Today's Favorite Verse: Doctrine & Covenants 123:11-12

Today's Favorite Verse: Doctrine & Covenants 123:11-12
"And also it is an imperative duty that we owe to all the rising generation, and to all the pure in heart—
For there are many yet on the earth among all sects, parties, and denominations, who are blinded by the subtle craftiness of men, whereby they lie in wait to deceive, and who are only kept from the truth because they know not where to find it—"

Joseph Smith is telling the saints the will of the Lord while in the Liberty jail. They are to gather up a knowledge of the facts of all the loses, sufferings and abuses the saints observed in Missouri. This chapter is one of the reasons the Church History Museum holds the largest collection of anti-Mormon literature in the world. What I pondered on was how this was not only important for them in their time, but this knowledge is also important for us in our day. What struck me is how there was no calls for retaliation or violence. They were to seek for justice in the courts of law, which was not successful. In the end they were driven out of Missouri and found refuge, kindness and compassion shown to them by the residents of Quincy, Illinois. I saw an article "New Sign in Quincy Commemorates Kindness of Residents to Latter-day Saints".

I also pondered on how men are deceived and blinded from truth, because they do not know where to find it. It is so important to know who you are listening to.

Day 3712

Today's Favorite Verse: Doctrine & Covenants 122:9

Today's Favorite Verse: Doctrine & Covenants 122:9
"Therefore, hold on thy way, and the priesthood shall remain with thee; for their bounds are set, they cannot pass. Thy days are known, and thy years shall not be numbered less; therefore, fear not what man can do, for God shall be with you forever and ever."

I love this verse. "Hold on thy way", its saying stay the course, hold onto the iron rod. The priesthood will never be taken from the earth again. Joseph Smith and us will live until God calls us home and not a day shorter. Don't worry or think about what man can do to you. Nothing they can do can truly harm your soul. For God will be with you forever. So much promise and protection in this one verse.

Day 3711

Today's Favorite Verse: Doctrine & Covenants 121:45

Today's Favorite Verse: Doctrine & Covenants 121:45
"Let thy bowels also be full of charity towards all men, and to the household of faith, and let virtue garnish thy thoughts unceasingly; then shall thy confidence wax strong in the presence of God; and the doctrine of the priesthood shall distil upon thy soul as the dews from heaven."

This verse reminds of President Nelson's recent general conference talk. It has always stood out to me that at the end of the Nephite civilization some of the greatest talks on charity were given. We cannot understand charity until we have endured the lack of it, or loss of it, in our lives. I could not settle on one quote from President Nelson's talk so here are some of my favorites.

"When we make and keep covenants with God, we can have confidence that is born of the Spirit. The Lord told the Prophet Joseph Smith that our confidence can “wax strong in the presence of God.” Imagine the comfort of having confidence in the presence of God!"
“Anger never persuades. Hostility builds no one. Contention never leads to inspired solutions.”
"True charity towards all men is the hallmark of peacemakers! It is imperative that we have charity in our discourse, both public and private. I thank those of you who took my previous counsel to heart. But we can still do better."
"Charity is the foundation of a godly character".
"Brothers and sisters, as the world grows more wicked, we need to grow increasingly pure. Our thoughts, words, and actions need to be unfailingly virtuous and filled with the pure love of Jesus Christ towards all men. The great opportunity before us is to become the people God needs us to be."
"...time in the temple increases our confidence before the Lord. Increased time in the temple will help us prepare for the Second Coming of our Savior, Jesus Christ. We do not know the day or the hour of His coming. But I do know that the Lord is prompting me to urge us to get ready for that “great and dreadful day.”
"As we diligently seek to have charity and virtue fill our lives, our confidence in approaching God will increase."
(Russell M. Nelson, "Confidence in the Presence of God", Apr 2025 General Conference)

Day 3710

Today's Favorite Verse: Doctrine & Covenants 120:1

Today's Favorite Verse: Doctrine & Covenants 120:1
"Verily, thus saith the Lord, the time is now come, that it shall be disposed of by a council, composed of the First Presidency of my Church, and of the bishop and his council, and by my high council; and by mine own voice unto them, saith the Lord. Even so. Amen."

I have never felt to counsel the Church on where the tithing money goes after I pay it. I didn't conditionally pay my tithing, I gave it to the Lord because He asked me to live that law. I have full confidence in how the Lord instructed the Church in this matter.

Elder Robert D. Hales of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles explained how tithing funds are administered in the Church:
“According to revelation, bishops are ordained to ‘keep the Lord’s storehouse; to receive the funds of the church’ [D&C 72:10]. Both bishops and clerks are expected to be full-tithe payers who have learned to live prudently within their means. Within hours of receiving tithing funds from members of their wards and branches, these local leaders transmit the funds directly to the headquarters of the Church.
“Then, as revealed by the Lord, the use of tithing is determined by a council comprised of the First Presidency, the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, and the Presiding Bishopric. The Lord specifically states that the council’s work be directed ‘by mine own voice unto them’ [D&C 120:1)]. This council is called the Council on the Disposition of the Tithes.
“It is remarkable to witness this council heed the Lord’s voice. Each member is aware of and participates in all the council’s decisions. No decision is made until the council is unanimous. All tithing funds are spent for the purposes of the Church, including welfare—care for the poor and needy— temples, buildings and upkeep of meetinghouses, education, curriculum— in short, the work of the Lord. …
“To Church members and others throughout the world, I bear my testimony of the Council on the Disposition of the Tithes. I have sat on this council for 17 years, as the Presiding Bishop of the Church and now as a member of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles. Without exception, the tithing funds of this Church have been used for His purposes” (“Tithing: A Test of Faith with Eternal Blessings,” Ensign or Liahona, Nov. 2002, 28).
(Doctrine and Covenants Student Manual, "Chapter 45: Doctrine and Covenants 115-20")

Day 3709

Today's Favorite Verse: Doctrine & Covenants 119:3-4

Today's Favorite Verse: Doctrine & Covenants 119:3-4
"And this shall be the beginning of the tithing of my people.
And after that, those who have thus been tithed shall pay one-tenth of all their interest annually; and this shall be a standing law unto them forever, for my holy priesthood, saith the Lord."

