Message of the day!!!
"Teaching People Not Lessons"
Elder Clark and I wished to expound more upon what was taught in the Zone Conferences this week. Here is the example that came to mind.
Picture this, your talking to three men. Prior to beginning to talk with these three men you were commanded by God to let them know that the worlds best sport was restored to the earth. If you played this sport you would be the most happy you could be and you could even play it in Heaven with your family!! You try the sport out for a while and come to know that it's called Football. You enjoy playing Football so much and doing what God asked you to do you realize that this needs to be shared with others! Coupled with that though God even commands you to go out and share the message about how playing Football is a commandment from God and that if we all learn to play that we reap eternal salvation.
So now your back to where we began. You begin to talk to the first man and you say Hello Brother, I've got a message for you from God! And the man says o.k. let's hear it. You just throw all the good news at him as fast as you can. "Football is amazing! It's brought me so much joy, and I know if you play it you'll have eternal joy too!!" and then you go onto say something like this " I know that Football is the only true sport from God on this earth today and Football is God's sport." . . . . . All of a sudden you see the brothers eyes get big and his face turns a little red. All of a sudden you realize he has been holding a tennis ball behind his back the entire time.
This man loves tennis!! He plays it every day and in fact his family taught him about tennis and it's so comfortable for him. After feeling diminished and thrown down on, he looks at you and says, you know I think your doing a good thing getting people to play football. But I'm not interested myself.
ALRIGHT PAUSE!!!
Can we understand now how key the first moments are of talking to someone and if we throw too much out there then people won't be able to connect and feel comfortable making small changes, "line upon line, precept upon precept?"
Alright, now an Angel comes down after this experience and gives you some advice. The angel says try connecting first asking questions about them and what they hold dear. Ask them why they do or don't believe in God. Ask them what questions they have about life. So now your thinking "Oh ya I got this!"
You walk up to the second brother and say "How's it going my friend?" . . He says, "Fine" . . . then you say "I have a question for you" . . . "What are your hobbies?" . . . He says "Well, I love Basketball!" and then you say "What has happened in your life that has caused you to play sports and basketball?" he says "Well I think just the principle of team work. I've really learned how to make friendships and work hard because of basketball." and then you say "Wow! That is amazing my friend, I know that friendships and unity and working hard is of God!" then you say "If you could talk with God in person for 30 minutes, what would you ask him?" . . . then he says "Hmmm. . . . that's a good question! I'd probably ask Him what the point, I mean I love life and playing basketball is fun, but, I don't honestly know what happens after that or why I am even playing it." then you say, " That's interesting, so what your saying is that you would ask what is the purpose of life? Is that correct? . . . "He says yes definitely" then you say, we have a message that might answer that question for you, were missionaries for our church, may we share that message with you right now?" . . . . . . . .
Elders and Sisters we would love your input!!
The point we are getting across is that these people are special and all are unique no matter how they present themselves they are special and have learned different things from God that is helping them draw unto Him. People are drawn because of simple truths and kept because of the atonement and healing words of Christ!! The spirit will step in as we ask questions and then navigate from there. Here are some started questions if you get stuck. . .
1. If you had one week to have Christ walk with you on earth, where would you take Him, and what would you ask him?
2. If you had 30 minutes to talk with God before returning to the world what would you ask him?
3. What has happened in your life that has caused you to believe that there is a God?
4. Have you ever felt like your prayers have been answered? Have you ever felt like you received direction before?
5. Why do you think it is that there are so many different Christian denominations on the earth today?
Some Elders in Ocala have gone around doing a survey even, asking people simple questions as these. And it's working!! People are so much more responsive and able to open their hearts to the message when they are forced to face reality when they don't have the answers to questions of their soul they either kept hidden or never even knew they had!!
I know that as we help people to ponder as Christ did, and as we teach like the prophets did of old we will be so much more effective. We don't go out boastful throwing down on others religions, but we go out with the truth treasuring it as a pearl and not casting it before swine. We had one brother, after explaining how to go about this, he said, this is how I was softened and converted!! After watching a heated debate between a member of the church and another man, the member of the church looked at him and said, "brother, have you even wondered where our spirits were before this life?" Brother Henderson said at that point something hit him hard, the spirit literally pierced his soul, for in fact, that question wasn't just a question, but it was a statement that caused him to remember. That question enabled the spirit to come in and around his soul to the remembrance of a time beyond the veil when we were all in the presence of our Father and Savior Jesus Christ.
Friday, November 15, 2013
Sunday, September 29, 2013
Dear Everyone,
Today reminded me of the some of the most important things to me in my life, and even some of the biggest heart aches. It seems every year I've seen primary programs and have been filled with joy as I watch these little children do their best to perform! They seem to always make you laugh whether one is picking their nose, or the other jumps off the steps to the pulpit with a loud BOOM! Today's primary program hard a much stronger effect upon me than one ever has before.
As I sat watching the children my mind began to be filled with those usual random day dreams. I saw myself as a father watching my children get up and talk. It seemed as each child got up I could feel how proud each parent was of their child. My heart swelled as I imagined my own little girl running up to the pulpit and smiling while muttering her line quickly then running back to her seat. As that thought hit me I could barely hold back the overwhelming spirit as each child showed their own individual worth and personality. I pictured my self holding my baby like Brother's Smith and Crews do every Sunday in Elders quorum. Bouncing them up and down so they don't cry. I can't even comprehend the trust God has in us to let us have stewardship over these magnificent beings. My heart hurt badly as I thought of how proud my own father was of me. I remember asking him about the past and he told me the most important thing to him in his life was the moments when he'd be at the football field rooting for my brother and I. He was so proud when parents would come up and say were glad Nate is on the team. He did his best to capture every epic play on his camera. He wanted so badly to simply honor us and make us feel good. He just wanted us to know that no matter what happened we should know that we are his and that he had an eternal love for us no matter the outcome. I know my Father in Heaven feels the same way with a perfect love.
