Parables of the Atonement
Push-ups and Donuts
The Pianist
Brothers in the Canyon
The Bicycle
Ketchup
The Mediator
Showing posts with label Atonement. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Atonement. Show all posts
Saturday, March 10, 2018
Saturday, March 03, 2018
March Week 1 - The Atonement of Christ
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| we are trying to get back ... |
Why do we need the Atonement?
- Genesis 3 (God made Adam and Eve - innocent; ate the fruit and separated themselves from God; this created the rupture between humanity and God; the at-one-ment seeks to bring humanity and God together again)
- Exodus 33:12-23 (We cannot see the face of God and live)
- D&C 84:20-22 (Ordinances prepare us to see the face of God and live)
- D&C 19:16-17 (if it weren't for the atonement, we would suffer as Christ did, for our sins)
- 1 Nephi 10:20-21 (no unclean thing can dwell with God)
- 3 Nephi 27:19 (no unclean thing can enter his kingdom)
- Mosiah 3:7-11 (Christ atones (covers) our sins)
- Genesis 3:21 ('innocent' animals sacrificed, for coats of skin; covered nakedness)
- Leviticus 1:4-5 ('innocent' animal sacrifice to atone / cover our sins)
- Isaiah 53 / Mosiah 14 (Christ is the perfect, innocent human sacrifice; 'with his stripes, we are healed')
- Alma 34:15 (Mercy overpowers Justice)
- Mosiah 2:38-39 (we feel guilt for the wrongs we've committed)
- D&C 19:15-19 (payment for sins)
- Alma 34:16 (payment for sins)
- Alma 42:23-24 (Mercy for those who follow Christ)
- Alma 34:9 (all would perish, except for Christ)
- 2 Nephi 9:25-26 (Atonement satisfies the demands of Justice)
- 2 Nephi 25:23 (we can be reconciled (joined) with God)
- Alma 11:40 (Christ takes upon him our transgressions)
Other scriptures that teach of the Atonement
There are other scriptures that are symbolic of the Atonement
- Moses 6:63/ 2 Nephi 11:4 - all things that God gives us teach about his son; 'typifying'
Bible Dictionary
- Atonement
- Blood
- Calvary
- Crucifixion
- Gethsemane
- Golgotha
- Redemption
- Scapegoat
Next week we will discuss parables of the Atonement
Share story of the purchase of our first car; had the old Taurus, just started working, needed a reliable car to get to work. Bought the Galant, had a high interest rate (weeping when I got home); after a year of paying car payment, Jeff heard of interest rate, stepped in, paid it off and I paid him, saving lots of money.
After finding, discussing scriptures, read part of President Faust's talk: https://www.lds.org/general-conference/2001/10/the-atonement-our-greatest-hope?lang=eng&query=atonement Focus on the story of the back-woods school / teacher
Assignment for next week "How can I use comparisons to teach others about the Atonement?"
Find 'parables' about the Atonement; from GC talks, from this lesson, books, etc
Gospel Essays
The Atonement
Peace and Violence among 19th-century Latter-day Saints (blood atonement)
Tuesday, October 22, 2013
meekness
one of the first descriptions that they thought of was: calm.
elder soares noted this in his october 2013 general conference talk. "meekness is the quality of those who are 'godfearing, righteous, humble, teachable, and patient under suffering.' those who possess this attribute are willing to follow jesus christ, and their temperament is calm, docile, tolerant and submissive."
later on, he says, "by controlling our reactions, being calm and temperate, and avoiding contention, we will begin to qualify for the gift of meekness."
we further talked about what the opposite of meekness is. we got responses like: loud, crazy, brags. we followed up on the word "brags" with the question: what does a person usually brag about? the answer: himself or herself. so we further concluded that the opposite of meekness is also selfishness; and therefore we talked about how to be meek means to put others first or POF.
my wife's mother used to make these little heart-shaped wooden tokens that you can carry around in your pocket. on the little token were the letters POF. it was a gentle reminder of always trying to serve others.
we then watched a video about meekly serving others (see unselfish service). after the video, we talked about how there are many paths in this life and that everyone is free to choose which path to follow. but we have observed, been taught and have lived one path that, although difficult at times, it nonetheless bring lasting joy and happiness: and that is a life dedicated to raising a family and serving others.
we then ended the lesson by reminding the kids to always follow christ. and if ever they strayed from following christ, they can always find the way back through repentance and using the atonement.
Friday, August 30, 2013
striving to be a disciple (a life-long pursuit) and grace ... for kids
pseudo-spiritual north guidance for children:
true-spiritual north guidance for children:
you can read the context and background for the first poster as well as how the second poster came to be; along with lots of interesting discussion linked here.
as parents, without a doubt, we stress the importance of keeping the commandments. we discuss the consequences of sin and bad choices. but we are just as quick to point out that we love our children and that if they make a mistake - big or small - that we are there for them and will help them use the Atonement of Jesus Christ. in fact, we stress just as much that they will always have the chance to repent and to turn to Christ - no. matter. what.
i agree with one of the commentors ... the only person in the not-even-once club is Jesus Christ.
true-spiritual north guidance for children:
you can read the context and background for the first poster as well as how the second poster came to be; along with lots of interesting discussion linked here.
as parents, without a doubt, we stress the importance of keeping the commandments. we discuss the consequences of sin and bad choices. but we are just as quick to point out that we love our children and that if they make a mistake - big or small - that we are there for them and will help them use the Atonement of Jesus Christ. in fact, we stress just as much that they will always have the chance to repent and to turn to Christ - no. matter. what.
i agree with one of the commentors ... the only person in the not-even-once club is Jesus Christ.
