"Many there be which say of my soul, There is no help for him in God. Selah.
But thou, O Lord, art a shield for me; my glory, and the lifter up of mine head."
Psalms 3:2-3
That seems like a mean thing to say to someone, but I get that sometimes we feel this way about others, especially public figures that we have limited information about and so it is easy to see them as having no redeeming qualities... or other categories of people that are defined by their faults. Child abusers, purveyors of ransomware... that sort of thing.
Sometimes we feel this way about ourselves... that everything we do is wrong, and we don't see a way out of our own sins or limitations.
No matter who denies hope, or to whom it is directed, the truth is that God has the full power to save every single person that turns to him with a broken heart and a contrite spirit... in humility, sorrowing for the harm caused and willing to change. There is always help for us in God, and he will shield us from despair, if we will turn to him in faith and work to repent and change, even if ten thousands of people stand against us (verse 6). Today, let's turn to God and work to become the people that we truly want to be rather than the people we now are.
Monday, October 31, 2022
Sunday, October 30, 2022
Ezekiel 37:11-14 -- On Continued Life and Hope
"Then he said unto me, Son of man, these bones are the whole house of Israel: behold, they say, Our bones are dried, and our hope is lost: we are cut off for our parts.
Therefore prophesy and say unto them, Thus saith the Lord God; Behold, O my people, I will open your graves, and cause you to come up out of your graves, and bring you into the land of Israel.
And ye shall know that I am the Lord, when I have opened your graves, O my people, and brought you up out of your graves,
And shall put my spirit in you, and ye shall live, and I shall place you in your own land: then shall ye know that I the Lord have spoken it, and performed it, saith the Lord."
Ezekiel 37:11-14
I read these verses as part of preparing my primary lesson for today, and not only was the whole bones-becoming-an-army thing a big hit with the kids, I really liked the message of hope behind what is happening in this story.
The people here were physically just dried bones, thinking that hope was lost and that everything was just way too late... what they wanted and hoped for was just impossible now, and it is time to just give up and accept the dust and death that was their future. But God showed them, and through his prophet, everyone, that hope doesn't reach its limit at death, and that he could fulfil his promises to them in a way they hadn't considered. And God can do that for all of us. He will raise us up and give us new life, and he will make *everything* right. Chances and blessings that we missed out on, who can tell? God knows, and he is everything we can possibly hope for because he can raise us from the dead and grant us eternal life and hope in eternity.
Today, let's remember not to give up or stop trying because we don't think that what we are working for is possible. Everything good is still there, with God, and because of Christ, death is no limitation. There are scriptures about using our lifetimes wisely to prepare to meet God, and we definitely should... but let's also remember that our lifetimes may be continued in the Millenium, and that God means to restore what was lost and bring us to perfect peace and happiness. In him, there is always hope.
Therefore prophesy and say unto them, Thus saith the Lord God; Behold, O my people, I will open your graves, and cause you to come up out of your graves, and bring you into the land of Israel.
And ye shall know that I am the Lord, when I have opened your graves, O my people, and brought you up out of your graves,
And shall put my spirit in you, and ye shall live, and I shall place you in your own land: then shall ye know that I the Lord have spoken it, and performed it, saith the Lord."
Ezekiel 37:11-14
I read these verses as part of preparing my primary lesson for today, and not only was the whole bones-becoming-an-army thing a big hit with the kids, I really liked the message of hope behind what is happening in this story.
The people here were physically just dried bones, thinking that hope was lost and that everything was just way too late... what they wanted and hoped for was just impossible now, and it is time to just give up and accept the dust and death that was their future. But God showed them, and through his prophet, everyone, that hope doesn't reach its limit at death, and that he could fulfil his promises to them in a way they hadn't considered. And God can do that for all of us. He will raise us up and give us new life, and he will make *everything* right. Chances and blessings that we missed out on, who can tell? God knows, and he is everything we can possibly hope for because he can raise us from the dead and grant us eternal life and hope in eternity.
Today, let's remember not to give up or stop trying because we don't think that what we are working for is possible. Everything good is still there, with God, and because of Christ, death is no limitation. There are scriptures about using our lifetimes wisely to prepare to meet God, and we definitely should... but let's also remember that our lifetimes may be continued in the Millenium, and that God means to restore what was lost and bring us to perfect peace and happiness. In him, there is always hope.
Saturday, October 29, 2022
Hebrews 12:5-8 -- On Family and Rebellion
"And ye have forgotten the exhortation which speaketh unto you as unto children, My son, despise not thou the chastening of the Lord, nor faint when thou art rebuked of him:
For whom the Lord loveth he chasteneth, and scourgeth every son whom he receiveth.
If ye endure chastening, God dealeth with you as with sons; for what son is he whom the father chasteneth not?
But if ye be without chastisement, whereof all are partakers, then are ye bastards, and not sons."
Hebrews 12:5-8
This is an interesting analogy and lesson. The difference between a son and a bastard is mainly in "belonging" ... where the person lives, what family group they are a part of. Usually this isn't a choice we can make, as children, but here it is presented that way. If we want to be part of God's family and accepted into his house and family unit (for we are all his children whether or not we live with him), then we need to accept his rules and his advice and punishment. Just like God says to all of his followers, that the agreement is two-way. He will be our God if we will be his people. We always have a part to play in all of this.
On the other hand, if we don't accept his rules and his chastisement, then we're essentially moving out and making our own way... which can seem pretty awesome and empowering at first, but, as the prodigal son found, it doesn't last. Today, let's remember that belonging to God's family and being part of all the cool things that means also means listening to his counsel. Let's and work on letting go of our hair-trigger rebellious tendencies.
For whom the Lord loveth he chasteneth, and scourgeth every son whom he receiveth.
If ye endure chastening, God dealeth with you as with sons; for what son is he whom the father chasteneth not?
But if ye be without chastisement, whereof all are partakers, then are ye bastards, and not sons."
Hebrews 12:5-8
This is an interesting analogy and lesson. The difference between a son and a bastard is mainly in "belonging" ... where the person lives, what family group they are a part of. Usually this isn't a choice we can make, as children, but here it is presented that way. If we want to be part of God's family and accepted into his house and family unit (for we are all his children whether or not we live with him), then we need to accept his rules and his advice and punishment. Just like God says to all of his followers, that the agreement is two-way. He will be our God if we will be his people. We always have a part to play in all of this.
On the other hand, if we don't accept his rules and his chastisement, then we're essentially moving out and making our own way... which can seem pretty awesome and empowering at first, but, as the prodigal son found, it doesn't last. Today, let's remember that belonging to God's family and being part of all the cool things that means also means listening to his counsel. Let's and work on letting go of our hair-trigger rebellious tendencies.
Friday, October 28, 2022
Isaiah 50:5-8 -- On Unity and Peace
"The Lord God hath opened mine ear, and I was not rebellious, neither turned away back.
I gave my back to the smiters, and my cheeks to them that plucked off the hair: I hid not my face from shame and spitting.
For the Lord God will help me; therefore shall I not be confounded: therefore have I set my face like a flint, and I know that I shall not be ashamed.
He is near that justifieth me; who will contend with me? let us stand together: who is mine adversary? let him come near to me."
Isaiah 50:5-8
I like the idea here that other people can't cause us to be ashamed... and the challenge is not being ashamed before the Lord. Also, being united with God can help us to find common ground even with former enemies... and the Spirit of the Lord can make us open to that. It is hard, for sure, but if we can let go of our rebellion, our hate, and our resentment, we can find peace in our lives in so many places where there was pain previously. As we all grow and learn and draw closer to the Lord, we also draw closer to one another.
Today, let's work on doing our part and letting go of our rebellion and resistance to God, and as we do, God will also help us find peace with other people.
I gave my back to the smiters, and my cheeks to them that plucked off the hair: I hid not my face from shame and spitting.
For the Lord God will help me; therefore shall I not be confounded: therefore have I set my face like a flint, and I know that I shall not be ashamed.
He is near that justifieth me; who will contend with me? let us stand together: who is mine adversary? let him come near to me."
Isaiah 50:5-8
I like the idea here that other people can't cause us to be ashamed... and the challenge is not being ashamed before the Lord. Also, being united with God can help us to find common ground even with former enemies... and the Spirit of the Lord can make us open to that. It is hard, for sure, but if we can let go of our rebellion, our hate, and our resentment, we can find peace in our lives in so many places where there was pain previously. As we all grow and learn and draw closer to the Lord, we also draw closer to one another.
Today, let's work on doing our part and letting go of our rebellion and resistance to God, and as we do, God will also help us find peace with other people.
Thursday, October 27, 2022
2 Peter 2:19-20 -- On Being Deceived and Trusting in the Lord
"While they promise them liberty, they themselves are the servants of corruption: for of whom a man is overcome, of the same is he brought in bondage.
