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Category: Personal Growth

  • Pioneer: One that goes before, showing others the way to follow.

    Every year on July 24, members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (Mormons) celebrate Pioneer Day, the anniversary of the day that the first Mormon pioneers arrived in the Salt Lake Valley in 1847. It is a day to honor and remember the faith, courage, sacrifice, and perseverance of the early members of the church.
    The early Saints were such powerful examples of putting God first and following His will no matter what the circumstances. They endured more hardships than most could ever imagine, fearing for their lives, being driven from place to place, grieving over the martyrdom of their beloved prophet, and traveling hundreds of miles by foot (some with only handcarts in the bitter cold of winter), to finally find a resting place where they could worship the Lord, Jesus Christ, in peace.
    A pioneer is one that goes before, showing others the way to follow. Because of their commitment, unity, faith and selflessness, the pioneers paved a way for millions to find the joy and truth they had received.
    There is so much to be learned from these Mormon pioneers, and they actually still exist today. They don’t deal with the same hardships, but Mormons from all over the world strive to follow Jesus Christ as valiantly as the faithful men, women and children who crossed the plains.
    I love this video narrated by Elder Dallin H. Oaks, an apostle in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. He speaks of the idea of modern-day Mormon pioneers.
    One definition of a modern Mormon pioneer is one who is the first member of his/her family to join the LDS church.
    My husband, Jad, is one of these pioneers. He grew up in Jordan with a very large family, all who affiliated
    themselves with the teachings and traditions of the same Christian religion.
    Throughout his childhood, Jad had many questions. He would look up at the stars and wonder where he came from and what the purpose of life was.
    When he was about 9 or 10, he asked a priest these questions. He was quickly rebuked saying that he should not ask such questions as they would make him crazy.
    When Jad sadly learned that there were no answers to his questions, he slowly slipped away from his religion and
    God. He finally denounced religion all together when he stopped attending his Christian school at age 15.
    In his early adult years, after graduating from college in Jordan, he moved to the United States for a business opportunity with his uncle. A few years later, his friend told him of another opportunity in North Carolina.
    One night as he walked through Wal-Mart to shop for his store, he saw two young women and walked up to them. They were kind to him and invited him to a party. He accepted and was excited to attend.
    When Jad arrived at the party, he noticed it was much different than he expected. It was a family party, celebrating with family members who would soon move away. He stayed, though, and accepted an invitation to visit this family’s church, called The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
    That Sunday he met many new, smiling faces. He felt good as he listened to the children of the congregation put on a musical presentation. He left church with an invitation to help someone in the congregation who needed a ramp built for his home.
    This was Jad’s first experience with the Mormon Church, but not the last. Over the course of the next nine months he would attend church every Sunday. He would have the missionaries in his home on a weekly basis, and feed them each time.
    He was full of questions, and sometimes skepticism. He asked for a long time that the missionaries only answer his questions through Bible verses. They were always able to do so.
    After one lesson with the missionaries, they challenged Jad to not drink the next time he went out socially. He took the challenge, and he was surprised at how different everyone acted when intoxicated. He didn’t like it. So, even though for years Jad had drank nearly every night, he never did again after that experience.
    Not everything came so easily for Jad, though. He found many Mormon beliefs to be strange, but he kept listening
    and studying and spending time with the members and missionaries.
    Though he resisted with his brain, his heart could not sever him from the church. Even when members of his family presented him with anti-Mormon materials to read and view, he did not stop investigating.
    Through the months he investigated the church, Jad got many answers to questions. The teachings of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints made sense. It all made sense, but he was nervous it was too good to be true.
    One night, he prayed to Heavenly Father and told Him that if He answered Jad’s prayers on behalf of his friend, himself and his uncle, all with different needs, that he would know the church was true, and that he would join.
    The next morning, after talking to these two individuals that he had prayed about the night before, he joyfully
    realized that his prayers had indeed been answered. Jad knew that he would then accept the invitation to be baptized into The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
    He was baptized on his birthday, July 22, 2008. Soon he was called upon to be a ward missionary in his congregation, and then the ward mission leader.
    Jad had a testimony, and felt happy in his new faith. The questions he had had his whole life were answered. He still had more questions, though, and kept asking.
    Over time, Jad gained a stronger testimony of things that weren’t as clear when he got baptized. After the first General Conference he viewed, he knew that there was a living prophet. When he paid an honest tithe, he gained a testimony of tithing.
    Jad’s change of lifestyle, faith, and heart did not come without its struggles. Several members of his family ridiculed
    him for changing his lifestyle and no longer following the traditions he had always known. His own brother told him he would never talk to him again, though has since changed that stance.
    For the last six years, however, Jad has remained true to his baptismal covenants. He has tried his best to stand as a witness of God at all times and in all things and in all places (Mosiah 18:9).
    He has had numerous conversations with members of his family about the faith that he loves so dearly. He tries to set a good example for them, and help them find the full truth of the gospel of Jesus Christ. He has not given up, and will never do so. The gospel means that much to him.
    Jad and I truly believe that he was meant to live in the United States so that he could find the restored gospel of Jesus Christ. He never meant to live here, but instead wanted to be a pilot in Jordan. But, he is now one of very few Arabic members of the church. We believe that he has a great opportunity to help spread forth the kingdom of God
    to those of his heritage.
    Jad Al-Bjaly is a modern-day pioneer.
     Many members of our church have a long line of members in their family. However, all Mormons can be pioneers as
    they stand for what is right even when it isn’t popular, when they live their lives in service to God and to their fellow men, and when they share the light they have with others.
    Last Sunday, our worship services began with talks about the growth of the church in the Hillsborough and Mebane areas over the last several decades. Members of the church that grew up in these areas prayed and hoped for many years for an LDS chapel to be built closer to them so they could better serve and worship the Lord. That day has come.
    At the end of the meeting, our stake president gave a heartfelt and beautiful dedicatory prayer. The greatest desire emanated from the prayer was that the church members would work diligently with the missionaries, and dedicate their efforts to lovingly and boldly sharing their testimonies and spiritual knowledge with others. By so doing, our
    new church building can be filled with new faces to love and nourish with the good word of God.
    Mormons see beauty and truth in all religions, with respect for them all. We believe that there is much truth in all Christian religions about Jesus Christ and His gospel. The difference is that we believe that our church is the same church that Jesus established on the earth, with the same doctrines, the same priesthood authority, with the same focus on living the commandments as He presented them himself. We believe that God still speaks to a prophet today, and that we don’t have to be confused in today’s increasingly wicked world. We believe in loving and serving others every day of our lives, and we want with all of our hearts to share this joy and fulfillment that we enjoy every day.
    Every single member of the church who shares this light with others, in hopes that they join with us, is also a modern-day pioneer.
    I am a modern-day pioneer. My blog is dedicated to sharing my testimony, my faith, my hope with each of you. I want every person in this world to have the blessings of eternal families. I want everyone to know that God loves them and knows them. I want everyone to know what my husband wondered – where they came from and what this life is for.
    Another apostle of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Elder Neil L. Andersen, narrated a very spiritual video about pioneers, old and new, and about their love for their Savior, Jesus Christ. Please watch it. I promise it
    will touch your heart, as it does mine each time I watch it.
    President Gordon B. Hinckley, our beloved prophet from 1995-2008, said, “We honor best those who have gone before when we serve well in the cause of truth.”
    Elder Oaks expounded on this by saying, “That cause of truth is the cause of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, whose servants they were, and whose servants we should strive to be.”
    I strive every day of my life to be the Lord’s servant. As the song “True to the Faith” says,
    True to the faith that our parents have cherished,
    True to the truth for which martyrs have perished,
    To God’s command, Soul, heart, and hand,
    Faithful and true we will ever stand.
    Faithful and true I will ever stand – soul, heart and hand. I am a modern-day pioneer. Thank you to all of you who are and will someday become a modern-day Mormon pioneer. May God bless you in your zeal and devotion to the cause of truth.