Saturday, May 19, 2012
Recap of April 2012 Conference
My wife and I were talking about whether we should force the kids to watch GC all day Saturday or not. My point is that if you watch everything at once, you just don't get everything. So we decided not to sit through all 10 hours at once. Rather, we are going to watch one or two talks each Sunday as a family and then discuss the talk. We did watch conference on Sunday though.
One other thought - I think I've successfully stayed awake through an entire GC once or twice in my life. It is nearly impossible for me to sit in my living room and listen to talk after talk after talk and stay awake and alert. I love that I can listen to or watch and read along the weeks after GC is over. I get so much more out of the talks this way.
So BIG KUDOS to the Church IT guys!! If tithing money is spent on this technology, then I think it is very well-spent!
President Thomas S. Monson - As We Gather Once Again
why we meet: strengthen, encouragement, comfort, build faith, to learn
if changes need to be made in your life, may you find the courage to do so
oppose evil whereever it is found
be instructed and be inspired
be filled with the Lord's spirit
President Boyd K. Packer - And a Little Child Shall Lead Them
the ultimate end of all activity in the Church is to see husband and wife with their family happy at home.
too often, someone comes to me and says, "President Packer, wouldn't it be nice if ..." I usually stop them and say, "No" because I suspect what follows will be a new activity or program that is going to add the burden of time or financial means on the family."
personal application: what can i do, as scout leader, to promote family time?
the goal of scouts, according to this talk, would be to help fathers spend meaningful time with their sons - to provide opportunities to let fathers and sons learn and grow together.
if scouting becomes a burden, then it would seems it has failed the mission of "supporting the family"
if we get all the eagles scouts in the world, but no real fathers, we've accomplished nothing.
Elder Dallin H. Oaks - Sacrifice
Mormon Pioneers example of sacrifices
Husband left wife and family to serve a mission
Symbols of our Christian faith (Mormons) is our daily sacrifice
Home teaching and visiting teaching
full-time missionaries (time spent to save money, actual time serving, family sacrifices time they are not with their child)
converts' sacrifices: loss of family temple service: time spent to save money to be sealed with family in temple
President Henry B. Eyring - Mountains to Climb
there are giant opportunies (challenges) to be met.
give me this mountain; give me these challenges and adversities he prayed for a challenge
1) god heard his prayer and answered it
2) he learned that a great blessing could come from adversity
repent have faith that the way through trials is the balm of gilead
foundation for faith = personal integrity (consistently choosing the right) curing that faith takes time and patience and experience
Elder Jeffrey R. Holland - The Laborers in the Vineyard
do not covet, do not pout or tear others down; do not demean others to improve yourself
do not throw away your good fortune in protest of the perceived injustice - accept the good fortune (mercy from God) and rejoice in the mercy He gives to "late" repenters.
don't dwell on old issues or grievences (of self, of neighbor or even the Church)
simply accept the Atonement of Christ, don't dwell on anything else, enjoy the fellowship of the labor
accept mercy and be merciful
personal thoughts: the key premise in this parable, in my mind, is that there is a shortage of work for the laborers. Laborers are standing around, waiting for work. The need the work or else they don't feed their families. Anything to do for work would be great - and it doesn't matter when they get the work - they will take it first thing in the morning and work all day or take the job in the late afternoon and get something rather than nothing. so how does this apply to our life today? perhaps it can be said there is a shortage of "good fortune" in the world - just like there was a shortage of jobs to be done in the parable. so, if someone is blessed with abundance from the time they were born until the time they die, that person should be grateful and thank God for what they've been blessed with. That person should also learn not to be envious when good fortune comes to those who receive it later in life. If they are envious of another's good fortune, despite having good fortune their entire life, they choose to experience ill feelings toward another person who has received good fortune! As Elder Holland puts it, they drink a quart of pickle juice every time someone else receives good fortune, rather than pondering their own good fortune.
another thought: similarly to what I stated above, we can envision a person who was "born in the Church", who was faithful all his life - who went to Church, Boy Scouts, service projects, received the Priesthood - was a Deacon, Teacher, Priest, became an Elder; served a difficult mission - maybe not even baptizing a single convert; returned honorably, married in the temple; started family and continued serving faithfully day after day - week after week for his whole life.
Meanwhile, his younger brother chose the opposite all his days, indulged in all his desires rather than being obedient and serving others. He ate, drank and was merry all the days of his life. Then, when he reached the end of his rope, he found he was not happy. He decided to clean up his life - it was a difficult process back into the fold.
Now they both die and are both granted eternal life - the reward of living in the presence of God for eternity. Does the faithful brother act like the other son who is not the prodigal son? Does he refuse eternal life because his "unfaithful" brother receives it? Or does he act like the father and rejoice in the mercy of Christ?
