Today's Favorite Verse: 2 Timothy 3:7

Today's Favorite Verse: 2 Timothy 3:7
"Ever learning, and never able to come to the knowledge of the truth."

What would they be learning that never brings them to truth? It has to be the wisdom of man, even if sold by mingling the scriptures in with it. It's Satan's deceptions. I was pondering the other day on a supposed quote by Joseph Smith. That the constitution would hang by a thread and it would be the "boys from the mountains" or the "elders of Israel" that would save it. He actually didn't say that but it keeps getting thrown around.

This is what Orson Hyde said regarding it.
"It is said that brother Joseph in his lifetime declared that the Elders of this Church should step forth at a particular time when the Constitution should be in danger, and rescue it, and save it. This may be so; but I do not recollect that he said exactly so. I believe he said something like this—that the time would come when the Constitution and the country would be in danger of an overthrow; and said he, If the Constitution be saved at all, it will be by the Elders of this Church. I believe this is about the language, as nearly as I can recollect it"
(Orson Hyde, "Self-Government, etc.", Journal of Discourses 6:152 (Jan. 3, 1858)

As I was pondering on these differences I thought upon what is the role of the Elders of this church, to fight and be at war, or to spread the gospel of Jesus Christ? So many times I've discussed with others that the world has grown so wicked only the gospel of Jesus Christ would save it. Only this can soften and change hearts. Look what the gospel of Jesus Christ did for the Lamanites when the sons of Mosiah preached to them. Politics does not save people, its the gospel of Jesus Christ that will. What is needful to continually be learning are the words of Christ, that will bring man to truth. It's the changing of hearts that changes agenda, and not by force either.

"We claim the privilege of worshiping Almighty God according to the dictates of our own conscience, and allow all men the same privilege, let them worship how, where, or what they may." (Article of Faith 11)

If you're waiting to be called to be a "boy from the mountain" or an "elder of Israel" to save the constitution, you might just be missing the boat. President Nelson already called for the Lord's battalion to take the gospel to the world. We know what hour it is, and we need to be on the right side of things. Prophets see around corners.

Day 3287

Today's Favorite Verse: 2 Timothy 2:8

Today's Favorite Verse: 2 Timothy 2:8
"Remember that Jesus Christ of the seed of David was raised from the dead according to my gospel:"

That is a sweet verse to ponder on. Once I was finished reading scriptures I was going to go find a nice video to watch on the Resurrection, because tomorrow is Easter or Resurrection day. .

Day 3286

Today's Favorite Verse: 2 Timothy 1:9

Today's Favorite Verse: 2 Timothy 1:9
"Who hath saved us, and called us with an holy calling, not according to our works, but according to his own purpose and grace, which was given us in Christ Jesus before the world began,"

This made me think of how this applies to all callings in the church. The Lord doesn't always call the brightest and most capable. He has his own purposes, which includes for our personal growth. I remember once a stake president telling me that the Lord will call a bishop because he is either a great spiritual leader or he has a lot to learn. Sometimes we are there to help others learn. Understanding that has helped me be more patient when I see people faultier. God's grace will be upon us as we truly strive to serve him.

Day 3285 (9th anniversary)

Today's Favorite Verse: 1 Timothy 6:8-10

Today's Favorite Verse: 1 Timothy 6:8-10
"And having food and raiment let us be therewith content.
But they that will be rich fall into temptation and a snare, and into many foolish and hurtful lusts, which drown men in destruction and perdition.
For the love of money is the root of all evil: which while some coveted after, they have erred from the faith, and pierced themselves through with many sorrows."

First, be content with what you have. That is true gratitude to the Lord and what he sees fit to bless you and make you steward over.

Second, is a very powerful warning to "they that WILL be rich". The snare and temptation comes when you seek your WILL to be rich. I have seen to many fall, sadly by using worldly practices like the law of attraction. They seek their will and not God's will, with hearts set on the things of this world. Oh, they will get what they are seeking, but the giver is the son of perdition and he is not one you want to be beholden too. Money is not a problem unless the love of it over takes you. You covet and seek after it and will grow to never have enough. It will lead to destruction and sorrow. I am not impressed by people with wealth. I have no idea how you sought it and where your heart is, nor is it mine to know. But, it does not impress or motivate me. I am so grateful to have sufficient for my needs and I prefer it that way. It is far better than having all the money in the world and never being satisfied.