The most burdening thought then came to mind and I just couldn't handle it, I had to distract myself with other things. I remembered forsaking my parents and the blessings they had continually bestowed upon me. I remember not waiting to see my family because I was so frustrated. It wasn't till today through the spirit and the example of the primary children that I was very humbled. In fact, I was so humbled I felt as though I have no hope to receive honor from my children because of my own lack. To expect those things would be hypocritical. This brings it all back to the appreciation for the opportunity to repent, the blessing to know that repentance is real and that Christ has paved the way for healing and forgiveness. He makes all things possible! Do I deserve a second chance? Do I make a fool of myself every day? Do I fail as a missionary every day? Am I exactly what I should be? I'm afraid I fall short every day and have all my life. As a believer of Christ and one who has experienced personal revelation through the Spirit of God I can testify that healing and a brightened hope are just around the corner. As we act upon the teachings of the Gospel and recognize the spirit working in our lives we will become a true part of the family God. For in Romans it say, "The spirit it'self beareth witness with our spirit, that we are the children of God, and if children, then heirs, heirs of God, and joint heirs with Christ. If it so be that we suffer with him. That we may be glorified together." In order to suffer with Christ we need not cause ourselves pain but simply let ourselves recognize the spirit of God and act upon the promptings and teachings of the Lord's prophets. We have Christ's 12 apostles on the earth today. We have a prophet and his two counselors. They are holy men and they know the Lord. We will not be lead astray. As one who has strayed, but is continually found, I can testify from experience that God loves his children. That is what we all are. Just as you love your family and would die for them so would he. Hence he let his only physical child be slaughtered like a lamb. He did this that we might be saved also, for he loves us just as much as Christ even in the continuous ungrateful way we live. I pray the Father's blessing upon you all in the name of Jesus Christ. Amen.
Today reminded me of the some of the most important things to me in my life, and even some of the biggest heart aches. It seems every year I've seen primary programs and have been filled with joy as I watch these little children do their best to perform! They seem to always make you laugh whether one is picking their nose, or the other jumps off the steps to the pulpit with a loud BOOM! Today's primary program hard a much stronger effect upon me than one ever has before.
As I sat watching the children my mind began to be filled with those usual random day dreams. I saw myself as a father watching my children get up and talk. It seemed as each child got up I could feel how proud each parent was of their child. My heart swelled as I imagined my own little girl running up to the pulpit and smiling while muttering her line quickly then running back to her seat. As that thought hit me I could barely hold back the overwhelming spirit as each child showed their own individual worth and personality. I pictured my self holding my baby like Brother's Smith and Crews do every Sunday in Elders quorum. Bouncing them up and down so they don't cry. I can't even comprehend the trust God has in us to let us have stewardship over these magnificent beings. My heart hurt badly as I thought of how proud my own father was of me. I remember asking him about the past and he told me the most important thing to him in his life was the moments when he'd be at the football field rooting for my brother and I. He was so proud when parents would come up and say were glad Nate is on the team. He did his best to capture every epic play on his camera. He wanted so badly to simply honor us and make us feel good. He just wanted us to know that no matter what happened we should know that we are his and that he had an eternal love for us no matter the outcome. I know my Father in Heaven feels the same way with a perfect love.
The most burdening thought then came to mind and I just couldn't handle it, I had to distract myself with other things. I remembered forsaking my parents and the blessings they had continually bestowed upon me. I remember not waiting to see my family because I was so frustrated. It wasn't till today through the spirit and the example of the primary children that I was very humbled. In fact, I was so humbled I felt as though I have no hope to receive honor from my children because of my own lack. To expect those things would be hypocritical. This brings it all back to the appreciation for the opportunity to repent, the blessing to know that repentance is real and that Christ has paved the way for healing and forgiveness. He makes all things possible! Do I deserve a second chance? Do I make a fool of myself every day? Do I fail as a missionary every day? Am I exactly what I should be? I'm afraid I fall short every day and have all my life. As a believer of Christ and one who has experienced personal revelation through the Spirit of God I can testify that healing and a brightened hope are just around the corner. As we act upon the teachings of the Gospel and recognize the spirit working in our lives we will become a true part of the family God. For in Romans it say, "The spirit it'self beareth witness with our spirit, that we are the children of God, and if children, then heirs, heirs of God, and joint heirs with Christ. If it so be that we suffer with him. That we may be glorified together." In order to suffer with Christ we need not cause ourselves pain but simply let ourselves recognize the spirit of God and act upon the promptings and teachings of the Lord's prophets. We have Christ's 12 apostles on the earth today. We have a prophet and his two counselors. They are holy men and they know the Lord. We will not be lead astray. As one who has strayed, but is continually found, I can testify from experience that God loves his children. That is what we all are. Just as you love your family and would die for them so would he. Hence he let his only physical child be slaughtered like a lamb. He did this that we might be saved also, for he loves us just as much as Christ even in the continuous ungrateful way we live. I pray the Father's blessing upon you all in the name of Jesus Christ. Amen.
Tuesday, September 17, 2013
Hello Everyone!
