Today's Favorite Verse: 1 John 5:3

Today's Favorite Verse: 1 John 5:3
"For this is the love of God, that we keep his commandments: and his commandments are not grievous."

Grievous = burdensome, oppressive
"For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light."
(Matthew 11:30)

I pondered on how I have come to understand this verse. For it is hard to keep the commandments if you do not have the love of God greater than the love for self. But, when you come to know God, and love him, the desire to sin has no place in your heart. It is not a burden or oppressive to keep the commandments when the Lord is there to carry me. There is an understanding that the commandments are there as a protection to me. It is the power of the Lord's atonement that lights the way.

Day 1737

Today's Favorite Verse: 1 John 4:1

Today's Favorite Verse: 1 John 4:1
"Beloved, believe not every spirit, but try the spirits whether they are of God: because many false prophets are gone out into the world."

This chapter is written by the apostle John, the Revelator, that also wrote Revelations. I pondered on how he understood the need to test spirits, and that is exactly what he did when he received the vision in Revelation.

"The Revelation of Jesus Christ, which God gave unto him, to shew unto his servants things which must shortly come to pass; and he sent and signified it by his angel unto his servant John:"
(Revelation 1:1)

This is how we are told to test spirits that come to us.

"When a messenger comes saying he has a message from God, offer him your hand and request him to shake hands with you.
If he be an angel he will do so, and you will feel his hand.
If he be the spirit of a just man made perfect he will come in his glory; for that is the only way he can appear—
Ask him to shake hands with you, but he will not move, because it is contrary to the order of heaven for a just man to deceive; but he will still deliver his message.
If it be the devil as an angel of light, when you ask him to shake hands he will offer you his hand, and you will not feel anything; you may therefore detect him.
These are three grand keys whereby you may know whether any administration is from God."
(Doctrine and Covenants 129:4-9)

Day 1736

Today's Favorite Verse: 1 John 3:23

Today's Favorite Verse: 1 John 3:23
"And this is his commandment, That we should believe on the name of his Son Jesus Christ, and love one another, as he gave us commandment.
And he that keepeth his commandments dwelleth in him, and he in him. And hereby we know that he abideth in us, by the Spirit which he hath given us."

This made me reflect on the sacrament that I took today. It is always a very tender part of my week. For I reflect on my actions and if I always remembered my Savior, during this past week. Are there things amiss and need to repented of? The slate is again wiped clean and I can do better. Then I sit and reflect on my Savior and all he has done for me. What a miracle. But the more part of the sacrament is the blessing, to always have the Spirit to be with me. It is my guide, for when I feel the Spirit has left me, or seems very far away, I know I need to look again at what I am doing and get back on the path. I am so grateful for the gift of the Holy Ghost, it helps me understand my relationship with Jesus Christ.

Day 1735

Today's Favorite Verse: 1 John 2:1-2

Today's Favorite Verse: 1 John 2:1-2
"My little children, these thing write I unto you, that ye sin not. And if any man sin, we have an advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the righteous:
And he is the propitiation for our sins: and not for ours only, but also for the sins of the whole world."

I pondered on the great atoning sacrifice of Jesus Christ, and just wept. How great a sacrifice and not only for those that repent, but those that never will. It was given free for all, if they only accept it. What incredible love.  Words cannot express how grateful I am.

Day 1734

Today's Favorite Verse: 1 John 1:1

Today's Favorite Verse: 1 John 1:1
"That which was from the beginning, which we have heard, which we have seen with our eyes, which we have looked upon, and our hands have handled, of the Word of life;"

John is testifying of having heard, seen and handled the living Christ. What must that have been like to hear John bear witness? Then I thought about the fact that I do. It's in the scriptures. Then I was incredibly grateful for the Bible Videos the Church has put out. For the one on the Risen Lord touched my heart so much, it was almost like I was almost there.



Day 1733

Today's Favorite Verse: 2 Peter 3:9, 18

Today's Favorite Verse: 2 Peter 3:9, 18
"The Lord is not slack concerning his promise, as some men count slackness; but is longsuffering to us-ward, not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance.
But grow in grace, and in the knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. To him be glory both now and for ever. Amen."

As I pondered on this chapter I could see how merciful the Lord is. He is giving man all the time possible for us to repent before he "will come as a thief in the night" (2 Peter: 3:10). So this message I would say if for the unprepared. What about those that are preparing for his come? Verse 18 tells me I need to grow in grace and knowledge of the Lord. So none can afford not to prepare for the day of His Second Coming. We cannot just say we are saved and leave it at that. Preparation is continual, as well as his mercy extended towards us to repent, until final judgment comes.

Day 1732

Today's Favorite Verse: 2 Peter 2:21

Today's Favorite Verse: 2 Peter 2:21
"For it had been better for them not to have known the way of righteousness, than, after they have known it, to turn from the holy commandment delivered unto them."

This is such a sad thought to me, for people I love are in this situation. All I can do is pray they see the light and turn back to Christ, for "his hand is stretched out still."

Day 1731

Today's Favorite Verse: 2 Peter 1:20-21

Today's Favorite Verse: 2 Peter 1:20-21
"Knowing this first, that no prophecy of the scripture is of any private interpretation.
For the prophecy came not in old time by the will of man: but holy men of God spake as they were moved by the Holy Ghost."

I wrote this in my notes on this scripture a while ago and still feel this is true.

"Scripture study comes through the Holy Ghost and not through the private interpretation of others. This is why I don't read other people's book about the scriptures."

I have learned far more from prayerfully reading the scriptures on my own, with the spirit prompting me on what to ponder. Questions form and then understanding comes. I have yet to experience this while reading someone's else's book on the scriptures. Don't get me wrong there are good books out there, and I may use them as a reference. But what the spirit feels I am ready to learn that day comes from the scripture themselves, and I need to spend quality time there.

Day 1730

Today's Favorite Verse: 1 Peter 5:7

Today's Favorite Verse: 1 Peter 5:7
"Casting all your care upon him; for he careth for you."

