Today's Favorite Verse: 1 Nephi 5:5

Today's Favorite Verse: 1 Nephi 5:5
"But behold, I have obtained a land of promise, in the which things I do rejoice; yea, and I know that the Lord will deliver my sons out of the hands of Laban, and bring them down again unto us in the wilderness."

I love this verse. Lehi's "manner of language" is the language of faith. He speaks of having obtained a land of promise and they were still in the wilderness, far from the land of promise which he had never step foot on. Yet, he has faith in what the Lord has told, and promised him. So much so he speaks in the language of having already obtained it. He also knew his sons would come back from Jerusalem with the brass plates. He had absolute faith. There was no room for doubt. 

I also reflected on Satan's counterfeit doctrine, best described in the false doctrines, law of attraction and law of creation. Where he says you just need to act like you already have something, put it out in the universe and it will come to you. You have the ability to create your destiny. This is opposite of the Lord's plan. Satan will teach my will, not the Lord's will. This counterfeit "faith" leads you further from Christ, and fills one with pride and lusting after worldly things. Lehi gives the sure example of what faith is, believing and trusting in Christ, the creator of all things, and what his will is for me. Knowing his promises are sure and he cannot lie.

Day 1768

Today's Favorite Verse: 1 Nephi 4:6, 10

Today's Favorite Verse: 1 Nephi 4:6, 10
"And I was led by the Spirit, not knowing beforehand the things which I should do.
And it came to pass that I was constrained by the Spirit that I should kill Laban; but I said in my heart: Never at any time have I shed the blood of man. And I shrunk and would that I might not slay him."

These verses have helped me to understand that the Lord usually doesn't give me the complete picture of why or how I must do something. There is trial and error as I learn to follow his will, but the whole experience is for my good. Nephi and his brother first tried to reason with Laban to give them the brass plates, then they tried to tempt him with their gold and silver to buy them from him. All it got them was their goods stolen and their lives in danger. Nephi then comes to learn he must let the Spirit guide him, even if he doesn't know what he has to do.

I have often wondered how would it have been for Nephi to know in advance you're going to creep through the city at night. Find Laban passed out drunk in the street. Then take his sword and smote off his head to kill him. After that put on all his clothes and go to his home. Command his servant Zoram in the voice of Laban to go into the treasury with you and get the brass plates. Then make an oath with Zoram to come with you and your brothers into the wilderness and return to your father. It was far better that Nephi act being led by the Spirit. Then as he is having to go through these difficult things the Lord could instruct him and bring to remembrance the importance of obtaining the the brass plates which contained the scriptures. "It is better that one man should perish than that a nation should dwindle and perish in unbelief."


Day 1767

Today's Favorite Verse: 1 Nephi 3:5-6

Today's Favorite Verse: 1 Nephi 3:5-6
"And now, behold thy brothers murmur, saying it is a hard thing which I have required of them; but behold I have not required it of them, but it is a commandment of the Lord.
Therefore go, my son, and thou shalt be favored of the Lord, because thou has not murmured."

I pondered on murmuring. I guess this was the first time I really put two and two together here. Laman and Lemuel were not murmuring against what the Lord had asked. They were murmuring against their father for saying it. It just shows how far away from the Lord their hearts really were. They didn't even recognize where the request came from. It made me ponder on how there never really is any good reason to murmur. I then pondered on how import it is to see the Lord's hand in whatever situation I am to pass through. Not that the Lord creates bad situations, man can mess things up pretty badly on his own. But, the Lord can fight my battles and make me strong enough to overcome that challenges that man puts in my way. Because Nephi did not murmur but saw the hand of the Lord in what he was asked to pass through, he was favored and blessed from the experience. Very timely message for me, because I really wanted to murmur about what was done to me.



Day 1766

Today's Favorite Verse: 1 Nephi 2:16

Today's Favorite Verse: 1 Nephi 2:16
"And it came to pass that I, Nephi, being exceedingly young, nevertheless being large in stature, and also having great desires to know of the mysteries of God, wherefore, I did cry unto the Lord; and behold he did visit me, and did soften my heart that I did believe all the words which had been spoken by my father; wherefore, I did not rebel against him like unto my brothers."

I pondered on how important this moment was for Nephi. He had heard his father, a prophet of God, speak of his visions and dreams. He obediently went into the wilderness leaving behind their home and riches. Now he wanted to know for himself if this was the Lord's will. This is the moment his heart is softened and he believes. When that sure testimony comes there is nothing that will make you deny it. Through the rest of Nephi's story he is faithful and true to what was told him from the very beginning. How important it is to pray about anything a prophet tells you. You need the sure witness for yourself. It opens the door to further personal revelation.


Day 1765

Today's Favorite Verse: 1 Nephi 1:1

Today's Favorite Verse: 1 Nephi 1:1
"I, Nephi, having been born of goodly parents, therefore I was taught somewhat in all the learning of my father; and having seen many afflictions in the course of my days, nevertheless, having been highly favored of the Lord in all my days; yea, having had a great knowledge of the goodness and mysteries of God, therefore I make a record of my proceeding in my days."

