The first step in recognizing harmful material meant to undermine your testimony is knowing who is behind it and why. People who spread misinformation are not actively seeking truth, they are contributing to the work of the adversary. Lucifer was cast out for rebelling against the Father, and he is trying to steal away as many of those spirits as he can. He doesn’t care anything about us, he simply wants us to be miserable by being separated from God.
What should you do if there is some measure of truth to what you heard? Can you find light shining in a mudhole? Not likely. Why go anywhere but the source to find answers?
The authors of the book “Saints” have worked very hard to present the history of the Church in a way that is truthful, is easy to read and gives the background information that helps readers gain more understanding as to why some things happened the way they did. We know that the people who lead the Church are not perfect, nor have they ever claimed to be. They have needed to learn by experience, mistakes and trial and error just like we all must.
Elder Dieter F. Uchtdorf spoke of this in one of his addresses. He said, “We openly acknowledge that in nearly 200 years of Church history—along with an uninterrupted line of inspired, honorable, and divine events—there have been some things said and done that could cause people to question. Sometimes questions arise because we simply don’t have all the information and we just need a bit more patience. When the entire truth is eventually known, things that didn’t make sense to us before will be resolved to our satisfaction.” 1
Have a humble heart as you search out truth. Seek the Spirit for counsel and instruction and be patient.
Many anti-Mormon materials will try to cause doubt in the sacred things we participate in. God, the Creator of the heavens and earth, taught Adam, and Eve from the beginning. Heavenly messengers instructed them from time to time. The adversary came along and realized he could twist sacred performances to the Lord into something strange or uncomfortable. The adversary’s ways are cheap imitations of our Father’s rich, powerful, and sacred ways. We do not need to doubt Him. Elder Uchtdorf continued, “One of the purposes of the Church is to nurture and cultivate the seed of faith—even in the sometimes-sandy soil of doubt and uncertainty. Faith is to hope for things which are not seen but which are true. Therefore, my dear brothers and sisters—my dear friends—please, first doubt your doubts before you doubt your faith. We must never allow doubt to hold us prisoner and keep us from the divine love, peace, and gifts that come through faith in the Lord Jesus Christ.”1
If you or someone you love has been affected by these kinds of materials, spend time in the Book of Mormon. There is real power there. Be open to learning from the source and be patient. Your Father in Heaven will not lead you astray, but He will allow you to grow and struggle a bit on your journey home so that you build a solid foundation on Christ and His restored Church.
The Pharisees of the New Testament were the religious leaders of their day. They twisted the Law of Moses into a strict set of “can-do’s” and “can’t-do’s” instead of living by the word of the Lord. They made quite a show of their obedience to the Law and proclaimed themselves more righteous than other groups of people at the time. Did they aspire to these positions in society to gain favor and social status? It is quite possible. “Nevertheless, among the chief rulers also many believed on him; but because of the Pharisees they did not confess him, lest they should be put out of the synagogue: For they loved the praise of men more than the praise of God.” (John 12:42–43.) Is it any wonder that the Lord taught them about cleansing the inner vessel first?
When we receive a calling, we can think of it as the Lord asking us to fulfill an errand for Him. He knows the areas in our lives in which we need to grow, or the gifts or special talents we may have to help others within our circle of influence, then extends the call to serve. Sometimes we are called to organizations that make us uncomfortable at first. That is called growth. Those callings have a two-way benefit. One benefits our personal development, the other benefits the others around us.
When we desire a certain calling, it may be because it is something we sincerely enjoy and feel that we can be good at. I know there have been times in my life when I have struggled in service and felt that I had given the Lord a mediocre offering when I only wanted to give Him something worth having! However, I have come to understand that He doesn’t rate our finished product. He accepts the gift given from the heart.
Other times, do we desire a certain calling to feel that we are special, so others can see us and think highly of us? If that is the case, we would need to repent of our Pharisaical thinking and then humbly stalk off to primary with our tail between our legs!
When we desire a specific calling, we might compare it to telling the Lord, “I want to serve you, but I am only willing to do it in this capacity.” Not a very humble attitude, is it? If we seek solely for the honors of men and glory for ourselves, doesn’t that align with how Lucifer thought before he was cast down from heaven? In service to our Lord, we should only aspire to follow the Lord’s will.
In the second conference after which Elder Bednar was called to the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, he addressed an important point.
“To be or to become chosen is not an exclusive status conferred upon us. Rather, you and I ultimately determine if we are chosen. Please now note the use of the word chosen in the following verses from the Doctrine and Covenants: Behold, there are many called, but few are chosen. And why are they not chosen? Because their hearts are set so much upon the things of this world, and aspire to the honors of men. D&C 121:34–35.
“I believe the implication of these verses is quite straightforward. God does not have a list of favorites to which we must hope our names will someday be added. He does not limit “the chosen” to a restricted few. Rather, it is our hearts and our aspirations and our obedience which definitively determine whether we are counted as one of God’s chosen.” 1
I hope we can always serve the Lord with pure and humble hearts and be ready to choose our Father’s will in every circumstance.
1. “The Tender Mercies of the Lord,” Elder David A. Bednar, General Conference, April 2005
I used to look forward to General Conference two times a year. I don’t simply look forward to it anymore. Now, I find that I need it. I often envision myself crawling across the scorching desert sand calling out “water…water…” as I drag myself by my fingertips to the feet of the Prophet and the Apostles for Living Water. It’s a little dramatic but you understand.
When the Prophet says, “There is much more to come.… Eat your vitamin pills. Get your rest. It’s going to be exciting,”1 then we know we had best be prepared for what comes next. We have experienced changes happening rapidly as the Savior leads His church to keep ahead of the adversary’s attempts to thwart Heavenly Father’s plans.
When we hear something during these precious days of inspiration that takes us by surprise, how do we respond? We could compare our reactions to the parable of the sower with the seed falling on different types of soil. If we want to know that something said during conference is true, then we had better follow Alma’s counsel and treat the topic as a precious seed instead of letting the message fall onto dry, rocky ground. Let us nourish it by placing it in good soil, watering it and tending it. We would do that by first, keeping our hearts open. Sometimes we want to shut out anything that doesn’t feel familiar to us. Second, we need to ponder the words spoken. What does the message mean for you? How is it supportive of the Lord’s purposes? Third, we ought to spend time on our knees, pleading with the Lord for a witness that what was spoken is right. Fourth, we need to continue seeking for answers for as long as it takes. Nephi taught us about enduring to the end. Sometimes seeking answers can feel like we might reach the end before they come but keep going. The witness will come.
Not only can you seek for confirmation after a message has been given, you can also prepare yourself to receive before conference starts. I have personally made a list of questions that were weighing upon my mind and prayed about them for weeks ahead of time. You might consider fasting beforehand or during the conference to be able to recognize the answers you seek or to be able to feel that the messages are true. There is a special power during conference weekend. I imagine that the power of the Holy Ghost is glorious as it reaches across the entire world at the same time. I have felt the difference between participating in the conference with millions of faithful people and then going back to watch it alone. The difference is tangible. Prepare yourself to receive.
President Nelson encouraged us to seek answers for ourselves, teaching, “What will your seeking open for you? What wisdom do you lack? What do you feel an urgent need to know or understand? Follow the example of the Prophet Joseph. Find a quiet place where you can regularly go. Humble yourself before God. Pour out your heart to your Heavenly Father. Turn to Him for answers and for comfort.
“Pray in the name of Jesus Christ about your concerns, your fears, your weaknesses—yes, the very longings of your heart. And then listen! Write the thoughts that come to your mind. Record your feelings and follow through with actions that you are prompted to take. As you repeat this process day after day, month after month, year after year, you will “grow into the principle of revelation.” 2
What a beautiful privilege to be able to “sit at the feet of the Prophet and Apostles” while the Holy Ghost testifies to our hearts of the power of what is spoken from on High! Keep seeking answers by petitioning and pondering until you have received your own witness of the truth.
1. Russell M. Nelson, in “Latter-day Saint Prophet, Wife and Apostle Share Insights of Global Ministry,” Newsroom, Oct. 30, 2018
2. “Revelation for the Church, Revelation for Our Lives,” President Russell M. Nelson, April 2018, General Conference
We humans have been on a wild ride recently. With the virus in many countries and the implications which follow, there have been feelings of uncertainty and worry. While we may not know the end from the beginning, the Lord does. He tells us that if we are prepared, we shall not fear. Even if we are prepared, I think there is a little bit of worry only because we don’t know what to expect. These events could result in lost employment, late bills, lack of food or childcare and a host of other issues. All these things would be very good reasons to plead with the Lord for help in a fast.
President Nelson invited us to fast as a global community of believers on March 29th and then in General Conference, he asked us to join together again on Good Friday, to fast as a world for this situation to be remedied, people to be blessed and economies to be strengthened. I cannot imagine in the least what kind of power this call to action can bring.
