Today's Favorite Verse: Mormon 8:34-35

Today's Favorite Verse: Mormon 8:34-35
"Behold, the Lord hath shown unto me great and marvelous things concerning that which must shortly come, at that day when these things shall come forth among you.
Behold, I speak unto you as if ye were present, and yet ye are not. But behold, Jesus Christ hath shown you unto me, and I know your doing."

I pondered on Moroni seeing Joseph Smith's time and our day. Moroni went on to make an abridgment of the Jaredite record, and what would become the sealed portion of the Book of Mormon for us later. He would see the growth of the world wide church in my day. What marvelous inventions he would see that furthered the gospel message. As he is talking about the condition of men walking in their pride, and suffering the needy, hungry, and sick to pass by, he was also seeing us. The church does wonderful humanitarian things, but the hearts of men can do far more. This year, more than ever, I have understood how well they saw our day.

"The second great reason why we must make the Book of Mormon a center focus of study is that it was written for our day. The Nephites never had the book; neither did the Lamanites of ancient times. It was meant for us. Mormon wrote near the end of the Nephite civilization. Under the inspiration of God, who sees all things from the beginning, he abridged centuries of records, choosing the stories, speeches, and events that would be most helpful to us.
Each of the major writers of the Book of Mormon testified that he wrote for future generations. Nephi said: “The Lord God promised unto me that these things which I write shall be kept and preserved, and handed down unto my seed, from generation to generation” (2 Ne. 25:21). His brother Jacob, who succeeded him, wrote similar words: “For [Nephi] said that the history of his people should be engraven upon his other plates, and that I should preserve these plates and hand them down unto my seed, from generation to generation” (Jacob 1:3). Enos and Jarom both indicated that they too were writing not for their own peoples but for future generations (see Enos 1:15–16, Jarom 1:2).
Mormon himself said, “Yea, I speak unto you, ye remnant of the house of Israel” (Morm. 7:1). And Moroni, the last of the inspired writers, actually saw our day and time.
“Behold,” he said, “the Lord hath shown unto me great and marvelous things concerning that which must shortly come, at that day when these things shall come forth among you.“Behold, I speak unto you as if ye were present, and yet ye are not. But behold, Jesus Christ hath shown you unto me, and I know your doing” (Morm. 8:34–35).
If they saw our day and chose those things which would be of greatest worth to us, is not that how we should study the Book of Mormon? We should constantly ask ourselves, “Why did the Lord inspire Mormon (or Moroni or Alma) to include that in his record? What lesson can I learn from that to help me live in this day and age?”
(Ezra Taft Benson, "The Book of Mormon - Keystone of Our Religion", Oct 1986 General Conference)

I have asked myself this while studying the Book of Mormon with my family and personally this year. I have seen so many examples of why certain stories were included as a warning to us. Mormon and Moroni absolutely knew what needed to be included.

Day 3562

Today's Favorite Verse: Mormon 7:5, 10

Today's Favorite Verse: Mormon 7:5, 10
"Know ye that ye must come to the knowledge of your fathers, and repent of all your sins and iniquities, and believe in Jesus Christ, that he is the Son of God, and that he was slain by the Jews, and by the power of the Father he hath risen again, whereby he hath gained the victory over the grave; and also in him is the sting of death swallowed up.
And ye will also know that ye are a remnant of the seed of Jacob; therefore ye are numbered among the people of the first covenant; and if it so be that ye believe in Christ, and are baptized, first with water, then with fire and with the Holy Ghost, following the example of our Savior, according to that which he hath commanded us, it shall be well with you in the day of judgment. Amen."

These are the final words that Mormon finishes the Book of Mormon with. The plates that he abridged are then given to his son Moroni, and added to. Mormon listed several things we should know as his closing message. One was for the remanent of his people to know who they are, and to come unto Christ. This message is not just for them it's for me too. We will all meet at the judgment seat of God. I cannot wait to tell Mormon how grateful I am for his words. Through them I have come to know Jesus Christ as my Savior and his redeeming sacrifice for me. I have been baptized with water and fire and know through the Holy Ghost that these words are true.