For if after they have escaped the pollutions of the world through the knowledge of the Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ, they are again entangled therein, and overcome, the latter end is worse with them than the beginning."
2 Peter 2:19-20
This is a good reminder that freedom comes through Christ and the gospel, and people that preach "freedom" from God and his commandments are actually seeking to enslave us, or to see us enslaved as servants of sin. God's desire is never to control or force us, but rather to help us to be free and able to make our own decisions without force or coercion.
Today, let's step back and see things as they really are, and not be led astray by those who hate us, or even worse, just don't care at all about our eternal welfare or anyone else's. Let's trust in God, who loves us and works for our welfare and happiness. If we get ourselves stuck in a hole, we can still turn to him, and he will come and help us out, unlike anyone who helped lead us there. Let's turn to him.
For if after they have escaped the pollutions of the world through the knowledge of the Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ, they are again entangled therein, and overcome, the latter end is worse with them than the beginning."
2 Peter 2:19-20
This is a good reminder that freedom comes through Christ and the gospel, and people that preach "freedom" from God and his commandments are actually seeking to enslave us, or to see us enslaved as servants of sin. God's desire is never to control or force us, but rather to help us to be free and able to make our own decisions without force or coercion.
Today, let's step back and see things as they really are, and not be led astray by those who hate us, or even worse, just don't care at all about our eternal welfare or anyone else's. Let's trust in God, who loves us and works for our welfare and happiness. If we get ourselves stuck in a hole, we can still turn to him, and he will come and help us out, unlike anyone who helped lead us there. Let's turn to him.
Wednesday, October 26, 2022
Philippians 2:4-8 -- On Ambition and Humility
"Look not every man on his own things, but every man also on the things of others.
Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus:
Who, being in the form of God, thought it not robbery to be equal with God:
But made himself of no reputation, and took upon him the form of a servant, and was made in the likeness of men:
And being found in fashion as a man, he humbled himself, and became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross."
Philippians 2:4-8
The first line sounds ambitious and a little acquisitive, which could go along with the idea of working to be equal with God. The last part talks about humility and obedience, which seem exactly opposite of that interpretation.
I think it probably means both, but in compatible ways. We shouldn't assume that we are better than others, but we can reach for the ability to make a difference or to become more like God. That isn't about acquiring physical goods or money, but there are many things that the Lord has that we should be striving for. For instance, even though we are commanded not to covet, 1 Corinthians 12:31 tells us to covet the best (spiritual) gifts, as does D&C 46:8, although it uses the word seek rather than covet. Looking not on the gifts we already have, but being acquisitive / seeking for other spiritual gifts that we see in each others' lives, and wanting to be more righteous, as they are... that's a totally good thing.
To make all of that work, we really do need to be humble, or we'll find ourselves competing with others rather than acting as servants, with Christ as our example. We can strive for excellence while still being obedient to God, we just have to be careful not only of our own things, but making sure we don't tread on the things of others or treat them unfairly. If we approach all of it as the idea of making everyone better, I think we'll be more willing to share and to help others to learn what we know, rather than hoarding our blessings and our knowledge to retain some advantage.
Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus:
Who, being in the form of God, thought it not robbery to be equal with God:
But made himself of no reputation, and took upon him the form of a servant, and was made in the likeness of men:
And being found in fashion as a man, he humbled himself, and became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross."
Philippians 2:4-8
The first line sounds ambitious and a little acquisitive, which could go along with the idea of working to be equal with God. The last part talks about humility and obedience, which seem exactly opposite of that interpretation.
I think it probably means both, but in compatible ways. We shouldn't assume that we are better than others, but we can reach for the ability to make a difference or to become more like God. That isn't about acquiring physical goods or money, but there are many things that the Lord has that we should be striving for. For instance, even though we are commanded not to covet, 1 Corinthians 12:31 tells us to covet the best (spiritual) gifts, as does D&C 46:8, although it uses the word seek rather than covet. Looking not on the gifts we already have, but being acquisitive / seeking for other spiritual gifts that we see in each others' lives, and wanting to be more righteous, as they are... that's a totally good thing.
To make all of that work, we really do need to be humble, or we'll find ourselves competing with others rather than acting as servants, with Christ as our example. We can strive for excellence while still being obedient to God, we just have to be careful not only of our own things, but making sure we don't tread on the things of others or treat them unfairly. If we approach all of it as the idea of making everyone better, I think we'll be more willing to share and to help others to learn what we know, rather than hoarding our blessings and our knowledge to retain some advantage.
Tuesday, October 25, 2022
2 Corinthians 4:16-18 -- On Looking Inward
"For which cause we faint not; but though our outward man perish, yet the inward man is renewed day by day.
For our light affliction, which is but for a moment, worketh for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory;
While we look not at the things which are seen, but at the things which are not seen: for the things which are seen are temporal; but the things which are not seen are eternal."
2 Corinthians 4:16-18
I like the idea here is focusing on the eternal, spiritual things rather than the temporary, physical things. ... Definitely not saying it is easy, but if we can work on that focus, then the temporary pains of the "outward man" will matter less and less, as we build our inner selves.
I don't think that God wants us to take it to an extreme and actually not take care of our bodies. It is a good idea to, you know, wash ourselves to stay clean, comb our hair, wear clean clothing, eat food to sustain ourselves, avoid abuse and self-harm... the basics. :) God gave us our bodies so that we could learn to use them and become beings with a physical aspect. However, when we obsess over our bodies and care more about them than about God or our spiritual selves, then we're getting our priorities out of order and emphasizing the natural/animal part of ourselves over the spiritual/godly part of ourselves. Instead, God's way is to teach the physical to obey the spiritual rather than the other way around.
Today, instead of letting our body dictate our choices (which is way too easy to do), let's make sure we're putting our spirits in the driver's seat and learning, and prioritizing, our spiritual needs over our physical.
For our light affliction, which is but for a moment, worketh for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory;
While we look not at the things which are seen, but at the things which are not seen: for the things which are seen are temporal; but the things which are not seen are eternal."
2 Corinthians 4:16-18
I like the idea here is focusing on the eternal, spiritual things rather than the temporary, physical things. ... Definitely not saying it is easy, but if we can work on that focus, then the temporary pains of the "outward man" will matter less and less, as we build our inner selves.
I don't think that God wants us to take it to an extreme and actually not take care of our bodies. It is a good idea to, you know, wash ourselves to stay clean, comb our hair, wear clean clothing, eat food to sustain ourselves, avoid abuse and self-harm... the basics. :) God gave us our bodies so that we could learn to use them and become beings with a physical aspect. However, when we obsess over our bodies and care more about them than about God or our spiritual selves, then we're getting our priorities out of order and emphasizing the natural/animal part of ourselves over the spiritual/godly part of ourselves. Instead, God's way is to teach the physical to obey the spiritual rather than the other way around.
Today, instead of letting our body dictate our choices (which is way too easy to do), let's make sure we're putting our spirits in the driver's seat and learning, and prioritizing, our spiritual needs over our physical.
Monday, October 24, 2022
Mosiah 12:1 -- On Sacrifice
"And it came to pass that after the space of two years that Abinadi came among them in disguise, that they knew him not, and began to prophesy among them, saying: Thus has the Lord commanded me, saying—Abinadi, go and prophesy unto this my people, for they have hardened their hearts against my words; they have repented not of their evil doings; therefore, I will visit them in my anger, yea, in my fierce anger will I visit them in their iniquities and abominations."
Mosiah 12:1
Abinadi had been condemned to death in a previous chapter, so it makes sense that he would come back in disguise, so he wasn't immediately taken by the guards or something. However, it is also interesting that he was prophesying using his real name. I imagine that even though he wasn't immediately recognizable, the idea was eventually to come before the king. It amazes me the lengths that some of the prophets went to in order to get the message across. I imagine that he knew what would eventually happen to him if he came back, but did it anyway, for the Lord. He didn't know if anyone would listen, but he knew it was important. As far as we know, he only converted one person, which out of context might not seem like it was worth being burned to death, but God is wise and knew how much of a difference that one person would make.
The things that the Lord asks us to do are comparatively much easier than what Abinadi had to do, but we can trust, as he did, that the things we are asked and inspired to do will make a difference eventually, even if we can't see it. Perhaps in our lives, perhaps in the lives of the children that we influence, and perhaps in ways that we just can't see... but the Lord is working through us all to bring his work to pass, and if we do his will, it will work for good in all the world around us.
Today, let's learn from Abinadi's example and be willing to do anything for the Lord, trusting that the Lord knows what he is doing, and that our sacrifices will make a difference for good.
