3 Nephi 6:5 -- On Getting in Our Own Way

"And now there was nothing in all the land to hinder the people from prospering continually, except they should fall into transgression."
3 Nephi 6:5


It's interesting here that the only thing that could stop the people from prospering was transgression, and they did pretty well for a few verses, but then they started falling apart again.

This is often true on a smaller scale as well. We do really well for a while, but then perhaps we get used to prospering or forget that we need the Lord's help to be successful, and there we go, off on a less optimal path once again... or a highway to hell, if you will, unless we turn around and repent, heading back to God. ... Today, let's make sure we aren't getting in our own way by wandering away from God's path.

Alma 9:26 -- On Coming in Glory

"And not many days hence the Son of God shall come in his glory; and his glory shall be the glory of the Only Begotten of the Father, full of grace, equity, and truth, full of patience, mercy, and long-suffering, quick to hear the cries of his people and to answer their prayers."
Alma 9:26


Always good to take time to remember Christ, who came and will come again in glory, and who is always willing to listen and answer prayers. Let's take the time to pray today and remember and look forward to his coming.

Alma 9:8-9 -- On Remembering

"Behold, O ye wicked and perverse generation, how have ye forgotten the tradition of your fathers; yea, how soon ye have forgotten the commandments of God.
Do ye not remember that our father, Lehi, was brought out of Jerusalem by the hand of God? Do ye not remember that they were all led by him through the wilderness?"
Alma 9:8-9


Another good reminder that the scriptures, and other things that the Lord gives us to enlarge our memories of the gospel, can help us stay on track... and help us get back on track if we've gotten derailed somewhere.

Today, let's remember the commandments and the scripture stories, and liken them to ourselves, remembering that the Lord is willing to lead us all through the wilderness and to our own promised place. Let's be diligent and faithful, and not let the world lull us into forgetfulness.

Alma 5:6 -- On Remembrance and Instruction

"And now behold, I say unto you, my brethren, you that belong to this church, have you sufficiently retained in remembrance the captivity of your fathers? Yea, and have you sufficiently retained in remembrance his mercy and long-suffering towards them? And moreover, have ye sufficiently retained in remembrance that he has delivered their souls from hell?"
Alma 5:6


I like the message here that reminds us of our history. Because God asks us to be one, our perspective has to change not only in terms of thinking outside ourselves, which is hard enough sometimes, but we also have to gain some historic perspective on the things that the Lord has done for all of us down through the passage of time. The cool thing about this is that it helps us learn the context of a lot that we do, and also learn more about God through his dealing with his people (collectively--those who choose to be his).

Today, let's try taking a step outside our own immediate trials and see the larger picture, and maybe get some perspective on God's hope and deliverance. The scriptures are a good instruction book, although prayer and working to be in tune with the Spirit are also imperative. With a historical perspective we learn that deliverance rarely comes on our schedule, but it does come, most often when we are humble and diligent in keeping the commandments. Following the instructions works. Let's try it. :)

Moses 6:33-34 -- On Walking With God

"Say unto this people: Choose ye this day, to serve the Lord God who made you. Behold my Spirit is upon you, wherefore all thy words will I justify; and the mountains shall flee before you, and the rivers shall turn from their course; and thou shalt abide in me, and I in you; therefore walk with me."
Moses 6:33-34


I love the invitation to walk with God here. A few verses later we read "no man laid hands on him; for fear came on all them that heard him; for he walked with God" (verse 39). Choosing God is one step, but walking with him seems to go farther, both in unity and in protection. And, yes, he is talking to the prophet Enoch here, but God's invitation is to us all, and we can all learn to walk with God. I think that is what Christ means when he asks us to take his yoke upon us... that he is inviting us to walk with him and that he will share our burdens.

Today, let's reach out to God and learn of him, being willing to walk with him and develop that relationship as we are willing and obedient (willing to follow the Lord's instructions to help us find joy). Let's pray, listen to the Spirit, and follow the promptings that the Lord gives us... that's how we can start learning to walk with him.

Luke 2:10-11 -- On Good Tidings

"And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people.
For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord."
Luke 2:10-11


A good reminder that the coming of Christ is the good news that we all still can be happy about. Christ lived and died for us, and lives again, eternal in his commitment to God's plan. As we follow him, we will find love, joy, and peace, and all the good desires of our hearts. Today, let's learn and pray and remember him, and learn better to keep his commandments and stay on his path.

Matthew 15:29-31 -- On Healing and Helping

"And Jesus departed from thence, and came nigh unto the sea of Galilee; and went up into a mountain, and sat down there.
And great multitudes came unto him, having with them those that were lame, blind, dumb, maimed, and many others, and cast them down at Jesus’ feet; and he healed them:
Insomuch that the multitude wondered, when they saw the dumb to speak, the maimed to be whole, the lame to walk, and the blind to see: and they glorified the God of Israel."
Matthew 15:29-31


This is amazing. I think sometimes this healing gets overshadowed because after this is the miracle of the loaves and the fishes, which is of course also amazing, but not more miraculous. :) Wherever Christ went, he healed and helped. In following his example, these are things that we can also do... perhaps not as miraculously, but with God's help, we can still make a difference in other people's lives.

Today, let's look to God for the healing that we need, and also to help us know how we can help others.

Matthew 13:27-30 -- On Gathering the Tares and Being the Wheat

"So the servants of the householder came and said unto him, Sir, didst not thou sow good seed in thy field? from whence then hath it tares?
He said unto them, An enemy hath done this. The servants said unto him, Wilt thou then that we go and gather them up?
But he said, Nay; lest while ye gather up the tares, ye root up also the wheat with them.
Let both grow together until the harvest: and in the time of harvest I will say to the reapers, Gather ye together first the tares, and bind them in bundles to burn them: but gather the wheat into my barn."
Matthew 13:27-30


This is an interesting parable from our perspective as the plants. :) Later in this same chapter Christ gives the interpretation. The thing that stands out to me is in verse 41. "The Son of man shall send forth his angels, and they shall gather out of the kingdom all things that offend...," and, since that happens in the parable before harvesting the wheat, that's something that could already be happening. In the allegory of the olive trees God tells us that he removes the bad branches as the good will grow, and this seems similar. The idea seems to be that we need to thrive and do a lot of good, and as we grow to fill the world with good, the bad will be removed to give place for the good.

Today, let's be decidedly wheat, striving to grow well and to do good, and be part of the wave of goodness that enables God to selectively clear away the bad and make everything better.

Matthew 5:14-16 -- On Lighting the World

"Ye are the light of the world. A city that is set on an hill cannot be hid.
Neither do men light a candle, and put it under a bushel, but on a candlestick; and it giveth light unto all that are in the house.
Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven."
Matthew 5:14-16


A good reminder that Christ wants us to light the world... to do good, to set an example, to offer light and hope to others. ... I think we have to be careful not to act superior or like *we* are the amazing ones, and to make sure we're glorifying God rather than just drawing attention to ourselves, but we clearly shouldn't be hiding under a bushel either. :)

Today, let's think and counsel with the Lord about how we can share God's light through good works and example... and then let's jump in and do it. :)

Mosiah 29:12 -- On Justice

"Now it is better that a man should be judged of God than of man, for the judgments of God are always just, but the judgments of man are not always just."
Mosiah 29:12


I think sometimes we expect God to be unjust because we are unjust, and we're used to living in an unjust system. With God, we never have to worry about injustice. That's purely a mortal thing. And imagining a future where there is no injustice is amazing, and something to look forward to.

Of course, what we do need to worry about before then is justice, because we so often want advantage and preference rather than true justice.

Thankfully, because of Christ's atonement, we have the chance to repent and change and learn before we get full justice for all of our actions. Christ tempers justice with mercy, paying the price for us so that we can recover from our mistakes and learn to be wiser and kinder.

Today, let's show mercy to others as we desire it for ourselves, and let's learn to be better people and do good, so that when our works are restored to us, it will be a happy day rather than one to be frightened of.

Mosiah 27:16-17 -- On Obedience and Options

"Now I say unto thee: Go, and remember the captivity of thy fathers in the land of Helam, and in the land of Nephi; and remember how great things he has done for them; for they were in bondage, and he has delivered them. And now I say unto thee, Alma, go thy way, and seek to destroy the church no more, that their prayers may be answered, and this even if thou wilt of thyself be cast off.
And now it came to pass that these were the last words which the angel spake unto Alma, and he departed."
Mosiah 27:16-17


This is an interesting angelic appearance. Most of the stories I hear about angels are stories of comfort and protection, but this is clearly one of rebuke. It is awesome that Alma and his friends, all of whom were pretty evil at the time, turned their lives around after this. They chose to listen and obey, rather than continue to rebel, unlike Laman and Lemuel in the early chapters of the Book of Mormon, who also saw an angel. I think from that example we can conclude that the repentance was not a foregone conclusion, or something that any of us would do when confronted by an angel, but rather a specific choice that Alma and all of these men made to change their lives and try to make up for the harm they had done.

Today, let's remember that the Lord rebukes us because he wants to help us change for the better... and let's do as Alma did and open our hearts and our lives to God and allow him to change us as we follow his advice and do his will.

Ecclesiastes 4:6 -- On Vexation of Spirit

"Better is an handful with quietness, than both the hands full with travail and vexation of spirit."
Ecclesiastes 4:6


This sort of reminds me of the Mary-Martha conversation that Christ had in the New Testament, where Martha was really busy working to help everyone, but Mary was sitting and listening to Christ. Martha wanted help, but Christ inferred that Mary had made a good choice, and it wouldn't be taken from her.

The Lord loves effort, but he also provides us, and himself after the creation, with a day of rest. It's hard to strike the right balance between lazy and way too stressed out, but perhaps today we should think about it from both sides. What can we do for the Lord, and also how can we find peace and return our spiritual center, which is Christ?

Let's take the time to find enough quiet and calmness to listen to the Spirit before we launch into the next way-too-busy thing. It's the holiday season... there is a lot to do, but also let's remember what this is all for, and take time to connect with people and with God.

