Section 59-60

I want to start off with a very important topic to me: the attitude towards Sunday among people. The truth is, most of the world considers it to be just another day of the weekend for them to do errands, finish assignments, and getting ready for Monday. The emphasis of it being a day of rest to worship The Lord and reenergize by spiritually has been lost to people outside the church. Clearly in section 59 we are told "to pay [our] devotions unto the Most High" on the day appointed for our rest (v10). We also are to gather in the house of prayer and offer our sacraments (v9). 

There is something I learned from someone at some lesson...not very specific but I remember the principle taught! The names we use for this holy day have changed, at first it was the Holy Sabbath, then Sabbath, then Sunday, at lastly weekend. Whatever is used shows the amount of respect we have for the day that was set aside specifically for us. I want to increase my respect more than I have right now so it will hopefully make the day better!

Okay now that I feel like I've ranted a little, we can move on to other cool stuff I've found. I love everything The Lord has done for me and what he has given me which includes the whole earth (v18)! We are given everything on earth for our benefit and our use. What's cool is that God is happy that He has given it to us and we use it (v20). I also found v21 cool because it says we can't offend God unless we break His commandments or deny Him. 

In section 60, The Lord is addressing some missionaries with both positive and negative comments. The negative comments aren't exactly bad, but they are reprimanding in a kind, guiding way. One thing that isn't making Him happy is the missionaries not using the talents that are given to them because they fear man and will not open their mouths (v2). If they aren't going to use the talent, they are going to loose it (v3)! Another thing that isn't great is related because they are being idle by not constantly preaching as they are proclaiming Hos words (v13). 

Section 58

I find myself having common interests with the members of the church who sought to learn the will of The Lord concerning them in this section. I also seek constantly for what The Lord will have me do but I learned an amazing lesson from reading today. In v26-27, we are told that we should be anxiously engaged in a good cause and not have to be compelled to do what The Lord has commanded. 

We are given scriptures that teach is the gospel and told the commandments that apply to us. Just last week I read that the first commandment is to preach the gospel to all who are in darkness (42:4). So the first step is to know the commandments, then we must keep them and repent of our sins (v42-43). This envolved confessing, forsaking, and never returning to them. 

I think it's interesting to read about certain truths like v2 where it says that we are blessed if we are faithful during out tribulations. I know I've made mistakes but I have never given up or turned my back on my Savior. I have never lost faith in his ability to strengthen me, forgive me, or save me. 

One more random tidbit I want to mention in this section is v21, "he that keepers the laws of God hath no need to break the laws of the land." Now I've known this my whole life but really thinking about ALL the laws of the land and if I follow them completely is hard. There's speed limits I fudge a little of course, and other small things that are so common among everyone in the world! Like recently I've become a server and it's not common for anyone else to claim their cash tips to be taxed. It was a dilemma for me for a while but I keep track of my tips to pay tithing and also to obey the laws of the land on tax. I don't want to cut corners when it comes to my salvation.

Section 53-57

I usually don't read this many sections but I was interested in the story and I'm glad I continued reading. During the first years of the church, the callings weren't known very well and The Lord gave very specific directions and comfort when calling people to certain positions. Nowadays most callings are well defined in our handbooks and we are guided by people who have done what we are called to before us. 

The controversy that is mentioned in section 54 and 56 about the consecration of properties includes the main reasons why that law didn't work so well. Mainly because there are selfish and greedy people who break their covenants when they should be humbling themselves. It does not matter whether we are rich or poor because the temptations of the world are given to all. The rich need to be weary that their riches will canker their souls if they do not help the poor (v16). The poor who are not humble, and who allow envy and idleness to fill their hearts are also in trouble (v17). 

God knows the difference between rebelling against Him and falling for temptations in times of weakness. His anger kindles against the rebellious while He is merciful for those that are weak. Knowing what I have learned makes me want to work on staying humble while I am a poor college student and earn blessings from God by continually trying to support myself financially and spiritually. 