The only safe thing is to do as Jacob counseled.
"But before ye seek for riches, seek ye for the kingdom of God.
And after ye have obtained a hope in Christ ye shall obtain riches, if ye seek them; and ye will seek them for the intent to do good—to clothe the naked, and to feed the hungry, and to liberate the captive, and administer relief to the sick and the afflicted."
(Jacob 2:18-19)

Do not believe the lie that Satan will tell you, that once you obtain riches then you will share and help others. It's all backwards. You seek to help by sharing what you already have and then you have sufficient for your needs and theirs. It's done quietly with an honest heart that needs no glory, praise or for boasting, for that intent is of the world and will come to not.

Day 3284

Today's Favorite Verse: 1 Timothy 5:22

Today's Favorite Verse: 1 Timothy 5:22
"Lay hands suddenly on no man, neither be partaker of other men’s sins: keep thyself pure."

I really liked this quote from John Taylor. Basically, I don't withhold relief from those that suffer because I don't like the flavor of their sins. Helping someone doesn't mean I partake in their sins, or they tainted me in anyway because I showed them charity and compassion.

"Treat all men kindly, no matter who they may be—whether they are insiders or outsiders, or apostates, or anybody else—treat everybody kindly. But do not be partakers of the practices of the wicked. Do not mix up with the corrupt and evil. If they are hungry, feed them; if they are naked clothe them; if they are sick, administer to them; but do not associate with them in their abominations and their corruptions. Come out from the world and be ye separate, ye that bear the vessels of the Lord, and let “Holiness to the Lord" be written in every heart; and let us all feel that we are for Zion and for God and His Kingdom, and for those principles that will elevate us in time and throughout the eternities that are to come."
(John Taylor, "The Gathering", JD 26:66)

Day 3283

Today's Favorite Verse: 1 Timothy 4:14

Today's Favorite Verse: 1 Timothy 4:14
"Neglect not the gift that is in thee, which was given thee by prophecy, with the laying on of the hands of the presbytery."

This made me think of patriarchal blessing and how its been a while since I have read mine. I received mine when I was 14 years old and read it so much the pages are failing apart. I have transcribed it and will spend the rest of my scripture time reading it. For it is my personal scripture.

"Every worthy, baptized member is entitled to and should receive a patriarchal blessing, which provides inspired direction from the Lord. Patriarchal blessings include a declaration of a person’s lineage in the house of Israel and contain personal counsel from the Lord. As a person studies his or her patriarchal blessing and follows the counsel it contains, it will provide guidance, comfort, and protection.
Those who have received a patriarchal blessing should read it humbly, prayerfully, and frequently. It contains personal revelation and instructions from Heavenly Father, who knows our strengths, weaknesses, and eternal potential. Patriarchal blessings may contain promises, admonitions, and warnings.
Those who have received a patriarchal blessing should treasure its words, ponder them, and live to be worthy to receive the promised blessings in this life and in the life to come."
(Topics and Questions, "Patriarchal Blessing")

Day 3282

Today's Favorite Verse: 1 Timothy 3:7

Today's Favorite Verse: 1 Timothy 3:7
"Moreover he must have a good report of them which are without; lest he fall into reproach and the snare of the devil."

Paul is speaking about the qualification of a bishop. I pondered on the importance of others outside of our faith to hold him in good report. I hadn't really thought of that need. Then I reflected on the great damage some bishops have done when they have fallen by the snare of the devil. Those events have done so much damage not only in the church by outside of it too. For we look like hypocrites when that happens.

Speaking to bishops, President Gordon B. Hinckley identified similar qualifications needed for priesthood leaders in our day:
“You must be men of integrity. You must stand as examples to the congregations over which you preside. You must stand on higher ground so that you can lift others. You must be absolutely honest, for you handle the funds of the Lord. …
“Your goodness must be as an ensign to your people. Your morals must be impeccable. The wiles of the adversary may be held before you because he knows that if he can destroy you, he can injure an entire ward. You must exercise wisdom in all of your relationships lest someone read into your observed actions some taint of moral sin. You cannot succumb to the temptation to read pornographic literature or even in the secrecy of your own chamber to view pornographic films. Your moral strength must be such that if ever you are called upon to sit in judgment on the questionable morals of others, you may do so without personal compromise or embarrassment” (Gordon B. Hinckley, “The Shepherds of Israel,” Oct 2003 General Conference). (New Testament Student Manual, Chapter 47: 1 Timothy, 2 Timothy, Titus and Philemon)

Day 3281

Today's Favorite Verse: 1 Timothy 2:6

Today's Favorite Verse: 1 Timothy 2:6
"Who gave himself a ransom for all, to be testified in due time."