     

     

  • Gratitude can change your life for the best

    I shared this talk in my church congregation on December 17, 2006, not long after the hardest experiences I have ever had in my life up until that point, and probably ever in my life, until now.

    The talk’s topic was gratitude. I always thought that it was an inspired topic, for through studying it was I able to find some peace and a greater awareness of all of the gifts Heavenly Father has given me.

    I came across this talk today for the first time since 2006, and I thought that it might help someone who has been going through tough times, and is having a difficult time seeing God’s hand and feeling His love.

    Talk on Gratitude
    Doctrine and Covenants 59:21 reads, “And in nothing doth man offend God, or against none
    is his wrath kindled, save those who confess not his hand in all things, and obey not his commandments.” President James E. Faust said that this is “more than a social courtesy; it is a binding commandment.” Lastly, 1 Thessalonians 5:18 reads, “In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you.”
    These statements are very clear. We must show gratitude for every occurrence and aspect of our lives.
    Much of this total gratitude includes our blessings. All of us are different and come from different backgrounds, but nevertheless all receive and have received countless blessings in our lives. Doctrine and Covenants 46:32 reads, “And ye must give thanks to God in the Spirit for whatsoever blessing ye are blessed with.”
    We have so many things to be thankful for. The well-known and beautiful primary song, “My Heavenly Father Loves Me,” illustrates gratitude for nature and our senses.
    Whenever I hear the song of a bird, or look at the blue, blue sky.
    Whenever I feel the rain on my face, or the wind as it rushes by.
    Whenever I touch a velvet rose, or walk by a lilac tree,
    I’m glad that I live in this beautiful world Heavenly Father created for me.
    He gave me my eyes that I might see the color of butterfly wings.
    He gave me my ears that I might hear the magical sound of things.
    He gave me my life, my mind, my heart, I thank him reverently
    for all his creations of which I’m a part. Yes, I know Heavenly Father loves me.
     
    In addition to nature and creations, some of our greatest blessings in life include the people that we love and respect, such as family, friends, teachers, mentors, and leaders. Without our relationships, we would be empty souls, hungry for love, acceptance, guidance, and companionship. The hymn “Each Life that Touches Ours for Good” perfectly reflects the positive impact of strong relationships with others. The first verse reads:
    Each life that touches ours for good, reflects thine own great mercy, Lord.
    Thou sendest blessings from above through words and deeds of those who love.
    In this church, we are also especially grateful for the gospel and the resources we have to help us better learn of Christ and our Father in Heaven. We have the scriptures, beautiful hymns, missionaries, a wonderful prophet and general authorities, temples, church magazines, and there are so many other resources that we enjoy. We must
    ask ourselves where we would be without the knowledge that Jesus Christ is our Savior, that the Father sent him down to earth to atone for the sins of the world, that we may be forgiven of our sins and receive eternal life.
    At this time of year we reflect on Jesus’ birth. John 3:16 reads:
    For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son,
    that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.
    President Hinckley declared,
    We love him. We honor him. We thank him. We worship him. He has done for each of us and for all mankind that which none other could have done. God be thanked for the gift of his Beloved Son, our Savior, the Redeemer of the world, the Lamb without blemish who was offered as a sacrifice for all mankind. Christ was the ultimate gift and blessing, and there are countless other blessings that we as individuals enjoy, including health, prosperity, education, accomplishments, and freedoms, along with many others.
    It is easy to see our blessings and have grateful minds when our lives are going well.  There are times, however, when we go through intense and difficult trials. During these times we may waver about our faith, see only the negative, complain, criticize, and place blame. At these times in our lives, it is difficult to have positive attitudes, least of all to feel grateful to our Lord for our blessings. Our problems seem to much outweigh any goodness in our lives. There is hope for these feelings of doubt and despair. We can still be happy despite our trials.
    One way to do this is to have a positive attitude; see the beauty in the darkness. President Monson
    offers this excellent insight:
    We can lift ourselves, and others as well, when we refuse to remain in the realm of negative thought and cultivate within our hearts an attitude of gratitude. If ingratitude be numbered among the serious sins, then gratitude takes its place among the noblest of virtues.
    Some recognition of blessings will come during the course of the trial, and other recognition may come after the trial as you notice its positive outcomes.
    I think this talk was meant for me because this year of my life was the hardest that I have ever had to bear. This year I got divorced from my eternal companion, moved across the country, had to start my life completely over with friends, work, living arrangements, not to mention that I lost my in-laws and friends. That sounds pretty bad, and it is if you look at if from a negative perspective. But, even though my marriage failed, I am glad for the experience that it brought to my life. I have my beautiful son, who I love more than anything in the world. When I look at him, I see God’s divine hand in my life. During my two years of marriage I also had security, wonderful people to call my in-laws, my beautiful primary children whom I would not have taught if I hadn’t of been married and in a family ward.
    The most important thing I got out of my marriage was growth as an individual. I strengthened myself in ways of tolerance, forgiveness, communication skills, enduring to the end, hard work, love, and devotion. I went through my divorce during my last semester at SUU. That was a very difficult semester, but I did receive many blessings during that time. The sheer fact that I was able to graduate from college with high honors when I had a baby, family, work, church, and a divorce to worry about on top of school was a miracle in itself.
    My life since I have moved to North Carolina has been hard too, but I have had so many blessings. I have a loving family who helps me with everything I need, even though  I know sometimes Casey and I are a hardship; my ex-husband and I are friends and we keep in contact; I have made many friends in this ward, and I am so grateful for how many of you have opened your hearts to Casey. I am grateful that even though I will soon have to put my son in someone else’s care while I work, that he will be with a loving caregiver who has a son his age. Everything is going to be okay in my life. I just need to focus on the positive.
    The song “Count your Blessings” helps us to change our attitude and build our faith of enduring trials. The first two verses read:
    When upon life’s billows you are tempest tossed, when you are discouraged thinking all is lost,
    count your many blessings, name them one by one, and it will surprise you what the Lord has done.
    Are you ever burdened with a load of care? Does the cross seem heavy you are called to bear?
    Count your many blessings, every doubt will fly, and you will be singing as the days go by.
     In the field of communication there is a theory dealing with costs and rewards. When a relationship brings more costs than rewards to our lives, we will end the relationship. But I testify to you today that no matter how many trials we have to face, in our relationship with the Savior, the rewards will always be higher than the costs. So, coming to the Lord in prayer, asking for help in your trials is perhaps the best way to have the strength to live life positively and
    with a grateful heart.
    Alma 37:37 reads:
    Counsel with the Lord in all thy doings, and he will direct thee for good;
    yea, when thou liest down at night, lie down unto the Lord, that he may watch over you in your sleep;
    and when thou risest in the morning let thy heart be full of thanks unto God;
    and if ye do these things, ye shall be lifted up at the last day.
    We shall be exalted if we come unto Christ and thank him for all that he does for us in our every day lives. There is nothing greater for which we can be thankful.
    To show God how much we love him, we should serve others. These kind acts will also help us to overlook our own struggles by helping others with theirs. You could be the answer to someone else’s prayer and not even know it. You can stimulate gratitude in others through pure love and service. To show our gratitude to our Father in Heaven and Jesus Christ we should be mindful of our brethren just as they are mindful of us. Then we can find joy in our sometimes dreary lives.
    We now know that we must be grateful for all things and thus we need to show this gratitude. The simplest way is just to say it. President Hinckley said:
    There are two little words in the English language that perhaps mean more than all others.
    They are “thank you.”
    President Monson counsels:
    “Think to thank. In these three words is the finest capsule course for a happy marriage, a formula for enduring friendship, and a pattern for personal happiness.”
    In Luke 17 we read about the ten lepers. Christ showed them the way to be healed, and only one of the ten lepers came back to thank him. Jesus said to the Samaritan:
    Were there not ten cleansed? But where are the nine? There are not found that returned to give glory to God, save this stranger. And he said unto him, Arise and go thy way: thy faith hath made thee whole.
    The man who expressed his gratitude received Christ’s blessing, and the others’ ingratitude resulted only in disappointment.
    We can express our gratitude to our Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ in our prayers, and also in our actions.
    President Monson offers this plea:
    Let us follow Him. Let us emulate his example. Let us obey His word.
    By so doing, we give to Him the divine gift of gratitude.
    Jesus himself said in John 14:21:
    He that hath my commandments and keepeth them, he it is that loveth me.
    We should also use the gospel resources that we have been given, such as studying the scriptures, praying, sustaining church leaders, paying our tithing and fast offering, singing hymns, going to the temple, and doing family history.
    We should show our gratitude to those who serve us on the earth. We can write thank you notes, make phone calls, show affection, and spend time with people. Remember, that even if someone does something for you that may not be exactly what you wanted, still show excitement and gratitude because that person worked really hard to make you happy. Also try not to take those who serve you for granted. Say thank you to your family, friends, and all others for everything, even the small things.
    I’d like to leave you with two quotes. The first was given by President Harold B. Lee:
    Life is God’s gift to man. What we do with our life is our gift to God.
    Doctrine and Covenants 78:19 reads:
    And he who receiveth all things with thankfulness shall be made glorious;
    and the things of this earth shall be added unto him, even an hundred fold, yea, more.
     What a promise. Just showing gratitude can bring about so many wonderful blessings. I am thankful so much for this ward and for your kindness to Casey and me. I hope that we can all remember Christ and his infinite love for each of us.

