"But as it is written, Eye hath not seen, nor ear heard, neither have entered into the heart of man, the things which God hath prepared for them that love him.
But God hath revealed them unto us by his Spirit: for the Spirit searcheth all things, yea, the deep things of God."
1 Corinthians 2:9-10
I love that the things that God promises us are just beyond anything that anyone has ever seen or heard... beyond the scientific method, out in the realm of the incomprehensible, but in a good way of course. I think if we could comprehend it, then it kind of wouldn't be God at all, because if we could understand all that he has and is, then we'd already be just like him--but we aren't, and that is exactly why we need his help and guidance.
As I was looking around for examples of good incomprehension, these verses from 3 Nephi also caught my eye: "And after this manner do they bear record: The eye hath never seen, neither hath the ear heard, before, so great and marvelous things as we saw and heard Jesus speak unto the Father; / And no tongue can speak, neither can there be written by any man, neither can the hearts of men conceive so great and marvelous things as we both saw and heard Jesus speak; and no one can conceive of the joy which filled our souls at the time we heard him pray for us unto the Father" (3 Nephi 17:16-17).
I think it is why some people like to be surprised, or that we like Christmas morning... because if we trust whoever is surprising us, or whoever is giving us a gift, we know that something cool, or at least heartfelt and well-meant, will be there, and the anticipation of finding out what is coming is cool.
God explains that he gives good gifts in Matthew 7:9-11, and if we trust that, and him, then the incomprehension of what is waiting for us can turn into the joy of anticipation at what wonders lie ahead for us in the eternities. Our future is not a violent dystopia or an eternity of boredom--it's a happy ending, or rather a happy eternity where the joy never runs out. Today, let's trust in God and work towards that currently-incomprehensible-but-definitely-amazing future that he is offering to all of us.
Thursday, September 30, 2021
Wednesday, September 29, 2021
1 Corinthians 4:7 -- On Differences and Blessings
"For who maketh thee to differ from another? and what hast thou that thou didst not receive? now if thou didst receive it, why dost thou glory, as if thou hadst not received it?"
1 Corinthians 4:7
This is a tough one sometimes, because it seems to go against the way that society has taught us that things work. Despite that, it is a valuable perspective to consider that everything comes from God. I don't think that understanding that discounts hard work or makes our efforts pointless. Rather, it illustrates that our work should be directed in the way that the Lord asks, since no matter how hard we work, we are still subject to disaster and tragedy. God is the only thing that can combat those. I also think that the more we really understand and believe this, the less we will be tempted to look down on others, or resent others, because of differences in wealth or status. Maybe it helps us realize that we're all in this life together, and despite what we learn in the world, none of us are better than each other or less worthy of love.
Today, let's consider our similarities and the source of our blessings, and work towards uniting God's children rather than dividing them.
Tuesday, September 28, 2021
Proverbs 25:28 -- On Ruling the Spirit
"He that hath no rule over his own spirit is like a city that is broken down, and without walls."
Proverbs 25:28
I don't know about you, but I definitely don't want to be broken down without walls. :)
It's a tiny bit confusing just because of the way that we use the word "Spirit" to both mean a spiritual part of us separate from the body (Alma 11:43; D&C 138:17) and talk about how the Spirit should be in charge of the body, and then here it seems like a more basic part of ourselves should rule over the spirit, or maybe it is used as a synonym for "soul" which sometimes is the same as spirit, and sometimes means all of us (D&C 88:15). I think the overall meaning is clear though... we need to be able to have some self-control.
Self control doesn't necessarily mean pure willpower... the ability to laugh in the face of temptation or whatever. Most of us are really bad at that, in fact, although we differ on what particular things we are tempted by or weak to. In that regard, it might be useful to remember Joseph who literally just ran away from a bad situation, or studies that show that avoidance, or even just putting up a barrier like extra effort between ourselves and what we shouldn't have... those things usually work much better than so-called pure willpower. :)
Even though Christ directly said No to Satan several times when he was tempted, and he is an amazing example, let's remember that he also walked on water, which we aren't quite ready for either. For the things that aren't hard for us, then let's just say no. For other things, 1 Corinthians 10:13 says, "God is faithful, who will not suffer you to be tempted above that ye are able; but will with the temptation also make a way to escape, that ye may be able to bear it." ... Escape is totally okay. :)
Today, let's find ways to rule ourselves, however that works for us... finding ways to practice good habits and avoid the bad ones until the good ones get stronger and become a part of us instead. :)
Monday, September 27, 2021
Isaiah 43:18-20 -- On New Miracles
"Remember ye not the former things, neither consider the things of old.
Behold, I will do a new thing; now it shall spring forth; shall ye not know it? I will even make a way in the wilderness, and rivers in the desert.
The beast of the field shall honour me, the dragons and the owls: because I give waters in the wilderness, and rivers in the desert, to give drink to my people, my chosen."
Isaiah 43:18-20
Out of context the first verse in this selection seems strange, because God tells us so often in the scriptures to remember. However, in this case it seems like he is just telling us that something new is going to happen. Not the same old ho-hum miracles as in the past (just joking here; miracles are never boring), but something different... in this case, a way in the wilderness and rivers in the desert.
Some other verses that talk about the Lord doing something new are in Jeremiah:
"Therefore, behold, the days come, saith the Lord, that it shall no more be said, The Lord liveth, that brought up the children of Israel out of the land of Egypt;
But, The Lord liveth, that brought up the children of Israel from the land of the north, and from all the lands whither he had driven them: and I will bring them again into their land that I gave unto their fathers."
(Jeremiah 16:14=15, also Jeremiah 23:7-8 with slightly different wording).
The Doctrine and Covenants adds this:
"And they who are in the north countries shall come in remembrance before the Lord; and their prophets shall hear his voice, and shall no longer stay themselves; and they shall smite the rocks, and the ice shall flow down at their presence.
And an highway shall be cast up in the midst of the great deep.
Their enemies shall become a prey unto them,
And in the barren deserts there shall come forth pools of living water; and the parched ground shall no longer be a thirsty land."
(D&C 133:26-29)
These all seem related to me, but obviously I don't know what God has in store, so don't quote me. Suffice it to say though that we have some new very obvious and apparent "new" miracles to look forward to. :) Are they still new if they were predicted so far ahead of time? Yes, I think. I mean, that's what prophecy is, right? :)
Behold, I will do a new thing; now it shall spring forth; shall ye not know it? I will even make a way in the wilderness, and rivers in the desert.
The beast of the field shall honour me, the dragons and the owls: because I give waters in the wilderness, and rivers in the desert, to give drink to my people, my chosen."
Isaiah 43:18-20
Out of context the first verse in this selection seems strange, because God tells us so often in the scriptures to remember. However, in this case it seems like he is just telling us that something new is going to happen. Not the same old ho-hum miracles as in the past (just joking here; miracles are never boring), but something different... in this case, a way in the wilderness and rivers in the desert.
Some other verses that talk about the Lord doing something new are in Jeremiah:
"Therefore, behold, the days come, saith the Lord, that it shall no more be said, The Lord liveth, that brought up the children of Israel out of the land of Egypt;
But, The Lord liveth, that brought up the children of Israel from the land of the north, and from all the lands whither he had driven them: and I will bring them again into their land that I gave unto their fathers."
(Jeremiah 16:14=15, also Jeremiah 23:7-8 with slightly different wording).
The Doctrine and Covenants adds this:
"And they who are in the north countries shall come in remembrance before the Lord; and their prophets shall hear his voice, and shall no longer stay themselves; and they shall smite the rocks, and the ice shall flow down at their presence.
And an highway shall be cast up in the midst of the great deep.
Their enemies shall become a prey unto them,
And in the barren deserts there shall come forth pools of living water; and the parched ground shall no longer be a thirsty land."
(D&C 133:26-29)
These all seem related to me, but obviously I don't know what God has in store, so don't quote me. Suffice it to say though that we have some new very obvious and apparent "new" miracles to look forward to. :) Are they still new if they were predicted so far ahead of time? Yes, I think. I mean, that's what prophecy is, right? :)
Sunday, September 26, 2021
Judges 7:2-7 -- On Obvious Miracles
"And the Lord said unto Gideon, The people that are with thee are too many for me to give the Midianites into their hands, lest Israel vaunt themselves against me, saying, Mine own hand hath saved me.
Now therefore go to, proclaim in the ears of the people, saying, Whosoever is fearful and afraid, let him return and depart early from mount Gilead. And there returned of the people twenty and two thousand; and there remained ten thousand.
And the Lord said unto Gideon, The people are yet too many; bring them down unto the water, and I will try them for thee there: and it shall be, that of whom I say unto thee, This shall go with thee, the same shall go with thee; and of whomsoever I say unto thee, This shall not go with thee, the same shall not go.