I have two parts highlighted in this verse.

Highly favored = Graced by the Lord. Enabling power or strength of the Lord. Almost like affliction is required to see the grace of the Lord. It was through the afflictions that Nephi went through that he could see the hand of the Lord in his life.

Mysteries of God = Revelation. I substitute revelation for mysteries. For the mysteries of God are understood through revelation. Either the doctrine is revealed to the prophets or the spirit reveals the doctrine in a way we can understand it.

Day 1764

Today's Favorite Verse: Book of Mormon Title Page & Witnesses

Today's Favorite Verse: Book of Mormon Title Page & Witnesses
The Testimony of the Prophet Joseph Smith "The first thing that I can recollect was a voice speaking unto me, calling me by name. I looked up, and beheld the same messenger standing over my head, surrounded by light as before. He then again related unto me all that he had related to me the previous night, and commanded me to go to my father and tell him of the vision and commandments which I had received.
I obeyed; I returned to my father in the field, and rehearsed the whole matter to him. He replied to me that it was of God, and told me to go and do as commanded by the messenger."

Joseph Smith is relating in his own words "the coming forth of the Book of Mormon".  After spending the whole of the previous night by the previous visitation of the angel Moroni, a glorified, resurrected being, and last of the Nephite prophets, this is the fourth visit Moroni made. Joseph after attempt to work the next morning found his strength was exhausted. His father sent him home. While attempting to cross the fence out of the field his strength entirely failed him and he fell to the ground. This is when Moroni appeared for the fourth time, repeating the same message and told him to tell his father.

What I love about Joseph's discussion with his father is when he confirms "It was of God." This is the same thing I have to decide when I am told anything new. I must have the spirit witness to me the truthfulness and holiness of things. Is it of God? is a question that must be answered in order to not be lead astray. I love how the Book of Mormon ends with this same challenge to know if it is of God.

"And when ye shall receive these things, I would exhort you that ye would ask God, the Eternal Father, in the name of Christ, if these things are not true; and if ye shall ask with a sincere heart, with real intent, having faith in Christ, he will manifest the truth of it unto you, by the power of the Holy Ghost.
And by the power of the Holy Ghost ye may know the truth of all things."
(Moroni 10:4-5)

Everyone that lives on this earth was blessed with the light of Christ within them. It will help them know right from wrong, truth from error. Through this the Holy Ghost will testify of the truthfulness of all things. I have asked if the Book of Mormon is of God, and I have received a resounding Yes! I know this is another testament of Jesus Christ, that clarifies his role, doctrine, the plan of salvation and how I can gain eternal life with him. I love this book. Every time I read the Book of Mormon the Spirit teaches me some gospel truth with new eyes. What I learn will make me spiritually stronger and of better service to the Lord. It's how I come to know Him. Let the journey begin.


Day 1763

Today's Favorite Verse: Revelation 22:17

Today's Favorite Verse: Revelation 22:17
"And the Spirit and the bride say, Come. And let him that heareth say, Come. And let him that is athirst come. And whosoever will, let him take the water of life freely."

Today, I finish the book of Revelation and the New Testament. I'm always a little sad to see a book of scripture end because it has become such a wonderful friend. Then I think about how I will read it again the next time I circle around. It takes 1,581 days to read the entire standard works a chapter a day. That is 4.3 years. I am grateful for footnotes and references that bring them altogether for me. They are truly one in my hand.

"Moreover, thou son of man, take thee one stick, and write upon it, For Judah, and for the children of Israel his companions: then take another stick, and write upon it, For Joseph, the stick of Ephraim, and for all the house of Israel his companions:
And join them one to another into one stick; and they shall become one in thine hand."
(Ezekiel 27:16-17)

As I read this last chapter in the New Testament I looked for the final message. I chose this verse because it says to Come. The message to come to Christ is free to all. His hands are forever stretched out still. He has warned and forewarned us, now the decision is ours to come. We have been given our free agency to choose or not. The reward for eternity is ours to make. What choice did you make?

Day 1762

Today's Favorite Verse: Revelation 21:4

Today's Favorite Verse: Revelation 21:4
"And God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes; and there shall be no more death, neither sorrow, nor crying, neither shall there be any more pain: for the former things are passed away."

The thought of this helps me endure. Everything I go through will be worth it in the end. I will be with my Savior, Jesus Christ and God will wipe all my tears from my eyes. I cannot comprehend now a life like this, but I want it.

"For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, saith the Lord.
For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways, and my thoughts than your thoughts."
(Isaiah 55:8-9)



Day 1761

Today's Favorite Verse: Revelation 20:12

Today's Favorite Verse: Revelation 20:12
"And I saw the dead, small and great, stand before God; and the books were opened: and another book was opened, which is the book of life: and the dead were judged out of those things which were written in the books, according to their works."

