Today's Favorite Verse: Mark 9:9-10

Today's Favorite Verse: Mark 9:9-10
"And as they came down from the mountain, he charged them that they should tell no man what things they had seen, till the Son of man were risen from the dead.
And they kept that saying with themselves, questioning one with another what the rising from the dead should mean."

I pondered on how Peter, James and John may have not understood at the time what rising from the dead would mean. Though I am sure they understood it when they saw the resurrected Lord. As we are drawing closer to the second coming things I used to envision are not coming about like I imagined. Yet, as I see things I recognize how they fit. I have stopped trying to figure out any timelines or how things will happen. I know after the Lord comes he will explain all things. Until then I will watch and be ready.

Day 4090

Today's Favorite Verse: Mark 8:11-12

Today's Favorite Verse: Mark 8:11-12
"And the Pharisees came forth, and began to question with him, seeking of him a sign from heaven, tempting him.
And he sighed deeply in his spirit, and saith, Why doth this generation seek after a sign? verily I say unto you, There shall no sign be given unto this generation."

It was the part of Jesus sighing deeply that I paused at. He sounded rather tired of the Pharisees. He wasn't telling them anything knew. They should have already understood the issues with seeking signs. In Matthew it records who Jesus said would seek after a sign.

"A wicked and adulterous generation seeketh after a sign; and there shall no sign be given unto it, but the sign of the prophet Jonas. And he left them, and departed."
(Matthew 16:4)

There were other scriptures referenced in these verses.

"For verily I say unto you, they are given for the benefit of those who love me and keep all my commandments, and him that seeketh so to do; that all may be benefited that seek or that ask of me, that ask and not for a sign that they may consume it upon their lusts."
(Doctrine and Covenants 46:9)

"And he that seeketh signs shall see signs, but not unto salvation.
Verily, I say unto you, there are those among you who seek signs, and there have been such even from the beginning;
But, behold, faith cometh not by signs, but signs follow those that believe.
Yea, signs come by faith, not by the will of men, nor as they please, but by the will of God.
Yea, signs come by faith, unto mighty works, for without faith no man pleaseth God; and with whom God is angry he is not well pleased; wherefore, unto such he showeth no signs, only in wrath unto their condemnation."
(Doctrine and Covenants 63:7-11)

Day 4089

Today's Favorite Verse: Mark 7:8-9

Today's Favorite Verse: Mark 7:8-9
"For laying aside the commandment of God, ye hold the tradition of men, as the washing of pots and cups: and many other such like things ye do.
And he said unto them, Full well ye reject the commandment of God, that ye may keep your own tradition."

This made me think of culture and traditions that we may assume are commandments but are not. The example of washing of pots and hands were not part of the law of Moses or commandments. They maybe good things to do for cleanliness sake, but not something you sin over. Many times I've told my children that something was a cultural tradition, and not an official position of the church.

For example it's a cultural tradition that deacons wear a white shirt when passing the sacrament. President David O. McKay taught that a white shirt contributes to the sacredness of the holy sacrament, but was never a requirement. While I was pondering over this, one of my children sent me a picture of a supposed new design for our chapels. The sacrament table was in the front beneath the pulpit. To me the source looked questionable so I don't give it much value. What was more important for me to note to my child is that there is nothing special in the layout of the chapel. I would call it tradition. I've attended sacrament in many interesting locations. We had sacrament for several months in the middle of the field where our chapel was going to be built. That winter we met in an auction barn. The important thing is meeting together and partaking of the sacrament. The building is just fluff. If moving the sacrament table helps members focus more intently on what it represents then its fine with me. I keep my eyes closed the whole time anyways.

Day 4088

Today's Favorite Verse: Mark 6:13

Today's Favorite Verse: Mark 6:13
" And they cast out many devils, and anointed with oil many that were sick, and healed them."

I learned something new, this is the only mention in the scriptures of the Savior's Apostles anointing the sick with oil when administering to them.

President Dallin H. Oaks taught that miraculous healings happen today, just as in biblical times, through the power of the priesthood:
“Miracles happen when the authority of the priesthood is used to bless the sick. I have experienced these miracles. As a boy and as a man I have seen healings as miraculous as any recorded in the scriptures, and so have many of you. …
“The Old Testament frequently mentions anointing with oil as part of a blessing conferred by priesthood authority. Anointings were declared to be for sanctification and perhaps can also be seen as symbolic of the blessings to be poured out from heaven as a result of this sacred act.
“In the New Testament we read that Jesus’s Apostles ‘anointed with oil many that were sick, and healed them’ (Mark 6:13). The book of James teaches the role of anointing in connection with the other elements in a healing blessing by priesthood authority:
“‘Is any sick among you? let him call for the elders of the church; and let them pray over him, anointing him with oil in the name of the Lord:
“‘And the prayer of faith shall save the sick, and the Lord shall raise him up’ (James 5:14–15).
“ … When elders anoint a sick person and seal the anointing, they open the windows of heaven for the Lord to pour forth the blessing He wills for the person afflicted” (“Healing the Sick,” Ensign or Liahona, May 2010, 48).
(New Testament Student Manual, "Chapter 12: Mark 5-7")

Day 4087

Today's Favorite Verse: Mark 5:39-40

Today's Favorite Verse: Mark 5:39-40
"And when he was come in, he saith unto them, Why make ye this ado, and weep? the damsel is not dead, but sleepeth.
And they laughed him to scorn. But when he had put them all out, he taketh the father and the mother of the damsel, and them that were with him, and entereth in where the damsel was lying."

I pondered on laughing and ridiculing things that require faith. The Savior put them all out. They could not be present while he performed a miraculous miracle. It would be like casting pearls before swine. In some ways they were no different than the legion cast into the swine. Spiritual they had cast themselves into the deep and drown. They would not witness Jesus raising Jairus' daughter from the dead. Then he charged those that attended that no man should know what had happened. How many times do we miss miracles happening around us because of not only our lack of faith but our mocking of it too?

