I read Helaman 5 which is an astounding account of a really incredible spiritual experience that happened among the Lamanites as a result of Nephi and Lehi's missionary work. At the very beginning of the chapter it says that those people who chose evil were more numerous than those who chose good. Nephi was weary because of all the iniquity and he left the judgment seat to preach the gospel with his brother because of what he remembered his father teaching them. I wonder if, in our country, I will live to see a day when there are more who are choosing evil rather than good. I really admire Nephi and Lehi's example of their decision to dedicate their lives to missionary work. It is a reminder of what is most important. I am amazed at their success, especially among the Lamanites and those Nephites who had dissented. The two of them converted 8,000 Lamanites!! It reminds me of Wilford Woodruff in these latter days who was also an incredible missionary, baptizing thousands. But apparently there were those who were still not convinced because Nephi and Lehi were thrown into prison.
I absolutely love the account of what happened to them while they were in prison, along with about 300 Lamanite and Nephite dissenters whose initial intention was to kill Nephi and Lehi. What stood out to me as I read the account this time was the way the voice of the Spirit was described. "It was not a voice of thunder, neither was it a voice of a great tumultuous noise, but behold, it was a still voice of perfect milkdness, as if it had been a whisper, and it did pierce even to the very soul" (verse 30). In verse 46 it says the voice was "a pleasant voice, as if it were a whisper." I love the voice of the Holy Ghost and am very grateful for the times when I am privileged to hear this beautiful voice. It fills me with such peace and a wonderful thrill. It really does "pierce to the very soul."
Showing posts with label missionary work. Show all posts
Showing posts with label missionary work. Show all posts
December 26, 2010
I read Russell M. Nelson's talk from the last Priesthood session titled Be Thou an Example of the Believers. The talk is about missionary work and how both missionaries and members have a responsibility to take part in this work. I believe that one of the best ways to be a missionary is, like the title says, to be an example of the believers. "As followers of Jesus Christ, each of [us] can live in accord with His teachings. [We] can have a 'pure heart and clean hands,' [we] can have 'the image of God engraven upon [our] countenance[s].' [Our] good works will be evident to others. The light of the Lord can beam from [our] eyes. With that radiance, [we] had better prepare for questions." These are things I try to do, and I hope the way I live my life does make a difference in the lives of others. I want to always be prepared for any questions that may come to me as a result of how I live my life. I liked a piece of advice included in this talk. It says, "reach out to those you do not know and greet them warmly. Each day of your life, strive to enlarge your own circle of friendship." I really am grateful for my friends and I'm grateful to be a friend. In this ward, I have reached out to others more than I have ever before and it really has blessed my life and I hope it has blessed the lives of those I've become friends with too. I love relationships and the opportunity I have to make a difference in someone else's life. I believe we are all children of God and all in this life together. I hope that everyone I come in contact with will be able to feel the pure love of Christ coming through me as a result of how I live my life.
October 24, 2010
I found a Book of Mormon on my shelf that has no markings in it so I am going to use it from now on as my book where I am focusing on the phrase, "keep my commandments." I will be marking it throughout what I read. Tonight I read in Alma 39 where Alma is speaking to his son Corianton. He is disappointed in Corianton because not only was he carried away in pride, but he forsook his missionary work and went after a harlot. It is interesting to note that of the very few women who are mentioned by name in the Book of Mormon, one of them is this harlot, Isabel. The actions of Corianton affected Alma's missionary work because when the people saw what he was doing, they wouldn't believe Alma's words. The power of example and our good name and reputation is so strong and can be a great tool for missionary work.
September 30, 2010
Tonight I read Alma 31 where Alma goes on a mission to the Zoramites who are living wickedly. I love what it says in verse 5 about the power of the "preaching of the word" ... that "it had a more powerful effect upon the minds of the people than the sword, or anything else." I believe that power comes from the Spirit of the Lord. One does need to be humble and have an open heart to be influenced by that power. The Zoramites "would not observe to keep the commandments of God," and "neither would they observe the performances of the church." These were people who had had the gospel in their lives. They knew it. Again, this illustrates the vast importance of living obediently and with faith. Those simple ways of living help to protect against the loss of the Spirit. It has to be real in our actions, not just wishful thinking, or believing that one is living righteously simply be believing the tenets of the gospel. Faith is action and we need to be showing through our daily choices whether or not we are choosing to obey God. My actions show that I love God and I'm willing to be obedient to His commands. I hope I will always show that through my actions.
