Verses 11-13 describe the perfect man. Where is this man in real life? I guess some people are lucky enough to find one.. But these days I feel like they are really rare.
Love this verse about him... "Yea, verily, verily I say unto you, if all men had been, and were, and ever would be, like unto Moroni, behold, the powers of hell would have been shaken forever; yea, the devil would never have power over the hearts of the children of men"
Where the heck is my Moroni?!
Monday, November 7, 2011
Thursday, October 27, 2011
Alma 26-27
17 Now the joy of Ammon was so great even that he was full; yea, he was swallowed up in the joy of his God, even to the exhausting of his strength; and he fell again to the earth.
18 Now was not this exceeding joy? Behold, this is joy which none receiveth save it be the truly penitent and humble seeker of happiness.
How great would it be to feel joy like this? I hope someday I do feel such joy. I love that last line.. "humble seeker of happiness". I want to be a humble seeker of happiness. I went to the temple today and the 1st counselor of the temple presidency actually came down and addressed the room. He said lots of things but what hit me most was that he said "if you want to be happy, be good." Its as simple as that. Be good and you'll be happy. I know when I'm not doing good because I am not as happy as I usually am. Not that I do terrible things, but when I lack on the basics, I feel like it effects my whole personality! I become a sullen and quiet, boing, sad person and I don't even like that person! So my goal is to be good. And that way, I will find it easier to be happy.
18 Now was not this exceeding joy? Behold, this is joy which none receiveth save it be the truly penitent and humble seeker of happiness.
How great would it be to feel joy like this? I hope someday I do feel such joy. I love that last line.. "humble seeker of happiness". I want to be a humble seeker of happiness. I went to the temple today and the 1st counselor of the temple presidency actually came down and addressed the room. He said lots of things but what hit me most was that he said "if you want to be happy, be good." Its as simple as that. Be good and you'll be happy. I know when I'm not doing good because I am not as happy as I usually am. Not that I do terrible things, but when I lack on the basics, I feel like it effects my whole personality! I become a sullen and quiet, boing, sad person and I don't even like that person! So my goal is to be good. And that way, I will find it easier to be happy.
Tuesday, October 25, 2011
Alma 24-25
I decided that I am not going to try to catch up... because that would be a lot of blog posts. But to jump right into it, I love verses 7-10. It is all about thanking God. Verse 10:
"And I also thank my God, yea, my great God, that he hath granted unto us that we might repent of these things, and also that he hath forgiven us of those our many sins".
We have the option to repent over and over again. But mainly I wanted to focus on the thanking part. I need to do better about having an attitude of gratitude, which funny enough, is a talk that I read today. I take for granted a lot of things that I have and I forget to be grateful for them. I'm a brat. Let's just put it that way. And I need to change it.
"And I also thank my God, yea, my great God, that he hath granted unto us that we might repent of these things, and also that he hath forgiven us of those our many sins".
We have the option to repent over and over again. But mainly I wanted to focus on the thanking part. I need to do better about having an attitude of gratitude, which funny enough, is a talk that I read today. I take for granted a lot of things that I have and I forget to be grateful for them. I'm a brat. Let's just put it that way. And I need to change it.
Wednesday, October 12, 2011
Mosiah 27-28
How crazy is it that the sons of the most powerful men are the ones who decided to go astray? It shows that no matter who your parents are or how you were raised, you still have agency to choose whether or not to follow.
I love the last part of verse 30 in chapter 27 especially. It says “He remembered every creature of his creating, he will make himself manifest unto all.”
It reminds me that Christ truly does remember each and every one of us.
Chapter 28 verse 3 is pretty cool. “Now they were desirous that salvation should be declared to every creature, for they could not bear that any human soul should perish; yea even the very thoughts that any soul should endure endless torment did cause them to quake and tremble.”
It shows that the sons of Mosiah had compassion for all, especially after what they went through when they encountered the angel with Alma. The next verse says that they were the vilest of sinners. But the Lord still had mercy enough to forgive them and then grant them eternal life. Sometimes I feel like I need to have more compassion and charity towards others. It’s really easy to show and feel that for people I love, but how often do I show it for people I don’t know? To those who are lost, but don’t know they are lost? Good thing my new calling is on the missionary committee right!?
I love the last part of verse 30 in chapter 27 especially. It says “He remembered every creature of his creating, he will make himself manifest unto all.”
It reminds me that Christ truly does remember each and every one of us.
Chapter 28 verse 3 is pretty cool. “Now they were desirous that salvation should be declared to every creature, for they could not bear that any human soul should perish; yea even the very thoughts that any soul should endure endless torment did cause them to quake and tremble.”
It shows that the sons of Mosiah had compassion for all, especially after what they went through when they encountered the angel with Alma. The next verse says that they were the vilest of sinners. But the Lord still had mercy enough to forgive them and then grant them eternal life. Sometimes I feel like I need to have more compassion and charity towards others. It’s really easy to show and feel that for people I love, but how often do I show it for people I don’t know? To those who are lost, but don’t know they are lost? Good thing my new calling is on the missionary committee right!?
Tuesday, October 11, 2011
Mosiah 25-26
Chapter 25
I love the first and last parts of verse 10… “When they thought of the immediate goodness of God and his power...they did raise their voices and give thanks to God.”
It’s too often that I forget all of my little blessings. Really? I am such a lame-o. Today was just a rough day. I woke up feeling gross, my hair looked nasty, my skin has broken out, my stomach… well let’s not even go there. Put that together with nothing to wear except an oversized sweatshirt and jeans I loathe… Needless to say, I felt real pretty. I held back tears several times while sitting at my desk, I left early and just slept all afternoon. Sarah came home and really did help me feel better. And I went to volunteer as a mentor at an elementary school, which also helped in forgetting myself. But Satan is so good at bringing bad feelings back. He’s an evil evil being. I need to stop and remember the immediate goodness of God. I have an amazing roommate and friend in Sarah. I have food, clothes, a house, a family who does really love me, and adopted Utah family who does love me too. I am grateful for all of my blessings, and I need to be better at expressing that gratitude. Like in my blessing, it tells me to be thankful for the very breathe that I have. If nothing else seems good in my life, at least I am ALIVE right?? I need to stop being such a baby all the time!!
Chapter 26 verse 30
“Yea, and as often as my people repent, will I forgive them their trespasses against me.”
I love that it says AS OFTEN AS. No matter how many times we sin, the Lord will ALWAYS let us repent. ALWAYS. And if we are sincere in our repentance He will ALWAYS forgive us! What a great blessing!! It’s such a comfort to know that no matter what I do, how bad I mess up, I can always fix it.
I love the first and last parts of verse 10… “When they thought of the immediate goodness of God and his power...they did raise their voices and give thanks to God.”
It’s too often that I forget all of my little blessings. Really? I am such a lame-o. Today was just a rough day. I woke up feeling gross, my hair looked nasty, my skin has broken out, my stomach… well let’s not even go there. Put that together with nothing to wear except an oversized sweatshirt and jeans I loathe… Needless to say, I felt real pretty. I held back tears several times while sitting at my desk, I left early and just slept all afternoon. Sarah came home and really did help me feel better. And I went to volunteer as a mentor at an elementary school, which also helped in forgetting myself. But Satan is so good at bringing bad feelings back. He’s an evil evil being. I need to stop and remember the immediate goodness of God. I have an amazing roommate and friend in Sarah. I have food, clothes, a house, a family who does really love me, and adopted Utah family who does love me too. I am grateful for all of my blessings, and I need to be better at expressing that gratitude. Like in my blessing, it tells me to be thankful for the very breathe that I have. If nothing else seems good in my life, at least I am ALIVE right?? I need to stop being such a baby all the time!!
Chapter 26 verse 30
“Yea, and as often as my people repent, will I forgive them their trespasses against me.”
I love that it says AS OFTEN AS. No matter how many times we sin, the Lord will ALWAYS let us repent. ALWAYS. And if we are sincere in our repentance He will ALWAYS forgive us! What a great blessing!! It’s such a comfort to know that no matter what I do, how bad I mess up, I can always fix it.
Monday, October 10, 2011
Mosiah 23-24
Chapter 23 verses 10-11
10 Nevertheless, after much tribulation, the Lord did hear my cries, and did answer my prayers, and has made me an instrument in his hands in bringing so many of you to a knowledge of his truth.
11 Nevertheless, in this I do not glory, for I am unworthy to glory of myself.
Alma is such a great example of being humble. I love that he explained to them that even he sinned and he had to repent, admitting he wasn’t perfect as they thought he was. The phrase “after much tribulation” is awesome. Elder Hales said in his talk during Conference, “Tests and trials are given to all of us. These mortal challenges allow us and our Heavenly Father to see whether we will exercise our agency to follow His Son. He already knows, and we have the opportunity to learn, that no matter how difficult our circumstances, “all these things shall be for our experience, and our good”.” After our trails and our repentance process, is when we can become a better instrument for the Lord to use. If we didn’t have any tough experiences, then we wouldn’t be able to relate and to teach.
Chapter 24 verses 12-16
12 And Alma and his people did not raise their voices to the Lord their God, but did pour out their hearts to him; and he did know the thoughts of their hearts.
13 And it came to pass that the voice of the Lord came to them in their afflictions, saying: Lift up your heads and be of good comfort, for I know of the covenant which ye have made unto me; and I will covenant with my people and deliver them out of bondage.
14 And I will also ease the burdens which are put upon your shoulders, that even you cannot feel them upon your backs, even while you are in bondage; and this will I do that ye may stand as witnesses for me hereafter, and that ye may know of a surety that I, the Lord God, do visit my people in their afflictions.
15 And now it came to pass that the burdens which were laid upon Alma and his brethren were made light; yea, the Lord did strengthen them that they could bear up their burdens with ease, and they did submit cheerfully and with patience to all the will of the Lord.
16 And it came to pass that so great was their faith and their patience that the voice of the Lord came unto them again, saying: Be of good comfort, for on the morrow I will deliver you out of bondage.
There’s a lot going on in these verses that I could write a lot about… But mainly, I love that the Lord knows your thoughts and the intent of your heart. Even if you can’t, or even won’t cry out loud to the Lord, He knows us. He knows what we desire and what we need. Most importantly He asks us to be patient. I have bouts of discouragement and impatience all the time. I get tired of being alone, not having someone to love me and for me to love in return. Sometimes it doesn’t seem fair that all these young girls are getting married and starting their families. It’s hard to see sometimes. But I know I need to be patient and believe that my time will come too. If I keep my mind set on the Lord and what He wants and needs from me, things will be better. I need to submit to the Lord and accept that it’s not time yet for me to be blessed with those things. I need to “be of good comfort” and be of good cheer. I need to be patient.
10 Nevertheless, after much tribulation, the Lord did hear my cries, and did answer my prayers, and has made me an instrument in his hands in bringing so many of you to a knowledge of his truth.
11 Nevertheless, in this I do not glory, for I am unworthy to glory of myself.
Alma is such a great example of being humble. I love that he explained to them that even he sinned and he had to repent, admitting he wasn’t perfect as they thought he was. The phrase “after much tribulation” is awesome. Elder Hales said in his talk during Conference, “Tests and trials are given to all of us. These mortal challenges allow us and our Heavenly Father to see whether we will exercise our agency to follow His Son. He already knows, and we have the opportunity to learn, that no matter how difficult our circumstances, “all these things shall be for our experience, and our good”.” After our trails and our repentance process, is when we can become a better instrument for the Lord to use. If we didn’t have any tough experiences, then we wouldn’t be able to relate and to teach.
Chapter 24 verses 12-16
12 And Alma and his people did not raise their voices to the Lord their God, but did pour out their hearts to him; and he did know the thoughts of their hearts.
13 And it came to pass that the voice of the Lord came to them in their afflictions, saying: Lift up your heads and be of good comfort, for I know of the covenant which ye have made unto me; and I will covenant with my people and deliver them out of bondage.
14 And I will also ease the burdens which are put upon your shoulders, that even you cannot feel them upon your backs, even while you are in bondage; and this will I do that ye may stand as witnesses for me hereafter, and that ye may know of a surety that I, the Lord God, do visit my people in their afflictions.