I pondered on my journey of learning to trust the Lord with my cares so he can carry them for me. His grace is sufficient and he meets me where I am at. I love the word "care" in this verse for I have always found he answers all my emotional cares immediately if I but ask him to carry them. Then my mind is free for the spirit to guide me on the solutions to the problems that weighed me down. I love this relationship with the Lord, for as I witness Him carrying my burdens I truly know that he cares for me.

Day 1729

Today's Favorite Verse: 1 Peter 4:8

Today's Favorite Verse: 1 Peter 4:8
"And above all things have fervent charity among yourselves: for charity shall cover the multitude of sins."

I thought this verse didn't sound right. How could charity, the pure love of Christ, work to cover sins? We don't cover sins, nor will good deeds erase them. Sins need to be repented of. Then I saw the footnote for the Joseph Smith Translation.

"And above all things have fervent charity among yourselves; for charity preventeth a multitude of sins."
(JST, 1 Peter 4:8)

Now that made sense to my soul. Charity the pure love of Christ will help prevent or overcome the temptation to sin. That is a good reason to do good deeds and acts of service to others. It keeps us on the right path, it leads us towards Christ. It helps us to #LightTheWorld with His love.


Day 1728

Today's Favorite Verse: 1 Peter 3:16

Today's Favorite Verse: 1 Peter 3:16
"Having a good conscience; that, whereas they speak evil of you, as of evildoers, they may be ashamed that falsely accuse your good conversation in Christ."

This made me reflect on this Christmas season. I realized I've fallen into conformity. I call it the Holiday season. I hardly say the word Christmas now. Looking back I don't even know how that happened. Christ has been taken out of Christmas and even the name for the day is gone. You are hard pressed to find a school that would sing Christmas carols with references to Christ for fear of lawsuits. What was so pure and good is treated as if evil was spoken. That makes me sad. I am glad tomorrow is the Sabbath before Christmas and I will enjoy a sacrament meeting devoted to Him. I will sing Christmas carols and worship the "Wonderful, Counselor, The Mighty God, The Everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace". The Messiah, beloved Son of God, my Savior Jesus Christ.

Day 1727

Today's Favorite Verse: 1 Peter 2:8

Today's Favorite Verse: 1 Peter 2:8
"And a stone of stumbling, and a rock of offence, even to them which stumble at the word, being disobedient: whereunto also they were appointed."

This verse made me reflect on the current generation. How being offended is a national past-time. There is always something they can find to twist and make it look like the other person was being offensive. When the fact is choosing to take offense or not shows the character of the man. As I was pondering and reflecting on this I realized the root cause of this past-time. They stumble on the word of God. Society is losing its more compass that comes from a belief in God. What a different world this would be if people would read the word of God and apply it to themselves. 

Day 1726

Today's Favorite Verse: 1 Peter 1:19

Today's Favorite Verse: 1 Peter 1:19
"But with the precious blood of Christ, as of a lamb without blemish and without spot:"

How am I redeemed? This verse is the answer and I just wept at the thought of it.

Day 1725

Today's Favorite Verse: James 5:7

Today's Favorite Verse: James 5:7
"Be patient therefore, brethren, unto the coming of the Lord. Behold, the husbandman waiteth for the precious fruit of the earth, and hath long patience for it, until he receive the early and latter rain."

This verse made me ponder on the wheat and the tares. I guess I had always thought more on the tares. How by their wickedness the tares would be plucked up and thrown into the fire. This made me think of how the Lord is waiting for the wheat to be fully matured and ready. What determines the harvest is that the wheat is finally ready.

"Verily, thus saith the Lord unto you my servants, concerning the parable of the wheat and of the tares:
But the Lord saith unto them, pluck not up the tares while the blade is yet tender (for verily your faith is weak), lest you destroy the wheat also.
Therefore, let the wheat and the tares grow together until the harvest is fully ripe; then ye shall first gather out the wheat from among the tares, and after the gathering of the wheat, behold and lo, the tares are bound in bundles, and the field remaineth to be burned.
(Doctrine and Covenants 86:1, 6-7)

"Therefore, I must gather together my people, according to the parable of the wheat and the tares, that the wheat may be secured in the garners to possess eternal life, and be crowned with celestial glory, when I shall come in the kingdom of my Father to reward every man according as his work shall be;"
(Doctrine and Covenants 101:65)




Day 1724

Today's Favorite Verse: James 4:4

Today's Favorite Verse: James 4:4
"Ye adulterers and adulteresses, know ye not that the friendship of the world is enmity with God? whosoever therefore will be a friend of the world is the enemy of God."

I had this note in my scriptures.

"When are we friends with the world?  When we leave the council of the church, to feel a greater love is to embrace or support sin."

It is amazing how Satan will deceive, and twist things. Agendas that support sin seem to produce some of the most unloving and intolerant of people, that are blind to what they have become. They really do become enemies to God and his people. The amazing thing is once they leave the church and their faith, they just can't leave it alone.

Day 1723

Today's Favorite Verse: James 3:10

Today's Favorite Verse: James 3:10
"Out of the same mouth proceedeth blessing and cursing. My brethren, these things ought not so to be.

This made me think of this.

"A double minded man is unstable in all his ways."
(James 1:8)

"Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.
Draw nigh to God, and he will draw nigh to you. Cleanse your hands, ye sinners; and purity your hearts, ye double minded."
(James 4:7-8)

Day 1722

Today's Favorite Verse: James 2:19-20

Today's Favorite Verse: James 2:19-20
"Thou believest that there is one God; thou doest well: the devils also believe, and tremble.
But wilt thou know, O vain man, that faith without works is dead?

I found this point on faith without works is dead something to ponder on today. For even the devil and his angels know who Christ is, yet it is by their works that we know them. How much more important is it for a person of faith and belief to do good works as the Savior did.