Proverbs 11:12 -- On Holding Our Peace

"He that is void of wisdom despiseth his neighbour: but a man of understanding holdeth his peace."
Proverbs 11:12


I think this is some really good advice, as far as remembering that hate is never wise, and contention benefits noone. Today, let's try to remember that, even in the most trying circumstances, and turn to God rather than to hatred and mockery. He will always help us to find peace and hold it close.

Mormon 8:19-20 -- On Restoration and Repentance

"For behold, the same that judgeth rashly shall be judged rashly again; for according to his works shall his wages be; therefore, he that smiteth shall be smitten again, of the Lord.
Behold what the scripture says—man shall not smite, neither shall he judge; for judgment is mine, saith the Lord, and vengeance is mine also, and I will repay."
Mormon 8:19-20


This is a good reminder of the law of restoration... that we'll have our actions reflected back at us, good for good, bad for bad, although repentence helps us avoid the negative consequences. If we truly change, then we fall under the atonement and Christ pays for us.

I don't think any of us want back all of the things that we have dished out over the years, so today, let's be careful to not judge rashly or to smite. Let's be peacemakers, and generous, and kind. Let's go to God in prayer and work out our repentance with him. God will make all things right in the end. Let's just worry about what we can do to make the universe a little better wherever we go.

Helaman 11:14 -- On Prayer and Repentance

"O Lord, thou didst hearken unto my words when I said, Let there be a famine, that the pestilence of the sword might cease; and I know that thou wilt, even at this time, hearken unto my words, for thou saidst that: If this people repent I will spare them."
Helaman 11:14


A lot of cool things to like here. The idea that God listens to us, and grants us what we desire that is right, is really cool by itself. I also like the prophet calling out here that God wants to spare his people... even the worst prophecies all have that "if" clause. If we repent, God will welcome us back and has the power to spare us from the further consequences of our former mistakes.

Today, let's look into this whole repentance thing... another cool idea, honestly. To be able to really "undo" mistakes, even massive ones... the whole "though your sins be as scarlet" idea... we can be clean and free of guilt, despite whatever is in our pasts. Let's plead with God for help to change and be better than we have been.

Jacob 4:7 -- On Weakness

"Nevertheless, the Lord God showeth us our weakness that we may know that it is by his grace, and his great condescensions unto the children of men, that we have power to do these things."
Jacob 4:7


It's difficult to look on our weaknesses as anything but negative, but I like the idea here that weaknesses make God's hand in our lives clearer. When we can't do something ourselves, it might be easier to accept and appreciate God's assistance.

Today, let's do our best to be grateful for weaknesses, as good lessons in humility and for showing us the obvious hand of God in our lives. :)

Helaman 2:4 -- On Expertise in Words and Craft

"For there was one Gadianton, who was exceedingly expert in many words, and also in his craft, to carry on the secret work of murder and of robbery; therefore he became the leader of the band of Kishkumen."
Helaman 2:4


It's interesting here that things that sound like they would be good (being great at your job for instance) are instead bad... the difference being the use you put your skills to. God gives us so much, and helps us to grow, learn to choose, find how to succeed and what we enjoy, etc. And turning around and choosing to be the best at evil... that's scary. Not just because of the cost to others, but for the soul of whoever makes that choice and then wakes up one day on the other side of the veil and realizes what they did with their lives.

Today, let's remember to put God first in all things, even on things that we feel supremely talented and competent in. Let's use our powers for good rather than evil. :)

Mark 4:39-40 -- On Fear and Faith

"And he arose, and rebuked the wind, and said unto the sea, Peace, be still. And the wind ceased, and there was a great calm. And he said unto them, Why are ye so fearful? how is it that ye have no faith?"
Mark 4:39-40


What strikes me today while reading this is that Christ could face storms without fear, and that he knew his disciples could do the same, so it isn't something that only Christ *could* do, as the Son of God. I think that we fear many times because we don't know what is coming, and whatever it is, it could be bad. But perhaps what Jesus teaches here is that we're in the Lord's hands, and whatever happens, as long as that is true, things are going to be fine, and we can trust that, and we don't have to worry about the storms. We only have to worry about doing our part to help others and make the world better, as God asks. If something happens that we're worried about, we can still trust that God knows what he is doing and that the storm will pass and there will be peace again. He is in charge, and we can trust him. That's my takeaway on this one. :)

Mark 4:22-25 -- On Truth

"For there is nothing hid, which shall not be manifested; neither was any thing kept secret, but that it should come abroad. If any man have ears to hear, let him hear. And he said unto them, Take heed what ye hear: with what measure ye mete, it shall be measured to you: and unto you that hear shall more be given. For he that hath, to him shall be given: and he that hath not, from him shall be taken even that which he hath."
Mark 4:22-25


I like the idea here that nothing is hidden forever, and that eventually the truth will come out. Our deception will come back and bite us, unless of course we repent. :) I also like the idea that there is a lot to learn in the scriptures and in God's word, and that we will be rewarded for seeking truth.

Let's dig into the scriptures today, and learn something. :)

1 Corinthians 7:21-24 -- On Freedom and Service

"Art thou called being a servant? care not for it: but if thou mayest be made free, use it rather.
For he that is called in the Lord, being a servant, is the Lord’s freeman: likewise also he that is called, being free, is Christ’s servant.
Ye are bought with a price; be not ye the servants of men.
Brethren, let every man, wherein he is called, therein abide with God."
1 Corinthians 7:21-24


The idea here seems to be that we are both free and bound in different ways, bought with a price, and yet freed to make our own choices. Our obligation to God is moral and spiritual, not forced on us with manacles or prods, and we should put our service to him above other service.

Today, let's worry less about our circumstances and more about where God is leading us. Let's work towards God's happy ending rather than being mired in worldly concerns. That stuff we need to deal with of course, but it requires only our surface attention. The real ideas, challenges, and joy is in following God on the bright path to perfection and joy.

1 Corinthians 6:7 -- On Eternal Perspective

"Now therefore there is utterly a fault among you, because ye go to law one with another. Why do ye not rather take wrong? why do ye not rather suffer yourselves to be defrauded?"
1 Corinthians 6:7


I think this is a good illustration of just how differently God thinks about things, and the effort that it takes as followers of God to think of the world differently. God is asking us to let go of our pride and to value other people over our need to be right, and over our desires for worldly goods.

Today, let's consider this counsel. It's a tough idea, going along with loving our enemies. God wants us to love as he does--despite our transgressions and betrayals. It won't happen overnight, but let's try to start thinking about people differently, and treating them differently as we allow God to teach us his perspective.

Psalms 50:7-14 -- On Thanksgiving. Vows, and Choices

"Hear, O my people, and I will speak; O Israel, and I will testify against thee: I am God, even thy God.
I will not reprove thee for thy sacrifices or thy burnt offerings, to have been continually before me.
I will take no bullock out of thy house, nor he goats out of thy folds.
For every beast of the forest is mine, and the cattle upon a thousand hills.
I know all the fowls of the mountains: and the wild beasts of the field are mine.
If I were hungry, I would not tell thee: for the world is mine, and the fulness thereof.
Will I eat the flesh of bulls, or drink the blood of goats?
Offer unto God thanksgiving; and pay thy vows unto the most High."
Psalms 50:7-14


I like the idea here that God isn't asking for animal sacrifice for his benefit. Instead, he just wants us to be thankful for the blessings that he offers us, and for us to keep our agreements with him. We've come a long way since then as a society and people, but God still wants the same things... he wants us to be thankful and to keep our covenants.

Today, let's work on seeking and getting to know God, so that we can understand all that he offers us, and our relationship to him. He has everything... he doesn't want our stuff. He wants to help us and teach us, and for us to choose the life and happy ending that he offers us over the temporary, knock-off, illusory happiness that Satan offers. Let's look into the options and take God up on his better offer. :)

Psalms 5:1 -- On Prayer

"Give ear to my words, O Lord, consider my meditation."
Psalms 5:1


I like here how God is asked not just to hear words, but also meditation. Prayer can also be unspoken, in our hearts and thoughts, but making the effort to verbalize it helps us to think through it, and helps us slow down and listen to what God is telling us as we do.

Today, let's have a conversation with God, both mentally and verbally, and even just emotionally for those things that are hard to put into words... but whatever way we do it, let's make the effort to pray and communicate with our Heavenly Father. He has a lot to teach us, and he offers comfort and strength as well, to help us through the tough times.

3 Nephi 12:4 -- Better is Coming

"And again, blessed are all they that mourn, for they shall be comforted."
3 Nephi 12:4


It's interesting to say that people who mourn are blessed. The idea of sorrow turning into joy and mourning into comfort doesn't seem to be about preventing the emotion in the first place, but rather the idea that experiencing sorrow is a blessed thing, or in other words, learning is good. If we understand sorrow, perhaps that helps us to more fully understand and experience joy and comfort, which is like all of life. We're here to learn by the things that we experience, and we have to learn to choose good over evil. I don't think that we can do that without going through at least some sorrowful times... but that's just a small part of eternity, which maybe is part of the lesson. Learning to trust in God and his promises and know that better is coming, even when the day doesn't seem particularly hopeful.

3 Nephi 10:9-10 -- On Mourning and Joy

"And it came to pass that thus did the three days pass away. And it was in the morning, and the darkness dispersed from off the face of the land, and the earth did cease to tremble, and the rocks did cease to rend, and the dreadful groanings did cease, and all the tumultuous noises did pass away.
And the earth did cleave together again, that it stood; and the mourning, and the weeping, and the wailing of the people who were spared alive did cease; and their mourning was turned into joy, and their lamentations into the praise and thanksgiving unto the Lord Jesus Christ, their Redeemer."
3 Nephi 10:9-10


I really like the idea here that mourning can turn into joy. Like the people here, who didn't have any idea if theyy were going to die, and probably wondered if the world was ending because of the greatness of the devastation, they were terrified for days, and then the shaking stopped and things calmed down, and it was over, and they lived through it. And even before Christ comes to talk to them, they are happy again... happy to be alive, to have survived the destruction, and to still have lives to live.