August 24, 2010
Tonight I read Alma chapter 28 and I especially liked the last two verses. I love this phrase "the inequality of man... because of sin and transgression." It truly is our choices that lead us to where we are in life... however, with many making choices because they don't know any better, like the converted Lamanites. There really is a "great call of diligence... to labor in the vineyards of the Lord." I believe I can find "joy" in life "because of the light of Christ." That is a joy I want to share with others, especially those who have never been exposed to these truths.
August 11, 2010
Tonight I read Alma 25. I found it interesting to note that the Lamanites who had gone to war against the Nephites and also those Lamanites who had been converted, saw that "they could not overpower" them. So they went back home, and in fact went and joined up with the Anti-Nephi-Lehites and became obedient and righteous. That says something for the powerful example of what way of living truly brings joy and fulfillment and purpose. I also took note of the last verse where the sons of Mosiah are just so happy that they had had success in their missionary efforts with the Lamanites. They labored for 14 years! And key to their success was the fact that they fasted and prayed much. When our desires are in line with the Lord's will, as long as we apply a consistent, obedient and righteous effort over time, I believe we will enjoy success in our endeavors like the sons of Mosiah. The Lord had "granted unto them according to their prayers." And they were so grateful for that. I'm learning the key to recognizing and experiencing the kind of success the Lord wants to bless us with depends on our consistent efforts compounded over time. We shouldn't ever give up when we know our cause is just and worthy. The Lord wants to bless us because by so doing it brings many others closer to him through the examples we set.
August 7, 2010
Tonight I read Alma chapter 23. The king of all the Lamanites is converted and thus proclaims freedom throughout his lands for all the other sons of Mosiah to teach the gospel freely. Many are converted and name themselves the Anti-Nephi-Lehis. Two things in this chapter stood out to me. The first is that of all those who were converted that they "never did fall away." That, to me, implies true conversion, and is the kind of conversion I have sought within myself and that I also help others to receive. True conversion requires long term commitment and great faith.
The other thing that stood out to me is that of the Amalekites there was not but only one who was converted. "That one" stands out to me. Obviously the gospel message touched that one heart and they were converted. "The one" is so important to God. He wants us to seek after one... to preach the gospel to an entire group of people just to find that one among them who is open and ready to receive the gospel message. We never know who or where that "one" is, so it is important for us to always open our mouths and share the gospel message with everyone.
The other thing that stood out to me is that of the Amalekites there was not but only one who was converted. "That one" stands out to me. Obviously the gospel message touched that one heart and they were converted. "The one" is so important to God. He wants us to seek after one... to preach the gospel to an entire group of people just to find that one among them who is open and ready to receive the gospel message. We never know who or where that "one" is, so it is important for us to always open our mouths and share the gospel message with everyone.
August 2, 2010
Tonight I finished reading Alma chapter 19 and was struck with a facet of this story of Abish and her actions. When she saw what had happened, she immediately recognized it for what it was: a glorious manifestation of the Spirit of God. Because she had been converted, she saw and felt the power of the experience and, "supposing that this opportunity, by making known unto the people what had happened among them, that by beholding this scene it would cause them to believe in the power of God, therefore she ran forth from house to house, making it known unto the people." I love her energy, enthusiasm and urgency in wanting to share this experience with others and I have felt that same way before. But the people we share with don't always see the same thing we do. She was devastated when she came back and realized that the multitude of people who had gathered didn't at all see what she did. In fact, they believed it was the power of evil!
It's at this moment that I learn the most. Abish, instead of running off in her tears and embarrassment because no one saw the beauty of what she had, she runs to the queen with faith and hope in her heart. The queen wakens and bears a powerful testimony of Jesus Christ. Then the king wakes up too and does the same. "There were many that did believe in their words" and "there were many who would not hear his words and went their way." But for those who believed, they received a change of heart and had "no more desire to do evil," they were baptized and became a righteous people.
