Parallels in our Day

Ether 8

The land is becoming exceedingly wicked. The daughter of Jared talks her father into letting her dance for Akish so that he wants to marry her. Deal - as long as Akish will agree to bring him the head of his very own father! Does it get any worse? Akish goes along with this requirement and gets his kinsfolk – isn’t that the same as relative? Anyway, he gets them to make an oath with him in this effort to overthrow the kingdom of his father.

As I read this entire chapter, I get way too anxious about the things that are happening in the world today. What seems like such a simple solution to some of this nation’s biggest problems is being made to look like a circus amongst the political powers. Are they really so dumb?

It doesn’t take much to convince me that the answer is no, they aren’t dumb. I believe there are secret combinations of varying kinds between some of the more evil politicians and they are corrupting the less evil politicians to come into their brotherhood. Before you go screaming at me that this is a conspiracy theory and fear mongering, let me ask one question. Why do you suppose Moroni warns of such things in the last days? Is it not so that we will be on the lookout for evil and abort it as best we can? Well, I feel like we’re doing a terrible job of aborting the infectious evil. It is growing at such a rapid rate that I don’t know if it is able to be stopped.

So what is my role in this? How can I stop it? I can’t. All I can do is pray. Alma 62:40 makes it quite clear: “And there had been murders, and contentions, and dissensions, and all manner of iniquity among the people of Nephi; nevertheless for the righteous’ sake, yea, because of the prayers of the righteous, they were spared.” Should we not all be praying for political leaders that they will seek guidance through prayer? Should we not be praying that those voting will be prayerful as well, and seek for righteous leaders? It would seem to be that living righteous lives and praying for help are our only defense against the evil that is infecting this land like a toxic virus.

Family Discord

Ether 7

This entire chapter tells us of a few generations of children rebelling against the things they were taught by their fathers and siblings coming at odds with each other and their parents to the point that wars are fought and evil enters into the entire kingdom. What's the deal here? Why can't the children of God see that there are consequences to evil lifestyles? Why can't they see that discord in families is the beginning of that wickedness? Why can't they see that the end result will be death, destruction and the eventuality that they will lose their claim to any promise, i.e. freedom in living not to mention eternal promises?

It is not any different today. You can see how quickly a family is torn apart when just one sibling strikes out on their own. Sides are taken; discord seems to be the result. Why is that? Why can't a family live in peace even though one of its own is living a different lifestyle? The one who has struck out on a different path claims everyone is intolerant of anything they do that is contrary to how they have been taught. Those who stay the course are disappointed in the destructive lifestyle and lack of joy being found in the sibling who has withdrawn. There is serious chattering on both sides. In days of old, such as the Jaredites, this resulted in kingdoms being lost and in war. I can't draw a parallel today, but I still see the discord and the loss.

So how does this apply to me today. I have no choice but to continue to try and keep peace between my children and continue to have family gatherings even though. . . [sigh]

How did they do that?

Ether 5&6 – Moroni tells us of the three witnesses in Chapter 5. Also, that in the mouth of three witness are all things are established.

This is something to think about with anything. I especially like verse 5: “. . . if it so be that they repent and come unto the Father in the name of Jesus, they shall be received into the kingdom of God”. Does it get any simpler? I think not.

I also like the fact that we will stand before God alongside Moroni at the last day, aka judgment. (v6)

Chapter 6 gives me so many things to ponder I don't even know where to begin. After the stones were lit by the finger of the Lord, the people of Jared are ready to launch their barges into the sea. They commend themselves unto the Lord their God. (v4) This is such a fascinating thought to ponder. Although light is a big thing and it was good that they could see, how did they manage to keep from being thrown all over the barge as it was being tossed on the waves of the sea? If that's not big enough, add to that the livestock that is also aboard these barges. For a few days? I can see that one. But this was for 344 days! How did they stay sane? The wind never did cease (v8) but they did thank and praise the Lord all the day long as they sang praises (v9). The faith of these people staggers my imagination. There is also the matter of hygiene – not only their own, but that of the animals. How did they dispose of the waste and how did they keep the stench down? I've camped out before. I know the efforts that go into waste disposal. Some day I would really like to see this for myself.

Once they reach the promised land and years pass away, it is time for Jared and his brother to die as well. They ask the people what they would have of them before they die. A king! Of all things, they desire a king. Obviously, they do not have the books and history to remind them of what an awful thing is an unrighteous king. This is what is amazing to me though. The brother of Jared is still quite compliant to whatever it is that Jared asks of him. (v24) Is this out of love for his brother? He knows the damage a king can do, yet he says, “Choose ye out from among our sons a king. . .” I wonder if he said that with a sad countenance?

We are in perilous times in our nation today and although we didn't choose a king, per se, our president has decided he wants to be our king. This is his goal as he has manipulated the affairs of the nation into a position to make it happen. If the people of this nation are stupid enough to elect him a second time, we will not be able to get rid of him. Do our young people who are so happy with his entitlement programs have any idea that this is the “fall” this boat is headed toward? Heaven help all of us. The brother of Jared said in verse 23 “Surely this thing leadeth into captivity.” And there you go – a modern-day example of just that. We are losing our freedoms and ability to make changes just as we are about to see happen to the Jaredites. Oh, so much can be learned from these accounts.

So how does this apply to me today? I will continue to be a voice unafraid of the opinion of others when it comes to speaking truth. I will continue to value my freedom of choice and do everything in my power to see that it is not taken away by the conspiring hearts of evil men and women.

