Today's Favorite Verse: Alma 61:11, 14

Today's Favorite Verse: Alma 61:11, 14

"We would not shed the blood of our brethren if they would not rise up in rebellion and take the sword against us.

Therefore, my beloved brother, Moroni, let us resist evil, and whatsoever evil we cannot resist with our words, yea, such as rebellions and dissensions, let us resist them with our swords, that we may retain our freedom, that we may rejoice in the great privilege of our church, and in the cause of our Redeemer and our God."

My heart has been so heavy since I saw the videos of yesterday's shooting in downtown Provo, UT. Protesters turned violent, surrounded and shot a man in his car. Then another one shoots at him as he tries to flee to safely. The picture of the Provo City Center Temple in the background, and the little children at the bus stop pressing against their father in fear, is too much to bare. The world has turned into something very dark. As I read this chapter I mourn for I do not want to see blood shed. All my prayers are is that the protesters will stop, for their movement has turned into something very ugly. I do appreciate that Pahoran tells Moroni the first step to resist them is with our words. I also appreciate that Pahoran even though citizens are flocking to him daily with their arms, that they are waiting for Moroni and his army before they take a stand. There are lessons here for people that might want to take matters into their own hands.  

Day 1919

Today's Favorite Verse: Alma 60:23

Today's Favorite Verse: Alma 60:23

"Do ye suppose that God will look upon you as guiltless while ye sit still and behold these things? Behold I say unto you, Nay. Now I would that ye should remember that God has said that the inward vessel shall be cleansed first, and then shall the outer vessel be cleansed also."

I read this chapter a little troubled, because I feel I am seeing people right now pretending we are in a moment for a Captain Moroni. That they need to fight for their liberties and freedoms, and absolutely ignore the fact we are in the midst of a pandemic. It was almost painful to read this chapter because of how I have seen its context being misplaced. 

Then when I read this verse on cleansing the inward vessel first, before the outer vessel I understood why Moroni could say what he was saying. For he had truly cleansed his inner vessel. His men had cleansed their inner vessels. Their time of waiting and suffering had refined them even further. Then I realized what we are going through right now with this pandemic, civil unrest, and elections coming up, is a time for us to reflect and cleanse our inner vessels. I have heard reference for this being a time of reflection not only from the prophet but also from many of the apostles. We are to use the pandemic as an opportunity for soul-searching and self-examination. We cannot cleanse the outer when we are not clean ourselves. The Lord will have a tried and tested people, prepared for his second coming. If we want to be like Captain Moroni then we need to look deep inside and cleanse our inner vessels first. 

Day 1918

Today's Favorite Verse: Alma 59:9

Today's Favorite Verse: Alma 59:9

"And now as Moroni had supposed that there should be men sent to the city of Nephihah, to the assistance of the people to maintain that city, and knowing that it was easier to keep the city from falling into the hands of the Lamanites than to retake it from them, he supposed that they would easily maintain that city."

This is so true. I have seen this with recent events in our nation. I guess today one of these cities was to be cleared out. I have no idea how that went. I know there has been another city overtaken for months if not years now. They are not safe places and I feel bad for the people that lived and worked there. It's even sadder to see the war chapters being fulfilled right before our eyes. 

Day 1917

Today's Favorite Verse: Alma 58:3-4, 7

Today's Favorite Verse: Alma 58:3-4, 7

"Yea, and it became expedient that we should employ our men to the maintaining those parts of the land which we had regained of our possessions; therefore it became expedient that we should wait, that we might receive more strength from the land of Zarahemla and also a new supply of provisions.

And it came to pass that I thus did send an embassy to the governor of our land, to acquaint him concerning the affairs of our people. And it came to pass that we did wait to receive provisions and strength from the land of Zarahemla.

And it came to pass that we did wait in these difficult circumstances for the space of many months, even until we were about to perish for the want of food."

What really stood out to me in this chapter is Helaman saying three times "we did wait".  What were they waiting for?  For the right time for them to go against the Lamanites in battle and fight for their liberties. When I liken this to my day I can see also the importance of patience and being able to wait even if in difficult circumstances. That if you go into battle to quickly for your liberties and rights many will perish. So what did the Nephites do while they waited?

"Therefore we did pour out our souls in prayer to God, that he would strengthen us and deliver us out of the hands of our enemies, yea, and also give us strength that we might retain our cities, and our lands, and our possessions, for the support of our people. 

Yea, and it came to pass that the Lord our God did visit us with assurances that he would deliver us; yea, insomuch that he did speak peace to our souls, and did grant unto us great faith, and did cause us that we should hope for our deliverance in him."

(Alma 58:10-11)

While they waited and prayed the inspiration came on how they, without all the men and supplies they desired, would be able to draw the Lamanites out of their strongholds and obtain their cities without the shedding of blood. I found verse 17 interesting because it mentions the tactic of out-maneuvering the Lamanites by being secreted on the right and the left. Just like I read about yesterday. This example is reminding me of the importance of continual prayers to God. That He will inspire man in how to find a cure or a vaccine to eliminate COVID-19. I am convinced that the key to this inspiration comes from patience, obedience, humility and prayer, and not deviating to far to the right or the left. 

Day 1916

Today's Favorite Verse: Alma 57:21

Today's Favorite Verse: Alma 57:21

"Yea, and they did obey and observe to perform every word of command with exactness; yea, and even according to their faith it was done unto them; and I did remember the words which they said unto me that their mothers had taught them."

