Today's Favorite Verse: Psalms 137:1

Today's Favorite Verse: Psalms 137:1
"By the rivers of Babylon, there we sat down, yea, we wept, when we remembered Zion."

I pondered on bondage. How God's people can put themselves into bondage by seeking Babylon instead of him. One day, hopefully, they wake up and see how far they have wandered from Him. The awful condition they are in. The need to come unto Christ, and repent.

Yesterday, I was reading a news story. It told of how some were "outsmarting" the system and getting ahead. Instead of being mad over the waste of my tax dollars, I felt sadness for them. They were not getting ahead, instead now they were in bondage. That bondage leads to terrible stress, depression and anxiety, trying to live the lie. Eventually bondage enslaves them with anger, resentment, addictions, and worse things. Bondage is not a good place to be. Wickedness never was happiness. They may think they are free, but in reality they are in terrible bondage. They may think others are the cause of their bondage, but it was only them, having allowed taskmasters over them. Their bondage of Babylon will follow them into the next life. There they will no doubt weep as they remember Zion.

As I remember Zion, I do shed tears for those that have become lost, and have placed themselves into bondage. I weep for what could have been. I love the Lord, may I never find myself sitting in the middle of Babylon weeping for what I used to be.

Day 1190

Today's Favorite Verse: Psalms 136:12

Today's Favorite Verse: Psalms 136:12
"With a strong hand, and with a stretched out arm: for his mercy endureth for ever."

In this chapter it tells of all the Lord did to save the children of Israel. Then I found this scripture.

"I am he who led the children of Israel out of the land of Egypt; and my arm is stretched out in the last days, to save my people Israel."
(Doctrine and Covenants 136:22)

It made me once again reflect on this quote.

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. But in coming days, it will not be possible to survive spiritually without the guiding, directing, comforting, and constant influence of the Holy Ghost.
(President Russell M. Nelson, April 2018, LDS General Conference talk "Revelation for the Church, Revelation for Our Lives")

Day 1189

Today's Favorite Verse: Psalms 135:14

Today's Favorite Verse: Psalms 135:14
"For the Lord will judge his people, and he will repent himself concerning his servants."

I thought is a curious thing that the Lord would be in need to repent. How can that be when he is without sin? I found these scriptures.

"And it repented the Lord that he had made man on the earth, and it grieved him at this heart."
(Genesis 6:6)

"It repenteth me that I have set up Saul to be king: for he is turned back from following me, and hath not performed my commandments. And it grieved Samuel; and he cried unto the Lord all night."
(1 Samuel 15:11)

"And when the angel stretched out his hand upon Jerusalem to destroy it, the Lord repented him of the evil, and said to the angel that destroyed the people, It is enough: stay now thine hand. And the angel of the Lord was by the threshingplace of Araunah the Jebusite."
(2 Samuel 24:16)

As I pondered on these verses it seems what the Lord repented of was the actions of men. They did not do as he commanded. It wasn't his actions or any sin, it was manner in which man used his free agency, including his servants. I don't want the Lord to ever feel the need to repent of what I have done in His name or on his errand.

Day 1188

Today's Favorite Verse: Psalms 134:2

Today's Favorite Verse: Psalms 134:2
"Lift up your hands in the sanctuary, and bless the Lord."

This scripture is also referenced.

"To see thy power and thy glory, so as I have seen thee in the sanctuary.
Because thy lovingkindness is better than life, my lips shall praise thee.
Thus will I bless thee while I live: I will lift up my hands in thy name."
(Pslam 63:2-4

Some scriptures just cannot be understood until you have been to the house of the Lord. I love these treasures found in the scriptures.

Gilbert, Arizona Temple Ordinance Room

Day 1187

Today's Favorite Verse: Psalms 133:1

Today's Favorite Verse: Psalms 133:1
"Behold, how good and how pleasant it is for brethren to dwell together in unity!"

I pondered on how much work is done in the Lord's kingdom when his saints are united in harmony and peace.

Made me think of the faithful song "Put Your Shoulder to the Wheel".


I pondered on the beauty of people being united and working together, but it does not mean we do the same thing. Ever member of the body and its specific role is needful. My gifts and talents are different than another's role they serve in. Jealousy and envy of others will destroy instead of build. It can cause depression and a lack of self-worth. My role is divine as is another's made just for them. Just last night I read my patriarchal blessing and saw this very thing in it. I saw how very unique I really am. It brought much comfort to know this is the right path for me. How much more harmony and unity I can give when I embrace and understand the Father's will for me. This is how I truly find myself. I understand my role as a child of God. There is joy and happiness.