Day 4086

Today's Favorite Verse: Mark 4:8

Today's Favorite Verse: Mark 4:8
"And other fell on good ground, and did yield fruit that sprang up and increased; and brought forth, some thirty, and some sixty, and some an hundred."

It made me think of this verse.

"Wherefore by their fruits ye shall know them." (Matthew 7:20)

It reminded me of a talk given by a young service missionary during Stake Conference yesterday. He is serving at the FamilySearch Center, and mentioned while serving there they will experience more baptisms than the proselyting missionaries. Of course, those that we perform vicious baptism for the dead need to accept what was done in their behalf, but I had never thought about it that way. I reflected on the living that I was instrumental in their conversion and baptism into the church, and then those that I have researched, entered into FamilySearch, prepared their names for baptism and then participated in their ordinances. The work beyond the veil has been bountiful. They are the reason I returned after my near-death experience. This is my life's work and fruit.

"And if it so be that you should labor all your days in crying repentance unto this people, and bring, save it be one soul unto me, how great shall be your joy with him in the kingdom of my Father!
And now, if your joy will be great with one soul that you have brought unto me into the kingdom of my Father, how great will be your joy if you should bring many souls unto me!"
(Doctrine and Covenants 18:15-16)

Day 4085

Today's Favorite Verse: Mark 3:2

Today's Favorite Verse: Mark 3:2
"And they watched him, whether he would heal him on the sabbath day; that they might accuse him."

I pondered on watching people. They did it so they could find fault and accuse Him.

"They Watched Him", the Greek word translated “watched” implies that the Pharisees were scrutinizing Jesus with malicious intent. They had come to the synagogue not to worship, but to find fault.
(New Testament Student Manual, "Chapter 11: Mark 1-4")

When we watch to find fault we are no better than the Pharisees. I know I have been guilty of this. There is an incredible difference in your spirit and peace when you stop it. There will always be a temptation to judge others. The first step is to realize that is what we are doing.

Day 4084

Today's Favorite Verse: Mark 2:15

Today's Favorite Verse: Mark 2:15
"And it came to pass, that, as Jesus sat at meat in his house, many publicans and sinners sat also together with Jesus and his disciples: for there were many, and they followed him."

I hadn't noticed the part of "they followed him". So that means the publicans and sinners in order to follow Christ would have repented. Would the Pharisees feel people could never repent and turn from their past sins?

"In the ancient Near East, sharing a meal with others meant much more than simply eating and drinking together. It was a sign of fellowship; it indicated that a bond of friendship and peace existed or was at least being offered. The Savior often used the occasion of sharing a meal to extend the invitation to repent and obtain forgiveness. On a number of these occasions, pious Jews criticized Jesus for dining in fellowship with people they regarded as sinners.
Those regarded by the pious Jews as “sinners” could have included not only people guilty of breaking commandments but also people who did not live in accordance with the Pharisees’ traditions—people whose daily work was considered unholy (like publicans) and people who were not Israelites (like Samaritans and Gentiles; see Acts 10:28)."
(New Testament Student Manual, "Chapter 11: Mark 1-4")

Day 4083

Today's Favorite Verse: Mark 1:14-15

Today's Favorite Verse: Mark 1:14-15
"Now after that John was put in prison, Jesus came into Galilee, preaching the gospel of the kingdom of God,
And saying, The time is fulfilled, and the kingdom of God is at hand: repent ye, and believe the gospel."

I pondered on how the Jews must have felt to hear these words. They had been practicing the law of Moses for almost 1,500 years. The time for it to be fulfilled had arrived. How different this must have all felt to them. Some would not accept Jesus as the promised Messiah, nor his gospel. Yet those that did had to have extreme faith and belief. I know it's hard for me to comprehend how they must have felt. It is fitting that the gospel begins with the baptism of Jesus Christ. The only perfect man to walk the earth, that did not need repentance, yet to not be baptized would not have fulfilled all righteousness. He set the ultimate example.

Day 4082

Today's Favorite Verse: Matthew 28:6

Today's Favorite Verse: Matthew 28:6
"He is not here: for he is risen, as he said. Come, see the place where the Lord lay."

These are some of the most wonderful words spoken by an angel "he is risen". He is risen as he said he would. The Lord keeps all his promises.

Day 4081

Today's Favorite Verse: Matthew 27:3-4

Today's Favorite Verse: Matthew 27:3-4
"Then Judas, which had betrayed him, when he saw that he was condemned, repented himself, and brought again the thirty pieces of silver to the chief priests and elders,
Saying, I have sinned in that I have betrayed the innocent blood. And they said, What is that to us? see thou to that."

What did Judas think was going to happen when he turned Jesus over to the chief priests and elders? This is the first time I thought of Judas and his motivation. It wasn't until Judas saw Jesus was condemned that he appears to wake to his awful situation of having betrayed Him. Did he think he would get money for turning Jesus over and Jesus was going to provide a miracle to get out of the situation? Did the chief priests and elders tell Judas something that made him think turning Jesus over wouldn't mean his death? Judas had asked them to lead him away safely.

"And he that betrayed him had given them a token, saying, Whomsoever I shall kiss, that same is he; take him, and lead him away safely." (Mark 14:44)

It's all very curious and something the scriptures do not say. Only Judas could tell that story and he hanged himself before speaking to the other apostles. The chief priests and elders would never tell anyone if they had deceived Judas on their intent.

Thinking about it, it makes more sense why at the last super when Jesus said "that one of you shall betray me", that Judas asked "Master, is it I?" That makes me think Judas didn't think he was betraying Christ. So I ask myself what can we learn from Judas?

As I reflected on this I think Judas' words are the best to ask ourselves, "is it I?" We should never be so prideful to not think we could fall. We must ever be watchful. Don't associate with those that would destroy your faith in Christ. We should counsel with the Lord if the path does not see clear. When Jesus said one would betray him, how different the story would have been if Judas had recognize himself. There were warnings to be careful and opportunities for Judas to change direction.

