Today's Favorite Verse: Luke 21:34

Today's Favorite Verse: Luke 21:34
"And take heed to yourselves, lest at any time your hearts be overcharged with surfeiting, and drunkenness, and cares of this life, and so that day come upon you unawares."

It was the word "surfeiting" that caught my attention. Jesus is speaking of the signs to precede His Second Coming. Being distracted while surfing the internet is definitively something I can relate to. I have to say the incessant doomscrolling is something I'm continually analyzing and metering my usage of. One thing that has helped me is having a playlist on YouTube of all my favorite hymns. When I catch myself endlessly scrolling for something to watch I stop and turn that on. It has really help me feel the spirit and bring peace to me. I have also found sometimes I need to just unplug and sit in silence.

"When you look around on this cruise ship called earth, you might see other people sitting in lounge chairs drinking, gambling in casinos, wearing clothing that is too revealing, scrolling endlessly on cell phones, and wasting too much time playing electronic games. But instead of wondering, “Why can’t I do that?,” you can remember that you are not an ordinary passenger. You are a member of the crew. You have responsibilities that passengers do not have. As Sister Ardeth Kapp once said, “You can’t be a life[guard] if you look like all the other swimmers on the beach."
(Bradley R. Wilcox, "O Youth of the Noble Birthright", Oct 2024 General Conference)

Recently, in a worldwide youth devotional, President Russell M. Nelson invited the youth to step back from the world, disengaging from social media by holding a seven-day fast. And just last evening, he made a similar invitation to the sisters as part of the women’s session of conference. He then asked the youth to notice any differences in how they feel, what they think, or even how they think. He then invited them “to do a thorough life assessment with the Lord … to ensure that your feet are firmly planted on the covenant path.” He encouraged them that if there were things in their lives that needed changing, “today is the perfect time to change.” (Russell M. Nelson, "Hope of Israel", Worldwide Youth Devotional, June 3, 2018 Conference Center, Salt Lake City, Utah)
(Jack N. Gerard, "Now is the Time", Oct 2018 General Conference)

"There are certain patterns of online engagement that predict negative outcomes: cyberbullying, sexting, and doomscrolling, for example. (”Doomscrolling,” by the way—for those of you who, like me, have never heard of it—refers to spending long periods of time on one’s phone or computer focusing on negative news stories. Apparently, for some, that habit is compulsive and somehow darkly comforting.) Passive uses of social media—that is, spending time reviewing social media content aimlessly—increases feelings of inferiority and negative comparison, while active or purposeful social media use (such as posting, commenting, and connecting) does not have the same negative associations."
(D. Todd Christofferson, "Trust in God", S&I Annual Broadcast, Jan 2024)

"The scriptures teach us to use judgment and be wise in all things. The internet can be used in a positive way or a destructive way.Both long-term members and those newly studying the gospel need to be intentional about what they view. Do not entertain immoral, dishonest, or unrighteous material. If you do, algorithms can lead you down a path that destroys faith and impairs your eternal progression. You can be acted upon positively or negatively. Seek righteousness and avoid dark internet rabbit holes and doomscrolling. Fill your life with positive, righteous ideas; be joyful; have fun but avoid foolishness. There is a difference. The thirteenth article of faith is a marvelous guide. Above all, immerse yourself regularly in the Book of Mormon, which will draw the Spirit into your life and help you discern truth from error."
(Quentin L. Cook, "Sacred Scriptures - the Foundations of Faith", Oct 2024 General Conference)

Day 4118

Today's Favorite Verse: Luke 20:20, 23

Today's Favorite Verse: Luke 20:20, 23
"And they watched him, and sent forth spies, which should feign themselves just men, that they might take hold of his words, that so they might deliver him unto the power and authority of the governor.
But he perceived their craftiness, and said unto them, Why tempt ye me?"

What stood out to me was they "feign themselves just men". The Lord perceived their craftiness. He knew how to answer their questions to the point "they durst not ask him any questions at all". This made me think about deception and how we will be deceived if we do not have the spirit as our guide.

"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 4117

Today's Favorite Verse: Luke 18:9

Today's Favorite Verse: Luke 18:9
"And he spake this parable unto certain which trusted in themselves that they were righteous, and despised others:"

I struggled to decide which verse was my favorite in this chapter. I decided on this one because not only have I seen this, it also made me think of something President Nelson said. I just couldn't remember what talk it was in so I spent a lot of time tonight looking for it.

