4-1-12 General Conference Sunday Afternoon Session
Unedited notes:
Elder Perry
The Book of Mormon is the keystone to our religion. A man can get closer to God by presiding by its precepts. The Book of Mormon is a tender mercy of the Lord in these latter days. It teaches the doctrine of Christ. There are many stories of deliverance. The theme of deliverance is evident throughout the book.
The Lord was slow to hear their cries; yet He did hear them; but he chose not to deliver them immediately. He was slow to hear their cries because of their iniquities.
Lift up your hearts and be of good comfort, because I know of the covenant which you made with me, and I will covenant with you and deliver you.
His atonement provides us with an escape from physical death, and, if we repent, and escape from spiritual death.
1 Nephi 13: These last records shall establish the truth of the first. The Book of Mormon will let the world know the truth of the testimonies of the Apostles of Jesus Christ as found in the Bible. Both books are necessary for us to understand the complete doctrine of Christ. They are important for our salvation and exaltation, and to confound false doctrine. They work harmoniously together.
Abraham’s tent door was most likely facing the altar that he built. They people of Nephi had their doors facing the tower from which King Benjamin spoke.
The Book of Mormon is a great book because of its harmony with the Holy Bible.
Elder Ballard
The Liahona was a ball of curious workmanship. So is a GPS unit. We have available to us a tool even more remarkable than the best GPS. We have the availability of the promptings of the Holy Ghost; and, we have the atonement of the Savior to lead us home.
There is no happiness without service. The home is what needs reforming. (More than half of the births of children of women under 30 are to those not married.) There is a growing gap between rich and poor and between those who are trying to preserve family values and those who are giving up. Prosperity and education seem to be connected to preserving family values. When people make the family and commitment to gospel principles, they do better in everything else.
The most important cause of our lifetime is our families. The spiritual divide gets even wider as the perceptions of right and wrong are distorted. The church is a mooring, an anchor, and a beacon in today’s world. A standard of heart-turning. Life is better and much happier as hearts turn towards families, and as families live the gospel of Jesus Christ.
Do things in the right order: marriage first and then family. Remove fear with faith. Trust power of God to guide you. No career can bring you as much fulfillment as rearing a family. Use the family resources of the church. The church is the scaffolding with which we build eternal families. None of us will ever be so lost that we cannot find our way again through the atonement of Jesus Christ.
Elder Haleck
If we are to prosper, rather than perish, we must gain a vision of whom the Savior wants us to become. We come to know how to handle the challenges in our lives through fasting and prayer. Focus our attention on the Savior and on His teachings. We are a people with a history of vision, and courage, and faith to act.
Elder Wilson
What gives you the right to tell me how to drive? Because I am your husband, and I hold the priesthood. That was not the right response. That was the only time I made that mistake. Compulsion builds resentment. Wise parents prepare their children to get along without them. Help our children establish their own connection to heaven. Of all the help we can give young people, they need to feel our confidence in them and their abilities to choose the right.
Elder Evans
Letters from home are not just quick emails. Letters from home are something tangible which can be held. We all have the blessing and responsibility to share the gospel. Our missionary experiences have to be current. We need to naturally and normally share the gospel.
If we pray to know who we can help and how we can help, the Lord will give us the opportunities to help.
Elder Pieper
Let the Holy Spirit Guide. Seek answers from God; the Still Small Voice whispers to our spirit. As we record our spiritual experiences we preserve them for ourselves and our posterity, and we show our gratitude for the gift we’ve received. Struggle between the sacred and secular. Did I not speak peace to your mind concerning the matter? What greater witness can you have than from God?
Elder Anderson
Does my life reflect the love and devotion I feel for the Savior? What think ye of Jesus Christ? What thinks Jesus Christ of me? In this turbulent environment, we rejoice in being disciples of Jesus Christ. Discipleship is not a competition at all; it is an invitation to all. If ye love me, keep my commandments.
Let us have faith in the Son of God who said, “All things are possible to him that believeth.” True disciples lift others from sorrow to great, abiding hope.
What would Jesus do? Be not afraid, only believe. Discipleship is believing Him in seasons of peace and in seasons of difficulty. Miracles are not always immediate. As we trust in the Savior, promised miracles will occur. Whether in this life or the next, all will be made right.
President Monson
We are blessed to have the restored gospel in our hearts and in our lives.
Blessing: may your homes be filled with love and courtesy and the Spirit of the Lord. Settle disputations and grievances now. He invoked the blessings of heaven upon all of us.
Endnote:
I’m thankful for the chance to listen to the conference messages and for all the reminders of what I need to be doing. For me, becoming more Christ-like does not mean accepting all that is worldly, but trying to rise above it. It is only through the atonement of Jesus Christ that I will eventually be able to do so.
Sunday, April 1, 2012
General Conference Sunday Morning Session, 4-1-12
4-1-12 General Conference Sunday Morning Session
Unedited notes:
President Uchtdorf
A rift had grown between her two children, and the sister wanted a general conference talk addressed to them. She felt that this could heal the relationship. She had faith in the virtue of the word of God.
Strained and broken relationships are as old as human kind itself. Jealousy and hatred has affected all of us, since Cain and Abel. Feelings of contention, resentment, and revenge can be destructive. We all depend on the Savior. Conditions for our repentance comes with conditions: we must repent and we must forgive others. Blessed are the merciful for they shall obtain mercy.
When it comes to our own prejudices and grievances, we too often judge our own motives as righteous and others’ as wrong. Those who pass judgments on others are inexcusable. The minute we pass judgment on others, we condemn ourselves. “I the Lord will forgive whom I will forgive, but of you, it is required to forgive all men.” (including ourselves) STOP IT. Don’t seek revenge. We have to stop judging others and replace bitter feelings with a heart full of love. “Don’t judge me because I sin differently than you.” We are all imperfect and are beggars before God. Because we all depend upon the mercy of God, how can we deny others any measure of mercy that we so desperately need ourselves?
Our change of heart has to come with a pure love of God. We need to open our hearts to the love of God. Christ is our exemplar. It is easy to love those who love us; even the wicked can do that. Jesus gave a higher law. “Love your enemies…” We become kind, tender-hearted and forgive one another. We are flawed and imperfect mortals with potential beyond what any of can imagine.
Do you harbor grudge against someone else? Do you which to cause harm to someone? Let us put down our stones. Let us be kind. Let us forgive. Let us talk peacefully to one another. Return good for evil. Be not overcome with evil, but overcome evil with good. In the end, it is the merciful who shall obtain mercy.
Elder Nelson
Aquarium with beautiful fish. He asked attendant if they’d ever thanked her for feeding them. Not yet. Some of us are just as oblivious towards God and the constant blessings. Our degree of gratitude is a measure of our love for Him.
The family is the most important social unit in time and in eternity. God’s work and glory…He so loved the world, that He gave His Only Begotten Son…Central to God’s eternal plan is the mission of His Son Jesus Christ. The body renews its own outdated self. The power to reproduce is another manifestation of God’s love for us. A perfect body is not required to achieve one’s divine destiny. Could an explosion in a printing shop produce a dictionary? Mercifully for us, our Creator provided for aging…
Each spirit and body shall be reunited again in perfect form, never to be separated again. The body serves as a tabernacle for one’s eternal spirit. The spirit provides the body with animation and personality. The development of our spirit is of eternal consequence. Love, virtue, compassion, service to others. Spiritual progress include the principles and ordinances of the gospel. The spirit is nurtured by eternal truth. Ours is the responsibility to teach His children and to awaken in them a knowledge of who they are. God is the same every day, but we are not. Each day we can seek and obtain forgiveness.
Elder Rasband
For reasons unknown, some people are born with disabilities. A perfect body is not required to receive a divine destiny. (Nelson) In the resurrection, we can all be perfected. God loves our afflictive ones, and He loves us. Jesus healed all those afflicted when he visited the Americas. He has love and compassion for all of us. “That the works of God be manifest in Him.” (John 9) Remember the worth of souls is great in the sight of God. If you come upon a person drowning, would you ask if he needs help? Though we will face all manner of afflictions, our Savior will always be there for us. We are all enlisted ‘til the conflict is over…Happy are we, happy are we.
Sister Beck
Faith, family, and relief. The Relief Society would prepare them for the blessings and privileges of the priesthood. (Joseph Smith). It is our privilege to go into people’s homes and exchange robes for rags.
Elder Christofferson
Whoso believeth in me and is baptized, the same shall be saved in the kingdom of God. The doctrine that comes from God is pure and easy to understand. Establishing the doctrine of Christ or correcting deviations has to do with revelation. This revelation for the church belongs to those called as apostles, or prophets, seers, and revelators, with the prophet having the final say.
What God has cleansed, that call not thou common. Peter had revealed to him that God was not a respecter of persons, but that they Holy Ghost was also being given to the Gentiles. The Lord modified the practice of the church, and the preaching of the gospel was extended to all mankind.
Peter declared that the Holy Spirit declared that God extended salvation through the gospel of Jesus Christ and not through circumcision. It seemed good to the Holy Ghost and to us.
Testimony of Jesus.