Elder Robert D. Hales - Coming to Ourselves: The Sacrament, the Temple, and the Sacrifice in Service
prepare to worthily take the sacrament before coming to sacrament meeting; leave the daily work and recreation behind; do not think of worldly thoughts or concerns. then ponder the Atonement; ponder the sacrifice of Christ
sing the sacrament hymn; listen to the sacrament prayers; partake of the emblems
seek forgiveness of sins and shortcomings of previous week; make specific commitments for the coming week.
search from the scriptures
live the gospel standards
obtain a temple recommend
gain a testimony of God, Christ, the Holy Ghost, the Atonement, Joseph Smith, the Restoration
sustain leaders; be kind, stand as a witness of Christ, attend Church meetings, honor covenants, be a good parent, be virtuous
assist the youth to prepare for lifelong service
learn to work; live within your means; avoid debt, save money now so that we can give full-time service later in our lives; to be able to lift others.
Elder Quentin L. Cook - In Tune with the Music of Faith
a great divide between those who love, worship and feel accountable to God and those who do not
destroyers of faith: pride, vanity & foolishness
love the Lord; love His gospel; continually try to live and share His message - especially with your families.
be in harmony with the promptings of the Spirit
observe religion in your home
strive to be a disciple of Christ
with regard to his paragraph that starts out "We recognize how busy you are" From that paragraph, I hear "if you are serving; don't feel guilty for not serving enough"
don't judge others
rescue those who have "fallen away"
avoid being judgemental about conduct that is foolish or unwise, but is not sinful
be an example in action, not just words (as a parent to your children)
read and gain a testimony of the Book of Mormon
Elder Richard G. Scott - How to Obtain Revelation and Inspiration for Your Personal Life
revelation = crisp, clear and essential communication from the Holy Ghost
inspiration = series of promptings that guide us step by step toward a worthy goal
we are supposed to ask the Lord to receive revelation
fast, pray for finding scriptures that will be helpful with the answer for the question, read those scriptures, ponder, pray, write down what the Lord would have you do, pray again
don't let daily activities distract us from the spirit
Elder David A. Bednar - The Powers of Heaven
distinguishing feature of the church is priesthood (the authority of god delegated to man on earth to act in all things for the salvation of mankind)
be active in priesthood service - promote the cause of righteousness in the earth
by not doing your duties, you break your priesthood covenant
be righteous; faithful; obedient; diligent; worthy; willing to serve
lift souls, teach, testify, bless, council, advance the work of salvation
take the lead in scripture study, family prayer, fhe - be a strong leader - preside - protect
President Dieter F. Uchtdorf - The Why of Priesthood Service
the why of priesthood service is to motivate others; to awaken their spirit; to inspire action
be enthusiastic about the gospel as you teach others.
let the fire of your testimony bring light and warmth and joy to the hearts of those you teach
priesthood service is to provide a vision of what it means to establish the kingdom of god on earth
building the kingdom of god on earth means building personal testimonies and strengthening families
priesthood service helps us prioritize between good, better, best - it helps us stay focused on the most important things
the most important things are: increase our love for god and our fellowmen, invigorate marriages, strengthen families and build the kingdom of god on earth
how we specifically decide on our priorities: study the scriptures, heed the prophets, hold serious and dedicated prayer
act before being acted upon; the value of an idea is in using it
President Henry B. Eyring - Families Under Covenant
four things you can do as a priesthood father to lift and lead your family home again to heaven
1. gain & keep a sure witness that the keys of the priesthood are with us & held by the president of the church - pray for that every day.
2. love your wife
3. enlist the entire family to love each other
4. discipline when needed - d&c 121:41-44
President Thomas S. Monson - Willing and Worthy to Serve
various definitions of priesthood ...
1. joseph smith - priesthood is an everlasting principle, and existed with god from eternity, and will to eternity, without beginning of days or end of years.
2. wilford woodruff - the holy priesthood is the channel through which god communicates and deals with man upon the earth; and the heavenly messengers that have visited the earth to communicate with man are men who held and honored the priesthood while in the flesh; and everythign that god has caused to be done for the salvation of man, from the coming of man upon the earth to the redemption of the world, has been and will be by virtue of the everlasting priesthood.
3. joseph f. smith - the priesthood is the power of god delegated to man by which man can act in the earth for the salvation of the human family, in the name of the father and the son and the holy ghost, and act legitimately; not assuming that authority, nor borrowing it from generations that are dead and gone, but authority that has been given in this day in which we live by ministering angels and spirits from above, direct from the presense of almighty god.