Here is the part that stood out to me, "this shall be a standing law unto them forever". I reflected on why I pay tithing. There were periods of time I was not always faithful in paying tithing. Then one day I had enough, and truly committed to be a full tithe payer. I realized now it has become a "standing law forever". I don't even think about "will I, won't I". It's the first thing taken out of my paycheck. I wonder if "standing law forever" means that's how we need to feel about paying tithing? Even the header to this chapter seems to apply we will go back to the law of consecration again at some point, because the Lord "withdrew it for a time". Consecration is an everlasting covenant, while tithing is forever. There is a difference there I'm not really sure about. I have to study that more.

"The Lord had previously given to the Church the law of consecration and stewardship of property, which members (chiefly the leading elders) entered into by a covenant that was to be everlasting. Because of failure on the part of many to abide by this covenant, the Lord withdrew it for a time, and gave instead the law of tithing to the whole Church."
(Doctrine and Covenants 119 Chapter Header)

Day 3708

Today's Favorite Verse: Doctrine & Covenants 118:1

Today's Favorite Verse: Doctrine & Covenants 118:1
"Verily, thus saith the Lord: Let a conference be held immediately; let the Twelve be organized; and let men be appointed to supply the place of those who are fallen."

I pondered on one of causes of the great apostasy with the primitive church. As the apostles were scattered and died the organization and authority eventually was lost. The apostles could not gather quick enough to replace those that were taken. We are blessed to know that Satan now cannot tear the organization of the church down faster then we can build it up.

"Four of the original members of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles had been excommunicated or otherwise removed from office by July 1838 for transgression or apostasy: John F. Boynton, Luke Johnson, Lyman Johnson, and William E. McLellin. This caused great sorrow among Church members. On Sunday, July 8, 1838, during a leadership meeting, the Prophet Joseph Smith received the revelation recorded in Doctrine and Covenants 118 in response to the plea to “show unto us thy will O, Lord concerning the Twelve.” (See The Joseph Smith Papers, Documents, Volume 6: February 1838–August 1839, 176–78.) John Taylor, John E. Page, Wilford Woodruff, and Willard Richards were appointed to fill the vacancies in the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles."
(Doctrine and Covenants Student Manual, "Chapter 45: Doctrine and Covenants 115-120")

"Today I speak of keys other than those of metal. The keys I speak of never rust. These are the keys of life and salvation in the kingdom of God. The Prophet Joseph Smith said, “I will give you a key that will never rust, if you will stay with the majority of the Twelve Apostles, and the records of the Church, you will never be led astray.”
...Prior to the martyrdom, no doubt with a sense of foreboding, the Prophet Joseph prepared for his death. President Joseph Fielding Smith states:“The Prophet declared that he knew not why, but the Lord commanded him to endow the Twelve with these keys and priesthood, and after it was done, he rejoiced very much, saying in substance, ‘Now, if they kill me, you have all the keys and all the ordinances and you can confer them upon others, and the powers of Satan will not be able to tear down the kingdom as fast as you will be able to build it up, and upon your shoulders will the responsibility of leading this people rest."
(James E. Faust, "The Keys That Never Rust", Oct 1994 General Conference)

Day 3707

Today's Favorite Verse: Doctrine & Covenants 117:16

Today's Favorite Verse: Doctrine & Covenants 117:16
"And again, verily I say unto you, let all my servants in the land of Kirtland remember the Lord their God, and mine house also, to keep and preserve it holy, and to overthrow the moneychangers in mine own due time, saith the Lord. Even so. Amen."

This made me think about the Kirtland temple and how after it fell out of the church's hands the RLDS church (later Community of Christ) was able to purchase it. They did a marvelous job keeping and preserving it. However, it was sad to see donations for tours there. After all these years in March 2024, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints was able to purchase and gain stewardship back from them. I do wish I could travel there and tour it now. I understand the story of the most sacred event of the Savior, Moses, Elias, and Elijah appearances is part of the tour.

Day 3706

Today's Favorite Verse: Doctrine & Covenants 116:1

Today's Favorite Verse: Doctrine & Covenants 116:1
"Spring Hill is named by the Lord Adam-ondi-Ahman, because, said he, it is the place where Adam shall come to visit his people, or the Ancient of Days shall sit, as spoken of by Daniel the prophet."

With all the talk of preparing for the second coming of Jesus Christ I wonder which appearance they are speaking of? There will be several preliminary appearances before Jesus' final, glorious return.

“Before the Lord Jesus descends openly and publicly in the clouds of glory, attended by all the hosts of heaven; before the great and dreadful day of the Lord sends terror and destruction from one end of the earth to the other; before he stands on Mount Zion, or sets his feet on Olivet, or utters his voice from an American Zion or a Jewish Jerusalem; before all flesh shall see him together; before any of his appearances, which taken together comprise the second coming of the Son of God—before all these, there is to be a secret appearance to selected members of his Church. He will come in private to his prophet and to the apostles then living. Those who have held keys and powers and authorities in all ages from Adam to the present will also be present”
(Bruce R. McConkie, The Millennial Messiah: The Second Coming of the Son of Man (Salt Lake City, Deseret Book Company, 1985), 578–579.)

I do wonder if Jesus Christ has already made this first appearance. These first two appearances are to prepare us to prepare the world for His Second Coming. The messages of preparation from the prophet and leaders of the church have been more frequent and bolder than I have ever heard in my lifetime.

"So, now a question as I conclude: What if you learned that the Savior had already returned to this earth—that He, as part of His Second Coming, had already met with some of His true followers in several marvelous, large gatherings—gatherings about which the world, including CNN and the blogosphere, knew nothing. If you found out that the Savior was already on the earth, what would you desperately want to do today, and what would you be willing and ready to do tomorrow?"
(Wendy Nelson, "An Evening with President Russell M. Nelson" (devotional, Brigham Young University, Hawaii, January 10, 2016) Worldwide Devotional for Young Adults)

All I know I am listening to the prophet and attending the temple as frequently as possible. It would not surprise me to find that is where he appears to His saints.

