As I studied the Book of Mormon this week and did my assignments I came to know the Savior more. I came to love Him more for all that He suffered for me and for you! He truly suffered all things so He would know how to succor us in our time of need.
When I was growing up I thought the Atonement was only for our sins. But as I have grown in the gospel I am so grateful to find out that His Atonement is for all of our infirmities. In Alma 7:11-13 we read about some of the things Jesus Christ suffered for in performing the Atonement. They are:
1) our pains 2) our afflictions 3) our temptations 4) our sicknesses 5) death 6) our infirmities 7) our sins/transgressions.
This is such a beautiful gift that we have. He can help lift our burdens whatever they may be. For example, a couple years ago I had a daughter serve a mission. I didn't realize how hard it would be to drop her off at the MTC and commit to not having contact with her for 18 months. Going on a mission is a good thing and I wanted her to go, but my heart broke as we dropped her off and I could no longer talk to her. I was incredibly sad and missed her so much. It was making me ill and I could see myself going into a depressed state. I knew it was not a good thing. I thought of the Atonement and how it covers all our pains. I decided I needed to utilize it in my life. So I knelt by my bed and prayed. I specifically prayed that the Lord would heal me through His Atonement. I needed Him. A miracle happened as I stood up from that prayer. I still missed my daughter a lot, but the pain associated with that loss was not debilitating anymore. I could go on with my day and be happy for her and her service to the Lord. It truly lifted me and changed me and helped me bear the burden I faced.
To go along with that there is a Mormon Message called "Look to the Light". It talks about the power of Christ and of His light in our lives. It said "light and darkness cannot occupy the same space. Those who seek Christ will not be in darkness.
I know this is true because it has happened for me, with missing my missionary daughter to many other facets of my life and the infirmities I have faced. May we all learn to turn to Christ so that we can have the beautiful light that comes as we do so!
Friday, July 10, 2015
Thursday, July 9, 2015
What Christ did for me and all of humankind
I learn about Christ's suffering from the following scriptures in the Bible that describe it well.
Matthew 26:37," ...he began to be sorrowful and very heavy." vs 38, "...my soul is exceeding sorrowful, even unto death." vs 39, "O my Father, if it be possible, let this cup pass from me." He prayed this prayer three times.
Mark 14:33, "..began to be sore amazed (astonished) and to be very heavy (in anguish)." vs. 36, "Father, all things are possible unto thee; take away this cup from me."
Luke 22:44, "and being in agony he prayed more earnestly: and his sweat was as if it were great drops of blood falling down to the ground."
Additional Insights to the suffering of Christ can be found in the Book of Mormon:
Mosiah 3:7, "He shall suffer temptations and pain of body, hunger, thirst, and fatigue even more than man can suffer except it be unto death; blood cometh from every pore, so great shall be his anguish for the wickedness and abominations of his people."
Alma 7:11-13, "He will suffer pains and afflictions and temptations of every kind...and he will take upon him death that he may loose the bands of death which bind his people. He will take upon him their infirmities that his bowels may be filled with mercy- that he may know how to succor his people in their infirmities."
D&C 19:16-19, "I, God have suffered these things for all, that they might not suffer if they would repent; suffering caused God the greatest to tremble because of pain- to bleed from every pore, suffer both body and spirit."
"To what extent was the Atonement completed in the Garden of Gethsemane"?
In Gethsemane Christ was alone. The Fathers' presence withdrew leaving the Savior to complete the victory over the forces of sin and death.
"And being in agony, He prayed more earnestly"
He prays with more intensity and becomes closer to God. He suffered the sins of the world, an unimaginable pain he bore. A burden we cannot comprehend.
"And His sweat was as it were great drops of blood falling down to the ground"
We cannot imagine his pain and agony. Physical, mental and spiritual pain that caused him to bleed from every pore. He overcame this supreme contest with the powers of evil. He took on the burdens of all mankind from Adam to the end of the world.
"Then cometh Jesus...unto a place called Gethsemane" How does the meaning of Gethsemane add insight to what the Savior experienced there?
Gethsemane means "oil press". A place where they extracted oil from olives. Similar to the blood that the Savior spilt for all of us there. It was also a place he would go to, to pray and to talk to his disciples.
What were the Saviors disciples doing while He was praying?
They were sleeping instead of watching and praying.
What had the Lord taught in Matthew 26:41?
Watch and pray always lest ye fall into temptations.
What does his example teach about how to be obedient even when "the spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak"?
We can overcome our weaknesses of the flesh and do the will of the Father just as Christ did.
In D&C 10:5, how can we apply it to what we are learning?
We must pray always, like Christ did, so we can come off conqueror and conqueror satan and escape his temptations.
When we read Mosiah 15:7, 3 Nephi 11:11 and D&C 19:19 what motivated the Savior to "drink the bitter cup"?
He wanted to glorify God and allow His will to be done.
In Matthew 26:39, Mark 14:36 and Luke 22:42 the Savior said "nevertheless". What are my thoughts about that?
The Savior initially asked for the cup to pass but each scripture states how he said "nevertheless" thy will be done. He gave up what he wanted for what God thought was best for him. I need to be willing to do the same thing, trusting that God knows what is best for me.
What does it require to submit one's will to the Father in this way, no matter how painful or difficult the outcome may be?
We must follow Christs example and be ready and willing to accept and do the Lords will in our lives. There have been hard things I've been asked to go through and I always come out a better person for allowing the Lord to lead my life. He makes more of my life than I could ever dream up of having!
Matthew 26:37," ...he began to be sorrowful and very heavy." vs 38, "...my soul is exceeding sorrowful, even unto death." vs 39, "O my Father, if it be possible, let this cup pass from me." He prayed this prayer three times.
Mark 14:33, "..began to be sore amazed (astonished) and to be very heavy (in anguish)." vs. 36, "Father, all things are possible unto thee; take away this cup from me."
Luke 22:44, "and being in agony he prayed more earnestly: and his sweat was as if it were great drops of blood falling down to the ground."
Additional Insights to the suffering of Christ can be found in the Book of Mormon:
Mosiah 3:7, "He shall suffer temptations and pain of body, hunger, thirst, and fatigue even more than man can suffer except it be unto death; blood cometh from every pore, so great shall be his anguish for the wickedness and abominations of his people."
Alma 7:11-13, "He will suffer pains and afflictions and temptations of every kind...and he will take upon him death that he may loose the bands of death which bind his people. He will take upon him their infirmities that his bowels may be filled with mercy- that he may know how to succor his people in their infirmities."
D&C 19:16-19, "I, God have suffered these things for all, that they might not suffer if they would repent; suffering caused God the greatest to tremble because of pain- to bleed from every pore, suffer both body and spirit."
"To what extent was the Atonement completed in the Garden of Gethsemane"?
In Gethsemane Christ was alone. The Fathers' presence withdrew leaving the Savior to complete the victory over the forces of sin and death.
"And being in agony, He prayed more earnestly"
He prays with more intensity and becomes closer to God. He suffered the sins of the world, an unimaginable pain he bore. A burden we cannot comprehend.
"And His sweat was as it were great drops of blood falling down to the ground"
We cannot imagine his pain and agony. Physical, mental and spiritual pain that caused him to bleed from every pore. He overcame this supreme contest with the powers of evil. He took on the burdens of all mankind from Adam to the end of the world.
"Then cometh Jesus...unto a place called Gethsemane" How does the meaning of Gethsemane add insight to what the Savior experienced there?
Gethsemane means "oil press". A place where they extracted oil from olives. Similar to the blood that the Savior spilt for all of us there. It was also a place he would go to, to pray and to talk to his disciples.
What were the Saviors disciples doing while He was praying?
They were sleeping instead of watching and praying.
What had the Lord taught in Matthew 26:41?
Watch and pray always lest ye fall into temptations.
What does his example teach about how to be obedient even when "the spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak"?
We can overcome our weaknesses of the flesh and do the will of the Father just as Christ did.
In D&C 10:5, how can we apply it to what we are learning?
We must pray always, like Christ did, so we can come off conqueror and conqueror satan and escape his temptations.
When we read Mosiah 15:7, 3 Nephi 11:11 and D&C 19:19 what motivated the Savior to "drink the bitter cup"?
He wanted to glorify God and allow His will to be done.
In Matthew 26:39, Mark 14:36 and Luke 22:42 the Savior said "nevertheless". What are my thoughts about that?
The Savior initially asked for the cup to pass but each scripture states how he said "nevertheless" thy will be done. He gave up what he wanted for what God thought was best for him. I need to be willing to do the same thing, trusting that God knows what is best for me.
What does it require to submit one's will to the Father in this way, no matter how painful or difficult the outcome may be?
We must follow Christs example and be ready and willing to accept and do the Lords will in our lives. There have been hard things I've been asked to go through and I always come out a better person for allowing the Lord to lead my life. He makes more of my life than I could ever dream up of having!
Sunday, June 28, 2015
The Savior taught the Apostles about leadership
As I studied John 13:1-17, Luke 22:24-30 and Mark 10:43-45, I learned about how leadership in the Church of Latter-day Saints is different from what the world usually teaches or describes as leadership.
