“Only by pride cometh contention: but with the well advised is wisdom.”
Proverbs 13:10
This seems to indicate that pride is part of all contention, which is a good encouragement to stay away from it.
It's definitely not always easy to do. Sometimes it is hard to let things go, and we can't always predict when contention will crop up, although we can probably do a lot about the cases where we *can* anticipate it. And (as always), if we don't know a different way of dealing with a certain situation, we can go to the Lord who has his arms outstretched, willing to help. ... Perhaps that is part of moving to being "well-advised." :D
Today, let's take a look at any contention in our lives and work on how to cleanse it from our lives.
Saturday, July 31, 2021
Friday, July 30, 2021
1 Nephi 11:2 -- On Desires
"And the Spirit said unto me: Behold, what desirest thou?"
1 Nephi 11:2
Reading this today it struck me what a profound question this is, and I don't think that we always know the answer. Even when we do, sometimes what we desire isn't compatible with the gospel, and we need to learn to evolve our desires, or sometimes how to satisfy them in righteous ways.
Significantly, God wants us to be able to fulfil our desires, and if we figure out what we want and we work for it in concert with the Lord, then we're likely to get it. Sometimes we get it and realize it isn't really what we wanted, or we run into a conflict with something we want more. For instance, what if it is your dream job but you have to work 80 hours a week? Worth it or not? And the answers to those trade offs can be different for each person, because part of the test of life is losing things that we value, and part is setting priorities and finding out for ourselves what the most important things are to us.
Today, let's think about what desires we are working towards, and whether those are really the goals that we want to be working towards long-term. Let's talk to God about where our lives are going and the true desires of our hearts, and then let him help us refine those goals and work towards something even better.
1 Nephi 11:2
Reading this today it struck me what a profound question this is, and I don't think that we always know the answer. Even when we do, sometimes what we desire isn't compatible with the gospel, and we need to learn to evolve our desires, or sometimes how to satisfy them in righteous ways.
Significantly, God wants us to be able to fulfil our desires, and if we figure out what we want and we work for it in concert with the Lord, then we're likely to get it. Sometimes we get it and realize it isn't really what we wanted, or we run into a conflict with something we want more. For instance, what if it is your dream job but you have to work 80 hours a week? Worth it or not? And the answers to those trade offs can be different for each person, because part of the test of life is losing things that we value, and part is setting priorities and finding out for ourselves what the most important things are to us.
Today, let's think about what desires we are working towards, and whether those are really the goals that we want to be working towards long-term. Let's talk to God about where our lives are going and the true desires of our hearts, and then let him help us refine those goals and work towards something even better.
Thursday, July 29, 2021
Alma 22:12 -- On Belief and Trust
"And it came to pass that when Aaron saw that the king would believe his words, he began from the creation of Adam, reading the scriptures unto the king--how God created man after his own image, and that God gave him commandments, and that because of transgression, man had fallen."
Alma 22:12
I like what happens here where the king trusts Aaron and is willing to believe him, and he is able to learn a lot. We live in a sometimes scary world, and trust can be difficult, but that's what allows us to learn from and understand each other, and I think it has a lot to do with how much we can learn from God as well, and how well we can understand him. Trust is that part of faith that lets us follow God's path even when we can't see exactly where we're headed. We know that God loves us and wants the best for us, so if we are willing, we can drop our walls with God and truly commune without all of those barriers we usually throw up when we're around people we don't trust.
Today, let's try to let down some our automatic barriers so that we can communicate with others in a better way, opening ourselves up to more understanding and knowledge. Let's also work on our trust with God, learning more about God and being willing to believe in his promises.
Alma 22:12
I like what happens here where the king trusts Aaron and is willing to believe him, and he is able to learn a lot. We live in a sometimes scary world, and trust can be difficult, but that's what allows us to learn from and understand each other, and I think it has a lot to do with how much we can learn from God as well, and how well we can understand him. Trust is that part of faith that lets us follow God's path even when we can't see exactly where we're headed. We know that God loves us and wants the best for us, so if we are willing, we can drop our walls with God and truly commune without all of those barriers we usually throw up when we're around people we don't trust.
Today, let's try to let down some our automatic barriers so that we can communicate with others in a better way, opening ourselves up to more understanding and knowledge. Let's also work on our trust with God, learning more about God and being willing to believe in his promises.
Wednesday, July 28, 2021
Proverbs 16:17 -- On Departing from Evil
"The highway of the upright is to depart from evil: he that keepeth his way preserveth his soul."
Proverbs 16:17
When the scriptures ask us to walk the straight and narrow path, we don't always know what that entails, but this is a good hint. A highway to us probably doesn't seem like the same thing as a path, but since the idea here was before cars I imagine it meant something more like an exalted or lifted up path (taking the high road, right?) rather than a four lane expressway that you would imagine leads to the great and spacious building instead. :) And staying on the right path here means departing from evil. I like that it isn't necessarily about defeating evil or even confronting it... more like Joseph and Potiphar's wife... sometimes it is best to just run away.
Today, let's examine our lives and in the places where we might be intersecting with evil, let's think about how to get away from it, and if we can't think of a way, let's pray for God's help, which he will gladly give if we are sincere and determined in trying to improve. :) It won't necessarily be easy or fun, but a life without evil is well worth the effort.
Proverbs 16:17
When the scriptures ask us to walk the straight and narrow path, we don't always know what that entails, but this is a good hint. A highway to us probably doesn't seem like the same thing as a path, but since the idea here was before cars I imagine it meant something more like an exalted or lifted up path (taking the high road, right?) rather than a four lane expressway that you would imagine leads to the great and spacious building instead. :) And staying on the right path here means departing from evil. I like that it isn't necessarily about defeating evil or even confronting it... more like Joseph and Potiphar's wife... sometimes it is best to just run away.
Today, let's examine our lives and in the places where we might be intersecting with evil, let's think about how to get away from it, and if we can't think of a way, let's pray for God's help, which he will gladly give if we are sincere and determined in trying to improve. :) It won't necessarily be easy or fun, but a life without evil is well worth the effort.
Tuesday, July 27, 2021
Proverbs 30:5-6 -- On Being Found a Liar
"Every word of God is pure: he is a shield unto them that put their trust in him.
Add thou not unto his words, lest he reprove thee, and thou be found a liar."
Proverbs 30:5-6
It's interesting here to read about "being found a liar" like it is a surprise. Usually when we lie, we're very aware. :) What it made me think of are online wars on social media--different sides spouting opposite beliefs, both sides believing fervently that they are in the right, and in many cases both believing that they are backed by true authority, from God or whatever the different groups believe is the highest authority.
This post is definitely not to get into or further one of those arguments. :) It just made me think of that because when we are in conflict with others about our beliefs I wonder if we have considered God's perspective, or even tried to learn it. I know in my life I have gone through a process several times with different beliefs where I felt really strongly that something was 100% percent right or 100% wrong, and then over the course of years reading the scriptures and praying and thinking about how God deals with his children, my opinion has changed... and obviously I hope that my beliefs are moving closer to the truth and I think that God is slowly teaching me, or getting through my thick skull, helping me understand and relate to people I never could before, and to be open to see the other side of an issue and see that many people on both sides are really trying to do their best with whatever cards they have been dealt.
Today, maybe let's step back and instead of yelling our beliefs to the sky (and the internet), let's take some time to consider whether God feels that way as well and what he might have to say on the subject based on his life and teachings. Above all, I like the idea here that God is pure and a shield for others. I believe he would treat others with compassion, and as we ponder the differences between our beliefs and his, let's ask ourselves if we're showing compassion to others in the way we express ourselves. Let's not assume that God is on our side in our arguments, but let's put in the time, the research, and the prayer to make sure we are on his... lest we be found liars, accidentally on the wrong side.
Add thou not unto his words, lest he reprove thee, and thou be found a liar."
Proverbs 30:5-6
It's interesting here to read about "being found a liar" like it is a surprise. Usually when we lie, we're very aware. :) What it made me think of are online wars on social media--different sides spouting opposite beliefs, both sides believing fervently that they are in the right, and in many cases both believing that they are backed by true authority, from God or whatever the different groups believe is the highest authority.
This post is definitely not to get into or further one of those arguments. :) It just made me think of that because when we are in conflict with others about our beliefs I wonder if we have considered God's perspective, or even tried to learn it. I know in my life I have gone through a process several times with different beliefs where I felt really strongly that something was 100% percent right or 100% wrong, and then over the course of years reading the scriptures and praying and thinking about how God deals with his children, my opinion has changed... and obviously I hope that my beliefs are moving closer to the truth and I think that God is slowly teaching me, or getting through my thick skull, helping me understand and relate to people I never could before, and to be open to see the other side of an issue and see that many people on both sides are really trying to do their best with whatever cards they have been dealt.