Day 3705

Today's Favorite Verse: Doctrine & Covenants 115:6

Today's Favorite Verse: Doctrine & Covenants 115:6
"And that the gathering together upon the land of Zion, and upon her stakes, may be for a defense, and for a refuge from the storm, and from wrath when it shall be poured out without mixture upon the whole earth."

As of April 2024 there were 3,500 stakes and districts, and some 30,000 wards and branches of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints around the world. When we lived back East it took us almost an hour to get to our stake center. Where we live now it's two blocks away. I do feel it's a place of refuge every Sunday when I go there and take the sacrament. How grateful I am that political discussions don't pierce my ears there. Even when I was young I knew we didn't talk politics at church. We don't speak bad about other religions either. I feel like this long standing counsel has been a defense and a protection to me. The spirit hasn't been compelled to leave. Especially, now when people are so divided. The focus is on Jesus Christ and becoming saints.

“A defense” implies help in resisting or protection from attack, “a refuge” refers to a place of safety or shelter, and “the storm” can refer to tumultuous or frightening surroundings, attacks from enemies of the Church, or Satan’s temptations. The Lord also promised that those who gather to the stakes of Zion would be protected “from wrath when it shall be poured out without mixture upon the whole earth” before the Second Coming of Jesus Christ"
(Doctrine and Covenants Student Manual, "Chapter 45: Doctrine and Covenants 115-120")

Day 3704

Today's Favorite Verse: Doctrine & Covenants 114:1

Today's Favorite Verse: Doctrine & Covenants 114:1
"Verily thus saith the Lord: It is wisdom in my servant David W. Patten, that he settle up all his business as soon as he possibly can, and make a disposition of his merchandise, that he may perform a mission unto me next spring, in company with others, even twelve including himself, to testify of my name and bear glad tidings unto all the world."

This is such an interesting revelation and story. David W. Pattern was told to settle up all his affairs in order to serve a mission. He did as he was commanded and six months later he died, the first martyr for the church. It does make me wonder if he knew the Lord meant the mission he would serve was on the other side of the veil. Words given by inspiration can have such an exact meaning. I received my patriarchal blessing at the age of 14. I had no idea then that the part of my days being extended would literally mean I would have a near death experience at the age of 29, and am now living that extension. Sometimes we don't understand the exact meaning at the time, but it's important to follow the counsel that comes with it.

Day 3703

Today's Favorite Verse: Doctrine & Covenants 113:7-8

Today's Favorite Verse: Doctrine & Covenants 113:7-8
"Questions by Elias Higbee: What is meant by the command in Isaiah, 52d chapter, 1st verse, which saith: Put on thy strength, O Zion—and what people had Isaiah reference to?
He had reference to those whom God should call in the last days, who should hold the power of priesthood to bring again Zion, and the redemption of Israel; and to put on her strength is to put on the authority of the priesthood, which she, Zion, has a right to by lineage; also to return to that power which she had lost."

There were some questions that Joseph Smith and others had on the writings of Isaiah. This chapter has questions they asked and the answers received. I love these question and answer sessions. I really do wish they had asked more. This is verse in Isaiah the question was about.

"Awake, awake; put on thy strength, O Zion; put on thy beautiful garments, O Jerusalem, the holy city: for henceforth there shall no more come into thee the uncircumcised and the unclean."
(Isaiah 52:1)

This is talking about us. With the phrase "put on thy beautiful garments" it makes me wonder why, of all times, would an endowed member want to find excuses to stop wearing them? I don't really want to understand their reasoning. I truly feel they are on shaky ground and may not know it yet. That thought makes me really, really sad. It also makes me think of the five foolish virgins. Could you imagine them asking the five wise virgins to give them their garments because they don't have any with them? There is a reason we are told to be covenant keeping, temple going people.

"I am so grateful for the privilege of wearing the garment of the holy priesthood to remind me that the Savior and the blessings of His infinite Atonement constantly cover me throughout my mortal journey. It also reminds me that as I keep the covenants I have made with God in the house of the Lord, I have symbolically put on Christ, who Himself is an armor of light. He will protect me from evil, give me power and increased capacity, and be my light and guide through the darkness and difficulties of this world.
There is deep and beautiful symbolic meaning in the garment of the holy priesthood and its relationship to Christ. I believe that my willingness to wear the holy garment becomes my symbol to Him. It is my own personal sign to God, not a sign to others."
(Sister J. Anette Dennis, "Put Ye On the Lord Jesus Christ", April 2024 General Conference)

Day 3702

Today's Favorite Verse: Doctrine & Covenants 112:25-26

Today's Favorite Verse: Doctrine & Covenants 112:25-26
"And upon my house shall it begin, and from my house shall it go forth, saith the Lord;
First among those among you, saith the Lord, who have professed to know my name and have not known me, and have blasphemed against me in the midst of my house, saith the Lord."

The Lord will clean His House first. He will both purify his saints, and sift them with judgment. I do not want to be on the wrong side of things. If the sifting among the saints has not already started, then it is soon coming. From His House to the world we will see a dividing of those that truly love and know the Lord.

"For the time is come that judgment must begin at the house of God: and if it first begin at us, what shall the end be of them that obey not the gospel of God?"
(1 Peter 4:17)

It makes me sad to think of those that lose their grasp on the iron rod. That give into and join the mocking from the great and spacious building and lose their way. What is to be done? Follow the prophet. Read and really ponder the scriptures, and not books or podcasts about them. Invest time and effort to truly know them to know the Lord. Go to the House of the Lord with clean hands and a pure heart. Pray and repent daily, check in with the Lord to know where you stand There are red flags that should go up when any wolf in sheep's clothing tries to enlist you to their side. I exercise caution and am very careful of who I listen to or follow on social media. It has been the saddest thing to watch members that were once strong become deceived and fall away. It has taught me to be ever watchful and ever learning.

Day 3701

Today's Favorite Verse: Doctrine & Covenants 111:5, 7-8

Today's Favorite Verse: Doctrine & Covenants 111:5, 7-8
"Concern not yourselves about your debts, for I will give you power to pay them.
Tarry in this place, and in the regions round about;
And the place where it is my will that you should tarry, for the main, shall be signalized unto you by the peace and power of my Spirit, that shall flow unto you."