Day 4080

Today's Favorite Verse: Matthew 26:72-75

Today's Favorite Verse: Matthew 26:72-75
"And again he denied with an oath, I do not know the man.
And after a while came unto him they that stood by, and said to Peter, Surely thou also art one of them; for thy speech bewrayeth thee.
Then began he to curse and to swear, saying, I know not the man. And immediately the cock crew.
And Peter remembered the word of Jesus, which said unto him, Before the cock crow, thou shalt deny me thrice. And he went out, and wept bitterly."

I added this note to my scriptures. It helps me to understand how important it was that Peter as of yet had not received the Holy Ghost before he denied Christ.

"If the Disciples had been endowed with the “gift of the Holy Ghost,” or “with power from on high,” at this time, their course would have been altogether different from this as the sequel abundantly proved. If Peter, who was the chief Apostle, had received the gift of the Holy Ghost, and the power and testimony thereof prior to the terrible night on which he cursed and swore and denied his Lord, (Matt. 26:69-75) the result would have been very different with him, for then he would have sinned against “light and knowledge,” and “against the Holy Ghost,” for which there is no forgiveness. The fact, therefore, that he was forgiven, after bitter tears of repentance, is an evidence that he was without the witness of the Holy Ghost, never having received it. The other disciples or apostles of Christ were precisely in the same condition, and it was not until the evening of the day on which Jesus came out of the grave, that he bestowed upon them this inestimable gift. John gives a careful description of this important event which concludes as follows: “Then said Jesus to them again, Peace be unto you: as my Father sent me, even so send I you. And when he had said this, he breathed on them, and said unto them, Receive ye the Holy Ghost: Whose soever sins ye remit, they are remitted unto them,” (John 20:21-23)
(Joseph F. Smith, "Man a Mortal and An Immortal Being, Etc.", JD 23:169)

Day 4079

Today's Favorite Verse: Matthew 25:4, 16

Today's Favorite Verse: Matthew 25:4, 16
"But the wise took oil in their vessels with their lamps.
Then he that had received the five talents went and traded with the same, and made them other five talents."

I focused on two parables in this chapter, the parable of the ten virgins and of the talents. I looked at them to see if there was a pattern. The wise virgins had oil in their lamps. In my notes I had written they had a testimony and conversion. Those that were foolish may have had a testimony but they were not converted. We cannot share our conversion for it is gained dropped by drop. So I asked myself what would the increase in the talents? Would it be those that received a testimony and were converted and then shared it with others? The increase being more converted followers of Jesus Christ. The servant with one talent just buried it. His testimony didn't grow from usery for himself or for others. Not only must we gain a testimony and be converted, we must in turn share the gospel with others to help them grown.

Day 4078

Today's Favorite Verse: Matthew 24:44

Today's Favorite Verse: Matthew 24:44
"Therefore be ye also ready: for in such an hour as ye think not the Son of man cometh."

This week on two separate occasions I had someone tell me that they didn't think the second coming was near, that is was years away. With all that is happening in the world I just don't want to put that opinion on the table. I think of this verse and remember it will be "when you think not". We have people fulfilling that prophesy all the time. I don't know when it will be but I sure am preparing for it. We are told to be ready. You cannot err if you plan as if it could be tomorrow. President Nelson told us to "Embrace the Future with Faith", and to "never stop preparing".

"What if the day of His coming were tomorrow? If we knew that we would meet the Lord tomorrow—through our premature death or through His unexpected coming—what would we do today? What confessions would we make? What practices would we discontinue? What accounts would we settle? What forgivenesses would we extend? What testimonies would we bear?
If we would do those things then, why not now? Why not seek peace while peace can be obtained? If our lamps of preparation are drawn down, let us start immediately to replenish them.
We need to make both temporal and spiritual preparation for the events prophesied at the time of the Second Coming. And the preparation most likely to be neglected is the one less visible and more difficult—the spiritual. A 72-hour kit of temporal supplies may prove valuable for earthly challenges, but, as the foolish virgins learned to their sorrow, a 24-hour kit of spiritual preparation is of greater and more enduring value."
(Dallin H. Oaks, "Preparation for the Second Coming", April 2004 General Conference)

Day 4077

Today's Favorite Verse: Matthew 23:30-31

Today's Favorite Verse: Matthew 23:30-31
"And say, If we had been in the days of our fathers, we would not have been partakers with them in the blood of the prophets.
Wherefore ye be witnesses unto yourselves, that ye are the children of them which killed the prophets."

Jesus is speaking to the Pharisees. Here they think they would not have stoned or killed the prophets if they have lived in days of their fathers. Yet, they would do far worse. They would crucify God's only begotten Son, Jesus Christ, the promised Messiah.

Day 4076

Today's Favorite Verse: Matthew 22:1, 15, 46

Today's Favorite Verse: Matthew 22:1, 15, 46
"And Jesus answered and spake unto them again by parables, and said,
Then went the Pharisees, and took counsel how they might entangle him in his talk.
And no man was able to answer him a word, neither durst any man from that day forth ask him any more questions"

The questions that were asked bring up some very important doctrine. It just wasn't what the Pharisees had in mind. Though they might not have realized it, it would only be through the inspiration of the adversary that they would stop asking questions of Jesus. They didn't want to hear truth, which is sad. They didn't want Him to teach because they would lose their standing. Questions are good, when asked in faith. Questions to raise doubt, and dismiss faith will lead to your downfall.

