Do I Listen for His Voice?

“We’re told to talk to Heavenly Father in prayer. But how does Heavenly Father talk to me?”

Learning to recognize our Father’s voice and to following Spiritual promptings in a daily challenge and a quest of a lifetime. But God does speak to us. There are many ways in which this happens. But we must learn to listen and to feel His words. 

Following are a few scriptures that will aid us in developing the ability to recognize our Heavenly Father’s voice. He does love us, and He wants us to be happy. We can speak to Him through prayer in the name of His Son, and He can give us answers and offer comfort and direction through the scriptures, the prophets, our daily interactions, and through the power of the Holy Ghost. Keeping a journal of your impressions and of His daily guidance will also increase your ability to recognize His voice and to feel gratitude.

Doctrine and Covenants 1:38:

38 What I the Lord have spoken, I have spoken, and I excuse not myself; and though the heavens and the earth pass away, my word shall not pass away, but shall all be fulfilled, whether by mine own voice or by the voice of my servants, it is the same.


Doctrine and Covenants 8:2-3:

2 Yea, behold, I will tell you in your mind and in your heart, by the Holy Ghost, which shall come upon you and which shall dwell in your heart.

3 Now, behold, this is the spirit of revelation; behold, this is the spirit by which Moses brought the children of Israel through the Red Sea on dry ground.


Doctrine and Covenants 9:8-9:

8 But, behold, I say unto you, that you must study it out in your mind; then you must ask me if it be right, and if it is right I will cause that your bosom shall burn within you; therefore, you shall feel that it is right.

9 But if it be not right you shall have no such feelings, but you shall have a stupor of thought that shall cause you to forget the thing which is wrong; therefore, you cannot write that which is sacred save it be given you from me.


These are a few suggested scriptures in this month’s New Era, but there are so many more. It is important to not limit our understanding by abandoning our own search. Like Nephi, who prayed for his own understanding of his father Lehi’s vision, it is important for us to hold on tightly to the iron rod, which is the word of God ( See 1 Nephi 11:25). And like the young boy Samuel, it is important for us to learn to recognize the Lords voice, and to say to Him, “Speak; for thy servant heareth” (1 Samuel 3:10).


The important thing to remember in developing a relationship with our Heavenly Father is that it will take time and energy. We are always eager to spend time and share important things with those we love and with those whom we feel love us. It is no different with God. We must offer our daily devotions to Him whose grand and eternal design is our everlasting happiness. How can you nourish your relationship with God? How will your life be strengthened by being in tune with our Almighty Father and in harmony with His will? Will you begin today to following the impressions that you receive to draw nearer to Him so that you can more follow hear His voice?


(Source: New Era: Learning of Heavenly Father: A Study of Epic Proportions)

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Yes, I Know Heavenly Father Loves Me

“There are billions of people on the earth! How can Heavenly Father possibly know me?”

Have you ever been in awe of the Master of the Universe? Have you ever felt the overpowering love that pours forth from our Father and His Son? Have you contemplated that His creations are infinite, which means that they are without number to you and to me? And yet, He has the very hairs of our heads numbered (See Luke 12:7). He knows each of us by name. He knows and loves you, and He knows and loves me personally and forever.

Following are a few scriptures that will help us recognize our Heavenly Father’s love for us. He does love us, and He wants us to be happy. We can find happiness and joy as we keep the commandments which will strengthen our abilities to recognize His hand and feel His love. Look for the main idea in each scripture. Can you summarize the message to share in your own words? How does verbalizing the message out loud make you feel? Don’t limit this enriching activity to these few verses. Think of others, and internalize them as well. Remember that you can use tools on LDS.org to help you in your search. And always remember to pray and to listen.

1 Samuel 16:7:

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.


Psalm 82:6:

6 I have said, Ye are gods; and all of you are children of the most High.

Luke 12:6-7:

6 Are not five sparrows sold for two farthings, and not one of them is forgotten before God?

7 But even the very hairs of your head are all numbered. Fear not therefore: ye are of more value than many sparrows.

Doctrine and Covenants 93:23:


23 Ye were also in the beginning with the Father; that which is Spirit, even the Spirit of truth;

These are a few suggested scriptures in this month’s New Era, but there are so many more. Do you have some favorites? If you have felt your Heavenly Father’s love, do you feel it still? Alma poses this question in Alma 5:26:

26 And now behold, I say unto you, my brethren, if ye have experienced a change of heart, and if ye have felt to sing the song of redeeming love, I would ask, can ye feel so now?

And he tells us steps to take so that we can feel this love throughout the rest of the chapter.


We read great counsel from President Kimball as recorded in Ensign article, Spencer W. Kimball: Man of Action:

“I find that when I get casual in my relationships with divinity and when it seems that no divine ear is listening and no divine voice is speaking, that I am far, far away. If I immerse myself in the scriptures the distance narrows and the spirituality returns.”

President Uchtorf tells us in this current Ensign

article that we need to make meaningful time with our Heavenly Father:

“To strengthen our relationship with God, we need some meaningful time alone with Him. Quietly focusing on daily personal prayer and scripture study, always aiming to be worthy of a current temple recommend—these will be some wise investments of our time and efforts to draw closer to our Heavenly Father. Let us heed the invitation in Psalms: ‘Be still, and know that I am God’ [Psalm 46:10].”

What can we do personally this year to shorten the distance and to feel God’s love? What are you willing to do today?

(Source: New Era: Learning of Heavenly Father: A Study of Epic Proportions)

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Are Good People Good?

I hear so many people defending other people by saying, "He's a good person," or "She's a good person." I'm not even sure what that means anymore.

Cain was probably a really "good person," too; other than, he chose his own way to serve and follow the Lord, instead of being obedient to the Lord and serving in the way he was commanded. Even this was a God-given right, because our Heavenly Father gave us the gift of agency.

So when Cain offered up a sacrifice to the Lord, which was his own choosing and not according to the Lord’s directions, by today’s standard, we could all say, “He was a good person.” Why? Because he still was trying to give a good gift, even if it was contrary to God’s specifications of an acceptable sacrifice or a good gift to God. 

It certainly does seem that when we are given light and knowledge from the Lord, and we stray from that in favor of our own whimsical thinking or the teachings of the world, that we are openly choosing to turn towards the darkness and follow after folly.