I wanted to share some things I've learned as I've been able this past week to really search for answers to some questions of my soul. It seems as though we all have had experiences in life that have caused us the most deep physical and spiritual pain. Some of the people I love most have been hurt by others and it has killed their hope and trust in others. Wether it be an abusive relationship, immoral parents, or the bullying by other people as a whole it all causes deep pain and sorrow. These experiences can be used as Satan's tool to hinder us from progression towards a better life with trusting friends and family. In the back of your mind do you always get that feeling or thought that goes, "I can't trust anyone ever again." "I must avoid the men, or woman, they are all the same, there out to hurt me." It is even worse when you have tried to put trust in someone after already being hurt and it happens again! I'm writing to testify today that there is hope for a brighter future and by the Spirit of God I pray you might have a better understanding of how to discern the direction in your life and act in faith to over the pain and wounds that hold you back from having everything you've ever wanted.
The first step would be to seek the healing of Christ through faith in Him and His atonement. As we act upon the invitations of Christ we will feel the healing power begin to work within us. Prayer, ask for help and healing. Service, go out and serve. Attend church, partake of the sacrament and serve others. Seek to learn in church. Preach the gospel and share the gospel with others by inviting them to learn from the missionaries in your home. Repent, do all you can to forsake and make restitution for those things you have done wrong. If you haven't been baptized then prepare and repent in order to be baptized. Receive the Holy Ghost by the laying on of hands and for those who are members receive the Holy Ghost by cleansing your self physically, spiritually, and emotionally. Lay down your burdens in your mind and heart and let Heavenly Father know your worries. Express yourself and ask that He will help your problems be wrapped up in His spirit, love, and atonement so that they are no more. LET IT GO. Don't let those things be a part of you anymore or who you are. Fill, accept, and magnify all of your callings. Seek for a hobby. Keep yourself busy in the service of your fellow man and your God. There are so many things you can do, but as you read the scriptures, understand the doctrine, listen to the spirit and promptings you feel, the Lord will manifest healing and truth in the faith or action you exert and healing will happen I promise.
Here is a way to discern if your current desires are real and true. I'll show unto you the way to judge, "for anything that inviteth and enticeth to do good and believe in Christ is sent forth by the power and gift of Christ. Wherefore ye may know with a perfect knowledge that it is of God." As you are making friends, dating, courting, and married. You can tell if people, actions, and activities are good by if they are inviting you do good and draw unto Christ. If you are continually feeling the confirmation of the spirit when you are doing something, and your surround by stimulus that persuades you to keep the commandments and keep the commandments you can know for a surety that it is of Christ. Absolutely anything that pushes you to not do good things and diminishes the spirit is not of God or of Christ. If you've been feeling that fire of the spirit comforting you lately prompting you to act in faith and do something you've never done before you might be scared. That fear is natural. As natural human beings we are all a little wary of the unknown but as we trust in the invitation and the spirit we felt I know we will find the greatest strengths and bonds we have ever felt in our lives and we will draw closer to Christ. We will be able to relationships and friendships we've always wanted. I testify that Christ can heal our hearts and can cleanse us as we repent. If we are hurt and scared what will happen, simply lay out your plan for the Lord and ask if it be His will. When you feel that comfort go for it! If you've already felt that spirit confirming the truth of your desire then just go for it! Simply act in faith, and test if it is truly of God. The Spirit will manifest all things and as you open your heart, if it be right. The rest will take care of it's self because I know God has an amazing plan for you. I testify of this in the name of Jesus Christ. Amen
I wanted to share some things I've learned as I've been able this past week to really search for answers to some questions of my soul. It seems as though we all have had experiences in life that have caused us the most deep physical and spiritual pain. Some of the people I love most have been hurt by others and it has killed their hope and trust in others. Wether it be an abusive relationship, immoral parents, or the bullying by other people as a whole it all causes deep pain and sorrow. These experiences can be used as Satan's tool to hinder us from progression towards a better life with trusting friends and family. In the back of your mind do you always get that feeling or thought that goes, "I can't trust anyone ever again." "I must avoid the men, or woman, they are all the same, there out to hurt me." It is even worse when you have tried to put trust in someone after already being hurt and it happens again! I'm writing to testify today that there is hope for a brighter future and by the Spirit of God I pray you might have a better understanding of how to discern the direction in your life and act in faith to over the pain and wounds that hold you back from having everything you've ever wanted.
The first step would be to seek the healing of Christ through faith in Him and His atonement. As we act upon the invitations of Christ we will feel the healing power begin to work within us. Prayer, ask for help and healing. Service, go out and serve. Attend church, partake of the sacrament and serve others. Seek to learn in church. Preach the gospel and share the gospel with others by inviting them to learn from the missionaries in your home. Repent, do all you can to forsake and make restitution for those things you have done wrong. If you haven't been baptized then prepare and repent in order to be baptized. Receive the Holy Ghost by the laying on of hands and for those who are members receive the Holy Ghost by cleansing your self physically, spiritually, and emotionally. Lay down your burdens in your mind and heart and let Heavenly Father know your worries. Express yourself and ask that He will help your problems be wrapped up in His spirit, love, and atonement so that they are no more. LET IT GO. Don't let those things be a part of you anymore or who you are. Fill, accept, and magnify all of your callings. Seek for a hobby. Keep yourself busy in the service of your fellow man and your God. There are so many things you can do, but as you read the scriptures, understand the doctrine, listen to the spirit and promptings you feel, the Lord will manifest healing and truth in the faith or action you exert and healing will happen I promise.
