Talking to God

 A couple of years ago I was on a hike with a friend of mine and his son. We were talking about different things on the hike. We were talking about the different things that were going on in each other's lives. We were enjoying the scenery that was all around us. My friend's son asked a gospel-related question. I don’t recall what the question was. But I remembered that I started to answer the question. As soon as I started, this young man was ready with his next question. His dad, my friend said to his son you’re too worried about what you’re going to ask next than to listen to the answer to the question.

I was reminded of this experience this morning, as I was reading Come Follow Me. 

I realized I was the one interrupting the Lord.  I was trying to listen after I had asked a question. I was more intent on what was coming next than to hear and truly really understand or to participate in a conversation.

I realized that I wasn’t really paying attention. I realized that I wasn’t allowing my Heavenly Father to talk to me. I was blocking out the Holy Ghost because I was thinking of what I was going to say next.

I then listened to the song “Abide With Me!”
The heartache that comes as we shut the savior out is real. It is palpable as we try to go it alone. Sometimes we may realize it. Other times we might be like the disciples caught up in ourselves that we can’t recognize the Savior walking with us, and talking with us.

For me, when I take the time to be in a quiet place, that’s when I hear the Savior's voice. When I take the time to listen, that’s when I receive revelation. When I take time, that’s when I can experience being in the presence of the spirit.

When I am only willing to phone it in. When I’m only willing to give the essentials rather than my whole heart. That is when I’ve lost sight and I’m not paying attention.

Especially at this time, when there are distractions all around us. We have to pay attention! Paying attention and focusing on one thing at a time, rather than what’s coming next will give us what we need. Paying attention gives us the ability to stand and fight when life seems to be a constant battle.

I pray that I can be a little bit more aware. More wise.
When we are wise, we are able to discern the thoughts and hearts of those we serve (Alma18:22 , Alma 48:11–17)
Wise is being faithful and keeping the Commandments. Wise is a covenant, keeping commandments following faithful woman and man of God.

A Precious Fruit

A teacher started class. The goal was to see how much the class would work together. The job was big but if they worked together to complete the days tasks it could be done. The tasks were simple yet complex. They tested the knowledge of all involved.

 If the students over thought the task it would require more work and if they hurried through the test they for sure would fail. It had to be just the right mix. 

“If you complete the tasks by the end of class there is a great treat in store.” Just for added measure the teacher had added.

The students all worked hard. They had a hiccup here and there. Overall each group finished with a little time to spare. 

With great anticipation they waited for the last group to finish. When they did the teacher grabbed a bucket of tootsie roll candies. 

“As promised a great treat.” The teacher said with a bright smile.

The students each took one of the candies. They each had worked hard. And this was there reward. Most said nothing but all thought what others were saying. 

“What! We worked so hard for this?” 

The teacher only smiled and continued to offer the treats to the rest of the students. 

Sometimes, it seems like that is how we treat the things of God. The students worked hard together. And gained a treat.  They murmured because it wasn’t great it their mind. 

It seems to me that those who work so hard to cling to the rod of iron they make it to the tree and say with disappointment I worked so hard for this. Maybe they even give up because it’s just to hard. Are they really expecting something more? 

Lehi said that the fruit of that tree was most precious, the best that he had tasted. Then he wanted his family to come. He wanted to share this wonderful gift that he had been given with others. 

The real reward that had been given was the experience. The opportunity to work with like minded people. We here on this earth experience come in contact with people everyday that need our help to keep progressing forward. We are being tested in some way. We all need one another to make it to the presence of the Savior and partake of that wondrous gift that he offers. 

Back to basics

 Talking to a friend I realized something that I have always known. That the simple things are the things that matter most. You know the primary answers. Go to church, say your prayers, read your scriptures. Things that we know will strengthen our relationship with our heavenly father. So, why is it so hard to do them? Why is it so hard to do the things that we know will help us feel the spirit, receive revelation, and bring us back into the presence of our Heavenly Father?

I think that it’s times like these that I am just plain lazy. It’s not that I don’t want to do them. It’s that I’ll get to them I have so much on my plate why do I got to spend the time to to do this when I know it already. So horrible to think about but it is the rut you get in. Becomes an excuse that leads to a habit. And then you feel lost and maybe even a little afraid.

It’s that rut I’d like to address today. A few years ago on this blog I wrote a post that was the 10 minute fix.It was called unity written back in 2011. Take 10 minutes out of your day and create a place with each member of your family.