15 And now it came to pass that the burdens which were laid upon Alma and his brethren were made light; yea, the Lord did strengthen them that they could bear up their burdens with ease, and they did submit cheerfully and with patience to all the will of the Lord.
16 And it came to pass that so great was their faith and their patience that the voice of the Lord came unto them again, saying: Be of good comfort, for on the morrow I will deliver you out of bondage.
There’s a lot going on in these verses that I could write a lot about… But mainly, I love that the Lord knows your thoughts and the intent of your heart. Even if you can’t, or even won’t cry out loud to the Lord, He knows us. He knows what we desire and what we need. Most importantly He asks us to be patient. I have bouts of discouragement and impatience all the time. I get tired of being alone, not having someone to love me and for me to love in return. Sometimes it doesn’t seem fair that all these young girls are getting married and starting their families. It’s hard to see sometimes. But I know I need to be patient and believe that my time will come too. If I keep my mind set on the Lord and what He wants and needs from me, things will be better. I need to submit to the Lord and accept that it’s not time yet for me to be blessed with those things. I need to “be of good comfort” and be of good cheer. I need to be patient.
Mosiah 21-22
It’s really sad how the Nephites were treated by the Lamanites. I couldn’t imagine treating another human being like that, and it’s so sad that it happens over and over again in the history of our world. It still happens today, which totally boggles my mind. They fight back, but almost always lose and suffer great loss.
Verse 13 says “they did humble themselves even to the dust”. It sounds like they pretty much gave up fighting. They “submitted” themselves. But in these times, when things are tough is when most people turn to God. Why is that? Why is it so easy to remember God when we are suffering? Why can’t we remember him ALWAYS? Even when times are so good. When times are good, we forget that all of this good is coming from Heavenly Father.
Chapter 22-
How simple was it for the people of Limhi to get away? After all that time of being abused? Just get the guards drunk enough so they don’t notice anything. It shows right there that alcohol is bad right?!
Verse 13 says “they did humble themselves even to the dust”. It sounds like they pretty much gave up fighting. They “submitted” themselves. But in these times, when things are tough is when most people turn to God. Why is that? Why is it so easy to remember God when we are suffering? Why can’t we remember him ALWAYS? Even when times are so good. When times are good, we forget that all of this good is coming from Heavenly Father.
Chapter 22-
How simple was it for the people of Limhi to get away? After all that time of being abused? Just get the guards drunk enough so they don’t notice anything. It shows right there that alcohol is bad right?!
Mosiah 19-20
First of all, I would be ticked if my husband ditched me and our children while running from the Lamanites. Really? That’s just rude. I know some of them came back for their wives and children, but I feel like that could’ve been hard to get over.
The Lamanites do a lot of talk about “oaths”. Making oaths to the Nephites that they would no longer slay them, but how long do these oaths last? Two years. Not very long.
Chapter 20 teaches us what assuming means… Remember what it means Ash?
The Lamanites do a lot of talk about “oaths”. Making oaths to the Nephites that they would no longer slay them, but how long do these oaths last? Two years. Not very long.
Chapter 20 teaches us what assuming means… Remember what it means Ash?
Friday, October 7, 2011
Mosiah 17-18
Even in the face of death, Abinadi would not deny what he had taught. Joseph Smith did the same thing, Christ did it. I am reading this book called "Be Your Best Self" by President Monson and in it, he talks about all the reformists who stood by their words. All those who tried to provide the word of God to the common man, who were put to death. All of them did not deny or recant their teachings. In one part of the book, President Monson is quoting William Tyndale, where he said "If God spare my life, I will cause a boy that driveth the plough shall know more of the scripture than thou doest." Seriously? Little did he know that he was actually PROPHESYING that a young farm boy WOULD know more than the Catholic priests who killed Tyndale because of his determination. The reformation happened so that Joseph Smith would have access to the Bible so he could find the scripture that led him to pray in the Sacred Grove... And that ties back to Abinadi not denying his teachings, and being put to death for it.
I also love how in Chapter 18, verse 30, it talks about the place of Mormon. It says "how beautiful are they (the forests and waters of Mormon) to the eyes of them who there came to the knowledge of their Redeemer..." Do you ever feel like that? For me, places where I have felt the Spirit really strongly become extra special. For example, I will always love the Sacramento Temple because of the strength of the Spirit I felt while sitting in the sealing rooms and celestial room during the open house. It wasn't even a dedicated temple yet, but I felt so amazing in that building and I will always remember it...
Also remember how we each put a strand of hair in the cornerstone? Hahah wow, we are cool.
I also love how in Chapter 18, verse 30, it talks about the place of Mormon. It says "how beautiful are they (the forests and waters of Mormon) to the eyes of them who there came to the knowledge of their Redeemer..." Do you ever feel like that? For me, places where I have felt the Spirit really strongly become extra special. For example, I will always love the Sacramento Temple because of the strength of the Spirit I felt while sitting in the sealing rooms and celestial room during the open house. It wasn't even a dedicated temple yet, but I felt so amazing in that building and I will always remember it...
Also remember how we each put a strand of hair in the cornerstone? Hahah wow, we are cool.
Mosiah 17-18
18:9 Awesome verse!
I hope that someday i can live up to everything that is encompassed in that verse. I love how it lays out everything you need to do to gain eternal life...
The End:)
I hope that someday i can live up to everything that is encompassed in that verse. I love how it lays out everything you need to do to gain eternal life...
The End:)
Thursday, October 6, 2011
Mosiah 15-16
Ch. 15 Verses 15-18
15. And O how beautiful upon the mountains are their feet!
16. And again, how beautiful upon the mountains are the feet of those that are still publishing peace!
17. And again, how beautiful upon the mountains are the feet of those who shall hereafter publish peace, yea, from this time henceforth and forever!
18. And behold, I say unto you, this is not all. For O how beautiful upon the mountains are the feet of him that bringeth good tidings, that is the founder of peace, yea, even the Lord, who has redeemed his people; yea, him who has granted salvation unto his people
I love these verses. It speaks of missionary work. To me at least. How beautiful missionary work is and how beautiful are those who serve missions proclaiming the Gospel of Jesus Christ. If you haven't listened to Elder Holland's talk he gave in Priesthood session, you need to. You need to LISTEN to it, not just read it. It is SO powerful. It is such a strong call for missionaries, a plea for them. I wish that all young men would listen up and follow the prophets of the Lord. I love that up until verse 18 Abinadi is speaking of those who go to proclaim the peace of the word of God, and then in verse 18, he talks about Christ Himself, the one who redeemed us. Redeem means to pay up, or give something for something else. Christ gave us His life for us, so that we can return to Him and our Father in Heaven. And those who go out and teach it are so blessed and so BEAUTIFUL. I am so grateful for those who serve worthily and readily.
Ch. 16 verse 13
"And now, ought ye not to tremble and repent of your sins, and remember that only in and through Christ ye can be saved?"
I know I ought to.
15. And O how beautiful upon the mountains are their feet!
16. And again, how beautiful upon the mountains are the feet of those that are still publishing peace!
17. And again, how beautiful upon the mountains are the feet of those who shall hereafter publish peace, yea, from this time henceforth and forever!
18. And behold, I say unto you, this is not all. For O how beautiful upon the mountains are the feet of him that bringeth good tidings, that is the founder of peace, yea, even the Lord, who has redeemed his people; yea, him who has granted salvation unto his people
I love these verses. It speaks of missionary work. To me at least. How beautiful missionary work is and how beautiful are those who serve missions proclaiming the Gospel of Jesus Christ. If you haven't listened to Elder Holland's talk he gave in Priesthood session, you need to. You need to LISTEN to it, not just read it. It is SO powerful. It is such a strong call for missionaries, a plea for them. I wish that all young men would listen up and follow the prophets of the Lord. I love that up until verse 18 Abinadi is speaking of those who go to proclaim the peace of the word of God, and then in verse 18, he talks about Christ Himself, the one who redeemed us. Redeem means to pay up, or give something for something else. Christ gave us His life for us, so that we can return to Him and our Father in Heaven. And those who go out and teach it are so blessed and so BEAUTIFUL. I am so grateful for those who serve worthily and readily.
Ch. 16 verse 13
"And now, ought ye not to tremble and repent of your sins, and remember that only in and through Christ ye can be saved?"
I know I ought to.
Mosiah 13-14
Abinadi is a stud. I loved that he could not be touched by King Noah's men until he had finished with what the Lord sent him to do. He knew that he had to get the message across, and then he knew that they would then do whatever they wanted with him. In verse 7-8 it says "Ye see that ye have not power to slay me, therefore I finish my message. Yea, and I perceive that it cuts you to your hearts because I tell you the truth concerning your iniquities. (8) Yea, and my words fill you with wonder and amazement, and with anger."
I feel this with my family. Whenever I try to talk about anything gospel related, they get angry, and defensive. It's not with all of my siblings, but mainly the ones who really know. Things are starting to slowly change with Hannah, but in the past, she would strike out and try to hurt me and make me feel like a horrible person for believing the gospel. Mainly because she was fighting against the light of Christ inside of her. I was talking to her the other day and I just told her how excited I was to hear that there would be a second temple in Provo. She said something about how she never felt good about going into the temple, and I explained to her that it was because she was not ready. Amazingly she didn't take offense, so I continued with talking about church stuff. Then I just said "I know you feel something for the church Hannah, and yet you fight against it" and she said that she has recently been thinking about the church a lot, and how she knows she needs to go back, but is afraid to. I told her that because she was so afraid, that meant she needed to go the most. She said she knew that. "Randomly" she ran into the missionaries the next day and they invited her to call them. Hopefully she will follow through with the small promptings of the Spirit and she can get on the right track again. I pray for it every day.
I feel this with my family. Whenever I try to talk about anything gospel related, they get angry, and defensive. It's not with all of my siblings, but mainly the ones who really know. Things are starting to slowly change with Hannah, but in the past, she would strike out and try to hurt me and make me feel like a horrible person for believing the gospel. Mainly because she was fighting against the light of Christ inside of her. I was talking to her the other day and I just told her how excited I was to hear that there would be a second temple in Provo. She said something about how she never felt good about going into the temple, and I explained to her that it was because she was not ready. Amazingly she didn't take offense, so I continued with talking about church stuff. Then I just said "I know you feel something for the church Hannah, and yet you fight against it" and she said that she has recently been thinking about the church a lot, and how she knows she needs to go back, but is afraid to. I told her that because she was so afraid, that meant she needed to go the most. She said she knew that. "Randomly" she ran into the missionaries the next day and they invited her to call them. Hopefully she will follow through with the small promptings of the Spirit and she can get on the right track again. I pray for it every day.
Mosiah 2-12
Chapter 4 verse 30:
"But this much I can tell you, that if ye do not watch yourselves, and your thoughts, and your words, and your deeds, and observe the commandments of God, and continue in the faith of what ye have heard concerning the coming of our Lord, even unto the end of your lives, ye must perish. And now, O man, remember, and perish not"
Easy enough right?... All listed out, that is a lot of things to keep tabs on.. But the reality is, if you are watching yourself, you're already watching your thoughts and your deeds. Observing the commandments is an obvious no brainer if you want to make it back to God in the first place. I love that it says "continue in the faith". It reminded me of Elder Eyring's talk in Conference. That we need to promise to endure. Keep the commandments as longs as we live. Savor the moments as if time stops, appreciate all the miracles in our lives, even the smallest ones. He said to always be ready for our interview with the Master, no matter where we are in life. This scripture really ties that all together. We need to have a fixed determination to live the gospel. Like it says in chapter 5 verse 15: "Therefore, I would that ye should be steadfast and immovable..." The scriptures speak the straight up truth!!
Chapter 7 verse 19
"Therefore, life up your heads and rejoice, and put your trust in God..."
Totally related to Elder Hales talk in Conference (Don't worry, I took 19 pages of notes...I don't think I've ever paid as much attention as I did this conference than ever before and I LOVED IT) He said that we need to TRUST THE LORD. We need to understand that we're not going to get all of our answers right away and that we need to be patient. We need to sincerely pray, and trust that our answers will come. The Lord has put a great deal of trust in us, to come here and have our agency. So we need to be trustworthy and then put our trust fully in Him.