Mosiah 12:1
Abinadi had been condemned to death in a previous chapter, so it makes sense that he would come back in disguise, so he wasn't immediately taken by the guards or something. However, it is also interesting that he was prophesying using his real name. I imagine that even though he wasn't immediately recognizable, the idea was eventually to come before the king. It amazes me the lengths that some of the prophets went to in order to get the message across. I imagine that he knew what would eventually happen to him if he came back, but did it anyway, for the Lord. He didn't know if anyone would listen, but he knew it was important. As far as we know, he only converted one person, which out of context might not seem like it was worth being burned to death, but God is wise and knew how much of a difference that one person would make.
The things that the Lord asks us to do are comparatively much easier than what Abinadi had to do, but we can trust, as he did, that the things we are asked and inspired to do will make a difference eventually, even if we can't see it. Perhaps in our lives, perhaps in the lives of the children that we influence, and perhaps in ways that we just can't see... but the Lord is working through us all to bring his work to pass, and if we do his will, it will work for good in all the world around us.
Today, let's learn from Abinadi's example and be willing to do anything for the Lord, trusting that the Lord knows what he is doing, and that our sacrifices will make a difference for good.
Sunday, October 23, 2022
Alma 7:22-24 -- On Our Duty to God
"And now my beloved brethren, I have said these things unto you that I might awaken you to a sense of your duty to God, that ye may walk blameless before him, that ye may walk after the holy order of God, after which ye have been received.
And now I would that ye should be humble, and be submissive and gentle; easy to be entreated; full of patience and long-suffering; being temperate in all things; being diligent in keeping the commandments of God at all times; asking for whatsoever things ye stand in need, both spiritual and temporal; always returning thanks unto God for whatsoever things ye do receive.
And see that ye have faith, hope, and charity, and then ye will always abound in good works."
Alma 7:22-24
Pretty good list of things to remember and do here... part of our "duty to God." I think sometimes we don't want to feel a sense of obligation to anyone, anywhere, and react badly to that idea of duty. However, part of the whole idea of the gospel is that we did choose to come to this earth, and chose that obligation. It wasn't just thrust upon us as a side-effect of being born. In fact, we wanted to do this so much that we took sides over it in the war in heaven.
The world was created for us, and Christ died to give us a chance to overcome our faults and find our way back to God despite the additional challenge of a body. Today, let's be thankful for that chance and take our duty to God seriously. Nothing we have that we care about would be there if not for him, and everything we hope to become in the future is dependent on him as well. Our duty to him is really a duty to actually work at our own happiness, which is why God did all of this, and why we have commandments. Let's listen and learn and be thankful.
And now I would that ye should be humble, and be submissive and gentle; easy to be entreated; full of patience and long-suffering; being temperate in all things; being diligent in keeping the commandments of God at all times; asking for whatsoever things ye stand in need, both spiritual and temporal; always returning thanks unto God for whatsoever things ye do receive.
And see that ye have faith, hope, and charity, and then ye will always abound in good works."
Alma 7:22-24
Pretty good list of things to remember and do here... part of our "duty to God." I think sometimes we don't want to feel a sense of obligation to anyone, anywhere, and react badly to that idea of duty. However, part of the whole idea of the gospel is that we did choose to come to this earth, and chose that obligation. It wasn't just thrust upon us as a side-effect of being born. In fact, we wanted to do this so much that we took sides over it in the war in heaven.
The world was created for us, and Christ died to give us a chance to overcome our faults and find our way back to God despite the additional challenge of a body. Today, let's be thankful for that chance and take our duty to God seriously. Nothing we have that we care about would be there if not for him, and everything we hope to become in the future is dependent on him as well. Our duty to him is really a duty to actually work at our own happiness, which is why God did all of this, and why we have commandments. Let's listen and learn and be thankful.
Saturday, October 22, 2022
Jeremiah 31:10-12 -- On Gathering and Moving Past Sorrow
"Hear the word of the Lord, O ye nations, and declare it in the isles afar off, and say, He that scattered Israel will gather him, and keep him, as a shepherd doth his flock.
For the Lord hath redeemed Jacob, and ransomed him from the hand of him that was stronger than he.
Therefore they shall come and sing in the height of Zion, and shall flow together to the goodness of the Lord, for wheat, and for wine, and for oil, and for the young of the flock and of the herd: and their soul shall be as a watered garden; and they shall not sorrow any more at all."
Jeremiah 31:10-12
I like that even when the scriptures are talking about the last days, and righting wrongs and various destructions of the wicked, that the Lord remembers to add in some hope, encouragement, and even instruction, to help us remember that it isn't just about justice catching up with the unrepentant, but it is about making room for the good to grow. I love the idea of singing "in the height of Zion," of souls like watered gardens, and of not sorrowing "any more at all." I'm sure that there will be sorrow before then, but God will help us move past it and get to a state where we aren't sad, at all. I love that idea.
Let's look forward to that day rather than fearing it, trusting in the Lord that if we stick with him, despite the scary chapters in the middle, he will always bring us to the happy ending.
For the Lord hath redeemed Jacob, and ransomed him from the hand of him that was stronger than he.
Therefore they shall come and sing in the height of Zion, and shall flow together to the goodness of the Lord, for wheat, and for wine, and for oil, and for the young of the flock and of the herd: and their soul shall be as a watered garden; and they shall not sorrow any more at all."
Jeremiah 31:10-12
I like that even when the scriptures are talking about the last days, and righting wrongs and various destructions of the wicked, that the Lord remembers to add in some hope, encouragement, and even instruction, to help us remember that it isn't just about justice catching up with the unrepentant, but it is about making room for the good to grow. I love the idea of singing "in the height of Zion," of souls like watered gardens, and of not sorrowing "any more at all." I'm sure that there will be sorrow before then, but God will help us move past it and get to a state where we aren't sad, at all. I love that idea.
Let's look forward to that day rather than fearing it, trusting in the Lord that if we stick with him, despite the scary chapters in the middle, he will always bring us to the happy ending.
Friday, October 21, 2022
Helaman 6:16-17 -- On the Pride Cycle
"And in the commencement of the sixty and seventh year the people began to grow exceedingly wicked again.
For behold, the Lord had blessed them so long with the riches of the world that they had not been stirred up to anger, to wars, nor to bloodshed; therefore they began to set their hearts upon their riches; yea, they began to seek to get gain that they might be lifted up one above another; therefore they began to commit secret murders, and to rob and to plunder, that they might get gain."
Helaman 6:16-17
It is both interesting and sad that we do this so often that we've named it the pride cycle. We repent, God blesses us, but then too long in prosperity makes us greedy and we start thinking too highly of ourselves, and we start descending into wickedness again, at which point things fall apart, we finally wake up and start to repent, and the cycle starts again.
So, how do we escape the cycle? I think a lot of it is what we've talked about before... just remembering. Remembering God, remembering to keep those habits in our lives that remind of of God and the gospel, and keep the spirit with us for guidance and peace. Read, ponder, maybe keep a journal of spiritual experiences, listen to some uplifting music? It's hard sometimes to choose the positive path rather than wallowing in the negativity a little... we want to complain and get some people to see our side, to feel justified, etc. But often it is better to let it go, get it out of our minds and hearts if there isn't anything we can do about it. Learn to heal.
Today, let's try breaking the cycle. Let's repent and get right with God, and then stay there rather than getting complacent and prideful and setting our hearts on things other than God. Little things can help us stay okay, if we listen to God's reminders to pray, to read our scriptures, to attend church, etc.
For behold, the Lord had blessed them so long with the riches of the world that they had not been stirred up to anger, to wars, nor to bloodshed; therefore they began to set their hearts upon their riches; yea, they began to seek to get gain that they might be lifted up one above another; therefore they began to commit secret murders, and to rob and to plunder, that they might get gain."
Helaman 6:16-17
It is both interesting and sad that we do this so often that we've named it the pride cycle. We repent, God blesses us, but then too long in prosperity makes us greedy and we start thinking too highly of ourselves, and we start descending into wickedness again, at which point things fall apart, we finally wake up and start to repent, and the cycle starts again.
So, how do we escape the cycle? I think a lot of it is what we've talked about before... just remembering. Remembering God, remembering to keep those habits in our lives that remind of of God and the gospel, and keep the spirit with us for guidance and peace. Read, ponder, maybe keep a journal of spiritual experiences, listen to some uplifting music? It's hard sometimes to choose the positive path rather than wallowing in the negativity a little... we want to complain and get some people to see our side, to feel justified, etc. But often it is better to let it go, get it out of our minds and hearts if there isn't anything we can do about it. Learn to heal.
Today, let's try breaking the cycle. Let's repent and get right with God, and then stay there rather than getting complacent and prideful and setting our hearts on things other than God. Little things can help us stay okay, if we listen to God's reminders to pray, to read our scriptures, to attend church, etc.
Thursday, October 20, 2022
Jarom 1:3 -- On Mercy
"Behold, it is expedient that much should be done among this people, because of the hardness of their hearts, and the deafness of their ears, and the blindness of their minds, and the stiffness of their necks; nevertheless, God is exceedingly merciful unto them, and has not as yet swept them off from the face of the land."