President Monson
Everywhere people are in a hurry. In this fast-paced life, do we ever pause for moments of inspiration? When tragedy hits, our thoughts become focused and we can differentiate between what is really important and what is trivial. Moments of clarity come to all of us. Lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven. Where your treasure is, there will your heart be also.
The spirit and the body are the soul of man. The spirit is the offspring of God. The body of our earthly parents. Heaven lies about us in our infancy. Why am I here? Lord fashioned this earth, veil was placed, and we have a time of testing.
Death is not what some people imagine; it is like going into another room. The spirits of all men are taken home to that God who created them. Because of Christ’s resurrection, we all will be resurrected. This is the redemption of the soul.
Unedited notes:
President Uchtdorf
A rift had grown between her two children, and the sister wanted a general conference talk addressed to them. She felt that this could heal the relationship. She had faith in the virtue of the word of God.
Strained and broken relationships are as old as human kind itself. Jealousy and hatred has affected all of us, since Cain and Abel. Feelings of contention, resentment, and revenge can be destructive. We all depend on the Savior. Conditions for our repentance comes with conditions: we must repent and we must forgive others. Blessed are the merciful for they shall obtain mercy.
When it comes to our own prejudices and grievances, we too often judge our own motives as righteous and others’ as wrong. Those who pass judgments on others are inexcusable. The minute we pass judgment on others, we condemn ourselves. “I the Lord will forgive whom I will forgive, but of you, it is required to forgive all men.” (including ourselves) STOP IT. Don’t seek revenge. We have to stop judging others and replace bitter feelings with a heart full of love. “Don’t judge me because I sin differently than you.” We are all imperfect and are beggars before God. Because we all depend upon the mercy of God, how can we deny others any measure of mercy that we so desperately need ourselves?
Our change of heart has to come with a pure love of God. We need to open our hearts to the love of God. Christ is our exemplar. It is easy to love those who love us; even the wicked can do that. Jesus gave a higher law. “Love your enemies…” We become kind, tender-hearted and forgive one another. We are flawed and imperfect mortals with potential beyond what any of can imagine.
Do you harbor grudge against someone else? Do you which to cause harm to someone? Let us put down our stones. Let us be kind. Let us forgive. Let us talk peacefully to one another. Return good for evil. Be not overcome with evil, but overcome evil with good. In the end, it is the merciful who shall obtain mercy.
Elder Nelson
Aquarium with beautiful fish. He asked attendant if they’d ever thanked her for feeding them. Not yet. Some of us are just as oblivious towards God and the constant blessings. Our degree of gratitude is a measure of our love for Him.
The family is the most important social unit in time and in eternity. God’s work and glory…He so loved the world, that He gave His Only Begotten Son…Central to God’s eternal plan is the mission of His Son Jesus Christ. The body renews its own outdated self. The power to reproduce is another manifestation of God’s love for us. A perfect body is not required to achieve one’s divine destiny. Could an explosion in a printing shop produce a dictionary? Mercifully for us, our Creator provided for aging…
Each spirit and body shall be reunited again in perfect form, never to be separated again. The body serves as a tabernacle for one’s eternal spirit. The spirit provides the body with animation and personality. The development of our spirit is of eternal consequence. Love, virtue, compassion, service to others. Spiritual progress include the principles and ordinances of the gospel. The spirit is nurtured by eternal truth. Ours is the responsibility to teach His children and to awaken in them a knowledge of who they are. God is the same every day, but we are not. Each day we can seek and obtain forgiveness.
Elder Rasband
For reasons unknown, some people are born with disabilities. A perfect body is not required to receive a divine destiny. (Nelson) In the resurrection, we can all be perfected. God loves our afflictive ones, and He loves us. Jesus healed all those afflicted when he visited the Americas. He has love and compassion for all of us. “That the works of God be manifest in Him.” (John 9) Remember the worth of souls is great in the sight of God. If you come upon a person drowning, would you ask if he needs help? Though we will face all manner of afflictions, our Savior will always be there for us. We are all enlisted ‘til the conflict is over…Happy are we, happy are we.
Sister Beck
Faith, family, and relief. The Relief Society would prepare them for the blessings and privileges of the priesthood. (Joseph Smith). It is our privilege to go into people’s homes and exchange robes for rags.
Elder Christofferson
Whoso believeth in me and is baptized, the same shall be saved in the kingdom of God. The doctrine that comes from God is pure and easy to understand. Establishing the doctrine of Christ or correcting deviations has to do with revelation. This revelation for the church belongs to those called as apostles, or prophets, seers, and revelators, with the prophet having the final say.
What God has cleansed, that call not thou common. Peter had revealed to him that God was not a respecter of persons, but that they Holy Ghost was also being given to the Gentiles. The Lord modified the practice of the church, and the preaching of the gospel was extended to all mankind.
Peter declared that the Holy Spirit declared that God extended salvation through the gospel of Jesus Christ and not through circumcision. It seemed good to the Holy Ghost and to us.
Testimony of Jesus.
President Monson
Everywhere people are in a hurry. In this fast-paced life, do we ever pause for moments of inspiration? When tragedy hits, our thoughts become focused and we can differentiate between what is really important and what is trivial. Moments of clarity come to all of us. Lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven. Where your treasure is, there will your heart be also.
The spirit and the body are the soul of man. The spirit is the offspring of God. The body of our earthly parents. Heaven lies about us in our infancy. Why am I here? Lord fashioned this earth, veil was placed, and we have a time of testing.
Death is not what some people imagine; it is like going into another room. The spirits of all men are taken home to that God who created them. Because of Christ’s resurrection, we all will be resurrected. This is the redemption of the soul.
Saturday, March 31, 2012
General Conference Saturday Afternoon Session, 3-31-12
3-31-12 General Conference Saturday Afternoon Session
Unedited Notes:
Sustainings and releases.
Audit report
Statistical report—14,441,346 members at the end of2011.
Elder Holland
Householder went out early in the morning to hire laborers. About the 11th hour, 5 p.m, he hired a concluding number of workers. Everyone received the same wage. No one was treated unfairly. The first workers agreed to the wages of the day, and they received it. They were grateful to get the work. The first men chosen were the most fortunate because they were assured to have work for the day. The last of the workers accept the work without knowing what they will receive. They’ve only been told that they would be treated fairly. Why should you be jealous because I choose to be kind? There will be times when someone else gets an unexpected blessing. Let us not be jealous when good fortune comes to someone else.
The race we are in is against sin. Envy is truly in there. Get a quart of pickle juice every time someone around you has a happy moment. Coveting, pouting, or tearing someone else down does not improve your understanding.
The formula of faith is to hold on, work on, and see it through. Don’t dwell on old grievances. Don’t hyperventilate because of something that happened at 9 o’clock in the morning, when you are getting paid at the end of the day. Even if a grievance did not start with you, it can end with you.
This is a story about the goodness of God, His patience and forgiveness, and the Atonement of Jesus Christ. God most enjoys being God because of the thrill of being merciful. Even if you feel like a lost servant of the 11th hour, the Lord is still standing there beckoning for you to Come unto Him. Men: come join the ranks. His concern is for the faith at which you finally arrive, not at which hour you go there. It is never too late if the Master of the vineyard tells you there is time.
Elder Hales
Son who went to a far country and wasted his inheritance. He ate the husks of the pigs’ food. In his poor conditions, he remembered he was.
To worthily partake of the sacrament, we remember that we are renewing our baptism covenant. Make covenant to follow the Savior during the coming week. Provide special opportunities for young to understand sacrament. The sacrament gives us an opportunity to come to ourselves and remember who we are. Worthiness to hold a temple recommend gives us the strength to keep our covenants. Sustain our leaders, treat our family with kindness, etc., makes us worthy to go to the temple. Faithfully live the gospel and follow the prophets. Christ-like living—obedience, sacrifice, chaste in thought and action. We receive power from on high to face challenges in life.
The temple and self-reliance’s purpose is to get us on higher ground so that we can be of service to others.
The father ran and kissed his son, gave him a nice robe, and killed the fatted calf to give a party for his son. Follow our spiritual desires and come to ourselves. I worthily take the sacrament; I am worthy of a temple recommend; I sacrifice for others. We will be encircled in the arms of His love and welcomed home.
Elder Baxter
We cannot do all the sums or make it all add up, because we do not have all the numbers. We might have the ability to do the math if it were available for us to do!
Your journey has had bumps, detours, etc., because we live in a fallen world. Every single one of your children’s achievements will stand as a tribute to you. “No, little one, you cannot come to me now, but I can come to you.” When you lift the burdens of others, your own burdens become lighter. Your circumstances may not have changed, but your attitude has. Single parents, as you do your very best, heaven will smile upon you. Consider the present with fortitude, and look to the future with confidence.
Elder Soares
Whatsoever a man soweth, that also shall he reap. Be not weary in well doing, for ye are laying the foundation of a great work. Line clearly defined between the Lord’s territory and the devil’s territory. Do my actions place me in the Lord’s or the devil’s territory?
The African people have touched his heart because of their diligence in staying in the Lord’s territory. The serve and invite others to come to Christ.