Today, maybe let's step back and instead of yelling our beliefs to the sky (and the internet), let's take some time to consider whether God feels that way as well and what he might have to say on the subject based on his life and teachings. Above all, I like the idea here that God is pure and a shield for others. I believe he would treat others with compassion, and as we ponder the differences between our beliefs and his, let's ask ourselves if we're showing compassion to others in the way we express ourselves. Let's not assume that God is on our side in our arguments, but let's put in the time, the research, and the prayer to make sure we are on his... lest we be found liars, accidentally on the wrong side.
Monday, July 26, 2021
Ecclesiastes 2:13 -- On Wisdom and Folly
"Then I saw that wisdom excelleth folly, as far as light excelleth darkness."
Ecclesiastes 2:13
Maybe this seems obvious to us, but Ecclesiastes is kind of that sort of book. Basically the author tries everything, and concludes in the end that not much matters that is earthly, but works out that things associated with God will last, and those are what matter.
I think, despite it being well-known, that often these are things that we have to work out for ourselves, just as the author here did. Maybe we know it intellectually but have to work it out psychologically or emotionally or physically... or all of the above. We have to have some personal experience over time about what things matter and what don't, and where to focus our time and effort. God wants us to have this as a shortcut to those realizations, and plenty of other shortcuts though, so today, instead of dismissing this as obvious, let's think about the wisdom and the folly in our own lives, and make sure we aren't actively choosing the folly part. :)
Ecclesiastes 2:13
Maybe this seems obvious to us, but Ecclesiastes is kind of that sort of book. Basically the author tries everything, and concludes in the end that not much matters that is earthly, but works out that things associated with God will last, and those are what matter.
I think, despite it being well-known, that often these are things that we have to work out for ourselves, just as the author here did. Maybe we know it intellectually but have to work it out psychologically or emotionally or physically... or all of the above. We have to have some personal experience over time about what things matter and what don't, and where to focus our time and effort. God wants us to have this as a shortcut to those realizations, and plenty of other shortcuts though, so today, instead of dismissing this as obvious, let's think about the wisdom and the folly in our own lives, and make sure we aren't actively choosing the folly part. :)
Sunday, July 25, 2021
Jacob 2:5 -- On Spiritual Mind-Reading
"But behold, hearken ye unto me, and know that by the help of the all-powerful Creator of heaven and earth I can tell you concerning your thoughts, how that ye are beginning to labor in sin, which sin appeareth very abominable unto me, yea, and abominable unto God."
Jacob 2:5
The idea of the Spirit helping us to discern thought or emotion is an interesting one. I'm not sure it allows anything like being spiritually psychic... I assume that, like moving mountains or parting seas, there has to be a significant and immediate need... but I like that God grants us such a variety of blessings when they are needed.
I think that it is also significant that sin can begin well before action, and that God wants us to catch it there, while it is still in our minds, and snuff it out.
Today, let's take some time to talk to God about our thoughts, and if they aren't ones that we are proud of, let's ask him for help to change and purify them.
Jacob 2:5
The idea of the Spirit helping us to discern thought or emotion is an interesting one. I'm not sure it allows anything like being spiritually psychic... I assume that, like moving mountains or parting seas, there has to be a significant and immediate need... but I like that God grants us such a variety of blessings when they are needed.
I think that it is also significant that sin can begin well before action, and that God wants us to catch it there, while it is still in our minds, and snuff it out.
Today, let's take some time to talk to God about our thoughts, and if they aren't ones that we are proud of, let's ask him for help to change and purify them.
Saturday, July 24, 2021
Alma 12:10-11 -- On Gaining and Losing Knowledge
"And therefore, he that will harden his heart, the same receiveth the lesser portion of the word; and he that will not harden his heart, to him is given the greater portion of the word, until it is given unto him to know the mysteries of God until he know them in full.
And they that will harden their hearts, to them is given the lesser portion of the word until they know nothing concerning his mysteries; and then they are taken captive by the devil, and led by his will down to destruction. Now this is what is meant by the chains of hell."
Alma 12:10-11
The idea here that our knowledge is fluid, increasing and decreasing, is interesting. Not sure how it works... maybe that knowledge is in our brains somewhere, but we block it out, or maybe we actually overwrite our knowledge when we reject it, replacing it with whatever we choose to believe instead. Either way though, seems like a tragic thing, and explains why we can observe the loss of a testimony.
Today, let's remember this and work on retaining our knowledge of God, and continuing to build it up. Let's keep working to have the spirit in our lives--going forward rather than hardening our hearts and losing our progress. As we do, we will be free of the chains of hell, which seems like a good thing to avoid. :)
And they that will harden their hearts, to them is given the lesser portion of the word until they know nothing concerning his mysteries; and then they are taken captive by the devil, and led by his will down to destruction. Now this is what is meant by the chains of hell."
Alma 12:10-11
The idea here that our knowledge is fluid, increasing and decreasing, is interesting. Not sure how it works... maybe that knowledge is in our brains somewhere, but we block it out, or maybe we actually overwrite our knowledge when we reject it, replacing it with whatever we choose to believe instead. Either way though, seems like a tragic thing, and explains why we can observe the loss of a testimony.
Today, let's remember this and work on retaining our knowledge of God, and continuing to build it up. Let's keep working to have the spirit in our lives--going forward rather than hardening our hearts and losing our progress. As we do, we will be free of the chains of hell, which seems like a good thing to avoid. :)
Friday, July 23, 2021
Doctrine and Covenants 130:2 -- On Sociality
"And that same sociality which exists among us here will exist among us there, only it will be coupled with eternal glory, which glory we do not now enjoy."
Doctrine and Covenants 130:2
This is a cool verse, and helps us know that at least some things will be similar "there." (By "there" I am assuming the verse means something like heaven/millenium/afterlife (somewhere in there), but there actually isn't any context at the beginning of the chapter to be certain.) I'm not exactly sure what parts of "sociality" will be the same, but I'm guessing that we'll still have friends and the ability to spend time with each other. Maybe there won't be the same activities to share, but whatever there is there will likely be better... I mean, "eternal glory" definitely sounds like a positive thing. :)
Along with a few other things that we know we can take with us after this--family relationships, knowledge, and personal experience (we get to still be the better people we became here), the whole sociality thing seems pretty awesome. With knowledge and friends, maybe there will still be witty banter. :)
Today, let's look forward to the future of the eternal things that we can build on now, and maybe start cultivating and prioritizing some eternal things where we can over the things that are not going to last.
Doctrine and Covenants 130:2
This is a cool verse, and helps us know that at least some things will be similar "there." (By "there" I am assuming the verse means something like heaven/millenium/afterlife (somewhere in there), but there actually isn't any context at the beginning of the chapter to be certain.) I'm not exactly sure what parts of "sociality" will be the same, but I'm guessing that we'll still have friends and the ability to spend time with each other. Maybe there won't be the same activities to share, but whatever there is there will likely be better... I mean, "eternal glory" definitely sounds like a positive thing. :)
Along with a few other things that we know we can take with us after this--family relationships, knowledge, and personal experience (we get to still be the better people we became here), the whole sociality thing seems pretty awesome. With knowledge and friends, maybe there will still be witty banter. :)
Today, let's look forward to the future of the eternal things that we can build on now, and maybe start cultivating and prioritizing some eternal things where we can over the things that are not going to last.
Thursday, July 22, 2021
Alma 17:17-18 -- On Imparting the Word of God
"Therefore they separated themselves one from another, and went forth among them, every man alone, according to the word and power of God which was given unto him.
Now Ammon being the chief among them, or rather he did administer unto them, and he departed from them, after having blessed them according to their several stations, having imparted the word of God unto them, or administered unto them before his departure; and thus they took their several journeys throughout the land."
Alma 17:17-18
This is part of the story of Alma and the sons of Mosiah going on a mission to the Lamanites. One thing that struck me about these verses today is the idea of Alma imparting/administering the word of God unto his brethren before they separated. When we usually think of imparting the word of God it seems like it is in a missionary context where the missionaries teach others, but I love the idea here that we all need the word of God, and that it strengthens us to go forward on our individual missions (whether those missions involve preaching the gospel or not).