I learned that those who are the greatest among us should also be our servant. The servant is not greater than his Lord, neither the Lord greater than his servant. All are equal but have different roles. Even Christ came not to be ministered unto, but to minister and give his life for us. I love the example in the scriptures where Jesus washed the feet of his Apostles. What great love he had for those whom he served and served with. There wasn't a limit to how lowly of a job he would perform for them. It is powerful to me when Peter refuses to let Jesus wash his feet and Jesus lets him know that if he won't let him wash his feet then He won't have any part with him.
It is important that we serve and let others serve us, so we can all be blessed!
There have been many times throughout my life where people I know have served and led in the way Jesus Christ has taught.
Before my husband joined the church, we lived in wards that the leaders helped us in a way patterned after after Jesus Christ. I guess you could say my husband was the least of them and they were the greatest. When e we lived in Dallas, Texas the members reached out and helped him get a good job when we didn't have one. The members were always inviting us to do things with them and truly became our friends. They went out of their way to treat us with kindness. In Dayton, Ohio the same thing happened, the leaders and members took an interest in us and prayed about ways they could help us. My husband was not a member of the church and yet they felt inspired to invite us as a couple to take temple preparation classes. I am confident that this class led to his conversion. Within a year he would join the church and a year after that take me to the temple for a temple marriage and sealing. These people were like Christ and were truly concerned for our welfare and helping us come closer to Christ.
I hope I can pay it forward and help others come unto Christ as well!
I learned that those who are the greatest among us should also be our servant. The servant is not greater than his Lord, neither the Lord greater than his servant. All are equal but have different roles. Even Christ came not to be ministered unto, but to minister and give his life for us. I love the example in the scriptures where Jesus washed the feet of his Apostles. What great love he had for those whom he served and served with. There wasn't a limit to how lowly of a job he would perform for them. It is powerful to me when Peter refuses to let Jesus wash his feet and Jesus lets him know that if he won't let him wash his feet then He won't have any part with him.
It is important that we serve and let others serve us, so we can all be blessed!
There have been many times throughout my life where people I know have served and led in the way Jesus Christ has taught.
Before my husband joined the church, we lived in wards that the leaders helped us in a way patterned after after Jesus Christ. I guess you could say my husband was the least of them and they were the greatest. When e we lived in Dallas, Texas the members reached out and helped him get a good job when we didn't have one. The members were always inviting us to do things with them and truly became our friends. They went out of their way to treat us with kindness. In Dayton, Ohio the same thing happened, the leaders and members took an interest in us and prayed about ways they could help us. My husband was not a member of the church and yet they felt inspired to invite us as a couple to take temple preparation classes. I am confident that this class led to his conversion. Within a year he would join the church and a year after that take me to the temple for a temple marriage and sealing. These people were like Christ and were truly concerned for our welfare and helping us come closer to Christ.
I hope I can pay it forward and help others come unto Christ as well!
Friday, June 26, 2015
The Infinite Atonement
This week in my Book of Mormon class I learned something more about the Atonement that I had not thought about before! It seems as I grow in the gospel I find more ways that the Atonement blesses me and my family. It is a miraculous gift that each of us has the access to use in our lives. It is an INFINITE Atonement that has the power to heal all men through all time and eternity. I am so grateful for that gift in my life.
As I watched the Digging Deeper videos for the class, Brother Robert Walquist asked the question, "How did Christ walk out of Gethsemane alive if He bled from every pore and suffered more than any man could suffer unto death?"
This was a deep question that I had not thought about before. I like the way Brother Walquist answered this question. He explained that Jesus did not kneel in the Garden of Gethsemane as a man or human but, as the Son of God.
Christ had the power as the Son of God to do things that a mere man or human could do. This is another testament to me that Christ was the literal Son of God. He had the power to stop all the suffering that He went through because He had the power of God within Him. He had power over death. But as always He chose to do the will of the Father. He put away any selfish inclinations to avoid the suffering He went through and stuck with it and completed all the Father sent Him to do!
I am so grateful for the Atoning sacrifice and how it has helped me overcome hard things in my life. There have been sins I committed that I needed to be forgiven, and He forgave me and made me clean again. That lifted a heavy burden too much to bear for me, and He made it light. He made it as if it did not ever happen. There have been difficult situations in my life that I did not cause that broke my heart and caused me to suffer. But His Atoning sacrifice lightened those sorrows and eased those burdens so I could carry them as long as was needed. He has promised to carry us through those difficult times, and He did that for me. There have been tasks that He has asked me to do that were way out of my comfort zone. It was so scary for me to say "Yes", but I did, knowing He would help me accomplish those tasks. He did help me and I was able to be successful. There have been times I have missed loved ones who have died or left for a time from my presence and His Atoning sacrifice has helped me endure those absences and live a happy joyful life without them around me.
The Atonement is available for me and all of us to use in ANY area we are weak or lacking in our lives. We just need to ALLOW that power to work in our lives and humble ourselves. We need to realize that we were not meant to go through life alone. He suffered for us so that we might not suffer like Him. If we do not use this incredible power, we will suffer like He did. That is an unbearable thing to think about, even more than man can suffer!
I hope to use the Atonement more in my life so that I may have more peace and joy in my life!
As I watched the Digging Deeper videos for the class, Brother Robert Walquist asked the question, "How did Christ walk out of Gethsemane alive if He bled from every pore and suffered more than any man could suffer unto death?"
This was a deep question that I had not thought about before. I like the way Brother Walquist answered this question. He explained that Jesus did not kneel in the Garden of Gethsemane as a man or human but, as the Son of God.
Christ had the power as the Son of God to do things that a mere man or human could do. This is another testament to me that Christ was the literal Son of God. He had the power to stop all the suffering that He went through because He had the power of God within Him. He had power over death. But as always He chose to do the will of the Father. He put away any selfish inclinations to avoid the suffering He went through and stuck with it and completed all the Father sent Him to do!
I am so grateful for the Atoning sacrifice and how it has helped me overcome hard things in my life. There have been sins I committed that I needed to be forgiven, and He forgave me and made me clean again. That lifted a heavy burden too much to bear for me, and He made it light. He made it as if it did not ever happen. There have been difficult situations in my life that I did not cause that broke my heart and caused me to suffer. But His Atoning sacrifice lightened those sorrows and eased those burdens so I could carry them as long as was needed. He has promised to carry us through those difficult times, and He did that for me. There have been tasks that He has asked me to do that were way out of my comfort zone. It was so scary for me to say "Yes", but I did, knowing He would help me accomplish those tasks. He did help me and I was able to be successful. There have been times I have missed loved ones who have died or left for a time from my presence and His Atoning sacrifice has helped me endure those absences and live a happy joyful life without them around me.
The Atonement is available for me and all of us to use in ANY area we are weak or lacking in our lives. We just need to ALLOW that power to work in our lives and humble ourselves. We need to realize that we were not meant to go through life alone. He suffered for us so that we might not suffer like Him. If we do not use this incredible power, we will suffer like He did. That is an unbearable thing to think about, even more than man can suffer!
I hope to use the Atonement more in my life so that I may have more peace and joy in my life!
Monday, June 22, 2015
Preparing for the Savior's Second Coming
As I was reading from the Bible in Matthew chapter 13, there are many references to the words take heed and watch. This chapter of the Bible mentions several things we can take heed of or watch for in order to be prepared to meet the Lord when He comes to earth again. I will point out a few that I found:
* There will be wars and rumors of wars.
* There will be earthquakes, famines and trouble.
* The gospel will be published to all nations.
* Brother will betray brother, Father against son, Children against parents.
I have witnessed or heard about all of these except one. The gospel has not been preached to every nation yet. But with all the missionaries we have out in the field and around the world, it will not be long before this will be fulfilled as well.
There are other ways to prepare for the Second Coming. In the following scriptures we read about some other things we can do to prepare.
D&C 87:8, We can stand in holy places and be not moved.
JS Matt 1:32, WE can be aware of prophecies being fulfilled.
JS Matt 1:37, We can treasure up the word and make reading and following the scriptures a priority in our lives.
JS Matt 1:46-50, We can be watchful and be ready for the time that the Son of Man cometh.
D&C 33:17, We can be faithful, and pray always. We need to have our lamps ready and have oil with us.
D&C 45:56-57, We can be wise and receive the truth and take the Holy Ghost as our guide.
I want to be ready for when Christ comes again. I look forward to the time when He comes and there will be peace and love among men again. I hope I will do those things that He has asked me to do so that I will be ready. What a glorious day it will be.
* There will be wars and rumors of wars.
* There will be earthquakes, famines and trouble.
* The gospel will be published to all nations.
* Brother will betray brother, Father against son, Children against parents.
I have witnessed or heard about all of these except one. The gospel has not been preached to every nation yet. But with all the missionaries we have out in the field and around the world, it will not be long before this will be fulfilled as well.
There are other ways to prepare for the Second Coming. In the following scriptures we read about some other things we can do to prepare.
