Friday, December 5, 2008

Law Decreed

D&C 130:20-21

There has been a law set before the world was, that God will keep His promise if we are obedient to His commandments. The Father will do anything for us if we just keep our part of the deal. I like this a lot because this means no catch or extra thing on our part, just as long as we keep the commandments and are faithful.

Learning Early

Alma 37:35

If we learn early, it is an advantage to us. This accounts for everything whether it be math, science, or keeping the commandments, the faster we take in something or if we learn it early it is for our benefit. So doing as Alma counsels his son, to learn wisdom in his youth, is a wise choice so as to stay on the strait and narrow.

Labor Diligently

D&C 88:84

We as missionaries are to prepare the way for the Lord and for the Judgement Day. By our hard labor we will become perfected. There is no such thing as reaping the reward with little or no work at all. It's by the sweat of my brow that converts people, and it shows the Lord that I dedicated and willing to do his will. By working hard, I will be able to receive the Spirit and as it as my guide among my brethren the Gentiles.

Gathering Them In

D&C 18:15-16

How great will be our joy when we enter the next life and converse and rejoice with those who were brought to the knowledge of the restored Gospel due to our labors. Just doing baptisms for the dead or other ordinances for the dead are ways of helping our spirit brethren and sisters out. Imagine their joy and their gratitude towards those that took part in their work, and that made it possible to have joy.

Are we Good Samiratans?

Luke 10:30-37

I often wonder when I read this story, if I have ever neglected to help someone in anyway that was by the wayside? Have we neglected anyone in need, not just physically, but spiritually as well? Often the businessman or the lawyer will pass by someone in need, and it's usually the meek and lowly in spirit, such as the homeless, helping those who are in need.

Straitness of the Path

2 Ne 31:9-10

I echo the words of Nephi: "Can we follow Jesus?". He has set the path and the way. Now, we must follow and cling close to the gospel so as not to fall off the path into other paths of sin. Jesus is the example and the way. We must strive to be like him and try to live a Christlike life.

For all Eternity

D&C 132:15, 18-19

The law of the new and everlasting covenant is the law of eternal marriage and becoming sealed for all eternity to your spouse and to your family. This is a wonderful covenant because we will not be separated from our loved ones after death. For this covenant deals with the next life and the eternities and us becoming exalted and receiving inheritance from Heavenly Father if we live righteously. What a wonderful covenant indeed that the Father has been so gracious to provide for His children.

Everlasting Covenant of Marriage

D&C 131

The covenant of marriage is an important ordeal. For a no one cannot enter into the celestial kingdom without becoming first sealed to a spouse. Man and woman were never meant to be alone. Heavenly Father is gracious enough to let us become sealed for eternity to our spouse and our family.
I like this section of D&C because it gives some factual information concerning spirits and that it's impossible for a man to be saved in ignorance.
It's horrible how today people are not staying married for very long. Marriage is being taken in completely new directions and is being defiled by the thought that same-sex couples should be able to do this and defile God's law and make a mockery of his sacred commandments. There are scriptures in the bible that talk about that there should be no such instances.

One Tenth

D&C 119:4

The law of tithing is an actual law decreed by the Lord. This is for our welfare and for the supporting of the Church so missionaries can be supported and new temples and churches can be built. Without this law many students probably wouldn't be able to come to BYU and the Church would suffer financially in many different ways.

Bring in the Tithes

Malachi 3:10-12

It's interesting to know that we will be blessed greatly for paying tithes unto the Lord. If we don't pay tithes it's almost like stealing and being ungrateful for all he has done for us. So paying tithes is very important in the Church so we will be blessed and become prosperous and show our devotion and gratitude unto the Lord.

Tuesday, December 2, 2008

Receiving Health

D&C 89:18-21

What a great promise it is if we keep the Word of Wisdom we will be blessed and we will do well in our lives. We shall run and not be weary, we shall walk and not faint. And it makes sense that if we're taking care of our bodies like we're supposed to then we will be healthy and be able to do all sorts of things. And even better, the destroying angel will just pass right by us. This is if we keep ourselves healthy and are obedient to the Word of Wisdom.

Our Body is a Temple

1 Corinth. 6:19-20

For our body is a temple. In the temple is where the Holy Ghost is allowed to reside. We wish for the Holy Ghost to reside with us as well. Just like how God owns the temples, he owns our bodies which He made for us. I think it would be a disrespect to Him if we were to defile our bodies in any way, shape, or form.

Friday, November 28, 2008

D&C 63:16

Those who lust in their heart or mind have committed adultery. And those who do so will not have the Spirit to be with them but it will be void in their lives. Those who don't even commit adultery who have lustful thoughts will still not have the Spirit with them. For all emotion takes over the mind if the thoughts are allowed to persist, and the Spirit is completely shut out. So let our minds and hearts be centered around God.

Condemn Then Forget

D&C 42:22-25

This scripture not all teaches to forsake adultery but to also forgive those that have done it. This will be hard because this is a huge sin and something not easily cast aside. But someone who repents with all their heart, forsake it, and doesn't do it anymore will be forgiven.