As you take that time with each member of your family you’ll find that what matters most is that relationship that you have with them. You’ll also realize how much you want to spend time with them.

And then you’ll start to spend time with your heavenly father again. Spending time with Heavenly Father means doing the primary answers. Taking the time to have meaningful conversation with the father. Taking time to understand his will concerning us. Taking time to understand that others need us. Once you feel like you’re needed there is a great feeling of satisfaction. A deep love that only comes from above.  it fills every aspect of your life. 

Live that you may be able to feel Savior and working in your life. Pay attention. There may be someone out there; something out there that needs to be accomplished only by you.

A message to the world

 About a year ago I wrote this book.

https://www.amazon.com/dp/1099474612/ref=cm_sw_r_fa_awdb_imm_t1_IWp3FbG1JGHR1?fbclid=IwAR3_SLafVtumTvoTYi3ftHhRaC_ofP8fnlufULpPja5u7jZaQuFS-s4xoLA#

In it I share my testimony through poetry. A testimony of the Prophet Joseph Smith.

Would you consider leaving me a review?

Would you consider sharing it with your loved ones at this holiday season?

Getting ready for general conference

It’s time to take a stroll through Joseph Smith history. When you do that with a video blog.

https://youtu.be/Sjc-4rC1IsU

I hope you enjoy it and look forward to making many videos throughout this thing. 62days to go to general Conference

A Message To The World:Joseph Called of God

Check out my Book
Amazon.com

A Message To The World: Joseph Called of God
What do you do when you do not understand something? Most people ask questions and base opinions and actions on the answers to those questions. That is exactly what Joseph Smith Jr did nearly two centuries ago. The answer to his question is still changing hearts and minds today.  With the religious climate at an all time high; Joseph wanted to know which church to join. Message to the world is a testimony of the events of the prophets life, His family, his love, his Heavenly Father, His ministry told in prose.  Joseph was a student of the Bible.  While studying he was told that if you need wisdom ask. In response to Joseph’s question God the Father and Jesus Christ appeared to the boy. That event caused the boy to start on a journey that would lead him from upstate New York to Kirkland, Ohio to Missouri and then finally his martyrdom in Carthage, Illinois. His life was dedicated to serving his God. That in turn led the man to serve his fellowman. People would Travel great distance to be able to come and see. His invitation always the same. Come and Follow Jesus Christ. His passion was centered in serving and teaching all that would listen to his message.  A Message To The World!

Stay on the Boat

God Has To Laugh
Every day when I start a new
I think what is there to do.
A list of tasks from A-Z flood my mind.
There is so much to do
and not enough time
at least that’s how I see it.
So I stopped to ask,
Help for priority, help for the Mundane,
help for the little guy
I forgot his name.
Help for the guidance needed.
Not once have I asked for what priority God had
Not listening for the ease of the day
that would cast a ray
On all the things that I need to do and say.
Prayers, yes it’s true is a talk with God.
Part of praying is stopping long enough
for all of the days actions to be understood

Elder Ballard in his 2014 October conference address said “ Given the challenges we all face today, how do we stay on the Old Ship Zion?
Here is how. We need to experience a continuing conversion by increasing our faith in Jesus Christ and our faithfulness to His gospel throughout our lives--not just once but regularly. Alma asked, “And now behold, I say unto you, my brethren [and sisters], if ye have experienced a change of heart, and if ye have felt to sing the song of redeeming love, I would ask, can ye feel so now?”

I would like to address four things that we have to hold on to while the Old ship Zion is pitching in the waters of life.
1)we must follow the living Prophets and Apostles
2)We must have a working knowledge of the Plan of Salvation
3) We must realize that we are apart of an Eternal Family
4) We must learn to find the Holy Sabbath a delight