"But this much I can tell you, that if ye do not watch yourselves, and your thoughts, and your words, and your deeds, and observe the commandments of God, and continue in the faith of what ye have heard concerning the coming of our Lord, even unto the end of your lives, ye must perish. And now, O man, remember, and perish not"
Easy enough right?... All listed out, that is a lot of things to keep tabs on.. But the reality is, if you are watching yourself, you're already watching your thoughts and your deeds. Observing the commandments is an obvious no brainer if you want to make it back to God in the first place. I love that it says "continue in the faith". It reminded me of Elder Eyring's talk in Conference. That we need to promise to endure. Keep the commandments as longs as we live. Savor the moments as if time stops, appreciate all the miracles in our lives, even the smallest ones. He said to always be ready for our interview with the Master, no matter where we are in life. This scripture really ties that all together. We need to have a fixed determination to live the gospel. Like it says in chapter 5 verse 15: "Therefore, I would that ye should be steadfast and immovable..." The scriptures speak the straight up truth!!
Chapter 7 verse 19
"Therefore, life up your heads and rejoice, and put your trust in God..."
Totally related to Elder Hales talk in Conference (Don't worry, I took 19 pages of notes...I don't think I've ever paid as much attention as I did this conference than ever before and I LOVED IT) He said that we need to TRUST THE LORD. We need to understand that we're not going to get all of our answers right away and that we need to be patient. We need to sincerely pray, and trust that our answers will come. The Lord has put a great deal of trust in us, to come here and have our agency. So we need to be trustworthy and then put our trust fully in Him.
Mosiah 13-14
It amazes me how much strength, courage and faith people can have when filled with the Holy Ghost. I know that I have a strong testimony but I dont think it compares to Abinadis. It are people like him who encourage me to be a better person, to work on building my testimony, and to continue to strive to live with my father in heaven again. The modern day people who are my Abinadis are-
Brock
My Kids
My Parents
My Siblings
All my Family
My Friends
All these people inspire, encourage, strengthen, and love me. I am a better person because of all of these people. Thanks everyone!
Brock
My Kids
My Parents
My Siblings
All my Family
My Friends
All these people inspire, encourage, strengthen, and love me. I am a better person because of all of these people. Thanks everyone!
Wednesday, October 5, 2011
Mosiah 9-12
12:3 And yet, I being aover-zealous to inherit the land of our fathers, collected as many as were desirous to go up to possess the land, and started again on our bjourney into the wilderness to go up to the land; but we were smitten with famine and sore afflictions; for we were slow to remember the Lord our God.
I think it is so dumb of me sometimes when i am having a hard time with life or just things just seem to not be going well for some reason. I am so dumb because almost every time those things happen if I happen to look at my life i can guarantee that I am not doing the basics consistently daily... like reading my scriptures, saying my prayers, and stuff like that... I dont know why I ever stop or make excuses to not do those things because really when i put those things first everything else is so much easier. I still have trials in my life but when I put the Lord first i am blessed with the strength and patience to overcome whatever comes my way.
I also LOVE Abinadi.... he is such a great example of strength and faith to me. I love his story and I love his love for the Lord. He is an amazing man whom I look up to so much.
Happy Reading!
I think it is so dumb of me sometimes when i am having a hard time with life or just things just seem to not be going well for some reason. I am so dumb because almost every time those things happen if I happen to look at my life i can guarantee that I am not doing the basics consistently daily... like reading my scriptures, saying my prayers, and stuff like that... I dont know why I ever stop or make excuses to not do those things because really when i put those things first everything else is so much easier. I still have trials in my life but when I put the Lord first i am blessed with the strength and patience to overcome whatever comes my way.
I also LOVE Abinadi.... he is such a great example of strength and faith to me. I love his story and I love his love for the Lord. He is an amazing man whom I look up to so much.
Happy Reading!
Monday, October 3, 2011
Mosiah 7-8
I like how in chapter 8 it talks about seers and how they can know of things that are to come. I believe that this is what we see twice a year at conference when we listen to our prophet and other general authority. It truly is amazing that we have a living prophet and that he can lead and guide us today!
Sunday, October 2, 2011
Mosiah 5-6
8 And under this head ye are made afree, and there is bno other head whereby ye can be made free. There is no other cname given whereby salvation cometh; therefore, I would that ye should dtake upon you the name of Christ, all you that have entered into the covenant with God that ye should be obedient unto the end of your lives.
I really love this chapter because it is SO true... especially that first line... " under this head ye are made free". I had so many friends in high school that would say that I was so restricted and held back because of my religion and all the rules i had to follow. What they dont realize is that i am so much more free in this life because of my faith and I am so much more blessed because of my faith. I am so thankful for the guidelines in my life that has kept me safe, healthy and worthy to reach my eternal goals!
Sorry this blog thing got crazy... here is to recommitting myself to daily blogging!!! and Welcome Sarah to the awesomeness we call reading the BOM:)
I really love this chapter because it is SO true... especially that first line... " under this head ye are made free". I had so many friends in high school that would say that I was so restricted and held back because of my religion and all the rules i had to follow. What they dont realize is that i am so much more free in this life because of my faith and I am so much more blessed because of my faith. I am so thankful for the guidelines in my life that has kept me safe, healthy and worthy to reach my eternal goals!
Sorry this blog thing got crazy... here is to recommitting myself to daily blogging!!! and Welcome Sarah to the awesomeness we call reading the BOM:)
Saturday, October 1, 2011
Mosiah 1
(I seem to have a thing for verse 7s but they are all so good!!)...
7. And now, my sons, I would that ye should remember to search them diligently, that ye may profit thereby; and I would that ye should keep the commandments of God, that ye may prosper in the land according to the promises which the Lord made unto our fathers.
How many times am I going to be drawn to these types of verses really? You are probably getting sick of it. But President Uchtdorf said in one of his talks last conference that simplicity is the ultimate sophistication. Keep it simple. Read and study your scriptures and keep the commandments. It can't be that hard right?? Even though it totally ends up being one of the harder things to do. Prayer I think has always been a little more difficult for me to keep up on. Sometimes I find it hard to talk to an unseen person.. But as soon as I do actually pray diligently, I always feel peace and not necessarily relief, but kind of. Like I let a bunch of stuff off my chest, and I don't have to worry about it I guess. So it's a sense of relief yes.
7. And now, my sons, I would that ye should remember to search them diligently, that ye may profit thereby; and I would that ye should keep the commandments of God, that ye may prosper in the land according to the promises which the Lord made unto our fathers.
How many times am I going to be drawn to these types of verses really? You are probably getting sick of it. But President Uchtdorf said in one of his talks last conference that simplicity is the ultimate sophistication. Keep it simple. Read and study your scriptures and keep the commandments. It can't be that hard right?? Even though it totally ends up being one of the harder things to do. Prayer I think has always been a little more difficult for me to keep up on. Sometimes I find it hard to talk to an unseen person.. But as soon as I do actually pray diligently, I always feel peace and not necessarily relief, but kind of. Like I let a bunch of stuff off my chest, and I don't have to worry about it I guess. So it's a sense of relief yes.
Words of Mormon
7. And I do this for a wise purpose; for thus it whispereth me, according to the workings of the Spirit of the Lord which is in me. And now, I do not know all things; But the Lord knoweth all things which are to come; wherefore he worketh in me to do according to his will.
We need to trust in the Lord. He trusted us enough to send us here, to gain a body and to create children, and struggle through life, in order to find our way back to him. He trusted us to do that. We need to trust Him, especially in times when we don't know why we are here. We need to remember that He does know what He is doing, and that He has a specific plan for each and everyone of us. Sometimes I lose sight of that plan, or get impatient with what the Lord wants of me, so I need to work on my trust and faith in the Lord.
We need to trust in the Lord. He trusted us enough to send us here, to gain a body and to create children, and struggle through life, in order to find our way back to him. He trusted us to do that. We need to trust Him, especially in times when we don't know why we are here. We need to remember that He does know what He is doing, and that He has a specific plan for each and everyone of us. Sometimes I lose sight of that plan, or get impatient with what the Lord wants of me, so I need to work on my trust and faith in the Lord.
Omni
7. Wherefore, the Lord did visit them in great judgment; nevertheless, he did spare the righteous that they should not perish, but did deliver them out of the hands of their enemies.
If we continue to do what is right, the Lord will bless us. Like President Uchtdorf said, it doesn't matter to Heavenly Father where we are, what our calling is. What matters to Him is that we are doing the best we can, that our hearts are inclined towards Him and we are willing to help those around us. We just got to continue to be good people!!
If we continue to do what is right, the Lord will bless us. Like President Uchtdorf said, it doesn't matter to Heavenly Father where we are, what our calling is. What matters to Him is that we are doing the best we can, that our hearts are inclined towards Him and we are willing to help those around us. We just got to continue to be good people!!
Jarom
11. Wherefore, the prophets, and the priests, and the teachers, did labor diligently exhorting with all long-suffering the people to diligence; teaching the law of Moses, and the intent for which it was given; persuading them to look forward unto the Messiah, and believe in him to come as though he already was. And after this manner did they teach them."
I love that is says "Believe in him to come as though he already was". Act everyday as if He is already here! Isn't that what we should be striving to do in the first place??
I love that is says "Believe in him to come as though he already was". Act everyday as if He is already here! Isn't that what we should be striving to do in the first place??
Enos
Enos is pretty good, really. I love that it explains that he "struggled" and "wrestled" in his prayers. It wasn't easy. It wasn't easy for him to accept the answers to his prayers, or to even GET the answers to his prayers. He prayed all day to get comfort. I love that in verse 4 it says "my soul hungered and I kneeled down before my Maker and I cried unto him in mighty prayer and supplication for mine own soul and all the day long did I cry unto him, yeah and when the night came did I still raise my voice high that it reached the heavens" The answers didn't come automatically. Just like our answers rarely come automatically.
In my patriarchal blessing, it tells me to have patience for my answers and to accept them with courage and determination. And to know that they are always heard and will be answered. Elder Packer said today that the voice of the spirit is a feeling rather than a sound. The answers rarely come in a loud booming voice, but with a feeling in your heart and mind. Now I just need to work on recognizing that as it happens!!
In my patriarchal blessing, it tells me to have patience for my answers and to accept them with courage and determination. And to know that they are always heard and will be answered. Elder Packer said today that the voice of the spirit is a feeling rather than a sound. The answers rarely come in a loud booming voice, but with a feeling in your heart and mind. Now I just need to work on recognizing that as it happens!!
Jacob 1-7
Again in verse 11 of Chapter 2, Jacob says "Wherefore, I must tell you the truth according to the plainness of the word of God." I felt like a lot of Conference today was just back to basics. Do these easy things, and you'll be fine! At least be striving for something! Work towards something. It's sad that in most of these Chapters, things are kind of falling apart. Everyone is sinning like crazy and Jacob and Joseph are trying desperately to call them to repentance. Much like today I feel.
Chapter 4 verse 6 "Wherefore, we search the prophets, and we have man revelations and the spirit of prophecy; and having all these witnesses, we obtain a hope and our faith becometh unshaken, insomuch that we truly can command the name of Jesus and the very trees obey us, or the mountains, or the waves of the sea". How cool to have that kind of faith?? I know I obviously do not have that, but it's a good thing to work towards. And we do have all these witnesses today, modern prophets and apostles, our church leaders, conference, the scriptures, to show us the way to gain this faith, and strengthen it daily. Hope is a requirement of faith.. or is it faith is a requirement of hope. They are almost the same thing, but you can't have one without the other.
Chapter 4 verse 6 "Wherefore, we search the prophets, and we have man revelations and the spirit of prophecy; and having all these witnesses, we obtain a hope and our faith becometh unshaken, insomuch that we truly can command the name of Jesus and the very trees obey us, or the mountains, or the waves of the sea". How cool to have that kind of faith?? I know I obviously do not have that, but it's a good thing to work towards. And we do have all these witnesses today, modern prophets and apostles, our church leaders, conference, the scriptures, to show us the way to gain this faith, and strengthen it daily. Hope is a requirement of faith.. or is it faith is a requirement of hope. They are almost the same thing, but you can't have one without the other.
2 Nephi 31-33
First off I am SO SORRY I AM A HORRIBLE PERSON!!! I have been so bad at blogging. So therefore, these posts will probably be short, since it's kind of been a week since I've read most of these chapters, but I skimmed through to see what I had thought.
