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

Today's Favorite Verse: 3 Nephi 7:21-22

Today's Favorite Verse: 3 Nephi 7:21-22
"And it came to pass that the thirty and first year did pass away, and there were but few who were converted unto the Lord; but as many as were converted did truly signify unto the people that they had been visited by the power and Spirit of God, which was in Jesus Christ, in whom they believed.
And as many as had devils cast out from them, and were healed of their sicknesses and their infirmities, did truly manifest unto the people that they had been wrought upon by the Spirit of God, and had been healed; and they did show forth signs also and did do some miracles among the people."

I pondered on how this conversion was one by one. That conversion is a personal experience. Conversion includes sharing the gospel with others. So many times people were converted and then fell away. This group of believers would be those that remained when the Savior appears after his resurrection.

Day 3530

Today's Favorite Verse: 3 Nephi 6:30

Today's Favorite Verse: 3 Nephi 6:30
"And they did set at defiance the law and the rights of their country; and they did covenant one with another to destroy the governor, and to establish a king over the land, that the land should no more be at liberty but should be subject unto kings."

In the space of four years they go from defeating the Gadiation robbers and having great peace in the land and prosperity, to their government being overthrown from within.

"Now they did not sin ignorantly, for they knew the will of God concerning them, for it had been taught unto them; therefore they did wilfully rebel against God." (vrs 18)

Day 3529

Today's Favorite Verse: 3 Nephi 5:8

Today's Favorite Verse: 3 Nephi 5:8
"And there had many things transpired which, in the eyes of some, would be great and marvelous; nevertheless, they cannot all be written in this book; yea, this book cannot contain even a hundredth part of what was done among so many people in the space of twenty and five years;"

How I wish I could read all those marvelous things that transpired in those 25 years. This made me think about the message President Jeffrey R. Holland gave and the hope of one day reading them. Until then we appreciate and read what we do have.

"I'm glad to be back talking to you out of the scriptures. I'm going to share my personal study with you from time to time, as I have in the past.
And I was reading 3 Nephi 5, and I was taken with these verses:
"And there had many things transpired which, in the eyes of some, would be great and marvelous; nevertheless, they cannot all be written in this book yea, this book cannot contain even a hundredth part of what was done among so many people in the space of twenty and five years; But behold there are records which do contain all the proceedings of this people."
Another verse: That's verse 8. Here's 18:
"I know the record which I make to be a just and true record; nevertheless there are many things which, according to our language, we are not able to write."
Here's a third. I'm going to go back to read this - Alma 26:
"Therefore, let us glory, yea, we will glory in the Lord; yea, we will rejoice for our joy is full. And who can glory too much in the Lord? Who can say too much?"
I got a lot to say here.
"Who can say too much of his great power; and his great mercy; and his long-suffering. Behold, I say unto you, I cannot say the smallest part which I feel."
That's a third problem.
You've got just bulk history. We get 100th part. You've got language, which is some kind of script or inability to get all the story down. And you've got feelings. I can't get the feelings out. They're too powerful. They mean too much to me. They're ineffable. I can't write them. I cannot say the smallest part of which I feel. And that's how I feel about the Book of Mormon. I can't say the smallest part to you about what I feel.
And I look forward with great anticipation to other records and other parts. Hundred - may 100 times as much that is contained in - that is contained in the book we have. If that much is available out there, the least we can do, the least we can do is read the book that we've got, because there's a lot of other good stuff coming.
I love you. Bye, bye"
(Jeffrey R. Holland, Facebook post 28 Apr 2024, https://www.facebook.com/watch/?v=1166381477883157)

Day 3528

Today's Favorite Verse: 3 Nephi 4:8, 10, 30

Today's Favorite Verse: 3 Nephi 4:8, 10, 30
"And it came to pass that the armies of the Nephites, when they saw the appearance of the army of Giddianhi, had all fallen to the earth, and did lift their cries to the Lord their God, that he would spare them and deliver them out of the hands of their enemies.
But in this thing they were disappointed, for the Nephites did not fear them; but they did fear their God and did supplicate him for protection; therefore, when the armies of Giddianhi did rush upon them they were prepared to meet them; yea, in the strength of the Lord they did receive them.
And they did rejoice and cry again with one voice, saying: May the God of Abraham, and the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob, protect this people in righteousness, so long as they shall call on the name of their God for protection."

When hard times come do I fall to my knees and ask God to spare me, and deliver me out of affliction? The ability to do this was the true source of the Nephites protection. It wasn't the physical walls around them, it was God holding up those walls from being torn down. They were prepared to survive seven years in their strongholds and left nothing for their enemies to exist on. It wasn't them protecting themselves. It was them listening to the Lord's inspiration on what to prepare and gather. In the strength of the Lord they were ready for what may come.

Day 3527

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

Today's Favorite Verse: 3 Nephi 3:15-16
"Yea, he said unto them: As the Lord liveth, except ye repent of all your iniquities, and cry unto the Lord, ye will in nowise be delivered out of the hands of those Gadianton robbers.
And so great and marvelous were the words and prophecies of Lachoneus that they did cause fear to come upon all the people; and they did exert themselves in their might to do according to the words of Lachoneus."

Lachoneus was concerned not only for the physical welfare of his people, but their spiritual welfare too. The two are connected, for you cannot ask the Lord's blessing over the people except they are humble and repentant. I would have loved to hear all of Lachoneus' words.

