My declaration: I do believe in a Deity. I believe in the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. I believe in the Supreme Creator of the universe. I believe in the Father of our spirits. I believe in the Giver of all good gifts, including life itself. "We believe in God the Eternal Father, and in His Son Jesus Christ, and in the Holy Ghost." (Joseph Smith, see Articles of Faith)
I believe in the power of creation. I belief that God has given us life and agency and, along with that, the ability to redefine ourselves and recreate who we are from day to day by the choices we make, the things we think (including the books we read or the blogs we write), and the deeds we do. Hence, when we feel to proclaim, "Life is good," it can very well be because we feel good about our choices and the direction we are headed.
But I affirm that "life" itself is good. The length of life or the quality of life, according to worldly standards of health, doesn't matter. Life is good! I believe that is because God is good, and whatsoever comes from God is good. (See James 1:17-18)
I feel to exclaim that life is and was good for my infant son who just lived 2 1/2 hours. I know that he was grateful to receive a mortal body, that his spirit lives on, and that he will take up his physical body again in the resurrection. This faith I have because I believe in the resurrection of Christ. Indeed, life is good. Our Father who has granted us earthly life, immortality, and the possibility of eternal life is good.
I am glad for the knowledge that I have of a pre-earth life, this earthly life, and life beyond death. Life is a miracle; in all of its stages, it remains a miracle. It is not something that mortal man can copy. But as children of God, we have the seeds of deity right within us, and He has permitted us to have the power of procreation wherein we can help provide His spirit children with physical bodies. Life and the power to perpetuate life is truly a gift.
For all the dear family members that I have said good-bye to for a time, I do believe and I must believe I will see you again! I feel it in my heart, and the Spirit testifies to my spirit that it is so. I feel the warmth of the testimony coursing through my veins. Both you and this testimony are an essential part of who I am. I know that Ed’s life is not snuffed out; nor is Robby’s; nor is my dear sister Kathy’s. Life is good; they are good; and they continue in God who is not only good, but great.
Tears flow freely as a think about my recently departed sister. She indeed had a testimony that life is good. I never once saw her bitter. Her circumstances or the quality of her life did not affect her testimony that life is good. Not once did she want people to feel sorry for her or pity her. She loved life; she loved her family and friends; and she was the best example of creating an atmosphere of happiness and faith no matter what. She even went so far as to say her cancer was kind. Why? Because it gave her time to concentrate on all the things that matter most and to have a couple more years to really enjoy her family, friends, and this beautiful world that we live in. Also, because she knew that cancer was not going to really bring an end to her life, but that life would and does continue for her. She believes in the resurrection as do I. I hope that I can face the challenges of life as well as she did with this motto: “Come what may and love it.” (Joseph B. Worthlin, see Article from October 2008 Conference)
I am so thankful to have the gift of life. I know that God who is the Creator gave me life. I know that I do not have the power to even maintain life on my own, but that He is the one who sustains me from day to day by giving me breath and nourishment through this beautiful earth on which we live. (See Mosiah 2:20-22, word from King Benjamin.)
So whether my individual days are good days or bad days, I do proclaim that life is good. We do experience joys and sorrows, and often there is sorrow mixed in with our joys. But even in the midst of sorrows, I feel my Savior’s love, and I still do proclaim, “Life is good.” I find that the sorrows help me to remember Him and to value life more. And when everything seems to be going along perfectly, I hope that I will do better at stopping to be thankful to Him and to those who have enriched my life and blessed me to be able to enjoy all the wonderful things I enjoy. I acknowledge that I am nothing of myself. But because God has chosen me to be His daughter, and because I have loving earthly parents, loving family, and friends, I have been nurtured in the good things of life and my possibilities for progression are endless. This gift is from my Father who is Eternal and whose gifts are Endless.
