Today's Favorite Verse: 3 Nephi 29:2 "And ye may know that the words of the Lord, which have been spoken by the holy prophets, shall all be fulfilled; and ye need not say that the Lord delays his coming unto the children of Israel."
I was drawn to "delays his coming". I had always only thought of that delay as the second coming. In this chapter it is speaking of the coming forth of the Book of Mormon and restoration of the gospel. When I think about how long the apostasy was, those that were waiting for a restoration would have thought the Lord delayed his coming. In my generation I don't feel like the Lord's has delayed his coming. All the words of the Lord will be fulfilled, maybe one day I will feel that way.
"And in that day shall be heard of wars and rumors of wars, and the whole earth shall be in commotion, and men’s hearts shall fail them, and they shall say that Christ delayeth his coming until the end of the earth." (Doctrine and Covenants 45:26)
Today's Favorite Verse: 3 Nephi 28:7-8 "Therefore, more blessed are ye, for ye shall never taste of death; but ye shall live to behold all the doings of the Father unto the children of men, even until all things shall be fulfilled according to the will of the Father, when I shall come in my glory with the powers of heaven. And ye shall never endure the pains of death; but when I shall come in my glory ye shall be changed in the twinkling of an eye from mortality to immortality; and then shall ye be blessed in the kingdom of my Father."
The Lord is speaking to the three Nephites that requested, like John the Beloved, to remain on this earth until the Lord's coming.
I attended a funeral today. The person that passed did so in their sleep. Several of us were remarking on how that is a wonderful way to go. Then we had a discussion on how its possible we could be here when the Savior returns and be twinkled, which sounds even better. Though some of our patriarchal blessings say we will rise in the morning of the first resurrection. Thinking we will probably be gone before that happens. I then recalled that the morning of the first resurrection began when Christ was resurrected and will continue into and through the Millennium. I now wonder if you can be twinkled and thereby receive your resurrection at the same time? For all men will die, and every man resurrected in his proper order.
"For as in Adam all die, even so in Christ shall all be made alive. But every man in his own order: Christ the firstfruits; afterward they that are Christ’s at his coming." (1 Corinthians 15:22-23)
President Joseph Fielding Smith also taught: “Men on the earth will still be mortal, but a change shall come over them so that they will have power over sickness, disease and death. Death shall all but be banished from the earth, for men shall live until they are the age of a tree or one hundred years old, and then shall die at the age of man, but this death shall come in the twinkling of an eye and mortality shall give way to immortality suddenly. There shall be no graves, and the righteous shall be caught up to a glorious resurrection” (Church History and Modern Revelation, 2 vols. [1953], 1:461).
"And he that liveth when the Lord shall come, and hath kept the faith, blessed is he; nevertheless, it is appointed to him to die at the age of man. Wherefore, children shall grow up until they become old; old men shall die; but they shall not sleep in the dust, but they shall be changed in the twinkling of an eye." (Doctrine and Covenants 63:50-51)
I have decided to no longer assume rising on the morning of the first resurrection necessarily means you have died before the Lord's second coming.
Today's Favorite Verse: 3 Nephi 27:30-31 " And now, behold, my joy is great, even unto fulness, because of you, and also this generation; yea, and even the Father rejoiceth, and also all the holy angels, because of you and this generation; for none of them are lost. Behold, I would that ye should understand; for I mean them who are now alive of this generation; and none of them are lost; and in them I have fulness of joy."
After ascending up to heaven Jesus continues to appear to the Nephite apostles as needed. In this chapter the apostles were united in mighty prayer and fasting. After being rejected by the Jews, what joy Christ must have felt to be received by the Nephites. His apostles were teaching and converting with great success. What a contrast this period of time is to all other times in history. I pondered on how Christ will be received in his second coming. How much missionary work will be required to convert the good and righteous people remaining on this earth, that had never heard of Christ. None will be lost because they will come to a knowledge of the truth.
Today's Favorite Verse: 3 Nephi 26:9 "And when they shall have received this, which is expedient that they should have first, to try their faith, and if it shall so be that they shall believe these things then shall the greater things be made manifest unto them."
This year we are finishing our second time reading the Book of Mormon using "Come, Follow Me". I wonder as a church, if we are any closer to receiving more?
President Spencer W. Kimball: 'When do you think we will get the balance of the Book of Mormon records?' And I have said, 'How many in the congregation would like to read the sealed portion of the plates?' And almost always there is a 100-percent response. And then I ask the same congregation, 'How many of you have read the part that has been opened to us?' And there are many who have not read the Book of Mormon, the unsealed portion. We are quite often looking for the spectacular, the unobtainable. I have found many people who want to live the higher laws when they do not live the lower laws." (The Teachings of Spencer W. Kimball, ed. Edward L. Kimball [1982], 531-32)
Today's Favorite Verse: 3 Nephi 25:2 "But unto you that fear my name, shall the Son of Righteousness arise with healing in his wings; and ye shall go forth and grow up as calves in the stall."
I thought about the healing in his wings. Yes, I do believe the Lord will heal our wounds, and strengthen us at his coming. Just like he did to the Nephites after his resurrection. But there is a deeper meaning, the healing of hearts for people, families and nations. True healing is so difficult when all hearts are not willing.
"Through temple blessings, the Savior heals individuals, families, and nations—even those that once stood as bitter enemies. The resurrected Lord declared to a conflict-ridden society in the Book of Mormon that unto those who honor “my name, shall the Son of Righteousness arise with healing in his wings." (J. Kimo Esplin, "The Savior's Healing Power upon the Isles of the Sea", Oct 2023 General Conference)
Then I pondered on the meaning of "calves in the stall" in the millennial environment.
