Picture Scriptures

Per our Challenge...

2010-01-31T10:41:00.002-07:00

Just listened to the Book of John....loved it! Remember my challenge earlier this month to read John once a month? Well, times up today ... if you are unfamiliar with scripture language let me suggest you listen to it on the audio scriptures. Click on HERE on the side bar under Post Notices it will take you there. Good luck!

Sermon on the Mount

2010-01-28T06:51:00.002-07:00

Matthew 5-7
Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven. Matthew 5:16

Sitting on a mountainside, Jesus gave His disciples teachings called the Sermon on the Mount (see Matthew 5:12). In part of the sermon, Jesus promised special blessings, known as the Beatitudes, to people who live in certain ways. He taught:

"Blessed are the poor in spirit: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.

"Blessed are they that mourn: for they shall be comforted.

"Blessed are the meek: for they shall inherit the earth.

"Blessed are they which do hunger and thirst after righteousness: for they shall be filled" (Matthew 5:36).

Jesus also described blessings that come to the merciful, the pure in heart, the peacemakers, and those persecuted for righteousness' sake (see Matthew 5:710).

Jesus went on to teach His disciples:

"Ye are the light of the world. ...

"Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven" (Matthew 5:14, Matthew 5:16).

Jesus reminded the people of many teachings in the law of Moses, one of which had told the Israelites to love their neighbors and hate their enemies. But now Jesus taught His disciples a higher law, telling them to love their enemies and do good to them. (See Matthew 5:17, Matthew 5:4344.)

After telling His disciples to pray without letting others know about it (see Matthew 6:56), Jesus gave a pattern for prayer (see Matthew 6:913).

Jesus also said that His people should not judge others and that if His people first repent of their sins, they are better able to help others (see Matthew 7:15).

Telling His disciples how to obtain blessings from heaven, Jesus said, "Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find" (Matthew 7:7).

He also taught that few people find the narrow gate and path to heaven. Instead, many people choose the way to destruction. (See Matthew 7:1314.)

Jesus compared those who obey Him to a wise man who built his house on a rock. When the rains, floods, and winds came, the house did not fall, because it was built on a solid foundation. (See Matthew 7:2425.) He compared those who do not obey Him to a foolish man who built his house on sand. When the rains, floods, and winds came, the house fell. (See Matthew 7:2627.)

After Jesus ended teaching, the people were astonished because He taught them with the authority and power of God (see Matthew 7:2829).

Summary

Sitting on a mountainside, Jesus gave what is known as the Sermon on the Mount. Included in this sermon were the Beatitudes, special blessings that Jesus promised for righteous living. He also asked His followers to be good examples and to love their enemies. Jesus taught them how to pray and encouraged them to repent of their sins and not judge others. He taught that those who obey His words have a strong foundation for their lives. Those who heard Jesus were astonished, for He taught with the power of God.

Artist, Harry Anderson

My Word: The Sermon on the Mount is a few chapters long and you probably live by many of His teaching although, perhaps, unaware of the source. In 3 Nephi 12 Jesus gives the Nephites the Beatitudes also. In verse 3 Nephi 12:3 we get a better understanding of how the beatitudes work. The key words are "who come unto me". Go back and read the "Blessed are.......and add "who come unto me" and see if you feel differently about what you are reading. Christ is able to make anything and everything OK for lack of a better term at this moment. Perhaps the word should be GOOD. "Good" because that is a "Godly Characteristic"... remember the Old Testament post about Joseph fleeing from Potiphar's Wife...go back and read it....Oct 27...I think.

If we live by these "Be-attitudes"...as President Hinckley use to say....we will find lasting happiness. Where pleasure is short-lived, happiness takes effort to acquire but is also much longer lasting.

The Primary Children learn "The Wise Man and The Foolish Man" song (#281). (If the above link doesn't work go to www.lds.org click on Gospel Library, go to Music, click on Interactive music player. You should be able to put in the song by title or page #. Good luck.) It's always a favorite...and it teaches us about strong foundations. What foundation are your beliefs, thoughts, desires based on? Do they bring you pleasure or happiness? Check out this scripture Heleman 5:12.

Read through these references...what do you learn about "building"? Built, building, foundation, cost... about that last reference...read the whole scripture. What kind of "house" are you building? Is it worth the cost? Are our "houses" built with quality knowledge, actions and re-enforced materials that will withstand the storms of life? Do you think the cost of building such a "house" or testimony worth the effort?....Remember: "Suck it up buttercup; pain is your friend!" You have a few days yet to complete the challenge of reading the Book of John...the cost is small the benefits terrific!

Christ Ordaining the Apostles

2010-01-04T06:44:00.005-07:00

Matthew 10:14; Mark 3:1319; Luke 6:1216; John 15:16
And he ordained twelve, that they should be with him, and that he might send them forth to preach. Mark 3:14

Early in His ministry, Jesus spent an entire night in the mountains praying to Heavenly Father. When daylight came, He called His faithful followers to Him and chose twelve whom He ordained to be Apostles. They were Simon Peter and his brother Andrew; James and John the sons of Zebedee; Philip; Bartholomew; Matthew; Thomas; James the son of Alpheus; Thaddeus; Simon the Canaanite; and Judas Iscariot. (See Matthew 10:24; Mark 3:13, Mark 3:1619; Luke 6:1216.)

Jesus gave the Twelve the power of the priesthood, which they were to use to help Him in His work—preaching the gospel, healing the sick, raising the dead, and casting out unclean spirits (see Matthew 10:1; Mark 3:1415).

As Jesus neared the end of His earthly ministry, He reminded the Apostles at the Last Supper that He had called them and ordained them to preach the gospel. Jesus told the Apostles that as they did this work, "whatsoever ye shall ask of the Father in my name, he may give it you" (John 15:16).

Summary

By revelation Jesus Christ chose twelve of His followers and ordained them to be His Apostles. He gave them the priesthood, which is the power to act in His name, so that they could preach the gospel and minister to the people.

Artist, Harry Anderson

MY Word: The older I get (sometimes I say I'm older than dirt) and the more experience I have with the whole "calling" process, the more amazed I am how revelation works. This past month new callings have come to many in our ward. This was my experience: the Bishop told me that I was going to be released from my current calling (shocked I was) then he told me I was being considered for a new position but it would be a while before he would make that change. I had a few weeks to ponder what the Lord wanted me to do. I started listing all of the positions held by women beginning with Young Women's and immediately dismissed the thought for several reasons but mostly because I spent many years there and just didn't want to go back into that organization....it's a busy one! But as I continued to ponder absolutely nothing came to my mind and no feelings to my heart. The morning that the Bishop issued the new call I was getting ready for church when a line from my Patriarchal Blessing went through my mind...."you will teach the youth" and I thought "no, no, they will not change who is in there now." Well guess what .... the Lord changed everyone! I will now be serving in the YW's Presidency as a Counselor! I have to chuckle and am very glad the Heavenly Father is patient....He did give me a couple of hints!

Now for the calling of the 12: Jesus also prayed about his Apostles. Did he make a mistake with Judas Iscariot? (If you don't already know, Judas betrays Jesus and makes His arrest by the Sanhedrin possible. More later.) One time in Sunday School class someone made the comment about the character of Judas, it was harsh....although I don't remember what exactly was said...I just remember the controversy. I also remembered that Someone called Judas a devil. (v. 66-71) I think that pretty much ends the debate! Heavenly Father and Jesus knows each of us personally!

If you have doubts about the leaders of the Church just try this: take the best 15 men you know, think about their life experiences, and characters then make a comparison to the First Presidency and the Twelve Apostles. Learn of their lives, experiences and character... I hope to be worthy to call them my friends! They are not "perfect" but their integrity/virtue is wide and deep!

Calling of the Fishermen

2010-01-04T06:42:00.002-07:00

Matthew 4:18-22; Mark 1:16-20; Luke 5:1-11
And he saith unto them, Follow me, and I will make you fishers of men. Matthew 4:19

While Jesus was by the Sea of Galilee, many people crowded around to hear Him teach the word of God. Jesus saw two ships by the shore where the fishermen were washing their nets. He stepped onto Simon Peter's ship, asking the fishermen to move it from the shore; then He sat down and taught the people from the ship. (See Luke 5:13.)

When Jesus finished speaking, He told Peter to take the boat out where the water was deep and let down the nets for a large catch of fish (see Luke 5:4). Peter told Jesus that he and the other fishermen had worked all night without catching any fish. "Nevertheless," he continued, "at thy word I will let down the net" (Luke 5:5). Peter and Andrew lowered their net into the water, and it was filled with so many fish that it started to break. They called their partners, James and John, who were in another ship, to help them, and they filled both ships with so many fish that the ships began to sink. (See Luke 5:6-7.)

When Simon Peter saw all the fish, he fell down at Jesus' knees and said, "Depart from me; for I am a sinful man, O Lord" (Luke 5:8). Peter and the others were amazed at the great number of fish they had caught (see Luke 5:9-10).

When Jesus said to Simon Peter and Andrew, "Follow me, and I will make you fishers of men," they left their nets and followed Him (see Matthew 4:19; see also Matthew 4:20; Mark 1:17-18; Luke 5:10-11). Jesus also called James and John to follow Him; they did as He asked, immediately leaving their ship and their father (see Matthew 4:21-22; Mark 1:19-20).

Summary

One day, Jesus taught from Peter's boat on the Sea of Galilee. Afterward He told Peter to take the boat to deep water and let out the nets to catch fish. Peter explained that he and others had been fishing all night without catching anything, but he said he would do as Jesus commanded. Peter and his brother Andrew caught so many fish that their net began to break. James and John came in another boat to help. The fishermen were all amazed. Jesus called Peter and Andrew to follow Him and become fishers of men. He also called James and John. They all left their boats and nets and followed Jesus.

Artist, Harry Anderson

My Word: I was looking through the pictures of Christ and realized that in almost all of them He is dressed in white. Now I know it symbolizes purity, cleanliness, etc.,....but this picture makes me nervous 'cause I just know he's going to get all dirty on that fishing boat! ;) (It's like when I watch "Night At the Museum"....I don't really enjoy the experience because I keep thinking....Who is going to clean all of this up before the doors open?!....I know....it's just a movie!)

Calling of the 12 Apostles. There is a difference between a Disciple and an Apostle. One we may choose for ourselves, the other... we are chosen by Him. In Hebrews 5:4 we learn that a man cannot take upon himself the Priesthood; it must be bestowed by one with Priesthood Authority. One of the things that I find very comforting is that Heavenly Father is a God of order! In the Topical Guide we find scriptures that tell us God is unchangeable. When I was younger I didn't really appreciate or like that concept (I mean after all I was so special I wanted exceptions made for me....heavy on the sarcasm there.) I now understand the idea of an "unchanging God" and it brings me great peace of mind. I can always trust Him! He doesn't change the rules just as you're getting the hang of the game! What does that have to do with being called as an Apostle? We have the evidence that Jesus called his Apostles during his mortal ministry so how would His Apostles be called today? Do old men just get together and decide who they want to promote to a new position in the church? NO, they do not!

Apostles Are Called by Revelation:

An example which illustrates how apostles are called today is taken from the life of President Joseph Fielding Smith:

"For an hour or more the Church Presidency and the Council of the Twelve Apostles, meeting in the Salt Lake Temple in April, 1910, had discussed various men as possibilities to fill the vacancy in the council occasioned by the death of President John R. Winder on March 27, and the subsequent advancement of Apostle John Henry Smith to the presidency. But to every name suggested there was some exception taken. It seemed impossible to reach any unanimity of feeling in the matter. Finally President Joseph F. Smith retired to a room by himself and knelt in prayer for guidance. (President Joseph F. Smith was the Prophet at that time.) When he returned he somewhat hesitantly asked the 13 other brethren whether they would be willing to consider his son Joseph Fielding Smith Jr. for the position. He was reluctant to suggest it, he said, because ....Church members, he feared, would be disgruntled to have another of his sons appointed as a general authority. Nevertheless he felt inspired to offer Joseph's name for their consideration. The other men seemed immediately receptive to the suggestion and sustained President Smith in it...

Years later Heber J. Grant, who by then was president of the Church and who was present in the council meeting in the temple the day Joseph was chosen in 1910, assured a group of the correctness of the decision: It was at a Smith family reunion. President Grant pointed to Joseph Fielding and said, 'That man was called by direct revelation of God. I am a witness to that fact.'" (Smith and Stewart, The Life of Joseph Fielding Smith, pp. 174, 177.)

There will always be critics about the way the Church operates. Just in the past few years several new Apostles have been called and watching the press ask questions helps me know that people who don't believe in revelation will not understand the process of callings.

In May and November of each year you will find a picture of the First Presidency and the Twelve Apostles of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in the Ensign magazine.

John the Baptist Baptizing Jesus

2010-01-04T06:40:00.008-07:00

Matthew 3:1317; Mark 1:911; Luke 3:2123; Joseph Smith Translation, Matthew 3:4446
And it came to pass in those days, that Jesus came from Nazareth of Galilee, and was baptized of John in Jordan. Mark 1:9

When Jesus was about 30 years old, He came from Nazareth to the river Jordan and was baptized by John the Baptist (see Matthew 3:13; Mark 1:9; Luke 3:23). John knew that Jesus had not sinned, so he did not think Jesus needed to be baptized. Instead, John felt that Jesus should baptize him. Jesus explained to John that even the Savior of the world must be baptized. (See Matthew 3:1415.)

"And John went down into the water and baptized [Jesus].

"And Jesus when he was baptized, went up straightway out of the water; and John saw ... the Spirit of God descending like a dove and lighting upon Jesus.

"And lo, he heard a voice from heaven, saying, This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased. Hear ye him" (Joseph Smith Translation, Matthew 3:4446).

Summary

Jesus came to John the Baptist to be baptized in the Jordan River. John knew that Jesus was without sin, and so he thought Jesus did not need baptism. When Jesus explained that even the Savior must be baptized, John went down into the water and baptized Him. When Jesus came out of the water, John saw the Holy Ghost come to the Savior and heard Heavenly Father's voice bearing witness of His Beloved Son.

Artist, Harry Anderson

MY Word: There is much Doctrine to be learned from this event. Ponder these questions: Christ is the Son of God, he is Jehovah, he directs the Prophets...why then would He need to be baptized? Why would he come to John? What sort of baptism was it? (Apparently the music link is not working so here are the words to the song "Baptism" pg. 100 in the Children's Songbook...if you want to go to lds.org and listen to it there.) Jesus came to John the Baptist, In Judea long ago, And was baptized by immersion In the River Jordan's flow. "To fulfill the law," said Jesus, When the Baptist questioned why, "And to enter with my Father In the kingdom up on high." Now we know that we must also Witness faith in Jesus' word Be baptized to show obedience, As was Jesus Christ, or Lord.Who was present at His baptism? Try "When Jesus Christ was Baptized" pg. 102. When Jesus Christ was baptized Down in the River Jordan, Three members of the Godhead Were present there in love. The Father spoke from heaven When Jesus Christ was baptized; The Holy Ghost descended As gently as a dove. And now when I am baptized, I'll follow his example --- Be baptized by immersion Through sacred priesthood pow'r. Then I will be a member Of Heav'nly Father's kingdom And have the Holy Spirit To guide me ev'ry hour. From very simple Primary songs, that we begin learning at 3 years of age, we learn so much. Let's see if we have the answers to the questions. John feels reluctant to baptize the Savior of the world but Jesus reassures John and said He would be baptized "to fulfill the law". What law? (I'll come back to that in a minute.) Jesus was baptized by immersion. Why baptism by immersion? Look for the symbolism here. Why come to John for this ordinance? John was the one holding the proper Priesthood authority to baptize. And finally who was present: We call these Three the Godhead. Article of Faith #1 Latter-day Saint doctrine teaches that these three are individual persons and personage. God the Father and Jesus Christ have resurrected, perfected bodies. The Holy Ghost is a personage of Spirit...meaning there is form but not physical. What evidence do we have that this is true doctrine?....Read about Jesus' baptism. Jesus is standing in the water with John, the Father's voice is heard from heaven and the Holy Ghost is present therefore the sign of the dove is given.

Back to that law question. One of our Sacrament songs has this phrase: "the law was broken; Jesus died That justice might be satisfied"

~That got me to thinking....what law was broken? What law of Heavenly Father's needed to be "fixed" by the death of His Son? This law is considered the "First Law of Heaven" ....it is my opinion that that is what was broken. Who broke it and when was it broken?

What have you learned about baptism (it's in one of the above links). Why do we all need this ordinance. Millions of people have never had an opportunity to receive this ordinance, what about them are they exempt? They have been taken into consideration by a loving Heavenly Father and arrangements for them are made here.

If you have questions please comment or go to lds.org and do some searching. Gospel Principles is a great place to start. This is actually the manual that will be used this year in Priesthood and Relief Society.

