Today's Favorite Verse: Lamentations 2:6-7

Today's Favorite Verse: Lamentations 2:6-7
"And he hath violently taken away his tabernacle, as if it were of a garden: he hath destroyed his places of the assembly: the Lord hath caused the solemn feasts and sabbaths to be forgotten in Zion, and hath despised in the indignation of his anger the king and the priest.
The Lord hath cast off his altar, he hath abhorred his sanctuary, he hath given up into the hand of the enemy the walls of her palaces; they have made a noise in the house of the Lord, as in the day of a solemn feast."

The question that came to me was "Why would the Lord destroy his own house?" Then the quiet answer, "To protect it". The people were unworthy of it and this was what must be done. It reminded of what I saw during Hurricane Harvey in 2017. The Houston Texas temple became surrounded by flood waters. Then the baptistry flooded and several inches of water rose on the main floor. Leaving it significantly damaged. I never saw it as a devastation. I saw it as a protection. For if the temple had remained dry and inhabitable, people in the area would have demanded the doors to be opened as a public shelter. It would have been very difficult for the church to explain how that would not be possible. The matter was settled by the Lord, he flooded it instead.

Day 1374

Today's Favorite Verse: Lamentations 1:1, 16

Today's Favorite Verse: Lamentations 1:1, 16
"How doth the city sit solitary, that was full of people! how is she become as a widow! she that was great among the nations, and princess among the provinces, how is she become tributary!
For these things I weep; mine eye, mine eye runneth down with water, because the comforter that should relieve my soul is far from me: my children are desolate, because the enemy prevailed."

This chapter made me cry for it reminds me of the "would have been's". You grieve for what could have been and wasn't. I can feel Jeremiah's pain, for all that he did to warn the people, yet they would not listen. It did not have to end this way. Why is the comforter gone from him when he mourns? I think it is still there, he is just grieving and cannot feel it. It's part of the bitter and sweet of this life. It is for our experience. I would not be told to "mourn with those that mourn" if there was something bad or evil with such a process. Mourning is exactly what Jeremiah is suppose to do right now.   

Day 1373

Today's Favorite Verse: Jeremiah 52:10

Today's Favorite Verse: Jeremiah 52:10
"And the king of Babylon slew the sons of Zedekiah before his eyes: he slew also all the princes of the Judah in Reblah."

We know that one son of Zedekiah did live to escape the slaughter. I was just this morning listening to some videos that spoke of Mulek in the Book of Mormon, son of Zedekiah. You know if I was Zedekiah I wouldn't have mentioned that they missed one son either. Let them think all his sons are dead.

The video and article goes over an artifact found in Jerusalem and how Malkiyahu, son of the king could be Mulek, son of Zedekiah mentioned in the Book of Mormon.



Day 1372

Today's Favorite Verse: Jeremiah 51:8

Today's Favorite Verse: Jeremiah 51:8
"Babylon is suddenly fallen and destroyed: howl for her; take balm for her pain if so be she may be healed."

This made me think that I never give up hope. No matter how bad the world or Babylon becomes we always pray and hope it will be healed. God never writes anyone off that will repent, and neither should I. There is no limit on how many times the repentance card can be used. Sorrow for their sins and what has fallen upon them. I should never rejoice in someone's down fall. It is only the world that teaches such things.

"Judge not, that ye be not judged.
For with judgment ye judge, ye shall be judged: and with what measure ye mete, it shall be measured to you again."
(Matthew 7:1-2)

Day 1371

Today's Favorite Verse: Jeremiah 50:5

Today's Favorite Verse: Jeremiah 50:5
"They shall ask the way to Zion with their faces thitherward, saying, Come, and let us join ourselves to the Lord in a perpetual covenant that shall not be forgotten."

I thought of "seek and ye shall find". That is the best we all can do, keeping our face toward Zion, seeking the Lord. Once on the covenant path with my face heading toward Christ I will make it home. Doesn't matter how far I have come it's where I am heading  that matters.

Day 1370

Today's Favorite Verse: Jeremiah 49:16

Today's Favorite Verse: Jeremiah 49:16
"Thy terribleness hath deceived thee, and the pride of thine heart, O thou that dwellest in the clefts of the rock, that holdest the height of the hill: though thou shouldest make thy nest as high as the eagle, I will bring thee down from thence, saith the Lord."

It may not be what this verse is talking about, but it made me think of extreme preppers. You can store all the food and supplies that you want. You can live off grid and stock pile  guns. But if you trust in yourself to protect yourself, the Lord will show you otherwise.

Day 1369

Today's Favorite Verse: Jeremiah 48:47

Today's Favorite Verse: Jeremiah 48:47
"Yet will I bring again the captivity of Moab in the latter days, saith the Lord. Thus far is the judgment of Moab."

This verse's reference.

"And in mercy shall the throne be established: and he shall sit upon it in truth in the tabernacle of David, judging, and seeking judgment, and hasting righteousness."
(Isaiah 16:5)

One day our Lord and King, Jesus Christ sit upon his throne and judge in righteousness. As I sit today thinking of Christ's birth, I also sit pondering his second coming.

Day 1368

Today's Favorite Verse: Jeremiah 47:1

Today's Favorite Verse: Jeremiah 47:1
"The word of the Lord that came to Jeremiah the prophet against the Philistines, before that Pharaoh smote Gaza."

I pondered on how the Lord will warn his prophet before destruction comes.

Day 1367

Today's Favorite Verse: Jeremiah 46:10, 27-28

Today's Favorite Verse: Jeremiah 46:10, 27-28
For this is the day of the Lord God of hosts, a day of vengeance, that he may avenge him of his adversaries: and the sword shall devour, and it shall be satiate and made drunk with their blood: for the Lord God of hosts hath a sacrifice in the north country by the river Euphrates.
But fear not thou, O my servant Jacob, and be not dismayed, O Israel: for, behold, I will save thee from afar off, and thy seed from the land of their captivity; and Jacob shall return , and be in rest and at ease, and none shall make him afraid.
Fear thou not, O Jacob my servant, saith the Lord: for I am with thee; for I will make a full end of all the nations whither I have driven thee: but I will not make a full end of thee, but correct thee in measure; yet will I not leave thee wholly unpunished."