Come Unto Christ!

Ether 4 – Moroni is commanded to seal up the records of the Jaredites. In doing so, he adds his own editorial of what we are reading.

I love this chapter! It definitely is speaking to us in our day. A few things that stand out to me:

V7-8 If the brother of Jared saw our day, then it is logical to believe that Joseph Smith saw our day as well. It is also interesting to note that Joseph Smith had the same kind of faith as the brother of Jared. He saw the Savior AND Heavenly Father!

V8 He who contends with the truths of the Book of Mormon is accursed. I know that word, but I looked it up anyway. Accursed is condemned, doomed, ill-fated, damnable and detestable. Detestable! What a gruesome word. Detestable to whom? The Lord? The people of the Lord? None of these ideas is even remotely considered a good thing.

V12 Anything we do that is good is of Christ. He is the light, the life and the truth of the world.

V16+ When the Book of Mormon comes forth, then will the revelations of John start to unfold. We would do well to search out the book of Revelation in the New Testament.

And finally, several invitations to “Come Unto Me”. He that believes and is baptized will be saved and signs shall follow them that believe in [the name of Christ]. (v18) He will be blessed; lifted up to dwell in the kingdom prepared from the foundation of the earth.

This chapter has the capacity to bring comfort or discomfort – depending on which side of the fence you are standing. Personally, I find great comfort in it.

So how does this apply to me? For one, I'd like to read the Book of Revelation again. Also, It is my responsibility as one who believes to continue bearing testimony whenever I have opportunity. There are those who have not heard; and those who have heard who don't believe. I must not be timid in my efforts. Easier said than done? But of course! I'm grateful for the opportunity to work with the youth of the church. They are the ones who are most vulnerable. Satan is working ever so hard to tear them away from the truths taught to them in their youth. Also, as a mother I can't be too vocal in sharing those things I believe to be true. I hope that is done in my weekly journals as well as my blog, though I don't believe any of my children really read my blog. I know they read my journal because I try to write just a little bit about each of them each week and they want to know my take on what is happening in their lives.

Ether 3 – The brother of Jared sees the hand of the Lord. Once he saw his hand, he was able to see his entire body. This was because of his faith. Once he saw, then he knew. His calling and election is made sure. This information was kept from the people until the coming forth of the Book of Mormon – with the exception that Moroni was able to transcribe the record.

I find it interesting that we went from being chastised for three hours by the Lord for NOT praying to being able to see the Lord in front of him. Obviously, he was foreordained for this experience. However, it shows to me the weakness of man and the ability to overcome that weakness.

I have found that Heavenly Father really does want to bless his children. He is not withholding blessings because he likes to see us suffer. There are rules. One of those rules is that we must worship him and believe in him. When we reach that state, he is quick to show forth his blessing and thus show his power.

This is important to remember as we make mistakes, as we will, because we are carnal creatures and must learn from our experiences.

As I said earlier, we must remember to pray always – to lean upon the Lord and listen for his guidance through the Holy Ghost. We must trust those subtle promptings and act upon them that we might be instruments in the Lord's hands. This goal will allow us to reach our full potential on this earth, find joy in the everyday things, and return to our Heavenly Father.

So how does this apply to me? I must continue to pray, and have faith that my prayers are heard and answered, and seek to see the Lord's hand in my own life. I have no doubt it is there. There are times I have seen it. Oh, not in the actual visual, but in the result. I believe this is true for all of us. The Lord loves his children and wants to bless them. There is a pattern we must follow.

God-fearing nation

Ether 2 – The brother of Jared has conversation with the Lord. He is chastened for three hours. He is told of the requirements for living in the promised land that they are preparing to go to.

My focus cannot help but be on the requirements for living in this promised land. We are currently in a state of serious concern as the leaders of this nation are haggling over how to reduce the debt of this nation and turn the financial situation around. We have elected men and women to do this for us and it is out of the hands of the public, but we can see greed, pride, and inability to apply Christ-like principles in this effort. The Lord made it clear that the people who possess this nation must be a God-fearing nation; that we must serve God or be swept off. When will this happen? V9 makes it clear that it will be when the fulness of his wrath cometh upon them when they are ripened in iniquity.

We are seeing states pass legislation that allows for same-sex marriage. Is it not enough that they mock God in their very relationship? Must they mock him legally by marriage - one of God's most sacred ordinances? This has got to be an abomination to the Lord that I'm sure makes him angry with us as a people.

When you have something that is choice above all others, don't you want to protect it from pollution? Are we as a people doing that? I think not. We are corrupting the laws, the constitution, and just about everything else. We are making the majority of this nation weak and dependent on the few who are willing to work but giving them handouts that they should be earning on their own. This is weakening our nation.

Mormon (he is transcribing this record) warns us as Gentiles that we should serve God to avoid this same fate. “. . . if they will but serve the God of the land, who is Jesus Christ, who hath been manifested by the things which we have written.” How do we serve God? I would suggest that one clue is given when the Lord chastises the brother of Jared for three hours because he “. . . remembered not to call upon the name of the Lord.” A prophet of God was not praying?!!! This seems amazing to me. For four years they as a people were content to camp on the beach and enjoy the blessings of a very nice place. Can you imagine being chastened for three hours by God? Yikes!

So calling upon God. How can that change things? In doing so, we are given guidance by the Holy Ghost – however subtle – that we must follow. If the entire nation would follow this pattern, there is little doubt in my mind that things could change for the better. But where we have leaders who are not even Christian, this brings serious concern.