The Prophet's Words are the Lord's Words

D&C 21:4-6

We have to be reminded that what the Lord speaks, the prophet will speak what the Lord has directed him to speak. Some people complain or go against the prophet's counsel. They are forgetting that they are also going against what the Lord has spoken. If the Lord were to give us directly what directions and counsel we should do, would we follow it? Well, a person with the right mind would. Does this apply with the prophet also? That's a definite yes. The same goes for our bishop. Our bishops are inspired by the Lord for direction and give counsel that has been inspired by the Lord. We should always remember that our priesthood leaders are servants and mouthpieces of the Lord.

Counsel From God

Amos 3:7

The Lord guides and directs our prophet today, Thomas S. Monson. Why would the Lord discontinue to converse with man, and to check and His church and to guide it? The true restored church is one that is directed by the Lord himself through His servants the prophets. The prophet isn't the only one to receive direction from the Lord. The apostles also receive direction and counsel from Him.

Wednesday, November 26, 2008

Keep Ourselves Unspotted

D&C 59:9-10

Not only is the Sabbath a day of physical rest, but it is also a day to rest from the world. We go to church to partake of the sacrament to become renewed and spiritually restrengthened. If we don't rest from the world then we will eventually become subject to it. Constantly being subject to it six days of the week is enough to bring a person down. Without the seventh day, we would be more easily enticed. I notice that when I missed church or the sacrament, for traveling purposes, that I didn't feel like I had the Spirit with me as much as I usually do, and the world then becomes more blunt and objective.

The Fourth of the Ten Commandments

Exodus 20:8-11

These scriptures are pretty straight forward. Keep the Sabbath day holy! I noticed that in the scriptures that even the Lord rested upon the seventh day of the creation of the earth. If the Lord took the time to rest I think we need to rest too. The Lord knows that we are dependent upon some form of recreation or rest, then Sunday would be the perfect time to do so, at the end of the week.

A Light Unto the World

D&C 45:9

The covenants that are given to us are for our benefit. For our God is a just god, and it would be against the laws of Heaven if we were to sin ignorantly and know nothing about it. That is why He is gracious to set a light and a standard for us to obey and follow. When we are baptized, we have made covenants to keep the commandments. When we go to the temple we make more covenants that are sacred. We agree to follow the covenants, and as missionaries, we need to make that clear to investigators that we all make covenants through baptism and we agree to keep them.

Coming Forth

Moroni 6:1-4

As a missionary I need to make sure that my investigators are ready to become baptized. They need a broken heart and a contrite spirit and that they are truly repentant. And they must be willing to serve Christ to the end. They need to be looked after also to continue on the path to be nourished by the people in the Church and by the word of Christ.

Tuesday, November 25, 2008

Being Organized

D&C 109:8

The Lord's Church is a church of order. Everything is put or assigned in its correct place. When everything is organized, things go a lot smoother. That is why we keep records of membership and other thing in the Church. Keeping record tells whether there needs to be a new meetinghouse, or a new temple, or any other needful thing in an area.
I like how it says in verse nine that our incomings and outgoings need to be in the name of the Lord. This reminds us to remember the Lord in everything we do and say, especially when we go to the temple.

Spending More Time on Gospel Things

D&C 123:12-13

How true is this scripture. For it would be better if I were to waste or spend my whole life trying to bring to light the hidden things of the Gospel than to be idle and do nothing. For as I go throughout life I'm starting to see more and more of the craftiness of men and how subtle and deceiving they are. I weep within myself when I see people, and especially friends and associates, that are deceived by the ways of the world and how they are caught up in the ways of man and of corrupt denominations. I must from now be more diligent in my exhorting and uplifting of my brethren and my sisters.

Cease to be Idle

D&C 88:124

I try to retire to bed early and then rise early, and it works like a charm. I feel great the next day, I'm doing better in my classes, and I sleep better and I feel more in harmony with man and with God. Since I've been going to bed earlier I don't feel as tired even though I get up early. And like it says in the scripture, my body and mind feel invigorated.

Thursday, November 20, 2008

Serve With all Your Might

D&C 4:2

We are to serve God by every means possible. With all our might, mind, and strength and by the companionship of the Holy Ghost. If we do all these things we will stand blameless before God at the last day. If we are to not use every means possible we could be held accountable. Such service could definitely be home teaching, supporting our ward activities, and participating in service projects whenever we can.

By Small and Simple Means

Alma 37:7-8, 28-29, 41

One thing that I have learned in life so far(it's not much) that great and terrible things are brought to pass by small and simple things. Such examples could be a little kindness and can change some one's heart, or by not following the smallest of commandments can affect our salvation.
Another thing, that is true is that those who do not support the means of freedom in this country or those who support the works of darkness will be destroyed. This land is meant for freedom and for a people who will worship God and live in righteousness. Those who do not will be destroyed as were the Nephites, and later a huge portion of the Lamanites by the Gentiles.

Tuesday, November 18, 2008

Do As Christ Did

2 Ne 31:13, 17

One of the things in this scripture that jumps out at me is the part about hypocrisy. I never really started noticing it or even thinking about until I read this scripture. We sometimes are busy preaching that we don't really take the time and to stop and think about what little things are we doing wrong or in what areas are we being hypocritical. We should follow Christ with a full purpose of heart meaning in everything we do and not rationalize the little things in our lives. The gate we enter is repentance and baptism by water and by fire by the Holy Ghost. With real intent and with the name of Christ we must not only enter the waters of baptism but to also to partake of the sacrament worthily.