Who can we follow? That's a hard question. Especially when there are many who are shouting for and biding for our attention. Many give up floundering. Content to just doing their own thing. These people are lost.
The people of Zeniff eager to find the land of their inheritance went out only to run into the Lamanites. They gave up half of all they had eventually loosing all they had to lamenites. They thought their people had perished and became subject to the Lamenites. They were not paying attention to the prophets or their leaders.
There is someone that we can look to, to bring us to safety. That person is the prophet of the Lord.
President Russell M Nelson  has been prepared for our day. Like many that have come before him they were to guide their people through the torrent of worldly wisdom. He speaks for our day and time to bring us to safety.The heavens are not closed.
The Father loves and expects much from us. We need a leader who has a knowledge of and experience with listening to and applying the will of the father. The scriptures have taught that "surely the Lord God will do nothing, save he will reveal his secret to his servants the prophet. (Amos 3:7)" The prophet speaks with the Father.
With that knowledge then... that we have a leader. Someone who is willing to guide us through the storm. We have to then choose to follow him. No one is going to make us choose to follow him.
Just like everything in the gospel of Jesus Christ we are free to choose.
Christ told us that he would take care of us. As long as we are willing to follow him (2nd Nephi 2:27-29). The part of the individual is following the prophet.
When others have wandered from the path and jumped off the old ship Zion it is so important for us to help them back aboard. Give a hand of encouragement. Repentance is possible through the gracious gift of the Atonement of Jesus Christ. Take the opportunity to share your testimony  every chance you can. Invite others to recognize the loftiness and pride of the worldly wisdom that is all around them. Be willing to share your testimony of how the Gospel has changed your life. Be able to offer examples of how your testimony of the prophet and following  his example has led you to come to know more of your Savior, Jesus Christ.
This is truly the work of the master. Bringing others to the knowledge of the Savior. Helping others back when they have fallen short. Ours is not to judge. It is but to be a help in facilitating our Heavenly Father in rescuing some of his children.
2nd  having an understanding of the plan of salvation is a crucial hand old to keeping on the Old Ship Zion.
Everywhere we go there are evidences of our heavenly father. From things so very small, to things huge Jesus Christ is found in it all. We just need to learn to recognize him. It is vital to learn to focus on the things of the spirit. The learning that is needed can be found by asking yourself a series of questions.
Who am I?
Where did I come from?
Where am I going?
Who am I suppose to be through the grace of the Atonement of our Savior Jesus Christ?
Knowing the answers to these simple questions allows us to answer all the other questions that come during this thing called life.
 What are my goals?
What do I focus on?
How do I view the world?
What really matters to me?
Everything that we do has to in one way or another lead us to the Master. This life is a time for us to prepare to meet God. Alma taught that we are here in a probationary state that we may learn and grow. The Savior taught that we must come unto him. Cast on him our every care and find shelter in within his embrace.
What are your goals?
Everyone should set at least a few spiritual and temporal goals. Having goals creates an atmosphere of learning. Your willing to try new things. Seeking to better yourself and your following the example of Jesus Christ. Your always striving. You are always growing in an effort to attain those goals you have set.
Each person is  different. As such  your goals may not be the same as mine. The important thing is that you have them!
It is so important that you set them high and self inspect often to make certain that you are on the road to attaining yours and the Father’s aspirations for you.
Ask yourself, what do I focus on? What in the world excites me? What is it that gets my attention. Am I easily distracted from what I am doing?If so it is time to recognize it and discipline yourself. Focusing your attention is a huge asset to your family. Easily finding the ability to make the important decisions when it is time to make them!
How you view the world tells alot about what you care about. Recognizing the hand of the father in all things helps to see the greatness all around us. The strength of the oceans to the gentle breeze show us the hand of the father. All good things come from the father. Moroni tells us that all good things lead us to the Savior of the world, even Jesus Christ.
What matters most? Everything hinges on this question. If you are involved in something and you don't want to be you are not going to give one hundred percent. On the other hand if you recognize what you want and attack it you will accomplish so much more. As long as you are doing your best striving to live the gospel to the best of your ability. That is all that is being asked of you !!!

Third hand hold to keep us on the Old Ship Zion comes within the family.  The greatest opportunities for growth in this life are found with the walls of own homes. The family is where so many firsts are experienced. In the family is where sweet special memories are formed and eternal relationships are forged.

A few years ago during  FHE (Family Home Evening) I had been thinking a lot about the Proclamation on the family.

So I had everyone, spell the word family as an acronym

F (fart was the first choice) Forever Families. Families can be together forever. All of us are apart of an                                      eternal family. We are able to learn much from one another as we recognize that relationship with one another.

A Apply or Application We talked about applying what we learn. Internalize the lessons make them apart of our daily lives. study it out,  learn all you can and then put it to action.

M Marriage Recognize where and when it is appropriate to start a family. Marriage between a man and a woman is part of the plan. We are to work together and teach together and raise a family in unity an a desire to all return home.

