My Scriptural Insights

And They Were Also Taught From On High

2010-12-12T04:21:00.001-08:00

I was reading in the book of Ether this morning and once again read chapter 6:17 which says:

And they were taught to walk humbly before the Lord; and they were also taught from on high.

I've read that verse dozens of time and never really taken the time to think about it's meaning. What really struck me was the last part, "and the were taught from on high."

What does this mean? It means exactly what it says. Because they walked humbly before the Lord, they received divine guidance and revelation to direct them in their daily lives. If you click on the link for the word "taught" it takes you to the Topical Guide for "Guidance, Divine". Under this topic heading there are a multitude of scriptures reference, a few of which I will mention here.

Exodus 13:21

And the Lord went before them by day in a pillar of a cloud to lead them the way; and by night in a pillar of fire, to give them light; to go by day and night:

Psalms 23:2

He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: he leadeth me beside the still waters.

Psalms 25:9

The meek will he guide in judgment: and the meek will he teach his way.

Proverbs 3:6

In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths.

What marvelous promises. What beautiful comfort. We can know we will not be left alone if we will walk humbly before the Lord, doing everything in our power to keep his commandments. He will guides and direct our paths. I don't know about you, but for me, if ever there were a time under Heaven when we need God's guidance, both individually and as a nation, that time is now. I hope I can be humble and faithful enough to merit His help.

Everlasting Grace

2010-10-03T06:23:00.001-07:00

In listening to Elder Christopherson's address in the Saturday Morning Session of the 180th Semiannual General Conference, I was touched in my heart when he reminded us that those who come unto Christ, and take His yoke upon them, have claim on his grace. I've always had a fascination with the term "grace" and in pondering Elder Christopherson's words, one of my favorite verses from the Book of Mormon, Ether 12:27 came to mind. It reads:

"And if men come unto me I will show unto them their weakness. I give unto men weakness that they may be humble; and my grace is sufficient for all men that humble themselves before me; for if they humble themselves before me, and have faith in me, then will I make weak things become strong unto them." (The Book of Mormon, Another Testament of Jesus Christ, p. 510)

I love the promise "my grace is sufficient for all men that humble themselves before me; for if they humble themselves before me, and have faith in me, then will I make weak things become strong unto them." To fully appreciate the importance of this promise, an understanding of the term "grace," as used in the scriptures, is requisite.

The Guide for the Scriptures gives a wonderful definition of the scriptural meaning of grace. It is

"The enabling power from God that allows men and women to obtain blessings in this life and to gain eternal life and exaltation after they have exercised faith, repented, and given their best effort to keep the commandments. Such divine help or strength is given through the mercy and love of God," (Guide to the Scriptures, http://scriptures.lds.org/en/gs/g/35).

Notice that grace is an enabling power which comes to us "through the mercy and love of God." It is not free, however, as Elder Christopherson, Either 12:27 and the Guide to the Scriptures indicate. In order to activate the Lord's divine grace in our lives we must come humbly unto Him, exercise faith in Him, repent, and diligently keep His commandments. In doing so, the Lord's promise is sure, "then will I make weak things become strong unto them."

I have a firm testimony of the Lord's enabling grace. I know it is real. On multiple occasions, to numerous to recount here, either I, or my family, have been able to accomplish things that otherwise could not have been done. Permit me to share one.

In January 2006, I found out about a job opportunity in England. It intrigued me and I discussed it at length with my sweetheart. After our discussion we determined to pray about whether or not I should apply for the position. The answer came in the affirmative, so I applied. Shortly thereafter I had an interview which went very well. Within a few days I was told that an offer was imminent and was asked if I could come by May. Again a long discussion with my sweetheart ensued. After careful thought, we responded saying that the soonest we could come would be by the first of June and the hiring company agreed.

Then came the wait. The imminent offer did not come by the end of January. In speaking to the hiring company, they indicated that the offer was still coming but that there were some delays due to a shortage of HR staff. The end of February came and still no offer. It was very frustrating because there were a multitude of things that had to be done before we could go. We had to get our house ready to sell, which entailed repainting a good portion of the inside of our home, replacing the carpet, re-landscaping much of the outside, etc. We had to get a real estate agent to sell our home. We also had to complete all of the paperwork for and apply for passports and visas, then wait for them to come, which can take several months. We had to get all of the moving arrangements made.

On top of all this, my sweetheart found out she was pregnant, expecting our fourth child. The pregnancy came with it's attendant challenges of morning sickness and fatigue. The pregnancy also meant that I would be doing all of the interior painting by myself as she could not be in the house with those fumes. This in turn would lead to needing to have her and our children go and stay with grandma for a couple of weeks.

Additionally, as you might imagine, by this time doubt as to the answer to our prayers had crept in. Did we really feel like we should go to England and make such a huge change. We went to the Lord again in prayer and once again he gave us peace.

Finally, on March 21st, the offer came. The hiring company still wanted us there by June 1st, which meant that we had to accomplish everything described above in just a little over 2 months.

It was then that the Lord's enabling grace came in to play, without which, we would never have been able to accomplish all that we needed to. The Lord blessed me with both stamina and physical health. Though I was working full time and I lived off an average of 5 hours sleep per night I did not get sick. In 2 short months, with the help of many wonderful ward members, We were able to get the house entirely ready to sell, find a good real estate agent, and get our home on the market.

During that time we also applied for our passports and visas. Again the Lord opened up the way. A process that normally takes anywhere from 6 weeks to 6 months was completed in 3 weeks time.

Additionally, my sweetheart's morning sickness eased. We were able to make all of the moving arrangements and get everything packed and ready to go for when the movers came. Everything fell in to place, with one exception. We ended up leaving without having our home sold. Even so, we had the assurance from the Holy Ghost that everything would be okay. We gave my wife's brother power of attorney and once again the Lord came through. Our home sold 1.5 months after we arrived in England-- a complete miracle considering that there were several homes in the same neighborhood that had been on the market for nearly a year.