"And the time cometh speedily that the righteous must be led up as calves of the stall, and the Holy One of Israel must reign in dominion, and might, and power, and great glory. And he gathereth his children from the four quarters of the earth; and he numbereth his sheep, and they know him; and there shall be one fold and one shepherd; and he shall feed his sheep, and in him they shall find pasture. And because of the righteousness of his people, Satan has no power; wherefore, he cannot be loosed for the space of many years; for he hath no power over the hearts of the people, for they dwell in righteousness, and the Holy One of Israel reigneth." (1 Nephi 22:24-26)
"President Joseph Fielding Smith (1876–1972) taught that children who will be raised during the Millennium “shall grow up ‘as calves of the stall’ unto righteousness, that is, without sin or the temptations which are so prevalent today” (The Way to Perfection [1970], 299). Contemplate the difference between a calf that is raised out on the range or in the mountains and one that is raised in a barn. The calf on the range is subject to all the forces of nature: inclement weather, predatory animals, and occasional scarcity of food and water. On the other hand, the calf raised in the barn or in a stall is protected from poor weather and predatory animals. Likewise, food and water are regularly provided. Nephi taught that “the time cometh speedily that the righteous must be led up as calves of the stall” (1 Nephi 22:24). One commentator said: “Those who are left after the judgment of the Second Coming will be able to raise up their children as calves are raised in a stall. The calf is protected from the elements, and his environment is controlled (Malachi 4:2; 1 Nephi 22:24). The children in the Millennium will similarly ‘grow up without sin unto salvation’ (D&C 45:58). The telestial element will be removed, and with Satan being bound (Revelation 20:1–3; 1 Nephi 22:26; D&C 101:28), the environment will be more controlled” (Monte S. Nyman and Farres H. Nyman, The Words of the Twelve Prophets: Messages to the Latter-day Saints [1990], 145). (Book of Mormon Student Manual, Chapter 6: 1 Nephi 19-22, "1 Nephi 22:24 Calves in the Stall")
Today's Favorite Verse: 3 Nephi 24:1 "And it came to pass that he commanded them that they should write the words which the Father had given unto Malachi, which he should tell unto them. And it came to pass that after they were written he expounded them. And these are the words which he did tell unto them, saying: Thus said the Father unto Malachi—Behold, I will send my messenger, and he shall prepare the way before me, and the Lord whom ye seek shall suddenly come to his temple, even the messenger of the covenant, whom ye delight in; behold, he shall come, saith the Lord of Hosts."
I was reflecting on how the Lord will suddenly come to his temple. He did this at the temple in the land of Bountiful, in the Book of Mormon. He also did this in the Kirtland temple in Ohio. If the members heard the Lord suddenly appeared to the saints in the latter-day temples, there would not be enough temples built for everyone that wanted to come and see.
This is the promise that President Nelson gave us.
"Regular worship in the temple will help us. In the house of the Lord, we focus on Jesus Christ. We learn of Him. We make covenants to follow Him. We come to know Him. As we keep our temple covenants, we gain greater access to the Lord’s strengthening power. In the temple, we receive protection from the buffetings of the world. We experience the pure love of Jesus Christ and our Heavenly Father in great abundance! We feel peace and spiritual reassurance, in contrast to the turbulence of the world. Here is my promise to you: Every sincere seeker of Jesus Christ will find Him in the temple. You will feel His mercy. You will find answers to your most vexing questions. You will better comprehend the joy of His gospel" (Russell M. Nelson, "The Lord Jesus Christ Will Come Again", Oct 2024 General Conference)
Today's Favorite Verse: 3 Nephi 23:5 "And whosoever will hearken unto my words and repenteth and is baptized, the same shall be saved. Search the prophets, for many there be that testify of these things."
This reminded me of a question our Sunday School teacher asked us today. "What has God taught you this year?"
Reading and searching the Book of Mormon this year I could see how many stories were woven into a greater theme with a warning. Mormon truly saw our day, and there was wisdom in the stories he decided to share with us. This year I could see more clearly the danger he was pointing out to us. I could also see where we stand in time, and how close the second coming is. Prophets of old have told us, and living prophets are also warning us. Telling us of the need for repentance, baptism, and staying on the covenant path. There is protection for us when we listen and follow the prophets. I saw many things that President Nelson has been saying inside the scriptures which gives them even more emphasis. For year I have not just read the scriptures, I also ponder and pray about them. I search for the harmony and consistency, and what it is trying to say to me. This year I found new treasures of wisdom that bring peace to my soul.
“Search the Scriptures—search the revelations which we publish, and ask your Heavenly Father, in the name of His Son Jesus Christ, to manifest the truth unto you, and if you do it with an eye single to His glory, nothing doubting, He will answer you by the power of His Holy Spirit. You will then know for yourselves and not for another. You will not then be dependent on man for the knowledge of God; nor will there be any room for speculation. No; for when men receive their instruction from Him that made them, they know how He will save them. Then again we say: Search the Scriptures, search the Prophets, and learn what portion of them belongs to you” (Joseph Smith, “To the Honorable Men of the World,” The Evening and the Morning Star, Aug. 1832, 22) (David A. Bednar, "Because We Have Them before Our Eyes", Apr 2006 New Era)
Today's Favorite Verse: 3 Nephi 22:13 "And all thy children shall be taught of the Lord; and great shall be the peace of thy children."
I used to think of these scriptures when I read this verse.