I think we might go through similar panic when we're scared or we don't know why something is happening. We don't know whether or not we will get through it and if there is a new "okay" on the other side, because whatever it is throws us off that much. It isn't a natural disaster, but mentally it might as well be because we're scared and panicking. ... And I think that part of Christ coming in the chapter after this was his coming to help people move on from disaster to life, to show that he keeps his word and loves them and that there is always light waiting for us, no matter how long the darkness. We can and will get through it with God's help.

Today, let's remember the hope that is in Christ, and commune with him and allow him to change our mourning into joy as well.

Helaman 13:7 -- On Glad Tidings

"And behold, an angel of the Lord hath declared it unto me, and he did bring glad tidings to my soul. And behold, I was sent unto you to declare it unto you also, that ye might have glad tidings; but behold ye would not receive me."
Helaman 13:7


I like the idea here that Samuel the Lamanite was preaching because he wanted other people to have the same glad tidings that he did, that brought his soul joy. Useful to keep in mind, I think, because so often our motivations can get crowded with other things. Today, let's turn back to the simple joy that the gospel brings, and let God show us the happiness that he has in store for us, even though we do go through tough trials at the moment. Let's be thankful for what we have rather than upset at what we don't have, and at least for today, enjoy some glad tidings.

Helaman 9:1-2 -- On Testing and Believing God's Word

"Behold, now it came to pass that when Nephi had spoken these words, certain men who were among them ran to the judgment-seat; yea, even there were five who went, and they said among themselves, as they went:
Behold, now we will know of a surety whether this man be a prophet and God hath commanded him to prophesy such marvelous things unto us. Behold, we do not believe that he hath; yea, we do not believe that he is a prophet; nevertheless, if this thing which he has said concerning the chief judge be true, that he be dead, then will we believe that the other words which he has spoken are true."
Helaman 9:1-2


This is an interesting selection, because it sounds very doubtful, but they actually took action and went to see if what the prophet said was true... and they were determined to believe all that he said if this one thing were true. Not ideal, but it seems like a tiny seed of faith... and later when they are released from prison they stand up for Nephi, so it sounds like they were actually converted, and stayed true to that determination.

Today, let's remember these 5 men, and have this much faith, even if we doubt. Instead of just blowing it all off, let's listen to God's words, and let's put in the effort to actually see if they are true... try the experiment. Pray, study, seek, learn... and if it is, then let's follow God and remember that God will be true not only in that one thing, but in all things.

Helaman 4:11 -- On the Consequence of Wickedness

"Now this great loss of the Nephites, and the great slaughter which was among them, would not have happened had it not been for their wickedness and their abomination which was among them; yea, and it was among those also who professed to belong to the church of God."
Helaman 4:11


It's interesting here to look back and see all the loss that they could have avoided had they been righteous. And although at that point, all they could do is move forward, perhaps that hindsight is useful to us, so that we can avoid similar things as well as we can by staying righteous, and ensuring that God can bless us and prosper our ways. As the scriptures say, "all things" work together for the good of those that love God... and if we're not in that zone and part of God's plan, making good things happen, then things seem to fall apart rather quickly.

This is not to say that bad things never happen to good people, because of course they do... and good things sometimes happen to bad people as well. Life is a trial, not a cake walk. But righteousness definitely offers some protections, and invites many blessings, so overall, it's still as much safety as we can get, and we will be close to God that way, and able to discuss with him everything else. :)

We know that the endings are just, and if we do good we will end up with good, and evil will end up with evil. The middle chapters don't always go that way because the hero has to have adventures and learn things, and become stronger through suffering... but eventually the hero triumphs and everything works out. God is the author, and he has told us how it ends. We just have to keep turning the pages. :) Let's be sure to do so, and keep being the heroes that we are meant to be and work with God towards that happy ending.

Acts 10:34-35 -- On Unity

"Then Peter opened his mouth, and said, Of a truth I perceive that God is no respecter of persons:
But in every nation he that feareth him, and worketh righteousness, is accepted with him."
Acts 10:34-35


I like this story, because it shows Peter learning that something he had been taught his whole life he needed to reconsider, and to be open to brotherhood with other nations and peoples... that God is God of all people. I think sometimes all of us fall into this mental trap, seeing only people similar to ourselves as righteous or chosen, when in truth, God has people scattered everywhere that we can help him gather.

Today, let's be open to people from other countries and backgrounds, remembering that God loves them as well as he loves us. Let's be united in turning to the Lord and being one people.

Acts 3:12 -- On the Source

"And when Peter saw it, he answered unto the people, Ye men of Israel, why marvel ye at this? or why look ye so earnestly on us, as though by our own power or holiness we had made this man to walk?"
Acts 3:12


I like how Peter deflects the observers from adoration of the people who used the priesthood to do a miracle here, and instead turns them to the source of the power. All of this comes from God, through his son Jesus Christ. Today, let's remember the source of the miracles in our lives and turn to God rather than any mortal, for our worship. God works through people, but he is the one we serve and the source of all we do. The reason the gospel works is that there is a perfect being in charge rather than all of us imperfect ones. :)

Zephaniah 2:3 -- On Seeking and Meekness

"Seek ye the Lord, all ye meek of the earth, which have wrought his judgment; seek righteousness, seek meekness: it may be ye shall be hid in the day of the Lord’s anger."
Zephaniah 2:3


The idea of meekness is interesting. I think some people see it as weakness or being a doormat, but God doesn't mean it that way at all. To be meek is to see reality--instead of assuming that we can do it all ourselves, we recognize our strengths, weaknesses, and our need for help from God, and our need for each other.

As we seek God and to follow his plan, we'll get the help that we need to succeed in an eternal sense, and we won't find ourselves growing up into tares. Today, let's put some effort into seeking and learning all we can about, and from, the Lord.

Moroni 7:33 -- On Power and Expedience

"And Christ hath said: If ye will have faith in me ye shall have power to do whatsoever thing is expedient in me."
Moroni 7:33


There is so much possibility here. It isn't saying that we can have whatever we want, because sometimes we want things that aren't compatible with God's plan, or we want things in the wrong order or on our own timeline rather than God's. That seems restrictive to us sometimes, but how tiny those restrictions are when you consider everything that God offers us. If we consider Christ's life and the money in the mouth of a fish and the healing and the feeding and the continued miracles... God offers us the same. Not the exact miracles that Christ participated in, but the equivalent blessings and miracles tailored to our own lives. Not what we want always, but what God wants, which in the end is *always* better than what we wanted anyway.

Today, let's think of the abundance of things that the Lord offers us and the blessings that he wants to rain down upon us, rather than the non-expedient things that we are denied. And let's also remember that faith and effort go together, and that the Lord promises us power here, not a wrapped gift on our doorstep (although that can happen, as with the Liahona). We need to get out there and work for our blessings sometimes, but God gives us the power to make them happen. Sometimes after a few failures, or after many failures, but if it is God's will and we don't give up, it will come.

Let's pray and counsel with the Lord, and then have confidence and work for his will in our lives.

1 Corinthians 2:9 -- On Mystery Gifts

"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."
1 Corinthians 2:9


I love the mystery gift idea here. The unknowing in context seems to suggest that the gift is beyond words... so great that we can't really comprehend it. "Worth the effort" seems accurate, but inadequate, because who we become through obedience to God and getting his advice and help is already worth it... I think stunning, beyond measure, perfect, ultimate happiness is probably closer, but still not even scratching the surface.

Today, let's trust in the mysterious abundance that God has in store.

Mosiah 8:13 -- On Interpreters and Other Miracles

"Now Ammon said unto him: I can assuredly tell thee, O king, of a man that can translate the records; for he has wherewith that he can look, and translate all records that are of ancient date; and it is a gift from God. And the things are called interpreters, and no man can look in them except he be commanded, lest he should look for that he ought not and he should perish. And whosoever is commanded to look in them, the same is called seer."
Mosiah 8:13


I love the idea of interpreters here that just require looking, and faith, rather than a deep knowledge of both the languages involved. That seems to me to be a huge miracle, on par with the Liahona, the brother of Jared stones, multiplying loaves and fishes, healing without any physical therapy or surgery, and walking on water. Things that seem out of reach, but that we know God did. This particular one might be getting closer for us, since we have things like Google Translate, but like so many things, our mortal attempts to duplicate what God can do fall short of the miraculous reality.

Today, let's remember how amazing God is, and all that he can do, and let's try to think outside our mortal limitations and trust that God has all power to keep every promise and fulful every prophecy. Let's be willing to believe in things that we might not understand yet, because we know God lives and we have faith in his gospel. He will help us understand as we ask and seek and study.

Mosiah 7:19 -- On Trust and Remembrance

"Therefore, lift up your heads, and rejoice, and put your trust in God, in that God who was the God of Abraham, and Isaac, and Jacob; and also, that God who brought the children of Israel out of the land of Egypt, and caused that they should walk through the Red Sea on dry ground, and fed them with manna that they might not perish in the wilderness; and many more things did he do for them."
Mosiah 7:19


I like the way that the scriptures are used here to enlarge the memory of the people, to recall miracles that had taken place in the past in order to help them to trust and to believe in miracles to come. The scriptures help us in the same way, if we have trust and faith in God enough to believe that he can do for us what he has done for people throughout history.

Let's learn to trust God and to be worthy of his trust, and continue to be his people and witness to the miracles that he does in our lives, helping us learn and become all that we can be.

Mosiah 5:2 -- On Believing and Following Up

"And they all cried with one voice, saying: Yea, we believe all the words which thou hast spoken unto us; and also, we know of their surety and truth, because of the Spirit of the Lord Omnipotent, which has wrought a mighty change in us, or in our hearts, that we have no more disposition to do evil, but to do good continually."
Mosiah 5:2


I really like this verse talking about the "mighty change" in their hearts that has them wanting to do good, and let go of evil. I think this is a common feeling when we hear truth and connect to it, and we get a glimpse of God's plan and how we fit into it. :) After this, the people go on to make a covenant with God that they will keep his commandments... and I think that is part of what this verse is about too. The awesome feeling isn't enough on its own. We have to make sure that change of heart stays with us, and that we incorporate that into who we are, and ask ourselves always, as in Alma 5:26 "if [we] have experienced a change of heart, and if [we] have felt to sing the song of redeeming love, I would ask, can [we] feel so now?"