As stated above, this is just one example of many that I could site.

The Lord's grace is real. He loves us and we truly can be recipients of his grace if we will humbly come unto him and take his yoke upon us.

5 Loaves and 2 Fishses

2010-08-29T06:17:00.000-07:00

In John 6:1-13 we read the story of Christ feeding the five thousand with five loaves of barley bread and two fishes. I've heard and read this story many times in the past, but today it struck me differently than before.

Just as he was able to magnify that bread and fish in a physical way to feed the five thousand, so to can the Lord magnify us spiritually if we put our faith and trust in him. We learn from Ether 12:27 that the Lord's grace is an enabling power. It enables us to do things far beyond our own capacity--things we would not be able to do otherwise. Faithful saints can share story after story of how the Lord's hand has blessed and strengthened them beyond their own physical capabilities.

We read in both the Bible and the Book of Mormon about various groups that won great battles in the face of terrible odds as they put their trust in God. The story of Gideon in the Old Testament is a prime example. With 300 soldiers Gideon defeated an army of over 10,000 Philistines. The story of the 2000 Stripling Warriors in the Book of Mormon is another great example. On more than one occasion the Nephites appeared to be on the losing end of the battle and these 2000 young men, though greatly out numbered, stood firm and undaunted before their enemies. They had been taught to trust in God and the knew that as they did so He would bless them according to their faith. Because of their faith, even though everyone of them was wounded multiple times, not one of them died in battle, while all around them there were many of the other Nephites who did. Additionally, because of their firmness before the enemy, their enemies fled, despite the fact that their enemies greatly out numbered them.

How does this apply to you and me? We live in a day and time of great wickedness. The prophets of old speaking of our time knew we would. They knew that in comparison to the "great whore," the number's of the Saints would be few. Yet, they also knew and prophesied that the Saints would be armed with righteousness and power and that, in spite of the staggering odds against them, the Saints would win.

Well may we ask ourselves, "but what can I do? I'm just one person?" The answer lies in the examples already given. We can put our faith and trust in God. We can arm ourselves with righteousness. We can be up and doing as was Captain Moroni. We can stand firmly and boldly, undaunted before the enemies of truth and right. As we do so, not only will be come of conquerors, but we may also be instruments in God's hands to bring many thousands of our brethren who now struggle in the darkness to the marvelous light of the gospel.

An Attitude of Gratitude

2010-02-09T03:29:00.000-08:00

One of the greatest chapters exemplifying the proper attitude of gratitude is, in my opinion, Alma chapter 26. I cannot read this chapter without feeling the desire to rejoice myself, with Ammon and his brethren, and find my self wanting, as it were, to shout praises to God from the housetops.

In pondering on this chapter, who can help but wonder, along with Ammon, at the great success that he and his brethren had in bringing thousands of Lamanites to the truth. Who can read of this miraculous change of heart, among a blood thirsty people full of complete hate an animosity toward the Nephites, and not feel to rejoice and give praise to almighty God for His everlasting mercy and grace. Well may we ask, along with Ammon, what are the reasons for rejoicing. Here they are as given in this wonderful chapter:

God saw fit, in His infinite mercy, to deliver Ammon and his brethren from their own sinful and polluted state and made them instruments in the hand of God in bringing thousands of the Lamanites to a knowledge of the truth
Ammon and his brethren were given the same promise that has been renewed in our day that if they would "thrust in their cycle with their might" they would bring in a great harvest; this promise was literally fulfilled
The converted Lamanites were gathered into the garners of the Lord of the Harvest and kept safe
In God's strength Ammon and his brethren were able to work many mighty miracles in the land
Thousands of Lamanites were brought to rejoice in Christ's redeeming love because of the power of God's word
Those who truly repent, exercise faith, bring forth good works, and pray continually can be instruments in God's hands to bring thousands of souls to repentance just as Ammon and his brethren did
Ammon and his brethren had the courage to come up out of the Land of Zarahemla, despite the taunting of many of the Nephites who laughed them to scorn and said it would be better to destroy the Lamanites out of the land rather than try to convince them of their wicked ways and convert them to the Lord
When Ammon and his brethren were depressed and discouraged in the wilderness, God comforted them and gave them the strength and courage to go forward with their mission
Through all their travails of teaching the Lamanites, going from house to house, going to their temples, teaching them in their streets, being mocked and spit upon, being smitten on their cheeks, being stoned, being in bonds and cast into prison, the Lord sustained and strengthened Ammon and his brethren
Because Ammon's and his brethren's efforts among the Lamanites, their converts had a great love toward each other and toward them -- so much love that they were willing to lay down their lives rather than do harm or hurt to another
God has all power, all wisdom, and all understanding and his everlasting love and mercy are extended toward all those who will repent and believe on his name

Oh the goodness and mercy of our God! What a blessing for us today to be able to read this wonderful account of Ammon and his brethren. Does it not give you pause to think that the same blessings that came to them can come to each of us if we will follow the formula described--repenting, exercising faith, bringing forth good works, and praying continually. Is not the field just as white and ready to harvest now as it was then? What of our brothers and sisters in the Middle East, China, India, Indonesia, and dozens of other locations where, at present, Christ's teaching have very little influence, and where thousands, if not millions, of misguided individuals bear a hatred towards Christians, particularly American Christians, not unlike that of the Lamanites. On more than one occasion President Monson has admonished members of the church to pray that the gospel can move forward in those regions. In this past conference, in his opening address, President Monson stated:

I would ask that your faith and prayers continue to be offered in behalf of those areas where our influence is limited and where we are not allowed to share the gospel freely at this time. Miracles can occur as we do so (Welcome To General Conference, Thomas S. Monson, Ensign, Nov. 2010 6).