This verse made me ponder on the beautiful promise given through repentance. My sins are not recorded in these books if I have repented of them.

"Behold, he who has repented of his sins, the same is forgiven, and I, the Lord, remember them no more."
(Doctrine and Covenants 58:42)

"Remember not the sins of my youth, nor my transgressions: according to thy mercy remember thou me for thy goodness' sake, O Lord."
(Psalm 25:7)

"Come now, and let us reason together, saith the Lord: though your sins be as scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they be red like crimson, they shall be as wool."
(Isaiah 1:18)

"And they shall teach no more every man his neighbor, and every man his brother, saying, Know the Lord: for they shall all know me, from the least of them unto the greatest of them, saith the Lord: for I will forgive their iniquity, and I will remember their sin no more."
(Jeremiah 31:34)

Day 1760

Today's Favorite Verse: Revelation 19:7

Today's Favorite Verse: Revelation 19:7
"Let us be glad and rejoice, and give honour to him: for the marriage of the Lamb is come, and his wife hath made herself ready."

I sat and reflected on a dream I had about 30 years ago. I remember traveling down the streets of Salt Lake City and I was trying to find where the wedding feast was. As I walked I dragged this big garbage can with wheels around with me. It wasn't a dirty can full of garbage it was one I had seen people use to put their 72 hr kits in. Everywhere I went I pulled this garbage can around with me and I would not let it go. Some places I could not enter because I would have needed to leave my garbage can outside. Finally I found the wedding feast and I was invited in, of course that is where the dream ended.

After 30 years I finally realize what the garbage can was that I held onto so dearly. It was a symbol of my preparation to be worthy to enter into the marriage of the Lamb. It must go with me everywhere and always be by my side. As I look at my life 30 years later I had to smile, because I'm holder tighter to the garbage can now more than ever. Seems the theme of preparation is a big one for me today. This is what I recorded after my morning scripture reading.

"Interesting scripture study this morning. Reading Doctrine & Covenants 101:23 "And prepare for the revelation which is to come, when the veil of the covering of my temple, in my tabernacle, which hideth the earth, shall be taken off, and all flesh shall see me together."

I'm seeing it with new eyes after the changes made last January to the temple endowment. I understood that scripture so differently before. Now I see it as a symbol and sign of what we are preparing for, the second coming of the Lord. Now I need to prepare for the revelation to come. Makes me even more curious about what we will hear in April conference."

Day 1759

Today's Favorite Verse: Revelation 18:4

Today's Favorite Verse: Revelation 18:4
"And I heard another voice from heaven, saying, Come out of her, my people, that ye be not partakers of her sins, and that ye receive not of her plagues."

I pondered how even now I am to come out of Babylon, being in the world but not of the world. Christ set the example when he said "They are not of the world, even as I am not of the world." (John 17:16) I cannot physically isolate myself, but the call is to spiritually not participate. In order to even be called "my people" I would need to not be a spiritual partaker of Babylon's wickedness. This voice from heaven isn't something that is to come, it's something being told to me now.

Day 1758

Today's Favorite Verse: Revelation 17:6, 14

Today's Favorite Verse: Revelation 17:6, 14
"And I saw the woman drunken with the blood of the saints, and with the blood of the martyrs of Jesus: and when I saw her, I wondered with great admiration.
These shall make war with the Lamb, and the Lamb shall overcome them: for he is Lord of lords, and King of kings: and they that are with him are called, and chosen, and faithful."

Admiration = astonishment, wonder

The great message of Revelation is Jesus wins. Anyone on his side has eternal life. Though it might look dark and a losing battle at times, do not lose hope or faith. Whatever his saints are called and chosen to do at this time, to stand as a witness, the message is remain faithful. Just like Peter that tried to walk on water, don't take your eyes off Christ. Don't get overwhelmed by the darkened storms and waves, and fear the deep. Look towards Christ and live.

(Matthew 14:25-33)

Day 1757

Today's Favorite Verse: Revelation 16:15

Today's Favorite Verse: Revelation 16:15
"Behold, I come as a thief. Blessed is he that watcheth, and keepeth his garments, lest he walk naked, and they see his shame."

This verse is the hope in the whole chapter. That while the world is in commotion, and the wrath of God is being poured out, that I watch. That I keep my covenants that the garments represent. They will be a shield and a protect to me at this time. The world may look on it as shame to worship the Lord, but there is no shame before the Lord if I only worship him.

I decided to look up all the references to the word watch. For, if I am told to watch I cannot imagine it means I am to passively sit by. I remember at the end of the Nephite civilization that Ammaron gave Mormon a charge to keep the records. Even though the Lord forbid him to preach to the people he did not passively sit by. Though young he was respected enough to be appointed a leader of their armies. Mormon was visited by the Lord. He prepared an abridgment of all the Nephite records so I could one day have them. He had a job to do, and he was blessed of the Lord to do it extremely well. He is a great example of watching but growing.