D&C 87:8, We can stand in holy places and be not moved.
JS Matt 1:32, WE can be aware of prophecies being fulfilled.
JS Matt 1:37, We can treasure up the word and make reading and following the scriptures a priority in our lives.
JS Matt 1:46-50, We can be watchful and be ready for the time that the Son of Man cometh.
D&C 33:17, We can be faithful, and pray always. We need to have our lamps ready and have oil with us.
D&C 45:56-57, We can be wise and receive the truth and take the Holy Ghost as our guide.
I want to be ready for when Christ comes again. I look forward to the time when He comes and there will be peace and love among men again. I hope I will do those things that He has asked me to do so that I will be ready. What a glorious day it will be.
Thursday, June 18, 2015
Why do we labor for the welfare of others?
Part A: Jacob 1:15-19
What did Jacob list as his motive for laboring diligently?
The people began to grow hard in their hearts and indulge in wicked practices, so Jacob needed to talk with them and counsel them.
What wicked practices were the Nephites beginning to observe?
They were beginning to desire many wives and concubines and also searching for much gold and silver and be lifted in pride.
Why did Jacob labor with all diligence among his people?
Because if he did not teach the truth with all diligence the sins of the people would be upon his head.
What are some good examples you have seen of people magnifying callings?
Those who take time to study their message. Those who pray about what to say and sacrifice in order to be in tune with the spirit to help others the way God wants and needs.
How will knowing Jacob's motives and seeing the example of others motivate you in fulfilling your callings now and in the future?
It is truly inspiring to see that light of Christ in others eyes and to see them truly wanting to help others. It makes me want to be better and truly help others. It will take a constant check on my motives and willingness to give my best to the Lord and His children.
Part B: Jacob 4:4-11 record a phrase that you feel reveals something about Jesus' Christs life and mission.
vs. 4: Jacob and all the holy prophets knew of Jesus Christ and had faith in Him hundreds of years before His coming.
vs 5: Abraham offering Isaac as a sacrifice is in similitude of God and his Only Begotten Son.
vs. 6-7: The power of Jesus is revealed in our faith and can move mountains or trees or the sea.
vs. 8-9: It is impossible to know all Jesus' ways. He created the earth and man can command the earth according to his pleasure.
vs. 10: Seek not to counsel the Lord but to take counsel from the Lord. He is wise above all.
vs. 11: As we recognize and accept the role of Christ and the power of His Atonement, we may not only obtain a resurrection but hope of glory in eternal life.
What did Jacob list as his motive for laboring diligently?
The people began to grow hard in their hearts and indulge in wicked practices, so Jacob needed to talk with them and counsel them.
What wicked practices were the Nephites beginning to observe?
They were beginning to desire many wives and concubines and also searching for much gold and silver and be lifted in pride.
Why did Jacob labor with all diligence among his people?
Because if he did not teach the truth with all diligence the sins of the people would be upon his head.
What are some good examples you have seen of people magnifying callings?
Those who take time to study their message. Those who pray about what to say and sacrifice in order to be in tune with the spirit to help others the way God wants and needs.
How will knowing Jacob's motives and seeing the example of others motivate you in fulfilling your callings now and in the future?
It is truly inspiring to see that light of Christ in others eyes and to see them truly wanting to help others. It makes me want to be better and truly help others. It will take a constant check on my motives and willingness to give my best to the Lord and His children.
Part B: Jacob 4:4-11 record a phrase that you feel reveals something about Jesus' Christs life and mission.
vs. 4: Jacob and all the holy prophets knew of Jesus Christ and had faith in Him hundreds of years before His coming.
vs 5: Abraham offering Isaac as a sacrifice is in similitude of God and his Only Begotten Son.
vs. 6-7: The power of Jesus is revealed in our faith and can move mountains or trees or the sea.
vs. 8-9: It is impossible to know all Jesus' ways. He created the earth and man can command the earth according to his pleasure.
vs. 10: Seek not to counsel the Lord but to take counsel from the Lord. He is wise above all.
vs. 11: As we recognize and accept the role of Christ and the power of His Atonement, we may not only obtain a resurrection but hope of glory in eternal life.
Tuesday, June 16, 2015
The Last Week Of Jesus' Life
The Overview of the Last Week of the Savior's Life:
Day 1: Jesus rode through the city on a donkey. Those who knew Him to be a prophet placed palm branches as a path and shouted "Hosanna in the highest." He went to the temple.
Day 2: He went to the temple again and drove out the money changers. Jesus returns to Bethany.
Day 3: Jesus goes to the temple again and the priests challenge His authority. Jesus responds with parables that offend the Jews. Jesus calls them hypocrites. From now on He only teaches the 12 apostles not the public. The Jewish leaders plan how to kill Jesus. One of Jesus' apostles offers to betray Him.
Day 4: Jesus knows of the plot to kill Him. He stays outside the city. Not much is written of what happened on this day.
Day 5: Jesus commemorates the Passover. Jesus introduces the Sacrament. He prophesies of his death and who would betray Him. He goes to Gethsemane and pleads with the Father to let the cup pass from Him, but allows His will be done. He suffers for each of us. Judas betrays Him and He is brought to trial.
Day 6: Jesus is charged with two crimes. 1) blasphemy and 2) sedition against the state. Fear of the riotous crowd would prompt Pilate to sentence Jesus to death. He is crucified and dies. Jesus is buried in a tomb.
Day 7 (Sabbath): Jesus' body remains in the tomb. His Spirit ministers to those in the Spirit World.
Day of Resurrection: Jesus emerges from the tomb and appears to Mary. Jesus lives and through Him we each will live again and may have eternal life.
I am so grateful for the Savior and all that He suffered for me. I am grateful for the knowledge that I have that He lives. Because I know this, I also know that those I loved here on earth that have passed away live too! I will see them again and be able to be with my family forever. I am so grateful for this testimony!
Day 1: Jesus rode through the city on a donkey. Those who knew Him to be a prophet placed palm branches as a path and shouted "Hosanna in the highest." He went to the temple.
Day 2: He went to the temple again and drove out the money changers. Jesus returns to Bethany.
Day 3: Jesus goes to the temple again and the priests challenge His authority. Jesus responds with parables that offend the Jews. Jesus calls them hypocrites. From now on He only teaches the 12 apostles not the public. The Jewish leaders plan how to kill Jesus. One of Jesus' apostles offers to betray Him.
Day 4: Jesus knows of the plot to kill Him. He stays outside the city. Not much is written of what happened on this day.
Day 5: Jesus commemorates the Passover. Jesus introduces the Sacrament. He prophesies of his death and who would betray Him. He goes to Gethsemane and pleads with the Father to let the cup pass from Him, but allows His will be done. He suffers for each of us. Judas betrays Him and He is brought to trial.
Day 6: Jesus is charged with two crimes. 1) blasphemy and 2) sedition against the state. Fear of the riotous crowd would prompt Pilate to sentence Jesus to death. He is crucified and dies. Jesus is buried in a tomb.
Day 7 (Sabbath): Jesus' body remains in the tomb. His Spirit ministers to those in the Spirit World.
Day of Resurrection: Jesus emerges from the tomb and appears to Mary. Jesus lives and through Him we each will live again and may have eternal life.
I am so grateful for the Savior and all that He suffered for me. I am grateful for the knowledge that I have that He lives. Because I know this, I also know that those I loved here on earth that have passed away live too! I will see them again and be able to be with my family forever. I am so grateful for this testimony!
Friday, June 12, 2015
God is the same yesterday, today and forever
So this week in my Book of Mormon class it has really sunk into my heart that God is the same yesterday, today and forever. I have heard people say that this term relates to God in the premortal life, mortal life and postmortal life. I agree with this, but this week I am seeing it as meaning God is the same throughout mortal life. If God was willing to part the red sea for Moses and the Israelites then he will be willing to part the sea for me.
In the directed study it talked about people saying that we have a Bible so we don't need anymore Bible, speaking of new scripture. I loved how the Book of Mormon talks about this. In 2 Nephi 29:7 it reads, "Know ye not that there are more nations than one? Know ye not that I, the Lord your God, have created all men, and that I remember those who are upon the isles of the sea; and that I rule in the heavens above and in the earth beneath; and I bring forth my word unto the children of men, yea, even upon all nations of the earth?" continuing in vs. 8..."Wherefore, murmur ye, because that ye shall receive more of my word? Know ye not that the testimony of two nations is a witness unto you that I am God, that I remember one nation like unto another? Wherefore, I speak the same words unto one nation like unto another. And when the two nations shall run together the testimony of the two nations shall run together also."
These scriptures talk about the importance of all of Gods children. The Bible is a record of the Jews and those people, the Book of Mormon is a record of people that lived in the Americas. We have been told that there will be more records revealed of other nations and other people. These records are provided to us as a witness that God is involved in all of our lives no matter where we live. He treats us all the same.