How marvelous is the opportunity we have and how great the responsibility! May we be blessed to live up to it.

Great Address

2009-05-05T23:03:00.000-07:00

I just listened to a fantastic CES Fireside by Elder David A. Bednar. He spoke of the sacredness of our bodies, taking an approach that I hadn't considered before. Of particular interest to me were his words describing the way in which Satan strives to diminish the importance of our physical bodies, and our relationships with those around us, through enticing us to become addicted to technology such as video games, social networks, and other mediums of virtual reality. He spoke plainly and raised a powerful warning voice. I highly recommend his address to everyone. Here's the link:

http://lds.org/move/index.html?type=ces&event=1&lang=english

Enjoy!

Stand Fast

2009-04-27T21:59:00.000-07:00

Helaman's "sons," as described in Alma chapter's 56 and 58, have always been an inspiration to me. Alma 58:40 is one of my favorite verses.

But behold, they have received many wounds; nevertheless they stand fast in that liberty God has made them free; and they are strict to remember the Lord their God from day to day; yea, they do observe to keep his statutes, and his judgments, and his commandments continually; and their faith is strong in the prophecies concerning that which is to come.

This verse causes me to ponder on several levels. What does it mean to "stand fast"? To me it means to be firmly rooted in Christ. It is only through him that we can truly be free. How do we stay rooted? We stay rooted by remembering God from day to day and strictly keeping His commandments.

We also look forward, as this verse implies, with a brightness of hope and faith in the prophecies of that which is to come. In ancient America, that meant looking forward to the advent of Christ's birth and later appearance among the Nephites. Today, it means looking forward to Christ's second coming and His millennial reign on the earth.

I love this verse. It strengthens me in my determination to keep the Lord's commandments to ensure that I am firmly rooted in Christ. How does it affect you? What are your thoughts and feelings when you read this verse?

Hope for Deliverance

2009-04-26T05:41:00.000-07:00

Therefore we did pour out our souls in prayer to God, that he would strengthen us and deliver us out of the hands of our enemies...

Yea, and it came to pass that the Lord our God did visit us with assurances that he would deliver us; yea, insomuch that he did speak peace to our souls, and did grant unto us great faith, and did cause us that we should hope for our deliverance in him (Alma 58:10-11)

As I ponder these verses, the spirit whispers peace to my soul. What a blessing to know that if we pray with faith, the Lord will hear our cries and strengthen us in the face of adversity. We truly can hope for our deliverance in him.

How do these verses affect you?

In Troubled Times Like This

2009-03-27T00:03:00.001-07:00

As we contemplate the current situation in our country and in the world, it might be easy to get discouraged. We are, for the most part, bombarded with waives of negativism on the main stream media news, in the newspapers, in magazines, and online news sources.

Yet through the gloom and doom of our times, the glorious gospel light pierces the darkness, as the lighthouse on a hill, guiding all those who will follow it to the path of peace and rest. Aside from the comforting words of living prophets and apostles, nothing brings the gospel light to our hearts like the uplifting language of the scriptures.

The following verses are from Psalm 37. It is a long Psalm so I will only quote some of the verses. I also recommend Psalms 34 and 36.

1 Fret not thyself because of evildoers, neither be thou envious against the workers of iniquity.
2 For they shall soon be cut down like the grass, and wither as the green herb.
3 Trust in the Lord, and do good; so shalt thou dwell in the land, and verily thou shalt be fed.
4 Delight thyself also in the Lord; and he shall give thee the desires of thine heart.
5 Commit thy way unto the Lord; trust also in him; and he shall bring it to pass.
6 And he shall bring forth thy righteousness as the light, and thy judgment as the noonday.
7 Rest in the Lord, and wait patiently for him: fret not thyself because of him who prospereth in his way, because of the man who bringeth wicked devices to pass.
8 Cease from anger, and forsake wrath: fret not thyself in any wise to do evil.
9 For evildoers shall be cut off: but those that wait upon the Lord, they shall inherit the earth.
10 For yet a little while, and the wicked shall not be: yea, thou shalt diligently consider his place, and it shall not be.
11 But the meek shall inherit the earth; and shall delight themselves in the abundance of peace.

16 A little that a righteous man hath is better than the riches of many wicked.
17 For the arms of the wicked shall be broken: but the Lord upholdeth the righteous.
18 The Lord knoweth the days of the upright: and their inheritance shall be for ever.

23 The steps of a good man are ordered by the Lord: and he delighteth in his way.
24 Though he fall, he shall not be utterly cast down: for the Lord upholdeth him with his hand.

27 Depart from evil, and do good; and dwell for evermore.

30 The mouth of the righteous speaketh wisdom, and his tongue talketh of judgment.
31 The law of his God is in his heart; none of his steps shall slide.

34 Wait on the Lord, and keep his way, and he shall exalt thee to inherit the land...

37 Mark the perfect man, and behold the upright: for the end of that man is peace.

39 But the salvation of the righteous is of the Lord: he is their strength in the time of trouble.
40 And the Lord shall help them, and deliver them: he shall deliver them from the wicked, and save them, because they trust in him.

I love these verses. I love the desire they inspire in my mind to trust in the Lord, to delight in the Lord, to commit my way to the Lord and bring forth righteousness that I, and all those I can influence for good, might find rest in Him. They strengthen my feeble knees, buoy up my drooping heart and lift my hanging hands. What a blessing to have the scriptures! What joy to be able to feast at the table of the Lord everyday--a banquet of the most delicious and soul satisfying dishes on a table that is never empty! Oh that we might all hearken to the words of Nephi in 2 Nephi 31:20 and "feast upon the words of Christ" daily!

How do you feel about these verses? Do you have favorite verses from the scriptures that are a strength and a comfort to you? Would you be willing to share them with me? If so, I would love to hear from you. Feel free to comment here or email them to me and, if you are comfortable with me doing so, I will post them.