Today, let's think about how we can impart the word of God to the people around us in a positive way. Maybe post a good scripture online that might inspire someone or build them up? Maybe tuck a scripture into a lunch for your kid? Let's think about it, and bless each other in that way, as we also look to fill ourselves with the word to strengthen us on our several journeys. :)
Now Ammon being the chief among them, or rather he did administer unto them, and he departed from them, after having blessed them according to their several stations, having imparted the word of God unto them, or administered unto them before his departure; and thus they took their several journeys throughout the land."
Alma 17:17-18
This is part of the story of Alma and the sons of Mosiah going on a mission to the Lamanites. One thing that struck me about these verses today is the idea of Alma imparting/administering the word of God unto his brethren before they separated. When we usually think of imparting the word of God it seems like it is in a missionary context where the missionaries teach others, but I love the idea here that we all need the word of God, and that it strengthens us to go forward on our individual missions (whether those missions involve preaching the gospel or not).
Today, let's think about how we can impart the word of God to the people around us in a positive way. Maybe post a good scripture online that might inspire someone or build them up? Maybe tuck a scripture into a lunch for your kid? Let's think about it, and bless each other in that way, as we also look to fill ourselves with the word to strengthen us on our several journeys. :)
Wednesday, July 21, 2021
Romans 6:4 -- On Newness of Life
"Therefore we are buried with him by baptism into death: that like as Christ was raised up from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life."
Romans 6:4
I don't know about you guys, but at times in my life I have really wished I could rewind and start over, from one point or another. Not just a change, but a whole new life, because it seemed like I had messed this one up a little too much. ...and I think that this verse is telling us that with Christ we are choosing a new life already, that the change he is offering us is enough... more than enough, because he promises us an eternity of more than this, better than this, and the changes we make now will last literally forever--serious alteration, not just temporary patchwork. :)
Life's going to be hard, and sometimes we're going to worry about messing everything up, but at times like that, let's remember this verse. Christ *is* a new life, for all of us, and with him we can always walk in that newness, and let go of our sins and mistakes like a snake shedding its skin. None of the regretted past matters if we are living in that newness, and working with God to reach the potential that is always still there, to become our best selves, and eventually reach that "perfect day" (Proverbs 4:18, D&C 50:24) when everything will be good. :)
Today, let's work for that, and walk in newness. :)
Romans 6:4
I don't know about you guys, but at times in my life I have really wished I could rewind and start over, from one point or another. Not just a change, but a whole new life, because it seemed like I had messed this one up a little too much. ...and I think that this verse is telling us that with Christ we are choosing a new life already, that the change he is offering us is enough... more than enough, because he promises us an eternity of more than this, better than this, and the changes we make now will last literally forever--serious alteration, not just temporary patchwork. :)
Life's going to be hard, and sometimes we're going to worry about messing everything up, but at times like that, let's remember this verse. Christ *is* a new life, for all of us, and with him we can always walk in that newness, and let go of our sins and mistakes like a snake shedding its skin. None of the regretted past matters if we are living in that newness, and working with God to reach the potential that is always still there, to become our best selves, and eventually reach that "perfect day" (Proverbs 4:18, D&C 50:24) when everything will be good. :)
Today, let's work for that, and walk in newness. :)
Tuesday, July 20, 2021
Galatians 5:1 -- On the Freedom to Make Things Better
"Stand fast therefore in the liberty wherewith Christ hath made us free, and be not entangled again with the yoke of bondage."
Galatians 5:1
It's interesting the different ways that the idea of freedom and liberty is used. Many would say that religion is a bondange or that God's commandments are limiting our freedom, but here we understand that liberty comes through Christ, and the yoke of bondage is what we experience when we are entangled in sin and caught up in the consequences of our own unwise choices. Christ can free us from all of that, holding off justice with mercy until we are ready to face it by learning to be the kind of person that isn't going to break themselves against that wall.
I think we can all relate to being rescued on some level, whether major or minor. Today, let's consider what God does for us in rescuing us from so many of our own consequences, and the freedom we have because of that to learn, grow, and try again. Let's do our best to keep trying and stay free from being stuck the way we are without being able to make things better.
Galatians 5:1
It's interesting the different ways that the idea of freedom and liberty is used. Many would say that religion is a bondange or that God's commandments are limiting our freedom, but here we understand that liberty comes through Christ, and the yoke of bondage is what we experience when we are entangled in sin and caught up in the consequences of our own unwise choices. Christ can free us from all of that, holding off justice with mercy until we are ready to face it by learning to be the kind of person that isn't going to break themselves against that wall.
I think we can all relate to being rescued on some level, whether major or minor. Today, let's consider what God does for us in rescuing us from so many of our own consequences, and the freedom we have because of that to learn, grow, and try again. Let's do our best to keep trying and stay free from being stuck the way we are without being able to make things better.
Monday, July 19, 2021
Revelation 20:13-14 -- On the Death of Death
"And the sea gave up the dead which were in it; and death and hell delivered up the dead which were in them: and they were judged every man according to their works.
And death and hell were cast into the lake of fire. This is the second death."
Revelation 20:13-14
Everyone being resurrected and judged is something that we should consider and prepare for, and I definitely don't want to diminish that, but what was interesting to me today is the second verse where it talks about "the second death" with death and hell being cast into the lake of fire. I love that idea of the death of death, probably because it is one of the biggest fears we have in life. :)
Normally the term "second death" means a permanent separation from God though, and death going away means that our days of probation are over, no more do-overs. :) Which brings us back to the beginning. Today, let's be thankful for our lives and Christ's gift to us, allowing us the time to repent, including death. Let's be diligent and take advantage of this life, working to repent and improve.
And death and hell were cast into the lake of fire. This is the second death."
Revelation 20:13-14
Everyone being resurrected and judged is something that we should consider and prepare for, and I definitely don't want to diminish that, but what was interesting to me today is the second verse where it talks about "the second death" with death and hell being cast into the lake of fire. I love that idea of the death of death, probably because it is one of the biggest fears we have in life. :)
Normally the term "second death" means a permanent separation from God though, and death going away means that our days of probation are over, no more do-overs. :) Which brings us back to the beginning. Today, let's be thankful for our lives and Christ's gift to us, allowing us the time to repent, including death. Let's be diligent and take advantage of this life, working to repent and improve.
Sunday, July 18, 2021
Enos 1:4 -- On Hunger and Wholeness
"And 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; yea, and when the night came I did still raise my voice high that it reached the heavens."
Enos 1:4
I like the idea here of soul hunger. I imagine that, like physical hunger, soul hunger is the feeling of needing something that you lack. An absence where something should be. I think we all feel that spiritually sometimes, but we don't always know what it is, and so we try to fill it, or mask it, in different ways. Maybe we try with relationships or food or whatever our chosen addictions are... but the real absence in our lives is the presence of God, and that's the only thing that can satisfy that particular lack.
Enos here prays and recieves forgiveness for his sins, thus enabling him to feel God in his life without the barriers to the spirit that sin can throw up around us, and I think the idea is that his hunger was satisfied when he was able to talk to God and accomplish that. Verse 8 tells us "thy faith hath made thee whole." ... So maybe the hunger is a real lack of wholeness, and God completes us and makes us fully functional again even when we've been broken. It take faith to get to that stage.
Today, let's turn to the real source of wholeness and soul healing: God. Let's do as Enos did and pray until we can find our way back to God.
Enos 1:4
I like the idea here of soul hunger. I imagine that, like physical hunger, soul hunger is the feeling of needing something that you lack. An absence where something should be. I think we all feel that spiritually sometimes, but we don't always know what it is, and so we try to fill it, or mask it, in different ways. Maybe we try with relationships or food or whatever our chosen addictions are... but the real absence in our lives is the presence of God, and that's the only thing that can satisfy that particular lack.
Enos here prays and recieves forgiveness for his sins, thus enabling him to feel God in his life without the barriers to the spirit that sin can throw up around us, and I think the idea is that his hunger was satisfied when he was able to talk to God and accomplish that. Verse 8 tells us "thy faith hath made thee whole." ... So maybe the hunger is a real lack of wholeness, and God completes us and makes us fully functional again even when we've been broken. It take faith to get to that stage.
Today, let's turn to the real source of wholeness and soul healing: God. Let's do as Enos did and pray until we can find our way back to God.
Saturday, July 17, 2021
Proverbs 29:7 -- On Considering the Cause of the Poor
"The righteous considereth the cause of the poor: but the wicked regardeth not to know it."