John Preaching in the Wilderness

2010-01-03T18:11:00.003-07:00

Matthew 3:16; Mark 1:16; Luke 3:24, Luke 3:11, Luke 3:14
In those days came John the Baptist, preaching in the wilderness of Judea, and saying, Repent ye: for the kingdom of heaven is at hand. Matthew 3:12

John the Baptist lived in the wilderness of Judea (see Matthew 3:1; Luke 3:2). He wore clothes made of camel's hair and a leather belt around his waist. He ate locusts and wild honey. (See Matthew 3:4; Mark 1:6.)

John traveled throughout Jordan preaching repentance and baptism for the remission of sins. His mission was to prepare the people for the coming of Jesus Christ. He told them the Lord would soon come and they had to be ready to meet Him. (See Matthew 3:23; Mark 1:24; Luke 3:34.) Many people repented, and John baptized them in the Jordan River (see Matthew 3:56; Mark 1:5). He also taught the people to treat others with kindness and to share what they had with those who were in need (see Luke 3:11, Luke 3:14).

Summary

John the Baptist was a prophet who lived in the wilderness of Judea. His mission was to prepare people for the coming of Jesus Christ. John taught the people repentance and baptism for the remission of sins. Many believed his words and came to be baptized.

Artist, Del Parson

My Word: Almost all pictures we see of John has him wearing very rough clothing. But I was watching TV this past week and saw a picture of a Middle Eastern man (I cannot remember who) that raised specific camels to use their hair for weaving his clothing. The fabric was beautiful. Is it possible that John wore a very nice cloak? He was a Nazarite and therefore forbidden to cut any of his hair while under his oath. But personally I do not believe he looked like a wildman....but a man with reverence and dignity for his mission. You can read more about John in the BD.

Remember that the people are in a state of apostasy. They hadn't had a prophet for almost 400 years. Apparently what John preached to the people was accepted by the Jewish leaders as it doesn't appear that they gave John any trouble. What did he preach? Try here paying particular attention to #4.

How and why did John die? What was Jesus' reaction to learning of John's death? How did Jesus describe John?

John's integrity is something to be admired. He never sought for the honor that the people tried to give him. He continually pointed them to the Messiah and once Jesus started His ministry the people left John and followed Christ; as they should. There is no record of John showing jealousy...what a man.

Childhood of Jesus Christ

2010-01-01T06:09:00.001-07:00

Matthew 13:5556; Luke 2:40; Joseph Smith Translation, Matthew 3:2425
And the child grew, and waxed strong in spirit, filled with wisdom: and the grace of God was upon him. Luke 2:40

Jesus grew up in Galilee in the small town of Nazareth. There He had a loving family life with Joseph; His mother, Mary; and several brothers and sisters (see Matthew 13:5556). His childhood was probably much like that of other boys of that time. He learned Jewish law, did carpentry work with Joseph, studied the scriptures, and gained wisdom through prayer. (See James E. Talmage, Jesus the Christ, 3rd ed. [1916], 11112.)

As Jesus grew, the Spirit of God was strong in Him. He learned of His mission on earth and waited for the time of His baptism and ministry. (See Luke 2:40; Joseph Smith Translation, Matthew 3:2425.)

Summary

Jesus grew up in the small town of Nazareth, where He studied and learned, worked with Joseph, and worshiped. Jesus increased in wisdom, and the Spirit was with Him. He would be ready when the time came for His ministry to begin.

Artist, Del Parson

My Word: What lessons do you think Jesus learned from Joseph? When my kids are asked about who taught them what they say this...."Dad taught us how to work and also how to have fun." (They've yet to be able to put into words what they learned from me!) ;) I was going to look for something and accidentally hit a button that took me here. Click on the tabs to the left and read some of the stories. Are you as amazed as I am that there are so many "helps" at this web site? Look under Home and Family....anything there catch your eye?

Assignment: Think about what you would want your kids to say about you when asked, "What did your mother/father teach you?" What qualities do you need to work on? What qualities (I'm not sure that's the correct word here) do you need to get rid of? Again, make a list and go to work. Here is a great talk to give you some encouragement...."Good, Better, Best".

Boy Jesus in the Temple

2009-12-31T09:24:00.001-07:00

Luke 2:41-52; Joseph Smith Translation, Luke 2:46
After three days they found him in the temple, sitting in the midst of the doctors, and they were hearing him, and asking him questions. Joseph Smith Translation, Luke 2:46

When Jesus was 12 years old, He and His family traveled to Jerusalem for the Feast of the Passover. On the trip back to Nazareth, Joseph and Mary thought Jesus was among the group of family and friends they traveled with. But after a full day's journey, they realized Jesus was not with them. (See Luke 2:41-44.)

Joseph and Mary were worried and went back to Jerusalem to look for Jesus. For three days they searched for the young boy, finally finding Him in the temple, where He was teaching the wise men and answering their questions. (See Luke 2:45-46; Joseph Smith Translation, Luke 2:46.) "And all that heard him were astonished at his understanding and answers" (Luke 2:47).

Mary asked Jesus why He had done this, telling Him how she and Joseph had searched for Him, sorrowing. Jesus answered that He had been doing His Heavenly Father's work. Although Joseph and Mary knew that Jesus was to be the Savior, they did not understand His mission as well as He did. (See Luke 2:48-50.)

Jesus returned to Nazareth with Joseph and Mary and was an obedient son. As He grew older, He studied and learned; He was close to His Heavenly Father and well liked by other people. (See Luke 2:51-52.)

Summary

When Jesus was 12 years old, He went with His family to Jerusalem for the Feast of the Passover. On the way home, Joseph and Mary realized that Jesus was not with their group. They went back to Jerusalem to look for Him. After three days of searching, they found Jesus teaching the wise men in the temple. Those who heard Him were amazed at His understanding. Mary asked Him why He had stayed behind and made them worry. Jesus explained that He was doing the work of His Father in Heaven.

Artist, Grant Romney Clawson

MY Word: Which one of these pictures do you feel drawn to the most. The first one feels "cleaner" and more orderly to me. Also the boy seems older, like around 14 or 15...still very young. The second painting really captures his youth and innocence. Last month one of our Primary children turned 12, received the Aaronic Priesthood and began passing the Sacrament....he looked so small and innocent.

Oh my....I just finished reading from "The Mortal Messiah" book 1, to learn more about this episode of Jesus teaching in the temple. Now I'm so emotional...if this were paper there would be tear drops! ;)

Jesus, Mary, Joseph and probably other members of their family and friends would have traveled from Nazareth to the Temple in Jerusalem to attend the Feast of the Passover. They would have gone every year in March or April but this year was different for Jesus was now 12 and a "son of the Law". He would have had duties to fulfill in the temple, subject to fasting (according to the law) and no longer considered a child in preparation. We might liken this to us in this way....we are to fast from food and drink for 2 consecutive meals once a month and donate the money normally spent on those meals to the Fast Offering fund. We teach our children this concept by example then when they are baptized at 8 years of age they begin to fast with mom and dad.

Back to the temple ceremony: Joseph would have taken a perfect lamb (this would be a lamb of significant size not just a baby) and it would have been slaughtered (by the sacrificer...would that have been Joseph?), the blood sprinkled on the alter, portions of the animal would be burned, the meat given back to the family to be taken home and consumed. Read about temple SACRIFICES. Here is what I want you to ponder: As Jesus watched (perhaps participated in some way) this ritual what impressions do you think He may have received? Did he realize or just get an inkling that this whole ritual was in similitude of Him? This is my own speculation but perhaps that is why he went to the temple to talk to the teachers/doctors/scholars; to ask them questions and learn from them. I think He was not there to show off, denagrate, or offend them but through a series of questions and answers perhaps all were taught. Do you not learn this way...ask questions, discuss possibilities, accept and/or reject ideas, come to some conclusion? What's the best way to confirm information you have gathered? HINT: P---! Do you think Jesus did this?

Studying about this event has given me so much to think about. Thank you for this oppotunity!

Jesus Praying with His Mother

2009-12-29T17:20:00.005-07:00

Whew!....That was a long break. I hope everyone had a wonderful Christmas!

Luke 2:40, 51-52

John 19:26-27

Isn't this the sweetest picture? We have no scriptures that say...."and Mary taught Jesus to pray".... but we can draw upon our own experiences as parents and reason that she did so. From the above scriptures do you get a sense for Jesus and Mary's (his mother) relationship. His concern for her at the end of His life causes me to tear up.

"It is possible that Jesus attended the Jewish synagogues and was taught in the learning of the Jews by the rabbis. If so, much of what Jesus heard would have been a perversion of truth, for Judaism was in a state of apostasy. His most significant education, therefore, came through the Spirit from his Heavenly Father. Jesus testified of himself: "I do nothing of myself; but as my Father hath taught me, I speak these things." (John 8:28) And again: "The Father which sent me, he gave me a commandment, what I should say, and what I should speak." (John 12:49) Who taught Jesus what he knew? His Father, God the Father, taught him. That he was taught by wiser than mortal men is evident, and that he learned his lessons well, for the Prophet Joseph Smith said of him: "When still a boy, He had all the intelligence necessary to enable Him to rule and govern the kingdom of the Jews, and could reason with the wisest and most profound doctors of law and divinity, and make their theories and practice to appear like folly compared with the wisdom He possessed; but He was a boy only, and lacked physical strength even to defend His own person; and was subject to cold, to hunger, and to death." (more about his teaching the learned in the next post.)

Much of what we are taught today is questionable. The answers keep changing! John Bytheway (and LDS author....love his stuff) says: "Read the the book where the answers never change."....meaning the Scriptures!

Cute story that just happened in Primary last Sunday. While teaching a class I stated that when we speak to Heavenly Father we pray. Then asked, "How does Heavenly Father speak to us?" The answer I was hoping to get from them or to help them understand was....He speaks to us through the scriptures. A little 5 year old said,"Well, there's this voice inside your head and you have to listen to it." Out of the mouths of babes!

How do you begin to teach children about prayer? The best way is to set the example. Children learn best by watching and then doing, not just being told what/how to do something. Good teachers/mentors/parents guide and give correction when needed. One of the first prayers a child learns is to ask a blessing on the food. That prayer has all of the elements needed: Addressing our Heavenly Father, thank Him for blessings, ask for things that we need and close in the name of Jesus Christ. Hey guess what there is a Primary song about that very thing....listen to it here! Be sure and click button for words and music.

Two quotes:

"To better understand prayer, I have listened to the counsel of others, pondered the scriptures, and studied the lives of prophets and others. Yet what seems most helpful is seeing in my mind a child approaching trustingly a loving, kind, wise, understanding Father, who wants us to succeed.

Don't worry about your clumsily expressed feelings. Just talk to your Father. He hears every prayer and answers it in His way." (Ensign, Nov. 1989...Elder Richard G. Scott)

Next Quote:

"To pray....may I suggest a process to follow: go where you can be alone, go where you can think, go where you can kneel, go where you can speak out loud to Him....Now picture him in your mind's eye. Think to whom you are speaking, control your thoughts - don't let them wander, address him as your Father and your friend. Now tell him things you really feel to tell him - not trite phrases that have little meaning, but have a sincere, heartfelt conversation with him. Confide in him, ask him for forgiveness, plead with him, enjoy him, thank him, express your love to him, and then listen for his answers. (Ensign, January 1974...--H. Burke Peterson)

As a rebellious teenager I pictured a kindly, nonjudgemental, encouraging little ole grandpa type Heavenly Father. (Say someone like President Kimball...wink)

Today my Heavenly Father looks different in my mind....not old....still kind, encouraging, judgemental as in "I know you can do better than this"...... bold and powerful but always with perfect self control! What does he look like to you?

OK, I have a challenge for us....Let's read the Book of John once a month for the whole year. I have only read it straight through twice in my whole life....pathetic! Why John? Because this is the book where Jesus' words are used the most. There are 21 chapters in this book, I just read John 6...it took me 90 seconds to read 71 verses, the longest chapter in the Book of John. Now I know that reading isn't studying. You are not going to understand what He is teaching without indepth study but you will "hear" His voice and begin to understand more fully who He is. May I suggest you make a journal entry of what you know about Jesus and how you feel about Him now. We will check in periodically to find out what's changed.

Flight into Egypt

2009-12-16T09:54:00.003-07:00

Matthew 2

Just read the scripture reference....it explains it all! ;)

My Word: Contrary to some accounts and tradition we do not know where the wise men came from, who they were or how many there were. We don't know what "star" (be sure to read down to the highlighted references) led them to the Christ child but we do know the star was seen by many all over the world.

We also don't know how old Jesus was at the time of the wise men's visit but since Herod had all children 2 and younger killed I am assuming he is no longer an infant. Also the visit was to a "young child" perhaps another clue.

Herod was a horrible man and rightfully despised and feared. Any hint of another's coming to power and he would quash the rebellion! Remember that John the Baptist and his parents were effected by Herod's edict. I remember this scripture reference (Matthew 2:18) because my Grandfather was born in Ramah, NM so that event combined with the horror of the slaughter of children makes this reference stick in my mind.

Assignment: Just as the people were given signs of the birth of Christ we are given signs of His return. Are you watching for the signs of the Second Coming of the Messiah? Where would you find a list of the signs? Were people converted to Christ because of the signs or something else? What would be a better gift (you may want to be comforted :HINT!) to have than the knowledge of the signs? What must you do to receive this Gift? Try here, #4!

Simeon Reverencing the Christ Child

2009-12-14T07:22:00.003-07:00

Luke 2:22-39

MY Word: Living the Law of Moses required certain rituals to be performed at the Temple. Bethlehem is only about 5 miles from Jerusalem, so after Mary had completed her 40 days of purification she and Joseph took Jesus to the Temple to offer sacrifices and ordinances concerning the firstborn son. Read the reference above carefully. What monetary circumstances were Joseph and Mary in? If Heavenly Father places his Son in poor but humble conditions is there a lesson for us? Would you rather have love and time with family or stuff that we have to work so hard and long hours to pay for? What were Simeon's duties at the Temple? If he performed ordinances for all firstborn son's do you think he performed them robotically or do you think with each child he questioned in his heart, "Is this the Saviour?" Do you think that after years of faithful service Heavenly Father would just ignore his question? I don't think so!

And finally we have Anna. 20='s a score so you do the math or read her reference. Again a faithful servant who, I'm sure, questioned and learned at the Temple on a daily basis. We (in the LDS religion) have a phrase to describe Simeon and Anna; they were "in tune with the Spirit (meaning the Holy Ghost)" and recognized through this gift the Saviour of the world.

Assignment: Using Simeon and Anna as examples what steps can we take to develop "tuning into the Holy Ghost"? Here are a few things that come to my mind: Be where we are suppose to be ~I think they both were doing their Temple duties. What are your duties at work, in your church, in your family, etc.? Where ever you have responsibilities LEARN, ask yourself: am I giving my best, what can I improve, how can I be more helpful, ask WHY and find the answer! Be generous with your knowledge, although they shared their knowledge with those that would understand and gave reverence to their words. (What is that other scripture reference that goes something like this....cast not your pearls before swine.) Give thanks and acknowledge Heavenly Father's hand in your learning process and life!

The Announcement of Christ's Birth to the Shepherds

2009-12-10T08:46:00.003-07:00

Luke 2:820
And there were in the same country shepherds abiding in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night. And, lo, the angel of the Lord came upon them, and the glory of the Lord shone round about them: and they were sore afraid. Luke 2:89

On the night Jesus was born, there were shepherds in the field watching over their flocks. An angel of the Lord appeared and the shepherds were frightened, but the angel said:

"Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people.

"For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord.

"And ... ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger" (Luke 2:1012).

Suddenly there appeared a multitude of angels praising God and saying, "Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men" (Luke 2:14; see also Luke 2:13).

When the angels had gone, the shepherds said to one another, "Let us now go ... unto Bethlehem, and see this thing which is come to pass, which the Lord hath made known unto us" (Luke 2:15). Hurrying to Bethlehem, the shepherds found Mary and Joseph, and the baby Jesus lying in a manger (see Luke 2:16).

Later, as the shepherds returned to their flocks, telling the people abroad what the angel had said about Jesus, they glorified and praised God for all they had heard and seen (see Luke 2:1718).

Summary

The night Jesus was born, an angel of the Lord appeared to shepherds tending their flocks. The angel announced the Savior's birth in Bethlehem and told the shepherds they would find the baby wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger. Suddenly many angels appeared to the shepherds, praising God and declaring peace on earth. The shepherds hurried to Bethlehem and found the baby Jesus, just as the angel had said. As the shepherds returned to their sheep, they told others of the glorious things they had heard and seen.