There is one line in chapter 31 verse 3 that I love. "For my soul delighteth in plainness". The gospel is pure and simple. If you think about it in reality, there is not a lot to do to make it back to the kingdom of Heaven you know? Kind of like what Sister Thompson said in Conference this morning "study the scriptures, follow the prophets, and seek to live righteous lives". Really it's simple as that. Of course, we need to make and keep specific covenants in the temple, but that comes with living righteous lives right?
Loved how chapter 32 talks about prayer. Pray always and not faint. I was having a weird time the other night, feeling like I was super duper dumb for coming out here to Missouri.. So I prayed for some sort of reassurance that I wasn't crazy, or that I was doing an okay thing, at least that it was okay for me to even come and see what was up, you know? And I felt like I got an answer to my prayer. That night, weirdly enough, I found comfort in my dreams. When I woke up, I felt reassured that I was not wrong in coming, even if nothing exactly comes of this visit.. At least I came.
I like in 33 how Nephi admits that he is not strong in writing, like unto speaking. Seeing how amazing his writing is, imagine what it would have been like to actually HEAR him speak!? He had the power of the Holy Ghost when he spoke. Maybe someday, we will hear that!! And again, he speaks about the "plainness of the truth". Love it. Nephi again says in verse 4, "I glory in plainness; I glory in truth..."
There is one line in chapter 31 verse 3 that I love. "For my soul delighteth in plainness". The gospel is pure and simple. If you think about it in reality, there is not a lot to do to make it back to the kingdom of Heaven you know? Kind of like what Sister Thompson said in Conference this morning "study the scriptures, follow the prophets, and seek to live righteous lives". Really it's simple as that. Of course, we need to make and keep specific covenants in the temple, but that comes with living righteous lives right?
Loved how chapter 32 talks about prayer. Pray always and not faint. I was having a weird time the other night, feeling like I was super duper dumb for coming out here to Missouri.. So I prayed for some sort of reassurance that I wasn't crazy, or that I was doing an okay thing, at least that it was okay for me to even come and see what was up, you know? And I felt like I got an answer to my prayer. That night, weirdly enough, I found comfort in my dreams. When I woke up, I felt reassured that I was not wrong in coming, even if nothing exactly comes of this visit.. At least I came.
I like in 33 how Nephi admits that he is not strong in writing, like unto speaking. Seeing how amazing his writing is, imagine what it would have been like to actually HEAR him speak!? He had the power of the Holy Ghost when he spoke. Maybe someday, we will hear that!! And again, he speaks about the "plainness of the truth". Love it. Nephi again says in verse 4, "I glory in plainness; I glory in truth..."
Thursday, September 22, 2011
2 Nephi 29-30
I love chapter 29! I love it. I love when the Lord says in verse 7 "Know ye not that there are more nations than one?" And that He has the Book of Mormon come out to prove that He is the same, always and forever. And He doesn't just give it to one nation or people, but He wants all of us to have it.
It's like today, people will still say that we already have a bible, we don't need another one.. But really? What makes them think that God stops communicating with His children or only gives them so much, and nothing else? Really? People are so ignorant when they say that we as Latter-day Saints aren't Christian. If they were to open up the Book of Mormon and start reading in this chapter, then they would know. They'd know they were wrong to believe that the Bible is the only word of God on earth. We are so so blessed to have not only the Book of Mormon, but the Doctrine and Covenants, the apostles and especially the Prophet! We are so lucky, and I need to remember that more.
Also Chapter 30 is pretty cool too. I like how everything is going to be so peaceful and perfect and that everyone will FINALLY get along and Satan will have NO power over us!! Can you imagine what that would be like?! Wow.
It's like today, people will still say that we already have a bible, we don't need another one.. But really? What makes them think that God stops communicating with His children or only gives them so much, and nothing else? Really? People are so ignorant when they say that we as Latter-day Saints aren't Christian. If they were to open up the Book of Mormon and start reading in this chapter, then they would know. They'd know they were wrong to believe that the Bible is the only word of God on earth. We are so so blessed to have not only the Book of Mormon, but the Doctrine and Covenants, the apostles and especially the Prophet! We are so lucky, and I need to remember that more.
Also Chapter 30 is pretty cool too. I like how everything is going to be so peaceful and perfect and that everyone will FINALLY get along and Satan will have NO power over us!! Can you imagine what that would be like?! Wow.
Wednesday, September 21, 2011
2 Nephi 25-28
Chapter 26 verse 30: Behold, the Lord hath forbidden this thing; wherefore, the Lord God hath given a commandment that all men should have charity, which charity is love. And except they should have charity they were nothing. Wherefore, if they should have charity they would not suffer the laborer in Zion to perish.
What would it be like to have unlimited love towards everyone? I know that you probably have that kind of love towards Brock and your beautiful babies, but who else do you have that love for? I don't know that I have it for anyone right now. I mean, I know that I am a very forgiving person, almost to a fault, and I do love and care for certain people a lot, but I do get impatient. Obviously, most of the time, I keep it inside, but I do sometimes have bad thoughts about others... which shows me that I do not have that much charity. That is something I want to work on. I want to develop a better love for others, even those that I don't know. I need to work on charity, especially concerning my family. It's strange how you can be your best self, yet your worst self when you are around your family... Who are the people who you should feel the most charity towards right? Do you think I am a charitable person??
Chapter 28 verse 30: For behold, thus saith the Lord God: I will give unto the children of men line upon line, precept upon precept, here a little and there a little; and blessed are those who hearken unto my precepts, and lend an ear unto my counsel, for they shall learn wisdom; for unto him that receiveth I will give more; and from them that shall say, We have enough, from them shall be taken away even that which they have.
The Lord expects us to work for things. He's not going to give us everything all at once. I feel like this verse conveys that pretty well. He will give us a little bit at a time, let us try and figure out what it means, and once we get it, He will give us some more. It's like our trials in a way. He gives us what He knows we can handle at the time, and then when we get through it, He gives us another one to learn and grow from. Thus making life OH SO FUN!! ;). But really... It makes sense right? We won't appreciate the gospel if we are given it in all one big helping.. But the Lord allows us time to figure it out on our own, and will always give us more and more and there will always be room for us to grow, change, and develop into people who are more prepared to be with Him again!
What would it be like to have unlimited love towards everyone? I know that you probably have that kind of love towards Brock and your beautiful babies, but who else do you have that love for? I don't know that I have it for anyone right now. I mean, I know that I am a very forgiving person, almost to a fault, and I do love and care for certain people a lot, but I do get impatient. Obviously, most of the time, I keep it inside, but I do sometimes have bad thoughts about others... which shows me that I do not have that much charity. That is something I want to work on. I want to develop a better love for others, even those that I don't know. I need to work on charity, especially concerning my family. It's strange how you can be your best self, yet your worst self when you are around your family... Who are the people who you should feel the most charity towards right? Do you think I am a charitable person??
Chapter 28 verse 30: For behold, thus saith the Lord God: I will give unto the children of men line upon line, precept upon precept, here a little and there a little; and blessed are those who hearken unto my precepts, and lend an ear unto my counsel, for they shall learn wisdom; for unto him that receiveth I will give more; and from them that shall say, We have enough, from them shall be taken away even that which they have.
The Lord expects us to work for things. He's not going to give us everything all at once. I feel like this verse conveys that pretty well. He will give us a little bit at a time, let us try and figure out what it means, and once we get it, He will give us some more. It's like our trials in a way. He gives us what He knows we can handle at the time, and then when we get through it, He gives us another one to learn and grow from. Thus making life OH SO FUN!! ;). But really... It makes sense right? We won't appreciate the gospel if we are given it in all one big helping.. But the Lord allows us time to figure it out on our own, and will always give us more and more and there will always be room for us to grow, change, and develop into people who are more prepared to be with Him again!
Monday, September 19, 2011
2 Nephi 21-24
Yea not much to write about Megs... and YES at least we are reading it...
Honestly there is something inside of me that is annoyed with Isaiah but then at the same time there is another part that says... this was written for us TWICE... there must be a reason, IT MUST ME IMPORTANT!
I don't know why its so difficult to read and I wish i understood it better but maybe someday I will. But for now I will read in ignorance... happy reading:)
Honestly there is something inside of me that is annoyed with Isaiah but then at the same time there is another part that says... this was written for us TWICE... there must be a reason, IT MUST ME IMPORTANT!
I don't know why its so difficult to read and I wish i understood it better but maybe someday I will. But for now I will read in ignorance... happy reading:)
2 Nephi 23-24
I forget how long these chapters go for… 2 Nephi is hard. I mean, I get what’s going on in these two chapters for the most part, but really?.... Isaiah, use a little easier language will ya??
The destruction of Babylon would have been pretty scary to go through… it’s apparently supposed to be similar to the destruction that will happen at the Second Coming. Honestly, I hope I’m not here for that. I know I would be burnt to a crisp, or crushed by a building, or swallowed up into the earth. I just wonder how good you have to be in order to NOT get demolished in that day. Am I doing good enough to be saved or will I be one of those people who are punished? I really don’t think I will be here for that anyways because of some things that my blessing says.
K not much to this post, but at least we are reading it right?
The destruction of Babylon would have been pretty scary to go through… it’s apparently supposed to be similar to the destruction that will happen at the Second Coming. Honestly, I hope I’m not here for that. I know I would be burnt to a crisp, or crushed by a building, or swallowed up into the earth. I just wonder how good you have to be in order to NOT get demolished in that day. Am I doing good enough to be saved or will I be one of those people who are punished? I really don’t think I will be here for that anyways because of some things that my blessing says.
K not much to this post, but at least we are reading it right?
2 Nephi 17-22
I feel way bad about not blogging, but same as you, the Isaiah chapters kind of go over my head majorly, so I’m really sorry. Chapter 22 has stuff that makes sense though!!
2 Behold, God is my salvation; I will trust, and not be afraid; for the Lord JEHOVAH is my strength and my song; he also has become my salvation.
I need to be better about trusting in the Lord and His plan. I have to stop being so afraid of everything that is unknown to me. I can’t be hesitant to do things because I don’t know how the outcome will be. I have to stop holding myself back… Why do I do that? Sometimes I don’t get myself. So I need to memorize this scripture or keep it with me always. I HAVE to start relying more on the Lord and figuring out what His plan is for me, instead of just floating along like I have been for the past who knows how long…much too long for sure. I HAVE to open myself up to new opportunities and not be afraid to take a risk, especially when the outcome could potentially be amazing.
P.S. I am excited for Christmas too, though I haven’t started looking for Christmas gifts… can’t say that I will be able to get gifts for everyone I want to, but it’s cool right?
2 Behold, God is my salvation; I will trust, and not be afraid; for the Lord JEHOVAH is my strength and my song; he also has become my salvation.
I need to be better about trusting in the Lord and His plan. I have to stop being so afraid of everything that is unknown to me. I can’t be hesitant to do things because I don’t know how the outcome will be. I have to stop holding myself back… Why do I do that? Sometimes I don’t get myself. So I need to memorize this scripture or keep it with me always. I HAVE to start relying more on the Lord and figuring out what His plan is for me, instead of just floating along like I have been for the past who knows how long…much too long for sure. I HAVE to open myself up to new opportunities and not be afraid to take a risk, especially when the outcome could potentially be amazing.
P.S. I am excited for Christmas too, though I haven’t started looking for Christmas gifts… can’t say that I will be able to get gifts for everyone I want to, but it’s cool right?
Saturday, September 17, 2011
2 Nephi 15-20
Honestly I have a really hard time with Isaiah chapters... I don't really understand any more than the synopsis at the beginning of the chapter. This may be why I am having a hard time actually writing feelings or thoughts about these chapters, hence the fall behind. I promise I am reading but its just hard for me to write a whole blog on stuff I don't understand... Saying this here is my blog for the following chapters...
Ok so I don't really understand the words that I have been reading but what I DO understand is that...
My life has become easier since I have started to read the scriptures again regularly
I have become more patient with my son and other things
Even tho times are tough my family has gotten thru them
My relationship with Brock has been strengthened
I feel a peace everyday
I love myself a lot more (even tho I haven't lost weight still:) )
I will continue to read because I know that it is SOOO important in my life and I can't live without it... BUT really I will be SOOO excited to be done with Isaiah soon!!!
p.s. Ok just a side note... Isaiah talking about the birth of Christ made me SUPER excited for Christmas!! I even started looking for Christmas gifts... :) LOVE IT!!!