I  Insurance, we might have stretched this a little. but the idea here is that we do those little things that insure us returning to our father. Reading our scriptures, Praying, FHE, going to church. These things build a safe haven from the outside world.

L Live, Laugh,LOVE memories that is where it is all at. Daily creating a atmosphere that will bring us closer together. I think it is so true that laughing provides for strong bonds. The greatest example of love is the Savior. If as a family we can learn about him and build our lives around him and his example we will come to be able to  love our neighbors that much easier.

Y Youth, You : In the family you are defined. Your character is molded and formed. Your values are created.

The family is the greatest and biggest piece to our fathers plan.

The fourth handhold keeping us on the Old Ship Zion is Sabbath day observance
Elder Ballard taught “All of us are blessed when the Sabbath is filled with love for the Lord at home and at church. When our children are taught in the ways of the Lord, they learn to feel and to respond to His Spirit. We will all desire to attend each Sunday to partake of the sacrament when we feel the Spirit of the Lord. And all, young and old, who are carrying heavy burdens will feel the spiritual uplift and comfort that comes from a Sabbath day of devoted contemplation of our Heavenly Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.”
When the Sabbath day is observed we are showing our love for the Father and Son. Christ taught us that “If ye Love me keep my commandments.” Just a few verses more he calls us his Friend if ye do whatsoever I have commanded. We make covenants that start us out on this path. Keeping the Commandments allows us to be exalted.
Sabbath day observance is a hard thing for me. Separating out the day from the rest of the week. The church has become apart of  who I am. If I am not at work I am doing something during the day like scripture study, driving kids to mutual activities, visiting someone in the ward. Everyday there is something that keeps Heavenly Father front and center. So, how should one single out the day?
Creating an atmosphere in the home on the Sabbath like one was at the temple could help to make a attitude of reverence and admiration for the Savior. Being in the temple working or worshipping allows for a different perspective. In the temple we are reverent, quiet. The phone is not at arms reach notifying one of the recent news events. The latest sale that Disney had before raising its prices for its new park attractions.  Placing all the cares of the day in the rear view. That can be a monumental task. However, allowing the things of God to be first for one day will change the smallest wave that challenges and heartaches cause. The whole observance requires what may seem as sacrifice at first. But opens a whole new perspective, a new higher view that offers sweet assistance and maybe even more proficient.
Placing the sweet special feeling of the temple within the home offers a blessing of security.

Conclude with testimony

The Flashlight parable

The common everyday flash light has a handle, A switch ,a light bulb, a power source, a housing for the light bulb. It is a simple thing really. A tool that brings light to a room to provide the opportunity for every person that looks upon its rays the ability to find great sources of power. The flashlight opens up a new world of color and information.

That common Flashlight is like each one of us.

The Handle
Each individual stands alone as a empty flashlight handle. We go through this life and are individually affected by the experiences that we live through. Some are cared for, used and meet their purpose. Others are battered, scared and torn. Some are dirty from use. Some clean and polished. However, they all have one thing in common they are a tool. A instrument in the hands of the user.

The Power Source
Each light requires a power source to give off the Energy that will illuminate the dark of night. Our source of power that our Heavenly Father has given us is the Holy Ghost. Jesus Christ promised us that he would not leave us comfort less. He said “but the comforter which is the Holy Ghost whom the father will send in my name he shall teach you all things and bring to your rememberance   whatsoever thing I have said unto you. The Holy Ghost is the power source. He is the power to see, Hear, gain knowledge and develope an abiding faith and hope in the Savior Jesus Christ.

The Switch
To utilize that power source the switch must be placed in the on position. The switch engages the power allowing the instrument to begin to work inside The individual. That switch is a course of daily searching and diligently studying the scriptures. The scriptures lighten our minds. Reading, then doing the mind and will of God begins the journey of allowing the power source to work within the individual.

The Light Bulb
The light bulb itself is illuminated when one is able to discern between good, better and best. The person is able to share what has become a part of them. Testimony is borne of the love of God to his children. Questions are asked and answered; on the Lords timetable. This is done that all may be able to be taught on their level the blessing of living and loving as the Father loves.

The Housing For the Light Bulb
The blessing of the power illumination of the bulb has to be constantly nourished. Without the housing applied to flashlight the bulb if placed in just the right place with the right amount of pressure will for a time illuminate the bulb. However once the pressure is released the light turns off and is cold. The light must be held in place with constant nourishment. Yes the primary answers. Personal prayer, read the scriptures personally and with the family. What a blessing!

