3 And arise up and be more careful henceforth in observing your vows, which you have made and do make, and you shall be blessed with exceeding great blessings.
4 Wait patiently until the solemn assembly shall be called of my servants, then you shall be remembered with the first of mine elders, and receive right by ordination with the rest of mine elders whom I have chosen.
5 Behold, this is the promise of the Father unto you if you continue faithful.
6 And it shall be fulfilled upon you in that day that you shall have right to preach my gospel wheresoever I shall send you, from henceforth from that time.
7 Therefore, strengthen your brethren in all your conversation, in all your prayers, in all your exhortations, and in all your doings.
The best verse was the last one. It's good advice.
Saturday, January 31, 2009
Friday, January 30, 2009
D&C 102, D&C 123
12 Whenever a high council of the church of Christ is regularly organized, according to the foregoing pattern, it shall be the duty of the twelve councilors to cast lots by numbers, and thereby ascertain who of the twelve shall speak first, commencing with number one and so in succession to number twelve.
13 Whenever this council convenes to act upon any case, the twelve councilors shall consider whether it is a difficult one or not; if it is not, two only of the councilors shall speak upon it, according to the form above written.
14 But if it is thought to be difficult, four shall be appointed; and if more difficult, six; but in no case shall more than six be appointed to speak.
15 The accused, in all cases, has a right to one-half of the council, to prevent insult or injustice.
16 And the councilors appointed to speak before the council are to present the case, after the evidence is examined, in its true light before the council; and every man is to speak according to equity and justice.
I wonder if this is still how it is. These verses are about when there are problems in the church and how they go about meeting and fixing them. I have a hard time thinking they just draw numbers. It feels like a more spiritual thing.
123
8 It is an iron yoke, it is a strong band; they are the very handcuffs, and chains, and shackles, and fetters of hell.
9 Therefore it is an imperative duty that we owe, not only to our own wives and children, but to the widows and fatherless, whose husbands and fathers have been murdered under its iron hand;
10 Which dark and blackening deeds are enough to make hell itself shudder, and to stand aghast and pale, and the hands of the very devil to tremble and palsy.
11 And also it is an imperative duty that we owe to all the rising generation, and to all the pure in heart—
This is talking about the persecution. This is so powerful because they were in the midst of all the terror and they were being told that they must persevere for the sake of the others who don't have the truth because they don't know where to find it. That is a bold thing to say to someone in such a terrible situation, and amazing. They found their strength in God and it shows in some of the writings.
13 Whenever this council convenes to act upon any case, the twelve councilors shall consider whether it is a difficult one or not; if it is not, two only of the councilors shall speak upon it, according to the form above written.
14 But if it is thought to be difficult, four shall be appointed; and if more difficult, six; but in no case shall more than six be appointed to speak.
15 The accused, in all cases, has a right to one-half of the council, to prevent insult or injustice.
16 And the councilors appointed to speak before the council are to present the case, after the evidence is examined, in its true light before the council; and every man is to speak according to equity and justice.
I wonder if this is still how it is. These verses are about when there are problems in the church and how they go about meeting and fixing them. I have a hard time thinking they just draw numbers. It feels like a more spiritual thing.
123
8 It is an iron yoke, it is a strong band; they are the very handcuffs, and chains, and shackles, and fetters of hell.
9 Therefore it is an imperative duty that we owe, not only to our own wives and children, but to the widows and fatherless, whose husbands and fathers have been murdered under its iron hand;
10 Which dark and blackening deeds are enough to make hell itself shudder, and to stand aghast and pale, and the hands of the very devil to tremble and palsy.
11 And also it is an imperative duty that we owe to all the rising generation, and to all the pure in heart—
This is talking about the persecution. This is so powerful because they were in the midst of all the terror and they were being told that they must persevere for the sake of the others who don't have the truth because they don't know where to find it. That is a bold thing to say to someone in such a terrible situation, and amazing. They found their strength in God and it shows in some of the writings.
Thursday, January 29, 2009
Joseph Smith History
36 After telling me these things, he commenced quoting the prophecies of the Old Testament. He first quoted part of the third chapter of Malachi; and he quoted also the fourth or last chapter of the same prophecy, though with a little variation from the way it reads in our Bibles. Instead of quoting the first verse as it reads in our books, he quoted it thus:
37 For behold, the day cometh that shall burn as an oven, and all the proud, yea, and all that do wickedly shall burn as stubble; for they that come shall burn them, saith the Lord of Hosts, that it shall leave them neither root nor branch.
38 And again, he quoted the fifth verse thus: Behold, I will reveal unto you the Priesthood, by the hand of Elijah the prophet, before the coming of the great and dreadful day of the Lord.
39 He also quoted the next verse differently: And he shall plant in the hearts of the children the promises made to the fathers, and the hearts of the children shall turn to their fathers. If it were not so, the whole earth would be utterly wasted at his coming.
I feel like I've been reading scriptures this week with the wrong intent. I haven't felt inspired or felt like my testing is correct. I need to regroup and start over. Tomorrow things are going to be different and I'm starting anew.
37 For behold, the day cometh that shall burn as an oven, and all the proud, yea, and all that do wickedly shall burn as stubble; for they that come shall burn them, saith the Lord of Hosts, that it shall leave them neither root nor branch.
38 And again, he quoted the fifth verse thus: Behold, I will reveal unto you the Priesthood, by the hand of Elijah the prophet, before the coming of the great and dreadful day of the Lord.
39 He also quoted the next verse differently: And he shall plant in the hearts of the children the promises made to the fathers, and the hearts of the children shall turn to their fathers. If it were not so, the whole earth would be utterly wasted at his coming.
I feel like I've been reading scriptures this week with the wrong intent. I haven't felt inspired or felt like my testing is correct. I need to regroup and start over. Tomorrow things are going to be different and I'm starting anew.
Wednesday, January 28, 2009
D&C 128, Article of Faith 8
2 I wrote a few words of revelation to you concerning a recorder. I have had a few additional views in relation to this matter, which I now certify. That is, it was declared in my former letter that there should be a recorder, who should be eye-witness, and also to hear with his ears, that he might make a record of a truth before the Lord.
3 Now, in relation to this matter, it would be very difficult for one recorder to be present at all times, and to do all the business. To obviate this difficulty, there can be a recorder appointed in each ward of the city, who is well qualified for taking accurate minutes; and let him be very particular and precise in taking the whole proceedings, certifying in his record that he saw with his eyes, and heard with his ears, giving the date, and names, and so forth, and the history of the whole transaction; naming also some three individuals that are present, if there be any present, who can at any time when called upon certify to the same, that in the mouth of two or three witnesses every word may be established.
4 Then, let there be a general recorder, to whom these other records can be handed, being attended with certificates over their own signatures, certifying that the record they have made is true. Then the general church recorder can enter the record on the general church book, with the certificates and all the attending witnesses, with his own statement that he verily believes the above statement and records to be true, from his knowledge of the general character and appointment of those men by the church. And when this is done on the general church book, the record shall be just as holy, and shall answer the ordinance just the same as if he had seen with his eyes and heard with his ears, and made a record of the same on the general church book.
5 You may think this order of things to be very particular; but let me tell you that it is only to answer the will of God, by conforming to the ordinance and preparation that the Lord ordained and prepared before the foundation of the world, for the salvation of the dead who should die without a knowledge of the gospel.
This is talking about baptisms for the dead. These days they don't appoint a specific person do they? It is just the person who is there and can do it. This is interesting. I've never read this before. It's all so orderly.
Articles of Faith:
8 We believe the Bible to be the word of God as far as it is translated correctly; we also believe the Book of Mormon to be the word of God.
Yes we do. ;)
I notice I have far less to say when I am tired... I exercised while Kaia was napping instead of reading scriptures...