Become Born of Water and of the Spirit

John 3:5

In order to be truly converted and to come into the fold we must first become baptized of water for the remission of our sins, and being baptized by the Spirit which is receiving the gift of the Holy Ghost. Without these two basic processes we cannot enter into the Kingdom of God. Being born of water and of the Spirit symbolizes our rebirth as a new person, not a literal rebirth, but what is also another a symbol is becoming anew and converted into Christ's church.

Thursday, November 13, 2008

Our Faith Springeth Up

Alma 32:7-8, 28-29, 41

If we become truly penitent and humble, as did the people who were being taught by Alma, then will our faith be allowed to take root in our hearts and will start to grow. If we are humble, faith has an easier time of growing. Pride is like gasoline, it fuels the angry fire and it kills out the good plant, or our faith. Once we get rid of the pride we become more humble and subjective to the teachings of the gospel. Our faith will become strong like unto a tree and it will feel good to us, and we will then climb up the tree which reaches to eternal salvation.

Tuesday, November 11, 2008

Steadfastness in Christ

2 Ne. 31:19-20

Once we are in the strait and narrow path, or once we have chosen the path of righteousness, there is still more work to be done. We are to remain steadfast in the gospel and in Christ. It is through Christ and our unshaken faith through Him that we have made it thus far in the path of righteousness. So if you have overcome an obstacle, do not think that is it, for there are callings in the ward and other obstacles in life that will tempt and test us. Behold, we must endure to the end and then we will be granted eternal life from the Father, but not only enduring but also feasting upon the words of Christ.

Yielding our Hearts Unto God

Helaman 3:35

The Nephites had their faith strengthened when they prayed and fasted often. It says in the scripture that they did wax stronger in humility, and firmer and firmer in the faith of Christ, and even until their souls were filled with joy and consolation. We have to immerse ourselves in the Gospel. Praying and fasting are good ways to yield ourselves to God. Once we become humble we start having more communion with God. Peace and joy enter our lives if we humble ourselves and become steadfast in the faith of Christ.

We Become Unshaken

Jacob 4:6

We do search the prophets. We hear them talk at General Conference, we read their words in books and in Church magazines. We can receive revelations and we definitely have the spirit of prophecy. Patriarchs in our stakes give us personal revelations from the Lord. With these witnesses it's easy to think how we could ever become unshaken. We can easily become shaken if we are not steadfast and if we don't increase our faith and remain idle in the gospel. Only through work and exercising our faith will it become strengthened, and we will be able to command anything in the name of the Lord.

Sunday, November 9, 2008

Have Perfect Faith

2 Ne 9:23

For what does it mean to have perfect faith? I think it means that we must have faith that is unwavering. Having faith that our Savior, Jesus Christ, died for us for a remission of our sins, and that through Him we can be forgiven and live to return with our Father in Heaven. Having perfect faith can also mean having faith to where we are converted or ready to enter the waters of baptism.

The Lord is Able to do all Things

1 Ne 7:12

For how can we forget that the Lord is able to do all things? We are swamped with the world everyday with negative, provoking, and slanderous thoughts, that sometimes we find ourselves caught up in it. When we feel negative, we need to remember that through the Lord everything will be all right. It's through His will that things are done, not our will. Like Nephi says in so simple words, "Let us be faithful to Him."

The Priesthood of Aaron

D&C 13:1

It's humbling to know that as a holder of the Aaronic priesthood I have the capability to baptize, I have the keys of the ministering of angels, and of the gospel of repentance. Just as a deacon, I had the keys of ministering angels. What an awesome power. This priesthood prepares young men for the bigger responsibility of the Melchizedek Priesthood.

Out of Darkness

D&C 1:30

We, as members of the Church, are given commandments concerning laying the foundations for the Church. We have the power to lay the foundations, to work mightily, to perform missionary work, and to fulfill our callings. To bring it forth, the Church, out of the darkness of the world, and the obscurity of the great abominable church, and to show to the world that Christ's church is back on the earth. For the Lord does not speak individually but collectively to everyone in the Church. As Zion, and as emissaries for our Lord Savior Jesus Christ, we will go forth and serve.

Monday, November 3, 2008

A Record of a Fallen People

D&C 20:8-12

Joseph Smith was the first Elder of the Church was prepared before the world was to bring forth the Restoration. The record translated by Joseph Smith is a record of a fallen people who became blinded by sin, became prideful in their hearts, and forgot their Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. This serves as an example if one whole nation becomes wicked, that they will become destroyed from off the face of the earth if they put God out of their lives. The Book of Mormon was translated by inspiration and was then testified and ministered by angels unto individuals who read the book, who then declared the work unto the inhabitants of the world. This work shows unto the world that God has not stopped giving inspiration and direction to the inhabitants of the earth. God is the same yesterday, today and forever.

Record Among the Gentiles

1 Ne 13:40

The records of the Jews will be among the Gentiles and will be used as scriptural reference, or also known as the Bible. Although the Bible is of Holy writ, it has lost many plain and precious truths, which were later found by Joseph Smith after re-translating the Bible. The Bible has made known the teachings of the first twelve apostles of the Lord. But once again, the plain and precious truths were lost during the Great Apostasy. The Book of Mormon was brought forth to complete the Bible basically, and to proclaim that the Jesus Christ is the Lamb of God and the Son of the Eternal Father.