This made me ponder on our move to Utah. It felt right but we were struggling financially. It wasn't until someone offered to buy our land that we decided to look for a different house. It felt right to stay in the city we were initially lead to. When I saw the house we now live in, I knew this was our forever home. This is our place of refuge from life's storms. This is were peace is and the spirit is burned into the walls. Our financial challenges became more manageable. Everything just fell right into place as we started over fresh. Making sure to honor our commitment to pay a full and honest tithe and offerings. Sometimes just starting over where the Lord will lead you is the best place to begin.

I found this wonderful talk from Elder L. Tom Perry where he speaks of his challenges and how he was told to stay in the very state we moved from.

"I remember a critical time in my life and how grateful I was when a still, small voice gave me direction to make an important decision. I had been with a retail firm for a number of years. We had enjoyed extraordinary success. We wanted to expand the business but needed a great deal of capital. In an attempt to raise the money, we contacted the best financial advisers we could find. They encouraged us to merge with a larger firm. The merger was successfully completed, and I was asked to sign a five-year contract to give continuity to management. Within a matter of months I found myself in a very difficult situation. The new owners wanted me to violate a trust that I felt I just could not do. After long discussions, they continued to insist and I continued to refuse. Seeing there was no way to break the deadlock, I agreed to leave the company. The timing for me was devastating. I had a wife who was seriously ill and required a lot of medical attention, a daughter away to college, and a son on a mission. I spent the next year just getting enough consulting work to pay my expenses.
After struggling for about one year, a company called me from California and invited me to come out and talk to them about working for them. I went out and negotiated a very good contract; I was delighted with the opportunity. I told them that I had to return home and discuss it with my family before I could give an answer. I returned home and after a careful discussion, I convinced my family that it was the right thing to do. In the process of calling the firm to accept the offer, a voice just as strong and powerful as I have ever heard came to me and said, “Say no to the offer.” I could not ignore the voice, so I turned the offer down, but I was distressed. I could not comprehend why I had been told to do such a thing. I went upstairs to my bedroom, sat on the bed, opened the scriptures, and they fell open to the Doctrine and Covenants, section 111. This was the only section given in the state of Massachusetts, where my home was at that particular time. These words literally jumped out of the page and met my eye:
“Concern not yourselves about your debts, … I will give you power to pay them. …
“Tarry in this place, and in the regions round about” 
A great peace came to my soul. Within just a few days I was offered a fine position in Boston. A few months later I had the great privilege of hosting a conference in which President Harold B. Lee, then First Counselor in the First Presidency, was the featured speaker. The conference was a glorious success as we feasted on the words of President Lee. The following July, President Joseph Fielding Smith passed away and President Lee became the prophet. Three months later I was asked to come to Salt Lake, where I received a call to leave my profession and join the General Authorities.
I have often wondered what would have happened if I had not heeded the Holy Spirit in its counseling me not to leave Boston."
(L. Tom Perry, "That Spirit Which Leadeth to Do Good", Apr 1997 General Conference)

Day 3700

Today's Favorite Verse: Doctrine & Covenants 110:7-8

Today's Favorite Verse: Doctrine & Covenants 110:7-8
"For behold, I have accepted this house, and my name shall be here; and I will manifest myself to my people in mercy in this house.
Yea, I will appear unto my servants, and speak unto them with mine own voice, if my people will keep my commandments, and do not pollute this holy house."

The same is true today. After each house of the Lord has been dedicated the Lord will come to His Temple to accept it. The Payson temple was dedication on June 7, 2015. I was in first general session endowment of the Payson temple on June 9, 2015 while all ordinances were in operation when I felt the Lord's presence in the temple. I knew if I could have gotten up right then I could have walked to where He was in the temple. I knew He was accepting the operation of His temple, but I did not know where to find it in the scriptures. It wasn't until months latter when I read these verses that I received my confirmation. Later President Nelson confirmed this fact for all temples.

"Jesus Christ then declared that He had accepted the temple as His house and made this stunning promise: “I will manifest myself to my people in mercy in this house.”
This significant promise applies to every dedicated temple today. I invite you to ponder what the Lord’s promise means for you personally."
(Russell M. Nelson, "Rejoice in the Gift of Priesthood Keys", Apr 2024 General Conference)

Day 3699

Today's Favorite Verse: Doctrine & Covenants 109:22

Today's Favorite Verse: Doctrine & Covenants 109:22
"And we ask thee, Holy Father, that thy servants may go forth from this house armed with thy power, and that thy name may be upon them, and thy glory be round about them, and thine angels have charge over them;"

When I leave the temple I do not feel alone. I can feel a mighty force behind me, strengthening me. I've seen how angels that are deceased loved ones, are given power to strengthen, protect and be there for us.

"Be not forgetful to entertain strangers: for thereby some have entertained angels unawares."
(Hebrew 13:2)

"We are instructed that all who worship in the temple will have the power of God and angels having “charge over them.” How much does it increase your confidence to know that, as an endowed woman or man armed with the power of God, you do not have to face life alone? What courage does it give you to know that angels really will help you?"
(Russell M. Nelson, "Rejoice in the Gift of Priesthood Keys", Apr 2024 General Conference)

Day 3698

Today's Favorite Verse: Doctrine & Covenants 108:1-2

Today's Favorite Verse: Doctrine & Covenants 108:1-2
"Verily thus saith the Lord unto you, my servant Lyman: Your sins are forgiven you, because you have obeyed my voice in coming up hither this morning to receive counsel of him whom I have appointed.
Therefore, let your soul be at rest concerning your spiritual standing, and resist no more my voice."

I pondered on we can all know our standing before the Lord. We do not need a revelation to be received for us. We can inquire for ourselves at any time through honest and sincere prayer. This is one thing the Lord will tell the humble seeker. He will especially impress on us if there are things that need correction. If we have not received personal revelation then fasting and prayer is needed.

