December 13, 2010

I read more of the Ensign I did yesterday and finished Russell M. Nelson's article on preparing to go to the temple. I think it really is an excellent article for those who are preparing to enter the temple. I want to use it as a resource when it is time for me to help my children prepare to enter. I really liked the section on the temple garment. He quoted a letter the First Presidency wrote in 1988 and I especially love the last sentence of that: "How it is worn is an outward expression of an inward commitment to follow the Savior." 

I also really liked the section on how keeping the covenants is protective and enabling. I really believe that is true. He compares it to using a water filter: "When we choose to deny ourselves of all ungodliness, we lose nothing of value and gain glory known only to those who obtain eternal life." It is enabling, elevating, protecting... helping us to "soar" above and through the skies. 

There was a quote by Elder Neal A. Maxwell that really stood out to me, because I often hear (and have probably said myself) other say things like, "I love to be in the temple because I can get away from the world." Well, here is his quote: "Temple work is not an escape from the world, but a reinforcing of our need to better the world while preparing ourselves for another and far better world. Thus, being in the Lord's house can help us to make more difference in the world." Because I really have great desires to make a difference in the world, this quote really spoke to my heart. I love it. I would love to put it up with a picture of the temple to remind myself of how important temple work is in helping me to be the person I want to be.

September 22, 2010

Tonight I read more of Korihor in Alma 30:12-20. I am amazed at how much of his same teaching is mainstream prevalent in today's society. For example: "Every man fared in this life according to the management of the creature; therefore every man prospered according to his genius, and that every man conquered according to his strength; and whatsoever a man did was no crime." I also found it interesting in verse 18 that it says his "teaching did lead away many women... and also men..." I thought it was interesting it mentions women being led away first. Does that mean that more women were led away than men? Why would these teachings resonant more with women than men? That indicates, I think, some feminist thinking in their day that could have been similar to our day as well. Another of Korihor's teachings is: "ye cannot know of things which ye do not see." That is definitely a prominent belief today. I see a rising tide of atheism, with that belief as a standard credo. Well, I believe we can know about things we can't see, and it's through FAITH. That's what the debate today is on too. So many people believe faith is bogus. Well, I hold to my faith and I try to strengthen it by obedience. I have seen blessings in my life as a result of doing so, and I believe I will see more... in this life and the next.

August 27, 2010

Tonight I read Alma chapter 29:1-8. I really liked this quote in verse 8: "The Lord doth grant unto all nations, ... in wisdom, all that he seeth fit that they should have." And I really do believe that each person is given exactly what they need to learn and grow and come unto Christ and be made whole. What Alma wishes he could declare to everyone is repentance and the plan of redemption. I have found in my own heart that those are the two most foundational principles of my faith and testimony. I am so grateful for the understanding and peace I have been blessed with.