We Preach of Christ

2 Ne 25:23, 26

For as Nephi said, it seems that we labor diligently in the Church to bring are children and brethren unto Christ. The Church is not only preaching unto the world but also acting as a charity and relieving those in Africa or third world countries, or even in the states that are in need of assistance financially or physically.
As to pertaining of writing of Christ so our children will know, I think what it means by children is also meant by our posterity or our grandchildren. Our children and their children need to know what we stand for and how we acted righteously and in the Lord. That is one of the reasons why we are supposed to keep a journal of all our proceeding and events in our lives.

That I may Persuade men to Come Unto Christ

1 Ne 6:4

For the purpose of my intent is to also persuade men to come unto Christ just as Nephi said. For the God we all worship that is of the Jews, and of the Gentiles, is the same God. God never changes, for He was the God of Abraham, and of Isaac, and of Jacob. I am excited at the thought of serving a mission and persuading men to come unto Christ.

Joseph, A Seer and Prophet of the Lord

D&C 124:125

Joseph Smith was ordained by God to be a translator, a revelator, a seer, and a prophet. What it means in the scripture as to be a presiding elder over the Church means that he was supposed to watch over the Church and to be the mouthpiece of the Lord. Joseph was mostly responsible for modern revelations and other scriptural material revealed in this dispensation. The Lord gives unto us His servant Joseph.

Joseph the Seer

2 Ne 3:11-12

Joseph Smith was given power from God to translate the things in the Book of Mormon. The Book of Mormon was written by the Nephites who were descendants of Joseph who was sold into Egypt. The Nephites brought forth the Book of Mormon while the seed of Judah, or the Jews, brought forth the Bible. Together, the two books cast away false teachings and are a duo for the teaching the words of the Lord, and for establishing peace. I know that both the Book of Mormon and the Bible are tools and instruments for bringing souls unto Christ and that they work together.

Wednesday, October 29, 2008

Joseph Smith Called

D&C 1:18

Joseph Smith was called to prepare the way for the Second Coming. There are going to be calamities on the earth before Christ comes again, but the restored Church will be upon the earth also. Joseph heard the Father and the Son, and they both individually confronted him and conversed with him. How many times is it recorded that both the Father and the Son have come to talk with someone? Joseph Smith truly had a remarkable task at hand, and a marvelous work to begin.

Ye Shall Bear it if ye Are Faithful

D&C 136:37

For if we are not pure and faithful we cannot bear the glory of the Lord. If we are obedient to the prophet's voice we become worthy. The words given unto Adam to the present from the Lord are true today and will be forever. The words of the prophet from the Lord are true today and will be forever.

Monday, October 27, 2008

Dreams and Visions

Joel 2:28-29

This scripture shows that the Lord is not bias when it come to personal revelation. He revealed things then and He does so now. There has been a history of the Lord revealing things unto His people. So what would stop Him now? Has the Lord gone away? Are we only entitled to the teachings of the Bible or those who claim they're appointed of God? Is there not always new revelation and words concerning God's church? During the Dark Ages, men such as Luther, Hus, and John Wycliffe were inspired by God and did things that paved the way for the reformation of the true Church. The same goes for today.

Divisions amongst us

1 Corinthians 11:18-19

Paul knew that there were going to be divisions in the Church and that there would be opposition against the Church. There must be an opposition in all things. It was Satan's desire to stir up the early saints and to lead them away through false prophets and teachers. Only by revealing the false teachers were the early saints going to rid them amongst themselves. However, a lot of communities failed to do so and once the apostles were killed, the false teachers moved in like wolves. This scripture applies for our day too. There were some "wolves" among the early saints and there were some who fell away and apostatized including members of the Twelve.

Wolves shall enter among you

Acts 20:29-30

For we have seen that after Christ left the earth, that there arose false churches and those unispired or directed by the Holy Ghost. The apostles were killed and true priesthood authority was taken off the earth. There was confusion as to who was going to lead, and there were many claims of other churches being directed of God. Finally, the Roman empire took charge and constituted and guessed what was right and proffitable for the church, or basically applying the precepts of men to the Church. For thousands of years, churches were run by the wills of men and not by the will of our Heavenly Father. Even with the true Church restored today there are still divisions among the people concering which church they belong to and which is right.

Thursday, October 23, 2008

A Marvelous Work

2 Ne 25:17

Oh what a marvelous work and a wonder the Church is today! I rejoice at the thought of being so blessed to be born in the covenant and to experience being brought up by goodly parents. Parents who raised me in the Church and saw fit to encourage me in all my righteous endeavors. The church is truly a wonder. For it is spreading forth like a fire and the prophecy of Joseph Smith is coming true, for the Church is spreading across the earth and being heard in every land. I'm thrilled at the idea of the people of the earth being united under one banner, which is Zion, where race and culture do not clash because we are all children of God and citizens of Zion, and where we all worship the same God and have peace among one another.

A Famine in the Land

Amos 8:11-12

For truly there was a great famine throughout the land. Not just the land,bu the whole earth. Christ's true church was taken from the earth with the death of the apostles,the priesthood keys and ordinances were taken from the earth. This was a time when the Lord did not communicate through anyone. This was the time of the Dark Ages or medieval times. After the Restoration, we now have a man again who communicates with God.

The Voice of the Lord Shall not Pass Away

D&C 1:38

The things which the Lord speaks will always be the same yesterday, today, and tomorrow. Tragedy may strike may the word of the Lord will never leave and will never pass away, but everything will be fulfilled according to all that has been promised by the voice of Him or His servants the prophets. The prophets are responsible for relaying His word to the people.