4. john taylor - it is the governmant of god, whether on the earth or in the heavens, for it is by that power, agency, or principle that all things are governed on the earth and in the heavens, and by that power that all things are upheald and sustained. it governs all things - it directs all things - it sustains all things - and has to do with all things that god and truth are associated with.
stories of examples of priesthood service - soldier blessing injured soldier on beach; saving his life. writing letters of encouragement to servicemen
there are feet to steady, hands to grasp, minds to encourage, hearts to inspirt and souls to save
President Dieter F. Uchtdorf - The Merciful Obtain Mercy
required to forgive all men - including ourselves
stop hating, gossiping, ignoring, ridiculing, holding grudges or wanting to cause harm
love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you.
be kind
forgive
talk peacefully with others
do good unto all men
people will be people; learn to rise above the fray, forgive and forget. this talk had a very similar feel as elder holland's talk
Elder Russell M. Nelson - Thanks Be to God
gives thanks to god
be mindful of the various gifts from god ...
the world, the universe, his son jesus christ, our bodies, the resurrection, spiritual gifts, gospel gifts
Elder D. Todd Christofferson - The Doctrine of Christ
believe in christ; be baptized
President Thomas S. Monson - The Race of Life
personal thoughts: how often do you ask yourself: if you know you are going to die tomorrow ... in a week ... in a month ... in a year; how does that change your current priorities?
endure to the end
we have the power to (and must) think, reason and achieve
pray; listen to the holy ghost, search the scriptures; heed the prophets
Elder L. Tom Perry - The Power of Deliverance
both the people of limhi and the people of alma were delivered
both suffered
limhi's people chose to fight; alma's people chose to pray
what do you need to be delivered from?
which way is your "door" facing? to the world or to the alter of god?
Elder M. Russell Ballard - That the Lost May be Found
our liahona/gps is the holy ghost - the promptings of the holy ghost
new york times: "the share of children born to unmarried women has crossed a threshold: more than half of births to american women under 30 occur outside of marriage"
the most important cause in our lifetime is our family
prioritize - put everything you do outside the home in subjection to and in support of what happens inside your home.
organize - your personal life to provide time for prayer, scripture study and family activities
teach your childen to work and give them responsibilities
marriage first, then family
read family proclamation often, understand it, follow it.
Elder Neil L. Andersen - What Thinks Christ of Me?
pay attention to who and what christ labels in the scriptures ... see 3rd paragraph in this talk
love christ, trust christ, believe christ, follow christ and you will feel his love and approval
President Thomas S. Monson - As We Close This Conference
pray always
fill your homes with love and the spirit of the lord
love your family
settle disagreements
do god's will, serve him, serve others
ponder the words you've heard from this conference
Monday, May 07, 2012
Quote on Temptation
I came across the C.S. Lewis quote on temptation years ago. In yesterday's Elder's Quorum lesson, I heard the quote again. This time it came from Elder Tad Callister's book The Infinite Atonement.
Here's the quote:
No man knows how bad he is till he has tried very hard to be good. A silly idea is current that good people do not know what temptation means. This is an obvious lie. Only those who try to resist temptation know how strong it is. After all, you find out the strength of the German army by fighting it, not by giving in. You find out the strength of a wind by trying to walk against it, not by lying down. A man who gives in to temptation after five minutes simply does not know what it would have been like an hour later. That is why bad people, in one sense, know very little about badness. They have lived a sheltered life by always giving in. We never find out the strength of the evil impulse inside us until we try to fight it: and Christ, because He was the only man who never yielded to temptation, is also the only man who knows to the full what temptation means - the only complete realist.
Here's the quote:
No man knows how bad he is till he has tried very hard to be good. A silly idea is current that good people do not know what temptation means. This is an obvious lie. Only those who try to resist temptation know how strong it is. After all, you find out the strength of the German army by fighting it, not by giving in. You find out the strength of a wind by trying to walk against it, not by lying down. A man who gives in to temptation after five minutes simply does not know what it would have been like an hour later. That is why bad people, in one sense, know very little about badness. They have lived a sheltered life by always giving in. We never find out the strength of the evil impulse inside us until we try to fight it: and Christ, because He was the only man who never yielded to temptation, is also the only man who knows to the full what temptation means - the only complete realist.
Thursday, March 05, 2009
Isaiah 53
Who hath believed our report? and to whom is the arm of the LORD revealed?
For he shall grow up before him as a tender plant, and as a root out of a dry ground: he hath no form nor comeliness; and when we shall see him, there is no beauty that we should desire him.
He is despised and rejected of men; a man of sorrows, and acquainted with grief: and we hid as it were our faces from him; he was despised, and we esteemed him not.
Surely he hath borne our griefs, and carried our sorrows: yet we did esteem him stricken, smitten of God, and afflicted.
But he was wounded for our transgressions, he was bruised for our iniquities: the chastisement of our peace was upon him; and with his stripes we are healed.
All we like sheep have gone astray; we have turned every one to his own way; and the LORD hath laid on him the iniquity of us all.
He was oppressed, and he was afflicted, yet he opened not his mouth: he is brought as a lamb to the slaughter, and as a sheep before her hearers is dumb, so he openeth not his mouth.
He was taken from prison and from judgment: and who shall declare his generation? for he was cut off out of the land of the living: for the transgression of my people was he stricken.
And he made his grave with the wicked, and with the rich in his death; because he had done no violence, neither was any deceit in his mouth.
Yet it pleased the LORD to bruise him; he hath put him to grief: when thou shalt make his soul an offering for sin, he shall see his seed, he shall prolong his days, and the pleasure of the LORD shall prosper in his hand.
He shall see of the travail of his soul, and shall be satisfied: by his knowledge shall my righteous servant justify many; for he shall bear their iniquities.
Therefore will I divide him a portion with the great, and he shall divide the spoil with the strong; because he hath poured out his soul unto death: and he was numbered with the transgressors; and he bare the sin of many, and made intercession for the transgressors.