  • I never stand alone.

    Alone I stand,
    While all the world around me
    Surrounds me
    And takes me for a fool.
    But I am not
    The first to be regarded
    As weak and simple-hearted
    For choosing to believe
    That He keeps watch over His own.

    CHORUS
    I never stand alone
    When I stand with God
    And I stand with His prophets.
    Wherever I may go,
    When I stand with God
    I never stand alone.

    And so it is
    My heart has been befriended,
    Defended
    By those who’ve gone before.
    Who call to me
    Like distant rolling thunder,
    “You cannot be outnumbered!
    You’re standing with the Lord.”
    And He keeps watch over His own.

    CHORUS

    I stand with Nephi and Moroni,
    With Abinadi, who testified in flames!
    With saints through the ages,
    Stalwart and faithful,
    Leading me, telling me . . .

    CHORUS

    This beautiful song is called “I Never Stand Alone,” and is from the musical From Cumorah’s Hill. It has been on my mind for the last couple days. You may remember I recently wrote about another song from this very musical. I may at some point write about all of them, for they all are glorious.

    This particular song, which cannot be done justice simply by reading the words, is one I have loved since I was a teenager studying the Book of Mormon. I sang this song in front of a large group of youth twice in that year, and it had a huge impact on my testimony of the gospel of Jesus Christ, and of the Book of Mormon.

    I love how the words of this song bring comfort and strength to true believers in Christ, who many times are persecuted and belittled for their beliefs. Living the gospel in word and deed will never be popular in this world, but, as the song says, when I stand with God, I am never outnumbered, and I am never alone.

    There is another message in this song too. It mentions standing with the prophets. Prophets have been testifying of Christ long before He was ever born. They testified of Him after His resurrection, and there are still prophets today who testify of Him, and provide counsel on how to live in accordance with God’s will.

    Though prophets are called of God to bring souls unto Him, they are often shunned, persecuted, and sometimes even killed. The end of this song praises the names of men named Nephi, Moroni and Abinadi.

    These are three prophets in the Book of Mormon who remained unshaken in their faith no matter what hardships they faced.

    Nephi

    Nephi was the son of Lehi, who received a vision from the Lord in 600 B.C. to leave Jerusalem. His life was being threatened by wicked men, and the city was soon to be destroyed due to the wickedness of the people. Nephi prayed for confirmation any time his father received instruction from the Lord, and he obeyed faithfully.

    He was the youngest of four brothers. One of his brothers, Sam, stood by him always, but his oldest brothers, Laman and Lemuel, constantly murmured and complained. They did not believe that their father was a prophet. They hated their younger brother for his righteousness, his faith, and for his relationship with God.

    Early on in their journey in the wilderness, Lehi, on commandment from the Lord, asked his sons to go back to Jerusalem to get the Plates of Brass. A wicked man named Laban was in possession of these plates. This was a very dangerous endeavor. Nephi, however, never complained, and even attempted, without hesitation, to get the plates on three different occasions. He relied on the Lord to deliver him from Laban, and because of his faith, he was able to obtain the record.

    Many times Laman and Lemuel tried to kill Nephi, one instance being after they lost their earthly wealth the second time they tried to get the plates. But no matter what his brothers said or did in hatred and bitterness, Nephi was always courageous. He always obeyed the Lord. He always forgave his brothers and bade them follow the Lord too, regardless of their many unrighteous acts.

    When I think that I can’t do something, I think of Nephi’s words:

    “I will go and do the things which the Lord hath commanded, for I know that the Lord giveth no commandments unto the children of men, save he shall prepare a way for them that they may accomplish the thing which he commandeth them” (1 Nephi 3:7).

    Abinadi

    About 440 years after Lehi led his family out of Jerusalem, a man named Abinadi was called to be a prophet and preach repentance to a wicked people, called the Nephites, and their wicked king, Noah. He went among the people warning them that if they did not repent, the Lord would allow their enemies to bring them into bondage. The people were angry and tried to take his life, but the Lord delivered him out of their hands.

    Even after that near-death experience, Abinadi willingly returned to the wicked people two years later to cry repentance again, this time prophesying the death of their king and the destruction of the people if they did not repent. He was arrested and soon thereafter taken before King Noah.

    King Noah was angry with Abinadi’s bold declarations regarding the wickedness of the king’s priests and their false teachings, and commanded that he be slain.

    Abinadi then shone with the power of God and commanded the guards, “Touch me not, for God shall smite you if ye lay your hands upon me, for I have not delivered the message which the Lord sent me to deliver. … I must fulfil the commandments wherewith God has commanded me” (Mosiah 13:3).

    He had the Spirit of the Lord with him as he finished the message he was sent to deliver. Abinadi said that once he gave this message, it did not matter what would happen to him.

    At the conclusion of his testimony where he prophesied of the coming of Jesus Christ, King Noah demanded that Abinadi be put to death. A young man, named Alma, one of the king’s priests, pleaded for his life. This man named Alma would become a worthy vessel to forward the work of the Lord among the people.

    Three days after Alma spoke up and was cast out, King Noah demanded that Abinadi take back his words or be put to death. He refused.

    Abinadi suffered death by fire, being put to death because “he would not deny the commandments of God, having sealed the truth of his words by his death” (Mosiah 17:20).

    I believe that any prophet of God that ever lived would have been willing to give his life to accomplish the will of God in proclaiming the truth. Joseph Smith was one of those prophets.

    Do I have the courage to do what Abinadi did? I am not a prophet, but I am a disciple of Christ. I know that I want to do God’s will, and that I should not be afraid to do so. There is no worldly punishment that could stop me from following my Savior.

    Moroni

    Moroni was the last prophet in the Book of Mormon. About 400 years after Christ’s resurrection and visit to the Americas, Moroni’s people, the Nephites, were being obliterated from off the face of the earth. He saw his father, Mormon, die in battle. That left him the last righteous Nephite, and person, in the land.

    His life was in much danger because the Lamanites put to death any Nephite who would not deny the Christ. Moroni said, “And I, Moroni, will not deny the Christ; wherefore, I wander whithersoever I can for the safety of mine own life” (Moroni 1:3).

    As Moroni hid from the carnage going on amongst the Nephites and Lamanites, he wrote his testimony in hopes that it would someday help the descendants of the Lamanites.

    What a Christ-like person he must have been to write to help the souls of his enemies. Moroni wrote so many beautiful words about how the church of Christ should be operated, how to treat others as God would want us to, how to gain charity, which is the pure love of Christ, how to discern good from evil, and how we all have gifts given to us from God.