Proverbs 29:7
I like this verse which tells us one way to tell between the righteous and the wicked, and perhaps one thing to work on if we want to be in that first group. :) Today, let's consider the cause of the poor, and do what we can to help.
Proverbs 29:7
I like this verse which tells us one way to tell between the righteous and the wicked, and perhaps one thing to work on if we want to be in that first group. :) Today, let's consider the cause of the poor, and do what we can to help.
Friday, July 16, 2021
Proverbs 9:8-10 -- On Reproof and Respect
"Reprove not a scorner, lest he hate thee: rebuke a wise man, and he will love thee.
Give instruction to a wise man, and he will be yet wiser: teach a just man, and he will increase in learning.
The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom: and the knowledge of the holy is understanding."
Proverbs 9:8-10
Some good advice here on being careful about correcting people. No need to do so to inspire hatred, so only when someone is really listening and wants to know, for instance in a mentoring or coaching context, should we consider it... and just like we consider these verses from the coach or teacher point of view, should we consider them from the opposite side, as the trainee or learner, both with other people and with God.
I think we all have times where we can't listen to criticism, and often criticism is just meant to tear us down, not build us up, but if we find someone we trust and that loves us, then that sort of kind and gentle reproof can sometimes help and not harm... and we don't get so defensive that we're blocking it all out. :)
God loves us that way, and he wants to help us learn, not tear us down for our mistakes. Fear here isn't referring to being frightened of, but it is an older meaning referring to a healthy respect or awe... recognizing that God knows way, way more than we do, like a parent, coach, or teacher, and being willing to learn from him. The more we learn about him, the closer we can get to understanding how everything fits together. :)
Today, let's try to be good teachers and good learners, and both from a position of love and kindness so that we don't go blowing up relationships. :)
Give instruction to a wise man, and he will be yet wiser: teach a just man, and he will increase in learning.
The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom: and the knowledge of the holy is understanding."
Proverbs 9:8-10
Some good advice here on being careful about correcting people. No need to do so to inspire hatred, so only when someone is really listening and wants to know, for instance in a mentoring or coaching context, should we consider it... and just like we consider these verses from the coach or teacher point of view, should we consider them from the opposite side, as the trainee or learner, both with other people and with God.
I think we all have times where we can't listen to criticism, and often criticism is just meant to tear us down, not build us up, but if we find someone we trust and that loves us, then that sort of kind and gentle reproof can sometimes help and not harm... and we don't get so defensive that we're blocking it all out. :)
God loves us that way, and he wants to help us learn, not tear us down for our mistakes. Fear here isn't referring to being frightened of, but it is an older meaning referring to a healthy respect or awe... recognizing that God knows way, way more than we do, like a parent, coach, or teacher, and being willing to learn from him. The more we learn about him, the closer we can get to understanding how everything fits together. :)
Today, let's try to be good teachers and good learners, and both from a position of love and kindness so that we don't go blowing up relationships. :)
Thursday, July 15, 2021
Ezekiel 14:3 -- On the Stumblingblock of Iniquity
"Son of man, these men have set up their idols in their heart, and put the stumblingblock of their iniquity before their face: should I be inquired of at all by them?"
Ezekiel 14:3
The idea of stumblingblocks of iniquity is what strikes me today... it seems like the biggest challenges in our lives are exactly that: obstacles that we build ourselves by making poor choices. And idols in our hearts are when we prioritize and value anything else as first priority in our lives besides God. It gets our whole lives off track, and impedes our progress as well.
Although God loves us all, I think the whole thing about not taking questions from people who have blinded themselves makes sense just because when we are in a state like that, we aren't going to be open to God's voice or his answers anyway... it is pointless for God to try to reason with us when we aren't listening.
Today, let's listen to the Spirit, and let's work on removing the self-limiting obstacles from our lives, so that we can hear God's voice, learn from him, and not destroy our own potential by making our own lives impossibly hard.
Ezekiel 14:3
The idea of stumblingblocks of iniquity is what strikes me today... it seems like the biggest challenges in our lives are exactly that: obstacles that we build ourselves by making poor choices. And idols in our hearts are when we prioritize and value anything else as first priority in our lives besides God. It gets our whole lives off track, and impedes our progress as well.
Although God loves us all, I think the whole thing about not taking questions from people who have blinded themselves makes sense just because when we are in a state like that, we aren't going to be open to God's voice or his answers anyway... it is pointless for God to try to reason with us when we aren't listening.
Today, let's listen to the Spirit, and let's work on removing the self-limiting obstacles from our lives, so that we can hear God's voice, learn from him, and not destroy our own potential by making our own lives impossibly hard.
Wednesday, July 14, 2021
Luke 15:4 -- On Being Lost and Found
"What man of you, having an hundred sheep, if he lose one of them, doth not leave the ninety and nine in the wilderness, and go after that which is lost, until he find it?"
Luke 15:4
I think the parable that begins with this verse is about the importance of the individual, and how God wants to help and save us all. In this same chapter Jesus tells the parable of the prodigal son as well, to illustrate the same idea. When we're lost, God doesn't just write us off or dismiss us... he goes out to find us and bring us back to the flock. We aren't disposable or replaceable in the kingdom of God... we are all loved and wanted and have a place prepared for us, and people to rejoice over us if we come home.
Significantly though, it requires a willingness to return, and if we expand the idea to encompass other parables, like the ten virgins, it also requires some preparation on our parts in order to reach where God wants us to come and to rejoin our heavenly family. As the lost sheep we can't be jumping out of the pen as soon as we get back mumbling in our baa-language about how we hate it here, and taking off again.
Today, let's remember that the Lord loves us and comes to help us when we are lost. Let's be willing to return and also to learn more about God's laws and why it is dangerous to wander far from our shepherd. Let's also protect ourselves by learning more about God and all that he has prepared for us, so that we can make better, more informed choices between following God and following anything else, including our own whims. It's still our choice whether to stray or not, but let's learn more about what not straying means and the joy that God offers us before we jump back into rebellion for the sake of rebellion. :)
Luke 15:4
I think the parable that begins with this verse is about the importance of the individual, and how God wants to help and save us all. In this same chapter Jesus tells the parable of the prodigal son as well, to illustrate the same idea. When we're lost, God doesn't just write us off or dismiss us... he goes out to find us and bring us back to the flock. We aren't disposable or replaceable in the kingdom of God... we are all loved and wanted and have a place prepared for us, and people to rejoice over us if we come home.
Significantly though, it requires a willingness to return, and if we expand the idea to encompass other parables, like the ten virgins, it also requires some preparation on our parts in order to reach where God wants us to come and to rejoin our heavenly family. As the lost sheep we can't be jumping out of the pen as soon as we get back mumbling in our baa-language about how we hate it here, and taking off again.
Today, let's remember that the Lord loves us and comes to help us when we are lost. Let's be willing to return and also to learn more about God's laws and why it is dangerous to wander far from our shepherd. Let's also protect ourselves by learning more about God and all that he has prepared for us, so that we can make better, more informed choices between following God and following anything else, including our own whims. It's still our choice whether to stray or not, but let's learn more about what not straying means and the joy that God offers us before we jump back into rebellion for the sake of rebellion. :)
Tuesday, July 13, 2021
Psalms 32:8-11 -- On Being Guided to Happiness
"I will instruct thee and teach thee in the way which thou shalt go: I will guide thee with mine eye.
Be ye not as the horse, or as the mule, which have no understanding: whose mouth must be held in with bit and bridle, lest they come near unto thee.
Many sorrows shall be to the wicked: but he that trusteth in the Lord, mercy shall compass him about.
Be glad in the Lord, and rejoice, ye righteous: and shout for joy, all ye that are upright in heart."
Psalms 32:8-11
I like the idea of God as our teacher, and there is good advice here, like the advice to not bite people... which is funny, but also valuable in a symbolic way, right? We shouldn't have to require external control in order to not harm people, and that's something we need to learn.
One of the things that the Lord is teaching us is to escape sorrow and find joy, and we can get closer to that as we trust the Lord. ... I mean, sorrow is required in order to understand joy I think, and we aren't trying to avoid learning experiences, but long term, we want to choose joy over sorrow, and that part is our choice to a large extent... following after the things that make for peace (Romans 14:19) and pursuing the path that leads to happiness, as "happiness is the object and design of our existence" (Teachings of the Prophet Joseph Smith, 255).
Today, let's work on being glad in the Lord and upright in heart. :)
Be ye not as the horse, or as the mule, which have no understanding: whose mouth must be held in with bit and bridle, lest they come near unto thee.