Here is a way to discern if your current desires are real and true. I'll show unto you the way to judge, "for anything that inviteth and enticeth to do good and believe in Christ is sent forth by the power and gift of Christ. Wherefore ye may know with a perfect knowledge that it is of God." As you are making friends, dating, courting, and married. You can tell if people, actions, and activities are good by if they are inviting you do good and draw unto Christ. If you are continually feeling the confirmation of the spirit when you are doing something, and your surround by stimulus that persuades you to keep the commandments and keep the commandments you can know for a surety that it is of Christ. Absolutely anything that pushes you to not do good things and diminishes the spirit is not of God or of Christ. If you've been feeling that fire of the spirit comforting you lately prompting you to act in faith and do something you've never done before you might be scared. That fear is natural. As natural human beings we are all a little wary of the unknown but as we trust in the invitation and the spirit we felt I know we will find the greatest strengths and bonds we have ever felt in our lives and we will draw closer to Christ. We will be able to relationships and friendships we've always wanted. I testify that Christ can heal our hearts and can cleanse us as we repent. If we are hurt and scared what will happen, simply lay out your plan for the Lord and ask if it be His will. When you feel that comfort go for it! If you've already felt that spirit confirming the truth of your desire then just go for it! Simply act in faith, and test if it is truly of God. The Spirit will manifest all things and as you open your heart, if it be right. The rest will take care of it's self because I know God has an amazing plan for you. I testify of this in the name of Jesus Christ. Amen
Sunday, August 4, 2013
Hello Everyone!
I was tempted by the adversay for a long time the other day. It came to the close of my saturday night after proselyting and I recognize we really should say a prayer to start our fast since we hadn't eatin since two! I prayed that the Lord would have mercy upon us and personally I prayed I might be spared a day that I might be free to have peace and feel the spirit through out all of church. On our way to the church building a song came on called "I feel my saviors love". I felt the spirit soothe my nerves and I felt the peace of the Lord fill my soul. I truly did feel my Saviors love this sabbath day and I am grateful for the mercy He has on all of us as we trust in him and sacrifice. With my medical issues fasting is always a difficult thing to do but I know the Lord recognized my offering and blessed me with the experience of peace I desired. The meeting at church proved to be a magnificent one as two of my good friends and one recent convert bore their testimonies! The spirit filled the room and it was another manifestation of the tender mercies of the Lord. I know that fasting really does work. It's a sacrifice that we can make and the Lord will grant unto us that spirit of love and peace we desire. I say these things in the name of Jesus Christ. Amen!
I was tempted by the adversay for a long time the other day. It came to the close of my saturday night after proselyting and I recognize we really should say a prayer to start our fast since we hadn't eatin since two! I prayed that the Lord would have mercy upon us and personally I prayed I might be spared a day that I might be free to have peace and feel the spirit through out all of church. On our way to the church building a song came on called "I feel my saviors love". I felt the spirit soothe my nerves and I felt the peace of the Lord fill my soul. I truly did feel my Saviors love this sabbath day and I am grateful for the mercy He has on all of us as we trust in him and sacrifice. With my medical issues fasting is always a difficult thing to do but I know the Lord recognized my offering and blessed me with the experience of peace I desired. The meeting at church proved to be a magnificent one as two of my good friends and one recent convert bore their testimonies! The spirit filled the room and it was another manifestation of the tender mercies of the Lord. I know that fasting really does work. It's a sacrifice that we can make and the Lord will grant unto us that spirit of love and peace we desire. I say these things in the name of Jesus Christ. Amen!
Saturday, August 3, 2013
Throughout the ages, many have obtained guidance helpful to resolve challenges in their lives by following the example of respected individuals who resolved similar problems. Today, world conditions change so rapidly that such a course of action is often not available to us.
Personally, I rejoice in that reality because it creates a condition where we, of necessity, are more dependent upon the Spirit to guide us through the vicissitudes of life. Therefore, we are led to seek personal inspiration in life’s important decisions.
What can you do to enhance your capacity to be led to correct decisions in your life? What are the principles upon which spiritual communication depends? What are the potential barriers to such communication that you need to avoid?
President John Taylor wrote: “Joseph Smith, upwards of forty years ago, said to me: ‘Brother Taylor, you have received the Holy Ghost. Now follow the influence of that Spirit, and it will lead you into all truth, until by and by, it will become in you a principle of revelation.’ Then he told me never to arise in the morning without bowing before the Lord, and dedicating myself to him during that day.” 1
Father in Heaven knew that you would face challenges and be required to make some decisions that would be beyond your own ability to decide correctly. In His plan of happiness, He included a provision for you to receive help with such challenges and decisions during your mortal life. That assistance will come to you through the Holy Ghost as spiritual guidance. It is a power, beyond your own capability, that a loving Heavenly Father wants you to use consistently for your peace and happiness.
I am convinced that there is no simple formula or technique that would immediately allow you to master the ability to be guided by the voice of the Spirit. Our Father expects you to learn how to obtain that divine help by exercising faith in Him and His Holy Son, Jesus Christ. Were you to receive inspired guidance just for the asking, you would become weak and ever more dependent on Them. They know that essential personal growth will come as you struggle to learn how to be led by the Spirit.
What may appear initially to be a daunting task will be much easier to manage over time as you consistently strive to recognize and follow feelings prompted by the Spirit. Your confidence in the direction you receive from the Holy Ghost will also become stronger. I witness that as you gain experience and success in being guided by the Spirit, your confidence in the impressions you feel can become more certain than your dependence on what you see or hear.