Lastly I want to address the love of God displayed in the way He provides for His church like in section 57. Not only does He provide guidance in what to do, but He also provides the means to do what He commands (like Nephi's story!). Specifically here, he provides financial aid to buy land for the church members to settle in Independence, Missouri. He assigns people to certain tasks to that this gospel can spread and be preached to those in darkness (v10). 

Section 51-52

I fully believe that The Lord's guidance he gives to the church is the best information we need. It was when the church first started, and it still applies today along with more information we are recieving from Him. The church was in need of help because of persecution and temporarily set up in Ohio, but then moved to Missouri under the direction of The Lord. My family has had similar experiences of moving quite often and being guided by The Lord's will. 

Also, reading all the missionary calls in section 52 is inspiring because my brother is soon going on a mission! I can't be a member of the church and not have a strong testimony of the necessity of missionaries! I admire all who have served and all who have a desire to!

Section 50

I get so much peace, comfort, and joy from reading the scriptures. Especially my new endeavor to read the Doctrine and Covenants. The Lord has blessed me with comprehensive reading skills and the ability to have an understanding from my reading. His warning about being deceived by satan (v3) and the following reasoning to know what is of God (v10-24) was fascinating!

 Bottom line, "that which doth not edify is not of God, and is darkness" (v23). I know there are a lot of wasted hours in my days because I watch tv, laze around, or do other non edifying activities when I could be growing closer to God! It may be a slow process, but I plan to start cutting out those non edifying activities and replacing them with ones that can grow the light of God in my life.

The people who are ordained of God and purified have such power granted to them to preach, teach, and represent Him (v26-28). I can think of a few people who remind me of what is described about those people who have such strong Spirit! But I have to keep in mind that I can be one of those people too. I can receive God and the power to overcome all things (v34-35). There is no need for me to fear (v41) because Christ has claimed me and watches over His sheep (AKA me! And you ;)). 

Section 47-49

Got to be honest, I'm gonna focus entirely on section 49 because it blows my mind! The beliefs of the Shakers are so interesting and just out there that it fascinated my interest. Each belief was addressed by this revelation that was sent to the people from missionaries, but it says in the heading that it was rejected. Either way, we know for a fact several truths that were corrected.

First off, Christ won't switch genders when He comes back to earth, and that hasn't happened yet by the way (v7&22). He does not want us to be deceived about that by anyone claiming such nonsense, so just ask and ye shall receive (v23-26). 

I love that it speaks of marriage being ordained of God (v15) because I have several two sets of friends getting married this week!! I am so happy they have found their eternal partner and are getting sealed by the power of God in the Nauvoo temple. I look forward to the day I will make that commitment to whomever I am meant to be with. Until that day, I fully plan to continue to trust in my Savior and read the truths He tells us in the scriptures...like eating meat (v17-19). 

Section 46

The way the church is organized is not only according to Jesus Christ's ways, but also very uniquely compared to other churches. Any Mormon church you go to will be 90% exactly the same as every other Mormon church, the only difference is the people! I think it is a huge benefit to have churches across the globe that are all unified in goal and follow the direction given by Christ. 

Rule #1 everyone is welcome to sacrament meeting (v3-6). Investigators as well as people who are working through personal iniquity are both seeking the kingdom of God and are welcome at church! It would be nice if they didn't have to worry about being judged...but no body is perfect.

Rule #2 everyone has different gifts and are to use them for the benefit of all (v10-12). There are a plethora of different gifts, but most important is given to the bisoph in which he can discern all the gifts in others, and therefore, can conduct the church successfully (v27). 

The Lord gives us callings because we have special gifts from Him that we are expected to develop and use to benefit others. I've been told my talents a few times but it is still sometimes hard to realize and consciously use them to benefit my ward. 

Section 45

Some sections just need to be read twice in a row to fully get what I should out of them because this second time reading this long section was worth it! There are always going to be rumors and foolish stories told against the church by followers if satan to discourage people from finding the truth, but we have the truths in this section to strengthen us. I'm gonna save the best for last on this one and talk about the light of Christ that has come forth in this day to show the house of Israel where to gather (v9). 