Yet we are all still children of God seeking after happiness and wanting to live the good life and to be good people.

So what happened to Cain? And does the same thing happen to good people today?

I believe that we have all had a Cain or a Judas experience to some degree; or, if not, that we will. What will we do in these circumstances? When we have made errors in judgment in following the Lord; and we know that we have, because the Spirit of the Lord is there to seek to reclaim us, how do we respond? How will we respond? Cain was warned, and Cain was given conditions of blessing and cursing. So was Paul. We have also received this same warning. Satan is waiting for our responses, because he seeks to own good people.

What are some of the mistakes that Cain made? First, Cain didn’t offer the sacrifice of the firstborn, which was a reminder of our Heavenly Father’s Son and His sacrifice for us. In what ways do we fall short of being the children of progress that our Father intends us to be? Are there things that we neglect or that we substitute which have been put into place to help us remember His Son and our covenants with Him?

Cain was reprimanded by the Lord. The Lord chastises us because He loves us and wants our ultimate happiness, not just for us to find immediate gratification in the use of our agency. But Cain made the mistake of letting his countenance fall. He became angry. How does it affect our spirits, our demeanor, our attitude, and our well-being when we become angry because we don’t feel validated in making wrong choices? This is another step in turning away from light and truth and entering into a darkened path. Have you ever experienced it? I know I have. But the Lord in great mercy wants to reclaim us, because He knows our potential if we choose light and truth.

Cain not only became angry because he couldn’t find happiness in his wrong choices; he became angry because his brother could find happiness in choosing the right. He let his jealousy over Abel and his possessions consume him, even until he was motivated to destroy Abel in hopes of obtaining what Abel had.

Are we envious of others’ gifts? How does that harm our own well-being? Do we understand that the Lord gives gifts severally to His children according to His will and His kindness, and that the blessings that we receive are to be used to glorify him in returning goodness to Him in obedience and service? Do we make sure that we do not fault others who are truly striving to be righteous?

It is true that most people we know are not murderers. We could even go on to say, “We are all ‘good people.’” But there is great danger in calling evil good and good evil. So it is best for us to analyze our position and to take inventory before and with the Lord, so that we know where we fall short and how we can improve in our own lives. (Alma Chapter 5 is a good reference for this.)

We should also make certain that we are aware of what is right and wrong in the world around us. Too many are confused on this point, thinking that way have no right to judge, but we must make righteous judgment as our progress and the progress of others is dependent upon it. (For greater understanding, please read the words of Mormon for in Moroni Chapter 7.)

I’m not writing this to say that I am a better person that others. But, if we know the truth, we should not want to settle for less either for ourselves or for those other people, those friends of ours whom we deem to be “good people.” If we think they are good people, shouldn’t we want to share with them those promises from God that are attainable through His love for us and our obedience to Him?

We all have the potential to be good. But true goodness comes from being humble enough to know that all that is good comes from God and that we need Him to progress and to obtain salvation. We cannot allow any substandard thwart us from our eternal goal of being members of the family of God. In Him and with Him, we will find goodness. 

Jesus Frees Us from the Puppeteers

Jesus Frees Us from the Puppeteers

(Image Source: genius.com)

It is interesting that in today’s world puppetry is so prized. We are born children of the Highest, with the opportunity to follow Him and have eternal possibilities and inheritances available to us. Yet sometimes we choose to forego the treasures of the kingdom for the fading glitter of the world.

Jesus opens the door to our Heavenly Father's kingdom for those who list to obey Him. We need to offer more than lip service. We need to do more than merely say we believe in a higher power source. We need to accept Jesus as our Personal Friend, and we need to become friends with Him. He spoke these words:

“Greater love hath no man than this, that a man 

lay down his life for his friends” (John 15:13).

He also spoke these words:

“Ye are my friends, if ye do whatsoever 

I command you” (John 15:14).

And these:

“If ye love me, keep my 

commandments” (John 14:15).

We owe all that we have to our Father and His Son. Everything. “Know ye that the LORD He is God: it is He that hath made us, and not we ourselves; we are His people, and the sheep of His pasture” (Psalm 100:3). Yet some people scoff and call His followers sheeple. Should we not feel it a glorious blessing to have a Righteous Shepherd? One who will never lead us astray, but who will share with us in His glory!

And here we live as His human offspring, awaiting the day of our immortality. Whom we choose to follow now will determine who will receive us in that great day. 

King Benjamin words, found in Mosiah chapter 2, are good for us to remember at this Thanksgiving time and always, because our worship must begin with humility and gratitude:

19 And behold also, if I, whom ye call your king, 

who has spent his days in your service, and yet 

has been in the service of God, do merit any thanks 

from you, O how you ought to thank your heavenly King!

20 I say unto you, my brethren, that if you should render 

all the thanks and praise which your whole soul has 

power to possess, to that God who has created you, 

and has kept and preserved you, and has caused that ye 

should rejoice, and has granted that 

ye should live in peace one with another—

21 I say unto you that if ye should serve him 

who has created you from the beginning, 

and is preserving you from day to day, 

by lending you breath, that ye may live and move 

and do according to your own will, and 

even supporting you from one moment to another—

I say, if ye should serve him with all your whole souls 

yet ye would be unprofitable servants.

22 And behold, all that he requires of you 

is to keep his commandments; 

and he has promised you that if ye would 

keep his commandments ye should prosper in the land; 

and he never doth vary from that which he hath said; 

therefore, if ye do keep his commandments 

he doth bless you and prosper you.

This is a tricky day that we live in. Modern times are really repeats of the failings of past civilizations, but the evil designer has had many millennia of preparation in presentation. Yet we have been warned about avoiding his darkness and his worldly sophistry; we have been warned about not becoming his pawns:

“And there are also secret combinations, even as 

in times of old, according to the combinations of the devil, 

for he is the founder of all these things; yea, 

the founder of murder, and works of darkness; 

yea, and he leadeth them by the neck with a flaxen cord, 

until he bindeth them with his strong cords forever” 

(2Nephi 26:22).

So here we are, somewhat like Pinocchio. We have a Creator who has offered us an inheritance with Him. He has made us real and given us the opportunity to become like Him, but sometimes we would rather be puppets, never reaching our potential, but controlled by the masses who have also chosen puppetry. Remember Pinocchio’s plight and that it is by far better to be a sheep of the Good Shepherd who will lead us into Life Eternal than to be a donkey. 