I saw the pattern. The Lord's people don't listen to Him so he punished them for their disobedience. Once in captivity He is then able to turn and punish their adversaries. Both sides had lessons to learn from this. I guess that is why the Lord cleanses his own house first. Punishment and correction leads to them humbling themselves and turning back to him. Else how would we ever have youth strong enough to withstand a fiery furnace like Shadrach, Meshach or Abed-nego.   

Day 1366

Today's Favorite Verse: Jeremiah 45:5

Today's Favorite Verse: Jeremiah 45:5
"And seekest thou great things for thyself? seek them not:for, behold, I will bring evil upon all flesh, saith the Lord: but thy life will I give unto thee for a prey in all places  whither thou goest."

Not sure what this phrase means "thy life will I give unto thee for a prey". There were other references.

"For I will surely deliver thee, and thou shalt not fall by the sword, but thy life shall be for a prey unto thee: because thou hast put thy trust in me, saith the Lord.
(Jeremiah 39:18)

"He that abideth in this city shall die by the sword, and by the famine, and by the pestilence: but he that goeth out, and falleth to the Chaldeans that besiege you, he shall live, and his life shall be unto him for a prey."
(Jeremiah 21:9)

Still wasn't seeing it. For I think of prey as something that is hunted. Then I found this Dictionary definition "archaic Plunder or (in biblical use) a prize."

Prey = prize. Now it makes sense that the chapter header says "Jeremiah promises Baruch that his life will be preserved."  His life is given him as a prize.

Day 1365

Today's Favorite Verse: Jeremiah 44:16-17

Today's Favorite Verse: Jeremiah 44:16-17
"As for the word that thou hast spoken unto us in the name of the Lord, we will not hearken unto thee.
But we will certainly do whatsoever thing goeth forth out of our own mouth, to burn incense unto the queen of heaven, and to pour out drink offerings unto her, as we have done, we, and our fathers, our kings, and our princes, in the cities of Judah, and in the streets of Jerusalem: for then had we plenty of victuals, and were well, and saw no evil."

Now something makes sense to me that I didn't understand. I would always feel rather anxious when I would hear people speak of a mother in heaven. Oh I understand the words to the hymn "O My Father" by Eliza R. Snow. "Truth is reason; truth eternal; Tells me I've a mother there." I do believe if I have a Heavenly Father that I must have a Heavenly Mother. But, I do not think of her. I just feel Heavenly Father has a very good reason why she is not addressed in the scriptures. I'm ok with that.

I have seen other women get rather obsessed about a Heavenly Mother. Going in length about their feelings about her. Often I wonder where are they getting this supposed doctrine from? They seem more involved with her than with Heavenly Father. To the point I totally wish to excuse myself from their discussions, for it troubles my soul. Now in this chapter I think I see a connection to those feelings. There is a reason why we don't create our own impressions about a Heavenly Mother. Just like in Jeremiah's time it was the women that started this fascination and worship of a mother in heaven. In speaking about the apostasy this was a downfall to the early church too.

"The Archontics, who believed in seven heavens, each one presided over by a prince; they also believed in the Supreme Mother in Heaven, a faith condemned in Jeremiah, chapters seven and forty-four."
(Mark E. Petersen, Apr 1979 General Conference, "Signs of the True Church)

It is interesting to see that in Jeremiah's time those that worshiped the "queen of heaven" thought she brought them blessings, and when they stopped evil came upon them. Not understand how they had this twisted. It was because of their worship of her that it angered God and this is why they now suffered. I think Jeremiah is very much so warning us in our day, of not taking up this same practice. It is God the Father that we love with all our hearts, mind and soul. The temptation to create another god is very real. Even if it is to make it in the image of a mother in Heaven.

Day 1364

Today's Favorite Verse: Jeremiah 43:2

Today's Favorite Verse: Jeremiah 43:2
"Then spake Azariah the son of Hoshaiah, and Johanan the son of Kareah, and all the proud men, saying unto Jeremiah, Thou speakest falsely: the Lord our God hath not sent thee to say, Go not into Egypt to sojourn there:"

Just amazes me, that they could ask a prophet what the Lord says, and then tell him he's wrong. Had Jeremiah ever prophesied wrong before? No. So why would he be wrong now? Why would they even risk it? Doesn't make sense to me. But, then again some people think the prophet is wrong today. When you think you know better than a prophet, or seek to counsel him, then that would be pretty prideful. You're standing on dangerous ground. 

Day 1363

Today's Favorite Verse: Jeremiah 42:5-6

Today's Favorite Verse: Jeremiah 42:5-6
"Then they said to Jeremiah, The Lord be a true and faithful witness between us, if we do not even according to all things for the which the Lord thy God shall send thee to us.
Whether it be good, or whether it be evil, we will obey the voice of the Lord our God, to whom we send thee; that it may be well with us, when we obey the voice of the Lord our God."

I found this very interesting, the remnant of Judah ask Jeremiah to pray to the Lord asking what they should do. They even say they understand that it will be well with them if they obey the voice of the Lord. Even with knowing all this they decide to go against the council of the Lord. Jeremiah tells them the Lord said to stay where they were. That the king of Babylon will not hurt them. Not to go into Egypt for the king of Babylon will follow them there and they will face famine, pestilence and die. So why do they pick the option that goes against the Lord?  Fear. It is the fear of man, instead of the fear of the Lord. They do not have sufficient faith even though they say the right words in the beginning. I guess that is why we are judged on faith and works. For I can say I have all the faith in the world, but it means nothing if my actions do not show it. 

"But wilt thou know, O vain man, that faith without works is dead?"
(James 2:20)

Day 1362

Today's Favorite Verse: Jeremiah 41:4, 8

Today's Favorite Verse: Jeremiah 41:4, 8
"And it came to pass the second day after he had slain Gedaliah, and no man knew it."
But ten men were found among them that said unto Ishmael, Slay us not: for we have treasures in the field, of wheat, and of barley, and of oil, and of honey. So he forbare, and slew them not among their brethren."

This reminded me of what I was reading in the Book of Mormon this morning about secret combinations and the Gadianton robbers.

"Now behold, it is these secret oaths and covenants which Alma commanded his son should not go forth unto the world, lest they should be a means of bringing down the people unto destruction.
Now behold, those secret oats and covenants did not come forth unto Gadianton from the records which were delivered unto Helaman; but behold, they were put into the heart of Gadianton by that same being who did entice our first parents to partake of the forbidden fruit-"
(Helaman 6:25-26)

Murder for gain has been around since Cain killed his brother Abel. Satan has put this in the hearts of men from the beginning. This is the downfall of nations and civilizations. This is happening still today.