- Isaiah 53 (see also Mosiah 14)
I’ve tried to read this scripture on a regular basis, especially during the administration of the sacrament. Recently I memorized it. Whenever I read it, inevitably tears well up in my eyes as I think about what Jesus did for me. He did not sin and thus did not deserve to be treated the way he was treated. He did it for me and you and everyone else so that we would not have to suffer as he did. And when I think of him having to suffer because of my sins, I have this strong desire to be better so that in a way, I might alleviate some of his suffering. But I know that no matter how hard I try to be better, I cannot change the fact that he suffered for me. Simply put, this scripture motivates me to live a more righteous life.
For he shall grow up before him as a tender plant, and as a root out of a dry ground: he hath no form nor comeliness; and when we shall see him, there is no beauty that we should desire him.
He is despised and rejected of men; a man of sorrows, and acquainted with grief: and we hid as it were our faces from him; he was despised, and we esteemed him not.
Surely he hath borne our griefs, and carried our sorrows: yet we did esteem him stricken, smitten of God, and afflicted.
But he was wounded for our transgressions, he was bruised for our iniquities: the chastisement of our peace was upon him; and with his stripes we are healed.
All we like sheep have gone astray; we have turned every one to his own way; and the LORD hath laid on him the iniquity of us all.
He was oppressed, and he was afflicted, yet he opened not his mouth: he is brought as a lamb to the slaughter, and as a sheep before her hearers is dumb, so he openeth not his mouth.
He was taken from prison and from judgment: and who shall declare his generation? for he was cut off out of the land of the living: for the transgression of my people was he stricken.
And he made his grave with the wicked, and with the rich in his death; because he had done no violence, neither was any deceit in his mouth.
Yet it pleased the LORD to bruise him; he hath put him to grief: when thou shalt make his soul an offering for sin, he shall see his seed, he shall prolong his days, and the pleasure of the LORD shall prosper in his hand.
He shall see of the travail of his soul, and shall be satisfied: by his knowledge shall my righteous servant justify many; for he shall bear their iniquities.
Therefore will I divide him a portion with the great, and he shall divide the spoil with the strong; because he hath poured out his soul unto death: and he was numbered with the transgressors; and he bare the sin of many, and made intercession for the transgressors.
- Isaiah 53 (see also Mosiah 14)
I’ve tried to read this scripture on a regular basis, especially during the administration of the sacrament. Recently I memorized it. Whenever I read it, inevitably tears well up in my eyes as I think about what Jesus did for me. He did not sin and thus did not deserve to be treated the way he was treated. He did it for me and you and everyone else so that we would not have to suffer as he did. And when I think of him having to suffer because of my sins, I have this strong desire to be better so that in a way, I might alleviate some of his suffering. But I know that no matter how hard I try to be better, I cannot change the fact that he suffered for me. Simply put, this scripture motivates me to live a more righteous life.
Saturday, October 04, 2008
Oct 2008 General Conference Notes: Priesthood Session
*Personal commentary, thoughts and inspirations are underlined
One other note ... for the other sessions I was able to listen and type my notes. During the Priesthood session, I had to hand write my notes and I'm just not as fast writing as I am typing, so my notes are a little less copious.
Elder Richard G. Scott
We should feel deeply humble to hold the Priesthood, especially when we consider how few men have held the Priesthood through the ages.
Jesus Christ is the perfect role model. He humbly served others without thought to himself.
Private Priesthood Interview
Are you holy & worthy to hold the Priesthood?
How often do you use it?
Are you private thoughts whole? Do you eleveate your mind?
Do you control what enters your eyes and mind?
Are you mentally and physically faithful to your wife?
Are you kind and supportive to your wife and family?
Do you lead your family in FHE, prayer?
Do you tell your wife that you love her?
How Priesthood Should be Used to Bless Others
We should have an equal partnership with wife.
Widows in need.
Some women are short-changed. A son or Priesthood holder carries more weight than a woman. This should not be! No unrighteous dominion (D&C 121:37, 39).
The most splendid, extreme creation is the woman. Of all creations, none is more beautiful. He quoted President Hinckley "Of all the creations of the Almighty, there is none more beautiful, none more inspiring than a lovely daughter of God who walks in virtue with an understanding of why she should do so, who honors and respects her body as a thing sacred and divine, who cultivates her mind and constantly enlarges the horizon of her understanding, who nurtures her spirit with everlasting truth. God will hold us accountable if we neglect His daughters. He has given us a great and compelling trust. May we be faithful to that trust." (Gordon B. Hinckley, “Our Responsibility to Our Young Women,” Ensign, Sep 1988, 8)
Is it no wonder, then, that one of Satan's most powerful tools is that of degrading women in the media available to virtually anyone today ... especially p****ography.
Express your gratitude often to your mother, wife ... be tender and appreciative.
The Priesthood is to be used not kept. Have I ever freely offered to give a blessing to anyone? We always seem to wait until called upon to give blessings. Can we not be angels too?