The analogy of setting a standard for the nation was lost in me for a long time in my youth, but I like the word standard being used when talking about gathering Israel now. I think it fits because we are not physical gathering to a location, but gathering in spirit in the gospel that is a global organization. Anyone can be gathered and come to Christ and not have to travel too far anymore because the church has been brought to them. I just love that!

The next cool thing I found in this section was concerning the words which The Lord spoke to his disciples about the signs of His coming and how they are compared to a fig tree. Some of the signs of His coming aren't very pleasant and can get me feeling pretty down, but The Lord says, "Be not troubled, for, when all these things shall come to pass, ye may know that the promises which have been made unto you shall be fulfilled" (v35). Just as when fig trees begin to blossom, the people knew summer was here, we know that the signs will bring The Lord's second coming, which is cool to read about and will be even cooler to experience!

I plan to go learn more by reading Jospeh Smith translations in the Bible when I come to that because apparently great things await me (v60-62). Now I don't know about you, but I want to live in Zion just from reading v69-71! There will be no wars within it, no one will want to attack, and there will be a lot of joy. This brings me to my favorite part of the chapter, the beginning. I want to be worthy to live in Zion and have Christ be my advocate with the Father (v3). His way of speaking the the Father for our sakes warms my heart and comforts my soul tremendously. I will forever believe in Christ, put my faith in His name, and do His work in whatever calling I am given. 

Section 43-44

Okay so before I begin let me make this clear: I believe in revelation from my prophet! Just as Joseph Smith received revelation when he was alive, Thomas S. Monson receives revelation today. The main topic of section 43 was the authority given to the prophet to receive revelation for the church. Meaning he is the ONLY one who does so we don't have to question other sources and be deceived (v6). 

The less confused we are about the commandments of God the more we can work on edifying each other when we meet together (v8). I had a wonderful edifying experience when I met with almost 300 people at the YSA conference I attended because I allowed myself to feel the spirit and be instructed on how to find peace. I hope that means I added to the glory of my kingdom which I have received (v10) wink wink, but I'd be okay if I only received this peace and nothing more. 

Onto sharing the gospel! So we have been commanded to share the gospel with everyone and The Lord makes a cool point when He mentions it here. If those we share the gospel with hate us for it, what will they say when they hear it straight from The Lord (v21-25). Interesting right? I think so anyway and I will now think about it everytime I second guess a prompting to share the gospel with someone! It won't matter if they hate me because I am doing as I am commanded. 

Ok now I want to talk about the awesomeness that is section 44 and General Conference! When we are called to assemble, the Spirit of The Lord will be poured on us (v2)! Too bad it's only twice a year, but guess what...it also applies to other assembling of church members! Oh goodness, can you contain the excitement? That means if you went to church on Sunday, you were drenched in the Spirit of The Lord. Just a good visual to get you through the week!

Section 42

Okay so I tackled this long chapter in a 3 day reading half because of the length and half because of being too busy and tired to focus. There is just so much information packed into this chapter I'm barely going to mention any of it! The laws, commandments, and guidance given throughout the chapter I have known all my life because I grew up in the church, but knowing them doesn't always mean I am consistent in following them. 

The first and most important commandment The Lord gives us is to go forth and spread the gospel (v4-5). All the other commandments have been around for a while and some are even included in the laws of most nations. What's interesting is that if a member of the church breaks a law, this sections says they should be punished according to the laws of the land (v84-87). The commandments that aren't laws of the world are dealt with by church elders who have authority from God (such as adultery in v80-83). 

I love my life. There is nothing in my past that hasn't helped me become who I am today. I now know my weaknesses that lead me to sin. I now know the reality of the atonement of Jesus Christ and the importance of constantly keeping Him in my life for strength. Even if I wish I didn't have to make the mistakes in my past, I know that they were part of God's plan for me to gain knowledge, experience, faith, and to be humbled.

This last weekend, I attended a YSA conference and was blessed with this amazing peace of mind on a topic that has plagued me for months. I am truly blessed for the friends in my life, the speakers and organizers of the conference, and the power of Christ to bring that peace into my heart. I wouldn't take back going for a million dollars even though I was so sick throughout  the conference and emotionally distraught the first half. 