Another thing that stood out to me about God being the same throughout time and for each of us is the scriptures that talk about God performing miracles. We have records of God performing miracles in Biblical times and Book of Mormon times. There are many who say, 2Nephi 28:6 ..."Behold, hearken ye unto my precept; if they shall say there is a miracle wrought by the hand of the Lord, believe it not; for this day he is not a God of miracles; he hath done his work." So many are saying that the time of miracles is past and that the Lord has done his work and miracles have ceased!
But in 2 Nephi 27:23 it reads, "For behold, I am God; and I am a God of miracles; and I will show unto the world that I am the same yesterday, today, and forever; and I work not among the children of men save it be according to their faith." So God is telling us that he is a God of miracles and he continues to perform miracles according to our faith. I love this truth.
I just want to bear testimony that I have seen God perform miracles in my life just has he has done in the past for those people we read about in Holy scriptures. I remember one time as I prayed for a small miracle that I said, "Thou has done this for people in the past, I know Thou can do this for me today." God performed a miracle for me that day by making the rain stop long enough for me to go to the store with my three small children. I have had many miracles happen since that day and I can tell you that God is alive in our lives. He will perform miracles in our lives according to our faith and according to His will. I know this is true and I am so grateful that He treats me the same as He has treated people in the past!
In the directed study it talked about people saying that we have a Bible so we don't need anymore Bible, speaking of new scripture. I loved how the Book of Mormon talks about this. In 2 Nephi 29:7 it reads, "Know ye not that there are more nations than one? Know ye not that I, the Lord your God, have created all men, and that I remember those who are upon the isles of the sea; and that I rule in the heavens above and in the earth beneath; and I bring forth my word unto the children of men, yea, even upon all nations of the earth?" continuing in vs. 8..."Wherefore, murmur ye, because that ye shall receive more of my word? Know ye not that the testimony of two nations is a witness unto you that I am God, that I remember one nation like unto another? Wherefore, I speak the same words unto one nation like unto another. And when the two nations shall run together the testimony of the two nations shall run together also."
These scriptures talk about the importance of all of Gods children. The Bible is a record of the Jews and those people, the Book of Mormon is a record of people that lived in the Americas. We have been told that there will be more records revealed of other nations and other people. These records are provided to us as a witness that God is involved in all of our lives no matter where we live. He treats us all the same.
Another thing that stood out to me about God being the same throughout time and for each of us is the scriptures that talk about God performing miracles. We have records of God performing miracles in Biblical times and Book of Mormon times. There are many who say, 2Nephi 28:6 ..."Behold, hearken ye unto my precept; if they shall say there is a miracle wrought by the hand of the Lord, believe it not; for this day he is not a God of miracles; he hath done his work." So many are saying that the time of miracles is past and that the Lord has done his work and miracles have ceased!
But in 2 Nephi 27:23 it reads, "For behold, I am God; and I am a God of miracles; and I will show unto the world that I am the same yesterday, today, and forever; and I work not among the children of men save it be according to their faith." So God is telling us that he is a God of miracles and he continues to perform miracles according to our faith. I love this truth.
I just want to bear testimony that I have seen God perform miracles in my life just has he has done in the past for those people we read about in Holy scriptures. I remember one time as I prayed for a small miracle that I said, "Thou has done this for people in the past, I know Thou can do this for me today." God performed a miracle for me that day by making the rain stop long enough for me to go to the store with my three small children. I have had many miracles happen since that day and I can tell you that God is alive in our lives. He will perform miracles in our lives according to our faith and according to His will. I know this is true and I am so grateful that He treats me the same as He has treated people in the past!
Monday, June 8, 2015
Exploring parables
As I read the about the young rich man who asked Jesus what he needed to do to get into heaven it makes me look at myself and wonder if I am like this man who could not give up his riches to follow Jesus. After Jesus told the man to go and sell all he had and follow him, the young man went away sorrowful because he had many possessions. He could not give up all he owned to know God.
So I was talking with my daughter about this. She just got a new cell phone. I asked her if she would be able to give that cell phone to someone who didn't have a phone. We had just been talking about the rich young man and how it is important to give what we have. We thought we could do that. But when I asked her if she could give her cell phone to a lady in our ward who really doesn't have much. She hesitated and said she would rather buy her another phone, a cheap one. This is a hard one. It is something we must all continually work on and try harder to not become attached to our THINGS!
In Matthew 6:19-24 it explains that it is hard for a rich man to get into heaven because he has a hard time giving up the things of the world.
The Savior promises all of us that will make sacrifices to follow him that we will receive an hundred fold and shall inherit eternal life.
So what will help me put the Savior first in my life?
Most importantly will be to keep an eternal perspective and not a worldly one. I get easily distracted when my focus is on worldly things. Starting my day with prayers and scripture study show I am putting the Lord first. When I make time for Family Home Evening, temple service, my visiting teaching and attending church on Sunday and partaking of the sacrament are a few of the ways I can put the Lord first. I can do my best in my callings and make sure to put my family first and show my greatest love and kindness to them. When I get my priorities straight and make time for the Lord first--I know that the other things that are less important will drop out of my life. As these lesser things drop out of my life it will make it even easier to serve the Lord.
There is the parable in Matthew 20:1-16 that talks about those who serve the Lord and what their rewards are:
There are those that are hired in the morning, those the 3rd, 6th, 9th and 11th hour. The first group in the morning agree to get paid a penny a day. The other groups agree to get paid what is right. The morning group works 12 hours, the 3rd hour group works 9 hours, the 6th hour group works 6 hours, the 9th hour group works 3 hours and the 11th hour group only works one hour. When it comes time to pay them for their labors each group of laborers gets paid exactly the same amount, one penny.
So what do we learn from this parable about serving in the Lord's kingdom?
I learn that the Lord promises each of us all he has if we will serve and follow him. It does not matter when we come to him.
What message of comfort can this parable have for converts to the church?
It brings comfort knowing that they didn't miss out on any blessings of the Lord just because they didn't know about the gospel sooner.
What would I tell someone who feels it is unfair for each of the laborers to be paid equally?
I would explain that none of us can earn the reward on our own efforts, if the reward is eternal life. We all depend on the Lord for the reward. The Lord loves all of us equally and wants us to each be blessed according to that love he has or us. He keeps his arms open continually ready to take us in as we are willing and ready. Each of the laborers agreed to what they would receive, so how is that unfair? I will rejoice if those I have loved are able to receive all the Father has, even after years of going astray. I am grateful for this wonderful promise, what hope it gives to all of us.
So I was talking with my daughter about this. She just got a new cell phone. I asked her if she would be able to give that cell phone to someone who didn't have a phone. We had just been talking about the rich young man and how it is important to give what we have. We thought we could do that. But when I asked her if she could give her cell phone to a lady in our ward who really doesn't have much. She hesitated and said she would rather buy her another phone, a cheap one. This is a hard one. It is something we must all continually work on and try harder to not become attached to our THINGS!
In Matthew 6:19-24 it explains that it is hard for a rich man to get into heaven because he has a hard time giving up the things of the world.
The Savior promises all of us that will make sacrifices to follow him that we will receive an hundred fold and shall inherit eternal life.
So what will help me put the Savior first in my life?
Most importantly will be to keep an eternal perspective and not a worldly one. I get easily distracted when my focus is on worldly things. Starting my day with prayers and scripture study show I am putting the Lord first. When I make time for Family Home Evening, temple service, my visiting teaching and attending church on Sunday and partaking of the sacrament are a few of the ways I can put the Lord first. I can do my best in my callings and make sure to put my family first and show my greatest love and kindness to them. When I get my priorities straight and make time for the Lord first--I know that the other things that are less important will drop out of my life. As these lesser things drop out of my life it will make it even easier to serve the Lord.
There is the parable in Matthew 20:1-16 that talks about those who serve the Lord and what their rewards are:
There are those that are hired in the morning, those the 3rd, 6th, 9th and 11th hour. The first group in the morning agree to get paid a penny a day. The other groups agree to get paid what is right. The morning group works 12 hours, the 3rd hour group works 9 hours, the 6th hour group works 6 hours, the 9th hour group works 3 hours and the 11th hour group only works one hour. When it comes time to pay them for their labors each group of laborers gets paid exactly the same amount, one penny.
So what do we learn from this parable about serving in the Lord's kingdom?
I learn that the Lord promises each of us all he has if we will serve and follow him. It does not matter when we come to him.
What message of comfort can this parable have for converts to the church?
It brings comfort knowing that they didn't miss out on any blessings of the Lord just because they didn't know about the gospel sooner.
What would I tell someone who feels it is unfair for each of the laborers to be paid equally?
I would explain that none of us can earn the reward on our own efforts, if the reward is eternal life. We all depend on the Lord for the reward. The Lord loves all of us equally and wants us to each be blessed according to that love he has or us. He keeps his arms open continually ready to take us in as we are willing and ready. Each of the laborers agreed to what they would receive, so how is that unfair? I will rejoice if those I have loved are able to receive all the Father has, even after years of going astray. I am grateful for this wonderful promise, what hope it gives to all of us.
Thursday, June 4, 2015
We believe in the same organization that existed in the primitive church.