"When he saw Jesus, he cried out, and fell down before him, and with a loud voice said, What have I to do with thee, Jesus thou Son of God most high? I beseech thee, torment me not."
(Luke 8:28)

This video is of another story of Jesus healing a man possessed, but the story is the same the devils knew who Christ was.



Day 1721

Today's Favorite Verse: James 1:12, 26

Today's Favorite Verse: James 1:12, 26
"Blessed is the man that endureth temptation: for when he is tried, he shall receive the crown of life, which the Lord hath promised to them that love him.
If any man among you seem to be religious, and bridleth not his tongue, but deceiveth his own heart, this man's religion is vain."

The footnote refers the tongue to gossip and profanity. I have to say the handling of these two situations expose many people and their commitment to their faith. Nothing grieves me more than to hear swearing, especially the Lord's name in vain.

Nothing pleases me more than to see one overcome the temptation to swear or speak ill of others. We are all tempted and it is through overcoming that temptation that spiritual maturity comes. The love of God becomes true, deep and abiding.

President David O. McKay said, “Spirituality is the consciousness of victory over self.” It is the sure knowledge that we are winning the struggle for the soul. Sensuality is the realm of self-indulgence. Spirituality is the realm of self-victory.
(Douglas L. Callister, "Seeking the Spirit of God", Oct 2000 General Conference)

Day 1720

Today's Favorite Verse: Hebrew 13:4

Today's Favorite Verse: Hebrew 13:4
"Marriage is honourable in all, and the bed undefiled: but whoremongers and adulterers God will judge."

I pondered on how society's opinions on marriage have changed over the years. There once was a feeling of shame for not living God's laws. Now, there is no shame and it is boastful. It is a curious thing to see the changes taking place. Yet, God's laws haven't changed. Sometimes I think of God just weeping for what he sees happening. For he told us what He expects and will judge us on, and yet we walk our own paths. The thought makes me feel pretty sad.

Day 1719

Today's Favorite Verse: Hebrew 12:1

Today's Favorite Verse: Hebrew 12:1
"Wherefore seeing we also are compassed about with so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which doth so easily beset us, and let us run with patience the race that is set before us,"

I was drawn to the phrase "run with patience". I have made a study on the word patience, for that is one of the lessons I am learning right now. I have thought a lot on patience, as in sitting and waiting for the Lord's will. I had not thought about running with patience? One thing that the footnote does refer me to is Perseverance, along with Patience, Patient and Patiently. I could not find anything that gave me more understanding on "run with patience". So I pondered on it. 

So what would I be running from or to in this verse?  It appears I am running from sin. That I am taking the great weight of sin and removing it. To remove sin I would need to run to the Savior. The rest of the chapter speak of enduring and not to despise chastening. So maybe what I need is patience with myself as I run this race of life. For I will endure chastening for my profit and learning. Maybe I'm not so much running, but enduring. Probably why it also referred me to perseverance. One that runs must learn to pace themselves to endure the race. It is building spiritual stamina, through dedication, perseverance and self-discipline, everything a runner would need. They also run "the race that is set before us". Meaning they don't define the course themselves. They run the race the officials have set out. So I am running and enduring the course the Lord has set out for me.

Day 1718

Today's Favorite Verse: Hebrew 11:1

Today's Favorite Verse: Hebrew 11:1
"Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen."

Not only do I love this verse, I love the whole chapter and the examples of faith that came before them. I love how Elder Andersen explains it too.

"Faith in the Lord Jesus Christ is not something ethereal, floating loosely in the air. Faith does not fall upon us by chance or stay with us by birthright. It is, as the scriptures say, “substance … , the evidence of things not seen. Faith emits a spiritual light, and that light is discernible. Faith in Jesus Christ is a gift from heaven that comes as we choose to believe and as we seek it and hold on to it. Your faith is either growing stronger or becoming weaker. Faith is a principle of power, important not only in this life but also in our progression beyond the veil. By the grace of Christ, we will one day be saved through faith on His name. The future of your faith is not by chance, but by choice."
(Neil L. Andersen, "Faith is Not by Chance, but by Choice", Oct 2015 General Conference)

As I pondered on faith, I thought of how having to live by faith is a perfect test for all of us. For either you have faith or you don't. For even when evidence is given as signs to people they don't always believe what they have seen or loose their belief over time. Faith when spiritually enlightened has staying power if we hold onto it.

Day 1717

Today's Favorite Verse: Hebrew 10:1-4

Today's Favorite Verse: Hebrew 10:1-4
"For the law having shadow of good things to come, and not the very image of the things, can never with those sacrifices which they offered year by year continually make the comers thereunto perfect.
For then would they not have ceased to be offered? because that the worshippers once purged should have no more conscience of sins.
But in those sacrifices there is a remembrance again made of sins every year.
For it is not possible that the blood of bulls and of goats should take away sins."

I wasn't until Christ's atonement and sacrifice that man's sins could be forgiven. For then the law of Moses was fulfilled. What I pondered on is the quilt man would have carried, for every year he had to make sacrifice for his sins again. I know the hardest thing now is learning to forgive myself after repenting of my sins. It sounds like under the law of Moses one would have a continual feeling of not being completely forgiven. I'm not sure how it worked but once again I am glad for the time that I live.

Day 1716

Today's Favorite Verse: Hebrew 9:15-17

Today's Favorite Verse: Hebrew 9:15-17
"And for this cause he is the mediator of the new testament, that by means of death, for the redemption of the transgressions that were under the first testament, they which are called might receive the promise of eternal inheritance.
For where a testament is, there must also of necessity be the death of the testator.
For a testament is of force after men are dead: otherwise it is of no strength at all while the testator liveth."

This made me ponder on probates and wills. I had never put this verses together with a "last will and testament". How it's not in effect until the testator dies. Then those that will inherit have a right to the estate. Christ needed to die before we could be blessed to inherit all that the Father has. His atonement and resurrection really are a new testament.