Day 4075

Today's Favorite Verse: Matthew 21:28-32

Today's Favorite Verse: Matthew 21:28-32
"But what think ye? A certain man had two sons; and he came to the first, and said, Son, go work to day in my vineyard.
He answered and said, I will not: but afterward he repented, and went.
And he came to the second, and said likewise. And he answered and said, I go, sir: and went not.
Whether of them twain did the will of his father? They say unto him, The first. Jesus saith unto them, Verily I say unto you, That the publicans and the harlots go into the kingdom of God before you.
For John came unto you in the way of righteousness, and ye believed him not: but the publicans and the harlots believed him: and ye, when ye had seen it, repented not afterward, that ye might believe him."

As I reflected on this I thought there will be some surprised people at the beginning of the millennium. Seeing who remains and who does not. The Lord loves those that repent, it up to use to forgive and not judge them.

"Elder Bruce R. McConkie explained the meaning of this parable:
“The Father of the sons is God himself who offers employment in his earthly vineyard to all his children. The first son, who initially refused to labor in his Father’s vineyard but later repented and served him, is symbolical of the publicans and harlots who repented of their early sins and became faithful servants in their Father’s cause. …
“The second son, who willingly accepted an assignment in the vineyard but then failed to render the appointed labors, is symbolical of the Jewish leaders who professed to be about their Father’s business but were in fact letting the vineyard degenerate. …
“[In Matthew 21:31, Jesus] … teaches in forceful and plain language that repentance is a living, abiding principle which actually works. ‘Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners.’ (1 Tim. 1:15.) What, publicans and harlots in the kingdom of God! Yes, and even the chief priests, scribes, and elders—if they also repent and keep the commandments” (Doctrinal New Testament Commentary, 1:589–90)."
(New Testament Student Manual, Chapter 7: Matthew 19-23, "The Parable of the Two Sons")

Day 4074

Today's Favorite Verse: Matthew 20:28

Today's Favorite Verse: Matthew 20:28
"Even as the Son of man came not to be ministered unto, but to minister, and to give his life a ransom for many."

I had added this note in my scriptures on this verse: "It's not about you, it's for them. To become like the Savior I must do it for them."

"This is just one example of how the Savior’s life is characterized by humble acts of service. He reminds us that He “cavme not to be ministered unto, but to minister” and then invites us to follow His example by going the extra mile, giving to those who ask of us, and loving our neighbor. When asked, “Who is my neighbour?” Christ shared the parable of the good Samaritan, with a charge to “go, and do thou likewise.”
(James E. Evanson, "Go and Do Likewise", Oct 2025 General Conference)

"Service opens a window by which we understand the life and ministry of Christ. He came to serve, as the scriptures teach, “even as the Son of man came not to be ministered unto, but to minister, and to give his life a ransom for many.”
Peter may have given the best description of the Savior’s mortal ministry in five words when he referred to Jesus, “who went about doing good.”
(M. Russell Ballard, "Precious Gift from God", April 2018 General Conference)

"While the most important aspects of redemption have to do with repentance and forgiveness, there is a very significant temporal aspect as well. Jesus is said to have gone about doing good, which included healing the sick and infirm, supplying food to hungry multitudes, and teaching a more excellent way. “The Son of man came not to be ministered unto, but to minister, and to give his life a ransom for many”.  So may we, under the influence of the Holy Spirit, go about doing good in the redemptive pattern of the Master.
This kind of redemptive work means helping people with their problems. It means befriending the poor and the weak, alleviating suffering, righting wrongs, defending truth, strengthening the rising generation, and achieving security and happiness at home. Much of our redemptive work on earth is to help others grow and achieve their just hopes and aspirations."
(D. Todd Christofferson, "Redemption", April 2013 General Conference)

Day 4073

Today's Favorite Verse: Matthew 19:23

Today's Favorite Verse: Matthew 19:23
"Then said Jesus unto his disciples, Verily I say unto you, That a rich man shall hardly enter into the kingdom of heaven."

I wondered what would be the hardest thing for a rich man to enter into the kingdom of heaven? I'm thinking it would be having humility. I think it would take a great man that is rich to acknowledge God's hand in their life and submit themselves to Him. Though a poor man can equally have the same problem. I just think having riches makes for a greater trial and struggle.

"But wo unto the rich, who are rich as to the things of the world. For because they are rich they despise the poor, and they persecute the meek, and their hearts are upon their treasures; wherefore, their treasure is their god. And behold, their treasure shall perish with them also."
(2 Nephi 9:30)

"O that he would rid you from this iniquity and abomination. And, O that ye would listen unto the word of his commands, and let not this pride of your hearts destroy your souls!
Think of your brethren like unto yourselves, and be familiar with all and free with your substance, that they may be rich like unto you.
But before ye seek for riches, seek ye for the kingdom of God.
And after ye have obtained a hope in Christ ye shall obtain riches, if ye seek them; and ye will seek them for the intent to do good—to clothe the naked, and to feed the hungry, and to liberate the captive, and administer relief to the sick and the afflicted."
(Jacob 2:16-19)

"Therefore, if you will ask of me you shall receive; if you will knock it shall be opened unto you.
Now, as you have asked, behold, I say unto you, keep my commandments, and seek to bring forth and establish the cause of Zion;
Seek not for riches but for wisdom, and behold, the mysteries of God shall be unfolded unto you, and then shall you be made rich. Behold, he that hath eternal life is rich."
(Doctrine & Covenants 6:5-7)

Day 4072

Today's Favorite Verse: Matthew 18:16

Today's Favorite Verse: Matthew 18:16
"But if he will not hear thee, then take with thee one or two more, that in the mouth of two or three witnesses every word may be established."

This verse reminded me of Elder Neil L. Anderson's recent BYU-Idaho Devotional. He spoke on a warning President Russell M. Nelson and then President Dallin H. Oaks both gave and then quoted President Henry B. Eyring on the law of witnesses, and authorized witnesses. We need to listen when warnings are repeated. I had been meaning to look at the talk by President Eyring. First, I wanted to find more scriptures on witnesses. After that I have President Eyring original quotes from his talk, and finally repeating Elder Anderson from his talk on all of them. How grateful I am to have authorized witnesses upon the earth and to be able to hear them.

