teacher actually testified to us.

"That which is of God is light; and he that receiveth light, and continueth in God, receiveth more light; and that light groweth brighter and brighter until the perfect day. ....I say it that you may know the truth, that you may chase darkness from among you." (50:24-25) I love that imagery. It's not simply to turn away from darkness. This implies a vigorous, active response. Chasing it away. When I think of chasing, I picture myself chasing danger away from my children. I am chasing to protect.

I need to do a better job at chasing darkness away from my children.

Ann Lee & the Shakers

2009-01-30T20:29:00.000-07:00

Christ will not come in the form of a woman or traveling man. (D&C 49:22)

Eating meat in moderation is good. Animals were put here for our use. (49:18-19)

Good thing, too. I found 5 lbs. rolls of ground beef for $3.50 today!! We're good on beef for a while.

Spiritual gifts -- D&C 46

2009-01-29T10:09:00.000-07:00

vs. 13-14 "To some it is given by the Holy Ghost to know that Jesus Christ is the Son of God, and the he was crucified for the sins of the world. To others it is given to believe on their words, that they also might have eternal life if they continue faithful."

Eventually we will all know, but till then, we have to be content with believing, and continue in faith.

vs. 17-18 "...to some is given, by the Spirit of God, the word of widsom. To another is given the word of knowledge, that all may be taught to be wise and to have knowledge."

I think there's a difference between the word of wisdom and wisdom, itself. I just heard Elder Glenn L. Pace teach that wisdom is often gained through pain, and personal experience. The word of wisdom would be when this person imparts of what they learned the hard way to others.

I really don't know which is better.

D&C 45

2009-01-28T21:18:00.000-07:00

better late than never

"Signs of the Times"

v. 26 "...they shall say that Christ delayeth his coming until the end of the earth." This isn't a sign I've really considered before. But it's definately happening. Those who believe Christ will come again believe that it will in fact be the end of the earth.

v. 31 "...a desolating sickness shall cover the land." Do you think we've seen this? Do you think it will be one illness, or sickness in general?

vs. 40-42 "The shall see signs and wonders, for they shall be shown forth in the heavens aboce, and in the earth beneath. And they shall behold blood, and fire, and vapors of smoke. And before the day of the Lord shall come, the sun shall be darkened, and the moon be turned to blood, and the stars fall from heaven."

Have we seen any of this? Will the blood, fire and vapors of smoke be in the heavens or the earth? Is the sun darkening a solar eclipse? Is a harvest moon (I think that's what it's called) the same as the moon turning to blood? Are comets the falling stars? Or is it something more? Or both?

v. 58 "And the earth shall be given unto them for an inheritance; and they shall multiply and wax strong, and their children shall grow up without sin unto salvation." How utterly awesome is this? I honestly can't imagine a world where my children could grow up without sin. I think my only concern is.....how are they going to grow and get strong if they are not tempted by anything? If I understand correctly, there will be no death at this time. I think some will get "twinkled," but for those who grow up during the millenium, they will not die. They'll live for the thousand years, then fight in the final battle against Satan? Am I right? I guess 1000 years is a long time to solidify their testimonies. =D

vs. 68-69 "...every man that will not take his sword against his neighbor must needs flee unto Zion for safety. And there shall be gathered unti it out of every nation under heaven; and it shall be the only people that shall not be at war one with another."

Um......sounds like we all need to get to Jackson County. I don't think I'll ever want to take up my sword against my neighbor. Might as well move there while property values are low!!

p.s. Pam -- we don't have that book. :(

tidbits

2009-01-27T10:46:00.001-07:00

43:8 "...assemble together [to] instruct and edify each other..."

43:9 "...ye shall be sanctified by that which ye have received..."

43:16 "And ye are to be taught from on high. Santify yourselves and ye shall be endowed with power, that ye may give even as I have spoken."

43:18 "...Ye saints arise and live; ye sinners stay and sleep until I shall call again."

I want to be a "sinner" today and go to sleep! I am so tired and a little sick to my stomach. Maybe I need to better follow the "early to bed" scripture. I've got the "early to rise" part down pat.

I like that these scriptures talk about the importance of meeting together to edify one another.

God has spoken to me today

2009-01-26T08:44:00.000-07:00

"Let all things be done in cleanliness before me."

"Thou shalt not be idle..." D&C 42:41-42

I'm making a to-do list for today. And I'm going to get it done.

Highlights from my stake conference

2009-01-25T12:33:00.000-07:00

The theme our stake presidency has chosen for us this year is D&C 88:125. "And above all things, clothe yourselves with the bond of charity, as with a mantle, which is the bond of perfectness and peace."

A member of our stake presidency shared this story.

In the mid-70s, a college professor sent his students to the slums of Baltimore. They found 200 boys and learned a bit about them. The professor asked his students to estimate how many of the boys would be successful in their life. The students guessed that none would ever make it out of the slums.

25 years later, a different professor did a follow-up study. He tracked down 180 of those 200 boys. Of them, 176 were successful lawyers, doctors, or business men. They were asked what made the difference for them. They all said it was a teacher. One, specific teacher, that touched all these boys.

The professor tracked her down, as well. He asked what she did that changed the lives of these boys. "It was simple," she said. "I loved them."

The greatest thing I can do as a teacher (part of being a mother) is to love my children.

Some other highlights:

--- Alright, I've tried to find this on LDS.org and am not coming up with anything. So I'll just copy my notes. ---

Elder Bednar was at a conference one time where he heard Elder Maxwell say, "There would have been no atonement except for the character of Christ."

So Elder Bednar, being Elder Bednar, went in search of a question and answer*. What was it specifically about Christ's character that made the Atonement possible.

He found that Christ's character was such that He was able to discern the suffering of others and DO something about it when He Himself was suffering.

For example, right after Christ had been tempted by Satan in the wilderness. He had been fasting for 40 days and endured severe temptations by the devil, and was probably in need of a little comfort. Angels came to administer to Him. But He, knowing that John the Baptist was suffering in prison at that same moment, sent the angels to administer to John.

Part of having a Christ-like character is being able to discern the suffering of others when we ourselves are suffering. It is looking and reaching outward when our first response is to turn inward.

*Elder Bednar is famous for seeking the right question to ask to get the answer you want. I was at BYU-I just before he was called as an Apostle, and have heard him preach more than once about this. Also acting vs. re-acting is a major point for him.

D&C 38:18

2009-01-24T08:44:00.000-07:00

"And I hold forth and deign to give unto you greater riches, even a land of promise, a land flowing with milk and honey, upon which there shall be no curse when the Lord cometh."

I assume this is talking about Jackson County. Does it mean that when terrible things are happening just before the Lord's coming, Jackson County will be spared?

D&C 33:17 -- The Ten Virgins

2009-01-23T09:41:00.000-07:00

Last month for our enrichment night, we listened to a presentation about the 10 virgins painting. It was originally given by the artist, but when she stopped giving the presentation, another woman bought the rights and now shares the artist's thoughts about the painting with others. (Make sense?)

On the back of this card is an explanation of what each of the Virgins represents, but I want to share a little bit more of what I learned.