Day 3697

Today's Favorite Verse: Doctrine & Covenants 107:93-97

Today's Favorite Verse: Doctrine & Covenants 107:93-97
"And it is according to the vision showing the order of the Seventy, that they should have seven presidents to preside over them, chosen out of the number of the seventy;
And the seventh president of these presidents is to preside over the six;
And these seven presidents are to choose other seventy besides the first seventy to whom they belong, and are to preside over them;
And also other seventy, until seven times seventy, if the labor in the vineyard of necessity requires it.
And these seventy are to be traveling ministers, unto the Gentiles first and also unto the Jews."

This is a very long chapter on the priesthood. It explains the order of the Melchizedek and Aaronic priesthood. As I was reviewing this I thought about how I see the organization of the church runs like this now. At the time this revelation on the priesthood was received it must of seemed so vast to them. In May of 1835 there were approximately 8,835 members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. What must they have thought of the traveling Seventy? How there could be seven times seventy of them called, as much a needed. We have now twelve quorums of the Seventy, though they are not all completely full of seventy men.

I have wondered how many have been called over time as the Presidency of the Seventy, Quorum of the Seventies, and Area Seventies. I have watched these faithful men for I do not feel their role is a stretch to be the 144,000 the Lord spoke of.

"And I heard the number of them which were sealed: and there were sealed an hundred and forty and four thousand of all the tribes of the children of Israel."
(Revelation 7:4)

"Q. What are we to understand by sealing the one hundred and forty-four thousand, out of all the tribes of Israel—twelve thousand out of every tribe?
A. We are to understand that those who are sealed are high priests, ordained unto the holy order of God, to administer the everlasting gospel; for they are they who are ordained out of every nation, kindred, tongue, and people, by the angels to whom is given power over the nations of the earth, to bring as many as will come to the church of the Firstborn."
(Doctrine and Covenants 77:11)

Day 3696

Today's Favorite Verse: Doctrine & Covenants 106:4-5

Today's Favorite Verse: Doctrine & Covenants 106:4-5
"And again, verily I say unto you, the coming of the Lord draweth nigh, and it overtaketh the world as a thief in the night—
Therefore, gird up your loins, that you may be the children of light, and that day shall not overtake you as a thief."

In the scriptures we see that God always warns his people before destruction comes. He will send prophets as his messengers. I pondered on one thing that will keep people unaware and uninformed and be overtaken as a thief in the night is by not knowing there are prophets on the earth. The Lord's prophet today is Russell M. Nelson. He is the 17th President and Prophet of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Prophets are on the earth and speak the words of God. We are being warned to prepare for the Second Coming of the Lord Jesus Christ. The warning has become so much louder and clearer since President Nelson became the prophet in January 2018. I know if I listen and prepare as we have been told in general conference that I will not be overtaken unaware.

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

"It is a merciful characteristic of our Heavenly Father that He brings to pass upon the human family no event affecting their eternal welfare, but He first sends Prophets to prepare the way, to give the people a warning that such and such things are coming to pass, that they may be prepared for them and not be caught napping by the suddenness of their coming, even as a thief in the night. We read that as it was in the days of Noah, so shall it be in the days of the coming of the Son of Man. What was done in the days of Noah? A prophet—Noah himself—was raised up and sent forth to preach a warning message to the children of men"
(Orson F. Whitney, "Prophecy of John the Revelator, Etc." JD 26:260)

"Elder Craig C. Christensen of the Presidency of the Seventy taught:
“To become children of light means to reject the power of the adversary and to choose daily to follow the Light of Christ.
“The phrase ‘children of light’ describes a people in whom the light of the gospel shines brightly. It describes a people who seek the light and are drawn to that which is virtuous, clean, and pure. There is an expectation that children of light are alert and watchful—not sleeping, in a spiritual sense, when they should be awake. Children of light do not sit passively in darkness; they have the courage to stand up and stand out. When the adversary comes looming, children of light know when to fight back, when to say no, and when to simply walk away. …
“You don’t have to wait until you are perfect before you can be a light to the world. Becoming children of light is a process, much like the process of conversion. …
“As children of light, we have the obligation of making this world a holier and happier place for our having lived in it”
(Elder Craig C. Christensen “Becoming Children of Light”, Ensign, Aug. 2014, 67, 69).

"Brothers and sisters, as the world grows more wicked, we need to grow increasingly pure. Our thoughts, words, and actions need to be unfailingly virtuous and filled with the pure love of Jesus Christ towards all men. The great opportunity before us is to become the people God needs us to be.
Regular worship in the house of the Lord increases our capacity for both virtue and charity. Thus, time in the temple increases our confidence before the Lord. Increased time in the temple will help us prepare for the Second Coming of our Savior, Jesus Christ. We do not know the day or the hour of His coming. But I do know that the Lord is prompting me to urge us to get ready for that “great and dreadful day.
...I testify that Jesus Christ, the Redeemer of Israel, leads this, His Church. He is preparing to come again. May we likewise prepare to receive Him. For this I pray in the name of Jesus Christ, amen.”
(Russell M. Nelson, "Confidence in the Presence of God", Apr 2025 General Conference)

Day 3695

Today's Favorite Verse: Doctrine & Covenants 105:9-11

Today's Favorite Verse: Doctrine & Covenants 105:9-11
"Therefore, in consequence of the transgressions of my people, it is expedient in me that mine elders should wait for a little season for the redemption of Zion—
That they themselves may be prepared, and that my people may be taught more perfectly, and have experience, and know more perfectly concerning their duty, and the things which I require at their hands.
And this cannot be brought to pass until mine elders are endowed with power from on high."

This is the chapter on Zion's Camp. Many great leaders of the Church experienced that fateful march from Ohio to Missouri. The purpose was to escort the expelled Missouri Saints back to their lands in Jackson County. Overall it would have appeared to fail in its mission. In reality it prepared men of God to be obedient to God. There was much to learn. They needed to be endowed with power from on high. Temple blessings had not yet come to the Saints. I pondered on how that preparation has been ongoing all these years later.