Day 1361

Today's Favorite Verse: Jeremiah 40:4

Today's Favorite Verse: Jeremiah 40:4
"And now, behold, I loose thee this day from the chains which were upon thine hand. If it seem good unto thee to come with me into Babylon, come; and I will look well unto thee: but if it seem ill unto thee to come with me into Babylon, forbear: behold, all the land is before thee: whither it seemeth good and convenient for thee to go, thither go."

I pondered on how Jeremiah's life had been threatened by his own people, yet those that conquered them preserve and protect Jeremiah's life. He was given his freedom even though they were conquered and in bondage to Babylon. Truly his yoke was made light. What this says to me is always trust in the Lord's plan, he always has a better plan. His ways are not our ways. 

"For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, saith the Lord."
(Isaiah 55:8)

Day 1360

Today's Favorite Verse: Jeremiah 39:4

Today's Favorite Verse: Jeremiah 39:4
"And it came to pass, that when Zedekiah the king of Judah saw them, and all the men of war, then they fled, and went forth out of the city by night, by the way of the king's garden, by the date betwixt the two walls: and he went out the way of the plain."

"Then they fled..." Zedekiah wouldn't listen to Jeremiah, until he saw with his own eyes prophecy being fulfilled. This is when he finally realizes he needs to flee. This plan didn't work. Zedekiah was captured, forced to watch them slay his sons. Then his eyes were put out. He was put in chains and carried to Babylon, where he later dies in prison.

The message I see is don't delay in listening to a prophet's voice. The Lord is always a step (or more) ahead of His people. The warning comes long before the danger appears. When we wait until we see it with our own eyes, the time for change is to late. It's the difference between staying out of the canyons when storms are threatening, or waiting for the flash flood to appear.

Day 1359

Today's Favorite Verse: Jeremiah 38:19

Today's Favorite Verse: Jeremiah 38:19
"And Zedekiah the king said unto Jeremiah, I am afraid of the Jews that are fallen to the Chaldeans, lest they deliver me into their hand, and they mock me."

I think this is the saddest verse in the whole chapter. Zedekiah secretly speaks with Jeremiah to learn more of what was going to happen. Yet he cannot bring himself to do as Jeremiah tells him. What powerful tools the adversary uses to keep us from being obedient to the will of the Lord, fear and concern about what others will think of me. Zedekiah will let the city be destroyed, and lives lost, because he is afraid of being mocked.

I've been sitting here thinking that there is a lesson here on the effects of bullying. Why is it that children have killed themselves over being bullied or mocked? Zedekiah basically did the same thing. Out of fear of being mocked he was willing to let himself be killed. As a child I used to hear "Sticks and stones may break my bones, but words will never hurt me." Well now words are hurting people. There must be a very deep anchor to the soul to have words never hurt me. There can be no coincident that the more society identifies with no religious beliefs, the more they identify with words hurting them.

Day 1358

Today's Favorite Verse: Jeremiah 37:10

Today's Favorite Verse: Jeremiah 37:10
"For though ye had smitten the whole army of the Chaldeans that fight against you, and there remained but wounded men among them, yet should they rise up every man in his tent, and burn this city with fire."

King Zedekiah and his people still are not listening to the prophesy of Jeremiah. Yet, I find it interesting in this chapter that several times in different situations they still ask what the Lord says. They want to be saved in their sins. That is why they keep waiting for the prophesies of Jeremiah to change. I found the conviction of Jeremiah quite impressive. Even with the best of odds, that they smite the whole army of the Chaldeans, and all their remaining are wounded, that they would still rise up and destroy the city. What greater conviction can he have then telling them that?

Applying it to my day. I can see that talking a big talk, pretending that you will listen to the word of the Lord, if in the end you fall to believe what was already given, or follow the commandments received, you will be overcome in the end.

Day 1357

Today's Favorite Verse: Jeremiah 36:28, 32

Today's Favorite Verse: Jeremiah 36:28, 32
"Take thee again another roll, and write in it all the former words that were in the first roll, which Jehoiakim the king of Judah hath burned.
Then took Jeremiah another roll, and gave it to Baruch the scribe, the son of Neriah; who wrote therein from the mouth of Jeremiah all the words of the book which Jehoiakim king of Judah had burned in the fire: and there were added besides unto them many life words."

The Lord commanded Jeremiah to record all the words he had spoken to him. Jeremiah called Baruch to record the words of his month. Once done they are read. Jehoiakim, king of Judah doesn't like them so has them taken and burned. He would have taken Jeremiah and Baruch but the Lord hid them. Once the rolls are burned they are commanded to write them again, and this time the Lord gave them more.

Two things came to mind with this.
1. The Lord's work will not be frustrated.
2. Is there more? That is something I have been trying to remember to ask. I'm so quick to jump up and go with what I am told in prayer and don't stop to ask "Is there more?" For when I do there always is more. This story shows how the Lord had more and gave that too. I'm sure the more was not pleasing for the king of Judah to hear.

Day 1356

Today's Favorite Verse: Jeremiah 35:2, 6, 18-19

Today's Favorite Verse: Jeremiah 35:2, 6, 18-19
"Go unto the house of the Rechabites, and speak unto them, and bring them into the house of the Lord, into one of the chambers, and give them wine to drink.
But they said, We will drink no wine: for Jonadab the son of Rechab our father commanded us, saying, Ye shall drink no wine, neither ye, nor your sons for ever.
And Jeremiah said unto the house of the Rechabites, Thus saith the Lord of hosts, the God of Israel; Because ye have obeyed the commandment of Jonadab your father, and kept all his precepts, and done according unto all that he hath commanded you:
Therefore thus saith the Lord of hosts, the God of Israel; Jonadab the son of Rechab shall not want a man to stand before me for ever."

Jeremiah was told of the Lord to bring the Rechabites into the temple and offer them wine. The Rechabites refused because they were obedient to what their father had commanded them. In this the Lord blessed them.

So the question I pondered on was, "Why did a prophet of God tell them to do something that was counter to what they should do?" First off, it wasn't Jeremiah saying this, it was the Lord telling Jeremiah to do this. That to me makes it appear to be a test. It is through the test that they are blessed. That is in keeping with how I have seen my trials become blessings in the end. God's way are not my ways, and you wouldn't naturally think "I want to bless this person for their obedience so let me try them." But, that is how God often works.