Jarom 1:3
I like the mercy shown here, because we're often also hard-hearted and mind-blind, etc... and this shows that even so, we have hope. :) Today, let's try to be less resistant to God, to let him into our lives and to listen to his advice.
Jarom 1:3
I like the mercy shown here, because we're often also hard-hearted and mind-blind, etc... and this shows that even so, we have hope. :) Today, let's try to be less resistant to God, to let him into our lives and to listen to his advice.
Wednesday, October 19, 2022
Nahum 1:7-9 -- On Trusting the Lord and Ending Affliction
"The Lord is good, a strong hold in the day of trouble; and he knoweth them that trust in him.
But with an overrunning flood he will make an utter end of the place thereof, and darkness shall pursue his enemies.
What do ye imagine against the Lord? he will make an utter end: affliction shall not rise up the second time."
Nahum 1:7-9
It's a weird juxtaposition to say the Lord is good and then that he is going to destroy everything, but I think that the context of knowing this is about the Second Coming makes it a lot more clear.
God allows evil to exist on this earth, even though it sometimes hurts us, because we need to experience good and bad in order to know how to choose. The temporary probation period of this life leads (if we walk God's path) to a permanent happiness in an eternal ideal society.
That said, God isn't pleased with the evil, and he is only allowing it temporarily. Right now, he prunes off the evil as the good grows, so we have to work on growing a lot more, but at the Second Coming, he's going to solve the problem, permanently... affliction will not rise up again, and everyone will have a chance to learn what life is without all of that evil. Despite all the destruction that comes before it, I think it will be a great time of rejoicing, as when Christ appears to the Nephites in 3 Nephi.
Today, let's trust the Lord as we travel in life, increase our goodness, and trust that when he returns again he will make all things right. Let's make sure we're ready for that. :)
But with an overrunning flood he will make an utter end of the place thereof, and darkness shall pursue his enemies.
What do ye imagine against the Lord? he will make an utter end: affliction shall not rise up the second time."
Nahum 1:7-9
It's a weird juxtaposition to say the Lord is good and then that he is going to destroy everything, but I think that the context of knowing this is about the Second Coming makes it a lot more clear.
God allows evil to exist on this earth, even though it sometimes hurts us, because we need to experience good and bad in order to know how to choose. The temporary probation period of this life leads (if we walk God's path) to a permanent happiness in an eternal ideal society.
That said, God isn't pleased with the evil, and he is only allowing it temporarily. Right now, he prunes off the evil as the good grows, so we have to work on growing a lot more, but at the Second Coming, he's going to solve the problem, permanently... affliction will not rise up again, and everyone will have a chance to learn what life is without all of that evil. Despite all the destruction that comes before it, I think it will be a great time of rejoicing, as when Christ appears to the Nephites in 3 Nephi.
Today, let's trust the Lord as we travel in life, increase our goodness, and trust that when he returns again he will make all things right. Let's make sure we're ready for that. :)
Tuesday, October 18, 2022
Jeremiah 3:14-15 -- On Returning to the Lord
"Turn, O backsliding children, saith the Lord; for I am married unto you: and I will take you one of a city, and two of a family, and I will bring you to Zion:
And I will give you pastors according to mine heart, which shall feed you with knowledge and understanding."
Jeremiah 3:14-15
Earlier in the chapter God uses the analogy of his people Judah and Israel playing harlots even though they were already committed to the Lord, so these verses continue that analogy. God asks us to return to him, no matter our past transgressions, because he is merciful and "will not keep anger for ever" (Jeremiah 3:12).
I really like the idea of God seeking us out, despite our sins against him, and bringing us home, one or two at a time, and granting us pastors/shepherds that will teach us according to God's heart and mind, helping us to stay true to our covenants with the Lord.
Today, let's be humble and recognize our failings, but also know that God is willing to forgive us if we return to him. Let's take advantage of the teachers and guidance that the Lord has provided for us, and learn and stay true.
And I will give you pastors according to mine heart, which shall feed you with knowledge and understanding."
Jeremiah 3:14-15
Earlier in the chapter God uses the analogy of his people Judah and Israel playing harlots even though they were already committed to the Lord, so these verses continue that analogy. God asks us to return to him, no matter our past transgressions, because he is merciful and "will not keep anger for ever" (Jeremiah 3:12).
I really like the idea of God seeking us out, despite our sins against him, and bringing us home, one or two at a time, and granting us pastors/shepherds that will teach us according to God's heart and mind, helping us to stay true to our covenants with the Lord.
Today, let's be humble and recognize our failings, but also know that God is willing to forgive us if we return to him. Let's take advantage of the teachers and guidance that the Lord has provided for us, and learn and stay true.
Monday, October 17, 2022
Joshua 4:21 -- On Memory
"And he spake unto the children of Israel, saying, When your children shall ask their fathers in time to come, saying, What mean these stones?
Then ye shall let your children know, saying, Israel came over this Jordan on dry land.
For the Lord your God dried up the waters of Jordan from before you, until ye were passed over, as the Lord your God did to the Red sea, which he dried up from before us, until we were gone over:
That all the people of the earth might know the hand of the Lord, that it is mighty: that ye might fear the Lord your God for ever."
Joshua 4:21
So much of the gospel seems to rely on memory. These verses remind me of Moroni asking us to remember the mercy of God to his children in Moroni 10:3. The scriptures are themselves a memory aid, trying to "enlarge the memory" of the people (Alma 37:8) and help us to turn to God. The same goes on a smaller scale in our own lives. We have spiritual experiences in our lives, but if we don't remember them, then they don't do us much good. A lot of what God, through the Holy Ghost, does in our lives is jog our memories... helping us to remember, as the prodigal son did, how much better life was in our Father's house than when we left him and things started to fall apart. New experiences with God help as well, of course. Prayer, going to church, having gospel conversations with others... all of these things help us learn of God and hold on to the spirit. Another thing that aids in spiritual memory is writing. Journals, used wisely, can enlarge our memories in a good way and help us remember things that God has taught us. Rewatching Conference talks, listening to hymns, having pictures of the temple in our homes... all of these things are for the same reason--to help us remember God all the time. Today, let's work on our own memory aids. We might not be able to look at the stones that Joshua commanded to be brought out of Jordan, but we do have other things that help us remember the goodness and the amazing, awesome power of God that we can trust in to help us through life. Let's write them down, or post them on our wall, or whatever it takes to keep the Lord more fully in our minds and our hearts. :)
Then ye shall let your children know, saying, Israel came over this Jordan on dry land.
For the Lord your God dried up the waters of Jordan from before you, until ye were passed over, as the Lord your God did to the Red sea, which he dried up from before us, until we were gone over:
That all the people of the earth might know the hand of the Lord, that it is mighty: that ye might fear the Lord your God for ever."
Joshua 4:21
So much of the gospel seems to rely on memory. These verses remind me of Moroni asking us to remember the mercy of God to his children in Moroni 10:3. The scriptures are themselves a memory aid, trying to "enlarge the memory" of the people (Alma 37:8) and help us to turn to God. The same goes on a smaller scale in our own lives. We have spiritual experiences in our lives, but if we don't remember them, then they don't do us much good. A lot of what God, through the Holy Ghost, does in our lives is jog our memories... helping us to remember, as the prodigal son did, how much better life was in our Father's house than when we left him and things started to fall apart. New experiences with God help as well, of course. Prayer, going to church, having gospel conversations with others... all of these things help us learn of God and hold on to the spirit. Another thing that aids in spiritual memory is writing. Journals, used wisely, can enlarge our memories in a good way and help us remember things that God has taught us. Rewatching Conference talks, listening to hymns, having pictures of the temple in our homes... all of these things are for the same reason--to help us remember God all the time. Today, let's work on our own memory aids. We might not be able to look at the stones that Joshua commanded to be brought out of Jordan, but we do have other things that help us remember the goodness and the amazing, awesome power of God that we can trust in to help us through life. Let's write them down, or post them on our wall, or whatever it takes to keep the Lord more fully in our minds and our hearts. :)
Sunday, October 16, 2022
John 14:26-27 -- On The Comforter
"But the Comforter, which is the Holy Ghost, whom the Father will send in my name, he shall teach you all things, and bring all things to your remembrance, whatsoever I have said unto you.
Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid."
John 14:26-27
These are really cool verses, and these are things I think we all can have, if we work at it. The challenge is cutting through the normal distractions of life and focusing on the Spirit. The more we do that, the more we will learn how to conect with and live by the spirit.
The Comforter here is the gift that God gives all of us to help us learn and also the means to have peace in our lives. Today, let's jump in and work on learning the spiritual sensitivity that we need to access these amazing promises. Some ideas... maybe listening to the scriptures in the background while we do other things, or listening to a conference talk. Setting aside specific time to pray intently when we won't be interrupted by other things. Reading the scriptures regularly, making it a habit. Trying to act on every good impulse, so that we're actively working to do as the spirit asks. There are probably many others, but basically anything we can do to pull the spirit in with us (or not to drive it away) will help us move towards the promises in these verses.
Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid."
John 14:26-27
These are really cool verses, and these are things I think we all can have, if we work at it. The challenge is cutting through the normal distractions of life and focusing on the Spirit. The more we do that, the more we will learn how to conect with and live by the spirit.
The Comforter here is the gift that God gives all of us to help us learn and also the means to have peace in our lives. Today, let's jump in and work on learning the spiritual sensitivity that we need to access these amazing promises. Some ideas... maybe listening to the scriptures in the background while we do other things, or listening to a conference talk. Setting aside specific time to pray intently when we won't be interrupted by other things. Reading the scriptures regularly, making it a habit. Trying to act on every good impulse, so that we're actively working to do as the spirit asks. There are probably many others, but basically anything we can do to pull the spirit in with us (or not to drive it away) will help us move towards the promises in these verses.
Saturday, October 15, 2022
Mosiah 4:9-10 -- On Belief, Repentance, and Humility
"Believe in God; believe that he is, and that he created all things, both in heaven and in earth; believe that he has all wisdom, and all power, both in heaven and in earth; believe that man doth not comprehend all the things which the Lord can comprehend.
And again, believe that ye must repent of your sins and forsake them, and humble yourselves before God; and ask in sincerity of heart that he would forgive you; and now, if you believe all these things see that ye do them."
Mosiah 4:9-10
This is King Benjamin speaking to his people. I love that guy. There are very few examples of really good leaders out there, but he is one of them. He took his huge responsibility seriously and taught his people (and his family) the gospel, being totally real with them and illustrating that he was also a man and subject to God, and that it was his job to labor to serve *them* (Mosiah 2:14-17). This is some advice that he gave to his people, and it seems like good advice for all of us. One of King Benjamin's big themes was humility, and that compared to God we are nothing.
Thinking about that today, I feel like that is one of the big keys that we are missing in our lives sometimes. We want God to give us what we think we deserve, and justify us, when instead we should be asking God that his will be done in our lives, whatever that is, and we should be making the most of what God has already given us in thankfulness.
Humility doesn't mean self-hatred or that we can't find value in what we do. It is more about thinking about who we are compared to other people and not thinking we are better. As we walk God's path, he will teach us our talents, help us find new ones, and show us that he loves and values us as his children. We are of infinite worth. God just wants us to learn how to let other people win, and to see the needs of other people and help *them* feel valued and loved rather than striving for our own recognition or elevation. He wants us to realize that he knows better than we do, in every single case, rather than claiming that God or the universe has wronged us in some way. Today, let's turn to God in humility, and repent. When we need answers, let's find them in God, because he is the source of truth and light. Trying to find our answers elsewhere will lead us down a dark path.
And again, believe that ye must repent of your sins and forsake them, and humble yourselves before God; and ask in sincerity of heart that he would forgive you; and now, if you believe all these things see that ye do them."
Mosiah 4:9-10
This is King Benjamin speaking to his people. I love that guy. There are very few examples of really good leaders out there, but he is one of them. He took his huge responsibility seriously and taught his people (and his family) the gospel, being totally real with them and illustrating that he was also a man and subject to God, and that it was his job to labor to serve *them* (Mosiah 2:14-17). This is some advice that he gave to his people, and it seems like good advice for all of us. One of King Benjamin's big themes was humility, and that compared to God we are nothing.
Thinking about that today, I feel like that is one of the big keys that we are missing in our lives sometimes. We want God to give us what we think we deserve, and justify us, when instead we should be asking God that his will be done in our lives, whatever that is, and we should be making the most of what God has already given us in thankfulness.
Humility doesn't mean self-hatred or that we can't find value in what we do. It is more about thinking about who we are compared to other people and not thinking we are better. As we walk God's path, he will teach us our talents, help us find new ones, and show us that he loves and values us as his children. We are of infinite worth. God just wants us to learn how to let other people win, and to see the needs of other people and help *them* feel valued and loved rather than striving for our own recognition or elevation. He wants us to realize that he knows better than we do, in every single case, rather than claiming that God or the universe has wronged us in some way. Today, let's turn to God in humility, and repent. When we need answers, let's find them in God, because he is the source of truth and light. Trying to find our answers elsewhere will lead us down a dark path.
Friday, October 14, 2022
James 1:12-15 -- On Sin and Death
"Blessed is the man that endureth temptation: for when he is tried, he shall receive the crown of life, which the Lord hath promised to them that love him.
Let no man say when he is tempted, I am tempted of God: for God cannot be tempted with evil, neither tempteth he any man:
But every man is tempted, when he is drawn away of his own lust, and enticed.
Then when lust hath conceived, it bringeth forth sin: and sin, when it is finished, bringeth forth death."
James 1:12-15
An interesting idea in these verses is basically that when we sin, we are actually killing ourselves... so the "crown of life" that God offers us is literally life, a way to be free of our own self-destruction. Perhaps something to ponder today... how are we sabotaging and killing ourselves, and how can God help us pull ourselves out of that cycle? Let's pray and be willing to try things God's way, and find out what life can really be when we aren't constantly flirting with death.
Let no man say when he is tempted, I am tempted of God: for God cannot be tempted with evil, neither tempteth he any man:
But every man is tempted, when he is drawn away of his own lust, and enticed.
Then when lust hath conceived, it bringeth forth sin: and sin, when it is finished, bringeth forth death."
James 1:12-15
An interesting idea in these verses is basically that when we sin, we are actually killing ourselves... so the "crown of life" that God offers us is literally life, a way to be free of our own self-destruction. Perhaps something to ponder today... how are we sabotaging and killing ourselves, and how can God help us pull ourselves out of that cycle? Let's pray and be willing to try things God's way, and find out what life can really be when we aren't constantly flirting with death.
Thursday, October 13, 2022
Moroni 9:4-5 -- On Losing Love
"Behold, I am laboring with them continually; and when I speak the word of God with sharpness they tremble and anger against me; and when I use no sharpness they harden their hearts against it; wherefore, I fear lest the Spirit of the Lord hath ceased striving with them.
For so exceedingly do they anger that it seemeth me that they have no fear of death; and they have lost their love, one towards another; and they thirst after blood and revenge continually."
Moroni 9:4-5
Reading this, what I was thinking about is how defensive we get sometimes... even when people are trying to help and give us good advice. Sometimes it is easier to attack or get angry rather than recognizing our faults and facing them... anger and pride often mask our insecurities. The scariest part though is the idea here of hardening our hearts and losing our love. Today, let's refrain from taking the tiny little steps that would lead us to become like this. Let's work on being humble, and on practicing love. Let's try to avoid getting defensive and angry, especially with God, who always acts with our best interest in mind.
For so exceedingly do they anger that it seemeth me that they have no fear of death; and they have lost their love, one towards another; and they thirst after blood and revenge continually."
Moroni 9:4-5
Reading this, what I was thinking about is how defensive we get sometimes... even when people are trying to help and give us good advice. Sometimes it is easier to attack or get angry rather than recognizing our faults and facing them... anger and pride often mask our insecurities. The scariest part though is the idea here of hardening our hearts and losing our love. Today, let's refrain from taking the tiny little steps that would lead us to become like this. Let's work on being humble, and on practicing love. Let's try to avoid getting defensive and angry, especially with God, who always acts with our best interest in mind.
Wednesday, October 12, 2022
Matthew 6:34 -- On Being Overwhelmed
"Take therefore no thought for the morrow: for the morrow shall take thought for the things of itself. Sufficient unto the day is the evil thereof."
Matthew 6:34
I think this verse is God asking us not to worry too much about things. He of course in general wants us to plan for the future, and to utilize long-term thinking so that we make choices that will prepare us for eternity rather than just trying to fulfil our immediate desires. There are scriptures about those things too. However, here he is reminding us that there is only so much that any of us can do in a day, and we can't take all of that on ourselves at once. God asks for just that tiny sliver of things that we can do today without giving ourselves a nervous breakdown or inducing other stress-related injuries. :)
Yes, we need to learn to be perfect someday, and what we do today affects that... but also, today, all we need to do is those tiny steps that will get us there, like reading and praying and being sure we are listening to the spirit (including when the spirit advises us to rest or to do something that makes us happy). Beating ourselves up about all the things that we aren't, and that we haven't done, and that we need to do tomorrow... those things can wait until tomorrow. We have enough on our plates without stressing about all of that. As God says, "it is not requisite that a man should run faster than he has strength" (Mosiah 4:27). Slow and steady, staying on the path, is much better than trying to rush ahead and burning out halfway through. :) Today, let's just do what we can now, and let go of the stress of trying to be perfect ahead of time. If we stick with God and listen for his promptings, we'll get there, and he'll teach us along the way so that we are always able to handle what comes next.