"In situations that are highly charged and filled with contention, I invite you to remember Jesus Christ. Pray to have the courage and wisdom to say or do what He would. As we follow the Prince of Peace, we will become His peacemakers.
At this point you may be thinking that this message would really help someone you know. Perhaps you are hoping that it will help him or her to be nicer to you. I hope it will! But I also hope that you will look deeply into your heart to see if there are shards of pride or jealousy that prevent you from becoming a peacemaker."
(Russell M. Nelson, "Peacemakers Needed", April 2023 General Conference)

I loved that wisdom in looking at ourselves and not just pointing the finger that someone else needs to do better. It is the same when you think we are more righteous that others, and then we despise or mock those that just sin differently than us. We are all in need of the Lord's mercy and grace, and we need to in turn give it to others. The world seems to be losing it's humanity. It all just makes me really sad.

Day 4115

Today's Favorite Verse: Luke 10:23-24

Today's Favorite Verse: Luke 10:23-24
"And he turned him unto his disciples, and said privately, Blessed are the eyes which see the things that ye see:
For I tell you, that many prophets and kings 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."

I pondered on how many through the years waited and wished they could see the time when the Messiah would come to the earth. They wanted to see Him and his works, and hear his words. Then I pondered on how many have waited for my day, as we prepare for the Lord's second coming.

"My dear brothers and sisters, do you see what is happening right before our eyes? I pray that we will not miss the majesty of this moment! The Lord is indeed hastening His work.
Why are we building temples at such an unprecedented pace? Why? Because the Lord has instructed us to do so. The blessings of the temple help to gather Israel on both sides of the veil. These blessings also help to prepare a people who will help prepare the world for the Second Coming of the Lord!...
My dear brothers and sisters, in a coming day, Jesus Christ will return to the earth as the millennial Messiah. So today I call upon you to rededicate your lives to Jesus Christ. I call upon you to help gather scattered Israel and to prepare the world for the Second Coming of the Lord. I call upon you to talk of Christ, testify of Christ, have faith in Christ, and rejoice in Christ!
Come unto Christ and “offer your whole [soul]” to Him. This is the secret to a life of joy!
The best is yet to come, my dear brothers and sisters, because the Savior is coming again! The best is yet to come because the Lord is hastening His work. The best is yet to come as we fully turn our hearts and our lives to Jesus Christ. "
(Russell M. Nelson, "The Lord Jesus Will Come Again", Oct 2024 General Conference)

Day 4107

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 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 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 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

Today's Favorite Verse: Matthew 2:12, 13, 19-20

Today's Favorite Verse: Matthew 2:12, 13, 19-20
"And being warned of God in a dream that they should not return to Herod, they departed into their own country another way.
And when they were departed, behold, the angel of the Lord appeareth to Joseph in a dream, saying, Arise, and take the young child and his mother, and flee into Egypt, and be thou there until I bring thee word: for Herod will seek the young child to destroy him.
But when Herod was dead, behold, an angel of the Lord appeareth in a dream to Joseph in Egypt,
Saying, Arise, and take the young child and his mother, and go into the land of Israel: for they are dead which sought the young child’s life. "

I noticed the three different dreams mentioned in this chapter. First to the wise men to not return to Herod, and leave another way. Then to Joseph to flee to Egypt with his family. He is told to remain there until he brings him word. That word wasn't from a third party, saying Herod was dead. It was from the angel of the Lord in a third dream telling him to arise and take the family back to Israel. I pondered on what a righteous man Joseph must have been to have visitations of angels in dreams, and obey what he was told. It made me ponder on our day and how import it is that we are able to receive personal revelation for us and our family. It can have not only spiritual but also physical consequences.

"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 4055

Today's Favorite Verse: Isaiah 64:4

Today's Favorite Verse: Isaiah 64:4
"For since the beginning of the world men have not heard, nor perceived by the ear, neither hath the eye seen, O God, beside thee, what he hath prepared for him that waiteth for him."