To apply it to my day I think it's also telling me be obedient to the commandments given. When I am told something counter to that, even by a prophet, I need confirmation by the spirit if that is what I am to do. It could very easily be a test of my obedience. I am not to follow with blind obedience. I am given my agency to choose, and with it the right to receive personal revelation as confirmation. This will only make the commitment in following the word of the Lord with my whole heart and soul stronger. 

"President Brigham Young put it bluntly: "I am more afraid that this people have so much confidence in their leaders that they will not inquire for themselves of God whether they are led by Him. I am fearful they settle down in a state of blind self-security, trusting their eternal destiny in the hands of their leaders with a reckless confidence that in itself would thwart the purposes of God in their salvation, and weaken that influence they could give to their leaders, did they know for themselves, by the revelations of Jesus, that they are led in the right way." Those who are grounded, rooted, and established will not withhold their supportive influence from Church leaders. Neither will the faithful be deceived, as President Brigham Young promised: "I will say to my brethren and sisters, Were your faith concentrated upon the proper object, your confidence unshaken, your lives pure and holy, every one fulfilling the duties of his or her calling according to the Priesthood and capacity bestowed upon you, you would be filled with the Holy Ghost, and it would be as impossible for any man to deceive and lead you to destruction as for a feather to remain unconsumed in the midst of intense heat."
(Neal A. Maxwell, We Will Prove Them Herewith, pp. 21–22)

Day 1355

Today's Favorite Verse: Jeremiah 34:16

Today's Favorite Verse: Jeremiah 34:16
"But ye turned and polluted my name, and caused every man his servant, and every man his handmaid, whom ye had set at liberty at their pleasure, to return, and brought them into subjection, to be unto you for servants and for handmaids."

I've been sitting here trying to decide what this action is like in my day. What appears to have happened is the people decide to follow a covenant of the Lord. That after serving six years they give liberty to their servant or handmaid sold to them. Did they do this because they thought that would put them in God's good graces? But it didn't last, they turned around and brought the same people into subjection. So basically they follow the commandment of the Lord in appearances and then their hearts betray them. I suppose that could be anything we do to give an outward appearance of obedience, when it's far from our hearts. Like giving an appearance of helping the poor and needy and then using them for the publicity. I actually had that thought today on something else.

"Wherefore the Lord said, Forasmuch as this people draw near me with their mouth, and with their lips do honour me, but have removed their heart far from me, and their fear toward me is taught by the precept of men:"
(Isaiah 29:13)

"Therefore when thou doest thine alms, do not sound a trumpet before thee, as the hypocrites do in the synagogues and in the streets, that they may have glory of me. Verily I say unto you, They have their reward."
(Matthew 6:2)

Day 1354

Today's Favorite Verse: Jeremiah 33:3

Today's Favorite Verse: Jeremiah 33:3
"Call unto me, and I will answer thee, and shew thee great and mighty things, which thou knowest not."

The Lord shows Jeremiah marvelous things. The return of Israel after their captivity. The coming of the Messiah, and the return of the Jews again before his second coming. All of these things he did not know before. I pondered on how even in my little sphere, that in prayer I have my measure of knowing things, I never knew before. Much inspiration and revelation has come, as I have prayerfully read my scriptures every day for years. I have long since realized that the spirit never teaches me anything new. I am just seeing it in a different light. It is the understanding that is new to me. With that knowledge I am always lead to another witness of the same. Nothing is hiding, its only made understandable when I am ready. 

Day 1353

Today's Favorite Verse: Jeremiah 32:17

Today's Favorite Verse: Jeremiah 32:17
"Ah Lord God! behold, thou hast made the heaven and the earth by thy great power and stretched out arm, and there is nothing too hard for thee:"

I acknowledge nothing is to hard for God to accomplish. I have come to learn that just because he can do it, doesn't mean he will do it. All things are done for my experience and good. If it is better that the prayer is not answered according to my will and pleasure, then it is not. For what child would ever learn to walk if it is always carried? What an omnipotent God to constrain himself from fixing every problem, illness, or deprivation when out of love he would want to. But seeing the big picture he holds himself back. What must it have been like for Heavenly Father to witness his only begotten Son's atoning sacrifice?

Day 1352

Today's Favorite Verse: Jeremiah 31:28

Today's Favorite Verse: Jeremiah 31:28
"And it shall come to pass, that like as I have watched over them, to pluck up, and to break down, and to throw down, and to destroy, and to afflict; so will I watch over them, to build, and to plant, saith the Lord"

This is my comfort. For as hard as the winding up scene will be before the coming of the Lord, he will watch over his people. A great work will be taking place to receive our Lord and King

It reminds me of what I read in the Doctrine and Covenants today.

"And the arm of the Lord shall be revealed; and the day cometh that they who will not hear the voice of the Lord, neither the voice of his servants, neither give heed to the words of the prophets and apostles, shall be cut off from among the people;"
(Doctrine and covenants 1:14)

To be "cut off" references Alma 50:20 & Doctrine and Covenants 50:8, being cut off from the presence of the Lord, and overcome by the world. It made me think of Elder Cook's statement. How important it is to follow the council of the Lord, given through his prophets.

"He spoke about some of the history of the areas. However, a common theme to the members was that those who follow the new prophetic home-centered teaching will be blessed. He prophesied that 20 years from now those families that have listened to the prophet will weather the coming storms."
("The 'powerful witness of the Savior' that Elder Cook gave Church members in Europe"; Deseret News, Church News, 19 Nov 2018)

Something is being planted now. This is where the Lord wants his people to be. If we fail to do it we will be overcome by the world and cut off.

Day 1351

Today's Favorite Verse: Jeremiah 30:22

Today's Favorite Verse: Jeremiah 30:22
"And ye shall be my people, and I will be your God."

When I read this it makes me think of how much my Father in Heaven wants to bless his children. He has always wanted to. It's just us that won't let him. When I think of the full name of the church, "The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints". I see my God and his people together. I wonder if that is why the last verse ends with "in the latter days ye shall consider it."

Day 1350

Today's Favorite Verse: Jeremiah 29:8

Today's Favorite Verse: Jeremiah 29:8
"For thus saith the Lord of hosts, the God of Israel; Let not your prophets and your diviners, that be in the midst of you, deceive you, neither hearken to your dreams which ye cause to be dreamed."

I had to ponder on the idea of someone causing a false dream to come to them. How does that happen? What came to mind is someone listening to a false prophet and then dwelling upon the idea that you dream about it. I know I've had dreams surely inspired by a movie or book that I read.