This chapter continue with the story of the 2000 and additional 60 stripling warriors that are miraculously preserved in battle. I think we always focus on how they did not doubt because their mothers taught them. But this time I see something that I have been learning during this pandemic. To be obedient, and to be exact in what the scriptures, prophet and church leaders counsel, and what the spirit guides me to do. What a blessing personal revelation has been in preparations that needed to be made. I was always one step ahead of where others would be headed. It's funny how just last week while reading scriptures I realized I hadn't received any impressions in a while. It's been quiet and routine. The realization caused me to ponder if anything was amiss because of the silence, simply because a lack of faith and disobedience can deafen me to the whisperings of the spirit. I finally settled that all was as it should be, I've had those lulls before. I think sometimes quiet comes so it gets your attention when it's needed. Then this week the promptings have come and I have been obedient. It is very interesting to watch this process because if I had not identified the silence, I'm not sure I would have notice the quiet impression when it came. For the spirit does speak in a still small voice.

Day 1915

Today's Favorite Verse: Alma 56:37, 40, 54

Today's Favorite Verse: Alma 56:37, 40, 54

"Yea, even to a considerable distance, insomuch that when they saw the army of Antipus pursuing them, with their might, they did not turn to the right nor to the left, but pursued their march in a straight course after us; and, as we suppose, it was their intent to slay us before Antipus should overtake them, and this that they might not be surrounded by our people.

Now they durst not turn to the right nor to the left lest they should be surrounded; neither would I turn to the right nor to the left lest they should overtake me, and we could not stand against them, but be slain, and they would make their escape; and thus we did flee all that day into the wilderness, even until it was dark.

And now it came to pass that we, the people of Nephi, the people of Antipus, and I with my two thousand, did surround the Lamanites, and did slay them; yea, insomuch that they were compelled to deliver up their weapons of war and also themselves as prisoners of war."

Twice in this chapter it mentions the tactic of turning neither to the left or to right. Both sides knew the moment they did that they would be surrounded and overcome. It made me think of the importance of staying in the mainstream of the church and not going into the fringes, to the far right or the far left. There are so many parallels in life that going to the extreme either way will cause you to become unbalanced and eventually overcome. 

Eventually Antipus army in the rear caught up to and fell upon the Lamanites. While the Lamanites were trying to overpower the army of Antipus the army of Helaman turned with its 2000 stripling warriors and fell upon them. The Lamanites were now caught in the middle and overcome. Teaching me that if I am faithful and neither turn to the right or the left, that when the time comes that I must stand against evil I will win when the Lord is on my side. 

"...Father, behold our God is with us, and he will not suffer that we should fall.."  (Alma 56:46)

Day 1914

Today's Favorite Verse: Alma 55:17, 22

Today's Favorite Verse: Alma 55:17, 22

"Yea, even to their women, and all those of their children, as many as were able to use a weapon of war, when Moroni had armed all those prisoners; and all those things were done in a profound silence.

Now behold this was done in the night-time, so that when the Lamanites awoke in the morning they beheld that they were surrounded by the Nephites without, and that their prisoners were armed within."

I'm in what is referred to as the war chapters in the Book of Mormon. It appears to have tactics that will be useful in the last days. Not that the situations are the same but the concepts that are needed. What I first found interesting in this chapter was the mention of arming women and children. Not a nice concept at all, but I cannot ignore the timeliness of this discussion. Out of the blue today I had a discussion with another women, who told me that because of all the violence that is going on she is thinking of getting a gun to protect herself. I told her that while I reading in Alma 54:12 yesterday I was stuck with the mention by Moroni of arming his women and children if needed. Then again at the end of the Nephite and Jaredite civilizations it mentions the arming of women and children in battle. Not a pleasant thought, but it sure does tell us about the times we are living in right, when it's a consideration by some now. 

What I also noticed in this chapter were two things, profound silence and things done in the night-time. To me that feels like a warning. That if you are making preparations they should not be announced to others. Keep those to yourself because you never know who is watching or careful note taking. Having said that I do appreciate those that are sharing their knowledge with others on homemaking skills that have been lost to us. Sometimes what we think of as preppers are simply people that are using homemaking skills, basic to any women over a 100 years ago. It is with my parents generation that much of this knowledge was lost, because of all the conveniences that took their place while they raised their children. I am grateful for a father that loved to garden, even though I must admit I take after my mother and have a black thumb.

Day 1913

Today's Favorite Verse: Alma 54:17

Today's Favorite Verse: Alma 54:17

"For behold, your fathers did wrong their brethren, insomuch that they did rob them of their right to the government when it rightly belonged unto them."

Ammoron and Moroni are writing to exchange prisoners. I reviewed who was who in this chapter. Ammoron is the brother of Amalickiah that was slain. Amalickiah was a defector of the Nephites after trying to conspire to be a king. He went over to the Lamanites and there by treachery, intrigue and murder was able to become the Lamanite king. He then incited the Lamanites to go to war against the Nephites. Ammoron says he is trying to revenge his brother's death. Now in this verse I see he wants the right to the government. 

This is the first time I realize he's not really talking on behalf of the Lamanites. For they have kings and are not ruled by a government. He is talking about as the right of a kingmen he should rule the Nephites. He wanted to see the Nephite government changed and his brother Amalickiah as their king. Now that his brother is dead he feels he should have that right now too. For the Nephite government is the only possibility for him to feel he has been wronged. It is amazing how when a wicked group of people lose an election by the voice of the people, how they do everything in their power to now destroy that government. The lesson is not lost on me on why Mormon included that warning for our day.

Day 1912

Today's Favorite Verse: Alma 53:20-21

Today's Favorite Verse: Alma 53:20-21

"And they were all young men, and they were exceedingly valiant for courage, and also for strength and activity; but behold, this was not all - they were men who were true at all times in whatsoever thing they were entrusted.

Yea, they were men of truth and soberness, for they had been taught to keep the commandments of God and to walk uprightly before him."