"This is the third time I am coming to you. In the mouth of two or three witnesses shall every word be established."
(2 Corinthians 13:1)

"And in the mouth of three witnesses shall these things be established; and the testimony of three, and this work, in the which shall be shown forth the power of God and also his word, of which the Father, and the Son, and the Holy Ghost bear record—and all this shall stand as a testimony against the world at the last day."
(Ether 5:4)

"One witness shall not rise up against a man for any iniquity, or for any sin, in any sin that he sinneth: at the mouth of two witnesses, or at the mouth of three witnesses, shall the matter be established."
(Deuteronomy 19:15)

"It is also written in your law, that the testimony of two men is true."
(John 8:17)

"There seems to be no end to the Savior’s desire to lead us to safety. And there is constancy in the way He shows us the path. He calls by more than one means so that it will reach those willing to accept it. And those means always include sending the message by the mouths of His prophets whenever people have qualified to have the prophets of God among them. Those authorized servants are always charged with warning the people, telling them the way to safety.
One of the ways we may know that the warning is from the Lord is that the law of witnesses, authorized witnesses, has been invoked. When the words of prophets seem repetitive, that should rivet our attention and fill our hearts with gratitude to live in such a blessed time."
(Henry B. Eyring, "Finding Safety in Counsel", April 1997 General Conference)

"President Oaks began one part of his message by saying, "I feel." Whenever a prophet says, "I feel," our ears stand up. We start listening. We listen all the time, but we especially listen when he says, "I feel." And he said to emphasize the warning President Russell M. Nelson issued to us. This warning was given in April 2018. President Nelson's first general conference address after becoming the president of the church. He spoke of the conditions of our world with a very solemn warning that was repeated by President Oaks 12 days ago. And I know many of you know these words. They've been repeated many times. Here they are.
In the coming days, it will not be possible to survive spiritually without the guiding, directing, comforting, and constant influence of the Holy Ghost.
Now I wondered when it was first said, “in the coming days.” That was eight years ago. Have the coming days come? It seems possible. Today these powerful words stand as two bookends. April 1st, 2018, February 10th, 2026.
Now having been spoken by two beloved prophets of God in the past eight years, this serious warning has been repeated 13 times in general conference including five times by members of the first presidency and quorum of the 12. They have been spoken 19 times in BYU Idaho devotionals.
How many knew this citation, this quotation of President Nelson that President Oaks said last week? How many knew that before President Oaks said it last week? Yeah, it's been with us, hasn't it?
Think of it. This specific warning has been a part of the Lord's teaching to you if you're 20 years old. How many here are 20 years old right now? Raise your hand. Some of you are much older. If you're 20 years old, it's been with you since you were 12 years old at teaching.
Nearly 30 years ago, President Henry B. Eyring, who was then a member of the quorum of the 12, said something in general conference that I have not forgotten. Here's what he said: "One of the ways we may know that the warning is from the Lord is that the law of witnesses, authorized witnesses, has been invoked. When the words of the prophets seem repetitive, that should rivet our attention and fill our hearts with gratitude to live in such a blessed time."
The words that have been pressed upon my mind are the law of authorized witnesses. When repetitive, they should rivet our attention.
After quoting President Nelson 12 days ago, President Oaks issued a more sobering counsel. He said, "One of the many reasons you will need the constant influence of the Holy Ghost is that you live in a season in which the adversary has become so effective at disguising truth that if you don't have the Holy Ghost, you will be deceived. Many obstacles lie ahead. The distractions will be many."
(Elder Neil L. Andersen, "President Oaks and the Law of Witnesses", BYU-Idaho Devotional, 22 Feb 2026)

Day 4071

Today's Favorite Verse: Matthew 17:3, 10-13

Today's Favorite Verse: Matthew 17:3, 10-13
"And, behold, there appeared unto them Moses and Elias talking with him.
And his disciples asked him, saying, Why then say the scribes that Elias must first come?
And Jesus answered and said unto them, Elias truly shall first come, and restore all things.
But I say unto you, That Elias is come already, and they knew him not, but have done unto him whatsoever they listed. Likewise shall also the Son of man suffer of them.
Then the disciples understood that he spake unto them of John the Baptist."

Does this mean that on the Mount of Transfiguration that it was Moses and John the Baptist with Jesus? That is who Peter, James and John saw? The footnotes also mention Ellijah but I don't see his name in the chapter. Who is Elias? I would make sense Elias is Elijah because of the sealing power.

The Prophet Joseph Smith (1805–44) taught, “The Savior, Moses, and Elias [Elijah], gave the keys to Peter, James, and John, on the mount, when they were transfigured before him” (Teachings: Joseph Smith, 105). Also on the Mount of Transfiguration, Moses conferred the keys of the gathering of Israel on Peter, James, and John, who, as the First Presidency, would soon be sending out missionaries to gather the righteous into the gospel. Elijah conferred the sealing power of the priesthood, which made it possible for ordinances performed on earth to be bound or loosed in heaven. Joseph Smith summarized the importance of Elijah’s mission as follows: “The spirit, power, and calling of Elijah is, that ye have power to hold the key of the revelation, ordinances, oracles, powers and endowments of the fullness of the Melchizedek Priesthood and of the kingdom of God on the earth; and to receive, obtain, and perform all the ordinances belonging to the kingdom of God” (Teachings: Joseph Smith, 311).
President Joseph Fielding Smith (1876–1972) taught that Peter, James, and John did receive the sealing power, although they could not use it in behalf of the dead until after the Resurrection of the Savior:
“[The sealing power] was conferred upon Peter, James, and John. … We, therefore, conclude that the saints in that dispensation had the privilege of receiving all the keys and authorities that are necessary for the salvation and exaltation of man. However, these powers were exercised only for the living, until after the resurrection of Christ, when they were exercised also in behalf of the dead. …
“… These keys [for the salvation of the living and the dead] were given to Peter, James, and John on the mount when they received this power from Elias [Elijah] and Moses, the latter conferring the keys of the gathering of Israel. Christ told these three men, who I believe received their endowments on the mount, that they were not to mention this vision and what had taken place until after he was resurrected” (Doctrines of Salvation, 2:164–65). (New Testament Student Manual, "Chapter 6: Matthew 16–18")

Day 4070

Today's Favorite Verse: Matthew 16:28

Today's Favorite Verse: Matthew 16:28
"Verily I say unto you, There be some standing here, which shall not taste of death, till they see the Son of man coming in his kingdom."