Day 1715

Today's Favorite Verse: Hebrew 8:10-11

Today's Favorite Verse: Hebrew 8:10-11
"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 neighbor, and every man his brother, saying, Know the Lord: for all shall know me, from the least to the greatest."

I love living at a time where God's laws are written into my mind and heart. I think it would have been so much harder to love God as I do while practicing the law of Moses. Maybe because they didn't always seem to understand what it was a similitude of, at least by the Old Testament. I cannot wait for the day when all around me will be able to say that they "Know the Lord". What a very different world we will live in at that time.

Day 1714

Today's Favorite Verse: Hebrew 7:26-27

Today's Favorite Verse: Hebrew 7:26-27
"For such an high priest became us, who is holy, harmless, undefiled, separate from sinners, and made higher than the heavens;
Who needeth not daily, as those high priests, to offer up sacrifice, first for his own sins, and then for the people's: for this he did once, when he offered up himself."

The great high priest is Jesus Christ, he held the order of Mechisedec forever. He made the ultimate sacrifice for all of us. On reflecting on this I thought of the video that was in the Come, Follow Me materials. The video starts a little geeky but I love how it teaches about the ancient temple sacrifice representing the Savior, and the sacrament today.


Day 1713

Today's Favorite Verse: Hebrew 6:6, 12

Today's Favorite Verse: Hebrew 6:6, 12
"If they shall fall away, to renew them again unto repentance; seeing they crucify to themselves the Son of God afresh, and put him to an open shame.
That ye be not slothful, but followers of them who through faith and patience inherit the promises."

The first verse here scared me to death to think about. I cannot imagine crucifying the Son of God to myself, and putting him to shame. The second verse seemed like a good reminder to me on how to prevent the first from happening. That I need to not be slothful in what I need to do to stay worthy and faithful. I do want these promises, and I do not take for granted they will always be there if I don't do my part.

Day 1712

Today's Favorite Verse: Hebrew 5:13-14

Today's Favorite Verse: Hebrew 5:13-14
"For every one that useth milk is unskilful in the word of righteousness: for he is a babe.
But strong meat belongeth to them that are of full age, even those who by reason of use have their sense exercised to discern both good and evil."

The subject of the milk and meat of the gospel has been one I have strong feelings over. Years ago, I remember my husband and I being late for Sunday School, so we cut through the gym. On the way we met this brother that took the chance to speak with us about how much he disliked Sunday School. He said he was tired of only getting milk and never being taught the meat of the gospel. I left feeling rather unimpressed by his perceived superiority. I've heard several rants like this over the years and it does nothing but cause my spirit to hurt for them. I think the milk of the gospel is extremely important.

One day I was enjoying eating a bowl of homemade Zuppa Toscana brought over by a neighbor. As I was eating I noticed how every time I dipped my spoon into the milk up came pieces of meat with it. I could not eat the meat unless I had a spoonful of milk. I then reflected on the milk and meat of the gospel and how they go hand in hand.

"As newborn babes, desire the sincere milk of the word, that ye may grow thereby:"
(1 Peter 2:2)

What I love about the verse in Hebrew is that meat comes to those that through experience discern good and evil. If I put that with the verse in Peter it comes by growing on the sincere milk of the word. If you push away the milk you will never understand the meat. Understanding just grows deeper and more sure over time.

Day 1711

Today's Favorite Verse: Hebrew 4:11

Today's Favorite Verse: Hebrew 4:11
"Let us labour therefore to enter into that rest, lest any man fall after the same example of unbelief."

I pondered on what it meant to enter into the rest of the Lord. I had a nice quote on that but can't find it. So, what does it mean to me? That I believe Christ's words. That he atoned and paid the price for my sins. That I can turn to Him and he will comfort and forgive me. It's knowing His plan is better than my plan, so I trust Him absolutely. There is peace and rest as my eyes remain focused on the things of eternity. Knowing I would be at peace in His glory helps me know I've entered into His rest. Entering into the rest of the Lord is a reflection on the state of my soul. One either knows if they have it or they don't. I've been in both places.

Day 1710

Today's Favorite Verse: Hebrew 3:6, 14

Today's Favorite Verse: Hebrew 3:6, 14
"But Christ as a son over his own house; whose house are we, if we hold fast the confidence and the rejoicing of the hope firm unto the end.
For we are made partakers of Christ, if we hold the beginning of our confidence steadfast unto the end;"

I just have to believe in Christ, and then stand firm and true to that unto the end. As I was reflecting on that I thought of the hymn that Elder Bruce R. McConkie wrote, "I Believe in Christ". I found the Apr 1972 General Conference talk "The Testimony of Jesus" where he first read those powerful words. The hymn was amazingly first song by the Tabernacle Choir on the occasion that later became Elder McConkie's final general conference talk, April 1985, "The Purifying Power of Gethsemane" he passed just 13 days later. The witness by the Holy Ghost as he spoke was so powerful I shall remember and cherish the experience forever.

Afterwards, I listened to various renditions of the hymn song by the Tabernacle Choir on Temple Square over the years. I wanted to find the very best version of it. Then I remembered that I didn't hear if from them. In fact it happened this past July 2019 in New York City. The Millennial Choir and Orchestra were to perform in concert in Carnegie Hall and there was a major power outage. They took to the streets and sang the most amazing rendition I have ever heard. They sounded like angels truly testifying of Christ. People that would have never attended the show the Lord made sure they had a way of hearing these beautiful words. What a powerful moment.



Day 1709

Today's Favorite Verse: Hebrew 2:9, 18

Today's Favorite Verse: Hebrew 2:9, 18
"But we see Jesus, who was made a little lower than the angels for the suffering of death, crowned with glory and honour; that he by the grace of God should taste death for every man.
For in that he himself hath suffered being tempted, he is able to succour them that are tempted."

I pondered on my Jesus, and what his life has meant for me. What incredible gratitude I have for his atoning sacrifice. All that he has done, and continues to do for me. He is my refuge from the storms and brings peace.