Day 1186

Today's Favorite Verse: Psalms 132:11

Today's Favorite Verse: Psalms 132:11
"The Lord hath sworn in truth unto David; he will not turn from it; Of the fruit of thy body will I set upon thy throne."

This was fulfilled in this.

"Therefore being a prophet, and knowing that God had sworn with an oath to him, that of the fruit of his loins, according to the flesh, he would raise up Christ to sit on his throne;"
(Acts 2:30)

Day 1185

Today's Favorite Verse: Psalms 131:2

Today's Favorite Verse: Psalms 131:2
"Surely I have behaved and quieted myself, as a child that is weaned of his mother: my soul is even as a weaned child."

This made me think of these scriptures.

"And Jesus called a little child unto him, and set him in the midst of them,
And said, Verily I say unto you, Except ye be converted, and become as little children, ye shall not enter into the kingdom of heaven.
Whosoever therefore shall humble himself as this little child, the same is greatest in the kingdom of heaven.
And whoso shall receive one such little child in my name receiveth me."
(Matthew 18:2-5)


"But Jesus called them unto him, and said, Suffer little children to come unto me, and forbid them not: for of such is the kingdom of God.
Verily I say unto you, Whosoever shall not receive the kingdom of God as a little child shall in no wise enter therein."
(Luke 18:16-17)

"Therefore, whoso repenteth and cometh unto me as a little child, him will I receive, for of such is the kingdom of God. Behold, for such I have laid down my life, and have taken it up again; therefore repent, and come unto me ye ends of the earth, and be saved."
(3 Nephi 9:22)

"For the natural man is an enemy to God, and has been from the fall of Adam, and will be, forever and ever, unless he yields to the enticings of the Holy Spirit, and putteth off the natural man and becometh a saint through the atonement of Christ the Lord, and becometh as a child, submissive, meek, humble, patient, full of love, willing to submit to all things which the Lord seeth fit to inflict upon him, even as a child doth submit to his father."
(Mosiah 3:19)

I went back and listened to Jean A. Stevens, April 2011 LDS General Conference talk "Become as a little Child". Loved this quote.

"If we have a heart to learn and a willingness to follow the example of children, their divine attributes can hold a key to unlocking our own spiritual growth.
Jesus is the Christ. He is the one perfect Son - submissive, meek, humble, patient, and so full of love."

I want to be like Him. I want to be like a little child.


Day 1184

Today's Favorite Verse: Psalms 130:5

Today's Favorite Verse: Psalms 130:5
"I wait for the Lord, my soul doth wait, and in his word do I hope."

I can wait, I never used to be able to do that. Hurry up, it had to be right now. Now I see waiting for the Lord a beautiful thing. He will make it right. His plan is always a better plan. Waiting is hoping and there is joy in that. Waiting and his word go hand in hand. I must read and ponder the scriptures. Then when he's ready to teach me so much understanding opens up. Even my trials will make sense. I see his timing is exactly the way it was needful for me.

Day 1183

Today's Favorite Verse: Psalms 129:4

Today's Favorite Verse: Psalms 129:4
"The Lord is righteous: he hath cut asunder the cords of the wicked."

I pondered on the many times I have seen the Church inspired to take some action and it was not until years later the wisdom in it was made known. Simple things that had great significance later on. Without them the Lord's work could have been frustrated, as agendas tried to wrap cords around us, and the saint confused. One such thing was the "The Family, A Proclamation to the World". It was written in 1995 long before it became clear why such a statement needed to be made.

Day 1182

Today's Favorite Verse: Psalms 128:1

Today's Favorite Verse: Psalms 128:1
"Blessed is every one that feareth the Lord; that walketh in his ways."

I pondered on how its not enough to fear (love) the Lord. If I do not also walk in his ways, or keep his commandments I will receive no blessing. The two things must appear as companions together. A person could keep all the commandments but not love the Lord. Only doing it because they were compelled by some other motive. No blessing comes if the heart, mind and works are not in harmony one with another.