So how does this apply to me? What can I do? I can pray for my leaders that they will seek guidance from God; that they will listen to the promptings and have the courage to move in the direction they are prompted. Of course, I do my best to vote responsibly and to aid in this process as I serve in the election process. This is the very least. But we as an LDS population have been told to be prepared for the worst-case scenario. Are we prepared? Are we preparing? I'm sure we could always improve, but I believe we are doing as we have been told.

There is a plan

Ether 1 – The beginning of a great nation. Their start was during the time the Tower of Babel was being constructed. Jared asked his brother to pray to the Lord that they would be able to communicate, and also that this blessing would be extended to their friends and family.

I've often tried to wrap my brain around this story. There's pandemonium all around and somehow these two brothers are able to communicate enough to get the brother of Jared to approach the Lord in prayer and ask for these special favors. Well, it worked. And the Lord had a plan. He always has a plan. Interesting that his plan was exactly as Jared suggested – that they would be led into a promised land. Jared told his brother “. . . let us be faithful unto the Lord, that we may receive it for our inheritance.”

They were instructed by the Lord to gather their belongings, animals of every kind both male and female and seeds and to travel. He told them he would meet them at a certain place and bless them. Why was the Lord so willing to bless them? I think the answer is in the last verse: “. . . because this long time ye have cried unto me.” What does that mean? They prayed and they listened and obeyed

As we go through life's experiences, we too will have obstacles that sometimes seem as big as what they were facing in this most historic event. We will be confused and unable to communicate to others. A great example is shown in Jared and his brother that is worthy of emulation, i.e. pray to the Lord for guidance in the trial – to be shown what we are to do and THEN have the faith necessary to follow through with the assignment.

Whether it be in family matters, in church callings, in interactions with family and relatives or neighbors and ward members, if we are prayerful, we too will get promptings – subtle messages from the Lord. In order to remain faithful, we must follow through with these promptings and show the Lord we can be trusted. When he gives us small assignments, these too will grow in their level of trust from the Lord, and we will be given more.

So how does this apply to me today? Oh where do I begin? I feel such an urgency to get my family all on the same page again. There is angst between siblings that is fracturing our family. This is not pleasing to the Lord and it is our responsibility to try to correct it. It is in part why we are purchasing a cabin that hopefully will become a gathering place where we can feel each others goodness again and mend hurt feelings. Hopefully, it will be a place of refuge and peace will be within its walls and be a place where we will want to be.

In my church calling, it is something new to me. I am responsible for 48 young women in 12 wards who are looking to me for guidance in their callings. What are they to do for their wards that will be what the Lord wants from them? The direction to me has been clear: Visiting Teaching. As I ponder this, shards of light have come to me. Like Jared and his brother, I too must continue to pray for guidance and show forth the faith to follow through with the promptings I'm given.

Where is my heart?

Mormon 9 – Moroni is speaking to us in our day and makes some very interesting points.

When we are brought before God in the judgment day, we will see our nakedness and the glory of God, and the holiness of Jesus Christ. It will kindle a flame of unquenchable fire upon us. That flame is the flame of guilt - guilt that we could have done better. Guilt that we did know and were too lazy to do what we knew to be true. Guilt that we weren't stronger. The idea that we would be happier living with the damned than with God is a sobering thought.

If we deny the Christ, we didn't understand the scriptures because God is the same yesterday, today and forever. He is a God of miracles and if we don't see them, it is because we dwindle in unbelief.

In verse 14 Moroni tells us that in the judgment day, he that is filthy shall be filthy still; and he that is righteous shall be righteous still; he that is happy shall be happy still; and he that is unhappy shall be unhappy still. This one sure gives us reason to look for the joy that exists in this earth life and find happiness in it. Maybe it is even more than that. Maybe it is telling us to be happy with what is because there is joy to be had in all things.

V27 is also interesting to me. In my other life, there was much discussion about the LDS believing that we had to “work out our own salvation. . .” Other religions say we are saved regardless of what we do on this earth. That we will be resurrected it is true. But if we want to live with our Father in Heaven, then there are things we must do. Believe in him for one. In verse 27 we are to work. What is that work? Belief, doubting nothing, and “come unto the Lord with all your heart”.

What would it mean to come unto the Lord with all your heart? Since the heart is a symbol of love, it would mean to me that we love the Lord above all other earthly pursuits, passions, and belongings. Nothing comes second.

So what does this mean to me today? If my heart is not in the right place, then I need to work on that one.

Encircled

My nephew asked an interesting question on Facebook. I'm going to answer it here.

Addi – I too have been intrigued by the physical symbol of the Atonement in the phrase “encircled in the arms of his love”. I started tagging the word “encircle” in my scriptures a few years ago. I thought I had gathered more than I actually have.

The first one is 2 Nephi 1:15 “ But behold, the Lord hath redeemed my soul from hell; I have beheld his glory, and I am encircled about eternally in the arms of his love.” What a beautiful visual.

2 Nephi 4:33 “O Lord, wilt thou encircle me around in the robe of thy righteousness! O Lord, wilt thou make a way for mine escape before mine enemies! Wilt thou make my path straight before me! Wilt thou not place a stumbling block in my way—but that thou wouldst clear my way before me, and hedge not up my way, but the ways of mine enemy.”

Alma 11:6 talks about being encircled with Satan's chains, that he might chain you down to everlasting destruction, according to the power of his captivity. Not exactly the same as being encircled in the Savior's love.

Alma 14:6 Zeezrom is encircled about by the pains of hell – his guilt.