Ok so I don't really understand the words that I have been reading but what I DO understand is that...
My life has become easier since I have started to read the scriptures again regularly
I have become more patient with my son and other things
Even tho times are tough my family has gotten thru them
My relationship with Brock has been strengthened
I feel a peace everyday
I love myself a lot more (even tho I haven't lost weight still:) )
I will continue to read because I know that it is SOOO important in my life and I can't live without it... BUT really I will be SOOO excited to be done with Isaiah soon!!!
p.s. Ok just a side note... Isaiah talking about the birth of Christ made me SUPER excited for Christmas!! I even started looking for Christmas gifts... :) LOVE IT!!!
Thursday, September 15, 2011
2 Nephi 15-16
13 Therefore, my people are gone into captivity, because they have no knowledge; and their honorable men are famished, and their multitude dried up with thirst.
Unbelievers! They are starving for the gospel, and have it right in front of them, but deny it. I don't know if this scripture means exactly that, because, let's face it, who really knows what Isaiah is talking about half the time? But that's what it came across to me as. When you aren't progressing spiritually, it's like you're dead inside. Maybe not to that extreme, but I know that I can definitely feel the difference when I am not progressing spiritually. It's like kind of a numb or empty feeling. I feel like I am less likely to feel the Spirit or have the desire to go to church, or do my calling (which I do not have right now...). It's not easy to get back into, but once you form the habit of reading the scriptures, or conference talks, or articles in the ensign, and praying, small and simple stuff, it really does have a major influence. It's a slow start, but once you start to notice how much your day is affected if you forget, then you know what you are doing is right and good and IMPORTANT!!
Unbelievers! They are starving for the gospel, and have it right in front of them, but deny it. I don't know if this scripture means exactly that, because, let's face it, who really knows what Isaiah is talking about half the time? But that's what it came across to me as. When you aren't progressing spiritually, it's like you're dead inside. Maybe not to that extreme, but I know that I can definitely feel the difference when I am not progressing spiritually. It's like kind of a numb or empty feeling. I feel like I am less likely to feel the Spirit or have the desire to go to church, or do my calling (which I do not have right now...). It's not easy to get back into, but once you form the habit of reading the scriptures, or conference talks, or articles in the ensign, and praying, small and simple stuff, it really does have a major influence. It's a slow start, but once you start to notice how much your day is affected if you forget, then you know what you are doing is right and good and IMPORTANT!!
Wednesday, September 14, 2011
2 Nephi 13-14
haha you are bad megs... But its true.. I do think that there will be justice for those who are not living they way they should in this life... In this life or the next they will get what they deserve (and i am SOOO glad i dont have to decide what that is) and I believe that those who live righteously in this life and endure to the end will get what they deserve in this life or the next life... This is what I am planning on :) Its what keeps me going everyday of my life:)
2 Nephi 13-14
Reading these chapters, I was kind of taking it literally, which I know is not the correct interpretation. But I was thinking about how girls are. I seriously feel like a lot of women are exactly how these scriptures describe the daughters of Zion. Haughty, and stuck up, thinking they are better than everyone else. Trying to look good for the world by wearing all these fancy expensive clothes, by wearing a lot of makeup, by not eating. Of course, it’s not bad to look good and well groomed, stuff like that, but there’s an extent. There are a few girls at work who fit this description perfectly. I don’t get it. What makes them better than me? I imagine verse 24 coming to pass, where they will lose all their beauty… And I think it’s awesome. Shame on me.
But same thing with the world. If we don’t clean up our act, that’s seriously going to happen. Burnt to a crisp!! Scary stuff. We just need to keep trying to be Christ-like. Serving others, and going to the temple when we can, and just continuing to be good people… Cuz let’s face it Ash, we are pretty dang good. We are beautiful, strong LDS women! And YOU are an awesome mom and wife! And someday, hopefully sooner than later, I will be too .
But same thing with the world. If we don’t clean up our act, that’s seriously going to happen. Burnt to a crisp!! Scary stuff. We just need to keep trying to be Christ-like. Serving others, and going to the temple when we can, and just continuing to be good people… Cuz let’s face it Ash, we are pretty dang good. We are beautiful, strong LDS women! And YOU are an awesome mom and wife! And someday, hopefully sooner than later, I will be too .
2 Nephi 11-12
I agree I think its awesome that they saw the Redeemer... They must have been amazing men to be able to see such a thing.
I like how in chapter 11 it kind of reasons with you about how Christ and God must live if we are to exist. Sometimes its nice to know that I am not just crazy... I have a very strong testimony of our gospel and our Heavenly Father and stuff but sometimes its just nice to have the logical explanation to reinforce your testimony even more!
I like how in chapter 11 it kind of reasons with you about how Christ and God must live if we are to exist. Sometimes its nice to know that I am not just crazy... I have a very strong testimony of our gospel and our Heavenly Father and stuff but sometimes its just nice to have the logical explanation to reinforce your testimony even more!
2 Nephi 11-12
2 Nephi 11 is simply amazing. Nephi SAW the Savior, Jacob SAW the Savior. They sat with Him and talked with Him. I can only imagine how they wanted to share what was taught to them. And so I love verse 4 when Nephi says his “soul delighteth in proving unto my people the truth of the coming of Christ”. I know that when I am excited about something, I want to tell everyone! (For example, I am going to Missouri at the end of the month…which I am excited about…) So I’m sure Nephi and Jacob wanted to proclaim it to the world!
I also love that Nephi reminds us that Isaiah had also seen Christ, and with that, there are three witnesses of Christ. And in verse 3 it says, “Wherefore, by the words of three, God hath said, I will establish my word.” That automatically made me think of the three witnesses of the Book of Mormon. Always in threes, but of course, the Lord has even more witnesses of him, even today. I’m pretty sure President Monson has talked with Christ. And a lot, if not ALL of the apostles. How cool would that be really?
Chapter 12 is a bit scary haha. All these things that you should not do, otherwise, you’re pretty much out of luck!! Keep doing good Ash! And keep sending me pictures of your adorable babies!!
I also love that Nephi reminds us that Isaiah had also seen Christ, and with that, there are three witnesses of Christ. And in verse 3 it says, “Wherefore, by the words of three, God hath said, I will establish my word.” That automatically made me think of the three witnesses of the Book of Mormon. Always in threes, but of course, the Lord has even more witnesses of him, even today. I’m pretty sure President Monson has talked with Christ. And a lot, if not ALL of the apostles. How cool would that be really?
Chapter 12 is a bit scary haha. All these things that you should not do, otherwise, you’re pretty much out of luck!! Keep doing good Ash! And keep sending me pictures of your adorable babies!!
Monday, September 12, 2011
2 Nephi 5-10
I have been bad too about posting... So my bad. I love verse 8 in Chapter 11. "Therefore, the redeemed of the Lord shall return, and come with singing unto Zion; and everlasting joy and holiness shall be upon their heads; and they shall obtain gladness and joy; sorrow and mourning shall flee away."
That gives me hope for some good stuff coming up... especially when I am kind of struggling at times. I've been contemplating a lot about what I should be doing with my life, and it's hard Ash. I wish you were here so I could talk to you, but this will have to do I guess. I was reading in the Ensign from this month, in Elder Ballard's article. It said "I would encourage you to not be afraid of the future. Don't let anything that's going on in the world, that's happening now, slow you down from your progress in mortality. Don't be afraid to marry. Don't think you have to have everything lined up." I am SO scared of the future.
That gives me hope for some good stuff coming up... especially when I am kind of struggling at times. I've been contemplating a lot about what I should be doing with my life, and it's hard Ash. I wish you were here so I could talk to you, but this will have to do I guess. I was reading in the Ensign from this month, in Elder Ballard's article. It said "I would encourage you to not be afraid of the future. Don't let anything that's going on in the world, that's happening now, slow you down from your progress in mortality. Don't be afraid to marry. Don't think you have to have everything lined up." I am SO scared of the future.
2 Nephi 5-10
I have been thinking about the atonement a lot lately and just how i am so thankful for it in my life. I am far from being perfect and without the atonement i dont know where i would be. I am so thankful for it because it has provided a way for me and my family be together forever... I will be forever in debt for those things that happened and the sacrifices that were made in that garden!!
Sorry i have been bad... here is my very short make up blog! Love you!
Sorry i have been bad... here is my very short make up blog! Love you!
Saturday, September 10, 2011
2 Nephi 3-4
I am going to start in the middle of verse 5: "For behold; I know that if ye are brought up in the way ye should go ye will not depart from it."
Sooooo... what does this mean? Was I the only one brought up in the way I should go? Probs not, everyone has their agency. Yet another excerpt from my blessing k?... "I bless you that your children will remain faithful to the gospel that you teach them".... Pretty rad right? But I know that is a lot to do! Hopefully I can do it!Sorry this is a shorty, I have to run... And I will do the other one later when I get home! Love you lots!!
Sooooo... what does this mean? Was I the only one brought up in the way I should go? Probs not, everyone has their agency. Yet another excerpt from my blessing k?... "I bless you that your children will remain faithful to the gospel that you teach them".... Pretty rad right? But I know that is a lot to do! Hopefully I can do it!Sorry this is a shorty, I have to run... And I will do the other one later when I get home! Love you lots!!
Friday, September 9, 2011
2 Nephi 3-4
16 Behold, my asoul delighteth in the things of the Lord; and my bheart pondereth continually upon the things which I have seen and heard.
21 He hath filled me with his alove, even unto the bconsuming of my flesh.
I love chapter 4... there are many different scriptures that really stick out to me but these two are my favorites. I love how in verse 16 he talks about how he delighted in the things of the Lord but he didnt leave it at that.. he then ponders it all continually. I think that this is something that i should do more often, when read something i like or feel the spirit i should think about it and really ponder what it means and how it will help me.
I then love that the Lord really does stand my us in hard times. I have felt his love consume me before in the hardest of times. He really will not abandon us!
21 He hath filled me with his alove, even unto the bconsuming of my flesh.
I love chapter 4... there are many different scriptures that really stick out to me but these two are my favorites. I love how in verse 16 he talks about how he delighted in the things of the Lord but he didnt leave it at that.. he then ponders it all continually. I think that this is something that i should do more often, when read something i like or feel the spirit i should think about it and really ponder what it means and how it will help me.
I then love that the Lord really does stand my us in hard times. I have felt his love consume me before in the hardest of times. He really will not abandon us!
Thursday, September 8, 2011
2 Nephi 1-2
Chapter 2 verse 11... I think its so true that you need opposition in all things. I dont necessarily LOVE opposition all the time but i know it is necessary. I know that it helps me to keep humble, thankful and gracious. I know that i am always thankful for Brock because of some of the terrible guys that i dated... and i am thankful for all the good times in my life because of going thru some of the hard times. Got to love opposition.... :)
Wednesday, September 7, 2011
2 Nephi 1-2
13 And if ye shall say there is no law, ye shall also say there is no sin. If ye shall say there is no sin, ye shall also say there is no righteousness. And if there be no righteousness there be no happiness. And if there be no righteousness nor happiness there be no punishment nor misery. And if these things are not there is no God. And if there is no God we are not, neither the earth; for there could have been no creation of things, neither to act nor to be acted upon; wherefore, all things must have vanished away.
This verse pretty much lays out the gospel. No law = no sin = no righteousness. If you are righteous you are happy, simple as that. There are so many examples of people who are choosing the wrong path, whether we see it personally in our own relationships, friends or family, or out in the world. When people are doing the wrong thing, you know they are not happy. My friend's brother is struggling with his happiness and worth right now. We've talked about this, and it's because there is no progression. Use me as an example. You and I both know that I wasn't doing what I needed to be doing, and so I was having a really hard time. I wasn't happy. But then you showed me through your example and through your encouragement that it was possible to do the right things and to feel happiness again. I know I'm not happy when I'm doing, or even thinking about things that I shouldn't. We all know it. No happiness = no God. Yeah right! How can there NOT be a God with all that we have?? I don't get people who think there is no God and no salvation. I feel bad for them.