3 Now, in relation to this matter, it would be very difficult for one recorder to be present at all times, and to do all the business. To obviate this difficulty, there can be a recorder appointed in each ward of the city, who is well qualified for taking accurate minutes; and let him be very particular and precise in taking the whole proceedings, certifying in his record that he saw with his eyes, and heard with his ears, giving the date, and names, and so forth, and the history of the whole transaction; naming also some three individuals that are present, if there be any present, who can at any time when called upon certify to the same, that in the mouth of two or three witnesses every word may be established.
4 Then, let there be a general recorder, to whom these other records can be handed, being attended with certificates over their own signatures, certifying that the record they have made is true. Then the general church recorder can enter the record on the general church book, with the certificates and all the attending witnesses, with his own statement that he verily believes the above statement and records to be true, from his knowledge of the general character and appointment of those men by the church. And when this is done on the general church book, the record shall be just as holy, and shall answer the ordinance just the same as if he had seen with his eyes and heard with his ears, and made a record of the same on the general church book.
5 You may think this order of things to be very particular; but let me tell you that it is only to answer the will of God, by conforming to the ordinance and preparation that the Lord ordained and prepared before the foundation of the world, for the salvation of the dead who should die without a knowledge of the gospel.
This is talking about baptisms for the dead. These days they don't appoint a specific person do they? It is just the person who is there and can do it. This is interesting. I've never read this before. It's all so orderly.
Articles of Faith:
8 We believe the Bible to be the word of God as far as it is translated correctly; we also believe the Book of Mormon to be the word of God.
Yes we do. ;)
I notice I have far less to say when I am tired... I exercised while Kaia was napping instead of reading scriptures...
Tuesday, January 27, 2009
D&C 94
15 That they may do the work which I have appointed unto them, to be a committee to build mine houses, according to the commandment, which I, the Lord God, have given unto you.
16 These two houses are not to be built until I give unto you a commandment concerning them.
17 And now I give unto you no more at this time. Amen.
Do my work, but wait for me to tell you when.
We have been commanded to do a few things and are waiting for the right time. I can relate to this. It's scary to think about missing the right time. Would we be given another chance or would the opportunity be missed? Gotta stay alert and in the spirit.
16 These two houses are not to be built until I give unto you a commandment concerning them.
17 And now I give unto you no more at this time. Amen.
Do my work, but wait for me to tell you when.
We have been commanded to do a few things and are waiting for the right time. I can relate to this. It's scary to think about missing the right time. Would we be given another chance or would the opportunity be missed? Gotta stay alert and in the spirit.
Monday, January 26, 2009
2 Nephi 16
1 In the year that king Uzziah died, I saw also the Lord sitting upon a throne, high and lifted up, and his train filled the temple.
2 Above it stood the seraphim; each one had six wings; with twain he covered his face, and with twain he covered his feet, and with twain he did fly.
3 And one cried unto another, and said: Holy, holy, holy, is the Lord of Hosts; the whole earth is full of his glory.
4 And the posts of the door moved at the voice of him that cried, and the house was filled with smoke.
This sounds like a horror movie. Or a suspense thriller.
5 Then said I: Wo is unto me! for I am undone; because I am a man of unclean lips; and I dwell in the midst of a people of unclean lips; for mine eyes have seen the King, the Lord of Hosts.
6 Then flew one of the seraphim unto me, having a live coal in his hand, which he had taken with the tongs from off the altar;
7 And he laid it upon my mouth, and said: Lo, this has touched thy lips; and thine iniquity is taken away, and thy sin purged.
I'd rather take the sacrament. This sounds harsh.
2 Above it stood the seraphim; each one had six wings; with twain he covered his face, and with twain he covered his feet, and with twain he did fly.
3 And one cried unto another, and said: Holy, holy, holy, is the Lord of Hosts; the whole earth is full of his glory.
4 And the posts of the door moved at the voice of him that cried, and the house was filled with smoke.
This sounds like a horror movie. Or a suspense thriller.
5 Then said I: Wo is unto me! for I am undone; because I am a man of unclean lips; and I dwell in the midst of a people of unclean lips; for mine eyes have seen the King, the Lord of Hosts.
6 Then flew one of the seraphim unto me, having a live coal in his hand, which he had taken with the tongs from off the altar;
7 And he laid it upon my mouth, and said: Lo, this has touched thy lips; and thine iniquity is taken away, and thy sin purged.
I'd rather take the sacrament. This sounds harsh.
Saturday, January 24, 2009
4 Nephi 1
37 Therefore the true believers in Christ, and the true worshipers of Christ, (among whom were the three disciples of Jesus who should tarry) were called Nephites, and Jacobites, and Josephites, and Zoramites.
The three of them dwelt with the group. I wonder if they do that today. Like, I wonder if they just attend someone's ward or if they spend most time like missionaries, traveling the globe. I wonder if you would know if you had met them. That would be cool.
38 And it came to pass that they who rejected the gospel were called Lamanites, and Lemuelites, and Ishmaelites; and they did not dwindle in unbelief, but they did wilfully rebel against the gospel of Christ; and they did teach their children that they should not believe, even as their fathers, from the beginning, did dwindle.
This is quite bad. They did believe, but completely did not care. And they taught their children the wrong things. This is serious business.
39 And it was because of the wickedness and abomination of their fathers, even as it was in the beginning. And they were taught to hate the children of God, even as the Lamanites were taught to hate the children of Nephi from the beginning.
I wonder if Laman and Lemuel look back on this and just kick themselves for what they started. Do they feel terrible, or do they still not care?
40 And it came to pass that *two hundred and forty and four years had passed away, and thus were the affairs of the people. And the more wicked part of the people did wax strong, and became exceedingly more numerous than were the people of God.
41 And they did still continue to build up churches unto themselves, and adorn them with all manner of precious things. And thus did two hundred and fifty years pass away, and also two hundred and sixty years.
42 And it came to pass that the wicked part of the people began again to build up the secret oaths and combinations of Gadianton.
43 And also the people who were called the people of Nephi began to be proud in their hearts, because of their exceeding riches, and become vain like unto their brethren, the Lamanites.
44 And from this time the disciples began to sorrow for the sins of the world.
This is the sorrow the prophets must feel from time to time. And yet they do not harden their hearts. That would be the easy route. Not letting things get to you by hardening your heart. A good practice to stay away from being vain about riches is to give away your stuff from time to time. It's fun.
The three of them dwelt with the group. I wonder if they do that today. Like, I wonder if they just attend someone's ward or if they spend most time like missionaries, traveling the globe. I wonder if you would know if you had met them. That would be cool.
38 And it came to pass that they who rejected the gospel were called Lamanites, and Lemuelites, and Ishmaelites; and they did not dwindle in unbelief, but they did wilfully rebel against the gospel of Christ; and they did teach their children that they should not believe, even as their fathers, from the beginning, did dwindle.
This is quite bad. They did believe, but completely did not care. And they taught their children the wrong things. This is serious business.
39 And it was because of the wickedness and abomination of their fathers, even as it was in the beginning. And they were taught to hate the children of God, even as the Lamanites were taught to hate the children of Nephi from the beginning.
I wonder if Laman and Lemuel look back on this and just kick themselves for what they started. Do they feel terrible, or do they still not care?
40 And it came to pass that *two hundred and forty and four years had passed away, and thus were the affairs of the people. And the more wicked part of the people did wax strong, and became exceedingly more numerous than were the people of God.
41 And they did still continue to build up churches unto themselves, and adorn them with all manner of precious things. And thus did two hundred and fifty years pass away, and also two hundred and sixty years.
42 And it came to pass that the wicked part of the people began again to build up the secret oaths and combinations of Gadianton.
43 And also the people who were called the people of Nephi began to be proud in their hearts, because of their exceeding riches, and become vain like unto their brethren, the Lamanites.
44 And from this time the disciples began to sorrow for the sins of the world.
This is the sorrow the prophets must feel from time to time. And yet they do not harden their hearts. That would be the easy route. Not letting things get to you by hardening your heart. A good practice to stay away from being vain about riches is to give away your stuff from time to time. It's fun.