I remember when I was a young bride we purchased a book about the last days. I would study and read that book over and over again. I had so many images and thoughts about how the last days would be. Everything was mapped in a timeline. It was all so dreadful and frightening. As I have grown older, and am seeing those days around me, they are so very different. Nothing that I imagined, has unfolded as I thought. The biggest difference is how my soul is handling all this. I used to envision such panic and feeling out of control. Now I just feel peace. I used to think it all depended on how strong I was. Now I realize we were not meant to do this alone. I need to look to Christ and have Him by my side. His prophets are preparing us. I don't know all that lies ahead and that's OK. All I know is the Lord is in control and is preparing the way before me. I am not alone.

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

Day 3991

Today's Favorite Verse: Isaiah 63:8

Today's Favorite Verse: Isaiah 63:8
"For he said, Surely they are my people, children that will not lie: so he was their Saviour."

I really liked this verse, in the chapters I read tonight it prophesies of the second coming. Yet this tiny verse gives a very simple clue on who His people are. They will not lie. That's the ninth commandment "Thou shalt not lie". I think the Lord's covenant people keep all His commandments, but this one has a purpose. This commandment prohibits all forms of deceptions, including lying, perjury, slander and twisting the truth. We are actually being warned about this deception, and how if we do not have the Holy Spirit as our guide we will be deceived. We will believe lies, and mostly likely lie to ourselves, and others.

"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 10 February 2026)

Day 3990

Today's Favorite Verse: Isaiah 11:9

Today's Favorite Verse: Isaiah 11:9
"They shall not hurt nor destroy in all my holy mountain: for the earth shall be full of the knowledge of the LORD, as the waters cover the sea."

The only way the wicked will stop hurting and destroying others is if they came to a knowledge of the Lord, and truly know Him. Sadly, when the Lord comes the second time those individuals will not be here. I say sadly because they were to late in repenting and turning their hearts to him. Only those that will live a terrestrial or celestial law will remain. People of every nationality and faith that are of a good heart will remain. All that remain will eventually be converted as they come to know Jesus Christ. That would be an incredible thing to witness.

“There has never been a time in the history of the world when knowledge of our Savior is more personally vital and relevant to every human soul. Imagine how quickly the devastating conflicts throughout the world—and those in our individual lives—would be resolved if we all chose to follow Jesus Christ and heed His teachings.”
(Russell M. Nelson, "Pure Truth, Pure Doctrine, and Pure Revelation", Oct 2021 General Conference)

Day 3973

Today's Favorite Verse: Isaiah 2:12

Today's Favorite Verse: Isaiah 2:12
"For the day of the LORD of hosts shall be upon every one that is proud and lofty, and upon every one that is lifted up; and he shall be brought low:"

I've been reflecting on pride every since President Oaks speech the other day at the BYU Devotional. I had an interesting thing happen after that speech. I happened to read a post on social media from a friend of mine. We have the same faith, pray to the same God, attend the same church, read the scriptures, attend the temple, and are both trying to be good people. I know they are a good person, yet, they see and feel completely different on social and political matters than me. What I see them posting I just can't understand how they see things that way, and I've tried. As time has gone on their posts have gotten louder and bolder. I am sure they feel they are doing a good thing with their posts. I never reply because I don't feel I need to, or should.

Then I saw their post on President Oaks' talk and the warning about being deceived. From that talk they boldly warned people about listening and watching propaganda, accepting lies as truths. Basically, they took President Oaks warning of being deceived to heart and felt anyone that didn't see things the way they did were the ones being deceived. I found it so interesting because from afar they would be speaking of me.

So, then I had this question come to me, "How can two people trying to take the Holy Ghost as our guide see things do differently?" How can we both be sure we are receiving personal revelation and right? Then the spirit brought to my remembrance that President Oaks spoke about being humble. That is the difference on who truly is listening to the Holy Ghost as their guide. I need to sincerely keep asking that my eyes are open, and that my ears are hearing, and seek for understanding. Then with that understanding I will be guided if I need to change course and direction. If we are not humble and teachable we will be unable to change course or admit we've been deceived. It is the pride of this world that causes man to stumble. Pride is what stops a man from accepting revelation when it is right in front of them, and instead follow the whisperings of their own heart. That was such a powerful lesson from the Holy Ghost, and a confirmation that President Oaks is truly a prophet of God and spoke the word of the Lord. Humility is a shield and protection in the days we live in. I wish I could quote his whole talk but this is what stood out.