Artist, Del Parson

My Word: Now you know the circumstances surrounding Jesus' birth. Answer the question that Jesus asks the Pharisees found in Matthew 22:42. Are you more like the shepherds or the Pharisees? Do you rush to learn of Him or try to justify your defiance to his commandments?

A word about the shepherds...why would the angel and host of angels appear to them? I don't have a scriptural reference or modern revelation to back up this theory so be clear this is only my opinion!....They took care of the lambs that would be offered for sacrifice at the temple. In the New Testament there are many references to lambs and shepherds; symbolic of Jesus and His love and care for us. I think the shepherds would have often discussed the purpose of sacrificing the lambs they loved and took care of therefore they would be more prepared to meet the Lamb of God.

The Birth of Jesus

2009-12-08T07:00:00.005-07:00

Isaiah 7:14; Luke 2:1-16; 1 Nephi 11:13-21; Alma 7:10

When was Jesus born...what season? In the first picture the shepherds aren't wearing shirts...I wonder why? How would you (or your wife) like to give birth in a stable, barn, animal shelter? Look here to find out more about the artist of the first picture. Near the bottom of that page are some interesting observations from children, don't pass them up.

Look what I found... "Christmas" .... so many great ideas here!

I love the poem at the beginning of this talk....it is so true! As I told my grandson,..."Its not what you buy that makes you happy, it's what's in your heart." Happiness is a feeling...not something you play with. Of course a five year old thinks a bit differently but can be taught the true meaning of Christmas.

On the Christmas site are some great suggestions to make the Season more meaningful...which ideas appeal to you and how can you impliment them?

Another favorite reminder:

"Maybe Christmas doesn't come from the store. Maybe Christmas perhaps means a little bit more"~The Grinch

Soften your heart and let the Spirit of the Chirst-child in.

Merry Christmas!

Joseph and Mary Travel to Bethlehem

2009-12-07T07:27:00.003-07:00

Luke 2:1-5

MY Word:

What manner of man was Joseph? Read Matthew 1:18-25. Again what characteristics would Heavenly Father want in the man that was going to be raising His Son here on earth? Joseph could have had Mary put to death or at least publicly humiliated her yet he chose neither of those options. He would handle this privately, not just for his sake but also for Mary's...he loved her. The angle tells him not to fear taking her to wife....it seems to me that even though she was expecting another man's child Joseph wanted to be married to her. Can you just feel the relief that they both felt when this whole matter was settled?!

Read more about Joseph and Mary here in section (3-3). When I hear the term "Gentleman" used I often think of Joseph.

The distance from Nazareth (where Joseph and Mary lived) to Bethlehem was between 70 to 80 miles. We don't know a lot of details about the trip but for Mary I think it would have been uncomfortable! Joseph would have left his work for longer than most, to travel slower for Mary's sake.

When they arrived in Bethlehem the scriptures tell us there was no room for them in the inn. I have had this quote on my refrigerator for years now....

"Each of us is an innkeeper who decides if there is room for Jesus!"

(Ensign, Nov. 1992. pg. 66) Elder Neal A. Maxwell (one of the Twelve Apostles, now deceased.)

How will you make room for Him today?

The Annunciation: The Angel Gabriel Appears to Mary

2009-12-05T09:20:00.006-07:00

See Isaiah 7:14; Luke 1:26-38; Mosiah 3:8; Alma 7:10

My Word:

The purpose of true prophets is to declare the words of Jesus Christ. All true prophets testify of him (Mosiah 13:33; see also Prophets, Mission of.) Isaiah, King Benjamin (Mosiah was his son), and Alma (just to name a few) all knew of Jesus' birth years in advance and testified of the event. They knew of Mary and the miraculous birth. Members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints should have a firm testimony of this event as we have The Book of Mormon; Another Testament of Jesus Christ. In 1st Nephi 11 right at the beginning of his great vision Nephi sees Mary being chosen and the birth of Christ. More on that of course when we get to the Book of Mormon pictures.

You will notice that Gabriel (who is he again?...use the Bible Dictionary) tells both Zacharias and Mary "Fear not"; why does he say that? According to James E. Talmage in Jesus The Christ, he explains:" ....the people regarded personal visitations of heavenly beings as occurrences of the past; they had come almost to believe that there were no longer prophets in Israel. Nevertheless, there was always a feeling of anxiety, akin to that of troubled expectancy, whenever a priest approached the inner sanctuary, which was regarded as the particular abode of Jehovah should He ever again condescend to visit His people. In view of these conditions we read without surprise that this angelic presence troubled Zacharias and caused fear to fall upon him." We can assume that Mary, having been raised in the same conditions, would feel the same way. ~I've never had a "visitation" but I think I may need to have the same reassurance of "Fear not"!

Those words may have been more necessary after the message than before Mary knew what message the Angel was to deliver! My heart has often been saddened when thinking about the judgements that were passed on her by people ignorant of the circumstances. Hopefully, this experience helps me keep my own judgements in check. What characteristics do you think Mary possessed that Heavenly Father would choose her as the mother of His Son? Think about that carefully...full of love?, yes....indulgent?...I don't think so! Patient?...yes, oblivious?...no! Really think about how Heavenly Father would want His son raised and apply that to your own parenting.

In Addition: In "Daughters of God, Scriptural Portraits" by S. Michael Wilcox, he writes about Mary rushing to Elisabeth:

"Mary may have gone to Elisabeth because she wanted to share her own marvelous secret with someone who would understand, but I believe Mary also went "with haste" to share in the happiness of Elisabeth. Elisabeth shared in Mary's joy and proclaimed, 'Blessed art thou among women, and blessed is the fruit of thy womb'. Added to their natural joy over the anticipated birth of their sons was the knowledge that the long awaited Messiah soon would redeem his people.

"Many women have a natural capacity to be as thrilled over their sisters' blessings as over their own. This is a godly quality---one we would all do well to emulate. It is a quality that destroys envy, jealousy, and pride." ~I added the emphasis...if we compare ourselves with others we develop these last three qualities but when we rejoice with each other...pooof....gone! Go ahead test that theory...do you agree or not?

Why is it important to know that Jesus is the Son of God? You may want to review the second post of this blog for the answer.

Gabriel, Zacharias, Elisabeth and John

2009-12-02T15:36:00.003-07:00

Once again I wish I had a picture for every event but it is not to be. I just could not go forward without telling you about Zacharias so here we go....

Read: Luke 1

After years of praying for a child and while serving in the temple Zacharias is visited by Gabriel. Just a little information about Zacharias's temple service; he would serve in the temple for one week twice a year. A priest, chosen by casting lots, ~this was done to ensure that everyone had equal opportunity....there were so many priests that the chances of doing this once let alone more than once was very remote~ would enter the temple and light the incense.

Taken from "Jesus The Christ" by James E. Talmage, pg. 72.

"On this day the lot had fallen to Zacharias. It was a very solemn occasion in the life of the humble Judean priest -- this one day in his life on which the special and particularly sacred service was required of him. ...The place and the time were conducive to the highest and most reverential feelings. As Zacharias ministered within the Holy Place, the people without bowed themselves in prayer, watching for the clouds of incense smoke to appear above the great partition which formed the barrier between the place of general assembly and the Holy Place, and awaited the reappearance of the priest and his pronouncement of the benediction.

"Before the astonished gaze of Zacharias, at this supreme moment of his priestly service, there appeared, standing on the right of the golden altar of incense, an angel of the Lord." (Remember the people hadn't had revelations for many years and thought they were something that happened only in the past.)

What was Zacharias's reaction to the announcement of being a father? What happened to Zacharias as a result of his reaction? Elisabeth (again a woman who had waited and prayed for a child her whole married life) was a cousin to Mary (the mother of Jesus.) Again read all of Luke 1.
In the last verse where was John and why was he there?
Read here beginning at (3-5) Jesus and John Escape Herod's Wrath.

We will learn more about John and his mission later.

Zacharias has become a hero to me! Elisabeth....how did she keep John alive and safe? Was she alone? These are some strong people we could take some lessons from.

Next post back to the pictures.

End of the Old Testament....Beginning of the New!

2009-11-29T09:40:00.007-07:00

There are approximately 400 years between the Testaments. Would you agree that much can happen in that amount of time? The following information (very condensed) is taken from "Old Testament, Student Manual, 1 Kings-Malachi" (these are Institute (college age) study manuals....very helpful to understand all scriptures.)

The End of the Prophetic Voice to Israel
"For years Israel had denied, dishonored, persecuted, fought, and rebelled against the prophets. Now at last the prophets were dead. Malachi was the last of the true prophets to minister to Israel; with him died the prophetic era. Dead too was the hope of Israel. God had desired that this nation be holy, his peculiar treasure. Upon her he had promised to heap his riches, glory and power:"I will abundantly bless her provision: I will satisfy her poor with bread. I will also clothe her priests with salvation: and her saints shall shout aloud for joy." (Psalm 132:15-16) Not only this, but He desired to have her sufficiently pure that He could make her cities His place of habitation. Indeed, she was to become Zion, where the Lord declared he would make his abode forever. (See Psalm 132:13-14) By rejecting the prophets, Israel forfeited the promises and potential of becoming like Enoch's people.

"Now came the dark years when there was no voice to declare "Thus saith the Lord." One would expect the death of the prophets to have been met with joy and rejoicing among the people who rejected the prophets, but just the opposite happened. The people mourned their loss.

"These, too, were the years when the priesthood became nearly powerless. Temple worship lapsed into mere ritual, and the spiritual breath of Israel nearly ceased. Some of the seed of Levi continued to honor the priesthood. Through these few streams of virtue the water of spiritual life trickled, preventing the broken cisterns that Israel had dug for herself from becoming completely dry (see Jeremiah 2:13.)

The Rise of the Scribes
"When Judah returned from exile in Babylon, she brought back with her a number of things that were not a part of her original beliefs. If one of these could be picked out to typify all the rest and symbolize what they meant, it would be the scribes. The scribes were originally educated men who made their livelihood keeping the records of the empire or as copyists of the scriptures. These they studied diligently, both to detect scribal errors and to understand the meaning of the scriptures. Eventually their role expanded. Not only did they supply copies of the scriptures to the growing number of synagogues, but they also became teachers of the law. As long as Israel had prophets, the scribes remained teachers and copyists. But when the prophetic voice ceased in Israel, these experts in the law of Moses began to fill the vacuum.

Pharisees and Sadducees
"At this point in history two very important Jewish groups emerged. They both became powerful and rival sects. (More on these later.)

Conclusion
"For four hundred years the heavens had been silent; not since Malachi had there been a prophet in Israel. Though services had been interrupted, the temple rites had continued during most of that time. Priests had made the proper sacrifice on the great alter, and the people had continued to pray daily while a priest had offered incense upon the altar in the holy place.

"Revelation had ceased, but the outer rites had continued. All had gone like clockwork until one day a priest named Zacharias did not reappear as quickly as he should have from the holy place after his service. The people began to marvel and conjecture. And well they should have, for once again the veil had been lifted, and God's word was proclaimed. The humble and aged Zacharias, of the priestly order of Abia, stood in the presence of an angel. "Thy prayer is heard; and thy wife Elisabeth shall bear thee a son... And his shall... make ready a people prepared for the Lord." (Luke 1:13,17.) This long-desired child was to be a messenger who would go forth in the spirit and power of Elias to declare that the kingdom of God was at hand. Once more Israel would be extended the covenant and the promise. Once more the keys and power were proffered to her. Once more she could become the nation of Jehovah. He who came to prepare the way was called John. Israel had a prophet once again, only this time the prophet would tell of Jehovah. He would be the forerunner, the prophet that would prepare the way for Jehovah's coming to earth as the Son of God and the Messiah that Judah had awaited for so long. And thus the Old Testament, or old covenant, was brought to a close and the New Testament, or new covenant, begun.

MY Word:
Take the time to follow the links and learn more about the above mentioned events and people. Have you ever watched "Fiddler On the Roof"?...watch it. It gives me a sense of how and why the Jews have been able to keep their religion, customs, way of life... alive for thousands of years. Compare their culture with "American" culture...how quickly and how many things have we change in 234 years?! (I barely understand the spoken word of the teenagers not to mention TEXTING!) ;)

~How do you feel about prophets? Do you wish they would just speak "easy, soft" words? Do you just want them to "get off my back"? Are you comforted by their presence but only when you seek them for advice? How are you (am I) like the Jews of old? Would we mourn the prophets if they were gone? Just for the record I wouldn't want to live without prophets! Heavenly Father directs our lives through his prophet...I mean just do as the prophet asks and your life will be better over time! Of that I am absolutely certain!

~I'll fill you in more about Zacharias in the next post.

Esther

2009-11-22T18:54:00.004-07:00

Esther 3 :8-15; 4; 7

Esther, Book of in the Bible Dictionary gives a good summary of Esther and her Uncle Mordecai.

My Word: Esther was written the same time as Ezra, just before Malachi but is placed in the Old Testament before Jeremiah and the diaspora (which one, I'm not sure) of the Jews.

Wow!....Esther's story is very applicable to our day! Of course the most oft quoted scripture from Esther is Esther 4:14. F. M. Bareham wrote:
"We fancy God can manage His world only with great battalions, when all the time He is doing it with beautiful babies.

"When a wrong wants righting, or a truth wants preaching, or a continent wants discovering, God sends a baby into the world." (In Spencer W. Kimball, Faith Precedes the Miracle, p. 323.)

We have evidence that some people are called to do certain things in this life. Read: Jeremiah 1:5 If Jeremiah and Esther were called to fulfill specific duties do you think it's possible that you are to fulfill specific assignments as well? Do you find any similarities between Mordecai's words to Esther in 4:13-14 and political situations of our time? Ponder: What steps did Esther take before petitioning God for intervention? Gather (not necessarily in the same place but in participation) your support group (family, friends, people of like mind) fast (I'm learning - and it's about time!- that fasting is much more than abstaining from food and drink...do I need to fast from some TV viewing, certain music, perhaps a bad habit, etc) and pray with full purpose of heart! Try it...Heavenly Father is only a prayer away!

Daniel in the Lions' Den

2009-11-15T15:49:00.003-07:00

Daniel 6
My God hath sent his angel, and hath shut the lions' mouths, that they have not hurt me. Daniel 6:22

King Darius of Babylon chose 120 princes to rule his kingdom. He also chose three presidents over these princes. Daniel, a righteous man, was the first of the three presidents "because an excellent spirit was in him" (Daniel 6:3; see also Daniel 6:12).

The other presidents and princes were jealous of Daniel. They tried to find a reason to complain to the king about him, but they could not. (See Daniel 6:4.)

Finally, the other rulers decided on a plan to get Daniel in trouble. They knew that Daniel prayed every day. So they asked King Darius to sign a decree that for the next 30 days no one could ask a favor of any God or man, except of the king. Anyone who disobeyed the decree would be thrown into a den of lions. King Darius signed the decree. (See Daniel 6:59.)

Though Daniel heard about the decree, he continued to pray three times a day in his home, as he had done before (see Daniel 6:10). The jealous rulers saw Daniel praying (see Daniel 6:11). They went to King Darius and reminded him, "Hast thou not signed a decree, that every man that shall ask a petition of any God or man within thirty days, save of thee, O king, shall be cast into the den of lions?" The king answered, "The thing is true" (Daniel 6:12). They then informed the king that Daniel had been praying to his God (see Daniel 6:13).

The king loved Daniel and did not want him to be killed. He tried to find a way to save Daniel, but he could not change the decree. (See Daniel 6:1415.) So Daniel was thrown into the den of lions. The sorrowful king told Daniel, "Thy God whom thou servest continually, he will deliver thee" (Daniel 6:16). A large rock was placed over the opening to the lions' den (see Daniel 6:17).

King Darius spent the night fasting. He could not sleep. Early in the morning he hurried to the den of lions. (See Daniel 6:1819.) The anguished king cried out, "O Daniel, servant of the living God, is thy God, whom thou servest continually, able to deliver thee from the lions?" (Daniel 6:20).

From within the den came Daniel's voice: "My God hath sent his angel, and hath shut the lions' mouths, that they have not hurt me" (Daniel 6:22).

The king was joyful. He commanded that Daniel be taken out of the den. Because of Daniel's faith, God had protected him. (See Daniel 6:23.)

The men who had accused Daniel were thrown into the den and were killed by the lions (see Daniel 6:24). King Darius signed another decree that everyone in his kingdom should fear and tremble before Daniel's God (see Daniel 6:2527).

Summary

Powerful men were jealous of Daniel, who was favored by King Darius. These men tricked the king into signing a law which said that anyone who prayed, except to him, would be cast into a den of lions. Daniel knew this but still prayed to God three times a day. When Daniel was caught praying, King Darius tried to save Daniel but could not. Daniel was thrown into the den of lions. Early the next morning the king ran to the lions' den. Daniel was safe. He had been protected by an angel sent from God.