So then my question is "How do I know if the dream is false or not?"  First, I thought that I should pray to receive the interpretation of it. If it is of God I should be given the meaning. I have prayed for the interpretation of dreams and received it. I always find it interesting that much of what I dreamed about was symbolic. I wouldn't have understood it by looking at it on the surface.

But, it troubled me to just leave it at that. What was Jeremiah trying to warn me of? Then I saw it, these were dreams that had meaning for all of Israel. Jeremiah was the prophet and God would be speaking to him, not the others. The realm of stewardship belonged to the prophet Jeremiah in this matter. I will never have a dream that has meaning for others outside of my stewardship. The ordained prophet of God is the only one authorized to receive revelation for the whole of the church. 
"And this shall be a law unto you, that ye receive not the teachings of any that shall come before you as revelations or commandments;
And this I give unto you that you may not be deceived, that you may know they are not of me.
For verily I say unto you, that he that is ordained of me shall come in at the gate and be ordained as I have told you before, to teach those revelations which you have received and shall receive through him whom I have appointed."
(Doctrine and Covenants 43:5-7)

The dreams and revelations of the prophet of God are the only ones I should be paying attention to. Maybe that's why I have lost all curiosity in reading what other people have been dreaming. Before I started reading scriptures every day, I was really fascinated by them.

Day 1349

Today's Favorite Verse: Jeremiah 28:15-17

Today's Favorite Verse: Jeremiah 28:15-17
"Then said the prophet Jeremiah unto Hananiah the prophet, Hear now, Hananiah; The Lord hath not sent thee; but thou makest this people to trust in a lie.
Therefore thus saith the Lord; Behold, I will cast thee from off the face of the earth: this year thou shalt die, because thou hast taught rebellion against the Lord.
So Hananiah the prophet died the same year in the seventh month."

What happens to Hananiah reminds me of the antichrists in the Book of Mormon that also died. Jeremiah reminds the people that what Hananiah has said had been prophesied by other prophets before. Which is very easy for someone claiming to be a prophet to just say what has already been said, and add their own timeline to it. The problem with what Hananiah was saying was it stood in rebellion to the will of the Lord in this matter, and what the prophet Jeremiah had told them. Jeremiah does say "Amen: the Lord do so..." to what had been spoken, but it wasn't in agreement for what Hananiah had meant in this situation.

So what I take from this is don't be deceived by those pretending to be a prophet, claiming prophesy by using what others have already said. Don't listen to made up timeline of events. Just because someone is saying what I know scripture tells me, the person must be a prophet of God for the timing of it to come to pass. Another reason why we need a living prophet on the earth before the second coming of the Lord. I am grateful that I know that there is one. I know Russell M. Nelson, President of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is a true prophet of God.

Day 1348

Today's Favorite Verse: Jeremiah 27:9-11

Today's Favorite Verse: Jeremiah 27:9-11
"Therefore hearken not ye to your prophets, nor to your diviners, nor to your dreamers, nor to your enchanters, nor to your sorcerers, which speak unto you, saying, Ye shall not serve the king of Babylon:
For they prophesy a lie unto you, to remove you far from your land; and that I should drive you out, and ye should perish.
But the nations that bring their necks under the yoke of the king of Babylon, and serve him, those will I let remain still in their own land, saith the Lord; and they shall till it, and dwell therein."

The Lord is saying there are people telling you lies that you are not to serve the king of Babylon. He reminds them in verse 5

"I have made the earth, the man and the beast that are upon the ground, by my great power and by my outstretched arm, and have given it unto whom it seemed meet unto me."

The Lord has a purpose in who rules a nation. Mostly because its exactly what we deserve. I am reminded of the 12th Article of Faith

"We believe in being subject to kings, presidents, rulers, and magistrates, in obeying, honoring, and sustaining the law."

This reminds me today of people that call themselves sovereign citizens. Thinking they do not need to pay taxes and obey the laws of the lands. They see the constitution giving them rights that they cling to, but don't understand how they have been changed. We need to obey the laws that we have. Because of lies they see themselves as patriots, are imprisoned, loose their lands, and put themselves into bondage. This is not the Lord's way. For such actions stop them from serving the Lord. To preserve the land the Lord has given you, we must obey the ruler and laws set over it. There is a big difference between bringing my neck under the yoke of Babylon, and giving my heart to it. It is only when those laws prevent us from worshiping the Lord and serving him, that he will step in and free us.

Day 1347

Today's Favorite Verse: Jeremiah 26:12, 16

Today's Favorite Verse: Jeremiah 26:12, 16
"Then spake Jeremiah unto all the princes and to all the people, saying, The Lord sent me to prophesy against his house and against this city all the words that ye have heard.
Then said the princes and all the people unto the priests and to the prophets; This man is not worthy to die: for he hath spoken to us in the name of the Lord our God."

Jeremiah is commanded of the Lord to speak to the people. Calling them to repentance or they would be destroyed. From this the priests and prophets seek to have him killed. Now the curious thing is they are priests and prophets. Yet, I know Jeremiah is the actual prophet of the Lord. So how do I or anyone else know which prophet is the true prophet of the Lord?

This scripture came to me.
"Wherefore, I the Lord ask you this question - unto what were ye ordained?"
(Doctrine and Covenants 50:13)

The key is by who's authority was the prophet called. He must hold the priesthood keys and be ordained. Jeremiah was called of the Lord. So who are these other priests and prophets called by? I had read about these prophets recently. I went back and read Jeremiah 23 where the Lord warned about these very priest and prophets. There is a lot them and they are not His. It made me realize that a big message that Jeremiah is warning about, especially for my day, is false prophets and being deceived.

"Behold, verily I say unto you, there are hypocrites among you, who have deceived some, which has given the adversary power; but behold such shall be reclaimed
But the hypocrites shall be detected and shall be cut off, either in life or in death, even as I will; and wo unto them who are cut off from my church, for the same are overcome of the world."
(Doctrine and Covenants 50:7-8)

In this chapter the princes and people first followed the priest and prophets and wanted Jeremiah killed. Then they really listened to his warning and recalled what happened when other prophets of God had said similar things. Then they no longer sought to kill Jeremiah. These people are like those mentioned in the Doctrine and Covenants, they had been deceived but would be redeemed if they no longer followed the hypocrites.