Today, let's not just read the scriptures and feel briefly enlightened and changed, but let's make sure we keep that light in our lives and make that commitment to God to stick with him... to join his cause, to do his will, and to live in a way that we can retain his Spirit in our lives always.

Helaman 4:8 -- On Siding With God

"And thus those dissenters of the Nephites, with the help of a numerous army of the Lamanites, had obtained all the possession of the Nephites which was in the land southward. And all this was done in the fifty and eighth and ninth years of the reign of the judges."
Helaman 4:8


It's interesting (and sad) to me that so many can be swayed to the wrong side... and by wrong, I mean away from God, not any other worldly grouping. Away from the prophet, away from the gospel, so much so that they join a group that has hated them for centuries, let alone the symbolic joining with Satan who also hates us and craves our destruction.

I imagine that if the Lamanites had written a record it would sound very convincing... how they have been wronged, why they deserve to rule, how their evil was lesser than the Nephites evil... and at times, to be sure, the Nephites *were* more evil. Truth mixed with lies and a general misunderstanding of God's will. Something we should all be wary of, since it is easy to be deceived.

So Moronihah gets in there with the sons of Helaman, and as people begin to repent, they start to prosper and regain their lands. The lesson seems to be that the struggle isn't necessarily between groups of people who call themselves good and evil, but rather a struggle with ourselves to grow closer to, or wander farther away from, God.

Today, let's make sure we aren't on the wrong side, opposing God and hating our neighbors. Let's ask ourselves if what we believe is consistent with God's will, and remember that God is about love and not contention. Let's love our enemies, bless those that seem to curse us, and do good to them that hate us. Let's find some humility and allow the Lord to teach us where we are wrong... for we all are in need of improvement and repentance.

Mormon 8:22 -- On Trust and Faith

"For the eternal purposes of the Lord shall roll on, until all his promises shall be fulfilled."
Mormon 8:22


This is a good reminder that God always keeps his promises, and his plan will come to fruition. The happy ending that we are promised is there, waiting for us, and it is worth every effort. Today, let's trust in God and in his plan, and have the faith to dig in and work on what God asks of us personally and learning and doing God's will in lifting up others and making the world a better place.

2 Nephi 10:22-24 -- On Choosing God's Will

"For behold, the Lord God has led away from time to time from the house of Israel, according to his will and pleasure. And now behold, the Lord remembereth all them who have been broken off, wherefore he remembereth us also.
Therefore, cheer up your hearts, and remember that ye are free to act for yourselves—to choose the way of everlasting death or the way of eternal life.
Wherefore, my beloved brethren, reconcile yourselves to the will of God, and not to the will of the devil and the flesh; and remember, after ye are reconciled unto God, that it is only in and through the grace of God that ye are saved."
2 Nephi 10:22-24


I love the encouragement here that we should cheer up, not only because the Lord remembers us, but because he allows us to choose for ourselves. We can choose to chase after life or death. Our choices have eternal consequences, leading us to one ending or another. Today, let's heed this advice, and through prayer and study and repentance, find a way to convince ourselves to choose the will of God, who offers us the path of life and hope and salvation. His is the happy ending, in which we triumph and find eternal joy.

Alma 15:18 -- On Helping Each other in Tribulation

"Now as I said, Alma having seen all these things, therefore he took Amulek and came over to the land of Zarahemla, and took him to his own house, and did administer unto him in his tribulations, and strengthened him in the Lord."
Alma 15:18


I know that the Lord loves effort, but I also like to see verses like this where prophets are able to take some time to recharge and recover. Even God rested on the seventh day, and it is a good thing to remember that we also need to take appropriate time for some sanity breaks.

Today, let's commune with the Lord and make sure we are taking care of other people around us that might need some mental health support. Emotional strain is important to recover from, just like physical strain.

Isaiah 59:13-20 -- On Christ Coming to Right our Wrongs

"In transgressing and lying against the Lord, and departing away from our God, speaking oppression and revolt, conceiving and uttering from the heart words of falsehood.
And judgment is turned away backward, and justice standeth afar off: for truth is fallen in the street, and equity cannot enter.
Yea, truth faileth; and he that departeth from evil maketh himself a prey: and the Lord saw it, and it displeased him that there was no judgment.
And he saw that there was no man, and wondered that there was no intercessor: therefore his arm brought salvation unto him; and his righteousness, it sustained him.
For he put on righteousness as a breastplate, and an helmet of salvation upon his head; and he put on the garments of vengeance for clothing, and was clad with zeal as a cloak.
According to their deeds, accordingly he will repay, fury to his adversaries, recompence to his enemies; to the islands he will repay recompence.
So shall they fear the name of the Lord from the west, and his glory from the rising of the sun. When the enemy shall come in like a flood, the Spirit of the Lord shall lift up a standard against him.
And the Redeemer shall come to Zion, and unto them that turn from transgression in Jacob, saith the Lord."
Isaiah 59:13-20


Right before this selection it says "our transgressions are with us; and as for our iniquities, we know them" (verse 12) ... so I surmise that this is a list of some of our problems, as a world, before the coming of Christ. Right after this selection it says "As for me, this is my covenant with them, saith the Lord" (verse 21), which seems like God promising all of us that he sees and knows the evil out there (that we made), and that he is going to solve it.

This selection makes it clear that Christ is coming to save us from injustice and untruth... and I think that as more and more of these things are starkly true, as truth and equity fail, God's coming will be seen as needed and necessary... the destruction inextricably paired with the deliverance. A promise of power when there is no one to help the people in need and the ones who are trying to do the right.

Today, let's remember the word of the Lord, and even when it seems like "truth is fallen in the street" and that we are making ourselves prey for departing from evil... let's trust in him, repent, do good, love others, and keep doing the right things even when it is unpopular and causes us problems. God asks us to shine his light to the world, and he will stand up for us and fight the battles that we cannot, and clean up the mess that we made that we don't have the power to remove ourselves. Individually for now, but someday all of it. That is his promise to us, and he will unfailingly fulfil it.

Mosiah 2:15 -- On Conscience

"Yet, my brethren, I have not done these things that I might boast, neither do I tell these things that thereby I might accuse you; but I tell you these things that ye may know that I can answer a clear conscience before God this day."
Mosiah 2:15


The mention here of a clear conscience is cool. I'm thinking that would do wonders for anxiety and self-doubt as well. Let's take a page from King Benjamin today and work on the clear conscience goal through repentance and communinge with God. He can helps us clear our the cobwebs of guilt and help us think differently about ourselves and remember that we are meant for greatness. :)

Alma 10:6-7 -- On Being Called

"Nevertheless, I did harden my heart, for I was called many times and I would not hear; therefore I knew concerning these things, yet I would not know; therefore I went on rebelling against God, in the wickedness of my heart, even until the fourth day of this seventh month, which is in the tenth year of the reign of the judges.
As I was journeying to see a very near kindred, behold an angel of the Lord appeared unto me and said: Amulek, return to thine own house, for thou shalt feed a prophet of the Lord; yea, a holy man, who is a chosen man of God; for he has fasted many days because of the sins of this people, and he is an hungered, and thou shalt receive him into thy house and feed him, and he shall bless thee and thy house; and the blessing of the Lord shall rest upon thee and thy house."
Alma 10:6-7


I really like this admission by Amulek that he was called many times before he actually listened. And maybe those times were less clear and this was God finally getting his attention and giving him something specific to do, or maybe it was always that clear but finally he decided to act. Either way, totally cool of God to keep trying even when we have blocked him out in the past, and awesome and brave of Amulek to take that plunge in the right direction and give up so many other worldly things to finally listen.

I think our lives are this way as well, and it offers hope that God will keep trying with us, and that we can still choose God after ignoring his promptings in the past.

Today, let's listen to God calling us, and help support God's plan in whatever way we can.

Doctrine and Covenants 98:16 -- On Peace and Unity

"Therefore, renounce war and proclaim peace, and seek diligently to turn the hearts of the children to their fathers, and the hearts of the fathers to the children."
Doctrine and Covenants 98:16


A good reminder that as we "forsake all evil and cleave unto all good," and "live by every word which proceedeth forth out of the mouth of God" (verse 11), we stand together, united in seeking peace, and unity not only with one another, but across the generations.

Today, let's remember to listen to God and to promote peace and unity, despite the division around us.

Proverbs 19:11 -- On Passing Over Transgression

"The discretion of a man deferreth his anger; and it is his glory to pass over a transgression."
Proverbs 19:11


I definitely don't think this is an easy thing to learn, but I like the idea here of letting go of anger and overlooking transgression, presumably against us. That's a hard thing when we feel cheated or taken advantage of, and of course isn't appropriate in all cases. Sometimes we need to get out of a situation or take legal action to protect others. Where is makes sense though, and conferring with the Lord, we should let go of our anger and give people grace, as the Lord grants us each day.

Today, let's pass over our feelings of anger and focus instead on the good things that we are thankful for and the things that bring us joy. Let's allow God to deal with the things that we can't change, and focus on the good that we can do in our lives to serve God and to help and lift others.

Proverbs 17:22 -- On Medicinal Hope, Humor, and Happiness

"A merry heart doeth good like a medicine: but a broken spirit drieth the bones.
Proverbs 17:22


A good reminder that a little dose of appropriate humor, and a positive attitude can brighten even the darkest times. Let's ask God to help us find the positive in our lives and to see the light in the midst of the darkness. The weight of eternity is serious, and we shouldn't ignore it, but it's okay to enjoy God's path... in fact, it might be necessary to our health. :) We need to experience sorrow from time to time, but joy is what we are made for. :) Today, let's work on finding the joy.