This is a description of the sons of the people of Ammon, the 2000 stripling warriors. They could not have been any older the 15 years of age. For they were the children that never entered into a oath to lay down their weapons of war. Their parents could not fight to help the Nephites at this time, but they could send their sons. What a beautiful and inspiring group of young men they must have been. It would be wonderful if we could say all youth had these same qualities. The difference is what they had been taught in their homes, to always keep the commandments and walk uprightly before God. 

Day 1911

Today's Favorite Verse: Alma 52:13, 19, 21

Today's Favorite Verse: Alma 52:13, 19, 21

"And thus he was endeavoring to harass the Nephites, and to draw away a part of their forces to that part of the land, while he had commanded those whom he had left to posses the cities which he had taken, that they should also harass the Nephites on the borders by the east sea, and should take possession of their lands as much as it was in their power, according to the power of their armies. 

And in the commencement of the twenty and eighth year, Moroni and Teancum and the many chief captains held a council of war - what they should do to cause the Lamanites to come out against them to battle; or that they might by some means flatter them out of their strongholds, that they might gain advantage over them and take them and take again the city of Mulek.

And it came to pass that Moroni, having no hopes of meeting them upon fair grounds, therefore, he resolved upon a plan that he might decoy the Lamanites out of their strongholds. 

There were three words that stood out to me in the this chapter: harass, flatter and decoy. These were tactics used by the Lamanites and the Nephites in battle. The Lamanites used harassment, the Nephites used flattery and decoy. So I pondered on why those words and tactics were important for me to understand. 

I have experienced being harassed and the best method of preservation is using flattery and a decoy to defuse the issue. What I am basically doing is feeding their pride. For it appears that a person that harasses others is a person that has an issue with pride. 

Then I thought about how antichrists and others that were wicked in the Book of Mormon used flattery, so was this not a good thing to use?

Describing Sherem, an antichrist.

"And he was learned, that he had a perfect knowledge of the language of the people; wherefore, he could use much flattery, and much power of speech, according to the power of the devil.  

(Jacob 7: 4)

Description of the Alma the younger and sons of Mosiah before they repented.

"Now the sons of Mosiah were numbered among the unbelievers; and also one of the sons of Alma was numbered among them, he being called Alma was numbered among them, he being called Alma, after his father; nevertheless, he became a very wicked and an idolatrous man. And he was a man of many words, and did speak much flattery to the people; therefore he led many of the people to do after the manner of his iniquities."

(Mosiah 27:8)

Pahoran describing the kingmen to Moroni.

"And it is those who have sought to take away the judgment-seat from me that have been the cause of this great iniquity; for they have used great flattery, and they have led away the hearts of many people, which will be the cause of sore affliction among us; they have withheld our provisions, and have daunted our freeman that they have not come unto you."

(Alma 61:4)

As I pondered on this and use of flattery and decoy I realized it is only by pride that the tactic works. Sherem, Alma the younger and the kingmen were only successful because there were people the bought into it and were overcome by it. That leads me to believe that though the use of it can be a tactic in battle against those harassing and causing harm, what is needed is the humility and spirit to recognize it for what it is. It has its purpose. The righteous are not using it to lead people astray and carefully down to hell. They are using it to not have evil overcome them and a means of escape. The key is if you have lost the spirit you are on the wrong side of it.

Day 1910

Today's Favorite Verse: Alma 51:4, 9, 13, 26

Today's Favorite Verse: Alma 51:4, 9, 13, 26

"Therefore, those who were desirous that the law should be altered were angry with him, and desired that he should no longer be chief judge over the land; therefore there arose a warm dispute concerning the matter, but not unto bloodshed.

But behold, this was a critical time for such contentions to be among the people of Nephi; for behold, Amalickiah had again stirred up the hearts of the people of the Lamanites against the people of the Nephites, and he was gathering together soldiers from all parts of his land, and arming them, and preparing for war with all diligence; for he had sworn to drink the blood of Moroni.

And it came to pass that when the men who were called king-men had heard that the Lamanites were coming down to battle against them, they were glad in their hearts; and they refused to take up arms, for they were so wroth with the chief judge, and also with the people of liberty, that they would not take up arms to defend their country.

And thus he went on, taking possession of many cities, the city of Nephihah, and the city of Lehi, and the city of Morianton, and the city of Omner, and the city of Mulek, all of which were on the east borders by the seashore."

The year 2019-2020 has been bad, and each month so far seems to have a new level of disaster, but this was nothing compared to the year 67-66 BC. This chapter has a lot of warnings for our nation. First there were people that wanted particular points of law altered. Since the chief judge wouldn't change the laws based on their petitions they begin to dispute. Then they decided to he needs to be dethroned. Finally the matter is settled by the voice of the people. Which I take it to mean they voted on it. The chief judge retains his seat. Those that did not get their way are still so wroth with the chief judge that even when their land is being attacked they were glad. 

It just makes me sick. I could actually see our nation so divided now that if we were attacked by an outside enemy, there would be some that would cheer to see it destroyed and hand it over to them. We really are at a critical time as a nation. This is the time people should be working together towards common ground. The voice of the people, by vote is how things are changed, not by the sword or taking things over when we do not get our way.   

Then as I read of the cities being taken over I thought maybe as a nation we are already there. Sadly, the only thing that stopped it was bloodshed. We are not in a great place right now. Much fasting and prayers as a nation are needed. 

Day 1909

Today's Favorite Verse: Alma 50:22

Today's Favorite Verse: Alma 50:22

"And those who were faithful in keeping the commandments of the Lord were delivered at all times, whilst thousands of their wicked brethren have been consigned to bondage, or to perish by the sword, or to dwindle in unbelief, and mingle with the Lamanites."