"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."
(Revelation 3:3)

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

"He that dasheth in pieces is come up before thy face: keep the munition, watch the way, make thy loins strong, fortify thy power mightily."
(Nahum 2:1)

"Watch ye therefore, and pray always, that ye may be accounted worthy to escape all these things that shall come to pass, and to stand before the Son of man."
(Luke 21:36)

"Pilate said unto them, Ye have a watch: go your way, make it as sure as ye can."
(Matthew 27:65)

"But that ye would humble yourselves before the Lord, and call on his holy name, and watch and pray continually, that ye may not be tempted above that which ye can bear, and thus be led by the Holy Spirit, becoming humble, meek, submissive, patient, full of love an all long-suffering."
(Alma 13:28)

"Therefore, after Alma having established the church at Sidom, seeing a great check, yea, seeing that the people were checked as to the pride of their hearts, and began to humble themselves before God, and began to assemble themselves together at their sanctuaries to worship God before the altar, watching and praying continually, that they might be delivered from Satan, and from death, and from destruction - "
(Alma 15:17)

"Watch ye, stand fast in the faith, quit you like men, be strong."
(1 Corinthians 16:13)

"Continue in prayer, and watch in the same with thanksgiving."
(Colossians 4:2)

"But this much I can tell you, that if ye do not watch yourselves, and your thoughts, and your words, and your deeds, and observe the commandments of God, and continue in the faith of what ye have heard concerning the coming of our Lord, even unto the end of your lives, ye must perish. And now, O man, remember, and perish not."
(Mosiah 4:30)

"Gird up your loins and be watchful and be sober, looking forth for the coming of the Son of Man, for he cometh in an hour you think not."
(Doctrine and Covenants 61:38)

There are a lot of actions words that come with the simple act of watching. Just like trials now prepare me to be of greater service to the Lord. I imagine the people living at this time will become spiritual giants, qualified to be of service to the Lord in establishing his millennial reign upon this earth at his second coming.

Day 1756

Today's Favorite Verse: Revelation 15:1

Today's Favorite Verse: Revelation 15:1
"And I saw another sign in heaven, great and marvellous, seven angels having the seven last plagues; for in them is filled up the wrath of God."

I have done a lot of thinking about the plagues of the last days. Yes, I do think it could be new pandemic diseases or even old ones that could bring massive death. But, what I have been pondering on is how some of these plagues could be of the mind. I have pondered on how after the law of Moses much now is inward. God looks upon our hearts. Why couldn't the plagues be inward as well? I see around me a growing epidemic of mental illness. Suicide is the second leading cause of death for children, teens, and young adults ages 10-24. It's the third leading cause of death for children 5-14. Those numbers are heart breaking. Why is society causing children to lose hope? It has to be what we are feeding them spiritually, physically and mentality. Why is any adult in their right mind telling a child the world will end before they can grow up?? And, they don't leave it there either, they are teaching them there is no God. Satan's most productive tool is confusion.

"And now, behold, this is the will of the Lord your God concerning his saints, that they should assemble themselves together unto the land of Zion, not in haste, lest there should be confusion, which bringeth pestilence."
(Doctrine and Covenants 63:24)

The saints were warned not to assemble in haste. I think of being panicked and not prepared. What that can cause is confusion. That is a tool of the adversary that we allow to creep in. When confusion reigns we are told it brings pestilence. Yes, it could be disease, but it can be the type of the mind too. Panic, fear, disappointment, despair, hopelessness, anger, depression, etc., etc. When confusion reigns everything can spiral out of control. Pestilence and plagues go hand in hand. One diseased mind, especially in a collective group think, can affect another. 

Following the word of God, having the Holy Spirit as my guide brings light and guidance. You don't need to have all the answers but faith in Christ and my trust in his plan for me brings hope and peace. That is what I need to seek. Not man's confusion, but inner peace that comes from God. The spiritual preparation is needed long before confusion reigns.

Day 1755

Today's Favorite Verse: Revelation 14:15

Today's Favorite Verse: Revelation 14:15
"And another angel came out of the temple, crying with a loud voice to him that sat on the cloud, Trust in thy sickle, and reap: for the time is come for thee to reap; for the harvest of the earth is ripe."

What I pondered on was timing. When the time is right, when the wicked are fully ripe then the Father will send his angels and the Lord will reap with his sickle. The timing will be perfect and justified. I also pondered how this verse confirms what the Lord said during his ministry. That even the Son would not know the hour or the day but the Father only.

"But of that day and that hour knoweth no man, no, not the angels which are in heaven, neither the Son, but the Father."
(Mark 13:32)

Day 1754

Today's Favorite Verse: Revelation 13:15

Today's Favorite Verse: Revelation 13:15
"And he had power to give life unto the image of the beast, that the image of the beast should both speak, and cause that as many as would not worship the image of the beast should be killed."