Any amount of fasting will bring blessings; to they who go without food and water, a greater increase of the Holy Ghost and then with the offerings paid, those who stand in need of temporal help. Both receive blessings. When we have a deep struggle that tears at our soul, I do not believe we should expect to fast once and have everything be righted. Some struggles of a lifetime might need fasting over a lifetime. There are numerous afflictions that will require patience and dedication to a solution that with fasting over a period of time, can strengthen the petitioners until deliverance.
The Lord said, “Is not this the fast that I have chosen? to loose the bands of wickedness, to undo the heavy burdens, and to let the oppressed go free, and that ye break every yoke?” (Isa. 58:6) He gives us the solution to overcoming our challenges whether immediately or over time.
Every fast, however large or small the sacrifice, merits blessings of increased power or strength and closeness to the Savior. Elder Robert K. Dellenbach said, “Obeying the law of the fast is another form of sacrifice. The Lord asks us to set aside one Sunday a month to fast for two meals. We are invited to contribute the money saved on the cost of those two meals to the Church so it can assist those in need. Fasting and contributing a generous offering have a refining effect upon the soul. President Spencer W. Kimball stated, “Upon practicing the law of the fast, one finds a personal well-spring of power to overcome self-indulgence and selfishness.”1
I was impressed by the many declarations of faith and hope as we united with our brothers and sisters of all faiths in the worldwide fasts which President Nelson called for. I look forward to seeing even more miracles occur as we continue to unite in prayer and fasting.
1. “Sacrifice Brings Forth the Blessings of Heaven”, Elder Robert K. Dellenbach, October 2002 General Conference
My son recently watched a movie where a young boy, after having made some extremely poor choices, responded simply, “Mistakes were made.” While we sat together watching the film, this tagline grated on my nerves. We all make mistakes, but we have to own them, or we don’t learn and grow.
Let’s be clear though. What is the difference between a sin and a mistake?
In a talk given by Elder Dallin H. Oaks regarding the subject, he said, “Sins result from willful disobedience of laws we have received by explicit teaching or by the Spirit of Christ, which teaches every man the general principles of right and wrong. For sins, the remedy is to chasten and encourage repentance. Mistakes result from ignorance of the laws of God or the workings of the universe or people he has created. For mistakes, the remedy is to correct the mistake, not to condemn the individual.” 1
One of the main purposes of mortality is to learn by our own experience. We do that by choosing for ourselves, making lots of mistakes and trying again. We shouldn’t be chastised for growth. What a great insight as we serve in callings, have children or interact with any human ever!
Sin is intentionally disobeying the Lord or widening the distance between Him and ourselves. When we are choosing to break away from our God, we must recognize it and bring ourselves back to Him through the atoning power of Jesus Christ. Our sins can be swept away. The Lord promised, “though your sins be as scarlet, they shall be as white as snow.” (Isaiah 1:18) We can be renewed and made whole.
Justice Oliver Wendell Holmes Jr. highlighted the distinction between an unintended act and an intended one in his famous observation that “even a dog distinguishes between being stumbled over and being kicked” (The Common Law [1963], 7). 1
Some mistakes may be as small as forgetting to wash the dishes on your night but as serious as stepping in front of a car. The consequences of a mistake may be lifelong. There are sometimes consequences that come along with sin that do not go away but the guilt and the pain of our disobedience can be taken by our precious Savior.
Simply put, we choose to sin but make mistakes by accident. The Lord knows the deepest desires of our hearts. He can identify whether we walk foolishly into something by error or by design. For this reason, it is imperative that we listen to the still voice of the Holy Ghost who will help us be right with our Father in Heaven through the perfect gift of His Only Begotten.
May we always be quick to forgive and slow to condemn as we experience growth through trial and error in our own personal journey of mortality.
“Sins and Mistakes,” Elder Dallin H. Oaks of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, October 1996 General Conference
I love the parable of the lost sheep. We learn that The Shepherd loves us so much that He will leave the ninety-nine in the safety of the flock to find the one who wandered and became lost. Since our Savior cannot be with us physically at this time, it is our privilege to do the work He would do. Seeking out those who love Him, those who are lost to the truths of the gospel becomes our work.
Anyone can be lost, whether a member or not a member of His church. Those who are struggling or suffering yet still come to church can be wandering. Whether it is a friend or family member who has never been to church or a lifelong member who is aching, there are people everywhere. When we bring the sheep into His fold, we are bringing them into the love of Jesus Christ. Every rescue attempt may not result in baptism but when the love of the Savior is expressed and felt, we are walking them to the pasture. It is up to the sheep to walk through the gate, however.
The lost are found as we share the gospel with friends, as we support and encourage those within our circle of influence and especially as we search for our ancestors who never had the chance to learn about the Savior’s restored gospel for themselves.
Elder Robert K. Dellenbach recounted an experience he had with searching out the lost. “A few years ago, while on a Church assignment in St. Petersburg, Russia, my wife, Mary-Jayne, and I had the unique opportunity to feel the blessings of family history work. We visited the vital statistics archive to view the Church’s efforts to microfilm some of the records of western Russia. As I watched the archivist photographing pages of moldy old books from the city of Pskov, the names became real people. They seemed to leap right off the page and say: “You have found me. I am no longer lost. I know that someday, somewhere, someone in my family will take my name to the temple, and I will be baptized and endowed, and my wife and children will be sealed to me. Thank you!” 1
What a beautiful testimony to the work we are called to do. The Prophet Alma discovered a people who were ready to be found as he preached on the hill Onidah. Another group of people came, telling him that they had been cast out of their synagogues by the priests because of their poverty. “And now when Alma heard this, he turned him about, his face immediately towards him, and he beheld with great joy; for he beheld that their afflictions had truly humbled them, and that they were in a preparation to hear the word. Therefore he did say no more to the other multitude; but he stretched forth his hand, and cried unto those whom he beheld, who were truly penitent…” (Alma 32:6-7) The Lord knows who is truly prepared to receive the gospel.
If we are prayerful, asking the Lord to guide us to those who are ready, He will help us find His sheep either in the mundane or by miracles. We then need to be faithful and have the courage to open our mouths to extend the invitations as the Spirit whispers. The Lord needs only our willing hearts. He will do the rest as we seek to follow the command to find His lost sheep.
1. “Sacrifice Brings Forth the Blessings of Heaven”, Elder Robert K. Dellenbach, October 2002 General Conference
Was the War in Heaven the Only War Ever Fought in Heaven?
It is difficult sometimes to imagine what life was like in the pre-mortal realm since we remember nothing of it. We know that we lived under the tutelage of our Heavenly Parents who wanted us to be able to become like Them at some point. I believe we spent time together as family members where we enjoyed one another’s company and worried about these people as we left our heavenly home for mortality.
We know that when the Father presented a plan for our progress, Lucifer gave a different option which would not accomplish the purposes of our Father. Elder Robert D. Hales explained, “Because of Lucifer’s rebellion, a great spiritual conflict ensued. Each of Heavenly Father’s children had the opportunity to exercise the agency Heavenly Father had given him or her. We chose to have faith in the Savior Jesus Christ—to come unto Him, follow Him, and accept the plan Heavenly Father presented for our sakes. But a third of Heavenly Father’s children did not have faith to follow the Savior and chose to follow Lucifer, or Satan, instead. And God said, “Wherefore, because that Satan rebelled against me, and sought to destroy the agency of man, which I, the Lord God, had given him, … I caused that he should be cast down.” Those who followed Satan lost the opportunity to receive a mortal body, live on earth, and progress. Because of the way they used their agency, they lost their agency.”1
Thus, began the divide between brothers and sisters. As I think about who the great rebel was and how he works, I am quite sure that with his smooth voice, he assured all those who would listen that if they would only follow him, they would make it back for certain. He most likely started out calmly with gentle persuasion until the testimonies of others corrected his plan, bringing it back to our Eldest Brother to forge the sacrificial path. I believe the opposition grew fierce until the war raged among the spirits. How must our Heavenly Parents have felt to know some of their most beloved spirits were choosing to leave Their presence forever? The great war in heaven was a singular, ongoing event yet I imagine there were many battles.
Elder Hales also taught, “Agency is essential to the plan of salvation. … Without agency we would be unable to make right choices and progress.”1
In the previous existence, we loved and cared for one another, living under the heavenly light and influence of perfect parents who loved each one of us more than we can describe. How could there have been any kind of war between brothers and sisters? Not until it came time to decide how we would be able to overcome sin and death to return to our Heavenly Parents’ presence did the rebellion grow in strength, instigated by a soul motivated solely by power and greed.