First of all, the artist decided to depict what she saw as the 5 virtues you need to have to get into heaven, and the five sins that would keep you out. Also, she painted them all as brunettes to avoid stereotypes and show that we are all more alike than we sometimes wish to believe.

The first virgin on the left represents a Christ-like person. She is carrying lilies, palm fronds, and an olive branch in refrence to Christ's triumphal entry into Jerusalem.

The second virgin represents repentance and forgiveness. She brings wheat and a pitcher of water to represent the bread and water of the sacrament. She is also draped only in white linen -- what Christ's body was draped in.

The third virgin represents ordinaces and temple work. She is wearing the blue and gold of the priesthood. Also, her cumerbund has four ropes, representing the 4 ordinances we need -- Baptism, gift of Holy Ghost, endowment, and sealing. She carries two doves, one representing the Holy Ghost, the other the Holy Spirit of Promise. The doves look as if they could fly away at any moment. The virgins has to be especially attentive to them.

The fourth virgin represents truth and knowledge/talents. She carries scrolls to learn from and a lyre to develop her talents.

The fifth virgin carries charity to give to others. She literally carries food to share and give as her gift, and is the closest to the foolish virgins because she is most willing to help them. She looks down in humility. Sh also appears to be the only wise virgin actually in movement -- axiously engaged in the doing the work of the kingdom.

The sixth virgin and first follish ones symbolizes pride. She wears a rish crimson robe and many gaudy jewels. Yet she only brings a small gold box for the bridegroom.

The seventh virgin is the sins and pleasures of the world. She brings a huge vat of wine, and wears her dress immodestly off the shoulder and baring cleavage.

The eigth virgin very obviously symbolizes the addictions and excess in the world. She is overweight and brings a pig's head. (Isn't the pig unkosher?) Her face is earily similar to that of the pig's.

The ninth virgin is one you barely see. She represents dark works and idol worshipping. Her lamp and clothes are the dimmest of all because she wants to hide what she does. She wears a mystic jewel on her forehead, and brings an idol of a goat as her gift.

The tenth virgin symbolizes unrighteous power and adn ego. She wears the green of money and envy. She is adorned with a large headress and brings a scepter (either as a gift or reminder of her power?) and her face exudes pompousness.

D&C 30-33

2009-01-22T12:31:00.000-07:00

Today I just read until something stood out to me.

D&C 33:16 The book of Mormon and the holy scriptures are given of me for your instruction; and the power of my Spirit quickeneth all things.

--I'm pretty sure that the next Sunday School lesson is on the Book of Mormon. Tammy mentioned her bishop challenging her ward to read the BOM 3 times this year. Wow! I've only studied D&C this year, but I'm finding that I miss the BOM. D&C has some really great stuff, but it's also got a lot of mission calls. =D

So I think I'll study the Book of Mormon, too. I've only ever read cover to cover -- never studied by topic. Maybe I'll try that this time. --

D&C 29

2009-01-21T08:40:00.001-07:00

This section talkes about the 2nd coming. Much of it I've heard/read before, but one thing in particular stood out to me.

V. 16 says that a great hailstorm will destroy the crops of the earth. As far as I know, that hasn't happened yet. But it will.

I need to get our food storage in order!!!!

My question is, how do you do this on a budget?

This section also talks about Adam and his choice to partake of the fruit. It mostly talks about knowing bitter from sweet and the necessity of the devil in the world to tempt us. Doesn't really answer yesterday's question, but I thought it was interesting that this section discussed it.

Thanks for all of your comments, quotes and scriptures yesterday. A lot of things were clarified.

How can a just God give two contradicting commandments?

2009-01-20T07:56:00.001-07:00

We have ward conference in a few weeks. Our stake presidency is going to teach Sunday School, and they want to do a Q&A. They've asked us to submit gospel questions that they'll prepare answers to. I think it's a great idea.

Sunday night my husband and I were discussing some things we might ask. Superman (of course) had some good questions, one of which is "How can a just God issue contradicting commandments in the Garden of Eden? He doesn't ask us to do anything that we can't, yet it was impossible to keep both commandments. It's like God was setting them up for failure. How is that just?"

I got a book a few years ago, "Eve and the Choice Made in Eden," by Beverly Campbell. I got it just after I got endowed and married, and it shed a fantastic light on the Garden of Eden story. I think some of the answer to Superman's question can be found here.

(Sidenote: Because this book wasn't written by a general authority, Superman is very hesitant to take as doctrine anything in it. But 75% of the book is GA quotes, 20% research in the Hebrew language or history, and 5% conjecture, in my opinion.)

Here are some of the quotes that I think clarify the "contradicting" commandments.

Elder Dallin H. Oaks, "For reasons that have not been revealed, this transition, or 'fall,' could not happen without a transgression -- an exercise of moral agency amounting to a willful breaking of a law. This would be a planned offense, a formality to serve an eternal purpose. ... Some acts, like murder, are crimes because they are inherently wrong. Other acts, like operating without a license, are crimes only because they are legally prohibited. Under these distinctions, the act that produced the Fall was not a sin -- inherently wrong -- but a transgression -- wrong because it was formally prohibited."

Joseph Smith, "Adam did not commit sin in eating the fruits, for God had decreed that he should eat and fall."

When God gave Adam and Eve the commandments, he reminded this of their agency, "Nevertheless, thou mayest choose for thyself," something He has not done in connection with any other commandment. (Moses 3:17).

President Boyd K. Packer, "There was too much at issue to introduce man into mortality by force. That would contravene the very law essential to the plan."

Elder John A. Widtsoe, "The eternal power of choice was repected by the Lord himself. ... It really converts the command into a warning, as much as if to say, if you do this thing, you will bring upon yourself a certain punishment, but do it if you choose. ... The Lord had warned Adam and Eve of the hard battle with earth conditions if they chose to eat of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil. He would not subject his son and daughter to hardship and the death of the their bodies unless it be of their own choice. They must choose for themselves. They chose wisely, in accord with the heavenly law of love for others."

President Brigham Young, "How did Adam and Eve sin? Did they come out in diret opposition to God and to His government? No. But they transgressed a command of the Lord, and through that transgression sin came into the world."

This next part I quote directly from the book.

"As I began to understand the role of agency and recognized that actions taken by Eve and Adam were in accordance with law, I began to wonder if the word command used in the Creation stories was from the same root word as commandment, as in the Ten Commandments. Because I had heard a Hebrew scholar, Dr. Nehama Aschkenasy, speak of the subject of Eve and read her book on feminine images in Hebrew literature, I asked her if she was aware of any difference in the origin of theose two words. She agreed to research the question for me and subsequently advised me that they in fact were not from the same origin. She found that command as used in the Creation story was from a different verb form, whose usage connotes a strong, severe warning, perhaps a statement of law, that was possibly temporary in nature, so that at some future, unspecified time it might not apply."