"Behold, I say unto you, concerning the school in Zion, I, the Lord, am well pleased that there should be a school in Zion, and also with my servant Parley P. Pratt, for he abideth in me." (Doctrine and Covenants 97:3)
"And again, you shall be ordained to assist my servant Oliver Cowdery to do the work of printing, and of selecting and writing books for schools in this church, that little children also may receive instruction before me as is pleasing unto me." (Doctrine and Covenants 55:4)
When I heard of BYU Pathways I thought of the eventual schools the church may have for our children. That may or may not happen, but now I think of something else. I think of having "Come, Follow Me" in our homes with our children. The home is the greatest place to teach our children the gospel of Jesus Christ in purity. I know there is greater peace in our home since we began reading the scriptures together as a family.
"Our homes are fortresses against the evils of the world. In our homes we come unto Christ by learning to follow His commandments, by studying the scriptures and praying together, and by helping one another stay on the covenant path. The new emphasis on personal and family study in the home through the curriculum Come, Follow Me is designed “to deepen our conversion and help us become more like Jesus Christ.” In so doing we will become what Paul called “new creature[s]” with our hearts and souls in tune with God. We need that strength to face and deflect the assaults of the adversary." (Ronald A. Rasband, "Build a Fortress of Spirituality and Protection", Apr 2019 General Conference)
Today's Favorite Verse: 3 Nephi 21:20 "For it shall come to pass, saith the Father, that at that day whosoever will not repent and come unto my Beloved Son, them will I cut off from among my people, O house of Israel;"
I pondered on how God works by natural means. The world thinks it must be spectacular to believe, yet if they see the spectacular that doesn't give them faith that endures. We see that time and time again in the scriptures when miracles are performed, but it does not bring enduring faith. Some would think God will take a sword and wipe the wicked out of his church. What that only shows is they do not know the nature of God. It's by natural means that people take themselves out of the house of Israel. It is through apostasy and embracing false doctrines that they fall away. How different it would be if they were truly humble and repentant, and knew that God was greater than them, and man's wisdom.
"The scriptures teach that the voice of the Holy Ghost is mild and still, like a whisper—not loud or noisy; it is simple, quiet, and plain; it can be piercing and burning; it affects both mind and heart; it brings peace, joy, and hope—not fear, anxiety, and worry; it invites us to do good—not evil; and it is enlightening and delicious—not mystifying." (Dale G. Renlund, "A Framework for Personal Revelation", footnote #10, Oct 2022 General Conference)
Today's Favorite Verse: 3 Nephi 20:22 "And behold, this people will I establish in this land, unto the fulfilling of the covenant which I made with your father Jacob; and it shall be a New Jerusalem. And the powers of heaven shall be in the midst of this people; yea, even I will be in the midst of you."
I pondered on this statement.
"While teaching the Nephites about Zion or the New Jerusalem, the Savior promised that He would “be in the midst” of His people (3 Nephi 20:22). The Lord used a similar phrase in the Doctrine and Covenants: “But behold, verily, verily, I say unto you that mine eyes are upon you. I am in your midst and ye cannot see me; “But the day soon cometh that ye shall see me, and know that I am; for the veil of darkness shall soon be rent, and he that is not purified shall not abide the day. “Wherefore, gird up your loins and be prepared” (D&C 38:7–9). The promise that God will dwell in the midst of Zion can have reference to Him being in the temple in Zion (the New Jerusalem) and that “all the pure in heart that shall come into [the temple] shall see God” (Book of Mormon Student Manual, Chapter 44: 3 Nephi 20-22, "God Will Dwell in Our Midst")
I have strongly felt there are multiple purposes for the house of the Lord to dot the earth. It prepares the saints of every kindred, tongue and people to see Christ in their midst.
"Yea, and my presence shall be there, for I will come into it, and all the pure in heart that shall come into it shall see God." (Doctrine and Covenants 97:16)
President Nelson recently gave us this promise.
"Regular worship in the temple will help us. In the house of the Lord, we focus on Jesus Christ. We learn of Him. We make covenants to follow Him. We come to know Him. As we keep our temple covenants, we gain greater access to the Lord’s strengthening power. In the temple, we receive protection from the buffetings of the world. We experience the pure love of Jesus Christ and our Heavenly Father in great abundance! We feel peace and spiritual reassurance, in contrast to the turbulence of the world. Here is my promise to you: Every sincere seeker of Jesus Christ will find Him in the temple. You will feel His mercy. You will find answers to your most vexing questions. You will better comprehend the joy of His gospel" (Russell M. Nelson, "The Lord Jesus Christ Will Come Again", Oct 2024 General Conference)
Today's Favorite Verse: 3 Nephi 19:13-15 "And it came to pass when they were all baptized and had come up out of the water, the Holy Ghost did fall upon them, and they were filled with the Holy Ghost and with fire. And behold, they were encircled about as if it were by fire; and it came down from heaven, and the multitude did witness it, and did bear record; and angels did come down out of heaven and did minister unto them. And it came to pass that while the angels were ministering unto the disciples, behold, Jesus came and stood in the midst and ministered unto them."
I was drawn to the mention of being encircled by fire. It reminded me of Nephi and Lehi in prison being surrounded by fire.
"And it came to pass that Nephi and Lehi were encircled about as if by fire, even insomuch that they durst not lay their hands upon them for fear lest they should be burned. Nevertheless, Nephi and Lehi were not burned; and they were as standing in the midst of fire and were not burned." (Helaman 5:23)
Fire shows the presence of God, and divine protection. The glory of the Lord at his coming will either embrace or consume, it depends on how one fears the Lord.