Being delivered doesn't mean no trouble happens to the people of the Lord. For we can all pass through hard times, especially when the wicked afflict those around them. To me being delivered means I have the Lord by my side through it all. I can see his protection and blessing upon me, no matter what I go through. The key in this is being faithful in keeping the commandments of the Lord, and that includes the words of warning and counsel given by his prophet. Out of the list of things that can happen to the wicked to me the loss of belief would be the most devastating. I would not want to cause that to happen to me. Then there would seem to be no hope, what an empty downward spiral that would be. 

Day 1908

Today's Favorite Verse: Alma 49:18-19

Today's Favorite Verse: Alma 49:18-19

"Now behold, the Lamanites could not get into their forts of security by any other way save by the entrance, because of the highness of the bank which had been thrown up, and the depth of the ditch which had been dug round about, save it were by the entrance.

And thus were the Nephites prepared to destroy all such as should attempt to climb up to enter the fort by any other way, by casting over stones and arrows at them."

This is how Moroni had the people prepare their cities in order to defend them against the Lamanites. This same defense can be applied to our homes. We build a wall of defense as we pray and read scriptures together as a family. Having sacrament in our homes recently has added another wall of defense. The longer we participate in these activities the higher our walls of defense will be. The only way that evil can come in is if we let them in through the front door. 

I did think about the hole that is called the internet and what comes in from radio and television. This is very similar to the Lamanites trying to come into the fort by other ways. It's interesting that they have to climb, so it's a progression that we should see trying to creep up on us if we are watchful. It reminds me of a recent conversation we had during family scripture reading. The discussion went into an observation that certain people in the media that we used to listen to seemed to be loosing their minds. The feeling was that we just needed to stop listening to them. In fact after that discussion I went into my Facebook groups and friends lists and reviewed who's feeds I was following and removed myself or changed the settings. This really was a protection to me because it did indeed restore my peace. 

 Book of Mormon Forts in North America

Day 1907

Today's Favorite Verse: Alma 48:17

Today's Favorite Verse: Alma 48:17

"Yea, verily, verily I say unto you, if all men had been, and were, and ever would be, like unto Moroni, behold, the very powers of hell would have been shaken forever; yea, the devil would never have power over the hearts of the children of men."

That is an incredible statement. I sat and pondered on what caused him to be such a man. Here are some descriptions of him in this chapter.

Prepared the minds of the people to be faithful to God

Strengthen the armies and fortified their cities

Strong and mighty man

Perfect understanding

Did not delight in bloodshed

His soul did joy in the liberty and freedom of his country, and his brethren free from bondage and slavery

Heart swell with thanksgiving to God

Labor exceeding for the welfare and safety of his people

Firm in the faith of Christ

Sworn and oath to defend his people, rights, country and religion even to the loss of his blood

Raised the sword only to preserve life

Trusted in the Lord and the guidance of the spirit

He was like Ammon and the sons of Mosiah

He was like Alma and his sons

He was sorry to be the means of sending so many out of this world unprepared to meet their God

Moroni was a man of God and that is what gave him the ability to lead his men in preserving the "cause of the Christians".

Day 1906

Today's Favorite Verse: Alma 47:34

Today's Favorite Verse: Alma 47:34

"And it came to pass that Amalickiah took the same servant that slew the king, and all them who were with him, and went in unto the queen, unto the place where she sat; and they all testified unto her that the king was slain by his own servants; and they said also: They have fled; does not this testify against them? And thus they satisfied the queen concerning the death of the king."

This chapter tells how "Amalickiah uses treachery, murder, and intrigue to become king of the Lamanites". There are a lot of tactics that he uses that I could totally relate to our day, or the possibility of someone using such methods. The word that stuck out to me this time was "testify". How a false story is given and told in such a manner that others believe it as the truth. That has been something I have tried so hard to be watchful of. For I am finding that there is an impatience in our society now in waiting for truth to come out. Instead we are so quick to believe a lie simply because of the person telling it. I ask myself "How does one protect themselves from believing the lie?"

First, I think it must be the ability to gather facts and not come to a conclusion until all the information is presented. That would require patience, and not being easily pressured by others to make a decision. It would also require the ability to accept new facts as they are presented, and draw new conclusions from them. This would require humility in being able to change ones position. 

What do I do in the case of someone using treachery, murder and intrigue? I suppose I would need to ask myself what would be a person's motive in their actions. A big red flag with Amalickiah is how many people died around him which only advanced his position. Something just wasn't right. Questioning people and motives is asking a lot of a person, but the price in not believing a liar is worth it. The bottom line that I can see is I absolutely need the spirit to guide me in these matters. Follow the prompting when things don't feel right. I need patience once again to not come to conclusion to quickly.  

"...for the Spirit speaketh the truth and lieth not. Wherefore, it speaketh of things as they really are, and of things as they really will be; wherefore, these things are manifested unto us plainly, for the salvation of our souls.." 

(Jacob 4:13)

This reminds of last night's family scriptures discussion and how it fit with some recent events in the news. Interestingly, it did come down to treachery, murder and intrigue. How good people were deceived into believing false doctrine simply because they never questioned what others were saying. If they had understood the doctrine they would have never given the adversary power. I remarked on how grateful I was that I followed the counsel the spirit gave me when I began to read the scriptures daily. I was told to read the scriptures and not books about the scriptures. What a protection that counsel has been for me. For considering how ill I was at the time, it would have been so much easier to have someone else explain it to me since I was incapable of reading on my own. I had to follow along in the scriptures while listening to the recordings online. It took years before I could read and comprehend what I was reading on my own. I totally get how hard it is to read the scriptures. But, the price one must pay and the benefit it is in your life is so worth it. 