Friday, January 23, 2009
Joseph Smith History, 2 Peter 3
33 He called me by name, and said unto me that he was a messenger sent from the presence of God to me, and that his name was Moroni; that God had a work for me to do; and that my name should be had for good and evil among all nations, kindreds, and tongues, or that it should be both good and evil spoken of among all people.
Could you imagine being a child, poor and uneducated, that your name would be known throughout the world?
34 He said there was a book deposited, written upon gold plates, giving an account of the former inhabitants of this continent, and the source from whence they sprang. He also said that the fulness of the everlasting Gospel was contained in it, as delivered by the Savior to the ancient inhabitants;
35 Also, that there were two stones in silver bows—and these stones, fastened to a breastplate, constituted what is called the Urim and Thummim—deposited with the plates; and the possession and use of these stones were what constituted “seers” in ancient or former times; and that God had prepared them for the purpose of translating the book.
36 After telling me these things, he commenced quoting the prophecies of the Old Testament. He first quoted part of the third chapter of Malachi; and he quoted also the fourth or last chapter of the same prophecy, though with a little variation from the way it reads in our Bibles. Instead of quoting the first verse as it reads in our books, he quoted it thus:
37 For behold, the day cometh that shall burn as an oven, and all the proud, yea, and all that do wickedly shall burn as stubble; for they that come shall burn them, saith the Lord of Hosts, that it shall leave them neither root nor branch.
Chris always says he can't wait for this day. Usually when we are in a part of town with the exotic dance clubs and adult book stores. Those areas just feel sticky, even when you just drive through them.
2 Peter 3
14 Wherefore, beloved, seeing that ye look for such things, be diligent that ye may be found of him in peace, without spot, and blameless.
15 And account that the longsuffering of our Lord is salvation; even as our beloved brother Paul also according to the wisdom given unto him hath written unto you;
16 As also in all his epistles, speaking in them of these things; in which are some things hard to be understood, which they that are unlearned and unstable wrest, as they do also the other scriptures, unto their own destruction.
17 Ye therefore, beloved, seeing ye know these things before, beware lest ye also, being led away with the error of the wicked, fall from your own stedfastness.
18 But grow in grace, and in the knowledge of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. To him be glory both now and for ever. Amen.
Grow in Grace is such a pretty thing to say. Grace is in interesting word. When I think of someone having grace I usually think of old ladies all prim and proper, poised, peaceful, I don't know why... That is a lot of P words. Here is the actual definition.
grace - Definition [grās]
(n.) Seemingly effortless beauty or charm of movement, form, or proportion.
(n.) A characteristic or quality pleasing for its charm or refinement.
Could you imagine being a child, poor and uneducated, that your name would be known throughout the world?
34 He said there was a book deposited, written upon gold plates, giving an account of the former inhabitants of this continent, and the source from whence they sprang. He also said that the fulness of the everlasting Gospel was contained in it, as delivered by the Savior to the ancient inhabitants;
35 Also, that there were two stones in silver bows—and these stones, fastened to a breastplate, constituted what is called the Urim and Thummim—deposited with the plates; and the possession and use of these stones were what constituted “seers” in ancient or former times; and that God had prepared them for the purpose of translating the book.
36 After telling me these things, he commenced quoting the prophecies of the Old Testament. He first quoted part of the third chapter of Malachi; and he quoted also the fourth or last chapter of the same prophecy, though with a little variation from the way it reads in our Bibles. Instead of quoting the first verse as it reads in our books, he quoted it thus:
37 For behold, the day cometh that shall burn as an oven, and all the proud, yea, and all that do wickedly shall burn as stubble; for they that come shall burn them, saith the Lord of Hosts, that it shall leave them neither root nor branch.
Chris always says he can't wait for this day. Usually when we are in a part of town with the exotic dance clubs and adult book stores. Those areas just feel sticky, even when you just drive through them.
2 Peter 3
14 Wherefore, beloved, seeing that ye look for such things, be diligent that ye may be found of him in peace, without spot, and blameless.
15 And account that the longsuffering of our Lord is salvation; even as our beloved brother Paul also according to the wisdom given unto him hath written unto you;
16 As also in all his epistles, speaking in them of these things; in which are some things hard to be understood, which they that are unlearned and unstable wrest, as they do also the other scriptures, unto their own destruction.
17 Ye therefore, beloved, seeing ye know these things before, beware lest ye also, being led away with the error of the wicked, fall from your own stedfastness.
18 But grow in grace, and in the knowledge of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. To him be glory both now and for ever. Amen.
Grow in Grace is such a pretty thing to say. Grace is in interesting word. When I think of someone having grace I usually think of old ladies all prim and proper, poised, peaceful, I don't know why... That is a lot of P words. Here is the actual definition.
grace - Definition [grās]
(n.) Seemingly effortless beauty or charm of movement, form, or proportion.
(n.) A characteristic or quality pleasing for its charm or refinement.
Thursday, January 22, 2009
Jarom 1, James 4
Jarom 1
13 And it came to pass that *two hundred and thirty and eight years had passed away—after the manner of wars, and contentions, and dissensions, for the space of much of the time.
That sounds like a long time to be in contention, but if you look at today and the circumstances of the world it really isn't. In the US there are even wars, drugs, gangs and that sort of thing. They've probably been going on that long.
14 And I, Jarom, do not write more, for the plates are small. But behold, my brethren, ye can go to the other plates of Nephi; for behold, upon them the records of our wars are engraven, according to the writings of the kings, or those which they caused to be written.
James 4
12 There is one lawgiver, who is able to save and to destroy: who art thou that judgest another?
13 Go to now, ye that say, To day or to morrow we will go into such a city, and continue there a year, and buy and sell, and get gain:
14 Whereas ye know not what shall be on the morrow. For what is your life? It is even a vapour, that appeareth for a little time, and then vanisheth away.
I need to remember to keep an eternal perspective. Planning the future is always fun, but we really don't know what we'll get. I know I have a great purpose, I've been told so many times. I don't know what it is, but I know I haven't done it yet. So I know there is more for me. It's exciting and scary to wait for it. I know there are more trials to pass, but when I think of what I have gone through and still go through, I don't know what more I can handle.
13 And it came to pass that *two hundred and thirty and eight years had passed away—after the manner of wars, and contentions, and dissensions, for the space of much of the time.
That sounds like a long time to be in contention, but if you look at today and the circumstances of the world it really isn't. In the US there are even wars, drugs, gangs and that sort of thing. They've probably been going on that long.
14 And I, Jarom, do not write more, for the plates are small. But behold, my brethren, ye can go to the other plates of Nephi; for behold, upon them the records of our wars are engraven, according to the writings of the kings, or those which they caused to be written.
James 4
12 There is one lawgiver, who is able to save and to destroy: who art thou that judgest another?
13 Go to now, ye that say, To day or to morrow we will go into such a city, and continue there a year, and buy and sell, and get gain:
14 Whereas ye know not what shall be on the morrow. For what is your life? It is even a vapour, that appeareth for a little time, and then vanisheth away.
I need to remember to keep an eternal perspective. Planning the future is always fun, but we really don't know what we'll get. I know I have a great purpose, I've been told so many times. I don't know what it is, but I know I haven't done it yet. So I know there is more for me. It's exciting and scary to wait for it. I know there are more trials to pass, but when I think of what I have gone through and still go through, I don't know what more I can handle.
Joseph Smith Matthew
37 And whoso treasureth up my word, shall not be deceived,
So I know this is talking about the second coming, but it has to apply to just life in general. I have been having really bad nightmares about stuff that really could happen and it's just freaky. I know it's not going to happen, but it's so scary to me. I wake up early like today and I can't get back to sleep and I feel like I'm being deceived into this happening. I hate it and I don't know what to do about it. Ho'oponopono isn't making a difference that I can feel. Maybe my body is rejecting it.
for the Son of Man shall come, and he shall send his angels before him with the great sound of a trumpet, and they shall gather together the remainder of his elect from the four winds, from one end of heaven to the other.