This story, to me, teaches the importance of sharing, with everyone we possibly can, opportunities to feel the Spirit. Not everyone will and some may even judge it to be of the devil. That can be hard to hear and see but the lesson is to stay strong and don't run from the opportunity because when the Spirit is present, He will teach and attempt to reach the hearts of others. And we can never be the ones to judge who is going to be open to receive the Spirit's message and be changed. Our job is to share the opportunity with everyone and not be afraid if someone walks away from it. It is worth it for even the one heart that is touched.
It's at this moment that I learn the most. Abish, instead of running off in her tears and embarrassment because no one saw the beauty of what she had, she runs to the queen with faith and hope in her heart. The queen wakens and bears a powerful testimony of Jesus Christ. Then the king wakes up too and does the same. "There were many that did believe in their words" and "there were many who would not hear his words and went their way." But for those who believed, they received a change of heart and had "no more desire to do evil," they were baptized and became a righteous people.
This story, to me, teaches the importance of sharing, with everyone we possibly can, opportunities to feel the Spirit. Not everyone will and some may even judge it to be of the devil. That can be hard to hear and see but the lesson is to stay strong and don't run from the opportunity because when the Spirit is present, He will teach and attempt to reach the hearts of others. And we can never be the ones to judge who is going to be open to receive the Spirit's message and be changed. Our job is to share the opportunity with everyone and not be afraid if someone walks away from it. It is worth it for even the one heart that is touched.
July 31, 2010
Tonight I read Alma 19:11-19. In this account King Lamoni wakes up after having been asleep in the Spirit for three days. The first thing he does is testify of the Savior Jesus Christ and his testimony invites the Spirit so strongly that everyone in his presence sinks to the earth in joy. I love this account, especially imagining Alma's amazing feelings that are described in verse 14. This account teaches me to never ever give up on anyone and that anyone can change. That offers me such hope and belief in people's ability to change, as long as I do my part, just like Alma did. He is a fantastic example.
The other thing I love about this account is the example of Abish, the woman who had been converted to the Lord because of a vision her father had years ago. I love her response to seeing all of these people prostrate. I'm certain the Spirit was powerfully present... palpable in the air. And her first thought was for everyone who wasn't there to come as quickly as possible so they could experience the same feeling of the Spirit. I think that is a wonderful example of what someone who is already converted can do... think of others and bring them to experience the feelings of the Spirit for themselves. The Spirit is the most powerful teacher and testifier of truth.
The other thing I love about this account is the example of Abish, the woman who had been converted to the Lord because of a vision her father had years ago. I love her response to seeing all of these people prostrate. I'm certain the Spirit was powerfully present... palpable in the air. And her first thought was for everyone who wasn't there to come as quickly as possible so they could experience the same feeling of the Spirit. I think that is a wonderful example of what someone who is already converted can do... think of others and bring them to experience the feelings of the Spirit for themselves. The Spirit is the most powerful teacher and testifier of truth.
July 28, 2010
I read tonight the account of what Alma taught King Lamoni in Alma chapter 18. I really love the example of Alma in how to be an instrument in the Lord's hands. The only thing he focused on was serving the king perfectly. In fact, the king is so impressed with him that he says, "Surely there has not been any servant among all my servants that has been so faithful as this man; for even he doth remember all my commandments to execute them." When I read that, I actually thought of using Alma's example of remembering commandments and then executing them in relation to our Heavenly Father. I want to remember His commandments and execute them too. I want Him to say of me that I have been one of His faithful servants. I have the example of many other servants of the Lord to follow... especially the prophet. I am grateful for his loving service and Christlike example in all that he does and says.