"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. Even active members may sometimes have concerns about some historical, doctrinal, or social issues connected with the Church.
...increased humility draws us closer to Jesus Christ. This will help us overcome questions about the Lord’s doctrine. When we are humble, we can more clearly hear the Lord’s voice.
President Ezra Taft Benson .. said, “Humility responds to God’s will—to the fear of His judgments and to the needs of those around us.”
President Spencer W. Kimball defined humility as “teachableness.” He explained:
Humility is teachableness—an ability to realize that all virtues and abilities are not concentrated in one’s self. . . .
. . .Humility is never accusing nor contentious. . . .
Humility is repentant and seeks not to justify its follies. It is forgiving others in the realization that there may be errors of the same kind or worse [that we ourselves commit].
. . .Humility makes no bid for popularity and notoriety; demands no honors.
To have humility is one of the powerful commandments we have been given to guide us in our mortal journey. It prepares us for our appointed meeting with our Savior and Redeemer, Jesus Christ. Take care not to become distracted. Remember His parable of the ten virgins. We want to be among the five humble ones who were admitted to the presence of the Lord."
(Dallin H. Oaks, "Coming Closer to Jesus Christ", BYU Devotional, 10 Feb 2026)

Day 3970

Today's Favorite Verse: Proverbs 3:5-6

Today's Favorite Verse: Proverbs 3:5-6
"Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding.
In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths."

I've had some interesting observations and emotions today. Good people that see the events taking place around us so differently. I have been reflecting on how we truly are in those days spoken of by President Nelson.

"But in coming days, it will not be possible to survive spiritually without the guiding, directing, comforting, and constant influence of the Holy Ghost.
My beloved brothers and sisters, I plead with you to increase your spiritual capacity to receive revelation. Let this Easter Sunday be a defining moment in your life. Choose to do the spiritual work required to enjoy the gift of the Holy Ghost and hear the voice of the Spirit more frequently and more clearly."
(Russell M. Nelson, "Revelation for the Church, Revelation for Our Lives", Apr 2018 General Conference)

I'm not saying my good friends that see things differently than me are incapable of receiving revelation. That would mean I think I am and I'm right. I have decided to just do the best that I can and leave the rest in the Lord's hands. I continue to pray for guidance, that my eyes will see, and ears will hear. That I will recognize truth and have understanding. I cannot get through the mine fields around me without the Lord's guidance and direction. One thing is sure there are so many opinions out there that if we were left on our own to figure things out we may fall down crooked paths. Look to the Lord and do what is right.

Day 3953

Today's Favorite Verse: Psalms 105:5

Today's Favorite Verse: Psalms 105:5
"Remember his marvellous works that he hath done; his wonders, and the judgments of his mouth;"

I pondered on how important it is to remember all the miraculous and marvelous things the Lord has done. It brings us to remembrance on the grace and mercy of God. How he loves His children and will bless those that follow Him. We need to trust Him. I am reminded of one of my most favorite quotes by President Nelson in the first General Conference after he was made prophet. What President Oaks said today is an extension to it.

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

"President Oaks noted that Latter-day Saints around the world will need such spiritual strength in the coming days.
“As we experience Satan’s deadly onslaught on morality and the integrity of families, and as we read the prophecies and feel the signs of the times, we cannot doubt that the future holds great sacrifices and challenges for Latter-day Saints individually and for the divinely prescribed work of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints,” he said. “The scriptures speak of perilous times, when men’s hearts will fail them. They also speak of worthy disciples escaping these things, of their standing in holy places and not being moved.”
In these holy temples, Latter-day Saints make covenants with God. This, the prophet explained, is “the way the Lord reminds us to stay worthy of His blessings and to translate the knowledge we receive in the temple into service to our fellowmen.”
“Surely,” President Oaks said, “the times ahead will call for us to remember our temple covenants and to rely on the blessings promised in these houses of the Lord here in Burley and throughout the world.”
“This is His house. This is His work. We are His servants,” the prophet concluded."
(President Dallin H. Oaks, Burley Idaho Temple Dedication, 11 Jan 2026, Church Newsroom, "President Oaks Dedicates the Burley Idaho Temple")

Day 3937

Today's Favorite Verse: Psalms 19:12

Today's Favorite Verse: Psalms 19:12
"Who can understand his errors? cleanse thou me from secret faults."