Artist, Clark Kelley Price

My Word: We often teach this miracle from the viewpoint of Daniel being saved from the lions. There is another miracle. I wonder about King Darius...was he so easily flattered into making ultimatums? It seems a bit contradictory to me that he couldn't undo the decree until after Daniel received his punishment yet...within a short period he sent out another decree telling the "kingdom to tremble and fear the God of Daniel"...see verse 26. He seems a little wishy-washy to me but I could be wrong. So...what is the other miracle? Darius loved Daniel so much he broke his own decree by fasting (true fasting is accompanied by prayer.) He obviously wasn't praying to himself!

Quote that I have written in my scriptures (it's been there a long time!) but I don't know who said it:

"When someone says something unkind about me, I will live so no one will believe it."

For some reason the story of Daniel and Darius reminds me of this quote. Darius knew of the goodness of Daniel, he never doubted Daniel's integrity.

ASSIGNMENT: Live in such a way that you can go forth with boldness...not arrogance but gentle confidence. You decide what you want people to say or think about you! Live in such a way that if something negative is said it will not be believed...especially by you! Make a list of attributes you want to have and get to work.

Three Men in the Fiery Furnace

2009-11-15T15:48:00.003-07:00

Daniel 3
Lo, I see four men loose, walking in the midst of the fire, and they have no hurt; and the form of the fourth is like the Son of God. Daniel 3:25

King Nebuchadnezzar of Babylon made a large golden image and called all the princes, governors, captains, judges, and other rulers in the kingdom to come to the dedication of this image. As these people stood before the idol, one of the king's officials cried out that when the music played, everyone was commanded to fall down and worship the golden image. Anyone who didn't do this would be thrown into a fiery furnace. (See Daniel 3:16.)

The music sounded, and the people fell down to worship the golden image. But among the group were three Jewish men—Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed-nego—who would not worship the idol. They believed in Heavenly Father and knew that worshiping idols was wrong. Some of the rulers reported this to the king. (See Daniel 3:712.)

King Nebuchadnezzar was angry and commanded that the three men be brought to him (see Daniel 3:13). He asked them, "Is it true, O Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed-nego, do not ye serve my gods, nor worship the golden image which I have set up?" (Daniel 3:14). Then he said he would give them one more chance. The music would play again, and if the three men fell down to worship the image, all would be well. But if they still refused, they would immediately be thrown into a burning fiery furnace. (See Daniel 3:15.)

Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed-nego told the king that they knew their God could deliver them from the furnace if He chose to. But even if He did not deliver them, they would never worship false gods or this golden image. (See Daniel 3:1618.)

This made King Nebuchadnezzar even more furious. He ordered that the furnace be heated seven times hotter than usual; then he commanded his mightiest soldiers to tie up the three men and throw them into the fiery furnace. The soldiers did as the king asked, and the fire was so hot that it killed them as they threw Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed-nego into the flames. (See Daniel 3:1923.)

Suddenly the king, who had been watching, jumped up and asked, "Did not we cast three men bound into the midst of the fire?" (Daniel 3:24). His counselors answered, "True, O king" (Daniel 3:24). Then the king continued, "Lo, I see four men loose, walking in the midst of the fire, and they have no hurt; and the form of the fourth is like the Son of God" (Daniel 3:25).

King Nebuchadnezzar then came near the opening of the furnace. He called, "Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed-nego, ye servants of the most high God, come forth," and the three walked out of the fire (see Daniel 3:26). The other rulers had gathered around and could see that not one hair on the three men's heads had been burned. They didn't even smell of fire. (See Daniel 3:27.)

When the king saw this, he praised the God of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed-nego for delivering them from the furnace. He sent a decree throughout the land that no one was to speak against their God, and he promoted Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed-nego to higher positions in Babylon. (See Daniel 3:2830.)

Summary

King Nebuchadnezzar built a golden statue and commanded everyone to worship it. Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed-nego knew they should worship only Heavenly Father and refused to bow down to the idol. The king was angry and commanded that they be thrown into a fiery furnace. He was amazed then to see Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed-nego calmly walking in the hot fire with a fourth man whose form was "like the Son of God." The king called the three men out of the furnace. They were not harmed. He praised their God for saving them, and sent out a decree that no one should speak against the God of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed-nego.

Artist, William Maughan

MY Word: What do you think the purpose of this story being included in the scriptures, especially in the Book of Daniel, is? Here are a few reasons I've been thinking about....Daniel wasn't the only one who stayed true to his religious upbringing while in captivity. These three (that saves me from typing their names!) didn't compromise their integrity under intense social and political pressure. Is it easier to stand for something in a group?

ASSIGNMENT: Do we have other examples of valiant integrity? Try these: Acts 7....especially verses 51-60; what about that young punk who had clothes laid down at his feet...what ever happened to him?! And these....Mosiah 17; Joseph Smith History 1, especially verses 21-26. We have examples all around us that live daily their beliefs but it is usually through history that we learn about them. Think about our Founding Father's and those who signed the Declaration of Independence....we owe them such a debt of gratitude! Knowing what we owe them, what do we owe Heavenly Father and His Son? Who are your heros...one of mine is Cory ten Boom (The Hiding Place) I'm in awe of her and her family! Resolve to "stand as witnesses of God, at all times, in all things, and in all places".... you can do it!

Daniel Interprets Nebuchadnezzar's Dream

2009-11-15T15:47:00.003-07:00

Daniel 2
The great God hath made known to the king what shall come to pass hereafter: and the dream is certain, and the interpretation thereof sure. Daniel 2:45

King Nebuchadnezzar had a dream that troubled him. He called for some of his wise men to explain what the dream meant. (See Daniel 2:13.) The problem was that the king could not remember his dream. He ordered them to tell him both the dream and its meaning, threatening to kill them if they couldn't. When these men answered that no one could tell the king his dream, Nebuchadnezzar commanded that all the wise men in Babylon be killed. (See Daniel 2:56, Daniel 2:1012.)

Daniel, one of the captives the Babylonians had taken from Jerusalem, was among those who were to be slain. When he learned about the danger, he told the king's captain he would interpret the dream if the king would give him time. Daniel asked his friends Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed-nego to pray with him. They asked Heavenly Father to show Daniel the dream, and the Lord revealed the dream to Daniel in a vision. (See Daniel 2:1323; see also Daniel 1:7.)

Daniel went to the king's captain and told him he could interpret the dream (see Daniel 2:24). The captain rushed Daniel to King Nebuchadnezzar. After saying that God had shown him the dream, Daniel described the image the king had seen. The image's head was made of gold, his breast and arms of silver, his belly and thighs of brass, his legs of iron, and his feet of part iron and part clay. Daniel said that a great stone struck the image's feet and broke them. Then the stone grew and filled the whole earth. (See Daniel 2:2835.)

Interpreting the dream, Daniel told the king, "Thou art this head of gold" (Daniel 2:38). Then he said an inferior kingdom, represented by the silver, would arise after Nebuchadnezzar's. A third kingdom would then rule the world, followed by a fourth. This last kingdom would be divided, like the feet of iron and clay: part strong and part weak. During the reign of these kings, God would set up a kingdom that would destroy all other kingdoms and stand forever. (See Daniel 2:3645.)

When Daniel was finished, King Nebuchadnezzar fell down before him and said, "Of a truth ... your God is a God of gods, and a Lord of kings, and a revealer of secrets" (Daniel 2:47; see also Daniel 2:46).

The king made Daniel a ruler in Babylon, gave him many gifts, and made him the chief over all the wise men. At Daniel's request, the king also made Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed-nego rulers. (See Daniel 2:4849.)

Summary

King Nebuchadnezzar had an important dream that he could not remember. He commanded some of his wise men to describe the dream and explain it. When they said this could not be done, Nebuchadnezzar ordered that all the wise men of Babylon be killed. Daniel was one of those who would be killed. He and his friends asked the Lord for mercy, and the Lord showed Daniel the dream and its meaning. Daniel then described the dream to King Nebuchadnezzar and explained what it meant. The king was pleased, and as a reward he made Daniel and his friends rulers in Babylon.

Artist, Grant Romney Clawson

MY Word: In the summary it seems as if Daniel and friends were unaware of the King's request until the death sentence was imposed...NOW they are motivated! How difficult, bad, uncomfortable do you have to become to make changes?!

ASSIGNMENT: List some things you feel like you would like to change. Perhaps focus more on the type of person you would like to become and what kind of efforts you need to make to become that person. (Do you see the difference in what those two lists would look like?) Now read Alma 32:13-16 (pg. 289 in the Book of Mormon) and Doctrine and Covenants 58:26.

Remember, Daniel asked for time....it takes time and effort (prayer and scripture study is the best effort!) to bring about change. Give yourself a year then look back and be amazed! You might just save your life!

Daniel Refusing the King's Meat and Wine

2009-11-15T15:45:00.005-07:00

Daniel 1
But Daniel purposed in his heart that he would not defile himself with the portion of the king's meat, nor with the wine which he drank. Daniel 1:8

After King Nebuchadnezzar had captured Jerusalem and brought many captives back to Babylon, he ordered that some of the captive children be brought to the palace to be trained in the language and customs of his land. He wanted young people who were handsome and wise and who understood science and other subjects. The king ordered his servant to give these youth his best food and wine. Then, after teaching and nourishing these children for three years, the servant was to bring them before the king. (See Daniel 1:15.)

Among these youth of Judah were four young men named Daniel, Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed-nego. Daniel and his friends did not want to eat the king's food nor drink his wine because they knew it would not be good for them. When they told this to the servant, he was afraid. He thought the king would kill him if Daniel and his friends did not look as healthy as the other young men their age. (See Daniel 1:610.)

Daniel pleaded with the servant to allow him and his three friends to eat only grains and vegetables and drink water for 10 days. At the end of the 10 days, the servant could decide whether these four boys looked less healthy than the children who ate the king's food. The servant agreed to try this. (See Daniel 1:1214.)

After 10 days the servant could see that these four young men looked healthier than all the others. He started feeding all the youth the type of food that Daniel had requested. (See Daniel 1:1516.)

Daniel and his friends grew in wisdom and knowledge, and the Lord also blessed Daniel to be able to understand the meanings of visions and dreams (see Daniel 1:17).

At the end of the three years, when all the young people were taken before King Nebuchadnezzar, none could compare with Daniel, Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed-nego. The king found them to be 10 times wiser and more knowledgeable than all the magicians and astrologers in the land. (See Daniel 1:1820.)

Summary

After King Nebuchadnezzar conquered Jerusalem, he ordered that certain Israelite children live in his palace to study the language and learning of Babylon. They were to be given the king's food and wine. Four of these young people, Daniel and his friends, would not eat such foods because they knew they shouldn't. Daniel asked the king's servant to let him and his friends eat only grains and vegetables and drink water. They grew more healthy than the children who ate the king's food. When Daniel and his friends stood before the king, he found them 10 times wiser than all the wise men in the land.

Artist, Del Parson

My Word: Daniel lived in Jerusalem at the same time as Lehi. It's possible that he was close to the same age as Nephi. (There is no evidence that Nephi and Daniel knew each other.) Daniel was probably part of the royal family or well-to-do family as he was well educated. There are a few reasons why Daniel refused to eat the King's food. "(1) Some of the foods used by the Babylonians were likely among the items forbidden for consumption in the Mosaic law. (2) Babylonians, like other heathens, ate beasts that had not been properly drained of blood and thereby violated the Mosaic law (3) The heathens consecrated the food at their feasts by offering up part of the food and drink as sacrifices to their gods. Consuming such food would be participating in the worship of false gods. More over, food was viewed as contaminated and unclean according to Jewish law when it was prepared by anyone considered unclean, such as the heathens. Daniel was strictly loyal to the Lord and refused to be involved in any practice associated with anything unclean or idolatrous." (Old Testament, Student Manual, pg. 297)

ASSIGNMENT: Look up "Pulse" in the BD. What is it? What do we know about this way of eating today? Do we have a dietary law given to us? Read Doctrine and Covenants 89. List the do's and don't's....where can you make improvements? If you have questions click around lds.org and see what Prophets teach about the Word of Wisdom. What is the blessing associated with this commandment? HINT: If you want to know the blessing read it all!

Isaiah Writes of Christ's Birth

2009-11-12T06:21:00.008-07:00

Isaiah 7:14; Isaiah 9:67
Therefore the Lord himself shall give you a sign; Behold, a virgin shall conceive, and bear a son, and shall call his name Immanuel. Isaiah 7:14

Isaiah was a prophet of God who prophesied to the people of Israel that the Savior Jesus Christ would be born to a pure and righteous woman. Isaiah said the Savior would be called "Immanuel" (Isaiah 7:14), a name which signifies that Jesus would save His people (see Bible Dictionary, "Immanuel," 706). Isaiah also prophesied that Jesus would be called "Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace" (Isaiah 9:6), and that He would rule over all the earth (see Isaiah 9:7).

Summary

Isaiah, an Old Testament prophet, foretold the birth of our Savior, Jesus Christ.

Artist, Harry Anderson

My Word: The time distance between Isaiah and Nephi (Book of Mormon) is about the same time distance between Joseph Smith and us...150 to 200 years. Isaiah's words are wonderful but his writing style is difficult to understand. I think this may be very deliberate because if you really want to know great things you have to greatly study! Personal Experience: several years ago I was reading the scriptures daily for hours at a time....I just could not get enough. Even though Isaiah was difficult I struggled through. When I read his words for the umteenth time in the Book of Mormon I loved them. I even read 2nd Nephi twice in a row that's how much I enjoyed it! Did I understand the context or the prophesies...no, but I was beginning to love the language, how he wrote. Then I quit reading. I tried reading 2 Nephi's Isaiah chapters a few years ago...it was like slogging through mud. It didn't make any sense to me at all. I did not enjoy reading Isaiah's words and realized that I had lost so much in the years of inconsistant scripture reading!

QUote: "Has someone ever recommended a book to you? Did it make any difference who recommended it? Did the recommendation influence your feelings toward the book? Ponder the following recommendation given the writings of Isaiah: "And now, behold, I say unto you, that ye ought to search these things. Yea, a commandment I give unto you that ye search these things diligently; for great are the words of Isaiah." (3 Nephi 23:1) " (Taken from the Old Testament, Student Manual, pg. 137) Assignment: Who said 'great are the words of Isaiah"? Does this change your mind about reading Isaiah? Also, look up Isaiah 52:2 read it. Does Isaiah seem to contradict himself? Use your footnotes...what is he actually saying? (This is one of my very favorite scriptures!) As I am looking through my Isaiah chapters with all of my notes and cross-references...."Great are the words of Isaiah!"

Jonah

2009-11-11T09:26:00.007-07:00

Jonah 1-3

My Summary: Jonah receives a call from God to go to Nineveh to tell the people to repent. "Jonah was torn between his loyalty to God and the whip of his emotions." (Sperry, Voice of Israel's Prophet, pp. 328-29.) Rebellion arose in Jonah's heart and he fled. (Perhaps he thought God would just send someone else to Nineveh and all would be forgiven and forgotten.) But God had many more lessons for Jonah to learn (and by extension, for us to learn.) So he boards a ship for Tarshish, a storm arises, the sailors fear for their lives, Jonah tells them he has disobeyed God and that they should throw him over, they resist until they see that they are about to die, they toss Jonah overboard, a large fish swallows Jonah, Jonah is in the fish for three days where upon Jonah repents and prays for forgiveness and help, the fish vomits him out on the shore, Jonah continues to Nineveh, he calls the people to repentance, they repent, Jonah is pouty that the Lord doesn't punish them, God teaches Jonah a few more lessons by making living conditions for Jonah very uncomfortable, one of the lessons is that every soul is worth saving.

My Word: Kids love this story! I see the same weaknesses in my own character as Jonah had. Some things I would rather not be asked to do. Let's not even think about how small I can be when it comes to what I think other people have brought on themselves. (I try to change these thoughts quickly when I become aware of where I allow them to stray!)

ASSINGMENT: Acknowledge your responsibilities, don't avoid them or run from them. Remember Jonah when you feel the urge to 'run/avoid'. Pray for strength. Read Mark 9:14-29 especially verses 23 and 24. I "know" some things but at times I still doubt....that's when I ask..."help thou mine unbelief". (FYI... see the little symbol after verses 2, 11, 14, etc. - that is the symbol of a "thought change". Pay attention to those instead of reading a chapter as one long event and the scriptures will make more sense.) If you keep getting the same experiences in life, you are not learning the correct lesson....ask Heavenly Father what you are suppose to learn and then make adjustments.