Tuesday, September 6, 2011
1 Nephi 21-22
Isaiah is definitely a toughie sometimes. Why is that!? Anyways, I liked verse 16 in chapter 21 "Behold, I have graven thee upon the palms of my hands; thy walls are continually before me". That makes the sacrifice of Christ so personal. He doesn't say anything like "graven the sins of the world" or "graven the children of men" etc.. But he uses the personal term of "Thee", which is ME. He gave his life for ME and YOU. He atoned for our sins and all he wants for us to do is accept his amazing gift of the gospel and of life. How amazing is that really? We are all individually engraven on his palms, and one day, we will see and feel those marks and KNOW and UNDERSTAND why he did it for us. I can't fathom it, but I try to.
In chapter 22, I liked verse 25, where it says "And he gathereth his children from the four quarters of the earth; and he numberth his sheep, and they know him; and there shall be one fold and one shepherd; and he shall feed his sheep and in him they shall find pasture". I like this because 1. it says they KNOW him. I want to know Christ personally, and I am working on that on a daily basis. 2. it says in him they shall find pasture... which to me, means safety, love, peace, amazingness. I can't wait. Seriously. It's going to be awesome when He comes back.
LOVE YOU!
In chapter 22, I liked verse 25, where it says "And he gathereth his children from the four quarters of the earth; and he numberth his sheep, and they know him; and there shall be one fold and one shepherd; and he shall feed his sheep and in him they shall find pasture". I like this because 1. it says they KNOW him. I want to know Christ personally, and I am working on that on a daily basis. 2. it says in him they shall find pasture... which to me, means safety, love, peace, amazingness. I can't wait. Seriously. It's going to be awesome when He comes back.
LOVE YOU!
1 Nephi 21-22
15 For can a awoman forget her sucking child, that she should not have bcompassion on the son of her womb? Yea, they may cforget, yet will I not forget thee, O house of Israel.
Again this is comforting... I like good sappy nice feeling scriptures:)
I love how I feel like i can totally understand how this feels (you will soon megs:) anyway... i know that if He will not forget me like i would not forget my children, I am well looked after! Plus i am sure he is WAY better at it then me.. so i feel so loved and safe when i read this scripture. I feel like I will never be forgotten and i will always be loved!
Again this is comforting... I like good sappy nice feeling scriptures:)
I love how I feel like i can totally understand how this feels (you will soon megs:) anyway... i know that if He will not forget me like i would not forget my children, I am well looked after! Plus i am sure he is WAY better at it then me.. so i feel so loved and safe when i read this scripture. I feel like I will never be forgotten and i will always be loved!
Monday, September 5, 2011
1 Nephi 19-20
You stole the verse I was going to talk about! But I will still talk about it. So this is obviously going to be a copy cat blog and probably a short one. I like how peace is compared to a river. In real life, I totally find rivers to be so peaceful! I remember floating down the Provo River one summer, and I got behind the group I was with somehow, but I loved it. It was SO beautiful and so peaceful.
I also like verse 16, "Come ye near unto me; I have no spoken in secret; from the beginning, from the time that it was declared have I spoken; and the Lord God, and his Spirit, hath sent me." I know that Isaiah is totally hard to understand, but to me, this verse is kind of like saying that the gospel is no secret at all, and that it has never been a secret, so just come and listen and you'll know too. The gospel just makes sense to me, and I wish it did for other people too!!
I also like verse 16, "Come ye near unto me; I have no spoken in secret; from the beginning, from the time that it was declared have I spoken; and the Lord God, and his Spirit, hath sent me." I know that Isaiah is totally hard to understand, but to me, this verse is kind of like saying that the gospel is no secret at all, and that it has never been a secret, so just come and listen and you'll know too. The gospel just makes sense to me, and I wish it did for other people too!!
1 Nephi 17-18
3: And thus we see that the commandments of God must be fulfilled. And if it so be that the children of men keep the commandments of God, he doth nourish them, and strengthen them, and provide means whereby they can accomplish the things which he has commanded them; wherefore he did provide means for us while we did sojourn in the wilderness.
LOVE IT. Love how simple it really is. Keep the commandments and you will be set! I know that sometimes, we can forget the little commandments, and that's when life seems a whole lot harder than it actually needs to be. How dumb can we be sometimes, really? It drives me nuts. I love how the verse says the Lord will nourish us. To me, that means that he will take care of us and help us to grow.
LOVE IT. Love how simple it really is. Keep the commandments and you will be set! I know that sometimes, we can forget the little commandments, and that's when life seems a whole lot harder than it actually needs to be. How dumb can we be sometimes, really? It drives me nuts. I love how the verse says the Lord will nourish us. To me, that means that he will take care of us and help us to grow.
1 Nephi 19-20
O yea... Isaiah chapters... I totally have a hard time understanding these chapters so my blogs might be a little crazy, but It will mostly be just my thoughts that come to me when I read certain chapters or verses.
18 O that thou hadst hearkened to my acommandments—then had thy bpeace been as a river, and thy righteousness as the waves of the sea.
I really liked this verse cause it reminds me that when i do keep the commandments and do what i am supposed to things really seem to go better. even when i have a hard time, it seems easier to get thru. I know that when i do what is right i am blessed so much! So i dont know why i am a slacker sometimes... it really isnt worth it!
18 O that thou hadst hearkened to my acommandments—then had thy bpeace been as a river, and thy righteousness as the waves of the sea.
I really liked this verse cause it reminds me that when i do keep the commandments and do what i am supposed to things really seem to go better. even when i have a hard time, it seems easier to get thru. I know that when i do what is right i am blessed so much! So i dont know why i am a slacker sometimes... it really isnt worth it!
1 Nephi 17-18
50 And I said unto them: aIf God had commanded me to do all things I could do them. If he should command me that I should say unto this water, be thou earth, it should be earth; and if I should say it, it would be done.
I know that God does provide a way for us to complete thing which we are commanded. I know that he also makes us stronger when we are having challenges. He really does provide a way for us to do things even if we didnt think we could do it in the first place. All we need to do is have faith that he will make up for our shortcomings:)
I know that God does provide a way for us to complete thing which we are commanded. I know that he also makes us stronger when we are having challenges. He really does provide a way for us to do things even if we didnt think we could do it in the first place. All we need to do is have faith that he will make up for our shortcomings:)
Saturday, September 3, 2011
1 Nephi 15-16
2 And it came to pass that I said unto them that I knew that I had spoken ahard things against the wicked, according to the truth; and the righteous have I justified, and testified that they should be lifted up at the last day; wherefore, the bguilty taketh the ctruth to be hard, for it dcutteth them to the very center.
I think this is so true... It really is so hard to hear that you are doing something wrong, or not doing something you should be or whatever. But i know when i am in the wrong and i am called out it is NO FUN!! I mostly call myself out which is no fun also. I think its good to consistently evaluate yourself and see if you are doing whats right. I know that i need to do this more so that i can continue to grow spiritually and get closer to my eternal goals. This is one of the reasons that i really wanted to do this blog... i evaluated my life and i was missing some things, so i decided to do something about it... SO thanks Megs!!! You are helping me grow into a better person:) Loves!!
I think this is so true... It really is so hard to hear that you are doing something wrong, or not doing something you should be or whatever. But i know when i am in the wrong and i am called out it is NO FUN!! I mostly call myself out which is no fun also. I think its good to consistently evaluate yourself and see if you are doing whats right. I know that i need to do this more so that i can continue to grow spiritually and get closer to my eternal goals. This is one of the reasons that i really wanted to do this blog... i evaluated my life and i was missing some things, so i decided to do something about it... SO thanks Megs!!! You are helping me grow into a better person:) Loves!!
1 Nephi 15-16
It sucks that right after Nephi had these awesome experiences with the angel, he goes back to the dwelling of his father to find his dumb brothers fighting! Over and over it happens! How frustrating!! And of course, Nephi already knows what's going to happen with his brothers and his people, but he takes the time to teach them and explain to them, in very simple terms, what Lehi saw and had told them. And how great Nephi must have felt to see that he had an affect on his brothers.. to see them, even temporarily humble themselves and try to live righteously.
29: ".. And thus we see that by small means the Lord can bring about great things." I love that! It is hard to remember the little things, and to notice how they help in your life when you are actually doing them. I already feel better by just reading two chapters a day with you and having some time to think about what I've read and what I can do to apply it to my life. (I know I am late in posting though). I didn't read yesterday, shame on me, but I felt it! I could tell! Thanks for helping me remember to do the easy stuff! It's so obviously important!!
29: ".. And thus we see that by small means the Lord can bring about great things." I love that! It is hard to remember the little things, and to notice how they help in your life when you are actually doing them. I already feel better by just reading two chapters a day with you and having some time to think about what I've read and what I can do to apply it to my life. (I know I am late in posting though). I didn't read yesterday, shame on me, but I felt it! I could tell! Thanks for helping me remember to do the easy stuff! It's so obviously important!!
1 Nephi 13-14
I wonder how long Nephi was with the angel? Could it have been like a minute? or a few hours? or a few days? I feel like seeing ALL the stuff going on in the world from beginning to end would take quite some time, but of course the Lord's time is not the same as our time.
I loved how when Nephi had a question, the angel would answer him directly.. Like starting in verse 21: "And the angel said unto me: Knowest thou the meaning of this book. 22. And I said unto him: I know not. 23 And he said: Behold it proceedeth out of the mouth of a Jew. And I, Nephi, beheld it..." and the angel goes on to explain what the book was and what the purpose of the book was. I just love it. And it kind of ties into the whole "Knock and it shall be opened" thing... Just ask. And with a little patience and understanding, the answer will come.
I loved how when Nephi had a question, the angel would answer him directly.. Like starting in verse 21: "And the angel said unto me: Knowest thou the meaning of this book. 22. And I said unto him: I know not. 23 And he said: Behold it proceedeth out of the mouth of a Jew. And I, Nephi, beheld it..." and the angel goes on to explain what the book was and what the purpose of the book was. I just love it. And it kind of ties into the whole "Knock and it shall be opened" thing... Just ask. And with a little patience and understanding, the answer will come.
Friday, September 2, 2011
1 Nephi 13-14
37 And ablessed are they who shall seek to bring forth my bZion at that day, for they shall have the cgift and the dpower of the Holy Ghost; and if they eendure unto the end they shall be flifted up at the last day, and shall be saved in the everlasting gkingdom of the Lamb; and whoso shall hpublish peace, yea, tidings of great joy, how beautiful upon the mountains shall they be.
I love this scripture and all other scriptures talking about enduring to the end. I really get so much strength from these. It really helps me to push on in those hard times of my life and even those times that are good. It also gives me a lot of comfort in those times I have doubts. It helps reassure me that if I continue to do my best and really endure that things will work out the way they should and are supposed to.
And yes megs it makes sense... no worries!
I love this scripture and all other scriptures talking about enduring to the end. I really get so much strength from these. It really helps me to push on in those hard times of my life and even those times that are good. It also gives me a lot of comfort in those times I have doubts. It helps reassure me that if I continue to do my best and really endure that things will work out the way they should and are supposed to.
And yes megs it makes sense... no worries!
Thursday, September 1, 2011
1 Nephi 11-12
So yeah, I was thinking that it would be pretty sweet to be caught up in the Spirit while pondering.. How do you ponder well enough to invite the Spirit to take you away? I always feel like my thoughts are so scattered ALL THE TIME to feel like I could ever be to any kind of point near that. I couldn't even imagine being worthy enough for that anyway!
As for seeing the things of the future, I'm with you there. I'm sure there were some heartbreaking things Nephi saw in his vision, but I think he saw many many beautiful things as well. He saw the world to the end... So yeah, there are some hard times, and evil, pure evil, things in this world, but if you look on the other side of things, there are some absolutely amazing things and what great things are in store for those who live worthily to see it, we can't even fathom right now.
Does this post even many any sense to you? It is late and I should have written this hours ago when I thought of it. Love you much Ash!!
As for seeing the things of the future, I'm with you there. I'm sure there were some heartbreaking things Nephi saw in his vision, but I think he saw many many beautiful things as well. He saw the world to the end... So yeah, there are some hard times, and evil, pure evil, things in this world, but if you look on the other side of things, there are some absolutely amazing things and what great things are in store for those who live worthily to see it, we can't even fathom right now.