"And the glory of the Lord shall be revealed, and all flesh shall see it together: for the mouth of the Lord hath spoken it." (Isaiah 40:5)
"And again, verily, verily, I say unto you, and it hath gone forth in a firm decree, by the will of the Father, that mine apostles, the Twelve which were with me in my ministry at Jerusalem, shall stand at my right hand at the day of my coming in a pillar of fire, being clothed with robes of righteousness, with crowns upon their heads, in glory even as I am, to judge the whole house of Israel, even as many as have loved me and kept my commandments, and none else." (Doctrine and Covenants 29:12)
"These are they whose bodies are celestial, whose glory is that of the sun, even the glory of God, the highest of all, whose glory the sun of the firmament is written of as being typical." (Doctrine and Covenants 76:70)
"And then shall that Wicked be revealed, whom the Lord shall consume with the spirit of his mouth, and shall destroy with the brightness of his coming:" (2 Thessalonians 2:8)
"And the saints also shall hardly escape; nevertheless, I, the Lord, am with them, and will come down in heaven from the presence of my Father and consume the wicked with unquenchable fire." (Doctrine and Covenants 63:34)
Today's Favorite Verse: 3 Nephi 18:15, 18 "Verily, verily, I say unto you, ye must watch and pray always, lest ye be tempted by the devil, and ye be led away captive by him. Behold, verily, verily, I say unto you, ye must watch and pray always lest ye enter into temptation; for Satan desireth to have you, that he may sift you as wheat."
I noticed that in verse 15 the Lord is speaking to his disciples. In verse 18 he says it a little differently to the saints gathered there. The disciples are warned they will be led captive, or in bondage to the devil. The people are warned that Satan desires to sift them as wheat. Similar to the warning the Lord gave to Simon Peter before he was given the keys to lead the church.
"And the Lord said, Simon, Simon, behold, Satan hath desired to have you, that he may sift you as wheat:" (Luke 22:31)
"Jesus cautioned that Satan desires to sift us like wheat which means to make us common like all those around us. But Jesus taught that we who follow Him should be precious and unique, “the salt of the and “the light of the world,” to shine forth to all men." (Dallin H. Oaks, "Unselfish Service", Apr 2009 General Conference)
I pondered on what the difference meant between these verses? One thing that stands out to me is the Lord is first speaking to the priesthood leaders of His Church. Bondage would be a way Satan could stop the work. Amen to that man's priesthood if he knowingly gives into Satan's temptations. For they have a sure knowledge of the divinity of the Lord.
"All gifts and endowments given of the Lord to members of His church are not given to control the church; but they are under the control and guidance of the priesthood, and are judged of by it. Some have erred upon this point, and have been led captive by the devil" (Brigham Young, "Summary of Instructions", JD 11:129)
Among the saints Satan will work to shift them as wheat. Remove what is unique and precious among them, the spirit. They will no longer be a light to others to lead them to Christ. Both the priesthood leaders and the saints are to watch and pray always so they are not tempted and fall.
Today's Favorite Verse: 3 Nephi 17:23-25 "And he spake unto the multitude, and said unto them: Behold your little ones. And as they looked to behold they cast their eyes towards heaven, and they saw the heavens open, and they saw angels descending out of heaven as it were in the midst of fire; and they came down and encircled those little ones about, and they were encircled about with fire; and the angels did minister unto them. And the multitude did see and hear and bear record; and they know that their record is true for they all of them did see and hear, every man for himself; and they were in number about two thousand and five hundred souls; and they did consist of men, women, and children."
I have always love the stories of Jesus and the little children. As a child these stories were so comforting to me. I knew He loved me. As an adult I still remember the feelings I had as a child, but now as a parent I feel the other side, of seeing children surrounding Jesus and angels ministering to them. It makes me cry.
"I have no greater joy than to hear that my children walk in truth." (3 John 1:4)
"Then were there brought unto him little children, that he should put his hands on them, and pray: and the disciples rebuked them. But Jesus said, Suffer little children, and forbid them not, to come unto me: for of such is the kingdom of heaven. And he laid his hands on them, and departed thence." (Matthew 19:13-15)
Today's Favorite Verse: 3 Nephi 16:4 "And I command you that ye shall write these sayings after I am gone, that if it so be that my people at Jerusalem, they who have seen me and been with me in my ministry, do not ask the Father in my name, that they may receive a knowledge of you by the Holy Ghost, and also of the other tribes whom they know not of, that these sayings which ye shall write shall be kept and shall be manifested unto the Gentiles, that through the fulness of the Gentiles, the remnant of their seed, who shall be scattered forth upon the face of the earth because of their unbelief, may be brought in, or may be brought to a knowledge of me, their Redeemer. And then will I gather them in from the four quarters of the earth; and then will I fulfil the covenant which the Father hath made unto all the people of the house of Israel."
This literally happened with the coming forth of the Book of Mormon and the restoration of Christ's church in these latter-days. The gathering from the four quarters of the earth is happening right now. People are being brought to a knowledge of their Redeemer. I cannot wait to read all the records.
"For behold, I shall speak unto the Jews and they shall write it; and I shall also speak unto the Nephites and they shall write it; and I shall also speak unto the other tribes of the house of Israel, which I have led away, and they shall write it; and I shall also speak unto all nations of the earth and they shall write it. And it shall come to pass that the Jews shall have the words of the Nephites, and the Nephites shall have the words of the Jews; and the Nephites and the Jews shall have the words of the lost tribes of Israel; and the lost tribes of Israel shall have the words of the Nephites and the Jews. And it shall come to pass that my people, which are of the house of Israel, shall be gathered home unto the lands of their possessions; and my word also shall be gathered in one. And I will show unto them that fight against my word and against my people, who are of the house of Israel, that I am God, and that I covenanted with Abraham that I would remember his seed forever." (2 Nephi 29:12-14)
Today's Favorite Verse: 3 Nephi 15:5-6 "Behold, I am he that gave the law, and I am he who covenanted with my people Israel; therefore, the law in me is fulfilled, for I have come to fulfil the law; therefore it hath an end. Behold, I do not destroy the prophets, for as many as have not been fulfilled in me, verily I say unto you, shall all be fulfilled."