Sunday, June 26, 2011
Thursday, June 23, 2011
Shutterfly Card to thank those who helped with the wedding.
http://share.shutterfly.com/share/received/welcome.sfly?fid=8fff1287ec5f0dc42f762628e38c6d8e&sid=8AatGjNk2atGIl
Saturday, May 28, 2011
Monday, April 4, 2011
General Conference Notes: Sunday Afternoon 3 April 2011
General Conference: Sunday Afternoon 3 April 2011
181st annual general conference; fifth session.
That we might receive an additional portion of charity and love to serve those around us. (Opening prayer)
Elder Scott
16 July 1953 his anniversary with Jeanene. As he continues to live worthily, he will be able to live with his wife and children forever. His wife and two children are beyond the veil. They are a reminder to live righteously.
Two pillars: marriage and the family. Satan wants to split the family and end temple marriages.
His wife wanted him to go play with the children rather than to fix the washing machine. “Go play with the children.” Next morning, two little arms around his neck, a kiss on the cheek and the words, “Dad, I love you. You are my best friend.” Don’t waste your time in unworthy pursuits. Get on with your life. If you want to have a wonderful life, you need to have her see you as a wonderful perspective husband.
Are you faithful to your spouse mentally as well as physically? Brethren, do you lead out in family activities? You need to tell your wife often that you love her. Express gratitude for what your spouse does for you. Don’t withhold natural expressions of love. It works better if you hold her close while you tell her. Send precious notes to your spouse. She not only kept my notes to her, she protected them with plastic covers. As husband and wife do not argue in your homes. Love unselfishly. As a mother you have been given divine instinct to help you sense you child’s divine needs. Times of happiness, testing and trial. “I will always remember holding him in my arms in the middle of the night.” He didn’t know that he would pass away in a few months. They knew that they would have him again because of temple covenants. (Jeanene came to me in the chapel that my parents attend after Robby died. She said, Oh Heidi, I can’t wait to tell you about the blessings that you are going to receive.) All things are possible to the Lord, and He keeps the promises that are proclaimed by His prophets. (Elder Scott pronounced the blessing that Cathy that she would marry and have children.)
Elder Christofferson
“I would that you be perfect as I or your Heavenly Father is perfect.” God’s purpose is that we can experience ultimate joy, to be with Him eternally and become as He is.
Practice and attitude we need to adopt: willingly accept and seek correction
Repentance is a necessary condition for forgiveness. Fruit—repentance leading to righteousness. It can refine us and prepare us for greater experiences. “He that will not bear chastisement is not worthy of my kingdom.” We shouldn’t resent the very things that help us put on the divine nature.
“I am the gardener here; I know what I want you to do.” “Thank you Mr. Gardener for cutting me down, for preparing me to be what you wanted me to be.” (Hugh B. Brown)
Chastening may come in many forms. Correction can come through others. “Look into people’s eyes when you speak to them.” (Jeanene Scott)
Elder Pratt
Righteous grandparents that taught their children in the home long before Family Home Evening was instituted. (John and Ida Whetten) Ida suggested that they give the money to the Bishop to cover their tithing. A wealthy business man, Mr. Horde, came from the US. John worked with him and dispersed the money to the workers. There was money left over not expected. Mr. Horde gave it to John for his boys. The bag held the exactly 100 pesos in silver, the same that he’d given to the Bishop. The Lord remembers his promises to those who pay their tithing. When we obey commandments, we are blessed.
1. Payment of tithing was not related to cash income. They felt indebted to the Lord for their blessings. We are all indebted to the Lord. Let us not be accused of robbing the Lord. Paying tithing will help us be honest to our fellow man.
2. Payment of tithing cannot be related to how much we have or have not. It should come from the firstlings and first fruits of our income. Tithing is a matter of faith. Show faith by paying tithing. Do it first. Be an example to our children.
3. If we pay our tithing with money, it does not mean that we will be blessed with money. We will not lack for the necessities of life, but He does not promise us wealth. We will have wisdom to live with 90% of our income than with 100%. The Lord’s richest blessings are spiritual: family, friends, and the gospel. Spiritual sensitivity for rearing our children. The payment of tithing is an excellent insurance against divorce. Tithe paying fosters in us a gentle and forgiving heart.