--Think of young children. We tell them, "Never touch the stove. Never cross the street alone." Do we really mean that they are to never do these things? Of course not! We mean that until they learn enough to make proper choices, don't do it.--

President Joseph Fielding Smith, "Mortality was createdthrough the eating of the forbidden ffuit, if you want to call it forbidden, but I think the Lord has made it clear that it was not forbidden. He merely said to Adam, if you want to stay here [in the garden] this is the situation. If so, don't eat it."

Elder Bruce R. McConkie, "Adam and Eve simply complied with the law which enabled them to become mortal beings, and this course of conduct is termed eating the forbidden fruit."

I think all these combine to tell us that they were not contradicting commandments, but a rule of the garden and reminder of their divine roles. They needed to stay in the Garden to learn. To stay in the Garden, they couldn't eat of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil. Simple fact. When they were adequately prepared to enter the telestial world, they chose to eat of that tree. They knew they would leave God's presence, but they also knew they had other roles to fulfill. Eating of that tree was not contrary to God's will, but contrary to a rule of the Garden.

We know that at some point, God wanted them to eat of the tree. We all were spirits who needed bodies. Christ was already designanted as the Redeemer. Eating of the tree was not a sin, but the action that brought sin into the world. It wasn't a sin because they didn't know the difference between good and evil until AFTER they had eaten of the tree of "knowledge of good and evil."

These were not contradicting commands. Adam and Eve were reminded of their duty to provide bodies for God's spirit children. And told that to remain in the Garden, they must not eat of the tree of knowledge of good and evil.

Thoughts?

D&C 28

2009-01-19T17:38:00.000-07:00

It is very easy for Satan to deceive us.

God speaks to the Church through the prophet.

fMh isn't always right.

What should I read? What are you reading?

2009-01-19T09:24:00.001-07:00

I'm feeling a bit stagnant, just reading D&C cover to cover. Do you have a favorite section you want to talk about? A topic that's been on your mind lately?

I need some ideas.

Sunday School lesson #3 -- The First Vision

2009-01-17T08:55:00.000-07:00

LDS - EFY 2000 - Any Other Boy - Peter Breinholt - artist
Tomorrow's lesson coveres Joseph Smith History 1:1-26.

Usually when I read, I take notes of the things that stick out to me -- the things I want to write about.

But as I read Jospeh Smith's account of the First Vision, I couldn't stop. His words held my complete attention. It's such a straight forward account. I've heard it so often that I knew many of the verses by heart. It's such a compelling story, and practically impossible to NOT feel the Spirit as you read his words.

I am always struck by how young Joseph Smith was at the time of the First Vision. Fourteen is so young. Young to be on a serious spiritual quest for truth, and certainly young to see a vision of Christ and God the Father.

Speaking of which, isn't this the only time in recorded history that God Himself appeared to man, aside from Adam?

And speaking of Adam, there's a scripture mentioned in the study guide that I had a question about. D&C 128: 20 mentions the "voice of Michael on the banks of the Susquehanna, detecting the devil when he appeared as an angel of light." What is this experience? I can't recall ever learning of the devil (or one of his minnions) trying to appear to Joseph as an angel of light, and Michael detecting him. I can't even remember Michael appearing to Joseph, though this verse only says his "voice" detected the angel.

Do any of you know this story? I know that much of the restoration of the priesthood took place on the Susquehanna. Perhaps the devil tried to interfere? It's entirely possible that Joseph was commanded not to share the details of this story with the world, and therefore we don't know about it. Or maybe Joseph just didn't think it was worth recording. I just wondered if we had the account of this anywhere.

Back to the first vision -- I love the detail with which Joseph describes the power of the adversary. He couldn't speak. He felt doomed for destruction. It wasn't "an imaginary ruin, but the power of some actual being from the unseen world." The devil is real. He seeks our destruction just as he sought Joseph's, though not as actively.

And Satan didn't stop there. When Joseph shared his story with different preachers, they told him his vision was of the devil and that such visions didnt' happen anymore. I am SO glad they were wrong!!

The integrity of Joseph Smith really comes through at the end of these verses. He had in reality seen a vision. He knew it, and he knew that God knew it, and he couldn't deny it.

Neither can I.

p.s. Pam -- I didn't find Ahman as a topic in the BD. Weird.

D&C 27

2009-01-16T10:13:00.000-07:00

Put on the whole armor of God.

Thy calling shall be for a comfort unto thy husband

2009-01-15T17:25:00.000-07:00

I love D&C 25. This revelation was given to Emma Smith, but most of it applies to women in general.

Last night my husband was out late with his friends. He only got about 6 ours of sleep. When he woke up this morning, he said, "Why am I so old?" I promptly replied, "Because you act like you're not." In my defense, I was also pretty tired, since I can't go to bed alone.

Then I sat down and read this section. "Thy calling shall be for a comfort unto my servant, thy husband." I looked at Superman and said, "I'm sorry you're old." "Oh, thanks a lot," he scoffed.

Can't win 'em all, I guess.

But seriously. I love this section. It teaches me much as a woman.

I shouldn't murmur because of the things that God hasn't revealed unto me. We all have unanswered questions in our lives, and God just is not going to give us the answer we want to every question we ask.

I should offer consoling words -- words of meekness -- to my husband. I read this as Don't say "I told you so!"

Emma is told to lay aside the things of this world and seek for things of a better. (v. 10) This reminds me of a quote by Margaret D. Nadauld. (Motherboard has it in her sidebar and I love seeing it every time I'm there.)

"Women of God can never be like women of the world. The world has enough women who are tough; we need women who are tender. There are enough women who are coarse; we need women who are kind. There are enough women who are rude; we need women who are refined. We have enough women of fame and fortune; we need more women of faith. We have enough greed; we need more goodness. We have enough vanity; we need more virtue. We have enough popularity; we need more purity."

V. 13 Tells us to lifts up our hearts and rejoice, and cleave unto the covenants we have made. I need to do some more cleaving. The next verse says to let our souls delight in our husbands. If we do so, glory will come upon our heads. I'm lucky to say that I get to do a fair amount of delighting in my husband. He's a really good man. Makes me laugh every day, and also makes me want to be better.

The other part of this section is about music. Such a short passage and small percentage of all the doctrine taught, but so powerful.

I love the hymns. I love music in general, but there's just something about uplifting music. I love living in Utah and having radio stations that play LDS music on the Sabbath. God says that his soul delights in the song of the heart, and that the song of the righteous is a prayer unto him. In sacrament meeting, we sing in relation to every prayer. Not a coincidence, in my opinion.

Music can speak to your heart in a way that nothing else can. The Spirit can communicate so purely through music, the right kind, at least. I can't count the number of times a song has made me cry. And not just church music, either!! I don't know what it is about that medium, but music is so very powerful.

So in short, I need to be a better wife, cleave unto my covenants (and go to the temple soon) and listen to good music.

D&C 25 -- revelation for emma (all women)

2009-01-15T08:48:00.000-07:00

I don't have time to post my thoughts right now, but this is the section I studied this morning. I want to delve deeper, but just wanted to tell you guys what I read. Feel free to read it and share your thoughts! I'll post more later.