Love Wins

Love Wins

I don't think that there can be a truer statement than “Love Wins.” In what ways does love win?

Clearly, it is because of God's love for us that we all have a chance to be winners. We all have the opportunity to look to God and live. We all have the privilege of keeping His commandments and following His Son through covenants and ordinances in order to return to Him in heaven. In the name of Jesus Christ and through the power of His Atonement, Love has won forever. Christ Himself, through the commandment and grace of God, has overcome death and sin.

“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. For God sent not His Son into the world to condemn the world; but that the world through Him might be saved” (John 3:16-17).

So here we are in a battle defining what love is. While Christ's love is freeing and liberating in that we are offered the forgiveness of sins and eternal life; and while relationships designed by God are a part of His plan to bring us freedom, liberty, and happiness; counterfeits of God's love and His plan do not bring freedom, nor do they place us on an equal footing on the pathway home to God.

It makes many Christians feel uneasy to see the phrase “Love Wins” so blatantly displayed in reference to judges making those things legal which can never be lawful. But it must not give Christians license to forget what we already know, and that is that indeed “Love Wins.” Even when we disagree in theory and in practice, there remains in us the responsibility to love our neighbors as ourselves (See John 13:34).

Jesus indeed told us that the first great commandment is “Thou shalt love the Lord thy God will all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind.” He told us also that the second great commandment after that first one is “Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself” (Matthew 22:37-38) Jesus also has told us that “If a man say, I love God, and hateth his brother, he is a liar: for he that loveth not his brother whom he hath seen, how can he love God whom he hath not seen” (1 John 4:20)?

Are we are so caught up in what the laws of the land say, that we are forgetting the laws of God? The Pharisees did that. And Jesus made it clear that they were falling short according to the Law of Moses, which He had delivered, and according to the higher law which He brought to them at that time. “Love worketh no ill to his neighbor: therefore love is the fulfilling of the law” (Romans 13:10).

In our love for our neighbor, we cannot abandon our love for our God and our responsibility to honor Him and keep His commandments. Some people get that mixed up, and they try keeping the second commandment in favor of the first. That will never work well. As the family of God, for we are all His children, we can only love and serve each other best, when we love and serve Him first. His commandments are the same for all of His children, and His desired outcome is the same for all of us. But because He has given us agency, or free will, through the Gift of His Son, He will never force us to be righteous; and He will never reward us with Eternal Life with Him if we choose to forsake Him.

We cannot ever think though that salvation is granted us because of our own good works. How arrogant and ungrateful is that, for Jesus bought us with a heavy price! The very blessing of His forgiveness felt by repentant sinners, should cause our Christian hearts to desire the same blessing for all of His other children.

Why does Love Win? Moroni, delivering the words of his father Mormon, tells us that Love Wins because “charity is the pure love of Christ, and it endureth forever, and whoso is found possessed of it at the last day, it shall be well with him” (Moroni 7:47).

How important is this charity, the pure love of Christ? Just in case we feel justified in keeping some outward, obvious commandments, but we are neglecting those first two great commandments, the Apostle Paul reminds us just how important this love is in 1 Corinthians 13:

Though I speak with the tongues of men and of angels, and have not charity, I am become as sounding brass, or a tinkling cymbal.

And though I have the gift of prophecy, and understand all mysteries, and all knowledge; and though I have all faith, so that I could remove mountains, and have not charity, I am nothing.

And though I bestow all my goods to feed the poor, and though I give my body to be burned, and have not charity, it profiteth me nothing.

Charity suffereth long, and is kind; charity envieth not; charity vaunteth not itself, is not puffed up,

Doth not behave itself unseemly, seeketh not her own, is not easily provoked, thinketh no evil;

Rejoiceth not in inquity, but rejoiceth in the truth;

Beareth all things, believeth all things, hopeth all things, endureth all things.

Charity never faileth: but whether there be prophecies, they shall fail; whether there be tongues, they shall cease; whether there be knowledge, it shall vanish away.

For we know in part, and we prophesy in part.

But when that which is perfect is come, then that which is in part shall be done away.

When I was a child, I spake as a child, I understood as a child, I thought as a child: but when I became a man, I put away childish things.

For now we see through a glass, darkly; but then face to face: now I know in part; but then shall I know even as also I am known.

And now abideth faith, hope, charity, these three; but the greatest of these is charity.

If we believe in the prophets, the scriptures, and the commandments; if we believe and trust in Jesus Christ and in His word, we must certainly acknowledge that Love Wins. God's work and His glory is to bring to pass the immortality and eternal life of man (See Moses 1:39). While we desire salvation for ourselves, we should never be a stumbling block to our brothers and sisters, because we feel that we are better than they are (See Romans 3:9). Love Wins when we develop a Christian heart and extend God's kindness and mercy to one another.

“Wherefore, my beloved brethren, pray unto the Father with all the energy of heart, that ye may be filled with this love, which He hath bestowed upon all who are true followers of His Son, Jesus Christ; that ye may become the sons of God; that when He shall appear we shall be like Him, for we shall see Him as He is; that we may have this hope; that we may be purified even as He is pure. Amen” (Moroni 7:48).

tinyurl.com/o49yq8p

What Do I Think of Today's Decision?

What do I think of today's decision?

I think that The Constitution is not failing us because it was poorly written; rather, it is being poorly interpreted and stretched beyond its frame.

Even so, life continues to be what we make it. We can use our agency to be angry or to continue in love. “Perfect love casteth out all fear.” If we continue to teach and uphold correct principles in our families, we as the little leaven will be blessed to raise the whole lump through Jesus Christ our Lord.

I think that we now have a state-imposed religion in our Country, by a government who claims that we should not mix church and state. Will there be implications following? Of course there will. I'm not a prophetess, so I will not say "Mark my word" or any such nonsense; but, I believe that all churches whose beliefs are founded in the moral tradition of marriage being between a man and a woman will be in jeopardy of losing their tax-exempt status if they do not bow to the demands of those who desire same-sex marriages in their congregations, as these people will appeal to the government in the name of equality. And I no longer trust our Republic to represent the virtuous principles on which this country was founded.