While you are clicking around the scriptures see if you can find out why Jonah was reluctant to go to Nineveh. HINT: Assyria

Elijah Contends against the Priests of Baal

2009-11-08T16:02:00.004-07:00

1 Kings 18:17-40

This picture is found in the Gospel Art Book (in this book are a few more pictures than in the Gospel Art Kit....but no stories are printed on the pictures.)

Click on the scripture reference above or look it up in your own scriptures (pg. 497) It's a great story!

WOW! I just clicked on the reference above and then continued to "click around".... there are NO excuses for not "knowing"!

MY WORD: Elijah must have been "highly favored" by God. I know of one other Prophet that used the Priesthood power to stop the rain from falling, that was Nephi (the son of Helaman). Read about Nephi and learn what he did to be given such power. Do you suppose that Elijah was the same type of man? What was the point of Elijah's challenge to the priests of Baal? How important is it to KNOW that the Prophet is called of God? If you KNOW this to be true, how does it change your heart, mind, choices? FYI: The reason Elijah had the alter and sacrifice soaked with water was because some alters of Baal were 'rigged' with firestarters under the sacrifice. Not only was Elijah's sacrifice wet but the fire came down to consume the offering, and everything around it!

ASSIGNMENT: Read 1 Kings 18:21....what choices are you struggling with? "Develop discipline of self so that, more and more, you do not have to decide and redecide what you will do when you are confronted with the same temptation time and time again. You only need to decide some things just once!" President Spencer W. Kimball (the Prophet when I was a teenager!) What changes will you make in your life to be more like Elijah and Nephi as far as "seeking the Lord's will and not thine own life"? (Believe it or not that is a big challenge for me!) In what ways is President Thomas S. Monson like Elijah and Nephi?

Temple Used Anciently

2009-11-06T08:47:00.004-07:00

Exodus 25:8; 1 Kings 6:1213; Psalm 24:34; D&C 124:2644
And let them make me a sanctuary; that I may dwell among them. Exodus 25:8

Temples of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, like those in ancient times, are holy buildings dedicated to the Lord. A temple, also called the house of the Lord, is a place where worthy Church members receive sacred ordinances and make solemn covenants with God. In these holy temples, families are sealed together forever. Although design and location vary, the work accomplished in each of the Lord's temples is the same.

Heavenly Father established a plan so that the blessings of the temple could be offered to all His children. Those people who have received their own ordinances are encouraged to return to the temple often to act as proxies for those who have died without having the opportunity of going to the temple for themselves.

When the Lord has a people on the earth ready to live His higher laws, they are commanded to build temples and are given the opportunity to receive eternal ordinances (see D&C 124:2644). Ancient temples, in both the old and new world, were considered places for the pure in heart (see Psalm 24:34) to draw closer to God and receive revelations and blessings from Him.

These sacred places were literally the house of the Lord, where He could dwell or where He could send His messengers (see Exodus 25:8; 1 Kings 6:1213).

Summary

Temples of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints are holy buildings dedicated to the Lord. A temple is also called the house of the Lord. It is a place where worthy Church members receive saving ordinances and make sacred covenants with God. In temples families can be sealed together forever. Ancient temples were considered places where people could come to draw closer to God and receive revelations and blessings from Him.

My Word: David eventually becomes the King of Israel and desires to build a permanent temple for the Lord. The Lord responds to David through Nathan, the prophet in 1 Chronicles 17 (pg. 571.) Although David is not permitted to build the temple he gathers supplies so that when his son, Solomon, becomes King all he has to do is basically build it. (Perhaps not that simply!)

David's story is bitter-sweet. Talk about the whole gambit of human experience...David does it all. One of the ideas that I had never thought about until this morning concerning David is this. Although he knew he had sinned grieviously, he repented and accepted the consequences of his sins. His consequences where awful and there wasn't just one but a series of events had been started when he sinned with Bathsheba. David acknowledges his role in the events, repents, lives with regret but never blames Heavenly Father or Jesus Christ for his circumstances. I admire him for this response.

Assignment: The Ten Commandments were the lesser law the people were asked to live by. To enter the Temple we are expected to live by a higher law (you receive that law in the temple.) How then do we prepare to enter the Temple? How are you doing with the 10 Commandments? Remember, we don't have to be perfect but we have to be at the very least trying! Every member of the Church over the age of 12 and if male holding the Priesthood, has work to do in the temple. Prepare yourself to do this work....HINT: visit with your Bishop!

David Slays Goliath

2009-11-05T06:28:00.004-07:00

1 Samuel 17
Then said David to the Philistine, Thou comest to me with a sword, and with a spear, and with a shield: but I come to thee in the name of the Lord of hosts, the God of the armies of Israel, whom thou hast defied. 1 Samuel 17:45

The Philistines and the Israelites were at war with each other. The Philistines gathered their armies on one mountain, while King Saul and the men of Israel gathered across the valley on the opposite mountain (see 1 Samuel 17:23).

Goliath was a giant Philistine soldier who was over nine feet tall. He wore heavy armor and a brass helmet and carried a large spear. (See 1 Samuel 17:47.)

Goliath shouted to the Israelite army to send a man to fight him. He said that if the Israelite killed him, the Philistines would be servants to the Israelites. But if Goliath killed the Israelite, then the Israelites would be servants to the Philistines. (See 1 Samuel 17:810.) King Saul and his army were afraid of Goliath (see 1 Samuel 17:11).

Goliath repeated his challenge each night and day for 40 days, but no one was brave enough to fight him (see 1 Samuel 17:16).

A man named Jesse had three sons who were part of Saul's army. But David, Jesse's youngest son, still lived in Bethlehem with his father. Jesse asked David to take some food to his three brothers and find out how they were doing. (See 1 Samuel 17:13, 1 Samuel 17:1718.)

While David was with his brothers, Goliath again shouted his challenge. The Israelites fled when they saw Goliath. (See 1 Samuel 17:2324.) David asked the soldiers, "Who is this ... Philistine, that he should defy [challenge] the armies of the living God?" (1 Samuel 17:26).

When Saul was told what David had said, he sent for him. David told Saul that he would fight Goliath. (See 1 Samuel 17:3132.) But Saul said to David, "Thou art not able to go against this Philistine to fight with him: for thou art but a youth, and he a man of war from his youth" (1 Samuel 17:33).

David told Saul that the Lord had helped him kill a lion and a bear while he tended his father's sheep. He said the Lord would help him as he fought Goliath. (See 1 Samuel 17:3437.) Saul said to David, "Go, and the Lord be with thee" (1 Samuel 17:37).

Then Saul gave David his armor, a helmet, and a sword, but they were too big and heavy for David. He removed the armor and took only his staff, five smooth stones, and a sling as he went to face the mighty Goliath. (See 1 Samuel 17:3840.)

When Goliath saw the young boy without armor, he made fun of him and cursed him (see 1 Samuel 17:4244). David said, "Thou comest to me with a sword, and with a spear, and with a shield: but I come to thee in the name of the Lord of hosts, the God of the armies of Israel" (1 Samuel 17:45). David told Goliath that with the Lord's help, he would kill him (see 1 Samuel 17:46).

As Goliath came near, David put a stone in his sling, swung the sling around his head, and let the stone go. The stone sank into Goliath's forehead, and Goliath fell to the ground. David then used Goliath's sword to kill the giant and cut off his head. When the Philistine army saw that Goliath was dead, they fled, but the men of Israel chased them and defeated them in battle. (See 1 Samuel 17:4853.)

Summary

Goliath, a giant Philistine soldier, challenged the Israelite army to send out a man to fight him. No Israelites were brave enough to stand against Goliath except David, a young shepherd. Armed with his faith in the Lord and with his sling, David went to fight the giant. Goliath made fun of the boy when he saw him, but David was not afraid. He trusted in the Lord's help. David put a stone in his sling, swung it, and let go. The stone sank into Goliath's forehead and he fell to the ground. David ran forward, picked up Goliath's sword, and cut off his head.

Artist, Ted Henninger

My Word: David is the Great-grandson of Ruth. He developed a strong testimony of the God of Israel (Jehovah, Jesus Christ.) When did he develop this testimony? Perhaps first at his father's knee and later in the solitude of keeping watch over the sheep. Now just think of a teenage boy, alone hours on end, becoming proficient with a sling seems perfectly logical. I like the way this artwork shows "motion." Remember, David ran toward Goliath! Do you cower at your "giants" or can you conquer them with faith and enthusiasm? Attitude is everything!

Assignment: Read 1 Samuel 17! Everyone should know this story...it's every Primary aged child's favorite! Identify some of your "Goliath's." Use the feeling you get when reading David's response to Goliath (1 Samuel 17:45-46) and slay your giants! Do you think that a little "solitude" is necessary in developing a testimony? Set aside a few minutes each day to ponder what you have learned about the scriptures. (This is why I don't mind doing the dishes too much...it's the time that no one interferes....they are afraid they'll be put to work.) What have you learned about Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ? Do you see Them involved in the lives of the people we are reading about? Look for Them, They are there!

Boy Samuel Called by the Lord

2009-11-04T06:33:00.004-07:00

1 Samuel 3
The Lord came, and stood, and called as at other times, Samuel, Samuel. Then Samuel answered, Speak; for thy servant heareth. 1 Samuel 3:10

When Samuel was a young boy, he served in the temple at Shiloh with Eli, the elderly priest (see 1 Samuel 3:12).

One night after Samuel had gone to bed, the Lord called, "Samuel." Samuel answered, "Here am I" (1 Samuel 3:4), then ran to Eli because he thought Eli had called him. But Eli said he had not called and sent him back to bed. (See 1 Samuel 3:5.)

Again the Lord called, "Samuel," and once more Samuel answered, "Here am I" (1 Samuel 3:6). The boy ran to Eli, who answered, "I called not, my son," and sent him back as before (see 1 Samuel 3:6).

The third time this happened, Eli knew that the Lord had been calling Samuel (see 1 Samuel 3:8). He told the boy to go back to bed and, if the voice called again, to say, "Speak, Lord; for thy servant heareth" (1 Samuel 3:9).

When the Lord called, "Samuel, Samuel" again, the boy answered as Eli had told him (see 1 Samuel 3:10). Then the Lord talked to Samuel, "and Samuel grew, and the Lord was with him. ... And all Israel ... knew that Samuel was established to be a prophet of the Lord" (1 Samuel 3:1920).

Summary

The child Samuel served in the temple with Eli, the high priest. One night while Samuel was sleeping, the Lord called to him by name. Samuel answered, "Here am I," and ran to Eli, believing he had called. Eli told Samuel he had not called him and to go lie down again. The Lord called Samuel two more times, and each time Samuel went to Eli. Eli now realized that the Lord must be calling Samuel and told the boy to answer. When the Lord called a fourth time, Samuel answered and then listened to His words. The Lord was with Samuel as he grew, and all the people knew he was a prophet.

Artist, Harry Anderson

My Word: There are so many wonderful stories that we have past by (I mean come on, thousands of years of history in a few pages.) I have to remind myself this is just a very shallow overview! You are learning about people who lived righteously and served the Lord throughout their lives....but, there are also other characters with great potential who just don't live up to their birthright. We can learn a lot from them also. Take for instance Samson, Eli's sons Hophni and Phinehas, even Samuel's sons Joel and Abiah, Achan...he gives us quite a lesson, Naaman's payment to Gehazi (can you figure out what Gehazi did wrong?), these are just a few that come to the front of my mind. (If you look up the bold names in the BD you will find the references for these stories...it's amazing what a few verses will teach us.)

Alright, we see that the Lord calls youth to the ministry. Is it so impossible for the Lord to call a teenager in 1820 to restore His gospel to the earth? Joseph Smith began to become spiritually minded a few years before the "First Vision." Have you ever felt compelled to learn more about Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ? Don't stifle those feelings, let them grow and respond to the urgings.

I want to tell you about Hannah, Samuel's mother. She is another woman I want to visit with. She was a faithful daughter of God but that didn't keep her from having trials. Hannah was barren (childless) and her husband's other wife threw her fertility and children in Hannah's face continuously. Hannah prays and begs for a child and promises to raise him to serve the Lord all of his days. Her request is granted. At the age of three or so she takes Samuel to the Tabernacle and leaves him with the Prophet Eli. How did she do that? She also took an ephah of flour (about 20 quarts ... I may be wrong it possibly could be more.) I wondered why this particular detail would be mentioned. Have you ever tried to grind wheat? It is extremely difficult! I like to think that with every stroke of the grinding rock she was praying and thinking about her covenant with God. What might she have been taught in her moments of meditation?

ASSIGNMENT: Read at least the first couple of chapters of 1st Samuel. Look up the bold names above in the BD and write down the lessons we learn from those people. In your repetitive work (that doesn't take a lot of thought) focus your thoughts on spiritual things. Ask questions (silently in your mind), practice a hymn or primary song, pretend you are going to teach a lesson about a gospel principle (I have given many a talk in my mind while I do the dishes...I've learned a lot doing that!) Do you see a pattern concerning the women we have learned about so far? What is the pattern? Write down the steps to having your requests granted.

Ruth Gleaning in the Fields

2009-11-03T06:54:00.005-07:00

Ruth 14
And Ruth the Moabitess said unto Naomi, Let me now go to the field, and glean ears of corn after him in whose sight I shall find grace. And she said unto her, Go, my daughter. And she went, and came, and gleaned in the field after the reapers. Ruth 2:23

During the time the judges governed ancient Israel, there was a famine in the land. Elimelech, a man who lived in Bethlehem, decided to take his wife, Naomi, and his two sons to the land of Moab, where they would have enough food to eat. (See Ruth 1:12.)

After Elimelech died, Naomi stayed in Moab with her two sons, who married two Moabite women named Orpah and Ruth. After 10 years Naomi's sons died. Because the famine was over in Israel, Naomi decided to return to her people in Bethlehem. (See Ruth 1:36.)

Naomi's daughters-in-law started on the journey with her, but Naomi told them to go back to their own families (see Ruth 1:78). Both of the younger women wanted to go with Naomi, but she finally convinced Orpah to return to Moab. Ruth, however, would not leave. She pleaded with Naomi to let her go with her to Bethlehem: "Intreat me not to leave thee, or to return from following after thee: for whither thou goest, I will go; and where thou lodgest, I will lodge: thy people shall be my people, and thy God my God" (Ruth 1:16). Naomi returned to Bethlehem with Ruth at her side.

It was harvesttime when the women arrived in Bethlehem. During the harvest men gathered the grain into small bunches. As they worked, some stalks fell to the ground. Poor people were allowed to gather, or glean, the stalks left behind. Because they had no food, Ruth offered to glean the fields to get grain for Naomi and herself (see Ruth 2:2).

Ruth worked in the fields of a righteous relative of Elimelech named Boaz. Boaz was impressed with Ruth's kindness to Naomi and said, "The Lord recompense thy work, and a full reward be given thee of the Lord God of Israel" (Ruth 2:12). Boaz was kind to Ruth and told her she could always glean from his fields. He even instructed his harvesters to leave grain behind for her to gather. (See Ruth 2:816.)

Naomi wanted Ruth to marry and have children. So she taught Ruth about the customs of the Israelites and told her to go to Boaz and ask to be his wife. Ruth did what Naomi said to do, and Boaz, knowing that Ruth was a virtuous and kind woman, married her. (See Ruth 3:14:12.)

After they married, Ruth and Boaz had a son, whom they named Obed. Obed grew up and had a son named Jesse, who later became the father of David. (See Ruth 4:1317.) David became the king of Israel, and it was through this line that Jesus Christ was born.

Summary

When the judges governed Israel there was a famine in the land. Naomi, who lived in Bethlehem, went with her husband and their two sons to the land Moab so they would have food to eat. While in Moab Naomi's husband died, and later her sons married two Moabite women, Ruth and Orpah. When her sons died, Naomi returned to Bethlehem. Orpah stayed in Moab, but Ruth went to Bethlehem with Naomi. Ruth cared for her mother-in-law by gathering leftover grain during the harvest. Boaz, who owned the fields, told Ruth that God would bless her for being kind to Naomi. Boaz married Ruth, and they had a son named Obed, the grandfather of King David. Many years later Jesus Christ was born into the royal family of King David.

Artist, Judith Mehr

My Word: The story of Ruth (if you read all of it...it's only a few chapters) may seem confusing and a bit risque'. But in fact, she makes a proper proposal of marriage to Boaz, following the laws and customs. Ruth has truly been converted to the Gospel of Jesus Christ (I wonder what the church was called then) and is determined to stay with her mother-in-law, to look after her and also move to the center of religious worship. (Ruth 1:16 pg. 377) Ruth (daughter-in-law) and Naomi (mother-in-law) is very heartwarming....two women who look after each other and love each other. Read Ruth 4:13-16....I would love to have this relationship with each of my daughters! Assignment: Ponder ways in which you can increase in love towards a family member. Make a list. Then do something! Be prepared to be amazed.