Day 1708

Today's Favorite Verse: Hebrew 1:4-5

Today's Favorite Verse: Hebrew 1:4-5
"Being made so much better than the angels, as he hath by inheritance obtained a more excellent name than they.
For unto which of the angels said he at any time, Thou art my Son, this day have I begotten thee? And again, I will be to him a Father, and he shall be to me a Son?"

As I was reading I was drawn to the "more excellent name" and wondered exactly which name of Christ was the one it referred to? I followed the footnotes and read the Bible Dictionary on "Christ, names of". It was a good review. Then I pondered on still what name? Suddenly realizing the greatest was to be called the Son of God. Sure enough the answer was simply in the next verse. I had to chuckle at myself. I'm been sick all week with the flu and my mind isn't the clearest. Then I realized its never a mistake where the spirit leads me while studying the scriptures. Where I went while trying to answer that thought was exactly what my soul needed today. What a fitting thing to pondering on this 1st day of December, the month we celebrate the birth of His Son.

Day 1707

Today's Favorite Verse: Philemon 1:6

Today's Favorite Verse: Philemon 1:6
"That the communication of thy faith may become effectual by the acknowledging of every good thing which is in you in Christ Jesus."

Acknowledging God's hand in my life helps me recognize it and be grateful for it. So many times as I express this I learn more about what he has truly done for me.

Day 1706

Today's Favorite Verse: Titus 3:1

Today's Favorite Verse: Titus 3:1
"Put them in mind to subject to principalities and powers, to obey magistrates, to be ready to every good work,"

This reminds me of the 12th Article of Faith.
"We believe in being subject to kings, presidents, rulers, and magistrates, in obeying, honoring, and sustaining the law."

Day 1705

Today's Favorite Verse: Titus 2:12

Today's Favorite Verse: Titus 2:12
"Teaching us that, denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, we should live soberly, righteously, and godly, in this present world;"

There is a lot of good counsel in this chapter. This verse I pondered on how one goes with the other. When you put aside the things of the world you seek a better.

Day 1704

Today's Favorite Verse: Titus 1:15

Today's Favorite Verse: Titus 1:15

"Unto the pure all things are pure; but unto them that are defiled and unbelieving is nothing pure; but even their mind and conscience is defiled."

Unless we have clean hands and a pure heart, in other words, that we are not blemished with sins unrepentant and have a sincere desire to know, we will not have access to the Spirit and the things of God will be as foolishness unto us.  It is so important that we repent daily and that when we study the words of Christ that we do so with real intent, hungering and thirsting after righteousness.  This is how we are able to know that these things are true and this is how we can be benefited by the gospel.

Day 1703

Today's Favorite Verse: 2 Timothy 4:3-4

Today's Favorite Verse: 2 Timothy 4:3-4
"For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but after their own lusts shall they heap to themselves teachers, having itching ears;
And they shall turn away their ears from the truth, and shall be turned unto fables."

Paul warned of an apostasy of the early saints. I know this same danger is here today. We know the church will never leave the earth again, but how many will leave the church? The protection is enduring sound doctrine.

Day 1702

Today's Favorite Verse: 2 Timothy 3:1, 13

Today's Favorite Verse: 2 Timothy 3:1, 13
"This know also, that in the last days perilous times shall come.
But evil men and seducers shall wax worse and worse, deceiving, and being deceived."

I know several of the general authorities have warned that the one thing that we have to take the most care over is not being deceived. I have pondered on how I used to be afraid of the earthquakes, volcanos, floods, fires, famine, war and other natural disasters in the last days. Now that is not my concern. What I am the most watchful over is not being deceived. It is comforting that there are tools the Lord has given us. I have scriptures to learn sound doctrine. I have prophets and apostles that expound and teach the doctrine. I have such an amazing collection of resources on the church website. I have the Come, Follow Me gospel centered learning to keep me mindful of putting the Lord first. I can search and find resources that help me study out in my mind what is correct principles and doctrine. Above all I have the gift of the Holy Ghost to assist me. These are the hardest of times, but we have not been left unguided and alone. The care is in who and what we are listening to.

Day 1701

Today's Favorite Verse: 2 Timothy 2:11

Today's Favorite Verse: 2 Timothy 2:11
"It is a faithful saying: For it we be dead with him, we shall also live with him:"

I pondered on what is means to be dead. The footnote refers me to.

"For if we have been planted together in the likeness of his death, we shall be also in the likeness of his resurrection:"
(Romans 6:5)

So one death is baptism in the manner of Christ's burial and resurrection.

Another death I though of was to be dead to sin. For when I forsake my sins and turn to Christ who atoned for them, I become alive in Him. I read further in that chapter and found it referred to that also.

"For in that he died, he died unto sin once: but in that he liveth, he liveth unto God.
Likewise reckon ye also yourselves to be dead indeed unto sin, but alive unto God through Jesus Christ our Lord.
(Romans 6:10-11)

Day 1700

Today's Favorite Verse: 2 Timothy 1:6

Today's Favorite Verse: 2 Timothy 1:6
"Wherefore I put thee in remembrance that thou stir up the gift of God, which is in thee by the putting on of my hands."

Right before reading this chapter I had a very heartfelt prayer to my Heavenly Father, in gratitude for the gift of the Holy Ghost, given me by the laying on of hands after baptism. I seemed to have been going through a dry spell lately of recognizing the Spirit's whispering, until I came to see a new "phase" in my trial and the Christlike attribute I needed to work on. Since that discovery ten days ago and with a sincere resolve to do better, little impressions started to come to me. Maybe of no significance to others, but they were to me. They have been specific and helpful in time of need. Tender mercies to show me the Lord is mindful of me and what I have been going through. Now doors are miraculously opening for me. What an amazing journey I am on in this life. I went back and read the talk "Trust in the Lord" by Elder Richard G. Scott that opened the door ten days ago.

This is my favorite quote ten days ago.