As I have been watching the development of Artificial Intelligence and the advances that it is making, I do wonder what the Lord will use it for, and what Satan will do with it? For that seems to be the element behind technology. It can be used for good or evil. If machines can learn to speak and interact with humans, and they have no heart or soul, I wonder if that is part of the miracles Satan will use to control them? I cannot help but think that because Satan and his angel could not obtain a body, why they would not want to create them for themselves.

There is much we don't have an answer for. I know whenever I imagine how prophesy could be fulfilled it doesn't appear that way once it has. But, for now I am watching where this technology is going and how it is being used. It troubles my soul to think of the "social credit" system being adapted by governments in different parts of the world. There are people that are being penalized by systems determining among other things what they can buy or sell. It is pure evil to allow a system to decide if you have value and worth. 

Day 1753

Today's Favorite Verse: Revelation 12:10

Today's Favorite Verse: Revelation 12:10
"And I heard a loud voice saying in heaven, Now is come salvation, and strength, and the kingdom of our God, and the power of his Christ: for the accuser of our brethren is cast down, which accused them before our God day and night."

In this chapter John not only saw the imminent apostasy of the Church, but also the War in Heaven when Satan and his angels were cast out. In this verse Satan is called the accuser of our brethren. That is the ultimate tool in Satan's arsenal. He tried to accuse Christ of being incapable of being our Savior, and all that would be required. He attacked those that supported Christ and stood up for him. This is exactly the same tactic being used today. Damage the character of a person, especially those without sin. Knowing that this is Satan's tool it becomes even more important in the time that I live to not become offended by the lies of others. What is important is to know where I stand with the Lord.

Day 1752

Today's Favorite Verse: Revelation 11:6

Today's Favorite Verse: Revelation 11:6
"These have power to shut heaven, that it rain not in the days of their prophecy: and have power over waters to turn them to blood, and to smite the earth with all plagues, as often as they will."

This chapter is speaking of the two prophets that will prophesy and then be slain in Jerusalem. The reason this verse stood out to me is something I had been thinking about lately. I was wondering when I would hear a prophet warn of some event happening if people don't repent and then see it happen. Now I don't need to witness something like this to believe there is a prophet. I just know the Lord is capable of using them in this way. It's so funny what I sit and wonder about sometimes. It makes me a little hesitant because I've learned my random thoughts are not always random but things that will soon happen. I try to keep track of them because of what the Prophet Joseph Smith said.

“A person may profit by noticing the first intimation of the spirit of revelation; for instance, when you feel pure intelligence flowing into you, it may give you sudden strokes of ideas, so that by noticing it, you may find it fulfilled the same day or soon; … those things that were presented unto your minds by the Spirit of God, will come to pass; and thus by learning the Spirit of God and understanding it, you may grow into the principle of revelation, until you become perfect in Christ Jesus.”
(Boyd K. Packer, "Personal Revelation: The Gift, the Test, and the Promise", Nov 1994 Ensign)

The other thing I have found is if I share those ideas before they happen, they often won't happen.

Day 1751

Today's Favorite Verse: Revelation 10:7

Today's Favorite Verse: Revelation 10:7
"But in the days of the voice of the seventh angel, when he shall begin to sound, the mystery of God should be finished, as he hath declared to his servants the prophets."

I have a substitution word now for "mystery". In its place I use "revelations". What can be a mystery to one person can be understandable to another. For the mysteries of God are revealed to those that are prepared to receive them. When I substitute revelation in this verse it makes sense. A mystery is not unattainable if you seek for understanding, then the meaning is given through personal revelation. All that was revealed to the prophets will be fulfilled. 

Day 1750


Posted 13 Jan 202012

Today's Favorite Verse: Revelation 9:2

Today's Favorite Verse: Revelation 9:2
"And he opened the bottomless pit; and there arose a smoke out of the pit, as the smoke of a great furnace; and the sun and the air were darkened by reason of the smoke of the pit.

I pondered on quote I added in my scriptures to this verse.

"The smoke in Revelation 9:2-3 is reminiscent of the mist of darkness in Lehi's vision of the tree of life (see 1 Nephi 8:23; 12:17). The smoke that emerges from the bottomless pit darkens the skies, similar to how the mists of darkness in Lehi's vision obscured view of the tree of life. The smoke may allude to all of Satan's false philosophies, temptations, deceptions, and attempts in the last days to destroy righteousness upon the earth."
(New Testament Student Manual, chapter 54)

"And the wicked one cometh and taketh away light and truth, through disobedience, from the children of men, and because of the tradition of their fathers."
(Doctrine and Covenants 93:39)

Satan and his angels are doing a pretty good job of putting smoke in our eyes right now. I cannot comprehend it getting worse, but I know it will. Already the lies that people believe as truths just floors me. It made me think of the 2016's Word of the Year, called "post-truth".

Post-truth: "Relating to or denoting circumstances in which objective facts are less influential in shaping public opinion than appeals to emotion and personal belief.”

Meaning after all the facts are given, people can reject it for what they personally believe even if it is wrong. That is so against everything that is moral and right, yet how to do combat that if that is what people accept. There is no law or rules, and justice becomes blind. No wonder their eyes are covered by smoke. No wonder we are warned to righteously stay clear of this mentality.