Alma 26:15 Ammon glories in the Lord and talks about being “encircled about with the matchless bounty of his love”

Alma 34:16 “. . . mercy . . . encircles them in the arms of safety . . .”

Alma 36:18 Alma is telling Helaman of his miraculous conversion experience as he was crying out to Jesus, whom he had been taught about as a child “O Jesus, thou Son of God, have mercy on me, who am in the gall of bitterness, and am encircled about by the everlasting chains of death.” Again, not the same as being encircled with love.

Mormon 5:11 doesn't exactly say encircled, but Mormon is lamenting the demise of the Nephites and says of us in our day - “. . . they will sorrow that this people had not repented that they might have been clasped in the arms of Jesus.”

3 Nephi 19:14 “And behold, they were encircled about as if it were by fire; and it came down from heaven, and the multitude did witness it, and did bear record. . .”

Helaman 13:37 “Behold, we are surrounded by demons, yea, we are encircled about by the angels of him who hath sought to destroy our souls. Behold, our iniquities are great. O Lord, canst thou not turn away.” Again, being encircled by the adversary and not the Savior.

Alma 5:7 “Behold, he changed their hearts; yea, he awakened them out of a deep sleep, and they awoke unto God. Behold, they were in the midst of darkness; nevertheless, their souls were illuminated by the light of the everlasting word; yea, they were encircled about by the bands of death, and the chains of hell, and an everlasting destruction did await them.”

Doctrine and Covenants 6:20 “Behold, thou art Oliver, and I have spoken unto thee because of thy desires; therefore treasure up these words in thy heart. Be faithful and diligent in keeping the commandments of God, and I will encircle thee in the arms of my love.”

I did an electronic search on LDS.org in the scriptures. Only one or two of these came from that. It was strictly “encircle” in the search. It is an interesting visual and one I like to ponder. Thanks for the question. It was fun to spend a few minutes on it this morning. I love your blog! Keep it up. Love, Aunt Connie

Read it; Heed it

Mormon 8 – Moroni finishes the work of his Father. He see the entire destruction of the Nephite nation. In verse 5, he tells us he has no one – family, friends, etc. He is alone.

How does Moroni handle this aloneness? Is he bitter? Not at all. In fact, he realizes he has a work to do. He realizes he was preserved for a reason – to bring the Book of Mormon to us, the people in the latter days.

I can't believe the number of people I know who feel so put upon that they are without friends and are “alone” in the world – either through sickness or death of a spouse or having not found their spouse yet.  This is no excuse to give up on the Lord. It doesn't get much more “alone” than what Moroni experienced. There is no doubt in my mind that the Lord has a plan for each one of us – a work for us to do. I know we will be much happier in seeking to fulfill that plan than to strike out on our own in search of what seems to be so elusive. Anything the Lord has designed for us will far surpass any imaginations of the heart.

In verse 31 he tells us the Book of Mormon will come forth in a day that describes where we are today, i.e. pollutions, murders, robbing, lying, deceivings, whoredoms, abominations. It is a wicked world we have brought our children into. He says there will be many who will condemn the Book of Mormon and those who do will not be supported by the Lord. What does it mean when in describing these people, he says “. . . they are in the gall of bitterness and in the bonds of iniquity”? Gall means: vexing and irritating. Vexing means to afflict with physical pain. So are people who reject the Book of Mormon in the Gall of bitterness? Are they in the bonds of iniquity? Certainly iniquity (sin) is a bondage and one that requires serious work to pull away from. Vexing? Physically painful? I know for myself that it was exhausting. I see a daughter in pain. She wouldn't admit it, and one of her gifts is that she has an extremely high pain thresh hold. But there will be a day when she will look back and say how totally painful her existence was.

So how does this apply to me today? Well, I know that we are in the latter days. I see the Lord's hand in the many things happening in the world. It is exactly as the scriptures tell us it will be. It makes me a little sad, because we know that the goodness of the world today is going to fall apart fast. We can see it happening if we have eyes to see. I know that we must be ever vigilant to read and heed the words from the Book of Mormon. They are a “key” to surviving the woes of these latter days. The only way we will have peace is in knowing that this too shall pass and the Lord will fulfill his promises to those who faithfully keep his commandments and strive to build his kingdom. So there you have it:

• Keep the commandments
• Building the kingdom

Ramblings on staying the course

Mormon 6 & 7

I guess I never got back to my scriptures after I finished reading my chapter yesterday. Just as well, as I read it again this morning and I didn't even remember I had read 6 until I read about the tens of thousands who were slain and the note I wrote that at this time that Mormon was 74. Seventy four and still leading the armies! Does that strike anyone with the strength of who Mormon was? I'm in awe of this man. Truly!