The Lord will open the windows of heaven and pour out His richest blessings as we pay our tithing.
Elder Robbins
What manner of man or woman ought ye to be? To be or not to be is a very good question. Faith inspires one to pray, and prayer inspires ones faith.
To do lists versus to be lists. A to be list cannot be a check off list. Christ-like be s are what we are trying to develop in ourselves and in our children. Consider the more challenging child a blessing that helps you to become more Godlike. Could it be possible that you need this child as much as he needs you? Our children are God’s children. Disappointing behavior should be something that is considered not permanent. Focus primary praise on children’s efforts and attributes. “Be the kind of parents to our children that our Father in Heaven is to us.”
Elder De Hoyos
Be no more strangers and foreigners.
Why does are church have such a long name? It was not chosen by man, but given by the Lord. The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. It makes reference to the Lord and to the members of the church. The members of the early church also called each other saints. As we live the gospel and follow the prophet, we will become sanctified; we will become saints.
Elder Grow
His 51 year old brother died in his sleep.
We assess the gift of the Atonement through repentance. If we repent, we will confess and forsake our sins. His brother had done so. Our Savior offers redemption to all. Seek relief; repent and forsake your sins; in prayer, ask God to forgive you; go to the Bishop if necessary; he is the Lord’s messenger of mercy.
Elder Holland
President Brigham Young had a dream in Nauvoo. He saw an angel pointing to the west in the SL Valley. Ensign Peak. “The mountain of the Lord’s house…” (Isaiah 2) They made a flag with a walking stick and a yellow bandana. “Zion’s standard is unfurled.” Dual meaning is intentional.
Reflect on the messages that you have heard here and on the unique phenomenon that General Conference is. “We testify that God lives, and He speaks.” Talks are not assigned. Each person prayed and fasted to know what the Lord with have him say.
President Brigham Young saw an angel standing over this place. Elder Holland sees angels standing in it. The brethren who serve in the church, he sees as angels.
Consider the variety of the messages you here. They are speaking to those who know us very well and those who know us not at all, the young and the old, married and single. Declare liberty to the captives and something else. The gospel is to comfort the afflicted and to afflict the comfortable. J In the matter of discipleship, the church is not a fast food outlet. We cannot always have it our way…Salvation can only come His way.
If you continue to hold family night despite the bedlam in a house of little bedlamites, you will be blessed. If you come to conference with the Spirit, you will hear a testimony just for you. In one way or another, God will have his voice heard.
President Monson is the senior apostle and the prophet of the church. His life is not easy. He was called to be an apostle at 36; his children were 12, 9, and 4. His wife and children have given their lives to his service for more than 50 years. He is irrepressibly cheerful through it all. He possesses remarkable faith and unusual stamina.
President Monson
His heart is full at the close of this conference. We’ve felt the Spirit of the Lord in rich abundance. Gratitude to those who’ve participated. Please read and study the Conference Ensign.
We look forward to working with them (newly called) in the cause of the Master. Reach out to those of other faiths, as well as to our own.
The Lord lives again! The lined lies there white and clean, and the tomb is empty.
General Conference Notes: Sunday Morning 3 April 2011
General Conference: Sunday Morning 3 April 2011
Saul was so hostile in pursuing the saints and destroying the church until he was visited by the Lord on the road to Damascus. This event changed Saul forever; indeed it changed the world.
Some hesitate to receive the blessings of the gospel. Those who seek to learn about Christ will eventually come to know Him. Usually comes in the form of a puzzle, one piece at a time. Each piece helps us to see the big picture one piece at a time. The Savior will come to be with us quietly. Our Father in Heaven loves His children. Often He speaks to us in ways that we can only hear with our hearts. Turn down the worldly noise in our lives. Hearken to the promptings of the Spirit. Be eager to heed them.
“Suffer the little children to come unto me…for such is the kingdom of God.”