So he brought down the people unto the water: and the Lord said unto Gideon, Every one that lappeth of the water with his tongue, as a dog lappeth, him shalt thou set by himself; likewise every one that boweth down upon his knees to drink.
And the number of them that lapped, putting their hand to their mouth, were three hundred men: but all the rest of the people bowed down upon their knees to drink water.
And the Lord said unto Gideon, By the three hundred men that lapped will I save you, and deliver the Midianites into thine hand: and let all the other people go every man unto his place."
Judges 7:2-7
I think it is kind of funny that God kept whittling down the amount of men that could go fight this battle, because he didn't want anyone to think that their strength had delivered them... he wanted it to be clear to them that God had done it. (Not funny as in ridiculous, but funny as in a little amusing that it was necessary.) I am wondering if that happens in our lives sometimes too... maybe why things seem impossible sometimes, because God wants it to be clear when a miracle happens rather than us thinking that we were just that good, or that well-prepared, or whatever. :)
I'm not convinced that lapping water is inherently better than the other option, although I have heard lessons where someone claimed that it showed those men were the most ready or aware of their surroundings or something. That could be a thing, but to me it just sounds like God was trying to find a way to get a very small subset of the original group, so that winning seemed impossible, and then he would deliver them anyway.
Today, maybe we should think about the miracles in our own lives, whether obvious or not, and whether we are paying attention. ... I think we might be a little too often like the ancient Israelites, dismissing things that don't seem quite miraculous enough. :) On the other hand, let's remember that no matter how bleak things seem, God can still deliver us. Let's trust God a little more and worry less about the obstacles. God always makes a way for us to do as he asks.
Now therefore go to, proclaim in the ears of the people, saying, Whosoever is fearful and afraid, let him return and depart early from mount Gilead. And there returned of the people twenty and two thousand; and there remained ten thousand.
And the Lord said unto Gideon, The people are yet too many; bring them down unto the water, and I will try them for thee there: and it shall be, that of whom I say unto thee, This shall go with thee, the same shall go with thee; and of whomsoever I say unto thee, This shall not go with thee, the same shall not go.
So he brought down the people unto the water: and the Lord said unto Gideon, Every one that lappeth of the water with his tongue, as a dog lappeth, him shalt thou set by himself; likewise every one that boweth down upon his knees to drink.
And the number of them that lapped, putting their hand to their mouth, were three hundred men: but all the rest of the people bowed down upon their knees to drink water.
And the Lord said unto Gideon, By the three hundred men that lapped will I save you, and deliver the Midianites into thine hand: and let all the other people go every man unto his place."
Judges 7:2-7
I think it is kind of funny that God kept whittling down the amount of men that could go fight this battle, because he didn't want anyone to think that their strength had delivered them... he wanted it to be clear to them that God had done it. (Not funny as in ridiculous, but funny as in a little amusing that it was necessary.) I am wondering if that happens in our lives sometimes too... maybe why things seem impossible sometimes, because God wants it to be clear when a miracle happens rather than us thinking that we were just that good, or that well-prepared, or whatever. :)
I'm not convinced that lapping water is inherently better than the other option, although I have heard lessons where someone claimed that it showed those men were the most ready or aware of their surroundings or something. That could be a thing, but to me it just sounds like God was trying to find a way to get a very small subset of the original group, so that winning seemed impossible, and then he would deliver them anyway.
Today, maybe we should think about the miracles in our own lives, whether obvious or not, and whether we are paying attention. ... I think we might be a little too often like the ancient Israelites, dismissing things that don't seem quite miraculous enough. :) On the other hand, let's remember that no matter how bleak things seem, God can still deliver us. Let's trust God a little more and worry less about the obstacles. God always makes a way for us to do as he asks.
Saturday, September 25, 2021
Numbers 11:21-23 -- On the Long Arm of the Lord
"And Moses said, The people, among whom I am, are six hundred thousand footmen; and thou hast said, I will give them flesh, that they may eat a whole month.
Shall the flocks and the herds be slain for them, to suffice them? or shall all the fish of the sea be gathered together for them, to suffice them?
And the Lord said unto Moses, Is the Lord’s hand waxed short? thou shalt see now whether my word shall come to pass unto thee or not."
Numbers 11:21-23
I like Moses maybe because I can relate to him a little bit too much. :) In this case, the Lord promised the Children of Israel flesh to eat, because they had been complaining about the food he had been providing them thus far. It was sort of a punishment for complaining as well though... the Lord says that they will eat flesh "not eat one day, nor two days, nor five days, neither ten days, nor twenty days; / But even a whole month, until it come out at your nostrils, and it be loathsome unto you: because that ye have despised the Lord which is among you, and have wept before him, saying, Why came we forth out of Egypt?" (verses 19-20). The "come out your nostrils" part always makes me laugh... God seems to give us what we want sometimes just to show us that it isn't really what we want... we have to learn how unhealthy some of our desires are.
And then of course, Moses hears what the Lord has to say and he can't even imagine how that is going to happen, and the Lord reminds him again that he is after all, God, and he can do what he says he is going to do. :) I think this happens to us as well. God will tell us something through the scriptures, a blessing, or the prophet, and we're like, wait... that can't be right. That's too much, or it's too late, or just that will never happen. :) Part of the idea of God making it happen though is our acceptance of it and our willingness to work with him to fulfil these miracles. Faith, right? Moses still got to be part of the miracle even though he didn't understand how it could happen--because he was willing to work with God, and believed it enough to tell everyone.
The plague part isn't really clear... obviously not everyone died, but it mentions "the people that lusted" ... so, maybe the people who gathered too much and still kept eating it after the piles of birds had started to rot? No idea really, but it doesn't generally sound healthy. Today, let's remember some of the lessons from this story--first of all, let's not complain about the deliverance that God offers us. The Israelites sound a lot like Laman and Lemuel did, even though in both cases, God was leading them out of a bad situation into a better one. The better situation that God provides for us isn't easy though, and we tend to like easy, even when it is super bad for us. Maybe something to think about and change. And second of all, let's trust the Lord to do what he says he will do, whether we can imagine how it could possibly happen or not. Let's work with him and wait to be amazed rather than giving up and turning away.
Shall the flocks and the herds be slain for them, to suffice them? or shall all the fish of the sea be gathered together for them, to suffice them?
And the Lord said unto Moses, Is the Lord’s hand waxed short? thou shalt see now whether my word shall come to pass unto thee or not."
Numbers 11:21-23
I like Moses maybe because I can relate to him a little bit too much. :) In this case, the Lord promised the Children of Israel flesh to eat, because they had been complaining about the food he had been providing them thus far. It was sort of a punishment for complaining as well though... the Lord says that they will eat flesh "not eat one day, nor two days, nor five days, neither ten days, nor twenty days; / But even a whole month, until it come out at your nostrils, and it be loathsome unto you: because that ye have despised the Lord which is among you, and have wept before him, saying, Why came we forth out of Egypt?" (verses 19-20). The "come out your nostrils" part always makes me laugh... God seems to give us what we want sometimes just to show us that it isn't really what we want... we have to learn how unhealthy some of our desires are.
And then of course, Moses hears what the Lord has to say and he can't even imagine how that is going to happen, and the Lord reminds him again that he is after all, God, and he can do what he says he is going to do. :) I think this happens to us as well. God will tell us something through the scriptures, a blessing, or the prophet, and we're like, wait... that can't be right. That's too much, or it's too late, or just that will never happen. :) Part of the idea of God making it happen though is our acceptance of it and our willingness to work with him to fulfil these miracles. Faith, right? Moses still got to be part of the miracle even though he didn't understand how it could happen--because he was willing to work with God, and believed it enough to tell everyone.
The plague part isn't really clear... obviously not everyone died, but it mentions "the people that lusted" ... so, maybe the people who gathered too much and still kept eating it after the piles of birds had started to rot? No idea really, but it doesn't generally sound healthy. Today, let's remember some of the lessons from this story--first of all, let's not complain about the deliverance that God offers us. The Israelites sound a lot like Laman and Lemuel did, even though in both cases, God was leading them out of a bad situation into a better one. The better situation that God provides for us isn't easy though, and we tend to like easy, even when it is super bad for us. Maybe something to think about and change. And second of all, let's trust the Lord to do what he says he will do, whether we can imagine how it could possibly happen or not. Let's work with him and wait to be amazed rather than giving up and turning away.
Friday, September 24, 2021
Zephaniah 1:12 -- On Avoiding Avoidance
"And it shall come to pass at that time, that I will search Jerusalem with candles, and punish the men that are settled on their lees: that say in their heart, The Lord will not do good, neither will he do evil."