Matthew 6:34
I think this verse is God asking us not to worry too much about things. He of course in general wants us to plan for the future, and to utilize long-term thinking so that we make choices that will prepare us for eternity rather than just trying to fulfil our immediate desires. There are scriptures about those things too. However, here he is reminding us that there is only so much that any of us can do in a day, and we can't take all of that on ourselves at once. God asks for just that tiny sliver of things that we can do today without giving ourselves a nervous breakdown or inducing other stress-related injuries. :)
Yes, we need to learn to be perfect someday, and what we do today affects that... but also, today, all we need to do is those tiny steps that will get us there, like reading and praying and being sure we are listening to the spirit (including when the spirit advises us to rest or to do something that makes us happy). Beating ourselves up about all the things that we aren't, and that we haven't done, and that we need to do tomorrow... those things can wait until tomorrow. We have enough on our plates without stressing about all of that. As God says, "it is not requisite that a man should run faster than he has strength" (Mosiah 4:27). Slow and steady, staying on the path, is much better than trying to rush ahead and burning out halfway through. :) Today, let's just do what we can now, and let go of the stress of trying to be perfect ahead of time. If we stick with God and listen for his promptings, we'll get there, and he'll teach us along the way so that we are always able to handle what comes next.
Tuesday, October 11, 2022
Isaiah 49:24-25 -- On Being Saved
"Shall the prey be taken from the mighty, or the lawful captive delivered?
But thus saith the Lord, Even the captives of the mighty shall be taken away, and the prey of the terrible shall be delivered: for I will contend with him that contendeth with thee, and I will save thy children."
Isaiah 49:24-25
This chapter is talking about the second coming, and throughout God is reassuring his people that he hasn't forgotten them, that he never could, and that he will come to save them. I like the specific mention of "lawful captive" here, because that part seems to be God telling us... even if we deserve it, he is still going to save us. Even if we broke the law and are clearly in the wrong, just as he did for the woman taken in adultery, he is going to step in to save us and give us another chance. He loves us, and he will fulfil every promise that he has made, and bring us to our happy ending.
Today, let's trust in God and his ironclad promises. :) Let's change and learn and do everything we can to be better and worthy and use the space and the time that the Lord has given us to improve, so that we will be ready when he comes again.
But thus saith the Lord, Even the captives of the mighty shall be taken away, and the prey of the terrible shall be delivered: for I will contend with him that contendeth with thee, and I will save thy children."
Isaiah 49:24-25
This chapter is talking about the second coming, and throughout God is reassuring his people that he hasn't forgotten them, that he never could, and that he will come to save them. I like the specific mention of "lawful captive" here, because that part seems to be God telling us... even if we deserve it, he is still going to save us. Even if we broke the law and are clearly in the wrong, just as he did for the woman taken in adultery, he is going to step in to save us and give us another chance. He loves us, and he will fulfil every promise that he has made, and bring us to our happy ending.
Today, let's trust in God and his ironclad promises. :) Let's change and learn and do everything we can to be better and worthy and use the space and the time that the Lord has given us to improve, so that we will be ready when he comes again.
Monday, October 10, 2022
John 15:9-11 -- On Love and Joy
"As the Father hath loved me, so have I loved you: continue ye in my love.
If ye keep my commandments, ye shall abide in my love; even as I have kept my Father’s commandments, and abide in his love.
These things have I spoken unto you, that my joy might remain in you, and that your joy might be full."
John 15:9-11
So many things come back to joy. It is easy to accuse God of not loving us when we go astray and can't feel that love... but his love hasn't changed. It is our ability to feel it that has changed. Just like if we were to break marriage vows and as a result were unable to participate in that relationship anymore--if we break our promises to God, then we find ourselves beyond that boundary, unable to feel that love and reassurance that we get from our relationship with God. The love from God never changes, but without repentance and a change of heart we won't be able to find our way back to it, because we've broken the relationship on our side.
Christ asks us to continue in his love as he continues in the Father's love, as we should all continue in love to each other... not betraying each other, not throwing each other under the bus, not mocking or scorning, etc. Our joy depends in large part on being loved, on abiding in the love that is all around us, if we can enjoy it and participate in it. Today, let's live "after the manner of happiness" (2 Nephi 5:27) by remaining faithful to the Lord, gaining joy by abiding in his love, and working to love and bring joy to the people around us as well.
If ye keep my commandments, ye shall abide in my love; even as I have kept my Father’s commandments, and abide in his love.
These things have I spoken unto you, that my joy might remain in you, and that your joy might be full."
John 15:9-11
So many things come back to joy. It is easy to accuse God of not loving us when we go astray and can't feel that love... but his love hasn't changed. It is our ability to feel it that has changed. Just like if we were to break marriage vows and as a result were unable to participate in that relationship anymore--if we break our promises to God, then we find ourselves beyond that boundary, unable to feel that love and reassurance that we get from our relationship with God. The love from God never changes, but without repentance and a change of heart we won't be able to find our way back to it, because we've broken the relationship on our side.
Christ asks us to continue in his love as he continues in the Father's love, as we should all continue in love to each other... not betraying each other, not throwing each other under the bus, not mocking or scorning, etc. Our joy depends in large part on being loved, on abiding in the love that is all around us, if we can enjoy it and participate in it. Today, let's live "after the manner of happiness" (2 Nephi 5:27) by remaining faithful to the Lord, gaining joy by abiding in his love, and working to love and bring joy to the people around us as well.
Sunday, October 9, 2022
Matthew 18:35 -- On Forgiving
"So likewise shall my heavenly Father do also unto you, if ye from your hearts forgive not every one his brother their trespasses."
Matthew 18:35
This is at the end of the story of the man who owed ten thousand talents, which is in response to Peter's question about how often we should forgive someone. Jesus corrects Peter, explaining that he is guessing way too low with the idea of seven... it should be more like seventy times that. I don't think that Christ was giving us an exact number here, and he used a story to explain.
The person in the story owes his local ruler an overwhelming amount and just can't pay it, so he is sentenced to become an indentured servant along with his whole family until he can pay it off (and with the amount, it would probably take most of his life). He falls down begging for mercy, and is granted mercy and the debt forgiven. Then he turns around and refuses to forgive the debt for someone who owes him like, comparatively, just a dollar, and when that is reported to the local ruler, he throws the guy to the "tormentors" who I am assuming are debt collectors in a very old-school, physically threatening way.
This verse illustrates the spiritual position that we are in when we don't forgive someone else. Compared to what we owe to God, and have been forgiven, all other debts are lesser. I realize that some are exceedingly serious and not to be brushed off as though they were nothing, but God still asks that we forgive, because holding on to anger and pain will harm us, and it is His job to handle it, and make the judgement, not ours. He will make all things right in the end... which doesn't mean that everyone gets what they deserve. We all will get much better than we necessarily deserve, but part of repentance means that we also need to change into the type of people who wouldn't make those same mistakes again.
Today, let's remember to forgive from our hearts, and also repent and work with God on changing into better people.
Matthew 18:35
This is at the end of the story of the man who owed ten thousand talents, which is in response to Peter's question about how often we should forgive someone. Jesus corrects Peter, explaining that he is guessing way too low with the idea of seven... it should be more like seventy times that. I don't think that Christ was giving us an exact number here, and he used a story to explain.
The person in the story owes his local ruler an overwhelming amount and just can't pay it, so he is sentenced to become an indentured servant along with his whole family until he can pay it off (and with the amount, it would probably take most of his life). He falls down begging for mercy, and is granted mercy and the debt forgiven. Then he turns around and refuses to forgive the debt for someone who owes him like, comparatively, just a dollar, and when that is reported to the local ruler, he throws the guy to the "tormentors" who I am assuming are debt collectors in a very old-school, physically threatening way.
This verse illustrates the spiritual position that we are in when we don't forgive someone else. Compared to what we owe to God, and have been forgiven, all other debts are lesser. I realize that some are exceedingly serious and not to be brushed off as though they were nothing, but God still asks that we forgive, because holding on to anger and pain will harm us, and it is His job to handle it, and make the judgement, not ours. He will make all things right in the end... which doesn't mean that everyone gets what they deserve. We all will get much better than we necessarily deserve, but part of repentance means that we also need to change into the type of people who wouldn't make those same mistakes again.
Today, let's remember to forgive from our hearts, and also repent and work with God on changing into better people.
Saturday, October 8, 2022
Jacob 4:6 -- On Hope, Faith, and Trees
"Wherefore, we search the prophets, and we have many revelations and the spirit of prophecy; and having all these witnesses we obtain a hope, and our faith becometh unshaken, insomuch that we truly can command in the name of Jesus and the very trees obey us, or the mountains, or the waves of the sea."