    The most life-changing message that Moroni left for all of us, is this:

    “Behold, I would exhort you that when ye shall read these things, if it be wisdom in God that ye should read them, that ye would remember how merciful the Lord hath been unto the children of men, from the creation of Adam even down until the time that ye shall receive these things, and ponder it in your hearts.

    And when ye shall receive these things, I would exhort you that ye would ask God, the Eternal Father, in the name of Christ, if these things are not true; and if ye shall ask with a sincere heart, with real intent, having faith in Christ, he will manifest the truth of it unto you, by the power of the Holy Ghost.

    And by the power of the Holy Ghost ye may know the truth of all things” (M
    oroni 10:3-5    ).

    Moroni stood with God and with the prophets, as he declared that the words written in the Book of Mormon are true. He asked us to remember God’s mercy, and to ask Him with sincerity if the words in the Book of Mormon are in fact true. He promised that those who pray with real intent and faith in Christ, will feel the Holy Ghost manifest of its divinity.

    These are just three examples of prophets in the Book of Mormon who were courageous, stalwart, faithful, and obedient. Though often they stood without human allies, they were never alone because they stood with God.

    I know that as we follow the examples of these worthy men, and valiantly do God’s will, that we will be blessed, that we can endure all things that come our way. Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ love us more than we could ever fathom, and they are right there beside us. Keep the faith, my friends.

  • Sabbath Day Light: I know that God is real. I will never deny it.

    Church this Sunday was once again amazing. I was so happy to have a couple of my friends attend with us to support me as I sang, and to share in our love of our new building. I was also able to hear a friend, who recently began coming back to church, sing in church, which I felt very honored and blessed to witness. I also loved the lessons I learned from speakers and teachers.

    Just like last week, the Spirit was so strong. It enveloped me like a warm hug. During one point in our Sacrament Meeting the Spirit burned a fire in my heart, testifying to me of ultimate truth.
    This moment occurred when a group of people I love – a good friend, and three youth who I admire for their strong testimonies – got up and sang to the congregation. Before they sang, they took turns narrating a story and scripture to preface the song’s tender subject. Here are the words to the song.

    “The Power of God“
    From Cumorah’s Hill
    Steven Kapp Perry

    Listen to the wind blow,
    Lonely as a sigh.
    Nothing overhead but empty sky.
    Look up at starlight
    On a dark night;
    Are we all alone,
    An island in space?
    Or is there a plan
    Where I have a place?
    Could it be that heaven
    Is man’s imagining,
    Reaching out for hope in childish dreams?
    Stories so old then,
    We’ve outgrown them?
    Has God gone away
    Or hidden His face?
    Have miracles ceased to be?

    CHORUS: But the power of God is plain to see,
    There are wonders on every hand
    To those who will see through eyes of faith,
    Beyond the mind of man.
    For how could we hope
    To see His face,
    Who never could see
    His hand?

    Some may see a rainbow
    As nothing more than light.
    Others see a promise and a sign.
    Everyday wonders
    Without number
    Are here all around
    And wait to be found
    By those who have eyes to see.

    CHORUS (repeat)

    Listen to the wind blow,
    Then listen once again.

    Tears streamed down my face as I listened to this choir of beautiful voices. Their voices mesmerized, their countenances shone, their faith encompassed the entire chapel.

    I felt without a shadow of a doubt, not only that they believed what they were singing, not only that I also believed what they were singing, but that the words to the song were absolutely true.

    The scripture story that the youth read from before singing was in the Book of Mormon in Alma Chapter 30.

    The portion the group read was:

    “And then Alma said unto [Korihor], Believest thou that there is a God? And he answered, Nay (37, 38).

    And now, what evidence have ye that there is no God, or that Christ cometh not? I say unto you that ye have none, save it be your word only (40)…

    I say until you, I know there is a God, and also that Christ shall come…yea and all things denote there is a God” (39, 44).

    There are so many people who do not believe in God, and it shocks and saddens me.  Some do not believe because of scientific studies that say the earth is millions of years old, rather than only a few thousand. Some do not believe because they have never seen God, and nobody can prove to them 100% that there is a God. Some maybe used to believe, but no longer do because of hardships they have endured, and cannot see how God would allow such suffering to occur. Finally, there are some who do not believe in God and Jesus Christ because they have never heard about them.

    Some things I have learned through study and prayer are:

    1. Faith precedes the miracle. We will not receive a witness of truth until after the trial of our faith.
    2. God has not revealed all knowledge yet, and we will know someday if we remain faithful. When Christ comes again, he will reveal all things.
    3. We each have been given our freedom to choose God. If it were incredibly obvious that God existed and that we should follow Him, then there would be no need for faith, and no ability to grow and learn.
    4. Pain and suffering are gifts to us, as they give us the opportunity to humble ourselves, turn to the Lord for help, learn patience, realize our will is not always God’s will, open our perspective to the eternities,  help us appreciate our prosperous times more, and strengthen our faith.
    5. All people who have lived and who ever will live will have the opportunity to know of Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ. Nobody will be lost just because they didn’t know God. There is work being done now in temples, and will continue when Christ comes again, to ensure that all people have the chance to choose God if they desire Him.

    The beautiful song that my friends sang helps us see God’s hand in all things. He is the divine creator. The things we have on this earth, the small things, the beautiful things, all things, come from Him. We cannot look, smell, touch, or hear without witnessing God’s love for us.

  • Sabbath Day Light: I love God and His children. That includes you.

    There are so many things I could write about today. The Spirit at church was so strong and thick, you could swim in it. From thinking about my purpose to fasting today, to the beautiful testimonies borne by other faithful Saints, to discussing moral courage in Sunday School, to talking about the importance of education, both temporally and spiritually, my heart is full.

    I truly left church happy today. I am filled with God’s love for me. I am also filled with love for God’s children, my brothers and sisters.

    I am filled with God’s love for me and His children because…

    1. He has provided the people of the Hillsborough/Mebane area with a sunny, beautiful new building to worship in. I have seen a new brightness in our congregation that I hope will never dim.

    2. The Holy Ghost was visibly present in our meetings to testify of truth and to edify our souls.

    3. The Sacrament was administered to us, as it is every week, to allow us to renew our baptismal covenants.
    3. God has revealed, through the words of prophets, scriptures to lead us and guide us on the straight and narrow path back to Him. Studying them each week in Sunday School helps me stay on that path.
    4. The people in my congregation are all different. They lead different lives, have different struggles and different joys. They have some things in common, though. They have hope and they have faith, because they know they are children of God and that Jesus Christ is their Savior. I felt, and always feel, that knowledge radiate through the countenances of their faces, and light up the whole building.

    I am filled with my own love for my brothers and sisters because…

    1. I observed how hard they work to fulfill their church responsibilities, simply because they love the Lord.

    2. I loved hearing them bear their individual testimonies and share their personal experiences that have brought them closer to Christ. I was truly touched by all who shared.
    3. I received help with my children today as different members played with them.
    4. I felt appreciation for my testimony as people approached me, thanking me for sharing it.
    5. I felt loved as people said hello to me and smiled at me and asked me how I was doing.
    6. I had the blessing of meeting some new individuals, who I am excited to get to know.
    7. I smiled at my baby being cute, and smiled at the people who smiled at him being cute.
    9. I asked how I could help some of my fellow sisters, with a heart willing to serve.
    10. I listened to a sister play a song on the piano, and even though she was nervous and made some mistakes, I felt love and appreciation for her for having the courage and desire to share her talents.
    11. I happily accepted an assignment to substitute a class.
    12. I, without a second thought, offered the use of some of my belongings to a friend.

    What I think is so amazing, is that we can feel love for God and for others because of things that touch us, things we see, things we experience, things we study, things others do for us, and also things we do for others.

    I am so grateful for this love I feel in my heart right now. I have realized (or re-realized) today, that being judgmental, gossiping, and holding a grudge never bring happiness and light. They never improve or help or uplift. Only by loving, even when it is hard or inconvenient, will change our hearts. It will change the world.