Let us be among those that the Lord can rely on to hear his whisperings and respond.
We must study it out in our minds first, then we can seek the Lord’s inspiration. If we are thinking only of ourselves, we may miss some powerful revelations. “It is usually through another person that He meets our needs. Therefore it is vital that we watch over each other.” Selfish acts of service and consecration refines our spirits. The Lord expects the members of His church to open their mouths. Some would rather pull a handcart across the valley than open their mouths. We have a glad message; we have a message of joy. We can make our conversations more faith centered. Share things that are inspirational, uplifting, or humorous. Sharing the good news of the gospel is easier and the effects more far reaching than ever before. Sometimes a single phrase of testimony can stir emotion that will affect lives for eternity. If we are joyful and at peace with the world, people will want to know why. Preach the gospel at all times, and, if necessary, use words. Accept your road to Damascus and now move on! Move forward in faith, hope, and charity.
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is on course; we have a living prophet.
Elder Johnson
Earth life includes test, trials, and temptations. Afflictions are part of our mortal experience. Trial of our faith, to see if we will do all that the Lord has commanded. These trials are not just to test us. They are the process of putting on the divine nature; they can be consecrated to our gain. It is through sorrow and suffering, trials and temptation that we gain the experience and knowledge that we came here to get. We will not be the same; we will be better; we will be awesome. Personal growth is the attended outcome of opposition. The furnace of affliction is meant for even the very better of saints.
The darkest and most dangerous attempts often bring the greatest of blessings. Nephi dealt with many trials with his brothers before receiving brass plates. Joseph Smith was about to sink into despair before the First Vision took place.
His mother had an extreme illness at 19. She studied the gospel and became converted. Many times a particular challenge helps prepare us for future blessings. Paul suffered many afflictions. Compared to our blessings and growth, our afflictions truly are light.
The Lord’s suffering was a prerequisite to His resurrection on Easter morning and to our future resurrection. We should not seek to escape the very things that will help us put on our divine nature.
Purifying process and testing will be in the Lord’s time and in the Lord’s way. (Elder Hales)
Whosoever puts their trust in God shall be supported in their trials…
“Well done, thou God and faithful servant.” “Who shall separate us from the love of God…in all these things we are conquerors through Him that loves us.” (Paul)
Bishop Burton
“Will this buy me any bread?” I had a deeper revelation that the Church of Christ is interested in the temporal salvation of man. Those in need of temporal help must have their needs met before they may be ready to receive the gospel.
President Grant wanted a system that would reach out to people no matter what the cost. He was willing to do this at the cost of closing seminaries and temples. He did not want to let the people go hungry. “We will not let you go hungry, without clothing, or without shelter.” Emphasis on personal responsibility and self-reliance. Other well-meaning programs are short sighted. They may help people without helping people learn how to help themselves. Each generation is required to learn anew the principles of self-reliance. The commission to help those in need goes far beyond the bounds of mortality. Through caring for others, we learn the celestial principles of sacrifice and consecration. These things help us retain a remission of our sins and to walk humbly before God.
We are under condemnation and cannot please the Lord if we are not willing to serve those in need of our help. Fly to the relief of a stranger…make the widows heart to rejoice, etc. We must love and care for our neighbors.
Willie Handcart Company. Snow deep and very cold. So cold that we could not move…people could not travel. Despite all that the rescuers could do, many were left by the wayside. Man gave his coat to wrap a cold baby in. Robert Burton was called as the presiding bishop of the church. “Be kind to the poor.” Feed the hungry; clothe the naked; visit the sick; release the captive. 75 years ago the welfare system rose from humble beginnings. The principles of the welfare program defines who we are as a people. The work of caring for one another and caring for the poor is a sanctifying work. “Go and do thou likewise.”
Sister Alred
Be of one heart and of one mind. Two great commandments: love the Lord and your neighbor as thyself. The essence of discipleship is to love one another. Help members become self-reliant, to care for the poor and needy, one more thing.