I wonder if this is when John the Beloved formed the desire to never taste of death? To remain on the earth until the Savior would come again. Was a seed planted and then John desired it? Jesus mentioned John's desire when he visited the Nephites. Three of His disciples desired the same thing.

"And he said unto them: Behold, I know your thoughts, and ye have desired the thing which John, my beloved, who was with me in my ministry, before that I was lifted up by the Jews, desired of me.
Therefore, more blessed are ye, for ye shall never taste of death; but ye shall live to behold all the doings of the Father unto the children of men, even until all things shall be fulfilled according to the will of the Father, when I shall come in my glory with the powers of heaven."
(3 Nephi 28:6-7)

Day 4069

Today's Favorite Verse: Matthew 15:8-9

Today's Favorite Verse: Matthew 15:8-9
"This people draweth nigh unto me with their mouth, and honoureth me with their lips; but their heart is far from me.
But in vain they do worship me, teaching for doctrines the commandments of men."

I had a few examples of people that came to mind that fit this. Then I thought about how this can apply to more people than I realize. All walks of life are not immune from vain worship. It is something we all have to guard against. I can't see the inside of a person and know what's going on. Now they do at times give themselves away by pride or being hypocrites. The most telling thing is when they teach the doctrines of men. That is also the most dangerous to me. That is why I am continually pondering and learning about the gospel of Jesus Christ and his doctrine. I don't want to be deceived.

Day 4068

Today's Favorite Verse: Matthew 14:13, 23, 25

Today's Favorite Verse: Matthew 14:13, 23, 25
"When Jesus heard of it, he departed thence by ship into a desert place apart: and when the people had heard thereof, they followed him on foot out of the cities.
And when he had sent the multitudes away, he went up into a mountain apart to pray: and when the evening was come, he was there alone.
And in the fourth watch of the night Jesus went unto them, walking on the sea."

After the death of John, Jesus sought to be alone. The first time He was interrupted because people followed after him. Then He performed the miracle of the loaves and fishes and feed all of them. After the multitudes were gone He went up into the mountain to pray. Coming down afterwards He walked upon the water to his disciples. I pondered on how much Jesus was strengthened by praying and having time alone. Time alone to pray and read my personal scriptures daily really does strengthen me. This reminds of how after President Jeffrey R. Holland near-death experience he spoke about prayer. He was told to "Pray more than you pray. However much you have prayed pray more. And in however many places you've prayed, pray in more places. However many times during the day you pray, pray more times in the day."

"Ultimately, we can look to the example of the Savior, who prayed so very, very often. But it has always been intriguing to me that Jesus felt the need to pray at all. Wasn’t He perfect? About what did He need to pray? Well, I have come to realize that He too, with us, wanted to “seek [the Father’s] face, believe his word, and trust his grace.” Time after time, He retreated from society to be alone before piercing heaven with His prayers. At other times, He prayed in the company of a few companions. Then He would seek heaven on behalf of multitudes who would cover a hillside. Sometimes prayer glorified His clothing. Sometimes it glorified His countenance. Sometimes He stood to pray, sometimes He knelt, and at least once He fell on His face in prayer.
Luke describes Jesus’s descent into His expiation as requiring Him to pray “more earnestly.” How does one who was perfect pray more earnestly? We assume that all of His prayers were earnest, yet in fulfilling His atoning sacrifice and through the pain that attended its universal reach, He felt to pray ever more pleadingly, with the weight of His offering finally bringing blood from every pore."
(Jeffrey R. Holland, "Motions of a Hidden Fire", Apr 2024 General Conference)

Day 4067

Today's Favorite Verse: Matthew 13:17

Today's Favorite Verse: Matthew 13:17
"For verily I say unto you, That many prophets and righteous men have desired to see those things which ye see, and have not seen them; and to hear those things which ye hear, and have not heard them."

First, I thought of the disciples sitting there with Jesus, hearing these words. How many prophets before them had testified of the coming of Jesus Christ, and now they were the ones to live to witness it. Then that made me think about what I have been hearing about my day. I live in a time that has been long prophesied, called to participate and stand as a witnesses to these winding up scenes.

"Sometimes we think of the Restoration of the gospel as something that is complete, already behind us—Joseph Smith translated the Book of Mormon, he received priesthood keys, the Church was organized. In reality, the Restoration is an ongoing process; we are living in it right now. It includes “all that God has revealed, all that He does now reveal,” and the “many great and important things” that “He will yet reveal.” Brethren, the exciting developments of today are part of that long-foretold period of preparation that will culminate in the glorious Second Coming of our Savior, Jesus Christ.
This is one of the most remarkable periods of the world’s history! Ancient prophets yearned to see our day."
(Dieter F. Uchtdorf, "Are You Sleeping through the Restoration?", Apr 2014 General Conference)

"Prophets have foreseen our day, when there would be wars and rumors of wars and when the whole earth would be in commotion. As followers of Jesus Christ, we plead with leaders of nations to find peaceful resolutions to their differences. We call upon people everywhere to pray for those in need, to do what they can to help the distressed, and to seek the Lord’s help in ending any major conflicts.
Brothers and sisters, the gospel of Jesus Christ has never been needed more than it is today. Contention violates everything the Savior stood for and taught. I love the Lord Jesus Christ and testify that His gospel is the only enduring solution for peace. His gospel is a gospel of peace."
(Russell M. Nelson, "Preaching the Gospel of Peace", Apr 2022 General Conference)