Day 3526

Today's Favorite Verse: 3 Nephi 2:1, 14-15

Today's Favorite Verse: 3 Nephi 2:1, 14-15
"And it came to pass that thus passed away the ninety and fifth year also, and the people began to forget those signs and wonders which they had heard, and began to be less and less astonished at a sign or a wonder from heaven, insomuch that they began to be hard in their hearts, and blind in their minds, and began to disbelieve all which they had heard and seen.
And it came to pass that those Lamanites who had united with the Nephites were numbered among the Nephites;
And their curse was taken from them, and their skin became white like unto the Nephites;"

I pondered on how some people couldn't be astonished to see a group of people with darkened skin all of a sudden become white? How would you explain that away, like they had with the sign of Christ's birth? I remember when a miracle happened when my son was small. I shared it during fast and testimony meeting. This one sister came up to me afterwards not to marvel at the miracle, but question me on why we didn't have medical insurance. It was the most astonishing thing to me, and I felt really sad that all she cared about and focused on was money. Reflecting on that, I suppose they would have looked at someone's skin turning white to mean they had suddenly developed the chronic autoimmune disorder, vitiligo. God works in mysterious ways, and often by using natural means.

Day 3525

Today's Favorite Verse: 3 Nephi 1:4

Today's Favorite Verse: 3 Nephi 1:4
"And it came to pass that in the commencement of the ninety and second year, behold, the prophecies of the prophets began to be fulfilled more fully; for there began to be greater signs and greater miracles wrought among the people."

This verse reminded me of my favorite quote of President Nelson.

"Our Savior and Redeemer, Jesus Christ, will perform some of His mightiest works between now and when He comes again. We will see miraculous indications that God the Father and His Son, Jesus Christ, preside over this Church in majesty and glory."
(Russell M. Nelson, "Revelations for the Church, Revelation for Our Lives", Apr 2018 General Conference)

We can expect the same miraculous things that happened before the Savior's birth to happen before His Second Coming. Tonight I heard of one during the evening session of our Stake Conference. Elder Hans T. Boom, General Authority Seventy, spoke to us. He spoke of the enabling power of the atonement of Jesus Christ. We can do all things through Christ, there is no limitation if we put our trust in him. He then told us of President Nelson exercising his faith in Jesus Christ. He said, "In our last meeting with him two weeks ago, he walked in without his chair. I thought WOW! and it was not a short walk. He came walking in, President Oaks and Eyring came walking in. I think the three of them thought, "Let's show these guys how it really works." That alone was enough for us. We didn't need anything else because that was relying on the Savior, Jesus Christ."

I had been told in June of this year that President Nelson was not doing well. His body was shutting down, and he was only able to drink water. Up until his 100th birthday in September we did not hear from him. I was actually surprise that he looked as well as he did then. Then I was surprised again to see him at General Conference. Now I know I am not the only one. The preservation of President Nelson is a living miracle in our day.

Day 3524

Today's Favorite Verse: Helaman 16:3, 6

Today's Favorite Verse: Helaman 16:3, 6
"Now when they saw that they could not hit him, there were many more who did believe on his words, insomuch that they went away unto Nephi to be baptized.
But the more part of them did not believe in the words of Samuel; therefore when they saw that they could not hit him with their stones and their arrows, they cried unto their captains, saying: Take this fellow and bind him, for behold he hath a devil; and because of the power of the devil which is in him we cannot hit him with our stones and our arrows; therefore take him and bind him, and away with him."

This made me think of this verse.

"Woe unto them that call evil good, and good evil; that put darkness for light, and light for darkness; that put bitter for sweet, and sweet for bitter!"
(Isaiah 5:20)

I am reminded of what President Nelson said.
"Our Savior and Redeemer, Jesus Christ, will perform some of His mightiest works between now and when He comes again. We will see miraculous indications that God the Father and His Son, Jesus Christ, preside over this Church in majesty and glory. But in coming days, it will not be possible to survive spiritually without the guiding, directing, comforting, and constant influence of the Holy Ghost."
(Russell M. Nelson, "Revelation for the Church, Revelation for Our Lives", Apr 2018 General Conference)

It would be so sad to witness these mightiest miracles and not recognize them for what they are. Even worse to consider it of the devil. I had not considered that possibility. I hope and pray that I will be worth to have the Holy Ghost with me to bare record of what is from God. That I will not call evil good, or good evil.

Day 3523

Today's Favorite Verse: Helaman 15:14

Today's Favorite Verse: Helaman 15:14
"Therefore I say unto you, it shall be better for them than for you except ye repent."

I was pondering on how those that have not the law. That have not been raised to believe in God are very much like modern day Lamanites. It is because of the false traditions of their fathers that they err. It will be better for them than for us that have the law and do not repent of our sins. For we sin having great knowledge, where those that have no covenants and laws of God to follow will be extended great mercy. For all have the light of Christ given them to know right from wrong, and they will be judged on the knowledge they had.

"Wherefore, he has given a law; and where there is no law given there is no punishment; and where there is no punishment there is no condemnation; and where there is no condemnation the mercies of the Holy One of Israel have claim upon them, because of the atonement; for they are delivered by the power of him.
For the atonement satisfieth the demands of his justice upon all those who have not the law given to them, that they are delivered from that awful monster, death and hell, and the devil, and the lake of fire and brimstone, which is endless torment; and they are restored to that God who gave them breath, which is the Holy One of Israel.
But wo unto him that has the law given, yea, that has all the commandments of God, like unto us, and that transgresseth them, and that wasteth the days of his probation, for awful is his state!"
(2 Nephi 9:25-27)

Day 3522

Today's Favorite Verse: Helaman 14:2

Today's Favorite Verse: Helaman 14:2
"And behold, he said unto them: Behold, I give unto you a sign; for five years more cometh, and behold, then cometh the Son of God to redeem all those who shall believe on his name."