My testimony of the power of God has been strengthened as well as the love I have for Him. I am fully committed to serving and following all commandments of God because of the love I have for Him (v29). I am confident in my faith in Christ to heal me from my sickness from this weekend so when I got a blessing from my father I was so relieved. 

Section 39-41

So as I was reading section 39 I was happy for James Covill for being called and prepared for a great work (v11). It was cool that he would get to preach to people in Ohio to repent and be baptized in the fullness of the gospel (v16-18). Little did I know that he didn't accept it!! In section 40 it says he rejected it because he was tempted by satan and feared the persecution of the world. It was super sad to see that right after feeling great about his calling. But it's not my place to judge. 

Luckily I read on to section 41 and got to see the setting up of a ward with a bishop! Enough elders were in the area that a ward was set up and I just think that's cool because any news of the church growing is cool to me. 

Section 38

How cool is this! In my mind I might be exaggerating how cool this is but I figured something out. So this section is revelation from God written like He is speaking to us, and it was also given during a general conference of the church. That being said, it was like Christ was there speaking straight to the people! Furthermore, we can imagine that happening every time we have conference!!! See! Cool, right?

Anyway, the guidance that was given was precious to me because he explicitly states that when we follow Christ, the kingdom is ours and the enemy shall not overcome us (v9). Also, like that's not enough, He has pleaded before the Father for all who believe on His name (v4). We are so blessed when we follow him because He is merciful unto our weaknesses (v14). All of this from Christ is given and He asks us to share that with the world!

He has set up the means for the great work of spreading the gospel to progress and asks that we administer relief to the needy and poor (v33-35). I've seen evidence of this in the church many times. There's not limit to how much the church does for those in need because we are blessed for seeking the riches of heaven (v39). 

There are more things mentioned in this section but the last one I will address is loving one another (v25). As a member of the church I have heard how we should unify and be one through my life. I know we can accomplish so much more when wards are working together to spread the gospel and help the needy. Christ says, "if ye are not one ye are not mine," and not being His would break my heart (v27). Anyone who goes against the commandments, organizations, or any part of how the church works is fighting against God! I do not ever want to be an enemy to God because as it suggests in v9 (and many many other places in the scriptures) the enemy has no chance of winning.

Section 35-37

So interesting fact I didn't know, 3 different people helped Joseph Smith with scribing while he was translating the bible! Sidney Rigdon is called in section 35, and he is told many wonderful things to inspire and comfort him. He gets to find out that he is like John the Baptist who prepared the way for Christ, he now has authority to baptize even (v4-6). 

Something that shocked me was that "there are none that forth good except those who are ready to receive the fullness of my gospel" (v12). Not only does that suggest that I'm doing good, but also that anyone who rejects the gospel yet still lives 'good' lives aren't so good at all! Crazy right? I can't say that for sure but that's what I saw it as.

I love that The Lord calls the weak, unlearned, and despised to be protected by Him while preaching the gospel to the poor and meek of the world (v13-15). It makes me hope that because I am weak, he will protect me! I won't fear any longer because I know that Christ is watching over his flock, and as long as I'm a part of the flock, I'm safe (v27). 

Another mission call goes to Edward Partridge and The Lord says that anyone who comes to accept the gospel will be sent to preach, which makes sense to me (36:5-7)! This great truth needs to be told to as many people as fast as possible! Missionary work started the day the church began and has never stopped growing!

In section 37, I find comfort in knowing The Lord is protecting His people by warning them if their enemies (v1). He gives this simple commandment to help with the safety of the church and let's them choose to follow His guidance (v4). What a great leader we have :)

Section 30-34

Well here is a section of mission calls that are very personalized to each persons call. There are a lot of facts of information I could put down but I'm not a history teacher for a reason...instead I have a few favorite comforting passages that are contained in these sections. All these men that were called to serve were made a promise. Some were about having blessings of they are faithful, and some were protection for them or their families while they were gone. I still think these apply to missionaries today because my father often said while my brother was on a mission how blessed we were. My brother even said how he had less allergies while he was on his mission! That's a testimony that made an impression on me.