Zephaniah 1:12
The "settled on their lees" part is apparently about wine. According to Bible Hub, "Good wine, when it remains for a long time upon its lees, becomes stronger; but bad wine becomes harsher and thicker." Basically though, it is just saying that we can't be fence-sitters between the gospel and the world. If we try, we'll go bad anyway.
Today, let's take God's side, and commit ourselves to his cause and his kingdom rather than assuming that the Lord won't do as he says, or that judgement will never come. And if we really don't know which side we want to be on, then let's figure it out quickly, because standing still isn't going to be a good long-term strategy as we slowly go bad.
Zephaniah 1:12
The "settled on their lees" part is apparently about wine. According to Bible Hub, "Good wine, when it remains for a long time upon its lees, becomes stronger; but bad wine becomes harsher and thicker." Basically though, it is just saying that we can't be fence-sitters between the gospel and the world. If we try, we'll go bad anyway.
Today, let's take God's side, and commit ourselves to his cause and his kingdom rather than assuming that the Lord won't do as he says, or that judgement will never come. And if we really don't know which side we want to be on, then let's figure it out quickly, because standing still isn't going to be a good long-term strategy as we slowly go bad.
Thursday, September 23, 2021
3 Nephi 13:30 -- On Building Up Little Faith
"Wherefore, if God so clothe the grass of the field, which today is, and tomorrow is cast into the oven, even so will he clothe you, if ye are not of little faith."
3 Nephi 13:30
I think this is God's way of telling us that things are going to be okay. Temporary problems are going to pop up, but if we trust God, and seek the kingdom of God first (verse 33), then everything else will come. It's similar to having a positive attitude, but completely rooted in the Lord, which is a much more secure foundation than optimism alone. :)
Remember when Christ told Peter how to find some money to give as tribute (Matthew 17:24-27)?, or when Christ explained how to collect the colt (Luke 19:30-35)? Those are examples of how God provides, and the serendipity that faith can bring us. Although these are probably more advanced examples, with the whole predicting it ahead of time, it is the same type of thing that already happens in our lives from time to time, as God blesses us with those things that we need and want, seemingly out of the blue, but actually special delivery from heaven. :)
Today, let's not stop working towards our goals, but let's remember to also talk them out with the Lord. God wants to help us; let's trust him to do so. As we do, we take a step towards faith and clear the way so that God can work more closely with us, teaching us more and more faith. We won't get to the walk-on-water level for quite a while, probably, but someday we might be ready to try even that. :)
3 Nephi 13:30
I think this is God's way of telling us that things are going to be okay. Temporary problems are going to pop up, but if we trust God, and seek the kingdom of God first (verse 33), then everything else will come. It's similar to having a positive attitude, but completely rooted in the Lord, which is a much more secure foundation than optimism alone. :)
Remember when Christ told Peter how to find some money to give as tribute (Matthew 17:24-27)?, or when Christ explained how to collect the colt (Luke 19:30-35)? Those are examples of how God provides, and the serendipity that faith can bring us. Although these are probably more advanced examples, with the whole predicting it ahead of time, it is the same type of thing that already happens in our lives from time to time, as God blesses us with those things that we need and want, seemingly out of the blue, but actually special delivery from heaven. :)
Today, let's not stop working towards our goals, but let's remember to also talk them out with the Lord. God wants to help us; let's trust him to do so. As we do, we take a step towards faith and clear the way so that God can work more closely with us, teaching us more and more faith. We won't get to the walk-on-water level for quite a while, probably, but someday we might be ready to try even that. :)
Wednesday, September 22, 2021
3 Nephi 17:8-9 -- On Sufficient Faith
"For I perceive that ye desire that I should show unto you what I have done unto your brethren at Jerusalem, for I see that your faith is sufficient that I should heal you.
And it came to pass that when he had thus spoken, all the multitude, with one accord, did go forth with their sick and their afflicted, and their lame, and with their blind, and with their dumb, and with all them that were afflicted in any manner; and he did heal them every one as they were brought forth unto him."
3 Nephi 17:8-9
I love the idea here of having sufficient faith. Christ doesn't say it is perfect, but he does say it is enough... and I think that is something that feels attainable, right? Also, significantly, every single person that was afflicted, he healed. Now, God makes the decisions about what trials we need to learn from in life and I'm not saying that we should count on instantly being free of all challenges. However, I think that it does clearly mean that Christ can, and wants to, heal any and every thing that is wrong with us, and that he will--in his time and according to our faith.
Today, let's muster our faith, and talk to God about the healing that we need in our lives. Maybe not everything, but something that we're stuck on... a habit, a heartache, a hurt. And let's ask for healing, and for help having enough faith. Depending on what it is, it might come immediately... that can absolutely happen... but it also might come slowly, as we learn from God how to manage our lives. Let's have faith whether the remedy is fast or slow, and trust that the Lord knows exactly what is best for us and how to help in the perfect way for our long-term happiness. :)
And it came to pass that when he had thus spoken, all the multitude, with one accord, did go forth with their sick and their afflicted, and their lame, and with their blind, and with their dumb, and with all them that were afflicted in any manner; and he did heal them every one as they were brought forth unto him."
3 Nephi 17:8-9
I love the idea here of having sufficient faith. Christ doesn't say it is perfect, but he does say it is enough... and I think that is something that feels attainable, right? Also, significantly, every single person that was afflicted, he healed. Now, God makes the decisions about what trials we need to learn from in life and I'm not saying that we should count on instantly being free of all challenges. However, I think that it does clearly mean that Christ can, and wants to, heal any and every thing that is wrong with us, and that he will--in his time and according to our faith.
Today, let's muster our faith, and talk to God about the healing that we need in our lives. Maybe not everything, but something that we're stuck on... a habit, a heartache, a hurt. And let's ask for healing, and for help having enough faith. Depending on what it is, it might come immediately... that can absolutely happen... but it also might come slowly, as we learn from God how to manage our lives. Let's have faith whether the remedy is fast or slow, and trust that the Lord knows exactly what is best for us and how to help in the perfect way for our long-term happiness. :)
Tuesday, September 21, 2021
Matthew 6:5-6 -- On Prayer
"And when thou prayest, thou shalt not be as the hypocrites are: for they love to pray standing in the synagogues and in the corners of the streets, that they may be seen of men. Verily I say unto you, They have their reward.
But thou, when thou prayest, enter into thy closet, and when thou hast shut thy door, pray to thy Father which is in secret; and thy Father which seeth in secret shall reward thee openly."
Matthew 6:5-6
These are some verses that are quoted pretty commonly, but as I was reading today they stood out and I think I understood a little bit more. This is God telling us that prayer isn't about other people, but about us. About ourselves and how we connect with God. If we cut out the distraction of worrying about what someone else is going to think of our prayers, we can get to the real work of communicating with our heavenly father. Not saying that prayers in public or with other people isn't a good skill to learn, but the purpose is almost never to display our faith to others--there are typically much better ways to set an example of goodness, and making it a display distracts from being able to be sincere and open, hindering that heavenly connection that we need.
Today, let's talk with God, banishing any external thoughts and focusing on that relationship and on really telling God what we're thinking and feeling and wanting to change in our lives. Let's try the closet idea if things are distracting us. Maybe we can focus on the fact that God loves us and wants to connect with us and bless and help us reach our righteous goals. Prayer can be so much more than a display if we remember that we aren't doing this for other people, or even for God... we're doing it because it helps us, like calling a friend when we need to hear a friendly voice. :)
But thou, when thou prayest, enter into thy closet, and when thou hast shut thy door, pray to thy Father which is in secret; and thy Father which seeth in secret shall reward thee openly."
Matthew 6:5-6
These are some verses that are quoted pretty commonly, but as I was reading today they stood out and I think I understood a little bit more. This is God telling us that prayer isn't about other people, but about us. About ourselves and how we connect with God. If we cut out the distraction of worrying about what someone else is going to think of our prayers, we can get to the real work of communicating with our heavenly father. Not saying that prayers in public or with other people isn't a good skill to learn, but the purpose is almost never to display our faith to others--there are typically much better ways to set an example of goodness, and making it a display distracts from being able to be sincere and open, hindering that heavenly connection that we need.
Today, let's talk with God, banishing any external thoughts and focusing on that relationship and on really telling God what we're thinking and feeling and wanting to change in our lives. Let's try the closet idea if things are distracting us. Maybe we can focus on the fact that God loves us and wants to connect with us and bless and help us reach our righteous goals. Prayer can be so much more than a display if we remember that we aren't doing this for other people, or even for God... we're doing it because it helps us, like calling a friend when we need to hear a friendly voice. :)
Monday, September 20, 2021
Hebrews 13:5-6 -- On Being Content and Unafraid
"Let your conversation be without covetousness; and be content with such things as ye have: for he hath said, I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee.