The prayer today is that everyone will realize that they are an instrument in the hands of the master. Each one of us has the ability to help others turn on their switch and shed the light of the gospel in a dark and scary world. The individual has a mandate to learn and apply lessons from the best books. Then seek to be taught from others. Everything that is experienced during this life has a lesson.

A Zion People

Becoming a Zion people gives pause to the mind. What does that mean? Who will be there? Where do I fit in there? Will I be there?

The question needs to be asked what is Zion? It is God’s kingdom on earth. In the last days when the dust settles the only people that will reside there are the holy people of God. Those that followed Christ. There will be many from all faith backgrounds there. Many that chose to live the best that they could.
This group of people are and will be defended by the Savior, even Jesus Christ. Isaiah 4:5 there will be a defense for all that enter in mount Zion. What a powerful thought. The people of the earth can call on and receive divine help on a daily even a minute by minute basis if needed. The knowledge, that one can glean from the Father, is there for the taking. At any moment that any person on earth needs help all that is required is that they ask for that help.  Ours is to Ask, then to Act, and Expect to Recieve.
To be a Zion people it is to put faith and trust in a loving Heavenly Father. He knows the individual and the need. He will not however intercede until the attribute of humility is excersised. Faith is placed in him and hope builds within to carry a burning to the heart of the alter of God the Father.
Isaiah further explains in 29:8 that the things of God must have a place within our hearts. For one to seek to serve they must be willing to change. Change from a carnally minded man to one that seeks the mind and will of the Father.
A Zion people communicate with our Heavenly Father. Isaiah 30:19 speaks of the Father seeking to bless our lives. He really hears and answers prayers.
The only constant in the lives of all that have lived and will yet is God the Father and his son Jesus Christ.  People come and go from our lives. Some my stay but a brief moment. Others will linger. However, the fact is all of us eventually will go our own way. It is of utmost import that all recognize that the only constant in their lives is the Father and the Son.
That knowledge offers us the opportunity to plant in our hearts the gospel of Jesus Christ. People will seek out the true joy that only comes from the constant relationship with the spirit. Through building a relationship with and talking too God each can and will be a Zion people.

The Chief Priests and Pilate

Pilate posed an interesting question to the chief priests. "He asked them should I crucify your king?" Spiritually this said a lot about how the leadership of the day interpreted the scriptures. They understood things so literally; and yet wanted to understand things figuratively as well. They replied to Pilate "we have no king but Caesar" 

In that line they thought that they were showing their allegiance to the state. They did not want to be committing a act of treason. They were taking what pilate said at face value. Isn't there more to that question that Pilate asked? Isn't there a hidden meaning behind it? What can we learn from that statement? 

There's definitely more to the question. Figuratively speaking Pilate is testing their will. Pilate knows that Jesus is innocent. Pilate knows the hearts of the chief priests. Although even more troubling is with that knowledge Christ is still sent to Golgotha. 

The every day disciple of Jesus Christ can also ask  Pilate's question. The question measures  exactly how one feels about Jesus Christ? Many questions are answered by where people put themselves on that spectrum. Are you willing to listen to the spirit? Do you except the atonement? 

Yes, it's true that the chief priests were so harden in  their hearts. They could not bring themselves to believe that Jesus was the Christ the Messiah. They could not disapprove him. So they had to kill him by false pretense. They were threatened by the Carpenter. Jesus was drawing crowds to him by the thousands. So, they had to put an end to him. The hymn comes to mind "Whose on the Lord side too, now is the time to show" it's important to recognize where to stand when picking sides. Where exactly do you stand? Where exactly is your heart? Are you willing like the chief priests to deny the Christ?

Wisdom Scripture Chain

Matthew 10:16
Jacob 6:12
Alma 18:16
Alma 48:11-17
Mormon 9:28
Doctrine & Covenants 111:11

Sacrament Challenge Day 2

3 Nephi 18

Christ invites the reader to a sacrament meeting. As people arrive they are greeted and invited to be seated. Christ authorizes the sacrament to be prepared. A thought comes to mind,what should one be doing while waiting for the sacrament to be blessed and passed? Thoughts are to be centered on the reason for the attendance. Preparing mentally for that opportunity. 