Mormon hides up the plates and then holds out the last few so he can write of the death and destruction of his people. Chapter 6 Verse 17 stands out as he writes of his sadness, “O ye fair ones! How could ye have departed from the ways of the Lord?” How is that done? I know how I departed. I really didn't know enough. I hadn't read the Book of Mormon from beginning to end even once. I don't even know if I knew what it was about. Why it wasn't stressed as a daily must in those days, I'm not certain. I have memories of my dad reading the scriptures. I know they were carried to church. But I'm not complaining because I did have the choice experience of conversion and when I was introduced to the Book of Mormon, it was a very sweet experience and one that I will forever remember. How I do love this book! How I love the promises it holds. How I love the hope it gives for all of us, as Mormon talks about the day of judgement. We will be judged according to our works, he says. “. . . he doeth with you according to his justice and mercy.” And the footnote for mercy brings us to Alma 26:16 “. . . who can say too much of his great power, and of his mercy, and of his long-suffering towards the children of men? Behold, I say unto you, I cannot say the smallest part which I feel. I pray for that mercy for myself and for those I love. I have no doubt that the Lord will be merciful. What I know is that even He can't change the blessings we will miss out on if we do not repent before we leave this earth life – the opportunities lost, the joy missed, the many experiences we will not have. This is huge. I've pondered many times the things I might have experienced had I taken a different road. But I've had an incredible life and I'm not complaining – just curious to know what I missed out on. Imagine reaching the end of your life and finding out that the things you had spurned all your life were indeed true, and you had not partaken of the better part. Oh the sorrow!

So I'm rambling. What does all this have to do with me today? Hold to the rod! (Read your scriptures.) Carry on! (Continue to serve.) Press forward saints with a steadfastness in Christ! Get the picture? Stay the course – onward and upward!

Be an Example

Mormon 5 – Mormon tells us of the destruct that is taking place among his people. You get the idea that it is pretty ugly and he says he is sparing us the really bad stuff. He “repents” and leads the Nephites again in battle with no hope for a positive outcome. He pleads with us to accept the gospel of Jesus Christ.

V8 – I'm fascinated at the phrase “revealed upon the house-tops”. There was a day when the gospel was brought into our homes via the antennas that were affixed to the tops of our homes. Just a side note.

Mormon talks about the Lamanites who were once a delightsome people because they accepted Christ as their shepherd and were led by God the Father. V18 “But now, behold they are led about by Satan, even as chaff is driven before the wind, or as a vessel is tossed about upon the waves, without sail or anchor, or without anything wherewith to steer her; and even as she is, so are they.” This verse has special meaning to me. As I was in the process of turning my life around and trying ever so hard to live the gospel, it became obvious to me that those with whom I use to associate fit this description. In fact, it was not that long ago that I fit that description. When you don't choose Christ as your master, Satan is there to lead you down his path. There are only two choices. You are as chaff driven before the wind. You are as a vessel without sail or anchor being tossed upon the winds of the sea. There is no direction. Whatever is the whim of the day is your direction. It's a miserable existence, but when you're in it you don't realize what you don't have. It is only until you accept Christ as your master and see the difference in living in the light versus living in darkness that you really come to know. Is it any wonder that our Stake Presidency has chosen the theme “Come Unto Christ” for our stake this year? Everything we do must be with the intent to “Come Unto Christ”, for it is in doing so that we are directed into the light where we can see clearly the traps and cunning devices of Satan.

As a parent of an errant child, I find great comfort in V21 “And also the Lord will remember the prayers of the righteous, which have been put up unto him for them.” I put a lot of weight on this verse. I pray daily – all day for this child who has walked into the darkness and is without direction. How I pray she will soon see how truly dark her world is.

So how does this apply to me today? I accept Christ as my Savior and Redeemer. But there is a world out there that does not. It is that world that is threatening the security of our nation and our world as we know it. They are without direction and embrace whatever the cause of the day may be. All too frequently, that cause is to line their own pockets. Rather than seeking for a better world as the Lord sees it, they are seeking for selfish notoriety. How can I change it? I don't know that I have any real power, but I do know that it is through my example that others just might have the courage to make righteous choices and make a difference. All I can do is set a righteous example and bear my testimony whenever I'm given opportunity.   

Wicked and conspiring men

Mormon 4

War and carnage continue.  Mormon tells us the wickedness is greater than ever in all of Israel, aka the world.  Women and children are sacrificed as idols.  Lamanites begin to sweep the Nephites before them.

Given a scathing response to an email I forwarded, this chapter bothered me.  If the Book of Mormon from Helaman to the destruction of the Nephites parallels our time as we have been told it would by modern prophets – and I tend to believe the words of the prophets – then we are headed for troubled times.  I believe we are in the midst of those troubled times.  There is a tremendous amount of wicked.  Laws being passed that are directly opposed of the laws of God.  There are wicked and conspiring hearts of men who are doing this.  It is not by accident.  They know what they’re doing.  Perhaps it isn’t with the intent to destroy this great nation, but it is with the intent to eliminate the judgment and scorn of the people for the depraved and unjust laws.  They have forgotten that God is the real judge.  Not for one minute should we think that the leaders of this nation want to bring it to a point where peace can prevail.  Sure, peace would be nice, but they want something for nothing.  They want others to work to provide for them.  It is a nation of entitlement mindset.  My husband’s quote that “socialism works until you run out of the other guy’s money” really is a truth. 

Given the heat in this email I mentioned – and it was from a loving and religious relative – it is obvious to me that we are headed for some troubled times.  People will fight for what they believe is right.  Those who are receiving entitlements do not want to lose them.  I understand that.  Those who are paying for those entitlements do not want to be forced to be charitable.  That is not the meaning of charity.  Yes, we are headed for disaster.  I hope we are heeding the words of the prophet and preparing for these troubled times.  But alas, again it will be those who have prepared who will care for those who have the entitlement mentality. 

Sorry this is somewhat political.  It’s just where my mind is this morning.  Suffice it to say, (v5) “. . . the judgments of God will overtake the wicked; and it is by the wicked that the wicked are punished. . .”  How will this be done?  He continues “. . . the wicked stir up the hearts of the children of men unto bloodshed.”  I can see it happening.  If good people can be so violently opposed to truth and support those whose minds are conspiring and desire to bring us into bondage, then yes, we are headed for trouble.