Therefor He Sent Angels to Converse With Them

Alma 12:27-30

God dictated from the beginning that we must sooner or later experience a physical death and that will be judged after death. It is important that we are given important knowledge concerning the things of God. Angels are sent to minister unto men, namely the prophets. Our prophets receive revelation from the Lord concerning our day and what is needed from us. The scriptures have shown that God has always talked with man, especially righteous men who practice faith, repentance, and good works.

Many Mansions in Heavenly Father's House

D&C 98:18

It's nice to know that we have a place of rest prepared for us according to our works, here upon this earth, in this mortal life. If we do not do as we're supposed, it's a question of how big will our mansion be in the home of our Heavenly Father. If we are righteous we will get to dwell with Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ. So, if we do as we are commanded, let not our hearts be troubled then, for there really is a life after death.

There are Many Mansions

1 Corinthians 15:40

There are many glories in the heavens, mainly the celestial, telestial, and the terrestial. The celestial represents the glory of the sun, the telestial the glory the moon, and the terrestial glory the stars. Each is different in glory. Our bodies will become perfected during the resurrection, for it says in the scriptures,"It is sown in corruption; it is raised in incorruption." When we are born, we are not perfect physically nor morally, but after the resurrection we will become physically perfect.

Wednesday, October 22, 2008

Christ the Firstfruits

1 Corinthians 15:19-23

Without Christ there would be know resurrection. Our bodies would remain in the grave and our spirits would remain the same. Also, our sins would still be laid upon us and we would experience misery and woe because our sins would not be answered for. Since Christ is the first fruits of them that slept, that means that men will die but they will now become resurrected because of Christ. Adam was the reason why we are here upon his earth due to the Fall, but through Christ we are saved.

Tuesday, October 21, 2008

Men Are that they might have joy

2 Ne 2:25-27

I know that the Fall was for our benefit. Without it we would not be able to choose for ourselves, we wouldn't be here in the first place, and second, the Plan would have not been moving forward. It's either captivity or death. We have the choice.

Men Are that they might have joy

Thursday, October 16, 2008

Through Christ

Moses 6:62-63

The plan of salvation focuses around Christ. Everything that is created is made to testify of the Lord and to bear record of Him. This world and the creatures that were made, and the planets and the stars were not all made by chance. There was a divine order, a higher order, that created everything that we percieve and things that we can't see. The Plan of Salvation affects everything.

Plan of redemption

2 Nephi 2; 9

It was in order that our first parents partook of the tree of life and knew good from evil. We become fallen from there on. We could not enter into the kingdom of our Father in Heaven because of our fallen state. In order to make it back we needed a redeemer, a Savior of the world, someone to atone for the sins of the world. His name was Jesus Christ. He died for us. Through Him we are saved. We must remember to repent of our sins and when partaking of the sacrament to always remember Him and His sacrifice for us. At the end of this mortal life, those who have died will become reunited to their bodies in Resurrection. Christ made this possible. He conquered death and was the first to become resurrected.

Wednesday, October 15, 2008

Nourish the Faith

Alma 32:40

I know that my faith needs to be nourished and watched over as would a gardener watch over his vineyard or trees. Just like a tree, I must strengthen myself against the elements, and I must be fed with scriptures and the words of the modern prophets and apostles.
Investigators start with faith as a seed. They first try or investigate the Church which then is but a small seed at first. Later on, as they exercise their faith, they seed becomes a sapling which then, if pruned right, can become a mighty tree. All of these things are in accordance with our diligence in keeping the commandments, studying our scriptures, praying often, and fulfilling our callings in the church.

Nourish the Faith

Tuesday, October 14, 2008

God Knows us

Jeremiah 1:5

God knows us all. We were all His children before we came upon this earth and we still are. We were chosen for this time era before the world was. I know that there was a life before this. I know that I lived with my Father in Heaven.

This is the Time to Prepare

Alma 34:32

I know that when I'm working or in the service to others that I'm doing service to my God. I know that this is the time to prepare to meet Him and to stand worthily at judgement day. For what joy would fill my sould to hear the words,"Well done my faithful servant."

Wednesday, October 8, 2008

Words of life

D&C 84:85

Take no thought. For I shall take no thought as to what I will say to investigators or to antagonists of the church for I know that the Lord is on my side. Therefore, I will treasure up the scriptures, the words of life, the very words that will bring men unto eternal life. I will do this continually even till the day I pass away from this life or until the Lord requires it no more.
Does " and it shall be given you in the very hour that portion that shall be meted unto every man" mean that everyone will have a chance to hear the gospel at some point in time?

Much Fasting and Prayer

Alma 17:2-3

When I make the effort to fast, I notice that I feel more closer to the Spirit and my sense or understanding of the gospel and what the Lord wants is heightened. I feel I have more communion with God when fasting, prayer, and scripture study are included in my life.
It says in the scriptures that when Ammon and his brethren devoted themselves to those three things that they had received the spirit of prophecy. I wonder if that would include us as well, if we continue in fasting, prayer, and diligent scripture study.