1 “Agency: Essential to the Plan of Life”, Elder Robert D. Hales, October 2010 General Conference
]]>How to Prepare to Fight for the Gospel when Christianity is Under Attack
While reading in the Book of Mormon this week, I came across the passages which refer to the great and abominable church trying to take down the Lord’s people. There is comfort however knowing that wickedness will not prevail. “And every nation which shall war against thee, O house of Israel, shall be turned one against another, and they shall fall into the pit which they digged to ensnare the people of the Lord. And all that fight against Zion shall be destroyed, and that great whore, who hath perverted the right ways of the Lord, yea, that great and abominable church, shall tumble to the dust and great shall be the fall of it.” (1 Nephi 22:14)
Before we get to that day, there are going to be some challenges for those who serve Jesus Christ. President Nelson has said recently, “Dear friends, the road ahead may be bumpy, but our destination is serene and secure. So, fasten your seatbelt, hang on through the bumps, and do what's right. Your reward will be eternal.”1
Just in the last year, there have been attacks on Christian communities and churches in The Democratic Republic of the Congo, India, Pakistan, Nigeria, and others. Just like the account of Alma and Amulek having to witness the murder of many believers being thrown into the fire, there are those who suffer today for the cause of Christ. Alma explains why he was not allowed to stop the murders from happening. He said, “…for behold the Lord receiveth them up unto himself, in glory; and he doth suffer that they may do this thing, or that the people may do this thing unto them, according to the hardness of their hearts, that the judgments which he shall exercise upon them in his wrath may be just; and the blood of the innocent shall stand as a witness against them, yea, and cry mightily against them at the last day.” (Alma 14:11)
The day of the judgment of the wicked is at the door. We must do everything in our power to gather those whose hearts are set upon Jesus Christ. We must prepare now.
We must first know in whom we trust. Is our testimony of the Savior strong enough to endure the latter-day challenges? Are we able to hear His voice and receive answers to our prayers?
“Location, location, location” is the great asset of real estate, but the greatest asset of the cause of Christ is example, example, example. Let others see your values. Let them witness your kindness, your willingness to help, your love for others, and for Christ Himself. We can preach sermons without a word if we strive to live as the Savior did. If we are willing to work in our communities, cities, neighborhoods, or even school districts, we can absolutely fight for the cause of Christ through our examples. Others will see and have respect for our stance. Those who have respect for our values will often come to the aid of our just cause. We can also help create and support laws that will ensure the right to worship. The United States was saved for the very purpose that the restored gospel of Jesus Christ would have a place to grow. Should we not protect that right by standing up for truth?
Whether we speak up for the right to worship or share the gospel of Jesus Christ with others, we must be true disciples of the Savior and fight against “the great and abominable church” no matter what. The Lord will pour down His blessings upon those who fight for the cause of Christ.
1. https://www.thechurchnews.com/leaders-and-ministry/2020-08-05/president-nelson-social-media-post-silver-linings-190304
A while ago, I had invited our local missionaries over for dinner. I was hoping to make dessert but didn’t know what to make. Then I remembered I had a favorite brownie recipe. Typically, when I get in a hurry, I fail to read instructions clearly as in this case. I threw everything together and baked it only to have brownies that had a weird consistency and didn’t quite bake properly. But it was my favorite recipe? How could I mess this up when I used the recipe so many times before?
The recipe itself didn’t change but how I applied it certainly did. The next time I made the brownies, I followed the instructions in proper order and ended up with a beautiful result.
The eternal truths of the gospel could be compared to my brownie recipe. Those principles or instructions do not change but sometimes the procedures around their application do.
We have seen changes throughout the history of the Church; from what to drink for the sacrament in its early years to allowing twelve-years-olds limited use temple recommends, there have been changes. I find that I keep the gospel and the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints separate. The gospel is unchanging and perfect. The Church is inspired yet when any organization is run by mortals, we will run into flaws.
We have seen changes from visiting teaching to ministering as one of the Lord’s purposes for His Church is to care for saints. We have seen shortened meeting times, changes to the youth programs and working toward reaching out to others of different beliefs in love and kindness. Though the principles do not change, the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints adapts to its surroundings in a way as to bring light and love yet stand as a beacon to the world which points to the path of happiness.
Elder L. Tom Perry said, “Surely there could not be any doctrine more strongly expressed in the scriptures than the Lord’s unchanging commandments and their connection to our happiness and well-being as individuals, as families, and as a society. There are moral absolutes. Disobedience to the Lord’s commandments will always deprive us of His blessings. These things do not change.” 1
I love knowing that I live virtuously as the righteous women of scripture. I can have courage in the face of destruction like Captain Moroni and be obedient to the holy laws of God like the stripling warriors. I have often wondered what if I met Captain Moroni on his land in his time? I would recognize him by the principles he lived by. If I met any of the ancient prophets or righteous peoples, I would recognize them, and they would recognize me by actions even if we didn’t speak the same language.
Elder Perry also said, “The world changes constantly and dramatically, but God, His commandments, and promised blessings do not change. They are immutable and unchanging.”1 We can trust in the Savior and the principles of the gospel to lead us home as we are obedient to eternal laws.
1 “Obedience to Law is Liberty”, Elder L. Tom Perry, General Conference, April 2013
From the Pearl of Great Price, we learn of the war in heaven. This war was not a battle of weapons and bloodshed, but of eternal progress. It was a battle of testimony in order to attempt to save every soul in the family of our God. Though that battle began in the pre-earth life, only the venue has changed. We continue to fight today upon the face of the earth.
“The great war that rages on every side and which unfortunately is resulting in many casualties, some fatal, is no new thing. There was war even in heaven, when the forces of evil sought to destroy the agency of man, and when Lucifer sought to lead us away from the path of progression and advancement established by an all-wise Father.”1
We do not fight this war alone but are surrounded by heavenly helpers. I recently read an account from the book “Stories from the life of Joseph Smith”2 where the prophet, Oliver Cowdery and David Whitmer passed an aged man walking down the road with a knapsack slung over his shoulder. They asked him if he would like a ride, but he declined, saying he was heading over to Cumorah. This confused Oliver, never having heard anything about an area called Cumorah in the county. After they passed, they looked back, and the man was gone. The prophet informed them that it was a Nephite to whom he had entrusted the golden plates for safe keeping until the next day. I know that angels assisted in keeping Joseph and the records safe during his sacred work.
Angels play important roles still today in the battle that rages on. We may or may not know them for who they are, but they are real and active in our lives. I love the account in 2 Kings when Elisha the prophet was surrounded by the Syrian army. They were out for his blood. His companion was worried about the numbers of soldiers they presented, but in a beautiful answer to the man’s fears, the prophet prayed for his eyes to be opened. Verses 16 and 17 read, “And he answered, Fear not: for they that be with us are more than they that be with them. And Elisha prayed, and said, Lord, I pray thee, open his eyes, that he may see. And the Lord opened the eyes of the young man; and he saw: and, behold, the mountain was full of horses and chariots of fire round about Elisha.”
The very angels of heaven stood at the ready to fight the battle. I wonder how many times in my life as I struggled, I was surrounded by angels who fought on my behalf? I can think of at least three times where angels were present to protect me, one of which occurred as I served a mission in Florida. My companion and I were walking down a dirt road. Everything was in slow motion as I watched her lowering her foot upon a baby rattlesnake which neither of us had seen until that very moment. Just when I thought she would be bitten by this tiny viper, we were suddenly past it and the snake was making its way across the road as we moved forward. I don’t know how it happened, but I do know that an angel fought our battle at that moment.
The Father still sends His angelic soldiers on errands to protect and guide His faithful servants here on the earth. I hope that we can be more aware of their imprints and recognize their presence in our lives.
1 “Be Valiant in the Fight of Faith,” Elder Bruce R. McConkie, October 1974 General Conference 2 Stories from the Life of Joseph Smith, by Lael Littke, Richard E. Turley, Jr., Published by Deseret Book, 2008
Last October, President Nelson asked us to consider how our lives would be different without the knowledge that comes from the Book of Mormon. As I pondered this idea more in depth, I realized that I have often taken for granted just how much knowledge we have, thanks to the scriptures. The Plan of Salvation is a big piece of the puzzle that not everyone understands. This plan has other names as well. It goes by the plan of redemption, the plan of mercy or the plan of happiness, none of which survived the passing of the precious Holy Bible from hand to hand. Thanks to the Book of Mormon, we have a greater understanding of our life before we came to the earth.
We learned there that we lived as brothers and sisters, all with varying degrees of light. When Heavenly Father proposed a plan, it was our Eldest brother who volunteered to take the role giving all glory to God the Father. Lucifer however, wanted to force everyone to obey, ignoring the need for progress and the need to choose for ourselves. When he rebelled, he caused a war of testimony, persuading many of Heavenly Father’s children to never have the chance to gain a body or know the redemptive love of the Savior. When Lucifer was cast down with his many followers, I am sure we all wept.
Did Heavenly Father forgive Satan for his rebellions and for tearing a third of his children away from light and truth? I think that all depends on the enemy’s actions. Did Satan ask for forgiveness? No, he did not seek forgiveness but swore to take as many souls with him as possible. That does not sound like repentant behavior which qualifies for forgiveness.
In Mosiah 16:5, we are taught about what happens to those who become an enemy to God. It says, “But remember that he that persists in his own carnal nature and goes on in the ways of sin and rebellion against God, remaineth in his fallen state and the devil hath all power over him. Therefore, he is as though there was no redemption made, being an enemy to God; and also is the devil an enemy to God.”