38 Now learn a parable of the fig-tree—When its branches are yet tender, and it begins to put forth leaves, you know that summer is nigh at hand;
39 So likewise, mine elect, when they shall see all these things, they shall know that he is near, even at the doors;
Some of the things are obvious. Stars falling from the sky, but then, that is happening gradually, maybe that counts. The moon not giving forth light, there are eclipses. Who is to say what "counts" and what doesn't. I feel like the second coming is near, maybe Christ is at the door. That's an exciting and scary thought.
So I know this is talking about the second coming, but it has to apply to just life in general. I have been having really bad nightmares about stuff that really could happen and it's just freaky. I know it's not going to happen, but it's so scary to me. I wake up early like today and I can't get back to sleep and I feel like I'm being deceived into this happening. I hate it and I don't know what to do about it. Ho'oponopono isn't making a difference that I can feel. Maybe my body is rejecting it.
for the Son of Man shall come, and he shall send his angels before him with the great sound of a trumpet, and they shall gather together the remainder of his elect from the four winds, from one end of heaven to the other.
38 Now learn a parable of the fig-tree—When its branches are yet tender, and it begins to put forth leaves, you know that summer is nigh at hand;
39 So likewise, mine elect, when they shall see all these things, they shall know that he is near, even at the doors;
Some of the things are obvious. Stars falling from the sky, but then, that is happening gradually, maybe that counts. The moon not giving forth light, there are eclipses. Who is to say what "counts" and what doesn't. I feel like the second coming is near, maybe Christ is at the door. That's an exciting and scary thought.
Tuesday, January 20, 2009
Articles of Faith 3 and 7
3 We believe that through the Atonement of Christ, all mankind may be saved, by obedience to the laws and ordinances of the Gospel.
And haven't we already learned that this is LOVE as described by Christ. So that adds another layer to this. Show love to God by doing obedience!
7 We believe in the gift of tongues, prophecy, revelation, visions, healing, interpretation of tongues, and so forth.
And thank goodness we have these things. I am so grateful for it and it's been such a huge blessing in my life.
And haven't we already learned that this is LOVE as described by Christ. So that adds another layer to this. Show love to God by doing obedience!
7 We believe in the gift of tongues, prophecy, revelation, visions, healing, interpretation of tongues, and so forth.
And thank goodness we have these things. I am so grateful for it and it's been such a huge blessing in my life.
Monday, January 19, 2009
Joseph Smith History, Ether 14
6 For, notwithstanding the great love which the converts to these different faiths expressed at the time of their conversion, and the great zeal manifested by the respective clergy, who were active in getting up and promoting this extraordinary scene of religious feeling, in order to have everybody converted,
I've been to a few churches like this. They are exciting to be a part of. The energy is high, and they work so hard to get you to join, but once you do it's kind of all over. They are still there for support, but they feel like their job is done with you. It's fun for a while though.
as they were pleased to call it, let them join what sect they pleased; yet when the converts began to file off, some to one party and some to another, it was seen that the seemingly good feelings of both the priests and the converts were more pretended than real; for a scene of great confusion and bad feeling ensued—priest contending against priest, and convert against convert; so that all their good feelings one for another, if they ever had any, were entirely lost in a strife of words and a contest about opinions.
There are still some people like this but a lot of people have mellowed in my opinion. My Grandma thinks everyone but the Baptists are going to hell though so there is still some of this happening.
Ether 14
22 And so swift and speedy was the war that there was none left to bury the dead, but they did march forth from the shedding of blood to the shedding of blood, leaving the bodies of both men, women, and children strewed upon the face of the land, to become a prey to the worms of the flesh.
Why do I have to keep reading this stuff? Depressing. This made me think of he genocide in Rwanda. Since we're adopting from there it's just been on my mind.
23 And the scent thereof went forth upon the face of the land, even upon all the face of the land; wherefore the people became troubled by day and by night, because of the scent thereof.
I can't even imagine this. I don't think most Americans can with the way things are censored. I've only ever seen a dead person at a funeral. That's not even close to the same. Thank goodness that we live in a place that doesn't have this type of violence.
24 Nevertheless, Shiz did not cease to pursue Coriantumr; for he had sworn to avenge himself upon Coriantumr of the blood of his brother, who had been slain, and the word of the Lord which came to Ether that Coriantumr should not fall by the sword.
25 And thus we see that the Lord did visit them in the fulness of his wrath, and their wickedness and abominations had prepared a way for their everlasting destruction.
How heartbreaking this must be for Father to see, and have to do. Where does he get the strength?
I've been to a few churches like this. They are exciting to be a part of. The energy is high, and they work so hard to get you to join, but once you do it's kind of all over. They are still there for support, but they feel like their job is done with you. It's fun for a while though.
as they were pleased to call it, let them join what sect they pleased; yet when the converts began to file off, some to one party and some to another, it was seen that the seemingly good feelings of both the priests and the converts were more pretended than real; for a scene of great confusion and bad feeling ensued—priest contending against priest, and convert against convert; so that all their good feelings one for another, if they ever had any, were entirely lost in a strife of words and a contest about opinions.
There are still some people like this but a lot of people have mellowed in my opinion. My Grandma thinks everyone but the Baptists are going to hell though so there is still some of this happening.
Ether 14
22 And so swift and speedy was the war that there was none left to bury the dead, but they did march forth from the shedding of blood to the shedding of blood, leaving the bodies of both men, women, and children strewed upon the face of the land, to become a prey to the worms of the flesh.
Why do I have to keep reading this stuff? Depressing. This made me think of he genocide in Rwanda. Since we're adopting from there it's just been on my mind.
23 And the scent thereof went forth upon the face of the land, even upon all the face of the land; wherefore the people became troubled by day and by night, because of the scent thereof.
I can't even imagine this. I don't think most Americans can with the way things are censored. I've only ever seen a dead person at a funeral. That's not even close to the same. Thank goodness that we live in a place that doesn't have this type of violence.
24 Nevertheless, Shiz did not cease to pursue Coriantumr; for he had sworn to avenge himself upon Coriantumr of the blood of his brother, who had been slain, and the word of the Lord which came to Ether that Coriantumr should not fall by the sword.
25 And thus we see that the Lord did visit them in the fulness of his wrath, and their wickedness and abominations had prepared a way for their everlasting destruction.
How heartbreaking this must be for Father to see, and have to do. Where does he get the strength?
Wednesday, January 14, 2009
Malachi 3
16 Then they that feared the Lord spake often one to another: and the Lord hearkened, and heard it, and a book of remembrance was written before him for them that feared the Lord, and that thought upon his name.
Commune with the righteous people. This goes along with, Where ever two or three are gathered in my name...
17 And they shall be mine, saith the Lord of hosts, in that day when I make up my jewels; and I will spare them, as a man spareth his own son that serveth him.
This is a comfort. When I think about the second coming I usually worry about what we might have to live through to get there. It's scary.
Commune with the righteous people. This goes along with, Where ever two or three are gathered in my name...
17 And they shall be mine, saith the Lord of hosts, in that day when I make up my jewels; and I will spare them, as a man spareth his own son that serveth him.
This is a comfort. When I think about the second coming I usually worry about what we might have to live through to get there. It's scary.
Tuesday, January 13, 2009
Omni 1, Fascimile No. 2
11 And behold, the record of this people is engraven upon plates which is had by the kings, according to the generations; and I know of no revelation save that which has been written, neither prophecy; wherefore, that which is sufficient is written. And I make an end.
12 Behold, I am Amaleki, the son of Abinadom. Behold, I will speak unto you somewhat concerning Mosiah, who was made king over the bland of Zarahemla; for behold, he being warned of the Lord that he should flee out of the land of Nephi, and as many as would hearken unto the voice of the Lord should also depart out of the land with him, into the wilderness—
Ok, no clue why I read this...
Facsimile No. 2
Fig. 3. Is made to represent God, sitting upon his throne, clothed with power and authority; with a crown of eternal light upon his head; representing also the grand Key-words of the Holy Priesthood, as revealed to Adam in the Garden of Eden, as also to Seth, Noah, Melchizedek, Abraham, and all to whom the Priesthood was revealed.
Again, also weird. I am off today...