Spirituality yields two fruits. The first is inspiration to know what to do. The second is power, or the capacity to do it. These two capacities come together. That’s why Nephi could say, “I will go and do the things which the Lord hath commanded.” 2 He knew the spiritual laws upon which inspiration and power are based. Yes, God answers prayer and gives us spiritual direction when we live obediently and exercise the required faith in Him.
Now I share an experience that taught me a way to gain spiritual guidance. One Sunday I attended the priesthood meeting of a Spanish branch in Mexico City. I vividly recall how a humble Mexican priesthood leader struggled to communicate the truths of the gospel in his lesson material. I noted the intense desire he had to share those principles he strongly valued with his quorum members. He recognized that they were of great worth to the brethren present. In his manner, there was an evidence of a pure love of the Savior and love of those he taught.
His sincerity, purity of intent, and love permitted a spiritual strength to envelop the room. I was deeply touched. Then I began to receive personal impressions as an extension of the principles taught by that humble instructor. They were personal and related to my assignments in the area. They came in answer to my prolonged, prayerful efforts to learn.
As each impression came, I carefully wrote it down. In the process, I was given precious truths that I greatly needed in order to be a more effective servant of the Lord. The details of the communication are sacred and, like a patriarchal blessing, were for my individual benefit. I was given specific directions, instructions, and conditioned promises that have beneficially altered the course of my life.
Subsequently, I visited the Sunday School class in our ward, where a very well-educated teacher presented his lesson. That experience was in striking contrast to the one enjoyed in the priesthood meeting. It seemed to me that the instructor had purposely chosen obscure references and unusual examples to illustrate the principles of the lesson. I had the distinct impression that this instructor was using the teaching opportunity to impress the class with his vast store of knowledge. At any rate, he certainly did not seem as intent on communicating principles as had the humble priesthood leader.
In that environment, strong impressions began to flow to me again. I wrote them down. The message included specific counsel on how to become more effective as an instrument in the hands of the Lord. I received such an outpouring of impressions that were so personal that I felt it was not appropriate to record them in the midst of a Sunday School class. I sought a more private location, where I continued to write the feelings that flooded into my mind and heart as faithfully as possible. After each powerful impression was recorded, I pondered the feelings I had received to determine if I had accurately expressed them in writing. As a result, I made a few minor changes to what had been written. Then I studied their meaning and application in my own life.
Subsequently I prayed, reviewing with the Lord what I thought I had been taught by the Spirit. When a feeling of peace came, I thanked Him for the guidance given. I was then impressed to ask, “Was there yet more to be given?” I received further impressions, and the process of writing down the impressions, pondering, and praying for confirmation was repeated. Again I was prompted to ask, “Is there more I should know?” And there was. When that last, most sacred experience was concluded, I had received some of the most precious, specific, personal direction one could hope to obtain in this life. Had I not responded to the first impressions and recorded them, I would not have received the last, most precious guidance.
What I have described is not an isolated experience. It embodies several true principles regarding communication from the Lord to His children here on earth. I believe that you can leave the most precious, personal direction of the Spirit unheard because you do not respond to, record, and apply the first promptings that come to you.
Impressions of the Spirit can come in response to urgent prayer or unsolicited when needed. Sometimes the Lord reveals truth to you when you are not actively seeking it, such as when you are in danger and do not know it. However, the Lord will not force you to learn. You must exercise your agency to authorize the Spirit to teach you. As you make this a practice in your life, you will be more perceptive to the feelings that come with spiritual guidance. Then, when that guidance comes, sometimes when you least expect it, you will recognize it more easily.
The inspiring influence of the Holy Spirit can be overcome or masked by strong emotions, such as anger, hate, passion, fear, or pride. When such influences are present, it is like trying to savor the delicate flavor of a grape while eating a jalapeño pepper. Both flavors are present, but one completely overpowers the other. In like manner, strong emotions overcome the delicate promptings of the Holy Spirit.
Sin is addictive; self-degenerating; conducive to other strains of corruption; deadening to spirituality, conscience, and reason; blinding to reality; contagious; destructive to mind, body, and spirit. Sin is spiritually corrosive. Unrestrained it becomes all-consuming. It is overcome by repentance and righteousness.
I share a warning. Satan is extremely good at blocking spiritual communication by inducing individuals, through temptation, to violate the laws upon which spiritual communication is founded. With some, he is able to convince them that they are not able to receive such guidance from the Lord.
Satan has become a master at using the addictive power of pornographyto limit individual capacity to be led by the Spirit. The onslaught of pornography in all of its vicious, corroding, destructive forms has caused great grief, suffering, heartache, and destroyed marriages. It is one of the most damning influences on earth. Whether it be through the printed page, movies, television, obscene lyrics, vulgarities on the telephone, or flickering personal computer screen, pornography is overpoweringly addictive and severely damaging. This potent tool of Lucifer degrades the mind and the heart and the soul of any who use it. All who are caught in its seductive, tantalizing web and remain so will become addicted to its immoral, destructive influence. For many, that addiction cannot be overcome without help. The tragic pattern is so familiar. It begins with curiosity that is fueled by its stimulation and is justified by the false premise that when done privately, it does no harm to anyone else. For those lulled by this lie, the experimentation goes deeper, with more powerful stimulations, until the trap closes and a terribly immoral, addictive habit exercises its vicious control.
Participation in pornography in any of its lurid forms is a manifestation of unbridled selfishness. How can a man, particularly a priesthood bearer, not think of the emotional and spiritual damage caused to women, especially his wife, by such abhorrent activity?