Much Fasting and Prayer

Tuesday, October 7, 2008

Prayer of Faith

D&C 42:14

Praying before studying these scriptures helps open and reveal a new light which I have never seen before in the scriptures. Communicating with Heavenly Father helps bring the Spirit which then teaches, and then you teach. Without the first step, the link cannot be completed.

Faith by hearing

Romans 10:17

Our faith comes from when we take time to listen to the prophets and to act upon their words. When we hear the word of God we can gain faith and then it later becomes strengthened later on. I love listening to general conference. It's such a time to become edified and spiritually restored and strengthened. I especially loved priesthood session since I didn't get a chance to see it last time, and I could feel the words of the apostles and prophet pierce my soul and lift it up unto rejoicing in my God. I was feeling kind of down, but boy did that session lift my spirits up and I felt like a new person when walking out of teh building.
Hear, gain faith, and obey.

Lift up your voices

D&C 100:5-8

I feel relieved that the Lord will help us with what to say and that men will not confound us. We must remember to be humble. It's hard today to remember to be humble and speak with meekness unto our brethren. Often, we get caught up in the moment and hot words will be spoken, but by being humble and with kind words we can soften hearts and the Holy Ghost becomes invited. As long as we invite the Spirit, the Lord will provide the way and the means necessary to bring forth the work.
I have found that when being aggressively confronted that it's good to always smile and reply with a soft and positive reply. A smile will disarm one who is angry and bitter.

Speaking by power

2 Nephi 33:1

When Nephi says that he cannot write all the things which were taught to his people, it makes me wonder how much things were prophesied and taught by Nephi to his people. There must have been wonderful things spoken by this man. If he says he is not mighty in writing, but his words are edifying enough, then I wonder what type of speaker this man was. He says he is not a mighty speaker but his humility and meekness touch my soul. For Nephi is mighty in the gospel and he preaches with such simplicity and plainess that I enjoy reading from his passages of scripture. Nephi has truly spoken by the Holy Ghost for his words have been carried unto my heart and I feel peace and serenity flood my soul.

Thursday, October 2, 2008

Seek out of the Best Best Books

D&C 88:118

When it says teach each other words of wisdom I interpret that as looking out for each other and expounding and exhorting each other to do what it is right. We're supposed to seek the best of books which means that we're supposed to become learned and to learn as much as we can. Getting an education will truly bless us. It even says in the scriptures that we're supposed to study even though our teachers tell us to study, but we're supposed to also seek learning by faith. This means that we will learn from the scriptures when we take to heart what they say and apply them in our lives.

Tuesday, September 30, 2008

Don't Worry,But be Prepared

D&C 84:85

When I think of this scripture I sometimes think, well that means I don't really have to prepare when giving a lesson, the Spirit will guide me. Wrong! If only I do my scripture study like I'm supposed to and pray always and try to be in communion with my Father in Heaven, then when the time is right the Spirit will guide me what to say. There have been times when I really wasn't prepared to give a talk and I just blew it because the Spirit was not with me because I didn't do my part by studying and reading about my topic. When we have the resources Heavenly Father will help us use them.
Enoch was afraid to speak before the people, as was Moses, but the Lord comforted them and told them that he would guide them what to say.

No Spirit, No Teaching

D&C 42:14

For I know without the Spirit I cannot teach. Everytime I give a lesson I ask for Heavenly Father's help in providing the Spirit so my lesson may be edifying. John Bytheway said in one of his books that I read, is that the missionary doesn't but it is by the Holy Ghost that man shall be taught. The missionary can invite the Holy Ghost, but without it there is nothing to be felt and the investigator doesn't feel anything. If it's playing the piano for sacrament or giving a lesson in Elder's quorum I always ask for the Spirit to be with me.

And my mind was enligthened

D&C 138:1-2, 6, 11

Often we get caught up in the things of the world and we become so distressed from everyday's problems and challenges, that our mind becomes murky and distracted from our problems. I was just reading the scriptures just earlier and nothing was making sense. I tried again and again but I kept thinking about the day's problems, how my life is hard, why this why that, why me? I finally got so fed up and angry with myself and the world that I wanted to find some way to get rid of it in a non-violent way. So without any hesitation I grabbed my running shoes and headed out the door. I ran all the way to the temple and all the way to temple beach at a fast and hard pace, and then all the way back to my room with the same pace. While going through with this "cleansing process" I thought of all my frustration, I thought of my family, I thought of all my friends that I have and have made, I thought of all the negative things that were plaguing my life and I would use that as my drive, and thought of the temple as an incentive for my homecoming. I would run towards the temple and think to myself, faster Brother Adams, you're almost home. I ran up to the temple gate just outside the visitor center, and I would stare longingly at it. While on this run I tried to also think of positive things and said little prayers in my heart to my Father in Heaven. I asked Him certain questions as to why this is happening? Am I doing something wrong or is this just a test?
Afterwards, as I was cooling down, I thought of the things that were troubling me and what could I do on my part to improve. The run had cleared the negative garbage from my mind and just like Joseph F. Smith said, the eyes of my understanding were opened and I felt more relaxed and my mind felt more clear.
So when we cannot understand something because our minds our blocked, sometimes it takes something to clear it away and then ponder like President Smith did. Then will our minds become open and more receiving.