The words "secret faults" made me think of having favorite sins we don't want to let go of. How we have to be willing to do so in order to know God. I am reminded of Aaron teaching the gospel to king Lamoni, and then the king humbled prayed to give away all his sins.

"O God, Aaron hath told me that there is a God; and if there is a God, and if thou art God, wilt thou make thyself known unto me, and I will give away all my sins to know thee, and that I may be raised from the dead, and be saved at the last day. And now when the king had said these words, he was struck as if he were dead."
(Alma 22:18)

During the time he appeared to be dead, he was sleeping in the Lord and came to have a powerful witness of Him. I am also reminded of the words of President Nelson

"What does it mean to overcome the world? It means overcoming the temptation to care more about the things of this world than the things of God. It means trusting the doctrine of Christ more than the philosophies of men. It means delighting in truth, denouncing deception, and becoming “humble followers of Christ.” It means choosing to refrain from anything that drives the Spirit away. It means being willing to “give away” even our favorite sins."
(Russell M. Nelson, “Overcome the World and Find Rest," Oct 2022 General Conference)

Day 3909

Today's Favorite Verse: Job 32:9

Today's Favorite Verse: Job 32:9
"But there is a spirit in man: and the inspiration of the Almighty giveth them understanding."

I pondered on how the spirit has taught me things I had no knowledge of before hand. As I reflected on several experiences I thought about many great inventions even just in my lifetime. I then thought of President Nelson and how he was instrumental in creating the first heart-lung machine, so they could perform surgery on the heart. Then he was instructed through inspiration on how to perform those surgeries.

"During the early pioneering days of surgery of the heart,” a stake patriarch from southern Utah suffered much because of a failing heart. He pleaded for help, thinking that his condition resulted from a damaged but repairable valve in his heart.
Extensive evaluation revealed that he had two faulty valves. While one could be helped surgically, the other could not. Thus, an operation was not advised. He received this news with deep disappointment.
Subsequent visits ended with the same advice. Finally, in desperation, he spoke to me with considerable emotion: “Dr. Nelson, I have prayed for help and have been directed to you. The Lord will not reveal to me how to repair that second valve, but He can reveal it to you. Your mind is so prepared. If you will operate upon me, the Lord will make it known to you what to do. Please perform the operation that I need, and pray for the help that you need.”
His great faith had a profound effect upon me. How could I turn him away again? Following a fervent prayer together, I agreed to try. In preparing for that fateful day, I prayed over and over again, but still did not know what to do for his leaking tricuspid valve. Even as the operation commenced, my assistant asked, “What are you going to do for that?”
I said, “I do not know.”
We began the operation. After relieving the obstruction of the first valve, we exposed the second valve. We found it to be intact but so badly dilated that it could no longer function as it should. While examining this valve, a message was distinctly impressed upon my mind: Reduce the circumference of the ring. I announced that message to my assistant. “The valve tissue will be sufficient if we can effectively reduce the ring toward its normal size.”
But how? We could not apply a belt as one would use to tighten the waist of oversized trousers. We could not squeeze with a strap as one would cinch a saddle on a horse. Then a picture came vividly to my mind, showing how stitches could be placed—to make a pleat here and a tuck there—to accomplish the desired objective. I still remember that mental image—complete with dotted lines where sutures should be placed. The repair was completed as diagrammed in my mind. We tested the valve and found the leak to be reduced remarkably. My assistant said, “It’s a miracle.”
I responded, “It’s an answer to prayer."
("Discovering a Surgical First, Russell M. Nelson and Tricuspid Valve Annuloplasty" by Austin A. Robinson and Curtis T. Hunter, BYU Studies)

Day 3899

Today's Favorite Verse: 1 Samuel 25:1

Today's Favorite Verse: 1 Samuel 25:1
"And Samuel died; and all the Israelites were gathered together, and lamented him, and buried him in his house at Ramah. And David arose, and went down to the wilderness of Paran."