I was able to search some scriptures in the book of Luke in the Bible and found out some interesting things about the seventy in our church and also the primitive church. This is what I learned:
In Luke 10:1-24 the Lord gives counsel to the seventy. He tells them not to worry about their own needs, but to go and preach to all who will let them in. He asks them to take His Spirit with them into their homes and to heal the sick. He says to only preach to those who will accept them. They are also given power over their enemies so that nothing will harm them.
The 6th Article of Faith says, "We believe in the same organization that existed in the primitive church, namely apostles, prophets, pastors, teachers, evangelists and so forth. Scriptures in Luke help support this Article.
In Luke 10:1-2 it states that there were the seventy, we also have seventy.
In Luke 10:8-9 it talks about healing the sick, we also heal the sick through the power of the priesthood.
In Luke 10:17-20 it says the devil is subject to the Lord, so as when we have the spirit of the Lord with us we also will have power over the devil.
On the Church website in the guide to the scriptures under "seventy" it gives scriptures that tell us more about the existence of the seventy in the priesthood.
Luke 10:1 Lord appoints seventy.
D&C 107:25-26 Seventy are called to preach the gospel and be special witnesses of Jesus Christ.
D&C 107:34 Seventy act in name of the Lord under direction of the twelve.
I love how we learn that we have the same church that existed back in Chirsts' day. It is a comfort to know that God is the same yesterday, today and forever.
In Luke 10:1-24 the Lord gives counsel to the seventy. He tells them not to worry about their own needs, but to go and preach to all who will let them in. He asks them to take His Spirit with them into their homes and to heal the sick. He says to only preach to those who will accept them. They are also given power over their enemies so that nothing will harm them.
The 6th Article of Faith says, "We believe in the same organization that existed in the primitive church, namely apostles, prophets, pastors, teachers, evangelists and so forth. Scriptures in Luke help support this Article.
In Luke 10:1-2 it states that there were the seventy, we also have seventy.
In Luke 10:8-9 it talks about healing the sick, we also heal the sick through the power of the priesthood.
In Luke 10:17-20 it says the devil is subject to the Lord, so as when we have the spirit of the Lord with us we also will have power over the devil.
On the Church website in the guide to the scriptures under "seventy" it gives scriptures that tell us more about the existence of the seventy in the priesthood.
Luke 10:1 Lord appoints seventy.
D&C 107:25-26 Seventy are called to preach the gospel and be special witnesses of Jesus Christ.
D&C 107:34 Seventy act in name of the Lord under direction of the twelve.
I love how we learn that we have the same church that existed back in Chirsts' day. It is a comfort to know that God is the same yesterday, today and forever.
How can I praise the Lord?
The following scriptures teach me about the Savior.
2 Nephi 21:1-5, The Savior will not judge after the sight of his eyes or hearing of his ears but with righteousness he will judge the poor. He will reprove with equity for the meek of the earth. He will slay the wicked.
2 Nephi 22:1-6, The Savior comforts us. He is our strength and song and salvation.
D&C 113:1-2, The Savior is the Stem of Jesse spoken of by Isaiah.
Isaiah suggests that we can praise the Lord by singing and by thanking him. We can praise him even when we don't feel like things have gone our way. We can praise him by trusting him and not being afraid. We praise him by praying to him. We can let others know what the Lord has done for us and this praises the Lord.
This gives me reason to lift up my head and rejoice because I know that the Lord is mindful of me and knows my needs. I know that He will take care of me and do what is best for me. I know that I should never be afraid and that the Lord is always at my side to help me and lead me. He can give me strength when I feel weak or discouraged. I can trust that he knows how to judge others and let the burden of not forgiving go. I don't have to judge whether someone deserves my love. I just need to love and let the Lord do the judging. I will be blessed by following and trusting the Lord.
I have already seen this in my life and know that the Lord does not desert us in our time of need. He has helped me so many times to be strong and make it through hard things. I am grateful that he knows what I need to become who he wants me to become. I know he is there for me and I know he is there for you!
2 Nephi 21:1-5, The Savior will not judge after the sight of his eyes or hearing of his ears but with righteousness he will judge the poor. He will reprove with equity for the meek of the earth. He will slay the wicked.
2 Nephi 22:1-6, The Savior comforts us. He is our strength and song and salvation.
D&C 113:1-2, The Savior is the Stem of Jesse spoken of by Isaiah.
Isaiah suggests that we can praise the Lord by singing and by thanking him. We can praise him even when we don't feel like things have gone our way. We can praise him by trusting him and not being afraid. We praise him by praying to him. We can let others know what the Lord has done for us and this praises the Lord.
This gives me reason to lift up my head and rejoice because I know that the Lord is mindful of me and knows my needs. I know that He will take care of me and do what is best for me. I know that I should never be afraid and that the Lord is always at my side to help me and lead me. He can give me strength when I feel weak or discouraged. I can trust that he knows how to judge others and let the burden of not forgiving go. I don't have to judge whether someone deserves my love. I just need to love and let the Lord do the judging. I will be blessed by following and trusting the Lord.
I have already seen this in my life and know that the Lord does not desert us in our time of need. He has helped me so many times to be strong and make it through hard things. I am grateful that he knows what I need to become who he wants me to become. I know he is there for me and I know he is there for you!
Thursday, May 28, 2015
What does delight mean?
So this week as I was studying the Book of Mormon I was also thinking of an assignment given to me to think of what it means for the Sabbath to be a delight. The Lord truly blessed me this week to be able to accomplish this through a venue I was already using. As I read this week from 2 Nephi 9:49 this phrase stood out to me, "and my heart delighteth in righteousness...". My eye was drawn to the word delighteth. I noticed there was a footnote on that word so I looked below and saw that it said, "desires, motivations". It was neat to see my mind working and the spirit working in me too. In order to have the Sabbath be a delight to us, we need to have righteous desires and motivations. Our desires and motivations need to be aligned with what the Lord would have us do on His day.
I just want to bear my testimony that the Book of Mormon is a wonderful tool that can help us in our daily lives and with our daily questions and struggles, if we will take time to read it faithfully. The Lord is ready to answer us and help us but we need to look to His word to find those answers. I have often heard, "If you want to talk to God, PRAY. If you want God to talk to you, READ YOUR SCRIPTURES." This has been so true in my life. There have been so many times that I have had struggles in life that didn't pertain to what I was necessarily reading, but the Lord gave me insight and understanding that helped me find answers to those struggles and questions. It is a miracle how it happens. The Lord fulfills his promises to his children if they will just do what he asks them to do! I am so grateful for the scriptures and for the way they teach me Gods will. This week was no exception! I learned much!
I just want to bear my testimony that the Book of Mormon is a wonderful tool that can help us in our daily lives and with our daily questions and struggles, if we will take time to read it faithfully. The Lord is ready to answer us and help us but we need to look to His word to find those answers. I have often heard, "If you want to talk to God, PRAY. If you want God to talk to you, READ YOUR SCRIPTURES." This has been so true in my life. There have been so many times that I have had struggles in life that didn't pertain to what I was necessarily reading, but the Lord gave me insight and understanding that helped me find answers to those struggles and questions. It is a miracle how it happens. The Lord fulfills his promises to his children if they will just do what he asks them to do! I am so grateful for the scriptures and for the way they teach me Gods will. This week was no exception! I learned much!
Tuesday, May 26, 2015
Becoming Like Little Children
In Matthew 18:3-4 We are taught that the Lord wants us to become like little children by being humble and by treating everyone with love and kindness.
In Doctrine and Covenants 78:17-18 we learn that the Lord wants to help us become like little children. He has told us that he will lead us along and help us little by little, line upon line, as we are ready for more guidance. We are the Lords sheep and he cares for each one of us. He will tenderly teach us and guide us in our quest to become like little children. The Lord has a great love for each of us and will help us with all that he has to help us become who we need to become.
In Mosiah 3:19 we learn the specific ways we are to become as little children. We are to be submissive, meek, humble, patient, full of love, willing to submit to all things which the Lord sees fit to inflict upon us.
WoW! This is quite the list. It is a gentle reminder to me that I have quite a way to go before I am like a little child. I faith and trust in the Lord that He will lead the way for me to become as a little child if I will allow Him to lead me. It is my quest in life and should be the quest of each of us, to become as little children!
In Doctrine and Covenants 78:17-18 we learn that the Lord wants to help us become like little children. He has told us that he will lead us along and help us little by little, line upon line, as we are ready for more guidance. We are the Lords sheep and he cares for each one of us. He will tenderly teach us and guide us in our quest to become like little children. The Lord has a great love for each of us and will help us with all that he has to help us become who we need to become.
In Mosiah 3:19 we learn the specific ways we are to become as little children. We are to be submissive, meek, humble, patient, full of love, willing to submit to all things which the Lord sees fit to inflict upon us.
WoW! This is quite the list. It is a gentle reminder to me that I have quite a way to go before I am like a little child. I faith and trust in the Lord that He will lead the way for me to become as a little child if I will allow Him to lead me. It is my quest in life and should be the quest of each of us, to become as little children!