To be "testifed in due time" made me think of all those that have sealed their testimony with their blood. The Savior paid the ransom, and martyrs including the early apostles and latter-day prophets, including Joseph and Hyrum Smith, sealed their testimonies of Jesus Christ with their blood.

"For where a testament is, there must also of necessity be the death of the testator.
For a testament is of force after men are dead: otherwise it is of no strength at all while the testator liveth."
(Hebrews 9:16-17)

"When Joseph went to Carthage to deliver himself up to the pretended requirements of the law, two or three days previous to his assassination, he said: “I am going like a lamb to the slaughter; but I am calm as a summer’s morning; I have a conscience void of offense towards God, and towards all men. I SHALL DIE INNOCENT, AND IT SHALL YET BE SAID OF ME—HE WAS MURDERED IN COLD BLOOD.”—The same morning, after Hyrum had made ready to go—shall it be said to the slaughter? yes, for so it was—he read the following paragraph, near the close of the twelfth chapter of Ether, in the Book of Mormon, and turned down the leaf upon it:
And it came to pass that I prayed unto the Lord that he would give unto the Gentiles grace, that they might have charity. And it came to pass that the Lord said unto me: If they have not charity it mattereth not unto thee, thou hast been faithful; wherefore thy garments shall be made clean. And because thou hast seen thy weakness, thou shalt be made strong, even unto the sitting down in the place which I have prepared in the mansions of my Father. And now I . . . bid farewell unto the Gentiles; yea, and also unto my brethren whom I love, until we shall meet before the judgment-seat of Christ, where all men shall know that my garments are not spotted with your blood. The testators are now dead, and their testament is in force"
(Doctrine and Covenants 135:4-5)

Moroni further told us we would stand at the judgment bar of God and know of his witness.

"And I exhort you to remember these things; for the time speedily cometh that ye shall know that I lie not, for ye shall see me at the bar of God; and the Lord God will say unto you: Did I not declare my words unto you, which were written by this man, like as one crying from the dead, yea, even as one speaking out of the dust?"
(Moroni 10:27)

Jesus Christ made himself a ransom for our sins, and no man will escape the truth of that fact. Every knee will bow and confess that Jesus is the Christ.

"I have sworn by myself, the word is gone out of my mouth in righteousness, and shall not return, That unto me every knee shall bow, every tongue shall swear."
(Isaiah 45:23)

"For it is written, As I live, saith the Lord, every knee shall bow to me, and every tongue shall confess to God."
(Romans 14:11)

"Yea, every knee shall bow, and every tongue confess before him. Yea, even at the last day, when all men shall stand to be judged of him, then shall they confess that he is God; then shall they confess, who live without God in the world, that the judgment of an everlasting punishment is just upon them; and they shall quake, and tremble, and shrink beneath the glance of his all-searching eye.'
(Mosiah 27:31)

"And this shall be the sound of his trump, saying to all people, both in heaven and in earth, and that are under the earth—for every ear shall hear it, and every knee shall bow, and every tongue shall confess, while they hear the sound of the trump, saying: Fear God, and give glory to him who sitteth upon the throne, forever and ever; for the hour of his judgment is come."
(Doctrine and Covenants 88:104)

Day 3280

Today's Favorite Verse: 1 Timothy 1:3-4

Today's Favorite Verse: 1 Timothy 1:3-4
"As I besought thee to abide still at Ephesus, when I went into Macedonia, that thou mightest charge some that they teach no other doctrine,
Neither give heed to fables and endless genealogies, which minister questions, rather than godly edifying which is in faith: so do."

Paul is cautioning Timothy about the need for sound doctrine to be taught. Paul knew that members of the church would eventually apostatize, and the embracing of untruths and false doctrines would lead them astray. How sad it must have been for Paul, knowing what was coming. However, there were good people that served faithfully and Timothy was one of them. I pondered on how the adversary is still trying the same tactics in our day. There are members that fall away, but the church as a whole will not apostatize.