Well did inspired Nephi declare, “And [the devil] will … pacify, and lull them away into carnal security, … and thus [he] cheateth their souls, and leadeth them away carefully down to hell.” 3
If you are ensnarled in pornography, make a total commitment to overcome it now. Find a quiet place; pray urgently for help and support. Be patient and obedient. Don’t give up.
Parents, be aware that the addiction of pornography can begin with youth at a very early age. Take preventative action to avoid that tragedy. Stake presidents and bishops, warn of this evil. Invite anyone you consider captured by it to come to you for help.
An individual with foundation standards and an enduring commitment to obey them is not easily led astray. Someone who is increasingly repulsed by grievous sin and who exercises self-restraint outside human influence has character. Repentance will be more efficacious for such an individual. A feeling of remorse after a mistake is a fertile soil wherein repentance can flower.
Have patience as you are perfecting your ability to be led by the Spirit. By careful practice, through the application of correct principles, and by being sensitive to the feelings that come, you will gain spiritual guidance. I bear witness that the Lord, through the Holy Ghost, can speak to your mind and heart. Sometimes the impressions are just general feelings. Sometimes the direction comes so clearly and so unmistakably that it can be written down like spiritual dictation. 4
I bear solemn witness that as you pray with all the fervor of your soul with humility and gratitude, you can learn to be consistently guided by the Holy Spirit in all aspects of your life. I have confirmed the truthfulness of that principle in the crucible of my own life. I testify that you can personally learn to master the principles of being guided by the Spirit. That way, the Savior can guide you to resolve challenges of life and enjoy great peace and happiness. In the name of Jesus Christ, amen.
This talk was given by Richard G. Scott. He is a member of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints!
Thursday, July 25, 2013
The Complexity of Life Correlated with the Gospel of Jesus Christ
The gospel of Jesus Christ is a way of living life. It is through five basic principles that Jesus taught we could become like God, live with God, and obtain the most significant peace and satisfaction in this life. This basic gospel is made up of five principles. The five principles are faith in Jesus Christ and His atonement, repentance, baptism, receiving the gift of the Holy Ghost, and enduring to the end. In my life I have tested the validity of this gospel when implemented in ones life, and I've come to know for myself that it is true. The only way to be happy is to become happiness itself. In order to "become happiness" we must learn about Christ, His gospel, and then apply it to our lives as best we can. Eventually everyone one will become what they consistently do. We can take into account all of human history and recognize with confidence that my last statement is true. My purpose in today's blog is to share the miracles I have seen in my progression in life that relates completely to these basic principles since I have endeavored to follow the Lord and have seen the blessings there from. I'll begin with my first example of faith.
The first time I put forth FAITH and was able to recognize the fruits was when I was in high school. When I was a junior I had a peculiar night. The world seemed to be collapsing upon me. My worries and low self esteem because of my vain actions, kept me bound in a spiritual prison. As I walked down the stairs to my bedroom I saw my scriptures setting upon my bed. Something within me said there is your answer, why don't you check it out. I immediately opened my scriptures and turn the pages not knowing before hand what I should read. I was drawn to the back of my "quad " or scriptures which in the back there is an accounting of Joseph Smith's first experiences with the Lord. I read up to the point that Joseph Smith saw God the Father and Jesus Christ. I knew I had been taught this had happened my entire life but I had never had any reason to believe besides taking my parents word for it. The immediate response because of my dire situation was to do what I was always taught to do. I got onto my knees and prayed and asked God with all sincerity of heart if the Book of Mormon was true, if Joseph Smith really was a prophet, and if God himself were real. The questions swirled in my mind, is Jesus real, is this what I'm supposed to be looking for to find peace? As I prayed, a power and energy that words cannot described came over my entire body and enveloped me. I had to sit upon my bed for a time and I basked in the peace and love I felt. I knew at that time that the things I had been taught my entire life were true. Something that is very key, and also might be beneficial to others to know is that after the power succeeded in strength, I felt an immediate negative feeling. I knew I was not worthy of this feeling to stay with me. I feared and eventually forsook the confirmation because I simply did not feel worthy of such peace and knowledge. The Lord blessed me for acting in FAITH but he did not bless me for giving into the immediate lies of Satan. Thank goodness that because Jesus Christ paid the price to the law's and justice of God we can be forgiven.
It took several years of struggle and wandering in the darkness of complete sin until one day I was brought to my knees once again. Satan had convinced me, if you hate, if you have fire, if you just relax with your buddies all day you will come off conqueror. You can do this all by yourself and you don't need anyone to help you or tell you what to do. As we all know, this was not true at all and the Lord humbled me enough to the point that I laid in my bed crying with the pain of a damned soul. I knew what I had done, I knew that the situation I was in was because I did not chose to do the right thing, which I thought was the harder thing. This was a serious was one of my serious misconceptions. The Lord placed specific people in my life to help me to repent and it took me a long time to be able to take the next step in a life by pursuing complete unity with the laws of happiness. I had one friend I felt comfortable enough to attend church with, even without an invitation. I had another friend that changed my view point completely on the opposite sex. She showed me a true love and compassion that I had never know and it confused me, but helped me to realize that truly we are all brothers and sisters. Many people came into my life that helped all along through this transition and change of heart. My last friend that helped me before my mission helped me to realize the power that comes from unifying ourselves with Christ, and also saints who chose to do that themselves. I'd like to personally thank everyone that was a part of that transition and this once again convinced me of our potential to be forgiven and freed. I repented in every way that I knew possible. I forsook sin, I hated sin, I tried to make restitution for those things I had done and I prayed sincerely that God would free me from my spiritual bonds. Eventually, one day after speaking with my bishop I walked out of his office a new man. I did not feel it till I hit the chapel. All of a sudden I realized, I am worthy to enter the house of the Lord, I am worthy to be someone that could be sealed there. The spirit lifted me off of my feet and I had a smile that could not be destroyed. All of those friends that I mentioned earlier, made that possible and they know who they are. I love them and I pray the spirit will testify to them of the deep love I have for them. Jesus Christ became very real that day. He really died for us and the spirit left me without doubt that day. I truly experienced the next principle of the gospel. REPENTANCE. I then was able to make covenants with the Lord, or in other words promises with Him.