Through Christ's life and resurrection he fulfilled the law of Moses. He was the sacrificial lamb. All things pointed to Him. Yet, not all the words of the prophets have been fulfilled. I think of how much was prophesied to happen in these latter-days and has been. All things shall be fulfilled, but not always according to how we interpret them to be. It is through natural means that the Lord works and as such I think we have missed a lot of what is going on around us.
"Even with this experience in the past, the Latter-day Saints themselves are not entirely divested of extravagant views respecting the effects which are likely to follow the fulfillment of predictions yet in the future. Are we not all inclined to look forward to many events which have been predicted by the servants of God as being of so great and wonderful, and I may say so supernatural a character, that when they shall be fulfilled they will even startle us, who believe they are coming, and will compel the unbelieving inhabitants of the earth to accept them as evidences of the truth? In our thoughts this seems to be the natural tendency. I notice it in myself; I notice it in others. When we read respecting the great events which are to take place in connection with this work, as predicted in the Book of Doctrine and Covenants, are we not inclined to think that, surely, when these things shall come to pass all the earth, as well as ourselves, will be constrained to acknowledge this to be the work of God, and these events to be indeed those which have been predicted by the prophets? Now I would not, for the world, say one word to lessen in the minds of my brethren and sisters the importance of these events; I would not say one word to weaken your proper expectations; but my experience has taught me that the Lord works in the midst of this people by natural means, and that the greatest events that have been spoken of by the holy prophets will come along so naturally as the consequence of certain causes, that unless our eyes are enlightened by the Spirit of God, and the spirit of revelation rests us, we will fail to see that these are the events predicted by the holy prophets." (Elder George Q. Cannon, "Natural Fulfillment of Prophecy—The Israelites and the Gentiles", JD, Vol. 21, Discourse 29, pg. 264-272)
Today's Favorite Verse: 3 Nephi 14:16-20 Ye shall know them by their fruits. Do men gather grapes of thorns, or figs of thistles? Even so every good tree bringeth forth good fruit; but a corrupt tree bringeth forth evil fruit. A good tree cannot bring forth evil fruit, neither a corrupt tree bring forth good fruit. Every tree that bringeth not forth good fruit is hewn down, and cast into the fire. Wherefore, by their fruits ye shall know them.
I was talking to my son today and we were marveling how the same scripture can mean totally different things to people. They feel their scripture describes current events, and I just can't see the hoops they just leaped through. As we were talking we asked ourselves are we the ones that are not seeing? Can we be wrong? How do you tell the difference, especially if both parties feel they have confirmation by the spirit through prayer? Then the impression came to me, "by their fruits ye shall know them." That settled the matter for us as we based the results of their interpretations by their fruit. How grateful I am that there is a second witness after the gift of the spirit to know how to choose.
Today's Favorite Verse: 3 Nephi 13:8 "Be not ye therefore like unto them, for your Father knoweth what things ye have need of before ye ask him."
That verse became a stumbling block at one time to me. If the Father knew what I needed before I asked, then why should I ask? Wouldn't he already know? My eyes did not begin to see until I read the account of Nephi being given the sealing power. God knew Nephi would not ask for anything contrary to His will. This helped me to understand that prayer is where I learn by the Spirit to ask according to God's will. We become one in prayer and purpose. In ways it's a meeting of the minds. My mind is turned to Him and what he wants for me. This allows me to ask in greater faith.
"And now, because thou hast done this with such unwearyingness, behold, I will bless thee forever; and I will make thee mighty in word and in deed, in faith and in works; yea, even that all things shall be done unto thee according to thy word, for thou shalt not ask that which is contrary to my will." (Helaman 10:5)
Today's Favorite Verse: 3 Nephi 12:16 "Therefore let your light so shine before this people, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father who is in heaven."
This made me think about The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saint initiative to #LightTheWorld. This year's message is to be an angel and serve others like Jesus Christ did. It is breathtaking to see major cities around the world literally light up with angels appearing and images of the Christ child's birth.
I have marveled each year as the number of locations for the Giving Machines have increased. The church may have started it, but they are not alone. They are bringing other faiths and organizations together to serve those in need. Reminds me a lot of what the church did with FamilySearch and RootsTech. This annual event brings people together worldwide as we share our stories and celebrate our individual heritages. We find we have more in common than we ever realized. We truly are brothers and sisters. The church isn't looking to be the light or take credit. They are pointing the light towards the Lord as they bring God's children closer together.
Today's Favorite Verse: 3 Nephi 11:1-2 "And now it came to pass that there were a great multitude gathered together, of the people of Nephi, round about the temple which was in the land Bountiful; and they were marveling and wondering one with another, and were showing one to another the great and marvelous change which had taken place. And they were also conversing about this Jesus Christ, of whom the sign had been given concerning his death."
I think upon this often, that the saints were gathered at the temple when the Savior appeared to them. Will Christ again appear to his saints at the temple, before he appears to the whole world?
"Behold, I will send my messenger, and he shall prepare the way before me: and the Lord, whom ye seek, shall suddenly come to his temple, even the messenger of the covenant, whom ye delight in: behold, he shall come, saith the LORD of hosts." (Malachi 3:1)
"The Lord who shall suddenly come to his temple; the Lord who shall come down upon the world with a curse to judgment; yea, upon all the nations that forget God, and upon all the ungodly among you." (Doctrine and Covenants 133:2)
I know the Lord did suddenly come to his temple after the Kirtland temple dedication, along with Moses, Elias, and Elijah. Only Joseph Smith, Jr. and Oliver Cowdery witnessed this vision. Yet, the Lord says...