There are some key things we are to understand. First, is teach the doctrine of Christ and no other doctrine. It's so important that we really know what God's words are because in ignorance we can share what is not true. Especially when we heed fables and endless genealogies. Fables refers to false teachings, heeding endless genealogies refers to the false tradition that salvation came only to those of the chosen seed of Abraham. At the time of Paul the Jews would site long genealogies as a mean to show they were chosen. Yet, these very people rejected the Messiah. As members of the primitive church some thought their genealogies made them above the gentiles that converted. It's like today, just because you come from pioneer heritage you are not automatically saved. All of us need to work at it, everyone can be blessed as the seed of Abraham or adopted in.

"Then Peter opened his mouth, and said, Of a truth I perceive that God is no respecter of persons:"
(The Acts 10:34)

Day 3279

Today's Favorite Verse: 2 Thessalonians 3:13

Today's Favorite Verse: 2 Thessalonians 3:13
"But ye, brethren, be not weary in well doing."

Elder Neal A. Maxwell gave some good advise on how to not weary in well doing. As much as we can tell ourselves to not weary, there are actual things we can do to prevent it. I have had times where to assist others I needed to pray for strength greater than mine own to accomplish it. Those prayers have been answered, but that is only for short bursts. It's the long sustained acts of service that we need to be realistic about ourselves and what those limitations are.

"The urgings for us not to weary in well-doing contain prescriptions to avoid such weariness. We are to work steadily, but realistically, and only expect to reap “in due season.” We are to serve while being “meek and lowly” avoiding thereby the wearying burdens of self-pity and hypocrisy. We are to pray always so that we will not faint, so that our performance will actually be for the welfare of our souls, which is so much more than just going through the motions."
(Neal A. Maxwell, "Lest Ye Be Wearied and Faint in Your Minds", Apr 1991 General Conference)

Day 3278

Today's Favorite Verse: 2 Thessalonians 2:11

Today's Favorite Verse: 2 Thessalonians 2:11
"And for this cause God shall send them strong delusion, that they should believe a lie:"

I think of this often as I see lies sold as truth and people believe it. This really is a season of strong delusions. The number of people under strong delusions seems to be growing at an unprecedented rate. You can speak truth, giving undeniable facts, and yet they will hold to a lie. Because they reject truth and the testimony of God's servants, strong delusion are sent to them, which causes them to believe a lie all the more. They harden their hearts and lose compassion and charity for others. Money, power and position increases their pride. They become arrogant in feeling they know better than the prophets which leads to spiritual blindness. They become driven and motivated by anger instead of establishing peace. They are embolden to mock and ridicule others. These are the ones that will embrace false doctrine and philosophies of men, establish idols and set men up to be their gods. They seek their will and not God's will. Then when they give the adversary power they will see signs and lying wonders in their life. They have strong delusions on what is real. God sending strong delusions happens because its what they asked for. They want to believe a lie and profit from it. The danger is if you refuse to accept truth long enough you lose the opportunity to receive it.

Day 3277

Today's Favorite Verse: 2 Thessalonians 1:10

Today's Favorite Verse: 2 Thessalonians 1:10
"When he shall come to be glorified in his saints, and to be admired in all them that believe (because our testimony among you was believed) in that day."

I don't think I could really glorify the Lord at his coming if I did not glorify him now. We read tonight in family scriptures one of my favorite chapters in the Book of Mormon. I love hearing Nephi say "I glory in my Jesus". That is so deep in my soul.

"I glory in plainness; I glory in truth; I glory in my Jesus, for he hath redeemed my soul from hell."
(2 Nephi 33:6)

Day 3276

Today's Favorite Verse: 1 Thessalonians 5:2-4, 6

Today's Favorite Verse: 1 Thessalonians 5:2-4, 6
"For yourselves know perfectly that the day of the Lord so cometh as a thief in the night.
For when they shall say, Peace and safety; then sudden destruction cometh upon them, as travail upon a woman with child; and they shall not escape.
But ye, brethren, are not in darkness, that that day should overtake you as a thief.
Therefore let us not sleep, as do others; but let us watch and be sober."