Humble ourselves before God, witness we have broken hearts and contrite spirits, confess sins, etc. Our disposition to live our covenants prepares us to live in His presence. The Savior banished from His life any influence that would take Him away from His divine mission. You can’t be right by doing wrong; you can’t by wrong by doing right. (Monson)
Elder Cook
Lehi’s dream. Lay ministry extends to entire membership who serves one another. The Savior’s gift of the atonement is for everyone. We recognize and respect all those who Lehi saw in his dream. We need to reach out to those who have fallen away and those who haven’t come to the iron rod yet. Avoid being overly judgmental about conduct that is foolish or unwise, but not sinful.
A great peace came over him when he saw his mother in prayer. (This was her response when she heard of her brother’s death.) 2 Nephi 25:26. We talk of Christ….
Essential for member’s to read, study, and ponder the scriptures. “And it came to pass” actually confirms the truthfulness of the Book of Mormon. “If I immerse myself in the scriptures, the distance narrows.” Temporary setbacks are overshadowed by persistence. Faith in the Lord Jesus Christ and keeping His commandments is the defining test of this life. Our doctrine is clear: we are to be positive and of good cheer.
Elder Scott
He is thankful to feel Jeanine’s presence from the other side of the veil. We move and have our presence in the presence of heavenly messengers. We always hold them in our hearts, in memory; we are lifted and held to them in ties that we cannot break. Those who are faithful, who have gone beyond, know us and are solicitous for our welfare. Our relationships with those who have gone ahead can be strengthened as we keep our covenants. We need to learn to ask! If we pray to our Father and ask, that is how revelation is received. Fast; pray to find and understand scripture that will help. Pray to know if I’ve captured all the Lord wants me to do. We need to let go of hurts and be forgiving if we want revelation; also, we need to be quiet and avoid loud laughter. Spiritual education can be enhanced by good health practices. Our daily activities should not prevent us from listening to the Spirit. Pay attention to revelation given between sleep and wakefulness. Write it down. When it is for the Lord’s purposes, He can bring anything to our remembrance.
Live a clean life and be obedient to the Lord’s commandments to obtain the Lord’s trust. Plant ourselves in a righteous environment. Humility is a fertile soil. Our Heavenly Father did not put us on earth to fail, but to succeed gloriously. Ponder the scriptures; look for evidence in your lives that God has already answered you. Peace in your hearts and quiet in your life. More abundant your progress and capacity to serve. The Lord’s guidance in your life does not take away your agency. Choosing the right brings peace of mind and happiness. Communication with our Heavenly Father is not a trivial matter; it is a sacred privilege.
Unedited Notes:
Sustainings and releases.
Audit report
Statistical report—14,441,346 members at the end of2011.
Elder Holland
Householder went out early in the morning to hire laborers. About the 11th hour, 5 p.m, he hired a concluding number of workers. Everyone received the same wage. No one was treated unfairly. The first workers agreed to the wages of the day, and they received it. They were grateful to get the work. The first men chosen were the most fortunate because they were assured to have work for the day. The last of the workers accept the work without knowing what they will receive. They’ve only been told that they would be treated fairly. Why should you be jealous because I choose to be kind? There will be times when someone else gets an unexpected blessing. Let us not be jealous when good fortune comes to someone else.
The race we are in is against sin. Envy is truly in there. Get a quart of pickle juice every time someone around you has a happy moment. Coveting, pouting, or tearing someone else down does not improve your understanding.
The formula of faith is to hold on, work on, and see it through. Don’t dwell on old grievances. Don’t hyperventilate because of something that happened at 9 o’clock in the morning, when you are getting paid at the end of the day. Even if a grievance did not start with you, it can end with you.
This is a story about the goodness of God, His patience and forgiveness, and the Atonement of Jesus Christ. God most enjoys being God because of the thrill of being merciful. Even if you feel like a lost servant of the 11th hour, the Lord is still standing there beckoning for you to Come unto Him. Men: come join the ranks. His concern is for the faith at which you finally arrive, not at which hour you go there. It is never too late if the Master of the vineyard tells you there is time.
Elder Hales
Son who went to a far country and wasted his inheritance. He ate the husks of the pigs’ food. In his poor conditions, he remembered he was.
To worthily partake of the sacrament, we remember that we are renewing our baptism covenant. Make covenant to follow the Savior during the coming week. Provide special opportunities for young to understand sacrament. The sacrament gives us an opportunity to come to ourselves and remember who we are. Worthiness to hold a temple recommend gives us the strength to keep our covenants. Sustain our leaders, treat our family with kindness, etc., makes us worthy to go to the temple. Faithfully live the gospel and follow the prophets. Christ-like living—obedience, sacrifice, chaste in thought and action. We receive power from on high to face challenges in life.
The temple and self-reliance’s purpose is to get us on higher ground so that we can be of service to others.
The father ran and kissed his son, gave him a nice robe, and killed the fatted calf to give a party for his son. Follow our spiritual desires and come to ourselves. I worthily take the sacrament; I am worthy of a temple recommend; I sacrifice for others. We will be encircled in the arms of His love and welcomed home.
Elder Baxter
We cannot do all the sums or make it all add up, because we do not have all the numbers. We might have the ability to do the math if it were available for us to do!
Your journey has had bumps, detours, etc., because we live in a fallen world. Every single one of your children’s achievements will stand as a tribute to you. “No, little one, you cannot come to me now, but I can come to you.” When you lift the burdens of others, your own burdens become lighter. Your circumstances may not have changed, but your attitude has. Single parents, as you do your very best, heaven will smile upon you. Consider the present with fortitude, and look to the future with confidence.
Elder Soares
Whatsoever a man soweth, that also shall he reap. Be not weary in well doing, for ye are laying the foundation of a great work. Line clearly defined between the Lord’s territory and the devil’s territory. Do my actions place me in the Lord’s or the devil’s territory?
The African people have touched his heart because of their diligence in staying in the Lord’s territory. The serve and invite others to come to Christ.
Humble ourselves before God, witness we have broken hearts and contrite spirits, confess sins, etc. Our disposition to live our covenants prepares us to live in His presence. The Savior banished from His life any influence that would take Him away from His divine mission. You can’t be right by doing wrong; you can’t by wrong by doing right. (Monson)
Elder Cook
Lehi’s dream. Lay ministry extends to entire membership who serves one another. The Savior’s gift of the atonement is for everyone. We recognize and respect all those who Lehi saw in his dream. We need to reach out to those who have fallen away and those who haven’t come to the iron rod yet. Avoid being overly judgmental about conduct that is foolish or unwise, but not sinful.
A great peace came over him when he saw his mother in prayer. (This was her response when she heard of her brother’s death.) 2 Nephi 25:26. We talk of Christ….
Essential for member’s to read, study, and ponder the scriptures. “And it came to pass” actually confirms the truthfulness of the Book of Mormon. “If I immerse myself in the scriptures, the distance narrows.” Temporary setbacks are overshadowed by persistence. Faith in the Lord Jesus Christ and keeping His commandments is the defining test of this life. Our doctrine is clear: we are to be positive and of good cheer.
Elder Scott
He is thankful to feel Jeanine’s presence from the other side of the veil. We move and have our presence in the presence of heavenly messengers. We always hold them in our hearts, in memory; we are lifted and held to them in ties that we cannot break. Those who are faithful, who have gone beyond, know us and are solicitous for our welfare. Our relationships with those who have gone ahead can be strengthened as we keep our covenants. We need to learn to ask! If we pray to our Father and ask, that is how revelation is received. Fast; pray to find and understand scripture that will help. Pray to know if I’ve captured all the Lord wants me to do. We need to let go of hurts and be forgiving if we want revelation; also, we need to be quiet and avoid loud laughter. Spiritual education can be enhanced by good health practices. Our daily activities should not prevent us from listening to the Spirit. Pay attention to revelation given between sleep and wakefulness. Write it down. When it is for the Lord’s purposes, He can bring anything to our remembrance.
Live a clean life and be obedient to the Lord’s commandments to obtain the Lord’s trust. Plant ourselves in a righteous environment. Humility is a fertile soil. Our Heavenly Father did not put us on earth to fail, but to succeed gloriously. Ponder the scriptures; look for evidence in your lives that God has already answered you. Peace in your hearts and quiet in your life. More abundant your progress and capacity to serve. The Lord’s guidance in your life does not take away your agency. Choosing the right brings peace of mind and happiness. Communication with our Heavenly Father is not a trivial matter; it is a sacred privilege.
General Conference Saturday Morning Session, 3-31-12
3-31-12 General Conference SaturdayMorning Session
Unedited notes:
President Monson
Resist evil wherever we are. How blessed we are to be here at this time. This great cause in which we are engaged will continue to go forward. Nothing can stop it. No unhallowed hand can stop the work from progressing…(Joseph Smith). Much that is challenging; much that is uplifting. Seek after those things which are good, lovely, and praiseworthy.
President Packer
He wanted to give money to a boy at a train station, but his train pulled away before he could.
Young boy so hungry and wanted to take the sacrament bread. Woman shooed him out. He came back. President Packer welcomed him into his arms. He was told, “You were holding a nation on your lap.”