So that we may boldly say, The Lord is my helper, and I will not fear what man shall do unto me."
Hebrews 13:5-6
The difference between believing *in* God and actually believing what he says seems wide sometimes, and I think this is one of those gaps. We might intellectually believe God is real and that he loves us and will watch out for us, but it is often hard to emotionally trust in that enough to not be afraid of other things that "man" can do to us. Again, it is something that takes practice and time... and the advice here--to leave the envy out of our conversation and to work on being happy with what we have--is a great start.
Today, let's work on being content and unafraid, as well as practicing boldness and confidence in the Lord. He truly will never leave us or forsake us, so if it ever feels like that, let's pray a little harder to be able to feel that spirit in our lives... and when we can feel that, there really is no reason to fear. :)
So that we may boldly say, The Lord is my helper, and I will not fear what man shall do unto me."
Hebrews 13:5-6
The difference between believing *in* God and actually believing what he says seems wide sometimes, and I think this is one of those gaps. We might intellectually believe God is real and that he loves us and will watch out for us, but it is often hard to emotionally trust in that enough to not be afraid of other things that "man" can do to us. Again, it is something that takes practice and time... and the advice here--to leave the envy out of our conversation and to work on being happy with what we have--is a great start.
Today, let's work on being content and unafraid, as well as practicing boldness and confidence in the Lord. He truly will never leave us or forsake us, so if it ever feels like that, let's pray a little harder to be able to feel that spirit in our lives... and when we can feel that, there really is no reason to fear. :)
Sunday, September 19, 2021
Philippians 1:29 -- On Belief and Suffering
"For unto you it is given in the behalf of Christ, not only to believe on him, but also to suffer for his sake;"
Philippians 1:29
It's interesting to have it say that suffering is given... whether it means it happens to everyone or that it is literally a gift. I'm not sure it is saying it is a privilege, because D&C 19:16 tells us that God suffered for us so that we don't have to suffer if we repent... although on some level suffering on Christ's behalf might help us to understand him more, and his gift to us of the atonement.
The other thing that suffering on behalf of Christ does for us is help us to realize what we are standing up for. We examine our beliefs and our affections more closely when others are critical of them, and when we suffer for them, because on some level we wonder if it is worth it. And sometimes, with other things, it isn't. Maybe we aren't attached that much, or other people are making a good point about mistakes we are making in our lives about a sin or an addiction. In the case of Christ though, it is totally worth it--but we need to figure that out. People challenging us over it isn't fun, but it can get us there.
Today, let's believe on Christ, and be willing to endure some suffering in defense of and in pursuit of that belief.
Philippians 1:29
It's interesting to have it say that suffering is given... whether it means it happens to everyone or that it is literally a gift. I'm not sure it is saying it is a privilege, because D&C 19:16 tells us that God suffered for us so that we don't have to suffer if we repent... although on some level suffering on Christ's behalf might help us to understand him more, and his gift to us of the atonement.
The other thing that suffering on behalf of Christ does for us is help us to realize what we are standing up for. We examine our beliefs and our affections more closely when others are critical of them, and when we suffer for them, because on some level we wonder if it is worth it. And sometimes, with other things, it isn't. Maybe we aren't attached that much, or other people are making a good point about mistakes we are making in our lives about a sin or an addiction. In the case of Christ though, it is totally worth it--but we need to figure that out. People challenging us over it isn't fun, but it can get us there.
Today, let's believe on Christ, and be willing to endure some suffering in defense of and in pursuit of that belief.
Saturday, September 18, 2021
Ether 13:13 -- On Scriptural Teasers
"And I was about to write more, but I am forbidden; but great and marvelous were the prophecies of Ether; but they esteemed him as naught, and cast him out; and he hid himself in the cavity of a rock by day, and by night he went forth viewing the things which should come upon the people."
Ether 13:13
It's always interesting to come across something in the scriptures where there is just part of a story, or where they don't explain everything. In this case, I think it is a case like 3 Nephi 26:11 where it says "I was about to write them . . . but the Lord forbade it, saying I will try the faith of my people." And working things out ourselves, or just not knowing can help us build faith, because we have to trust rather than having solid evidence that we can show everyone. That's by design, because faith doesn't grow if we have proof in front of you. If we could live and learn what we need with perfect knowledge, then why draw the veil in the first place and have us blocked from our premortal memories? We need to learn to *choose* God, rather than just accepting him by default because it's the only real choice. I guess a sort-of analogy would be the difference between how we behave when we are around different groups of people. With our friends we're often different than when we're around family, for instance, and we might act differently at work and at church than we do in our own home. We alter our behavior depending on who we think is observing us... so imagine that multiplied by a bajillion because it's God... and that's maybe a tiny bit of why we need that uncertaintly factor in life... so that we can be free to make our own decisions and choices and find out who we are as separate beings... and in doing so become closer to being able to have a relationship with God that matures from child into adult, because we've learned who we are a least a little and have that new perspective and he can teach us more, etc.
There are a lot of other teasers in the scriptures too. Beyond just the "well I can't tell you this" stuff there is a lot of "we don't have time for this in the story" or "there isn't room on the plates" stuff. Like, what happened to Hagoth, or what was the vision of Abish's father, or even what happened with Potiphar and his wife after Joseph was made second only to Pharoah? Our information is limited, which can be frustrating in some ways, but I think it also encourages us to see the stories in the scriptures as part of the greater whole of the gospel, rather than the scriptures BEING the whole of the gospel. And maybe that perspective helps us in our lives because we realize that they are part of the gospel as well... our stories are part of that universal story that God is the author of, and we all can find ourselves in that.
Today, whether we can find all the answers or not, let's trust God's story, figuring out where we fit in, and looking forward to the day when God will bless us with even more. :)
Ether 13:13
It's always interesting to come across something in the scriptures where there is just part of a story, or where they don't explain everything. In this case, I think it is a case like 3 Nephi 26:11 where it says "I was about to write them . . . but the Lord forbade it, saying I will try the faith of my people." And working things out ourselves, or just not knowing can help us build faith, because we have to trust rather than having solid evidence that we can show everyone. That's by design, because faith doesn't grow if we have proof in front of you. If we could live and learn what we need with perfect knowledge, then why draw the veil in the first place and have us blocked from our premortal memories? We need to learn to *choose* God, rather than just accepting him by default because it's the only real choice. I guess a sort-of analogy would be the difference between how we behave when we are around different groups of people. With our friends we're often different than when we're around family, for instance, and we might act differently at work and at church than we do in our own home. We alter our behavior depending on who we think is observing us... so imagine that multiplied by a bajillion because it's God... and that's maybe a tiny bit of why we need that uncertaintly factor in life... so that we can be free to make our own decisions and choices and find out who we are as separate beings... and in doing so become closer to being able to have a relationship with God that matures from child into adult, because we've learned who we are a least a little and have that new perspective and he can teach us more, etc.
There are a lot of other teasers in the scriptures too. Beyond just the "well I can't tell you this" stuff there is a lot of "we don't have time for this in the story" or "there isn't room on the plates" stuff. Like, what happened to Hagoth, or what was the vision of Abish's father, or even what happened with Potiphar and his wife after Joseph was made second only to Pharoah? Our information is limited, which can be frustrating in some ways, but I think it also encourages us to see the stories in the scriptures as part of the greater whole of the gospel, rather than the scriptures BEING the whole of the gospel. And maybe that perspective helps us in our lives because we realize that they are part of the gospel as well... our stories are part of that universal story that God is the author of, and we all can find ourselves in that.
Today, whether we can find all the answers or not, let's trust God's story, figuring out where we fit in, and looking forward to the day when God will bless us with even more. :)
Friday, September 17, 2021
Psalms 119:52-53 -- On Comfort and Horror
"I remembered thy judgments of old, O Lord; and have comforted myself.
Horror hath taken hold upon me because of the wicked that forsake thy law."
Psalms 119:52-53
Somtimes life is unjust. Perhaps more than sometimes, depending on our current struggles. When we're drawing on Christ's mercy, sometimes this is a good thing, and that's the reason that the Lord allows injustice, for now--so that we have time to change and repent, should we wish to do so. When we're suffering on the wrong end of injustice though, it can definitely involve some horror. However, we can comfort ourselves by remembering the judgements of God, because injustice is temporary. God will make everything right in the end.
Today, let's remember that God is a "perfect, just God" (Alma 42:15) just and that everything will be restored and right in the end, and trust in that. And when we're the cause of some injustice, then let's also remember that he is "a merciful God also" (Alma 42:15). Let's seek him out and repent so that when the justice comes, it doesn't destroy us. And whether we're wishing for justice or mercy today, let's all look forward to the perfect day to come, when everything is restored and no one has to live with horror.