As I entered the temple to make promises with the Lord, just like we do at BAPTISM, I felt the spirit testify of the truth of what I was doing the entire time. It was not weird, it didn't even seem different, it felt like I had once seen or experienced it before and was simply being reminded. At baptism we promise to take the Lord's name upon us so that we might have his spirit. In the temple we magnify those commitments so that we might have the power to better ourselves and be bound to God and our families for ever because of our commitment to be trustworthy and ferociously committed to our God and our families. As I sat in the temple at the end of the session where I made promises to God, I prayed about things that had been troubling my heart. I had specific pursuits I desired and I also desired to know about the welfare of my deceased grandparents. As I prayed I knew that the desires of my heart were accepted of the Lord and that it would all work out. Those things which I desired would come to be if I simply did my best. For I knew that is by grace we are saved, after all we can do. After making covenants which would correlate to BAPTISM I recognized the role of receiving the HOLY GHOST through this entire experience and it all came to make sense.
Every time I had an experience the authority to act in Gods name played some major role. We all have authority to pray to our Lord and ask him to reveal the truth to us as we seek him and align ourselves with him. In order to have my repentance experience I had to work with someone that had authority. In order to received a witness of the truth I had to pray about those in authority. In order to attend a temple of the Lord and experience the blessings and the manifestation of the spirit there, there had to be men with authority to work there and build that temple unto the Lord. God works through men given authority to act in His name. We all have the abilities to be tools in the hands of the Lord but the authority to do his ordinances is received to those He calls through other men in authority. The HOLY GHOST was with me through all of these things and it wasn't until my mission that I've recognized that it truly can be a power that is with you all of the time. You must remain worthy and have the gift of the HOLY GHOST given to you by the laying on of hands, by someone in authority just like in the times of Christ upon the earth. The HOLY GHOST literally lead my companions and I to many people who were in dire physical, and spiritual danger. The key is as we do the first three steps and learn to recognize the HOLY GHOST we enable ourselves to draw closer to God and help His children. My entire time in Jacksonville Florida has been a battle to follow the promptings of this unseen being and wage war on sin.
The last principle of the gospel is to ENDURE TO THE END! I am no where close to the end but I know for a fact that repeating this cycle through out our lives will bring the most ultimate joy we have ever experienced. It will help to preserve all of our most dear relationships. It will enable us to become like Jesus Christ and be joint heirs with Him in the kingdom of our Father. I know this to be true. I testify of these truth's in the name of Jesus Christ. Amen.
Elder Nathanael Neal Tuft
The gospel of Jesus Christ is a way of living life. It is through five basic principles that Jesus taught we could become like God, live with God, and obtain the most significant peace and satisfaction in this life. This basic gospel is made up of five principles. The five principles are faith in Jesus Christ and His atonement, repentance, baptism, receiving the gift of the Holy Ghost, and enduring to the end. In my life I have tested the validity of this gospel when implemented in ones life, and I've come to know for myself that it is true. The only way to be happy is to become happiness itself. In order to "become happiness" we must learn about Christ, His gospel, and then apply it to our lives as best we can. Eventually everyone one will become what they consistently do. We can take into account all of human history and recognize with confidence that my last statement is true. My purpose in today's blog is to share the miracles I have seen in my progression in life that relates completely to these basic principles since I have endeavored to follow the Lord and have seen the blessings there from. I'll begin with my first example of faith.
The first time I put forth FAITH and was able to recognize the fruits was when I was in high school. When I was a junior I had a peculiar night. The world seemed to be collapsing upon me. My worries and low self esteem because of my vain actions, kept me bound in a spiritual prison. As I walked down the stairs to my bedroom I saw my scriptures setting upon my bed. Something within me said there is your answer, why don't you check it out. I immediately opened my scriptures and turn the pages not knowing before hand what I should read. I was drawn to the back of my "quad " or scriptures which in the back there is an accounting of Joseph Smith's first experiences with the Lord. I read up to the point that Joseph Smith saw God the Father and Jesus Christ. I knew I had been taught this had happened my entire life but I had never had any reason to believe besides taking my parents word for it. The immediate response because of my dire situation was to do what I was always taught to do. I got onto my knees and prayed and asked God with all sincerity of heart if the Book of Mormon was true, if Joseph Smith really was a prophet, and if God himself were real. The questions swirled in my mind, is Jesus real, is this what I'm supposed to be looking for to find peace? As I prayed, a power and energy that words cannot described came over my entire body and enveloped me. I had to sit upon my bed for a time and I basked in the peace and love I felt. I knew at that time that the things I had been taught my entire life were true. Something that is very key, and also might be beneficial to others to know is that after the power succeeded in strength, I felt an immediate negative feeling. I knew I was not worthy of this feeling to stay with me. I feared and eventually forsook the confirmation because I simply did not feel worthy of such peace and knowledge. The Lord blessed me for acting in FAITH but he did not bless me for giving into the immediate lies of Satan. Thank goodness that because Jesus Christ paid the price to the law's and justice of God we can be forgiven.