Devote thyself in service

2009-01-14T08:32:00.000-07:00

It's possible to be called to things because of your family. I've never really thought of this before. In D&C 23:3, God tells Hyrum he is called to the work because of his family.

It seems there are a lot of callings in the Church that men are called to that require a lot of sacrifice on their wives' (and families') part. I'm not saying this is wrong. I'm just stating what I see to be fact. There's a reason that both husband and wife are called to talk to the stake president when a calling in elders' quorum or the bishopric is going to be extended. The women must be willing to support their husbands.

As a teenager, my stake split. I very distinctly remember the calling/sustaining of our new stake president because he was the father of one of my close friends. The general authority who spoke said some things that I thought were very interesting. He said that there were other men who God considered calling as stake president and in the presidency, but they weren't called because of their wives. He then went on to speak briefly of the qualities of the wives that allowed their husbands to be called to such time-consuming positions.

I told myself then and there that I wanted to be that kind of wife. I didn't want to be one who might unsuspectingly hold my husband back from doing what God asks of Him, and therefore of me.

Section 24 has a few nuggets that I really liked and coincidentally go right along with all this. V. 7 tells us to devote all our service to Zion, which covenant to do. There are many things that I do daily which seemingly have nothing to do with serving Zion, but I may just need to change my perspective. Instead of dragging my feet about cleaning my house, I should think, "Having a clean house invites the Spirit. It creates a better environment for me to teach my children the gospel." Instead of playing with my kids just because it's fun, I can also think, "This builds our relationship and will make it easier for them to talk to me in the future."

In v. 8 God tells Joseph (and us) to be patient in our afflictions, for we'll have many. But we should endure, and God will be there with us. In other variations of this scripture, we are told to endure, and God will exalt us on high. But I liked that this scripture says that God is there with us. Both are comforting promises for different reasons. It's just nice to remember that God is there for us.

What did you learn from these sections? I also read sections 21 and 22, but nothing in particular stood out to me. Did you read them and learn something new?

D&C 20

2009-01-13T08:11:00.000-07:00

What I learned:

• I shouldn't entangle myself in the vanities of the world. (Which is hard, since I love the worldly vanities. Reality TV, in particular!)
• As members, we should humble ourselves, have broken hearts and contrite spirits, witness that we've repented and are willing to take Christ's name upon us, and covenant to serve God to the end.

--This section is long about mostly about the duties of the Church.

Sunday School lesson #2

2009-01-12T09:17:00.001-07:00

I know I didn't post yesterday, but I really did read!! Now that we have church at 9:00 I just can't post on Sunday mornings. And then with meetings, I didn't get home till 2, when I took a nap, cooked dinner, put the kids to bed and spent time with my husband. It wasn't till today that I realized I hadn't posted!!

But yesterday morning I read the scriptures we'd be discussing that day in Gospel Doctrine. It's difficult, because in studying D&C we don't just plow through chapters like in all the other standard works. It's grouped by topic and date. I'm still deciding whether I want to keep reading straight through or study the lesson for the week. Except I can study the lesson in just one study session. So what do I do the rest of the time. Should I keep with that topic all week and just find more about it? Should I start the BOM again? Tell me what you guys think -- what do you want to read?

Yesterday's lesson (#2) was on Jesus Christ. There were verses from sections 6 and 19 that I didn't review because I've read them recently, but I'll share the other scriptures I read.

I love section 93. We learn that Christ was not given the fulness at first, but learned grace for grace, just as we do. Also, these things were given to us that we may know how to worship, and what we worship.

The next scripture that stuck out to me was 133:42-52. I don't know that I've ever paid attention to this passage before -- I certainly don't remember it. One of the things I'm discovering I love about D&C is that we are hearing the voice of God. It's not that of Mormon, Nephi, or even Joseph Smith, generally. It is the word of the Lord, directly from His mouth. (And not lost in translation of languages.)

These verses have a definate "Old Testament" feel to me. Yesterday we discussed in class that section 19 was special because it's the only place that we actually hear the words of Christ, talking about the Atonement and Gethsemane. But these passages in section 133 reveal that is wrong, for they also talk about Gethsemane.

Christ says that he has trodden the wine-press alone. -- I know that Gethsemane literally means "wine-press," and it was a place where wine (or olive oil, whatever it was ) was made. But I've never heard Christ Himself talk about Gethsemane that way.

Then He says, "I have trampled them in my fury, and I did tread upon them in mine anger, and their blood have I sprinkled on my garments, and stained all my raiment; for this was the day of vengeance which was in my heart." (vs.51)

This verse has caused me to really think and actually discuss with my husband (who knows a LOT about the gospel, if I do say so myself! I love having doctrinal conversations with him. It's one of the reasons I knew I could marry him -- our ability to discuss the gospel.)

It seems that when we speak of Jesus' redeeming qualities, we think of Him as being so meek and humble, which He was. But there were times that He was angry, too. The one instance I can think of in the NT is His cleansing of the temple. My husband pointed out to me that even that wasn't an out-of-control type of anger. He took time to braid a whip. This wasn't Him losing His temper and going crazy in the temple. He saw what was going on in His Father's house, and knew that they could only be expelled by force.

When I picture this scene, I don't see Christ whipping the money changers and throwing crates with doves onto the ground. I see Him overturning table and spilling money. I see Him cracking the whip in the air and releasing doves into the air. I see Him speaking loudly enough to be heard, but not screaming in a man's face.

(Perhaps this comes from reading Gerald Lund's Kingdom and the Crown series, but I think his description is an accurate one.)

So this is the ONE place where Christ is said to be angry. "Righteous indignation," we call it. But the words Christ uses in v. 51 are pretty strong words -- fury, anger, vengeance.

We all know the parable/video of the debtor and creditor, where a thrid party steps in, pays the debt, and becomes the man's new creditor. I think I've always seen the merciful side of this, more than the just side. "What a marvelous thing, to have our debts paid for us!! Yeah! We're free!!" Which is true. I'm not trying to make light of this. I'm just saying that there's more to it that I haven't considered too much before.

This third party, Christ, our advocate, didn't have that sum of money set aside in a savings account to just hand over. It was literally taken from His flesh. For every single person who ever existed, or whoever will exist, on this world and otherwise!!! I can't even imagine the magnitude of that offering. And it was for all of us dumb sheep, who just can't seem to get our act together. Who sin over and over again, because we're lazy or willful. And Christ paid for those sins over and over again.

I can understand why He might be a little angry.

But in the next verses, He demonstrates why He is our Savior. Instead of deciding the toll was too much, He paid it, and redeemed us in His love and pity. We look to Him and express the loving kindness and goodness with which he has bestowed all our gifts upon us.

He is now our creditor. And He has paid an unbelieveably heavy fine for us. Now we have to repay Him, and meet His terms.

These examples can also teach us a lot about dealing with our anger. It teaches us that there are some things that you should get passionate about. Again, I reiterate that Christ was never out of control. I am not saying it's okay to yell at your kids because Christ got angry, too. Rather, in all of Christ's life, there were only a few things He got truly, passionately angry about. Are we like that? I don't think there's anything my children could do that would actually warrant the anger they sometimes see. I get control of it right away, but sometimes the anger is something I consciously allow because it feels good. There are time I get so frustrated that it seems like a little yelling is justified -- especially if it lets off steam and makes me feel better. Then I choose to reign it in.