Friday, May 22, 2015
Two similar miracles Jesus performed
Two miracles that Jesus performed were recorded in Matthew. The first one was in chapter 14:14-21 and the other in 15:32-38.
* How many people were present? In the first miracle 5,000 men plus women and children were there. The second miracle there were 4,000 men plus women and children.
* What did they need? Both groups of people wanted to be healed and both groups were hungry.
* What were they able to offer in an effort to meet that need? The first had 5 loaves and two fishes. The second had 7 loaves of bread and a few fishes.
*What words or phrases describe the Saviors feelings toward the multitudes in their time of need? In the first miracle it said He had compassion toward them. In the second He said He had compassion on the multitude, because they continue with me now three days and have nothing to eat.
*What words or phrases describe what the Savior was able to provide for the multitudes? In the first miracle Jesus healed their sick, He told them they need not depart, He gave them to eat and they were all filled. In the second one they did all eat and were filled.
In each story there wasn't enough food for everyone, yet with the Lord's help there was enough. In Romans 3:23 we learn that another way men fall short in receiving the glory of God is through sin. According to Ether 12:27 the Lord helps us overcome our shortcomings is by showing us our weaknesses. This helps us to be humble and eventually become strong. It is through His grace and being humble before Him that we can be enough for the Lord and be made strong. It truly is a miracle in each of our lives how the Lord makes us enough and helps us be whole.
* How many people were present? In the first miracle 5,000 men plus women and children were there. The second miracle there were 4,000 men plus women and children.
* What did they need? Both groups of people wanted to be healed and both groups were hungry.
* What were they able to offer in an effort to meet that need? The first had 5 loaves and two fishes. The second had 7 loaves of bread and a few fishes.
*What words or phrases describe the Saviors feelings toward the multitudes in their time of need? In the first miracle it said He had compassion toward them. In the second He said He had compassion on the multitude, because they continue with me now three days and have nothing to eat.
*What words or phrases describe what the Savior was able to provide for the multitudes? In the first miracle Jesus healed their sick, He told them they need not depart, He gave them to eat and they were all filled. In the second one they did all eat and were filled.
In each story there wasn't enough food for everyone, yet with the Lord's help there was enough. In Romans 3:23 we learn that another way men fall short in receiving the glory of God is through sin. According to Ether 12:27 the Lord helps us overcome our shortcomings is by showing us our weaknesses. This helps us to be humble and eventually become strong. It is through His grace and being humble before Him that we can be enough for the Lord and be made strong. It truly is a miracle in each of our lives how the Lord makes us enough and helps us be whole.
Wednesday, May 13, 2015
What I am learning about John the Baptist.
John the Baptist sent his 2 disciples to visit Jesus Christ and ask him a question. What was that question?
They asked him if he was the Christ or the Messiah.
Why would John the Baptist ask his disciples to go and ask such a question for him?
From what I understand, John the Baptist already knew the Christ and who He was. He wanted to help his disciples realize who Christ was so they would be willing to leave him and follow Jesus and become Jesus' disciples. So it was more to help persuade his disciples that Jesus was the Christ than a reassurance for himself. John the Baptist knew who Jesus was. He wanted his disciples to worship and follow Jesus.
What did the Savior say about John the Baptist?
In Matthew 11:11 Jesus says that there hath not risen a greater than John the Baptist. In Luke 7:28 he said that there is no greater prophet than John the Baptist.
What are 3 reasons given by Joseph Smith that John the Baptist was considered among the greatest prophets?
Reason #1: John the Baptist was entrusted with the mission to prepare the way of the Lord, Jesus Christ. He preached to the people preparing them to receive Jesus.
Reason #2: John the Baptist was the one who baptized Jesus.
Reason #3: John the Baptist was the only one at that time on earth holding the keys of power and was the legal administrator in the affairs of the kingdom.
What does John 3:30 suggests about the attitude of John the Baptist towards Jesus Christ?
John the Baptist glorified Christ and placed Him above himself and worshiped Him. How could I apply a similar attitude in my life? I could do likewise by always giving the credit and glory to God, thanking Him for the good and the hard in my life. I could make sure to place God first in my life and do His will and let my life truly be in line with the Saviors. I would be okay if I never got thanks for or credit for the good I did or service I rendered, knowing that I was doing it for God would be enough. I could be like John the Baptist just by living a Christ-centered life.
They asked him if he was the Christ or the Messiah.
Why would John the Baptist ask his disciples to go and ask such a question for him?
From what I understand, John the Baptist already knew the Christ and who He was. He wanted to help his disciples realize who Christ was so they would be willing to leave him and follow Jesus and become Jesus' disciples. So it was more to help persuade his disciples that Jesus was the Christ than a reassurance for himself. John the Baptist knew who Jesus was. He wanted his disciples to worship and follow Jesus.
What did the Savior say about John the Baptist?
In Matthew 11:11 Jesus says that there hath not risen a greater than John the Baptist. In Luke 7:28 he said that there is no greater prophet than John the Baptist.
What are 3 reasons given by Joseph Smith that John the Baptist was considered among the greatest prophets?
Reason #1: John the Baptist was entrusted with the mission to prepare the way of the Lord, Jesus Christ. He preached to the people preparing them to receive Jesus.
Reason #2: John the Baptist was the one who baptized Jesus.
Reason #3: John the Baptist was the only one at that time on earth holding the keys of power and was the legal administrator in the affairs of the kingdom.
What does John 3:30 suggests about the attitude of John the Baptist towards Jesus Christ?
John the Baptist glorified Christ and placed Him above himself and worshiped Him. How could I apply a similar attitude in my life? I could do likewise by always giving the credit and glory to God, thanking Him for the good and the hard in my life. I could make sure to place God first in my life and do His will and let my life truly be in line with the Saviors. I would be okay if I never got thanks for or credit for the good I did or service I rendered, knowing that I was doing it for God would be enough. I could be like John the Baptist just by living a Christ-centered life.
How I learn and grow through my trials.
I really liked this week how we learned about our trials and how we learn from them and draw closer to God through them.
I also learned a new tool that will hopefully help me draw closer to my Savior and be more like him. I'd like to address these two things this week.
First, how can trials and afflictions help refine me and help me be faithful to the Lord?
In the scriptures we read how the Lord chastens those whom he loves. So why do we always feel so picked on when we are called to go through tribulations? Here are some things I have learned from my trials and why I should rejoice when I have difficult things to face and go through!
My trials have helped me realize that I cannot handle life on my own, I am not meant to. Our trials help us rely on the Lord. It is through my trials that I have come to know the Lord and know that He is real and answers my prayers. I've learned to lean on Him and trust Him. I have also learned to be more obedient through the chastening I have received. I don't like certain feelings I get when I disobey and thus I try to avoid those situations and try hard to obey and have those feelings of peace in my life. Sometimes I wonder if the length of my afflictions would be shorter had I seen the Lords hand more during them and allowed Him to teach me what I needed to know more quickly?
So as much as I do not want to go through hard things, it is those hard things that have made me more faithful and dedicated to the Lord.
Next, There are some things we learn from the children of Israel that can help us in our day. I feel like the message the Lord would give to modern Israel would be to notice His hand more in our lives. He is in the details of our lives and we must recognize that in order to see the many blessings. He would ask us to follow the prophet, Thomas S. Monson. Prophets throughout time have led their people to safety and it is not different in our day. If we obey the Lords commandments we will have good, blessed lives of happiness.
So this week my daughter came home from her mission in Mexico! What a wonderful thing it is to have her back home! As the Stake President was releasing her he mentioned something that will really help me in becoming more like Christ. He asked her how the temple blesses people? After mentioning several things, the Stake President added this extra thing...He said that in the temple we promise God to do things. We make sacred covenants. He went on to say that in our prayers we often say, "Please help me to be kind." etc... what would be better is if we simply said, "I promise that I will be kind to my family." I am trying that technique in my prayers and hoping that I am more aware of the seriousness of my commitment and promises to the Lord. It has already made me feel different! I am promising to be kind and I only make promises when I mean it!
I also learned a new tool that will hopefully help me draw closer to my Savior and be more like him. I'd like to address these two things this week.
First, how can trials and afflictions help refine me and help me be faithful to the Lord?
In the scriptures we read how the Lord chastens those whom he loves. So why do we always feel so picked on when we are called to go through tribulations? Here are some things I have learned from my trials and why I should rejoice when I have difficult things to face and go through!
My trials have helped me realize that I cannot handle life on my own, I am not meant to. Our trials help us rely on the Lord. It is through my trials that I have come to know the Lord and know that He is real and answers my prayers. I've learned to lean on Him and trust Him. I have also learned to be more obedient through the chastening I have received. I don't like certain feelings I get when I disobey and thus I try to avoid those situations and try hard to obey and have those feelings of peace in my life. Sometimes I wonder if the length of my afflictions would be shorter had I seen the Lords hand more during them and allowed Him to teach me what I needed to know more quickly?
So as much as I do not want to go through hard things, it is those hard things that have made me more faithful and dedicated to the Lord.