John 15:12-15 -- On Christ's Friendship

"This is my commandment, That ye love one another, as I have loved you.
Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends.
Ye are my friends, if ye do whatsoever I command you.
Henceforth I call you not servants; for the servant knoweth not what his lord doeth: but I have called you friends; for all things that I have heard of my Father I have made known unto you."
John 15:12-15


I love the idea here of friendship with God. I think it is something that God wants with us, and it puts a lot of things into perspective. When Christ talks about commandments here, he is showing the difference between the request of a friend and the request of a master. Though we owe him everything and he could certainly claim the title of Master and Lord, for that is who he is, instead, he claims friendship.

He laid down his life for us, because we are his friends. He loves us because we are his friends. He asks us to change our lives and to become better and to seek eternal life, because we are his friends and he wants us to be happy, and to have that friendship become stronger and better into eternity. He is in the smallest details of our lives, helping and lifting, as a friend.

Today, let's step back and consider how we are treating our relationship with Christ. Are we treating him as an external authority figure? If so, how would treating him as a friend change things? Let's talk to him as a friend today, and help that bond grow as we listen to his excellent advice. :)

Mosiah 25:7-9 -- On Stories of Wonder and Amazement

"And now, when Mosiah had made an end of reading the records, his people who tarried in the land were struck with wonder and amazement.
For they knew not what to think; for when they beheld those that had been delivered out of bondage they were filled with exceedingly great joy.
And again, when they thought of their brethren who had been slain by the Lamanites they were filled with sorrow, and even shed many tears of sorrow."
Mosiah 25:7-9


I love that the people were so moved by the scriptures/historical records that Mosiah presented to them. I think that is the power of knowing the stories behind the ideas. God doesn't just give us a list of commandments. He shows us how they work in the lives of real people... how they dealt with physical, mental, and emotional challenges, how they learned spiritual resilience, how they learned to trust in and rely on God, etc. God doesn't just give us a map and send us out into the world. He walks with us, his arm outstretched to support and help when we have need, and our stories contain that information.

Today, let's be thankful for the stories and the ability to reach out to God ourselves. Let's remember that everyone's stories are full of wonder and amazement, including our own, and that there are lessons and things to learn from everyone around us, if we accept God's help to find them and to understand. Let's open ourselves to the wonder and amazement found in the miraculous world around us.

Revelation 14:6-7 -- On Giving Glory to God

"And I saw another angel fly in the midst of heaven, having the everlasting gospel to preach unto them that dwell on the earth, and to every nation, and kindred, and tongue, and people,
Saying with a loud voice, Fear God, and give glory to him; for the hour of his judgment is come: and worship him that made heaven, and earth, and the sea, and the fountains of waters."
Revelation 14:6-7


I like the "give glory to him" part here... first, because the's the example of Christ, doing the will of his father, giving him glory rather than taking it for himself. One of the big differences between God's plan and Satan's plan. And I also think that that is just one of the big traps of life... the temptation to glorify yourself, or at least attempt it... wanting to feel important and cool and *better* than others. But we aren't. We might be above average in some things, but other people are above average in other things, and we all have things to learn from each other. Today, let's work on stepping outside ourselves and acknowledging God's hand in our lives, giving him the glory. And let's try to let go of our need to be right, and try out some more humility and listening as well. Tough, I know, but a good day to give it a shot. :)

2 Peter 3:13-14 -- On Being Found in Peace

"Nevertheless we, according to his promise, look for new heavens and a new earth, wherein dwelleth righteousness.
Wherefore, beloved, seeing that ye look for such things, be diligent that ye may be found of him in peace, without spot, and blameless."
2 Peter 3:13-14


This is a good list of things that we might want to think about and focus on... being in peace, without spot, and blameless. The continuing process of repentance and improvement is going to be high on the list for getting there, but the peace part seems especially tough where there are so many divisive opinions swirling around. Today, let's take some time and counsel with the Lord about how to bring more peace into our lives, and let God guide us not only to new heavens and earth, but also to more peace and joy in our current lives than we currently have. :)

D&C 45:66-67 -- On Peace, Refuge, and Terror

"And it shall be called the New Jerusalem, a land of peace, a city of refuge, a place of safety for the saints of the Most High God;
And the glory of the Lord shall be there, and the terror of the Lord also shall be there, insomuch that the wicked will not come unto it, and it shall be called Zion."
Doctrine and Covenants 45:66-67


This is such an interesting idea, about the glory of the Lord being percieved differently by different people, so that it can be both a peaceful refuge and a terror (verses 70 and 74 also talk about the inhabitants of Zion, and the Lord being terrible, at least to them).

We could speculate about why that would be, but I think the central idea is true even now. What God offers, not everyone wants... and even though that is hard to understand, when he offers us all that he has, that's part of what this life is about, and God offers everyone the choice. God seems beautiful to me, but he might look terrible to someone else.

Today, let's look upon God and his gospel with pleasure rather than terror. Let's learn all we can about Christ and get to know his ways and his path. It's up to us whether to walk that path, and to decide for ourselves about whether we will choose to serve the Lord. Let's understand what we are choosing, and see the refuge and the peace behind the perhaps self-conjured illusion of terror. :)

1 Corinthians 16:14 -- On Charity

"Let all your things be done with charity."
1 Corinthians 16:14


Charity here refers to a sense of Christlike love for all people, but I think even in the modern sense of charity as the act of giving to those in need, it still gives the approximate sense of what the Lord asks of us. The idea is to care about the people around us... to treat them like friends rather than strangers.

Today, let's do everything we do with love. Let's stop and think about everything we do and see if we can infuse it with more love. Let's be more genuine and interested and open to learning from others. Let's be willing to spend time and to learn more.

Philippians 4:13 -- On Possibilities

"I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me."
Philippians 4:13


There is a lot of power in this verse, a reminderto us that God can do anything, and that with Christ as out backs, we can too. Today, let's remember this, and trust in God, and be willing to tackle the impossible, and to dream extravagantly, as God wills.

2 Corinthians 5:6-8 -- On Faith and Sight

"Therefore we are always confident, knowing that, whilst we are at home in the body, we are absent from the Lord:
(For we walk by faith, not by sight:)
We are confident, I say, and willing rather to be absent from the body, and to be present with the Lord."
2 Corinthians 5:6-8


The idea here seems to be that confidence comes from faith and not from sight/physical evidence, which makes sense... God's spiritual confidence, which is always true, trumps confidence based only in physical sight, which sometimes fails... frailties and other things that we can't seen can undermine that kind of confidence.

Today, let's work on having faith and confidence in God, knowing that his word is something that we can use to anchor our lives, unlike our own fallible observations. That doesn't mean that we shouldn't look, and learn, but as Paul says there, we should prioritize the spiritual over the physical and trust the Lord and talk to him about everything we observe and learn, to put it correctly into the larger context of God's creations, and so that God can also teach us about things that are unseeable and unknowable without him.

Romans 3:22-23 -- On Difference

"Even the righteousness of God which is by faith of Jesus Christ unto all and upon all them that believe: for there is no difference:
For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God;"
Romans 3:22-23


It's interesting here that it says there is no difference among "all them that believe" ... because clearly there is a difference: we're different people, and God doesn't treat us as though we were identical clones with no personality difference. He loves us, and our personalities. :)

I think the similarity that it is talking about is the one specified in the second verse of the selection. We are alike in that none of us qualifies for heaven. We all fall short of being able to return to God's presence. We are alike in the need for help... for salvation. And that is what Christ offers us. And I think that is also at least part of what unites us. We are trying to help each other find our way back.

Today, let's remember our similarities and work with God to help others and unite to find our way home.

Matthew 4:17 -- On Repentance and Eternity

"From that time Jesus began to preach, and to say, Repent: for the kingdom of heaven is at hand."
Matthew 4:17


Christ here is talking about the Kingdome of Heaven being "at hand" ... perhaps because of his presence, perhaps because all of our lives are short and in the eternal scheme of things, it is soon, perhaps because we should always act as though the kingdom of God is imminent.

Isaiah, a long time before this, quoted God saying "Keep ye judgment, and do justice: for my salvation is near to come," (Isaiah 56:1). Though this nearness seems to us, comparatively, far away, God never lies, so there is definitely truth here, and probably on many levels. One may be that the timescale that God is working with is vast, as with other events in the scriptures, and God is encouraging us to realize that no matter how the hours seem to drag on in certain moments, that objectively our lives are an eyeblink, and that we need to "seize the day" as it were.

Today, let's take advantage of the short time we have in mortality and repent, and do justice, and prepare for eternity, which is always nearer than we realize.

2 Corinthians 3:14-17 -- On Spirit and Clarity

"But their minds were blinded: for until this day remaineth the same veil untaken away in the reading of the old testament; which veil is done away in Christ.
But even unto this day, when Moses is read, the veil is upon their heart.
Nevertheless when it shall turn to the Lord, the veil shall be taken away.
Now the Lord is that Spirit: and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is liberty."
2 Corinthians 3:14-17


It's interesting here how blind minds and blind hearts are the antithesis of freedom, and that when we have the Spirit of the Lord with us, then we are free... free from that blindness and able to see clearly and make informed choices perhaps.

I like that idea, and I think that the spirit works that way... it brings insight and clarity of thought--it opens us up to ideas that we would have never thought of or considered. It helps us think outside the box and not get mired in mental/emotional obstacles, because, suddenly, we can see our way out. :) Today, let's seek to have the spirit in our lives and live so that we are always ready to listen to God's patient guidance.