As I ponder on the 5 year prophecy for the sign of the Lord's birth that Samuel the Lamanite gave, I cannot help but hope we are given something similar for the Lord's Second Coming.

"Surely the Lord GOD will do nothing, but he revealeth his secret unto his servants the prophets."
(Amos 3:7)

I understand we have this scripture.

"But of that day and hour knoweth no man, no, not the angels of heaven, but my Father only."
(Matthew 24:36)

But, I also believe Joseph Smith, Jr's words regarding that passage.

"Did Christ speak this as a general principle throughout all generations? Oh, no, He spoke in the present tense. No man that was then living upon the footstool of God knew the day or the hour. But He did not say that there was no man throughout all generations that should not know the day or the hour. No, for this would be in flat contradiction with other scripture. For the prophet says that God will do nothing but what He will reveal unto His servants the prophets. Consequently, if it is not made known to the prophets, it will not come to pass."
(Andrew F. Ehat and Lyndon W. Cook, "The Words of Joseph Smith" (Salt Lake City: Bookcraft, 1980), 180-181)

Reflecting on this it does not mean the church as a whole will be given a time frame. Yet you can still tell the last days are upon us and the prophet is calling for us to prepare.

"Now is the time for you and for me to prepare for the Second Coming of our Lord and Savior, Jesus the Christ."
(Russell M. Nelson, "The Lord Jesus Christ Will Come Again", Oct 2024)

I ask myself, what do I do differently today than I am already doing? I have been given some specific things to work on and they are a great comfort to me. The Second Coming may be imminent or many years off, one thing I do not want is to be caught unprepared.

Day 3521

Today's Favorite Verse: Helaman 13:7

Today's Favorite Verse: Helaman 13:7
"And behold, an angel of the Lord hath declared it unto me, and he did bring glad tidings to my soul. And behold, I was sent unto you to declare it unto you also, that ye might have glad tidings; but behold ye would not receive me."

I had not noticed this before in the story of Samuel the Lamanite. He originally came to preach to the Nephites glad tidings, but he was rejected and cast out. He came back and now gave them a warning. The glad tidings of the coming birth of Savior, that would atone for our sins, was now a warning of their need to repent or destruction would come upon them. Nothing could save them but repentance and faith on the Lord Jesus Christ. I wondered how different that message would have been to those that were righteous and wanted to receive a prophet.

Day 3520

Today's Favorite Verse: Helaman 12:1, 23

Today's Favorite Verse: Helaman 12:1, 23
"And thus we can behold how false, and also the unsteadiness of the hearts of the children of men; yea, we can see that the Lord in his great infinite goodness doth bless and prosper those who put their trust in him.
Therefore, blessed are they who will repent and hearken unto the voice of the Lord their God; for these are they that shall be saved."

These were the most important verses to me in this chapter. To put my trust in the Lord, and repent. I am reminded of President Nelson's words this past general conference, that "it is neither to early or too late", the time is now.

"Jesus Christ took upon Himself your sins, your pains, your heartaches, and your infirmities. You do not have to bear them alone! He will forgive you as you repent. He will bless you with what you need. He will heal your wounded soul. As you yoke yourself to Him, your burdens will feel lighter. If you will make and keep covenants to follow Jesus Christ, you will find that the painful moments of your life are temporary. Your afflictions will be “swallowed up in the joy of Christ."
It is neither too early nor too late for you to become a devout disciple of Jesus Christ. Then you will experience fully the blessings of His Atonement. You will also be more effective in helping to gather Israel."
(Russelll M. Nelson, "The Lord Jesus Christ Will Come Again", Oct 2024 General Conference)

Day 3519

Today's Favorite Verse: Helaman 11:37

Today's Favorite Verse: Helaman 11:37
"And it came to pass in the eighty and fifth year they did wax stronger and stronger in their pride, and in their wickedness; and thus they were ripening again for destruction."

This chapter covers 14 years and during that time frame there was war, famine, repentance, esteeming Nephi as a prophet, prosperity, growth of the church, contention over points of doctrine, strife, revelations, dissenters, war, murder, plunder, Gadianton robbers, an army to search them out and destroy the robbers, kidnapping of women and children, some being stirred up in remembrance of the Lord, people waxing strong in iniquity that they don't mend their ways.

All this made me think of how it applies to our day? I pictured having all of this in our land. Then I realized this story isn't just of America. It's not just America preparing for the second coming of the Lord. The whole world is in commotion. All these things are taking place across the globe, many things all at once. The righteous will seek to be more righteous, as the wicked become more wicked.

"In relation to the kingdom of God, the devil always sets up his kingdom at the very same time in opposition to God."
(Joseph Smith, Jr, "History of the Church", 6:364)

"And there shall be signs in the sun, and in the moon, and in the stars; and upon the earth distress of nations, with perplexity; the sea and the waves roaring;
Men’s hearts failing them for fear, and for looking after those things which are coming on the earth: for the powers of heaven shall be shaken."
(Luke 21:25-26)

"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 3518

Today's Favorite Verse: Helaman 10:4-5

Today's Favorite Verse: Helaman 10:4-5
"Blessed art thou, Nephi, for those things which thou hast done; for I have beheld how thou hast with unwearyingness declared the word, which I have given unto thee, unto this people. And thou hast not feared them, and hast not sought thine own life, but hast sought my will, and to keep my commandments.
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."