"For centuries, prophets have foretold this gathering, and it is happening right now! As an essential prelude to the Second Coming of the Lord, it is the most important work in the world!
This premillennial gathering is an individual saga of expanding faith and spiritual courage for millions of people. And as members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, or “latter-day covenant Israel,” we have been charged to assist the Lord with this pivotal work."
(Russell M. Nelson, "Let God Prevail", Oct 2020 General Conference)

Day 4066

Today's Favorite Verse: Matthew 12:36-37

Today's Favorite Verse: Matthew 12:36-37
"But I say unto you, That every idle word that men shall speak, they shall give account thereof in the day of judgment.37 For by thy words thou shalt be justified, and by thy words thou shalt be condemned."

What are idle words? This is what I found in the footnotes.

"Be not rash with thy mouth, and let not thine heart be hasty to utter any thing before God: for God is in heaven, and thou upon earth: therefore let thy words be few."
(Ecclesiastes 5:2)

"Neither filthiness, nor foolish talking, nor jesting, which are not convenient: but rather giving of thanks."
(Ephesians 5:4)

Footnote for word = gossip
Speak = profanity
Account = accountability

"Death and life are in the power of the tongue: and they that love it shall eat the fruit thereof."
(Proverbs 18:21)

"The Savior warned that we will be judged for “every idle word that [we] shall speak”. Modern revelation commands us to cease from “light speeches” and “light-mindedness”  and to cast away “idle thoughts” and “excess of laughter”.  There are plenty of other spokesmen for trivial things. Latter-day Saints should be constantly concerned with teaching and emphasizing those great and powerful eternal truths that will help us find our way back to the presence of our Heavenly Father."
(Dallin H. Oaks, "Powerful Ideas", Oct 1995 General Conference)

Day 4065

Today's Favorite Verse: Matthew 11:2-3

Today's Favorite Verse: Matthew 11:2-3
"Now when John had heard in the prison the works of Christ, he sent two of his disciples,
And said unto him, Art thou he that should come, or do we look for another?"

I always wondered why John sent his disciples to ask if Jesus was the one they had been waiting for. Didn't John already baptize Jesus and have that witness and testimony? Wasn't John the prophesied fore-running that prepared the way for Him.

"The next day John seeth Jesus coming unto him, and saith, Behold the Lamb of God, which taketh away the sin of the world.
And John bare record, saying, I saw the Spirit descending from heaven like a dove, and it abode upon him.
And I knew him not: but he that sent me to baptize with water, the same said unto me, Upon whom thou shalt see the Spirit descending, and remaining on him, the same is he which baptizeth with the Holy Ghost."
(John 1:29, 32-33)

Why would John then need to find out is Jesus was the Christ? I realize now that he didn't. It was his followers that needed to become disciples of Jesus Christ. They needed to hear and see Jesus, witness the miracles he performed. Then as they bare witness to John what they saw they would understand too.

Day 4064

Today's Favorite Verse: Matthew 10:28-30

Today's Favorite Verse: Matthew 10:28-30
"Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.
Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls.
For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light."

These are some of my favorite verses in the scriptures. I have tested them and they are true. What more can I say than this. I reflect on the word light. It's not just a physically weight that is lifted from my shoulders as I walk with the Lord. It's the light of inspiration to overcome the burdens upon me.

Day 4063

Today's Favorite Verse: Matthew 9:24-25

Today's Favorite Verse: Matthew 9:24-25
"He said unto them, Give place: for the maid is not dead, but sleepeth. And they laughed him to scorn.But when the people were put forth, he went in, and took her by the hand, and the maid arose."

This story of Jairus' daughter reminded me of the story of king Lamoni in the Book of Mormon. How true repentance and being over powdered by the spirit caused king Lamoni, the queen, Ammon and the servants to sink to the earth. Some thought they were dead. Yet the touch of hand made them rise.

"And thus the contention began to be exceedingly sharp among them. And while they were thus contending, the woman servant who had caused the multitude to be gathered together came, and when she saw the contention which was among the multitude she was exceedingly sorrowful, even unto tears.
And it came to pass that she went and took the queen by the hand, that perhaps she might raise her from the ground; and as soon as she touched her hand she arose and stood upon her feet, and cried with a loud voice, saying: O blessed Jesus, who has saved me from an awful hell! O blessed God, have mercy on this people!
And when she had said this, she clasped her hands, being filled with joy, speaking many words which were not understood; and when she had done this, she took the king, Lamoni, by the hand, and behold he arose and stood upon his feet."
(Alma 19:28-30)

I'm not sure what the parallel meaning is. I wonder if that is how resurrection will be by being raised up by the touch of a hand? Those these two examples would not be about resurrection, for the Lord himself was the first to be resurrected from the dead. They were only sleeping in the Lord. This feels like one of those things I will need to ponder on a while in order to understand.

Day 4062

Today's Favorite Verse: Matthew 8:21-22

Today's Favorite Verse: Matthew 8:21-22
"And another of his disciples said unto him, Lord, suffer me first to go and bury my father.
But Jesus said unto him, Follow me; and let the dead bury their dead."

I wanted to understand these verses better. The student manual referred me to Luke 9:59-60). Maybe he wasn't referring to the first burial of his father.