Our adversary rejected Jesus Christ and not only went on in rebellion for himself but caused many “murders” of the souls of Father’s children. Without the eternal redemption of Christ, we know that all man would be subject to the law of justice, having been cut off from God’s presence (Alma
42). That justice declares that man must pay for their own sins, unless they come to Jesus Christ and lay hold upon His redemptive power. Knowing this, our enemy is doomed to a dark future. Speaking of Lucifer’s future, Elder Holland stated, “Only the adversary, the enemy of us all, would try to convince us that the ideals outlined in general conference are depressing and unrealistic, that people don’t really improve, that no one really progresses. And why does Lucifer give that speech? Because he knows he can’t improve, he can’t progress, that worlds without end he will never have a bright tomorrow. He is a miserable man bound by eternal limitations, and he wants you to be miserable too.”1
In my personal opinion, I feel that Heavenly Father is sorrowful about his son’s rebellious actions which destroyed so many souls both then and now, but Father cannot forgive him of the wicked and selfish actions of such magnitude without a recognition of the Savior’s selfless sacrifice on behalf of us all. Our eternal enemy will not ever humble himself to the Savior’s conditions. Even if he did desire to do so, it is far too late.
1. “Tomorrow the Lord Will Do Wonders Among You”, Elder Jeffrey R. Holland, General Conference, April 2016
Never in my lifetime have I heard the Prophet make remarks about such an illness until this pandemic. And never have I felt safer. My testimony of living prophets and apostles being guided by our Savior has grown during this time of uncertainty. Before we were placed under quarantine, the leaders of the Church put policies in place which would help us through this particular storm. The blessings poured upon us at this time have come from our loving Father who wants us to know that He is in charge. He is watching and He has prepared a way for us to get through this trying time.
As I have studied Come Follow Me, I have been impressed with how the messages coincide with our world’s current situation. As I read of Alma’s people in bondage to the Lamanites, the Lord promised to ease their burdens so much that they would not feel them upon their backs. The Lord miraculously provided an escape, causing the guards to fall into a deep slumber. He guided their leaders to bring His people to safety, just as President Nelson and the apostles have guided us into spiritual safety through these frustrating days.
When our Prophet called for a worldwide fast, I felt the love and depth of this powerful display of faith. Miracles happened for many people, often enough, the miracle may not have come the way others hoped it would. The Prophet assured us that our Father in Heaven heard our prayers. We now get to trust in the Lord’s way as He does what He sees fit to heal the world of the threat it faces.
What happens when the future looks bleak and the way forward is unknown? We hold on to what we know. We know that the Prophet is instructed by a loving Heavenly Father who has our best interest in mind and an eternal perspective. We know we will be spiritually safe if we obey what that Prophet teaches us. We know that in times of hardship, that the Savior will lift, comfort and help us through any experience as we seek Him. What else matters?
Right now, we can do our part by sharing our hope and faith for others to hold to. I find hope as I ponder what the sealed portion of the Book of Mormon says about this time in history. Can you imagine the chapters regarding the especially difficult times in the latter days that we are living through? President Nelson said, “We have front-row seats to witness live what the prophet Nephi saw only in vision, that “the power of the Lamb of God” would descend “upon the covenant people of the Lord, who were scattered upon all the face of the earth; and they were armed with righteousness and with the power of God in great glory.” You, my brothers and sisters, are among those men, women, and children whom Nephi saw. Think of that!” 1
Always remember that Heavenly Father is never surprised about what happens on our earth. He knows the hearts and intentions of all people. He always has a plan in place, and we can place our trust in the Creator of all things to bring about His will and His purposes. Only we experience uncertainty. God is at the helm and knows the way through the storms to safety.
They could have had a deeply defining, spiritual “mountaintop” experience, like Elder Jack H. Goaslind explained. He said, “We can create our own “mountaintop experience” so unique and personal that I wonder why more of us do not readily do so. The spiritual mountaintop of which I speak is the development and refining of a testimony of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. Just as we can stand on the top of any great mountain and experience an awe-inspiring panorama, I believe we can stand in our own places and experience overwhelming awe in knowing that the Savior, in an act of love which defies mortal understanding, gave his life in taking upon himself our pain and suffering.” 1
When temples were not available, the Lord’s followers went to the mountains to commune with God. He denies no one the glory of His love and Spirit. We only deny ourselves these blessings by failing to put forth the effort. When all we must do is step up to the feast, so many sit down and lick the crumbs off the floor. If it was the crumbs they wanted, then Moses gave them crumbs in the form of rules to obey, instead of a close personal relationship with their God. But the Lord continued to guide His people.
Noah preached continually against the wickedness of his day. He was doing his best to change the hearts of the people. They chose not to listen however, which resulted in only eight people being saved from the floods. The Lord prepared His people through the prophet by building a humongous ship to house animals of every kind, seeds, food, etc. Do you ever wonder what was happening outside of the ark as the rain continued coming down? I imagine the cries of those in the flood were painful for the few members of the ark as they waited for the water to sustain the grand ship. These were friends and neighbors, and merchants in their communities who were likely begging Noah for rescue. But God prepared the faithful.
Nephi’s people held out faithful to God’s teachings. When the Lamanites decided they wanted to destroy Nephi once and for all, the Lord warned him, giving him and his people an escape. God saved the faithful.
Joseph Smith was just a boy when the Lord called him but through his own experiences, and his deep conversion to the Lord, Joseph never faltered. He urged the Saints onward in the face of trial and opposition, preparing the faithful for their reward out west.
Like the faithful throughout the ages, God is preparing those who seek Him through His prophets. President Nelson has asked us to minister, to love, to serve both the living and the dead to become more like our Redeemer and be able to live with the constant company of His Spirit. We can have mountaintop experiences daily! As we prepare for the second coming of our Savior, God is working on us as a church to truly become His people, preparing us to receive Him. As we follow the counsel of the Prophet and Apostles, we will be prepared for that glorious day when He returns to reign as King of Kings and Lord of Lords.
many of us can identify various supervisors in our work experience. We have had some who didn’t truly care about the employees but were there only to pick up a check. Others liked the power, control or sense of superiority they felt but there have also been amazing supervisors who try to help the employees stretch and grow to progress in their careers. There differences between these experiences are night and day.
King Benjamin was a wise man. I love to read his words in the Book of Mormon. As he neared the end of his life, he worked tirelessly to prepare his people. His example was a worthy example of the kind of person we would choose if we had to serve under a mortal man.
His successor Mosiah warned the people about the dangers of appointing a king in Mosiah 29. He said, “ 16 Now I say unto you, that because all men are not just it is not expedient that ye should have a king or kings to rule over you.
17 For behold, how much iniquity doth one wicked king cause to be committed, yea, and what great destruction!
18 Yea remember king Noah, his wickedness and his abominations, and also the wickedness and abominations of his people. Behold what great destruction did come upon them; and also because of their iniquities they were brought into bondage.
Sometimes that there are still people who would choose a king so that they would have someone to look to, to tell them what to do and then point the finger when there is a problem.
I think of the movie “Ever After”. Danielle, who was the rightful owner of the estate, was forced to work for her stepmother and stepsisters. They were cruel, manipulative and had only their own interests at heart. When I think of serving man, I think of this kind of situation; selfish, greedy kinds of masters that don’t care for those under their care.
On the other hand, I think back to King Benjamin. He was the greatest of their people and yet he spent his life serving others, caring for their physical and spiritual needs.
I believe many of us can identify various supervisors in our work experience. We have had some who didn’t truly care about the employees but were there only to pick up a check. Others liked the power, control or sense of superiority they felt but there have also been amazing supervisors who try to help the employees stretch and grow to progress in their careers. There differences between these experiences are night and day. Depending on who we serve, our hearts could be loyal or apathetic.
The Lord is the kind of master I would serve with all my heart. He was and is concerned with the individual. He has given us laws and commandments not to intimidate or regulate our every move but to help us be happy and be able to stay close to him. Our welfare, our growing and progress are important to him. Our happiness is important to him. He accepts our blundered attempts at sharing the gospel or ministering. He accepts our efforts in our callings even when they fail. He not only recognizes our hearts but also the experiences of our life that made our path more challenging. He takes into account our whole person, not just the work to do. I would choose Him over anyone else, time and time again. How thankful I am to know that He is my judge, and not man.
“We show that we serve the Lord by the way in which we live the commandments received from Him, by the work we do to help establish the kingdom of God on earth, and by the way we act towards our neighbor…When we love God, serve the Lord sincerely, and give up the things of this world, we become true followers of Christ.”1
There are times in life when we serve mankind not as a slave or employee but as a light-bearer. It is part of our calling as members of His church. As we do so with all our hearts, we will always be in the service of our God.
1 “Serving the Lord”, Elder Adhemar Damiani, General Conference, October 1999
With our efforts, the Lord’s Kingdom is rolling throughout the earth. It will be established in all parts and only then will we have peace under His divine leadership.
Building an Empire or Building a Kingdom
Dictionary.com defines an empire as “a group of nations or peoples ruled over by an emperor, empress, or other powerful sovereign or government: usually a territory of greater extent than a kingdom.”