These verses helped me understand prayer and asking according to God's will. It helped me understand why I could not pray for my father to be healed, but instead that he could have be strengthen, have comfort and peace. I knew that his passing was according to God's will. As I was reviewing this chapter I came upon a remarkable story that President Jeffrey R. Holland shared of President Marion G. Romney.

“In 1967 Sister Ida Romney suffered a serious stroke. The doctors told then-Elder Romney that the damage from the hemorrhage was severe. They offered to keep her alive by artificial means but did not recommend it. The family braced for the worst. Brother Romney confided to those closest to him that in spite of his anguished, personal yearning for Ida’s restored health and continued companionship, above all he wanted ‘the Lord’s will to be done and to take what he needed to take without whimpering.
“As the days wore on, Sister Romney became less responsive. She had, of course, been administered to, but Elder Romney was ‘reluctant to counsel the Lord about the matter.’ Because of his earlier unsuccessful experience of praying that he and Ida might have children, he knew that he could never ask in prayer for something that was not in harmony with the will of the Lord. He fasted that he might know how to show the Lord he had faith and would accept God’s will in their lives. He wanted to make sure he had done all he could do. But she continued to fail.
“One evening in a particularly depressed state, with Ida unable to speak or recognize him, Brother Romney went home and turned, as he always had, to the scriptures in an effort to commune with the Lord. He picked up the Book of Mormon and continued where he had left off the night before. He had been reading in Helaman about the prophet Nephi, who had been falsely accused and unfairly charged with sedition. Following a miraculous deliverance from his accusers, Nephi returned home pondering the things he had experienced. As he did so he heard a voice.
“Although Marion Romney had read that story many times before, it now struck him this night as a personal revelation. The words of the scripture so touched his heart that for the first time in weeks he felt he had tangible peace. It seemed as if the Lord were speaking directly to him. The scripture read: ‘Blessed art thou, … for those things which thou hast done; … thou hast not … sought thine own life, but hast sought my will, and to keep my commandments. 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 10:4–5.)
“There was the answer. He had sought only to know and obey the will of the Lord, and the Lord had spoken. He fell to his knees and poured out his heart, and as he concluded his prayer with the phrase ‘Thy will be done,’ he either felt or actually heard a voice that said, ‘It is not contrary to my will that Ida be healed.
“Brother Romney rose to his feet quickly. It was past two o’clock in the morning, but he knew what he must do. Quickly he put on his tie and coat, then went out into the night to visit Ida in the hospital. He arrived shortly before three o’clock. His wife’s condition was unchanged. She did not stir as he placed his hands upon her pale forehead. With undeviating faith, he invoked the power of the priesthood in her behalf. He pronounced a simple blessing and then uttered the incredible promise that she would recover her health and her mental powers and would yet perform ‘a great mission’ upon the earth.
“Even though he did not doubt, Elder Romney was astonished to see Ida’s eyes open as he concluded the blessing. Somewhat stunned by all that had happened, he sat down on the edge of the bed only to hear his wife’s frail voice for the first time in months. She said, ‘For goodness’ sake, Marion, what are you doing here?’ He didn’t know whether to laugh or to cry. He said, ‘Ida, how are you?’ With that flash of humor so characteristic of both of them, she replied, ‘Compared to what, Marion? Compared to what?'
“Ida Romney began her recovery from that very moment, soon left her hospital bed, and lived to see her husband sustained as a member of the First Presidency of the Church, ‘a great mission upon the earth’ indeed.
(F. Burton Howard, Marion G. Romney: His Life and Faith [Salt Lake City: Bookcraft, 1988], pp. 137–42.)” (Jeffrey R. Holland and Patricia T. Holland, On Earth As It Is in Heaven [1989], 133–35).
(Book of Mormon Student Manual, Chapter 37: Helaman 10-12, Helaman 10:4-5 "Thou Shalt Not Ask That Which is Contrary to My Will")

Day 3517

Today's Favorite Verse: Helaman 9:7-9

Today's Favorite Verse: Helaman 9:7-9
"And behold the people did gather themselves together unto the place of the judgment-seat—and behold, to their astonishment they saw those five men who had fallen to the earth.
And now behold, the people knew nothing concerning the multitude who had gathered together at the garden of Nephi; therefore they said among themselves: These men are they who have murdered the judge, and God has smitten them that they could not flee from us.
And it came to pass that they laid hold on them, and bound them and cast them into prison. And there was a proclamation sent abroad that the judge was slain, and that the murderers had been taken and were cast into prison."

As I was reading this chapter what stood out to me is how quick people were to judge before they received the full story. They assumed motives and guilt. We are seeing conspiracies theories being bought into.

Nephi had prophesied that the chief judge had been killed upon the judgment seat. Five men ran to see if this was in fact true. When they arrive they find the chief judge dead lying in his own blood. They were so astonished that the five fell to the earth. The servants of the chief judge had witnessed the actual murder and they ran to tell the people. When the multitude arrives they find these five men fallen to the earth. Because they knew nothing about what Nephi had prophesied in his garden and why the men were there, they convinced each other that these were the men that murdered the chief judge. Saying, God had smitten them so they couldn't flee. First off I see an issue here. Why didn't the servants speak up that these men were not there when they saw the chief judge murdered? Yet somehow the multitude comes up with another theory of what happened and falsely accuse the wrong men.