Day 1181

Today's Favorite Verse: Psalms 127:3

Today's Favorite Verse: Psalms 127:3
"Lo, children are an heritage of the Lord: and the fruit of the womb is his reward."

Saw this scripture verse a little differently today. Heritage reminded me of my forbearers, and how we pass on a family resemblance. Then I thought of this verse.

"So God created man in his own image, in the image of God created he him; male and female created he them."
(Genesis 1:27)

One of the heritages from the Lord is that I was made in his image. Every baby born down through the ages is in his image too. We are literal children of God and have a noble heritage.

Day 1180

Today's Favorite Verse: Psalms 126:3

Today's Favorite Verse: Psalms 126:3
"The Lord hath done great things for us; whereof we are glad."

This made me ponder on the greatest thing the Lord has done for me. That is his redeeming sacrifice and atonement. His sacrifice for me, so I can live again. I have no words. My heart is full.

Day 1179

Today's Favorite Verse: Psalms 125:5

Today's Favorite Verse: Psalms 125:5
"As for such as turn aside unto their crooked ways, the Lord shall lead them forth with the workers of iniquity: but peace shall be upon Israel."

Wickedness never was happiness and it certainly does not give peace. I have been able to observe this in the life of someone that has turned their back on God. Oh they believe the universe will bring them good things. But, when trials come they are in a panic and have no peace. My heart bleeds for them. They have even asked me how I can remain so calm. I can't even begin to explain it when they do not want me to speak of Christ.  I am beginning to understand why the sign of the dove appeared at Jesus' baptism. The peace of the Lord cannot be mimicked by Satan.

Day 1178

Today's Favorite Verse: Psalms 124:2-3

Today's Favorite Verse: Psalms 124:2-3
"If it had not been the Lord who was on our side, when men rose up against us:
Then they had swallowed us up quick, when their wrath was kindled against us:"

This is why I have to remain faithful. I never know when others come to swallow up my faith and rush over me with doubt. With the Lord by my side, I am strong, and they will have no power over me.

Day 1177

Today's Favorite Verse: Psalms 123:2

Today's Favorite Verse: Psalms 123:2
"Behold, as the eyes of servants look unto the hand of their masters, and as the eyes of a maiden unto the hand of her mistress; so our eyes wait upon the Lord our God, until that he have mercy upon us."

I love this imagery of watching. Observation has been really stressed to me recently. Watch, look, observe and then I will know what is right. The spirit will teach me. Having the gift of the Holy Ghost is mercy from the Lord.

This made me think of some scriptures that emphases the importance of watching.

"Watch therefore: for ye know not what hour your Lord doth come,"
(Matthew 24:42)

"But he answered and said, Verily I say unto you, I know you not.
Watch therefore, for ye know neither the day nor the hour wherein the Son of man cometh."
(Matthew 25:12-13)

"Remember therefore how thou hast received and heard, and hold fast, and repent. If therefore thou shalt not watch, I will come on thee as a thief, and thou shalt not know what hour I will come upon thee."
(Revelations 3:3)

"And this know, that if the goodman of the house had known what hour the thief would come, he would have watched, and not have suffered his house to be broken through."
(Luke 12:39)

"Even so it shall be in that day when they shall see all these things, then shall they know that the hour is nigh."
(Doctrine and Covenants 45:38)

"Watch, therefore, for ye know neither the day nor the hour."
(Doctrine and Covenants 133:11)

"So likewise, mine elect, when they shall see all these things, they shall know that he is near, even at the doors;
But of that day, and hour, no one knoweth; no, not the angels of God in heaven, but my Father only.
And what I say unto one, I say unto all men; watch, therefore, for you know not at what hour your Lord doth come."
(Joseph Smith - Matthew 1:39-40, 46)

"Ye are all the children of light, and the children of the day: we are not of the night, nor of darkness.
Therefore let us not sleep, as do others; but let us watch and be sober.
But let us, who are of the day, be sober, putting on the breastplate of faith and love;and for a helmet, the hope of salvation."
(1 Thessalonians 5:6, 8)

My impressions have not been that the Lord is right at the door. My impressions have been to learn to watch, even when I don't know what for. I have no impression to obsessively read the signs of the last days. Faithful scripture study is all that is needful. Watching and observing and pondering these things in my heart, will eventually help me know when he is at the door. When I see it, I will know it, and what I should do. Now is the time to learn to watch. Now is the time to learn to listen to the spirit, remain faithful, and trust the Lord. No man will be my instructor but the messengers of my Father. How grateful I am for prophets on the earth, and the holy scriptures as my guide.