Day 3561

Today's Favorite Verse: Mormon 6:2, 6

Today's Favorite Verse: Mormon 6:2, 6
"And I, Mormon, wrote an epistle unto the king of the Lamanites, and desired of him that he would grant unto us that we might gather together our people unto the land of Cumorah, by a hill which was called Cumorah, and there we could give them battle.
And it came to pass that when we had gathered in all our people in one to the land of Cumorah, behold I, Mormon, began to be old; and knowing it to be the last struggle of my people, and having been commanded of the Lord that I should not suffer the records which had been handed down by our fathers, which were sacred, to fall into the hands of the Lamanites, (for the Lamanites would destroy them) therefore I made this record out of the plates of Nephi, and hid up in the hill Cumorah all the records which had been entrusted to me by the hand of the Lord, save it were these few plates which I gave unto my son Moroni."

The thought occurred to me, "Why would Mormon gather his people to the land of Cumorah for this final battle?" Why did he hid up all the sacred records into the hill Cumorah? Was it his way of being in a sacred or holy place? This was also the place of the last battle of the Jaredites, then it was call the hill Ramah.

"And it came to pass that the army of Coriantumr did pitch their tents by the hill Ramah; and it was that same hill where my father Mormon did hide up the records unto the Lord, which were sacred."
(Ether 15:11)

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

Day 3560

Today's Favorite Verse: Mormon 5:16, 18

Today's Favorite Verse: Mormon 5:16, 18
"For behold, the Spirit of the Lord hath already ceased to strive with their fathers; and they are without Christ and God in the world; and they are driven about as chaff before the wind.
But now, behold, they are led about by Satan, even as chaff is driven before the wind, or as a vessel is tossed about upon the waves, without sail or anchor, or without anything wherewith to steer her; and even as she is, so are they."

I pondered on how the "spirit ceased to strive with their fathers". When the parent has no faith to give to the next generation there is no foundation to build on. It is so important that we pass our faith on to our children. It is greater than all the money in the world. Without that anchor in their lives they were absolutely led by Satan. We cannot force faith on our children, but we do need to teach of Christ to them. Give them and anchor to build on.

"President Harold B. Lee (1899–1973) explained that the wicked people of Mormon’s time had lost not only the Holy Ghost, but the Spirit of Christ from their lives: “Mormon described some people, his people, from whom the spirit of the Lord had departed, and when I read that … it seems clear to me that what he was talking about was not merely the inability to have the companionship of or the gift of the Holy Ghost, but he was talking of that light of truth to which every one born into the world is entitled and will never cease to strive with the individual unless he loses it through his own sinning” (in Conference Report, Apr. 1956, 108).
(Book of Mormon Student Manual, "The Spirit "Ceased to Strive with Their Fathers", Chapter 48: Mormon 1-6)

Day 3559

Today's Favorite Verse: Mormon 4:23

Today's Favorite Verse: Mormon 4:23
"And now I, Mormon, seeing that the Lamanites were about to overthrow the land, therefore I did go to the hill Shim, and did take up all the records which Ammaron had hid up unto the Lord."

With all that is going on this was the most important thing Mormon could do, preserve the sacred records. These records would save souls. This reminded me of something President Nelson said in this last general conference.

"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. In a world filled with dizzying distractions, how can we do this?
Regular worship in the temple will help us."
(Russell M. Nelson, "The Lord Jesus Christ Will Come Again", Oct 2024 General Conference)

What is my highest priority? Is it temple worship? This question made me look at the project I just started. This week a memory of what started my obsession with family history came to me. I was a young child and whenever my siblings became to much, or I would get in trouble with my mother, I would go to the family cemeteries on either side of our home for solace and comfort. I found peace amongst the tombstones of my ancestors. I knew they were there for me and loved me. I started to bring a notebook and would write down their names and dates. I tried to figure out who was related to who and how I was related to them. I wish I still had that notebook. After reflecting on this I decided I would pick up the quest started over half a century ago. I am going through the cemetery transcriptions available online and piecing everyone in these old cemeteries together. I have already found two children that were never sealed to their parents. People that have been forgot over time. As I work on this there is so much peace that surrounds me. This is why in these latter-days the Lord has given us a charge of something so precious, that will strengthen us and save souls, and not overwhelm us by the evil the surrounds us.