It is important to realize that even members of Christ's church can be deceived. Even though they look like they could be the very elect, it doesn't mean they are. I really have to ask myself, whenever someone wants to pretty up the doctrine and feels they have secret knowledge to pass along, "unto what were ye ordained?" Why would you know this and teach it, and not the prophet?

"Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven.
Many will say to me in that day: Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in thy name, and in thy name have cast out devils? and in thy name done many wonderful works?
And then will I profess unto them, I never knew you: depart from me, ye that work iniquity."
(Matthew 7:21-23)

This is why I am so bothered as I see once faithful members fall into crooked paths, unknowingly following occult practices like the "law of attraction". Truly they are giving the adversary power, and for gain. They have been deceived, but can be redeemed if they so choose it.

Day 1346

Today's Favorite Verse: Jeremiah 25:4

Today's Favorite Verse: Jeremiah 25:4
"And the Lord hath sent unto you all his servants the prophets, rising early and sending them; but ye have not hearkened, nor inclined your ear to hear."

I was actually very fascinated by the words "rising early". What does that really mean? I did a word search for when it was used in the scriptures. Interestingly there are a lot of major events that happen when rising early. Even the Savior "was risen early". I know for me I do my best work early in the morning. I can see the need to put first things first. So maybe that's part of it. I'm not sure what the phrase really means, but I know it means something. I am learning that the first impression by the spirit is the one I need to go with. Maybe that's why the Lord has his prophet's rising early to speak to His people. If I listen early I won't be deceived with doubts the adversary tries to throw up in my path.

Day 1345

Today's Favorite Verse: Jeremiah 24:4

Today's Favorite Verse: Jeremiah 24:4
"Again the word of the Lord came unto me, saying,"

I pondered on the various ways the voice of the Lord has come to me. In my self-reliance class a few weeks ago, we went over spending time reverently listening for guidance in prayer. I realized I hadn't done enough of that. I think it is hard to have my mind absolutely quiet and not pondering on something. I took up the challenge and what a sweet experience it is.  As I learned to just wait, words just came to my mind. I spoke to my husband and son about if afterwards, to see if that is what they mean when they say during blessings, that the words just come to them. It was. I smiled. I think men are blessed to have minds that so easily can think of absolutely nothing. That truly is a special gift. I am still learning.

Day 1344

Today's Favorite Verse: Jeremiah 23:26-27, 32

Today's Favorite Verse: Jeremiah 23:26-27, 32
"How long shall this be in the heart of the prophets that prophesy lies? yea, they are prophets of the deceit of their own heart;
Which think to cause my people to forget my name by their dreams which they tell every man to his neighbor, as their fathers have forgotten my name from Baal.
Behold, I am against them that prophesy false dreams, saith the Lord, and do tell them, and cause my people to err by their lies, and by their lightness; yet I sent them not, nor commanded them: therefore they shall not profit this people at all, saith the Lord."

This made me think of people that have been publishing their dreams and have lead members astray. The people then go into a panic and sell what they have and buy preparedness items based on the dream of another person. It is unwise and foolish and not how the Lord works. I am so grateful I was told by the spirit years ago to study the scriptures and not other people's words about the scriptures. I have also stayed away from discussions on the last days. I have every confidence that following the living prophet of the Lord, and with the holy scriptures as my guide, I will be directed by the spirit on what is needful, when it is needful, and not be led astray.

Day 1343

Today's Favorite Verse: Jeremiah 22:21

Today's Favorite Verse: Jeremiah 22:21
"I spake unto thee in thy prosperity; but thou saidst, I will not hear. This hath been thy manner from thy youth, that thou obeyedst not my voice."

I thought about prosperity and how much harder it is to desire the Lord with it. Money can be just as big of a trial, if not more so, than poverty. Not just money but  anytime things are going well. It is easy to forget the Lord and where our blessings come from, when we appear to be doing well on your own. We begin to feel we don't need God. I think that is one of the reasons I am grateful for the trials I have had. For it is through my trials that I have learned to depend on and trust the Lord. It really is the greatest test when we turn to him in our prosperity. 

Day 1342

Today's Favorite Verse: Jeremiah 21:1-2

Today's Favorite Verse: Jeremiah 21:1-2
"The word which came unto Jeremiah from the Lord, when king Zedekiah sent unto him Pashur the son of Melchiah, and Zephaniah the son of Maaseaiah the priest, saying,
Inquire, I pray thee, of the Lord for us; for Nebuchadrezzar king of Babylon maketh war against us; if so be that the Lord will deal with us according to all his wondrous works, that he may go up from us.

Interesting how earlier they didn't want to listen to the Lord. Now that king Nebuchadrezzar is coming against them they want to hear the council of the Lord. At least they are pretending well by trying to flatter Him. The Lord knows their hearts and it will not go well for them.

This made me think of something I recently read in the Church News "The 'powerful witness of the Savior' that Elder Cook gave Church members in Europe", 19 Nov 2018

"He spoke about some of the history of the areas. However, a common theme to the members was that those who follow the new prophetic home-centered teaching will be blessed. He prophesied that 20 years from now those families that have listened to the prophet will weather the coming storms.”

In 20 years will members run to hear the prophet's council after ignoring or mocking it all that time, just to be given safety from the storms? If history repeats itself they will left as virgins without oil in their lamps, unprepared for when the bridegroom comes, and no time left to prepare.

Day 1341

Today's Favorite Verse: Jeremiah 20:1-2

Today's Favorite Verse: Jeremiah 20:1-2
"Now Pashur the son of Immer the priest, who was also chief governor in the house of the Lord, heard that Jeremiah prophesied these things.
Then Pashur smote Jeremiah the prophet, and put him in the stocks that were in the high gate of Benjamin, which was by the house of the Lord."

While growing up I often visited Fort William Henry, where battles took place during the French and Indian Wars. On the grounds were stocks that people could try out and take the obligatory photograph of themselves. I remember how fun it was to be in the stocks at first. But left for any length of time my back would start to ache from hunching over. My legs and feet would hurt from standing in one place. It was impossible to scratch my nose with my fingers being cruelly separated by the stocks. The confinement and inability to freely move would make me want out pretty quickly. This verse made me picture Jeremiah being in those stocks. Then I pondered on how today we do the same thing to prophets by putting them in stocks. Not literally, but figuratively when we hedge up their way, and by not sustaining them. It even gets more vile when their council and words are taken to the public arena and openly ridiculed and mocked. After Jeremiah was placed in the stocks he prophesies about what would happen to Pashur and Judah, none of which was good. It is never wise to go counter to the words of a prophet and to mock what they say.