"Elder Bruce R. McConkie (1915–1985) of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles taught about what Church members need to do during that “little season” before Zion is redeemed:
“A little season—how long will it last? Will it be two hundred years? or three hundred? Though the day of the Second Coming is fixed, the day for the redemption of Zion depends upon us. After we as a people live the law of the celestial kingdom; after we gain the needed experience and learn our duties; after we become by faith and obedience as were our fellow saints in the days of Enoch; after we are worthy to be translated, if the purposes of the Lord should call for such a course in this day—then Zion will be redeemed, and not before.“
‘This cannot be brought to pass until mine elders are endowed with power from on high. For behold, I have prepared a great endowment and blessing to be poured out upon them, inasmuch as they are faithful and continue in humility before me’ [D&C 105:11–12]. As of this time the ordinances of the house of the Lord had not been revealed, and the endowment of power from on high received through them was needed in the heavenly work that lay ahead. ‘Therefore it is expedient in me that mine elders should wait for a little season, for the redemption of Zion’ [D&C 105:13]. And so we wait, wondering the while how long the ‘little season’ is destined to last. As to its length, we cannot say. This much only do we know: the ‘little season’ is the appointed period of preparation for the Latter-day Saints. In it we must attain the same spiritual stature enjoyed by those who built the original Zion. Then and then only will we build our latter-day City of Holiness” (A New Witness for the Articles of Faith [1985], 616)."
(Doctrine and Covenants Student Manual, "Chapter 41: Doctrine and Covenants 103; 105", "Wait for a little season for the redemption of Zion")

Day 3694

Today's Favorite Verse: Doctrine & Covenants 104:78-80

Today's Favorite Verse: Doctrine & Covenants 104:78-80
"And again, verily I say unto you, concerning your debts—behold it is my will that you shall pay all your debts.
And it is my will that you shall humble yourselves before me, and obtain this blessing by your diligence and humility and the prayer of faith.
And inasmuch as you are diligent and humble, and exercise the prayer of faith, behold, I will soften the hearts of those to whom you are in debt, until I shall send means unto you for your deliverance."

I have heard this scripture misquoted. With some thinking the Lord is displeased if we are in debt. There are times, like when purchasing a home, that one cannot pay for it all in cash. The taking out of a loan is necessary for many. What I think displeases the Lord, and is the greatest of concerns, is when we have debt and do not pay it back. When we are not even current on the monthly repayment of a loan or bill. I know through prayer and fasting, and the paying of tithes and offerings we can receive inspiration on how to pay our debts. I also know He will give us inspiration to guide us in managing our affairs and helping to avoid unnecessary debt.

Day 3693

Today's Favorite Verse: Doctrine & Covenants 103:31

Today's Favorite Verse: Doctrine & Covenants 103:31
"Behold this is my will; ask and ye shall receive; but men do not always do my will."

This reminded me of our discussion in Relief Society today. That sometimes we don't receive answers to our prayers because we are not willing to do what the Lord requires of us. Why should He answer if we are not willing to listen and do?

"In the spring of 1820, a young boy named Joseph Smith went into the woods near his home to pray. He had questions regarding the salvation of his soul, and he yearned “to know which of all the [churches] was right, that [he] might know which to join.” Joseph trusted that God would answer his prayer and direct him.
Please note that Joseph did not pray merely to know what was right. Rather, he prayed to know what was right so he could do what was right. Joseph asked in faith and was determined to act in accordance with the answers he received."
(David A. Bednar, "The Times of Restitution of All Things", Apr 2025 General Conference)

Day 3692

Today's Favorite Verse: Doctrine & Covenants 102:15-18

Today's Favorite Verse: Doctrine & Covenants 102:15-18
"The accused, in all cases, has a right to one-half of the council, to prevent insult or injustice.
And the councilors appointed to speak before the council are to present the case, after the evidence is examined, in its true light before the council; and every man is to speak according to equity and justice.
Those councilors who draw even numbers, that is, 2, 4, 6, 8, 10, and 12, are the individuals who are to stand up in behalf of the accused, and prevent insult and injustice.
In all cases the accuser and the accused shall have a privilege of speaking for themselves before the council, after the evidences are heard and the councilors who are appointed to speak on the case have finished their remarks."

This chapter is on the organization of the high council and their role is settling important difficulties which might arise in the church. I have never experienced this side of the church, but its organization and order is a comfort to me. If I was ever falsely accused of something serious and had to go before the high council I would be so happy to know 6 of the 12 were to speak for me and insure justice.

Day 3691

Today's Favorite Verse: Doctrine & Covenants 101:64-66

Today's Favorite Verse: Doctrine & Covenants 101:64-66
"That the work of the gathering together of my saints may continue, that I may build them up unto my name upon holy places; for the time of harvest is come, and my word must needs be fulfilled.
Therefore, I must gather together my people, according to the parable of the wheat and the tares, that the wheat may be secured in the garners to possess eternal life, and be crowned with celestial glory, when I shall come in the kingdom of my Father to reward every man according as his work shall be;
While the tares shall be bound in bundles, and their bands made strong, that they may be burned with unquenchable fire.

Most unfair chapter to pick a favorite. So may wonderful verses to ponder on. I selected this one because it gave me a new thought. As I pondered on the wheat being gathered and secured in the garners it made me think, "They are in the temples. They are in the House of the Lord." We must be a temple going people.

"Behold, it is my will, that all they who call on my name, and worship me according to mine everlasting gospel, should gather together, and stand in holy places;
And prepare for the revelation which is to come, when the veil of the covering of my temple, in my tabernacle, which hideth the earth, shall be taken off, and all flesh shall see me together."
(Doctrine and Covenants 101:22-23)

Day 3690

Today's Favorite Verse: Doctrine & Covenants 100:11

Today's Favorite Verse: Doctrine & Covenants 100:11
"And I will give unto thee power to be mighty in expounding all scriptures, that thou mayest be a spokesman unto him, and he shall be a revelator unto thee, that thou mayest know the certainty of all things pertaining to the things of my kingdom on the earth."

The power to expound all scriptures made me think of Bruce R. McConkie and his role in helping to develop the 1979/1981 edition of the Latter-day Saint Bible, Book of Mormon and Doctrine and Covenants. With his inspired understanding of the scriptures he was able to write all the chapter headings. How I depend on them. This made me find the BYUtv show "That Promised Day: The Coming Forth of the LDS Scriptures". The Lord truly put in place the right people able to make the scriptures "one in thine hand".