The five are cast into prison and it wasn't until the next day at the chief judge's burial that those that were with Nephi wondered where the five men were? They finally realize the men that were cast into prison were the same sent to confirm Nephi's words. But the judges that were asking, now came up with another conspiracy theory and twist the story that somehow Nephi was confederate with the murderer and was using a fake story to appear to be a prophet.

At this point I realized that Mormon that abridged the record isn't speaking of assassinations in our day. He's telling us there will be conspiracy theories. That we have to have discernment on what we believe as news. We need to study out the full story and not jump to conclusions. Lives are at matter when we get things wrong.

This made me think of the recent "Worldwide Devotional for Young Adults" given on 3 Nov 2024 by Elder David A. Bednar and his wife, Susan K. Bednar. He gave a 2.0 version of his "Things as They Really Are" address at a Church Education System fireside at BYU-Idaho on 3 May 2009. He reminds us that...

"The Savior has warned us repeatedly to beware of deception by the adversary:
“Jesus answered, and said unto them: Take heed that no man deceive you; …
“For in those days there shall also arise false Christs, and false prophets, and shall show great signs and wonders, insomuch, that, if possible, they shall deceive the very elect, who are the elect according to the covenant. …
“And whoso treasureth up my word, shall not be deceived”
(Joseph Smith—Matthew 1:5, 22, 37)."
"Obedience opens the door to the constant companionship of the Holy Ghost. And the spiritual gifts and abilities activated by the power of the Holy Ghost enable us to avoid deception—and to see, to feel, to know, to understand, and to remember things as they really are."

Both of Elder Bednar's talks are excellent, and should be studied.

Day 3516

Today's Favorite Verse: Helaman 8:19-20

Today's Favorite Verse: Helaman 8:19-20
"And now I would that ye should know, that even since the days of Abraham there have been many prophets that have testified these things; yea, behold, the prophet Zenos did testify boldly; for the which he was slain.
And behold, also Zenock, and also Ezias, and also Isaiah, and Jeremiah, (Jeremiah being that same prophet who testified of the destruction of Jerusalem) and now we know that Jerusalem was destroyed according to the words of Jeremiah. O then why not the Son of God come, according to his prophecy?"

Nephi is speaking to the people about the prophesies of Christ's coming. How prophets have testified of this and many things. If prophets could testify of the destruction of Jerusalem, and they have evidence in front of them through the people of Mulek, why cannot all prophesies be fulfilled? Then as evidence of prophecy Nephi tells them that their judge has been murdered by his brother upon the judgment-seat. Further, that they belong to their secret band of Gadianton. These are things that Nephi would have no way of knowing, unless he was a prophet and it was revealed to him.

This made me think of how we are at the same place in time, waiting for the prophesy to be fulfilled of Jesus Christ's second coming. As we are waiting the hearts of people are rejecting these things like they did in the time of Nephi.

Day 3515

Today's Favorite Verse: Helaman 7:4-5

Today's Favorite Verse: Helaman 7:4-5
"And seeing the people in a state of such awful wickedness, and those Gadianton robbers filling the judgment-seats—having usurped the power and authority of the land; laying aside the commandments of God, and not in the least aright before him; doing no justice unto the children of men;
Condemning the righteous because of their righteousness; letting the guilty and the wicked go unpunished because of their money; and moreover to be held in office at the head of government, to rule and do according to their wills, that they might get gain and glory of the world, and, moreover, that they might the more easily commit adultery, and steal, and kill, and do according to their own wills—"

I was reflecting today on how the wicked will go unpunished. They will never see the inside of a jail. Their other charges will not see the light of day inside of a court room. The charges will vanish. We are living what Mormon saw and is writing about to warn us in our day. All men are equal and no one is above the law. When we support this, we will pay the consequences.

"As nations can not be rewarded or punished in the next world they must be in this. By an inevitable chain of causes & effects providence punishes national sins, by national calamities." (George Mason, Speech at the Constitutional Convention, as recorded by James Madison in his "Notes of the Constitutional Convention" (August 22, 1787)

Day 3514

Today's Favorite Verse: Helaman 6:39-40

Today's Favorite Verse: Helaman 6:39-40
" And thus they did obtain the sole management of the government, insomuch that they did trample under their feet and smite and rend and turn their backs upon the poor and the meek, and the humble followers of God.
And thus we see that they were in an awful state, and ripening for an everlasting destruction."

If we see the poor, meek and humble followers of God being trampled we will know we are ripe for destruction. It feels like we are ripe and ready for this to fall on us in the "space of not many years". I keep thinking of the weeping, and wailing and gnashing of teeth". Yes, persecution will be dreadful, but with God you can have peace in the storm. What I would not want, is to be in the shoes of those that sanctioned it, and brought it upon others. That realization of what they had done would be a terrible grief to bare. I feel sorrow for them.