In 31:3, it's says, "Lift up your heart and rejoice, for the hour of your mission is come." That made me think about today's missionaries. If someone if going only out of obligation, they have the wrong attitude. We should be so happy to do missionary work that we rejoice. It may be hard but we can be patient in afflictions, pray, and be faithful in the words of Christ (31:9-13). 

The next set of scriptures that I've heard talked about before and really enjoy is 33:8-10 when we are told to open our mouths 3 times. They will be filled! The Lord wants us to succeed when we do missionary work so He will do all he can do to fill our mouths and soften the hearts of those listening. The church is built on the rock that is the Savior, and He is gathering His elect from the four corners of the earth (33:6,13). All in all we are blessed when we choose to serve The Lord and preach His gospel (34:4-5)

Section 29

Wow! Blow my mind with how awesome this section is. There is literally so many awesome things here so let's start with my favorite! I love tha satan has no power to tempt little children (v46-47). Which also means anything they do wrong is completely forgiven because they don't know better! Drawing the the walls, peeing on my floor, breaking anything, and so much more! Don't get me wrong, as adults we need to teach them that those things aren't good or acceptable, but they have a grace period to learn before being punished for not knowing the law.

Now for my awesome relearning of truths about the second coming. There are so many signs told to us like the sun being darkened, moon going blood red, and stars falling from the sky (v14). The Lord is going to descend from heaven with His twelve aposes in a pillar of fire and have them be judges over the house of Israel (v12)! That's when the wicked will be in trouble because flies are coming to eat their flesh as it falls of their bones...gross right (v17-19)? But it is all meant to be because The Lord will have 1,000 years among men to cleanse the earth with His power (v11).

What's sad is that men will start to deny their God after 1,000 years (v22). After that happens the earth and heaven will be consumed to make room for a new heaven and a new earth (v23). The dead will be raised, the first will be last, the last will be first, and so much more of backwardness that is it somewhat confusing (v26,32-33). I have my theories but I'm not confident enough in then to share them on here.

A new comforting scripture of mine I marked in this chapter is v1,5 because I can imagine the arm of Christ wrapping around me with mercy and comforting me with v5. Ah! Awesome. It helps me in the hard times when I'm going through trials and temptations. Which is also mentioned here and explained that it is allowed so that we can practice our agency, and we can know the sweet because we experience the bitter (v39). We have always and will always have agency. The people in heaven who chose to rebel against God proves that we chose to follow God's plan. I'm glad I made that choice :)

Section 27-28

Well these were interesting! So section 27 basically says not to use wine in the sacrament which is why we use water. But what's cool about it is in v2 when it says: it mattereth not what ye shall eat or drink if ye do it remembering Christ's body which was laid down and Christ's blood which was shed for the remission of our sins. So technically we could be using cake for bread and apple juice for water! A little far fetched but it's funny to think about, the only parameters that were set was that we not partake of strong drink unless we make it ourselves (v3-4). 

I've always enjoyed the armor of God because each part has a purpose and tells us how to put it on so it can protect us (v15-18). Loins (like under armor protection) gained by truth, breastplate by righteousness, feet by preparing peace, shield by faith, helmet by gaining salvation, and a sword through Christ spirit. I think there are many cool things about that such as everything being defensive accept for Christ spirit! We wouldn't last long if we couldn't fight back our enemy and Christ allows that to happy because he fights for ous constantly. 

I don't really remember this story from seminary but there's this guy who was deceived by the devil (v11) to think he is recieving revelation for the church through a stone. Oliver Cowdery actually believes this and is told through section 28 how ridiculous that is because only Joseph Smith can receive revelation for the church (v2). Just as the bishop receives revelation for a ward, my father receives revelation for my family, and the prophet receives revelation for the whole church. It is not the place of anyone else to command them in the responsibilities (v6). If they fail they will be replaced (v7). 