Little boy had drowned. Minister gave a sermon. The parents were scolded that they did not have their son baptized and that he had gone to hell. The Elders approached the grieving parents. They said that they were servants of the Lord with a message for them. They were taught about the restoration and redemption for the living and the dead. The Elders came as comforters and as authorized servants of the Lord.
Challenge of mortality to be responsible parents. Woman shared a story of having an abortion before she was married. This couple can learn that they can be forgiven. Another couple found that they could not have children. President Packer said that they were fortunate because they would choose to have children if they could. Some situations now are just temporary states. We have hope in Christ beyond this life. “Sealed safely in the covenant of the everlasting priesthood.” We learn more from our children than we did from our parents. Suffer the little children to come unto me for of such is the kingdom of heaven.
President Packer is number 10 out of 11 children. His parents did not have prominent positions in the church, but they were effective in their most important calling—as parents. He hopes that he does as well before he hears the greeting, “Well done, thou good and faithful servant.” We need to provide the way for parents and children to have time together as families. Family time is sacred time and it should be respected and protected. Brother and Sister Packer were willing to give up their lives if their ill children’s lives were preserved. This is akin to the love that our Heavenly Father has for us.
Sister Esplin
Our children are an heritage unto the Lord. The Lord knows what our children need to know, do, and be to come back to Him. He gives guidance to parents, teachers, and leaders to help his children. We need to teach our children to understand the doctrine. We need to do more than impart information; we need to help get the doctrine into their hearts. Create an atmosphere where we can help our children feel the Spirit. Teach in the context of what they are experiencing right in that very moment.
Elder Halstrom
He loves the Gospel of Jesus Christ, and he loves the Church of Jesus Christ. They are not the same thing, but they are connected.
The Gospel is the glorious plan of God in which we can receive all that the Father has. Jesus descended below all things so that He could raise all of us again.
The Church was established by Jesus Christ during His mortal ministry. The Church was established again during our day. Jesus is the Head, and it is governed by those with apostolic callings.
It is possible to be active in the church and less active in the gospel. The things of the gospel are less visible and more difficult to measure. But they are of more importance. We need the gospel and the church.
Have the gospel be our foundation: Strengthen our relationship with Diety; focus on the ordinances and covenants (then establish the discipline to live faithful to our covenants); unite the gospel with the church. Concentrating on the gospel, the church will become more, not less, in our lives. The Lord wants the members of His church to be fully converted to His gospel.
Elder Koeliker
A mission is like a mini-life. Elderly couples add a whole lot to missions. Returned missionaries become key contributors in establish the church in many countries. Laman and Lemuel did murmur because they did not understand the dealings of the Lord. How can we help our children feel the Spirit so they are not caught up in worldly distractions? (Nephi cried until the Lord, so he didn’t rebel like unto his brothers.) We need to find and awaken our desires to know. We need to establish patterns of righteousness that lead us in the right direction. When we live the gospel and the pattern taught by Jesus Christ, our ability to help other people increases. As a man witnessed the kindness between two missionaries, he reopened his door and invited them back. “By this shall all man know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to another.” “A new commandment I give unto you, that ye love one another as I have love you, that ye also love one another.” Love of God is the foundation of doing all things that are right. There is seemingly no end of the expanding capacity to love. Our Heavenly Fathers arms are constantly extended to embrace us and to say the words, “I love you.”
Elder Oaks
The atoning sacrifice of Jesus Christ is the center of the message of all the prophets. The sacrifice of the Savior offered the ultimate good for the ultimate evil in the world. We are also asked to continue to offer sacrifices: a broken heart and a contrite spirit; love and serve one another.
The Christian faith has a history of sacrifice: the Lord’s sacrifice; many martyrs for their faith; Christians killed by other Christians are the most tragic martyrs. Many have given life-long service in the Catholic or Protestant churches. What can we do on a day-to-day basis in our ordinary lives?
Pioneers sacrificed much. The symbols of our Christian faith are the lives of the people. The effort by our members to train and lead each other is uniquely large. Also, home teaching and visit teaching. Sacrifice of missionaries to serve missions at their own cost. Knowing what the Savior did for me, I feel privileged to make the small sacrifice I am making in his service.
Converts sacrifice to hear and follow the message of the gospel. Sometimes they lose family and friends. Young man who became Christian knew that, upon his return home, his family might reject him and his employment opportunities might be nil. But he said, “It’s true, isn’t it?” His sacrifice was worth it to him. No sacrifice to great for those who receive temple blessings.
Mothers devote themselves to the bearing and nurturing of their children. Husbands devote themselves to supporting their families. As you sacrifice for each other and your children, the Lord will bless you.
President Eyring
President Kimball asked that God would give him mountains to climb. There are great challenges to be met. Give me the mountain; give me the challenges. (President Kimball) The hardest trial of his life humbled and startled him. He knew that a great blessing could come from adversity that would more than compensate for any cost. “And if thou should be cast into the pit or into the hands of murderers….know thou, my son, that all these things shall give thee experience and be for thy good…the Son of Man has descended below them all; art thou greater than He…” Jesus passed through trials for us more terrible than we can imagine. “I God suffered these things for all if they would repent…” The way to rise above and get through trials is believe that there is a balm in Gilead and that the Lord will not forsake us. This foundation faith takes time to build. If the foundation of faith is not imbedded in our hearts, the foundation will crumble. The ground must be carefully prepared for our foundation of faith to withstand the storms of life. If we have faith in Jesus Christ, the hardest, as well as the easiest, times in our lives can be a blessing.
Unedited notes:
President Monson
Resist evil wherever we are. How blessed we are to be here at this time. This great cause in which we are engaged will continue to go forward. Nothing can stop it. No unhallowed hand can stop the work from progressing…(Joseph Smith). Much that is challenging; much that is uplifting. Seek after those things which are good, lovely, and praiseworthy.
President Packer
He wanted to give money to a boy at a train station, but his train pulled away before he could.
Young boy so hungry and wanted to take the sacrament bread. Woman shooed him out. He came back. President Packer welcomed him into his arms. He was told, “You were holding a nation on your lap.”
Little boy had drowned. Minister gave a sermon. The parents were scolded that they did not have their son baptized and that he had gone to hell. The Elders approached the grieving parents. They said that they were servants of the Lord with a message for them. They were taught about the restoration and redemption for the living and the dead. The Elders came as comforters and as authorized servants of the Lord.
Challenge of mortality to be responsible parents. Woman shared a story of having an abortion before she was married. This couple can learn that they can be forgiven. Another couple found that they could not have children. President Packer said that they were fortunate because they would choose to have children if they could. Some situations now are just temporary states. We have hope in Christ beyond this life. “Sealed safely in the covenant of the everlasting priesthood.” We learn more from our children than we did from our parents. Suffer the little children to come unto me for of such is the kingdom of heaven.
President Packer is number 10 out of 11 children. His parents did not have prominent positions in the church, but they were effective in their most important calling—as parents. He hopes that he does as well before he hears the greeting, “Well done, thou good and faithful servant.” We need to provide the way for parents and children to have time together as families. Family time is sacred time and it should be respected and protected. Brother and Sister Packer were willing to give up their lives if their ill children’s lives were preserved. This is akin to the love that our Heavenly Father has for us.
Sister Esplin
Our children are an heritage unto the Lord. The Lord knows what our children need to know, do, and be to come back to Him. He gives guidance to parents, teachers, and leaders to help his children. We need to teach our children to understand the doctrine. We need to do more than impart information; we need to help get the doctrine into their hearts. Create an atmosphere where we can help our children feel the Spirit. Teach in the context of what they are experiencing right in that very moment.
Elder Halstrom
He loves the Gospel of Jesus Christ, and he loves the Church of Jesus Christ. They are not the same thing, but they are connected.
The Gospel is the glorious plan of God in which we can receive all that the Father has. Jesus descended below all things so that He could raise all of us again.
The Church was established by Jesus Christ during His mortal ministry. The Church was established again during our day. Jesus is the Head, and it is governed by those with apostolic callings.
It is possible to be active in the church and less active in the gospel. The things of the gospel are less visible and more difficult to measure. But they are of more importance. We need the gospel and the church.
Have the gospel be our foundation: Strengthen our relationship with Diety; focus on the ordinances and covenants (then establish the discipline to live faithful to our covenants); unite the gospel with the church. Concentrating on the gospel, the church will become more, not less, in our lives. The Lord wants the members of His church to be fully converted to His gospel.
Elder Koeliker
A mission is like a mini-life. Elderly couples add a whole lot to missions. Returned missionaries become key contributors in establish the church in many countries. Laman and Lemuel did murmur because they did not understand the dealings of the Lord. How can we help our children feel the Spirit so they are not caught up in worldly distractions? (Nephi cried until the Lord, so he didn’t rebel like unto his brothers.) We need to find and awaken our desires to know. We need to establish patterns of righteousness that lead us in the right direction. When we live the gospel and the pattern taught by Jesus Christ, our ability to help other people increases. As a man witnessed the kindness between two missionaries, he reopened his door and invited them back. “By this shall all man know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to another.” “A new commandment I give unto you, that ye love one another as I have love you, that ye also love one another.” Love of God is the foundation of doing all things that are right. There is seemingly no end of the expanding capacity to love. Our Heavenly Fathers arms are constantly extended to embrace us and to say the words, “I love you.”