Moses Calls Aaron to the Ministry

2009-11-02T05:59:00.003-07:00

Exodus 4:10, Exodus 4:1416, Exodus 4:27; Exodus 5:1; Exodus 7:9; Exodus 8:617; Exodus 16:12; Exodus 24:910; Exodus 28:1; Exodus 40:1216
Thou shalt put upon Aaron the holy garments, and anoint him, and sanctify him; that he may minister unto me in the priest's office. Exodus 40:13

When the Lord called Moses to go to Egypt to free the Israelites, Moses did not feel he could do it. He said he was slow of speech and was afraid to talk to Pharaoh (see Exodus 4:10). The Lord was angry with Moses. He told Moses he could take his brother, Aaron, with him to be his spokesman. (See Exodus 4:1416.) The Lord then spoke to Aaron: "Go into the wilderness to meet Moses" (Exodus 4:27). Aaron and Moses were happy to be together again.

The two brothers traveled to Egypt and went before Pharaoh. Aaron spoke for Moses, trying to get Pharaoh to let the children of Israel go (see Exodus 5:1). Through the power of the Lord, Moses and Aaron performed miracles (see Exodus 7:9) and brought plagues upon the Egyptians (see Exodus 8:617).

Aaron was with Moses when he led the Israelites out of Egypt and into the wilderness (see Exodus 16:12). He was also with Moses and 72 other priesthood bearers when the Lord appeared to them (see Exodus 24:910).

Once when Moses was on Mount Sinai, the Lord told him to anoint Aaron and Aaron's sons to serve as priests in the tabernacle (see Exodus 28:1). When the tabernacle was completed, Moses anointed Aaron and his sons to this calling. He gave them the priesthood of God and the authority to perform sacred ordinances. (See Exodus 40:1216.)

Summary

When Moses went before Pharaoh to free the Israelites, his brother, Aaron, went with him to speak for him. Aaron helped Moses to accomplish what the Lord had commanded. After the Israelites were led out of Egypt, the Lord instructed Moses to anoint Aaron and Aaron's sons to serve as priests in the tabernacle. When the tabernacle was finished, Moses did as the Lord directed and gave Aaron and his sons the priesthood of God.

Artist, Harry Anderson

MY WORD: I love this picture! The artist, Harry Anderson gives us so much information (that is if we are aware of what we are looking at!) ASSIGNMENT: Read about the Tabernacle in your Bible Dictionary (pg. 778) Look at the picture as you read to help you understand what you're reading. Also read about the Aaronic Priesthood (pg. 599.) What is another name for this Priesthood and why? What I really get excited about is the clothing worn by Aaron! Read about this clothing in Exodus 28 be sure to use your footnotes for better understanding. I use to think this was such a boring section of scriptures... really, I did! So much of the history of the Old Testament is centered around the Tabernacle and it's artifacts. It's a must read now and that's what I'm going to do today!

Moses and the Brass Serpent

2009-10-30T07:29:00.006-06:00

Numbers 20:17, Numbers 20:21; Numbers 21:49; John 3:1415; 1 Nephi 17:41; Alma 33:1920; Helaman 8:1415
And Moses made a serpent of brass, and put it upon a pole, and it came to pass, that if a serpent had bitten any man, when he beheld the serpent of brass, he lived. Numbers 21:9

After the prophet Moses led the Israelites out of captivity in Egypt, they journeyed in the wilderness for 40 years. During this time the Lord blessed the Israelites in many ways, including taking care of their physical needs.

The Israelites were nearing the end of their travels and were close to the borders of Canaan—the promised land. But when they asked the king of Edom if they could pass through his land, which would have been a short journey into Canaan, he told them no (see Numbers 20:17, Numbers 20:21). As a result, they had to travel a long way to find a different route into the country (see Numbers 21:4).

The Israelites became discouraged during this journey and "spake against God, and against Moses." They complained about the very things they should have been thankful for: God's help in freeing them from bondage and the manna He had provided for them in the wilderness. (See Numbers 21:5.)

Because of the ingratitude of the Israelites, "the Lord sent fiery serpents among the people, and they bit the people; and much people of Israel died" (Numbers 21:6).

When the children of Israel saw family members and friends dying, they realized they had sinned in complaining against God. They asked Moses to pray to the Lord to take away the serpents. (See Numbers 21:7.)

Moses prayed, and in response the Lord told him to make a brass serpent, put it on a pole, and place it where the people could see it. The Lord promised that everyone who had been bitten would live if they looked at the serpent. (See Numbers 21:89.)

Alma, a Book of Mormon prophet, explained that many Israelites did look at the serpent and live, "but few understood the meaning of those things, and this because of the hardness of their hearts. But there were many who were so hardened that they would not look, therefore they perished. Now the reason they would not look is because they did not believe that it would heal them" (see Alma 33:1920; see also 1 Nephi 17:41).

Part of what the Israelites did not understand, because of the hardness of their hearts, was that the brass serpent was a symbol of Jesus Christ being lifted up on the cross and bringing eternal life:

"Yea, did [Moses] not bear record that the Son of God should come? And as he lifted up the brazen serpent in the wilderness, even so shall he be lifted up who should come.

"And as many as should look upon that serpent should live, even so as many as should look upon the Son of God with faith, having a contrite spirit, might live, even unto that life which is eternal" (Helaman 8:1415).

Jesus Christ Himself taught that the account of the brass serpent is a lesson for us about the importance of looking to the Savior and His atoning sacrifice: "And as Moses lifted up the serpent in the wilderness, even so must the Son of man be lifted up: that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have eternal life" (John 3:1415).

Summary

After the Lord helped free the children of Israel from bondage, Moses led them in the wilderness for 40 years. The Lord provided for all their needs. When the people complained and were not grateful for all Heavenly Father had done, the Lord sent serpents among them, which bit some of the people. The people knew they had sinned for not being grateful. Moses prayed for them. The Lord told Moses to make a brass serpent and set it on a pole for the people to see. The brass serpent represented the Savior's sacrifice. The Lord promised that everyone who had been bitten would live if they looked at the brass serpent.

Artist, Judith Mehr

My Word: I had to go to manuals and the Bible Dictionary to learn more about the timing of this event. It seems that this is in the last year or so before the Israelites entered into the land of Canaan. They have been given many years previously the 10 commandments, the Tabernacle, the Ark of the Covenant, manna and quail. At this time God is providing all of their needs and has been for some time...yet they complain, why? Some possible answers could be...boredom, tired of waiting, sick of wearing the same clothes, "what? manna again? (never mind it's a daily miracle)!

Assignment: When do you complain? Identify your weak moments and resist complaining next time you find yourself in those moments. Also, ponder the simpleness of the way ....Christ taught, faith, repentance, baptism, gift of the Holy Ghost and enduring to the end. Are you ever like the Israelites and say it is too hard or "that won't save me"? Finally....Be GRatefuL!

Moses and the Burning Bush

2009-10-29T10:45:00.005-06:00

Exodus 3:14:17

God called unto him out of the midst of the bush, and said, Moses, Moses. And he said, Here am I. Exodus 3:4

As Moses was tending the flock of Jethro, his father-in-law and the priest of Midian, he led the flock to the mountain of God. When Moses reached the mountain, an angel appeared to him "in a flame of fire out of the midst of a bush ... and the bush was not consumed" (Exodus 3:2; see also Exodus 3:1). As he watched this miraculous sight, he heard a voice, which was the voice of God, calling "Moses, Moses" from the bush. Moses said, "Here am I." God told Moses to move back and take his shoes off because he was standing on holy ground. When God identified Himself as the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, "Moses hid his face; for he was afraid to look upon God" (Exodus 3:6; see also Exodus 3:45).

Moses learned that God was aware of the children of Israel and their bondage to the Egyptian rulers. God told Moses to tell Pharaoh to release the children of Israel. Moses said, "Who am I, that I should go unto Pharaoh?" But God assured Moses that He would be with him. (See Exodus 3:712.) Moses was then concerned about what he should say to the children of Israel. God told him to say that I AM, the Lord God, had sent him unto them. (See Exodus 3:1314.) Moses' next concern was that the people would not believe him. The Lord asked Moses what he had in his hand, and Moses replied that he had a rod. Moses was told to cast it on the ground; it became a serpent and Moses fled. But the Lord told Moses to pick up the serpent, and it became a rod again. (See Exodus 4:14.)

The Lord gave Moses more signs from the burning bush (see Exodus 4:69), but Moses was still reluctant to perform the mission God had called him to do. He complained of being slow of speech, but God promised to help Moses with his speech (see Exodus 4:1012). When Moses continued to complain and ask for help, God finally became angry with his excuses. God told Moses he could take his brother, Aaron, for a spokesman. (See Exodus 4:1416.) Before Moses left the mountain, the Lord told him to take the rod and use it to make signs (see Exodus 4:17).

Summary

While tending his father-in-law's flock, Moses came to the mountain of God. There he saw a bush that was burning but not being destroyed by the flames. God called Moses by name from the burning bush. He told Moses to remove his shoes, for he was standing on holy ground. The Lord said that He knew of the troubles of His people, and He told Moses to tell Pharaoh to let the Israelites go. Moses did not think he could do this. He was concerned that the people would not believe him and said that he was slow of speech. However, the Lord promised to be with him and to give him power. He said that Moses could take his brother, Aaron, to speak for him.

Artist, Jerry Thompson

My Word: Moses has now been away from Egypt for about 40 years (see Acts 7:30 in the New Testament) when he received his call to go back and lead the people out of Egypt. I love pondering about 'holy ground'. What makes something holy? Is it holy if I'm the only one who thinks it is? ASSIGNMENT: Look up Homes, Abode, Temple, House in the Topical Guide ... read some references in the different topics. Write down what you learn about 'holy places'.

This is an oft repeated quote from President David O. McKay. "No other success can compensate for failure in the home. The poorest shack in which love prevails over a united family is of greater value to God and future humanity than any other riches. In such a home God can work miracles and will work miracles."

This is an oft repeated quote by me. "Everything I need to learn I learned at home."

There are some places made holy by sacred priesthood authority. Other places become sacred as we adhere to the commandments of our God. Where do you "take off thy shoes"?

Moses in the Bulrushes

2009-10-28T06:42:00.004-06:00

Exodus 1:12:10And the daughter of Pharaoh came down to wash herself at the river; and her maidens walked along by the river's side; and when she saw the ark among the flags, she sent her maid to fetch it. Exodus 2:5
After Joseph and all of his generation died in Egypt, a new king came to power. This king forgot what Joseph had done for the Egyptians and saw only that the Israelites were becoming a fruitful and mighty people. (See Exodus 1:79.) Pharaoh decided to put the Israelites in bondage so they would not become too strong and help Egypt's enemies. The Israelites continued to multiply, however, even though they had hard work to perform and cruel taskmasters to afflict them. (See Exodus 1:1014.)
So Pharaoh decided to keep the Israelites from becoming any mightier. He told the midwives to kill the newborn Israelite sons. When the midwives said they could not do it, Pharaoh decreed that all sons born to the house of Israel were to be drowned in the river. (See Exodus 1:1622.)
At this time Jochebed, a woman of the tribe of Levi, gave birth to Moses. She could not bear to drown her son, so she hid him for three months. When he became too large to hide, she made a basket of bulrushes and sealed it. She put Moses in the basket in the river, and Miriam, his sister, watched from a distance to see what would happen to the baby. (See Exodus 2:14.)
Pharaoh's daughter came to the river to bathe. She saw the basket in the water and sent her maid to get it. When Pharaoh's daughter saw a Hebrew baby in the basket, she had compassion on the child and decided to keep him. Miriam then came forward and offered to find a nurse for the baby. When Miriam brought her mother for a nursemaid, Pharaoh's daughter told her, "Take this child away, and nurse it for me, and I will give thee thy wages" (Exodus 2:9). After "the child grew," his mother brought him back to Pharaoh's daughter so that he could become her son. Pharaoh's daughter called him Moses because she had pulled him from the water. (See Exodus 2:510.)
Summary
Pharaoh, king of Egypt, worried about the large number of Israelites in his land. Thinking they might become a threat to the Egyptians, he decided to make them slaves. They were made to work hard and were treated harshly. Still their numbers grew. So Pharaoh ordered all the baby Israelite boys killed. An Israelite woman named Jochebed protected her baby son by hiding him for three months. When she could no longer hide him, she put him in a basket made from bulrushes and placed the basket in the river. The baby's sister, Miriam, kept watch to see what would happen to him. Pharaoh's daughter noticed the basket and sent a maid to get it. When Pharaoh's daughter saw that the basket held an Israelite baby, she decided to keep him as her own. Miriam came forward and offered to find a nurse for the baby. She brought their own mother, Jochebed. Pharaoh's daughter named the boy Moses.
Artist, George Soper
© 2002 by Intellectual Reserve, Inc. All rights reserved. Printed in the USA

MY WORD: It is now at least 400 years after Joseph and the Israelites have become numerous. Moses is a direct descendant of Levi (one of Jacob's sons, one of Joseph's brothers.) Moses would have been taught by Jochebed (his mother) Hebrew (I had to look that word up in the BD so you do that also pg. 699) and their religious beliefs. He would have been educated very well when he lived as an Egyptian prince with access to great libraries.

ASSIGNMENT: Jochebed is one of my heros! She will be an interesting person to talk to in the next life. How in the world did she become so courageous and faithful? How did she have the strength to take her youngest son and turn him over to another woman to raise...especially when she knew he would be taught false doctrine?! She is definitely a woman we should study and hold up as an example to live by. Who are your heros? Think of the people who have influenced you life....what have they taught you? Why would you want to emmulate them? Who are you being a hero to today? Make a note in your journal or pick up the phone and tell someone how special they are to you today.

Joseph Fleeing from Potiphar's Wife

2009-10-27T06:35:00.005-06:00

Genesis 39How then can I do this great wickedness, and sin against God? Genesis 39:9
Jacob's son Joseph was sold by some of his brothers to a caravan of Ishmaelite merchants. They took Joseph to Egypt and sold him to Potiphar, the captain of the guard for Pharaoh, who was the ruler of Egypt (see Genesis 39:1).
Joseph was a righteous young man, and the Lord blessed him. When Potiphar saw that Joseph worked hard, was trustworthy, and was blessed by the Lord, he appointed him overseer. This meant that Joseph was responsible for Potiphar's house and all that he owned. Because of Joseph's righteousness, the Lord blessed Potiphar's house and fields. (See Genesis 39:25.)
Potiphar's wife desired Joseph because he was handsome and talented. She tried to tempt him to do wrong, but Joseph refused. He told her that Potiphar had trusted him with everything except her. (See Genesis 39:69.) "Thou art his wife," Joseph said, "how then can I do this great wickedness, and sin against God?" (Genesis 39:9).
Day after day Potiphar's wife tried to get Joseph to do wrong, but he would not (see Genesis 39:10).
One day when Joseph went into the house to take care of his responsibilities, none of the men who worked in the house was there. When Potiphar's wife saw that she was alone with Joseph, she caught hold of his cloak and tried to coax him to come to her. Joseph pulled away and ran, leaving her holding his cloak. (See Genesis 39:1112.)
Potiphar's wife called the men of the house and showed them Joseph's cloak. She told them a false story, saying that Joseph had tried to do wrong with her but that she had "cried with a loud voice" (Genesis 39:14). She told them that when she screamed, Joseph ran away, leaving his cloak (see Genesis 39:15).
When Potiphar came home, his wife showed him Joseph's cloak and told him the same false story (see Genesis 39:1618). Because Potiphar believed his wife, he was angry and had Joseph put into prison (see Genesis 39:1920).
"But the Lord was with Joseph" (Genesis 39:21). He loved Joseph and helped the keeper of the prison to think well of him. Soon the keeper of the prison put Joseph in charge of the other prisoners and all that went on in the prison. Joseph was successful, even in prison, because he was obedient and the Lord was with him. (See Genesis 39:2123.)
Summary
Joseph was a righteous young man who had been sold into Egypt. He served Potiphar, captain of Pharaoh's guard. Potiphar trusted Joseph and gave him an important position in his house. Potiphar's wife liked Joseph and kept trying to get Joseph to do wrong. Joseph refused to give in to her. Then one day Potiphar's wife caught hold of Joseph's cloak and tried to tempt him to sin. Again he refused, and he ran from the room, leaving his cloak in her hand. Potiphar's wife called to the men of the house and claimed that Joseph had come to try to do wrong with her. She told the same untrue story to Potiphar, who had Joseph put into prison. But the Lord was with Joseph and blessed him.
Artist, Del Parson
© 2002 by Intellectual Reserve, Inc. All rights reserved. Printed in the USA

My Word: Joseph's story is absolutely amazing! To understand the rest of the Old Testament you will come back to Jacob (Joseph's father) and Jacob's sons (the 12 tribes of Israel...Jacob's name was change by God to Israel) and how they came to the land of Eqypt (where Joseph now is) and were enslaved there. We will get into that more tomorrow. But today I want to share this long quote with you.