Section 24-26

These sections were all given at the same time which was when persecution became intense for the members of the church. Joseph and other leaders have to seek safety but are given these revelations while they hide out.

Joseph gets the first part which mentions for him to 'be patient in affliction, for thou shalt have many," which isn't always the most comforting thought (v8). But followed by the promise that Christ is with us as we are patient helps me endure. 

Having a calling the the church can do many good things for people: give responsibility, strengthen talents or testimony, influence other, and more. We are all called to specific callings that will help The Lord build his kingdom just as Oliver Cowdery was a missionary after helping scribe for Joseph (v10). He is given strength to fulfill his calling just as we will when we have the faith and dedication (v12). 

The guidance given to Emma Smith have principles of obedience that are applicable to all (heading, last line). Of course, all who receive God's words, they are his children and desires us to walk in the paths of virtue (v1-2). I find that I am told to murmur not about things I don't know yet because I'll know eventually (v4). Emma is given the calling to be music writer for the church and write songs that uplift the spirit during meetings and remind people of Christ (v11-12). 

Through my reading today I am strengthened by my thoughts that I can better myself by laying aside the things of the world and focus on the better things (v10). Also, my calling is important and I should focus on studying the scriptures, preaching, and performing my labors to be better at enduring for God (section 26). 

Section 21-23

The actual organization and starting of the church is very special because it starts the dispensation of the fullness of times where we will know the gospel in it's fullness. The 6 men who started the church were baptized and met to become the first meeting of the gospel of Jesus Christ in the latter days. My favorite part was v6 where it says, "the gates of hell shall not prevail against you." Be aware that it doesn't say you won't be standing at the gates of hell sometimes, but they won't prevail if we heed the words and commandments of God (v4-6). 

Section 22 teaches that only by proper authority can the new and everlasting covenant of baptism work (v1). You can be baptized 100 times and still not be considered in the church or part of the covenant if not by the priesthood (v2). In section 23, personal callings for 5 men are given to strengthen the church, preach, or unite with the true church to exhort that truth continually.

Section 20

So I know I've been a member of the church all my life but I have a question after reading this section that I plan to get answered! In v64&84 it mentions a certificate of membership/priesthood authority, so my questions is, do they still do this?? It may be electronically for membership, but for priesthood authority, do they have certificates for them? If you don't know, might I suggest asking a family member like me, I'll be asking my father! 

Anyway on to other cool things I mostly already knew but find rather important to bare my testimony about. Baptism, for me, was a while ago and I don't have that great of a memory so I don't exactly remember everything that was spoken about before or during. But reading about the covenants and promises I made, I worry since I'm not perfect. The sacrament has saved me multiple times from feeling so inadequate I would give up. For any who think similarly to me and feel terrible for mistakes made, might I suggest studying the sacrament and how it renews our covenants we make. As long as I humble myself, go with a broken  heart and contrite spirit, truly repent, and serve Him until the end, I can feel clean again (v37).

It's cool to know the duties of elders, priests, teachers, and deacons, but that was never my responsibility (v38-67). My duty as a member of Christ's church is to manifest before the church by walking in holiness before The Lord for the rest of my life (v68-69). I will raise my children in the church, meet often in my ward, and listen to His words from old and from this age given by the prophet today (v70-71,11).

I know that this church is Christ's church because He had a hand in bringing it to pass and organizing it so that it will stay true until His second coming. I love my Heavenly Father and my Savior, Jesus Christ for bringing this church into the world so that I may be a part of it. 

Section 19

I feel enlightened by this section because of the many commands that are given that are our responsibility as members of His church. First, is it made very clear why we need to follow the commandments given to us by Christ. We want to avoid eternal punishment, suffering all things of the flesh, and misery (v10-12,16,33). The main commandments we are given are to repent, preach, not covet, and pray (v13,15,20-21,25-28). 

First repentance, an essential key to returning to heaven with Christ and the Father. Second, preach repentance so other may do the same, but at the same time we can grow closer to Christ by becoming like Him (v23). Third was coveting, and it seems specific to who is being addressed but still true, and lastly is to pray vocally and in our hearts to keep The Lord with us (v28). If we do not do as we are counseled we will no doubt be miserable. 