I don't fear losing tax-exempt status. I think that this can serve to make believers even stronger. Yet I do hope that our Country, which was founded upon the Judea-Christian Tradition by great men of faith, will not become a country that persecutes those who hold to that tradition and strip them, or anyone else, of their freedom of religion.

I think that we were all expecting the outcome of today's decision. It has been years in the making. I think that awareness of same-sex relationships has been good and bad, because we all need to learn to inhabit this earth as brothers and sisters; and, we all have our own challenges. But none of them are terribly unique. On the plus side, we have sought to engage in better conversation and become more understanding. On the minus side, there are those who will not measure anything by religious belief, because they have abandoned any beliefs that won't condone their or their friends' personal choices. To deny the right of religious freedom is one of the biggest evils ever perpetrated, and religion freedom is something that our Founding Fathers demanded for us as a people in The Bill of Rights.

I think that the rainbow itself is a token of the covenant God made with Noah to never again flood the entire earth. To flaunt that token in living the kind of life led by those who were destroyed in the flood shows open rebellion to God. He cannot continue to bless those who curse Him.

Before this earth life, we all lived with our Heavenly Father. There He presented His Plan for our progression, and He chose His Firstborn Son to be our Messiah. We accepted His Plan, we accepted Jesus as our Savior; and we were given the opportunity to come to earth, receive a body, and learn obedience. Why? So we can become like our Father.

Lucifer and one-third part of the host of heaven rebelled against God and His Anointed. They did not want to live by God's laws, and so they were kicked out of heaven.

Every human being who has lived on this earth, who is now here, and who will yet be born, accepted our Father's Plan for our Happiness and His Chosen Son. But if we turn from His laws, we cannot expect to receive heaven's blessings any more than the one-third who lost out for the same reason.

I think that those who are cheering today's decision will one day find themselves weeping. Then it won't be up to us to say, I told you so,” but to feel sorrow with them in their pain and loss and do the best we can to bring comfort and restoration.

It is interesting to me that people think that they can be moral without a moral code. Yes, time-tested marriage is based in the moral traditions of the people who lived according to their books of Holy Writ, no matter what religion they were.

It is also obvious to me that when people turn their backs on scriptures, history, and the Lord and His prophets, that they lose their moral compass; and, they don't even realize that they've lost it.  

The scriptures were so important to Lehi's family, that Nephi and his brothers were sent back to Jerusalem, at the peril of their lives, to get the plates. Why? Because without the scriptures, they would have dwindled in unbelief, as the Lamanites did, and perished.

Unfortunately, in today's world, people turn their back on God. They still think that they can be just as kind and loving. I, myself, am more capable of loving my neighbor when I put the commandments in the order the Lord gave them: First, to love the Lord God with everything that I have; and second to that, to love my neighbor as myself. I believe that those who put themselves and their neighbors first, before God, fall far short in finding the joy that they can in their own lives or in giving joy to others through their service. 

When we forget God, we become self-serving and lost.

With all that said, I did not feel any particular anger and concern in today's ruing. Why? Because we were expecting this. And God is at the helm. If we continue to teach and live the gospel, we can become the leavening agent that will invite and draw others to Christ as we prepare for His return.

Every single one of us accepted God's Plan of Happiness in our pre-mortal realm. Agency was a gift in the plan, and so was the Atonement. I hope that we will all use our gifts to accept God's grace.

I think that because human emotions are involved by those who support traditional marriage and by those who are in favor of the legalization of same-sex marriage, we need to make sure that we respect human dignity. I think that we need to remember that God made us all just a little lower than the angels. When some take God out of the equation, they are denying our roots and that we have a Father who is Diety; in so doing, they also are denying the deity within themselves and within others. We cannot afford to do that. We need to respect each other as children of God even when we do not agree.

The Lord allows for agency in this life, where men are allowed moral interpretation. Sometimes our governments legalize those things which are not lawful. But God's laws remain constant, and I am happy that the Church reflects that.

It's nice to have the surety of God's love and His Plan for our Happiness. This we need to teach; this we need to live; this we need to pass on to the next generation, and the next.

I think that it is still important to stand up for family values, for traditional marriage, for the gospel of Jesus Christ, and for religious freedom in general. Why? Because these things are still important to us, and their value will not change because of temporal legislation. Remaining faithful means something to me, and it means something to God. If we can hold on faithful to Him and to His laws, I believe that one day even those who are fighting against us will actually thank us. We can never serve our fellowmen properly by abandoning God. And we can best love our neighbors when we remember to put the first commandment first.

I choose to be positive, and I seek to do as the Spirit guides. But I do think that today's ruling will have a profound effect in damaging society further and in lessening the credibility and security of us all. Soon, the only safety to be found will be in the Stakes of Zion and in the walls of the homes of the righteous, be they of whatever religious persuasion they may.

I also firmly believe that now is the time for us to bear strong and positive testimony of the things which we believe and most assuredly know to be true, rather than engaging in petty arguments that testify of defeat; for, we are not defeated. God is at the helm. 

Reclaiming the Rainbow

Reclaiming the Rainbow

                                                             (Original Web Photo)

The rainbow has been a
token of the covenant
which God made with Noah,
and it remains a token
of that covenant today.

"And God said, This is the token of the covenant which I make between me and you and every living creature that is with you, for perpetual generations: I do set my bow in the cloud, and it shall be for a token of a covenant between me and the earth. And it shall come to pass, when I bring a cloud over the earth, that the bow shall be seen in the cloud: And I will remember my covenant, which is between me and you and every living creature of all flesh; and the waters shall no more become a flood to destroy all flesh. And the bow shall be in the cloud; and I will look upon it, that I may remember the everlasting covenant between God and every living creature of all flesh that is upon the earth."

(Genesis 9:12-16)

(Orginal Web Photo)

The rainbow has been a token of the covenant which God made with Noah, and it remains a token of that covenant today.

During Noah’s time, the world was in an awful disarray of wickedness which is mirrored in today’s world. Noah preached repentance to the people and warned them that the floods would come if they did not repent. The people chose to not listen to the words of the prophet. And while they lived to see the beginning of the fulfillment of the prophecy, they could not remain on the earth to enjoy the fresh new world.