Horror hath taken hold upon me because of the wicked that forsake thy law."
Psalms 119:52-53
Somtimes life is unjust. Perhaps more than sometimes, depending on our current struggles. When we're drawing on Christ's mercy, sometimes this is a good thing, and that's the reason that the Lord allows injustice, for now--so that we have time to change and repent, should we wish to do so. When we're suffering on the wrong end of injustice though, it can definitely involve some horror. However, we can comfort ourselves by remembering the judgements of God, because injustice is temporary. God will make everything right in the end.
Today, let's remember that God is a "perfect, just God" (Alma 42:15) just and that everything will be restored and right in the end, and trust in that. And when we're the cause of some injustice, then let's also remember that he is "a merciful God also" (Alma 42:15). Let's seek him out and repent so that when the justice comes, it doesn't destroy us. And whether we're wishing for justice or mercy today, let's all look forward to the perfect day to come, when everything is restored and no one has to live with horror.
Thursday, September 16, 2021
Ezekiel 18:31-32 -- On Radical Change and Life
"Cast away from you all your transgressions, whereby ye have transgressed; and make you a new heart and a new spirit: for why will ye die, O house of Israel?
For I have no pleasure in the death of him that dieth, saith the Lord God: wherefore turn yourselves, and live ye."
Ezekiel 18:31-32
I like this dramatic way of talking about change. It seems scary, but with God telling us to do it, it also makes it seem possible... not just to change a tiny step at a time, or one habit, but to really overhaul ourselves, and make ourselves (with God's help, of course) into who we truly want to be--never too late to switch out that heart and spirit (figuratively) and let go of our past selves if we don't like that person.
Of course, it doesn't happen all at once, and that's where we have to focus on achievable goals. I think the point here is that the scope of what we can accomplish with God is much more vast than we could accomplish alone... so let's think big, but also accept incremental change on our way to those big changes.
Today, let's think about who we want to be for eternity... and let's not give up on any of it. This is eternity we're talking about. We need to work on being able to live with ourselves for a super long time. :) Instead of thinking we can't get there though, let's bring God in to help. Let's talk to him about what we want to change, and listen to him when he gives us advice about what to change, and then let's start changing what we can, and praying like mad for God's help to change the rest. We have all that life ahead of us--let's live. :)
For I have no pleasure in the death of him that dieth, saith the Lord God: wherefore turn yourselves, and live ye."
Ezekiel 18:31-32
I like this dramatic way of talking about change. It seems scary, but with God telling us to do it, it also makes it seem possible... not just to change a tiny step at a time, or one habit, but to really overhaul ourselves, and make ourselves (with God's help, of course) into who we truly want to be--never too late to switch out that heart and spirit (figuratively) and let go of our past selves if we don't like that person.
Of course, it doesn't happen all at once, and that's where we have to focus on achievable goals. I think the point here is that the scope of what we can accomplish with God is much more vast than we could accomplish alone... so let's think big, but also accept incremental change on our way to those big changes.
Today, let's think about who we want to be for eternity... and let's not give up on any of it. This is eternity we're talking about. We need to work on being able to live with ourselves for a super long time. :) Instead of thinking we can't get there though, let's bring God in to help. Let's talk to him about what we want to change, and listen to him when he gives us advice about what to change, and then let's start changing what we can, and praying like mad for God's help to change the rest. We have all that life ahead of us--let's live. :)
Wednesday, September 15, 2021
Matthew 21:28-31 -- On Brothers
"But what think ye? A certain man had two sons; and he came to the first, and said, Son, go work to day in my vineyard.
He answered and said, I will not: but afterward he repented, and went.
And he came to the second, and said likewise. And he answered and said, I go, sir: and went not.
Whether of them twain did the will of his father? They say unto him, The first. Jesus saith unto them, Verily I say unto you, That the publicans and the harlots go into the kingdom of God before you."
Matthew 21:28-31
This is the parable of the two sons, and it seemed interesting to me today because I was thinking about the difference between the brothers, both of which were not perfect, and that I've probably been both of them at different times in my life. (Or a third even worse brother who says he won't and actually doesn't.) I appreciate that God helps us to understand here that it matters less how we start out, and more how we end. We need to work on our rebellious natures and move towards faith and trust in God instead, doing as he asks rather than doing whatever we feel like.
I think it is also clear here that repentance isn't something temporary, where we say whoops, sorry, and then can go back and do it again. It's actual change in our lives where we change what we do, not just what we say.
Today, let's try to be good children of God by doing the Lord's will... whether we said we would or not. Let's wake up to the fact that our way is just not going to cut it and that we need God, desperately, and his path to hope, peace, and joy. As we learn and practice God's will in our lives, things will get better for us, and we'll be happier without that barrier of resistance between ourselves and God.
He answered and said, I will not: but afterward he repented, and went.
And he came to the second, and said likewise. And he answered and said, I go, sir: and went not.
Whether of them twain did the will of his father? They say unto him, The first. Jesus saith unto them, Verily I say unto you, That the publicans and the harlots go into the kingdom of God before you."
Matthew 21:28-31
This is the parable of the two sons, and it seemed interesting to me today because I was thinking about the difference between the brothers, both of which were not perfect, and that I've probably been both of them at different times in my life. (Or a third even worse brother who says he won't and actually doesn't.) I appreciate that God helps us to understand here that it matters less how we start out, and more how we end. We need to work on our rebellious natures and move towards faith and trust in God instead, doing as he asks rather than doing whatever we feel like.
I think it is also clear here that repentance isn't something temporary, where we say whoops, sorry, and then can go back and do it again. It's actual change in our lives where we change what we do, not just what we say.
Today, let's try to be good children of God by doing the Lord's will... whether we said we would or not. Let's wake up to the fact that our way is just not going to cut it and that we need God, desperately, and his path to hope, peace, and joy. As we learn and practice God's will in our lives, things will get better for us, and we'll be happier without that barrier of resistance between ourselves and God.
Tuesday, September 14, 2021
1 Nephi 5:19 -- On Being Timeproof
"Wherefore, he said that these plates of brass should anever perish; neither should they be dimmed any more by time. And he prophesied many things concerning his seed."
1 Nephi 5:19
I really like the idea of being timeproof and immune to corruption like Lehi prophesied about the brass plates. That right there seems to be a huge miracle, and something that illustrates God's unmatched power. Today, as time (and other things) feel like they are beating us up, let's turn to God, who has power over even that. :)
1 Nephi 5:19
I really like the idea of being timeproof and immune to corruption like Lehi prophesied about the brass plates. That right there seems to be a huge miracle, and something that illustrates God's unmatched power. Today, as time (and other things) feel like they are beating us up, let's turn to God, who has power over even that. :)
Monday, September 13, 2021
Mosiah 22:2 — On Delivering Ourselves
"And it came to pass that they could find no way to deliver themselves out of bondage, except it were to tke their women and children, and their flocks, and their herds, and their and their tents, and depart into the wilderness; for the Lamanites being so numerous, it was impossible for the people of Limhi to contend with them, thinking to deliver themselves out of bondage by the sword."
Mosiah 22:2
Sometimes the situation in our lives is so bad that we need to run away, and God wants us to be able to study those things out in our minds and figure out the best way. Making a plan is a good thing, and God has often counseled retreat or getting out of a situation rather than facing it or suffering through it.
Today, let's consider our situation and if we need an escape, then let's plan for one. It doesn't mean that we're on our own... God will help us if we're doing things for the right reasons and including him in our plans. God is okay with us moving forward and trying to figure things out, and he'll help us when we get stuck.
Mosiah 22:2
Sometimes the situation in our lives is so bad that we need to run away, and God wants us to be able to study those things out in our minds and figure out the best way. Making a plan is a good thing, and God has often counseled retreat or getting out of a situation rather than facing it or suffering through it.
Today, let's consider our situation and if we need an escape, then let's plan for one. It doesn't mean that we're on our own... God will help us if we're doing things for the right reasons and including him in our plans. God is okay with us moving forward and trying to figure things out, and he'll help us when we get stuck.
Sunday, September 12, 2021
Helaman 5:35-41 -- On Dissent, Darkness, and Redemption
"Now there was one among them who was a Nephite by birth, who had once belonged to the church of God but had dissented from them.
And it came to pass that he turned him about, and behold, he saw through the cloud of darkness the faces of Nephi and Lehi; and behold, they did shine exceedingly, even as the faces of angels. And he beheld that they did lift their eyes to heaven; and they were in the attitude as if talking or lifting their voices to some being whom they beheld.
And it came to pass that this man did cry unto the multitude, that they might turn and look. And behold, there was power given unto them that they did turn and look; and they did behold the faces of Nephi and Lehi.