Next, There are some things we learn from the children of Israel that can help us in our day. I feel like the message the Lord would give to modern Israel would be to notice His hand more in our lives. He is in the details of our lives and we must recognize that in order to see the many blessings. He would ask us to follow the prophet, Thomas S. Monson. Prophets throughout time have led their people to safety and it is not different in our day. If we obey the Lords commandments we will have good, blessed lives of happiness.
So this week my daughter came home from her mission in Mexico! What a wonderful thing it is to have her back home! As the Stake President was releasing her he mentioned something that will really help me in becoming more like Christ. He asked her how the temple blesses people? After mentioning several things, the Stake President added this extra thing...He said that in the temple we promise God to do things. We make sacred covenants. He went on to say that in our prayers we often say, "Please help me to be kind." etc... what would be better is if we simply said, "I promise that I will be kind to my family." I am trying that technique in my prayers and hoping that I am more aware of the seriousness of my commitment and promises to the Lord. It has already made me feel different! I am promising to be kind and I only make promises when I mean it!
Monday, May 4, 2015
How Miracles affect my faith.
There are several miracles that Jesus performed during his life here on earth. I would like to reference a few of them and then elaborate on how these miracles affect my faith to know that God has this kind of power.
I have often thought of the Super Heroes that many of us admire and look up to, such as SuperMan, BatMan, Spiderman etc. When I think of them and the amazing things they are able to do with their super powers it gives me the chills! BUT, their powers are all fake and made up. They don't really have that power, because they are in the movies they can be made to do ANYTHING. But it is all fake.
When we read about God's power through reading the scriptures, we read of many miraculous things. Healing a blind man, parting the Red Sea, turning mountains into valleys and valleys into mountains, calming the storm tossed sea....etc. The power of God is REAL. What does that mean to me? Will He do for me what He has done for others in the past? Can I access this power for myself and those I love?
Here are a few of the miracles listed in the Bible:
Reference: Miracles of the Lord: Who demonstrated Faith?
Matthew 8:1-4 The Leper was healed of leprosy. The Leper
Matthew 8:5-13 The servant of the centurion was healed. The centurion
Matthew 8:14-15 Peter's wifes mother fever and sickness was healed. Peters wifes mother
Matthew 8:16 Healed the sick and cast out devils of the people. The people.
Matthew 8:23-27 The storm was calmed at sea. His disciples.
Matthew 8:28-34 People were rid of the evil spirits, that entered swine. The people.
Matthew 9:20-22; Woman with issue of blood was healed. The woman.
Mark 5:25-34
Matthew 9:27-31 Two blind men were healed 2 blind men.
Mark 2:1-12 One sick of palsy was healed. Those who were carrying
the son with palsy.
I know that God is the same yesterday, today and forever. So as I read about these miracles, it gives me great hope that since He did it for them He can and will do it for me, if it be according to Gods will. I know Gods power is real and a power I can use and access in my life to bless me and my family. I bear testimony of this power and that miracles exist today. I have witnessed them!
I have often thought of the Super Heroes that many of us admire and look up to, such as SuperMan, BatMan, Spiderman etc. When I think of them and the amazing things they are able to do with their super powers it gives me the chills! BUT, their powers are all fake and made up. They don't really have that power, because they are in the movies they can be made to do ANYTHING. But it is all fake.
When we read about God's power through reading the scriptures, we read of many miraculous things. Healing a blind man, parting the Red Sea, turning mountains into valleys and valleys into mountains, calming the storm tossed sea....etc. The power of God is REAL. What does that mean to me? Will He do for me what He has done for others in the past? Can I access this power for myself and those I love?
Here are a few of the miracles listed in the Bible:
Reference: Miracles of the Lord: Who demonstrated Faith?
Matthew 8:1-4 The Leper was healed of leprosy. The Leper
Matthew 8:5-13 The servant of the centurion was healed. The centurion
Matthew 8:14-15 Peter's wifes mother fever and sickness was healed. Peters wifes mother
Matthew 8:16 Healed the sick and cast out devils of the people. The people.
Matthew 8:23-27 The storm was calmed at sea. His disciples.
Matthew 8:28-34 People were rid of the evil spirits, that entered swine. The people.
Matthew 9:20-22; Woman with issue of blood was healed. The woman.
Mark 5:25-34
Matthew 9:27-31 Two blind men were healed 2 blind men.
Mark 2:1-12 One sick of palsy was healed. Those who were carrying
the son with palsy.
I know that God is the same yesterday, today and forever. So as I read about these miracles, it gives me great hope that since He did it for them He can and will do it for me, if it be according to Gods will. I know Gods power is real and a power I can use and access in my life to bless me and my family. I bear testimony of this power and that miracles exist today. I have witnessed them!
Friday, May 1, 2015
How the Book of Mormon Helps me draw closer to Christ
So this week I have been studying and reading from 1Nephi 1-15. I love the Book of Mormon and learn so many things and ways I can come closer to Christ. I will touch on a few of those here.
First of all, if you are someone that is not familiar with the Book of Mormon and have never read it before I wanted to take a minute and mention a promise and a few things that you can do to find out for yourself of it's truthfulness. I have grown closer to God by reading this book and I want to help you experience what I have. So here is the promise found in the Book of Mormon:
Moroni 10:4-5
"And when ye shall receive these things, I would exhort you that ye would ask God, the Eternal Father, in the name of Christ, if these things are not true; and if ye shall ask with a sincere heart, with real intent, having faith in Christ, he will manifest the truth of it unto you, by the power of the Holy Ghost.
And by the power of the Holy Ghost ye may know the truth of all things."
Also I love how Joseph Smith tells us in the introduction of the Book of Mormon that, "I told the brethren that the Book of Mormon was the most correct of any book on earth, and the keystone of our religion, and a man would get nearer to God by abiding by its precepts, than by any other book."
I just have to add my testimony that I know for myself that the Book of Mormon is true. I put the promise to the test and God answered my sincere prayer. Ever since I have tried to live by its precepts and have been getting nearer to God precept by precept. I am grateful for prayer and personal revelation. I am glad the heavens are open and that God speaks to His children through prayer. It has truly changed my life and made it more beautiful than I could have ever dreamed. So take the chance to find out for yourself. It may change your life too!
Okay, so what have I learned this week from the first chapters of 1Nephi?
Lehi had told his family that the great city of Jerusalem was going to be destroyed and they needed to leave their home and belongings and travel in the wilderness to a safer and better place for them. Laman and Lemuel murmured about it and didn't believe their father. They did not want to go. In 1Nephi 2:12 it reads, "And they did murmur because they knew not the dealings of that God who had created them." So Laman and Lemual did not ask God for clarification. But Nephi on the other hand wanted to know from God about these things, so he went to God in prayer to ask him about it. In 1Nephi 2:16 it reads, "...having great desires to know of the mysteries of God, wherefore, I did cry unto the Lord; and behold he did visit me, and did soften my heart that I did believe all the words which had been spoken by my father; wherefore I did not rebel against him like unto my brothers."
I love this, because the Lord wants us to know for ourselves and He will personally answer our prayers so we can know for ourselves! What a wonderful thing.
Also, later when Lehi asks them to go back to Jerusalem to get the record of the Jews from Laban, once again Laman and Lemuel murmur and complain. It is far away and Laban is an evil man who could destroy them. It was a hard and scary thing their dad was asking them to do! But I love in 1Nephi 3:5 how Lehi tells Nephi this, "behold I have not required it of them, but it is a commandment of the Lord." WOW! The Lord is the one who asked them to do it! Lehi is the prophet that delivers God's word. I love that Nephi's response was, "I will go and do the things which the Lord hath commanded, for I know that the Lord giveth no commandments unto the children of men, save he shall prepare a way for them to accomplish the thing which he commandeth them." I too have been able to do hard things as I have trusted in the Lord and his promise to help me do all things He asks me to do!
I love in 1Nephi 10:19 where it reads, "For he that diligently seeketh shall find; and the mysteries of God shall be unfolded unto them, by the power of the Holy Ghost, as well in these times as in ties of old, and as well in times of old as in times to come; wherefore, the course of the Lord is one eternal round."
The Lord is ready and willing to answer our questions and concerns...but we must diligently seek him!
One last thing, I have loved referring to the scripture, 1Nephi 11:17 to comfort me in times of great trial or confusion. It reads, "And I said unto him; I know that he loveth his children; nevertheless, I do not know the meaning of all things." So whatever trials or hardships I am called to go through, I may not understand the meaning behind the trial but one thing I am confident of....that God loves me! He has never deserted me in my longings for Him. He has always been by my side and helped me. EVERY time I have reached for Him he has been there for me! And that is a WONDERFUL thing to know!
Good luck in your scripture study. There are personal gems for each one of us as we diligently study and search the scriptures. This is where we find the answers that we need in life to guide us safely back to our loving Heavenly Father.