While many adopt the rainbow as a symbol for their particular causes, because it is indeed a sign of something beautiful; today, when we see the beautiful rainbow, we should remember that not only is it a covenant of God’s grace in not flooding the world again, but it is also a reminder that the prophets’ words are verified, and that there can only be lasting beauty and peace in obedience to God’s commandments.

So while Satan would adopt a thing of beauty to promote his own dominion and flaunt that there is no virtue in keeping God’s commandments, and there will be no repercussions for broken laws because the Lord has promised that He will not flood the entire earth again; we should reclaim the rainbow as a token of God’s covenant with Noah, and we should determine to become a part of His covenant people through making and keeping covenants with Him, and by being obedient to His commandments and adhering to the words of His prophets, for indeed their words will all come to pass as the Lord has so promised. And if we are faithful and obedient, we can be a part of the ushering in of His new and beautiful world and enjoy with Him His peaceful Millennial Reign.

I love the rainbow;
and as a covenant people,
we should cherish
this token of the covenant
God made with Noah.

(http://tinyurl.com/odezgqd)

Christmas is a Greater Show

It’s the Christmas season, and once again both Hollywood and politically correct supporters want to steal the show. It is disturbing how far we have sunk in the name of political correctness. It is unbearable to think of the sacrifices that our Founding Fathers made for this Country to supply us with the freedoms of religion, speech, press, assembly and so forth. So much of the founding was based on Judeo-Christian principles and patterns that have worked well in past democracies and republics. But the name of Jesus Christ is no longer politically correct. In this world of sophistry reigning supreme, it is still the meek that shall inherit the earth (See Matt 5:5). Why? Because our Lord and Savior said so.

As I have studied the scriptures from childhood through my 53rd year here on this earth, one thing has been made clear to me. The Lord has always done the will of the Father (See John 5:30), putting His own needs and interests on the altar of sacrifice, and supplying for our constant welfare and support, in both offering us peace in this life and eternal life in the world to come, if we will but accept Him as our Savior and determine to follow Him (See Matthew 16:24). Following His example means that we must also put our needs and interests on the altar of sacrifice by giving to Him a broken heart and a contrite spirit. What does that mean? It means that we keep His commandments…all of them…to the very best of our ability; and, it means that we accept His laws, recognizing that they are never obsolete, no matter how many people scoff and scorn and shake their fists. Hopefully, those who have chosen to do so will find their way to repentance before that is all that they are able to do.

Another thing that I have learned is that Lucifer or Satan is very capable in his abilities of persuasion (See Revelation 12:3-9), but somehow he seems to have remained underdeveloped, like an everlasting self-centered teenager. Truly part of our real growth into maturity comes from our submitting ourselves to the will of the Father. Have you noticed that those who put their own wants, needs, and desires before the common good of their own families or humanity as a whole, care very little for the wants, needs, and desires of their fellowmen? They possess underdeveloped souls, every searching for pleasure and reassurance that their ways are just as truthful and good as the Lord’s ways, because they serve their purposes, and their personal freedoms are paramount in their own eyes. But they do not foresee how their self-centeredness affects everyone else around them and society as a whole. So instead of accepting that they indeed might be in the wrong, they proclaim that there is no right or wrong, that there is no God and no devil. The devil has perpetuated this common lie since the very beginning of time. Interesting, isn’t it, how he puts evil thoughts and desires into men’s hearts and then he tells them, “I am no devil, for there is none (See 2 Nephi 28:21-22)?” He must feel jolly good about himself to fool so many.

And that brings us back to Heavenly Father’s true plan for us. Since Adam and Eve, our Heavenly Father has supplied His spirit sons and daughters a correct family model to bring forth all the families of the earth. And God gave Adam and Eve this commandment in the Garden of Eden, “To multiply and replenish the earth (See Genesis 1:28).” He further explained this commandment, stating that “Therefore shall a man leave his father and his mother, and shall cleave unto his wife: and they shall be one flesh (Genesis 2:24).” This is God’s pattern for the family. There is no other. But Hollywood and television media have been carefully working out new family patterns since the 50s and 60s to gear people up for Satan’s eventually well-accepted lie that all relationships are equal and that there is no set pattern for the family. And as family life has been misplaced by government programs, the erosion of society has been underway. And for those who think that it is all okay, No, it is not. This has happened before in other societies, and they were destroyed (See Genesis 19). Vanity of vanities, there is nothing new under the sun (See Ecclesiastes 1).

Why is the family unit important (See The Family: A Proclamation to the World)? Being placed in families gives us the greatest potential for growth in our lives and in our development to become more like our Heavenly Father. Husband and wife work together to supply the best environment that they can for their children. If they have entered their relationship responsibly, with maturity, covenanting with each other and with God, they sacrifice many of their own needs and desires for one another and for their children. They put the welfare of the entire family at the forefront of everything they do, not just exalting one person’s interests at the disparity of all others. They seek to follow the Father's will. Doesn't that sound familiar? It is the pattern that the Lord set for us in putting the common welfare of all people above his own comfort and welfare. The family allows us to establish an environment that is in keeping with God’s law and that helps us develop into mature selfless beings that are becoming more like our Heavenly Father.

Now I am not a perfect family member, but I do try to do what is right. There are many things that I have chosen not to do because I knew that those things would bring dishonor to both my earthly parents and my Heavenly Father. As a parent, many of my decisions have been based upon what is good for my husband in his professional endeavors; what is good for our children in their growth, learning, and progression into adulthood; and what is the Lord's will. As a result, I have not been diminished in any way; but, if anything, have become more accomplished as a result. Also, there are many things that I have chosen to do, because I was taught by good Christian parents who established a healthy environment for learning and growth, and because I have personally studied the scriptures, tried to be of Christian service, and gained a firm faith, hope, and testimony of my Lord Jesus Christ. This pattern we have sought to perpetuate in our own home.

And for the things I have done wrong, I have felt appropriately guilty, acknowledged my errors to God and to those He deemed necessary, and recommitted myself to His plan for me. As children of the Highest, we are never promoting ourselves well by leaving His path and going on our own merry way, thinking that we are now free. Cain made that mistake in the beginning (See Moses 5:30-33). And so it has continued; we bring personal and perpetual destruction when we deviate from God’s course. In contrast, the best way to promote ourselves is to follow God’s plan. He has so much more to offer us (See Luke 14:11, Moses 1:39).