12 Behold, I am Amaleki, the son of Abinadom. Behold, I will speak unto you somewhat concerning Mosiah, who was made king over the bland of Zarahemla; for behold, he being warned of the Lord that he should flee out of the land of Nephi, and as many as would hearken unto the voice of the Lord should also depart out of the land with him, into the wilderness—
Ok, no clue why I read this...
Facsimile No. 2
Fig. 3. Is made to represent God, sitting upon his throne, clothed with power and authority; with a crown of eternal light upon his head; representing also the grand Key-words of the Holy Priesthood, as revealed to Adam in the Garden of Eden, as also to Seth, Noah, Melchizedek, Abraham, and all to whom the Priesthood was revealed.
Again, also weird. I am off today...
Monday, January 12, 2009
2 John 1, Alma 60
3 Grace be with you, mercy, and peace, from God the Father, and from the Lord Jesus Christ, the Son of the Father, in truth and love.
4 I rejoiced greatly that I found of thy children walking in truth, as we have received a commandment from the Father.
5 And now I beseech thee, lady, not as though I wrote a new commandment unto thee, but that which we had from the beginning, that we love one another.
It's so simple people! Love one another. Drop the judgments. They are all crap!
6 And this is love, that we walk after his commandments. This is the commandment, That, as ye have heard from the beginning, ye should walk in it.
How to define love. This is weird. Following commandments doesn't feel like love. This is something to think about. You can feel the spirit when you follow the commandments which I guess you can say is the love of God.
7 For many deceivers are entered into the world, who confess not that Jesus Christ is come in the flesh. This is a deceiver and an antichrist.
So this says, Love one another... For many deceivers are entered into the world... So maybe if you are loving everyone you will be banded together by it and be able to recognize the deceivers.
Alma 60
19 Or is it that ye have neglected us because ye are in the heart of our country and ye are surrounded by security, that ye do not cause food to be sent unto us, and also men to strengthen our armies?
This is a sad letter. I can feel the frustration and worry. This is a time when you can see it from both sides and it's sad.
20 Have ye forgotten the commandments of the Lord your God? Yea, have ye forgotten the captivity of our fathers? Have ye forgotten the many times we have been delivered out of the hands of our enemies?
21 Or do ye suppose that the Lord will still deliver us, while we sit upon our thrones and do not make use of the means which the Lord has provided for us?
This is a good point and one I have made often. We have to do our part. We can't sit back and do nothing and expect groceries to fall from the clouds. Money doesn't appear on the doorstep to pay bills. Action is required.
22 Yea, will ye sit in idleness while ye are surrounded with thousands of those, yea, and tens of thousands, who do also sit in idleness, while there are thousands round about in the borders of the land who are falling by the sword, yea, wounded and bleeding?
23 Do ye suppose that God will look upon you as guiltless while ye sit still and behold these things? Behold I say unto you, Nay. Now I would that ye should remember that God has said that the inward vessel shall be cleansed first, and then shall the outer vessel be cleansed also.
This is kind of funny. These words are extremely harsh, but in the "scripture language" it doesn't sound that harsh. When you understand the meaning though, these words are seething.
24 And now, except ye do repent of that which ye have done, and begin to be up and doing, and send forth food and men unto us, and also unto Helaman, that he may support those parts of our country which he has regained, and that we may also recover the remainder of our possessions in these parts, behold it will be expedient that we contend no more with the Lamanites until we have first cleansed our inward vessel, yea, even the great head of our government.
25 And except ye grant mine epistle, and come out and show unto me a true spirit of freedom, and strive to strengthen and fortify our armies, and grant unto them food for their support, behold I will leave a part of my freemen to maintain this part of our land, and I will leave the strength and the blessings of God upon them, that none other power can operate against them—
26 And this because of their exceeding faith, and their patience in their tribulations—
This also sounds like energy work.
I absolutely love the fact that Moroni delivers an ultimatum to actually fight against the government. Can you imaging the Secretary of Defense telling this to the President?
4 I rejoiced greatly that I found of thy children walking in truth, as we have received a commandment from the Father.
5 And now I beseech thee, lady, not as though I wrote a new commandment unto thee, but that which we had from the beginning, that we love one another.
It's so simple people! Love one another. Drop the judgments. They are all crap!
6 And this is love, that we walk after his commandments. This is the commandment, That, as ye have heard from the beginning, ye should walk in it.
How to define love. This is weird. Following commandments doesn't feel like love. This is something to think about. You can feel the spirit when you follow the commandments which I guess you can say is the love of God.
7 For many deceivers are entered into the world, who confess not that Jesus Christ is come in the flesh. This is a deceiver and an antichrist.
So this says, Love one another... For many deceivers are entered into the world... So maybe if you are loving everyone you will be banded together by it and be able to recognize the deceivers.
Alma 60
19 Or is it that ye have neglected us because ye are in the heart of our country and ye are surrounded by security, that ye do not cause food to be sent unto us, and also men to strengthen our armies?
This is a sad letter. I can feel the frustration and worry. This is a time when you can see it from both sides and it's sad.
20 Have ye forgotten the commandments of the Lord your God? Yea, have ye forgotten the captivity of our fathers? Have ye forgotten the many times we have been delivered out of the hands of our enemies?
21 Or do ye suppose that the Lord will still deliver us, while we sit upon our thrones and do not make use of the means which the Lord has provided for us?
This is a good point and one I have made often. We have to do our part. We can't sit back and do nothing and expect groceries to fall from the clouds. Money doesn't appear on the doorstep to pay bills. Action is required.
22 Yea, will ye sit in idleness while ye are surrounded with thousands of those, yea, and tens of thousands, who do also sit in idleness, while there are thousands round about in the borders of the land who are falling by the sword, yea, wounded and bleeding?
23 Do ye suppose that God will look upon you as guiltless while ye sit still and behold these things? Behold I say unto you, Nay. Now I would that ye should remember that God has said that the inward vessel shall be cleansed first, and then shall the outer vessel be cleansed also.
This is kind of funny. These words are extremely harsh, but in the "scripture language" it doesn't sound that harsh. When you understand the meaning though, these words are seething.
24 And now, except ye do repent of that which ye have done, and begin to be up and doing, and send forth food and men unto us, and also unto Helaman, that he may support those parts of our country which he has regained, and that we may also recover the remainder of our possessions in these parts, behold it will be expedient that we contend no more with the Lamanites until we have first cleansed our inward vessel, yea, even the great head of our government.
25 And except ye grant mine epistle, and come out and show unto me a true spirit of freedom, and strive to strengthen and fortify our armies, and grant unto them food for their support, behold I will leave a part of my freemen to maintain this part of our land, and I will leave the strength and the blessings of God upon them, that none other power can operate against them—
26 And this because of their exceeding faith, and their patience in their tribulations—
This also sounds like energy work.
I absolutely love the fact that Moroni delivers an ultimatum to actually fight against the government. Can you imaging the Secretary of Defense telling this to the President?
Friday, January 9, 2009
2 Peter 2
16 But was rebuked for his iniquity: the dumb ass speaking with man’s voice forbade the madness of the prophet.
17 These are wells without water, clouds that are carried with a tempest; to whom the mist of darkness is reserved for ever.
18 For when they speak great swelling words of vanity, they allure through the lusts of the flesh, through much wantonness, those that were clean escaped from them who live in error.
19 While they promise them liberty, they themselves are the servants of corruption: for of whom a man is overcome, of the same is he brought in bondage.
I remember joining the church (and any religion) and telling people about it; a common question I got was, "isn't it limiting?" "aren't there a lot of rules?" But I also remember living the way I did before I became a Christian. Drinking and drugs brought me into bondage, they controlled me. Caffeine controlled me on a lesser level. Junk food controlled me. Eating disorders controlled me.
Following the rules is freeing. Not having those addictions is freeing. Being a servant of corruption is. Always needing the next high whether it comes from gambling (not my thing...) or drugs or anything.
17 These are wells without water, clouds that are carried with a tempest; to whom the mist of darkness is reserved for ever.