It defines a Kingdom as “a state or government having a king or queen as its head
anything conceived as constituting a realm or sphere of independent action or control: or the domain over which the spiritual sovereignty of God or Christ extends, whether in heaven or on earth.”
The scriptures continually teach us to build the kingdom of God upon the earth. Why does He not instruct us to build an empire when there are so many nations upon the earth? This question is easy. Ultimately, those who remain on the earth after His coming will be united in one faith and we will have one head. That head will be none other than our Savior and Creator of the world, Jesus Christ. Our goal in spreading the gospel is not to seek power or control over other people, dominating them as we spread from nation to nation but to spread the Lord’s love and atoning power to every nation on the earth.
Not being a Star Wars fan, I can’t quote any lines from the movies, but I am aware of the empire which Darth Vader seems to be trying to conquer at a great cost to human life. President Hinckley commented about this kind of tragedy. He said, “We sometimes are prone to glorify the great empires of the past, such as the Ottoman Empire, the Roman and Byzantine Empires, and in more recent times, the vast British Empire. But there is a darker side to every one of them. There is a grim and tragic overlay of brutal conquest, of subjugation, of repression, and an astronomical cost in life and treasure… I think our Father in Heaven must have wept as He has looked down upon His children through the centuries as they have squandered their divine birthright in ruthlessly destroying one another.”1
We are not here to divide and conquer but to bring peace, comfort, and solace to those in need. A kingdom suggests one nation led by one sovereign with one purpose, one goal and united as a people. The Lord taught us in D&C 38: 27 “…I say unto you, be one ; and if ye are not one ye are not mine.”
With our efforts, the Lord’s Kingdom is rolling throughout the earth. It will be established in all parts and only then will we have peace under His divine leadership. For now, Satan rages in the hearts of man, attempting to divide and conquer. For now, his empire exists to torment, to hurt and to lead men away into paths of unrighteousness. For now, we are subject to weaknesses and temptations. It is our responsibility to fight against his empire in favor of the Lord’s kingdom that peace may reign as we welcome our King, our holy Sovereign, the Savior back to the earth in a coming day.
1.“War and Peace,” President Gordon B. Hinckley, General Conference, April 2003
“Because of Lucifer’s rebellion, a great spiritual conflict ensued. Each of Heavenly Father’s children had the opportunity to exercise the agency Heavenly Father had given him or her. We chose to have faith."
It is difficult sometimes to imagine what life was like in the pre-mortal realm since we remember nothing of it. We know that we lived under the tutelage of our Heavenly Parents who wanted us to be able to become like Them at some point. I believe we spent time together as family members where we enjoyed one another’s company and worried about these people as we left our heavenly home for mortality.
We know that when the Father presented a plan for our progress, Lucifer gave a different option which would not accomplish the purposes of our Father. Elder Robert D. Hales explained, “Because of Lucifer’s rebellion, a great spiritual conflict ensued. Each of Heavenly Father’s children had the opportunity to exercise the agency Heavenly Father had given him or her. We chose to have faith in the Savior Jesus Christ—to come unto Him, follow Him, and accept the plan Heavenly Father presented for our sakes. But a third of Heavenly Father’s children did not have faith to follow the Savior and chose to follow Lucifer, or Satan, instead. And God said, “Wherefore, because that Satan rebelled against me, and sought to destroy the agency of man, which I, the Lord God, had given him, … I caused that he should be cast down.” Those who followed Satan lost the opportunity to receive a mortal body, live on earth, and progress. Because of the way they used their agency, they lost their agency.”1
Thus, began the divide between brothers and sisters. As I think about who the great rebel was and how he works, I am quite sure that with his smooth voice, he assured all those who would listen that if they would only follow him, they would make it back for certain. He most likely started out calmly with gentle persuasion until the testimonies of others corrected his plan, bringing it back to our Eldest Brother to forge the sacrificial path. I believe the opposition grew fierce until the war raged among the spirits. How must our Heavenly Parents have felt to know some of their most beloved spirits were choosing to leave Their presence forever? The great war in heaven was a singular, ongoing event yet I imagine there were many battles.
Elder Hales also taught, “Agency is essential to the plan of salvation. … Without agency we would be unable to make right choices and progress.”1
In the previous existence, we loved and cared for one another, living under the heavenly light and influence of perfect parents who loved each one of us more than we can describe. How could there have been any kind of war between brothers and sisters? Not until it came time to decide how we would be able to overcome sin and death to return to our Heavenly Parents’ presence did the rebellion grow in strength, instigated by a soul motivated solely by power and greed.
“And Jesus increased in wisdom and stature, and in favour with God and man.” Luke 2:52
I cannot fathom how our Savior knew from childhood how to live, being free from all sin, as a boy growing into adulthood. We do not have much of a record about his growing up years. We do know that he had very special earthly parents who were wise, patient and righteous. I am certain their divine characteristics influenced his ability to grow up making perfect choices; they taught him in the ways of the Lord.
In Luke 2:52, it records, “And Jesus increased in wisdom and stature, and in favour with God and man.” His parents taught him the dealings of God among man. Those teachings were so planted in his gentle heart that he lived by them from his beginning. I would like to have just a bit of their wisdom.
In Doctrine & Covenants 93: 11-12, John witnessed the Savior’s early years in vision. He recorded, “11 And I, John, bear record that I beheld his glory, as the glory of the Only Begotten of the Father, full of grace and truth, even the Spirit of truth, which came and dwelt in the flesh, and dwelt among us.
12 And I, John, saw that he received not of the fulness at the first, but received grace for grace;
13 And he received not of the fulness at first, but continued from grace to grace, until he received a fulness;
14 And thus he was called the Son of God, because he received not of the fulness at the first.”
As Joseph and Mary lovingly taught him about his heavenly home and how to worship and honor God by keeping the commandments, he would have had a sure foundation to build on. We too can teach our families after the same pattern. D&C 50:24 says, “That which is of God is light; and he that receiveth light, and continueth in God, receiveth more light; and that light groweth brighter and brighter until the perfect day.”
The Savior was raised after this pattern, line upon line, growing in light and receiving more until he did gain the fulness of His Father and was ready to begin His divine mission. He was taught the scriptures from his wise parents. He was taught to work hard at their sides and to hear the voice of God in quiet moments, pondering his own place in the Lord’s kingdom.
The Redeemer of the world was born to us as a babe, grew from childhood to young manhood and on to perfection. He set the perfect example of how we are to live but included the pattern to follow. President Joseph F. Smith said, “If Jesus, the Son of God, and the Father of the heavens and the earth in which we dwell, received not a fulness at the first, but increased in faith, knowledge, understanding and grace until he received a fulness, is it not possible for all men who are born of women to receive little by little, line upon line, precept upon precept, until they shall receive a fulness, as he has received a fulness, and be exalted with him in the presence of the Father?” 1
I know we can follow his footsteps, learning grace for grace, choosing to act as he would every day until we reach the end of our lives with his image in our countenances.
When we pass through mortality at the end of our allotted time on earth, we will go to that space intended for everyone to wait for the final judgment and the restoration of our physical bodies. Depending on what we did with the knowledge we acquired on earth, we will either wait in spirit paradise or spirit prison.
In spirit paradise, we will rest from our labors among our friends and loved ones. There will be plenty of work to do, however, and I imagine we will be eager to participate rather than sitting on a cloud playing a harp. We will look forward to the great day of judgment when we will be perfect again. D&C 138:50 teaches us, “For the dead had looked upon the long absence of their spirits from their bodies as a bondage.” Spirit paradise is not the place where our loving Heavenly Father dwells, however. We have learned that the location of the spirit world is on this earth. Only after the final judgment will we be able to reside with our Father and Savior.
Spirit prison will be a place where there is great sorrow. Alma 40: 13 describes the conditions for the inhabitants of spirit prison as follows: “they have no part nor portion of the Spirit of the Lord; for behold, they chose evil works rather than good; therefore the spirit of the devil did enter into them, and take possession of their house—and these shall be cast out into outer darkness; there shall be weeping, and wailing, and gnashing of teeth, and this because of their own iniquity, being led captive by the will of the devil.”
On the youth website of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, the question is asked: “What happens after we die?” The answer about spirit prison says, “The wicked will experience hell. Hell may be defined as “the torment of disappointment in the mind of man.” These people will have the opportunity to learn the gospel of Jesus Christ for themselves and they can accept or reject it to their eternal benefit or disadvantage.
From an article by Dale C Mouritsen, we learn more about the conditions of spirit prison. “The Prophet Joseph Smith wrote: “These are they who shall not be redeemed from the devil until the last resurrection, until the Lord, even Christ the Lamb, shall have finished his work.” He added: “These are they who are cast down to hell and suffer the wrath of Almighty God, until the fulness of times, when Christ shall have subdued all enemies under his feet and shall have perfected his work.” Hell, in the spirit world, will end when all people have been resurrected. Because of the atonement which Christ made, there is an eventual release.” 1
Only through Christ will we be able to look upon our Father in Heaven in His home someday. I am grateful to know that He has organized a way for all mankind to learn and accept His gospel for themselves. May we pray for the good people of the earth to receive the light that shines in the darkness and exist in spirit paradise until each one of us is called to stand before our Eternal Judge.