And they said unto the man: Behold, what do all these things mean, and who is it with whom these men do converse?
Now the man’s name was Aminadab. And Aminadab said unto them: They do converse with the angels of God.
And it came to pass that the Lamanites said unto him: What shall we do, that this cloud of darkness may be removed from overshadowing us?
And Aminadab said unto them: You must repent, and cry unto the voice, even until ye shall have faith in Christ, who was taught unto you by Alma, and Amulek, and Zeezrom; and when ye shall do this, the cloud of darkness shall be removed from overshadowing you."
Helaman 5:35-41
We don't know a lot about Aminadab, but his actions here impressed me. He had strayed from the church, but still recognized the hand of God in action, and helped the rest of the group who didn't know what was going on to understand and to be converted as well. We don't know what happened to him after this, but I like to think that this is just the beginning of his redemption story.
Another thing I love about this is Aminadab's advice to "cry unto the voice, even until ye shall have faith" ... I think that is great. So often we think that faith has to come first, and it definitely can, but as it says in Alma 32:27, "even if ye can no more than desire to believe, let this desire work in you, even until ye believe in a manner that ye can give place for a portion of my words." ... God doesn't expect us to pull a testimony out of the air. Just like everything else, we try it, and practice, and learn as we take action. Whatever effort we have to give is welcome by God... he just wants us to keep trying to make that connection to him, and as we do, then we'll learn more and more about how to communicate with God, and be more and more solid in our understanding and testimony.
Today, let's cry unto God, and learn as we go.
And it came to pass that he turned him about, and behold, he saw through the cloud of darkness the faces of Nephi and Lehi; and behold, they did shine exceedingly, even as the faces of angels. And he beheld that they did lift their eyes to heaven; and they were in the attitude as if talking or lifting their voices to some being whom they beheld.
And it came to pass that this man did cry unto the multitude, that they might turn and look. And behold, there was power given unto them that they did turn and look; and they did behold the faces of Nephi and Lehi.
And they said unto the man: Behold, what do all these things mean, and who is it with whom these men do converse?
Now the man’s name was Aminadab. And Aminadab said unto them: They do converse with the angels of God.
And it came to pass that the Lamanites said unto him: What shall we do, that this cloud of darkness may be removed from overshadowing us?
And Aminadab said unto them: You must repent, and cry unto the voice, even until ye shall have faith in Christ, who was taught unto you by Alma, and Amulek, and Zeezrom; and when ye shall do this, the cloud of darkness shall be removed from overshadowing you."
Helaman 5:35-41
We don't know a lot about Aminadab, but his actions here impressed me. He had strayed from the church, but still recognized the hand of God in action, and helped the rest of the group who didn't know what was going on to understand and to be converted as well. We don't know what happened to him after this, but I like to think that this is just the beginning of his redemption story.
Another thing I love about this is Aminadab's advice to "cry unto the voice, even until ye shall have faith" ... I think that is great. So often we think that faith has to come first, and it definitely can, but as it says in Alma 32:27, "even if ye can no more than desire to believe, let this desire work in you, even until ye believe in a manner that ye can give place for a portion of my words." ... God doesn't expect us to pull a testimony out of the air. Just like everything else, we try it, and practice, and learn as we take action. Whatever effort we have to give is welcome by God... he just wants us to keep trying to make that connection to him, and as we do, then we'll learn more and more about how to communicate with God, and be more and more solid in our understanding and testimony.
Today, let's cry unto God, and learn as we go.
Saturday, September 11, 2021
Alma 56:10-11 -- On War and Spirituality
"And I did join my two thousand sons, (for they are worthy to be called sons) to the army of Antipus, in which strength Antipus did rejoice exceedingly; for behold, his army had been reduced by the Lamanites because their forces had slain a vast number of our men, for which cause we have to mourn.
Nevertheless, we may console ourselves in this point, that they have died in the cause of their country and of their God, yea, and they are happy."
Alma 56:10-11
I was reading this today and thinking that maybe part of the reason that there are so many war chapters in the scriptures is just to show us that the gospel is a part of our daily lives, even when they are at their worst. God consoles us in the grief of war just as he rejoices with us during our triumphs, and prayer is appropriate in every human circumstance, because we need God's help everyhere we go, no matter what happens. The story that begins here is a good one to illustrate that miracles happen even during war and that God supports us as we do his will.
Today, let's think about our lives and the way that we sometimes divide the spiritual part of our lives from the rest... and let's try working on how to integrate those parts of our lives and make sure that we're able to stay in touch with God everywhere we go, and whatever we do.
Nevertheless, we may console ourselves in this point, that they have died in the cause of their country and of their God, yea, and they are happy."
Alma 56:10-11
I was reading this today and thinking that maybe part of the reason that there are so many war chapters in the scriptures is just to show us that the gospel is a part of our daily lives, even when they are at their worst. God consoles us in the grief of war just as he rejoices with us during our triumphs, and prayer is appropriate in every human circumstance, because we need God's help everyhere we go, no matter what happens. The story that begins here is a good one to illustrate that miracles happen even during war and that God supports us as we do his will.
Today, let's think about our lives and the way that we sometimes divide the spiritual part of our lives from the rest... and let's try working on how to integrate those parts of our lives and make sure that we're able to stay in touch with God everywhere we go, and whatever we do.
Friday, September 10, 2021
1 Nephi 15:30 -- On Division and Justice
"And I said unto them that our father also saw that the justice of God did also divide the wicked from the righteous; and the brightness thereof was like unto the brightness of a flaming fire, which ascendeth up unto God forever and ever, and hath no end."
1 Nephi 15:30
This caught my eye today because it talks about dividing the wicked from the righteous. So much of the gospel is about unifying and becoming one, so dividing just sounds bad... which is fair, because this particular verse is in the context of explaining why people need to go to hell. Later in the chapter it says "...if they be filthy it must needs be that they cannot dwell in the kingdom of God" and "there cannot any unclean thing enter into the kingdom of God; wherefore there must needs be a place of filthiness prepared for that which is filthy."
We're all jumbled up together on earth, so it almost seems wrong to think about whatever permanent-type barriers there will be later... and I'm not pretending to be the expert on why, but thinking about it today I came up with a couple of ideas. On earth we often separate people who have harmed each other--could be kids, or could be adults with prison sentences or restraining orders. We separate groups of people who have broken laws because them mixing in with a society that isn't breaking laws is disrupting. ... And I think that we wish we could make some additional separations, like separating the innocent from those who would prey upon them, whether that is abuse or robbery or other kinds of bullying and exploitation. We wish we didn't live in a world where people weren't trying to cheat us or harm us with robocalls, viruses, and ransomware. We wish we didn't live in a world where human trafficking existed, or sexual abuse, or rape, or hate crimes.
God is going to solve all of those things, and more... but since he is never going to force anyone to be "good," to be able to protect different groups and provide justice for them--basically a place where they don't have to worry about those things anymore--he is going to give them a place to live together instead, in a place where no one can prey on them. And then other groups can live together as well with people who are like-minded. I can't imagine that idea played out to its conclusion would be happy for everyone, but I think God is going to make is as perfectly happy as it can possibly be for everyone, limited only by our own choices about what we want and who we have become.
Today, let's think a little bit about the kind of people we want to spend time with in eternity, and what sort of society we want to live in... and then let's work to be that type of person. If we wouldn't want to live with people like ourselves, it is officially time to change. :)
1 Nephi 15:30
This caught my eye today because it talks about dividing the wicked from the righteous. So much of the gospel is about unifying and becoming one, so dividing just sounds bad... which is fair, because this particular verse is in the context of explaining why people need to go to hell. Later in the chapter it says "...if they be filthy it must needs be that they cannot dwell in the kingdom of God" and "there cannot any unclean thing enter into the kingdom of God; wherefore there must needs be a place of filthiness prepared for that which is filthy."
We're all jumbled up together on earth, so it almost seems wrong to think about whatever permanent-type barriers there will be later... and I'm not pretending to be the expert on why, but thinking about it today I came up with a couple of ideas. On earth we often separate people who have harmed each other--could be kids, or could be adults with prison sentences or restraining orders. We separate groups of people who have broken laws because them mixing in with a society that isn't breaking laws is disrupting. ... And I think that we wish we could make some additional separations, like separating the innocent from those who would prey upon them, whether that is abuse or robbery or other kinds of bullying and exploitation. We wish we didn't live in a world where people weren't trying to cheat us or harm us with robocalls, viruses, and ransomware. We wish we didn't live in a world where human trafficking existed, or sexual abuse, or rape, or hate crimes.