"Moreover, thou son of man, take thee one stick, and write upon it, For Judah, and for the children of Israel his companions: the take another stick, and write upon it, For Joseph, the stick of Ephram, and for all the house of Israel his companions.
And join them one to another into one stick; and they shall become one in thine hand"
(Ezekiel 37:16-17)

Then Elder Thomas S. Monson was a printer and understood page layout, format, styles and type. Elder Bruce R. McConkie was an expert on the doctrine. He oversaw the footnotes, chapter headings, JST, and dictionary. Elder Boyd K. Packer oversaw that it be affordable and able to be handled, he also oversaw the topical guide and concordance. The talents and gifts of these apostles and all the others involved in this undertaking were absolutely given power to be mighty in expounding all scriptures. I cannot image how much I would be lacking if I did not have ability to cross reference these scriptures to learn and study from them.

"Never since the day of Joseph Smith...has there been such an opportunity to increase gospel scholarship as has now come to those who have our new English editions of the scriptures"
(Elder Bruce R. McConkie)

"However talented men may be in administrative matters [or] worldly things - they will be denied the sweet whisperings of the spirit that might have been theirs unless they pay the price of studying, pondering, and praying about the scriptures."
(Elder Bruce R. McConkie)

Day 3689

Today's Favorite Verse: Doctrine & Covenants 99:2

Today's Favorite Verse: Doctrine & Covenants 99:2
"And who receiveth you receiveth me; and you shall have power to declare my word in the demonstration of my Holy Spirit."

I thought about honoring and sustaining the leaders of the church. It made me recall an incident several years ago where I heard others speak against the counsel given us by the Area Presidency. They thought they knew better than them. When leaders are speaking in the capacity of their callings we can't dismiss them. They weren't speaking as a man, they were speaking under the guidance of the Holy Ghost. This was their stewardship and calling, and it was good advice. Getting caught in those types of conversations makes me extremely uncomfortable. It's not my place to call them out, nor do I want to appear to be in agreement by remaining silent. I just have to excuse myself, or try to redirect the discussion. What is foremost in my mind is this temple recommend interview question.

4. Do you sustain the President of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints as the prophet, seer, and revelator and as the only person on the earth authorized to exercise all priesthood keys?
Do you sustain the members of the First Presidency and the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles as prophets, seers, and revelators?
Do you sustain the other General Authorities and local leaders of the Church?

Day 3688

Today's Favorite Verse: Doctrine & Covenants 98:16

Today's Favorite Verse: Doctrine & Covenants 98:16
"Therefore, renounce war and proclaim peace, and seek diligently to turn the hearts of the children to their fathers, and the hearts of the fathers to the children;"

This verse made me see exactly the direction President Nelson has given us in his general conference talks. We are told to be peacemakers. We are also counseled to work on our family history. I have thought many times as I am researching my ancestors how this allows my heart and focus to be on other things than what is happening in the world. It is a safe place a holy place, for my thoughts and actions. Then as this effort brings me to the house of the Lord, to perform vicarious ordinances for my kindred dead, I know this is all a great plan. The prophet truly is speaking the words of the Lord, for in the scriptures I can #HearHim.

"Now, as members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, what does the Lord expect of us? As a Church, we must “renounce war and proclaim peace.” As individuals, we should “follow after the things which make for peace.” We should be personal peacemakers. We should live peacefully—as couples, families, and neighbors. We should live by the Golden Rule. We have writings of the descendants of Judah as now merged with writings of the descendants of Ephraim. We should employ them and expand our circle of love to embrace the whole human family. We should bring divine love and revealed doctrines of restored religion to our neighbors and friends. We should serve them according to our abilities and opportunities. We should keep our principles on a high level and stand for the right. We should continue to gather scattered Israel from the four corners of the earth and offer the ordinances and covenants that seal families together forever. These blessings we are to bring to people of all nations."
(Russell M. Nelson, "Blessed are the Peacemakers", Oct 2022 General Conference)

Day 3687

Today's Favorite Verse: Doctrine & Covenants 97:25-26

Today's Favorite Verse: Doctrine & Covenants 97:25-26
"Nevertheless, Zion shall escape if she observe to do all things whatsoever I have commanded her.
But if she observe not to do whatsoever I have commanded her, I will visit her according to all her works, with sore affliction, with pestilence, with plague, with sword, with vengeance, with devouring fire."

These made me ponder on the importance of listening to a prophet. Something so simple as looking at a brass serpent on a pole meant life or death to the children of Israel. The Lord didn't take away the fiery flying serpents, He prepared the way for them to be healed. That meant that good people got bit and ill. But, those that would look at the serpent were healed, as those that will look to Christ will live. With all that is coming its now more important than ever to listen to the counsel of a prophet. To take to heart the words he speaks at general conference and be obedient. To prepare ourselves to be the Zion people, the pure in heart.

"We do not say that all of the Saints will be spared and saved from the coming day of desolation. But we do say there is no promise of safety and no promise of security except for those who love the Lord and who are seeking to do all that he commands.
It may be, for instance, that nothing except the power of faith and the authority of the priesthood can save individuals and congregations from the atomic holocausts that surely shall be.And so we raise the warning voice and say: Take heed; prepare; watch and be ready. There is no security in any course except the course of obedience and conformity and righteousness."
(Bruce R. McConkie, "Stand Independent above All Other Creatures", Apr 1979 General Conference)

“… Zion can be built up only among those who are the pure in heart, not a people torn by covetousness or greed, but a pure and selfless people. Not a people who are pure in appearance, rather a people who are pure in heart. Zion is to be in the world and not of the world, not dulled by a sense of carnal security, nor paralyzed by materialism. No, Zion is not things of the lower, but of the higher order, things that exalt the mind and sanctify the heart”
(President Spencer W. Kimball, "Becoming the Pure in Heart", Apr 1978 General Conference)

Day 3686

Today's Favorite Verse: Doctrine & Covenants 96:1-2

Today's Favorite Verse: Doctrine & Covenants 96:1-2
"Behold, I say unto you, here is wisdom, whereby ye may know how to act concerning this matter, for it is expedient in me that this stake that I have set for the strength of Zion should be made strong.
Behold, I say unto you, here is wisdom, whereby ye may know how to act concerning this matter, for it is expedient in me that this stake that I have set for the strength of Zion should be made strong. "

The chapter header gives some background on what this revelation is regarding.