  • Sabbath Day Light: A talking donkey spoke to me

    This week in Sunday School, we discussed the story of Balaam, a prophet whom King Balak enticed many times to curse the Israelites.

    You can read a full description of the story here. I found it very interesting and enlightening.

    There are so many lessons to be learned from it, such as the need to obey God’s commandments with exactness , to not be tempted by worldly treasures, and to accept and follow answers to prayer, instead of trying to get God to change His will.

    The point that moved me the most, though, came  from the encounter with Balaam and his donkey, who he thought was mocking him by not proceeding forth on their journey, but rather stopping, or turning, or falling down. Balaam beat his donkey, and after the donkey was allowed by God to speak, realized that the donkey in fact was saving him from death.

    Balaam and his donkey

    I thought about how as people we often are quick to get angry and quick to be offended. Often when we choose to feel this way, we lash out irrationally, usually without knowing all the facts.

    Most of the time, when someone seemingly hurts us, it isn’t intentional. Most people aren’t out to hurt us or bring us down. Sometimes people just have bad days, fumble something they say, forget a promise they have made, or are just speaking or doing what they usually do, not realizing it may not be the best way to communicate.

    Sometimes we just don’t have all the facts. We only see one piece of the puzzle, and rather than seek out the rest of pieces, we make assumptions – assumptions which lead to bitterness, lashing out, awkwardness, or gossip.

    Then there are times when people really are out to hurt us. It could be a stranger, a peer, or even someone we love.
    In those cases, we really have no choice but to be angry and offended, right? We aren’t in the wrong if we lash out, either physically, verbally, or nonverbally because that person deserves it, correct? Isn’t that just justice?

    That is the common response, but in reality, anger is a CHOICE.

    A leader in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS church), Elder Lynn G. Robbins, said: 

    “A cunning part
    of his [Satan’s] strategy is to dissociate anger from agency, making us believe
    that we are victims of an emotion that we cannot control. We hear, ‘I lost my
    temper.’ Losing one’s temper is an interesting choice of words that has become
    a widely used idiom. To ‘lose something’ implies ‘not meaning to,’
    ‘accidental,’ ‘involuntary,’ ‘not responsible’—careless perhaps but ‘not
    responsible.’

    “‘He made me
    mad.’ This is another phrase we hear, also implying lack of control or agency.
    This is a myth that must be debunked. No one makes us mad. Others don’t make us
    angry. There is no force involved. Becoming angry is a conscious choice, a
    decision; therefore, we can make the choice not to become angry. We choose! To those who say,
    ‘But I can’t help myself,’ author William Wilbanks responds, ‘Nonsense.’

    “‘Aggression, …
    suppressing the anger, talking about it, screaming and yelling,’ are all
    learned strategies in dealing with anger. ‘We choose the one that has proved
    effective for us in the past. Ever notice how seldom we lose control when
    frustrated by our boss, but how often we do when annoyed by friends or family?’ (‘The New
    Obscenity,’ Reader’s Digest, Dec. 1988, 24; italics added)” (in Conference
    Report, Apr. 1998, 105; or Ensign, May 1998, 80).

    If anger is a choice, why do we choose it? Does it solve anything?

    The living prophet of the LDS church, Thomas S.
    Monson said, “Anger does not solve anything; it
    builds nothing. To be angry is to yield to the influence of Satan. No one can
    make us angry. It is our choice. If we desire to have a proper spirit with us
    at all times, we must choose to refrain from becoming angry. I testify that
    such is possible.”

    Looking at the scriptures, Jesus Christ taught,
    “Ye have heard that it hath been said, Thou shalt love thy neighbour, and hate thine enemy.
    “But I say unto you, Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you. …
    “For if ye love them which love you, what reward have ye? do not even the publicans the same?
    “And if ye salute your brethren only, what do ye more than others? do not even the publicans so?
    “Be ye therefore perfect, even as your Father which is in heaven is perfect” (Matthew 5:43–44, 46–48).
    It is interesting that just before commanding us to be perfect, the Lord counsels us to love our neighbors and our enemies. This is not easy, but as President Monson said, it is possible.
    Elder David A. Bednar of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles in the LDS church, declared, “One of the greatest indicators of our own spiritual maturity is revealed in how we respond to the weaknesses, the inexperience, and the potentially offensive actions of others. A thing, an event, or an expression may be offensive, but you and I can choose not to be offended…”
    Are we mature people, especially in things of the Spirit? I personally know I need to take my own advice, as well as the counsel of these great men, especially my Savior.
    Let’s try to take more breaths, think more rationally, give more benefits of the doubt, seek more clarification, and love more dearly. Let us also try harder not to be the one causing the hurt, whether intentionally or unintentionally. All we have to do is try to see perspectives outside our own.
    Join with me! Let’s be more spiritually mature together. Let’s choose the better part.
    Thank you, talking donkey, for speaking to me.

  • Sabbath Day Light: Women of faith united

    This Sunday, as everyone knows, was Mother’s Day. The whole day was wonderful, and during every minute of church, the Spirit was there so strongly.  In the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, we believe in the divine nature of men and women. During church, it really hit me that women really do have special characteristics and qualities that help them be good mothers, loyal servants of Christ, and devoted friends, to name just a few.

    I love women, and I love being a woman. Womanhood should be celebrated and embraced. We are all so special and unique, and have been given special God-given gifts individually, and collectively, as women.

    In the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, there is an organization called the Relief Society, of which I, and all women in my church, ages 18 and up, belong. It is actually the oldest and largest women’s organization in the world, being organized in 1842.

    If you would to read the beautiful Relief Society declaration, please click here.

    Each Sunday, during the third hour of church, the women of the Relief Society meet together and are spiritually fed. We are taught and participate in lessons that help us strengthen our faith in Jesus Christ, and find ways to strengthen our homes and families. We also meet about once a month to have an activity where we learn new skills and bond with each other as sisters.

    Not only do the Relief Society sisters meet together often, but we also strive to continuously help each other. In our church, we are very service-oriented. In each congregation, there are a couple sisters who communicate with women who currently have specific needs, and then coordinate with the rest of us to help them. It could be anything from a visit, to babysitting, to a meal.

    Most of we women in the Relief Society are also assigned specific other women to keep in contact with, teach spiritual lessons to, serve, and befriend. By doing this, what we call visiting teaching, we are making sure that all women in our congregation, and whole church, feel loved, cared for, and spiritually nourished outside of church.

    This Sunday during our Relief Society meeting, we actually discussed how to be better visiting teachers. It’s not about checking off that you made contact with someone each month. It’s so much more than that. It is about friendship, service, and Christ-like love. Many women in our congregation spoke of specific experiences where they felt so loved by their visiting teachers. It has invigorated my desire to show more love and help to all the women I currently visit teach, and to those I will in the future.

    I feel so blessed to be a part of such a large and long-lasting organization, whose purpose is to help ourselves and others be the best women, sisters, mothers, wives, and daughters of God we can be.

    We of the Relief Society hold our hands out to each woman in the world to be a part of us. All you have to do is come, and there will be women there to call you their sister. The Lord smiles down on those who love Him – and those who love Him, love their fellow man… and woman.

    If you are interested in learning more about my church and the Relief Society program, you can input your address here to find a congregation location and time. I promise you will be welcomed with open arms.

  • 100 Things the Book of Mormon Has Taught Me

    Last week I completed my fourth and final semester studying the Book of Mormon, along with other sisters who I have come to love dearly. The first two semesters, I was blessed to be taught by a wonderful sister. Then the last two semesters, I had the blessed responsibility of teaching the class. In both roles, I grew as a person and as a daughter of God. I also learned to love the Book of Mormon more than I ever had before in my life.

    I want to share with you 100 beautiful truths from the Book of Mormon that have helped, and continue to help me, in my journey to be more like my Savior.