He quoted President Hunter. "As special witnesses of our Savior, we have been given the awesome assignment to administer the affairs of his church and kingdom and to minister to his daughters and his sons wherever they are on the face of the earth. By reason of our call to testify, govern, and minister, it is required of us that despite age, infirmity, exhaustion, and feelings of inadequacy, we do the work he has given us to do, to the last breath of our lives." (Howard W. Hunter, “To the Women of the Church,” Ensign, Nov 1992, 95)
Elder Jay E. Jensen
Arms of safety is the Savior's love (see Alma 34:16)
A girl fell from a lookout point above the Grand Canyon. A 19-year old boy named Ian, who had been trained in emergency recues, immediately knew what to do. The girl was able to climb up a little bit, but was now stuck again. Ian climbed down to where she was and held her in his arms until the rescue teams could help them.
He reference the section heading of D&C 110 "Visions manifested to Joseph Smith the Prophet and Oliver Cowdery in the temple at Kirtland, Ohio, April 3, 1836. HC 2: 435–436. The occasion was that of a Sabbath day meeting. The Prophet prefaces his record of the manifestations with these words: “In the afternoon, I assisted the other Presidents in distributing the Lord’s Supper to the Church, receiving it from the Twelve, whose privilege it was to officiate at the sacred desk this day. After having performed this service to my brethren, I retired to the pulpit, the veils being dropped, and bowed myself, with Oliver Cowdery, in solemn and silent prayer. After rising from prayer, the following vision was opened to both of us.”
There is too much informality and casual dress in those who administer the sacrament.
True servants of Jesus Christ are properly dressed.
Elder James J. Hamula
The war in heaven was instigated by Satan. This war continues on the earth today. Blood and horror fill the earth. We are in the final day. This time, the restoration of the Church will triumph.
Some of the most valient and noble are on the earth today. Young men are the valient and noble. Satan knows his time is short and is using all tools to prevent the noble from keeping the commandments of God.
Today and days to come are perilous.
We should not fear, but be sober. We should exercise good judgement and have measured conduct.
There is one way to overcome Satan. It is through the blood of the Lamb ... faith in Jesus Christ ... testimony of the Gosepl and consecration of self to the work (see D&C 88)
Three things to do:
1) Do as Joseph Smith and pray privately and regularly ... this will inspire revelation.
2) Learn to hear the voice of the Lord ... you must be still in your mind.
3) Obey the word of the Lord as it is given to you.
"stand still and see the salvation of the Lord" (see Exodus 14:13, 2 Chronicles 20:17, D&C 123:17)
President Dieter F. Uchtdorf
Some members had the task of moving a grand piano from the chapel to the cultural hall. They tried all sorts of methods, but could not do it. Then one brother suggested, "stand close together and lift where you stand" Roll up your sleeves and get to work.
Some struggle ... two ways.
1) Some seek to lead and seek a crown of power.
2) Some seek to hide and seek a cave ... they are too busy.
Some turn down callings, while some accept and do not magnify them.
The root cause of these problems is the same for both --> selfishness
The opposite of selfishness is charity.
The Lord is pleased with the humble servant. One such servant was John Roe Moyle. He was a stone mason. He walked six hours from his house to work on the Salt Lake Temple. One day on his farm, a cow kicked him in the leg. The leg had to be amputated. He survived and healed. When he was well enough, he began carving a wooden leg. Eventually he built up his endurance to walk the 22 miles to the temple despite the pain it caused him.
Do you care more for the kingdom of God or for yourself?
In the story, the piano is the Lord's work, therefore, no one does it alone. We all do it together.
President Henry B. Eyring
Each of us is asked to stretch our limit. The more faithful service you give, the more the Lord asks of you.
You push muscles to the point of exhaustion in order to build them up.
You can't do this work by yourself. "And whoso receiveth you, there I will be also, for I will go before your face. I will be on your right hand and on your left, and my Spirit shall be in your hearts, and mine angels round about you, to bear you up" (D&C 84:88)
Confidence replaces doubt.
"The promise of angels to bear you up is real."
"And he answered, Fear not: for they that be with us are more than they that be with them.
"And Elisha prayed, and said, Lord, I pray thee, open his eyes, that he may see. And the Lord opened the eyes of the young man; and he saw: and, behold, the mountain was full of horses and chariots of fire round about Elisha." (2 Kings 6:16-17)
More references to angels ... this conference is talking a lot about angels. Are more and more coming in these Latter Days?
President Thomas S. Monson
He received a call from the MTC president regaring an elder who was determined to go home because he could not learn Spanish. President Monson suggested to the MTC president that he send the elder to a Japanese class and then have him report back at noon. After the elder attended the Japanese class, he reported that he could learn Spanish!
We must feed those who go through rough times. We must be prudent in our spending.
"A new heart also will I give you, and a new spirit will I put within you: and I will take away the stony heart out of your flesh, and I will give you an heart of flesh.
"And I will put my spirit within you, and cause you to walk in my statutes, and ye shall keep my judgments, and do them." (Ezekiel 36:26-27)
3 Imperatives for our Considertion
1) Learn what we should learn.
Paul taught, "Brethren, I count not myself to have apprehended: but this one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind, and reaching forth unto those things which are before,
"I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus.
"Let us therefore, as many as be perfect, be thus minded: and if in any thing ye be otherwise minded, God shall reveal even this unto you." (Philippians 3:13-15)
Paul taught the Hebrews, "Wherefore seeing we also are compassed about with so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which doth so easily beset us, and let us run with patience the race that is set before us,
"Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith; who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God." (Hebrews 12:1-2)
The Priesthood is the power of God delegated to man. It is the perfect plan of service.