Feast of Comfort

2009-03-01T23:28:00.000-08:00

I've been greatly concerned, am greatly concerned about the state of affairs in our great country, the United States of America. As a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, I cannot see and hear and read about what is happening and sit idly by doing nothing. My covenants with God prohibit me from doing so. Rather they obligate and motivate me to action. To that end I've been working hard on a blog ttoliberty.blogspot.com; I've gotten involved with AmericaC2C.org and LDS Taking Back America, and I've been writing articles with the hopes of getting them published by Meridian Magazine. I've also been doing a lot of reading to educate myself more fully in the words of the Founding Fathers.

In doing all this, and then in watching and reading the news, it has been difficult, at times, not to let myself get discouraged. What a wonderful blessing it is to be able to turn to the scriptures and "sweet refreshment find."

As I've read over the past several days, I've come across some wonderful nuggets that apply directly to our current lives.

First, D&C 98:4-11

4 And now, verily I say unto you concerning the laws of the land, it is my will that my people should observe to do all things whatsoever I command them.

5 And that law of the land which is constitutional, supporting that principle of freedom in maintaining rights and privileges, belongs to all mankind, and is justifiable before me.

6 Therefore, I, the Lord, justify you, and your brethren of my church, in befriending that law which is the constitutional law of the land;

7 And as pertaining to law of man, whatsoever is more or less than this, cometh of evil.

8 I, the Lord God, make you, free therefore ye are free indeed; and the law also maketh you free.

9 Nevertheless, when the wicked rule the people mourn.

10 Wherefore, honest men and wise men should be sought for diligently, and good men and wise men ye should observe to uphold; otherwise whatsoever is less than these cometh of evil.

11 And I give unto you a commandment, that ye shall forsake all evil and cleave unto all good, that ye shall live by every word which proceedeth forth out of the mouth of God.

These verses give us the Lord's prescription for freedom.

Observe and keep God's commandments
Constitution is for all mankind
Befriend the constitution (study it and understand its principles)
Anything more or less than the Constitution is evil
We are free in God and also through the Constitution
Seek honest and wise men [and women] to hold office -- anything less comes of evil
Forsake evil and live by every word that proceeds from the mouth of God.

If we follow this prescription, we will be free. If we don't, the wicked will rule and the people will mourn.

In D&C 21:4-6 we read:

4 Wherefore, meaning the church, thou shalt give heed unto all his words and commandments which he shall give unto you as he receiveth them, walking in all holiness before me;

5 For his word ye shall receive, as if from mine own mouth, in all patience and faith.

6 For by doing these things the gates of hell shall not prevail against you; yea, and the Lord God will disperse the powers of darkness from before you, and cause the heavens to shake for your good, and his name’s glory.

I love these verses. They are marvelous comfort in these challenging times. If we receive the words of the prophet in all patience and faith, meaning with humility and the determination to act given that faith is an action word, the gates of hell shall not prevail. God will disperse the powers of darkness and the heavens will shake for our good and his glory! Wow! That electrifies me!

In the Book of Mormon we read, in Alma chapter 46, of Amalickiah and his aspirations to be king over the Nephites. Amalickiah, through much flattery, lead away many Nephites to support him in his efforts to become king—even many members of the Church of Christ. The Nephites were in great distress. Yet we also read that Captain Moroni rallied the Nephites to stand up to the challenge.

So it is with us today. We find ourselves in a very dangerous and precarious position, facing challenges similar to those of Captain Moroni and the Nephites. From within our own nation, we face an enemy that is every bit as real as Amalickiah and his followers – people in high places seeking for power. The weapons they use today are different, however their intent is the same: destroy the foundation of liberty—namely religion, peace, freedom, family, and especially God. Through great subtlety and flattering words they bray forth their message as they ignore the U.S. constitution and seek to further entrench a socialistic welfare state and a government sponsored religion of secular humanism and moral relativism throughout our nation.

How can we hope to combat them? D&C 27:15-18 gives us the answer.

15 Wherefore, lift up your hearts and rejoice, and gird up your loins, and take upon you my whole armor, that ye may be able to withstand the evil day, having done all, that ye may be able to stand.

16 Stand, therefore, having your loins gird about with truth, having on the breastplate of righteousness, and your feet shod with the preparation of the gospel of peace, which I have sent mine angels to commit unto you;

17 Taking the shield of faith wherewith ye shall be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked;

18 And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of my spirit, which I will pour out upon you, and my word which I reveal unto you, and be agreed as touching all things whatsoever ye ask of me, and be faithful until I come, and ye shall be faithful up, that where I am ye shall be also. Amen.

What is the Lord's answer? How do we withstand the evil day? By putting on God's armor. What is that armor?

Truth
Righteousness
Testimony
Faith
Knowledge of the plan of salvation
The Holy Ghost
Unity
Faithfulness

We live in troubling times, but if we will follow the the counsel given in these verses, we will, along with Paul, be able to say:

8 We are troubled on every side, yet not distressed; we are perplexed, but not in despair;

9 Persecuted , but not forsaken; cast down, but not destroyed. (2 Corinthians 4:8-9).

God is at the helm. Truth will prevail.

New Blog

2009-02-28T03:38:00.000-08:00

Just a quick note. I removed my video testimony and moved it to my new blog pure-testimony.blogspot.com. Anyone interested in sharing their testimony, please email me at puretestimony@gmail.com

Comfort From the Lord

2009-02-16T08:04:00.000-08:00

I've been feeling a little discouraged today. Not quite sure why. However, the scriptures always seem to buoy me up.

I was reading earlier about the Sons of Mosiah and their mission to the Lamanites. It was a great undertaking and they felt it, even to the point of considering going back to Zarahemla. Yet they did not. We read the following in Alma 26:27

27 Now when our hearts were depressed, and we were about to turn back, behold, the Lord comforted us, and said: Go amongst thy brethren, the Lamanites, and bear with patience thine afflictions, and I will give unto you success.