Elder Oaks
The atoning sacrifice of Jesus Christ is the center of the message of all the prophets. The sacrifice of the Savior offered the ultimate good for the ultimate evil in the world. We are also asked to continue to offer sacrifices: a broken heart and a contrite spirit; love and serve one another.
The Christian faith has a history of sacrifice: the Lord’s sacrifice; many martyrs for their faith; Christians killed by other Christians are the most tragic martyrs. Many have given life-long service in the Catholic or Protestant churches. What can we do on a day-to-day basis in our ordinary lives?
Pioneers sacrificed much. The symbols of our Christian faith are the lives of the people. The effort by our members to train and lead each other is uniquely large. Also, home teaching and visit teaching. Sacrifice of missionaries to serve missions at their own cost. Knowing what the Savior did for me, I feel privileged to make the small sacrifice I am making in his service.
Converts sacrifice to hear and follow the message of the gospel. Sometimes they lose family and friends. Young man who became Christian knew that, upon his return home, his family might reject him and his employment opportunities might be nil. But he said, “It’s true, isn’t it?” His sacrifice was worth it to him. No sacrifice to great for those who receive temple blessings.
Mothers devote themselves to the bearing and nurturing of their children. Husbands devote themselves to supporting their families. As you sacrifice for each other and your children, the Lord will bless you.
President Eyring
President Kimball asked that God would give him mountains to climb. There are great challenges to be met. Give me the mountain; give me the challenges. (President Kimball) The hardest trial of his life humbled and startled him. He knew that a great blessing could come from adversity that would more than compensate for any cost. “And if thou should be cast into the pit or into the hands of murderers….know thou, my son, that all these things shall give thee experience and be for thy good…the Son of Man has descended below them all; art thou greater than He…” Jesus passed through trials for us more terrible than we can imagine. “I God suffered these things for all if they would repent…” The way to rise above and get through trials is believe that there is a balm in Gilead and that the Lord will not forsake us. This foundation faith takes time to build. If the foundation of faith is not imbedded in our hearts, the foundation will crumble. The ground must be carefully prepared for our foundation of faith to withstand the storms of life. If we have faith in Jesus Christ, the hardest, as well as the easiest, times in our lives can be a blessing.
Tuesday, March 27, 2012
Trying to Write Carefully
The most obvious thing to me is that not one of us is perfect: not in language abilities, people skills, or judgment of anyone's abilities including our own. We also are not privy to anyone's real intents or what they truly think and feel. While there may be a need to respect someone on merits of social status, age, or education, I think that it is even more important to respect someone just because that person also has feelings and opinions, and gifts and talents that make him or her uniquely wonderful. Indeed, most of us on Facebook are unaware of the merits of those with whom we converse.
Facebook should not become a forum to prove that we are right and others are wrong. Nor should it be a place where we feel it's okay to slander another person. It is a social network. Using correct English is actually really important to me, but using language in such a way as to get across my intent without being offensive is by far more important. So if what I have written in the past was misunderstood to be an attack on character or a challenge, I apologize. Thank you to those of you who know who I am and accept me for that and are ever so kind in your correspondances with me and with others. Kindness is truly the hallmark of greatness.
While some think that Facebook is one of this world's evils, I think it is a great tool. I have reconnected with so many people and befriended a few others. I love seeing the great things that people think and do. So I am continuing to work on writing carefully. But even more importantly than that, I am working on not writing at all if I think my comments will just heat things up. I have learned that sometimes it is best to write directly on a person's wall than on his or her post. When you are the original poster, you have the power of deletion. Isn't that an awesome thing? There is also private messaging or the more ancient medium of email.
Facebook should not become a forum to prove that we are right and others are wrong. Nor should it be a place where we feel it's okay to slander another person. It is a social network. Using correct English is actually really important to me, but using language in such a way as to get across my intent without being offensive is by far more important. So if what I have written in the past was misunderstood to be an attack on character or a challenge, I apologize. Thank you to those of you who know who I am and accept me for that and are ever so kind in your correspondances with me and with others. Kindness is truly the hallmark of greatness.
While some think that Facebook is one of this world's evils, I think it is a great tool. I have reconnected with so many people and befriended a few others. I love seeing the great things that people think and do. So I am continuing to work on writing carefully. But even more importantly than that, I am working on not writing at all if I think my comments will just heat things up. I have learned that sometimes it is best to write directly on a person's wall than on his or her post. When you are the original poster, you have the power of deletion. Isn't that an awesome thing? There is also private messaging or the more ancient medium of email.
Friday, January 27, 2012
Sunday Session of Stake Conference Notes 22 January 2012
These are just the raw, unedited notes again.
Elder Snow
He was a mission president in San Fernando Mission. They are grateful for the strength of the Church in California.
July 1846 a group of LDS settlers landed in San Francisco. Six months later the Mormon Battalion went to San Diego.
Howard W. Hunter returned to Pasadena and told the saints want a marvelous opportunity to live where the saints were well received. The Church will continue to grow in this area. He saw the future of the church in California as bright.
Matt 25:1-13: Parable of 10 Virgins. The importance of living a life that prepares us for meeting the Savior. We don’t know the day or the hour when the Lord will return. The Bridegroom is the Lord Jesus Christ; the Church is His bride; the lighted lamp is the outward manifestation of the members’ readiness. The oil of preparedness is collected drop by drop through righteous living. We cannot give away our oil or borrow oil from others. Whether we see the Savior again in the Second Coming or before that, it really makes no difference. Our preparedness is what is important. We should live in such a way that as members of the Church and the Kingdom of God, we then become members of the Kingdom of Heaven.
Parents have a sacred duty to raise their children in righteousness. The example of pray is the most important way we can do this. “Pray in your families unto the Father always in my name that your wives and your children may be blessed.” Parents and children live busy lives. But nothing is more important than praying together as a family. Satan seeks to keep us from praying together as families.
1. Schedule a regular time each day.
2. Rotate opportunity among family members.
3. Family prayers need not be long.
4. Asking for specific not general blessings.
5. Be as specific in expressing gratitude as in asking for blessings.
6. Take time to listen.
Prayer is a privilege, not only to speak to Heavenly Father, but to receive revelation from Him. “Work as if you were to live a 100 years; pray as if you will die tomorrow.” (Ben Franklin)
Sister Thompson
“California, here I come, right back where I started from.”
November 30, 2011—Christmas devotional for church workers. “Away in a Manger,” was the closing song. The Holy Ghost confirmed that Jesus was the Savior in the third verse. She sang it again on Sunday and felt the Spirit again. His greatest desire is to have each one of us live close to the Holy Spirit so that we can live with Him and our Heavenly Father forever.
Enoch was called to teach the gospel. The Lord gave him some counsel. Moses 6:32-34. “Open thy mouth.” We need to say something in order to help people learn about the gospel. The Lord will help us to know what to say. “Choose the Lord God.” He will then be able to bless us and help us do whatever is necessary to live with Him again. Lord reminds Enoch that he has power to make mountains flee or to move rivers from their course. The Lord can help us in our challenges know what to do and how to make the necessary changes. When the mountains are high and the rivers are wide, the Lord will help us overcome the challenges we face. “Walk with me.” They built the city of Zion. They were of one heart and one mind. They had unity and charity in their minds and their hearts for one another. They would dwell in safety forever. They were taken up into heaven.
The people of Alma had the burdens which were placed on their back eased.
New Relief Society book was a gift to us from the First Presidency. Joseph Smith said that we shouldn’t have strife among us. Meekness, love, purity should magnify us. Seek charity and to always to do good to each other. President Monson said that we should love and have charity in our hearts. Charity that forgives and causes us to be patient, especially with the weakness of others. Rather than being judgmental and critical of each other, may we practice charity. These characteristics will help us become holy people. Christ set the example of true charity. He taught us to love one another, serve one another, and pray for one another. President Monson asked Relief Society leaders to tell the sisters that he loves them and that he prays for them.
Many opportunities to reach out and care for others. Holy women are happy to serve and to accept service. Make visits and phone calls to those who are lonely. Parents stay up and care for a sick child, or they counsel with a teenager who’s lost his way. These life experience will help us become holy people, so that we can all sit down in heaven together.
“Be near me Lord Jesus; I ask thee to stay…”
Elder Johnson
In 1833 Joseph Smith and Sidney Rigdon were called on a mission.
“Your families are well. They are in my hands and I will do with them as seemeth me good.”
He fasted and prayed for one of his children that something would happen. It didn’t. He felt angry, discouraged, and shaken. No matter how much energy he put into it, he could not generate faith on his on. Faith is not just positive thinking; faith is the power of God and can only be used to fulfill His purposes. We can stop beating ourselves up for not having enough faith.
It’s about God’s plan and His will. Find out will of God and then exert every effort to do His will. When I am unsure, I can trust; I can and will wait upon His will. I do not have a work; it’s all His. It is not easy for a person who wants control and to know the end from the beginning to let go. But it is well worth it. Faith is not a power we attain so that we can accomplish what we want. It needs to follow the Lord’s will.