18 For when they speak great swelling words of vanity, they allure through the lusts of the flesh, through much wantonness, those that were clean escaped from them who live in error.
19 While they promise them liberty, they themselves are the servants of corruption: for of whom a man is overcome, of the same is he brought in bondage.
I remember joining the church (and any religion) and telling people about it; a common question I got was, "isn't it limiting?" "aren't there a lot of rules?" But I also remember living the way I did before I became a Christian. Drinking and drugs brought me into bondage, they controlled me. Caffeine controlled me on a lesser level. Junk food controlled me. Eating disorders controlled me.
Following the rules is freeing. Not having those addictions is freeing. Being a servant of corruption is. Always needing the next high whether it comes from gambling (not my thing...) or drugs or anything.
Thursday, January 8, 2009
D&C 129, 4 Nephi 1
4 When a messenger comes saying he has a message from God, offer him your hand and request him to shake hands with you.
5 If he be an angel he will do so, and you will feel his hand.
So this would be a resurrected messenger. I like these verses because I like to think about being visited by good spirits.
6 If he be the spirit of a just man made perfect he will come in his glory; for that is the only way he can appear—
7 Ask him to shake hands with you, but he will not move, because it is contrary to the order of heaven for a just man to deceive; but he will still deliver his message.
Sometimes I am visited in my dreams. I'm going to try and embed this in my subconscious so I can do it next time and I can be sure. I've been visited by bad ones before and I'd hate to get them confused. Satan can be really tricky.
8 If it be the devil as an angel of light, when you ask him to shake hands he will offer you his hand, and you will not feel anything; you may therefore detect him.
9 These are three grand keys whereby you may know whether any administration is from God.
This sounds to me like the story of the brother of Jared and the stones. It sounds like Joseph Smith wanted a way to detect whether it was a good messenger or bad and he came up with the test and the Lord gives the test it's results. I don't know if that's how it happened, I just think it's interesting that a hand shake is the test.
4 Nephi
17 There were no robbers, nor murderers, neither were there Lamanites, nor any manner of -ites; but they were in , the children of Christ, and heirs to the kingdom of God.
18 And how blessed were they! For the Lord did bless them in all their doings; yea, even they were blessed and prospered until an hundred and ten years had passed away; and the first generation from Christ had passed away, and there was no contention in all the land.
I wish this was what the world was like.
19 And it came to pass that Nephi, he that kept this last record, (and he kept it upon the plates of Nephi) died, and his son Amos kept it in his stead; and he kept it upon the plates of Nephi also.
20 And he kept it eighty and four years, and there was still peace in the land, save it were a small part of the people who had revolted from the church and taken upon them the name of Lamanites; therefore there began to be Lamanites again in the land.
21 And it came to pass that Amos died also, (and it was an hundred and ninety and four years from the coming of Christ) and his son Amos kept the record in his stead; and he also kept it upon the plates of Nephi; and it was also written in the book of Nephi, which is this book.
22 And it came to pass that two hundred years had passed away; and the second generation had all passed away save it were a few.
It's hard to imagine growing up in a place with no contention. Some people have been able to do it and that's a nice thought. They must be absolutely horrified about what goes on today though. And for us, most of the bad stuff is just commonplace.
5 If he be an angel he will do so, and you will feel his hand.
So this would be a resurrected messenger. I like these verses because I like to think about being visited by good spirits.
6 If he be the spirit of a just man made perfect he will come in his glory; for that is the only way he can appear—
7 Ask him to shake hands with you, but he will not move, because it is contrary to the order of heaven for a just man to deceive; but he will still deliver his message.
Sometimes I am visited in my dreams. I'm going to try and embed this in my subconscious so I can do it next time and I can be sure. I've been visited by bad ones before and I'd hate to get them confused. Satan can be really tricky.
8 If it be the devil as an angel of light, when you ask him to shake hands he will offer you his hand, and you will not feel anything; you may therefore detect him.
9 These are three grand keys whereby you may know whether any administration is from God.
This sounds to me like the story of the brother of Jared and the stones. It sounds like Joseph Smith wanted a way to detect whether it was a good messenger or bad and he came up with the test and the Lord gives the test it's results. I don't know if that's how it happened, I just think it's interesting that a hand shake is the test.
4 Nephi
17 There were no robbers, nor murderers, neither were there Lamanites, nor any manner of -ites; but they were in , the children of Christ, and heirs to the kingdom of God.
18 And how blessed were they! For the Lord did bless them in all their doings; yea, even they were blessed and prospered until an hundred and ten years had passed away; and the first generation from Christ had passed away, and there was no contention in all the land.
I wish this was what the world was like.
19 And it came to pass that Nephi, he that kept this last record, (and he kept it upon the plates of Nephi) died, and his son Amos kept it in his stead; and he kept it upon the plates of Nephi also.
20 And he kept it eighty and four years, and there was still peace in the land, save it were a small part of the people who had revolted from the church and taken upon them the name of Lamanites; therefore there began to be Lamanites again in the land.
21 And it came to pass that Amos died also, (and it was an hundred and ninety and four years from the coming of Christ) and his son Amos kept the record in his stead; and he also kept it upon the plates of Nephi; and it was also written in the book of Nephi, which is this book.
22 And it came to pass that two hundred years had passed away; and the second generation had all passed away save it were a few.
It's hard to imagine growing up in a place with no contention. Some people have been able to do it and that's a nice thought. They must be absolutely horrified about what goes on today though. And for us, most of the bad stuff is just commonplace.
Wednesday, January 7, 2009
Jarom 1
11 Wherefore, the prophets, and the priests, and the teachers, did labor diligently, exhorting with all long-suffering the people to diligence; teaching the law of Moses, and the intent for which it was given; persuading them to look forward unto the Messiah, and believe in him to come as though he already was. And after this manner did they teach them.
How to teach. Labor diligently, exhort with long-suffering, teach and give reasons for it, persuading to believe.
I think I am going to be called as a teacher in primary so this is interesting.
12 And it came to pass that by so doing they kept them from being destroyed upon the face of the land; for they did prick their hearts with the word, continually stirring them up unto repentance.
And the teachers were good!
13 And it came to pass that two hundred and thirty and eight years had passed away—after the manner of wars, and contentions, and dissensions, for the space of much of the time.
14 And I, Jarom, do not write more, for the plates are small. But behold, my brethren, ye can go to the other plates of Nephi; for behold, upon them the records of our wars are engraven, according to the writings of the kings, or those which they caused to be written.
How to teach. Labor diligently, exhort with long-suffering, teach and give reasons for it, persuading to believe.
I think I am going to be called as a teacher in primary so this is interesting.
12 And it came to pass that by so doing they kept them from being destroyed upon the face of the land; for they did prick their hearts with the word, continually stirring them up unto repentance.
And the teachers were good!
13 And it came to pass that two hundred and thirty and eight years had passed away—after the manner of wars, and contentions, and dissensions, for the space of much of the time.
14 And I, Jarom, do not write more, for the plates are small. But behold, my brethren, ye can go to the other plates of Nephi; for behold, upon them the records of our wars are engraven, according to the writings of the kings, or those which they caused to be written.
Tuesday, January 6, 2009
Moroni 4
1 The manner of their elders and priests administering the flesh and blood of Christ unto the church; and they administered it according to the commandments of Christ; wherefore we know the manner to be true; and the elder or priest did minister it—
2 And they did kneel down with the church, and pray to the Father in the name of Christ, saying:
3 O God, the Eternal Father, we ask thee in the name of thy Son, Jesus Christ, to bless and sanctify this bread to the souls of all those who partake of it; that they may eat in remembrance of the body of thy Son, and witness unto thee, O God, the Eternal Father, that they are willing to take upon them the name of thy Son, and always remember him, and keep his commandments which he hath given them, that they may always have his Spirit to be with them. Amen.
I think this is so cool that we have the absolute correct way to do it. And it's so important that if someone misspeaks while doing it they have to do it all over again. So far in each ward we have lived in there has been a time when the person has to try 4 or 5 times to get it right. It's kind of funny at the time, but it's cool that we know the right way to do it.