Does this post even many any sense to you? It is late and I should have written this hours ago when I thought of it. Love you much Ash!!
1 Nephi 11-12
Wow... can you imagine being that faithful and righteous? I could never imagine just saying... O hey angel I would like to know what my father say and what it means... and how bout you can show me some other cool things too:)
You know what tho, i think a lot of what he saw was really sad and hard to see. He saw a lot of wars and wickedness. I think it would be so hard and depressing to see all that. It would almost make me feel defeated. I think this is why I would be kind of hesitant if offered the opportunity to see what he saw! It would be kind of fun to see the future of my generations tho:) I would love to see how things pan out but it would be kind of scary if it doesnt turn out so great...
I am glad I don't know it all tho, i think it makes life fun, exciting, and it keeps me on my toes:)
I do love how if we need further interpretation on certain things, the lord will provide a way for us to understand, it might be a dream, personal revelation, a conference talk, a scripture, or many other things. (sometimes its not something we need to understand at this time so we dont get that further revelation, which is ok too:) ) I am thankful for this gospel and how I am forever learning and growing!
Wow this post was all over the place... haha... Love ya:)
You know what tho, i think a lot of what he saw was really sad and hard to see. He saw a lot of wars and wickedness. I think it would be so hard and depressing to see all that. It would almost make me feel defeated. I think this is why I would be kind of hesitant if offered the opportunity to see what he saw! It would be kind of fun to see the future of my generations tho:) I would love to see how things pan out but it would be kind of scary if it doesnt turn out so great...
I am glad I don't know it all tho, i think it makes life fun, exciting, and it keeps me on my toes:)
I do love how if we need further interpretation on certain things, the lord will provide a way for us to understand, it might be a dream, personal revelation, a conference talk, a scripture, or many other things. (sometimes its not something we need to understand at this time so we dont get that further revelation, which is ok too:) ) I am thankful for this gospel and how I am forever learning and growing!
Wow this post was all over the place... haha... Love ya:)
Wednesday, August 31, 2011
1 Nephi 9-10
Here it is again in verse 6 of chapter 9...
"But the Lord knoweth all things from the beginning; wherefore, he prepareth a way to accomplish all his works among the children of men; for behold, he hath all power unto the fulfilling of his words. And thus it is. Amen"
See? Another one letting us know that the path has already been prepared! We just need to suck it up and DO IT and stop complaining! I feel like a lot of these chapters have to do with Faith.. Maybe that's just something I've noticed because faith is one thing I am trying to work on. I need to have more faith that things will work out the way they need to and in the time they are supposed to. I can't let myself get too worked up about certain things, like school, family, or my nonexistent dating life.. It'll all come in time.. I just need to continue to try doing the right things and it'll come.. It'll come. I just need to develop faith and PATIENCE.
I also love verse 18 in chapter 10. It does remind you that the Gospel is the same everywhere. When I was in Brazil, I didn't understand the language all the time, but I knew what was happening at church, I knew the routines and the scriptures, and the hymns. It's amazing how vast our church is. It's so easy to forget that this is a worldwide church! With so many different people and cultures, yet the foundation of the gospel is the same everywhere. I LOVE it!! So much. It definitely is a comfort to have that one constant in life, especially when everything else may seem like a mess!
PS: I think the "dwelt in a tent" thing does just mean that Lehi was living in a tent, but I think, to me, the world "dwelt" means for a long time, almost like settled.. So they were in tents, in the wilderness for a long time before Nephi was told to build the ship.
"But the Lord knoweth all things from the beginning; wherefore, he prepareth a way to accomplish all his works among the children of men; for behold, he hath all power unto the fulfilling of his words. And thus it is. Amen"
See? Another one letting us know that the path has already been prepared! We just need to suck it up and DO IT and stop complaining! I feel like a lot of these chapters have to do with Faith.. Maybe that's just something I've noticed because faith is one thing I am trying to work on. I need to have more faith that things will work out the way they need to and in the time they are supposed to. I can't let myself get too worked up about certain things, like school, family, or my nonexistent dating life.. It'll all come in time.. I just need to continue to try doing the right things and it'll come.. It'll come. I just need to develop faith and PATIENCE.
I also love verse 18 in chapter 10. It does remind you that the Gospel is the same everywhere. When I was in Brazil, I didn't understand the language all the time, but I knew what was happening at church, I knew the routines and the scriptures, and the hymns. It's amazing how vast our church is. It's so easy to forget that this is a worldwide church! With so many different people and cultures, yet the foundation of the gospel is the same everywhere. I LOVE it!! So much. It definitely is a comfort to have that one constant in life, especially when everything else may seem like a mess!
PS: I think the "dwelt in a tent" thing does just mean that Lehi was living in a tent, but I think, to me, the world "dwelt" means for a long time, almost like settled.. So they were in tents, in the wilderness for a long time before Nephi was told to build the ship.
1 Nephi 9-10
I think that chapter 18 is so comforting.
18 For he is the asame yesterday, today, and forever; and the way is prepared for all men from the foundation of the world, if it so be that they repent and come unto him.
There is something very comforting in the fact that no matter where I am, how old I become, or anything like that He will continue to be a constant in my life and that will never change. And in addition, if i do something stupid or whatever I will always be able to repent and be able to be with Him again someday. This also gives me hope, especially with my children. I know that they will make mistakes, i know that they wont be perfect (forever at least), but i know that they will be able to repent and be with Him someday and in essence with me again. I am so thankful for the atonement in my life, I know that by myself I will never be clean enough to return to my Heavenly Father, but because of what Jesus did for you and for me we will be able to return home someday. I am eternally thankful for what He did and I feel so bless to have that knowledge and testimony!
p.s. Whats up with the "dwelt in a tent" thing... i wonder if it was a temple, church, or just where he worshiped?
18 For he is the asame yesterday, today, and forever; and the way is prepared for all men from the foundation of the world, if it so be that they repent and come unto him.
There is something very comforting in the fact that no matter where I am, how old I become, or anything like that He will continue to be a constant in my life and that will never change. And in addition, if i do something stupid or whatever I will always be able to repent and be able to be with Him again someday. This also gives me hope, especially with my children. I know that they will make mistakes, i know that they wont be perfect (forever at least), but i know that they will be able to repent and be with Him someday and in essence with me again. I am so thankful for the atonement in my life, I know that by myself I will never be clean enough to return to my Heavenly Father, but because of what Jesus did for you and for me we will be able to return home someday. I am eternally thankful for what He did and I feel so bless to have that knowledge and testimony!
p.s. Whats up with the "dwelt in a tent" thing... i wonder if it was a temple, church, or just where he worshiped?
Tuesday, August 30, 2011
1 Nephi 7-8
I love Lehi's dream so much. Though it also scares me... Sometimes I wonder how close I am to the rod, and how close I am to the mists or the great and spacious building. Sometimes I feel like I'm not doing good enough. Do you feel that way? I'm sure we all do. You have always been an amazing example of staying close to the iron rod and striving to do what is right. You know, I think that if it wasn't for you, I might not be where I am today emotionally and spiritually. You were always encouraging me to read scriptures with you and go to the temple with you and say prayers together. AND I am so glad you were able to look past your first impression of me, because I know how bad it was. I know that the Lord put you in my life for many reasons, and I know you will be a part of my life for a long time still...
WOW. That was cheesy.
I loved this scripture when Nephi is reprimanding his brothers for their behavior. It's verse 12 in chapter 7: "Yeah, and how is it that ye have forgotten that the Lord is able to do all things according to his will, for the children of men, if it so be that they exercise faith in him? Wherefore, let us be faithful to him." It does seem really easy to forget all of our little blessings!! I always forget to just be grateful for the small stuff, especially when I am having a rough day. I forget a lot. I need to be better about remembering.
Keep clinging to the iron rod Ash! You are still an example to me in SO many ways, even tho you are so far away. And you can definitely count on me coming to visit sometime!! Wish I could come tomorrow :)
Sometimes, is it the best to be so forgiving Ash? I feel like because I am so forgiving and I try to not let things bug me, I get taken advantage of.. Not really now, but you know, like with Laura for example. How many times have I forgiven her and the same thing happens? I didn't even go to her wedding... because she stopped talking to me! I could have shown up, but I was the one who decided not to.. Is that little of me? Should I have been the bigger person? I don't know.. I think there is just so much I can take you know? I know that Christ and Heavenly Father forgive a repeated sin over and over again... It's hard to though. It's hard to forgive and forget over and over again. I do hold grudges, but I just don't let them show. You are always more open about how you are feeling and THAT is something I admire about you!!
Also, I think triplets would be awesome and I know you could handle it.
WOW. That was cheesy.
I loved this scripture when Nephi is reprimanding his brothers for their behavior. It's verse 12 in chapter 7: "Yeah, and how is it that ye have forgotten that the Lord is able to do all things according to his will, for the children of men, if it so be that they exercise faith in him? Wherefore, let us be faithful to him." It does seem really easy to forget all of our little blessings!! I always forget to just be grateful for the small stuff, especially when I am having a rough day. I forget a lot. I need to be better about remembering.
Keep clinging to the iron rod Ash! You are still an example to me in SO many ways, even tho you are so far away. And you can definitely count on me coming to visit sometime!! Wish I could come tomorrow :)
Sometimes, is it the best to be so forgiving Ash? I feel like because I am so forgiving and I try to not let things bug me, I get taken advantage of.. Not really now, but you know, like with Laura for example. How many times have I forgiven her and the same thing happens? I didn't even go to her wedding... because she stopped talking to me! I could have shown up, but I was the one who decided not to.. Is that little of me? Should I have been the bigger person? I don't know.. I think there is just so much I can take you know? I know that Christ and Heavenly Father forgive a repeated sin over and over again... It's hard to though. It's hard to forgive and forget over and over again. I do hold grudges, but I just don't let them show. You are always more open about how you are feeling and THAT is something I admire about you!!
Also, I think triplets would be awesome and I know you could handle it.
1 Nephi 7-8
First of all Nephi again shows his awesome skills... he is not only strong:) but faithful, obedient, AND NOW forgiving!!! I think it is amazing how fast Nephi forgives his brothers after all they try to do to him! Meaghan you kind of remind me of Nephi in this way, you have always been the most forgiving person i know. This is a talent i would LOVE to get better at. I have a tendency to hold grudges, first impressions, and even rumors against people. I have a hard time letting go of my earthly emotions and forgiving people. This is totally bad of my because when i make a mistake or something i expect to be forgiven faster than i would in the same situation. This month i am going to make a special effort to try and be more forgiving so that i can build a testimony and habit out of it! I will let you know how that goes as I try this out this coming month:)
Plus Meaghan... you see how easy Laman and Lemuel found wives and they were kind of horrible people:) haha just kidding... but wouldnt it be nice to have the Lord just tell you who to marry! I used to wish that till i met Brock:) It will happen soon... no worries:) LOVE YOU!
Finally a little side note...I think it must be an amazing thing to have dreams so vivid from the Lord. I had a dream that i was preggers with triplets the other night... hope this isnt in my future:) If so... I hope the Lord gives me the strength to do that:)
Plus Meaghan... you see how easy Laman and Lemuel found wives and they were kind of horrible people:) haha just kidding... but wouldnt it be nice to have the Lord just tell you who to marry! I used to wish that till i met Brock:) It will happen soon... no worries:) LOVE YOU!
Finally a little side note...I think it must be an amazing thing to have dreams so vivid from the Lord. I had a dream that i was preggers with triplets the other night... hope this isnt in my future:) If so... I hope the Lord gives me the strength to do that:)
Monday, August 29, 2011
1 Nephi 5-6
You know what I always want to know? I want to know what is written in these "other records". OR even better, what they are not allowed to write.. You know how it will say sometimes "I cannot write these things now, for it is forbidden" or something to that point... I want to know what the Lord told them... I know that someday we will find out, which I am super excited about. It makes me curious to learn more you know?
What I really liked in these chapters, is that they mention several times that they searched the records. Lehi searched them from the beginning, and he and Nephi found them to be desirable and of great worth. How true is that? Recently, I have found myself turning to the scriptures to find the meaning of little words, like "companion" or "cheer". I know I should have been doing that all along, but I find that when I am reading about, or trying to learn about a certain topic, the scriptures always should be my number one source. They are of great worth to us,and like Nephi says in chapter 6, he's not writing to please the people of the world, but the people who are not of the world. I want to be a person who is not "of the world". I am grateful that we are blessed to have these resources to learn and grow.