"For behold, I have accepted this house, and my name shall be here; and I will manifest myself to my people in mercy in this house. Yea, I will appear unto my servants, and speak unto them with mine own voice, if my people will keep my commandments, and do not pollute this holy house." (Doctrine and Covenants 110:7-8)
"During this visitation, the Lord affirmed His identity. He said, “I am the first and the last; I am he who liveth, I am he who was slain; I am your advocate with the Father.” Jesus Christ then declared that He had accepted the temple as His house and made this stunning promise: “I will manifest myself to my people in mercy in this house.” This significant promise applies to every dedicated temple today. I invite you to ponder what the Lord’s promise means for you personally." (Russell M. Nelson, "Rejoice in the Gift of Priesthood Keys", Apr 2024 General Conference)
Today's Favorite Verse: 3 Nephi 10:4-6 "O ye people of these great cities which have fallen, who are descendants of Jacob, yea, who are of the house of Israel, how oft have I gathered you as a hen gathereth her chickens under her wings, and have nourished you. And again, how oft would I have gathered you as a hen gathereth her chickens under her wings, yea, O ye people of the house of Israel, who have fallen; yea, O ye people of the house of Israel, ye that dwell at Jerusalem, as ye that have fallen; yea, how oft would I have gathered you as a hen gathereth her chickens, and ye would not. O ye house of Israel whom I have spared, how oft will I gather you as a hen gathereth her chickens under her wings, if ye will repent and return unto me with full purpose of heart."
I hadn't realized until now that the Lord is speaking to both sides of the veil. To those that were now deceased and those that were spared. The deceased spirits must still be lingering around them. The time of repentance is now past for them. They had willfully rebelled and did not turn to the Lord when he called them in this life. Those that are still alive are told the Lord's arms will still gather them. They can still repent and turn with full purpose of heart to the Lord. It is important to not procrastination our day of repentance.
"Brothers and sisters, now is the time for you and for me to prepare for the Second Coming of our Lord and Savior, Jesus the Christ. Now is the time for us to make our discipleship our highest priority." (Russell M. Nelson, "The Lord Jesus Christ Will Come Again", Oct 2024 General Conference)
"Obstacles will come. Let us not wait for things to get hard before turning to God. Let us not wait until the end of our mortal lives to truly repent. Instead, let us now, no matter which part of the covenant path we are on, focus on the redemptive power of Jesus Christ and on Heavenly Father’s desire for us to return to Him" (Elder Jorge M. Alvarado, "Embrace the Lord's Gift of Repentance", Oct 2024 General Conference)
Today's Favorite Verse: 3 Nephi 9:11 "And because they did cast them all out, that there were none righteous among them, I did send down fire and destroy them, that their wickedness and abominations might be hid from before my face, that the blood of the prophets and the saints whom I sent among them might not cry unto me from the ground against them."
I had wondered about the righteous being a causality of destruction that happened after the Lord was crucified. I know there were wounded among them for the Lord healed them. In this verse I see that cities destroyed were due to the wicked casting them out. Being persecuted and cast out would have been a trial for the righteous to endure, but in the long run it moved them to places of refuge from the coming storm. Those whose blood were spilt at the hands of the wicked were claimed by the Lord and his. I can see that this was also a fulfillment of prophesy given by Samuel the Lamanite.
"But blessed are they who will repent, for them will I spare. But behold, if it were not for the righteous who are in this great city, behold, I would cause that fire should come down out of heaven and destroy it. But behold, it is for the righteous’ sake that it is spared. But behold, the time cometh, saith the Lord, that when ye shall cast out the righteous from among you, then shall ye be ripe for destruction; yea, wo be unto this great city, because of the wickedness and abominations which are in her." (Helaman 12:13-14)
Today's Favorite Verse: 3 Nephi 8:24-25 "And in one place they were heard to cry, saying: O that we had repented before this great and terrible day, and then would our brethren have been spared, and they would not have been burned in that great city Zarahemla. And in another place they were heard to cry and mourn, saying: O that we had repented before this great and terrible day, and had not killed and stoned the prophets, and cast them out; then would our mothers and our fair daughters, and our children have been spared, and not have been buried up in that great city Moronihah. And thus were the howlings of the people great and terrible."
At first I pondered on how I wouldn't want to be in their shoes, saying "If only we had repented." Then I realized those that survived were counted among the righteous. Then I thought a little differently on how the mourning was as a society as a whole. How what befell them all was due to the overwhelming wickedness among them. The loss of family members would not be, if only they had repented. That is such a sad thing to contemplate. I have thought about that when I hear people say how they can't wait for the second coming. With the meaning that the wicked are then destroyed. That makes me sad, because people being destroyed is a horrible thing, and something we should mourn. If we are a Christlike people full of charity, we would feel a deep sorrow for their loss for they are our brothers and sisters.
Today's Favorite Verse: 3 Nephi 7:21-22 "And it came to pass that the thirty and first year did pass away, and there were but few who were converted unto the Lord; but as many as were converted did truly signify unto the people that they had been visited by the power and Spirit of God, which was in Jesus Christ, in whom they believed. And as many as had devils cast out from them, and were healed of their sicknesses and their infirmities, did truly manifest unto the people that they had been wrought upon by the Spirit of God, and had been healed; and they did show forth signs also and did do some miracles among the people."
I pondered on how this conversion was one by one. That conversion is a personal experience. Conversion includes sharing the gospel with others. So many times people were converted and then fell away. This group of believers would be those that remained when the Savior appears after his resurrection.