RS has always been at the heart of welfare. Exercising of all benevolent purposes. This society might provoke the brethren to good works. Strengthen the virtues of the community.
Inspired home teachers and visiting teachers are so needed. They are often the first response to immediate needs. Our combined efforts bring relief. Contribute to Lord’s storehouse through the payment of fast offerings. Self-reliance is the ability to supply temporal and spiritual necessities for self and family. Go about doing good. Story of the widow’s mite.
Who could I fulfill my calling when I was struggling with just being a wife and mother? Follow promptings of Holy Ghost and being willing to serve; you will help others in their responsibilities and help them fulfill their callings.
Elder Bednar
“Have I done any Good?”
Experiences with light
First: entering dark room and switching on a light. Immediate and intense recognition of light. Direct and in full.
Second: watching night turning to morning. Gradually and steadily the intensity of light increased. Line upon line, precept upon precept.
The Spirit of Revelation and Basic
Communication from God to His children on earth through companionship of Holy Ghost. Spirit of Revelation is available to every person who is baptized and confirmed and is acting in faith to be able to receive the Holy Ghost. Available to all of age, accountability, and desire.
Asked in faith, believing that they would receive.
Thoughts and feelings come into our hearts and minds through the power of the Holy Ghost. This is the spirit of revelation. Apply unto it.
Shun inappropriate material. Reject the devil’s enticements, and apply unto the spirit of revelation.
Restored church revelation did not come to Joseph Smith all at once, but line upon line as he was ready to receive it.
Do not overlook the customary pattern through which the Holy Ghost does His work. You do not need to receive frequent, miraculous, or constant impressions. Press forward, be obedient, have faith in the Savior. As you do so, you cannot go amiss.
We often receive revelation without recognize how or when we are receiving revelation. Pay attention. Oliver Cowdery received a revelation informing him that he had received revelation. Honor covenants and keep the commandments, do good and strive to become better; God will guide our steps and inspire our utterances. Our confidence will wax strong in the presence of God.
President Monson
57th anniversary of inspired welfare program. The welfare program of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is inspired of Almighty God.
Temples: 26 temples in construction or in pre-construction stages. Make the temple as accessible as possible. Temples bring joy to our members wherever they are built.
Temples are more that stone and mortar; they are built of faith and fasting…Sanctified with sacrifice and service.
The saints were forced to leave Ohio and their beloved temple. In Nauvoo Illinois they built another temple, and then when driven from their homes again. The SL Temple took 40 years to build.
Why are so many willing to give so much to receive the blessings of the temple? No sacrifice is too great, no price too heavy, no struggle too difficult to receive those blessings.
My brothers and sisters, the work is ours to do. Your sacrifice may be bringing your life into compliance so that you can qualify. Until you’ve been to the House of the Lord and received the ordinances there, you have not received all that the Church has to offer. Do nothing that will prevent you to enter the temple’s doors.
“It would be a fine thing if parents would have in every bedroom of their house a picture of the temple.” (President McKay) Teach your children of the temple’s importance. In this sacred sanctuary we will find peace; we will be renewed; one more thing.
Rome, Italy. The Rome temple uniquely is being built in one of the most historical locations in the world. Apostles preached there and were martyred. As the Spirit of God was sung, heaven and earth were joined. Each of our temples is a testimony that life beyond the grave is as real as life is here. Jesus made the ultimate sacrifice that we might all have eternal life and exaltation in our Father’s kingdom.
General Conference Notes: Saturday Afternoon 2 April 2011
General Conference: Saturday Afternoon 2 April 2011
Sustaining and statistics.
President Packer
Why do the people murmur because of this thing?…you shall call the church in my name. “The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.” We should refer to ourselves by the revealed name. The use of our church’s name is important as we seek to spread Christianity throughout the world.