"The occasion was a conference of high priests, and the chief subject of consideration was the disposal of certain lands, known as the French farm, possessed by the Church near Kirtland. Since the conference could not agree who should take charge of the farm, all agreed to inquire of the Lord concerning the matter."

All could not agree on the care of the farm, but they could agree to ask the Lord. This revelation is another example on how the Lord is directing His church. It is an example of studying an issue out in our minds, or in quorums, and then inquiring of the Lord.

"If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him."
(James 1:5)

Day 3685

Today's Favorite Verse: Doctrine & Covenants 95:8

Today's Favorite Verse: Doctrine & Covenants 95:8
"Yea, verily I say unto you, I gave unto you a commandment that you should build a house, in the which house I design to endow those whom I have chosen with power from on high;"

I pondered on how the saint probably didn't understand all that this verse meant. How they would receive power from on high. Then I thought of how some don't understand that today. Found this nice quote regarding what an endowment is.

"President Joseph Fielding Smith (1876–1972) taught the following: “The Kirtland Temple was necessary before the [Lord’s servants] could receive the endowment which the Lord had in store for them. The elders had been out preaching the Gospel and crying repentance ever since the Church was organized and many great men had heard and embraced the truth, nevertheless the elders could not go forth in the power and authority which the Lord intended them to possess until this Temple was built where he could restore keys and powers essential to the more complete preaching of the Gospel and the administering of its ordinances” (Church History and Modern Revelation [1953], 1:406).
In temples today, the Lord continues to endow His servants with power and prepare them to accomplish His sacred work of salvation. Elder M. Russell Ballard of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles described the blessings of being endowed with power in the Lord’s temple:
“When men and women go to the temple, they are both endowed with the same power, which by definition is priesthood power. …
“Our Father in Heaven is generous with His power. All men and all women have access to this power for help in their lives. All who have made sacred covenants with the Lord and who honor those covenants are eligible to receive personal revelation, to be blessed by the ministering of angels, to commune with God, to receive the fulness of the gospel, and, ultimately, to become heirs alongside Jesus Christ of all our Father has” (“Men and Women and Priesthood Power,” Ensign, Sept. 2014, 32).
(Doctrine and Covenant Student Manual, Chapter 37: Doctrine and Covenants 95)

Day 3684

Today's Favorite Verse: Doctrine & Covenants 94:1-2, 5-6

Today's Favorite Verse: Doctrine & Covenants 94:1-2, 5-6
"And again, verily I say unto you, my friends, a commandment I give unto you, that ye shall commence a work of laying out and preparing a beginning and foundation of the city of the stake of Zion, here in the land of Kirtland, beginning at my house.
And behold, it must be done according to the pattern which I have given unto you.
And there shall be a lower court and a higher court, according to the pattern which shall be given unto you hereafter.
And it shall be dedicated unto the Lord from the foundation thereof, according to the order of the priesthood, according to the pattern which shall be given unto you hereafter. "

The word that stood out to me was pattern. The Lord is commanding the saints to build His House. A House of the Lord had not stood since Herod's temple was destroyed in 70 AD. First, I'm not sure the saints knew exactly what they were commanded to build. This was a matter of importance and the House of the Lord needed instructions. By revelation the pattern was revealed. The Lord has established the giving of patterns before to man. I reflected on how Adam was commanded to build an altar and to make sacrifices. Noah was shown how to build the ark that would save his family from the floods. Moses was shown how to build the tabernacle and all the items in it. David was shown the pattern for the House of the Lord and instructed his son Solomon who was worthy to build it.

"Who serve unto the example and shadow of heavenly things, as Moses was admonished of God when he was about to make the tabernacle: for, See, saith he, that thou make all things according to the pattern shewed to thee in the mount."
(Hebrews 8:5)

"According to all that I shew thee, after the pattern of the tabernacle, and the pattern of all the instruments thereof, even so shall ye make it.
And look that thou make them after their pattern, which was shewed thee in the mount."
(Exodus 25:9, 40)

"Then David gave to Solomon his son the pattern of the porch, and of the houses thereof, and of the treasuries thereof, and of the upper chambers thereof, and of the inner parlours thereof, and of the place of the mercy seat,
And the pattern of all that he had by the spirit, of the courts of the house of the LORD, and of all the chambers round about, of the treasuries of the house of God, and of the treasuries of the dedicated things:"
(1 Chronicles 28:11-12)

I pondered on how patterns in building the House of the Lord is used today. I can typically enter a new temple and take comfort that I will soon know my way around. I thought of how layouts may change, but what takes place in each has not. There have been marvelous revelations on how more temples could be built quicker and less costly for a time so more saints could receive their blessings. I love the story of President Gordon B. Hinckley and the searching for land for the Hong Kong temple.

"The group was exhausted from the rigorous day of prayerfully reviewing the various properties. President Hinckley retired to his hotel room and requested that Elders Brough and Carmack come back the next morning to further discuss the matter. It was apparent that the Area Presidency had yet to find a solution President Hinckley could accept.
("How the Hong Kong Temple Came to Be", December 2006 Ensign)

[President Hinckley] referring to his experience.... "He went to bed...feeling unsettled about the decision he needed to make. Then the whisperings of the Spirit woke him up early the next morning.

Something very interesting came to my mind, he recorded in his journal. I did not hear a voice with my natural ears. But into my mind there came the voice of the Spirit. It said, Why are you worried about this? You have a wonderful piece of property where the mission home and the small chapel stand. They are in the very heart of Kowloon, in the location with the best transportation... Build a building of [several] stories. It can include a chapel and classrooms on the first two floors and a temple on the top two or three floors. Having received that revelation, President Hinckley said, I relaxed and went back to sleep."
("Teachings of Presidents of the Church: Gordon B. Hinckley", chapter 7, "The Whisperings of the Spirit")

Day 3683