"When you pass through trials for His purposes, as you trust Him, exercise faith in Him, He will help you. That support will generally come step by step, a portion at a time. While you are passing through each phase, the pain and difficulty that comes from being enlarged will continue. If all matters were immediately resolved at your first petition, you could not grow. Your Father in Heaven and His Beloved Son love you perfectly. They would not require you to experience a moment more of difficulty than is absolutely needed for your personal benefit or for that of those you love."

These are the quotes that have greater meaning today.

"I testify that when the Lord closes one important door in your life, He shows His continuing love and compassion by opening many other compensating doors through your exercise of faith. He will place in your path packets of spiritual sunlight to brighten your way. They often come after the trial has been the greatest, as evidence of the compassion and love of an all-knowing Father. They point the way to greater happiness, more understanding, and strengthen your determination to accept and be obedient to His will."

"True enduring happiness with the accompanying strength, courage, and capacity to overcome the most challenging difficulties comes from a life centered in Jesus Christ. Obedience to His teachings provides a sure foundation upon which to build. That takes effort. There is no guarantee of overnight results, but there is absolute assurance that, in the Lord’s time, solutions will come, peace will prevail, and emptiness will be filled."
(Elder Richard G. Scott, "Trust in the Lord", Oct 1995 General Conference)

Day 1699

Today's Favorite Verse: 1 Timothy 6:7

Today's Favorite Verse: 1 Timothy 6:7
"For we brought nothing into this world, and it is certain we can carry nothing out."

I pondered on what I can take with me into the next life. I will take my experiences and what I gained from them. Knowledge and intelligence gained. I can take the talents that I developed. I think faith, hope and charity will still serve me well. Covenants I honored, and family relationships that continue beyond the veil. 

As I was pondering it made me think of how precious I need to treat those things I can take with me into the next life, versus what won't come with me.

Day 1698

Today's Favorite Verse: 1 Timothy 5:24

Today's Favorite Verse: 1 Timothy 5:24
"Some men's sins are open beforehand, going before to judgment; and some men they follow after."

This made me think of a quote from a bumper sticker that Elder Dieter F. Uchtdorf mentioned in his talk "The Merciful Obtain Mercy", April 2012 General Conference..  "Don't judge me because I sin differently from you."

Day 1697

Today's Favorite Verse: 1 Timothy 4:13, 16

Today's Favorite Verse: 1 Timothy 4:13, 16
"Till I come, give attendance to reading, to exhortation, to doctrine.
Take heed unto thyself, and unto the doctrine; continue in them: for in doing this thou shalt both save thyself, and them that hear thee."

I think this is pretty clear, to prepare for the Savior's second coming I need to be reading and giving heed to the doctrine. It reminds me of the parable of the ten virgins, putting oil in my lamp against the day of the bridegrooms coming. In exhortation we must be faithful to the doctrine and not give personal interpretation. As I sat and pondered on this I saw how beautiful this plan was. To read the scriptures and learn the doctrine helps me to have the spirit to be with me. Then it helps in sharing correct principles of the gospel with others. How I wish I could always hear sound doctrine from others. There is comfort in knowing the spirit will guide me around any slippery slopes. If I am faithful and give heed to reading scriptures and the doctrine, I can be an instrument in helping others recognize truth.

Day 1696

Today's Favorite Verse: 1 Timothy 3:5

Today's Favorite Verse: 1 Timothy 3:5
"(For if a man know not how to rule his own house, how shall he take care of the church of God?)"

This chapter speak of the qualifications of a bishop. From this verse I learn a bishop must be married. He must also demonstrate the ability to rule over his own house. It's not just that the man must be worthy, but his wife and children must be considered by the Lord also.

Day 1695

Today's Favorite Verse: 1 Timothy 2:1-2

Today's Favorite Verse: 1 Timothy 2:1-2
"I exhort therefore, that, first of all, supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks, be made for all men.
For kings, and for all that are in authority; that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and honesty."

This made me ponder on religious freedom. How a person of faith only wants to lead a quiet and peaceable life, and somehow it looks like intolerance to those that don't understand. I pondered on the prayers we are saying for our nation, leaders, individuals and families in this country. How I pray religious freedom will be allowed to continue in this land. It isn't hard to imagine our days are being numbered. 

"Yea, and I say unto you that if it were not for the prayers of the righteous, who are now in the land, that ye would even now be visited with utter destruction; yet it would not be by flood, as were the people in the days of Noah, but it would be by famine, and by pestilence, and the sword.
But it is by the prayers of the righteous that ye are spared; now therefore, if ye will cast out the righteous from among you then will not the Lord stay his hand; but in his fierce anger he will come out against you; then ye shall be smitten by famine, and by pestilence, and by the sword; and the time is soon at hand except ye repent."
(Alma 10:22-23)

Day 1694

Today's Favorite Verse: 1 Timothy 1:3, 6

Today's Favorite Verse: 1 Timothy 1:3, 6
"As I besought thee to abide still at Ephesus, when I went into Macedonia, that thou mightest charge some that they teach no other doctrine.
From which some having swerved have turned aside unto vain jangling;"

Footnote References
Swerved = missed the mark
Turned = Apostasy of the Early Christian Church
Vain Jangling = vain, idle, fruitless discussion

What Paul warned the early church that they would head into apostasy if they strayed from sound doctrine. This is the same warning we have to today. Vain, idle, fruitless discussion reminds me of President Dallin H. Oaks, Oct 2019 General Conference talk "Trust in the Lord". He especially pointed out that we not teach what is not official doctrine. He used the example of spirit world and what we do and do not know. That we are not to teach dreams or visions that others had in the matter. I especially feel sensitive to this. I recognize that my near-death experience had symbolic meaning for me.