We must give proper consideration to the will of the Lord. “Whatsover you ask the Lord WHICH IS RIGHT…”
Nephi (book of Helaman) sought the Lord’s will. He was given the sealing power. He had faith to ask whatever he would and it would happen. That is because the Lord knew that he wouldn’t ask anything that was contrary to the Lord’s will.
Fast, pray, work, study, wait upon the Lord, submit our will to His.
Each of us have received special promises: Patriarchal blessings; temple blessings.
President Monson made promises to saints in East Germany 1968. “If you will remain true and faithful to the commandments of God, any blessing enjoyed by the saints of any other country will be yours.” The prophet prayed that Heavenly Father would fulfill the promises that were made. He recognized that the words of the promise were from the Lord. President Monson and the German saints continued to exercise faith. The promise has been fulfilled line upon line over the course of years.
We learn to have this line upon line precept upon precept faith as we learn to know and do the Lord’s will.
C.S. Lewis talks about God rebuilding our house or our soul. He is building quite a new house than the one you thought of. You thought you were being made into a decent little cottage, but He’s building a palace.
Story of the ballerina jewelry box. Her sadness was nearly humorous because her mom knew what was coming her way. Heavenly Father has something in store for us that is greater than we can even imagine.
Elder Perry
We live in a remarkable time. Never has the Lord opened the door more for us to proclaim who we are. Even after 182 years, the people of the world know little about us. He has revealed to us a very effective organization.
Windstorms from canyons in Salt Lake City. Priesthood brethren and the sisters were called into action. They went to Sacrament meeting, and then thousands of people cleaned up the effects of the disaster. The area was ready to move forward in an orderly way. We are blessed with the same pattern of Priesthood organization that Jesus established in His Church. (A of F 6)
Savior organized church during His mortal ministry. Jesus went into a mountain to pray. He prayed all night. Then He chose His 12 apostles. He established order and leadership in His Church necessary before His departure. “Whom say ye that I am?” “Thou art the Christ, the Son of the Living God.” “Blesses art thou….thou art Peter….I will give thee the keys…” Peter was selected to hold Priesthood Keys over church when Jesus was no longer with them. Jesus went with Peter, James, and John to Mount of Transfiguration. Moses and Elias came. The keys were there given to Peter. The apostles were sent out into the world to tell the world about Jesus Christ. The Church suffered great persecution. Pagan ideas became mingled with doctrine. There was a falling away and the priesthood was removed from the earth for a time. Printing press. New land where there was freedom of speech. Joseph Smith was raised up to restore the Lord’s church. His mind was kept clear and free to receive instruction from the heavens. Joseph learned his relationship to Diety when he was 14 years old. He received new scripture. He translated the Book of Mormon. While translating 3rd Nephi, they asked about baptism. John the Baptist conferred the Aaronic Priesthood on Joseph Smith and Oliver Cowdery. They were then able to baptize each other. They received the Melchizedek Priesthood under the hands of Peter, James, and John. In the Kirtland Temple, the brethren took the sacrament. Joseph and Oliver prayed, and the Lord Jehovah appeared in glory and accepted the Kirtland Temple as His house. Moses appeared and committed the keys of the gathering of Israel and the restoration of the 10 tribes.. Elias appeared. Elijah restored keys of this dispensation to Joseph, turning hearts of fathers to children, children to fathers.
1. Key to proclaim gospel to the church. (Moses) It is our responsibility to proclaim the gospel to the world.
2. Key to perfect the saints by using the power of the priesthood. (Elias) We are the seed of Abraham; we are the Lord’s agents. We need to teach and help people to receive the saving ordinance of the gospel and the sealing power in the temple.
3. Key that gives power to redeem the dead. (Elijah) This will unite us as eternal family units.
All that we do in the church points to the atonement of Jesus Christ and to receiving blessings in the temple.
1 Corinthians (13) Be steadfast and immovable. Improve image of the church by standing steadfast in the principles of the gospel.
Elder Snow
He was a mission president in San Fernando Mission. They are grateful for the strength of the Church in California.
July 1846 a group of LDS settlers landed in San Francisco. Six months later the Mormon Battalion went to San Diego.
Howard W. Hunter returned to Pasadena and told the saints want a marvelous opportunity to live where the saints were well received. The Church will continue to grow in this area. He saw the future of the church in California as bright.
Matt 25:1-13: Parable of 10 Virgins. The importance of living a life that prepares us for meeting the Savior. We don’t know the day or the hour when the Lord will return. The Bridegroom is the Lord Jesus Christ; the Church is His bride; the lighted lamp is the outward manifestation of the members’ readiness. The oil of preparedness is collected drop by drop through righteous living. We cannot give away our oil or borrow oil from others. Whether we see the Savior again in the Second Coming or before that, it really makes no difference. Our preparedness is what is important. We should live in such a way that as members of the Church and the Kingdom of God, we then become members of the Kingdom of Heaven.
Parents have a sacred duty to raise their children in righteousness. The example of pray is the most important way we can do this. “Pray in your families unto the Father always in my name that your wives and your children may be blessed.” Parents and children live busy lives. But nothing is more important than praying together as a family. Satan seeks to keep us from praying together as families.
1. Schedule a regular time each day.
2. Rotate opportunity among family members.
3. Family prayers need not be long.
4. Asking for specific not general blessings.
5. Be as specific in expressing gratitude as in asking for blessings.
6. Take time to listen.
Prayer is a privilege, not only to speak to Heavenly Father, but to receive revelation from Him. “Work as if you were to live a 100 years; pray as if you will die tomorrow.” (Ben Franklin)
Sister Thompson
“California, here I come, right back where I started from.”
November 30, 2011—Christmas devotional for church workers. “Away in a Manger,” was the closing song. The Holy Ghost confirmed that Jesus was the Savior in the third verse. She sang it again on Sunday and felt the Spirit again. His greatest desire is to have each one of us live close to the Holy Spirit so that we can live with Him and our Heavenly Father forever.
Enoch was called to teach the gospel. The Lord gave him some counsel. Moses 6:32-34. “Open thy mouth.” We need to say something in order to help people learn about the gospel. The Lord will help us to know what to say. “Choose the Lord God.” He will then be able to bless us and help us do whatever is necessary to live with Him again. Lord reminds Enoch that he has power to make mountains flee or to move rivers from their course. The Lord can help us in our challenges know what to do and how to make the necessary changes. When the mountains are high and the rivers are wide, the Lord will help us overcome the challenges we face. “Walk with me.” They built the city of Zion. They were of one heart and one mind. They had unity and charity in their minds and their hearts for one another. They would dwell in safety forever. They were taken up into heaven.
The people of Alma had the burdens which were placed on their back eased.
New Relief Society book was a gift to us from the First Presidency. Joseph Smith said that we shouldn’t have strife among us. Meekness, love, purity should magnify us. Seek charity and to always to do good to each other. President Monson said that we should love and have charity in our hearts. Charity that forgives and causes us to be patient, especially with the weakness of others. Rather than being judgmental and critical of each other, may we practice charity. These characteristics will help us become holy people. Christ set the example of true charity. He taught us to love one another, serve one another, and pray for one another. President Monson asked Relief Society leaders to tell the sisters that he loves them and that he prays for them.
Many opportunities to reach out and care for others. Holy women are happy to serve and to accept service. Make visits and phone calls to those who are lonely. Parents stay up and care for a sick child, or they counsel with a teenager who’s lost his way. These life experience will help us become holy people, so that we can all sit down in heaven together.
“Be near me Lord Jesus; I ask thee to stay…”
Elder Johnson
In 1833 Joseph Smith and Sidney Rigdon were called on a mission.
“Your families are well. They are in my hands and I will do with them as seemeth me good.”
He fasted and prayed for one of his children that something would happen. It didn’t. He felt angry, discouraged, and shaken. No matter how much energy he put into it, he could not generate faith on his on. Faith is not just positive thinking; faith is the power of God and can only be used to fulfill His purposes. We can stop beating ourselves up for not having enough faith.
It’s about God’s plan and His will. Find out will of God and then exert every effort to do His will. When I am unsure, I can trust; I can and will wait upon His will. I do not have a work; it’s all His. It is not easy for a person who wants control and to know the end from the beginning to let go. But it is well worth it. Faith is not a power we attain so that we can accomplish what we want. It needs to follow the Lord’s will.
We must give proper consideration to the will of the Lord. “Whatsover you ask the Lord WHICH IS RIGHT…”
Nephi (book of Helaman) sought the Lord’s will. He was given the sealing power. He had faith to ask whatever he would and it would happen. That is because the Lord knew that he wouldn’t ask anything that was contrary to the Lord’s will.
Fast, pray, work, study, wait upon the Lord, submit our will to His.
Each of us have received special promises: Patriarchal blessings; temple blessings.
President Monson made promises to saints in East Germany 1968. “If you will remain true and faithful to the commandments of God, any blessing enjoyed by the saints of any other country will be yours.” The prophet prayed that Heavenly Father would fulfill the promises that were made. He recognized that the words of the promise were from the Lord. President Monson and the German saints continued to exercise faith. The promise has been fulfilled line upon line over the course of years.