Section 18

Several impressions I received from this section have given me this feeling in my heart to want to share these truths with others. Although it is directed towards Oliver and David to call them to be disciples, I realize that because I have accepted to take upon myself he name of Christ, I also have the calling to preach His gospel (v28). Everyone is precious to God, and I'm sure He wants all to return to Him in the end, but we have agency and must choose that for ourselves (v10-12). 

His gift is available to all who repent, but not everyone knows that so it is the duty of those who know to spread that truth to everyone else (v15-16, 21). Christ is the only name that has the power to save men because it is given of the Father and will be used to call people at the last day (v23-24). It's the honest truth that every man, woman, and child of accountable age must repent and be baptized to have a chance at gaining the kingdom of the Father (v42-44). 

Section 12-17

These sections are all quite short and specific to who they are given to so I don't know how much I will be saying. First thing I noticed is the repeating of verses from section to section like 12 and 14 have the first 6 verses the same and similar to previous sections. It's all about listening to The Lord's words because His great and marvelous work is coming. If we are to help Him we must be humble, full of love, faith, hope, and charity (12:8). 

The truth of Christ cannot be hidden because He is the light if the world and will bring the Gentiles out of darkness (14:10). The three Whitmer brothers are called to declare repentance and bring souls to God (15:6 and 16:6). The priesthood is important in help in hastening the work and in section 13 we are told that the Aaronic priesthood is given with promise of the Melchizedek coming soon. 

The last interesting thing about my readings today was the information about the three witnesses. Not only did they see all the evidence that Joseph Smith did but they were given the same power because they had the same faith (17:7). They are Joseph's support during this work and are all called to do the work of God by testifying of what they have seen (17:4-5). 

Section 11

I feel like I've already done this chapter because a lot of it is similar to what I've already read. There is comfort given to Hyrum Smith by The Lord who wants him to be patient and study before doing missionary work. The words of God is quick and powerful so He calls all who have the desire to spread His words (v2-4). If we want to be missionaries, we have to seek wisdom before riches and learn the mysteries if God (v7). 

I think it is awesome that missionary work is so huge! And hopefully growing! On my vacation, I visited my grandmothers church today and their theme for this fast Sunday was hastening the work. The testimonies that were born and the entire feel of the ward was wonderful, and the spirit was so strong. That Spirit of God inspires people all over the world to be better so that our minds are enlightened and our souls filled with joy (v13). 

The most important principle I got from this section is patience. I must study more of the gospel so that when my time comes to be a missionary (in any way) I wi be prepared to share with a sure knowledge of God's doctrine (v16). Our work/job is to keep God's commandments and seek to obtain His word before declaring His word (v20-21). I was close to baring my testimony today, but instead I let the spirit bare to me my knowledge that there are wonderful people in this world who have beautiful testimonies. 

Section 10

So it's is truly amazing how much The Lord knows. He knew about the evil plan that people have to try and discredit Joseph Smith back when Nephi started writing! Satan has this plan to alter the translated pages that Martin Harris so when Joseph translated again they would be different and the people could say he was a fraud. Of course The Lord isn't going to let this happen because those people are wicked and are seeking worldly glory. 

The Lord's wisdom is to keep the plates and translations secret from the general public so that Joseph and the plates are preserved (v34-35). There are so many good things about the truths of the gospel in the Book of Mormon. The prophets of old had so much faith that their words would come to this generation that The Lord made it happen.

One last thing I loved is v55, "whosoever belongeth to my church need not fear, for such shall inherit the kingdom of heaven." Great stuff! Love it! And with that, I'll end. I might come back to write more later though. 

Section 7-9

Ok first I want to say how cool it is we have these revelations that answer questions about gospel stuff! Like section 7 is the truth about John, and now we know he is still on earth just like the 3 Nephites (v1-3). Plus we know that The Lord had to tell Peter he was still blessed for desiring to return to Him (v5).