Day 1340

Today's Favorite Verse: Jeremiah 19:5

Today's Favorite Verse: Jeremiah 19:5
"They have built also the high places of Baal, to burn their sons with fire for burnt offerings unto Baal, which I commanded not, nor spake it, neither came it into my mind:"

This is so horrific, to think of people burning their children in a fire as an offering to Baal. Yes, there are a lot of sick people out there but as a people we don't accept people burning their children. So how could I liken this to something people do find acceptable today?  Immediately I thought of parents with bowed heads worshiping over their cell phones and tablets, totally ignoring their children. Yes, we have idols in our day and we sacrifice our children to them. That I am sure does not please God, for we are teaching our children to worship them too.

Day 1339

Today's Favorite Verse: Jeremiah 18:1-2

Today's Favorite Verse: Jeremiah 18:1-2
"The  word which came to Jeremiah from the Lord, saying,
Arise, and go down to the potter's house, and there I will cause thee to hear my words."

After being obedient to what Jeremiah had been told, he went to the the potter's house and observed. He watched one vessel become marred in the potter's hand and then the potter made another and it was good. Then the Lord spoke to Jeremiah again. I pondered on how important it is to be obedient to what I am first told, even if it makes no sense. Seriously going to a potter's house is not typically where someone would think to hear the word of the Lord. Yet as we come to know the voice of the Lord and how he teaches, we understand how he uses things we are familiar with for instruction.

Day 1338

Today's Favorite Verse: Jeremiah 17:22-23

Today's Favorite Verse: Jeremiah 17:22-23
"Neither carry forth a burden out of your houses on the sabbath day, neither do ye any work, but hallow ye the sabbath day, as I commanded your fathers.
But they obeyed not, neither inclined their ear, but made their neck stiff, that they might not hear, nor receive instruction."

Today is Saturday, and Saturday is a special day. Once again I find myself singing the Primary song while involved in preparations. This has been ingrained in me since my childhood from goodly parents.

Saturday is a special day.
It's the day we get ready for Sunday:
We clean the house, and we shop at the store,
So we won't have to work until Monday.
We brush our clothes, and we shine our shoes,
And we call it our get-the-work-done day.
Then we trim our nails, and we shampoo our hair,
So we can be ready for Sunday!

I found a quote I was looking for with scripture references on why I honor the Sabbath Day on Sunday, the first day of the week and not on the last.

"Members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints recognize Sunday as the Sabbath in commemoration of the fact that Christ came forth from the grave on Sunday, and the Apostles commenced meeting thereafter on the first day of the week."
(Earl C. Tingey, April 1996 General Conference talk "The Sabbath Day and Sunday Shopping")
(see John 20:1-6, Luke 24:1, Mark 16:1, Matt 28:1, Acts 20:7)

Of the many things I love about the Sabbath it is what I will learn this day that excites me the most. Be it at church worshiping with my brothers and sisters, or home personally studying the scriptures or with my family, the spirit seems the strongest on this day to give me instruction. This is a tender mercy of the Lord to open my eyes and ears especially on His Holy Day. I totally get it when the Lord says that to not honor the Sabbath day you will not hear or receive instruction. I think that is the little sign God gives back to me if I am honoring His day or not.

Day 1337

Today's Favorite Verse: Jeremiah 16:14-15

Today's Favorite Verse: Jeremiah 16:14-15
"Therefore, behold, the days come, saith the Lord, that it shall no more be said, The Lord liveth, that brought up the children of Israel out of the land of Egypt;
But, The Lord liveth, that brought up the children of Israel from the land of the north, and from all the lands whither he had driven them: and I will bring them again into their land that I gave unto their fathers."

I have always been fascinated with these verses and the gathering of Israel. President Russell M. Nelson's words in his April 2018 General Conference talk "Revelation for the Church, Revelation for Our Lives" only made me wonder more.

"Our Savior and Redeemer, Jesus Christ, will perform some of His mightiest works between now and when He comes again. We will see miraculous indications that God the Father and His Son, Jesus Christ, preside over this Church in majesty and glory."

Moses and the parting of the red sea was a pretty amazing miracle. Jeremiah's prophesy, and President Nelson's words means even greater things are to come. One thing is for sure I live in exciting times.

Day 1336

Today's Favorite Verse: Jeremiah 15:16

Today's Favorite Verse: Jeremiah 15:16
"Thy words were found, and I did eat them; and thy word was unto me the joy and rejoicing of mine heart: for I am called by thy name, O Lord God of hosts."

On this Thanksgiving day I have to say I am so very grateful for the scriptures, and words of the living prophet. What a source of strength and peace they have been to me. Especially as they have recently calmed my troubled heart. I have a whole new appreciation for them. The application of the advice given has truly brought joy and amazement to me. In this I rejoice.

Day 1335

Today's Favorite Verse: Jeremiah 14:3

Today's Favorite Verse: Jeremiah 14:3
"And their nobles have sent their little ones to the waters: they came to the pits, and found no water; they returned with their vessels empty; they were ashamed and confounded, and covered their heads."

I thought of living water, which is Jesus Christ himself. I can't send someone else in search of this water for me. The relationship with the Savior must be one on one. If not then my vessel will be empty when I need Him the most. I cannot live on borrowed light.

Day 1334

Today's Favorite Verse: Jeremiah 13:16

Today's Favorite Verse: Jeremiah 13:16
"Give glory to the Lord your God, before he cause darkness, and before your feet stumble upon the dark mountains, and, while ye look for light, he turn it into the shadow of death, and make it gross darkness."

Mourning is a terrible thing, especially when you are alone and unable to attend a funeral. My heart is filled with unreasonableness and I just cannot steady it. Truly my feet stumble and I don't want to go down the paths that fills me with anger. If it was not for my God I could find no solace. For truly that is when I find a brightness of hope. I know I am loved. How many times have I stumbled and yet he picks me back up, wraps his loving arms around me and comforts me. Only then can I find peace. I have learned a new depth to my prayers that only could be taught through such grief. How wise the counsel of the Lord. For not only will he lift my burden and carry me too, he tells me something else to try that brings comfort even if for a brief moment. I know the timing in all this is the Lord's. Things are as they should be. He has a better plan for me. He always has a better plan. This moment of enduring is drawing me closer to Him.