Day 1749

Today's Favorite Verse: Revelation 8:1, 4

Today's Favorite Verse: Revelation 8:1, 4
"And when he had opened the seventh seal, there was silence in the heaven about the space of half an hour.
And the smoke of the incense, which came with the prayers of the saints, ascended up before God out of the angel's hand."

As I read this chapter I just wept. Even more so at the end where there are three more woes to come. I thought where am I to keep my focus? First, I thought of how there was silence in heaven for the space of half an hour before it began. This should be a time where I am preparing myself for what I know will come. It appears the preparation is in prayer for in the fourth verse the prayers of the saints are ascending to God before destruction comes upon the wicked. How will the angels know I am not wicked when destruction comes?  It must be the prayers I am offering up, and as I learned in chapter 6 my robes must be washed white in the blood of the Lamb.

Day 1748

Today's Favorite Verse: Revelation 7:14

Today's Favorite Verse: Revelation 7:14
"And I said unto him, Sir, thou knowest. And he said to me, These are they which came out of great tribulation, and have washed their robes, and made them white in the blood of the Lamb."

My new spiritual thought for the day and this verse reinforces it. When I go through trials and adversity, when I have suffered and had to endure, if I turn to the Lord to carry me his atonement will turn that suffering into sanctification. There is purpose in all of it. As I seek the Father's will and rely on my Savior my joy will be full with them.

Day 1747

Today's Favorite Verse: Revelation 6:12, 14

Today's Favorite Verse: Revelation 6:12, 14
"And I beheld when he had opened the sixth seal, and, lo, there was a great earthquake; and the sun became black as sackcloth of hair, and the moon became as blood;
And the heaven departed as a scroll when it is rolled together; and every mountain and island were moved out of their places."

At the end of the sixth seal and before moving into the seventh seal there will be a great earthquake. An earthquake so violent that every mountain and island is moved out of its place. This is a world-wide event that no one can deny has happened. All will know that this prophesy is fulfilled. No wonder as the chapter continues men will want the very mountains and rocks that are moving to fall on them. Why is that?, because they will know the judgment of God is coming.

It made me think of the past week. Two days in a row in the Adirondacks, close to where I was born and raised there was an earthquake. One is very rare, but rarer still is to have two of them. Even in little obscure places God is giving us the voice of warning.

"How oft have I called upon you by the mouth of my servants, and by the ministering of angels, and by mine own voice, and by the voice of thunderings, and by the voice of lightnings, and by the voice of tempests, and by the voice of earthquakes, and great hailstorms, and by the voice of famines and pestilences of every kind, and by the great sound of a trump, and by the voice of judgment, and by the voice of mercy all the day long, and by the voice of glory and honor and the riches of eternal life, and would have saved you with an everlasting salvation, but ye would not!"
(Doctrine and Covenants 43:25)

As I continued to ponder on this event to come I recognize there is no need to fear. If I am listening to the warning now and heeding them, death of the body is not what I would fear. It is the death of the soul, that which can lead me away from God that is what I will fear. Now is not the time to wander.

Day 1746

Today's Favorite Verse: Revelation 5:6, 12

Today's Favorite Verse: Revelation 5:6, 12
"And I beheld, and, lo, in the midst of the throne and of the four beasts, and in the midst of the elders, stood a Lamb as it had been slain, having seven horns and seven eyes, which are the seven Spirits of God sent forth into all the earth.
Saying with a loud voice, Worthy is the Lamb that was slain to receive power, and riches, and wisdom, and strength, and honour, and glory, and blessing."

When John was given this vision the people at that time understood what all the numbers, colors and symbols meant. This was under stood by Hebrews. Now I have to turn to other scriptures and what others have shared. I was reflecting on the symbol of seven horns and seven eyes.

Seven is a sum of 3 (representing the Godhead) and 4 (representing mankind and geographic fulness). In that 7 becomes perfection and is symbolic of completeness.

Horns are the symbol of power

Eyes are a symbol of sight, light, knowledge

I realized that verse 12 actually explained what that symbolism connected to the Lord meant. He was slain to receive power, riches, wisdom, strength, honour, glory and blessing. Those worshiping Him are acknowledging who he is. With the elders that are around him it reminds me of the priesthood power they are given by the Lamb.

Day 1745

Today's Favorite Verse: Revelation 4:3, 7

Today's Favorite Verse: Revelation 4:3, 7
"And he that sat was to look upon like a jasper and a sardine stone: and there was a rainbow round about the throne, in sight like unto an emerald.
And the first beast was like a lion, and the second beast like a calf, and the third beast had a face as a man, and the fourth beast was like a flying eagle."

The rainbow and mention of animals in this chapter cause me to reflect.