I am also grateful for the temple. I need to go more. My goal is to go every week again, like we used to, but I get so caught up in everything that it's not at the front of my mind like it should be.
I like how Nephi brags about his stature too. He must have been one heck of a stud for sure!! :)
What I really liked in these chapters, is that they mention several times that they searched the records. Lehi searched them from the beginning, and he and Nephi found them to be desirable and of great worth. How true is that? Recently, I have found myself turning to the scriptures to find the meaning of little words, like "companion" or "cheer". I know I should have been doing that all along, but I find that when I am reading about, or trying to learn about a certain topic, the scriptures always should be my number one source. They are of great worth to us,and like Nephi says in chapter 6, he's not writing to please the people of the world, but the people who are not of the world. I want to be a person who is not "of the world". I am grateful that we are blessed to have these resources to learn and grow.
I am also grateful for the temple. I need to go more. My goal is to go every week again, like we used to, but I get so caught up in everything that it's not at the front of my mind like it should be.
I like how Nephi brags about his stature too. He must have been one heck of a stud for sure!! :)
1 Nephi 5-6
I think that the main thing that really stuck out to me in these two chapters was the word GENEALOGY... well and the fact that Sariah doubted Lehi.
I think genealogy is amazing. I love knowing where I came from and who I will be connected with throughout eternity. My favorite thing that I get to do, dealing with genealogy, is temple work for those who passed away before receiving the gospel. The thing is I don't live right next door to a temple anymore... its actually like a 2 hour drive to get to one for me now. This makes me kind of sad because it will be a huge trial for me. But anyway I love doing temple work for my ancestors because i feel like i am filling a void in their lives and my own. I get such a peaceful feeling when i enter the temple for my own family. I feel as tho they are there with me and are so thankful for my service. I love that I can have an active role in my ancestors life, it truly is amazing.
Now on to doubting wife Sariah... I am not going to lie, i guarantee that I would be doing the SAME THING. I think just moving out of your home with nothing but some tents and clothes would be hard enough. But then to have my sons be sent back to where we just left into a life threatening mission, it would be very hard to stay so supportive. This whole thing really reminds me of my own recent experience. I mean, I just moved very far away from all the friends and family that I have lived close to for the past 6-7 years. I am now in a strange place where I don't know a lot of people and ever since we have been here one or all of us has been sick. So sometimes I get scared and nervous but honestly I know that this is where we are supposed to be. The thing I try to do so that I can forget my fears and doubts is to truly count my many blessings and trust in Brock and the Lord. I know that with them by my side I can do anything! PLUS I keep reminding myself that friends and family will come visit me... I hope:)
-Ash
I think genealogy is amazing. I love knowing where I came from and who I will be connected with throughout eternity. My favorite thing that I get to do, dealing with genealogy, is temple work for those who passed away before receiving the gospel. The thing is I don't live right next door to a temple anymore... its actually like a 2 hour drive to get to one for me now. This makes me kind of sad because it will be a huge trial for me. But anyway I love doing temple work for my ancestors because i feel like i am filling a void in their lives and my own. I get such a peaceful feeling when i enter the temple for my own family. I feel as tho they are there with me and are so thankful for my service. I love that I can have an active role in my ancestors life, it truly is amazing.
Now on to doubting wife Sariah... I am not going to lie, i guarantee that I would be doing the SAME THING. I think just moving out of your home with nothing but some tents and clothes would be hard enough. But then to have my sons be sent back to where we just left into a life threatening mission, it would be very hard to stay so supportive. This whole thing really reminds me of my own recent experience. I mean, I just moved very far away from all the friends and family that I have lived close to for the past 6-7 years. I am now in a strange place where I don't know a lot of people and ever since we have been here one or all of us has been sick. So sometimes I get scared and nervous but honestly I know that this is where we are supposed to be. The thing I try to do so that I can forget my fears and doubts is to truly count my many blessings and trust in Brock and the Lord. I know that with them by my side I can do anything! PLUS I keep reminding myself that friends and family will come visit me... I hope:)
-Ash
1 Nephi 3-4
First of all in chapter three it amazes me how Laman and Lemuel (and others in our time) can be so close to the gospel and just straight up ignore it and all the blessings that come with following our Heavenly Fathers plan. I mean really they had a prophet for a Dad, a couple brothers that were super awesome and had great faith, and angels coming down to see them. AND STILL they couldn't get it in their thick heads what they needed to do to be truly happy!
Second, I think it is totally awesome how Nephi just has so much faith, after bribery didn't work he was able to put the task fully in the lords hands. I think it takes an amazing man with great faith to fully trust in the lord and do whatever he asks of you. Nephi already was asked to go and get the plates which was a hard and trying task in itself but then he was asked to get rid of Laband by killing him. I honestly don't know if I am so faithful. I like to think that whatever the Lord throws my way I am up to the task and will do whatever I need to to be with Him again! I hope that stands true for the rest of my life.
Third, I think its kind of awesome how Nephi always brags about his strength and his large stature:)
Lastly, Meaghan you know you are the most awesomest friend ever!
Second, I think it is totally awesome how Nephi just has so much faith, after bribery didn't work he was able to put the task fully in the lords hands. I think it takes an amazing man with great faith to fully trust in the lord and do whatever he asks of you. Nephi already was asked to go and get the plates which was a hard and trying task in itself but then he was asked to get rid of Laband by killing him. I honestly don't know if I am so faithful. I like to think that whatever the Lord throws my way I am up to the task and will do whatever I need to to be with Him again! I hope that stands true for the rest of my life.
Third, I think its kind of awesome how Nephi always brags about his strength and his large stature:)
Lastly, Meaghan you know you are the most awesomest friend ever!
Sunday, August 28, 2011
1 Nephi 3-4
I'm sorry I did yesterday's, and today's a little late. Basically, I wanted to focus on verse 7 a bit. I know it's like one of the most quoted, or cited scriptures in the BOM probably, but it kinda is near and dear to my heart a bit. It's the one where Nephi says "I know the Lord giveth no commandments unto the children of men, save he shall prepare a way for them that they may accomplish the thing which he commandeth them". I have something in my patriarchal blessing that is pretty similar to this, so I think it's pretty cool. I know that we have talked about this before, but in my blessing, it tells me that I will have many challenges in my life. But then it goes on to say "They were known to your Heavenly Father before you ever came here to the earth. And the way has been prepared that you might see yourself through all of them and that each one will be a blessing to you. Each one will help you to grow and strengthen your testimony of the Lord Jesus Christ. Each one will bring you closer to Him."
So it's not exactly the same wording, but I think the meaning is the same. Heavenly Father knows what we can handle and He won't give us anything that will push us over the limit, though I know we both know that it feels that way sometimes. I know that you have gone through a whole lot, but I think that it has really made you stronger and made you an even more amazing mother than ever. And I know that some of my challenges thus far has shaped me into who I am right now.. I try to look at my trials as opportunities to grow, even though, as you well know, I fight against it a lot sometimes. I need to be better at that.
SIDENOTE: I found this little note in my scrips..."Friends are those who stand by us in times of lonliess or potential despair."- Jeffrey R. Holland. You are my number 1 friend Ash! For reals. Even though I kinda am a sucky friend sometimes!! I miss you tons you know. I'm glad we are doing this! Love you!
So it's not exactly the same wording, but I think the meaning is the same. Heavenly Father knows what we can handle and He won't give us anything that will push us over the limit, though I know we both know that it feels that way sometimes. I know that you have gone through a whole lot, but I think that it has really made you stronger and made you an even more amazing mother than ever. And I know that some of my challenges thus far has shaped me into who I am right now.. I try to look at my trials as opportunities to grow, even though, as you well know, I fight against it a lot sometimes. I need to be better at that.
SIDENOTE: I found this little note in my scrips..."Friends are those who stand by us in times of lonliess or potential despair."- Jeffrey R. Holland. You are my number 1 friend Ash! For reals. Even though I kinda am a sucky friend sometimes!! I miss you tons you know. I'm glad we are doing this! Love you!
1 Nephi 1-2
So while reading these chapters, I was really awed by how much faith Lehi had. Can you imagine what it would be like to have these vivid dreams given by the Lord? Dreams of their home and city being destroyed, dreams of direction, dreams of seeing the Savior and speaking with him? How amazing would that be for one? To actually get to speak to the Savior, even through a dream would be the most amazing thing to experience. The amount of faith it must have taken for Lehi to leave his home, and go out to the wilderness, to the middle of nowhere I can't even imagine having. How hard would it be to follow someone who couldn't "PROVE" that these things were true? I know obviously that it takes faith to follow what the Prophet and apostles tell us today, but they aren't asking us to leave our homes, our friends, our lives to go to a new unknown place. I could only wish to have the amount of faith that Lehi had.
Laman and Lemuel make me SO angry. In chapter 2, verse 9, Lehi encourages Laman to be like the river, or in verse 10 he asks Lemuel to be like the valley. I CAN imagine Lehi's frustration in seeing his sons go in another direction. It's funny how when Lehi talks to them, they tremble and quake. What does that mean? Does it mean that they feel something? like the Spirit? What does confound mean exactly? Did they just do what he commanded them, just for a short time, because they were scared of Lehi, or because they were scared of the Lord? I feel the exact same way as you do Ash, when you want to shake your siblings, or whoever it may be. Sometimes I don't get why they are the way they are. Hannah told me the other day that she wanted a new niece or nephew and so I should get married. I told her it wasn't that easy and she said "sure it is, you're momo. just lower your standards and you'll actually be happy". Really? Lower my standards? I know what I want. I know I need a man to take me to the temple. I know I need the Priesthood in my family. I know she isn't happy with her choices, yet she tells me to do the same thing? It doesn't make any sense does it? It is hard to see people fall when they have the truth right in front of them, and it's SO SO easy to live. I don't get it, but you are right. Pray is really all we can do, and we just have to have faith that our prayers will someday be answered, even though it might not be in our wanted time frames.
Laman and Lemuel make me SO angry. In chapter 2, verse 9, Lehi encourages Laman to be like the river, or in verse 10 he asks Lemuel to be like the valley. I CAN imagine Lehi's frustration in seeing his sons go in another direction. It's funny how when Lehi talks to them, they tremble and quake. What does that mean? Does it mean that they feel something? like the Spirit? What does confound mean exactly? Did they just do what he commanded them, just for a short time, because they were scared of Lehi, or because they were scared of the Lord? I feel the exact same way as you do Ash, when you want to shake your siblings, or whoever it may be. Sometimes I don't get why they are the way they are. Hannah told me the other day that she wanted a new niece or nephew and so I should get married. I told her it wasn't that easy and she said "sure it is, you're momo. just lower your standards and you'll actually be happy". Really? Lower my standards? I know what I want. I know I need a man to take me to the temple. I know I need the Priesthood in my family. I know she isn't happy with her choices, yet she tells me to do the same thing? It doesn't make any sense does it? It is hard to see people fall when they have the truth right in front of them, and it's SO SO easy to live. I don't get it, but you are right. Pray is really all we can do, and we just have to have faith that our prayers will someday be answered, even though it might not be in our wanted time frames.
Saturday, August 27, 2011
1 Nephi:1-2
18 But, behold, Laman and Lemuel would not hearken unto my words; and being agrieved because of the hardness of their hearts I cried unto the Lord for them.
This verse really stuck out to me. I feel like there are a lot of times that in life and especially in this world where you see people or family doing things that are not inline with the gospel. And like Nephi the only thing we can do is pray for them. My natural instinct is to grab them and shake them till the just do what is right but really everyone has their own free agency and sometimes all we can do is pray for those and hope that they will find their way back. I think Nephi is a great example of just having amazing faith. I love how he never gives up on his brothers and is always praying for them. I have a great testimony of prayer and know that it really does work.
-Ash
The Challenge
Ok so we are going to read the Book of Mormon before the end of the year. We will be reading two chapters a day and then we will post our thoughts, ideas, or inspiration we get from those chapters. The reason why we are doing this is because it will keep us connected as friends and also help us to grow spiritually while we study the scriptures instead of just read them.
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