Many sorrows shall be to the wicked: but he that trusteth in the Lord, mercy shall compass him about.
Be glad in the Lord, and rejoice, ye righteous: and shout for joy, all ye that are upright in heart."
Psalms 32:8-11
I like the idea of God as our teacher, and there is good advice here, like the advice to not bite people... which is funny, but also valuable in a symbolic way, right? We shouldn't have to require external control in order to not harm people, and that's something we need to learn.
One of the things that the Lord is teaching us is to escape sorrow and find joy, and we can get closer to that as we trust the Lord. ... I mean, sorrow is required in order to understand joy I think, and we aren't trying to avoid learning experiences, but long term, we want to choose joy over sorrow, and that part is our choice to a large extent... following after the things that make for peace (Romans 14:19) and pursuing the path that leads to happiness, as "happiness is the object and design of our existence" (Teachings of the Prophet Joseph Smith, 255).
Today, let's work on being glad in the Lord and upright in heart. :)
Monday, July 12, 2021
Deuteronomy 1:17 -- On Hearing the Small and the Great
"Ye shall not respect persons in judgment; but ye shall hear the small as well as the great; ye shall not be afraid of the face of man; for the judgment is God’s: and the cause that is too hard for you, bring it unto me, and I will hear it."
Deuteronomy 1:17
This is something that Moses taught his people, and something that we should probably consider today as well. It's hard to be fair about judgements and to ignore status and privilege when making decisions, especially our own. It is a worthwhile exercise though, to step back and try to imagine what God would decide in any given situation. As we pray and get closer to the spirit, we'll get closer to understanding God's judgement, and them mind of the Lord will be clearer to us.
Being afraid of the face of man is equally challenging... we worry about what people will say or think or do, and we want other people to agree with us and back up our decisions. However, if that desire to be loved or respected, or even just not ridiculed can influence us to make poor judgements that harm others, then we are allowing our desires and fears to turn us into people we don't want to be. Today, let's work on hearing everyone equally, making better, fairer, kinder decisions, and on working with the Lord to know his will.
Deuteronomy 1:17
This is something that Moses taught his people, and something that we should probably consider today as well. It's hard to be fair about judgements and to ignore status and privilege when making decisions, especially our own. It is a worthwhile exercise though, to step back and try to imagine what God would decide in any given situation. As we pray and get closer to the spirit, we'll get closer to understanding God's judgement, and them mind of the Lord will be clearer to us.
Being afraid of the face of man is equally challenging... we worry about what people will say or think or do, and we want other people to agree with us and back up our decisions. However, if that desire to be loved or respected, or even just not ridiculed can influence us to make poor judgements that harm others, then we are allowing our desires and fears to turn us into people we don't want to be. Today, let's work on hearing everyone equally, making better, fairer, kinder decisions, and on working with the Lord to know his will.
Sunday, July 11, 2021
Job 5:8 -- On Committing Our Cause to God
"I would seek unto God, and unto God would I commit my cause:"
Job 5:8
Later in the chapter it talks more about why, but I like the general idea here of committing our cause to God. I think it means that we have to be "anxiously engaged in a good cause" (D&C 58:27), in order to have one, and in order for it to be "ours" at least, and it has to be good in order to dedicate the whole thing to God. In other words, we need to have a reason. To live, to breathe, to get up in the morning... right? And seeking God and committing that inner reason/cause/goal either to him, or to have it actually *be* him helps us center our lives around that core of sanity... the anchor in our lives that we know isn't going to fail or betray or harm us.
Today, let's think about the reasons that we want to commit our own cause to God, and then let's take that step, to work with God towards our goals, to follow his advice, and to seek him and the happiness that is found in walking his path.
Job 5:8
Later in the chapter it talks more about why, but I like the general idea here of committing our cause to God. I think it means that we have to be "anxiously engaged in a good cause" (D&C 58:27), in order to have one, and in order for it to be "ours" at least, and it has to be good in order to dedicate the whole thing to God. In other words, we need to have a reason. To live, to breathe, to get up in the morning... right? And seeking God and committing that inner reason/cause/goal either to him, or to have it actually *be* him helps us center our lives around that core of sanity... the anchor in our lives that we know isn't going to fail or betray or harm us.
Today, let's think about the reasons that we want to commit our own cause to God, and then let's take that step, to work with God towards our goals, to follow his advice, and to seek him and the happiness that is found in walking his path.
Saturday, July 10, 2021
Genesis 29:18-27 -- On Challenging Situations
"And Jacob loved Rachel; and said, I will serve thee seven years for Rachel thy younger daughter.
And Laban said, It is better that I give her to thee, than that I should give her to another man: abide with me.
And Jacob served seven years for Rachel; and they seemed unto him but a few days, for the love he had to her.
And Jacob said unto Laban, Give me my wife, for my days are fulfilled, that I may go in unto her.
And Laban gathered together all the men of the place, and made a feast.
And it came to pass in the evening, that he took Leah his daughter, and brought her to him; and he went in unto her.
And Laban gave unto his daughter Leah Zilpah his maid for an handmaid.
And it came to pass, that in the morning, behold, it was Leah: and he said to Laban, What is this thou hast done unto me? did not I serve with thee for Rachel? wherefore then hast thou beguiled me?
And Laban said, It must not be so done in our country, to give the younger before the firstborn.
Fulfil her week, and we will give thee this also for the service which thou shalt serve with me yet seven other years."
Genesis 29:18-27
This is a crazy story. It's Jacob dealing with his uncle Laban and negotiating to take his daughter as his wife, for which he serves him seven years. The upfront negotiation seems clear, but at the end of those seven years Jacob sends in his OTHER daughter, which Jacob discovers in the morning. If there was a problem with giving the younger daughter before the elder, you would think maybe he should have brought it up seven years ago... or at least been clear about it when he brought her, but apparently the whole thing was a deception. ... We don't know the exact reasons that Laban did this, but I feel bad for most of the people involved. Leah had it pretty bad. I have no idea if she wanted this to happen the whole time, or whether her father could have found her another husband, or what, but she gets placed in an challenging situation here, where her relationship with her husband *and* with her sister is tainted up front, which had to be hard on her, and likely on everyone. Jacob was cheated, but he was now married quite solidly to a different woman, and "casting her off" would have been super bad. So he's trapped in a lot of ways. And then Rachel too... did she know what her father and sister were doing up front? Talk about a challenging beginning to a marriage.
Later in the story, when Jacob leaves Laban's service, it seems like the women are on the same page about it and perhaps the intervening years helped them work through all of the awkwardness, but honestly, the whole thing was just a scary thing to have to deal with. It likely isn't a direct correllation, since I am guessing that very few of us are in a similar situation, but it does make me think of situations in our lives that seem similarly impossible to deal with... just ultra challenging, and not something you want to touch with a 10-foot pole. But we're in them, and we have to learn to cope, get along with those that seem like our enemies at times, bad family situations, relationships that seem poisoned and we aren't sure if there is a way to get back to something positive. ... Bridges that we have burned and that might not be able to be rebuilt. There are so many ways that our lives twist, whether or not we're doing the twisting.
Today, let's work on some patience and perserverance... finding ways to see the good in our lives, and treating the people around us with gentleness and kindness, no matter the circumstances. Let's take the life that we've been given and make it the best, happiest life we can, despite the occasional plots twists and hurdles. God is still in there rooting for us, and making a way for us to find happiness. Let's follow him and find that joy hidden amidst the challenges. :)
And Laban said, It is better that I give her to thee, than that I should give her to another man: abide with me.
And Jacob served seven years for Rachel; and they seemed unto him but a few days, for the love he had to her.
And Jacob said unto Laban, Give me my wife, for my days are fulfilled, that I may go in unto her.
And Laban gathered together all the men of the place, and made a feast.
And it came to pass in the evening, that he took Leah his daughter, and brought her to him; and he went in unto her.
And Laban gave unto his daughter Leah Zilpah his maid for an handmaid.
And it came to pass, that in the morning, behold, it was Leah: and he said to Laban, What is this thou hast done unto me? did not I serve with thee for Rachel? wherefore then hast thou beguiled me?
And Laban said, It must not be so done in our country, to give the younger before the firstborn.
Fulfil her week, and we will give thee this also for the service which thou shalt serve with me yet seven other years."