"Wherefore, O ye Gentiles, it is wisdom in God that these things should be shown unto you, that thereby ye may repent of your sins, and suffer not that these murderous combinations shall get above you, which are built up to get power and gain—and the work, yea, even the work of destruction come upon you, yea, even the sword of the justice of the Eternal God shall fall upon you, to your overthrow and destruction if ye shall suffer these things to be.
Wherefore, the Lord commandeth you, when ye shall see these things come among you that ye shall awake to a sense of your awful situation, because of this secret combination which shall be among you; or wo be unto it, because of the blood of them who have been slain; for they cry from the dust for vengeance upon it, and also upon those who built it up."
(Ether 8:23-24)

Day 3513

Today's Favorite Verse: Helaman 5:47-48

Today's Favorite Verse: Helaman 5:47-48
"Peace, peace be unto you, because of your faith in my Well Beloved, who was from the foundation of the world.
And now, when they heard this they cast up their eyes as if to behold from whence the voice came; and behold, they saw the heavens open; and angels came down out of heaven and ministered unto them."

Helamen's sons Lehi and Nephi went to the land of Nephi to preach to the Lamanites. They were cast into prison and then a miraculous event takes place. They were encircled as if by fire and it hurt them not. The Lamanites were fearful to touch them. Then the earth shook and a cloud of darkness overshadowed the Lamanites and Nephite dissenters. A voice speaks from over the cloud of darkness. They are called to repentance. It was of perfect mildness and pierced their souls. Then a Nephite from birth tells them to turn around and look at Lehi and Nephite, their faces were glowing and talking with angels. The people see this and are told to repent and cry unto the voice until they have faith in Christ, which they did. The cloud disperses and they are all encircled by a pillar of fire and filled with joy. This is when God the Father speaks to all of them. There are only a few times we hear His voice in scriptures and this is one of them. Then angels came down and ministered to them. What a marvelous event took place. The 300 people that witness this go and declare what they saw and heard and minister to those around them.

"Insomuch that the more part of the Lamanites were convinced of them, because of the greatness of the evidence which they had received." (verse 50)

Events like this are what I think of when I heard President Nelson say this.

"Our Savior and Redeemer, Jesus Christ, will perform some of His mightiest works between now and when He comes again. We will see miraculous indications that God the Father and His Son, Jesus Christ, preside over this Church in majesty and glory. But in coming days, it will not be possible to survive spiritually without the guiding, directing, comforting, and constant influence of the Holy Ghost."
(Russell M. Nelson, "Revelation for the Church, Revelation for Our Lives", April 2018)

Day 3512

Today's Favorite Verse: Helaman 4:26

Today's Favorite Verse: Helaman 4:26
"For behold, they saw that the strength of the Lamanites was as great as their strength, even man for man. And thus had they fallen into this great transgression; yea, thus had they become weak, because of their transgression, in the space of not many years."

The phrase "In the space of not many years" stood out to me. Probably because of Elder Bednar's recent general conference talk on this. As I looked at the footnote I find the book of Helaman repeats this several times.

"And it came to pass that all these iniquities did come unto them in the space of not many years, insomuch that a more part of it had come unto them in the sixty and seventh year of the reign of the judges over the people of Nephi."
(Helaman 6:32)

"Now this great iniquity had come upon the Nephites, in the space of not many years; and when Nephi saw it, his heart was swollen with sorrow within his breast; and he did exclaim in the agony of his soul:"
(Helaman 7:6)

"And thus in time, yea, even in the space of not many years, they became an exceedingly great band of robbers; and they did search out all the secret plans of Gadianton; and thus they became robbers of Gadianton."
(Helaman 11:26)

From the beginning of the book of Helaman to the 4th chapter it covers 20 years. I reflected on the last 20 years for us and yes I have seen a drastic spiritual and moral decline in people. Yet at the same time I do see a great spiritual increase in the true followers of Jesus Christ. Granted there seems to be fewer of them, but what is there are those preparing for the Lord's second coming. Just like those in Helaman's time are waiting for the sign of Christ's birth.

Day 3511

Today's Favorite Verse: Helaman 3:1, 36

Today's Favorite Verse: Helaman 3:1, 36
"And now it came to pass in the forty and third year of the reign of the judges, there was no contention among the people of Nephi save it were a little pride which was in the church, which did cause some little dissensions among the people, which affairs were settled in the ending of the forty and third year.
And it came to pass that the fifty and second year ended in peace also, save it were the exceedingly great pride which had gotten into the hearts of the people; and it was because of their exceedingly great riches and their prosperity in the land; and it did grow upon them from day to day."

At the start of the chapter there is a little pride. By the end of the chapter there is exceedingly great pride. They had peace without war, riches and prosperity, and they yet were effected with the greatest of Satan's tools, pride. That is something every human being that walks this earth has to learn to overcome. It is something that constantly has to be monitored within us. Pride is my greatest fear.

"At this point you may be thinking that this message would really help someone you know. Perhaps you are hoping that it will help him or her to be nicer to you. I hope it will! But I also hope that you will look deeply into your heart to see if there are shards of pride or jealousy that prevent you from becoming a peacemaker."
(Russell M. Nelson, "Peacemakers Needed", Apr 2023 General Conference)

Day 3510

Today's Favorite Verse: Helaman 2:13

Today's Favorite Verse: Helaman 2:13
"And behold, in the end of this book ye shall see that this Gadianton did prove the overthrow, yea, almost the entire destruction of the people of Nephi."

It's important to look at the pattern.