Day 1905

Today's Favorite Verse: Alma 46:6-7

Today's Favorite Verse: Alma 46:6-7

"Thus they were led away by Amalickiah to dissensions, notwithstanding the preaching of Helaman and his brethren, yea, notwithstanding their exceedingly great care over the church, for they were high priests over the church.

And there were many in the church who believed in the flattering words of Amalickiah, therefore they dissented even from the church; and thus were the affairs of the people of Nephi exceedingly precarious and dangerous, notwithstanding their great victory which they had had over the Lamanites, and their great rejoicings which they had had because of their deliverance by the hand of the Lord."

I can see a parallel to this today. The prophet has warned us and pleaded with us to be cautious but it breaks my heart to see people much more interested in listening to the flattering words of others. It is a deception to make them think they are serving a high cause, that they are being patriots. When you seek to be a patriot over listening to the warning counsel of the prophet you have stepped on dangerous territory. 

Day 1904

Today's Favorite Verse: Alma 45:16

Today's Favorite Verse: Alma 45:16

"And he said: Thus saith the Lord God - Cursed shall be the land, yea, this land, unto every nation, kindred, tongue, and people, unto destruction, which do wickedly, when they are fully ripe; and as I have said so shall it be; for this is the cursing and the blessing of God upon the land, for the Lord cannot look upon sin with the least degree of allowance."

This made me sit and ponder on what it means to be "fully ripe". Yesterday, I was going through a basket of fruit to determine what was ripe and what was rotted. The intent was to cut up all the good fruit and dehydrate it, so I could preserve it before was rotted. Now I reflect on what I observed. 

We had cantaloupe, bananas, kiwi, apricots, plums, and nectarines. Some fruit was moldy and bad and it was made worse by one bad fruit sitting next to another, causing it to rot. Those were immediately tossed out. Then I had some that were not rotted but overripe. One could eat it right then but it was mushy, and not so desirable. It was far to ripe to slice and put in the dehydrator to preserve it. Some fruit we cut up and as I sit here I can hear the hum of the dehydrator with them in it. A few of them we reserved in order to eat right away. Out of curiosity I went and looked at what we had held back yesterday. A couple of them were now soft where yesterday they were not. Those had missed the dehydrator so they had to be eaten right now. If I really wanted to preserve them I would have cut them up and put them in the dehydrator yesterday. I washed these off and sat and ate them while I pondered on this verse. 

What I am realizing now is that to be fully ripe means your not overripe or rotted. It means if you don't pick it when fully ripe it can no longer be preserved, the usefulness of its purpose has come to an end. I would say then that the Lord's curse upon this land,  when the wicked are fully ripe and destruction comes, is done as a means of preservation. In the case of the wicked they are destroyed, tossed out, so they do not infect the remaining righteous.

My dehydrator is a slow steady heat, it not only preserves my fruit, but it intensifies its flavor. The heat of the refiners fire is a mean of bringing out the sweetness and goodness in the fruit. It's heat is a means of preserving it, just like going through the heat and wrath around me helps to preserve me.  

The last days destruction is then merciful to the saints, for the Lord is preserving them before they are infected by others. Yes, the wicked are destroyed and also some of His saints caught in the fray. But if the fruit is judged to be good it is preserved unto Him. I have to trust the master's hand that whatever I am called to endure is for a wise purpose in his hands.

Day 1903

Today's Favorite Verse: Alma 44:5-6

Today's Favorite Verse: Alma 44:5-6

"And now, Zerahemnah, I command you, in the name of that all-powerful God, who has strengthened our arms that we have gained power over you, by our faith, by our religion, and by our rites of worship, and by our church, and by the sacred support which we owe to our wives and our children, by that liberty which binds us to our lands and our country; yea, and also by the maintenance of the sacred word of God, to which we owe all our happiness; and by all that is most dear unto us -

Yea, and this is not all; I command you by all the desires which ye have for life, that ye deliver up your weapons of war unto us, and we will seek not your blood, but we will spare your lives, if ye will go your way and come not again to war against us."

As the Nephites are at war with the Lamanites the reason they won was because of their faith in God, which strengthened them. They were fighting for their wives and children and liberty. They did not want bloodshed and only proceeded to fall upon the Lamanites when they would not make an oath that they would come no more against them. I cannot help but feel it is a very weak stand people make against wearing a mask in the midst of the pandemic because of their liberties. The consideration of slaying others is not even close to what Moroni did. 

Day 1902

Today's Favorite Verse: Alma 43:29

Today's Favorite Verse: Alma 43:29

"And now, as Moroni knew the intentions of the Lamanites, that it was their intention to destroy their brethren, or to subject them and bring them into bondage that they might establish a kingdom unto themselves over all the land;"

Looking at our news and the take over of six blocks in Seattle I say we have a group of people establishing a kingdom of their own. It is a movement that continually morphs in its demands, and I truly wonder who is hiding in the deep roots behind their agenda. I appreciate Mormon's careful message in this chapter. That being Lamanite was no longer designated by the color of your skin, for there where descendants of the Lamanites and Nephites on both sides now. The deciding factors appears to be bondage and control, seeking power and to rule, and the overthrow of the government.  

I have no answers on how to solve the problems we face as a nation, other than to turn to God. The root of unhappiness is only inspired by the evil one. We shouldn't take our marching orders from him. As I read the war chapters in the Book of Mormon I have no doubt that Mormon saw our day and that is why he included them. It seems the adversary isn't very creative.  

"And the people were divided one against another; and they did separate one from another into tribes, every man according to his family and his kindred and friends, and thus they did destroy the government of the land."