The next point of example in Alma's actions is that he listened. He listened to King Lamoni (even though he wasn't saying much at first) and he listened to the Spirit. The Spirit helped him discern the king's thoughts. Then he asked questions. After all this was when King Lamoni asked Alma to tell him straight up, to "speak boldly" and tell him who he is - what is his mission and by what authority does he work? Alma then proceeds to boldly declare and teach the truths of the gospel, the plan of salvation, and the coming role of the Messiah. King Lamoni listened, so openly that he became overcome by the Spirit and was like was dead for two days. That was a life changing moment for King Lamoni and Alma was an instrument in the Lord's hands for bringing that about. So, I've learned from the chapter, the pattern to follow to be an instrument in the Lord's hands to help others have life changing moments. The pattern is to serve wholeheartedly and with exactness, then listen, then ask questions, then boldly declare my testimony and the truths I know about the plan of salvation and the Atonement of Jesus Christ. With service being the foundation, it is clear to see how important it is to learn to serve and it is also so important to teach my children the importance of service. Because service is what opens the door to a heart changing and receiving Christ.
The next point of example in Alma's actions is that he listened. He listened to King Lamoni (even though he wasn't saying much at first) and he listened to the Spirit. The Spirit helped him discern the king's thoughts. Then he asked questions. After all this was when King Lamoni asked Alma to tell him straight up, to "speak boldly" and tell him who he is - what is his mission and by what authority does he work? Alma then proceeds to boldly declare and teach the truths of the gospel, the plan of salvation, and the coming role of the Messiah. King Lamoni listened, so openly that he became overcome by the Spirit and was like was dead for two days. That was a life changing moment for King Lamoni and Alma was an instrument in the Lord's hands for bringing that about. So, I've learned from the chapter, the pattern to follow to be an instrument in the Lord's hands to help others have life changing moments. The pattern is to serve wholeheartedly and with exactness, then listen, then ask questions, then boldly declare my testimony and the truths I know about the plan of salvation and the Atonement of Jesus Christ. With service being the foundation, it is clear to see how important it is to learn to serve and it is also so important to teach my children the importance of service. Because service is what opens the door to a heart changing and receiving Christ.
July 20, 2010
Tonight I read Alma 17, the story of Ammon cutting off the arms of the Lamanites who were trying to scatter the flocks of the king. What most struck me about this chapter was the beginning which spoke of the sons of Mosiah reuniting with Alma, and then it flashes back to when they first left. I love verses 9-10 where it says, about when they had first left their homes to go among the Lamanites, that "they fasted much and prayed much that the Lord would grant unto them a portion of his Spirit to go with them, and abide with them, that they might be an instrument in the hands of God... the Lord did visit them with his Spirit."
The Lord hears and answers our prayers, especially when our prayers are in line with His will and His work. I love verse 11 also where the Lord tells them that by being patient in long suffering and afflictions that they would show a good example and the Lord would be able to use them as instruments in His hands to bringing about the salvation of many souls. I want to be that kind of example too and be used as an instrument in God's hands. I believe I can be patient and long suffering. I've learned that the key to developing that kind of patience is gratitude... expressing thanks for as many things as I can think of. I thank God every day for something. I am truly blessed and I see His hand in my life.
The Lord hears and answers our prayers, especially when our prayers are in line with His will and His work. I love verse 11 also where the Lord tells them that by being patient in long suffering and afflictions that they would show a good example and the Lord would be able to use them as instruments in His hands to bringing about the salvation of many souls. I want to be that kind of example too and be used as an instrument in God's hands. I believe I can be patient and long suffering. I've learned that the key to developing that kind of patience is gratitude... expressing thanks for as many things as I can think of. I thank God every day for something. I am truly blessed and I see His hand in my life.
July 17, 2010
Tonight I read chapter 16 in Alma about how the city of Ammonihah is destroyed in one day. I was impressed by two things about this destruction. First of all, it reminds me that nothing is ever impossible. I should be grateful for every breath I take, every moment I have with my family and every blessing I enjoy, because just like the city of Ammonihah was destroyed in one day even though the people thought it couldn't be destroyed, I believe that at any moment in time, God has the same power over my own life.
The second thing that stood out to me is the missionary work that was accomplished after the destruction of Ammonihah. The people became receptive to the message of the gospel. Their hearts were open. I believe that people are more receptive to receiving the word of God after having witnessed a great tragedy. I think great tragedies help remind us of our insignificance and our total dependence on God and the fact that everything we've been given could be taken away just like that. Being made so much aware of our precarious human position, I believe we are more inclined to find hope through the promise of eternal life through the Atonement of Jesus Christ. My goal is to try to maintain that receptiveness always, in good times as well as bad. I don't want to have to witness a calamity to remind me of my dependence on God and my need of a Savior.