Genesis 29:18-27
This is a crazy story. It's Jacob dealing with his uncle Laban and negotiating to take his daughter as his wife, for which he serves him seven years. The upfront negotiation seems clear, but at the end of those seven years Jacob sends in his OTHER daughter, which Jacob discovers in the morning. If there was a problem with giving the younger daughter before the elder, you would think maybe he should have brought it up seven years ago... or at least been clear about it when he brought her, but apparently the whole thing was a deception. ... We don't know the exact reasons that Laban did this, but I feel bad for most of the people involved. Leah had it pretty bad. I have no idea if she wanted this to happen the whole time, or whether her father could have found her another husband, or what, but she gets placed in an challenging situation here, where her relationship with her husband *and* with her sister is tainted up front, which had to be hard on her, and likely on everyone. Jacob was cheated, but he was now married quite solidly to a different woman, and "casting her off" would have been super bad. So he's trapped in a lot of ways. And then Rachel too... did she know what her father and sister were doing up front? Talk about a challenging beginning to a marriage.
Later in the story, when Jacob leaves Laban's service, it seems like the women are on the same page about it and perhaps the intervening years helped them work through all of the awkwardness, but honestly, the whole thing was just a scary thing to have to deal with. It likely isn't a direct correllation, since I am guessing that very few of us are in a similar situation, but it does make me think of situations in our lives that seem similarly impossible to deal with... just ultra challenging, and not something you want to touch with a 10-foot pole. But we're in them, and we have to learn to cope, get along with those that seem like our enemies at times, bad family situations, relationships that seem poisoned and we aren't sure if there is a way to get back to something positive. ... Bridges that we have burned and that might not be able to be rebuilt. There are so many ways that our lives twist, whether or not we're doing the twisting.
Today, let's work on some patience and perserverance... finding ways to see the good in our lives, and treating the people around us with gentleness and kindness, no matter the circumstances. Let's take the life that we've been given and make it the best, happiest life we can, despite the occasional plots twists and hurdles. God is still in there rooting for us, and making a way for us to find happiness. Let's follow him and find that joy hidden amidst the challenges. :)
Friday, July 9, 2021
Ezekiel 31:8-11 -- On Beauty and Wickedness
"The cedars in the garden of God could not hide him: the fir trees were not like his boughs, and the chestnut trees were not like his branches; nor any tree in the garden of God was like unto him in his beauty.
I have made him fair by the multitude of his branches: so that all the trees of Eden, that were in the garden of God, envied him.
Therefore thus saith the Lord God; Because thou hast lifted up thyself in height, and he hath shot up his top among the thick boughs, and his heart is lifted up in his height;
I have therefore delivered him into the hand of the mighty one of the heathen; he shall surely deal with him: I have driven him out for his wickedness."
Ezekiel 31:8-11
This is God talking to Ezekiel, comparing people to trees, but overall talking to him about Pharoah, and comparing Egyptians to Assyrians. I think the idea was to show Pharoah that even though he was great, he wasn't any greater than the Assyrians, who are well praised in this chapter, but who were still driven out by God for wickedness. The story and comparison here are meant to convey the approximate message... yes, you are great, but not greater than they were, and they were in my hand as you are. Or in other words... God is still over all, and asks you to keep the commandments and not rebel, lest you be similarly driven out.
Maybe this is a message that we all need to hear at times. We think that we are pretty cool, and blessed, and that we know a lot... and we are, and we do... but we aren't better than the Assyrians were, or any of the other people that rebelled against God. We, like them, can't afford to think of ourselves as "above" the concerns of God, for he is above all. We can be "of infinite worth" as children of God, and yet be "less than the dust of the earth" because we are disobedient. Perhaps the overall message here is that our beauty, greatness, and potential comes to nothing without God.
Today, let's remember that lesson. Perhaps it will help us to be humble, and put God in his proper place at the top of our priority list, even above our own self-admiration and self-importance. God's message to us is similar to his message to Pharoah... that we are indeed important and beautiful people, but that we still need to be kind and good and follow God's advice. :)
I have made him fair by the multitude of his branches: so that all the trees of Eden, that were in the garden of God, envied him.
Therefore thus saith the Lord God; Because thou hast lifted up thyself in height, and he hath shot up his top among the thick boughs, and his heart is lifted up in his height;
I have therefore delivered him into the hand of the mighty one of the heathen; he shall surely deal with him: I have driven him out for his wickedness."
Ezekiel 31:8-11
This is God talking to Ezekiel, comparing people to trees, but overall talking to him about Pharoah, and comparing Egyptians to Assyrians. I think the idea was to show Pharoah that even though he was great, he wasn't any greater than the Assyrians, who are well praised in this chapter, but who were still driven out by God for wickedness. The story and comparison here are meant to convey the approximate message... yes, you are great, but not greater than they were, and they were in my hand as you are. Or in other words... God is still over all, and asks you to keep the commandments and not rebel, lest you be similarly driven out.
Maybe this is a message that we all need to hear at times. We think that we are pretty cool, and blessed, and that we know a lot... and we are, and we do... but we aren't better than the Assyrians were, or any of the other people that rebelled against God. We, like them, can't afford to think of ourselves as "above" the concerns of God, for he is above all. We can be "of infinite worth" as children of God, and yet be "less than the dust of the earth" because we are disobedient. Perhaps the overall message here is that our beauty, greatness, and potential comes to nothing without God.
Today, let's remember that lesson. Perhaps it will help us to be humble, and put God in his proper place at the top of our priority list, even above our own self-admiration and self-importance. God's message to us is similar to his message to Pharoah... that we are indeed important and beautiful people, but that we still need to be kind and good and follow God's advice. :)
Thursday, July 8, 2021
John 11:21-22 -- On Hope and Faith
"Then said Martha unto Jesus, Lord, if thou hadst been here, my brother had not died.
But I know, that even now, whatsoever thou wilt ask of God, God will give it thee."
John 11:21-22
The faith of Martha at this moment seems incredible--both to know that Christ could have prevented death and to know that Christ could bring her brother back four days after death. She goes on to confirm that she knows he is the prophesied Christ, the Son of God. She knew him well enough to know that he could do this, not necessarily that he would, but that he could if he chose to... and I think that is where she is coming from later in the chapter when she reminds him that he's been dead four days. She doesn't know if he just wants to see him, or if his talk about the resurrection is about something he intends to do now, or comfort about Lazarus being raised up eventually, after this life.
Significantly I think, she doesn't try to force her will on the situation, but waits for God's will. ... That's a hard thing, and perhaps during those four days she was tempted to think that Christ could or should have done more, or that his timing was off, or that something is fundamentally broken in the heavens if things like this can happen. I think we are tempted similarly when things don't go the way we would like them to. I also think though that during our personal times of deep grief, God has something incredibly miraculous in store for us as well. Maybe our sorrow will last more than 4 actual days, but like Martha, that sadness will be swallowed up in joy, and no matter how long it has been, it will seem brief.
Today, let's remember that God will do miracles in our lives, and he can turn even the deepest sorrows into joy. Let's have faith, and patience with his timing, which is perfect. Above all, let's trust in that hope that Christ offers us, knowing that soon or late, things will be okay again.
But I know, that even now, whatsoever thou wilt ask of God, God will give it thee."
John 11:21-22
The faith of Martha at this moment seems incredible--both to know that Christ could have prevented death and to know that Christ could bring her brother back four days after death. She goes on to confirm that she knows he is the prophesied Christ, the Son of God. She knew him well enough to know that he could do this, not necessarily that he would, but that he could if he chose to... and I think that is where she is coming from later in the chapter when she reminds him that he's been dead four days. She doesn't know if he just wants to see him, or if his talk about the resurrection is about something he intends to do now, or comfort about Lazarus being raised up eventually, after this life.
Significantly I think, she doesn't try to force her will on the situation, but waits for God's will. ... That's a hard thing, and perhaps during those four days she was tempted to think that Christ could or should have done more, or that his timing was off, or that something is fundamentally broken in the heavens if things like this can happen. I think we are tempted similarly when things don't go the way we would like them to. I also think though that during our personal times of deep grief, God has something incredibly miraculous in store for us as well. Maybe our sorrow will last more than 4 actual days, but like Martha, that sadness will be swallowed up in joy, and no matter how long it has been, it will seem brief.
Today, let's remember that God will do miracles in our lives, and he can turn even the deepest sorrows into joy. Let's have faith, and patience with his timing, which is perfect. Above all, let's trust in that hope that Christ offers us, knowing that soon or late, things will be okay again.
Wednesday, July 7, 2021
Numbers 11:11-15 -- On Turning to the Lord in our Afflictions
"And Moses said unto the Lord, Wherefore hast thou afflicted thy servant? and wherefore have I not found favour in thy sight, that thou layest the burden of all this people upon me?