What struck me this time was the mention of people saying "peace and safety" and then the Lord's coming will over take them, with no escape. I know I am promised peace in the midst of trial. That holy places will be a place of refuge and safety, but it gives me pause that the world feels a sense of peace and safety too. Then I though of how in the days of Noah man was marrying and giving in marriage. The flood would have taken them unaware during the midst of every day events. The only thing I can think of is the wicked have grown so custom to their wickedness, that they are at peace and satisfied with how they are living. They have a false sense of security that things have gone exactly as they desired. A feeling that they have won. Even in the Book of Mormon when their society broke down into tribes, they had a worldly peace for a while. Its interesting to think that while the world may feel a sense of peace that they are in fact blinded to their awful condition. It does make me think a little differently on the world feeling at peace.

"And it came to pass in the thirty and first year that they were divided into tribes, every man according to his family, kindred and friends; nevertheless they had come to an agreement that they would not go to war one with another; but they were not united as to their laws, and their manner of government, for they were established according to the minds of those who were their chiefs and their leaders. But they did establish very strict laws that one tribe should not trespass against another, insomuch that in some degree they had peace in the land; nevertheless, their hearts were turned from the Lord their God, and they did stone the prophets and did cast them out from among them."
(3 Nephi 7:14)

Day 3275

Today's Favorite Verse: 1 Thessalonians 4:11

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

I feel like "study to be quiet" is the season of my life right now. I'm getting much better at being quiet. First, I had to learn the hard way that sharing spiritual experiences can open them up to being attacked, or stifled, even by those you trusted. It can also cause you to not follow the promptings received. Because of this you may lose out on once in a lifetime opportunities, that can never be called back.

"I unreservedly testify of and attest to the reality of God and the miracles in the everyday life of countless people from both the low and high stations of life. True, many sacred experiences are rarely spoken of, in part because of their divine origin and the resulting possibility of ridicule by some who do not know better."
(Christoffel Golden, "Preparing for the Second Coming of Christ," October 2021 General Conference)

Joseph Smith: “Let us be faithful and silent, brethren, and if God gives you a manifestation, keep it to yourselves” (History of the Church, 2:309).

Brigham Young: “Should you receive a vision or revelation from the Almighty, one that the Lord gave you concerning yourselves, or this people, but which you are not to reveal on account of your not being the proper person, or because it ought not to be known by the people at present, you should shut it up and seal it . . . as secret as the grave. The Lord has no confidence in those who reveal secrets, for he cannot safely reveal himself to such persons” (Teachings of Presidents of the Church: Brigham Young, 43-44).

Boyd K. Packer: “I have learned that strong, impressive spiritual experiences do not come to us very frequently. And when they do, they are generally for our own edification, instruction, or correction. . . . I have come to believe also that it is not wise to continually talk of unusual spiritual experiences. . . . I heard President Marion G. Romney once counsel mission presidents and their wives . . . I do not tell all I know; . . . for I found out that if I talked too lightly of sacred things, thereafter the Lord would not trust me. We are, I believe, to keep these things and ponder them in our hearts, as Luke said Mary did of the supernal events that surrounded the birth of Jesus.” (Boyd K. Packer, "The Candle of the Lord", Ensign, Jan. 1983, 53)

Day 3274

Today's Favorite Verse: 1 Thessalonians 3:7

Today's Favorite Verse: 1 Thessalonians 3:7
"Therefore, brethren, we were comforted over you in all our affliction and distress by your faith:"

You don't like seeing anyone suffer or be in distress. Their pain grieves you at the same time. Yet, it is true when you see someone go through trials and hold onto their faith, and speak of the Lord supporting them, it gives you strength too.

Day 3273

Today's Favorite Verse: 1 Thessalonians 2:2

Today's Favorite Verse: 1 Thessalonians 2:2
"But even after that we had suffered before, and were shamefully entreated, as ye know, at Philippi, we were bold in our God to speak unto you the gospel of God with much contention."

I can't imagine Paul taught the gospel with contention. The spirit would withdraw it that was the case. I looked for clarification because that didn't sit right with me. .

"Paul wrote that he and his missionary companions had preached the gospel to the Thessalonians “with much contention”. This phrase does not mean that Paul was contentious or argumentative in his preaching; instead, it implies that he taught the gospel in the face of contention and opposition. In Thessalonica, resistance to the gospel message came from both antagonistic Jews and Gentiles. Missionaries today inevitably face similar trials, but those who continue to preach despite opposition find, as did Paul, that their work is “not in vain”.
(New Testament Student Manual, Chapter 46: 1 Thessalonians and 2 Thessalonians)


Day 3272

Today's Favorite Verse: 1 Thessalonians 1:5

Today's Favorite Verse: 1 Thessalonians 1:5
"For our gospel came not unto you in word only, but also in power, and in the Holy Ghost, and in much assurance; as ye know what manner of men we were among you for your sake."