Day 1176

Today's Favorite Verse: Psalms 122:1

Today's Favorite Verse: Psalms 122:1
"I was glad when they said unto me, Let us go into the house of the Lord."

I am glad to go to the house of the Lord. I love my Tuesday morning sessions. It is the highlight of the week for me. In this verse it talks of us and they, but honestly I love to go alone. I love not having to rush and just taking things at my own pace. I can sit and reflect as long as I want in the celestial room. Just pondering and reading the scriptures for a very long time.

This past week I was unaware that a brother was observing me sitting there. He must have thought I was struggling with some problem. I was just having an amazing time reading the scriptures, so much was just opening up. It just felt like my Heavenly Fathers arms were around me. When I'm like that the tears are just flowing, but they are tears of joy.

Anyways, when I got up to leave he came across the room and said he felt impressed that he needed to give me a hug. I know how awkward it can be for a person to act upon their impressions. I knew he didn't have it quite right thinking that I was sad. He had no idea who I felt had just given me a hug. I thought "maybe you need the hug from me", from Heavenly Fathers arms to mine. I said I love hugs so I gave him a big hug. Trying to pass on what Heavenly Father had just given me.

Then he said everything will be ok, it will all work out. I agreed and said yes I know it will and gave him a big smile. Happily I can report that with the week coming to a close everything has continued to work out. I have wondered about this brother, he must have needed that witness for himself. After-all he had been in the celestial room a long time pondering too. I hope I was able to pass along some strength that saw him through the week. I may go to the temple alone, but I'm never alone when I'm there.

Day 1175

Today's Favorite Verse: Psalms 121:4

Today's Favorite Verse: Psalms 121:4
"Behold, he that keepeth Israel shall neither slumber nor sleep."

I am reminded of President Gordan B. Hinckley, April 1994 LDS General Conference talk "God Is at the Helm".

"Let not any voices of discontent disturb you. Let not the critics worry you. As Alma declared long ago, “Trust no one to be your teacher nor your minister, except he be a man of God, walking in his ways and keeping his commandments” (Mosiah 23:14)

The truth is in this church. The authority is in this priesthood. The leadership is in this great body of priesthood at every level of governance. As the Psalmist declared: “Behold, he that keepeth Israel shall neither slumber nor sleep” (Psalm 121:4)

He who is our Savior slumbers not nor sleeps as He watches over this His kingdom.

As surely as this is the work of the Lord, there will be opposition. There will be those, perhaps not a few, who with the sophistry of beguiling words and clever design will spread doubt and seek to undermine the foundation on which this cause is established. They will have their brief day in the sun. They may have for a brief season the plaudits of the doubters and the skeptics and the critics. But they will fade and be forgotten as have their kind in the past.

Meanwhile, we shall go forward, regardless of their criticism, aware of but undeterred by their statements and actions. Said the Lord even before the Church was organized:

“Therefore, fear not, little flock; do good; let earth and hell combine against you, for if ye are built upon my rock, they cannot prevail. …

“Look unto me in every thought; doubt not, fear not.

“Behold the wounds which pierced my side, and also the prints of the nails in my hands and feet; be faithful, keep my commandments, and ye shall inherit the kingdom of heaven”  (D&C 6:34, 36–37)"

Day 1174

Today's Favorite Verse: Psalms 120:2

Today's Favorite Verse: Psalms 120:2
"Deliver my soul, O Lord, from lying lips and from a deceitful tongue."

I sat and pondered on if this means me having lying lips or someone else lying to me? I decided its both, because either way a person needs to be delivered from it. If it is myself then I need to be delivered from sinning and repent. The Lord would deliver my soul in that case.

If it was being delivered from someone lying or being deceitful to me it would mean I was without sin in this matter. So how would I be delivered?  I believe it is by the spirit that I would identify those that lay in wait, lying and deceiving. By the spirit I am beginning to be able to tell something doesn't add up and I need to walk away. Sometimes its an out and out warning to get away quickly. Sometimes I am warned to not even go near something before I even hear their lies. I am so very grateful when it is the later. I will not let a liar disturb my peace.