Then as the bread is passed, Christ tells us that we are baring our testimony to the Father that we will always remember him. In turn there is a blessing that we will have the spirit to be with us. Water is been passed to the apostles and then to the multitude. That represents our willingness to keep the Commandments. That we are humble enough to repent. That leads to being willing to utilize the atonement and remember the great lasting sacrifice of the master. 

Nephi records that if we are willing to do these things that were built on the sure foundation. However, if we vary from being obedient and penitent then we are on shaky sandy ground.

Partaking of the sacrament one realizes that he must always watch and pray. Meaning, that we have to always be vigilant. Avoiding temptations that the adversary throws away. We have to be willing to stand up for truth and righteousness. We have to recognize the true light that comes from following the ultimate example, Jesus Christ.

A word of caution about the sacrament, it must be taken worthily. The person partaking of the sacrament must be willing to recognize that it is a honor and not a right. 

Christ knows us and he knows how to give us what we need. That is the beauty of the atonement. We must be willing to accept his wonderfully amazing sacrifice.

Sacrament Challenge

Take out a sheet of paper and write on it "what does the sacrament mean to me?"

Take a scripture a day and write down your thoughts.

The purpose is to have a better more prepared for experience during the sacrament on Sunday.

Day 1

Matthew 26

 The chapter opens on a woman who came in with expensive oils and anointed the Savior. Then it speaks of Judas and his treacherous act of betrayal. The Savior sends the apostles to to find a place where they may celebrate the Passover.  Then the scene shifts to Gethsemane. 

In just the first 16 verses two very distinct things happen. The woman who anointed the Savior had so much respect for him brought her finest ointments to treat to the master. The apostles did not understand what she had done. On a first glance one might have the same reaction as the apostles. But think about where her heart was. Her heart was centered on serving one whom she held in high regard. One who would change the world. She was being a humble servant. Her heart was centered on following the master.

Just a few short verses latter we see how a little bit of pride gets in the way and changes the heart of one who knew the gospel teachings. Judas Iscariot had witnessed the miracles wrought by Jesus. Yet, with greed in his heart he accepted payment of thirty pieces of silver. His heart was set on worldly things. He wanted marterial wealth rather than eternal blessings.

So, then that begs the question...where does your heart lie?

I love how the Savior offer the sacrament and then asks the brethren to go with him to Gethsemane. In verse 38 he is weighed down with sorrow. He asks them to watch with him. I wonder what they were thinking in that moment. I wonder how I would respond. I wonder if they really understood the gravity of the time. 

The canoe trip of life - Lessons from the River

Put a fat unfit middle aged man in the middle of canoe give him a paddle and that creates the makings of some great stories. If nothing else a very interesting visual and the start to a billon jokes. But that's where the story starts. 

I purpose that life is like a canoe trip. It starts with the planning. The leader says let's go on a short trip. Everyone gets really excited. Summer is coming the water will be warm enough. It will show us how we need to improve. But most important...experience will be gained. 

So, the day of the event arrives. The boys are excited, the adults are excited. Leaders and experienced adults show up to take the inexperienced down life's river. So, we have a little instruction, take a few pictures and then it is time to get in the boats. Yes, canoes come in all sizes but we put the big guys in the skinny canoes just to get more of a laugh. 

The canoes are loaded and then are launched into the river. There is always going to be a learning curve especially when there is a fat guy in the boat learning to balance and paddle at the same time. With a experienced lake canoe driver...( driving a canoe on a lake is different than navigating a river.) So, both the guide and the fat guy are learning together. 

There are times when no matter what is done the canoe is going to drift every way but where the desired area is. During these times a little patience is required to get canoe to go where it is needed. And sometimes there is that sneaker current that catches the canoes  off guard and the balance that the fat guy had mastered falters and the canoe tips causing the unbalanced to jump off the boat. It is during these times that one should remember to just keep calm. The water is scary but manageable. All that is needed is a hand to make it to shore. At this point although cold and wet it is important to get back in the boat. Keep going down the river. 

Recognize, that when we loose our balance and end up out of the boat consequences are going to happen. We can make choices that will help us. However, we can not choose our consequences to  our actions. If we get out of the boat we are going to be wet. If we are not wearing safety gear tragedy is learking near. No, matter the consequence of our actions...we can always get back in the boat and start the process of getting dry and fixing broken equipment. 