Have I conceived all this people? have I begotten them, that thou shouldest say unto me, Carry them in thy bosom, as a nursing father beareth the sucking child, unto the land which thou swarest unto their fathers?
Whence should I have flesh to give unto all this people? for they weep unto me, saying, Give us flesh, that we may eat.
I am not able to bear all this people alone, because it is too heavy for me.
And if thou deal thus with me, kill me, I pray thee, out of hand, if I have found favour in thy sight; and let me not see my wretchedness."
Numbers 11:11-15
Some scriptures like this remind us that the prophets were human, and they had limitations and complaints, just as we often do. In this case, it was a valid concern and God helped him put other people into place to help him bear the weight of the constant complaining. (To be fair, the Israelites had been used to bondage and being provided for, and it was hard to adjust to their new life of wandering in the wilderness with the same meal every day, despite its miraculous nature. Likely very few of us deal any better with dramatic changes in our lives.)
For me the important lesson here is that we should always turn to the Lord in our afflictions, and he will help us. Maybe this is a little too dramatic of an example... for instance, I don't suggest putting out that risky "kill me now" vibe, but God absolutely does want us to be real with him and tell us what we really think and feel.
Today, let's talk to the Lord about what is going on in our lives. Not all of our complaints are going to be justified, and we might have to be patient and humble as we learn what we can and can't handle a little bit better, but God is willing to listen to and help us with all of it because he loves us. We just have to be willing to accept whatever help he gives us, whether it is immediate relief in the way we expect or a different solution that we hadn't thought of, and might not even like. God knows what he is doing, and if we trust him, then whatever he sends us will be exactly the help we need, and we'll eventually realize that. :)
Have I conceived all this people? have I begotten them, that thou shouldest say unto me, Carry them in thy bosom, as a nursing father beareth the sucking child, unto the land which thou swarest unto their fathers?
Whence should I have flesh to give unto all this people? for they weep unto me, saying, Give us flesh, that we may eat.
I am not able to bear all this people alone, because it is too heavy for me.
And if thou deal thus with me, kill me, I pray thee, out of hand, if I have found favour in thy sight; and let me not see my wretchedness."
Numbers 11:11-15
Some scriptures like this remind us that the prophets were human, and they had limitations and complaints, just as we often do. In this case, it was a valid concern and God helped him put other people into place to help him bear the weight of the constant complaining. (To be fair, the Israelites had been used to bondage and being provided for, and it was hard to adjust to their new life of wandering in the wilderness with the same meal every day, despite its miraculous nature. Likely very few of us deal any better with dramatic changes in our lives.)
For me the important lesson here is that we should always turn to the Lord in our afflictions, and he will help us. Maybe this is a little too dramatic of an example... for instance, I don't suggest putting out that risky "kill me now" vibe, but God absolutely does want us to be real with him and tell us what we really think and feel.
Today, let's talk to the Lord about what is going on in our lives. Not all of our complaints are going to be justified, and we might have to be patient and humble as we learn what we can and can't handle a little bit better, but God is willing to listen to and help us with all of it because he loves us. We just have to be willing to accept whatever help he gives us, whether it is immediate relief in the way we expect or a different solution that we hadn't thought of, and might not even like. God knows what he is doing, and if we trust him, then whatever he sends us will be exactly the help we need, and we'll eventually realize that. :)
Tuesday, July 6, 2021
Hebrews 5:8-9 -- On Obedience
"Though he were a Son, yet learned he obedience by the things which he suffered;
And being made perfect, he became the author of eternal salvation unto all them that obey him;"
Hebrews 5:8-9
Though we often chafe against it, the principle of obedience is huge and important. Christ learned obedience through the things that he suffered in his life, and so do we. Lessons like that can be easier or harder, but not all of them can be avoided entirely. No matter how much we trust God that something is inappropriate or forbidden, sometimes we have to have a personal lesson to realize the reasons behind it, or to understand why the things that God asks us individually are different than the things that God asks all of us collectively. As always we should consider ourselves part of the rule before searching for exceptions, but I mean things like divorce, childlessness, illness, debilitation, etc. ... those are some of the significant things that God asks individuals to suffer, and which have to be understood on an individual level.
One thing that seems cool is that Christ learned this way and then as we read here, he turned around after he was perfected and he teaches this way as well. Tried and true methods, individual attention. :) We have the best teacher in the universe to help us understand what we are going through and why we need to change and learn and obey... so that God can lead us in the right way, and help us find peace. So much of our suffering in this life is because we walk away when God invites us to come to him and be saved, but we don't want to... we want to do things *our* way instead, and when it turns out wrong and doesn't lead us to peace and happiness we're surprised, and even worse, we often blame God.
Today, let's learn obedience, and follow our Savior who wants with all of his universe-encompassing heart to help us. Let's try to get over ourselves and accept that help by learning some humility and obedience. :)
And being made perfect, he became the author of eternal salvation unto all them that obey him;"
Hebrews 5:8-9
Though we often chafe against it, the principle of obedience is huge and important. Christ learned obedience through the things that he suffered in his life, and so do we. Lessons like that can be easier or harder, but not all of them can be avoided entirely. No matter how much we trust God that something is inappropriate or forbidden, sometimes we have to have a personal lesson to realize the reasons behind it, or to understand why the things that God asks us individually are different than the things that God asks all of us collectively. As always we should consider ourselves part of the rule before searching for exceptions, but I mean things like divorce, childlessness, illness, debilitation, etc. ... those are some of the significant things that God asks individuals to suffer, and which have to be understood on an individual level.
One thing that seems cool is that Christ learned this way and then as we read here, he turned around after he was perfected and he teaches this way as well. Tried and true methods, individual attention. :) We have the best teacher in the universe to help us understand what we are going through and why we need to change and learn and obey... so that God can lead us in the right way, and help us find peace. So much of our suffering in this life is because we walk away when God invites us to come to him and be saved, but we don't want to... we want to do things *our* way instead, and when it turns out wrong and doesn't lead us to peace and happiness we're surprised, and even worse, we often blame God.
Today, let's learn obedience, and follow our Savior who wants with all of his universe-encompassing heart to help us. Let's try to get over ourselves and accept that help by learning some humility and obedience. :)
Monday, July 5, 2021
Nahum 1:15 -- On Bringing Good Tidings and Publishing Peace
"Behold upon the mountains the feet of him that bringeth good tidings, that publisheth peace! O Judah, keep thy solemn feasts, perform thy vows: for the wicked shall no more pass through thee; he is utterly cut off."
Nahum 1:15
This is similar to Isaiah 52:7 (and several verses in the Book of Mormon that are either quoting or referring to that verse), which says "How beautiful upon the mountains are the feet of him that bringeth good tidings, that publisheth peace; that bringeth good tidings of good, that publisheth salvation; that saith unto Zion, Thy God reigneth!" I like the idea in both that we should be spreading messages of peace and joy and positivity. Too much of the world is focused on bad things, or determined to look at the bad side of everything. With God, I think there is always a good side and a good perspective to find.
Larger than the message of being able to find good in the midst of darkness though is the idea that we should be publishing it... not just talking to people about it or lightening the immediate space around us. While that is totally a good thing, I think the idea of publishing something takes us further into making some sort of a record that can lift others as well. Thus we're taught to write journals, to keep our family history, etc. But I don't think it is limited to that. We can write, make videos, participate in podcasts... anything that spreads the message of joy.
Associated with that, I wonder if evil is as simple as focusing on the negative and telling stories with bad endings... convincing people that evil will always win, and that it is doing so now. Today, let's challenge that idea, and publish some hope and joy and light, lifting and spreading God's message that there will be a happy ending in whatever way we can. :)
Nahum 1:15
This is similar to Isaiah 52:7 (and several verses in the Book of Mormon that are either quoting or referring to that verse), which says "How beautiful upon the mountains are the feet of him that bringeth good tidings, that publisheth peace; that bringeth good tidings of good, that publisheth salvation; that saith unto Zion, Thy God reigneth!" I like the idea in both that we should be spreading messages of peace and joy and positivity. Too much of the world is focused on bad things, or determined to look at the bad side of everything. With God, I think there is always a good side and a good perspective to find.
Larger than the message of being able to find good in the midst of darkness though is the idea that we should be publishing it... not just talking to people about it or lightening the immediate space around us. While that is totally a good thing, I think the idea of publishing something takes us further into making some sort of a record that can lift others as well. Thus we're taught to write journals, to keep our family history, etc. But I don't think it is limited to that. We can write, make videos, participate in podcasts... anything that spreads the message of joy.