My Soul Delighteth

2 Ne. 4:15-16

For my soul also delighteth when I read the scriptures and the words of the prophet's and apostles. I feel a certain peace come upon my soul when I'm feeling troubled or angry when I turn to the scriptures. When I don't read the scriptures I feel that my week or day doesn't go right, it's just missing that certain spirit. When reading the scriptures especially the ones that have to do with future events, I ponder to myself if the prophecies of the Lord have been fulfilled in these latter days. For one, the Church has been restored, Israel has been re-established in the middle east, and there are starting to become more disasters and rumors of wars.
I love to read the scriptures and I love reading and partaking of the things of the Lord. I know that reading the scriptures brings blessings and brings us closer to God.

Thursday, September 25, 2008

Spirit of Truth

D&C 50:13-14, 17-23

Unto what was I ordained? To preach the the Lord's gospel through the Comforter which teaches the truth.
I know that by the Spirit truth will be manifested. I have bore my testimony of the gospel and every time I can feel the Spirit whispering to me that it is true. A few months ago I played a variation of Joseph Smith's Prayer, A Poor Wayfaring Man of Grief, and Praise to the Man on the piano in sacrament. As soon as I was done and walked back to my parents, and not hearing a single sound due to the reverence, I felt a swelling and a burning in my bosom which filled and consumed my whole soul. I knew that right then that Spirit had testified unto me that Joseph Smith did see God the Father and Jesus Christ, that what he did for humanity was great, and that he his a prophet of the Lord.
This experience has taught me that the Spirit can do marvelous things in teaching and guiding. My goal as a missionary is to seek ways to keep and invite the Spirit at all times off and on my mission so as when I'm faced with the opportunity to teach an investigator, I may be able to teach with the Spirit as my companion.

Using the Holy Ghost

2 Nephi 33:1

How I like Nephi's usage of words! He is so simple and pure just like a testimony, with nothing complicated and he's straight to the point and very plain. For the gospel is supposed to be plain and for our understanding.
I know that the Holy Ghost is the way to teach the gospel to all people. For I know without it nothing can be taught and it's by the precepts of men or with a different type of spirit that nothing can be brought forth.
I know that as a future missionary that I will need the Holy Ghost as my constant companion and guide. When I teach or give a talk, and if I'm properly prepared, I feel enlightened and guided, and I can feel the power of the Holy Ghost influencing me.

Tuesday, September 23, 2008

Solemnity of Heart

D&C 100:7-8

I like getting promises from the Lord. If we truly do declare the Gospel with meekness then we will allow the Spirit to penetrate the hearts of men. One thing I've seen is that pride fuels the fire while meekness and humility in all things, even when confronted in anger, can douse the flames and cool the soul unto peaceful settings.

Be Made Known

Alma 5:45-46

I have found that when I fast that I'm drawn closer unto the Spirit. That's why fasting and praying for something is effective because it brings the Spirit closer and helps us commune with God.

Study the Word

D&C 11:21-22

We if are prepared and have something planned out the Lord will help us preach the gospel. Although we don't need to worry too much about what we're going to preach, we should still be prepared with the word of God and study the scriptures often and to treasure up as we are so often encouraged.

With Mighty Prayer

Alma 8:10

Wrestling in mighty prayer with God must really be a time to pour out your soul unto God. Mighty prayer must mean that they are praying much and with a lot of fervor. Sometimes I feel like Alma. I see wickedness all around me and I see that people are not truly happy. I sometimes feel like crying out why, and how could someone do such wickedness when they know it is not right?

Thursday, September 18, 2008

Taught from on High

D&C 43:15-16

What a thrill it is to be taught from on high and to go forth! If only I remain worthy and listen to the Spirit will I be endowed with power. I must not use my mission as a learning basis but as a teaching basis, which means I need to be taught and prepared before my mission.

By the Power of the Holy Ghost

2 Nephi 33:1

I really like how Nephi really makes things plain and simple. By speaking by the power of the Holy Ghost basically it penetrates to the hearts of men. Speaking with this power can covert souls.

Missionaries are Led

Alma 21:16

I know that missionaries today are guided by the Holy Ghost. For the Holy Ghost is the greatest missionary tool. The Holy Ghost testifies, comforts, and brings about knowledge to investigators.

The Spirit Teacheth a Man to Pray

2 Nephi 32:5,8

When I'm troubled or more often when I'm busy and in a rush I sometimes forget to pray and to offer thanks to the God. The evil spirit does teach a man not to pray. It is through our busy lives that we can sometimes forget our Heavenly Father.

Shall be Taught all Things

John 14:26

The Spirit teaches everything. If it weren't so then how could we know? And the comforter he is. When I feel troubled and I'm pouring out my soul to Heavenly Father I feel a wave of peace wash over me and I know that my prayers have been heard and I have been given relief. Truly praying to our Father in Heaven and actually communicating with Him invokes the Spirit which gives us knowledge.

The Godhead

3 Nephi 28:11

I've had experiences where the Spirit testified unto me the truthfulness of Joseph Smith, the restored gospel, and God the Father and Jesus Christ. It is often times through the Spirit that our testimony can be strengthen because of the record the Spirit bears that Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ do live and are real.

Let There be Light

D&C 84:46-47

Those who are obedient to the Spirit gain knowledge. By listening to the Spirit we are brought closer to God.

Know Good from Evil

Moroni 7:16-19

It is true that when you do something good you know it to be of Christ. For the Spirit testifies that this the right way. But when you do something wrong you are left with a blank yet dirty feeling. When we seek to do things that are right we gain knowledge or discernment over things. Everyone is given the Spirit of Christ so they can choose good from evil and then know for certain which is good or bad.