Eventually, there will come a time when we come around the final bend and it's time to beach the vessel. There is a sense of accomplishment. A recognition that leaders are helpful. Even when sometimes we may not want them near. One recognizes that the river has had twists and turns, gone fast and slow. Overall, it allowed stories to be shared, friendships to be made, Experience to be had and the fat man to realize that there is more to life than what he has allowed inside his little bubble. 

Recognizing The Hand Of The Lord - Part 1

This is a very broad topic. On the surface it may seem very simple however upon a in depth study the topic is like a hydra dragon. Once one question is answered the query developes more questions.

How exactly does the Lord bare his hand in your life? Have you ever stopped to ponder how much the Lord is already apart of your life? How much more could he be in your life? In primary the song is sung:
Whenever I touch a velvet rose, or look at the blue blue sky, whenever I feel the rain on my face or the wind as it rushes by.  All of these things help us to know that Heavenly Father loves and knows each one of us on a very personal level.

2nd Nephi 1:5-6; 10:22
Nephi discribes that the Lord leads his people where he needs them. There will be trials that test the  faith of those who choose to follow the Master. However, along with those trials come the sweet blessings and promises directly from the Father.  The Father knows what we need, when we need it. The job of the individual is to recognize where these blessings come from. Once they recognize the hand of God working in their lives they are able to then ask for guidance, assistance and the comfort that only comes from the heavens.

Some of the ways that one is able to recognize the hand of the Lord is in doing good. The other is to seek after the examples of those who would be our leaders. Both, are broad ambiguous statements to be sure. Grab your scriptures and let's create two scripture chains.

Doing Good
Ezra 8:22
When seeking God, He longs to bless. He is a safety net that will bring peace if it is sought for. If when one is about their daily activity they just need to look inward. Why are they doing what they are. Is the activity being performed leading to bless their lives or build the kingdom of God. If not the anger of the Father is kindled and the individual is subject to his power and wrath.

Romans 8:28
Everything that is done should be with one goal in mind. That is, to lead all men back to the Father. Are the thoughts being entertained leading those around you to be a little better. All things work for Good, as one works to serve the Father.

Doctrine & Covenants 6:13
When engaged in service to and around one another it brings to fruition the blessing of eternal life. The great blessing of living with the Father is ours when the seeds of faith are allowed to blossom.

Doctrine & Covenants 90:24
The seeds of the faith are Searching Dilligently, Praying Always, Believeing, Walking up rightly remembering our covenants. Searching is always looking to the scriptures, studying the words of the current prophets, taking the time to ponder in your heart the thoughts that come form this great process. Always ask questions. Take your heart to our Heavenly Father. It may be hard to swallow but the answers that come may not be the things that want to be heard. Sometimes understanding does not come all at once. It is during these times that a true test of faith comes.

Seek
1 Nephi 17:1-3
One way that one can reach out to see and recognize the hand of God is to recognize that the trials come. The reaction to that trial is where the Holy Ghost is manifest. There is where faith is exercised. In the trial comes the blessing as well. Heaven will send the comforter as one is keeping their end of the bargain.

2Nephi 1:5-6
Great promises flow when covenants are kept. It is when the individual learns to recognize that the Lord is in charge that real blessings and truths are revealed.

Ether 12:41
Each one of us have examples that can be looked to. The savior is the ultimate example to pattern ones life after. God has blessed the world with living prophets and apostles who share with us his mind and will for our day. They offer a great way to cultivate a relationship with the father.

Doctrine & Covenants 88:63
When the individual turns his heart to the Father and earnestly reaches out to him; then the Father reaches back and the relationship truly begins to be a two way street.

Each night what blessing it is to evaluate and ponder on the day's events. As this is done you will see just how much the hand of God has been working in YOUR life.

Does God Really Love Me?

Thoughts swirl when this question is asked. It really is a non sequitur. All things  denote that there is a God. When asked this question thoughts are turned inward and focus is placed squarely on the individual.

When speaking to Zeezrom Alma taught truth when he said we are all going to die. That is undisputed. Humans are born and humans will die. What comes in between the start and the end is what matters most. It is here where we find out how much love the Father has for us. Again Alma tells Zeezrom that because God loves us angels are sent to teach us. They are sent to help navigate the sinner. All we have to do is accept that help. 

The help needed is only offered by the Master, even Jesus Christ.

Through him the atonement is administered. Through  him we are brought back to the father on condition that we repent. That we work hard doing righteous things. 