The second thing that stood out to me is the missionary work that was accomplished after the destruction of Ammonihah. The people became receptive to the message of the gospel. Their hearts were open. I believe that people are more receptive to receiving the word of God after having witnessed a great tragedy. I think great tragedies help remind us of our insignificance and our total dependence on God and the fact that everything we've been given could be taken away just like that. Being made so much aware of our precarious human position, I believe we are more inclined to find hope through the promise of eternal life through the Atonement of Jesus Christ. My goal is to try to maintain that receptiveness always, in good times as well as bad. I don't want to have to witness a calamity to remind me of my dependence on God and my need of a Savior.
June 13, 2010
Today I read Elder Robert D. Hales' talk, Our Duty to God: The Mission of Parents and Leaders to the the Rising Generation. I really liked this talk and it makes me really happy to read it and feel like I really am fulfilling my duty to God. I am passionate about parenting in the Lord's way and I felt reminded of the most important things I should be doing and reassured that I'm on the right track.
Elder Hales says, "Our duty to God... begins with... consistently and diligently living gospel principles at home." And another important part of our duty is "teaching our children the gospel and preparing them to participate fully in the Savior's restored church." He asks, "Do our children know what we know?" I hope that my children will know. They certainly will know of what I know by reading my journals, but I wish for them to not only know of what I know, but to know as I know. I want to share my faith with each one of them.
Elder Hales also talks of the importance of really understanding our children's hearts, of really being there with them. It means we are listening with spiritual ears, that we let them talk and ask questions and listen more! It means we're doing things with them, connecting through shared experiences together. He says we must act on the opportunities we have to "look into their eyes and tell them we love them and that Heavenly Father loves them" and "help them understand... who they are, and how fortunate they are to have come to this earth and to our home and to participate in the covenants we have taken in the temple to be a family forever."
I have a very strong testimony of and feelings about these things and hope my children will feel similar feelings. I loved Elder Hales' reminders that the greatest missionary work, family history work and the greatest rescue, activation that we will do will be within the walls of our own homes. I love my calling as a mother and I have no doubt that what goes on inside our home and family is the greatest work I could ever do.
My favorite part of this talk was a quote of a scripture in D&C 123:15, 17 that says, "There is much which lieth in futurity. Therefore, let us cheerfully do all things that lie in our power; and then we may stand still, with the utmost assurance, to see the salvation of God, and for his arm to be revealed."
Elder Hales says, "Our duty to God... begins with... consistently and diligently living gospel principles at home." And another important part of our duty is "teaching our children the gospel and preparing them to participate fully in the Savior's restored church." He asks, "Do our children know what we know?" I hope that my children will know. They certainly will know of what I know by reading my journals, but I wish for them to not only know of what I know, but to know as I know. I want to share my faith with each one of them.
Elder Hales also talks of the importance of really understanding our children's hearts, of really being there with them. It means we are listening with spiritual ears, that we let them talk and ask questions and listen more! It means we're doing things with them, connecting through shared experiences together. He says we must act on the opportunities we have to "look into their eyes and tell them we love them and that Heavenly Father loves them" and "help them understand... who they are, and how fortunate they are to have come to this earth and to our home and to participate in the covenants we have taken in the temple to be a family forever."
I have a very strong testimony of and feelings about these things and hope my children will feel similar feelings. I loved Elder Hales' reminders that the greatest missionary work, family history work and the greatest rescue, activation that we will do will be within the walls of our own homes. I love my calling as a mother and I have no doubt that what goes on inside our home and family is the greatest work I could ever do.
My favorite part of this talk was a quote of a scripture in D&C 123:15, 17 that says, "There is much which lieth in futurity. Therefore, let us cheerfully do all things that lie in our power; and then we may stand still, with the utmost assurance, to see the salvation of God, and for his arm to be revealed."
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