But in looking back, this isn't right. I think that just enough steam is let off in a deep breath. And would you rather your children remember the mother who raises her voice (albeit infrequently) or the mother who takes a deep breath before speaking in a controlled voice?

I know what I want -- what I remember of my own mother. And it would seem I have some changes to be made.

p.s. I read this on Segullah today and loved how perfectly it matched what I was talking about. I also love the thoughts shared -- it brought tears to my eyes.

EDIT: Upon further study, it appears that in v. 52 Christ is speaking of His return, and judgement day for the wicked. This makes a lot more sense. Thanks, Pam!

D&C 19

2009-01-10T18:49:00.001-07:00

I know it's late in the day, but I've had problems logging into blogger and I have to leave in 10 minutes. So this is going to be a bare bones review of the section.

We learn that the phrase endless torment doesn't mean the torment is without end. God is endless, so His punishments are endless, too. I personally think it refers to the depth of the punishment more than the length of it. But it specifically refers to the kind of punishment God will deliver. There will be an end, though. Once they have suffered, they will either go to perdition or the telestial kingdom.

Christ has suffered for us, so that we won't have to. He's even suffered for the people who've wronged us. So if there's someone we're unwilling to forgive, it's in essence saying that Christ's suffering wasn't enough. (I wish I had time to expound on this, but that's the jist of it. What I learned from The Peacegiver.)

I love vs. 23.

It's possible to covet your own property. To like the stuff you have too much. God is specifically telling Martin Harris to not covet what he has, but to give freely to the work -- publishing the BOM and supporting Joseph through it. But this applies to us. We should give of what we have and not covet our own possessions.

We should pray vocally and in our hearts. I need to do better at this. I need to find a time where I can pray outloud. It's hard with a family........but definately not impossible!! I just need to make it a priority.

Pay our debts. Be free of bondage.

I think that the Gospel Doctrine lesson for tomorrow is on Jesus Christ. I'm excited. And I'm recommending The Peacegiver again because it will change how you think of Christ and others.

The worth of souls

2009-01-09T09:00:00.000-07:00

I loved D&C 18 as a teenager. To be honest, I loved anything that told me I had worth and value. But this was among my favorites because it was God saying that my soul was of great worth.

V. 6 says that the world is ripening in iniquity. Boy, aint that the truth!! I thought it was bad when I was growing up. But today's world makes me even more fearful for my kids to grow up and be exposed to the world. I'm starting to understand why some parents choose to home school. There is just so much bad stuff out there.

Vs. 10 & 11 tell us that the worth of souls is so great that Christ himself suffered for their sakes.

----- On Sunday, our RS lesson was on forgiveness. Have any of you read The Peacegiver? That book has changed the way I think about forgiveness and the Atonement in general. (It's sold at Deseret and Seagull book stores.) I won't expound further here, at least not right now, but that book just popped into my mind. ------

I also love verses of scriptures put to song. Janice Kapp Perry wrote a song using vs. 15 & 16.
"And if it so be that ye should labor all your days, and bring but one soul unto me, how great shall be your joy with Him in the kingdom of our Father. How great shall be your joy."

While this is particularly talking about missionary work, I once heard someone teach that the "one soul" could be your own soul. You have to gain a testimony yourself before you can share it with others. Your joy will be ever greater if you bring many souls unto Christ, but even these could be the souls of your own children.

I'm not trying to look for a loophole so we can get away with not doing missionary work. But there are seasons of your life for different things. Growing up in Kansas, I had opportunites for missionary work -- much more so than living as a young mom in the heart of Mormondom. I was able to share my testimony and beliefs with many. But right now, I think it's more important that I teach my children about Christ and the gospel than it is to ask every stranger who doesn't "look" LDS to accept a Book of Mormon.

Along with the missionary work, God tells us to "contend with no church, save it be the church of the devil." (vs. 20) Before reading this I thought that basically there was our church, and every other church was "of the devil" since it wasn't God's true church. I believe that there were many good people out there -- good, strong Christians -- but they still attended the church of the devil. I realize now that I was wrong. God wouldn't have told us to contend against NO church if all other churches were of the devil.

Already in the Doctrine and Covenants God has revealed that the Restoration didn't come to destroy what truth was already on the earth, but to build upon it. (Much the same way that Christ didn't come to destroy the Law of Moses, but to build upon it.)

So since I feel that right now is the time to teach my children, I guess I should do a better job of it. To prepare them for this world that they are in.

A revelation for Hyrum

2009-01-08T08:19:00.000-07:00

We should:

• Seek not for riches, but for wisdom. When we are wise, the mysteries of God will be unfolded to us, which will in turn make us wise. (Isn't it nice the way it works out?!)
• Desire that which it righteous. If we have righteous desires and ask for them in faith, truly believing they will be granted unto us, God will grant them. (He tells Hyrum this in 2 different verses.)
• Cleave unto God with all our heart. I once heard cleaving described as something that was divided in two, but coming back together. (Just looked it up in Webster's. Not mentioned there, but it did say,"adhere" and "cling. I like the thought of clinging to God.)

The message of D&C 11 to Hyrum seems to be, "Wait. Study. The time will come."

I have to wonder if this is an answer for me. Or just a coincidence? I tend to think there aren't a lot of coincidences when it comes to God. But I've been waiting over a year for my husband to be ready to have a baby. And 6 months about the fostering thing. How much longer?

D&C 10

2009-01-07T08:17:00.000-07:00

My favorite thing that I learned from this section came from v. 4. "Do not run faster or labor more than you have strength and means provided........but be diligent to the end."

My husband's not a big fan of this scripture because he thinks too many people use it as an excuse not to do enough or anything at all. His exact response this morning was, "But God will not ask you to do anything you aren't able to."

Which is true. But sometimes we feel the need to do all that God has asked us and 3 times more.

But this morning, an analogy came to me that I may or may not have heard before. I think it's 'cuz Sher has talked alot about running lately, but I thought of marathon runners. They can't sprint the whole way -- they'd never make it (ENDURE) to the end. They have to pace theirselves.

Of course they don't walk the whole way -- it's still a race. Most marathon runners don't enter races to win, but to beat their own personal best. To do their best. There are times that they sprint, and times that they slow down a bit. The trails generally have ups and downs. And there are plenty of people along the way to give nourishment. You can run with others and gain strength in numbers. (The gospel analogies just keep coming to me!!)

I personally don't think I'm doing my best. Right now I feel like I'm speed-walking, or even slowly jogging (since I hear that burns less calories.) I could definately pick up the pace. I need to be a better mother and teacher to my children.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

It shouldn't surprise me to learn of God's omniscence. But when I read that God knew way back when Mormon was abridging the plates that the Book of Lehi would be lost to the hands of evil men, I thought, "Wow. He knew way back then, huh?"

Of course He knew. He's God. Duh.