    1. The Lord provides a way for us to follow His commands (1 Nephi 3:7).
    2. The Lord can do all things for us, that are His will,  if we have faith in Him (1 Nephi 7:12).
    3. Sometimes the Lord commands us to do things for a purpose we don’t understand (1 Nephi 9:5).
    4. If we listen to the word of God, and follow it, the devil can’t overpower us (1 Nephi 15:24).
    5. We receive strength as we obey God’s commandments (1 Nephi 17:3).
    6. Regardless of our afflictions, we should praise God and not murmur (1 Nephi 18:16).
    7. Jesus Christ offered himself as a sacrifice for sin. Only through His mercy and grace, can those who believe return to God’s presence (2 Nephi 2:6-8).
    8. Everything must have its opposite. You cannot have one without the other (2 Nephi 2:11-13).
    9. We all have our free agency to choose to follow Christ or the devil (2 Nephi 2:27, 2 Nephi 10:23).
    10. Those who trust man instead of God are cursed (2 Nephi 4:34).
    11. The Lord admonishes us to listen to Him and not be afraid of men, for they die. The Lord and His righteousness are forever (2 Nephi 8:7-8, 12).
    12. The Lord will bless you and give you knowledge if you are humble. He despises those who  value riches and knowledge of men more than His counsel (2 Nephi 9:28-30, 42).
    13.  We are saved by grace after all we can do (2 Nephi 25:23).
    14. People will say they have a bible and don’t need another bible. The Lord answers by saying He loves His people all over the world and He will visit all nations after His resurrection. A written testimony of two nations is a witness of Him, and that He remembers all nations (2 Nephi 29:-78).
    15. The Lamb of God was holy, yet He was baptized to fulfill all righteousness. We who are unholy, must be baptized to show obedience to God and His commandments (2 Nephi 31:5-7).
    16. After we are baptized, we still have work to do to receive eternal life. We must stay faithful, love God and our neighbors, follow the word of Christ, etc. (2 Nephi 19-20).
    17. After we are baptized and receive the gift of the Holy Ghost, we can speak by the power of the Holy Ghost. As we study our scriptures, we will know what we should do (2 Nephi 32:2-3, 5).
    18. Pray always. Don’t do anything unto the Lord without praying first for help (2 Nephi 32:9).
    19. Seek for the kingdom of God before you seek for riches. If you do obtain riches, use them to do good to others, for we are all precious to God (Jacob 2:18-21).
    20. When we serve others, we are serving God. If we praise, thank and serve God all our lives with our whole souls, we will still be unprofitable servants. All we have to do is keep His commandments, and we are blessed. We will always be indebted to Christ, and have no reason to ever boast of ourselves (Mosiah 2:17, 20-24).
    21. We must be like little children and put off the natural man, else we are an enemy to God (Mosiah 3:18-19).
    22. God created all things, has all wisdom, and all power. We can’t comprehend what He can (Mosiah 4:9).
    23. We should teach our children to keep God’s commandments and to love and serve others. We should not withhold our help from those who need it, saying they deserve what they get. We are all beggars and rely on God for all (Mosiah 4:14-19).
    24. We must watch our thoughts, words and deeds, and keep God’s commandments, else we will perish (Mosiah 4:30).
    25. When we are baptized, we make a covenant to be obedient to all of God’s commands, all our lives. When we make this covenant, we are called the children of Christ. We must remember Him always. How can we know Him if we do not serve Him and keep Him in our hearts? (Mosiah 4:5-13).
    26. When we are baptized, we promise to stand as witnesses of God at all times and in all things and in all places (Mosiah 18:9).
    27. The Lord will forgive those who repent. We should forgive each other as well. If we don’t, then we will not be forgiven of our sins (Mosiah 26:30-31).
    28. The judgments of God are always just, but the judgments of man are not (Mosiah 29:12).
    29. Alma asks many questions to see if his people are prepared for salvation. These are great questions to ponder and see how you are doing in your path of righteousness (Alma 5:14-32).
    30. The word of God must be fulfilled, regardless if people reject it (Alma 5:58).
    31. To walk blameless before God, we must be humble, gentle, patient, grateful, etc (Alma 7:23-24).
    32. Christ has loosed the bands of temporal death. All will be resurrected (Alma 11:43-44).
    33. Those with soft hearts receive more of God’s word than those who harden their hearts (Alma 12:10).
    34. This life is a time to prepare to meet God (Alma 12:24).
    35. Do not procrastinate the day of your repentance, but instead watch and pray continually and have faith, and a hope of eternal life. (Alma 13:27-30)
    36. Who can glory too much in the Lord? (Alma 26:16).
    37. God is mindful of all people and is merciful unto them (Alma 26:37).
    38. What profit is it to labor in a church if you don’t get paid? It is to rejoice in the joy of others (Alma 30:34-35).
    39. All things denote there is a God (Alma 30:44).
    40. The Lord provides strength, comfort and patience to those who suffer afflictions, as long as they pray in faith (Alma 31:30-38).
    41. It is better to humble yourself because of God’s word than to be compelled to be humble (Alma 32:12-16).
    42. Faith is not to have a perfect knowledge, but a hope for things which are not seen, which are true (Alma 32:21).
    43. Faith begins with a desire to believe. Alma the younger, a prophet, compares the word of God unto a seed and explains how it can grow and bring forth fruit to you (Alma 32:27-43).
    44. By small and simple things God brings about great things, including the salvation of souls (Alma 37:6-7).
    45.  The Lord keeps His promises, and always has (Alma 37:17).
    46. If you counsel with the Lord, He will direct you. Those who pray daily and have hearts filled with gratitude daily will be lifted up at the last day (Alma 37:37).
    47. You cannot hide your crimes from God. You must repent of your sins (Alma 39:8).
    48. Do not seek after riches, for you can’t take them with you (Alma 39:14).
    49. Wickedness never was happiness. Those who do not follow God cannot be happy (Alma 41:10-11).
    50. Christ’s atonement has brought about the plan of mercy and appeases the demands of justice by allowing us to repent of our sins (Alma 42:13-15).
    51. War is justified to protect families, lands, rights and religion (Alma 43:46-47).
    52. God will preserve the faithful. The Lord will not allow a people to be destroyed unless they fall into transgression and deny their faith (Alma 44:4).
    53. Captain Moroni’s character is explained, and then it issaid that if all people were like him, the devil could have no power over anyone (Alma 48:11-13, 17).
    54. If you do not doubt, God will deliver you from your enemies (Alma 56:47-48).
    55. Joy  and pureness of heart comes from humility and giving your heart to God (Helaman 3:35).
    56. If you build your foundation on the rock of Christ, the devil cannot drag you  down into misery and despair. Those who build a sure foundation cannot fall (Helaman 5:12).
    57. Samuel, a Lamanite prophet, prophesies that the night before Christ is born, there will be no darkness, but a day and a night and a day of only light. A new star will arise and signs and wonders will come from Heaven (Helaman 14:3-6).
    58. Jesus must die so that the dead can be resurrected. His death redeems mankind and, through repentance, allows all to enter back into the presence of God (Helaman 14: 15-18).
    59. Samuel prophesies that upon Christ’s death, there will be darkness until He is resurrected. During this period of darkness, there will be terrible natural disasters, changing the face of the whole earth, above and beneath (Helaman 14:20-27).
    60. The words of the prophets are fulfilled every whit (3 Nephi 1:20).
    61. Christ extends His mercy to all who come to Him (3 Nephi 9:14).
    62. Heavenly Father speaks to the Nephites in the land Bountiful, and testifies of His beloved son. Jesus descends out of heaven and stands in their midst. He speaks of his atoning sacrifice and invites the multitude to thrust their hands into His side, and feel the prints in His hands and feet (3 Nephi 11:7-15).
    63. Jesus instructs the prophet Nephi on how baptism should be done – in His name, having proper authority, and by immersion (3 Nephi 11:21-26).
    64. Contention and anger are of the devil (3 Nephi 11:29-30).
    65. Jesus speaks the Beatitudes to the Nephites, just as He did at the Sermon on the Mount (3 Nephi
    12:3-12).
    66. The Father knows what you need before you ask Him (3 Nephi 13:8).
    67. If you first seek the kingdom of Heaven, you will be blessed with your temporal needs (3 Nephi 13:33).
    68. Do not judge others. First look at yourself and what you need to change before you point out others’ faults (3 Nephi 14:1-5).
    69. Only those who do the will of the Father will enter the kingdom of Heaven (3 Nephi 14:21).
    70. When Christ told the Jews that He had other sheep which were not of this fold, they thought He meant the Gentiles. However, Jesus tells the Nephites that this is not so; that the other sheep are them and other people around the world that He would visit after His resurrection  (3 Nephi 15:16-24).
    71. Just as in His mortal ministry, Jesus, full of compassion, heals the sick. He then blesses the children one by one and prays for them. Angels descend out of heaven and minister to the little ones (3 Nephi 17:6-25).
    72. Jesus ordains a disciple with power to bless and administer the bread and wine to all those who are baptized in His name. Partaking of the bread and wine shows Heavenly Father that we remember Jesus and keep His commandments. He promises that if the people remember Him, they will always have His Spirit to be with them. Those who partake worthily of these emblems are built upon His rock (3 Nephi 18:5-12).
    73. Jesus commands us to watch and pray always to avoid temptation. Satan want to overtake us. Anything we ask the Father in Christ’s name will be given to us as long as we ask in faith and it is God’s will. Jesus commands us to pray in our families (3 Nephi 18:15-21).
    74. Jesus says to meet together often and to accept all people into the congregation of the church. Pray for them. Set an example for them, as He has set for us (3 Nephi 18:22-24).
    75. The words of Isaiah are great, and all things that he prophesied have been and shall be (3 Nephi 23:1-3).
    76. Jesus Christ’s church should bear His name, and should be built upon His gospel, or else it be another man’s church (3 Nephi 27:3-8).
    77. All will be judged by Jesus Christ according to their works. All who repent, are baptized, and endure to the end will be held guiltless before the Father on judgment day (3 Nephi 27:13-17).
    78. We should do what Jesus would and did do. We should be like Him (3 Nephi 27:21, 27).
    79. The way to eternal life is strait and narrow. Few will find it (3 Nephi 27:33).
    80. The judgments of God will overtake the wicked. (Mormon 4:5).
    81. The Book of Mormon shall be hidden until the Lord sees fit for it to be brought forth. Its purpose will be to persuade the House of Israel that Jesus is the Christ, the son of God (Mormon 5:12-14).
    82. God has all power, and at His command anything can come to pass (Mormon 5:23).
    83. Mormon invites the Lamanites of the latter days to repent, to be baptized and to take hold of the gospel of Christ, set forth in the Bible and the Book of Mormon. The Book of Mormon is written to help people believe in the Bible. If you will believe the Bible, you will believe the Book of Mormon too (Mormon 7:8-9).
    84. Moroni prophesies about the coming forth of the Book of Mormon. It will only be able to come forth by the power of God by one whose eye is single to His glory. It shall come forth in a time where people no longer believe in miracles, when churches and teachers are lifted up in pride, when there are wars and rumors of wars, great pollutions and sin upon the earth, etc. (Mormon 8:14-33).
    85. Miracles have not ceased. Because God is the same yesterday, today and forever, miracles still happen for the faithful. They only cease for the wicked (Mormon 9:15-21).
    86. The promised land (the Americas) will be free from bondage from all other nations as long as its people serve Jesus Christ (Ether 2:9-10, 12).
    87. Anything that persuades to do good is from God (Ether 4:12).
    88. Do not say something doesn’t exist because you can’t see it or have proof. You will not receive a witness until after your faith is tried  (Ether 12: 6).
    89. Miracles only occur when one first has faith in the son of God (Ether 12:12-18).
    90. God gives us weakness so we will be humble. If we are humble and have faith, God will make our weaknesses strengths (Ether 12:27).
    91. In the church of Christ, members will fellowship each other and help each other keep the faith. They will meet often to fast, pray, help each other, and to partake of the Sacrament in remembrance of the Lord, Jesus Christ (Moroni 6:4-6).
    92. A good person will do good things. When offering a gift or praying, we must do so with real intent to do good (Moroni 7: 5-10).
    93. All things of God invite one to do good. We all have been given the light of Christ, which helps us discern between good and evil. The devil never persuades anyone to do good (Moroni 7:12-17).
    94. We must have charity. It is the pure love of Christ, and never fails. We must pray to the Father to be filled with His love, and be like Christ (Moroni 7:45-48).
    95. Little children are not capable of committing sin. They are not accountable and need no repentance. Thus, they do not need to be baptized. They are alive in Christ (Moroni 8).
    96. Perfect love removes all fear (Moroni 8:16).
    97. As we are forgiven of our sins, we become more gentle and not easily offended. With these traits, we are filled with the Holy Ghost, which brings hope and perfect love. This love can endure through diligent prayer (Moroni 8:26).
    98. Moroni promises that those who ask Heavenly Father in sincere, faithful prayer if the Book of Mormon is true, will receive an answer through the Holy Ghost, who testifies of all truth (Moroni 10:4-5).
    99. God has given us many different spiritual gifts. They are manifested to us by the Holy Spirit to help us and others draw closer to Christ (Moroni 10:8-18).
    100. If we come unto Christ and deny ourselves of all ungodliness, loving the Lord with all our hearts, we can be perfected and made holy through His grace (Moroni 10:32-33).