One vain, idle and fruitless discussion that rather drives me a little crazy is the obsession with a heavenly mother. Not if there is or isn't one, but that I tend to feel some women are so obsessed with the subject, and any glimmer of a mention, that if given the chance they would worship her instead of the Father. Otherwise why are they so obsessed with this subject? It simply is not what we have been taught. In fact I feel a concern whenever I hear people mentioning this subject that they will go the way of the primitive church into apostasy and begin to pray to and worship a "Heavenly Mother". There must be a very specific reason why revelation has not been given on this subject. I cannot help but see it as no coincidence in how many times false doctrines include worshiping the feminine. The adversary must know the feminine is a human weakness, and the Father as a protection has left that subject alone. All that is needful is to focus on the Father and the Son, and we will not be lead astray.

Day 1693

Today's Favorite Verse: 2 Thessalonians 3:5

Today's Favorite Verse: 2 Thessalonians 3:5
"And the Lord direct your hearts into the love of God, and into the patient waiting for Christ."

The footnote for direct is "Divine Guidance". I pondered on how spiritual growth and love of God comes line upon line. Each person's path is unique for them. We are all directed and guided if that is what we seek.

Day 1692

Today's Favorite Verse: 2 Thessalonians 2:9-11

Today's Favorite Verse: 2 Thessalonians 2:9-11
"Even him, whose coming is after the working of Satan with all power and signs and lying wonders,
And with all deceivableness of unrighteousness in them that perish; because they received not the love of the truth, that they might be saved.
And for this cause God shall send them strong delusion, that they should believe a lie:"

One delusion people can have is that Satan doesn't have any power, or that he doesn't exist. He can create lying wonders and deceive. God will allow it if what they are seeking is not the truth. I pondered on why it's important to seek truth, and the word of God. To stand in holy place and be not moved. To have the spirit always to be with me.

"Wherefore, stand ye in holy places, and be not moved, until the day of the Lord come; for behold, it cometh quickly, saith the Lord. Amen."
(Doctrine and Covenants 87:8)

Day 1691

Today's Favorite Verse: 2 Thessalonians 1:7-8

Today's Favorite Verse: 2 Thessalonians 1:7-8
"And to you who are troubled rest with us, when the Lord Jesus shall be revealed from heaven with his mighty angels,
In flaming fire taking vengeance on them that know not God, and that obey not the gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ."

I thought upon the word rest, having rest in the midst of trouble, and even while the wicked are destroyed at the Lord's coming. It made me look for a quote by President Joseph F. Smith that I found in the Book of Mormon Student Manual on Moroni 7:3. This is the preparation one needs to prepare for the Lord's coming.

"The scriptures often speak of “the rest of the Lord.” After quoting Moroni 7:3, President Joseph F. Smith (1838–1918) wrote:

“This is a very significant passage. The rest here referred to is not physical rest, for there is no such thing as physical rest in the Church of Jesus Christ. Reference is made to the spiritual rest and peace which are born from a settled conviction of the truth in the minds of men. We may thus enter into the rest of the Lord today, by coming to an understanding of the truths of the gospel. … Not all need to seek this rest, for there are many who now possess it, whose minds have become satisfied, and who have set their eyes upon the mark of their high calling with an invincible determination in their hearts to be steadfast in the truth, and who are treading in humility and righteousness the path marked out for the Saints who are complacent followers of Jesus Christ. …

“I thank our Father that I have come to a knowledge of this truth, that I know that Jesus is the Christ, in whom alone there is rest and salvation. As God lives, they are deceived who follow men and their philosophies; but happy are they who enter into the rest of the peaceable followers of Christ, obtaining sufficient hope from this time henceforth until they shall rest with him in heaven” (Gospel Doctrine, 5th ed. [1939], 126, 128).

Day 1690

Today's Favorite Verse: 1 Thessalonians 5:2, 4-5

Today's Favorite Verse: 1 Thessalonians 5:2, 4-5
"For yourselves know perfectly that the day of the Lord so cometh as a thief in the night.
But ye, brethren, are not in darkness, that the day should overtake you as a thief.
Ye are all the children of light, and the children of the day: we are not of the night, nor of darkness."

Well I had a new thought with these verses. It's funny how you can hear a verse quoted so many times and not really understand it. How many times have I heard the Lord would come as a thief in the night. It comes with the often quoted "but of that day and hour knoweth no man". (Matthew 24:36)

The key word I realized was "night". It speaking of those that are in darkness. To them the Lord's coming is as a thief. They are caught unaware. Those that are righteous are not in darkness. The day [Lord] will not come upon us unaware or as a thief. We are then told to not sleep, but watch and be sober. The reason the Lord coming is not as a thief is because we are waiting for him. If I was watching for a thief that was coming, I wouldn't be caught unaware at his arrival. I would be prepared and ready for it. Doesn't matter when he comes, the point is to be ready. The Lord's coming will be in full light with those watching prepared to meet him.

Day 1689

Today's Favorite Verse: 1 Thessalonians 4:11

Today's Favorite Verse: 1 Thessalonians 4:11
"And that ye study to be quiet, and to do your own business, and to work with your own hands, as we commanded you;"

Wise counsel and advice both in and out of the church. One in which would make you a valuable employee. It would also make one a faithful members of the church.

Day 1688

Today's Favorite Verse: 1 Thessalonians 3:12

Today's Favorite Verse: 1 Thessalonians 3:12
"And the Lord make you to increase and abound in love one toward another, and toward all men, even as we do toward you:"

When I awake in the morning I will often lay there and read my scriptures, which will take me on an amazing journey. Now I wish I could retrace the footsteps I took today. For I had landed on a scripture that spoke of the need of unity and love one for another. As I traced the footnotes I saw it was in preparation in becoming a Zion people. For quite a while tonight I sat here pondering on what it was I read and where?  I know I will stubble on it again for that is the way is usually happens.

What is so interesting to me is that when men's heart start to fail them, and love and unity is lacking the most in this world, that this is when the Lord calls us to it now more than ever. It will not be found in the world, but will be found in those not of the world.

Day 1687

Today's Favorite Verse: 1 Thessalonians 2:4

Today's Favorite Verse: 1 Thessalonians 2:4
"But as we were allowed of God to be put in trust with the gospel, even so we speak; not as pleasing men, but God, which trieth our hearts."