So He made contingency plans through Mormon. Mormon abridged the Book of Lehi, which from what I understand told more of the ruling of the people and wars with the Lamanites. Then he did the Book of Nephi, which God says "throws greater views upon [the] gospel," v. 45 Mormon wasn't sure at the time why he was doing it, but knew it was "for a wise purpose" in God. (Words of Mormon 1:7)

I guess God really does know what He's doing.

Satan did not want the Restoration to happen. He wanted to nip it in the bud. I imagine that, combined with God wanting to test His people, is why the early Church faced so many challenges.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

The end of the section talks about the coming forth of the Book of Mormon. V. 47 tells us that God brought forth the BOM because of the faith and prayers of those who asked that it might. (Mormon, Moroni, Nephi? and all others who asked that the record would be preserved for the Lamanites.)

That's the power of prayer for you.

These same great men left blessing on the people who dwelt in America. That those who believed in the gospel might have eternal life -- that the gospel might be free to all. And now the Church is so strong on both American continents.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Thoughts?

Receiving revelation, part 3

2009-01-06T08:03:00.001-07:00

D&C 9 holds what I think is the final big piece for receiving revelation. Ironically, I think that this is the first step.

We are told that in seeking answer to prayer, we must first study it out in our mind. In my opinion, this is one of the hardest parts. We can't just pray, asking God to tell us every decision we should make. We are to make what we think is the best decision, then seek God's approval.

If it is right, our bosoms will burn within us. If it is wrong, we will have a stupor of thought which will cause us to forget the very thing we were praying about.

I have experienced both of these kind of answers. For me personally, the bosom burning is more of my heart pounding -- like it's going to pop out of my chest. And the stupor of thought -- sometimes I literally forget what I'm praying for, either in the course of the prayer, or throughout the day. Sometimes it's just a feeling of great unease.

Also in this section, Oliver Cowdery was granted the power to translate, but lost the gift. It seems that he translated a little bit, then got scared. It says he lost the power because he feared. Then he was no longer able to translate. It was no longer right for him to translate.

-------------------------

This has all come into play for me quite strongly in the past few months. My husband and I have been discussing having another child. I feel like we should have a baby, while he feels we should foster-to-adopt a specific little girl.

So how do we pray? We felt we needed to make a decision, then take that to the Lord, but what do we do when we feel so differently? We both felt we were right, and neither of us felt comfortable compromising.

We attended the classes to qukalify as foster parents, but still have some papers to send in. We also found out that the girl Superman felt so strongly about is in the process of being adopted by her foster family. Do we continue in the off-chance that something will happen and she'll become available? Or is this our answer? Ee're in the same position. I want a baby so badly, and feels strongly about continuing the adoption process for the 10-year-old girl. "It seems we are at an impasse."

I want to do what God wants me to do. I don't know if the strong longings I have for a baby are specifically from God, or simply motherly instincts. I know that part of it is that I want to bear more of my husband's children before he dies. (He feels pretty strongly that he's going to die young. But that's a post for another day.)

We just don't know what to do. Is this a stupor of thought? If so, which question does it answer? Foster? Natural? Neither? Not yet? My youngest is 2 1/2 -- I don't think we're done having kids since we've only got 2 and I'm only 25. And I don't want my youngest to be in kindergarten and my oldest baptized before I have another baby. I want my kids closer in age than that.

We've studied it out, but I think we're both praying for different things. When either of us pray that "we'll be open to God's will," I mean that he'll want a baby and he means that I'll want to adopt. Not exactly unified in purpose.

I feel like if it were right, God would remove these doubts and strong feelings for a baby from me. That I would want to foster to adopt.

What do you think? Have I let fear rule me? Or are my feelings legitimate?

More on receiving revelation

2009-01-05T09:44:00.000-07:00

D&C 8 holds another famous scripture about answers to prayer.

First of all, we need to ask in faith, with an honest heart, believing that we shall receive the knowledge we seek. Then God will tell us in our minds and in our hearts.

Later, vs. 10 reminds us that without faith, we can do nothing, so we should always ask in faith. Then it says, "Trifle not with these things; do not ask for that which you ought not."

Like when you go to bed after 2 am on a Saturday night and you pray to feel rested and ready for church at 9 am. (I think that also goes back to asking with an honest heart!)

These two subjects really stood out to me this time -- asking with an honest heart, and not asking for that which we ought not.

Because lying to God, and ourselves, is, uh.................bad. Wrong. Impossible. The deepest form of treachery -- lying to those who know the truth. I think we know what things we should or should not ask for. God is not our own personal genie in a lamp. He's not going to magically grant us what we don't need. As a parent, I try to teach my children the difference between a need and a want. I think that's what our Father in Heaven is trying to do here. He's telling us not to convince ourselves that our wants are actually needs.

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D&C 7 is a revelation that came after Joseph and Oliver asked about John the Beloved. What happened to him?

Basically, they are told that he asked to stay on the earth till Christ comes again, so that's what he's doing. Then it talks about Peter, whose desire was to enter God's kingdom speedily. Both righteous desires, but one was better than the other.

John's desire. For he wanted to remain on earth and bring people unto Christ. His desire was to others, while Peter's was to himself. (Though still righteous.)

--- On a side note.........I love learning things about Peter. He's often characterized as impulsive, but I think he was just a huge people-pleaser. (Something I can identify with!) I think that instead of really searching for the right answer or solution, he just said what he thought people wanted to hear. "Please, Lord, let me wash your feet." "Jesus doesn't have time to bless every child." "No, I don't know him." "I want to be with you in your kingdom."

It's entirely possible that I'm completely off base here, but what are your thoughts on Peter?---

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And what does all this mean for me? Are my desires, even the righteous ones, toward myself or others? Does my family count as myself, or as others? Am I honest in my desires? Do I ask for only the things that I should?

D&C 6

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I need to:

• exercise the gifts I've been given.
• Be patient, sober and temperate.

Be faithful and diligent in keeping God's commandments, and you'll be encircled in the arms of his love.

(You may have seen this image floating around. I have info about it at the end of this post, but I thought this picture perfectly illustrated being encircled in the arms of God's love.)

Later in the section is a very popular scripture, with good reason. Verses 22 & 23.

"I say unto you, if you desire a further witness, cast your mind upon the night that you cried unto me in your heart, that you might know concerning the truth of these things.

"Did I not speak peace to your mind concerning the matter? What greater witness can you have than from God?"

Then vs. 36 is one of my personal favorites. "Look unto me in every thought; doubt not, fear not." Short and sweet and direct. How different would my days be if I truly looked to God in every thought? If I had no doubts or fears?

And now about the artist:

I wanted to share these beautiful pictures and what the artist has to say about each one of them! You can ALL win a FREE signed 8x10 print of your choice (out of the three prints), by copying and posting to your blog or website this whole post! After you post then send an e-mail to David (contact@bowman-art.com) with your website or blog address telling him you posted it and that you read about this offer on my blog. Also send him your name and mailing address and he will send your signed 8x10 print of your choice.