I have no problem with letting them think I believe them. I no longer have the need to correct their lies. I just agree and go on my way. It always makes me think of Matthew 5:25

"Agree with thine adversary quickly, whiles thou art in the way with him; lest at any time the adversary deliver thee to the judge, and judge deliver thee to the officer, and thou be cast into prison."

I just want to leave and not get caught up in their mess.

Day 1173

Today's Favorite Verse: Psalms 119:2, 10, 24, 130

Today's Favorite Verse: Psalms 119:2, 10, 24, 130
"Blessed are they that keep his testimonies, and that seek him with the whole heart.
With my whole heart have I sought thee: O let me not wander from thy commandments.
Thy testimonies also are my delight and my counsellors.
The entrance of thy words giveth light; it giveth understanding unto the simple."

With all my heart I do not want to be lead astray. I cherish my testimony of the gospel. I will not let anything that wants to destroy it in. I know how powerful the adversary is and I am only strong with I don't entertain him. I treasure the blessing of having the spirit to always be with me. I will not read or listen to anything that will make the spirit flee. The moment I feel it leave I know it, and make whatever change needed to bring it back. I'm living in the last days I cannot risk being without the Holy Spirit as my guide.

It was only today that I was sadden by the turn of events in a Facebook group I belong to. It was a small collection of fellow LDS members sharing uplifting thoughts on the gospel. I knew it would be a matter of time before those that want to destroy such things would come in. And, tonight I see they invited it in. So I'm gone and having to leave makes me sad. There was much good there, but I know how the adversary works on testimonies and twists the scriptures. I will have no part of it. I know where the source of knowledge comes from for me and I will gain nothing dwelling on the wrong sides point of view. I will not content with them because the spirit will flee then to. I will simply walk away and hold dear to me the testimony that I have. The gospel is simple and pure. With the spirit as my guide I can read the scriptures and words of the prophets myself and be taught amazing things.

Am I isolating myself and not broad minded, probably so. But when this life is over I want to say to the Lord "With my whole heart I sought thee."

Day 1172

Today's Favorite Verse: Psalms 118:24

Today's Favorite Verse: Psalms 118:24
"This is the day which the Lord hath made; we will rejoice and be glad in it."

There have been times I wished I lived in a different age. I've always loved history and could easily live in the past. But, just yesterday when I was traveling in the car I thought about how grateful I was to live in this day. It is my day and I am glad of it. I'm sure that is why this verse stuck out to me in this chapter. The Lord made no mistake in the timing of my coming to earth.

I was made for this day. Living now is exactly what I need. Even when I see the wickedness and craziness in the world. I have to turn my face from them, even when I'm looking right at them. I just finished my 7 day social media fast and started to read posts and comments again on Facebook. I really am learning something about myself in being able to walk away from the multitude of voices. Not sure what I am seeing, but I know connections are forming. It's rather exciting when I know I am ready to be taught if I just listen, ponder and observe. These are exciting times to live in. The Lord is blessing his saints richly with the spirit. If we just turn to Him.

Day 1171

Today's Favorite Verse: Psalms 117:1-2

Today's Favorite Verse: Psalms 117:1-2
"O praise the Lord, all ye nations: praise him, all ye people.
For his merciful kindness is great toward us: and the truth of the Lord endureth for ever. Praise ye the Lord."

What is truth?

"And truth is knowledge of things as they are, and as they were, and as they are to come;"
(Doctrine and Covenants 93:24)

"Even though one's understand of truth may be fragmentary, truth itself does not change. Everlasting truth and wisdom come from the Lord. The first truth ever taught to man came directly from Deity. From generation to generation, God has given additional light. Whether truth comes from a laboratory of science or directly by revelation, truth is embraced by the gospel."
(Russell M. Nelson, Constancy amid Change; Oct 1993, LDS General Conference)

Day 1170

Today's Favorite Verse: Psalms 116:15

Today's Favorite Verse: Psalms 116:15
"Precious in the sight of the Lord is the death of his saints."

Why would that be precious I wondered? It is because a saint is coming home to him. They are prepared to meet Him. They have endured the trials and test of life and are prepare to enter into His rest. I would think it would grieve the Father for one that is unprepared to come home, but come home they must. For Paul said:

"O death, where is thy sting? O grave, where is thy victory?
The sting of death is sin; and the strength of sin is the law."
(1 Corinthians 15:55-56)

There are great promises for those that die in the Lord.