"Elder M. Russell Ballard of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles explained that the threat of secret combinations still exists in our day:
“If we are not careful, today’s secret combinations can obtain power and influence just as quickly and just as completely as they did in Book of Mormon times. Do you remember the pattern? The secret combinations began among the ‘more wicked part’ of society, but eventually ‘seduced the more part of the righteous’ until the whole society was polluted."
(Book of Mormon Student Manuel, Chapter 35: Helaman 1-4, "Evil Secret Works Can Destroy Societies")

I can see this "seducing the more part of the righteous" happening amongst us right now. Those that appeared on a good path have sold their souls for money and power, and what's in it for me. It's amazing to see how people they once spoke out and condemned as wicked are how lifted up and followed.

Day 3509

Today's Favorite Verse: Helaman 1:31-32

Today's Favorite Verse: Helaman 1:31-32
"And now, behold, the Lamanites could not retreat either way, neither on the north, nor on the south, nor on the east, nor on the west, for they were surrounded on every hand by the Nephites.
And thus had Coriantumr plunged the Lamanites into the midst of the Nephites, insomuch that they were in the power of the Nephites, and he himself was slain, and the Lamanites did yield themselves into the hands of the Nephites."

I pondered on what would cause the Lamanites to drive themselves into the heart of the Nephite land to overtake it? They would be surrounded on every side. Then it occurred to me, it was pride, arrogance, and greed. In their pride they could be as open and bold as they wanted. They thought they could not be overpowered. They, like most overcome with pride, were defeated.

"Pride goeth before destruction, and an haughty spirit before a fall.
Better it is to be of an humble spirit with the lowly, than to divide the spoil with the proud."
(Proverbs 16:18-19)

"Therefore, if we are not faithful and obedient, we can transform the God-given blessing of prosperity into a prideful curse that diverts and distracts us from eternal truths and vital spiritual priorities. We always must be on guard against a pride-induced and exaggerated sense of self-importance, a misguided evaluation of our own self-sufficiency, and seeking self instead of serving others.
As we pridefully focus upon ourselves, we also are afflicted with spiritual blindness and miss much, most, or perhaps all that is occurring within and around us. We cannot look to and focus upon Jesus Christ as the “mark” if we only see ourselves."...
"The prophet Mormon observed, “The more part of the people [remained] in their pride and wickedness, and the lesser part [walked] more circumspectly before God...
"May I suggest that if you or I believe we are sufficiently strong and stalwart to avoid the arrogance of pride, then perhaps we already are suffering from this deadly spiritual disease. Simply stated, if you or I do not believe we could be afflicted with and by pride, then we are vulnerable and in spiritual danger. In the space of not many days, weeks, months, or years, we might forfeit our spiritual birthright for far less than a mess of pottage”
(David A. Bednar, "In the Space of Not Many Years", Oct 2024)

Day 3508

Today's Favorite Verse: Alma 63:11-12

Today's Favorite Verse: Alma 63:11-12
"Therefore it became expedient for Shiblon to confer those sacred things, before his death, upon the son of Helaman, who was called Helaman, being called after the name of his father.
Now behold, all those engravings which were in the possession of Helaman were written and sent forth among the children of men throughout all the land, save it were those parts which had been commanded by Alma should not go forth."

We were told in general conference that the book of Helaman was where we are right now. The people were preparing for the Lord's coming as we are waiting for his second coming. I have wanted to jump to the book of Helaman ever since general conference and apply it to our day. Tomorrow, that day is finally coming.

"I pray for the assistance of the Holy Ghost as we now consider relevant lessons for us today from the book of Helaman in the Book of Mormon.
The record of Helaman and his sons describes a people who were anticipating the birth of Jesus Christ. The half century recounted in the scriptural record highlights the conversion and righteousness of the Lamanites and the wickedness, apostasy, and abominations of the Nephites.
A series of comparisons and contrasts between the Nephites and Lamanites from this ancient record are most instructive for us today.
In the Book of Helaman, the increasing righteousness of the Lamanites provides a stark contrast to the rapid spiritual decline of the Nephites.
As we follow President Benson’s counsel and ask ourselves why the Lord inspired Mormon to include in his abridgment of the book of Helaman the accounts, admonitions, and warnings that he did, I promise we will discern the applicability of these teachings to the specific conditions of our individual lives and families today. As we study and ponder this inspired record, we will be blessed with eyes to see, ears to hear, minds to comprehend, and hearts to understand the lessons we should learn to “beware of pride, lest [we should] enter into temptation.”
(David A. Bednar, "In the Space of Not Many Years", Oct 2024 General Conference)

Day 3507

Today's Favorite Verse: Alma 62:40

Today's Favorite Verse: Alma 62:40
"And there had been murders, and contentions, and dissensions, and all manner of iniquity among the people of Nephi; nevertheless for the righteous’ sake, yea, because of the prayers of the righteous, they were spared."

As it has finally reached election night and we await the result to come in, I reflect on how regardless the outcome it will not change me. My prayers will continue and I will strive every day to be a true follower of Christ.

"Note the effect that the prayers of the righteous had upon a nation. The prayers of the righteous also kept the Nephites from being destroyed later during the days of Captain Moroni and Samuel the Lamanite.
President Spencer W. Kimball (1895–1985) said the following about prayers offered in our day: “There are many many upright and faithful who live all the commandments and whose lives and prayers keep the world from destruction”
Once the righteous were destroyed or removed from Ammonihah, the prayers of the righteous ceased to protect the city and “every living soul of the Ammonihahites was destroyed”.
(Spencer W. Kimball, "Voices of the Past, of the Present, or the Future", Apr 1971 General Conference)
(Book of Mormon Student Manual, "Chapter 25: Alma 8-12", "Prayers of the Righteous")

Day 3506

Today's Favorite Verse: Alma 61:4

Today's Favorite Verse: Alma 61:4
"And it is those who have sought to take away the judgment-seat from me that have been the cause of this great iniquity; for they have used great flattery, and they have led away the hearts of many people, which will be the cause of sore affliction among us; they have withheld our provisions, and have daunted our freemen that they have not come unto you."