Associated with that, I wonder if evil is as simple as focusing on the negative and telling stories with bad endings... convincing people that evil will always win, and that it is doing so now. Today, let's challenge that idea, and publish some hope and joy and light, lifting and spreading God's message that there will be a happy ending in whatever way we can. :)
Sunday, July 4, 2021
D&C 58:35-36 -- On Money and Consecration
"It is wisdom in me that my servant Martin Harris should be an example unto the church, in laying his moneys before the bishop of the church.
And also, this is a law unto every man that cometh unto this land to receive an inheritance; and he shall do with his moneys according as the law directs."
Doctrine and Covenants 58:35-36
These verses seems to be talking a little bit about the law of consecration which was followed by the church in the past where everyone pooled their resources and dedicated their resources to building up the community. It was partly about providing for the poor, as it explains here: "remember the poor, and consecrate of thy properties for their support that which thou hast to impart unto them, with a covenant and a deed which cannot be broken" (D&C 42:30). It's a hard law to follow, especially growing up in a society very much dedicated to individual ownership. Because of that perhaps, it is easy to look back at the past efforts of the church and think that it was a failure, a mistake, or that it could never work, but God tells us that "it is my purpose to provide for my saints, for all things are mine. / But it must needs be done in mine own way; and behold this is the way that I, the Lord, have decreed to provide for my saints, that the poor shall be exalted, in that the rich are made low" (D&C 104:15-16). Essentially I think he is saying that even if we aren't turning all our income over to the Bishop that he still expects us to behave as though what we are given by God is a stewardship, and to use it to take care of others.
Today, let's take a step back and consider all that the Lord has given us and blessed us with, and let's set an example by caring for others and lifting others up... and maybe as we do, we'll prepare ourselves to be better community members and siblings to each other, whether God asks us again individually to live this law or not.
And also, this is a law unto every man that cometh unto this land to receive an inheritance; and he shall do with his moneys according as the law directs."
Doctrine and Covenants 58:35-36
These verses seems to be talking a little bit about the law of consecration which was followed by the church in the past where everyone pooled their resources and dedicated their resources to building up the community. It was partly about providing for the poor, as it explains here: "remember the poor, and consecrate of thy properties for their support that which thou hast to impart unto them, with a covenant and a deed which cannot be broken" (D&C 42:30). It's a hard law to follow, especially growing up in a society very much dedicated to individual ownership. Because of that perhaps, it is easy to look back at the past efforts of the church and think that it was a failure, a mistake, or that it could never work, but God tells us that "it is my purpose to provide for my saints, for all things are mine. / But it must needs be done in mine own way; and behold this is the way that I, the Lord, have decreed to provide for my saints, that the poor shall be exalted, in that the rich are made low" (D&C 104:15-16). Essentially I think he is saying that even if we aren't turning all our income over to the Bishop that he still expects us to behave as though what we are given by God is a stewardship, and to use it to take care of others.
Today, let's take a step back and consider all that the Lord has given us and blessed us with, and let's set an example by caring for others and lifting others up... and maybe as we do, we'll prepare ourselves to be better community members and siblings to each other, whether God asks us again individually to live this law or not.
Saturday, July 3, 2021
2 Samuel 4:7-8 -- On Impressing Others
"For when they came into the house, he lay on his bed in his bedchamber, and they smote him, and slew him, and beheaded him, and took his head, and gat them away through the plain all night.
And they brought the head of Ish-bosheth unto David to Hebron, and said to the king, Behold the head of Ish-bosheth the son of Saul thine enemy, which sought thy life; and the Lord hath avenged my lord the king this day of Saul, and of his seed."
2 Samuel 4:7-8
We do things for a lot of reasons in this life, and this seems to be a lesson about thinking long and hard about our reasoning. Rechab and Baanah went and killed Ishbosheth who was taking a nap in his house, and they did it because he was the son of Saul, and Saul had been trying to kill David, so they thought they would be rewarded for helping to kill off his family.
Hopefully we aren't as extreme in our efforts to please others, but it can be close. We can do extreme things to impress or defend... but in light of this lesson, let's take step back and re-evaluate our priorities. Instead of worrying about who it will impress or not, let's think about what is good, and what is right. Today, let's be thoughtful and purposeful as we make decisions.
And they brought the head of Ish-bosheth unto David to Hebron, and said to the king, Behold the head of Ish-bosheth the son of Saul thine enemy, which sought thy life; and the Lord hath avenged my lord the king this day of Saul, and of his seed."
2 Samuel 4:7-8
We do things for a lot of reasons in this life, and this seems to be a lesson about thinking long and hard about our reasoning. Rechab and Baanah went and killed Ishbosheth who was taking a nap in his house, and they did it because he was the son of Saul, and Saul had been trying to kill David, so they thought they would be rewarded for helping to kill off his family.
Hopefully we aren't as extreme in our efforts to please others, but it can be close. We can do extreme things to impress or defend... but in light of this lesson, let's take step back and re-evaluate our priorities. Instead of worrying about who it will impress or not, let's think about what is good, and what is right. Today, let's be thoughtful and purposeful as we make decisions.
Friday, July 2, 2021
Ether 3:16 -- On Bodies of Spirit and Flesh
"Behold, this body, which ye now behold, is the body of my spirit; and man have I created after the body of my spirit; and even as I appear unto thee to be in the spirit will I appear unto my people in the flesh."
Ether 3:16
This is part of the story of Christ showing his body to the Brother of Jared. I like the idea that it teaches us here that our spirits and our physical bodies are essentially identical. There are a lot of conflicts between our physical and spiritual selves during our lives, but I feel like the idea of them being identical shows us that they are made to work together, in harmony rather than in the constant war that we sometimes find within ourselves.
Today, let's work on unifying ourselves. God, as the creator of both kinds of bodies, can show us how if we trust him and follow his way.
Ether 3:16
This is part of the story of Christ showing his body to the Brother of Jared. I like the idea that it teaches us here that our spirits and our physical bodies are essentially identical. There are a lot of conflicts between our physical and spiritual selves during our lives, but I feel like the idea of them being identical shows us that they are made to work together, in harmony rather than in the constant war that we sometimes find within ourselves.
Today, let's work on unifying ourselves. God, as the creator of both kinds of bodies, can show us how if we trust him and follow his way.
Thursday, July 1, 2021
2 Nephi 24:26-27 -- On The Purposes of God
"This is the purpose that is purposed upon the whole earth; and this is the hand that is stretched out upon all nations.
For the Lord of Hosts hath purposed, and who shall disannul? And his hand is stretched out, and who shall turn it back?"
2 Nephi 24:26-27
Reading this today, it strikes me that one difference between us and God is this incredible sense of purpose. Mostly we wander and stumble through life... God seems to have more purpose and positive intent packed into one moment than many of us work up over a whole lifetime. We vaguely want things, but rarely enough to throw ourselves into them fully, and even when we do, that committment is often temporary. The questions here are rhetorical. No one will ever stop what God intends to do--it is impossible to stand against that. ... And maybe that is something that we can learn on a smaller scale. To gather intent and stick to a path. That also means that we have to find the right one, but that's something that God can help us with.
Another cool thing about God's purposes is that so many of them are wrapped up in saving all of us, so we know that if we go along with God's purposes, that will happen. He will never force us into making our lives better, but if we work with him, it WILL happen, without fail. Let's join with God's purpose, and today let's dedicate ourselves to something right and see it through.
For the Lord of Hosts hath purposed, and who shall disannul? And his hand is stretched out, and who shall turn it back?"
2 Nephi 24:26-27
Reading this today, it strikes me that one difference between us and God is this incredible sense of purpose. Mostly we wander and stumble through life... God seems to have more purpose and positive intent packed into one moment than many of us work up over a whole lifetime. We vaguely want things, but rarely enough to throw ourselves into them fully, and even when we do, that committment is often temporary. The questions here are rhetorical. No one will ever stop what God intends to do--it is impossible to stand against that. ... And maybe that is something that we can learn on a smaller scale. To gather intent and stick to a path. That also means that we have to find the right one, but that's something that God can help us with.
Another cool thing about God's purposes is that so many of them are wrapped up in saving all of us, so we know that if we go along with God's purposes, that will happen. He will never force us into making our lives better, but if we work with him, it WILL happen, without fail. Let's join with God's purpose, and today let's dedicate ourselves to something right and see it through.
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