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January 4-10 | Joseph Smith—History 1:1-26

 As I was studying, a few verses and phrases stood out to me. 


In verse 6, it talks about a "strife of words and a contest about opinions."

We see this everywhere today, particularly on social media.

All of this led Joseph to "serious reflection" and "great uneasiness." It's not uncommon to feel uneasy with everything that's happening in the world today. 

Another thing that jumped out was the phrase "war of words and tumult of opinions." We see that everywhere today. Joseph often said to himself, "What is to be done?" I think I've asked myself that same question many times when I look at the world and see all the difficulties and fights that are happening.


Next, after laboring under extreme difficulties, reading, and pondering, Joseph decided to pray vocally to God. I wonder if there is extra power in vocal prayer. That's something to think about.

He offered up the desires of his heart to God. This means he was doing more than just saying words, but really going deep and pouring out his soul to God. In fact, it says he exerted all his power.

When Heavenly Father appeared to Joseph, he called him by name. This is powerful and beautiful. How comforting it is to know that my Father in Heaven knows me by my name. He understands my struggles. He just wants me to put in some effort and come to him and tell him how things are going and what I want to improve in. He hears me. He sends the Holy Ghost so that I know that. 

I hope to never be one who draws near to him with my lips but my heart is far from him. I hope to always remain humble and go to him with my concerns, longings, and questions. I know he'll be there, but that he will let me work to find peace, answers, and improvement. I'm so grateful for the small nudgings he sends me when I take time to put aside the things of the world and seek him. He knows me better than I know myself, and that's very comforting. He can and will guide me.



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