God is going to solve all of those things, and more... but since he is never going to force anyone to be "good," to be able to protect different groups and provide justice for them--basically a place where they don't have to worry about those things anymore--he is going to give them a place to live together instead, in a place where no one can prey on them. And then other groups can live together as well with people who are like-minded. I can't imagine that idea played out to its conclusion would be happy for everyone, but I think God is going to make is as perfectly happy as it can possibly be for everyone, limited only by our own choices about what we want and who we have become.
Today, let's think a little bit about the kind of people we want to spend time with in eternity, and what sort of society we want to live in... and then let's work to be that type of person. If we wouldn't want to live with people like ourselves, it is officially time to change. :)
Thursday, September 9, 2021
Acts 17:24-25 -- On God as Creator
"God that made the world and all things therein, seeing that he is Lord of heaven and earth, dwelleth not in temples made with hands;
Neither is worshipped with men’s hands, as though he needed any thing, seeing he giveth to all life, and breath, and all things;"
Acts 17:24-25
I like this teaching moment as Paul talks to the men of Athens, letting them (and all of us) know that God isn't just like everyone else. He is the creator and sustainer... of us, of everything. And although we symbolically build God temples, he isn't an idol or something that can be contained in man-made things. His home is in heaven (Acts 7:48-50).
These are things we likely already know, but that might also be worth pondering today, because we too often think of God as not-God, mentally assigning him characteristics in our heads that he doesn't have, like fallibility, short-sightedness, senility, or even manipulability. All the things that he asks of us aren't things that he needs or that sustain him... they are for our benefit. Let's try taking some time to imagine God as all-powerful and all-wise creator before we pray. It might help remind us that he has reasons for everything, and that we need to learn an awful lot more from God before we can understand (let alone criticize) him, or even the smallest details of his plan.
Neither is worshipped with men’s hands, as though he needed any thing, seeing he giveth to all life, and breath, and all things;"
Acts 17:24-25
I like this teaching moment as Paul talks to the men of Athens, letting them (and all of us) know that God isn't just like everyone else. He is the creator and sustainer... of us, of everything. And although we symbolically build God temples, he isn't an idol or something that can be contained in man-made things. His home is in heaven (Acts 7:48-50).
These are things we likely already know, but that might also be worth pondering today, because we too often think of God as not-God, mentally assigning him characteristics in our heads that he doesn't have, like fallibility, short-sightedness, senility, or even manipulability. All the things that he asks of us aren't things that he needs or that sustain him... they are for our benefit. Let's try taking some time to imagine God as all-powerful and all-wise creator before we pray. It might help remind us that he has reasons for everything, and that we need to learn an awful lot more from God before we can understand (let alone criticize) him, or even the smallest details of his plan.
Wednesday, September 8, 2021
1 Corinthians 10:21 -- On Cups and Tables
"Ye cannot drink the cup of the Lord, and the cup of devils: ye cannot be partakers of the Lord’s table, and of the table of devils."
1 Corinthians 10:21
This seems like a pretty fundamental truth in the gospel. We can't play both sides... we can either be on God's team or the Devil's team, and even though it might work temporarily, in the end there won't even be ways to just be onlookers or fans or even disengaged or neutral. We'll have to decide, and suit up for one team or the other.
Today, let's make that choice and work for God, and determine now that we are never going to try to switch sides. Let's place our faith and trust in the Lord, who has much better cups and tables anyway. :)
1 Corinthians 10:21
This seems like a pretty fundamental truth in the gospel. We can't play both sides... we can either be on God's team or the Devil's team, and even though it might work temporarily, in the end there won't even be ways to just be onlookers or fans or even disengaged or neutral. We'll have to decide, and suit up for one team or the other.
Today, let's make that choice and work for God, and determine now that we are never going to try to switch sides. Let's place our faith and trust in the Lord, who has much better cups and tables anyway. :)
Tuesday, September 7, 2021
Mark 10:21 -- On Beholding and Loving
"Then Jesus beholding him loved him, and said unto him, One thing thou lackest: go thy way, sell whatsoever thou hast, and give to the poor, and thou shalt have treasure in heaven: and come, take up the cross, and follow me."
Mark 10:21
The phrase that struck me in this verse is "Then Jesus beholding him loved him." ... I love what that says about Christ. I feel like this has happened to me a very limited amount of times in my life, where I observed someone and grew to love them quickly in that moment... but for Christ I'm thinking it is probably everyone, or almost everyone. He has that ability to see into people's souls, to see all the good and potential there, and love and understand them instantly--and even if it wasn't everyone at the time of this scriptural event, I think it moved up to everyone when he completed the atonement, suffering for every one of us, and being willing to do that exactly because of that love... that instant kinship that he feels for all of us.
Today, let's work to be more like Christ... more willing to listen, to observe, to love, and to help others.
Mark 10:21
The phrase that struck me in this verse is "Then Jesus beholding him loved him." ... I love what that says about Christ. I feel like this has happened to me a very limited amount of times in my life, where I observed someone and grew to love them quickly in that moment... but for Christ I'm thinking it is probably everyone, or almost everyone. He has that ability to see into people's souls, to see all the good and potential there, and love and understand them instantly--and even if it wasn't everyone at the time of this scriptural event, I think it moved up to everyone when he completed the atonement, suffering for every one of us, and being willing to do that exactly because of that love... that instant kinship that he feels for all of us.
Today, let's work to be more like Christ... more willing to listen, to observe, to love, and to help others.
Monday, September 6, 2021
Luke 12:13-15 -- On Faith and Finances
"And one of the company said unto him, Master, speak to my brother, that he divide the inheritance with me.
And he said unto him, Man, who made me a judge or a divider over you?
And he said unto them, Take heed, and beware of covetousness: for a man’s life consisteth not in the abundance of the things which he possesseth."
Luke 12:13-15
This is interesting for many reasons. First of all, the question about who made Christ a judge or divider... because if anyone IS a judge over us, it is Christ. So, either Christ was talking specifically about an earthly position that he wasn't in, like... "hey, I'm not the administrator of your precinct" or something, or else perhaps it wasn't until Christ completed his earthly mission that all power was given unto him (including the whole being our judge thing), or maybe Christ is saying that the judgement is not yet, and we need to make the best choices that we can until that day, when God makes everything right. All interesting possibilities.
I like the part where Christ says that our lives are more than our possessions. It's a direct contradiction to the whole "he who dies with the most toys wins" and also just our often-acquisitive nature. I think on some level we're always afraid of losing the things we love, so we collect them or try to hold on to them in unhealthy ways sometimes. God teaches us to, instead of being afraid of losing things, to have an "abundance" mentality... to trust that good things will come again, and that the Lord will provide, freeing us up from all that worry and stress to be generous with our possessions and healthy in our relationships.
Not saying it is easy. The division of inheritance is often an issue in our day as well, and financial things can seem like *really* big issues in our lives sometimes because money is so wrapped up around what we're able to do in this world. I think though that the first step is to try... try to relax about not having enough of whatever it is, and try to trust the Lord that he will provide... and the more we try and trust, the better we get at it. Faith works that way... it doesn't just happen to us out of the blue. Like other things, we have to learn it and practice it until we get good. :) Today, let's try. :)
And he said unto him, Man, who made me a judge or a divider over you?
And he said unto them, Take heed, and beware of covetousness: for a man’s life consisteth not in the abundance of the things which he possesseth."
Luke 12:13-15
This is interesting for many reasons. First of all, the question about who made Christ a judge or divider... because if anyone IS a judge over us, it is Christ. So, either Christ was talking specifically about an earthly position that he wasn't in, like... "hey, I'm not the administrator of your precinct" or something, or else perhaps it wasn't until Christ completed his earthly mission that all power was given unto him (including the whole being our judge thing), or maybe Christ is saying that the judgement is not yet, and we need to make the best choices that we can until that day, when God makes everything right. All interesting possibilities.
I like the part where Christ says that our lives are more than our possessions. It's a direct contradiction to the whole "he who dies with the most toys wins" and also just our often-acquisitive nature. I think on some level we're always afraid of losing the things we love, so we collect them or try to hold on to them in unhealthy ways sometimes. God teaches us to, instead of being afraid of losing things, to have an "abundance" mentality... to trust that good things will come again, and that the Lord will provide, freeing us up from all that worry and stress to be generous with our possessions and healthy in our relationships.
Not saying it is easy. The division of inheritance is often an issue in our day as well, and financial things can seem like *really* big issues in our lives sometimes because money is so wrapped up around what we're able to do in this world. I think though that the first step is to try... try to relax about not having enough of whatever it is, and try to trust the Lord that he will provide... and the more we try and trust, the better we get at it. Faith works that way... it doesn't just happen to us out of the blue. Like other things, we have to learn it and practice it until we get good. :) Today, let's try. :)
Sunday, September 5, 2021
Jeremiah 51:39 -- On Perpetual Sleep
"In their heat I will make their feasts, and I will make them drunken, that they may rejoice, and sleep a perpetual sleep, and not wake, saith the Lord."