Day 1333

Today's Favorite Verse: Jeremiah 12:17

Today's Favorite Verse: Jeremiah 12:17
"But if they will not obey, I will utterly pluck up and destroy that nation, saith the Lord."

This verse helped me understand something tonight I have been trying so hard to figure out. My heart was so broken until I realized why. I was disobedient to the errand the Lord had me on. For some reason I sought the permission of another to do it, and followed their counsel instead of the Lord's. Why did I even do that? What was I thinking that I needed their permission? I shouldn't have shared anything with them and just moved as directed by the Lord. This was in the realm of my responsibility, not theirs. I tried then to have another do my errand before it was to late, and that doesn't work either. When the Lord gives you an assignment you do it. I didn't, and it broke my heart. I will never, never do that again. The pain is to much to bare. I love the Lord and my actions didn't display that. The Lord has told me he made it right. They know all now. Yet it's hard to be consoled. Being plucked up and destroyed are pretty good words right now.

Day 1332

Today's Favorite Verse: Jeremiah 11:12

Today's Favorite Verse: Jeremiah 11:12
"Then shall the cities of Judah and inhabitants of Jerusalem go, and cry unto the gods unto whom they offer incense: but they shall not save them at all in the time of their trouble."

As I pondered on this I thought of some ways I see people going after other gods. One thing I realized is that we don't always see how we have gotten off course. It's so easy to be deceived. In fact it's really easy to get involved in priestcraft, when packaged just right it becomes acceptable. The other way is to say this is my churchy self and this is my world self. When they don't fit as a whole it's the wrong course. Over time when the crisis comes we look to the other god, not knowing we have been seeking the wrong one. Then we wonder why God didn't save us or answer our prayers. The difference is there is no peace, even when the answer is no or just wait. How do I prevent this? I think the answer is spending more time reading and pondering the word of God, than man's interpretation of it. Especially if those individuals are profiting financially in any way.

Day 1331

Today's Favorite Verse: Jeremiah 10:19

Today's Favorite Verse: Jeremiah 10:19
"Woe is me for my hurt! my wound is grievous: but I said, Truly this is a grief, and I must bear it."

I always marvel how when I read the scriptures there is something there for me that day. It's like my life experiences build up to what I will read. Though I think that seriously is why things are often repeated in the scriptures. This verse actually made me smile. For today my father has died, and our family reverently mourns his passing. Once again my experience fits what I read in the scriptures. The Lord always prepares the way. What tender mercies the scriptures are to me.

(Pauline & Philip Harris)

Day 1330

Today's Favorite Verse: Jeremiah 9:24

Today's Favorite Verse: Jeremiah 9:24
"But let him that glorieth glory in this, that he understandeth and knoweth me, that I am the Lord which exercise lovingkindness, judgement, and righteousness, in the earth: for in these things I delight, saith the Lord."

Pretty serious things are in this chapter of what will happen to people that turn from the Lord. This verse was the bright light in the midst of them. What I pondered on is that that taking glory does not mean to become prideful in righteousness. It is truly to glory in knowing who the Lord is, and understanding why things are the way they are around us. As the world darkens the Lord's people will see his marvelous guiding light and protection in their lives. They will feel and know His abiding love. 

Day 1329

Today's Favorite Verse: Jeremiah 8:2

Today's Favorite Verse: Jeremiah 8:2
"And they shall spread them before the sun, and the moon, and all the host of heaven, whom they have loved, and whom they have served, and after whom they have walked, and whom they have sought, and whom they have worshipped: they shall not be gathered, nor be buried; they shall be for dung upon the face of the earth."

One thing I have seen this time reading the Old Testament is that when the people start to practice sorcery, witchcraft, worshiping the stars and the moon, trees and in groves, they are ripe for destruction. That is why I grow concerned the more I see people leave God and worship the earth and nature. They even begin to put the earth above the value of human life. The thing is I don't even think they realize they are worshiping it. They are just following a movement or cause, yet they do not speak of the God that created the earth, or worship him. To them He is not real, he is a fable that does not exist, and to be mocked. They see no evidence of Him, even though his very creations speak of Him. Truly they love God's creation more than Him.

Day 1328

Today's Favorite Verse: Jeremiah 7:23

Today's Favorite Verse: Jeremiah 7:23
"But this thing commanded I them, saying, Obey my voice, and I will be your God, and ye shall be my people: and walk ye in all the ways that I have commanded you, that it may be well unto you."

What a beautiful promise "that it may be well unto you." That does not mean that I have no worries or troubles. It means in the end it all works for my good. It made me ponder on how as a parent I could be standing right next to my child watching them, yet they can still fall down and hurt themselves. Injury, trials and pain are all part of life. Yet the promise I have is like what I did with my children. When they were hurt I comforted them, at times I even picked them up and carried them. The Lord does the very same thing. The promise is he never leaves me alone.

Day 1327

Today's Favorite Verse: Jeremiah 6:16

Today's Favorite Verse: Jeremiah 6:16
"Thus saith the Lord, Stand ye in the ways, and see, and ask for the old paths, where is the good way, and walk therein, and ye shall find rest for your souls. But they said, We will not walk therein."

One thing for sure is the world as a whole is not at peace. My nation isn't at peace. The name calling and accusations are beyond belief. One thing that is sure is we need the old paths and good ways where people talked and where not offended at the least of things. But mainly its the faith of our fathers and the wisdom that comes from it. When there is a life of good morals, and brotherly love and kindness, and above all faith in God there is rest for the soul and peace.  The further we turn away from the Lord the more we fall into darkness and misery as a people. Now more than anything the gospel of Jesus Christ would heal people.

Day 1326

Today's Favorite Verse: Jeremiah 5:3

Today's Favorite Verse: Jeremiah 5:3
"O Lord, are not thine eyes upon the truth? thou hast stricken them, but they have not grieved; thou hast consumed them, but they have refused to receive correction: they have made their faces harder than a rock; they have refused to return."

This made me think of a video I saw the other day. Basically, it was the first time after a devastating event that I heard a person say with so much anger "Don't say I'm in your thoughts and prayers." It offended them, the very suggestion that such a thing would help them. To them those words had no meaning. Then I saw that same day the news media mocking people that say they are praying for anyone. I was just dumbstruck that people were so spiritually debased now to be offended by prayer. The very thing they need they are angry and mock now. It was really chilling to me, more so than the terrible event they had been through.

Day 1325