I read that and this was all I could think of while I read three chapters in the Old Testament. Samuel the prophet dies, and the day I read it I learn President Russell M. Nelson, prophet, seer and revelator for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints has passed away. I wait to know when his funeral is. Will it be before General Conference this Saturday and Sunday or after? It was shocking, but not shocking, President Nelson was 101 years old. I wish my heart was allowed to just mourn the passing of such a wonderful prophet. Instead it is marred by the horrific events in Michigan, at a shooting and fire at one of our chapels. People died. It hurts my heart. Of course we don't know all the details, not sure if I really want to know all the details. All I can feel is a prophet that taught me so much about being a peacemaker is gone. I feel like the world rejected his message and God has sent us a judge in President Oaks. There has been a shift and change, though I expect the message on what I need to do during these latter-days will remain the same. I am so grateful that General Conference is this coming weekend. I need to sit at the feet of the prophets and hear their messages of peace.

Day 3832

Today's Favorite Verse: Joshua 4:10

Today's Favorite Verse: Joshua 4:10
"For the priests which bare the ark stood in the midst of Jordan, until every thing was finished that the LORD commanded Joshua to speak unto the people, according to all that Moses commanded Joshua: and the people hasted and passed over."

It was the word "hasted" that stood out to me. I pondered how even with miracles being performed we need to hasten. The passover meal was eaten in haste, and the shepherds came with haste to worship the new born king.

"And thus shall ye eat it; with your loins girded, your shoes on your feet, and your staff in your hand; and ye shall eat it in haste: it is the Lord’s passover."
(Exodus 12:11)

"And they came with haste, and found Mary, and Joseph, and the babe lying in a manger."
(Luke 2:16)

"Behold, I will hasten my work in its time."
(Doctrine and Covenants 88:73)

"My dear brothers and sisters, do you see what is happening right before our eyes? I pray that we will not miss the majesty of this moment! The Lord is indeed hastening His work.
Why are we building temples at such an unprecedented pace? Why? Because the Lord has instructed us to do so. The blessings of the temple help to gather Israel on both sides of the veil. These blessings also help to prepare a people who will help prepare the world for the Second Coming of the Lord!
The best is yet to come, my dear brothers and sisters, because the Savior is coming again! The best is yet to come because the Lord is hastening His work. The best is yet to come as we fully turn our hearts and our lives to Jesus Christ."
(Russell M. Nelson, "The Lord Jesus Christ Will Come Again", Oct 2024 General Conference)

"President Russell M. Nelson said at our last conference: “Do you see what is happening right before our eyes? I pray that we will not miss the majesty of this moment! The Lord is indeed hastening His work.”
Hastening His work. “Hastening” is a word that matters. It suggests moving quickly, accelerating, and even urgency. In the growth of the Church and the plan of Christ, hastening is happening. And we are all a part of it."
(Ronald A. Rasband, "Right Before Our Eyes", Apr 2025 General Conference)

Day 3809

Today's Favorite Verse: Numbers 9:21-23

Today's Favorite Verse: Numbers 9:21-23
"And so it was, when the cloud abode from even unto the morning, and that the cloud was taken up in the morning, then they journeyed: whether it was by day or by night that the cloud was taken up, they journeyed.
Or whether it were two days, or a month, or a year, that the cloud tarried upon the tabernacle, remaining thereon, the children of Israel abode in their tents, and journeyed not: but when it was taken up, they journeyed.
At the commandment of the LORD they rested in the tents, and at the commandment of the LORD they journeyed: they kept the charge of the LORD, at the commandment of the LORD by the hand of Moses."

Year = HEB an extended period of time

It was the mention of a year that stood out to me. The children of Israel wandered when the Lord commanded them. They rested when He commanded them. That means they were perpetually prepared to leave at anytime, day or night. They were learning to follow Him literally, but it didn't always transfer over spiritually. It reminded me of President Nelson telling us to never stop preparing.

"Principle Number Three: Never Stop Preparing
Even when things went well, Captain Moroni continued to prepare his people. He never stopped. He never became complacent.
The adversary never stops attacking. So, we can never stop preparing! The more self-reliant we are—temporally, emotionally, and spiritually—the more prepared we are to thwart Satan’s relentless assaults.
I promise that as we create places of security, prepare our minds to be faithful to God, and never stop preparing, God will bless us. He will “deliver us; yea, insomuch that he [will] speak peace to our souls, and [will] grant unto us great faith, and … cause us that we [can] hope for our deliverance in him.”
(Russell M. Nelson, "Embrace the Future with Faith", Oct 2020 General Conference)

Day 3787