Jeremiah 51:39
This is part of the punishment of Babylon's sins, and I thought it was interesting because drunkenness and sleep are things that are often welcomed as a way to escape the harsh realities of life... but here God shows us one perspective, that they are things that are separating us from life, and the more those escapist things fill our lives, the less we live.
I don't think that this means we can't be escapist sometimes... a normal amount of sleep is a super good idea, and reading a book, playing a game, or watching a movie can be enjoyable and help us take a step back and manage the stresses of life, reminding us that there are a lot of good things in our lives as well as the ones we don't really want to face that day. :) However, today let's keep in mind the idea here of perpetual sleep, which is akin to death, and make sure we are moderate in our escapist tendencies rather than going too far and truly seeking to check out of our lives.
Jeremiah 51:39
This is part of the punishment of Babylon's sins, and I thought it was interesting because drunkenness and sleep are things that are often welcomed as a way to escape the harsh realities of life... but here God shows us one perspective, that they are things that are separating us from life, and the more those escapist things fill our lives, the less we live.
I don't think that this means we can't be escapist sometimes... a normal amount of sleep is a super good idea, and reading a book, playing a game, or watching a movie can be enjoyable and help us take a step back and manage the stresses of life, reminding us that there are a lot of good things in our lives as well as the ones we don't really want to face that day. :) However, today let's keep in mind the idea here of perpetual sleep, which is akin to death, and make sure we are moderate in our escapist tendencies rather than going too far and truly seeking to check out of our lives.
Saturday, September 4, 2021
Isaiah 12:3 -- On the Wells of Salvation
"Therefore with joy shall ye draw water out of the wells of salvation."
Isaiah 12:3
I like the idea here of the "wells of salvation." It makes me think of an unlimited, refreshing source of something essential to life. Additionally, it makes it clear that obtaining that gift is at least partially under our control. God provides the source, but we dip in our tiny buckets in order to partake. :) ... It's a good analogy, helping us understand that God provides a way to salvation for each of us, but that we have to actively participate, at least to the extent that we need to go to the source and drink, which symbolically can encompass a lot of things, but at least keeping the Spirit with us rather than driving it away, which would essentially be like refusing to drink.
Today, let's allow the Lord to guide us to his "water of life" (Revelation 22:1, Alma 5:34, Alma 42:27, Doctrine and Covenants 10:66, John 4:14), and let's then be willing to partake with joy, rejoicing in the gifts that God grants us, and the promise of something even better.
Isaiah 12:3
I like the idea here of the "wells of salvation." It makes me think of an unlimited, refreshing source of something essential to life. Additionally, it makes it clear that obtaining that gift is at least partially under our control. God provides the source, but we dip in our tiny buckets in order to partake. :) ... It's a good analogy, helping us understand that God provides a way to salvation for each of us, but that we have to actively participate, at least to the extent that we need to go to the source and drink, which symbolically can encompass a lot of things, but at least keeping the Spirit with us rather than driving it away, which would essentially be like refusing to drink.
Today, let's allow the Lord to guide us to his "water of life" (Revelation 22:1, Alma 5:34, Alma 42:27, Doctrine and Covenants 10:66, John 4:14), and let's then be willing to partake with joy, rejoicing in the gifts that God grants us, and the promise of something even better.
Friday, September 3, 2021
Isaiah 56:3-5 -- On Absence and Abundance
"Neither let the son of the stranger, that hath joined himself to the Lord, speak, saying, The Lord hath utterly separated me from his people: neither let the eunuch say, Behold, I am a dry tree.
For thus saith the Lord unto the eunuchs that keep my sabbaths, and choose the things that please me, and take hold of my covenant;
Even unto them will I give in mine house and within my walls a place and a name better than of sons and of daughters: I will give them an everlasting name, that shall not be cut off."
Isaiah 56:3-5
What I like about these verses is God's promise that he will give something better than sons and daughters... in essence, that what God has in store for us is *always* superior to whatever we feel we are missing in our lives, and that no matter how bereft we feel at an absence in our lives, God will more than make up for it. God asks us to believe in that, and not get bitter and snarky about what we are missing out on, because what he has in store will be better.
Today, let's take this advice to heart and remember that no matter what we feel that we are missing, God has something better. God meets every absence we feel with abundance, and if we stick with him, things will be much better than just okay... they will be amazing and perfect. There is always a happy ending with the Lord.
For thus saith the Lord unto the eunuchs that keep my sabbaths, and choose the things that please me, and take hold of my covenant;
Even unto them will I give in mine house and within my walls a place and a name better than of sons and of daughters: I will give them an everlasting name, that shall not be cut off."
Isaiah 56:3-5
What I like about these verses is God's promise that he will give something better than sons and daughters... in essence, that what God has in store for us is *always* superior to whatever we feel we are missing in our lives, and that no matter how bereft we feel at an absence in our lives, God will more than make up for it. God asks us to believe in that, and not get bitter and snarky about what we are missing out on, because what he has in store will be better.
Today, let's take this advice to heart and remember that no matter what we feel that we are missing, God has something better. God meets every absence we feel with abundance, and if we stick with him, things will be much better than just okay... they will be amazing and perfect. There is always a happy ending with the Lord.
Thursday, September 2, 2021
Proverbs 11:24-25 -- On the Lord's Accounting
"There is that scattereth, and yet increaseth; and there is that withholdeth more than is meet, but it tendeth to poverty.
The liberal soul shall be made fat: and he that watereth shall be watered also himself."
Proverbs 11:24-25
I like the idea of this... scattering and increase, being liberal to others and yet gaining from it. Contrary to everything we know about the way money works, and yet still true. As we do the Lord's will and are generous to others, our own needs will be met.
Today, let's remember that God does things differently, and be willing to invest in doing good, even if it seems like a bad deal up front.
The liberal soul shall be made fat: and he that watereth shall be watered also himself."
Proverbs 11:24-25
I like the idea of this... scattering and increase, being liberal to others and yet gaining from it. Contrary to everything we know about the way money works, and yet still true. As we do the Lord's will and are generous to others, our own needs will be met.
Today, let's remember that God does things differently, and be willing to invest in doing good, even if it seems like a bad deal up front.
Wednesday, September 1, 2021
Alma 30:17-18 -- On Lies and Hope
"And many more such things did he say unto them, telling them that there could be no atonement made for the sins of men, but every man fared in this life according to the management of the creature; therefore every man prospered according to his genius, and that every man conquered according to his strength; and whatsoever a man did was no crime.
And thus he did preach unto them, leading away the hearts of many, causing them to lift up their heads in their wickedness, yea, leading away many women, and also men, to commit whoredoms--telling them that when a man was dead, that was the end thereof."
Alma 30:17-18
It's interesting that this was the tactic of the anti-Christ Korihor. By taking away people's hope in an afterlife and an eternal future, he sought to make them short-sighted and to give up any hope in making themselves, or the world around them, better. In verse 13 he calls it "a foolish and a vain hope." Maybe this tactic can be instructive for us, because we can see that one of the tactics of the adversary is to blind us to the truth of the future and cause us to lose hope in our ability to change and to progress.
Today, let's not fall into Korihor's spurious argument. Let's remember God's hand in our lives, guiding us and helping us even when things seem dark, and leading us, always, to something better, beyond all of this. What God has promised is real, and our faith in him is eternally justified. Let's spend some time in prayer and the scriptures today so that we maintain contact with the Spirit, and worldly arguments like this seem as false as they really are... and then let's go forward, trusting in God's plan and promises.
And thus he did preach unto them, leading away the hearts of many, causing them to lift up their heads in their wickedness, yea, leading away many women, and also men, to commit whoredoms--telling them that when a man was dead, that was the end thereof."
Alma 30:17-18
It's interesting that this was the tactic of the anti-Christ Korihor. By taking away people's hope in an afterlife and an eternal future, he sought to make them short-sighted and to give up any hope in making themselves, or the world around them, better. In verse 13 he calls it "a foolish and a vain hope." Maybe this tactic can be instructive for us, because we can see that one of the tactics of the adversary is to blind us to the truth of the future and cause us to lose hope in our ability to change and to progress.
Today, let's not fall into Korihor's spurious argument. Let's remember God's hand in our lives, guiding us and helping us even when things seem dark, and leading us, always, to something better, beyond all of this. What God has promised is real, and our faith in him is eternally justified. Let's spend some time in prayer and the scriptures today so that we maintain contact with the Spirit, and worldly arguments like this seem as false as they really are... and then let's go forward, trusting in God's plan and promises.