Acts 3:19-22 -- On Repentance and Restoration

"Repent ye therefore, and be converted, that your sins may be blotted out, when the times of refreshing shall come from the presence of the Lord;
And he shall send Jesus Christ, which before was preached unto you:
Whom the heaven must receive until the times of restitution of all things, which God hath spoken by the mouth of all his holy prophets since the world began.
For Moses truly said unto the fathers, A prophet shall the Lord your God raise up unto you of your brethren, like unto me; him shall ye hear in all things whatsoever he shall say unto you."
Acts 3:19-22


I really like the idea of our sins being blotted out, so repentance seems like a super-good idea. :) I also like the idea of "the times of refreshing" and the "times of restitution of all things" which both seem cool and interesting, although I am sure I don't fully comprehend what is going to happen there. In other verses it tells us that what we do will be restored to us, which is awesome and also frightening. I think repentance probably makes a huge difference in what emotion will win out with that. I'm sure we all have some things that we don't really want to remember, let alone revisit or have restored to us.

Today, let's repent, and keep up the process each day, making permanent changes in our lives so that we never fall under a huge burden of sin that can hold us back from so many things. And if we're already under such a burden... repentance is again the answer. God awaits our return, and will welcome us with open arms.

2 Kings 5:1-3 -- On Making a Difference

"Now Naaman, captain of the host of the king of Syria, was a great man with his master, and honourable, because by him the Lord had given deliverance unto Syria: he was also a mighty man in valour, but he was a leper.
And the Syrians had gone out by companies, and had brought away captive out of the land of Israel a little maid; and she waited on Naaman’s wife.
And she said unto her mistress, Would God my lord were with the prophet that is in Samaria! for he would recover him of his leprosy."
2 Kings 5:1-3


I love the maid in this story. She was a captive and a servant, but she spoke up about what she believed and made a difference. I think we can do the same. Sometimes we think that we have to be larger than life in order to make a difference, but just like this maid, in circumstances less than ideal, we can make a difference just by believing, and speaking up in an appropriate context. We can set an example, we can have faith that God does miracles, that he works through prophets, that he loves his children.

Today, in whatever circumstances, let's stay true to God and in tune with his Spirit, which can teach us the way to go in any situation. Let's be willing to open our mouths and make a difference. Even the smallest things can change the world for the better, with God's help.

Isaiah 29:13-14 -- On Lips and Hearts

"Wherefore the Lord said, Forasmuch as this people draw near me with their mouth, and with their lips do honour me, but have removed their heart far from me, and their fear toward me is taught by the precept of men:
Therefore, behold, I will proceed to do a marvellous work among this people, even a marvellous work and a wonder: for the wisdom of their wise men shall perish, and the understanding of their prudent men shall be hid."
Isaiah 29:13-14


The difference here between lips and hearts in serving and honoring God is significant, and a good reminder for us as we go about our lives. I think it is okay if we're not all the way there yet. We can begin with feelings, or with words, as long as we're continuing to work on it, and to draw closer to the Lord and understand him, and our own feelings about him. If we give up and only have one or the other, that's when we need to worry. :)

Today, let's think about how we honor God, and make sure that our lips and our hearts are connected... that we're following up on what we say and what we feel, and learning to love the Lord with everything that we are. The more we get united internally, the more we'll be able to hear God's words, and be led by the Spirit to help others, improve our own lives, and do good in the world.

Luke 24:15-16 -- On Knowing and Seeing

"And it came to pass, that, while they communed together and reasoned, Jesus himself drew near, and went with them.
But their eyes were holden that they should not know him."
Luke 24:15-16


I love the story of the road to Emmaus. What struck me about it today is the idea that their eyes were "holden" so that they couldn't recognize the Savior. One of the footnotes points to this verse: "Be not forgetful to entertain strangers: for thereby some have entertained angels unawares" (Hebrews 13:2).

I like the idea on one level that we don't really know who we are talking to, and that the people around us could be angels, or even Christ, checking in on us. And therefore, of course, that we should be kind and open with all people. On a different level, it is probably sad that we don't see the spark of angelic nature in everyone, and in ourselves, and treat ourselves and everyone else with more gentleness and reverence anyway, which is also one of the great commandments.

I think for the disciples there is also another aspect, and that is the joy and wonder of getting to know Christ a second time. :) And I wonder if our whole lives are like that. We knew him in the premortal existence, and I am certain that we loved him there. What a great opportunity this life is, for many reasons, but that is one I hadn't thought of. We have the chance to get to know one of our favorite people all over again. :)

Today, let treat everyone as though they were angels, and take the opportunity to get to know God more and more, having faith in our former relationship with God as well as our more recent experiences.

2 Nephi 2:2 -- On Afflictions

"Nevertheless, Jacob, my firstborn in the wilderness, thou knowest the greatness of God; and he shall consecrate thine afflictions for thy gain."
2 Nephi 2:2


I don't really like afflictions, and I doubt anyone else really relishes them, but I do like the idea here that they can be consecrated for our gain... that those things that we suffer can actually do us some good. I think we already see that in some ways. We can look back and see how a hard time in our lives brought us closer to the Lord, or how going through a certain trial helped us learn compassion for others going through something similar. And it is good to recognize those things and see how mortality is teaching us, and know that God's plan is working.

With God, I think even the painful events that we don't understand, that we don't think we learned from but rather broke against... even those, by his grace, can be consecrated to our good, and can mean something positive in our lives. God can turn ill intent back on itself, and heal ALL wounds. Our afflictions need not be permanent scars or holes in our lives, because he can turn them into strength, resilience, compassion... whatever we most need.

Today, let's work with God, and let him work with us, to change and shape us, and to heal us and make us whole.

1 Nephi 8:30-32 -- On Wandering in Strange Roads

"But, to be short in writing, behold, he saw other multitudes pressing forward; and they came and caught hold of the end of the rod of iron; and they did press their way forward, continually holding fast to the rod of iron, until they came forth and fell down and partook of the fruit of the tree.
And he also saw other multitudes feeling their way towards that great and spacious building.
And it came to pass that many were drowned in the depths of the fountain; and many were lost from his view, wandering in strange roads."
1 Nephi 8:30-32


I love Lehi's dream. The "short in writing" version too. :) I like the idea that determination and holding on to the rod/the word of God can get us where we need to go. The scary part of course is the other group, trying to get to the wrong place and drowning or getting lost on the way.

Today, let's read and study and pray and really think about who we want to be, and who we want to be influenced by. God wants us to grow and improve and find joy and love in the gospel/symbolic path to the tree. Satan on the other hand doesn't care which way we destroy ourselves... the building, the fountain, or getting lost. As soon as we wander off the path he rejoices... he's *against* us, not wanting us to find anything, but to just lose ourselves, wandering those strange roads.

Let's choose wisely and well to follow Christ and his plan of love and progress and goodness and joy, rather than someone who doesn't care about us at all, and actually wants us to fail.

Habakkuk 2:9-10 -- On Isolation and Harming Ourselves

"Woe to him that coveteth an evil covetousness to his house, that he may set his nest on high, that he may be delivered from the power of evil!
Thou hast consulted shame to thy house by cutting off many people, and hast sinned against thy soul."
Habakkuk 2:9-10


When I was on my mission we tracted into a man's house who let us in and was friendly. He explained that his philosophy was to do good to and protect his family and friends, but that people outside of that group he wasn't concerned about. The basic idea was that it was okay to overcharge people for his job because it enriched his family. I thought he and his family were awesome, and I don't think he was being intentionally evil. We probably all have some of that "tribal" attitude, where we want to love and protect a certain group of people and put them first. However, the way we treat people, even strangers, is very important to God, who asked us to love our neighbors as we love ourselves, and who gave us the parable of the good Samaritan.

I think that is the idea behind these verses as well. The general desire to set our nests (homes, families) on high (isolate, separate) to protect from evil is a familiar instinct. But as the selection explains, we bring shame to our homes by cutting them off from others, and we sin against our souls by not being willing to reach out to others and to treat them as neighbors rather than strangers. Today, perhaps, we should make sure our instincts to love and protect a group don't alienate us to others. Let's make sure we're out there helping the world as well as our families. Everyone deserves to see our good side, and we enrich ourselves by learning from, and about, others. :)

Daniel 3:16-18 -- On Careful Answers

"Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed-nego, answered and said to the king, O Nebuchadnezzar, we are not careful to answer thee in this matter. If it be so, our God whom we serve is able to deliver us from the burning fiery furnace, and he will deliver us out of thine hand, O king. But if not, be it known unto thee, O king, that we will not serve thy gods, nor worship the golden image which thou hast set up."
Daniel 3:16-18


What struck me today about these verses is the idea of being careful to answer (or not). That phrasing makes me think of someone tiptoeing around an issue as a kind of deception... careful to say only true things, but not in a way that will trigger the person they are talking to, or leaving out that part. And so maybe when our three heroes talk to the king, that is what they are saying... basically, "we are going to tell you plainly, without any shading of meaning."

I also love how they state that God is able, they believe that he will, but that even if not, they are still going to follow him. I think that we can learn a lot from that about how we exercise our faith as well, not only when facing opposition, but even when we pray. We know God has the power to deliver us, and we believe that he will deliver us, but even if he has a plan that requires us to not be delivered from this, we will still trust and obey him, because we know that even if he doesn't deliver us immediately, as we trust him and stay the course, his plan will always save us eventually. The happy ending might take 3 or 4 more chapters and some interesting plot twists, but it is always there waiting for us.

Today, let's be faithful and bold as Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed-nego were, and let's trust in God's deliverance, whether we have to be patient a little longer or not.

Matthew 13:15-16 -- On Eyes, Ears, and Hearts

"For this people’s heart is waxed gross, and their ears are dull of hearing, and their eyes they have closed; lest at any time they should see with their eyes, and hear with their ears, and should understand with their heart, and should be converted, and I should heal them.
But blessed are your eyes, for they see: and your ears, for they hear."
Matthew 13:15-16


I think a lot of what is going on here (and in our lives as well) is how easy it is to become desensitised to the whisperings of the spirit, to the needs of other people, and to anything outside ourselves. It's hard to see the whole picture when we are focused on just a little part of it.

Today, let's pray and ask God to help us tune in to the Spirit, and listen to what is truly important. Sometimes we do need to focus on self-improvement and positive personal change, but often the Spirit wants us to pay attention to something external, to lift and help others, and to find ways to do good and make things better. Let's see, and hear, and understand as God speaks to us, and as the spirit influences us.