"And he said unto another, Follow me. But he said, Lord, suffer me first to go and bury my father.
Jesus said unto him, Let the dead bury their dead: but go thou and preach the kingdom of God."
(Luke 9:59-60)

"Respect for parents was very important in Jewish culture and included the responsibility to provide a proper burial for them when they died. After preparing a body for burial and placing it in a tomb, family members typically returned a year later to place the bones in a stone box called an ossuary, which remained in the tomb as a secondary burial. If the disciple was speaking of his father’s secondary burial, the Savior’s response would seem to communicate that now was the time for the man to serve a mission (see Luke 9:59–60). The man could be at peace about letting his deceased father remain in the tomb with other dead members of the family. It is also possible that the Savior’s response could be understood, “Let the [spiritually] dead bury their [physically] dead.”
In either case, the Savior’s words do not mean it is wrong to mourn the loss of a loved one or give proper respect at a funeral. Rather, these words emphasize devotion to the Lord as a disciple’s highest priority."
(New Testament Student Manual, Chapter 17: Luke 9-14, "Let the Dead Bury Their Dead")

Day 4061

Today's Favorite Verse: Matthew 7:16, 20

Today's Favorite Verse: Matthew 7:16, 20
"Ye shall know them by their fruits. Do men gather grapes of thorns, or figs of thistles?
Wherefore by their fruits ye shall know them."

The Lord tells us that a good tree cannot bring evil fruit, neither can an evil tree give us good fruit. Oh, I'm sure evil will call itself good but to its core it is rotten and eventually the rot is exposed. We will know them by their fruits. It's just like false prophets for what they prophesy will not come true. A broken clock can be correct twice a day, and sometime the evil gives that appearance but if you watch it long enough you will know something is not quite right. There is deception. The really sad part is you can be blinded to that deception if you believe lies and do not have the spirit to always be with you.

"I feel to emphasize the warning President Russell M. Nelson issued us: that “in coming days, it will not be possible to survive spiritually without the guiding, directing, comforting, and constant influence of the Holy Ghost.” One of the many reasons you will need the constant influence of the Holy Ghost is that you live in a season in which the adversary has become so effective at disguising truth that if you don’t have the Holy Ghost, you will be deceived. Many obstacles lie ahead. The distractions will be many."
(Dallin H. Oaks, "Coming Closer to Jesus Christ", BYU Devotional address on February 10, 2026)

Day 4060

Today's Favorite Verse: Matthew 6:21

Today's Favorite Verse: Matthew 6:21
"For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also."

I asked myself what my treasure is? Treasure is probably not the right word, for that makes me think of riches and material things and I'm not so big into that. I found it better to think about what I give most of my time and effort too. Where is my attention focused? Do I have a good balance pleasing to the Lord? It made me think of my family history, that really is my top "treasure". This year I will mark my 50th year since I officially took my first genealogy class. That really is a good treasure to mark my life's work. This is part of the Lord's work gathering Israel on both sides of the veil. I have had so many spiritual connections around it. My testimony of the Lord and his love for each of His children has been cemented to my heart. I can not only take this life work with me on the other side, but I can continue it there. I had already planned I was going to do some research after reading my scriptures tonight, now I can't wait! There are more family members to find and eventually greet on the other side.

Day 4059

Today's Favorite Verse: Matthew 5:39

Today's Favorite Verse: Matthew 5:39
"But I say unto you, That ye resist not evil: but whosoever shall smite thee on thy right cheek, turn to him the other also."

I found this note in my scriptures added on 8 Oct 2023. It would have been right after President Oaks general conference address on "Kingdoms of Glory".

"Wow, I just realized that President Oaks general conference talk was actually steps ahead of a growing movement I have read about in several articles now. How inspired he was."
"It was the result of having multiple pastors tell me, essentially, the same story about quoting the Sermon on the Mount, parenthetically, in their preaching — "turn the other cheek" — [and] to have someone come up after to say, "Where did you get those liberal talking points?" And what was alarming to me is that in most of these scenarios, when the pastor would say, "I'm literally quoting Jesus Christ," the response would not be, "I apologize." The response would be, "Yes, but that doesn't work anymore. That's weak." And when we get to the point where the teachings of Jesus himself are seen as subversive to us, then we're in a crisis." 
(NPR, "He was a top church official who criticized Trump. He says Christianity is in crisis", 8 Aug 2023)

Day 4058

Today's Favorite Verse: Matthew 4:23

Today's Favorite Verse: Matthew 4:23
"And Jesus went about all Galilee, teaching in their synagogues, and preaching the gospel of the kingdom, and healing all manner of sickness and all manner of disease among the people."

I was pondering on how I would have loved to be there, to hear Jesus preaching. Then I thought about how I already do hear His words. I'm reading this is the scriptures. I also hear His words when I listen to the prophet, especially during general conference. As I was reflecting on this and wondered why I would have loved to be there, right then. It wasn't just because it was Jesus. It was the time of the end of the law of Moses and learning how to live a higher and holier way. I realized it was because I love change. I love being in the middle of change. I thought about how the restoration is still on going. There are lots of changes still to come. If I live to see the millennium I will see tremendous changes. That is all very exciting.

Day 4057

Today's Favorite Verse: Matthew 3:16

Today's Favorite Verse: Matthew 3:16
"And Jesus, when he was baptized, went up straightway out of the water: and, lo, the heavens were opened unto him, and he saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove, and lighting upon him:"

I focused on the part of the heavens being opened up. Then I read the note I had added to this verse.

"Do you know what I think is so cool...Look at JST Matthew 3:43-46..."and John saw, and lo, the heavens were opened unto him."
And then this from President Nelson just recently to the women of the Church:
President Russell M. Nelson: "Sisters, I love you and thank you. As a result of your efforts, I promise that the heavens will open for you [just like John the Baptist?]. The Lord will bless you with increased inspiration and revelation. Together we will do all that our Heavenly Father needs us to do to prepare the world for the Second Coming of His Beloved Son."
(President Russell M. Nelson, "A Message of Gratitude and a Promise for the Women of the Church in 2019)

I didn't put down who quoted President Nelson, and quoted the addition added to the JST of the New Testament. It was John who witnessed this and heard the voice, "And lo, he heard a voice from heaven saying, This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased. Hear ye him." It would be amazing to see all of that.

Day 4056