"And I head a voice from heaven saying unto me, Write, Blessed are the dead which die in the Lord from henceforth: Yea, saith the Spirit, that they may rest from their labours; and their works do follow them."
(Revelations 14:13)

"And it shall come to pass that those that die in me shall not taste of death, for it shall be sweet unto them."
(Doctrine and Covenants 42:46)

Day 1169

Today's Favorite Verse: Psalms 115:4, 8

Today's Favorite Verse: Psalms 115:4, 8
"Their idols are silver and gold, the work of men's hands.
They that make them are like unto them; so is every one that trusteth in them."

In between these two verses the idols are described with mouths that don't speak, eyes that don't see, ears that don't hear, noses that don't smell, hands that don't feel, feet that don't walk, and they don't speak through their throat.

I think the key is what happens to the person with the idols, they become like them, dead to all anything that is real. Which made me think of Elder Bednar 2009 BYU-Idaho talk "Things as They Really Are", and later printed in the June 2010 Ensign.

He gives an apostolic voice of warning, with much pleading and concern on a subject with immediate and eternal implications. He exposes the tactics of the adversary in our day. This statement really struck me.

"If the adversary cannot entice us to misuse our physical bodies, then one of his most potent tactics is to beguile you and me as embodied spirits to disconnect gradually and physically from things as they really are. In essence, he encourages us to think and act as if we were in our premortal, unembodied state. And, if we let him, he can cunningly employ some aspects of modern technology to accomplish his purposes."


Day 1168

Today's Favorite Verse: Psalms 114:3

Today's Favorite Verse: Psalms 114:3
"The sea saw it, and fled: Jordan was driven back."

This chapter speaks of wondrous miracles performed in Old Testament times. The children of Israel saw in their day the parting of the Red Sea and the Jordan River driven back.  It only made me think of my day and what lies ahead. This quote from President Russell M. Nelson's talk "Revelation for the Church, Revelation for Our Lives" was the most powerful statement in all of April 2018 General Conference for me.

"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. But in coming days, it will not be possible to survive spiritually without the guiding, directing, comforting, and constant influence of the Holy Ghost."

During general conference I could feel a door has been opened. President Nelson also said in his "Let Us All Press On" talk, "This general conference marks the beginning of a new era of ministering." Door or era, either way there has been a change.

I am called to minister to my brothers and sister. I cannot help but think how such acts will allow the ministering of angels in my behalf. Deeper spiritual roots need to planted. There is much coming and much to be worthy of. I cannot help but wonder what I will be worthy to see? What I must be spiritually prepared to stand against? One thing is I do not feel fear about the days ahead. I feel an excited anticipation. I do not look to what evil has planned. All I can think of is how Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego, because they were spiritually prepared, had a fourth man, like the Son of God, walk with them in the fiery furnace. With God you are never left alone. Through the power of the Holy Ghost I will be guided, directed, and comforted if I remain worthy. That is an amazing promise. Just stay the course and eternal life is ahead. 

Day 1167

Today's Favorite Verse: Psalms 113:7-8

Today's Favorite Verse: Psalms 113:7-8
"He raiseth up the poor out of the dust, and lifeth the needy out of the dunghill;
That he may set him with princes, even with the princes of his people."

This reminds me of something I was pondering on last week. It started with reading the June Ensign and all the stories commemorating the 1978 revelation on the priesthood. I looked at all the sacrifices my black brothers and sisters endured until the priesthood was available to them. I had also been reading stories of the early saints and the sacrifices of the pioneers. I knew I was not worthy to wipe the dust from their feet.

I wondered how could I ever be with them in the celestial kingdom. What they had been asked to do I had never been through. I sat dwelling on this for a while. Then I realized the celestial kingdom would not be a place of who had the worse trial on earth. It would not be telling of the battle stories and who was the strongest. What was the element that made them all equal?  It was faith in Christ. The test may be different for people depending on what is needful for their faith. Faith is the element you cannot see. Faith such a primary answer is actually the answer. It is the greatest thing to obtain in this life. Faith opens the door to eternal life. Faith is how I come to know the Lord. It is how I will be with Him.

