Seek The Lord Often

As I was doing some personal study, I came across some interesting scriptures in Mosiah 13. Mosiah 13:28 And moreover, I say unto you, that salvation doth not come by the law alone; and were it not for the atonement, which God himself shall make for the sins and iniquities of his people, that they must unavoidably perish, notwithstanding the law of Moses. Ultimately, it's not the programs of the church that will save us, but Christ, because of his atonement. I want to never forget Christ. It's about him. His church (though full of imperfect people and run by mortal men called of him) is the vehicle by which we fully unlock his saving power through ordinances and covenants. I think about a lot of the changes that the church has made recently (the change from home/visiting teaching to ministering, the shift to two hours of church and one hour of home study, and the age change for priesthood quorums and young women's classes), and a few thoughts come to mind. First, a...

I thought it was very interesting how President Nelson spoke of how the Lord is restoring his church. We've seen a lot of changes lately, but the Prophet says that it is only the beginning, and he even says it with a bit of humor. “We're witnesses to a process of restoration,” said the prophet. “If you think the Church has been fully restored, you're just seeing the beginning. There is much more to come. … Wait till next year. And then the next year. Eat your vitamin pills. Get your rest. It's going to be exciting.” 

I came across this scripture in my personal study and I felt it was important to share as we prepare for General Conference. Jacob 4: 8 8 Behold, great and marvelous are the works of the Lord. How unsearchable are the depths of the mysteries of him; and it is impossible that man should find out all his ways. And no man knoweth of his ways save it be revealed unto him; wherefore, brethren, despise not the revelations of God. I invite us all to pray to our Father in Heaven that we may understand his ways. I also invite us to remember that it is impossible that we should find out all his ways. Let's all move on in faith and doubt our doubts before we doubt our faith.

The gospel of Jesus Christ means good news. The good news that Jesus Christ brings is that we can live with our families forever after this life if we live his doctrine. Christ tells us we must be baptized and receive the gift of the Holy Ghost in order to be sanctified and live with God, our father, and our family eternally in God's kingdom. "Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God" ( John 3:3) We have been asked by Christ to share these truths. "Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost:" ( Matthew 28:19 ). "Behold, I sent you out to testify and warn the people, and it becometh every man who hath been warned to warn his neighbor" ( Doctrine & Covenants 88:81 ). I've come to realize that one of the great responsibilities I have as a member of The Church of Jesus Christ is to spread the good news of Christ...

I know many are struggling right now with crushing challenges. Many have lost loved ones and others are feeling lost in a tumultuous world. I may not understand perfectly what you feel in your personal Gethsemane, but I do know that there is someone who does: Our Savior Jesus Christ. I invite you to consider The Very Thought of Jesus, your Savior and know that he is ever there to comfort. He truly is our only joy now and through eternity. Lyrics 1. Jesus, the very thought of thee With sweetness fills my breast; But sweeter far thy face to see And in thy presence rest. 2. Nor voice can sing, nor heart can frame, Nor can the mem'ry find A sweeter sound than thy blest name, O Savior of mankind! 3. O hope of ev'ry contrite heart, O joy of all the meek, To those who fall, how kind thou art! How good to those who seek! 4. Jesus, our only joy be thou, As thou our prize wilt be; Jesus, be thou our glory now, And thru eternity. Text: ...

Sometimes it's hard to know where to find peace in a troubled world. I personally get so lost in the shuffle sometimes that I lose sight of the things I know to be true. This song has always been a good reminder for me to slow down and think about who is in charge and where true peace is found. Read the beautiful lyrics, listen to the music, and know your Savior loves you. Here's a link  to the lyrics and sheet music on lds.org Lyrics 1. Where can I turn for peace? Where is my solace When other sources cease to make me whole? When with a wounded heart, anger, or malice, I draw myself apart, Searching my soul? 2. Where, when my aching grows, Where, when I languish, Where, in my need to know, where can I run? Where is the quiet hand to calm my anguish? Who, who can understand? He, only One. 3. He answers privately, Reaches my reaching In my Gethsemane, Savior and Friend. Gentle the peace he finds for my beseeching. Constant he i...

This is a song I particularly love because it has been so relevant to me at the lowest points of my life and at times when I just need to refocus and remember in whom I have trusted when things get rocky. Below is my rendition along with the beautiful lyrics. How grateful I am to have a Savior who can take me by the hand and lead me to new heights. Lyrics 1. Does the journey seem long, The path rugged and steep? Are there briars and thorns on the way? Do sharp stones cut your feet As you struggle to rise To the heights thru the heat of the day? 2. Is your heart faint and sad, Your soul weary within, As you toil 'neath your burden of care? Does the load heavy seem You are forced now to lift? Is there no one your burden to share? 3. Let your heart be not faint Now the journey's begun; There is One who still beckons to you. So look upward in joy And take hold of his hand; He will lead you to heights that are new-- 4. A land ho...