The Bible Dictionary says this about the rainbow.
"An outward token of God’s covenant with Noah (Gen. 9:13; see also Ezek. 1:28; Rev. 4:3; 10:1). The rainbow no doubt existed before the Flood, but with Noah the rainbow took on a new significance as the token of the covenant. JST Gen. 9:17–25 enlarges the terms of the covenant to include not only that the earth will never again be covered with a flood of water, but also that the Zion of Enoch will return and the Lord will come again to dwell on the earth."

The rainbow signifies the covenant God made with man and the animals, that the earth would never be covered with a flood. In preparation for the tribulations that will be spoken of in Revelations I feel the Lord is reminding us of his promises. Remember your covenants, remember the promises, worship God and he will stand with us through all that is to come. This is extended to both man and beast.

Day 1744

Today's Favorite Verse: Revelation 3:15-16

Today's Favorite Verse: Revelation 3:15-16
"I know thy works, that thou art neither cold nor hot: I would thou wert cold or hot.
So then because thou art lukewarm, and neither cold nor hot, I will spue thee out of my mouth."

I remember when I had need to recall this verse. I was at a conference that was church related and not church sponsored. Believe me I am not drawn to those anymore. I was visiting the vendor hall during a class period so I pretty much had it to myself. I stopped at a unattended vendor table to look at some books. I had recognized the name of the author as someone that had once been excommunicated from the church for some of those very books. Since then he had returned to the church, but I was surprised that they were still selling these books.

A man came up beside me and started a conversation. He was knowledgeable on the books and shared different things with me. As he talked I felt something different about him. I kept trying to put my finger on it. Then to my surprise I discovered he was the actual author of these books.  I hadn't expected the vendor/author to be on my side of the table. Then he slowly started to tell me his background. I learned things about him I had never heard before, but he himself told me these things. I really wasn't interested in buying his books. I remained talking to him because I was still trying to figure out what it was about him that was so different. I just couldn't put my finger on it.

I remember finally saying to myself he's neither hot, nor cold. Then it dawned on me HE was lukewarm. Spit him out! It was this verse in Revelation that had came into my mind. I had never met a lukewarm person in my life. It was truly a disturbing thing. Yes, I did quickly end the conversation and leave. Recently, I found out that he was again on the apostasy side of the church. Lukewarm people can be so spiritually deceptive. There is something about them that makes you listen to them way longer then you should. You get drawn in trying to figure them out. No good comes from sitting on the fence. If they were hot or cold you would know how much attention you should be giving them. A lukewarm person is very dangerous, they have the perfect environment for bacteria to thrive. They can poison the soul. 

Day 1743

Today's Favorite Verse: Revelation 2:10

Today's Favorite Verse: Revelation 2:10
"Fear none of those things which thou shalt suffer: behold, the devil shall cast some of you into prison, that ye may be tried; and ye shall have tribulation ten days: be thou faithful unto death, and I will give thee a crown of life."

I pondered on "ye shall have tribulation ten days". The number ten represents completeness. As we drawn closer to the second coming of Jesus Christ there will be tribulation, and it will be complete, just as the Lord told us. What gives me comfort is there is a time frame and an end to the suffering. Not in it meaning ten days, for I do not believe it is only ten days of suffering. What I believe it is saying is hold on, and be faithful, this will seem but a brief moment in the eternities. Those that fought against the Lord and his saints will have no end to their suffering. The devil and his angels will have eternal damnation. Those that are faithful through tribulation will have eternal life. The fear is not the death of the body, but the death of the spirit. That is what must be safeguarded at all cost.

Day 1742

Today's Favorite Verse: Revelation 1:13-16

Today's Favorite Verse: Revelation 1:13-16
"And in the midst of the seven candlesticks one like unto the Son of man, clothed with a garment down to the foot, and girt about the paps with a golden girdle.
His head and his hairs were white like wool, as white as snow; and his eyes were as a flame of fire;
And his feet like unto fine brass, as if they burned in a furnace; and his voice as the sound of many waters.
And he had in his right hand seven stars: and out of his mouth went a sharp twoedged sword: and his countenance was as the sun shineth in his strength."

I feel impressed to record what this description of Jesus Christ means to me.

Jesus Christ is the Son of man. He is clothed or covered completely and it extends out to his whole church. That would be the atonement of Jesus Christ. His golden girdle embraces him, which would be his pure truth.  I am covered and protected by his grace, mercy, and all enabling power, through his atonement made for me.

Head and hairs white like wool - as I see this woolly white hair I know he is the lamb of God. The perfect, spotless son of God, that made the ultimate sacrifice for me.

Hair white as snow - I see a brilliant snow covered landscape with the intensity of light reflecting off of it. It is so bright I must close my eyes, and when I do I still see that brilliant light. Christ light is brilliant, yet I cannot see it with my natural eyes. My witness and testimony of Christ is made known through the Spirit.

Eyes as a flame of fire - In the darkness of night I see a campfire glowing in the distance. My eyes are drawn to it as the flames dance and I desire to come to it and rest. There is warmth and protection as I sit inside the glow of its light. This is Christ that beckons me to come to him with his eyes as flame of fire. There is warmth and protection as I stay close by his side.