(3 Nephi 7:2)

Day 1901

Today's Favorite Verse: Alma 42:1, 29-30

Today's Favorite Verse: Alma 42:1, 29-30

"And now, my son, I perceive there is somewhat more which doth worry your mind, which ye cannot understand - which is concerning the justice of God in the punishment of the sinner; for ye do try to suppose that it is injustice that the sinner should be consigned to a state of misery.

And now, my son, I desire that ye should let these things trouble you no more, and only let your sins trouble you, with that trouble which shall bring you down unto repentance.

O my son, I desire that ye should deny the justice of God no more. Do not endeavor to excuse yourself in the least point because of your sins, by denying the justice of God; but do you let the justice of God, and his mercy, and his long-suffering have full sway in your heart; and let it bring you down to the dust in humility."

I think this chapter is so interesting in exposing a tactic of the sinner. Corianton instead of being concerned for his sins, tries to deflect the issue and say the punishment for sin is not right. The cry becomes the law isn't right, because truly their plan is to continue in their sins without paying a price for it. They put the blame somewhere else in order to not deal with the fact their behavior has put them on punishments course. Alma does a wonderful job in explaining the role of justice and mercy, and the great plan of happiness. As I ponder on what Corianton is doing I can see many applications for this in my day. 

Day 1900

Today's Favorite Verse: Alma 41:10

Today's Favorite Verse: Alma 41:10

"Do not suppose, because it has been spoken concerning restoration, that ye shall be restored from sin to happiness. Behold, I say unto you, wickedness never was happiness."

Alma is speaking to Corianton of the resurrection and restoration of the body with the spirit. You are restored as you were in this life. If you were wicked you will be wicked still. If you are righteous knowing the happiness and joy that the gospel of Jesus Christ brings you will be restored to a state of happiness. I have reflected on this often. I used to think happiness would come in the next life. When there were no trials, suffering and pain. But, when I read this I realized I will not change I will only be as happy as I am now. So why not try an experiment on His words and live a life that brings joy and happiness even in the midst of trial and affliction. I have to say the doctrine is true. For He is my comfort now, and he will be my comfort for the eternities. 

Day 1899

Today's Favorite Verse: Alma 40:21

Today's Favorite Verse: Alma 40:21

"But whether it be at his resurrection or after, I do not say; but this much I say, that there is a space between death and the resurrection of the body, and a state of the soul in happiness or in misery until the time which is appointed of God that the dead shall come forth, and be reunited, both soul and body, and be brought to stand before God, and be judged according to their works."

I love this chapter. While reading it one day I had that AH! moment where a gospel mystery was finally opened up to me. For I had many times tried to figure out how there was paradise, and outer darkness, heaven and hell, and varying degrees of glory. All these places are mentioned in the scriptures.  

Alma so clearly explains all this to his son Corianton, which the recording of this finally made everything fit for me. Once a person dies they are called back to that God that gave them life, and will enter into paradise in a state of happiness and peace. If they were wicked and evil they cannot go there, but instead they are cast out into outer darkness, where there is weeping, wailing and gnashing of teeth. This is clearly spoken of in the scriptures. It isn't until after they are resurrected that final judgment is given. Then the degree of glory that they will retain is given them. This chapter is the one I have marked that explain how all the pieces fit together. 

Day 1898

Today's Favorite Verse: Alma 39:12-13

Today's Favorite Verse: Alma 39:12-13

"And now the Spirit of the Lord doth say unto me: Command thy children to do good, lest they lead away the hearts of many people to destruction; therefore I command you, my son, in the fear of God, that ye refrain from your iniquities;

That ye turn to the Lord with all your mind, might, and strength; that ye lead away the hearts of no more to do wickedly; but rather return unto them, and acknowledge your faults and the wrong which ye have done."

This chapter begins the counsel Alma has for his son Corianton. While on the mission to the Zoramites Corianton forsake the ministry...and went after the harlot Isabel. Because of his conduct the Zoramites would not believe Alma's words. Alma rightfully was concerned for his son for in his youth he had caused great damage to the church by his actions. He also was warned by an angel to "seek to destroy the church no more....and this even if thou wilt of thyself be cast off." (Mosiah 27:16) The damage done to another's testimony or faith is not easily undone. Part of the repentance process was to return to them and acknowledge what he had done was wrong. It takes a converted heart to do that. Alma was not asking his son to do anything differently than what he and the sons of Mosiah had done in repenting of their sins. 

"And now it came to pass that Alma began from this time forward to teach the people, and those who were with Alma at the time the angel appeared unto them, traveling round about through all the land, publishing to all the people the things which they had heard and seen, and preaching the word of God in much tribulation, being greatly persecuted by those who were believers, being smitten by many of them." (Mosiah 27:32)

I have this quote in my notes. 

"President Joseph Fielding Smith (1876-1972) warned of the seriousness of leading people away from the truth: 

"I think the greatest crime in all this world is to lead men and women, the children of God, away from the true principles. We see in the world today philosophies of various kinds, tending to destroy faith, faith in God, faith in the principles of the gospel. What a dreadful thing that is.

The Lord says if we labor all our days and save but one soul, how great will be our joy with him; on the other hand how great will be our sorrow and our condemnation if through our acts we have led one soul away from this truth.

He who blinds one soul, he who spreads error, he who destroys, through his teachings, divine truth, truth that would lead a man to the kingdom of God and to its fulness, how great shall be his condemnation and his punishment in eternity. For the destruction of soul is the destruction of the greatest thing that has ever been created."

(Doctrines of Salvation, comp. Bruce R. McConkie, 3 vols. [1954-56], 1:314).

Day 1897

Today's Favorite Verse: Alma 38:11

Today's Favorite Verse: Alma 38:11

"See that ye are not lifted up unto pride; yea, see that ye do not boast in your own wisdom, nor of your much strength."