The Priesthood was restored to Joseph Smith and Oliver Cowdery by John the Baptist, and Peter, James, and John. Today “every man may speak by the power of God.” We believe in prophesy, revelation, and the Gift of the Holy Ghost. The Lord revealed the Word of Wisdom long before the effects of the use of these substances were known. The Lord also said that the use of the procreative power is to only be used between a man and his wife. Everything else is sin. The Great Plan of Happiness is centered on family life with marriage as an equal partnership.
“John, leave it alone. Nothing you can do will bring her back, and anything that you do will only make it worse.”
Condemn not the things of God, so that you can be found spotless at the judgment seat of Christ. Be in the world but not of the world.
Elder Nelson
His 18 month old wanted to get close to the TV to see his grandpa. One day he’ll serve a mission, get married, be a father. One day, he will have to say good bye to his parents. The only death that is truly pre-mature is when the one is not prepared to meet death. We live to die, and we die to live again. Illness, injury, and accident will ever be present. We live in a time of turmoil. We have a great cause for concern, but we do not lead to let our fears take over our faith. Teach in faith to keep all the commandments of God. They are there to keep us safe and bring us joy. Do not develop a cafeteria approach to obedience. Keeping the commandments will provide physical and spiritual protection.
Unfailing faith is fortified through prayer. If we pray with an eternal perspective, we will know that the Lord does hear our prayers. Tithe payers develop faith until tithing becomes a special privilege. Tithing will keep your name enrolled with the people of God. You were reserved in heaven to be born in this day. As you walk in the path of righteousness, you will be a light and a savior to His people. “The power and authority of this priesthood holds the keys to all the spiritual blessings of this church.” “I the Lord would fight their battles, and their children’s battles, and their children’s children down to the third and fourth generation.” “Fear not, be of good church; the future is as bright as your faith.” (President Monson)
Elder Maynes
Many who have been interested in learning of our church are interested in our doctrine of the family: that families can be together forever. Paul taught that Heavenly Father is the Father of our spirits. “I am a Child of God.” The same sociality that exists between us here, will exist there, only coupled with eternal weight of glory. (Joseph Smith)
Selfishness, greed, and poverty seek to destroy the plan. Satan wants to thwart our happiness by destroying family. We need to hold family home evening, family prayers, scripture time, and family meals. There is great power and protection for us and our youth in establishing celestial traditions in our homes. We understand and believe in the eternal nature of the family. This understanding and believe should cause us to do everything in our power to have a Christ-centered home.
Elder Samuelson
“Who is entitled to have a testimony?” Everyone who is willing to pay the price or keep the commandments may have a testimony.
“Who does one obtain the necessary information?” When you receive these things, ask God. (Read, pondered, prayed, committed to follow answer to the prayer) By the power of Holy Ghost you may know the truth.
A testimony needs constant nourishment.
Everyone has worth because we are all children of God. Trust in Him.
A change of heart often occurs gradually.
A fundamental purpose of life is to grow and stretch.
Trust in things we believe and know.
Teaching others strengthens our own testimonies.
Do little but necessary things: prayer, gospel study, church and temple worship.
Don’t have higher standards for others than we do for ourselves.
Don’t be too hard on yourselves when you make a mistake.
We gain testimonies because of what we do.
Elder Oaks
The importance of desire. What do I really desire? What is my most important desire? Desires develop our character.
1. Food
We need food.
2. Shelter
3. Sleep
We can avert these desires by stronger desires. Our ultimate desire should be to be born of God and have eternal life. “What shall I do that I may be born of God and have eternal life…I will give away all my sins to know thee and to be saved at the last day.”
Property, prominence, pride, and power—worldly quartet.
Elder Ballard
You are so busy looking for large nuggets, that you are missing the little flecks of gold, which bring great wealth.
Flecks of gospel gold that will lead us to eternal life.
Love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, soul, and mind. Love thy neighbor as thyself. When we love our Heavenly Father and Jesus, then we are able to love our neighbors and serve them.
1. Charity begins at home
Practice the golden rule. Teach our family members to have love for each other.