Feet like fine brass, burned in a furnace - his feet make me think of standing tall and erect and balanced. I think of a beautiful scale that is balanced that weighs judgment. Burning takes away impurities, and reminds me of the furnace of affliction. Christ will make right anything that was done unjustly to me. He will mold me and purify me through my afflictions.

Voice as the sound of many waters - As I sit by the seaside I can either hear the crashing waves, or the gentle lap as the water softly rolls in. The water can be powerful or soothing. The sound and music from it is eternal, and exactly what I need. Christ speaks of eternal things to me. The words touch the deepest parts of my soul, they can call me to repentance or fill me with humility. 

Right hand hold seven stars - Christ is the creator of this universe, and the head of his Church and guides and navigates it. His right hand is the covenant hand and through the church that he holds in it, I make sacred covenants and promise to follow him. He will hold me and protect me as I honor the covenants I have made with him. He will make sure I know his will through the prophets and leaders of his church that he navigates and gives complete direction to, so I am not lead astray.

Out of his mouth a sharp twoedged sword - I think of Doctrine and Covenants 6:2 "Behold, I am God; give heed unto my word, which is quick and powerful, sharper than a two-edged sword, to the dividing asunder of both joints and marrow; therefore give heed unto my words." I think of nothing getting past his judgment and he will get to the heart of the matter. Coming from his mouth he speaks truth and it will either cause spiritual rebirth or spiritual death, depending on how I give ear to it.

Countenance as the sun shineth in his strength - I imagine my muscles and body aching after a day of hard labor. I sit quietly under the warmth of the full sun. As my body begins to absorb the heat it touches deep into every fiber of my being. My body relaxes and I find I am enveloped into its warmth with a flood of relief and soothing. The longer I sit the stronger my body begins to feel. This is Christ as I am embraced by the warmth of his love. He will carry my burdens and strengthen me through all my trials. He will never leave me and his light and love will remain with me as long as I seek it. This is the love that feeds and heals me.

Instead of this image of Christ in Revelation being terrifying I am drawn to it. For to love him is to recognize truly who He is.


Day 1741

Today's Favorite Verse: Jude 1:14

Today's Favorite Verse: Jude 1:14
"And Enoch also, the seventh from Adam, prophesied of these, saying, Behold, the Lord cometh with ten thousands of his saints."

I have always been fascinated with the idea of Enoch and the city of Enoch. I like to look up scriptures that reference him and the Zion people. On this one there is a reference to "Scriptures, Lost". I sure wish these scriptures could be found. Obviously they were around when Jude wrote this. After reading all the standards works I can only say I want more. 

Day 1740

Today's Favorite Verse: 3 John 1:4

Today's Favorite Verse: 3 John 1:4
"I have no greater joy than to hear that my children walk in truth."

I have three children and only one is faithful and true in the gospel. He is my joy. The others are my sorrow. But, what I pondered on is if my joy is conditional on all my children walking in truth? I determined that my joy is not conditional on others. It is conditional on my relationship with the Lord. For he settled the matter when I turned my grief and sorrow over the others to Him. I have left them in His care, and he will show me the way to be the mother I need to be for them. It is because I have been their mother that I have come to have such a deep and abiding love for the Lord as I needed to turn to Him. It's hard to explain but I am grateful. I have no loss of joy when I trust the Lord's plan is greater than my own. Yes, it would be a great joy if they were all on a covenant path, but I am not without joy because they are not. There is still hope.

Day 1739

Today's Favorite Verse: 2 John 1:9

Today's Favorite Verse: 2 John 1:9
"Whosoever transgresseth, and abideth not in the doctrine of Christ, hath not God. He that abideth in the doctrine of Christ, he hath both the Father and the Son."

The question would then be what is the doctrine of Christ?

The answer comes from Jesus Christ himself, as he spoke to his "other sheep" after his resurrection.

"And other sheep I have, which are not of this fold: them also I must bring, and they shall hear my voice; and there shall be one fold, and one shepherd."
(John 10:16)

“This is my doctrine, and it is the doctrine which the Father hath given unto me; and I bear record of the Father, and the Father beareth record of me, and the Holy Ghost beareth record of the Father and me; and I bear record that the Father commandeth all men, everywhere, to repent and believe in me.
And whoso believeth in me, and is baptized, the same shall be saved; and they are they who shall inherit the kingdom of God.
And whoso believeth not in me, and is not baptized, shall be damned.
Verily, verily, I say unto you, that this is my doctrine, and I bear record of it from the Father; and whoso believeth in me believeth in the Father also; and unto him will the Father bear record of me, for he will visit him with fire and with the Holy Ghost.
Verily, verily, I say unto you, that this is my doctrine, and whoso buildeth upon this buildeth upon my rock, and the gates of hell shall not prevail against them.”
(3 Nephi 11:32–35, 39)



Day 1738