David Bowman: has had a passion for art ever since he could pick up a pencil. He loves creating images of the Savior that inspire and uplift. Along with his Christian fine art, David has also written and illustrated a series of scripture storybooks for children titled "Who's Your Hero". Check out his website at http://www.bowman-art.com/ to see more of his precious art.

"Innocence"
The Savior tells us we need to become as little children to inherit the kingdom of God. I've often wondered what it is about little children Jesus loves most, and I think its their innocence. They are clean slates, seeing the world and others through untarnished eyes. Their hearts are pure, without the baggage of cynicism and self-doubt. In this piece, I've tried to imagine how a child would act upon meeting the Master for the first time. Without reservation or inhibition, I think he would simply want to play with Him. He would be at complete ease, allowing his pure little heart to soak in the love and laughter of His pure, infinite heart. Its no wonder Christ delights in these little ones and sets them up to be our examples.

"Security"
One of the greatest human needs is a sense of security. In all aspects of life, we naturally gravitate towards anything that makes us feel safe. In this piece, I wanted to convey a sense of complete peace and calm like only the Savior can provide. It's a security that allows us to rest assured, without fear or worry, when we put ourselves trustingly in His arms. Little children have that inherent kind of trust in their parents, so it's fitting that the man and girl who modeled for "Security" are actually father and daughter. They generated the exact feel I was looking for.

"My Child"
This piece conveys an intimate, up-close-and-personal feeling of the Savior's love. Notice how all the lines draw your attention and point towards Jesus' face in the center. I chose the name "My Child" because the only thing that could compare (even remotely) to Christ's compassion for us is the love of a parent for his/her child. This image is also intended to put things in perspective. Above all, we are God's children first. He allows us the privelege of experiencing parenthood for ourselves and we are entrusted to be the mothers and fathers of His children here on earth.

D&C 5

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Not all gifts are given to all, all of the time.

Joseph Smith was given the gift to translate, for a time. When his translating was finished, other gifts were going to be bestowed. (I'm guessing power to teach, etc.)

God bestows spiritual gifts on us to accomplish His purposes, not just to build our self-esteem. I'm sure that sometimes God's purposes for our spirtual gifts is to build our faith. It's in His plan for us to grow stronger and have great faith in Him. I'm just saying that the gifts God bestows are not for our benefit alone.

Am I using my spiritual gifts to further God's kingdom?
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Later in the section, the rising of the Church is spoken of as being "clear as the moon, fair as the sun, and terrible as an army with banners." I thought this was an interesting, if somewhat odd analogy. The moon and sun parts are fairly obvious, but what did God mean by an army with banners?

As I thought about it, I realized that only a strong, confident, fearless (aka FAITHFUL) army announces themselves with banners. As the gospel goes forth, it is not with stealth, hiding in the shadows and quickly attacking. No -- God's army is here to announce to the world who they are and what their purposes are. We want everyone to know of us, because we want everyone to join us.

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Later on, God tells Joseph to stop translating for a time. He goes on to explain that there are people who seek to destroy him, and he needs to stop translating for a little while. (I don't know if he ran, or just went about farm life as usual, but for whatever reason, translating was to stop so that people wouldn't destroy Joseph.

So while God bestows gifts to accomplish His purposes, He is also aware of His children. God was concerned about Joseph's welfare and was willing to postpone the work of the Restoration to preserve his life. I'm sure God wanted to protect the life of His prophet so the work could continue, but also because He was (is) Joseph's Father, and wanted to protect Him.

God needs his work to continue forward, but He is also concerned for the welfare of His children.

A marvelous work

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is going forth.

D&C 4 is short, but every single verse means something.

God's work is going forth.

Serve God will all your heart, might, mind a strength.

If ye have a desire, ye are called to the work.

The field is white, and ready to harvest.

You are qualified for the work if you have faith, hope, charity, and an eye single to God's glory.

Remember faith, virtue, knowledge temperance, patience, brotherly kindness, godliness, charity, humility and diligence.

Ask and ye shall recieve; knock and it shall be opened unto you.

(Before Superman left on his mission, he got a picture of himself in his suit in the middle of a wheat field. This isn't it, but the best likeness I could find on google.)

Just about covers all the gospel, eh?

Some things that have always stood out to me:

• Simply having a desire, not a letter from the prophet, calls you to the work

• Faith, hope, charity and an eye single to God's glory qualify you. Once you are called, (by simply that desire) you must work to develop these key elements to be a profitable servant.

• Among all the virtues mentioned, a few stood out to me. Temperance. Knowledge. Diligence. All things I need to work on.

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So I guess I can't say, "I'd do missionary work if I didn't live in Utah. If I only KNEW people who weren't members." That implies that I have the desire, but not the opportunity. Which isn't true. If I have a real desire, God will provide opportunities.

God is just. God is merciful.

2009-01-01T09:07:00.000-07:00

These are what make Him God.

Section 3 is God's response to Joseph Smith losing the 116 pages of manuscript.

God does walk is crooked paths. He means what He says. So when His servants deliberately disobey, He has no choice but let justice follow it's course. Joseph was denied the power to translate for a season.

But because He's God, He is also merciful. Although Joseph transgressed what God had told him, He was still forgiven. (After much prayer and humility.) Jospeh was still called to the work, and the power to translate the Book of Mormon was restored to Him.

I personally think part of the reason Joseph was still called was because there was still work to do. The Bookof Mormon had to be translated, and brought to the Lamanites.

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As a parent, I can understand God's point of view. When my kids want something, and whine and whine and whine about it, it's hard to keep saying no. You get to the point where you just want the whining to STOP and so you capitulate.

I don't think this was exactly the case with Joseph, but you definately get the feeling that God finally said, "Look. I've given you an answer, and you keep asking. You know what I've told you to do and NOT to do, so it's up to you. Do what you want."

We also know that Martin Harris (and his wife, right?) were being pretty insistent. I'm sure Joseph wanted to prove that he was actually doing something behind that curtain besides playing the great and powerful Oz. Martin had probably already given him money at that point, and feeling like you owe someone something is rarely a fun position to be in.

And Martin's wife was no peach, either.

(I confess that most of what I know about this story, I know from The Work and the Glory. I think Gerald Lund stayed as close to the facts as he could, but I'm sure there was a bit of embellishment when facts simply weren't available about a particular subject. So please FEEL FREE to correct me if I'm wrong!!)

So.........do I do this? Have there been times in my life where I want something so bad, I keep "asking God," but I'm really just trying to convince Him that I'm right, and He should agree and give me the go ahead? Sure. I've done that. Luckily I got caught before things got too bad, but it made me question my relationship with My Father in Heaven. It made me doubt my ability to receive answers to prayer..

Maybe that's why Joseph was unable to translate for a time. It wasn't simply God being just, but a natural consequence. Joseph needed to take some time to repair his relationship with God. To develop a trust in himself again.

I've honestly never considered this before.

Just this morning I was thinking, I really can't spend an hour each morning reading scriptures and posting about it. I was going to just do something small.

But writing these mini-talks has already been really good for me. I'm learning things that I probably wouldn't if I weren't trying to coherently summarize what I'm reading.