Trials and Blessings Come from God

The Book of Mormon

Chapter 3

Mormon cries repentance to the Nephites.  They experience some victories but glory in their own strength.  Mormon refuses to lead them and his prayers are without faith.  He invites us to believe the gospel of Jesus Christ.

Given the dire circumstances of our nation currently, I am feeling quite anxious as I read this part of the Book of Mormon.  We are headed for a similar demise if we don’t wake up soon and turn this around – not only as a people, but as individuals.  Maybe I’ve put that in reverse order.  We can’t turn around as a people until individuals stand up and take responsibility for what is happening to us.  We have got to embrace the teachings of Jesus Christ before this can happen. 

Mormon mentions that the Nephites “. . . boast in their own strength. . .” (v9) when they win a battle.  So too it is when people today do not recognize the Savior in their lives.  They have a success and they say it is because of their own talents and skills.  They take the credit.  They got the education.  They did the work.  Never do you hear them say the Lord has blessed them with opportunities to get an education so they could do the work.  It is a frightening thing to see this kind of boastfulness.  You pray for them, but it does get to the point where “. . . it [is] without faith, because of the hardness of their hearts.”  (v12)  So you pray that their hearts will soften and they will recognize the hand of the Lord in their lives.  What will it take?  I shudder to think!

Here I go again with the finger pointing.  How does this apply to me?  Today?  I must remember that it is because of the tremendous blessings the Lord has given me – through absolutely no credit on my own part – that I have been given opportunities to grow and learn.  If I am successful in anything, it is because of these blessings.  Conversely, I must remember that when times are tough - and they will be – it’s part of life.  All opportunities and experiences - whether they come in the form of a blessing or a loss, are for our growth.  The Lord is at the helm, guiding the ship.  I just need to do the part He’s given me.  I know this is a truth.  I have seen it too many times to deny it.  I’ve had troubled times; and it is those troubled times that have (in part) prepared me for the trials and opportunities I experience today. 

Course Correction?

Mormon 2

Mormon describes the sad state of the Nepites. He is their leader, but he has little hope they will change and become a righteous people again. Wars continue in spite of their gathering together. Wickedness is everywhere.

I'm impressed with Mormon. He was just a young boy (10) when he was told he would become the steward of the brass plates when he grew up. All his life he was exposed to their wickedness and abomations. Yet he says in v19, “nevertheless, I know that I shall be lifted up at the last day.” How is it that some people can deal with the perversions around them and others fall so easily? I wish I could have an answer to this. I can only suppose it has something to do with who we were before we were born. Were we fully on board and committed as spirit children? We know we chose the Lord's plan, or we wouldn't be on this earth.

The Nephites were successful in one battle against the Lamanites. However, Mormon says in v 26, “. . . nevertheless, the strength of the Lord was not with us; yea, we were left to ourselves. . . weak. . .” This is the state those who fight against the Lord are in. Those who have broken their covenants with the Lord can expect the same. They should not be surprised when they are weak. Should they experience success, it will only be for a time and they would never give the Lord credit, nor would it be because of the Lord.

Sometimes I have a hard time finding application to me today. It is very easy to be finger pointing toward those who do not keep their covenants. When there is complaint about not having the blessings they desire, what am I to say? "Of course you're not being blessed. Is there a reason why you should be?"  Conversely, there are those who keep their covenants and blessings seem to be withheld. Interesting that those people will give the Lord credit for the smallest of blessings and see his hand in their lives.  Again, what makes the difference?  I believe it is who we were before we came to this earth.

This chapter is one to be remembered when things go wrong. When they do, it might be a good idea to do a reality check and be sure I can see blessings or would I be among those who “. . . curse God, and wish to die”? (v15)  If so, maybe I have crossed the line and need to make a course correction.    

Sunday School answers

The Book of Mormon

Wickedness becomes so widespread that the Lord takes the disciples (3 Nephites) away. No miracles; no gifts. The people willfully rebelled against God. The land was cursed because of their wickedness. Their possessions became slippery because the land was cursed. There were sorceries, witchcrafts and magics, and the power of Satan was over all the land.

What a depressing synopsis! How I pray things don't get so wicked that our Apostles are removed from the land. I need to restudy the last days and see if this is possible.

Were there really no miracles and no gifts, or were they so hardened that they could not see them? Obviously, Mormon was ministered to by angels and knew of God's goodness.

The phrase that sticks out to me today is “they willfully rebelled against their God”. I've seen this and it is not a pretty thing. I've also seen the resulting consequences. When a person who has had the light willfully rebells, they can't see the forest for the trees. They don't see a blessing or a gift. What are some of the gifts? Certainly the Holy Ghost. You can't feel his presence because your heart is hardened and unable to receive. You don't see the blessings of family, friends, gospel truths. You are basically blind to the things of the Lord.

So how does this change? I've been there. What did I do to turn it around? I was miserable and although substance abuse was not an issue, I was addicted to what was normal for me. They say a known bad is better than an unknown possible good. Certainly this was the case with me. However, one day something was so bad that I remembered. What did I remember? That just maybe I had a Heavenly Father who would answer a simple prayer. I wasn't even smart enough to pray as I had been taught as a child. I simply said: “Heavenly Father. I give up. I'll do whatever it takes to be happy again.” It was at this point that miracles began to happen in my life. No matter what it was, I did it. It wasn't all easy. Tiny baby steps, I changed my life. And today, that period of my life seems as but a dream. If I didn't have a daughter and her family as a result of it, I could easily forget it ever happened.