It is easy to see just how much love God the father has for me! It with wondering awe and gratitude that I look to him who knows me personally and has provided a path for me to return to his presence.

Christlike Attributes - Knowledge

Becoming more like Christ is gaining as much knowledge as is possible. That comes from multiple sources we live in a classroom. Life, just living is a grand experience. What are we doing with that life? Are we utilizing everything that is given to us. 

Are we reaping the most blessings in the time that has been allotted to us? Each must answer that question on his or her own. The parable of the talents comes to mind. Are we seeking to expand our horizons? Or are we hiding them not willing to use them for fear that we might loose them? 

Each has much to give. That is what makes this life so great. We can learn something from everyone that we come in contact with. 

Where do you gain knowledge? Where do you seek for answers? They are available sometimes in the most unlikely places. Truth is truth as I have recently heard from a bishop. Sources of light are available to each of us. As we share our light we gain light from others. 

Some time ago a brother went out on ministering visits. He was assigned a brother whose family had not attended in years. There was not a welcome for the visit. The brother was turned away. He returned as requested by the local leadership. Each time the same reaction. The brother went each time with love in his heart. He went with a desire to bring another to Jesus Christ. What ended up happening was a change in the brother. His testimony only grew. His love for the savior grew. He knew he could do hard things through this experience. His hard work did finally pay off. The family did allow him in. The family continued to grow in the gospel. All from a faithful servant willing to share what he had come to know. 

Knowledge gained must be shared. It is of no use if it is not shared with others. Imagine if a young boy had not shared his knowledge of the Savior and his Father in heaven coming to visit him. Imagine if Lehi had not shared his knowledge of the destruction of Jerusalem and stayed there. What if Paul failed to listen to Christ that day on the road to Damascus. Each shared vital knowledge to get us where we are today. 

What are you willing to share? Knowledge is gained and sown. Share yours today!

The Power of the Atonement

Trying to understand how much the atonement of Jesus Christ entails is beyond all comprehension. Just the thought of someone taking away the pain of all is baffling. Then add to it the sanctifying of every soul. Even more through the Atonement we are blessed with peace. 

The atonement is for everyone. No matter who you are the atonement was instituted with you in mind. Each person is literally the son or daughter of a loving Heavenly Father. As such he desires to bless us and longs to protect us with his loving arm. 

The atonement is much more than a bandaid for the sinner. When life has wrapped around and frustrated it is there to bolster and lift you up. When concern stirs the heart and mind the atonement is there to speak peace to calm the tension. 

The atonement of Jesus Christ is the bridge we need to get back home. So often life seems to get in the way. Trials weigh us down. Yes, we make mistakes it is in those mistakes that we learn who we are. It is through life's trials that we gain a testimony and reassurance that Jesus is the Christ. 

Attributes of Christ- Dilligence

There is always something that can be done, something that can be learned, something that will stretch the heart and soul of man. Find something that you like to do, and do it well. Search out new things and add them to the things that you are willing to do and do well. 

Being anxiously engaged in a cause; builds the kingdom of God on earth. As one goes about the business of being engaged one gains respect of those that are being served. Testimonies are shared in example, as the tasks that are given are carried out with exactness and honor. All know that the work performed is being done because of the love for the gospel of Jesus Christ. 

Everything that is done should be done in the name of Christ. When one is baptized it must be recognized that they are on his errand. Daily priority should serving him in professional daily work, building up the family,  hobbies; these are all opportunities to bring others to the body of Christ. 

Nephi, taught that when one follows after the manner of the Lord the fruits of labor are success. When the labor performed is after the manner of men the spirit is removed and trial ensues. That is not to say that trials wont come when the spirit is being heeded. Often it comes with great struggle and sacrifice to come off conqueror. 

Enos talked of a great struggle he had with the Lord. Alma talks of wrestling with the spirit. 

Now is the time to stand up and do something!

Attributes of Christ - obedience

Christ, had to be baptized that he might show us the way. More than that he kept the commandments of the father. He was doing the will of him that sent him. 

Nephi taught that if one would learn and do what the father commands then the father promises to nourish us, strengthen us, and provide a way to accomplish the task that is required of us. 

The great blessing of obedience is knowing where one stands. Once the decision is made it is easier to continue making righteous decisions. It is in the gospel of Jesus Christ that we are given aide direction to chart the course home. It has never been more important to stand up stand tall and be what we are suppose to be. Noble servants of a loving Heavenly Father