That power comes from priesthood authority. Paul was an apostle of the Lord Jesus Christ. Those same keys were given to this dispensation.

Elder Bruce R. McConkie (1915–85) of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles taught:“The true gospel consists of two things: The Word, and The Power. Anyone can have the word; the books in which it is written are universally available. But the power must come from God; it is and must be dispensed according to his mind and his will to those who abide the law entitling them to receive it. The word of the gospel is the spoken or written account of what men must do to be saved. …“But actual salvation comes only when the power of God is received and used; and this power is the power of the priesthood and the power of the Holy Ghost. These must operate in the lives of men; otherwise their souls cannot be cleansed; they cannot be born again; they cannot become new creatures of the Holy Ghost; they cannot put off the natural man and become saints; they cannot be sanctified by the Spirit”
(Doctrinal New Testament Commentary, 3 vols. [1965–73], 3:42–43).
(New Testament Student Manual, "Chapter 46: 1 Thessalonians and 2 Thessalonians")

Those priesthood keys were restored by heavenly messengers to the prophet Joseph Smith. First, came John the Baptist and the restoration of the Aaronic priesthood. Then came Peter, James and Johns to restore the Melchizedek priesthood. Followed by Moses committing the keys of the gathering of Israel, Elias the dispensation of the gospel of Abraham, and Elijah with the sealing power. All I know is belonging to a church that holds these priesthood keys. I am so grateful for the blessing it has brought into my life.

Day 3271

Today's Favorite Verse: Colossians 4:5-6

Today's Favorite Verse: Colossians 4:5-6
"Walk in wisdom toward them that are without, redeeming the time.
Let your speech be alway with grace, seasoned with salt, that ye may know how ye ought to answer every man."

Those that are without are not members of the church. We have to be so careful how we speak and act around others. Sadly, people judge a group by the worst members among them. I know there are times I have been a bad example of a member of the church. I've said things I should not have said. I had one friend in elementary school that I loved and I really enjoyed visiting her over the summers. She had a wonderful mom that I loved talking to. We had great gospel discussion even though they were not members of my faith. My heart still aches over the words I said to her when we were in Jr. High. We had different friends at school and she didn't fit in with mine. I basically told her we couldn't be friends anymore. We never spoke again. When my guilt and remorse finally got to much I went to find her and apologize, only to discover her family had moved away. Half a decade later I still wish I could ask for her forgiveness. I hope and pray in life she encountered another member of the church, that was a far better example than I was.

Day 3270

Today's Favorite Verse: Colossians 3:2

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

This reminds me of President Nelson and "Think Celestial!"

"Today, to assist you to qualify for the rich blessings Heavenly Father has for you, I invite you to adopt the practice of “thinking celestial”! Thinking celestial means being spiritually minded. We learn from the Book of Mormon prophet Jacob that “to be spiritually-minded is life eternal.
When you make choices, I invite you to take the long view—an eternal view. Put Jesus Christ first because your eternal life is dependent upon your faith in Him and in His Atonement. It is also dependent upon your obedience to His laws. Obedience paves the way for a joyful life for you today and a grand, eternal reward tomorrow.
As you think celestial, you will find yourself avoiding anything that robs you of your agency. Any addiction—be it gaming, gambling, debt, drugs, alcohol, anger, pornography, sex, or even food—offends God. Why? Because your obsession becomes your god. You look to it rather than to Him for solace. If you struggle with an addiction, seek the spiritual and professional help you need. Please do not let an obsession rob you of your freedom to follow God’s fabulous plan. ”
(President Russell M. Nelson, "Think Celestial!", Oct 2023 General Conference)

Day 3269

Today's Favorite Verse: Colossians 2:21-22

Today's Favorite Verse: Colossians 2:21-22
"(Touch not; taste not; handle not;
Which all are to perish with the using;) after the commandments and doctrines of men?

There are somethings we should just not touch, taste and handle as we seek to follow the doctrine of Christ. The doctrine and philosophies of men fall into what we should leave alone. Knowing the difference between what is of God and what is of man is vital to our eternal salvation. When you mingle the two you are in danger of preaching false doctrine. One sure way of keeping things straight is by using the right sources.