And now I have more of an insight into this story. That didn't come from Gerald Lund. =D (Although reading D&C and studying out of the Joseph Smith manual really make me want to read them all again.)

Have you ever tried to convince God (and yourself) that something that's wrong is actually right?

Hearken

2008-12-31T08:08:00.000-07:00

means to listen and obey.

It's also the first word of Doctrine and Covenants. (If you haven't read your scriptures yet today, putt out your D&C and read section 1 with me!)

I wasn't sure today what I was going to read. I started at the end of Moroni because that's where we were in Gospel Doctrine. I thought I could either start the Bookof Mormon over, or just stick with the GD lessons. Since it's been a while since I've read D&C, I decided to go with that.

As I was reading, my mind wandered to the differences between the Book of Mormon and D&C. I think the main difference is the focus on missionary work in D&C.

Just in section 1, there's "the voice of warning shall be unto all people, by themouths of my disciples,"..."they shall go forth,"...."they shall proclaim these things to others,"..."that the fulness of my gospel might be proclaimed," and it's not even 40 verses.

God also commands us to "search these commandments, for they are true and faithful." --> I suppose that gives me more reason to study it right now!

Also, vs. 35 talks about the hour being nigh at hand when peace shall be taken fromt he earth, and the devil shall have power over his own dominion. Is this referring to the millenium, when Satan will be bound by our righteousness, and then loosed, or is it talking about before the 2nd coming?

The next verse says the Lord shall have reign over his saints, and shall reign in their midst, and come down in judgement upon the world. This verse doesn't exactly clear it up for me. Could be talking about either time. What are your thoughts?

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Verses 18-23 talk about the mission of the Restoration: that faith might increase on the earth, that the everlasting covenant be established (which I interpret as temples), and that the fulness of the gospel be proclaimed.

What am *I* doing to further this mission? I'm trying to increase my faith by studying daily. I have goals of better temple attendance, but I think they need to be more definate. And I live in Utah, so missionary work is a challenge for me.

I wish I had served a mission sometimes. I always thought I would. It obviously was not part God's plan for me to go as a young woman, but I still wonder sometimes where I might've gone, what it would've been like. I of course love my life, but I get a little envious when other women talk about their missions. (What about you guys? Been on a mission? Wanted to go but got married?)

Of course just because you've gone on a mission doesn't mean you've filled your quota of missionary work for the rest of your life. What can I do to be a missionary now?

I really don't know. I'll have to work on that one.

So what did you read today? Thoughts on all this? Missionary work? Peace taken from the earth before or after 2nd coming, or both?

Search, ponder and pray

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The things that I must do.

Moroni 10:3-5 tells us to "...read these things...and pnder it in your hearts.....ask God...if they are not true; and if ye shall askw tih a sincere heart, with real intent, having faith in Christ, he will manifest the truth of it unto, by the power of the Holy Ghost.

And then the first scripture I remember memorizing: "And by the power of the Holy Ghost, ye may know the truth of all things."

This is the scripture that tells us how to gain a testimony of the Book of Mormon. But this prayer doesn't have to be a one-time thing. I think that before, I thought, "Yeah, I've said this prayer. I've found out that the Book of Mormon's true." But if we ask with a sincere heart, the Spirit will manifest it's truthfulness again and again. And we don't have to read the entire Book of Mormon all the way through to begin praying about it. (I've also fallen for this misconception.)

Which means I should probably start praying about it again.

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The next part of Moroni 10 talks about spiritual gifts. Not all are given to everyone. To some is given to teach the word of wisdom by the Spirit, to others is given to teach the word of knowledge by the Spirit.

Those sounds awfully similar. How are they different?

I think wisdom is gained through experience, while knowledge is gained through study. What do you think?

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We must have faith, hope and charity to be saved in the kingdom of God. Faith leads us action -- repentance and baptism. Hope is the faith taking root -- actually believing what Christ has said. Having hope in the atonement and resurrection. Charity is letting faith and hope change us. It is becoming Christlike. It's the crowning jewel, in my opinion.

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And Moroni's final testimony is simply beautiful:

"Yea, come unto Christ and be perfected in him, and deny yourselves of all ungodliness; and if ye shall deny yourselves of all ungodliness, and love God with all your might, mind and strength, then is his grace sufficient for you, that by this grace ye may be perfect in Christ; and if by the grace of God ye are perfect in Christ, ye can in nowise deny the power of God.

"And again, if ye by the grace of God are perfect in Christ, and deny not his power, then are ye sanctified in Christ by the grace of God, through the shedding of the blood of Christ, which is in the covenant of the Father unto the remission of your sins, that ye become holy, without spot."

That's it, I suppose. If we truly come unto Christ and submit to Him -- to His will for our spiritual progression -- then we will be perfected in Him. It's up to US to deny ourselves of all ungodliness. If do this with all we have, Christ's grace will make up for the rest, and we truly will become perfect in him, through his atonement and the covenants we've made.

something I need to remember...

2008-12-29T08:32:00.000-07:00

.......little children are not capable of sin. (Moroni 8)

And perfect love casteth out all fear. I just love that thought.

Moroni 7

2008-12-28T21:30:00.000-07:00

It doesn't get much better than this. Faith, hope, charity, miracles, angels.....pretty good stuff here.

We are given the way to judge whether something is good or bad. Does it invite and entice us to do good? To love God and serve Him? If not, it's of the devil.

I guess this means no more Rock of Love, eh?

Also, we learn that miracles have not ceased -- nor will they cease, as long as men on earth are exercising enough faith. Angels come to those who show themselves of stong faith. But the very next verse says that the office of angels is to declare repentance and declare the word of God.

So even those of strong faith, who exercise it to the point of angels appearing, may still need to repent. If they need to repent, these extremely faithful saints, then surely *I* need to repent, as well.

Later on, we are told to pray to be filled with charity -- that when Christ comes, we shall be like Him. That we can see His image in our countenances.

I just want to include one of my favorite quotes. It's from Elder Marvin J. Ashton.

"We often equate charity with visiting the sick, taking in casseroles to those in need, or sharing our excess with those who are less fortunate. But really, true charity is much, much more.

"Real charity is not something you give away; it is something that you acquire and make a part of yourself. And when the virtue of charity becomes implanted in your heart, you are never the same again...

"Perhaps the greatest charity comes when we are kind to each other, when we don’t judge or categorize someone else, when we simply give each other the benefit of the doubt or remain quiet. Charity is accepting someone’s differences, weaknesses, and shortcomings; having patience with someone who has let us down; or resisting the impulse to become offended when someone doesn’t handle something the way we might have hoped. Charity is refusing to take advantage of another’s weakness and being willing to forgive someone who has hurt us. Charity is expecting the best of each other."

I love this definition of charity. It makes me look at my own thoughts -- not just my actions. Because it's easy to smile at the person who's child has just thrown a drink at you and say, "Oh, that's okay," but to really think, I can't believe this. Doesn't she have any control over him? This is my favorite shirt.....etc.

But we must first guard our thoughts, if we're going to have any hope of guarding our words and actions.