    This is by no means an all-inclusive list. There are hundreds, if not thousands, of precious truths we can pull from this perfect book. Throughout it, we read of  prophets of God who were courageous, bold, true, always obedient, filled with love for their brethren, all having a pure love of God and a desire to share His light and gospel with others.

    The most perfect example from the Book of Mormon is Jesus Christ Himself. The words he spoke to the Nephite people, whom He visited in the Americas following His resurrection, are of supreme value.

    As I went through the Book of Mormon’s 531 pages, making this list, I was overwhelmed with how often Jesus Christ is mentioned, praised, prophesied of, and reverenced. The Book of Mormon truly is a companion to the Bible – another testament of Jesus Christ.


    I know it is true. I invite you to read it and to pray about it to see if it is true for yourself. Let the Spirit of the Lord work within you, and testify to you of its truthfulness.

    You can read it online here or you can request a free hard copy here.

    Of all the self-help books you could ever choose to read, choose The Book of Mormon.

    ***This post is featured in my new book, Likening the Book of Mormon War Chapters to Your Life: A Study Journal. Like this post, my book was inspired in part by the class that I was blessed to facilitate so many years ago. If you would like to learn more about my book, you can do so here. You can purchase it here.

  • Mommies, what matters?

    A friend of mine asked on Facebook yesterday, “Mommies, what matters?”

    She said that one of her friends was told she was a bad mother because her kids wear hand-me-down clothes.
    Everyone who responded to this post completely disagreed with the thought. I am not surprised we all disagreed, but then I thought about it some more.

    First off, I am not planning on judging the person who made this comment. If you think about it, the world in which we live is obsessed with money and having the newest, best stuff. Often our feelings of self-worth are impacted by how we look, what we have, and how much money we make.

    Kids, especially teenagers, are really bombarded with this false reality. They get teased for how they are dressed, or for really anything about them that isn’t defined by their peers as cool. Perhaps that is why this person told this mother she was a bad mother. Who knows?

    Teasing is always going to be an issue. It will be hard to stop it. However, I know that we can raise our children in a way that teasing and bullying will not bother them. They will know who they are, how special they are, whose opinions really matter, and what things make a difference in their lives.

    How do we do this? Well, there are many experts who have their own opinions. I personally use the expertise of the one who created us. I use the scriptures, the word of God.

    How should I react when someone treats me badly?

    Matthew 5:44 – But I say unto you, Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you.