In their moment of distress, the Lord strengthened them and gave them the courage to go forward in their great cause.

In contemplating the mission of Ammon and his brethren, I cannot help but think of the current state of affairs in the United States. In Alma 17:14-15, we read a description of the Lamanites at that time:

"14 ... they had undertaken to preach the word of God to a wild and a hardened and a ferocious people; a people who delighted in murdering the Nephites, and robbing and plundering them; and their hearts were set upon riches, or upon gold and silver, and precious stones; yet they sought to obtain these things by murdering and plundering, that they might not labor for them with their own hands.

15 Thus they were a very indolent people, many of whom did worship idols, and the curse of God had fallen upon them because of the of their fathers; notwithstanding the promises of the Lord were extended unto them on the conditions of repentance."

Sadly, this description, describes a great many in our current society. Many Americans have become so hardened that are more than willing to kill innocent children all in the name of "choice." Too many people care more about riches and the praise of the world than they do about their fellow man. Far too many are willing to murder and steal to get riches rather than work to get them on their own. Socialism is becoming more entrenched as the people become more and more indolent and look to the government to do for them what they should be doing for themselves. Looking at the situation, without having the perspective of the gospel, one could easily get discouraged.

What a wonderful gift it is to have the Gospel. To know that despite the challenging situation we face, with God's help, there is still hope for turning things around. Like the task facing the sons of Mosiah, the undertaking to return America to the principles of freedom as originally given by our founding fathers is daunting. Yet as members of the church, we have that responsibility on our shoulders.

Elder L. Tom Perry, in a wonderful talk given in 1976 entitled God's Hand in the Founding of America, states the following:

“Our commitment to America has been testified to by many, but I will point out to you special witnesses who have indicated our responsibilities to this land.

“First from Brigham Young, second president of the Church: ‘Will the Constitution be destroyed? No: it will be held inviolate by this people; and, as Joseph Smith said, ‘The time will come when the destiny of this nation will hang upon a single thread. At that critical juncture, this people will step forth and save it from the threatened destruction.’ It will be so.’ (Journal of Discourses, 7:15.)

“Now another witness, John Taylor, third president of the Church: ‘When the people shall have torn to shreds the Constitution of the United States, the elders of Israel will be found holding it up to the nations of the earth, and proclaiming liberty and equal rights to all men, and extending the hand of fellowship to the oppressed of all nations.’ (The Gospel Kingdom, Deseret Book Co., 1943, p. 219.) This is part of the program.

“A final witness is from George Q. Cannon, former member of the First Presidency, who said that ‘the day will come when the Constitution and free government under it will be sustained and preserved by this people.’” (JD, 23:104).

“Now, I declare to you that if we are not in the beginning stages of the fulfillment of this prophecy, we are at least in the stages where we are preparing for its fulfillment.”

The question we have to ask ourselves then, as members of the Church, is whether or not we are willing to stand up and fulfill our responsibilities? Will we be numbered with those of whom these Prophets and Apostles prophesied? Or will we sit idly by and hope someone else will fulfill our responsibilities for us? The task is daunting. Yet the Lord tells us that we should be "anxiously engaged in a good cause, and do many things of their own free will, and bring to pass much righteousness," (see D&C 58:27). The task may seem overwhelming at times, yet in those times we can turn to the Lord for comfort, even as Ammon and his brethren.

I feel compelled to work in this cause--to raise my voice in a clarion call and invite all who will maintain the cause of freedom in our country to stand up and take action. I cannot sit idly by and do nothing, lest in doing so I allow someone else to do the work I should be doing myself and thereby become part of the problem, rather than part of the solution.

God's Work Will Go Forth

2009-01-22T23:50:00.000-08:00

In these turbulent times, it is a breath of fresh air to me to come across verses in the scriptures that give me solace, comfort and the courage to move forward despite the challenges all around and ahead.

Such are the following verses from D&C section 3:

1 The works, and the designs, and the purposes of God cannot be frustrated, neither can they come to naught.

2 For God doth not walk in crooked paths, neither doth he turn to the right hand nor to the left, neither doth he vary from that which he hath said, therefore his paths are straight, and his course is one eternal round.

3 Remember, remember that it is not the work of God that is frustrated, but the work of men;

These verses give me great comfort. Through them we can know that God's works and purposes will prevail. Let earth and hell combine against the work of God and all they will do is break themselves upon it. As we do what is right, strive to bring forth the work of God and do our part to fulfill our responsibilities as the seed of Abraham, we can know that we are on the Lord's errand and we will succeed. He has promised and assured us that we can make it if we are faithful. The words to a couple of the verses from How Firm a Foundation come to mind:

3. Fear not, I am with thee; oh, be not dismayed,
For I am thy God and will still give thee aid.
I’ll strengthen thee, help thee, and cause thee to stand,
Upheld by my righteous, upheld by my righteous,
Upheld by my righteous, omnipotent hand.

7. The soul that on Jesus hath leaned for repose
I will not, I cannot, desert to his foes;
That soul, though all hell should endeavor to shake,
I’ll never, no never, I’ll never, no never,
I’ll never, no never, no never forsake!

I cannot help but also think of Joseph Smith's words in D&C section 128:22 where he says:

22 Brethren, shall we not go on in so great a cause? Go forward and not backward. Courage, brethren; and on, on to the victory!

Moroni's Changes To Malachi

2009-01-21T23:11:00.000-08:00

In studying for this week's Gospel Doctrine lesson, I noticed, sadly, for the first time the significant changes that Moroni made to Malachi chapter 4 when he quoted from it to Joseph Smith. Here's what the KJV says and below is what Moroni says:

KJV:

1 For, behold, the day cometh, that shall burn as an oven; and all the proud, yea, and all that do wickedly, shall be stubble: and the day that cometh shall burn them up, saith the Lord of hosts, that it shall leave them neither root nor branch.