We learn to have this line upon line precept upon precept faith as we learn to know and do the Lord’s will.
C.S. Lewis talks about God rebuilding our house or our soul. He is building quite a new house than the one you thought of. You thought you were being made into a decent little cottage, but He’s building a palace.
Story of the ballerina jewelry box. Her sadness was nearly humorous because her mom knew what was coming her way. Heavenly Father has something in store for us that is greater than we can even imagine.
Elder Perry
We live in a remarkable time. Never has the Lord opened the door more for us to proclaim who we are. Even after 182 years, the people of the world know little about us. He has revealed to us a very effective organization.
Windstorms from canyons in Salt Lake City. Priesthood brethren and the sisters were called into action. They went to Sacrament meeting, and then thousands of people cleaned up the effects of the disaster. The area was ready to move forward in an orderly way. We are blessed with the same pattern of Priesthood organization that Jesus established in His Church. (A of F 6)
Savior organized church during His mortal ministry. Jesus went into a mountain to pray. He prayed all night. Then He chose His 12 apostles. He established order and leadership in His Church necessary before His departure. “Whom say ye that I am?” “Thou art the Christ, the Son of the Living God.” “Blesses art thou….thou art Peter….I will give thee the keys…” Peter was selected to hold Priesthood Keys over church when Jesus was no longer with them. Jesus went with Peter, James, and John to Mount of Transfiguration. Moses and Elias came. The keys were there given to Peter. The apostles were sent out into the world to tell the world about Jesus Christ. The Church suffered great persecution. Pagan ideas became mingled with doctrine. There was a falling away and the priesthood was removed from the earth for a time. Printing press. New land where there was freedom of speech. Joseph Smith was raised up to restore the Lord’s church. His mind was kept clear and free to receive instruction from the heavens. Joseph learned his relationship to Diety when he was 14 years old. He received new scripture. He translated the Book of Mormon. While translating 3rd Nephi, they asked about baptism. John the Baptist conferred the Aaronic Priesthood on Joseph Smith and Oliver Cowdery. They were then able to baptize each other. They received the Melchizedek Priesthood under the hands of Peter, James, and John. In the Kirtland Temple, the brethren took the sacrament. Joseph and Oliver prayed, and the Lord Jehovah appeared in glory and accepted the Kirtland Temple as His house. Moses appeared and committed the keys of the gathering of Israel and the restoration of the 10 tribes.. Elias appeared. Elijah restored keys of this dispensation to Joseph, turning hearts of fathers to children, children to fathers.
1. Key to proclaim gospel to the church. (Moses) It is our responsibility to proclaim the gospel to the world.
2. Key to perfect the saints by using the power of the priesthood. (Elias) We are the seed of Abraham; we are the Lord’s agents. We need to teach and help people to receive the saving ordinance of the gospel and the sealing power in the temple.
3. Key that gives power to redeem the dead. (Elijah) This will unite us as eternal family units.
All that we do in the church points to the atonement of Jesus Christ and to receiving blessings in the temple.
1 Corinthians (13) Be steadfast and immovable. Improve image of the church by standing steadfast in the principles of the gospel.
Saturday, January 21, 2012
Saturday Session Stake Conference 1-21-12
Stake Conference Saturday Evening 1-21-12 Unpolished notes
President Kinser
After the last supper and the garden of Gethsemane. Jesus conversed with Peter. I have prayed for thee; when thou art converted, strengthen thy brethren.
2 great commandments: Love the Lord; love your neighbor as yourself.
What think ye of Jesus Christ? Most vital question for all mortals. Not giving an answer is an answer.
Whom do you Worship? (Find the poem)
We need to have a testimony of Jesus Christ and of the restored gospel through the prophet Joseph.
If we can teach with the Spirit, others will know that it is true by the testimony of the Spirit.
Desire—First key to gaining and strengthening a testimony.
After date, girl asked him, “Do you have a testimony of the Church?” “No, I don’t.” “Well, you better find out.” That challenge sparked an interest that made him want to find out. A seed was planted. He could see a difference in the lives of those who were living the gospel.
Son approached them and said, “I don’t have a testimony; I think I’m going to quit going to Church.” They kept loving him and hoping; he attended church begrudgingly. He had the opportunity to share his experiences in the church with his friends. (Born again) I have never had a missionary that was able to impact so many you people. He worked through the great and spacious building in his life.
Gaining a testimony equates to becoming more Christ-like.
An investigator, while he served in England, told about gaining a testimony of prayer. She became a wonderful, strong member of the church.
As we recognize the tender mercies of the Lord, we need to nourish them. Daily fervent prayer. As we pray regularly, the Spirit will touch our hearts. Meaningful involvement with the scriptures. “These are they which testify of me.” As we follow the counsel of our leaders, our testimonies will grow.
It is an easy thing to believe in dead prophets, but it is a greater thing to believe in living prophets. Man came to America because God told him to. He could accept that the former prophets were prophets of God, but he didn’t want to accept the current counsel.
Job, “I know that my Redeemer liveth…yet in my flesh shall I see God.”
1985—Elder McConkie shared a testimony just months before he died. Testified of Christ’s crucifixion, that He is the Son of the Living God and he was crucified of the world…I shall not know any better then than I know now….salvation comes from Him and in no other way.
As we strengthen our testimonies, we will be blessed beyond our understanding.
Brother Davis
Stake YM President
He loves working with the youth. He has a great support staff. They are there to help the youth. There job is to assist the parents in helping sons prepare for priesthood ordinations, temple endowments. , missionary service, temple marriage, fatherhood, etc. Assist.
Parents can strengthen youth through Duty to God. Receive priesthood, learn how to use it, act in office to which he is appointed.
Duty God—learning gospel principles; act on what they learn; share their experiences; prepare for later missionary work. Parents have the role to lead by example. You need to take control of your spiritual growth and your sons’ spiritual welfare.
Helaman’s warriors had been taught by their mothers if that if they did not doubt, God would deliver them. They are faced with constant threats to their spiritual and temporal well-being. We can strengthen and protect our youth as we teach them by example. We will see miracles and blessings as we do this. Goals stated at beginning of talk.
Sister Bergesen
The youth programs, YM and YW, is a team effort. They are inspired programs to help youth learn to lead, follow, and be strengthened in the gospel.
Provide settings where youth can feel influence of Holy Ghost. Establish home where Holy Ghost can dwell. Encourage youth to attend their meetings. Help them become responsible, learn leadership and social skills. They will learn through the Spirit what Heavenly Father wants them to do and be. Personal Progress is about developing Christ-like attributes. Parents have opportunity to work with daughters as they work on goals together. When they use their intelligence to achieve these goals, they are destined to be successful. We must make sure that they are learning the gospel. One Bishop took it upon himself to also complete personal progress goals and have the girls sign off his achievements.
Instead of focusing on what is not right with our youth, we need to focus on what they are doing right and the good people that they are.
President Andrews
He used to play soccer as last defender. He liked last minute saves, but his coach didn’t. If the offensive is behind the defender, he is off-sides. As the last defender, you should crowd them up to the mid-line as long as possible. Pre-emptive action and safety.
As a father protecting a family from the world and from Satan, that message is clear. Never let him get close, and never let him get dangerous.
Elder Bednar—More Diligent and Concerned at Home; Watching with all Perserverance
Steli—Scriptures testify, express love, and invite.
2 Nephi 32:3—Angels speak by the power of the Holy Ghost…feast upon the words Christ.
Talk about the scriptures and the Book of Mormon.
Ask good questions. Inspired pauses give birth to revelation.
Testify spontaneously. Point out our children’s good qualities when we recognize the good things they are doing. Frequent spontaneous testimonies can be more powerful than once a month at the pulpit.
Express love. Moroni 7:48: Pray with all energy of heart that you may be filled with Charity. He bestows this on all who are true followers of His Son, Jesus Christ. That we may become the sons of God.
Be specific in your compliments. I appreciate…..(this about you). This builds love, builds Zion. Practice sincere compliments frequently. Express confidence that others can and others will do great things in their lives. Invite them to do great things. Let us do those things that strengthen home and family, church, etc.
Sister Godwin
They are surrounded every day by angels that testify of Jesus Christ. Sometimes the miracle is not just with investigators, but with the missionaries themselves.
As parents and grandparents, we need to be teaching our children. Take the gift of the gospel seriously. “I am a Child of God.” We can help them most by teaching them the doctrine of Christ. 2 Nephi 31: 2-21. This is the missionary purpose in inviting others to come unto Christ. Teach it 7 times, 7 ways.
President Godwin
The thing which distinguishes this church as His church are Priesthood keys. President Garvin holds those keys for the members of the stake and for the missionary work in this stake.
Mission president and wife are here to assist us in our missionary work.
D&C 123:12: Some kept from the truth because they don’t know where to find it.
Use pass-a-long cards. A missionary who gave a pass-a-long card was asked, “Do you have anything else to read.” The man finished reading the Book of Mormon in a week, except for a couple chapters. He was baptized a couple weeks later.