Today's Favorite Verse: 3 Nephi 6:30 "And they did set at defiance the law and the rights of their country; and they did covenant one with another to destroy the governor, and to establish a king over the land, that the land should no more be at liberty but should be subject unto kings."
In the space of four years they go from defeating the Gadiation robbers and having great peace in the land and prosperity, to their government being overthrown from within.
"Now they did not sin ignorantly, for they knew the will of God concerning them, for it had been taught unto them; therefore they did wilfully rebel against God." (vrs 18)
Today's Favorite Verse: 3 Nephi 5:8 "And there had many things transpired which, in the eyes of some, would be great and marvelous; nevertheless, they cannot all be written in this book; yea, this book cannot contain even a hundredth part of what was done among so many people in the space of twenty and five years;"
How I wish I could read all those marvelous things that transpired in those 25 years. This made me think about the message President Jeffrey R. Holland gave and the hope of one day reading them. Until then we appreciate and read what we do have.
"I'm glad to be back talking to you out of the scriptures. I'm going to share my personal study with you from time to time, as I have in the past. And I was reading 3 Nephi 5, and I was taken with these verses: "And there had many things transpired which, in the eyes of some, would be great and marvelous; nevertheless, they cannot all be written in this book yea, this book cannot contain even a hundredth part of what was done among so many people in the space of twenty and five years; But behold there are records which do contain all the proceedings of this people." Another verse: That's verse 8. Here's 18: "I know the record which I make to be a just and true record; nevertheless there are many things which, according to our language, we are not able to write." Here's a third. I'm going to go back to read this - Alma 26: "Therefore, let us glory, yea, we will glory in the Lord; yea, we will rejoice for our joy is full. And who can glory too much in the Lord? Who can say too much?" I got a lot to say here. "Who can say too much of his great power; and his great mercy; and his long-suffering. Behold, I say unto you, I cannot say the smallest part which I feel." That's a third problem. You've got just bulk history. We get 100th part. You've got language, which is some kind of script or inability to get all the story down. And you've got feelings. I can't get the feelings out. They're too powerful. They mean too much to me. They're ineffable. I can't write them. I cannot say the smallest part of which I feel. And that's how I feel about the Book of Mormon. I can't say the smallest part to you about what I feel. And I look forward with great anticipation to other records and other parts. Hundred - may 100 times as much that is contained in - that is contained in the book we have. If that much is available out there, the least we can do, the least we can do is read the book that we've got, because there's a lot of other good stuff coming. I love you. Bye, bye" (Jeffrey R. Holland, Facebook post 28 Apr 2024, https://www.facebook.com/watch/?v=1166381477883157)
Today's Favorite Verse: 3 Nephi 4:8, 10, 30 "And it came to pass that the armies of the Nephites, when they saw the appearance of the army of Giddianhi, had all fallen to the earth, and did lift their cries to the Lord their God, that he would spare them and deliver them out of the hands of their enemies. But in this thing they were disappointed, for the Nephites did not fear them; but they did fear their God and did supplicate him for protection; therefore, when the armies of Giddianhi did rush upon them they were prepared to meet them; yea, in the strength of the Lord they did receive them. And they did rejoice and cry again with one voice, saying: May the God of Abraham, and the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob, protect this people in righteousness, so long as they shall call on the name of their God for protection."
When hard times come do I fall to my knees and ask God to spare me, and deliver me out of affliction? The ability to do this was the true source of the Nephites protection. It wasn't the physical walls around them, it was God holding up those walls from being torn down. They were prepared to survive seven years in their strongholds and left nothing for their enemies to exist on. It wasn't them protecting themselves. It was them listening to the Lord's inspiration on what to prepare and gather. In the strength of the Lord they were ready for what may come.
Today's Favorite Verse: 3 Nephi 3:15-16 "Yea, he said unto them: As the Lord liveth, except ye repent of all your iniquities, and cry unto the Lord, ye will in nowise be delivered out of the hands of those Gadianton robbers. And so great and marvelous were the words and prophecies of Lachoneus that they did cause fear to come upon all the people; and they did exert themselves in their might to do according to the words of Lachoneus."
Lachoneus was concerned not only for the physical welfare of his people, but their spiritual welfare too. The two are connected, for you cannot ask the Lord's blessing over the people except they are humble and repentant. I would have loved to hear all of Lachoneus' words.
Today's Favorite Verse: 3 Nephi 2:1, 14-15 "And it came to pass that thus passed away the ninety and fifth year also, and the people began to forget those signs and wonders which they had heard, and began to be less and less astonished at a sign or a wonder from heaven, insomuch that they began to be hard in their hearts, and blind in their minds, and began to disbelieve all which they had heard and seen. And it came to pass that those Lamanites who had united with the Nephites were numbered among the Nephites; And their curse was taken from them, and their skin became white like unto the Nephites;"
I pondered on how some people couldn't be astonished to see a group of people with darkened skin all of a sudden become white? How would you explain that away, like they had with the sign of Christ's birth? I remember when a miracle happened when my son was small. I shared it during fast and testimony meeting. This one sister came up to me afterwards not to marvel at the miracle, but question me on why we didn't have medical insurance. It was the most astonishing thing to me, and I felt really sad that all she cared about and focused on was money. Reflecting on that, I suppose they would have looked at someone's skin turning white to mean they had suddenly developed the chronic autoimmune disorder, vitiligo. God works in mysterious ways, and often by using natural means.
Today's Favorite Verse: 3 Nephi 1:4 "And it came to pass that in the commencement of the ninety and second year, behold, the prophecies of the prophets began to be fulfilled more fully; for there began to be greater signs and greater miracles wrought among the people."
This verse reminded me of my favorite quote of President Nelson.