Alma 7: 11-13 says, “And he shall go forth, suffering pains and afflictions and temptations of every kind; and this that the word might be fulfilled which saith he will take upon him the pains and the sicknesses of his people.
“And he will take upon him death that he may loose the bands of death which bind his people; and he will take upon him their infirmities, that his bowels may be filled with mercy, according to the flesh, that he may know according to the flesh how to succor his people according to their infirmities.
“Now the Spirit knoweth all things; nevertheless the Son of God suffereth according to the flesh that he might take upon him the sins of his people, that he might blot out their transgressions according to the power of his deliverance; and now behold, this is the testimony which is in me.”
He knows how we felt though He never made the mistakes Himself.
Dictionary.com defines mistake as followed: (n) an error in action, calculation, opinion, or judgment caused by poor reasoning, carelessness, insufficient knowledge, etc. (v) to understand, interpret, or evaluate wrongly; misunderstand; misinterpret.
I love how the Savior lived. He took time to learn and to understand. He never made an assumption of someone’s character but instead looked at the hearts of every person He encountered. He never reasoned poorly or made errors in calculation or judgment. He was able to discern clearly through the Holy Ghost which attended Him.
Elder Thomas S. Monson said of our Savior, “We discover He is more than the babe in Bethlehem, more than the carpenter’s son, more than the greatest teacher ever to live. We come to know him as the Son of God. He never fashioned a statue, painted a picture, wrote a poem, or led an army. He never wore a crown or held a scepter or threw around his shoulder a purple robe. His forgiveness was unbounded, his patience inexhaustible, his courage without limit. Jesus changed men. He changed their habits, their opinions, their ambitions. He changed their tempers, their dispositions, their natures. He changed men’s hearts.” 1
Our Savior would never have been able to change man’s nature if he had jumped to conclusions or made incorrect assumptions. Because He was perfect, He was able to accomplish His mission. Does that mean that the child Jesus never dropped a tool or spilled his water? No, probably not but His mission was to come and save mankind. He did that without mistakes.
With the government operating everything and maintaining social classes as one equal body, it sounds like it could be a good thing in a perfect world. However, in the kingdom where our enemy rules, it is hardly ideal. We only need to look at Venezuela’s sad condition.
A recent news NBC news article discussed Chávez’s 21st Century Socialism agenda which was based upon sharing the revenue from the sale of oil with its citizens. With the crash in sales, Venezuela was left in a bad state. 1
The idea of socialism is that everyone is on equal status but under any ruler of this world, I would be terribly uncomfortable.
The Lord’s ideal known as the Law of Consecration has some similarities. There is to be equality according to each family’s circumstances. President J. Reuben Clark said, “The basic principle of all the revelation on the united order is that everything we have belongs to the Lord; therefore, the Lord may call upon us for any and all of the property which we have, because it belongs to Him. This, I repeat, is the basic principle… That revelation affirms that every man is to be “equal according to his family, according to his circumstances and his wants and needs.” Obviously, this is not a case of “dead-level” equality. It is “equality” that will vary as much as the man’s circumstances, his family, his wants and needs, may vary.” [Conference Report, October 1942, p. 55] 2
The Lord taught that the idler would not wear the garments of the laborer. People living the law of consecration are stewards over their own property and must continue to work for what they have. Those receiving help must also be willing to work in some way. With socialism, many people have the option of working but only to cash their check and then stand in line. They must then wait for what meager supplies the government has for them, which in Venezuela is not sufficient in the least.
The Lord teaches us to work for our own good and then share with others of the abundance. Socialism teaches us that we own nothing and take whatever portion is given by the government. Knowing that the Law of Consecration holds the donations sacred so that they are properly distributed is a great comfort to me. The owner of all the consecrated goods is just and chooses to care for His people this way. We are even expected to donate our time, talents and abilities to the building of His kingdom.
President Clark continues in his address, “Communism and all other similar -isms bear no relationship whatever to the united order. They are merely the clumsy counterfeits which Satan always devises of the gospel plan. Communism debases the individual and makes him the enslaved tool of the state to whom he must look for sustenance and religion; the united order exalts the individual, leaves him his property, “according to his family, according to his circumstances and his wants and his needs,” (D&C 51:3) and provides a system by which he helps care for his less fortunate brethren; the united order leaves every man free to choose his own religion as his conscience directs. Communism destroys man’s God-given free agency; the united order glorifies it. Latter-day Saints cannot be true to their faith and lend aid, encouragement, or sympathy to any of these false philosophies. They will prove snares to their feet. [Conference Report, April 1942, p. 90] 2
May we treasure the principles upon which our country is founded and be willing to defend it with all that we have and all that we are as we prepare to welcome our Lord and live according to His ways.
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There are a few people that come quickly to my mind as I think about people who did what was right in the face of criticism, persecution, and even death. I know many people in our world serve quietly and lovingly, helping bear up the burdens that others suffer with. These people will never have their names shouted from rooftops or praised by the masses, but they are important in the Lord’s plan.
There are many well-known persons who have gone about doing good. The first person I think of is Mother Teresa. I cannot look at photos of her among the population of sick, sad or dying without growing teary. She took the Savior’s call to heart as she wore out her life in service to others. She clothed, fed, ministered to, blessed and comforted thousands of men, women, and children during her long lifetime. She loved the individuals and knew that each was a child of God. She spent time in hospital sick rooms, in poverty filled areas where there were infestations of all kinds, yet she gave everything she had without worry for herself. What a wonderful example of love in action.
Princess Diana was also a public figure who reached out to those in need. She said of her own mission, “Anywhere I see suffering, that is where I want to be, doing what I can.” 1 She served among the poor and the sick, bringing relief to those in need. She worked hard to bring an end to stigmas about illnesses and other conditions. She gave of herself though she suffered behind the scenes with her own challenges. She is honored still today by a continuing Diana Award which is given to youth who are trying to create lasting change.
Irena Sendler, Johan Van Hulst, and Sir Nicholas Winton all share something incredible. It isn’t fame or fortune that they have in common, but a love for and desire to keep children from harm. Each of these people risked their very lives to smuggle Jewish children away from the Nazis and the threat of concentration camps. Between the three of them, over 3769 Jewish children were sent to safety. I cannot imagine how those parents felt knowing that their children would escape the cruel fate that awaited them.
There are many people in our world’s history who have left a mark of love and goodness upon this earth. Elder Ballard spoke of the happiness that comes from our obedience to the commandment to love our neighbor. “The best ways for us to see the spiritual purposes of the Church are to live the true, pure, and simple teachings of Christ and also to apply the Savior’s two great commandments: ‘Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart. … Thou shalt love thy neighbor as thyself.’ Obedience to those two commandments provides a way to experience more peace and joy. When we love and serve the Lord and love and serve our neighbors, we will naturally feel more happiness that comes to us in no better way.”2
As we serve our God and serve like these modern-day Samaritans, our influence will be felt where it is most needed, and our own hearts will be blessed with much-needed peace and happiness.
Have you ever known anyone who has been in far too many accidents to be considered normal and yet they have come through them each time? I have a cousin who has survived being hit by a car on his bike, crashing in an airplane, falling off a cliff, and plenty more. This guy just can’t be held down! Through all his close calls, he has been so positive and cheerful. Why are some so resilient and others not?
The Lord has told us in D&C 42:48, “And again, it shall come to pass that he that hath faith in me to be healed, and is not appointed unto death, shall be healed.” I take from this verse that man has an appointed time on this planet. However, if we are behaving foolishly and not listening to the Lord’s warnings, I think it is possible that we can shorten our time on the earth. I would like to use the experience of a righteous LDS woman.
Meg Johnson is a prominent motivational speaker who is a C7 quadriplegic. She literally jumped off a cliff by accident, causing her lifetime paralysis. While she was in the hospital, President Hinckley was there visiting his precious wife who was ill. While there, he visited Meg and administered a priesthood blessing. She heard words telling her that Jesus Christ knew where she was, what had happened to her and what would happen to her and those words gave her courage. (1) Her life was not meant to be over.
Not only did her experience bring her closer to the Savior, but she is now working hard to do good and lift others through her experience. She is a warrior in the Lord’s army.
Helaman led 2060 boys into war. These boys were faithful and righteous, and their opposition was fierce and numerous. Anyone would have assumed that there would be a great loss in his young army, but that wasn’t what happened. The Lord had not appointed any of these youngsters to death, even though they were all wounded. When we are righteous, faithful and obeying the Lord’s commandments, He will preserve us. (Alma 53)
3 Nephi 18:18 records, “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.” As we abandon the Lord’s commands, we give up the protection of our Lord and become subject to the enemy’s devices.