I love Shiblon. I wish we knew more about his story. For Alma uses powerful words to describe how he sees him: trust, joy, steadiness, faithfulness, kept the commandments, diligence, patience, long-suffering, knows the Lord was with him and delivered him, teacher of the word, wisdom, and much strength.

This statement just speaks volumes.

"I trust that I shall have great joy in you, because of your steadiness and faithfulness unto God."

(Alma 38:2)

So, I looked for the most important counsel that Alma could leave this most devoted and loved son. What I saw was the tool that the adversary uses the most to destroy the faithful, and that is pride. That is the one thing that can crack the armor of God, for it comes from within. The adversary will tempt by making you feel you should take credit for what the Lord has done. He will have you feed upon the praise of others, thinking you deserved it. I wonder if more isn't said about Shiblon because he didn't want the praise? Interestingly enough Shiblon could have done so, because he had possession of the records for a short time (see Alma 63:1-2, 11-13). We can see he remained faithful until the very end. 

"And he was a just man, and he did walk uprightly before God; and he did observe to do good continually, to keep the commandments of the Lord his God; and also did his brother." (Alma 63:2)

Yes, I think Alma gave the very best counsel to his son, to beware of pride. Not that he had it, but that he was not to even touch it. It is a tool of the adversary that is used against all of us.

Day 1896

Today's Favorite Verse: Alma 37:15-16

Today's Favorite Verse: Alma 37:15-16

"And now behold, I tell you by the spirit of prophecy, that if ye transgress the commandments of God, behold, these things which are sacred shall be taken away from you by the power of God, and ye shall be delivered up unto Satan, that he may sift you as chaff before the wind. 

But if ye keep the commandments of God, and do with these things which are sacred according to that which the Lord doth command you, (for you must appeal unto the Lord for all things whatsoever ye must do with them) behold, no power of earth or hell can take them from you, for God is powerful to the fulfilling of all his words."

Alma is giving his son Helaman the charge to keep the record of this people. He is given the plates of Nephi, brass plates, the twenty-four Jaredite plates, the Urim and Thummin or interpreters, and the Liahona, which was a ball or director and compass. Each of these items Alma gives his son Helaman the story behind them and the need to preserve them. When he mentions he would be delivered up to Satan if he transgressed the commandments of God and didn't treat these things sacred I was reminded of Moroni giving Joseph Smith this same warning, as he delivered the gold plates and other sacred items into his care.  

"Again, he told me, that when I got those plates of which he had spoken—for the time that they should be obtained was not yet fulfilled—I should not show them to any person; neither the breastplate with the Urim and Thummim; only to those to whom I should be commanded to show them; if I did I should be destroyed. While he was conversing with me about the plates, the vision was opened to my mind that I could see the place where the plates were deposited, and that so clearly and distinctly that I knew the place again when I visited it.

At length the time arrived for obtaining the plates, the Urim and Thummim, and the breastplate. On the twenty-second day of September, one thousand eight hundred and twenty-seven, having gone as usual at the end of another year to the place where they were deposited, the same heavenly messenger delivered them up to me with this charge: that I should be responsible for them; that if I should let them go carelessly, or through any neglect of mine, I should be cut off; but that if I would use all my endeavors to preserve them, until he, the messenger, should call for them, they should be protected.

I soon found out the reason why I had received such strict charges to keep them safe, and why it was that the messenger had said that when I had done what was required at my hand, he would call for them. For no sooner was it known that I had them, than the most strenuous exertions were used to get them from me. Every strategem that could be invented was resorted to for that purpose. The persecution became more bitter and severe than before, and multitudes were on the alert continually to get them from me if possible. But by the wisdom of God, they remained safe in my hand. When, according to arrangements, the messenger called to them, I delivered them up to him; and he has them in this charge until this day, being the second day of May, one thousand eight hundred and thirty-eight."

(Joseph Smith-History 1:42, 59-60)

The other thing I noticed was both are given the same assignment on the treatment of the twenty-four plates from the Jaredites. Helaman is told that "only their wickedness and their murders and their abominations shall ye make known unto them (verse 29). Which sounds like the part we have in the book of Ether. Joseph received the gold plates and could only translate a third of it because the other two-thirds were sealed. All their secret works won't be brought to light until the Lord feels the time is right. My new thought on that was at that point some may look at themselves and realize they had already been deceived by the adversary. Finding themselves involved in oaths and secret combinations not realizing were the true source came from. For you wouldn't expose something that you've kept hidden, unless the purpose was to identify its already there. 

Day 1895

Today's Favorite Verse: Alma 36:3

Today's Favorite Verse: Alma 36:3

"And now, O my son Helaman, behold, thou art in thy youth, and therefore, I beseech of thee that thou wilt hear my words and learn of me; for I do know that whosoever shall put their trust in God shall be supported in their trials, and their troubles, and their afflictions, and shall be lifted up at the last day."

Yesterday, I was reading about the Alma's sorrow for the wickedness of the people with their wars and bloodshed, and realized for the first time the reason why he is now speaking to his sons. It's not because he's on this death bed. It's because with the wickedness, trials and afflictions going on around them he is drawn to his family and desires to strengthen them. This would not be just a trying time for him but also for his loved ones. 

"Therefore, he caused that his sons should be gathered together, that he might give unto them every one his charge, separately, concerning the things pertaining unto righteousness. And we have an account of his commandments, which he gave unto them according to his own record."

(Alma 35:16)

He is an example of what is needed at this time. Families need to gather together and strengthen each other. It also shows the importance of private personal interviews with our children to understand where their hearts are at and help them grow. 

Day 1894

Today's Favorite Verse: Alma 35:15

Today's Favorite Verse: Alma 35:15

"Now Alma, being grieved for the iniquity of his people, yea for the wars, and the bloodsheds, and the contentions which were among them; and having been to declare the word, among all the people in every city; and seeing that the hearts of the people began to wax hard, and that they began to be offended because of the strictness of the word, his heart was exceedingly sorrowful."