2 And they did kneel down with the church, and pray to the Father in the name of Christ, saying:
3 O God, the Eternal Father, we ask thee in the name of thy Son, Jesus Christ, to bless and sanctify this bread to the souls of all those who partake of it; that they may eat in remembrance of the body of thy Son, and witness unto thee, O God, the Eternal Father, that they are willing to take upon them the name of thy Son, and always remember him, and keep his commandments which he hath given them, that they may always have his Spirit to be with them. Amen.
I think this is so cool that we have the absolute correct way to do it. And it's so important that if someone misspeaks while doing it they have to do it all over again. So far in each ward we have lived in there has been a time when the person has to try 4 or 5 times to get it right. It's kind of funny at the time, but it's cool that we know the right way to do it.
Sunday, January 4, 2009
Introductory Note (pearl), Moroni 9
The first collection of materials carrying the title Pearl of Great Price was made in 1851 by Elder Franklin D. Richards, then a member of the Council of the Twelve and president of the British Mission. Its purpose was to make more readily accessible some important articles that had had limited circulation in the time of Joseph Smith. As Church membership increased throughout Europe and America there was a need to make these items available. The Pearl of Great Price received wide use and subsequently became a standard work of the Church by action of the First Presidency and the general conference in Salt Lake City on October 10, 1880.
That's really old. I thought Gordon B Hinckley wrote the Articles of Faith. Or is this talking about something else?
Several revisions have been made in the contents as the needs of the Church have required. In 1878 portions of the Book of Moses not contained in the first edition were added. In 1902 certain parts of the Pearl of Great Price that duplicated material also published in the Doctrine and Covenants were omitted. Arrangement into chapters and verses, with footnotes, was done in 1902. The first publication in double-column pages, with index, was in 1921. No other changes were made until April 1976, when two items of revelation were added. In 1979 these two items were removed from the Pearl of Great Price and placed in the Doctrine and Covenants, where they now appear as Sections 137 and 138. In the present edition some changes have been made to bring the text into conformity with earlier documents.
This is very interesting. I've never read this part before.
Moroni 9
19 And they have become strong in their perversion; and they are like brutal, sparing none, neither old nor young; and they delight in everything save that which is good; and the suffering of our women and our children upon all the face of this land doth exceed everything; yea, tongue cannot tell, neither can it be written.
This is hard to imagine. People so terrible that what they have done cannot be written. And I'm glad it's not.
20 And now, my son, I dwell no longer upon this horrible scene. Behold, thou knowest the wickedness of this people; thou knowest that they are without principle, and past feeling; and their wickedness doth exceed that of the Lamanites.
21 Behold, my son, I cannot recommend them unto God lest he should smite me.
22 But behold, my son, I recommend thee unto God, and I trust in Christ that thou wilt be saved; and I pray unto God that he will spare thy life, to witness the return of his people unto him, or their utter destruction; for I know that they must perish except they repent and return unto him.
I just read this part like he was speaking to me and it was powerful. A different meaning.
23 And if they perish it will be like unto the Jaredites, because of the wilfulness of their hearts, seeking for blood and revenge.
This is sad because the Jaredites started out so darn good.
24 And if it so be that they perish, we know that many of our brethren have deserted over unto the Lamanites, and many more will also desert over unto them; wherefore, write somewhat a few things, if thou art spared and I shall perish and not see thee; but I trust that I may see thee soon; for I have sacred records that I would deliver up unto thee.
I can imagine young people, like today's gangs, who are so scared of what is happening that they join up in hopes of being spared. That's sad. I bet a lot of that happened then too.
25 My son, be faithful in Christ; and may not the things which I have written grieve thee, to weigh thee down unto death; but may Christ lift thee up, and may his sufferings and death, and the showing his body unto our fathers, and his mercy and long-suffering, and the hope of his glory and of eternal life, rest in your mind forever.
I read this like he was talking to me too and I'm glad I did. It's nice to have permission to not think about the bad stuff.
That's really old. I thought Gordon B Hinckley wrote the Articles of Faith. Or is this talking about something else?
Several revisions have been made in the contents as the needs of the Church have required. In 1878 portions of the Book of Moses not contained in the first edition were added. In 1902 certain parts of the Pearl of Great Price that duplicated material also published in the Doctrine and Covenants were omitted. Arrangement into chapters and verses, with footnotes, was done in 1902. The first publication in double-column pages, with index, was in 1921. No other changes were made until April 1976, when two items of revelation were added. In 1979 these two items were removed from the Pearl of Great Price and placed in the Doctrine and Covenants, where they now appear as Sections 137 and 138. In the present edition some changes have been made to bring the text into conformity with earlier documents.
This is very interesting. I've never read this part before.
Moroni 9
19 And they have become strong in their perversion; and they are like brutal, sparing none, neither old nor young; and they delight in everything save that which is good; and the suffering of our women and our children upon all the face of this land doth exceed everything; yea, tongue cannot tell, neither can it be written.
This is hard to imagine. People so terrible that what they have done cannot be written. And I'm glad it's not.
20 And now, my son, I dwell no longer upon this horrible scene. Behold, thou knowest the wickedness of this people; thou knowest that they are without principle, and past feeling; and their wickedness doth exceed that of the Lamanites.
21 Behold, my son, I cannot recommend them unto God lest he should smite me.
22 But behold, my son, I recommend thee unto God, and I trust in Christ that thou wilt be saved; and I pray unto God that he will spare thy life, to witness the return of his people unto him, or their utter destruction; for I know that they must perish except they repent and return unto him.
I just read this part like he was speaking to me and it was powerful. A different meaning.
23 And if they perish it will be like unto the Jaredites, because of the wilfulness of their hearts, seeking for blood and revenge.
This is sad because the Jaredites started out so darn good.
24 And if it so be that they perish, we know that many of our brethren have deserted over unto the Lamanites, and many more will also desert over unto them; wherefore, write somewhat a few things, if thou art spared and I shall perish and not see thee; but I trust that I may see thee soon; for I have sacred records that I would deliver up unto thee.
I can imagine young people, like today's gangs, who are so scared of what is happening that they join up in hopes of being spared. That's sad. I bet a lot of that happened then too.
25 My son, be faithful in Christ; and may not the things which I have written grieve thee, to weigh thee down unto death; but may Christ lift thee up, and may his sufferings and death, and the showing his body unto our fathers, and his mercy and long-suffering, and the hope of his glory and of eternal life, rest in your mind forever.
I read this like he was talking to me too and I'm glad I did. It's nice to have permission to not think about the bad stuff.
Saturday, January 3, 2009
1 Peter 4, Ether 13
14 If ye be reproached for the name of Christ, happy are ye; for the spirit of glory and of God resteth upon you: on their part he is evil spoken of, but on your part he is glorified.
15 But let none of you suffer as a murderer, or as a thief, or as an evildoer, or as a busybody in other men’s matters.
This is interesting. I have an example about this. Today we met a neighbor out here, he's retired army, probably in his 40s. Really nice guy. He was telling us a little about our neighbors just so we have a clue since we haven't met many yet. On one side of us there is a family who lost their husband/father in Iraq. The children are adults and one of them has been getting in trouble, knocking down mailboxes and stuff like that. But that's all he said. He wanted us to know that they weren't babysitter material, but doesn't want us to think they are evil or anything. I think that is a good example of the spirit of the scripture.
Ether 13
16 And now Coriantumr, having studied, himself, in all the arts of war and all the cunning of the world, wherefore he gave battle unto them who sought to destroy him.
17 But he repented not, neither his fair sons nor daughters; neither the fair sons and daughters of Cohor; neither the fair sons and daughters of Corihor; and in fine, there were none of the fair sons and daughters upon the face of the whole earth who repented of their sins.
Why are they all fair? Remember in High School when all the pretty people were popular, and also not very nice individuals?