Jacob 4:6
This is cool. It isn't a specific story about being able to do these things, but just a claim that they can... but it is part of the same chain that he is writing about. They searched the prophets, or in other words, the scriptures, and they also *were* prophets, because they recieved revelation and had the spirit of prophecy, and those things combined to give them hope, and the more hope they had in God and that they could follow the pattern, the more they could see the power of hope and use it to transform their lives and their world.
Today, let's use our reading purposely to work on our hope in Christ, let's pray earnestly and sincerely, gathering information in our own minds and hearts and seeing the hand of God in our lives, and as we learn and understand the ways of God more, our faith will grow until it is unshaken, and we can do as the verse before us says. Let's keep the chain going, so that further generations may also gain hope from our words.
Jacob 4:6
This is cool. It isn't a specific story about being able to do these things, but just a claim that they can... but it is part of the same chain that he is writing about. They searched the prophets, or in other words, the scriptures, and they also *were* prophets, because they recieved revelation and had the spirit of prophecy, and those things combined to give them hope, and the more hope they had in God and that they could follow the pattern, the more they could see the power of hope and use it to transform their lives and their world.
Today, let's use our reading purposely to work on our hope in Christ, let's pray earnestly and sincerely, gathering information in our own minds and hearts and seeing the hand of God in our lives, and as we learn and understand the ways of God more, our faith will grow until it is unshaken, and we can do as the verse before us says. Let's keep the chain going, so that further generations may also gain hope from our words.
Friday, October 7, 2022
Jude 1:22-24 -- On Compassion, Fear, and Falling
"And of some have compassion, making a difference:
And others save with fear, pulling them out of the fire; hating even the garment spotted by the flesh.
Now unto him that is able to keep you from falling, and to present you faultless before the presence of his glory with exceeding joy,"
Jude 1:22-24
This is interesting, talking about two different approaches to helping others... showing them compassion, or encouraging them to be afraid of the consequences of bad action. Both seem like appropriate approaches, depending on the circumstances. The best part though is the last verse which indicates that God can keep us from falling, which works for either. Either we learn to love him and walk in his way, and don't fall, or we understand and avoid the consequences from falling, and turn to him because he can help us remain upright. Of course, both approaches probably apply to all of us, as we all need to learn to love God, and also to fear the consequences of sin.
Today, let's look to God who is able to keep us from falling, even when we have proven pretty bad at that skill ourselves. Let's turn to him and thank and praise him for helping us through every day.
And others save with fear, pulling them out of the fire; hating even the garment spotted by the flesh.
Now unto him that is able to keep you from falling, and to present you faultless before the presence of his glory with exceeding joy,"
Jude 1:22-24
This is interesting, talking about two different approaches to helping others... showing them compassion, or encouraging them to be afraid of the consequences of bad action. Both seem like appropriate approaches, depending on the circumstances. The best part though is the last verse which indicates that God can keep us from falling, which works for either. Either we learn to love him and walk in his way, and don't fall, or we understand and avoid the consequences from falling, and turn to him because he can help us remain upright. Of course, both approaches probably apply to all of us, as we all need to learn to love God, and also to fear the consequences of sin.
Today, let's look to God who is able to keep us from falling, even when we have proven pretty bad at that skill ourselves. Let's turn to him and thank and praise him for helping us through every day.
Thursday, October 6, 2022
1 John 1:3-5 -- On Joy and Light
"That which we have seen and heard declare we unto you, that ye also may have fellowship with us: and truly our fellowship is with the Father, and with his Son Jesus Christ.
And these things write we unto you, that your joy may be full.
This then is the message which we have heard of him, and declare unto you, that God is light, and in him is no darkness at all."
1 John 1:3-5
These verses reinforce the message that we learn in 2 Nephi 2:25: "... men are, that they might have joy." Everything that John is preaching and the very reason for our existence is based in that.
I think there is some real power in knowing that. God is all about us being happy and finding true joy. ... Now, of course he isn't going to support us in things that bring brief moments of pleasure but that are going to harm us and make us unhappy long term. Only those things that bring lasting, eternal happiness are on the list, but every single thing that God asks us to do is part of getting us to that happy place... that eternal joy.
I think that the information about darkness and light here is also to help us find joy. Sometimes it is hard for us to know which way to go, or what will truly bring us joy. God can see better than we can, and if we follow his light and avoid trusting in "secret works of darkness" (Helaman 8:4), then we can know we are going in the right direction--towards that happiness, rather than away from it.
As we find true happiness in this life through God, we can be certain that we will be happy later as well, for as Mormon 9:14 tells us, "he that is happy shall be happy still." ... God's judgement day reinforces what we have learned and become. Today, let's trust God and work towards joy and light through following him and doing all the things that he asks, because we know he is leading us to our "happy place" of being our best, most joyful selves.
And these things write we unto you, that your joy may be full.
This then is the message which we have heard of him, and declare unto you, that God is light, and in him is no darkness at all."
1 John 1:3-5
These verses reinforce the message that we learn in 2 Nephi 2:25: "... men are, that they might have joy." Everything that John is preaching and the very reason for our existence is based in that.
I think there is some real power in knowing that. God is all about us being happy and finding true joy. ... Now, of course he isn't going to support us in things that bring brief moments of pleasure but that are going to harm us and make us unhappy long term. Only those things that bring lasting, eternal happiness are on the list, but every single thing that God asks us to do is part of getting us to that happy place... that eternal joy.
I think that the information about darkness and light here is also to help us find joy. Sometimes it is hard for us to know which way to go, or what will truly bring us joy. God can see better than we can, and if we follow his light and avoid trusting in "secret works of darkness" (Helaman 8:4), then we can know we are going in the right direction--towards that happiness, rather than away from it.
As we find true happiness in this life through God, we can be certain that we will be happy later as well, for as Mormon 9:14 tells us, "he that is happy shall be happy still." ... God's judgement day reinforces what we have learned and become. Today, let's trust God and work towards joy and light through following him and doing all the things that he asks, because we know he is leading us to our "happy place" of being our best, most joyful selves.
Wednesday, October 5, 2022
Isaiah 45:2 -- On Obstacles
"I will go before thee, and make the crooked places straight: I will break in pieces the gates of brass, and cut in sunder the bars of iron."
Isaiah 45:2
This verse is directed to Cyrus, but I figure since we're supposed to liken all scriptures to ourselves that it can probably count for more than that. The idea here is basically that God will remove all obstacles from his path, so that he can accomplish the Lord's will. I think that, generally, the Lord will do that for all of us, if we are walking in his way. Some things have to be endured and learned from, so it isn't like any life is going to be obstacle-free, but if we are doing God's will, he will help us figure them out and in some cases just blow past them like they were nothing because we are on his path and he is going to hasten his work. Today, let's do his will, and pray for guidance and help as we face the obstacles of life. Some of them will melt away, others will become easier, and with others, God will help strengthen us so that we can endure them well. :)
Isaiah 45:2
This verse is directed to Cyrus, but I figure since we're supposed to liken all scriptures to ourselves that it can probably count for more than that. The idea here is basically that God will remove all obstacles from his path, so that he can accomplish the Lord's will. I think that, generally, the Lord will do that for all of us, if we are walking in his way. Some things have to be endured and learned from, so it isn't like any life is going to be obstacle-free, but if we are doing God's will, he will help us figure them out and in some cases just blow past them like they were nothing because we are on his path and he is going to hasten his work. Today, let's do his will, and pray for guidance and help as we face the obstacles of life. Some of them will melt away, others will become easier, and with others, God will help strengthen us so that we can endure them well. :)
Tuesday, October 4, 2022
Zechariah 13:8-9 -- On a Covenant with God
"And it shall come to pass, that in all the land, saith the Lord, two parts therein shall be cut off and die; but the third shall be left therein.
And I will bring the third part through the fire, and will refine them as silver is refined, and will try them as gold is tried: they shall call on my name, and I will hear them: I will say, It is my people: and they shall say, The Lord is my God."
Zechariah 13:8-9
This is talking about something that will happen at the Second Coming... and it is a good picture I think of the agreement/covenant that we should all have with the Lord. We accept him as our God, and he accepts us as his people. Or in other words, we belong to him, and he belongs to us. Like family.
I think that most of the problems we get into with our relationship with God are when we expect him to be our God, but don't accept that we also need to be his people and actually listen to and follow his advice. Today, before all the destruction and trying, let's be willing to establish that covenant with God, and do our part by reading and pondering his words and obeying his commandments. As we do, I think we'll recognize his hand in our lives more clearly.
And I will bring the third part through the fire, and will refine them as silver is refined, and will try them as gold is tried: they shall call on my name, and I will hear them: I will say, It is my people: and they shall say, The Lord is my God."
Zechariah 13:8-9
This is talking about something that will happen at the Second Coming... and it is a good picture I think of the agreement/covenant that we should all have with the Lord. We accept him as our God, and he accepts us as his people. Or in other words, we belong to him, and he belongs to us. Like family.