Romans 15:5-7 -- On Becoming Likeminded

"Now the God of patience and consolation grant you to be likeminded one toward another according to Christ Jesus:
That ye may with one mind and one mouth glorify God, even the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ.
Wherefore receive ye one another, as Christ also received us to the glory of God."
Romans 15:5-7


I love that God is a God of peace and consolation, and I like the idea here of becoming likeminded with his help. ... I don't think that being likeminded means some sort of Orwellian groupthink or becoming a hive mind, but rather the familiar idea of being on the same page, and working from similar definitions. God asks us to unite in purpose and love, not to give up our individual personalities.

God listens to us individually, of course, and we can see miracles in our lives through prayer. There is perhaps a special efficacy in group prayer, as God indicates that agreement on what to ask helps, and saying "For where two or three are gathered together in my name, there am I in the midst of them" (Matthew 18:19-20).

Today, let's consider more than what is good for us individually as we pray, and let's pray together when and where we can for things that benifit all of us as groups, communities, organizations, and the world. Let's work on being united, and likeminded, caring about the good of others along with our own good.

Isaiah 41:9-10 -- On Being Chosen and Supported

"Thou whom I have taken from the ends of the earth, and called thee from the chief men thereof, and said unto thee, Thou art my servant; I have chosen thee, and not cast thee away.
Fear thou not; for I am with thee: be not dismayed; for I am thy God: I will strengthen thee; yea, I will help thee; yea, I will uphold thee with the right hand of my righteousness."
Isaiah 41:9-10


We're supposed to liken all scriptures to ourselves, so here is a hopeful one that we can apply to our lives as well. We all have access to God, and if we'reading this, then we are also chosen, and are definitely not cast away. God will help us, uphold us, and strengthen us. Let's go forward, doing good, and all things will work together for our good as we strive to do God's will and bring hope and happiness into our own, and other people's, lives. :)

Today, let's remember that we are not cast away, but are chosen, and supported. We can do this, with God's help.

3 Nephi 29:3 -- On Covenants and Preparation

"And ye need not imagine in your hearts that the words which have been spoken are vain, for behold, the Lord will remember his covenant which he hath made unto his people of the house of Israel."
3 Nephi 29:3


It's perhaps easy to dismiss the prophecies in the scriptures sometimes because we don't see any dramatic/imminent signs. But God brings about great things in small and simple ways, and this is a good reminder that we should never dismiss God's word. Everything that he has said will come to pass. He keeps his promises. Even though our lives seem relatively peaceful now, we should still prepare for the future and be ready for disruption in our lives. Not because we kow when everything will happen, but because it is always wise to do as the Lord asks, and some practice at vigilance and obedience can hardly go amiss. :)

3 Nephi 28:3 -- On Blessings and Preferences

"And he said unto them: Blessed are ye because ye desired this thing of me; therefore, after that ye are seventy and two years old ye shall come unto me in my kingdom; and with me ye shall find rest."
3 Nephi 28:3


Reading this today I was thinking about the different choices that Christ's disciples made. I usually gloss over this first choice, moving on to the second. The three Nephites get to live forever with bodies that can't feel pain or most sorrow... they can't be held in prison, they can't be harmed by fire, they just play with the wild beasts that are supposed to kill them... they are functionally immortal and happy. Who wouldn't choose that? ... And yet, I come back to this scripture today and think about all that this means as well. Knowing how long you have to endure, and then immediately following Christ and regaining his presence. Who wouldn't want that? Both good.

Plus, honestly, I would probably choose immortality so I could read all the books, not because I wanted to go on a many-lifetimes mission. I think both of these groups had a lot purer motive, and they both found joy in what they wanted. ... And that's okay, right? We don't have to be cookie cutter followers, all wanting the exact same blessings. God loves us, and he wants to bless us with whatever will bring us the most joy. Today, let's talk to the Lord about our desires, and let his teach us and help us to have clearer motivations, more love, and joy in our individual righteous preferences.

3 Nephi 27:16 -- On Repentance, Baptism, and Being Filled

"And it shall come to pass, that whoso repenteth and is baptized in my name shall be filled; and if he endureth to the end, behold, him will I hold guiltless before my Father at that day when I shall stand to judge the world."
3 Nephi 27:16


I like the idea here of being filled. It points to the fact that we are not filled without that, and hints at what will fill us... the Spirit, the Holy Ghost, which is also called the Comforter. Comparing a life with the Spirit to one without, the effect of being filled seems apparent. It makes all the diffrence, and is one of the big ways that God can communicate with us and teach us. Today, let's work to have that Spirit in our lives to fill us and to allow Christ more fully into our lives and hearts. And once we have it, let's work on keeping it, and continue to repent so that we never lose that connection.

Hebrews 4:12-13 -- On All-Knowing God

"For the word of God is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any twoedged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart.
Neither is there any creature that is not manifest in his sight: but all things are naked and opened unto the eyes of him with whom we have to do."
Hebrews 4:12-13


Reading about anyone being able to know your thoughts and see you at any time could scare anyone in this world of privacy violation. But since this is the scriptures and God we're talking about, we have nothing to worry about. God created us, and he knows us inside and out, and that's good because he knows exactly how to help us... he understands us even when we can't understand ourselves. He also loves us, and won't his knowledge of us in an evil way, but only to help and lift us, which is refresing in a world where scams and phishing proliferate.

Today, let's be thankful that someone already knows us perfectly, and can help us and understand us even in times where we can't express our need or are embarrassed to ask for help. Let's pray and talk to God about our problems... he is always there even when we have no where else to turn... and even when we do, he understands more clearly and has better answers. :)

Matthew 22:37-38 -- The First and Great Commandment

"Jesus said unto him, Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind.
This is the first and great commandment."
Matthew 22:37-38


Back to basics today, and what could be more basic than the first, and great, commandment. I think sometimes we have a tendency to gloss over this one as though it were understood, but I don't think it really is. The idea of putting the love of God first, and loving him with all that we are... I don't think we're there yet, and always a good reminder.

Today, let's remember the very first thing, before we get down into the weeds of other committments and questions. Let's love the Lord... pray to him, learn more about him, listen to him, obey him... everything we can do to learn more about him and love him more. That central focus will make everything else more clear, and getting that priority straight will help us more with other priorities than focusing singly on them individually would. Absolutely everything is better when God is first. Let's take the time to reset our priorities today and make sure God isn't slipping to the bottom, or off, our list of important things when he should be in front of, and part of, all of them.

1 John 3:7 -- On Becoming Righteous

"Little children, let no man deceive you: he that doeth righteousness is righteous, even as he is righteous."
1 John 3:7


This is a good reminder that learning to be like Christ is practicing righteousness... repenting daily and striving to do better. It's a process for us, but he set the example, helped us to see how to treat others, how to take time to commune with God, how to heal and love and teach, and so much more. Today, let's remember that it takes action and effort to change and to learn to follow God's path, but he will help us as we are willing to follow him.

Isaiah 10:20 -- On Staying Upon the Lord

"And it shall come to pass in that day, that the remnant of Israel, and such as are escaped of the house of Jacob, shall no more again stay upon him that smote them; but shall stay upon the Lord, the Holy One of Israel, in truth."
Isaiah 10:20


This is an interesting verse that gives a different twist than Isaiah 9:13. In that verse it seems like the Lord is doing the smiting, but here, clearly, the remnant is leaving the abuser (Satan perhaps?), and turning to the Lord. It's a symbolically great verse because it shows the Lord as the rescuer, which is exactly what he is, even when we have been smiting ourselves. He teaches us a better way to live than wherever we are now, and lifts and helps us to hope and joy.

Today, let's pray for rescue, even if it is just the trap of our own habits and thoughts. God wants us to reach out to him, and he stands ready to aid us. We just have to invite him in, and he will help us wherever we are, however much we can accept, and little by little as we learn to follow him, he will bring us home.

Isaiah 9:12-13 -- On The Stretched Out Hand

The Syrians before, and the Philistines behind; and they shall devour Israel with open mouth. For all this his anger is not turned away, but his hand is stretched out still.
For the people turneth not unto him that smiteth them, neither do they seek the Lord of hosts.
Isaiah 9:12-13


It's a weird thought here, the idea of turning to the person that hit you. It sounds like an awful idea, and I think in our lives with imperfect people, it almost always is. Forgiveness seems appropriate and necessary, but trust less so in a situation like that.

However, this is the scriptures and we're talking about the Lord, so let's examine this a little more closely. The hand that is stretched out we read about a lot, and symbolically it can be a hand of punishment, but it is also a hand of creation, mercy, and healing. And the smiting is, instead of being abuse, the just consequences of sin... and yet, the Lord's hand remains stretched out to save. At any point we can turn around, let go of our sin, and be gathered home to God in love and forgiveness.

The prodigal son suffered, but he remembered that in his father's house, even the lowest servants were treated better than the way he was living, and her turned around. We might think that whatever punishment or pain we endure in this life is being smitten of the Lord, and so it is, but only in an abstract sense. God made all of this, and he knows that it will happen, but he doesn't want us to suffer at all. He wants us to turn around and make better choices, and all of this is designed to teach us that... to choose joy and mercy and love rather than lust and greed and emptiness.

Today, let's remember the difference between God and an abuser. Let's remember that God set an example for us of love and healing, and let's trust him to do the same for us as we return to him.

John 11:4 -- On the Classroom of Life

"When Jesus heard that, he said, This sickness is not unto death, but for the glory of God, that the Son of God might be glorified thereby."
John 11:4


This is an interesting verse that, to me, seems to pull the reader out of the narrative and force them to see the constructed nature of the world. To be clear, I am not at all saying that this event didn't actually happen... I firmly believe that it did. Just, like the incident where Christ told Peter to catch a certain fish to obtain a peice of money, or told his disciples where to go to borrow a donkey, this is an event that shows us that someone is controlling things behind the scenes.