On the churchofjesuschrist.org website or app go to Gospel Library and click on "Topics and Questions". Under Contents go to "Seeking Answers to Questions", and then "Consult Reliable Sources". It's best to read this section in its entirety but this one helps the most.

"Become familiar with Church resources. In matters of doctrine and Church policy, the best sources are the scriptures, the teachings of the living prophets, and the General Handbook. The Church has also published additional resources to help you better understand some of the most common questions Latter-day Saints have about Church history and culture. You may find these to be useful starting points as you investigate your questions."

This guidance on which resources to use is not only wise when answering questions we may have but also when we are teaching others at church. There are so many wonderful gospel resources the church has provided for us, its vital for us to make sure what we teach is found there.

Day 3268

Today's Favorite Verse: Colossians 1:11

Today's Favorite Verse: Colossians 1:11
"Strengthened with all might, according to his glorious power, unto all patience and longsuffering with joyfulness;"

Needing patience and being longsuffering does not sound like a recipe for joyfulness. What is joyful is knowing and relying on the source of strength that gets us through it. It is recognizing the Lord's hand in our lives and the miracles he performs in our behalf. Knowing He walks the path beside me, strengthen me to be patient and longsuffering. The yoke that joins us together brings sweet relief and joy.

Day 3267

Today's Favorite Verse: Philippians 4:8

Today's Favorite Verse: Philippians 4:8
"Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things."

This reminds me of the 13th Article of Faith.

"We believe in being honest, true, chaste, benevolent, virtuous, and in doing good to all men; indeed, we may say that we follow the admonition of Paul—We believe all things, we hope all things, we have endured many things, and hope to be able to endure all things. If there is anything virtuous, lovely, or of good report or praiseworthy, we seek after these things."
(Articles of Faith 1:13)

It was also my inspiration for a mission statement on Facebook.
"If there is anything virtuous, lovely, or of good report or praiseworthy, I seek after these things"

I wrote it because I wanted to remind myself of who I am, and be a better person. I didn't want to add to the contention and strife in the world and feed on it. Working really hard at it, it is now part of me. It has greatly added to my peace. Seek the good, and pass on the bad. The unvirtuous can have its own day and own way somewhere else, but not in me.

Day 3266

Today's Favorite Verse: Philippians 3:20

Today's Favorite Verse: Philippians 3:20
"For our conversation is in heaven; from whence also we look for the Saviour, the Lord Jesus Christ:"

This made me think about family scripture time. How once a day our conversation is about heavenly things. How grateful I am for this beautiful time of the day.

Day 3265

Today's Favorite Verse: Philippians 2:14-15

Today's Favorite Verse: Philippians 2:14-15
"Do all things without murmurings and disputings:
That ye may be blameless and harmless, the sons of God, without rebuke, in the midst of a crooked and perverse nation, among whom ye shine as lights in the world;"

I pondered on how you cannot be a light to anyone when you murmur or argue over points of doctrine or just things in general. Individual like this are not that nice to be around. I know when I get that way I don't even like being around me! I've been working on keeping my mouth shut, that seems to be getting easier. Now, I just have to control the thought in the first place.

It made me think of this talk by Elder Boyd K. Packer about "Worthy Thoughts" and how the "mind was like a stage". It was made into a film strip which has stayed with me all these years. I often tell myself to kick that thought off the stage. I wondered if I could find it online, and I did.

Day 3264

Today's Favorite Verse: Philippians 1:27

Today's Favorite Verse: Philippians 1:27
"Only let your conversation be as it becometh the gospel of Christ: that whether I come and see you, or else be absent, I may hear of your affairs, that ye stand fast in one spirit, with one mind striving together for the faith of the gospel;"

Nothing feels more damaging then when member of The Church of Christ of Latter-day Saints behave badly. There can be millions of good faithful members, but the actions of one that has taken strange paths is plastered all over the place as our unappointed mascot. In our day it's made worse because news can be shared instantly around the world. I was actually reflecting today on the Missouri saints in the early days of the church, and how their pride and haughtiness brought persecution on their own heads. The place of Zion and the New Jerusalem was lost because of it. I am hoping in our exuberance over the recent acquisition of the Kirtland Temple, and other historical sites and documents of the restoration, that we do not offend others. I've heard somethings that make me cringe. The need for temperance comes to mind.