First of all, if you are someone that is not familiar with the Book of Mormon and have never read it before I wanted to take a minute and mention a promise and a few things that you can do to find out for yourself of it's truthfulness. I have grown closer to God by reading this book and I want to help you experience what I have. So here is the promise found in the Book of Mormon:
Moroni 10:4-5
"And when ye shall receive these things, I would exhort you that ye would ask God, the Eternal Father, in the name of Christ, if these things are not true; and if ye shall ask with a sincere heart, with real intent, having faith in Christ, he will manifest the truth of it unto you, by the power of the Holy Ghost.
And by the power of the Holy Ghost ye may know the truth of all things."
Also I love how Joseph Smith tells us in the introduction of the Book of Mormon that, "I told the brethren that the Book of Mormon was the most correct of any book on earth, and the keystone of our religion, and a man would get nearer to God by abiding by its precepts, than by any other book."
I just have to add my testimony that I know for myself that the Book of Mormon is true. I put the promise to the test and God answered my sincere prayer. Ever since I have tried to live by its precepts and have been getting nearer to God precept by precept. I am grateful for prayer and personal revelation. I am glad the heavens are open and that God speaks to His children through prayer. It has truly changed my life and made it more beautiful than I could have ever dreamed. So take the chance to find out for yourself. It may change your life too!
Okay, so what have I learned this week from the first chapters of 1Nephi?
Lehi had told his family that the great city of Jerusalem was going to be destroyed and they needed to leave their home and belongings and travel in the wilderness to a safer and better place for them. Laman and Lemuel murmured about it and didn't believe their father. They did not want to go. In 1Nephi 2:12 it reads, "And they did murmur because they knew not the dealings of that God who had created them." So Laman and Lemual did not ask God for clarification. But Nephi on the other hand wanted to know from God about these things, so he went to God in prayer to ask him about it. In 1Nephi 2:16 it reads, "...having great desires to know of the mysteries of God, wherefore, I did cry unto the Lord; and behold he did visit me, and did soften my heart that I did believe all the words which had been spoken by my father; wherefore I did not rebel against him like unto my brothers."
I love this, because the Lord wants us to know for ourselves and He will personally answer our prayers so we can know for ourselves! What a wonderful thing.
Also, later when Lehi asks them to go back to Jerusalem to get the record of the Jews from Laban, once again Laman and Lemuel murmur and complain. It is far away and Laban is an evil man who could destroy them. It was a hard and scary thing their dad was asking them to do! But I love in 1Nephi 3:5 how Lehi tells Nephi this, "behold I have not required it of them, but it is a commandment of the Lord." WOW! The Lord is the one who asked them to do it! Lehi is the prophet that delivers God's word. I love that Nephi's response was, "I will go and do the things which the Lord hath commanded, for I know that the Lord giveth no commandments unto the children of men, save he shall prepare a way for them to accomplish the thing which he commandeth them." I too have been able to do hard things as I have trusted in the Lord and his promise to help me do all things He asks me to do!
I love in 1Nephi 10:19 where it reads, "For he that diligently seeketh shall find; and the mysteries of God shall be unfolded unto them, by the power of the Holy Ghost, as well in these times as in ties of old, and as well in times of old as in times to come; wherefore, the course of the Lord is one eternal round."
The Lord is ready and willing to answer our questions and concerns...but we must diligently seek him!
One last thing, I have loved referring to the scripture, 1Nephi 11:17 to comfort me in times of great trial or confusion. It reads, "And I said unto him; I know that he loveth his children; nevertheless, I do not know the meaning of all things." So whatever trials or hardships I am called to go through, I may not understand the meaning behind the trial but one thing I am confident of....that God loves me! He has never deserted me in my longings for Him. He has always been by my side and helped me. EVERY time I have reached for Him he has been there for me! And that is a WONDERFUL thing to know!
Good luck in your scripture study. There are personal gems for each one of us as we diligently study and search the scriptures. This is where we find the answers that we need in life to guide us safely back to our loving Heavenly Father.
Thursday, April 30, 2015
Jesus gets baptized
Why would John the Baptist be hesitant to baptize Jesus?
I think he was hesitant because he knew who Jesus was and of his greatness. He did not feel worthy to perform this baptism when he knew he needed the Savior and the baptism the Savior could do for him.
When I read from the New Testament institute manual, I learn many things about the Holy Ghost. The Holy Ghost was represented by the sign of the dove even before the creation. The devil cannot every come in the sign of a dove. So we will never be deceived in that way. The Holy Ghost is a personage, and in the form of a personage. The dove is an emblem of truth, so the sign of the dove is fitting to represent the Holy Ghost. The Holy Ghost cannot change into the form of a dove. John the Baptist saw the Holy Ghost descend in 'bodily shape' and 'like a dove' on Jesus Christ at his baptism.
Three reasons Jesus Christ was baptized as we read in 2Nephi 31:6-11 were 1) To fulfill all righteousness 2) He was obedient to the commandments of the Father and 3) To set an example for us of what we should do.
According to Matthew 3:16-17, we learn that Heavenly Father, Jesus Christ, and the Holy Ghost are three separate beings. First of all, It was witnessed that the Holy Ghost descended upon Jesus in bodily form at His baptism. At that same time a voice came from heaven from God which said, "This is my Beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased." Then lastly you have Jesus, the Son, on earth being baptized by John the Baptist. Three separate beings were represented in these scriptures.
I think he was hesitant because he knew who Jesus was and of his greatness. He did not feel worthy to perform this baptism when he knew he needed the Savior and the baptism the Savior could do for him.
When I read from the New Testament institute manual, I learn many things about the Holy Ghost. The Holy Ghost was represented by the sign of the dove even before the creation. The devil cannot every come in the sign of a dove. So we will never be deceived in that way. The Holy Ghost is a personage, and in the form of a personage. The dove is an emblem of truth, so the sign of the dove is fitting to represent the Holy Ghost. The Holy Ghost cannot change into the form of a dove. John the Baptist saw the Holy Ghost descend in 'bodily shape' and 'like a dove' on Jesus Christ at his baptism.
Three reasons Jesus Christ was baptized as we read in 2Nephi 31:6-11 were 1) To fulfill all righteousness 2) He was obedient to the commandments of the Father and 3) To set an example for us of what we should do.
According to Matthew 3:16-17, we learn that Heavenly Father, Jesus Christ, and the Holy Ghost are three separate beings. First of all, It was witnessed that the Holy Ghost descended upon Jesus in bodily form at His baptism. At that same time a voice came from heaven from God which said, "This is my Beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased." Then lastly you have Jesus, the Son, on earth being baptized by John the Baptist. Three separate beings were represented in these scriptures.
Getting to know Christ
As I was searching scriptures in the New Testament, John 1:1-14, 17:1-5, I was able to learn more about the different names of Christ and some truths about him. I also referenced the Bible Dictionary and the institute manual to help me learn more about Christ. All of these resources can be accessed by going to lds.org.
Five truths I learned about Christs' premortal life are:
1- He is the firstborn of our Heavenly Father's spirit children.
2- He is our elder brother.
3- He was chosen and foreordained to be our Savior.
4- He created the world according to the plan of our Heavenly Father. He was involved in creating many worlds.
5- He chose to be our Savior. He had great love for each of us and was willing to perform that role for us.
Five truths I learned about Christs' mortal life are:
1- He was the Only Begotten Son of the Father of the flesh.
2- He was born of a virgin, Mary.
3- He glorified God on earth and lived a perfect life according to God's word.
4- He had power over all flesh.
5- He finished the work God sent Him to do.
Different names that Jesus is known as, and what they mean:
Christ: means Messiah or Anointed One.
Messiah: means the anointed. It refers to the Deliverer that the Jews were eagerly expecting.
Jehovah: Self existent one or the eternal. Also known as "I AM", which was not to be spoken for fear of incurring divine wrath the Jews believed. When Jesus referred to himself as, "I Am" the Jews wanted to stone and kill him.
Immanuel: means God with us.
The Word: It is through Christ that the word was put into effect. Through Christ the creation came about and He fulfilled all the Father asked Him to do and had planned for us. So it is appropriate to say he is the word because he fulfilled the word.
I want to become more Christlike
So, this blog is a combination of many things. I am taking some religion classes, one studying the New Testament and the life of Christ and the other I am studying the Book of Mormon, another testament of Jesus Christ. One of the things I was asked to do was pick an attribute I could work on the next few months that would help me become more like Christ. I attribute I chose was to have more charity and Christlike love. It is something I need to work on and will be a focus for me in the next months and hopefully a life long quest.
These are some things I will do to help me have more charity in my life.
1- I will try to feel a sincere desire for the eternal welfare and happiness of other people.
2- When I pray I will ask for charity--the pure love of Christ.
3- Come to truly realize and feel that I am a beloved daughter of God and have good self esteem.
4- I will try to look for the best in the people I meet.
5- I will express love to my family and friends by word and deed.
The main reason I am choosing to work on this attribute in my life of gaining more Christlike love is because I want to improve my family relationships. I feel like this is one of the areas I need to work on the most, it is one of my greatest weaknesses. My family is the most important part of my life and they deserve the very best from me. It is my desire to make my home and family relationships as close to heavenly as possible here on earth. It will require my very best efforts to help that happen. I will be recording my progress and the things I am learning along the way.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)