18 Wherefore, it came to pass that in the first year that Ether dwelt in the cavity of a rock, there were many people who were slain by the sword of those secret combinations, fighting against Coriantumr that they might obtain the kingdom.
19 And it came to pass that the sons of Coriantumr fought much and bled much.
20 And in the second year the word of the Lord came to Ether, that he should go and prophesy unto Coriantumr that, if he would repent, and all his household, the Lord would give unto him his kingdom and spare the people—
21 Otherwise they should be destroyed, and all his household save it were himself. And he should only live to see the fulfilling of the prophecies which had been spoken concerning another people receiving the land for their inheritance; and Coriantumr should receive a burial by them; and every soul should be destroyed save it were Coriantumr.
I would not like to be given that direction. Imagine having to say this to the most evil person you could think of. Hitler, Saddam Hussein, or any number of people like them. They would immediately have you killed. That would be scary.
22 And it came to pass that Coriantumr repented not, neither his household, neither the people; and the wars ceased not; and they sought to kill Ether, but he fled from before them and hid again in the cavity of the rock.
Haha, what I wrote is exactly what happened. Brave guy. I wonder if that rock still exists, it would be cool to see it.
23 And it came to pass that there arose up Shared, and he also gave battle unto Coriantumr; and he did beat him, insomuch that in the third year he did bring him into captivity.
24 And the sons of Coriantumr, in the fourth year, did beat Shared, and did obtain the kingdom again unto their father.
What was the point of the third year? Shared wins briefly. What's the point?
25 Now there began to be a war upon all the face of the land, every man with his band fighting for that which he desired.
26 And there were robbers, and in fine, all manner of wickedness upon all the face of the land.
15 But let none of you suffer as a murderer, or as a thief, or as an evildoer, or as a busybody in other men’s matters.
This is interesting. I have an example about this. Today we met a neighbor out here, he's retired army, probably in his 40s. Really nice guy. He was telling us a little about our neighbors just so we have a clue since we haven't met many yet. On one side of us there is a family who lost their husband/father in Iraq. The children are adults and one of them has been getting in trouble, knocking down mailboxes and stuff like that. But that's all he said. He wanted us to know that they weren't babysitter material, but doesn't want us to think they are evil or anything. I think that is a good example of the spirit of the scripture.
Ether 13
16 And now Coriantumr, having studied, himself, in all the arts of war and all the cunning of the world, wherefore he gave battle unto them who sought to destroy him.
17 But he repented not, neither his fair sons nor daughters; neither the fair sons and daughters of Cohor; neither the fair sons and daughters of Corihor; and in fine, there were none of the fair sons and daughters upon the face of the whole earth who repented of their sins.
Why are they all fair? Remember in High School when all the pretty people were popular, and also not very nice individuals?
18 Wherefore, it came to pass that in the first year that Ether dwelt in the cavity of a rock, there were many people who were slain by the sword of those secret combinations, fighting against Coriantumr that they might obtain the kingdom.
19 And it came to pass that the sons of Coriantumr fought much and bled much.
20 And in the second year the word of the Lord came to Ether, that he should go and prophesy unto Coriantumr that, if he would repent, and all his household, the Lord would give unto him his kingdom and spare the people—
21 Otherwise they should be destroyed, and all his household save it were himself. And he should only live to see the fulfilling of the prophecies which had been spoken concerning another people receiving the land for their inheritance; and Coriantumr should receive a burial by them; and every soul should be destroyed save it were Coriantumr.
I would not like to be given that direction. Imagine having to say this to the most evil person you could think of. Hitler, Saddam Hussein, or any number of people like them. They would immediately have you killed. That would be scary.
22 And it came to pass that Coriantumr repented not, neither his household, neither the people; and the wars ceased not; and they sought to kill Ether, but he fled from before them and hid again in the cavity of the rock.
Haha, what I wrote is exactly what happened. Brave guy. I wonder if that rock still exists, it would be cool to see it.
23 And it came to pass that there arose up Shared, and he also gave battle unto Coriantumr; and he did beat him, insomuch that in the third year he did bring him into captivity.
24 And the sons of Coriantumr, in the fourth year, did beat Shared, and did obtain the kingdom again unto their father.
What was the point of the third year? Shared wins briefly. What's the point?
25 Now there began to be a war upon all the face of the land, every man with his band fighting for that which he desired.
26 And there were robbers, and in fine, all manner of wickedness upon all the face of the land.
Thursday, January 1, 2009
Abraham 3, D&C 79
12 And he said unto me: My son, my son (and his hand was stretched out), behold I will show you all these. And he put his hand upon mine eyes, and I saw those things which his hands had made, which were many; and they multiplied before mine eyes, and I could not see the end thereof.
13 And he said unto me: This is Shinehah, which is the sun. And he said unto me: Kokob, which is star. And he said unto me: Olea, which is the moon. And he said unto me: Kokaubeam, which signifies stars, or all the great lights, which were in the firmament of heaven.
I love these words. Shinehah and Olea sound like pretty names for girls.
14 And it was in the night time when the Lord spake these words unto me: I will multiply thee, and thy seed after thee, like unto these; and if thou canst count the number of sands, so shall be the number of thy seeds.
15 And the Lord said unto me: Abraham, I show these things unto thee before ye go into Egypt, that ye may declare all these words.
16 If two things exist, and there be one above the other, there shall be greater things above them; therefore Kolob is the greatest of all the Kokaubeam that thou hast seen, because it is nearest unto me.
17 Now, if there be two things, one above the other, and the moon be above the earth, then it may be that a planet or a star may exist above it; and there is nothing that the Lord thy God shall take in his heart to do but what he will do it.
18 Howbeit that he made the greater star; as, also, if there be two spirits, and one shall be more intelligent than the other, yet these two spirits, notwithstanding one is more intelligent than the other, have no beginning; they existed before, they shall have no end, they shall exist after, for they are gnolaum, or eternal.
I don't know what intelligence has to do with this. It sounds like the point is the eternal aspect.
D&C 79
2 And I will send upon him the Comforter, which shall teach him the truth and the way whither he shall go;
3 And inasmuch as he is faithful, I will crown him again with sheaves.
4 Wherefore, let your heart be glad, my servant Jared Carter, and fear not, saith your Lord, even Jesus Christ. Amen
On a side note, I am sick, I think it's all the stress about where to live. My brain isn't very clear right now and it's hard to concentrate on this.
13 And he said unto me: This is Shinehah, which is the sun. And he said unto me: Kokob, which is star. And he said unto me: Olea, which is the moon. And he said unto me: Kokaubeam, which signifies stars, or all the great lights, which were in the firmament of heaven.
I love these words. Shinehah and Olea sound like pretty names for girls.
14 And it was in the night time when the Lord spake these words unto me: I will multiply thee, and thy seed after thee, like unto these; and if thou canst count the number of sands, so shall be the number of thy seeds.
15 And the Lord said unto me: Abraham, I show these things unto thee before ye go into Egypt, that ye may declare all these words.
16 If two things exist, and there be one above the other, there shall be greater things above them; therefore Kolob is the greatest of all the Kokaubeam that thou hast seen, because it is nearest unto me.
17 Now, if there be two things, one above the other, and the moon be above the earth, then it may be that a planet or a star may exist above it; and there is nothing that the Lord thy God shall take in his heart to do but what he will do it.
18 Howbeit that he made the greater star; as, also, if there be two spirits, and one shall be more intelligent than the other, yet these two spirits, notwithstanding one is more intelligent than the other, have no beginning; they existed before, they shall have no end, they shall exist after, for they are gnolaum, or eternal.
I don't know what intelligence has to do with this. It sounds like the point is the eternal aspect.
D&C 79
2 And I will send upon him the Comforter, which shall teach him the truth and the way whither he shall go;
3 And inasmuch as he is faithful, I will crown him again with sheaves.
4 Wherefore, let your heart be glad, my servant Jared Carter, and fear not, saith your Lord, even Jesus Christ. Amen
On a side note, I am sick, I think it's all the stress about where to live. My brain isn't very clear right now and it's hard to concentrate on this.
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