So much of what happens in the media today seems to draw our attention away from what is most important. If we would all receive direction to focus on the Savior of mankind, we would begin to heal as a nation (See 2 Chronicles 7:14). Because of the easiness of such a choice, to just turn and look to the Savior, many turn themselves about and seek disparaging counsel and continue to struggle in darkness (See John 3:14-15; 1 Nephi 17:41). There is no peace and salvation offered that can reach to every struggling mortal soul than that which has been offered by God in the gift of His Son Jesus Christ (See John 3:16-17). He is the way, the truth, and the life (See John 14:6). There is no other way that is acceptable than the Lord’s way. And the Lord’s way cannot be changed or eradicated. Like the Lord, His ways are eternal. And the established pattern of families to include a husband and a wife, who may become a father and mother, who may be blessed with children that Heavenly Father sends to that union is not just a pattern, but it is eternal law. No matter what man does to obliterate God’s laws, they will still stand. Those who worship the Father in spirit and in truth, those who trust in the words of the prophet and the atoning sacrifice of the Only Begotten Son, these are the ones who will be blessed for adherence to the laws despite the ridicule and condemnation of the world. These are those whom Jesus prayed for, and these are those whom He will claim (See John 17:9-26).

So back to the Christmas Season. May the Spirit of Christ reign in our hearts throughout this season and throughout all the years ahead! May we decide that Jesus will be our focus and that the distractions of the world will only serve to make us more determined to both follow Him and pray for our fellowmen to have the opportunity for a change of heart, a chance for repentance, and the gift of following Him in their own lives. Christmas is a reality. This season is not just a holiday. It is a celebration of a Holy Day: the day that our Lord and Savior was born, fulfilling the prophecies of all the holy prophets, and bringing us hope of his glorious sacrifice and our impending rebirth and salvation through Him. And Christmas grows in ever deeper importance because Easter is a reality. Jesus Christ lives. To Him be all praise and glory both now and forevermore. The captive shall go free. All shall live again. And the righteous shall be exalted through His perfect grace and holiness. Let us turn our hearts and thoughts back to the Savior. He will not forsake us, and He will offer us His perfect peace in the midst of unsettling times (See John 14:27).

A Few Thoughts on the Atonement

I most likely will not understand the Atonement during my mortal life. I don’t understand it, but I accept it. While it is difficult to comprehend anyone suffering to an infinite degree for me and for all humanity, I can comprehend His love for me, because I can feel it. I have felt the Savior’s love for me many times; I have felt His forgiveness and His acceptance. His promise of sending His Spirit and giving His peace is a reality for anyone who seeks after Him.

I Feel My Savior's Love

I feel my Savior's love

In all the world around me.

His Spirit warms my soul

Through ev'rything I see.

Chorus:

He knows I will follow him,

Give all my life to him.

I feel my Savior's love,

The love he freely gives me.

I feel my Savior's love;

Its gentleness enfolds me,

And when I kneel to pray,

My heart is filled with peace.

I feel my Savior's love

And know that he will bless me.

I offer him my heart;

My shepherd he will be.

I'll share my Savior's love

By serving others freely.

In serving I am blessed.

In giving I receive.

Words: Ralph Rodgers Jr., Newell Dayley, and Laurie Huffman
Music: K. Newell Dayley, b. 1939

Text and Music

I even have difficulty contemplating His suffering, His death, and His resurrection. No wonder His disciples fell asleep in the garden of Gethsemane as Jesus suffered for all of us. It was too much to witness; it was too much to take in. So while I know that the sacrament is a time to remember Him and honor His gift to me, often I fall short in my re-dedication and let my mind wander. But He is ever understanding, and He still accepts my meager attempts to covenant with Him, to keep His commandments, and to always remember Him.

The greatest testimony to me of the goodness of Jesus Christ is that I am happiest when I am trying to be like Him, when I am serving others. When I am guided by His love to extend that love to others, it is manifest in my own heart to an even greater degree. This is healing; this is light; this is the love of Jesus.

In my moments of greatest sorrow, I have not been cast off. I have been embraced in the warm of His love. As I look at pictures of Him that express sorrow, I am reminded that He is the Man of Sorrows and acquainted with grief; and to become like him, I must also experience sorrow, but I am not left to do so alone. So even amidst the greatest sorrow, I have felt peace, and I have felt joy.

One of my favorite hymns expresses so clearly my thoughts concerning the Savior’s love for me in extending to me the gift of His Atonement:

I Stand All Amazed

I stand all amazed at the love Jesus offers me,

Confused at the grace that so fully he proffers me.

I tremble to know that for me he was crucified,

That for me, a sinner, he suffered, he bled and died.

(Chorus)

Oh, it is wonderful that he should care for me

Enough to die for me!

Oh, it is wonderful, wonderful to me!

I marvel that he would descend from his throne divine

To rescue a soul so rebellious and proud as mine,

That he should extend his great love unto such as I,

Sufficient to own, to redeem, and to justify.

            (Chorus)

I think of his hands pierced and bleeding to pay the debt!

Such mercy, such love and devotion can I forget?

No, no, I will praise and adore at the mercy seat,

Until at the glorified throne I kneel at his feet.

(Chorus)

Text and Music

Text and music: Charles H. Gabriel, 1856-1932

I love the Lord. I can see this, because I have felt a connection with Him and acceptance from Him. This is because He first loved me. While I do not fully comprehend the Atonement, I do understand and accept that Jesus is the way, the truth, and the life, and I can return to my Heavenly Father because of Him. Truly, I stand amazed. 

No Trust for Current Media or Government

I do not trust the leaders of the United States; neither do I trust the media. We are being bamboozled with false information and led to accept lies. In today's world, we cannot trust what we hear or even what we see. Only God, who is a Revealer of truth, can be trusted. Armed with the Spirit of truth, we can trust our Heavenly Father to lead us aright; and we can trust His prophet.

I do not trust the leaders of the United States; nor do I trust the media. The propaganda of the current United States is thicker and blacker and more dangerous and deceptive than at any previous time in the USSR or Nazi Germany.

When truth comes to light, we will know what has happened and what is currently happening in our country and in the world. But for now, I will plant my feet solidly in the Gospel of Jesus Christ and wait for Him whose right it is to reign. At that time, we will be able to feel secure in knowing that our best interests are being met. Jesus is our King, our Savior and our Redeemer, and we need Him now. The only way to secure heaven’s blessings is to serve Him.