"The story of Joseph, the son of Jacob who was called Israel, is a vivid representation of the great truth that 'all things work together for good to (those) who love God.' (See Romans 8:28) Joseph always seemed to do the right thing; but still, more importantly, he did it for the right reason. And how very very significant that is! Joseph was sold by his own brothers as a slave and was purchased by Potiphar, a captain of the guard of Pharoah. But even as an indentured servant , Joseph turned every experience and all circumstances, no mtter how trying, into something good.

"This ability to turn everthing into something good appears to be a godly characteristic. Our Heavenly Father always seems able to do this. Everything, no matter how dire, becomes a victory to the Lord. Joseph, although a slave and wholly undeserving of this fate, nevertheless remained faithful to the Lord and continued to live the commandments and made something very good of his degrading circumstances. People like this cannot be defeated, because they will not give up. They have the correct, positive attitude, and Dale Carnegie's expression seems to apply: If you feel you have a lemon, you can either complain about how sour it is, or you can make lemonade. It is all up to you." (Hartman Rector, Jr., "Live above the Law to Be Free," Ensign, Jan. 1973, p. 130.)

Assignment: Ponder and list lemons that have been made into lemonade in your life! Also...remember this key....do the right things for the right reason...let me submit this...let your love for Jesus Christ be the right reason and everything else will fall into place over time!

Joseph Is Sold by His Brothers

2009-10-25T06:54:00.007-06:00

Genesis 37And they drew and lifted up Joseph out of the pit, and sold Joseph to the Ishmeelites for twenty pieces of silver: and they brought Joseph into Egypt. Genesis 37:28
Joseph was the 11th of Jacob's 12 sons. His older brothers felt that Jacob loved Joseph most, so they were jealous (see Genesis 37:4).
One day Jacob sent Joseph to where his older brothers were tending the flocks, saying, "Go, I pray thee, see whether it be well with thy brethren, and well with the flocks; and bring me word again" (Genesis 37:14). When the brothers saw Joseph coming, one of them said, "Let us slay him, and cast him into some pit, and we will say, Some evil beast hath devoured him" (Genesis 37:20). The oldest brother, Reuben, did not want to kill Joseph. Instead, he suggested they throw Joseph into a pit and leave him there. Reuben secretly planned to rescue Joseph later and return him to his father. (See Genesis 37:2122.)
When Joseph arrived, his brothers took the "coat of many colours" that his father had given him, and they threw him into a pit (see Genesis 37:2324). Later, some of Joseph's brothers took him out of the pit and sold him to merchants who were going to Egypt. Reuben came to rescue Joseph from the pit and was very upset when he saw that Joseph was gone. (See Genesis 37:2529.)
The brothers dipped Joseph's coat in the blood of a goat and took it to Jacob, their father, who thought that Joseph had been killed by a wild animal. Jacob mourned Joseph's death for a long time and could not be comforted. Joseph, however, was still alive. The merchants had taken him to Egypt and sold him as a slave to Potiphar, the captain of Pharaoh's guard. (See Genesis 37:3136.)
Summary
Joseph was the 11th of Jacob's 12 sons. Joseph's older brothers were jealous because they felt that Jacob loved Joseph most. When they saw Joseph coming to find them one day, they took the "coat of many colours" his father had given him and then threw him into a pit. Some of the brothers wanted to kill Joseph, but instead they sold him to merchants traveling to Egypt. To hide what they had done, the brothers dipped Joseph's coat in goat's blood and took it to their father. Jacob believed Joseph had been killed by a wild animal. Jacob wept and would not be comforted.
Artist, Ted Henninger
© 2002 by Intellectual Reserve, Inc. All rights reserved. Printed in the USA

My Word:

As a parent this story makes me so sad! Obviously to be jealous to the point of murder is heart breaking. How important is it to let each child know they are important to you? Is it possible to have many children and not have one feel left out? (If Heavenly Father says to "be fruitful and multiply and replenish" does He only want us to do that with one or two children at a time so no one feels left out?) Is it only the parent's responsibility to help one of Heavenly Father's children feel special?

Assignment: Look up Psalm 127:3-5 (pg. 800 in the Old Testament) Verse 5 is our favorite, can you guess why? List some things that you can do to reassure your children you love each of them.

Jacob Blessing His Sons

2009-10-24T08:23:00.004-06:00

Genesis 22:1718; Genesis 26:4; Genesis 28:3; Genesis 48:21; Genesis 49; 2 Nephi 3:5; Jacob 2:25And Jacob called unto his sons, and said, Gather yourselves together, that I may tell you that which shall befall you in the last days. Gather yourselves together, and hear, ye sons of Jacob; and hearken unto Israel your father. Genesis 49:12
Jacob received the same blessings from the Lord that his father, Isaac, and his grandfather, Abraham, had received. The Lord changed Jacob's name to Israel and promised that his posterity would be as numerous as the stars in the heaven and that through his descendants all the nations of the earth would be blessed. (See Genesis 22:1718; Genesis 26:4; Genesis 28:3.)
When Jacob realized that he would soon die, he called his twelve sons together to give them each a patriarchal (father's) blessing (see Genesis 48:21; Genesis 49:1). Jacob scolded Reuben, Simeon, and Levi for past sins; he then prophesied that Judah's descendants would rule until the coming of Christ (see Genesis 49:312). He said that Dan would be a judge in Israel (see Genesis 49:1618), and he promised Joseph that he would have many descendants who would inherit the American continent and be greatly blessed (see Genesis 49:2226; 2 Nephi 3:5). Jacob also blessed Zebulun, Issachar, Gad, Asher, Naphtali, and Benjamin (see Genesis 49:1315, Genesis 49:1921, Genesis 49:27).
Jacob asked to be buried in the land of Canaan in the same cave where his wife Leah; his parents, Isaac and Rebekah; and his grandparents Abraham and Sarah were buried. He died soon after this. (See Genesis 49:2933.)
Summary
Jacob, whose name the Lord changed to Israel, was a righteous prophet who had twelve sons. The family of each son was called a tribe, and they were known as the twelve tribes of Israel. When Jacob grew old he called his family together and blessed each of his sons. Their descendants would bring the blessings of the gospel to many people throughout the world. The Lord had blessed Jacob and had preserved him to become the father of a great nation.
Artist, Harry Anderson
© 1997 by Intellectual Reserve, Inc. All rights reserved. Printed in the USA

Assignment

Read about these people in the Bible Dictionary! They are fascinating! Have you ever heard the phrase "selling out for a mess of pottage" or "losing all for a mess of pottage"? Well look up Genesis 25:29-34, read about Esau and Jacob's transaction. What would be a more modern phrase? Have you ever been Esau?

Jacob had 12 sons, did he have any daughters? Look up Dinah (BD) what happened to her?

Rebekah at the Well

2009-10-23T07:11:00.002-06:00

Genesis 24The servant ran to meet her, and said, Let me, I pray thee, drink a little water of thy pitcher. And she said, Drink, my lord: and she hasted, and let down her pitcher upon her hand, and gave him drink. Genesis 24:1718
When Isaac was old enough to marry, Abraham wanted his son to have a wife who was worthy to receive the blessings of the covenant:
"And Abraham said unto his eldest servant of his house, that ruled over all that he had, ...
"... Swear by the Lord, the God of heaven, and the God of the earth, that thou shalt not take a wife unto my son of the daughters of the Canaanites, ...
"But thou shalt go unto my country, and to my kindred, and take a wife unto my son Isaac" (Genesis 24:24).
In obedience to Abraham's command, the servant took 10 camels laden with treasures and traveled to the city of Nahor, which was named after Abraham's brother. As the servant came to the city, he prayed:
"O Lord God of my master Abraham, I pray thee, send me good speed this day, and shew kindness unto my master Abraham.
"Behold, I stand here by the well of water; and the daughters of the men of the city come out to draw water:
"And let it come to pass, that the damsel to whom I shall say, Let down thy pitcher, I pray thee, that I may drink; and she shall say, Drink, and I will give thy camels drink also: let the same be she that thou hast appointed for thy servant Isaac" (Genesis 24:1214).
Before the servant "had done speaking," Rebekah came to the well "with her pitcher upon her shoulder" (Genesis 24:15). When the servant asked for water, Rebekah replied: "Drink, my lord: and she hasted, ... and gave him drink.
"And when she had done giving him drink, she said, I will draw water for thy camels also, until they have done drinking" (Genesis 24:1819).
After Rebekah had finished drawing water for all the camels, the servant asked her, "Whose daughter art thou?" When Rebekah told him, "I am the daughter of Bethuel the son of Milcah, which she bare unto Nahor," the servant "bowed down his head, and worshipped the Lord" (Genesis 24:2324, Genesis 24:26). The servant knew that "the Lord God ... had led me in the right way to take my master's brother's [grand]daughter unto his son" (Genesis 24:48).
Rebekah took the servant to her home, where he immediately stated his errand. Her father and her brother, Laban, knowing that "the thing proceedeth from the Lord," agreed to the marriage. "And they called Rebekah, and said unto her, Wilt thou go with this man? And she said, I will go" (Genesis 24:50, Genesis 24:58).
Before she left her home, her father and brother "blessed Rebekah, and said unto her, Thou art our sister, be thou the mother of thousands of millions" (Genesis 24:60).
As the servant and Rebekah were nearing the end of their journey, "Rebekah lifted up her eyes, and when she saw Isaac, she lighted off the camel. ... And Isaac brought her into his mother Sarah's tent, and took Rebekah, and she became his wife; and he loved her" (Genesis 24:64, Genesis 24:67).
Summary
Abraham wanted his son Isaac to marry a woman who would be worthy to receive the blessings that the Lord had promised to Abraham and his children. He asked his servant to go back to Abraham's land of birth and find a worthy wife for Isaac. The servant prayed that the Lord would show him which woman Isaac should have for a wife by having the woman give him a drink of water and offer to draw water from the well for his animals. As he waited at the well, a beautiful young woman named Rebekah offered to get water for him and his animals to drink. The servant then knew this was the woman the Lord wanted him to take back to be Isaac's wife. Rebekah agreed to become Isaac's wife, and she and Isaac were married.
Artist, Michael Deas
© 1997 by Intellectual Reserve, Inc. All rights reserved. Printed in the USA

Ponder: Some people think women get short changed in the scriptures and in the church. Not so! (In my humble opinion.) One of the themes/principles that seems to be re-occuring for the women is...be patient...wait with faith. Women want to do it all and we want to do it all right now and we want to do it perfectly! Is that Heavenly Father's plan for us? When we try to live that way joy - which we are commanded to have - tends to get lost. Sarah (Abraham's wife, Isaac's mother) had to wait until she was old to have a child. Rebekah was married (to Isaac) for at least 20 yrs. before she had Esau and Jacob.

Several years ago I played the part of Rebekah in a Relief Society meeting. Of course the story of Rebekah is centered around the marriage covenant. I did not have a covenant marriage and wanted it very much. During my portrayal the Holy Ghost let me know that when I did get the covenant marriage the length of time would mean nothing. After 27 years of civil marriage we were finally sealed in the Temple....the Spirit was right!

Assignment: Practice patience! Do the right things for the right reasons and let Heavenly Father direct your life on His time! Learn more about these people by reading about them in the Bible Dictionary.

Abraham Taking Isaac to Be Sacrificed

2009-10-22T08:11:00.003-06:00

Genesis 21:18; Genesis 22And Abraham rose up early in the morning, and saddled his ass, and took ... Isaac his son, and clave the wood for the burnt offering, and rose up, and went unto the place of which God had told him. Genesis 22:3
When Abraham was 100 years old, he and his wife Sarah were blessed with a baby son. They named him Isaac, and they were happy and loved him. (See Genesis 21:18.)
One day the Lord said to Abraham, "Take now thy son, thine only Isaac, whom thou lovest, and get thee into the land of Moriah; and offer him there for a burnt offering, upon one of the mountains which I will tell thee" (Joseph Smith Translation, Genesis 22:2). As difficult as this would be, Abraham prepared to obey the Lord. He began his journey to the mountain early in the morning, taking Isaac, two young servants, a donkey, and wood for the burnt offering (see Genesis 22:3). On the third day of the journey, Abraham left the two servants and the donkey, saying that he and Isaac would go farther to worship (see Genesis 22:45). Isaac carried the wood, and Abraham took a knife (see Genesis 22:6).
Isaac was puzzled and he asked his father, "Where is the lamb for a burnt offering?" (Genesis 22:7).
Abraham answered, "My son, God will provide himself a lamb for a burnt offering" (Genesis 22:8).
When they reached the place that God had revealed, Abraham built an altar. Then he put the wood across the altar, tied Isaac up, and laid him on the wood. (See Genesis 22:9.) Abraham sadly "stretched forth his hand, and took the knife to slay his son" (Genesis 22:10).
But at that moment an angel of the Lord called, "Abraham, Abraham: ... Lay not thine hand upon the lad" (Genesis 22:1112). Abraham did not have to kill his son, but his willingness to obey this difficult command proved that he was obedient and that he loved God.
After the angel had spoken, Abraham looked up and saw a ram caught by its horns in a thicket (bush). He then took the ram and offered it for a burnt offering in place of Isaac. (See Genesis 22:13.)
The angel spoke again to Abraham, telling him that the Lord would "multiply [his] seed as the stars of the heaven, and as the sand which is upon the sea shore" (Genesis 22:17). The angel also said that Abraham's family would be a blessing to all the nations of the earth because Abraham had obeyed the Lord (see Genesis 22:1518).
Summary
Abraham was 100 years old when he and his wife Sarah were blessed with a son, Isaac. The Lord one day told Abraham to take Isaac to a mountain and offer him as a sacrifice. Although this was a difficult commandment, Abraham trusted the Lord and obediently took Isaac to the mountain. As Abraham took the knife to slay his son, he was stopped by an angel of the Lord. Abraham did not have to kill Isaac after all. He looked up and saw a ram, which he offered as a sacrifice instead. Because Abraham was willing to obey, the Lord promised that he would have many descendants and that his family would bless all nations.
Artist, Del Parson
© 2002 by Intellectual Reserve, Inc. All rights reserved. Printed in the USA

THIS LIFE IS ONLY A TEST: This story gives us much to think and ponder about. For instance; Abraham knew human sacrifice was evil, why didn't Isaac run away, why would the LORD bless you with a son only to command you to sacrifice him, etc. Why did Abraham need to go through this kind of test?

Assignment:Read and ponder Doctrine and Covenants 82:3. What has Heavenly Father given us? See Revelation 3: 21 (pg. 1569 of the New Testament) What might be required from you in order to receive "all that My Father hath"?

Look these scriptures up: Doc. and Cov. 78:7; 84:36-38; 132:20-21 or go to the Topical Guide and study under Man, Potential to Become like Heavenly Father.

Did Abraham meet the "requirements"? Will any less be expected from us?