"For this is the covenant that I will make with the house of Israel after those days, saith the Lord; I will put my laws into their mind, and write them in their hearts: and I will be to them a God, and they shall be to me a people:
And they shall not teach every man his neighbour, and every man his brother, saying, Know the Lord: for all shall know me, from the least to the greatest."
(Hebrews 8:10-11)

Day 1166

Today's Favorite Verse: Psalms 112:1

Today's Favorite Verse: Psalms 112:1
"Praise ye the Lord. Blessed is the man that feareth the Lord, that delighteth greatly in his commandments."

I sat and pondered on if I 'delighteth greatly in his commandments". What a long journey I have been in life. One only delights in something if they can keep them. As I have witnessed many things around me I can see the protection and wisdom in all of God's commandments. I do delight in the commandments for they have blessed me. I see the good that comes from them. The peace of mind, and the surety they bring me. The freedom that comes when not in bondage of sin. Oh, that society would see the need for them. I rejoice that one day when the Savior reigns, everyone around me will delight in keeping the commandments. What a wonderful day that will be.

Day 1165

Today's Favorite Verse: Psalms 111:10

Today's Favorite Verse: Psalms 111:10
"The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom: a good understanding have all they that do his commandments: his praise endureth for ever."

The beginning of wisdom for me is knowing its the spirit that is teaching me. Of myself I am a fool. Wisdom is knowing to listen to the impressions that come, no matter the situation. 

As I sat reflecting I thought of what is happening to me right now. It's so simple, yet the solution to my problem came by the spirit. My little bent pinky finger was so painful, it felt broken. I didn't have insurance so I had to fix it myself. I knew I needed some type of brace or splint. While looking on Amazon for a finger splint I discovered that I had a mallet finger. It told me how long to wear the brace. I did and it was painful and cut into my skin, but I wore it 8 weeks straight. Then I took it off and my finger was still somewhat bent. It became sore really easy and was swollen. I knew I needed a different splint one that was not bulky and would keep it straight. But, I couldn't figure out what type. So I prayed about it.

I felt impressed to go look in my house for a brace. I was picturing some type of metal that was strong to hold it straight but very tiny. It was rather an interesting hunt looking for something but not exactly sure what. I looked inside every drawer and cabinet. I felt like I was on a treasure hunt, and even giggled to myself about it. All I knew was that it was simple and when I found it the spirit would tell me what to do with it..

Suddenly I pulled out a small safety pin and realized that was it. Once I looked at that pin I pictured wrapping it with some self adherent elastic wrap. It would cushion the pin against my skin. Then placing my finger on it I could then hold it in place with more of the wrap. The self adhering wrap was perfect because the other type of tape irritated my skin. It also molded well to the shape of my finger. I sat down and made my mallet finger wrap. Immediate relief, soft and light weight and no irritation while wearing it. As I change the bandage I can see my finger is healing straight and no longer swollen. The bandage has been so comfortable and easy to wear.

With all the crazy mallet finger braces I have seen this has been perfect. I wish I was able to market it somehow. Not sure how many people would buy a simple safety pin and wrap though. At least I know if anyone in my family needs to treat a mallet finger I have a solution for them. I know of myself I would have never thought of this. It is only when I prayed to know what to do and then moved by faith that the solution came. Wisdom is knowing who to turn to for the answer, even in the simplest of things. Then doing it.

Day 1164

Today's Favorite Verse: Psalms 110:3

Today's Favorite Verse: Psalms 110:3
"Thy people shall be willing in the day of thy power, in the beauties of holiness from the womb of the morning: thou hast the dew of thy youth."

I listened tonight to the Worldwide Youth Devotional with President Russell M. Nelson and Sister Wendy W. Nelson. It was amazing. This is a chosen generation and they are being prepared for the second coming of the Lord. Priesthood power is upon the earth and we must be clean and holy. This verse just seems to speak of our day. President Nelson asked the following of the youth.

To Enlist in the Lord's Youth Battalion to Gather Israel
1. Seven day social media fast
2. Weekly sacrifice of time to the Lord - 3 weeks in a row give up something you like to do, to help gather Israel
3. Keep on the covenant path
4. Pray daily for all to receive blessings of the gospel
5. Stand out. Be different. Be a light
Prayerfully read the book "For the Strength of Youth"

The hardest one for me on the list is to disengage with social media for a week.

This is what President Nelson asked.