Day 3558

Today's Favorite Verse: Mormon 3:9,14-15

Today's Favorite Verse: Mormon 3:9,14-15
"And now, because of this great thing which my people, the Nephites, had done, they began to boast in their own strength, and began to swear before the heavens that they would avenge themselves of the blood of their brethren who had been slain by their enemies.
And when they had sworn by all that had been forbidden them by our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, that they would go up unto their enemies to battle, and avenge themselves of the blood of their brethren, behold the voice of the Lord came unto me, saying:
Vengeance is mine, and I will repay; and because this people repented not after I had delivered them, behold, they shall be cut off from the face of the earth."

Revenge, and vengeance when taken on by man is not of God. Anyone that feels vengeance and revenge is justified is also not of God. It is horrifying to think we have set up leaders out for revenge. This story will not end well for them.

"I, the Lord, am angry with the wicked; I am holding my Spirit from the inhabitants of the earth.
I have sworn in my wrath, and decreed wars upon the face of the earth, and the wicked shall slay the wicked, and fear shall come upon every man;
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 63:32-34

Day 3557

Today's Favorite Verse: Mormon 2:26

Today's Favorite Verse: Mormon 2:26
"And it came to pass that when they had fled we did pursue them with our armies, and did meet them again, and did beat them; nevertheless the strength of the Lord was not with us; yea, we were left to ourselves, that the Spirit of the Lord did not abide in us; therefore we had become weak like unto our brethren."

To me one of the most frightening thoughts is to be "left to myself". I can do nothing without Christ.

"We may not recognize and appreciate how much Heavenly Father helps us in our daily lives as we try to live faithfully. Mormon wrote that when his people became wicked they lost the strength of the Lord that had previously protected them. While serving as a member of the Seventy, Elder Ray H. Wood explained: “When a person violates any of God’s commandments, if there is no repentance the Lord withdraws His protective and sustaining influence. When we lose power with God, we know of a certainty that the problem lies within us and not within God. ‘I, the Lord, am bound when ye do what I say; but when ye do not what I say, ye have no promise’ (D&C 82:10). Our misdeeds bring despair. They sadden and extinguish the ‘perfect brightness of hope’ offered by Christ (2 Nephi 31:20). Without God’s help, we are left to ourselves” (in Conference Report, Apr. 1999, 54; or Ensign, May 1999, 40–41).
(Book of Mormon Student Manual, Chapter 48: Mormon 1-6, "We Were Left to Ourselves")

Day 3556

Today's Favorite Verse: Mormon 1:4

Today's Favorite Verse: Mormon 1:4
"And behold, ye shall take the plates of Nephi unto yourself, and the remainder shall ye leave in the place where they are; and ye shall engrave on the plates of Nephi all the things that ye have observed concerning this people."

Ammaron has all the sacred records and hid them up to the Lord in the hill called Shim, in the land of Antum. When Mormon was ten years old Ammaron gives him this charge that when he is 24 years old he is to go to where the records are deposited and only take the plates of Nephi. He is to record what he has observed of this people. I pondered on how this mission over time changed for Mormon, for eventually Mormon made an abridgement of the records. The Lord will give us instructions line upon line, here a little and there a little. It would have been to overwhelming a task to tell a ten year old boy that he was not only to record what he observed, but to also abridge the records stored in the hill called Shim. Mormon was inspired on what he was to include.

"And now, I speak somewhat concerning that which I have written; for after I had made an abridgment from the plates of Nephi, down to the reign of this king Benjamin, of whom Amaleki spake, I searched among the records which had been delivered into my hands, and I found these plates, which contained this small account of the prophets, from Jacob down to the reign of this king Benjamin, and also many of the words of Nephi.
And the things which are upon these plates pleasing me, because of the prophecies of the coming of Christ; and my fathers knowing that many of them have been fulfilled; yea, and I also know that as many things as have been prophesied concerning us down to this day have been fulfilled, and as many as go beyond this day must surely come to pass—
Wherefore, I chose these things, to finish my record upon them, which remainder of my record I shall take from the plates of Nephi; and I cannot write the hundredth part of the things of my people.
But behold, I shall take these plates, which contain these prophesyings and revelations, and put them with the remainder of my record, for they are choice unto me; and I know they will be choice unto my brethren.
And I do this for a wise purpose; for thus it whispereth me, according to the workings of the Spirit of the Lord which is in me. And now, I do not know all things; but the Lord knoweth all things which are to come; wherefore, he worketh in me to do according to his will."
(Words of Mormon 1: 3-7