So how does this apply to me and you today? This is the Sunday School answer, but a solid truth – daily scripture, prayer, FHE, temple attendance and service. Serve, serve, serve. There are people in worse shape than you. They are easy to find. Lift them. It doesn't take a lot. A smile; ask them about their day or their family. Go out of your way to make the life of someone else just a little better. Think on it. When was the last time you served and it wasn't part of your paycheck? How did it make you feel?  

Pride, selfishness

4^th Nephi

The best of times; the worst of times

There is so much to comment on here that one doesn't even know where to begin. From the time Christ appears to the people until about 200 years, there is peace in the land. They live the law of consecration with no contentions among them. What a joyful time that must have been! Why? Because of the love of God which did dwell in the hearts of the people (V15).

But this changes, and Satan begins to have success again. What happened? Pride. Selfishness. Verses 26 through 43 basically give the steps to apostasy.

1. Division among people (class distinctions)
2. Churches did receive all manner of wickedness
3. Denied miracles
4. Persecuted the believers of Christ
5. Children were taught to hate believers

The one that jumped out at me is #2. How does a church receive all manner of wickedness? By administering the sacred ordinances to those not worthy who then trample under feet those things we hold sacred. The sacred “thing” that stands out to me today – because of the news, is that of marriage. States are now making it legal for same sex marriage. Is this not “receiving” wickedness? As I watch faithful members of the church fall away, I see them imagine injustices they have received and become bitter toward the church. They pass this onto their children and their children's children. It is not hard to see how after 200 years it is possible for an entire nation to dwindle in unbelief.

So how does this apply to me? What can I change in my life to prevent such tragedy? 

A sticky note I have in my scriptures quotes Millet and McConkie's, BOM Commentary:  "Once a people begin to focus on themselves they are no longer in a position to focus on the needs of others."   Can I prevent this happening on a personal level? Absolutely!  How do I do my part to keep it from happening on a more global sphere? Therein lies the real problem. Satan has gotten his teeth into the muscle of our world. There is such selfishness and sin in the world, one wonders how we will ever turn it around. Alas, I can only do my best to influence those in my small circle, and hopefully they will influence those in their small circles and then perhaps the world can be a little better. At least our part of the world. But if 4^th Nephi is indeed a parallel of what we have to look forward to (as prophets have told us), we can see that it is only going to get worse. It is our duty to keep our family ties loving and close. It is only in the family where we can know the peace that the Nephites had in the first half of 4^th Nephi.

To spurn or Embrace - Choice is mine!

3 Nephi 29 & 30

I think it is Nephi who is warning us! He is telling us that when the Book of Mormon comes forth, (and it has or I wouldn't be writing this), that the gathering of Israel and all the promises that attend it have begun. His counsel to those who reject latter-day revelations and gifts.

This is a sobering chapter in the Book of Mormon. If you read it and are not on track, it stings. When you read it and you are on track, you ache for those of your loved ones who come under the category of “non-believer”.

In v5, Nephi says “Wo unto him that spurneth at the doings of the Lord; yea, wo unto him that shall deny the Christ and his works!”

To spurn means tread or trample, scorn, decline, reject the words of the Lord. To contend with the ways of God.

“Wo” - just the very sound of this word makes you now it's not a good thing. I can't find the definition in the Webster Dictionary, however Mormon 9:26 says he who denies the things of the Lord will wonder and perish. This is enough definition for me to know he who spurneth the doings of the Lord is not in a good place.

V7 tells what those who spurneth can expect: “. . . shall become like unto the son of perdition, for whom there was no mercy, according to the word of Christ!” I can think of nothing more frightening and demeaning than to be consigned to be in the same camp as Satan who is the son of perdition. I suppose we can deny this all we want, but at the end of the day, what the Lord has promised will be fulfilled. We've seen enough prophecies already come forth that there really is no room for doubt. All we can hope for is that we and those of our loved ones who don't get it will get it before it is too late.

Chapter 30:2 gives us further warning and invitation: “Turn, all ye Gentiles from your wicked ways; and repent of your evil doings. . . and be filled with the Holy Ghost. . .that ye may be numbered with my people who are of the House of Israel.”

I love it when I see a pattern in the scriptures. This verse is Article of Faith #4 – aka the First Principles of the Gospel: Faith in the Lord, Jesus Christ, repentance, baptism and receive the Holy Ghost. There are numerous places in the scriptures where, in so many words, this is placed. Do you think it might be important? Is it pretty simple? I think so.

So how does this apply to me today? I'd like to say “carry on”, but there is always room to improve and I need to pray that God will show me my weaknesses that they can become strengths.   

What can I do?

3 Nephi 28

The twelve are asked what they would want from Jesus. Nine inherit Christ's kingdom; The Three Nephites desire to never taste death but to minister always among men until the second coming of Christ.

In verse 1, Christ gives an excellent example of how to minister: “What is it that ye desire of me. . .” I need to remember this as I serve. It's simple enough. Then in verse 9, we're given the reason why: “. . . that ye might bring the souls of men unto me. . .” This needs to be our purpose in serving as well.

Verse 20 has a curious phrase: “. . . they did smite the earth with the word of God, insomuch that by his power they were delivered out of the depths of the earth; and therefore they could not dig pits sufficient to hold them.” How do you smite the earth with the word of God? It's not preaching. I would suspect they used Priesthood power to do whatever was required to free them – much the same as the way the earth was created in the beginning. In reading Genesis 1, all of creation was done by the word of God, i.e. “. . . and God said. . .”