"Disengage in a constant reliance on social media by holding a seven day fast from social media. If you are paying more attention to feeds from social media then you are to the whispering of the spirit then you are putting yourself at spiritual risk, as well as the risk of intense loneliness and depression... Give yourself a seven day break from fake... This social media fast can just be between you and the Lord. It will be your sign to him that you are willing to step away from the world in order to enlist in his youth battalion."

At first I thought of reasons why I can't do it. Part of my work involves monitoring social media. I also feel I am taking part in sharing the gospel by posting my favorite verse.

I want to be obedient but I also need to work and serve. I have sat here since the broadcast wondering what I should do. Quietly I knew what was needful for me. For my personal life I need to disengage and put social media away. I am starting my social media fast today. I will post my favorite verse but I won't be checking any of my feeds, comments or friends posts. I know where my issues lie. I waste to much time checking the latest news stories. Google News on my phone is the worst for me. I have been trying to break this habit and now is my chance. Instead of looking for an excuse I now am excited for the opportunity for change.

I may not be a youth, but in the scheme of the eternities I'm just a babe. I want to be part of the youth battalion of the Lord to help gather Israel. The greatest challenge, the greatest cause, and the greatest work on the earth today. Senior missionaries are needed too! I can do it!

Day 1163

Today's Favorite Verse: Psalms 109:8-9, 13

Today's Favorite Verse: Psalms 109:8-9, 13
"Let his days be few; and let another take his office.
Let his children be fatherless, and his wife a widow.
Let his posterity be cut off; and in the generation following let their names be blotted out.

The header to this chapter says David "prays that his enemies will be confounded." No, I think he wishes him dead and his posterity too. It was painful to read. All I could think of were Jesus' words on the Sermon on the Mount.

"But I say unto you, Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you;"
(Matthew 5:44)

Jesus came to give a high law, a better way. What a contrast to the way they were living. As I pondered on David's words I could see the parallel to my day. There are still people not living the higher law.

Day 1162

Today's Favorite Verse: Psalms 108:2

Today's Favorite Verse: Psalms 108:2
"Awake, psaltery and harp: I myself will awake early."

I wondered if David was awaken with the song of redeeming love playing in his head?

"And now behold, I say unto you my brethren, if ye have experienced a change of heart, and if ye have felt to sing the song of redeeming love, I would ask, can ye feel so now?"
(Alma 5:26)

Literally, it was with my change of heart that I began to be awaken with the hymns of my redeemer playing in my head. It is most often on the mornings I am going to the temple. At first I awake only hearing the music, then gradually the words become clear. They are sweet sacred messages to me. I don't really understand all that is connected to it, but I know when I don't hear it in a certain space of time I check to see what I am neglecting or not taking care of. I find there is a lesson in the absence of it too.

I founds a very sweet song called "The Song of Redeeming Love", by Max Walters. I couldn't make out all the words but really that how I first awake to most songs. I only catch key words here and there. Enough to ponder on until I understand it all. Once I understood these words they were my heart. I could picture David sweetly singing it as a psalm too.


The Song of Redeeming Love

Oh, Lord of the heavens, to thee give I praise;
Praise and rejoicing are now my new ways.
I'll sing of thy Power, they strength and thy might.
For time ever more I will do what is right.

Oh, Savior Redeemer, of thee will I boast.
God of the heaven, Lord of the Host.
Praise to my Savior, high up above.
I'm ransomed, I'm clean.
I'm redeemed by thy love.

Shall I not now sing my sweet praises to thee;
My life from here on shall be pleasing you'll see.
My heart has been changed, Lord, only love do I feel.
I'll praise thee for ever, my heart thou didst heal.

Oh, Savior Redeemer, of thee will I boast.
God of the heaven, Lord of the Host.
Praise to my Savior, high up above.
I'm ransomed, I'm clean.
I'm redeemed by thy love.

Awake, oh my soul, and rejoice, oh my heart.
I'll love thee and serve thee and now do my part.
Thy love, my dear Savior, I'll spread all around.
That only pure love 'mongst thy children is found.

Oh praise him, oh praise him, oh praise him I sing.
To thee, my dear Savior, willing heart do I bring.
I rejoice, I am grateful to thee up above.
I'm ransomed, I'm clean,
I'm redeemed by thy love.

Oh, Savior Redeemer, of thee will I boast.
God of the heaven, Lord of the Host.
Praise to my Savior, high up above.
I'm ransomed, I'm clean.
I'm redeemed by thy love.


Day 1161