5 Behold, I will send you Elijah the prophet before the coming of the great and dreadful day of the Lord:

6 And he shall turn the heart of the fathers to the children, and the heart of the children to their fathers, lest I come and smite the earth with a curse.

Joseph Smith History - Moroni:

37 For behold, the day cometh that shall burn as an oven, and all the proud, yea, and all that do wickedly shall burn as stuble; for they that come shall burn them, saith the Lord of Hosts, that it shall leave them neither root nor branch.

38 Behold, I will reveal unto you the Priesthood, by the hand of Elijah the prophet, before the coming of the great and dreadful day of the Lord.

39 And he shall plant in the hearts of the children the promises made to the fathers, and the hearts of the children shall turn to their fathers. If it were not so, the whole earth would be utterly wasted at his coming.

Note the diferences in the first verse. The KJV verse says that day that comes shall burn the wicked. Moroni says they that come shall burn the wicked. Big difference. Someone (we can probably infer destroying angels as indicated in D&C 77:8) is going to desroy the wicked at that day. They shall have neither root nor branch, meaning they shall have no inheritance in the vineyard of the Lord (see footnote g in the KJV for branch).

The change to the fifth verse is even more significant. The Lord will reveal the Priesthood by the hand of Elijah. Which Priesthood--the Melchizedek Priesthood, specifically the sealing power that can only be exercised by someone holding that key under the Melchizedek Priesthood. The ability to bind on earth and in heaven. Without that key, we cannot hope for salvation for ourselves or our families.

The changes to the sixth verse are also very significant. Elijah's purpose is to plant in the hearts of the children the promises made to the fathers. Abraham was promised that all the world would be blessed through his seed. Abraham held the Melchizedek Priesthood. He was a follower of righteousness. His seed has the responsibility to preach the gospel to all the world. Every member of this church is either a direct descendant or adopted into the house of Israel and thereby an heir to the promises to and responsibilities of the seed of Abraham. What an awesome responsibility we have as members of the church!

Great Quotes On Hope

2009-01-18T23:21:00.000-08:00

As I mentioned in my previous blog, I was asked to speak about hope. In preparing, I was referred to three talks, The Infinite Power of Hope, by Elder Uctdorf (Ensign, November 2008), Brightness of Hope, by Elder Maxwell (Ensign, November 1994) and Hope Through The Atonement of Jesus Christ, by Elder Maxwell (Ensign, November 1998). These wonderful articles are full of marvelous, inspiring quotes--a few of which I share here.

Hope is a gift of the Spirit. It is a hope that through the Atonement of Jesus Christ and the power of His Resurrection, we shall be raised unto life eternal and this because of our faith in the Savior. This kind of hope is both a principle of promise as well as a commandment, and, as with all commandments, we have the responsibility to make it an active part of our lives and overcome the temptation to lose hope. Hope in our Heavenly Father’s merciful plan of happiness leads to peace, mercy, rejoicing, and gladness. The hope of salvation is like a protective helmet; it is the foundation of our faith and an anchor to our souls (Uctdorf, Ensign, November 2008)

Hope...is like the beam of sunlight rising up and above the horizon of our present circumstances. It pierces the darkness with a brilliant dawn. It encourages and inspires us to place our trust in the loving care of an eternal Heavenly Father, who has prepared a way for those who seek for eternal truth in a world of relativism, confusion, and of fear (Uctdorf, Ensign, November 2008).

We hope in Jesus the Christ, in the goodness of God, in the manifestations of the Holy Spirit, in the knowledge that prayers are heard and answered. Because God has been faithful and kept His promises in the past, we can hope with confidence that God will keep His promises to us in the present and in the future. In times of distress, we can hold tightly to the hope that things will "work together for [our] good" as we follow the counsel of God’s prophets. This type of hope in God, His goodness, and His power refreshes us with courage during difficult challenges and gives strength to those who feel threatened by enclosing walls of fear, doubt, and despair (Uctdorf, Ensign, November 2008).

Souls can be roused and rallied by hope’s “reveille” as by no other music. Even if comrades slumber or desert, “lively hope” performs like a reconnoitering scout out in advance of God’s columns; “there is hope smiling brightly before us” (see 1 Pet. 1:3; Hymns, 1985, no. 19). Hope caused disciples to go quickly and expectantly to an empty garden tomb (see Mark 16:1–8; Luke 24:8–12). Hope helped a prophet to see rescuing rain in a distant cloud which appeared to be no larger than a man’s hand (see 1 Kgs. 18:41–46) (Maxwell, Ensign, November 1994).

Hope feasts on the words of Christ, “written for our learning,” so that “having all these witnesses” through the “comfort of the scriptures [we] might have hope” (Rom. 15:4; Jacob 4:6; see also 2 Ne. 31:20). We sing, too, of how “more holiness” involves having “more hope in his word” (Hymns, 1985, no. 131) (Maxwell, Ensign, November 1994).

Genuine hope gives spiritual spunk, including to deserving parents drenched in honest sweat from being “anxiously engaged.” Just as the leaning Tower of Pisa is a persistent rebuke to architectural pessimism, so parental hope—by refusing to topple merely because of the gravity of the current family situation—is a repudiation of despair. Giving parents never give up hope! (Maxwell, Ensign, November 1994).

Real hope keeps us “anxiously engaged” in good causes even when these appear to be losing causes on the mortal scoreboard (see D&C 58:27). Likewise, real hope is much more than wishful musing. It stiffens, not slackens, the spiritual spine. Hope is serene, not giddy, eager without being naive, and pleasantly steady without being smug. Hope is realistic anticipation which takes the form of a determination—not only to survive adversity but, moreover, to “endure … well” to the end (D&C 121:8) (Maxwell, Ensign, November 1998).