In Relief Society today we went over President Dallin H. Oaks, Oct 2019 General Conference talk "Two Great Commandments". This was such an excellent talk, and it grieved me as I witnessed those online oppose him while he spoke. As I read the talk in preparation for attending class, I took note that he referenced President Russell M. Nelson 9 times, Jesus Christ once, President Spencer W. Kimball once, and the First Presidency and Quorum of the Twelve Apostles at the time same-sex marriage was declared legal in the United States, once.

What this showed me is that President Oaks was not speaking of his own opinion. He was speaking on gospel truths. Just like Paul mentioned, what an apostle has to say is not always pleasing to man. It is not by choice they say hard things, it is because it is God's law. These quotes from the talk help me to see that charge.

"This Church was restored so that families could be formed, sealed, and exalted eternally."

"President Nelson reminded all of us that "our commission as Apostles is to teach nothing but truth. That commission does not give [Apostles] the authority to modify divine law." Thus, my sisters, the leaders of the Church must always teach the unique importance of marriage between a man and a women and the related law of chastity."

"The gospel of Jesus Christ teaches us to love and treat all people with kindness and civility - even when we disagree."

Day 1686

Today's Favorite Verse: 1 Thessalonians 1:2, 4

Today's Favorite Verse: 1 Thessalonians 1:2, 4
"We give thanks to God always for you all, making mention of you in our prayers;
Knowing, brethren beloved, your election of God."

I pondered on my prayers for the prophet and leaders of this church. I was watching a video the other day on President Nelson and he acknowledged that people come to see them because they honor the office that they hold. That is a very important distinction. I know they are elect, being called of God.

Day 1685

Today's Favorite Verse: Colossians 4:16

Today's Favorite Verse: Colossians 4:16
"And when this epistle is read among you, cause that it be read also in the church of the Laodiceans; and that ye likewise read the epistle from Laodicea."

The footnote tells me the epistle of Laodicea is lost scriptures and not found in the bible. I took time to look over the list of scriptures referenced by other verses that are not found anywhere. Then I looked in the Topical Guide over "Scriptures to Come Forth".

"And after it had come forth unto them I beheld other books, which came forth by the power of the Lamb, from the Gentiles unto them, unto the convincing of the Gentiles and the remnant of the seed of my brethren, and also the Jews who were scattered upon all the face of the earth, that the records of the prophets and of the twelve apostles of the Lamb are true."
(1 Nephi 13:39)

"And then, behold, other records have I, that I will give unto you power that you may assist to translate."
(Doctrine and Covenants 9:2)

As I pondered on these I noted the Bible as the stick of Judah, and the Book of Mormon as the stick of Joseph, and wondered what other books would come forth. When Nephi wrote of other books he had no idea the Jaredite record, the Book of Ether would be included in with the Book of Mormon for his people. When Joseph Smith and Oliver Cowdery were told of other records they didn't know the Book of Abraham and Moses would both come forth. I love the scriptures and now I wish to live to see more come to light. 

Day 1684

Today's Favorite Verse: Colossians 3:2

Today's Favorite Verse: Colossians 3:2
"Set your affection on things above, not on things on the earth."

As the world is darkening this counsel if more important than ever. From this verse I thought of the General Conference talk given by Elder L. Tom Perry, where he referenced John 15:19 and says, "From the teachings of the Savior we have adopted the common saying in the Church, 'to be in the world, but not of the world.' Normally, when this saying is used, we are emphasizing our need to stay free from sin and materialism which are so prevalent in the world in which we live."
(L. Tom Perry, "In the World", General Conference April 1988)

I have totally decided that the counsel "to be in the world, but not of the world, or not focusing my thoughts and affections on the things of this earth, are part of what brings peace in the midst of the storms. There is always hope that fills your heart of better things to come.

Day 1683

Today's Favorite Verse: Colossians 2:8

Today's Favorite Verse: Colossians 2:8
"Beware lest any man spoil you through philosophy and vain deceit, after the tradition of men, after the rudiments of the world, and not after Christ."

I have been doing a lot of thinking lately on the parable of the ten virgins and have really come to feel I am seeing it happen right now. It grieves me to see saints being lead away by the false doctrine of men, and a spirit of apathy in doing what the prophet has counseled, in particular reading the scriptures daily with their families. They will not have oil in their lamps when they need it the most, which is actually right now in the day we are living.

"And at that day, when I shall come in my glory, shall the parable be fulfilled which I spake concerning the ten virgins.
For they that are wise and have received the truth, and have taken the Holy Spirit for their guide, and have not been deceived - verily I say unto you, they shall not be hewn down and cast into the fire, but shall abide the day."
(Doctrine and Covenants 45:56-57)

I wish I had saved the link to a post I read this morning. A mother related how she told the story of Noah and the ark to her child, and the little one asked "What happened to all the children?" The mother replied "Their parents didn't make sure they were on the boat." Isn't that just the saddest thought! I had never pictured little children dying in the flood due to the foolishness of their parents. It's made me think of that comment all day long. Right now if we are not doing everything in our power our children won't get on the boat. They won't know to put oil in their lamps or even have one. At the very least we should do what the prophet asked for them.



Day 1682

Today's Favorite Verse: Colossians 1:23

Today's Favorite Verse: Colossians 1:23
"If ye continue in the faith grounded and settled, and be not moved away from the hope of the gospel, which ye have heard, and which was preached to every creature which is under heaven; whereof I Paul am made a minister;"

How important it is to survive these days spiritually to have our faith grounded, settled and not moved. I am so grateful when I began to read the scriptures that the spirit told me to read the scriptures, and not books about the scriptures. Because now looking back I fear I would have started to look at the gospel through the eyes of someone not grounded in sound doctrine. When you have the spirit as your guide, not mingled with the doctrine of men, you can read the scriptures, the words of the living prophet and apostles and remain grounded, settled and not moved in what is truth.

Day 1681