That doesn't make our lives meaningless or our pain proof that God wants to see us suffer--I think what it does mean is what God and the prophets have been telling us all along: that this life is a time to prepare to meet God, a temporary time we are blessedly give us to learn where we can enjoy mercy rather than suffer immediate and dire consequences for our sins... a trial, a test, a short life between eternities, where we can learn to choose, to adjust to having a body, to learn to choose for ourselves and to understand the difference between good and evil.

Christ tells us here that the sickness wasn't one that would normally kill someone, but because God wanted to show the people (and everyone through the scriptures) a miracle, it became lethal. Christ knew exactly what was going on the whole time, and delayed to make the whole scene perfect. ... And yet, when he gets there and meets Mary and Martha, and knows how much they suffered, and when he is in the situation as a family friend, it does affect him emotionally. He cries. He feels and knows the reality of it in the moment, even though he knows God is directing all of it, and also knows that he he will one day transcend his own life. It *is* all real... but it is also all temporary and in some ways artificial in the sense that it is created, not naturally occurring. But isn't that what we have been told since Genesis?

Today, let's try to understand the reality of the creation and God as the director of our lives. Let's take seriously the idea that everything around us is designed for our experience and will eventually turn to our good as we meet those experiences with faith and trust in the Lord. Let's not give up on life or other people as fake, because they aren't at all... but let's understand in a real way that what God asks is the most important part of all of this. We need to learn, and become, and prepare. That's the point of all of it.

3 Nephi 20:21 -- On Establishing a People

"And it shall come to pass that I will establish my people, O house of Israel."
3 Nephi 20:21


I love the idea of The Lord establishing his people...I think it captures the fact that the Lord is invested in building us up, into making us amazing, and he feels protective and connected to us. And as a people--as HIS people, we can have that same connection to him, and to each other.

Today, let's work with God as he helps to establish and strengthen us. Let's be willing to stand up and to grow as we strive to do good, help others, and make the world a better place.

3 Nephi 19:3 -- On Glorious Opportunity and Effort

"Yea, and even all the night it was noised abroad concerning Jesus; and insomuch did they send forth unto the people that there were many, yea, an exceedingly great number, did labor exceedingly all that night, that they might be on the morrow in the place where Jesus should show himself unto the multitude."
3 Nephi 19:3


This part always gets me. I love that they worked all night to get there... and I feel like that is exactly what I would do in the same circumstance, but then I wonder if I would be like... meh, too much effort. The chance to see Jesus, face to face... amazing. But do I make the same effort to do the things that he asks in normal life, and is that a better measure of what I would do?

Today, let's make sure we are laboring to be with God. Sometimes the easiest things are the things that we leave out the most. Let's pray and study the scriptures, making sure those solid things are in place, and let's also take time to listen to and learn from modern prophets, who are the voice of Christ to us in our day as well, and deserving of some effort. :)

3 Nephi 18:18-20 -- On Watching and Praying

"Behold, verily, verily, I say unto you, ye must watch and pray always lest ye enter into temptation; for Satan desireth to have you, that he may sift you as wheat.
Therefore ye must always pray unto the Father in my name;
And whatsoever ye shall ask the Father in my name, which is right, believing that ye shall receive, behold it shall be given unto you."
3 Nephi 18:18-20


This is an excellent reminder. We sometimes fall out of the habit of prayer, and God asking us to watch is another thing to pay attention to. I definitely don't think that God wants us to sit home wrapped in bubble wrap, too cautious to do bold thinks and break new ground... he asks us to be a light and to find our own promised land, to take initiative and be a force for good. But as we do that, we should also be wary of bad influences, of people taking advantage, of "little" sins and mistakes that can develop into big problems and take away freedom and opportunity.

Today, let's take time and remember to pray... and ask specifically for the things that we need, and for help in watching for the bad influences and temptations, and the power to avoid them. We don't have to do any of it alone, which is why we have prayer and the Spirit, and God watching over us. Let's remember to be bold, but also watchful, prayerful, and faithful, trusting in God to guide us and help us as we strive to do good and uplift others.

3 Nephi 18:3-4 -- On The Sacrament

"And when the disciples had come with bread and wine, he took of the bread and brake and blessed it; and he gave unto the disciples and commanded that they should eat.
And when they had eaten and were filled, he commanded that they should give unto the multitude."
3 Nephi 18:3-4


I kind of like the idea that it was kind of like a meal, which it seems is implied by the "filled" part. I don't think that we're going astray from Christ's teachings in the modern day because of it... I think the idea is symbolic and focusing on Christ's sacrifice for us, and committing to do better is the main idea here. It reminds me of Christ feeding crowds of people in the New Testament though, and although providing for the poor is probably one aspect of it (even here in 3 Nephi, these people had been through a lot, and might not have had a lot of food available), I also love the idea of it being a longer ritual, there in the actual presence of Christ.

I don't think we would go through the sacrament as quickly if Christ were physically with us, and maybe that is something to think about... how important the whole idea is, and what he instructs here, and what he asks. We aren't always going to get this much time with the sacrament, but today, perhaps, we can take that time as we read this chapter and commit to follow Christ's example.

3 Nephi 17:2-3 -- On Preparing Our Minds

"I perceive that ye are weak, that ye cannot understand all my words which I am commanded of the Father to speak unto you at this time.
Therefore, go ye unto your homes, and ponder upon the things which I have said, and ask of the Father, in my name, that ye may understand, and prepare your minds for the morrow, and I come unto you again."
3 Nephi 17:2-3


This struck me today I think because conference is coming soon, and this is exactly what we should be doing to prepare for that, but also I wonder... when are we ever *not* in this state? We read and listen, but we rarely understand all of God's words.

Today, let's ponder and pray, and prepare our minds. Not just for conference, but for help understanding the things that we don't yet, all around us. God will help us if we ask him, not just with the scriptures, but with life itself, all of our relationships and challenges. Life is part of the gospel, and our Father in Heaven will help us with all of it as we reach out to him, and as we ponder and pray. Let's exercise a little bit of faith and ask for help solving specific questions, and he will help us.

Ezekiel 5:15 -- On Destruction and Instruction

"So it shall be a reproach and a taunt, an instruction and an astonishment unto the nations that are round about thee, when I shall execute judgments in thee in anger and in fury and in furious rebukes. I the Lord have spoken it."
Ezekiel 5:15


I like that it mentions instruction here... sometimes that seems to be the only saving grace of some events. At least they teach us. Today, perhaps we should look for the instruction in whatever challengas we currently face. The more we learn, the closer we get to a day when the destruction isn't necessary.

2 Nephi 14:1 -- On Unity and Humility

"And in that day, seven women shall take hold of one man, saying: We will eat our own bread, and wear our own apparel; only let us be called by thy name to take away our reproach."
2 Nephi 14:1


This is a verse that is also found in Isaiah, and in the Old Testament it seems to suggest women who are ashamed of being single, unmarried, or childless, which was looked down on. There are pockets of that attitude now, but I think then it was much more prevalent. ... However, this verse is supposed to be a prediction of the Millennium, or the transition to it at least, so it is interesting that it is similar, perhaps predicting a period of time when there will be many fewer men than women, and where the attitude will once again be prevalent that women are a disappointment if they are not attached to a man.

It's an interesting question in the context of the gospel, for certainly we are encouraged to be united. God introduced the concept of marriage, and suggested that it was not good for man to be alone. God encourages community and unity and service and love, which all implies and involves other people. So clearly we shouldn't all become hermits or shut out the rest of the world. :) On the other hand, I don't recall God ever teaching that single people should be ashamed or condemned. He encouraged people to care for widows and orphans... emphasis on taking care of each other rather than telling them to rejoin the world or finding fault with their unattached state, so it seems to be that the idea is taking care of each other.

In this prophecy, perhaps food and clothing are scarce and they want to join a community that normally wouldn't allow them in if they can't take care of them, but they offer to take care of themselves. It isn't certain that it is a marriage/polygamy, but perhaps implied because of them being called by his name. Could be a tribal thing as well I suppose. The other interesting thing to point out here is the chapter before, where it is mentioned that the "daughters of Zion" have been prideful, and they will be brought down to desolation and humility, so that could also be what is going on here... a continuation of that idea, where the women are humble enough to join together to a community, or a family, rather than thinking they can do everything themselves.

Today, let's think about what it means to be connected and joined together in love with the people around us. Let's not encourage "reproach," but consult with God about how we can righteously connect with others and build a more united society, where not only the hearts of the children and fathers turn to each other, but also where we are all open to satisfying family and personal relationships.

Mosiah 12:35 -- On God First, Everybody Wins

"Thou shalt have no other God before me."
Mosiah 12:35


Like the other commandments, this is about helping us rather than ego. If God is number one in our lives, then we aren't going to fall into traps that can come from putting anything else first. We avoid selfishness, addiction, lust, greed... and we learn at the feet of the Master everything that we need for eternal life. Today, let's remember that becoming sincere and dedicated followers of God and making his priorities our priorities is the very best thing that we can do with our lives and our hearts... best for us, best for God, best for the world. It's the only true "everybody wins" choice out there. :)

3 Nephi 12:44-45 -- On the Evil and the Good

"But behold I say unto you, love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them who despitefully use you and persecute you;
That ye may be the children of your Father who is in heaven; for he maketh his sun to rise on the evil and on the good."
3 Nephi 12:44-45


Reading this, I think it is possible to catch the tiniest sliver of the vision that God has of all of us... everyone, whether our behavior is evil or good, is a child of God. and valuable to him. Part of our family in real ways. Someone that God wants to save. And grasping that vision is part of why we are here. God offers us his perspective even, if we pray and ask for it, he will share the love of God, his love, with us, and help us see others as he does. In most cases it won't be instant, but he can teach us to see more clearly, and to have compassion for everyone, if we are willing to ask, and work at it.

Today, let's try to catch more of the vision, and treat everyone better, even if they lie or betray or harm us. We shouldn't stay in abusive situations, but we can learn to forgive, and we can change ourselves and make the world better even when we can't change anyone else. Let's pray and talk to God about learning to see others more clearly and love them more.