"And also that a knowledge of these things must come unto the remnant of these people, and also unto the Gentiles, who the Lord hath said should scatter this people, and this people should be counted as naught among them—therefore I write a small abridgment, daring not to give a full account of the things which I have seen, because of the commandment which I have received, and also that ye might not have too great sorrow because of the wickedness of this people."
(Mormon 5:9)

Day 3555

Today's Favorite Verse: 4 Nephi 1:1-2

Today's Favorite Verse: 4 Nephi 1:1-2
"And it came to pass that the thirty and fourth year passed away, and also the thirty and fifth, and behold the disciples of Jesus had formed a church of Christ in all the lands round about. And as many as did come unto them, and did truly repent of their sins, were baptized in the name of Jesus; and they did also receive the Holy Ghost.
And it came to pass in the thirty and sixth year, the people were all converted unto the Lord, upon all the face of the land, both Nephites and Lamanites, and there were no contentions and disputations among them, and every man did deal justly one with another."

I picture the beginning of the millennium to be like this. Missionary work will be alive and well at the start, until all are converted. Then with all baptized and receiving the gift of the Holy Ghost there will be no contention or disputations among them. What a happy time this will be. It took three years for all of this to happen, and that was just on the American continent. When we are talking about the whole world I have no idea how long that will take. I imagine there are far more members of the church today then there was back then.

What is so sad, in the space of one chapter or 300 plus years, we see the path they took to willfully rebel and become exceedingly wicked. At this point there are still disciples of Jesus among them. For the millennium this period will stretch to 1,000 years.

Day 3554

Today's Favorite Verse: 3 Nephi 30:2

Today's Favorite Verse: 3 Nephi 30:2
"Turn, all ye Gentiles, from your wicked ways; and repent of your evil doings, of your lyings and deceivings, and of your whoredoms, and of your secret abominations, and your idolatries, and of your murders, and your priestcrafts, and your envyings, and your strifes, and from all your wickedness and abominations, and come unto me, and be baptized in my name, that ye may receive a remission of your sins, and be filled with the Holy Ghost, that ye may be numbered with my people who are of the house of Israel."

I pondered on how this list of don'ts could be possible for someone to obtain, yet they have not done what the Lord asked. For once turning from your evil doing you must come unto Christ, repent, be baptized and given the Holy Ghost. This is what keeps you on the covenant path.

Day 3553

Today's Favorite Verse: 3 Nephi 29:2

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)

Day 3552

Today's Favorite Verse: 3 Nephi 28:7-8

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.

Day 3551

Today's Favorite Verse: 3 Nephi 27:30-31

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.

Day 3550

Today's Favorite Verse: 3 Nephi 26:9

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)

Day 3549

Today's Favorite Verse: 3 Nephi 25:2

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")

Day 3548

Today's Favorite Verse: 3 Nephi 24:1

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)

Day 3547

Today's Favorite Verse: 3 Nephi 23:5

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)

Day 3546

Today's Favorite Verse: 3 Nephi 22:13

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)

Day 3545

Today's Favorite Verse: 3 Nephi 21:20

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)

Day 3544

Today's Favorite Verse: 3 Nephi 20:22

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)

Ministry of Lorenzo Snow: A Vision of the Lord

Day 3543

Today's Favorite Verse: 3 Nephi 19:13-15

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)

Day 3542

Today's Favorite Verse: 3 Nephi 18:15, 18

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.

Day 3541

Today's Favorite Verse: 3 Nephi 17:23-25

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)

Day 3540

Today's Favorite Verse: 3 Nephi 16:4

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)

Day 3539

Today's Favorite Verse: 3 Nephi 15:5-6

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)

Day 3538

Today's Favorite Verse: 3 Nephi 14:16-20

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.

Day 3537

Today's Favorite Verse: 3 Nephi 13:8

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)

Day 3536

Today's Favorite Verse: 3 Nephi 12:16

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.

Day 3535

Today's Favorite Verse: 3 Nephi 11:1-2

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)

Day 3534

Today's Favorite Verse: 3 Nephi 10:4-6

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)

Day 3533

Today's Favorite Verse: 3 Nephi 9:11

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)

Day 3532

Today's Favorite Verse: 3 Nephi 8:24-25

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.

Day 3531