God bless the families and individuals in this country and in the world who are seeking to live righteous and meaningful lives. As we return and turn unto Him, we will find that He will turn and return unto us. But we need to know that His ways are not our ways, and His law is love and light everlasting. We cannot change His laws, nor can we seek heavens approval in disobedience and rebellion. As a people and as a country, we need to look to God and live. Truly the unrighteousness of our government is causing the people to error, and error big time. We need not try to give counsel to our God, but we need to accept counsel at His hand at all times. Also, we need to remember that we have been blessed with a living prophet. God gives us His prophets to call His children to repentance, and not the other way around.

If anyone thinks that we can prosper as a people without God at our head, they are either extreme hypocrites or extremely deceived. Either way, perpetuating this lie has successfully caused much of America’s downfall and current weakness. At no time, did the Founding Fathers say that we should live without God in the world, only that there should not be a state-imposed religion. And currently, it appears that we do have a state-imposed religion—call it what you will—atheism, secularism, morbid sophistication, complacency, or self-worship. Calling upon the people to abandon God to follow state-imposed mandates is the worst kind of religion, especially when people follow blindly offering up their freedoms as a sacrifice to the self-appointed gods.

I do not know what will happen in the near future. I do know that those who follow the teachings of Jesus will feel heaven’s blessings in their lives, and those who scoff and slander, will be made to mourn. Life is much too precious to discount the purpose of life—to live by obedience so that we can experience joy. When life is stripped too early from some, when life is robbed before breath is taken, when life is bartered as a way to promote power, then there has to be some recompense. Only in turning to the Lord and His atonement, can any of us obtain salvation. But we are told that those who mock and scorn, and treat human life in such undignified ways, are crucifying the Lord anew. And they will have a price to pay.

While I do not trust the leaders of the United States, and while I do not trust the media, I do trust my Heavenly Father, and I trust Israel’s God, the Lord Jesus Christ. I do trust that He loves us even now; and His hand is stretched out still. He has given us the truth restored in these latter days. We have a prophet on the earth. If we follow what He says, we will not be led astray. God bless our prophet; God bless the families and individuals of this earth to seek truth with pure and honest hearts; and, ultimately, may God again bless the United States of America.

Where does our country go from here?

Sunday Morning Stake Conference, 3-24-13

3-24-13 Sunday Morning Stake Conference

(These are my notes; they have not yet been revised)

President Kinser—sustainings

President Garvin

Deep appreciation; thankful for kind acts of service. Spirit bore witness of Elder Garne’s goodness and the necessity of following his counsel.

Daughter developed interest in ice skating. Impressed with symmetry of paired skaters. Wife had interest in BYU ballroom dancing. Pairs impressive. Unity expressed in step moving at times. These cannot approach husband and wife working together with in harmony with the gospel in their homes and raising their families. Synchronized swimming also impressive. The beauty and greatest of a family working together acting in harmony with the gospel. Some families find themselves under water, but they continue to work together as one.

We have the tools to work together in harmony.

1. Come unto Christ effort.
Family prayer, family scripture study, family home evening, and the blessings of church activity.

Rodgersons—recently sealed in the temple. Together than can weather adversity well, and they can come off conquerors.

Remember the times when all of us knew that home was a part of heaven, and the dews of heaven distilled upon our family.

Prayer is, as it were, the breath of life to my soul. President Garvin

Tears shed in happy unity of purpose.

Grateful for the scriptures; iron rod that has blessed my life. Reread chapter in Book of Mormon over and over again; received strength to do what previously had seemed impossible. Comforting assurance that we can achieve the oneness that is expected of us. Blessings will come as you see your children married in the temple. (Gold medals) As you join with them in blessing their children. Etc. Surely there couldn’t have been a happier people.

Sister Amy Shellhouse

God lives and we are His children. Christ lives and has made it possible for us to return to Heavenly Father. Standards. The church stands as an anchor in a world of shifting values. D&C 115:5: Arise and shine forth, that thy light may be a standard to the nations.

Rise to higher ground. Be so sure of our faith that there is no room for any doubt.

President Monson admonishes youth to build testimony which will keep them safe. Be firm in faith, so when trials come, we will know what we believe. My beliefs define who I am.

Truly felt Savior’s love and her testimony was strengthened. We never know who we can touch. If even one is touched, the trials are worth it. We can be the difference, and we can bring the change. I know that God lives, and I am His daughter. I know that Christ lives, and that He is my older brother.

Sister

Isaiah 2:2-3

Mountain of the Lord. We go to the temple to receive revelation, our own endowments, others endowments, to have our prayers answered.

D&C 87:8 Stand in Holy place and be not moved. Stand strong. Don’t let things of world pull us away. Remember that we have made covenants and that we must keep our covenants.

D&C 97:15-16 Don’t suffer uncleanness in Lord’s house. Glory will be upon it. See God.

We need to keep the commandments and do our best to live as disciples of Christ. Striving for perfection.

Howard W. Hunter—Temple loving people. Hasten to temple as time and means allow.

Place of beauty, revelation, peace, house of Lord, holy to Lord, should be holy to us.

Mosiah 2: People gather together, go up to temple. Pitched tents round about with door towards to temple. We need to center our lives around the temple. Do we center our lives around Jesus Christ and around the temple?

Sealed as family in Mesa Temple. Second experience travelling with youth from San Diego to Mesa for baptisms. (Her husband was on one of those buses, but they didn’t know it.)

Stand in holy places—for it cometh quickly saith the Lord. Timothy 4:12. Gather together and stand in holy places.

President Faust says we stand in so many unholy places; strive to stand often in holy places. Temples, place of holiness and comfort. Take our families; search for records of kindred dead. Holiness is a strength of the soul—faith and obedience.

Fear not, I am with thee, O, be not dismayed.

Draw near unto me, and I will draw near unto you.

Sister Godwin

Grateful for people in this stake and how good we are to the missionaries.

Painting of person carrying so many things. Rod of iron over his head. He can’t let go of any of his possessions to grab the iron rod.

The missionaries let go of the things of the world when they come out to serve the Lord. It is difficult for them to do that. But they have a testimony of the Lord Jesus Christ. That’s why they come.