Much as I lament the gathering storms, there will be some usefulness in them. Events will help to draw fresh attention to God’s higher ways and His kingdom, which is to “become fair as the sun, and clear as the moon” (D&C 105:31).

Individuals and nations will continue to choose what they want, but they cannot alter the ultimate consequences of what they want.

Therefore, in this hastened ripening process, let us not be surprised that the tares are looking more like tares all the time. During this time when nations are in distress, with perplexity, there will actually be some redemptive turbulence: “For the kingdom of the devil must shake, and they which belong to it must needs be stirred up unto repentance” (2 Ne. 28:19).

Being so “stirred up” will be a real thing, though we can only speculate as to how it will be achieved.

Meanwhile, those with ultimate hope accept the truth of this terse verse: “But all things must come to pass in their time” (D&C 64:32).

It is well, therefore, to ponder the status of hope in our present human context when God’s commandments seem unimportant to many. Granted, as the scriptures say, “it is not common that the voice of the people desireth anything contrary to that which is right” (Mosiah 29:26). But if this does occur, bringing massive sea changes in society’s attitudes, then the judgments of God will come (see Mosiah 29:26, 27). Only the acceptance of the revelations of God can bring both the direction and correction needed and, in turn, a “brightness of hope” (2 Ne. 31:20) (Maxwell, Ensign, November 1998).

These are just a few of the nuggets in these wonderful articles. I invite you to follow the links above and read them yourselves.

The Reason for Hope

2009-01-14T23:56:00.000-08:00

Only a short entry this morning. Things are crazy and I'm still working on time management.

I've been asked to speak on Hope this week in sacrament meeting. In my preparations I've come across some great quotes which I'll write more about later today. Right now, however, I'll just share some scriptures.

2 Nephi 31:20:

Wherefore, ye must press forward with a steadfastness in Christ, having a perfect brightness of hope, and a love of God and of all men. Wherefore, if ye shall press forward, feasting upon the word of Christ, and endure to the end, behold, thus saith the Father: Ye shall have eternal life.

I love this verse. In this small verse we find summarized the keys to joy in this life and eternal joy in the life to come.

As we are steadfast in Christ, we cannot help but have a perfect brightness of hope. True faith in Christ fills us with hope as we look forward to the blessings promised as we keep his commandments.

Loving God and all men is a directly in line with Christ's statement to the Jews when he stated that the first and great commandment is to love God with all our hearts and the second is to love our neighbors as ourselves.

As we feast upon the words of Christ, we learn how to love God and our neighbors. As we apply what we learn, we are blessed and we are able to bless the lives of all around us.

As we do these things throughout our lives, enduring to the end, we will receive eternal blessings.

Helaman 5:12

12 And now, my sons, remember, remember that it is upon the rock of our Redeemer, who is Christ, the Son of God, that ye must build your foundation; that when the devil shall send forth his mighty winds, yea, his shafts in the whirlwind, yea, when all his hail and his mighty storm shall beat upon you, it shall have no power over you to drag you down to the gulf of misery and endless wo, because of the rock upon which ye are built, which is a sure foundation, a foundation whereon if men build they cannot fall.

Here again is another wonderful scriptural nugget. My heart fills with hope every time I read this verse. It is particularly apropos for our time. I know, that if I will build on the foundation of Christ, I will be okay, come what may. Let Satan and his hosts combine against me, if I'm built on that sure foundation, I can not fall! What a wonderful promise. Let all hell break loose and I can stand firm because of Him who is mighty to save. My heart thrills, even as I write.

Well, I've got to go for now. More later.

Jesus Christ, Our Savior

2009-01-06T23:41:00.000-08:00

Well, its a new week. I'm still working on getting in the habit of using a scripture journal. I'm not used to doing one, at least not like this.

I was just called as second counselor in the Sunday School Presidency. As such, I'm responsible to prepare to teach any Sunday School class. It's not two difficult as there are only two different manuals in use.

The Gospel Doctrine class this week is entitled “Behold, I Am Jesus Christ, the Savior of the World”. It focuses on the atonement, on Christs attributes, and how we can develop those attributes ourselves.

D&C 19:16-19 reads:

16 For behold, I, God, have suffered these things for all, that they might not suffer if they would repent;
17 But if they would not repent they must suffer even as I;
18 Which suffering caused myself, even God, the greatest of all, to tremble because of pain, and to bleed at every pore, and to suffer both body and spirit—and would that I might not drink the bitter cup, and shrink—
19 Nevertheless, glory be to the Father, and I partook and finished my preparations unto the children of men.

These verses always touch my heart deeply. I go on a bit of an emotional roller coaster when I read them. First I feel gratitude for Christ's willingness to suffer that I might not suffer. Then I feel an urgency to repent so that I don't have to suffer as he did. Then I feel empathy for what he went through. I can't begin to comprehend, even in the smallest degree, what it must have been like to go through so much agony to cause bleeding from every poor. It's incomprehensible to my feeble human mind. Then I feel gratitude again for the fact that despite the tremendous suffering, Christ did not quit. He went forward and finished the assignment the Lord had given him. He laid it all on the line for the glory of the Father, and for us. Then I feel a tremendous outpouring of love. I love the Savior. I love him, because he first loved me, so much that he laid down his life and took it up again that I, and everyone, might be able to live again, physically, and spiritually. He did for us, what we cannot do for ourselves. I want to stand up and sing the songs of his redeeming love when I think on these things.

A song I wrote a couple of years ago expresses some of my feelings.

"Shout For Joy, Inhabitants of Zion."

Shout for joy, inhabitants of Zion!
Praise Jehovah’s holy name.
Though with thee he once was angry,
Now His mercy shall thee claim.