2. Our wards and branches should be a place where we practice the golden rule.
Create unity. Where charity exists, there is no place for gossip or unkind words. Through love an service we can help our brothers and sisters, one by one, come back.
3. We can serve in our communities.
Reach out to those who have need of our help. Kindness is a measure of greatness.
4. Missionary service.
We should seek to develop the gift of Charity, the pure love of Christ.
General Conference Notes: Saturday Morning 2 April 2011
General Conference: Saturday Morning 2 April 2011
President Monson
Rededication of Hawaiian Temple. “The Gathering Place” performed by young adults from BYU Hawaii.
Three new temples: Fort Collins, Colorado, Idaho, on more.
Humanitarian aid to Japan, most recently. Over 40 thousand hours of service. Thanks for paying tithes and offerings and contributing to other areas. “Missionary work is the lifeblood of the kingdom.” Make a contribution to the general missionary fund of the church.
Elder Perry
The New Testament is focused on the life of Jesus Christ, the only person with dual citizenship in heaven and on earth. Centerpiece of sacred history. Savior should be centerpiece of our lives. We should cherish this book.
Timothy 4: These things command and teach: Be thou an example of the believers….Best way to do this is by observing the Sabbath day. “Remember the Sabbath day to keep it holy…The Lord blessed the Sabbath day and hallowed it.” It has always included worship. Offering of a sacrifice. Sacrifice of animals; the Lord’s sacrifice for us. The Lord instituted the sacrament of the Lord’s supper. Bread representing his body; wine representing his blood. Jesus was the great last sacrifice. Witness to the Father that we do always remember Jesus. “If you do always remember me, ye shall have my Spirit to be with you.”
Jesus gave the Priesthood authority to His apostles. This Priesthood authority is here again today. Young men bless and pass the sacrament. Taking the sacrament is the center of our Sabbath observance.
1. Keep ourselves unspotted from the world.
Avoid worldly distractions on Sabbath. Dress in Sunday dress.
2. Go to the house of prayer and offer up our sacraments to the Lord.
Confess sins to others and to the Lord. Sacrament table is a place for self-inspection. Bring yourself in harmony to teachings of the church and with your fellow men. Keep His commandments, always remember Him, have His Spirit to be with us. Filled with gratitude that the Savior was willing to drink from the bitter cup for my sake. The sacrament cup of water can remind us of that.
3. Rest from our labors.
Sabbath was made for man, not man for the Sabbath. Be an example of the believers in preparing for the Sacrament and for the rest of the week. Arise and shine forth by keeping the Sabbath day holy.
The greatest joy we receive in this life comes from following the Savior and keeping His commandment.
Sister Stevens
Children are a key to helping us become like our Heavenly Father.
Bishop asked faithful members to pay their tithing. Next he talked to the children and asked if they’d pay their tithing. They said that they would, and they did. The Bishop asked if the adult members would follow the example of their children. They were blessed by doing so.
Except you become converted and become like a little child, ye cannot enter the kingdom of heaven. They are full of faith and susceptible to the influence of the Spirit. Children are often the first to love and the first to forgive. Little boy viewing pictures of Jesus reverently spoke his name and folded his arms. Those who are greatest in the Lord’s kingdom are those who look for opportunities to serve others.
We cannot see our Heavenly Father, but we can listen for His voice and follow His directions to help us through the trials of life. Children with bright spirits, they are teachable and willing to follow the Lord.
Jesus took the little children one by one and blessed them and prayed for them. “Behold your little ones.” Embrace them with our eyes and with our hearts. Appreciate them for who they are, spirit children of our Heavenly Father. “God gave us families to help us become what he wants us to be.”
In our families we can learn to become more Christ-like. The divine attributes hold a key to helping us unlock our own spiritual gifts. Jesus is the Christ, the One perfect Son. May we all have a heart to follow His example.
Elder Gonzales
He and his wife were impressed with people in Ghana and Nigeria. They had such a willingness to follow Christ. We have the duty to invite people like this to come and see what we have to offer. They can know that Heavenly messengers restored the Priesthood and that Christ’s true church is here on the earth. “He that followeth me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life.”