President Spencer W. Kimball said, “Just as Ecclesiastes (3:2) says, I am confident that there is a time to die, but I believe also that many people die before “their time” because they are careless, abuse their bodies, take unnecessary chances, or expose themselves to hazards, accidents, and sickness. …
God controls our lives, guides and blesses us, but gives us our agency. We may live our lives in accordance with his plan for us or we may foolishly shorten or terminate them.”2
Ultimately, I think it is possible that we could die before our time when we choose to stray from the straight and narrow path, but it is important to remember that the Lord is in charge. He knows what each of us need most for the benefit of our eternal progression. We may be protected from danger only to live with the consequences of our choices because He wishes us to grow. Perhaps, we choose our own growing experiences by our choices.
Doctrine & Covenants 19:23 says “Learn of me and listen to my words; walk in the meekness of my Spirit, and you shall have peace in me.”
I love that the Lord promises peace. There is no one else that can calm our scorching our hearts the way He does. This is one of the greatest blessings that the Holy Ghost provides as we remain worthy. No other influence can create or mimic peace. The lyrics from a youth theme song include, “When we live the way He lived, there is in Peace in Christ.” I know that is true. (Peace in Christ, 2018 Mutual Theme song)
I can be extremely stubborn at times, and when I have something in mind that needs to be accomplished, I get it done unless the Spirit teaches me that what I have set out to do is not in my best interest. Peace comes as we follow the whisperings of the spirit and obey. When I don’t choose to follow its gentle direction, it seems that my entire life gets very complicated and difficult. When I take his counsel and choose to obey, those things that seemed so important and urgent to me are easier to let go of. Then soon, I don’t wish for those things at all because I have learned that the Spirit changes my heart if I will even have the desire to accept his will.
President David O. McKay said, “The peace of Christ does not come by seeking the superficial things of life, neither does it come except as it springs from the individual’s heart.” He said further that this peace is “conditioned upon obedience to the principles of the Gospel of Jesus Christ. … No man is at peace with himself or his God who is untrue to his better self, who transgresses the law of what is right either in dealing with himself by indulging in passion, in appetite, yielding to temptations against his accusing conscience or in dealing with his fellowmen, being untrue to their trust. Peace does not come to the transgressor of law; peace comes by obedience to law, and it is that message which Jesus would have us proclaim among men.” (in Conference Report, Oct. 1938, p. 133.) 1
President Hinckley related a story that his father had told him when he was young. It was about two boys who were walking past a field and saw a shabby old coat, and some worn-out shoes. One of the boys wanted to hide them and watch the poor farmer search for them when he returned. The other boy noticed the man’s need by the poor condition of the clothing and suggested instead that they each leave a shiny dollar coin inside of each shoe. The second boy reluctantly did so and then they hid to watch.
When the farmer returned and put on his shoes, he discovered the small treasure and then the second. He immediately wept, giving thanks to the Lord in prayer in which he expressed his concern for his sick wife and his hungry children. When the boys walked away later, the older said to the younger, “Don’t you have a good feeling?” (“Some Lessons I Learned as a Boy”, President Gordon B. Hinckley, April 1993 General Conference)
I reiterate that “when we live the way He lived, there is peace in Christ.” May we ever strive to emulate His perfect example of obedience to our God and enjoy the peace that only He provides.
1 “Peace Within”, Elder Joseph B. Wirthlin, April 1991 General Conference
I am guessing it isn’t much. They dedicate six days a week to the work of the Lord, leaving little time for their own interests. But when they do have a little time for play, I don’t think they focus on speaking only the doctrine of the kingdom.
Can you imagine one of our great leaders spending time with their grandchildren on a warm summer day and being quoted as saying something like “Ice cream is always a good idea!” I wouldn’t classify that as doctrine although I know plenty of people who would wholeheartedly support it.
Speaking to the Lord’s servants, Doctrine and Covenants 68:4 records, “And whatsoever they shall speak when moved upon by the Holy Ghost shall be scripture, shall be the will of the Lord, shall be the mind of the Lord, shall be the word of the Lord, shall be the voice of the Lord, and the power of God unto salvation.”
The first factor in understanding if it is doctrine or opinion should be determining if it was spoken under the influence of the Holy Ghost. In order to do so, we must ask ourselves who was their audience? Are they speaking as an invited guest and representative of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints or as a special witness of Christ? If the answer is yes, then I would feel safe taking their words as doctrine.
If you hear from a friend of a friend whose cousin’s uncle met an apostle in the elevator of the church office buildings and had a two-minute conversation, we may want to think about that for a moment. The conversation would have been held between two people, any counsel given would be directed to the individual in their own circumstances, not to the entire membership of the church.
What if the apostle or prophet was speaking to a group of missionaries? I would consider his words doctrine as he encourages them to go forth and spread the gospel throughout the world.
In an article written by Elder Bruce R. McConkie, he spoke about this very topic. He said, “Prophets are men, and when they act by the Spirit of inspiration, what they say is the voice of God; but still they are mortal, and they are entitled to and do have private opinions. Because of the great wisdom and judgment of these men, their views may be as good as mortal men can have, but unless they are inspired, unless they are in accordance with the revelations, they are subject to error on the same basis as the views of anyone else in the Church. With all their inspiration and greatness, prophets are yet mortal men with imperfections common to mankind in general. They have their opinions and prejudices and are left to work out their problems without inspiration in many instances.”1
He quoted the prophet Joseph Smith in the same article, as saying, “Joseph Smith recorded that he ‘visited with a brother and sister from Michigan, who thought that “a prophet is always a prophet”; but I told them that a prophet was a prophet only when he was acting as such.’”1
Ultimately, we need to understand that doctrine is taught and given under the inspiration of the Holy Ghost when they are acting in their special callings. You may then know for certain that what you hear is doctrinal truth which you can rely on.
1 “Ordinary Men, Extraordinary Callings,” Elder Bruce R. McConkie, New Era 1973
When we hear the word peculiar, we might think “strange”, “weird” or “unusual”. Deuteronomy 14: 2 says “The Lord hath chosen thee to be a peculiar people unto himself.” The term peculiar in this verse means separate, set apart or chosen. But we may still seem a little peculiar to those around us and by peculiar, I mean different.
The members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints have been an influence for good in many aspects around the world, many of which have been witnessed in business practices.
An example was recently given by Elder Gary E. Stevenson in a conference address. He’d attended an event where President Russell M. Nelson was honored as a pioneer in heart surgery. There he heard an account from one of President Nelson’s former medical students. Elder Stevenson quoted the student saying, “He shared that the operating room environment under certain faculty surgeons was chaotic, competitive, pressure filled, and even ego driven. This man described it as a difficult environment, sometimes even demeaning. As a result, resident surgeons even felt their careers were often on the line.
He then explained the unique environment found in President Nelson’s operating room. It was peaceful, calm, and dignified. Residents were treated with deep respect. However, following the demonstration of a procedure, Dr. Nelson expected the highest standard of performance from each of the residents. This man further described how the best patient outcomes and the best surgeons came out of Dr. Nelson’s operating room.” 1
President Nelson was recognized as different in the way he practiced, and his methods brought blessings to students and patients alike and the effects of his work continue to ripple down through time.
There are some specific practices that set us apart. The payment of a full tithe and keeping the Sabbath day holy are just two of those. By honoring the Lord’s commandments first, we make ourselves eligible for greater blessings. In 3rd Nephi 13:33, we are counseled, “But seek ye first the kingdom of God and His righteousness and all these things shall be added unto you.”
There are also personal values that make a difference in professional settings. My oldest son is currently in golf lessons. In his classes, they learn about nine core values that are important to apply in all aspects of daily life. You can apply honesty, integrity, sportsmanship, respect, confidence, responsibility, perseverance, courtesy and judgement to any workplace or professional environment. 2 Each of these qualities will set us apart in our personal business dealings.
Treating others with dignity, kindness and being concerned for the welfare of those within our stewardship will also make a name those who employ these attributes.
There are examples of righteous people in the scriptures who embraced these values and because of their influence, were able to share the gospel with many others. We share the gospel by living according to true principles, obeying the commandments and holding ourselves to the highest standards. This righteous influence is another way in which we will build the kingdom of God upon the earth.
It’s true. When our bodies rise from the grave, we won’t have a complete set of luggage packed to the brim to take with us on our journey. Any earthly riches will be left behind, and our assets will have no meaning. The only things we can take with us are the loving relationships we created in mortality, the actions for good that we did on the earth and the knowledge and learning that we accomplished.
My understanding of becoming eternally rich would be to be surrounded by the most fulfilling things throughout the eternities. I would include peace in that description. We can have peace knowing that we fulfilled our responsibilities here on earth; that we nurtured relationships, comforted the comfortless, succored the weak and the afflicted and went about doing good.
We could add to that wealth by gaining as much knowledge and wisdom as we can possibly obtain. Heavenly Father’s creations and designs all have a scientific foundation and I believe it pleases Him to know that we are studying His works. We all have the opportunity to learn either on our own or at an institution for learning.