Tuesday, September 16, 2008

The Light

John 1:5-10

It's a shame that those who have died, who didn't know of the Savior, died without a knowledge of what sacrifice was made for them. It's true as it is said in verse 10 that Jesus made the world, but the world knew him not.

Remission of Sins

Heleman 14:13

I know that by Jesus sacrifice that my sins are forgiven if I believe on His name. I do believe on His name and I know that I'm redeemed through Him.

Armed With Power

D&C 109:22-23

I like the thought of going to the temple to become prepared. I picture the temple as being an armory where we go to get our armor and weapons issued, only the weapons are the power of God and our testimony. It gives me confidence to know that I will be in the presence of angels and that my companion and I will be protected while preaching.

The Hill of the Lord

Psalm 24:3-5

When reading this scripture I'm reminded that I must remember to keep myself clean in order to attend the temple. From there I will receive blessings and become strengthened from the Lord. Where it says that we are not to swear deceitfully, I wonder if it has to do with not being dishonest and to murmur and use foul language. I think we sometimes we get caught up in the world that sometimes we forget to pay attention to the Spirit and to watch ourselves.

Wednesday, September 10, 2008

My confidence shall be waxed strong

D&C 121:45

As a missionary and definitely throughout the day I need to remember to be Christ-like and be compassionate to all and not have negative thoughts about others. This ties in with having virtue garnish my thoughts unceasingly. I like the thought of having the Savior as my companion and guide.

A purified heart

D&C 88:74

I like it how it says in this scripture how we are supposed to assemble and ourselves. In other words we are supposed to gather to together to become prepared, and to become clean. This applies to every week when we go to church to partake of the sacrament and to be organized into callings, and we become prepared for the upcoming week. This is necessary so we can become clean so we'll be more in touch with the Spirit when going forth to preach the gospel.

Tuesday, September 9, 2008

I'm always called

D&C 11:15

We are always called of God to be missionaries. We are not supposed to wait for Him to give us permission to be missionaries, but we are supposed to always go with a willingness and a desire to serve. It is plain: we do not need a calling in order to spread the gospel.

I am called of God

I am called of God and I will serve him faithfully forever. As Alma told his son in Alma 42:31 I will declare the word with truth and with soberness. I will bring souls unto repentance and unto the great plan of salvation.

Laboring

Jacob 1:7

Laboring is the way to bring happiness. If I find that I'm bored or depressed it's often because I'm not working enough. Serving others is truly a blessing for those being served and for ourselves. As Jacob has said that he labored dilligently among his own people to persuade them to come unto Christ. The Church was never meant for idlers. For being idle does not ensure a place in the Celestial Kingdom.

Laboring

We Rejoice of Christ

2 Nephi 25:26

We are to rejoice in Christ has Nephi has said. Missionary work is part of rejoicing and spreading the word. The gospel brings happiness and peace. It is truly something to be joyful about for our sins are forgiven and we can return home to Heavenly Father.

Gather the Elect

It's true as it is said in D&C 29:7, that the elect will hear the Lord's voice. For it is the elect who are valiant enough to listen and respond to the Lord's voice. We are called to gather the elect. For they are the only ones that will listen. It's interesting that in the Church that we are called and that there really is no volunteering involved. There is no room for those who choose to volunteer, but we are called forth instead.

Scattered Israel

I often think to myself when reading the scriptures, concerning the lost tribes of Israel, as to where they could all possibly be. Are there some real descendants of the lost tribes or are they completley lost. It is then that I remember that we are all the house of Israel. Those who become converted unto Christ are joined into the house of Israel. 1 Nephi 22:4, 11-12 concerns the house of Israel and how the Lord will make bare his arm in all the eyes of the nations. His gospel will be restored to every nation and they will have a chance to hear it.

Kept from the truth.

It is true as it is said in D&C 123:12, that there are many who are blinded by the ways and craftiness of men. I look at other church's, and not to bash or put down, but I notice they have some similar things that our church has but there's something missing to it. I've thought to myself what would be the reaction if I came into one of their churches and got up in front of the whole congregation and bore my testimony of Christ's restored gospel back upon the earth?
For are they not kept from the truth and do not know where to find it? I don't have to go to another church and bear witness of the Gospel. All I have to do, and all we as members of the Church have to do is not be afraid to spread the word and to put away our fear, and especially reach out to those who we associate with.

For the field is white.

In D&C 33:3 where it talks about the field being white and ready to harvest, this mentions that there is work to be done and that the time of the harvest has come. The time to gather in the saints has come. When I think of being a missionary I picture myself going into a field with a basket and a scythe and gathering in those who are ready or ripe. Just the same as going out into the mission field and finding those that are "ripe" or ready to hear the restored gospel of Jesus Christ and to bring them unto His store house.

Thursday, September 4, 2008

In D&C 88:81 the Lord commands us that we must warn our neighbor. Warn them about what? The time has come. Christ has re-established his church back upon the earth. How can we sit idle and let our friends and family not reap the blessings of the gospel? I've had friends and family who have taken the missionary discussions and although most of them have not been converted a small seed has planted which can grow if triggered by some means.
As a missionary, I will be sent out to testify and warn the people. I can be a missionary today and warn those by living my standards, being Christ-like, and serving others.