Verse 35 – I love this phrase! “. . . do ye suppose that ye can get rid of the justice of an offended God, who hath been trampled under feet of men, . . .” Do you really think that just because you say you don't believe it, that God is not going to take offense, that there will be no consequence? The phrase just before this one says it all and should be enough to make anyone shake in their boots: And it would be better for them if they had not been born.

So exactly how does this all apply to me today? Certainly as I serve in my church calling I need to remember to ask what someone needs of me and my purpose needs to be to bring the souls of men unto our Savior. But it goes one step further. Why? Why is this so important? To prevent any of my brothers or sisters – God's children - from ever wishing that they had not been born. To help them in their quest for truth so that they do not offend God. And therein lies the problem. I have but little power to prevent anyone from doing anything. Nothing makes this more clear than raising children. It is the power of the Holy Ghost that has that power. My duty is to bear testimony at every opportunity so that the Holy Ghost can do his job.

Have you received His image in your Countenance?

3 Nephi 27

Jesus gives the name of his church, and spells out his gospel. He commands the people to repent, be baptized and receive the Holy Ghost. They are to be even as Jesus is.

I've always marveled at idea that the people wanted to know what to call the church. It is such logic to me that it doesn't even need to be talked about. Could it be because I was raised with this logic? And then in v11 it says “. . . they will have joy in their works for a season. . .” v12 “For their works do follow them. . . and they are hewn down. . .” You see that in a lot of upstart religions. They remind me a lot of shooting stars, though there is nothing illuminating about them in the least. In fact, many of them are frightening.

I've especially enjoyed reading about the Doctrine of Christ (v13-22). It's so simple! It is basically the 4^th Article of Faith. And then in v21we are told to do what we have seen the Savior do. What did He do? He was loving at every turn. Until we develop that same kind of love, there is room to grow.

It saddens me when he talks about the fourth generation falling away and “. . . turning their works upon their own heads.” (v32) We know when we keep reading that this prophecy is fulfilled. But what exactly does it mean when our works are turned upon our own heads? We have some really righteous people as examples whose countenance really shines and we are drawn to them like magnets. They don't seem to be getting older, but rather better. Well, this works in the opposite direction as well. As people embrace a self-centered and indulgent lifestyle, their countenance becomes hardened. It is almost embarrassing to be in their presence because you feel sad for what they have lost and what they have become. They have a hardened look.

I've seen it both ways. I've seen the hardened reach out and embrace gospel principles and become beautiful in the process. Their countenance changes and it is as if “their works are turned upon their own heads”. Isn't it a person's head (face) where we make our first opinion?  Maybe this interpretation is just a little too literal.

So how does this apply to me today? Is there vanity involved in this at all? Maybe. I want ever so badly not to have that hardened look. I want to have my countenance shine and therefore, I must continue in my faith, repenting when I slip up (as we all do), and keep moving forward, aka enduring to the end.   

My responsibility both directions

3 Nephi 25-26

Jesus makes it quite clear that the generations need to be connected. In chapter 26 he expounds from the beginning to the end and Babes and children utter marvelous things – so much so that they cannot be written. The people of the church (which I assume is everyone there at this point), have all things in common. In other words, they are living the law of consecration.

Oh how I would love to see how this all worked. In Ch 25 v 1 Christ mentions that the proud and they who do wickedly will burn as stubble and be left without root or branch. What does that mean exactly? Well, if I was without root, would I not be without ancestors? If I was without branch, that would obviously be without children. But you can't say I don't have parents. I was born. You can't say I don't have children, because I do. It must mean that when I leave this earthly existence, that I will be alone somehow. I will be without those who mean the very most to me – my family! When we turn our backs on the teachings of the gospel, we are walking away from our family into a world where we will really be alone. As silly as this sounds, there's going to be a whole lot of company in that aloneness.

Then Jesus tells them (Ch. 25) that Elijah will turn the hearts of the fathers to the children and the heart of the children to their fathers, “lest I come and smite the earth with a curse”. What would that curse be? Just that – being without family. Not valuing family – going it alone. I wrote in the margin of my scriptures at some point that neglecting FHE (Family Home Evening) is as serious as neglecting to do genealogy. How so? Because if we do not teach these things to our children, they will not learn the gravity of living righteous lives, thinking they can do as they please without effect. I cannot think of much worse than being alone in a sea of others who are alone.

It's almost not fair to have read two chapters, because Chapter 26 is also full of good stuff. Can you imagine being in a gathering where little babes are speaking? It definitely gives credence to the book I read recently “Trailing Clouds of Glory”. I've taken a little flack on this book when I've talked about it to some family members. “Little children don't talk” they say. Well, they can. They have, and I have no doubt that they still do at times.

So how does this apply to me? What do I need to change or improve upon? Oh how I pray my temple attendance counts as genealogy. I need to index more. I need to fight harder for those of my children who struggle with their testimonies. How exactly can I do that? My days of actually teaching them are over. They wouldn't listen if I tried. All I can do is set a righteous example. Be happy. I know from experience that happiness is quite elusive when we are not living righteous lives. Conversely, happiness is a byproduct of every day when I am living the principles of the gospel and serving as I have been asked. Yes, service is a major part of the gospel. In it we find the joy that cannot be found in any other way. I have got to pick the pace up in that department. There is always room for improvement. Makes me tired to think about it.