Recently, President Henry B. Eyring spoke during a devotional at the LDS Business College. He said, “I know school can be a grind, I know it seems difficult. I know you get discouraged at times. I know you wonder why you are attending school at all. But keep on. Keep on hammering away. Keep on learning. You will never regret learning—neither in this life, nor in the world to come. Indeed, you will treasure forever what you learn and what you learn about how to keep on learning.” 1
We are ever enriched by our ability to learn. Have you ever noticed an excitement as you step into an unknown territory of information and grow in your capacity to understand? It brings a sense of fulfillment that is sweet to the soul.
Another form of becoming eternally rich is through righteous principles. I am reminded of the account of the rich young ruler who asked the Savior what he should do to gain eternal life. The Lord responded by recounting the commandments.
We can add to our treasure daily by following the Savior’s example with our righteous works and acts of goodness. D&C 16: 6 says “And now, behold, I say unto you, that the thing which will be of the most worth unto you will be to declare repentance unto this people, that you may bring souls unto me, that you may rest with them in the kingdom of my Father.”
There is no shortage of opportunities to add to our eternal wealth as we serve, lift, inspire, and remain faithful and obedient to the commandments of our Lord. How will you add to your eternal treasure today?
I also asked them to bring paper copies of their scriptures to class. Most of them did so but perhaps I was asking for something unnecessary.
As I look at each girl, I see a future missionary, an example of faith and filled with the light of Christ. I see mothers and spouses, women who will stand in various positions in their community who will be a voice in support of families and the gospel. They need to know the scriptures. They need to know where to find the books and the messages from each prophet which has been recorded since Adam. When I ask them to open their scriptures to a specific book, I cringe a little when they ask if it is in the Bible or Book of Mormon. I was at that point once as well.
In the age of technology which we find ourselves, everything is available via electronic devices but there is something unique about reading the scriptures from a book sitting in front of you. I still have my scriptures that I was given at my baptism at the age of eight. I love these books! They are well worn. The pages are torn in places, the binding has long since broken, I have made hundreds of notes through them, underlining things which came to me as answers or having noted the words of a prompting. Every word inside these books are scripture to me, even the words which didn’t come pre-printed. I can’t do that with electronic scriptures. It isn’t the same.
I found it interesting that in an address by President Spencer W. Kimball, he mentioned the value of electronics of the future. He said, “Our Father in heaven has now provided us mighty towers—radio and television towers with possibilities beyond comprehension—to help fulfill the words of the Lord that ‘the sound must go forth from this place unto all the world.’
“President David O. McKay, speaking in the October 1966 conference of the Church, said of the scientific discoveries of recent years which will make possible the preaching of the gospel to every kindred, tongue, and people: ‘They stagger the imagination.’
“And further: ‘… discoveries latent with such potent power, either for the blessing or the destruction of human beings as to make men’s responsibility in controlling them the most gigantic ever placed in human hands. … This age is fraught with limitless perils, as well as untold possibilities.’
“Some authorities claim that this tiny miracle will be recorded by future historians as an event even greater than the invention of the printing press.” 1
In his day, the transistor radio and television broadcasts were a big move in the sharing of the gospel but today, we hold all the sacred words of the prophets, both ancient and modern, in the palms of our hands. We are reaching through closed doors by ways of the internet, sending the gospel to the nations by one small device whether it is by computer, phone or tablet. .
While I like paper scriptures better, the generations being raised are made for this day. They know how to navigate the digital age and The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is not one whit behind. Everything is becoming available digitally for easy access.
I don’t ask my Beehive girls to bring hard copies of scriptures anymore. What is truly important is that they are learning the gospel. If they want to do it digitally, then so be it. I only hope that we can all remember that we own the electronics, they should not own us or our thoughts and time. Let us avoid those distractions and “limitless perils” which President Kimball mentioned, focusing on the good we can do with them.
1 “When the World Will Be Converted”, President Spencer W. Kimball, Ensign, October 1974
Having needed a mom getaway for some time, I spent ten days on the island by myself doing whatever I wanted to do. I was able to meet wonderful people there whom I enjoyed visiting with. One very kind host invited me in on a cold night and offered me coffee or tea.
I appreciate that kind of hospitality in a foreign country and certainly wouldn’t try to take away or belittle their cultural traditions. Beforehand, I was looking for a solution to the issue before I knocked on the door. I didn’t know what kind of tea he served but I did know that just because I was in a foreign land, my values would not change. I couldn’t accept coffee or tea from him. I could have held the cup to my lips and pretended to drink. I could have said “no thank you but I would love to visit with you” which felt very awkward to me. Or I could take an herbal tea bag with me, which I did. Was it a little weird? Yes, it was but I was able to stand up for what I believe in even in a culture that does things differently than what I am accustomed to.
As members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, we stand out. We are often the recipients of strange looks or comments because we know better than to participate in many of the things the world says is alright. We can be confident in our decisions even when we feel like the only person standing in front of an arena of people who would laugh us to scorn.
In Lehi’s dream from the Book of Mormon, those who were holding the iron rod had to pass by the great and spacious building which was filled with people who laughed at and mocked the believers. Ancient prophets were scorned, beaten, jailed and even killed for standing up for gospel truths. I doubt we will have to sacrifice our lives for the kingdom of God, but we will have to stand up in adversity and show our love for God more than the desire for the praise of mankind.
President Thomas S. Monson recounted a story of when he was in the military. “Navy boot camp was not an easy experience for me, nor for anyone who endured it. For the first three weeks I was convinced my life was in jeopardy. The navy wasn’t trying to train me; it was trying to kill me.
“I shall ever remember when Sunday rolled around after the first week. We received welcome news from the chief petty officer. Standing at attention on the drill ground in a brisk California breeze, we heard his command: “Today everybody goes to church—everybody, that is, except for me. I am going to relax!” Then he shouted, “All of you Catholics, you meet in Camp Decatur—and don’t come back until three o’clock. Forward, march!” A rather sizeable contingent moved out. Then he barked out his next command: “Those of you who are Jewish, you meet in Camp Henry—and don’t come back until three o’clock. Forward, march!” A somewhat smaller contingent marched out. Then he said, “The rest of you Protestants, you meet in the theaters at Camp Farragut—and don’t come back until three o’clock. Forward, march!”
“Instantly there flashed through my mind the thought, 'Monson, you are not a Catholic; you are not a Jew; you are not a Protestant. You are a Mormon, so you just stand here!' I can assure you that I felt completely alone. Courageous and determined, yes—but alone.” 1
President Monson had no idea that anyone was standing behind him but when the officer asked what they called themselves and they all answered “Mormons”, he knew he wasn’t alone. He said, “It is difficult to describe the joy that filled my heart as I turned around and saw a handful of other sailors.”
We can have joy knowing that we do not stand alone even when we are by ourselves. Our faith will be challenged at times. We will need to be courageous. When we stand up for what is right, our Savior stands with us and we are never truly alone.
1 “Dare to Stand Alone”, President Thomas S. Monson, October 2011 General Conference
It has been revealed through prophets that he is a male spirit and that he cannot have a physical body to accomplish the great task that is his. But why is his name unrevealed?
There is a tendency that once people know a name, they begin using that instead of a title. Even in the Old Testament, the Lord’s name was revealed and yet they were cautioned to not speak it unless with the utmost reverence. This was the very reason why the Melchizadek Priesthood was named as such, so as not to speak our Creator’s name in excess. We were given a command early on to not use his holy name in vain, but look at the world we live in now. Even small children are breaking this commandment because of the examples set before them.
Have you ever heard a name spoken that brought back memories of someone else for good or bad? The Holy Ghost has a unique mission to assist each individual back home. I don’t know if I could feel as close to Heavenly Father or the Savior if I had to receive messages by a spirit named Peter, or Ronald, certainly not Henry because of the feelings that I have attached to that name. This is not meant to be disrespectful in any way. If we had more personal information about the Holy Ghost, it would distract from the essential mission of our Savior, Jesus Christ and the mission that He fulfilled for each one of us personally.
The beauty of the Spirit’s mission is that none of us feel the whisperings of the Holy Ghost in the same way. Galatians 5:22–23 reads, “But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, meekness, temperance.”
To some, he brings a spirit of love. To others, he might communicate through peace or happiness. To others still, it may come through joy, light, a feeling of expansion, or gratitude. There is no shortage of attributes that he possesses. His presence is more than a name, it is a feeling that reaches the soul so deeply that it cannot be denied.
Parley P. Pratt said, “The gift of the Holy Ghost . . . quickens all the intellectual faculties, increases, enlarges, expands and purifies all the natural passions and affections; and adapts them, by the gift of wisdom, to their lawful use.”1 How can such a powerful spirit have only one name when his titles and purposes are many.
Lastly, I discovered a gem in John 14:26. “But the Comforter, which is the Holy Ghost, whom the Father will send in my name, he shall teach you all things, and bring all things to your remembrance, whatsoever I have said unto you.” The Holy Spirit is sent in the name of Jesus Christ. No name is needed other than the Savior’s. The Holy Ghost does all things in the name of our Lord and Savior, of the Word made flesh. His purpose is to glorify God and teach truth to each of us in order to bring us home and in so doing, the Holy Spirit has taken upon himself the name of Jesus Christ the Lord. In this, his name is revealed.