He who neglects it shall not be counted worthy to stand. Use it or lose it.
2) Do what we should do
D&C 107:99-100... let every man learn his duty. Put forth your best effort. There are eternal consequences to our actions. John Taylor quote ... you will be held responsible for those you could have saved.
3) Be what we should be
"be thou an example of the believes, in word, in conversation, in charity, in spirit, in faith, in purity." (2 Timothy 4:12)
Man must seek that power which is higher than him.
"What manner of men ought ye to be? Verily I say unto you, even as I am" (3 Nephi 27:27)
The hireling fleeth. The shepard does not, but lays down his life for the sheep.
Bro. Borrup (sp?) was part of a bomber crew over the Pacific in WWII. He knew he would be called to be a part of a sorty and he knew they would be shot down. Sure enough, they were shot down. He tried to inflate his raft, but it wouldn't inflate. He was drowning. He passed out. He woke up, pled to God and the raft inflated. They floated for 3 days with no food or water. They saw a submarine go by one day. The next day they saw it again. They knew it was going to leave the area. Then a thought came to his head ... use the Priesthood to command the submarine to stop. He spoke the words and it stopped. The captain was in awe. They weren't even looking for the downed crew.
So my notes weren't necessarily less copius. I guess I was able to write a lot. I filled in the gaps too as I remember things.
One other note ... for the other sessions I was able to listen and type my notes. During the Priesthood session, I had to hand write my notes and I'm just not as fast writing as I am typing, so my notes are a little less copious.
Elder Richard G. Scott
We should feel deeply humble to hold the Priesthood, especially when we consider how few men have held the Priesthood through the ages.
Jesus Christ is the perfect role model. He humbly served others without thought to himself.
Private Priesthood Interview
Are you holy & worthy to hold the Priesthood?
How often do you use it?
Are you private thoughts whole? Do you eleveate your mind?
Do you control what enters your eyes and mind?
Are you mentally and physically faithful to your wife?
Are you kind and supportive to your wife and family?
Do you lead your family in FHE, prayer?
Do you tell your wife that you love her?
How Priesthood Should be Used to Bless Others
We should have an equal partnership with wife.
Widows in need.
Some women are short-changed. A son or Priesthood holder carries more weight than a woman. This should not be! No unrighteous dominion (D&C 121:37, 39).
The most splendid, extreme creation is the woman. Of all creations, none is more beautiful. He quoted President Hinckley "Of all the creations of the Almighty, there is none more beautiful, none more inspiring than a lovely daughter of God who walks in virtue with an understanding of why she should do so, who honors and respects her body as a thing sacred and divine, who cultivates her mind and constantly enlarges the horizon of her understanding, who nurtures her spirit with everlasting truth. God will hold us accountable if we neglect His daughters. He has given us a great and compelling trust. May we be faithful to that trust." (Gordon B. Hinckley, “Our Responsibility to Our Young Women,” Ensign, Sep 1988, 8)
Is it no wonder, then, that one of Satan's most powerful tools is that of degrading women in the media available to virtually anyone today ... especially p****ography.
Express your gratitude often to your mother, wife ... be tender and appreciative.
The Priesthood is to be used not kept. Have I ever freely offered to give a blessing to anyone? We always seem to wait until called upon to give blessings. Can we not be angels too?
He quoted President Hunter. "As special witnesses of our Savior, we have been given the awesome assignment to administer the affairs of his church and kingdom and to minister to his daughters and his sons wherever they are on the face of the earth. By reason of our call to testify, govern, and minister, it is required of us that despite age, infirmity, exhaustion, and feelings of inadequacy, we do the work he has given us to do, to the last breath of our lives." (Howard W. Hunter, “To the Women of the Church,” Ensign, Nov 1992, 95)
Elder Jay E. Jensen
Arms of safety is the Savior's love (see Alma 34:16)
A girl fell from a lookout point above the Grand Canyon. A 19-year old boy named Ian, who had been trained in emergency recues, immediately knew what to do. The girl was able to climb up a little bit, but was now stuck again. Ian climbed down to where she was and held her in his arms until the rescue teams could help them.
He reference the section heading of D&C 110 "Visions manifested to Joseph Smith the Prophet and Oliver Cowdery in the temple at Kirtland, Ohio, April 3, 1836. HC 2: 435–436. The occasion was that of a Sabbath day meeting. The Prophet prefaces his record of the manifestations with these words: “In the afternoon, I assisted the other Presidents in distributing the Lord’s Supper to the Church, receiving it from the Twelve, whose privilege it was to officiate at the sacred desk this day. After having performed this service to my brethren, I retired to the pulpit, the veils being dropped, and bowed myself, with Oliver Cowdery, in solemn and silent prayer. After rising from prayer, the following vision was opened to both of us.”
There is too much informality and casual dress in those who administer the sacrament.
True servants of Jesus Christ are properly dressed.
Elder James J. Hamula
The war in heaven was instigated by Satan. This war continues on the earth today. Blood and horror fill the earth. We are in the final day. This time, the restoration of the Church will triumph.