So back story for section 8-9 is basically that Oliver Cowdery has been scribing for Joseph and now wants to try himself, so they ask. He is granted this gift because of his faithful intent and righteous desire in section 8. Then in section 9, we find out that he did a little but no longer has the gift because he feared and now must be content to just scribe (v11).

I really enjoyed the guidance given to Oliver about how to ask for help from God. First we study out in our mind so when we ask we have a specific question. Then we will get an answer as a burning feeling in our bosom if it is right, and not that feeling if it is wrong. I have major decisions in my life that I've had this experience but it's been a while so I want to reconnect by working again to answer my important questions for where my life will go now. 

Section 6

Okay I've been in a car all day so just a few thoughts about this chapter. First, I love that The Lord words this the way he does to make it seem like anyone who is willing to serve is also called (v4). I think it's comforting and makes me really want to try harder to be a better missionary for the gospel. I want to seek for wisdom instead if riches so I can have the best treasure of all, eternal life! 

Next I want to address the importance of a fact we should all take more seriously. It is okay to ask for help! Shocking right? But we are actually blessed when we humble ourselves enough to ask for help (v14). Last, but not least, even if no one believes you when you try to share the gospel, you are blessed because you will dwell with God in the end (v30). That is the most comforting knowledge of all to me because I can let earth and he'll combine against me and know that they will not prevail (v34).

Section 5

Although these revelations aren't directed at me, I am trying to find topics and phrases that apply to me. One is "you have no power over then except I grant it unto you," and I know I don't have any power to withstand the devil unless I rely on my Lord (v3). Joseph was given the gift and responsibility to translate the Book of Mormon before anything else, nothing else was given until he finished, and then he was required to share it (v4-6).

I have accepted the words of The Lord in the Book of Mormon and truly believe Joseph Smith and the three witness's testimonies of the golden plates which is why I believe I am blessed with the manifestation of the Spirit of The Lord (v16). I am confident that the people of the promised land will not be utterly destroyed, but they could be humbled every once in a while from their wickedness (v19). As a faithful member of the gospel, I hope I can "repent and walk more uprightly" before God every day (v21). 

When Christ speaks about showing the plates to anyone, He makes sure they know it is through the power of God, and those people can never deny it or they would suffer greatly (v25-28). God sees all and knows true intents of people, and I believe that is why God told Joseph to stop translating with Martin Harris. The Lord's commanded Joseph to translate the plates and will help him do it the best he can because it is a promise He made (v34). I love The Lord for providing the means for the Book of Mormon to be translated and for establishing the gospel on earth to better my life. 

Section 2-4

My first thoughts while reading today were of the importance of this extremely small section about the priesthood and genealogy. I am absolutely sure about the importance of the priesthood in the latter day church of Jesus Christ because that is what gives the authority. But as it says in section 2, the earth would be utterly wasted if the hearts of the children are not turned to their fathers. Honestly, I wish I was better at family history and I hope I can get the hang of it, but indexing is one of the easiest ways to start!

A cool concept in the next section was the truths that there is nothing that can be done to stop the Lord's work from progressing (v1-2)! Not evil people, satan, or just incompetent people! If mistakes happen it only frustrated the work of man, not God because only those who are seeking their own gain are not supported by Him (v3-4). I really loved the working in v8 when The Lord is saying how "He would have extended his arm and supported [Joseph] against all the fiery darts of the adversary" if had been faithful through and through. 

Luckily for Joseph Smith Jr., The Lord called him to do the work and only temporarily took his translating abilities (v10-14). The Book of Mormon was too important of a record to be stopped by losing the start to the translation. The Lord promised that He would bring the decendents of Lehi the record of their fathers and He keeps His promises!

I also read section 4, which is technically addressed to Joseph Smith Sen., but includes amazing guidance that applies to everyone. I know I hear some of these phrases quoted in church lessons, conferences, and talks but I want to share my short thoughts. Now that I have embarked on my journey to serve God I know I need to it with every part of strength I have (v2). I am called because I have a desire to serve and I can be qualified for whatever task he gives me through faith, hope, charity, and love (v3-5. I humbly ask for the qualities that will help me share the gospel (v7).