"Our Savior and Redeemer, Jesus Christ, will perform some of His mightiest works between now and when He comes again. We will see miraculous indications that God the Father and His Son, Jesus Christ, preside over this Church in majesty and glory." (Russell M. Nelson, "Revelations for the Church, Revelation for Our Lives", Apr 2018 General Conference)
We can expect the same miraculous things that happened before the Savior's birth to happen before His Second Coming. Tonight I heard of one during the evening session of our Stake Conference. Elder Hans T. Boom, General Authority Seventy, spoke to us. He spoke of the enabling power of the atonement of Jesus Christ. We can do all things through Christ, there is no limitation if we put our trust in him. He then told us of President Nelson exercising his faith in Jesus Christ. He said, "In our last meeting with him two weeks ago, he walked in without his chair. I thought WOW! and it was not a short walk. He came walking in, President Oaks and Eyring came walking in. I think the three of them thought, "Let's show these guys how it really works." That alone was enough for us. We didn't need anything else because that was relying on the Savior, Jesus Christ."
I had been told in June of this year that President Nelson was not doing well. His body was shutting down, and he was only able to drink water. Up until his 100th birthday in September we did not hear from him. I was actually surprise that he looked as well as he did then. Then I was surprised again to see him at General Conference. Now I know I am not the only one. The preservation of President Nelson is a living miracle in our day.
Today's Favorite Verse: Helaman 16:3, 6 "Now when they saw that they could not hit him, there were many more who did believe on his words, insomuch that they went away unto Nephi to be baptized. But the more part of them did not believe in the words of Samuel; therefore when they saw that they could not hit him with their stones and their arrows, they cried unto their captains, saying: Take this fellow and bind him, for behold he hath a devil; and because of the power of the devil which is in him we cannot hit him with our stones and our arrows; therefore take him and bind him, and away with him."
This made me think of this verse.
"Woe unto them that call evil good, and good evil; that put darkness for light, and light for darkness; that put bitter for sweet, and sweet for bitter!" (Isaiah 5:20)
I am reminded of what President Nelson said. "Our Savior and Redeemer, Jesus Christ, will perform some of His mightiest works between now and when He comes again. We will see miraculous indications that God the Father and His Son, Jesus Christ, preside over this Church in majesty and glory. But in coming days, it will not be possible to survive spiritually without the guiding, directing, comforting, and constant influence of the Holy Ghost." (Russell M. Nelson, "Revelation for the Church, Revelation for Our Lives", Apr 2018 General Conference)
It would be so sad to witness these mightiest miracles and not recognize them for what they are. Even worse to consider it of the devil. I had not considered that possibility. I hope and pray that I will be worth to have the Holy Ghost with me to bare record of what is from God. That I will not call evil good, or good evil.
Today's Favorite Verse: Helaman 15:14 "Therefore I say unto you, it shall be better for them than for you except ye repent."
I was pondering on how those that have not the law. That have not been raised to believe in God are very much like modern day Lamanites. It is because of the false traditions of their fathers that they err. It will be better for them than for us that have the law and do not repent of our sins. For we sin having great knowledge, where those that have no covenants and laws of God to follow will be extended great mercy. For all have the light of Christ given them to know right from wrong, and they will be judged on the knowledge they had.
"Wherefore, he has given a law; and where there is no law given there is no punishment; and where there is no punishment there is no condemnation; and where there is no condemnation the mercies of the Holy One of Israel have claim upon them, because of the atonement; for they are delivered by the power of him. For the atonement satisfieth the demands of his justice upon all those who have not the law given to them, that they are delivered from that awful monster, death and hell, and the devil, and the lake of fire and brimstone, which is endless torment; and they are restored to that God who gave them breath, which is the Holy One of Israel. But wo unto him that has the law given, yea, that has all the commandments of God, like unto us, and that transgresseth them, and that wasteth the days of his probation, for awful is his state!" (2 Nephi 9:25-27)
Today's Favorite Verse: Helaman 14:2 "And behold, he said unto them: Behold, I give unto you a sign; for five years more cometh, and behold, then cometh the Son of God to redeem all those who shall believe on his name."
As I ponder on the 5 year prophecy for the sign of the Lord's birth that Samuel the Lamanite gave, I cannot help but hope we are given something similar for the Lord's Second Coming.
"Surely the Lord GOD will do nothing, but he revealeth his secret unto his servants the prophets." (Amos 3:7)
I understand we have this scripture.
"But of that day and hour knoweth no man, no, not the angels of heaven, but my Father only." (Matthew 24:36)
But, I also believe Joseph Smith, Jr's words regarding that passage.
"Did Christ speak this as a general principle throughout all generations? Oh, no, He spoke in the present tense. No man that was then living upon the footstool of God knew the day or the hour. But He did not say that there was no man throughout all generations that should not know the day or the hour. No, for this would be in flat contradiction with other scripture. For the prophet says that God will do nothing but what He will reveal unto His servants the prophets. Consequently, if it is not made known to the prophets, it will not come to pass." (Andrew F. Ehat and Lyndon W. Cook, "The Words of Joseph Smith" (Salt Lake City: Bookcraft, 1980), 180-181)
Reflecting on this it does not mean the church as a whole will be given a time frame. Yet you can still tell the last days are upon us and the prophet is calling for us to prepare.
"Now is the time for you and for me to prepare for the Second Coming of our Lord and Savior, Jesus the Christ." (Russell M. Nelson, "The Lord Jesus Christ Will Come Again", Oct 2024)
I ask myself, what do I do differently today than I am already doing? I have been given some specific things to work on and they are a great comfort to me. The Second Coming may be imminent or many years off, one thing I do not want is to be caught unprepared.