"And no one can assist in this work except he shall be humble and full of love, having faith, hope, and charity, being temperate in all things, whatsoever shall be entrusted to his care."
(Doctrine and Covenants 12:8)

Day 3263

Today's Favorite Verse: Ephesians 6:11, 16

Today's Favorite Verse: Ephesians 6:11, 16

"Put on the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil.

Above all, taking the shield of faith, wherewith ye shall be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked."

As I read about putting on the whole armor of God I wondered which piece of armor would mean the most to me? I chose the shield of faith. What I like about a shield is it can be moved to protect any part of the body. That's what faith is, it's there for every vicissitude of life. Faith requires an eternal perspective, and to walk with the Lord.

Day 3262

Today's Favorite Verse: Ephesians 5:17

Today's Favorite Verse: Ephesians 5:17

"Wherefore be ye not unwise, but understanding what the will of the Lord is."

When you go contrary to the will of the Lord, or the inspiration he has given you are unwise.

“When they are learned they think they are wise, and they hearken not unto the counsel of God, for they set it aside, supposing they know of themselves, wherefore, their wisdom is foolishness and it profiteth them not. And they shall perish”

(2 Nephi 9:38)

"For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, saith the LORD."

(Isaiah 55:8)

Day 3261

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

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

"With all lowliness and meekness, with longsuffering, forbearing one another in love;

Endeavouring to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace."

I thought about how hard it is to keep a group of people in unity and peace. It's like a marriage, it only works when you try to be the better of the two. The better being the first to forgive or apologize when there is a disagreement. Thinking first of the need of the other, and showing love. Inside a church or the fold of God the members need to act with lowliness, meekness and be long-suffering with each other. That really can only be done if a group of people are trying to keep the Spirit to be with them, united in cause and purpose.

Day 3260

Today's Favorite Verse: Ephesians 3:14-15

Today's Favorite Verse: Ephesians 3:14-15

"For this cause I bow my knees unto the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ,

Of whom the whole family in heaven and earth is named,"

This is speaking of eternal families. The knowledge that we shall live with each other, as fathers and mothers, husbands and wives, and children in the eternities. Sealed together, linking families together through the generations.

"The Lord went into the spirit world, himself, turned the key for the salvation of the dead and our elders when they pass to the next world, go into that world to continue their labors of preaching the gospel, bringing to repentance all who are willing to repent and receive the truth, that they might come into the kingdom of God or as Paul calls it, "the family of God in heaven and on earth"  For it is the family of God. The kingdom of God will be one great family. We call ourselves brothers and sisters. In very deed we become joint heirs with Jesus Christ through the gospel of Jesus Christ, sons and daughters of God, and entitled to the fullness of the blessings of his kingdom if we will repent and keep these commandments."

(Joseph Fielding Smith, "Temple Work" April 1959 General Conference)

Day 3259

Today's Favorite Verse: Ephesians 2:19-22

Today's Favorite Verse: Ephesians 2:19-22

"Now therefore ye are no more strangers and foreigners, but fellowcitizens with the saints, and of the household of God;

And are built upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Jesus Christ himself being the chief corner stone;

In whom all the building fitly framed together groweth unto an holy temple in the Lord:

In whom ye also are builded together for an habitation of God through the Spirit."

I just finished 3 days of RootsTech and these verses made me think of what amazing growth I have seen in thirteen years. How people all over the world are united in their love of family and telling their stories. This year RootsTech was broadcasted in 240 countries and territories, in 20 languages. No commercial company could have created such a united worldwide effort. It could only be possible through the efforts of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, under the direction of apostles and prophets.

I reflected much over the past three days on the words of Malachi that Moroni quoted to Joseph Smith.

"He also quoted the next verse differently: And he shall plant in the hearts of the children the promises made to the fathers, and the hearts of the children shall turn to their fathers. If it were not so, the whole earth would be utterly wasted at his coming."

(Pearl of Great Price, Joseph Smith-History 1:39)

I thought about how it was only through the world-wide effort to gather family on both sides of the veil that peace will come to this earth. I heard no politics, I heard no racism, or conspiracy theories for these 3 glorious days. All I knew was that I was learning to love my brothers and sisters and value each and every one of them as they are. My heart has been touched, and I hope those not of my faith will carry the light they received within them. These are millennial people. This is a millennial work.

Day 3258