I think that most of the problems we get into with our relationship with God are when we expect him to be our God, but don't accept that we also need to be his people and actually listen to and follow his advice. Today, before all the destruction and trying, let's be willing to establish that covenant with God, and do our part by reading and pondering his words and obeying his commandments. As we do, I think we'll recognize his hand in our lives more clearly.
Monday, October 3, 2022
Matthew 7:11-12 -- On Living Generously
"If ye then, being evil, know how to give good gifts unto your children, how much more shall your Father which is in heaven give good things to them that ask him?
Therefore all things whatsoever ye would that men should do to you, do ye even so to them: for this is the law and the prophets."
Matthew 7:11-12
Even those these verses are right after each other, I never really thought of them together before... they seemed like disparate ideas. Today though, I'm seeing the connection.
God is teaching us about gifts and generosity here. In Matthew 7:7 he tells us to ask, seek, and knock. Then he shows us that we already know how to give to people that we love... and if even we can manage that, then how much more will the Lord bless us if we ask him for a gift?
And then, God asks us to do the same for others... if we would like people to treat us generously and help us out, then we should be doing the same for them... giving, offering what we have generously, knowing that God will do the same for us.
We're warned not to ask for things we "ought not" (D&C 8:10), and to "ask not amiss" (2 Nephi 4:35)... sort of non-specific warnings, but James clarifies that we shouldn't ask for things that we are lusting after, but rather "submit yourselves therefore to God" (James 4:3-7), so I think in general we can say that we should always let God know that his will comes first, and work on ourselves to actually get there mentally and emotionally, because if we don't say that part sincerely, it isn't really submitting, and it doesn't really count. :)
I think it is important to say here that God's warning doesn't mean that small everyday things are off limits. I've heard admonitions about not praying for trivial things like car keys in the past... but we aren't wasting the Lord's time by asking for small things. We are told to look unto him in every thought (D&C 6:36), and he commands us to ask. I think his warnings are more about things we shouldn't have than about little things that don't matter so much, but which would make us happy. Back to the example of the children, we would get our kids a toy that made them smile... and God will do the same for us, as long as we are recognizing whatever it is as a small thing and not placing it above him or other essential things in our lives. The only warning here is the same one for all of life... we really are going to get what we seek after in this life and the next, so let's make sure that we are truly asking for what we want, and becoming who we want to be.
Today, let's ask, seek, and knock, looking to God for help with anything we need or want in life. Let's learn what the spirit feels like and specifically recognize answers to prayers, and as we desire God to be generous with us, let's be generous to each other. The entire gospel is wrapped up in the idea of giving, loving, serving... if we can open our hearts and treat others generously, then we'll be on God's path.
Therefore all things whatsoever ye would that men should do to you, do ye even so to them: for this is the law and the prophets."
Matthew 7:11-12
Even those these verses are right after each other, I never really thought of them together before... they seemed like disparate ideas. Today though, I'm seeing the connection.
God is teaching us about gifts and generosity here. In Matthew 7:7 he tells us to ask, seek, and knock. Then he shows us that we already know how to give to people that we love... and if even we can manage that, then how much more will the Lord bless us if we ask him for a gift?
And then, God asks us to do the same for others... if we would like people to treat us generously and help us out, then we should be doing the same for them... giving, offering what we have generously, knowing that God will do the same for us.
We're warned not to ask for things we "ought not" (D&C 8:10), and to "ask not amiss" (2 Nephi 4:35)... sort of non-specific warnings, but James clarifies that we shouldn't ask for things that we are lusting after, but rather "submit yourselves therefore to God" (James 4:3-7), so I think in general we can say that we should always let God know that his will comes first, and work on ourselves to actually get there mentally and emotionally, because if we don't say that part sincerely, it isn't really submitting, and it doesn't really count. :)
I think it is important to say here that God's warning doesn't mean that small everyday things are off limits. I've heard admonitions about not praying for trivial things like car keys in the past... but we aren't wasting the Lord's time by asking for small things. We are told to look unto him in every thought (D&C 6:36), and he commands us to ask. I think his warnings are more about things we shouldn't have than about little things that don't matter so much, but which would make us happy. Back to the example of the children, we would get our kids a toy that made them smile... and God will do the same for us, as long as we are recognizing whatever it is as a small thing and not placing it above him or other essential things in our lives. The only warning here is the same one for all of life... we really are going to get what we seek after in this life and the next, so let's make sure that we are truly asking for what we want, and becoming who we want to be.
Today, let's ask, seek, and knock, looking to God for help with anything we need or want in life. Let's learn what the spirit feels like and specifically recognize answers to prayers, and as we desire God to be generous with us, let's be generous to each other. The entire gospel is wrapped up in the idea of giving, loving, serving... if we can open our hearts and treat others generously, then we'll be on God's path.
Sunday, October 2, 2022
Alma 47:18 -- On Evil as Normal
"And it came to pass that Amalickiah caused that one of his servants should administer poison by degrees to Lehonti, that he died."
Alma 47:18
What struck me about this verse today is how normal it seems compared to how wrong such a thing is. It reminded me of the verse in Matthew 10 that says "... be ye therefore wise as serpents, and harmless as doves" (verse 16). That is a hard balance to find, especially in a world where violence seems so normalized. Kind of the same idea as being in the world but not of it... how do we stay in the world, understanding the wisdom thereof, without letting some of the creepiness of all of it seep into our souls?
I don't really have the answer, but it is a good question. I think maybe priorities and balance are the key. We have to put God first... not necessarily because he is the super-coolest (though he of course is), but actually because it is NEEDED for our own safety and sanity. He is the one that can protect us from the world, and from our own bad habits, and from that blackness staining our souls. His commandments are there to help us not to lose ourselves where we start shaping ourselves to fit the world, rather than the other way around... setting an example and helping to shape the world in God's way.
Today, let's turn to the Lord for help in keeping the world out of our minds and hearts, so that we can stay dedicated to God and his work (and save our sanity). Let's remember that evil should not be normal, and what kind of a future we are working for. ... And hey, let's try praying and thinking of God more often than we see/consider violence on television or in the news. Maybe also try reading our scriptures more often than we read arguments and put-downs on social media. Balancing out the good with the bad couldn't hurt. :)
Alma 47:18
What struck me about this verse today is how normal it seems compared to how wrong such a thing is. It reminded me of the verse in Matthew 10 that says "... be ye therefore wise as serpents, and harmless as doves" (verse 16). That is a hard balance to find, especially in a world where violence seems so normalized. Kind of the same idea as being in the world but not of it... how do we stay in the world, understanding the wisdom thereof, without letting some of the creepiness of all of it seep into our souls?
I don't really have the answer, but it is a good question. I think maybe priorities and balance are the key. We have to put God first... not necessarily because he is the super-coolest (though he of course is), but actually because it is NEEDED for our own safety and sanity. He is the one that can protect us from the world, and from our own bad habits, and from that blackness staining our souls. His commandments are there to help us not to lose ourselves where we start shaping ourselves to fit the world, rather than the other way around... setting an example and helping to shape the world in God's way.
Today, let's turn to the Lord for help in keeping the world out of our minds and hearts, so that we can stay dedicated to God and his work (and save our sanity). Let's remember that evil should not be normal, and what kind of a future we are working for. ... And hey, let's try praying and thinking of God more often than we see/consider violence on television or in the news. Maybe also try reading our scriptures more often than we read arguments and put-downs on social media. Balancing out the good with the bad couldn't hurt. :)
Saturday, October 1, 2022
D&C 6:34-36 -- On Flocks, Fear, and Faith
"Therefore, fear not, little flock; do good; let earth and hell combine against you, for if ye are built upon my rock, they cannot prevail.
Behold, I do not condemn you; go your ways and sin no more; perform with soberness the work which I have commanded you.
Look unto me in every thought; doubt not, fear not."
Doctrine and Covenants 6:34-36
I like the "fear not, little flock" idea here. Even though the church is much larger now than it was in the days of Joseph Smith, I think that we all still feel like a little flock in the middle of a big bad world sometimes, and God still wants us to trust him and to forgive us as we work to change and to take his advice. Today, let's have faith in God's message here and try not to worry about all those external worries, but only about how we stand before God. If we can get that part right, then God will help us handle everything else.
Behold, I do not condemn you; go your ways and sin no more; perform with soberness the work which I have commanded you.
Look unto me in every thought; doubt not, fear not."
Doctrine and Covenants 6:34-36
I like the "fear not, little flock" idea here. Even though the church is much larger now than it was in the days of Joseph Smith, I think that we all still feel like a little flock in the middle of a big bad world sometimes, and God still wants us to trust him and to forgive us as we work to change and to take his advice. Today, let's have faith in God's message here and try not to worry about all those external worries, but only about how we stand before God. If we can get that part right, then God will help us handle everything else.
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