The king-men had risen up in rebellion and taken possession of Zarahemla, their capital. The word flattery is what stood out to me.

“Flattery” is most commonly defined as excessive and insincere praise. The naïve, the needy, the impressionable, or the ego-centric view flattery as genuine praise. Discerning people understand flattery to be disingenuous, false praise motivated by an agenda."

What is needed is discernment, the spirit as your guide. As the chapter continues Pahoran is reinforcing the need for them to act according to the Spirit of God.

"Therefore, come unto me speedily with a few of your men, and leave the remainder in the charge of Lehi and Teancum; give unto them power to conduct the war in that part of the land, according to the Spirit of God, which is also the spirit of freedom which is in them." (vs 15)

I looked for other scriptures where flattery is used.

"He that speaketh flattery to his friends, even the eyes of his children shall fail."
(Job 17:5)

"To keep thee from the evil woman, from the flattery of the tongue of a strange woman." (Proverbs 6:24)

"And he was learned, that he had a perfect knowledge of the language of the people; wherefore, he could use much flattery, and much power of speech, according to the power of the devil."
(Jacob 7:4)

"Now the sons of Mosiah were numbered among the unbelievers; and also one of the sons of Alma was numbered among them, he being called Alma, after his father; nevertheless, he became a very wicked and an idolatrous man. And he was a man of many words, and did speak much flattery to the people; therefore he led many of the people to do after the manner of his iniquities."
(Mosiah 8:8)

This made me think of a recent warning by President Nelson.
"There is no end to the adversary’s deceptions. Please be prepared. Never take counsel from those who do not believe. Seek guidance from voices you can trust—from prophets, seers, and revelators and from the whisperings of the Holy Ghost, who “will show unto you all things what ye should do.” Please do the spiritual work to increase your capacity to receive personal revelation."
(Russell M. Nelson, "Think Celestial!", Oct 2023 General Conference)

Day 3505

Today's Favorite Verse: Alma 60:16

Today's Favorite Verse: Alma 60:16
"Yea, had it not been for the war which broke out among ourselves; yea, were it not for these king-men, who caused so much bloodshed among ourselves; yea, at the time we were contending among ourselves, if we had united our strength as we hitherto have done; yea, had it not been for the desire of power and authority which those king-men had over us; had they been true to the cause of our freedom, and united with us, and gone forth against our enemies, instead of taking up their swords against us, which was the cause of so much bloodshed among ourselves; yea, if we had gone forth against them in the strength of the Lord, we should have dispersed our enemies, for it would have been done, according to the fulfilling of his word."

Moroni is writing to Pahoran, trying to figure out why support is not being given to the armies in the midst of battle. He touches on the damage the king-men caused before the Lamanites had attacked them. If they had not been fighting internally the enemy could not have overtaken them. Little does Moroni know that the king-men are at the root of the problem where support is not being sent to strengthen the armies. I sure hope and pray that we don't repeat this in our day. We are a weakened nation if we begin to have civil war from within. Ripe for our enemies to attack us.

Day 3504

Today's Favorite Verse: Alma 59:11, 12

Today's Favorite Verse: Alma 59:11, 12
"And now, when Moroni saw that the city of Nephihah was lost he was exceedingly sorrowful, and began to doubt, because of the wickedness of the people, whether they should not fall into the hands of their brethren.
Now this was the case with all his chief captains. They doubted and marveled also because of the wickedness of the people, and this because of the success of the Lamanites over them."

There is an election coming up next week. I keep reminding myself that regardless of what the voice of the people choose I can't lose hope. Stay on the covenant path and do as we have been counseled. Be a peacemaker, trust in the Lord.

Day 3503

Today's Favorite Verse: Alma 58:25-26

Today's Favorite Verse: Alma 58:25-26
"And behold, it was night and they did pitch their tents, for the chief captains of the Lamanites had supposed that the Nephites were weary because of their march; and supposing that they had driven their whole army therefore they took no thought concerning the city of Manti.
Now it came to pass that when it was night, I caused that my men should not sleep, but that they should march forward by another way towards the land of Manti."

If the Nephites had stopped and rested they would not have had the advantage over the Nephites. By marching through the night they were able to arrive in the city of Manti before the Lamanites. I am sure they were inspired and strengthened by the Lord to achieve this. I pondered on how we can never sit back and rest and take a break from the church. Otherwise, you run the risk of the adversary overtaking you. We also need to move swiftly towards safety and security. There is a hastening now to do so before the Lord's Second Coming.

"Even when things went well, Captain Moroni continued to prepare his people. He never stopped. He never became complacent.
The adversary never stops attacking. So, we can never stop preparing! The more self-reliant we are—temporally, emotionally, and spiritually—the more prepared we are to thwart Satan’s relentless assaults.
Please, keep going! Your vigilance in safeguarding your homes and instilling faith in the hearts of your loved ones will reap rewards for generations to come."
(Russell M. Nelson, "Embrace the Future with Faith", Oct 2020 General Conference)

Day 3502