Blessings and physical evidence of miracles in missionaries lives because of their level of commitment. Their commitments are intensified with the experiences that they have. “This diligence and obedience stuff that you are always talking about is finally kicking in.”

We are all away from home for a season. We need to realize our commitment as well, and let the things of the world go behind.

Mormons believe in Christ. We believe in living prophets. Do we remember what he has said?

Little boy wanted to shake the prophets hand; Sister Kapp shook his hand so he could say that he shook hands with someone who had shaken hands with the prophet.

We have the opportunity every week to take the sacrament.

President Godwin

Touched in heart when President Garvin said this will be their last Stake Conference here.

Elder Ballard in Hisperia: lifted hand and asked everyone else to; then they shook hands together.

Alma 29: O that I were angel. Missionaries are a trumpet crying repentance and love.

Faith—the first principle of the gospel. Faith is an oasis in the heart that cannot be realized by a caravan of learning. Faith comes from experiences in which you have hope. Faith—things that are hoped for and not seen. Declare our hope, our desire for something. Go about doing something to bring it about.

Exercising faith is more than having faith. Physically manifest it. Holy Ghost can testify of truth of something you are doing. Holy Ghost will testify, not as we are thinking about it, but as we are doing.

Missionaries—be prepared to teach a lesson and go to that lesson. If they weren’t there, there would be someone else very close prepared to receive that message. The missionaries went about 200 yards to teach the very lesson to a man in an apartment building. Tears came; they brought an answer to his prayer. They left him a Book of Mormon and passalong card to Mormon.org. They went back the next day. He had read 36 chapters. He went to Mormon.org for 2-3 hours. What did you learn? I learned that the gospel of Jesus Christ has been restored to the earth, and that the prophet Joseph Smith was called to restore the gospel, and that there is a prophet on the earth today, Thomas S. Monson. I know by what you’ve taught and by what I’ve studied that these things are true and I want to be baptized. He was baptized 3 or 4 weeks later.

Matt 14—Savior teaching on desert hills. 5 loaves and two fishes. God and feed the multitude. 5,000 men + women and children. They fed everybody. 12 baskets of fragments left. Faith in the Lord Jesus Christ; He said go and do, and they did.

As we exercise our faith in the Lord Jesus Christ, He will make all things possible.

He will prepare us to return to Heavenly Father.

Patriarch Stehmeyer

A wonderful feeling to be standing before you. Opportunity to serve in this stake for 53 years. He’s seen Patriarchs whom he has thought very highly of. He never thought it would happen to him. He knows, like Nephi, that he’d never be called to any calling to which the Lord would show and help you with the calling.

He has a testimony. He asks for our prayers. That through the Holy Ghost those who receive a blessing will know that it come through Heavenly Father.

Coming up on 60 years of marriage. “The Lord will guide you. You will do whatever the Lord will ask of you.” “And I’ll try. I’ll humbly ask for His help in fulfilling this calling.”

Testimony.

Sister Garnes

No ‘greater gift that you can give to your parents than to be a faithful son or daughter of God. Align yourself with the gospel of Jesus Christ, so that you may give that sweet gift to your parents.

Heavenly Father is aware of our burdens; He knows our journey, and He knows what we need.

We are led in this church by a prophet of God. Elder Garnes watches the 7 presidents of the Seventy and does what they do. Prophet entered jovially. As that they came in, they stood; when they sat, they sat. Prophet peered around and winked at her. Great sensitivity that prophet has is real.

We have the true gospel of Jesus Christ led by prophets, seers, and revelators that are in tune with Heavenly Father’s plan. Obedience—first law of heaven. If we follow, we will be blessed.

She didn’t hear her husband’s command to move; the boat lost balance, and they all went under.

They prayed. A boat came out of nowhere. Two young men; they saw the children and came. One of the men helped right the catamaran.

Grateful for healing power in her life. Miracle to be healed of cancer. She prayed that the Lord will glance her way. She told the doctor that she knows that there is a God in heaven, and she knows that there is a Savior, and that they answer our prayers. We need to bear witness of them, no matter what the answers will be.

Be faithful, follow the prophet, we will be blessed and our families will return.

Elder Garnes

Godwins real dedication and consecration to the Savior. He was still Stake President as he became a Mission President.

Faulty—the more righteous we are, the fewer trials we’ll have.

The Lord will not take trials from us. Although, we will feel the Lord’s blessings for our righteousness.

He thought one little piece of sheet metal was insignificant to his car, but once there was a little strain, he realized differently.

If we are neglecting the little things, when trials come, we will not be prepared. We will overheat; something is going to happen and not work out. It is by the small and simple things that great things are brought to pass and that we have the strength to deal with the challenges in life.

The Lord has a line; it does not move. Hopefully, our line is moving closer to the Lord as we live His commandments.

The little things that we do in life, and try to justify that it’s okay; not the way it works; the Lord has a standard, and it isn’t okay to leave the little things out.

How does prayer fit it?

Youth curriculum—assuring that they have experiences that will develop faith and deeper conversion. They are being asked to take a step in life—not only knowing what is right, but being what is right. Youth are being asked to step it up and be prepared earlier. What does that mean to the rest of us?

D&C 88 I will raise up elders and send them unto you. I will hasten my work in its time. President Monson is fulfilling prophesy. We have a responsibility to be a part of this. We have a responsibility to make this happen, make sure that they are prepared.

We are not just seeking transfer of knowledge. We need to provide experiences that will change lives; that they will know in their hearts that the Savior lives and their testimonies strengthened. Change our ways and increase our capacity.

Obedience. The key to success here and throughout eternities. Hallmark of all great prophets, and source of their strength. The prophets understand the plight that we are in.

Mosiah 3:19: The natural man is an enemy to God. Become a saint. Willing to submit to all things as a child submits to His father. He understood how we feel today.

Paul –For the good that I would, I do not. But the evil which I would not, that I end up doing.

We can do it. The Lord will bless us with that strength.

Luke—those things that are impossible with man, are possible with God.

We need the Lord to be able to do the things that we should do.

Prayer of Faith

Please help me that I will be able to do more than I can do on my own. Our Heavenly Father is waiting in the wings to help us do those things that we cannot do on our own.