1. Followers of Christ are loving people.
We follow Christ because we love Him. Through love, Jesus was obedient to all the will of His Father. The atoning sacrifice is the greatest act of love ever. As Jesus followed the Father, we should follow Him. His tender mercies will make us mighty. We need to withstand adversity and temptation. “How then can I do this great wickedness and sin against God?” A young man from Ecuador served a mission even though his family said they would disown him. Later, his mother asked him to stay longer because of the blessings they were receiving. He is now a Patriarch. The way we treat others show the extent to which we are willing to follow the Savior.
2. Followers of Christ make and keep covenants.
Covenants were made in Heaven. The Savior was baptized to fulfill all righteousness; He made necessary covenants and set the example. Making covenants is an expression of love: Yes, I will follow Thee. All things will work together for our good if we make and keep our covenants. The power of our covenants is greater than any challenge we face or we may face. It will qualify you to receive all the promised blessing. Invitation to non-members to enter the covenant of baptism. We are happier when we follow the teachings of the gospel of Jesus Christ; the blessings of heavens will come to us.
Elder Richards
As a surgeon much of his time has been taken up thinking about pain. What purpose does pain serve? Pain is a gage of the healing process. It often teaches the patient patience. Trials that bring pain are a part of this life. Opposition is part of Heavenly Father’s plan of happiness. The Savior is not a silent observer. He knows and understands our pain. Come boldly to the throne of grace that we may find mercy and help. There is balm in Gilead; there is a Physician there.
Spiritual pain can lie deep within our souls. There is a cure. Repentance is the key. Forgiveness comes from the Father through the Son. Christ was lifted up on the cross that He might draw all men unto Him. His purpose is to lift, bless, strengthen, guide, and forgive us. His bowels are filled with mercy; he knows how to succor us. Jesus chose to learn by His own personal experience.
Jesus healed all that came to Him. He turned none away. Sometimes a healing takes away our burdens; sometimes we are given strength to carry our burdens. In Him we can find rest to our souls. Our pain, worrying, suffering, and fear can be swallowed up in His loving balm.
Elder Cook
Women are incredible. Usually they are more religious. Women by divine nature have the responsibility for nurturing in home and family and other settings. I appealed to the Lord, and He came to my aid. Jesus will sanctify our service for our good.
Looking through a purse to find identification. Strength of Youth; five scriptures. Recipe for Black Forest cake. A quiet example of a young lady living the gospel.
No woman should feel the need to apologize that she is a mother and a homemaker.
President Eyring
We must serve the poor and needy of the Lord’s children. He has created ways to serve those who need help. Our hearts are often stirred with feelings of sympathy. The Lord hears their cries and sees your compassion. He has invited us to consecrate our time, means, and help. Law of consecration, United Order, Church Welfare Program. They are for all times and all places. Out of love, we need to consecrate what we have to those who have need.
Opportunities that the Lord has provided for us to help others in need. Renew and strengthen your commitment to act. Pay attention to wake up calls. We have all been touched with feelings of sympathy for those we don’t even know. Turn feelings of sympathy into decisions to act upon your covenants.
Principles to help in the Lord’s way.
1. Everyone is happier and feels more self-respect when they can provide for themselves and their families, and then can reach out to help others.
I can have a surplus when I spend less than I earn; then I can help others.
2. Missed this one
3. Love family and work together.
4. Seek out the poor. The Bishop needs to seek out and provide help to those who still need assistance after they’ve done all they can do. Rely on inspiration of Relief Society president.
Self project
1. Prepare yourself and those you lead spiritually.
2. Choose people in kingdom or community
3. Work on feelings of unity. They can grow and become a lasting legacy long after the project ends.
“I love this work, and it is work.” (President Benson)
"We cannot give a crust to the Lord without receiving a loaf in return." -Melvin J. Ballard
Seize opportunities to lift up the hands that hang down and strengthen the feeble knees.
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