(chorus)

Shout for joy, inhabitants of Zion!
In Jehovah put your trust.
For through Him all strength is given--
Blessings unto all the just.

(chorus)

Shout for joy inhabitants of Zion!
Water from salvation’s well,
Unto thee is freely flowing.
With Jehovah you shall dwell.

(chorus)

Shout for joy inhabitants of Zion!
Call upon the Lord in prayer.
Covenant that among all people,
His great works you will declare.

Chorus

Verses 1-3
Shout for joy; shout for joy!
Praise Jehovah’s holy name!
Shout for joy; shout for joy!
All his mighty works proclaim!

Verse 4
Shout for joy; shout for joy!
Praise the Lord’s exalted name!
Shout for joy; shout for joy!
All his mighty works proclaim!

Scripture References:
Isaiah 12
2 Nephi 22

Can be sung to the tune of “Guide Us Oh Thou Great Jehovah”

Copyright 2007 – Randall D. McNeely

More tomorrow.

Doctrine and Covenants Section 1 - Part 1

2008-12-29T22:30:00.000-08:00

This week's Sunday School lesson is on Doctrine and Covenants (D&C) section1. The way I study is to go verse by verse and break things down.

Verses 1-2:

1 Hearken, O ye people of my church, saith the voice of him who dwells on high, and whose eyes are upon all men; yea, verily I say: Hearken ye people from afar; and ye that are upon the islands of the sea, listen together.
2 For verily the voice of the Lord is unto all men, and there is none to escape; and there is no eye that shall not see, neither ear that shall not hear, neither heart that shall not be penetrated.

These verses represent the Lords call to not only members of the church, but to all men. Notice the use of the word hearken, which means to listen. He invites all men to listen three times (three calls; two or more witnesses--is there a relationship here?) and then explains that he is speaking to everyone, and we will all hear his voice and see his works rolling forth.

Verse 3

3 And the rebellious shall be pierced with much sorrow; for their iniquities shall be spoken upon the housetops, and their secret acts shall be revealed.

No hiding for the rebellious in the Lord's plan. They may have their "joy" for a time in which they think they are getting away with something, but sooner or later their "secret" actions will be revealed and everyone will know what they've been doing and how they've rebelled against God. I certainly don't want to be in that position!

Verses 4-5

4 And the voice of warning shall be unto all people, by the mouths of my disciples, whom I have chosen in these last days.
5 And they shall go forth and none shall stay them, for I the Lord have commanded them.

These verses clearly teach how the Lord works--through his disciples. Notice though, that it's not just any disciples, but "chosen disciples." What do we need to do to be chosen? D&C 4:5-7 tells us:

5 And faith, hope, charity and love, with an eye single to the glory of God, qualify him for the work.
6 Remember faith, virtue, knowledge, temperance, patience, brotherly kindness, godliness, charity, humility, diligence.
7 Ask, and ye shall receive; knock, and it shall be opened unto you. Amen.

Development of the attributes or qualities described in these verses is essential for disciples who wish to be a chosen part of the "warning voice" in these latter days.

Now, looking at D&C 1:5, there is a powerful promise there--"none shall stay them." To me this means that the Lord's work will roll forth in power and that the disciples who move the work forth will be blessed and protected. Joseph Smith said that "no unhallowed hand" shall stop this work and indeed his statement has proven to be prophetic. The Lord's work has rolled forth, is rolling forth and will continue to roll forth unimpeded. True, there will be challenges here and there as Satan tries desperately to stop it, but the work will go forth "boldly and nobly" as it has done for the last one hundred seventy-eight years. What a blessing to have the opportunity to be a part of it!

28 December 2008 - Thought for the day

2008-12-28T06:15:00.000-08:00

We've been admonished to keep a scripture journal. Well, this is my new attempt.

I've been teaching 15-17 year olds in Sunday School this past year. Given that we did a special Christmas lesson last week and we were already behind a couple of lessons, I had three lessons to cover today. Well, as many of you know, there's no way to do that. So, I used the class member study guides and took verses from a chapter in each lesson to discuss. It actually worked out pretty well. One of the verses that struck me, yet again, was Ether 12:4. It reads:

Wherefore, whoso believeth in God might with surety hope for a better world, yea, even a place at the right hand of God, which hope cometh of faith, maketh an anchor to the souls of men, which would make them sure and steadfast, always abounding in good works, being led to glorify God.

I love this verse. After reading it in class I asked what the verse teaches us about blessings we can receive when we believe in God. The only girl in the class spoke up and pointed out that it talks about hoping for a better world. It is obvious from the verse that this is talking about a better world on the right hand of God. She, however, was talking about this life.

I had a "Well Duh" moment right then. I hadn't ever thought about it that way. I've always thought about the next life. However, with that thinking I've been mission out on half the picture. A belief in God in this life, surely makes this a better world. I can't imagine where I'd be without my knowledge of God and the gospel of Jesus Christ. I'd be totally lost. How true it is that faith leads to hope which makes and ancor to the souls of men. Knowing that God is there, that he is my Father, and that he cares about me strenghtens me tremendously in the face of life's daily challenges. I love Heavenly Father and Jesus and want to be like them and to live with them someday. I want be an instrument in God's hands to bless the lives of my fellow man. That desire comes from the hope that is in me and I can't help but want to abound in good works.

We also studied Ether 12:27.

And if men come unto me I will show unto them their weakness. I give unto men weakness that they may be humble; and my grace is sufficient for all men that humble themselves before me; for if they humble themselves before me, and have faith in me, then will I make weak things become strong unto them.

What a wonderful verse. I have a strong testimony of this verse. Through personal experience I know it is true. I have felt the Lord's grace, his enabling power, in my life on multiple ocassions and have been able to accomplish things I never could have done on my own. He has helped me, is helping me, and will continue to help me in the future as I remain humble.