Create a profile on Mormon.org. You can put your url on pass-a-long cards. Share your testimony in private and comfortable ways, and in bold ways.
Testimony.
President Garvin
Story of remodeling awful bathroom in small trailer home. “Measure twice, cut once.”
“Well, do you feel better there.”
1. Measure once, cut twice.
2. Some mistakes are not eternal.
3. A
Tender mercies—scriptures. (700 favorite verses)
Symmetry in scriptures. Mark 15:28. Isaiah 9: Unto us a Child is born. Luke: He shall be great; the Son of the Highest. “Peace I leave with you…” D&C 121:7 “Peace be unto thy soul…”
The greatest revelation that we can ever receive is a testimony of the Savior.
Story of a man who represented Jesus for an artist. They traveled to Africa and brought hope to children in an orphanage there. A missionary gave Miner a blessing. He realized that the words of the blessing came from His Heavenly Father. Modeling as the Savior gave him a new lease on life. “He knows me and loves me. This Jesus guy is really important to a lot of people. I just happen to be one of those people.”
1 Nephi 17: 45 Feeling is higher than hearing.
Negative and positive commandments. “Thou shalt not.” “Thou shalt.” Commandment to repent. Remember. (One word commandments that are repeated the most often.)
Moroni 10:3-5
Precursor to knowing all things is remembering.
1 Nephi 11: Knowest thou the condescension of God? He beheld the Redeemer of the Lord, teaching, and condemned. Lifted upon the cross and slain for the sins of the world. Remembering Jesus as our Savior will help us gain the things we need to know and do.
President Garvin starts and ends every day with the Book of Mormon.
If we will live this counsel, we will be protected in our families, have the Spirit in our lives,,,,
President Kinser
After the last supper and the garden of Gethsemane. Jesus conversed with Peter. I have prayed for thee; when thou art converted, strengthen thy brethren.
2 great commandments: Love the Lord; love your neighbor as yourself.
What think ye of Jesus Christ? Most vital question for all mortals. Not giving an answer is an answer.
Whom do you Worship? (Find the poem)
We need to have a testimony of Jesus Christ and of the restored gospel through the prophet Joseph.
If we can teach with the Spirit, others will know that it is true by the testimony of the Spirit.
Desire—First key to gaining and strengthening a testimony.
After date, girl asked him, “Do you have a testimony of the Church?” “No, I don’t.” “Well, you better find out.” That challenge sparked an interest that made him want to find out. A seed was planted. He could see a difference in the lives of those who were living the gospel.
Son approached them and said, “I don’t have a testimony; I think I’m going to quit going to Church.” They kept loving him and hoping; he attended church begrudgingly. He had the opportunity to share his experiences in the church with his friends. (Born again) I have never had a missionary that was able to impact so many you people. He worked through the great and spacious building in his life.
Gaining a testimony equates to becoming more Christ-like.
An investigator, while he served in England, told about gaining a testimony of prayer. She became a wonderful, strong member of the church.
As we recognize the tender mercies of the Lord, we need to nourish them. Daily fervent prayer. As we pray regularly, the Spirit will touch our hearts. Meaningful involvement with the scriptures. “These are they which testify of me.” As we follow the counsel of our leaders, our testimonies will grow.
It is an easy thing to believe in dead prophets, but it is a greater thing to believe in living prophets. Man came to America because God told him to. He could accept that the former prophets were prophets of God, but he didn’t want to accept the current counsel.
Job, “I know that my Redeemer liveth…yet in my flesh shall I see God.”
1985—Elder McConkie shared a testimony just months before he died. Testified of Christ’s crucifixion, that He is the Son of the Living God and he was crucified of the world…I shall not know any better then than I know now….salvation comes from Him and in no other way.
As we strengthen our testimonies, we will be blessed beyond our understanding.
Brother Davis
Stake YM President
He loves working with the youth. He has a great support staff. They are there to help the youth. There job is to assist the parents in helping sons prepare for priesthood ordinations, temple endowments. , missionary service, temple marriage, fatherhood, etc. Assist.
Parents can strengthen youth through Duty to God. Receive priesthood, learn how to use it, act in office to which he is appointed.
Duty God—learning gospel principles; act on what they learn; share their experiences; prepare for later missionary work. Parents have the role to lead by example. You need to take control of your spiritual growth and your sons’ spiritual welfare.
Helaman’s warriors had been taught by their mothers if that if they did not doubt, God would deliver them. They are faced with constant threats to their spiritual and temporal well-being. We can strengthen and protect our youth as we teach them by example. We will see miracles and blessings as we do this. Goals stated at beginning of talk.
Sister Bergesen
The youth programs, YM and YW, is a team effort. They are inspired programs to help youth learn to lead, follow, and be strengthened in the gospel.
Provide settings where youth can feel influence of Holy Ghost. Establish home where Holy Ghost can dwell. Encourage youth to attend their meetings. Help them become responsible, learn leadership and social skills. They will learn through the Spirit what Heavenly Father wants them to do and be. Personal Progress is about developing Christ-like attributes. Parents have opportunity to work with daughters as they work on goals together. When they use their intelligence to achieve these goals, they are destined to be successful. We must make sure that they are learning the gospel. One Bishop took it upon himself to also complete personal progress goals and have the girls sign off his achievements.
Instead of focusing on what is not right with our youth, we need to focus on what they are doing right and the good people that they are.
President Andrews
He used to play soccer as last defender. He liked last minute saves, but his coach didn’t. If the offensive is behind the defender, he is off-sides. As the last defender, you should crowd them up to the mid-line as long as possible. Pre-emptive action and safety.
As a father protecting a family from the world and from Satan, that message is clear. Never let him get close, and never let him get dangerous.
Elder Bednar—More Diligent and Concerned at Home; Watching with all Perserverance
Steli—Scriptures testify, express love, and invite.
2 Nephi 32:3—Angels speak by the power of the Holy Ghost…feast upon the words Christ.
Talk about the scriptures and the Book of Mormon.
Ask good questions. Inspired pauses give birth to revelation.
Testify spontaneously. Point out our children’s good qualities when we recognize the good things they are doing. Frequent spontaneous testimonies can be more powerful than once a month at the pulpit.
Express love. Moroni 7:48: Pray with all energy of heart that you may be filled with Charity. He bestows this on all who are true followers of His Son, Jesus Christ. That we may become the sons of God.
Be specific in your compliments. I appreciate…..(this about you). This builds love, builds Zion. Practice sincere compliments frequently. Express confidence that others can and others will do great things in their lives. Invite them to do great things. Let us do those things that strengthen home and family, church, etc.
Sister Godwin
They are surrounded every day by angels that testify of Jesus Christ. Sometimes the miracle is not just with investigators, but with the missionaries themselves.
As parents and grandparents, we need to be teaching our children. Take the gift of the gospel seriously. “I am a Child of God.” We can help them most by teaching them the doctrine of Christ. 2 Nephi 31: 2-21. This is the missionary purpose in inviting others to come unto Christ. Teach it 7 times, 7 ways.
President Godwin
The thing which distinguishes this church as His church are Priesthood keys. President Garvin holds those keys for the members of the stake and for the missionary work in this stake.
Mission president and wife are here to assist us in our missionary work.
D&C 123:12: Some kept from the truth because they don’t know where to find it.
Use pass-a-long cards. A missionary who gave a pass-a-long card was asked, “Do you have anything else to read.” The man finished reading the Book of Mormon in a week, except for a couple chapters. He was baptized a couple weeks later.
Create a profile on Mormon.org. You can put your url on pass-a-long cards. Share your testimony in private and comfortable ways, and in bold ways.
Testimony.
President Garvin
Story of remodeling awful bathroom in small trailer home. “Measure twice, cut once.”
“Well, do you feel better there.”
1. Measure once, cut twice.
2. Some mistakes are not eternal.
3. A
Tender mercies—scriptures. (700 favorite verses)
Symmetry in scriptures. Mark 15:28. Isaiah 9: Unto us a Child is born. Luke: He shall be great; the Son of the Highest. “Peace I leave with you…” D&C 121:7 “Peace be unto thy soul…”
The greatest revelation that we can ever receive is a testimony of the Savior.
Story of a man who represented Jesus for an artist. They traveled to Africa and brought hope to children in an orphanage there. A missionary gave Miner a blessing. He realized that the words of the blessing came from His Heavenly Father. Modeling as the Savior gave him a new lease on life. “He knows me and loves me. This Jesus guy is really important to a lot of people. I just happen to be one of those people.”
1 Nephi 17: 45 Feeling is higher than hearing.
Negative and positive commandments. “Thou shalt not.” “Thou shalt.” Commandment to repent. Remember. (One word commandments that are repeated the most often.)
Moroni 10:3-5
Precursor to knowing all things is remembering.
1 Nephi 11: Knowest thou the condescension of God? He beheld the Redeemer of the Lord, teaching, and condemned. Lifted upon the cross and slain for the sins of the world. Remembering Jesus as our Savior will help us gain the things we need to know and do.
President Garvin starts and ends every day with the Book of Mormon.
If we will live this counsel, we will be protected in our families, have the Spirit in our lives,,,,
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