Some of the most valient and noble are on the earth today. Young men are the valient and noble. Satan knows his time is short and is using all tools to prevent the noble from keeping the commandments of God.
Today and days to come are perilous.
We should not fear, but be sober. We should exercise good judgement and have measured conduct.
There is one way to overcome Satan. It is through the blood of the Lamb ... faith in Jesus Christ ... testimony of the Gosepl and consecration of self to the work (see D&C 88)
Three things to do:
1) Do as Joseph Smith and pray privately and regularly ... this will inspire revelation.
2) Learn to hear the voice of the Lord ... you must be still in your mind.
3) Obey the word of the Lord as it is given to you.
"stand still and see the salvation of the Lord" (see Exodus 14:13, 2 Chronicles 20:17, D&C 123:17)
President Dieter F. Uchtdorf
Some members had the task of moving a grand piano from the chapel to the cultural hall. They tried all sorts of methods, but could not do it. Then one brother suggested, "stand close together and lift where you stand" Roll up your sleeves and get to work.
Some struggle ... two ways.
1) Some seek to lead and seek a crown of power.
2) Some seek to hide and seek a cave ... they are too busy.
Some turn down callings, while some accept and do not magnify them.
The root cause of these problems is the same for both --> selfishness
The opposite of selfishness is charity.
The Lord is pleased with the humble servant. One such servant was John Roe Moyle. He was a stone mason. He walked six hours from his house to work on the Salt Lake Temple. One day on his farm, a cow kicked him in the leg. The leg had to be amputated. He survived and healed. When he was well enough, he began carving a wooden leg. Eventually he built up his endurance to walk the 22 miles to the temple despite the pain it caused him.
Do you care more for the kingdom of God or for yourself?
In the story, the piano is the Lord's work, therefore, no one does it alone. We all do it together.
President Henry B. Eyring
Each of us is asked to stretch our limit. The more faithful service you give, the more the Lord asks of you.
You push muscles to the point of exhaustion in order to build them up.
You can't do this work by yourself. "And whoso receiveth you, there I will be also, for I will go before your face. I will be on your right hand and on your left, and my Spirit shall be in your hearts, and mine angels round about you, to bear you up" (D&C 84:88)
Confidence replaces doubt.
"The promise of angels to bear you up is real."
"And he answered, Fear not: for they that be with us are more than they that be with them.
"And Elisha prayed, and said, Lord, I pray thee, open his eyes, that he may see. And the Lord opened the eyes of the young man; and he saw: and, behold, the mountain was full of horses and chariots of fire round about Elisha." (2 Kings 6:16-17)
More references to angels ... this conference is talking a lot about angels. Are more and more coming in these Latter Days?
President Thomas S. Monson
He received a call from the MTC president regaring an elder who was determined to go home because he could not learn Spanish. President Monson suggested to the MTC president that he send the elder to a Japanese class and then have him report back at noon. After the elder attended the Japanese class, he reported that he could learn Spanish!
We must feed those who go through rough times. We must be prudent in our spending.
"A new heart also will I give you, and a new spirit will I put within you: and I will take away the stony heart out of your flesh, and I will give you an heart of flesh.
"And I will put my spirit within you, and cause you to walk in my statutes, and ye shall keep my judgments, and do them." (Ezekiel 36:26-27)
3 Imperatives for our Considertion
1) Learn what we should learn.
Paul taught, "Brethren, I count not myself to have apprehended: but this one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind, and reaching forth unto those things which are before,
"I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus.
"Let us therefore, as many as be perfect, be thus minded: and if in any thing ye be otherwise minded, God shall reveal even this unto you." (Philippians 3:13-15)
Paul taught the Hebrews, "Wherefore seeing we also are compassed about with so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which doth so easily beset us, and let us run with patience the race that is set before us,
"Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith; who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God." (Hebrews 12:1-2)
The Priesthood is the power of God delegated to man. It is the perfect plan of service.
He who neglects it shall not be counted worthy to stand. Use it or lose it.
2) Do what we should do
D&C 107:99-100... let every man learn his duty. Put forth your best effort. There are eternal consequences to our actions. John Taylor quote ... you will be held responsible for those you could have saved.
3) Be what we should be
"be thou an example of the believes, in word, in conversation, in charity, in spirit, in faith, in purity." (2 Timothy 4:12)
Man must seek that power which is higher than him.
"What manner of men ought ye to be? Verily I say unto you, even as I am" (3 Nephi 27:27)
The hireling fleeth. The shepard does not, but lays down his life for the sheep.
Bro. Borrup (sp?) was part of a bomber crew over the Pacific in WWII. He knew he would be called to be a part of a sorty and he knew they would be shot down. Sure enough, they were shot down. He tried to inflate his raft, but it wouldn't inflate. He was drowning. He passed out. He woke up, pled to God and the raft inflated. They floated for 3 days with no food or water. They saw a submarine go by one day. The next day they saw it again. They knew it was going to leave the area. Then a thought came to his head ... use the Priesthood to command the submarine to stop. He spoke the words and it stopped. The captain was in awe. They weren't even looking for the downed crew.
So my notes weren't necessarily less copius. I guess I was able to write a lot. I filled in the gaps too as I remember things.
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