I could not help but read this and think about the issues in our nation and the call of repentance President Russell M. Nelson has given. I can picture the hearts of both prophets being deeply grieved for what they see happening among the people. This was his recent message: 

In light of recent events, Russell M. Nelson, President of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints shared the following message on his social media accounts:

"We join with many throughout this nation and around the world who are deeply saddened at recent evidences of racism and a blatant disregard for human life. We abhor the reality that some would deny others respect and the most basic of freedoms because of the color of his or her skin.

We are also saddened when these assaults on human dignity lead to escalating violence and unrest.

The Creator of us all calls on each of us to abandon attitudes of prejudice against any group of God’s children. Any of us who has prejudice toward another race needs to repent!

During the Savior’s earthly mission, He constantly ministered to those who were excluded, marginalized, judged, overlooked, abused, and discounted. As His followers, can we do anything less? The answer is no! We believe in freedom, kindness, and fairness for all of God’s children!

Let us be clear. We are brothers and sisters, each of us the child of a loving Father in Heaven. His Son, the Lord Jesus Christ, invites all to come unto Him—“black and white, bond and free, male and female,” (2 Nephi 26:33). It behooves each of us to do whatever we can in our spheres of influence to preserve the dignity and respect every son and daughter of God deserves.

Any nation can only be as great as its people. That requires citizens to cultivate a moral compass that helps them distinguish between right and wrong.

Illegal acts such as looting, defacing, or destroying public or private property cannot be tolerated. Never has one wrong been corrected by a second wrong. Evil has never been resolved by more evil.

We need to foster our faith in the Fatherhood of God and the brotherhood of man.

We need to foster a fundamental respect for the human dignity of every human soul, regardless of their color, creed, or cause.

And we need to work tirelessly to build bridges of understanding rather than creating walls of segregation.

I plead with us to work together for peace, for mutual respect, and for an outpouring of love for all of God’s children."

Day 1893

Today's Favorite Verse: Alma 34:37-38

Today's Favorite Verse: Alma 34:37-38

"And now, my beloved brethren, I desire that ye should remember these things, and that ye should work out your salvation with fear before God, and that ye should no more deny the coming of Christ;

That ye contend no more against the Holy Ghost, but that ye receive it, and take upon you the name of Christ; that ye humble yourselves even to the dust, and worship God, in whatsoever place ye may be in, in spirit and in truth; and that ye live in thanksgiving daily, for the many mercies and blessings which he doth bestow upon you."

Prior to reading my scriptures tonight I was chopping over 6 lbs of mushrooms to put into the dehydrator. With that time I did my favorite thing by listening to a talk I have never heard before. Tonight it was a BYU Devotional given on March 2, 1982 by Elder Bruce R. McConkie, "Our Relationship with the Lord". It was excellent and little did I know so fitting for this chapter in Alma where the role of the Savior, Jesus Christ is laid out. I love that in these two verses it speaks of God the Father, the Son and the Holy Ghost, 3 separate beings with three separate roles yet united in purpose. Like Amulek in this chapter, Elder McConkie gave pure doctrine. The gospel is so simple, and I am trying so hard not to complicate it, for these truths bring so much joy. 

Day 1892

Today's Favorite Verse: Alma 33:8

Today's Favorite Verse: Alma 33:8

"Yea, thou art merciful unto thy children when they cry unto thee, to be heard of thee and not of men, and thou wilt hear them."

I feel like I've been living like this for ages now. Even more so after the pandemic, and now the riots. I would be a very rich person, if I could have a penny for every time I have resisted commenting on something that has been posted online. Truly the spirit is indeed richer to take my concerns to the Lord and he comforts me. I am warned over and over again to stay out of it, say nothing. Rarely, am I impressed to comment. I am learning to be patient and wait for truth to come out which only time will tell. I am learning to let the spirit guide me over the muddy fast waters. I am learning the wisdom in obedience.

Day 1891

Today's Favorite Verse: Alma 32:17

Today's Favorite Verse: Alma 32:17

"Yea, there are many who do say: If thou wilt show unto us a sign from heaven, then we shall know of a surety; then we shall believe."

Once again a chapter where it's so hard to pick a favorite. I chose this one simply because I had made a note on this verse that I had forgotten. It really struck me because of the favorite verses I had the last couple of days. I will finish this theme.

"Elder Dallin H. Oaks of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles spoke of the dangers accompanying the seeking of signs for faith:

“The showing of a sign can work to the condemnation of those who are brought to knowledge by that means. They miss the opportunity to develop faith, and they subject themselves to a more severe punishment for backsliding than those whose spiritual development is proceeding along the normal pathway of developing faith.“There are other ‘condemnations’ to those who seek signs without first developing the faith God has required as a prerequisite.

“One condemnation is to be misled. God warned ancient Israel against following prophets who gave signs and wonders and then sought to lead them away to the worship of strange gods. (Deut. 13:1–3.) The Savior taught his apostles in the last days 'there shall also arise false Christs, and false prophets, and shall show great signs and wonders, insomuch that, if possible, they shall deceive the very elect, who are the elect according to the covenant'. (JST Matt. 24:23; also see Matt. 24:24; Mark 13:22)

...In our day, God does not use miracles or signs as a way of teaching or convincing the unbeliever. As a result, we should not ask for signs for this purpose, and we should be deeply suspicious of the so-called spiritual evidences of those who do." 

(Dallin H. Oaks, "The Lord's Way" [1991], 85-86), (Book of Mormon Student Manual, Chapter 30) 

Day 1890