    Luke 6:35 – But love ye your enemies, and do good, and lend, hoping for nothing again; and your reward shall be great, and ye shall be the children of the Highest: for he is kind unto the unthankful and to the evil.

    This is something all of us can do, whether we are a child getting teased, a mother being insulted, etc. Praying for someone who has hurt us can bring a lot of peace, for instead of hatred or bitterness or fear, we can feel compassion and mercy. We can feel the love that God has for that person, regardless of behavior.
    They think they are better than me because I don’t have what they have. Is that true?

    Matthew 5:45 –  …for he maketh his sun to rise on the evil and on the good, and sendeth rain on the just and on the unjust.

    Acts 10:34 – Then Peter opened his mouth, and said, Of a truth I perceive that God is no respecter of persons.

    Proverbs 22:2 – The rich and poor meet together: the Lord is the maker of them all.

    Regardless of earthly wealth and prestige, each of us is a child of God. He created all of us. God loves everybody unconditionally with a love we cannot even fathom, whether we follow Him or not.

    Is having the best stuff and looking the best really what makes people happy? Is it what we should want? Does it define who we are?

    1 Samuel 16:7 – But the Lord said unto Samuel, Look not on his countenance, or on the height of his stature; because I have refused him: for the Lord seeth not as man seeth; for man looketh on the outward appearance, but the Lord looketh on the heart.

    Proverbs 22:1 -A good name is rather to be chosen than great riches, and loving favour rather than silver and gold.

    Matthew 6:19-21 –  Lay not up for yourselves treasures upon earth, where moth and rust doth corrupt, and where thieves break through and steal: But lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust doth corrupt, and where thieves do not break through nor steal: For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also.

    1Timothy 6:10 –  For the love of money is the root of all evil: which while some coveted after, they have erred from the faith, and pierced themselves through with many sorrows.

    Doctrine and Covenants 18:10 –  Remember the worth of souls is great in the sight of God.

    The Lord counsels against the love of money, favor, and physical appearance. What matters is the richness of one’s soul and heart.

    If having lots of money and things aren’t important, what is?

    1Timothy 6:11 – But thou, O man of God, flee these things; and follow after righteousness, godliness, faith, love, patience, meekness.

    Matthew 6:33 –  But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.

    John 14:6 – Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me.

    Just as Jesus said in Matthew 6, lay up treasures in Heaven. This life is short. We can’t take our money, nice clothes, and fancy electronics with us. Our character, our faith, our love, our knowledge, we can take with us. As we try to be like Jesus and follow His perfect example, we will be blessed. What really matters is outlined beautifully in the beatitudes (Matthew 5:3-12). Any blessing the Lord gives to us is infinitely more valuable than anything we can acquire on earth.

    Based on all this, “Mommies, what matters?”

    Mosiah 4:14-15 – And ye will not suffer your children that they go hungry, or naked; neither will ye suffer that they transgress the laws of God, and fight and quarrel one with another, and serve the devil, who is the master of sin, or who is the evil spirit which hath been spoken of by our fathers, he being an enemy to all righteousness. But ye will teach them to walk in the ways of truth and soberness; ye will teach them to love one another, and to serve one another.
    3 John 1:4 – I have no greater joy than to hear that my children walk in truth

    Isaiah 54:13 –  And all thy children shall be taught of the Lord; and great shall be the peace of thy children.

    Parents have a sacred duty to rear their children in love and righteousness, to provide for their physical and spiritual needs, and to teach them to love and serve one another, observe the commandments of God, and be law-abiding citizens wherever they live…Happiness in family life is most likely to be achieved when founded upon the teachings of the Lord Jesus Christ. Successful marriages and families are established and maintained on principles of faith, prayer, repentance, forgiveness, respect, love, compassion, work, and wholesome recreational activities (The Family: A Proclamation to the World).

    J.KNOWLES HARE Lithograph-DEAR TO HER HEART-Mother Hugging Child
    My final thought is that only God needs judge if we are good mothers or not. It is not our place to worry about others’ choices. We need only worry about ourselves and what we teach our children by word and example.
    Mommies, you are doing better than you think you are. God loves you. He is on your side. He is with you. He trusts you with His precious children. May we all follow the word of the Lord as we teach our children in the way they should go.

  • Sabbath Day Light: I am related to Gladys Knight

    Last night, as well as tonight, I have had the wonderful privilege to attend “One Voice,” a presentation of music and testimony, sung by Saints Unified Voices gospel choir, directed by Gladys Knight. (To learn more about the choir, click here.)

    One Voice

    The music was absolutely amazing. Every member of the choir, every member of the live band, as well as Sister Knight herself, has glorious God-given talent. Many cultures were embraced in the music, and every song bore testimony of the divinity of Jesus Christ and our necessity to follow Him.

    My favorite song from the event spoke of this very topic. It is so easy to tell Jesus we will follow Him tomorrow, but tomorrow could be too late. We should choose to follow Christ today.

    As I heard the music, I felt alive. I felt invigorated. I felt the Spirit of the Lord in a new way. I found myself smiling, clapping, standing, and rejoicing in my Savior as I, and a thousand others, saw and heard the testimonies of people who love Christ with all their souls. The Spirit radiated out of their voices, faces, and whole bodies.

    Now, as beautiful and magnificent as the music was, I must say that the most uplifting part of both evenings for me was listening to several individuals share their stories and testimonies of Jesus Christ and His gospel.

    The first man who spoke said that he was related to Gladys Knight. He was a white man, making the idea of blood relation humorous. Then he profoundly stated that Gladys is a child of God. He too is a child of God. That means Gladys is his sister. That means Gladys is my sister too.

    The theme of being children of God was reiterated throughout the presentation. Members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints believe that each and every person on the earth from Adam and Eve until now is a literal spirit son or daughter of Heavenly Father. We believe that we lived with God before we came to earth, and that we chose to come here and follow His great Plan of Happiness. You can read more about this plan here.

    Gladys’ husband, and Gladys herself, also stood and told their stories, from how they were raised, how they met each other, and how they each individually came to join the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints – the church they, and millions around the world, believe is the restored church of Jesus Christ. You can read more about the restoration of the gospel here.

    They pled with the audience to open their hearts to the possibility of Joseph Smith really being a prophet, of the Book of Mormon really being true, of the priesthood really being restored. Gladys’ husband, William McDowell, asked us to follow the promise at the end of the Book of Mormon, which states:

     3 Behold, I would exhort you that when ye shall read these things, if it be wisdom in God that ye should read them, that ye would remember how merciful the Lord hath been unto the children of men, from the creation of Adam even down until the time that ye shall receive these things, and ponder it in your hearts.
     4 And when ye shall receive these things, I would exhort you that ye would ask God, the Eternal Father, in the name of Christ, if these things are not true; and if ye shall ask with a sincere heart, with real intent, having faith in Christ, he will manifest the truth of it unto you, by the power of the Holy Ghost.
     5 And by the power of the Holy Ghost ye may know the truth of all things. (Moroni 10:3-5)
    Gladys gave an important point, that she isn’t trying to sell anything, or force anyone to do anything. It is a person’s choice to open their hearts to the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. She did, however, give a strong testimony of her belief in the truthfulness of the faith she holds so dear.
    I loved hearing Gladys’ majestic voice. Towards the end of the presentation, she and the choir sang one of the children’s hymns from our church, entitled I am a Child of God. It is one of my favorite hymns too, and I often sing it to my children.
    If you would like to hear the song, here is a beautiful rendition in many different languages sung by women of our church.

    Gladys Knight believes that God gave her the gift of song to do His will, to feed His sheep, to tell the world that Jesus Christ lives. I believe that she is right, as I believe that all of us is given talents, where if we use them appropriately, we can bring peace to the world through the gospel of Jesus Christ.

    I am grateful for Gladys and her choir’s courage as they stand for what they believe, embrace cultural differences, and bring light and hope to all wishing to find it.

    He lives!