An Angel Saves Abraham

2009-10-20T08:09:00.005-06:00

Abraham 1Behold, I lifted up my voice unto the Lord my God, and the Lord hearkened and heard, ... and the angel of his presence stood by me, and immediately unloosed my bands. Abraham 1:15
Abraham was a righteous man who lived in the city of Ur in the land of Chaldea. He desired great knowledge and wanted to find more happiness and peace in his life. He also wanted the blessings that could come with the priesthood of God. Because of his faithfulness, Abraham received the priesthood and was ordained a high priest. (See Abraham 1:14.)
Abraham's father and some of his relatives had turned away from the Lord. They worshiped idols and offered human sacrifices. Abraham tried to get them to repent and return to the Lord, but they would not listen to him. They even wanted to have Abraham killed. (See Abraham 1:57.)
The priest of Elkenah (Elkenah was one of the false gods Abraham's family worshiped) was also the priest of Pharaoh, the king of Egypt. It was the custom for this priest to offer sacrifices of men, women, and children on an altar. (See Abraham 1:711.) This altar was in the form of a bed and stood before the idols of their gods (see Abraham 1:1314).
One day the wicked priest of Elkenah tied Abraham to this altar to kill him as a sacrifice. Abraham prayed, and the Lord answered his prayer. An angel appeared and untied Abraham from the altar. (See Abraham 1:15.)
The Lord said, "Abraham, Abraham, behold, my name is Jehovah, and I have heard thee, and have come down to deliver thee, and to take thee away from thy father's house, and from all thy kinsfolk, into a strange land which thou knowest not of" (Abraham 1:16).
The Lord told Abraham to leave Ur because his family had turned away from the Lord and had started worshiping false gods (see Abraham 1:1617). The Lord said, "I have come down ... to destroy [the priest] who hath lifted up his hand against thee, Abraham, my son, to take away thy life" (Abraham 1:17).
Then the Lord told Abraham, "Behold, I will lead thee by my hand, and I will take thee, to put upon thee my name, even the Priesthood of thy father, and my power shall be over thee. ... Through thy ministry my name shall be known in the earth forever, for I am thy God" (Abraham 1:1819).
The Lord destroyed the altar and idols of the false gods and killed the priest of Elkenah (see Abraham 1:20). "There was great mourning [among the wicked people of Ur] and also in the court of Pharaoh" (Abraham 1:20).
The Lord sent a famine and the people suffered. Abraham's father was humbled, and he repented of his wicked desire to have Abraham killed. (See Abraham 1:2930.)
The Lord gave sacred records to Abraham to keep and write on. These records told of the Creation and of the planets and stars. It also gave a history, or lineage, of the priesthood as it had been handed down. (See Abraham 1:31.)
Summary
Abraham was a righteous man who lived in a city called Ur. His father and other relatives had turned away from the Lord to worship idols. Abraham wanted his family to repent, but they would not listen. They had a wicked priest tie Abraham to an altar as a sacrifice to one of their false gods. Abraham prayed to Heavenly Father, and the Lord sent an angel to untie him. The Lord told Abraham to leave Ur and promised to lead him and bless him. The Lord destroyed the altar, the idols, and the wicked priest, and then sent a famine upon the land. Abraham's father repented for having desired Abraham's death. Abraham was given sacred records to keep that told about creation and about the priesthood.
Artist, Del Parson
© 2002 by Intellectual Reserve, Inc. All rights reserved. Printed in the USA

ASSIGNMENT: Learn more about this covenant by reading on page 602 of the Bible Dictionary (before maps but after Topical Guide) under the heading Abraham, Covenant of. What is the first step to this covenant? Have you made this covenant with proper authority? If you have made the first covenant step, what other blessings are yours?

Read Abraham 1:1-4 In what ways are you like Abraham? What is your duty to yourself and God? (These are some of my most favorite scriptures to teach from...do you understand why?)

Noah, Ark and Animals

2009-10-17T08:24:00.005-06:00

Genesis 6-7 ; Moses 8 Thus did Noah; according to all that God commanded him, so did he. Genesis 6:22
During a time when almost everyone on the earth was wicked, the Lord called Noah to teach people the gospel. Noah told them to repent and be baptized or they would be destroyed by floods, but the people would not listen. Some of them were so angry with Noah that they wanted to kill him, but the Lord protected him. (See Genesis 6:5 ; Moses 8:1826 .)
When the people would not repent, the Lord told Noah that He would "bring a flood of waters upon the earth, to destroy all flesh" (Genesis 6:17 ). To protect Noah and his family from this great flood, the Lord commanded Noah to build an ark. The ark was to have three levels, many rooms, a window on the top, and a door in the side. Noah was to use pitch, or tar, to make the ark watertight, and the ark would be about 450 feet long, 75 feet wide, and 45 feet high. (See Genesis 6:1416 .)
Noah and his sons built the ark according to the Lord's instructions (see Genesis 6:22 ; Genesis 7:5 ). The Lord told them to take at least one male and one female "of every living thing of all flesh" (Genesis 6:19 ). They also had to take food for the animals and for themselves (see Genesis 6:21 ).
When the ark was finished and everything was ready, Noah and his family boarded the ark along with the animals (see Genesis 7:7 ). Noah was now 600 years old, and the flood waters were about to come upon the earth (see Genesis 7:6 ). Noah had obeyed the Lord in preaching the gospel, building the ark, and gathering the animals.
Summary
Noah and his family were righteous persons who lived at a time when nearly everyone on the earth was wicked. The Lord called Noah to teach the gospel to the people. Noah warned them that if they did not repent, floods would come to destroy them. When the people would not repent, the Lord told Noah to build an ark to protect his family and at least two of every animal during the Flood. Noah obeyed, and when the Flood came Noah's family and the animals were safe aboard the ark.
Artist, Harry Anderson
© 2002 by Intellectual Reserve, Inc. All rights reserved. Printed in the USA

Genesis 6:1221; Genesis 7:211; Genesis 8There went in two and two unto Noah into the ark, the male and the female, as God had commanded Noah. Genesis 7:9
Because of the wickedness of the people during Noah's time, God caused a flood to cover the entire earth with water. Noah and his family were righteous, so God spared their lives. He commanded Noah to build an ark so they would not drown. He also commanded Noah to save the animals so that they would not be destroyed. (See Genesis 6:1219.)
Noah built an ark big enough to take at least two of every animal on board. He was commanded, "Of every clean beast thou shalt take to thee by sevens, the male and his female: and of beasts that are not clean by two, the male and his female. Of fowls also of the air by sevens, the male and the female ... and of every thing that creepeth upon the earth" (Genesis 7:23, Genesis 7:8).
Noah and his family lived on the ark with the animals for over a year (see Genesis 7:11; Genesis 8:14). When the earth had recovered from the Flood, Noah brought the animals out of the ark so they could "be fruitful, and multiply upon the earth" (Genesis 8:17).
Summary
Because of the righteousness of Noah and his family, the Lord told Noah to build an ark so that his family would be safe during the flooding of the earth. The Lord also commanded Noah to gather each type of animal, male and female, so that they would not be destroyed. All kinds of animals, birds, and creeping things went into the ark. The rains and floods lasted many days. When the water had gone down and the land was dry again, Noah brought the animals out of the ark to multiply upon the earth.
Artist, Clark Kelley Price
© 2002 by Intellectual Reserve, Inc. All rights reserved. Printed in the USA

Enoch was Noah's Great-grandfather. Noah was probably just a young man when Enoch and his city where taken from the earth. But even if Noah didn't know Enoch he certainly would have know Enoch's son Methuselah (Noah's Grandfather) as Methuselah lived 969 years (the oldest person recorded.) Again think what knowledge would have past to Noah from these Patriarchs. Noah preached for 120 yrs. for the people to repent or be destroyed. I wonder if it took him that long to build the ark and get it prepared?

ASSIGNMENT: Ponder: Does Heavenly Father destroy without reason? Does He punish just because He has the power too? If you have children, why do you "punish" them.....power trip or instruction because you love them and want what is best for them? What were the benefits of the wicked being destroyed while preserving all the animals and a few righteous people?
Remember: God is Love....He operates out of love for us! Practice remembering this when times are difficult.

Enoch and his people

2009-10-16T10:50:00.003-06:00

Genesis 5:24; Hebrews 11:5; Moses 6:2639; Moses 7:121; Moses 7:6769And the Lord called his people Zion, because they were of one heart and one mind, and dwelt in righteousness; and there was no poor among them. Moses 7:18
Enoch was a great prophet in ancient times. When he was young the Lord called him to preach repentance to the people (see Moses 6:27). Enoch did not feel qualified for this great work, and he bowed himself before the Lord and asked, "Why is it that I have found favor in thy sight, and am but a lad, and all the people hate me; for I am slow of speech?" (Moses 6:31). The Lord blessed Enoch and promised to protect him and give him the words he should speak if Enoch would go forth and obey (see Moses 6:32).
Enoch taught his people as the Savior instructed. He was so obedient and faithful that he was blessed to see the Lord and talk with Him face to face (see Moses 7:4). Enoch's faith was so great that even the mountains and rivers moved according to his command (see Moses 7:13).
Many of the people Enoch preached to believed his words and repented. They kept the commandments of God and lived so righteously that "the Lord came and dwelt with [them]" (Moses 7:16). Enoch and his people received great blessings because of their faithfulness. They built a city called the City of Holiness, or Zion, where the people lived in peace, unity, and prosperity (see Moses 7:1819). As the people of Enoch followed the Lord, they became more like Him. They grew so righteous that they were taken up to heaven without tasting death to live forever in the presence of God.
Summary
When Enoch was a young man the Lord told him to tell the people to repent. Enoch told the people what the Lord had said. Many believed Enoch's words, repented, and were baptized. These people built a city, Zion, where they lived together in peace, sharing all they had. The people in Zion became so righteous that they were taken up to heaven to live forever in the presence of God.
Artist, Del Parson
© 1997 by Intellectual Reserve, Inc. All rights reserved. Printed in the USA

Enoch's Great-great-great-great-grandfather was Adam. Enoch was born when Adam was about 500 yrs. old (Adam lived to be 930 yrs. old!) What stories do you think Adam told Enoch? Do you think if you share your spiritual experiences with your children it will make a difference in their lives?

Assignment: Write in your journal a story or advice your Grandpa or Grandma has told/given you. How has it impacted your life? Has it...will it?

Personal story: A few years ago we had four generations of women at my mother's house. We were visiting and soon we started talking about moments of inspiration/impressions (promptings from the Holy Ghost.) My grandmother (whom I always considered "inactive," not really interested in the gospel) told us of a time when she was a young mother and was prompted to check on her children. I don't remember the details but her sharing that experience changed my opinion of her and her love of Heavenly Father. I am truly grateful for that experience.

Adam and Eve Teach Their Children

2009-10-15T08:07:00.003-06:00

Moses 5:12, Moses 5:5, Moses 5:1012, Moses 5:58; Moses 6:1And Adam and Eve blessed the name of God, and they made all things known unto their sons and their daughters. Moses 5:12
After Adam and Eve were driven from the Garden of Eden, they began to work to feed and clothe themselves. They also had a large family with many sons and daughters. (See Moses 5:12.)
The Lord gave Adam and Eve commandments, and they obeyed them (see Moses 5:5). They realized that their family was a blessing and knew that if they lived worthily, they would once again see Heavenly Father and be able to live with Him (see Moses 5:1011).
"Adam and Eve blessed the name of God, and [taught] all things ... unto their sons and their daughters" (Moses 5:12). They taught their children the gospel, to have faith in Jesus Christ, and to repent (see Moses 5:58; Moses 6:1).
Summary
After Adam and Eve were sent out of the Garden of Eden to live in the world, they worked very hard to provide for the needs of their children. They had many children and taught them the gospel and the ways of the Lord.
Artist, Del Parson
© 1997 by Intellectual Reserve, Inc. All rights reserved. Printed in the USA

Assignment: Also read Doctrine and Covenants 68 (starting pg. 125) looking for instruction to parents. Also, Mosiah 4:14-15 (pg. 156 in Book of Mormon.)
What gift does Heavenly Father want all of his children to receive? Why would he give this gift to those as young as eight years old? How can you apply the words found in Mosiah in your own family?

Adam and Eve

2009-10-13T08:19:00.004-06:00

Genesis 13; Moses 24And Adam called his wife's name Eve; because she was the mother of all living. Genesis 3:20
Adam and Eve were the first man and woman to live on the earth (see Genesis 1:27; Genesis 2:7, Genesis 2:2122; Genesis 3:20). God blessed them and told them to have children (see Genesis 1:28). Adam and Eve lived in the Garden of Eden, where they could talk with and see Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ (see Genesis 2:8).
There were many trees in the Garden of Eden. God told Adam and Eve they could eat fruit from all the trees except one: the tree of knowledge of good and evil. "Nevertheless," the Lord said, "thou mayest choose for thyself ... ; but, remember that I forbid it, for in the day thou eatest thereof thou shalt surely die" (Moses 3:17; see also Genesis 2:9, Genesis 2:1617; Moses 3:9, Moses 3:16).
Satan came to the garden and tempted Eve to eat the fruit of the tree of knowledge of good and evil. Eve told Satan that the Lord had commanded her and Adam not to eat it or they would be cast out of the garden to die. (See Genesis 3:13; Moses 4:89.)
Satan lied, telling Eve, "Ye shall not surely die" (Genesis 3:4; Moses 4:10). He also said the fruit would make her wise so she would know good and evil (see Genesis 3:5; Moses 4:11). Eve chose to eat the fruit. Then she gave some of the fruit to Adam, and he also ate. (See Genesis 3:6; Moses 4:12.) When Adam and Eve heard the voice of the Lord, they hid because they were ashamed that they had disobeyed God (see Genesis 3:8; Moses 4:14).
When God asked Adam and Eve if they had eaten the forbidden fruit, they confessed that they had (see Genesis 3:1113; Moses 4:1719). God cast Adam and Eve out of the Garden of Eden (see Genesis 3:23; Moses 4:29).
Even though they had to leave the beautiful garden, Adam and Eve believed that God loved them, and they had faith that He would send Jesus Christ to be their Savior.
Summary
Adam and Eve were the first man and woman to live on the earth. God placed them in the Garden of Eden and told them not to eat the fruit of the tree of knowledge of good and evil. He told them, however, that they could choose for themselves but to remember that eating the fruit was forbidden and that they would die if they ate it. Later Satan came to the garden and tempted Eve to eat the fruit. She chose to do so and then gave some of the fruit to Adam, who also ate. As a result, God sent Adam and Eve out of the garden. They were now mortal and would one day die, but they had faith that God would send Jesus Christ to be their Savior.
Artist, Lowell Bruce Bennett
© 2002 by Intellectual Reserve, Inc. All rights reserved. Printed in the USA

The above text is found on the back of the first picture.

Assignment: Also read Abraham 5. Read and ponder about Adam and Eve's decisions. Was Heavenly Fathers' plan for mankind thwarted or did He know what choices they would make? Pay close attention to the wording in Gen. 3:17 and Moses 4:23 .... what was cursed and why? What does "In the sweat of thy face shalt thou eat bread" (Gen. 3:19) mean? In today's world do people recognize this as a "blessing" from Heavenly Father?

The Creation

2009-10-12T09:24:00.004-06:00

Moses 1:31, 39 Moses 7:30 (Moses is found in the Pearl of Great Price ... after the Doctrine and Covenants...just before the index) Mosiah 4:9 (Book of Mormon pg. 155)

(Artist...Stanley Galli)
Genesis 1:20-25 (First book in the Old Testament) Moses 2:20-25 and Abraham 4: 20-25 (Pearl of Great Price....you were just there.)

Assignment: Read all of Genesis 1, Moses 2, Abraham 4
Do you notice any differences? As you look around you today and notice the "creation" what are your feelings...record them and give thanks!

Why Did We Start With Jesus?

2009-10-10T07:47:00.004-06:00

It's important to understand Christ's relationship to Heavenly Father and to us. We must know he is who he says he is...The Son of God. A friend of mine says, "He either is the Son of God or he's a liar!" There is our choice...as simple as that and all it implies!

I love the above cd therefore highly recommend it.

2nd Song:

Before the World Was
Before the world was-
Before the order of the stars came to be-
Before the planets-
Before the swirling of the vast galaxies-
Was the Father.
Our parents' wisdom
Had clothed intelligence with spirit and life.
And from their wisdom,
The new-born spirit now emerging in light
Was Jehovah.
He was the first-born,
He was the greatest of the children of God.
The Father's right hand-
The Father's image in perfection and grace-
Was Jehovah.
As sons and daughters-
As fiery sparks before our Father and God-
As spirit children-
Now given form and shape through God's
surging love-
There were we.
And we danced in the heavens
With the joy of our lives
And we shouted the praises
Of our God!
And we sang out in glory-
As the children of the morning,
And Jehovah was the greatest of all!
The host was gathered-
A heavenly council
to announce the great plan.
The Father's purpose-
The immortality and glory of man.
Hallelujah!
A new creation-
A shining world to be the home of our birth.
And as a ransom-
A living sacrifice for all on the earth-
Was Jehovah.
And we danced in the heavens
With the joy of our lives!
And we shouted the praises
Of our God!
And we sang out in glory
As the children of the morning,
And Jehovah was the greatest of all!
Before the world was-
Before the order of the stars came to be-
Was Jehovah.

Jehovah, the firstborn of the Father. God of the Old Testament. Out of worlds without number, he came to live on the earth. And his name was called Jesus, meaning "God is help" or "Savior".

By Steven Kapp Perry and Janice Kapp Perry

Assignment: Ponder the words of the song. Did you learn anything new? Ask away.....

In The Beginning Was....The Word, Creator, Jehovah, Advocate, The Only Begotten of the Father, The Mediator, The Lamb, Savior, Redeember, Jesus Christ

2009-10-08T09:02:00.002-06:00

2 Nephi 25:26 (pg. 100 in the Book of Mormon)
And we talk of Christ, we rejoice in Christ, and we write according to our prophecies, that our children may know to what source they may look for a remission of their sins.

Assignment: Learn at least 10 names that Jesus is known by. (Start on page 240 of the Topical Guide in your LDS edition of the Scriptures...before the map section.) Does one mean more to you than another? Keep a personal study journal....measure your spiritual growth and scripture knowledge beginning today.

PS. This has not been a favorite picture of the Savior for me but....the more I look at it I love it! He seems so bland and smudgy....but then those eyes! WOW!