It took several years of struggle and wandering in the darkness of complete sin until one day I was brought to my knees once again. Satan had convinced me, if you hate, if you have fire, if you just relax with your buddies all day you will come off conqueror. You can do this all by yourself and you don't need anyone to help you or tell you what to do. As we all know, this was not true at all and the Lord humbled me enough to the point that I laid in my bed crying with the pain of a damned soul. I knew what I had done, I knew that the situation I was in was because I did not chose to do the right thing, which I thought was the harder thing. This was a serious was one of my serious misconceptions. The Lord placed specific people in my life to help me to repent and it took me a long time to be able to take the next step in a life by pursuing complete unity with the laws of happiness. I had one friend I felt comfortable enough to attend church with, even without an invitation. I had another friend that changed my view point completely on the opposite sex. She showed me a true love and compassion that I had never know and it confused me, but helped me to realize that truly we are all brothers and sisters. Many people came into my life that helped all along through this transition and change of heart. My last friend that helped me before my mission helped me to realize the power that comes from unifying ourselves with Christ, and also saints who chose to do that themselves. I'd like to personally thank everyone that was a part of that transition and this once again convinced me of our potential to be forgiven and freed. I repented in every way that I knew possible. I forsook sin, I hated sin, I tried to make restitution for those things I had done and I prayed sincerely that God would free me from my spiritual bonds. Eventually, one day after speaking with my bishop I walked out of his office a new man. I did not feel it till I hit the chapel. All of a sudden I realized, I am worthy to enter the house of the Lord, I am worthy to be someone that could be sealed there. The spirit lifted me off of my feet and I had a smile that could not be destroyed. All of those friends that I mentioned earlier, made that possible and they know who they are. I love them and I pray the spirit will testify to them of the deep love I have for them. Jesus Christ became very real that day. He really died for us and the spirit left me without doubt that day. I truly experienced the next principle of the gospel. REPENTANCE. I then was able to make covenants with the Lord, or in other words promises with Him.
As I entered the temple to make promises with the Lord, just like we do at BAPTISM, I felt the spirit testify of the truth of what I was doing the entire time. It was not weird, it didn't even seem different, it felt like I had once seen or experienced it before and was simply being reminded. At baptism we promise to take the Lord's name upon us so that we might have his spirit. In the temple we magnify those commitments so that we might have the power to better ourselves and be bound to God and our families for ever because of our commitment to be trustworthy and ferociously committed to our God and our families. As I sat in the temple at the end of the session where I made promises to God, I prayed about things that had been troubling my heart. I had specific pursuits I desired and I also desired to know about the welfare of my deceased grandparents. As I prayed I knew that the desires of my heart were accepted of the Lord and that it would all work out. Those things which I desired would come to be if I simply did my best. For I knew that is by grace we are saved, after all we can do. After making covenants which would correlate to BAPTISM I recognized the role of receiving the HOLY GHOST through this entire experience and it all came to make sense.
Every time I had an experience the authority to act in Gods name played some major role. We all have authority to pray to our Lord and ask him to reveal the truth to us as we seek him and align ourselves with him. In order to have my repentance experience I had to work with someone that had authority. In order to received a witness of the truth I had to pray about those in authority. In order to attend a temple of the Lord and experience the blessings and the manifestation of the spirit there, there had to be men with authority to work there and build that temple unto the Lord. God works through men given authority to act in His name. We all have the abilities to be tools in the hands of the Lord but the authority to do his ordinances is received to those He calls through other men in authority. The HOLY GHOST was with me through all of these things and it wasn't until my mission that I've recognized that it truly can be a power that is with you all of the time. You must remain worthy and have the gift of the HOLY GHOST given to you by the laying on of hands, by someone in authority just like in the times of Christ upon the earth. The HOLY GHOST literally lead my companions and I to many people who were in dire physical, and spiritual danger. The key is as we do the first three steps and learn to recognize the HOLY GHOST we enable ourselves to draw closer to God and help His children. My entire time in Jacksonville Florida has been a battle to follow the promptings of this unseen being and wage war on sin.
The last principle of the gospel is to ENDURE TO THE END! I am no where close to the end but I know for a fact that repeating this cycle through out our lives will bring the most ultimate joy we have ever experienced. It will help to preserve all of our most dear relationships. It will enable us to become like Jesus Christ and be joint heirs with Him in the kingdom of our Father. I know this to be true. I testify of these truth's in the name of Jesus Christ. Amen.
Elder Nathanael Neal Tuft
Friday, July 19, 2013
July 19, 2013
The beauty and power of mind and memory is where my studies and thought's have taken me today! If anyone has any thought's I'd love to hear because I myself wish to do much better. The more specific topic I'd like to focus on is how our negative experiences can affect us and hold us back from progression. I myself have had experiences that I feel hold me back and hinder me from enjoying peace at certain moments in my life. In this section I'd like to share examples of what holds us back and then share possible solutions. I've realized at this very moment that I'm also completely out of time so I'll get back on another day to post my thoughts! I did find a link that talked upon the subject.
To learn from an Apostle of God click this link!! - This addresses learning from the past
http://www.lds.org/general-conference/2009/04/learning-the-lessons-of-the-past?lang=eng
This talk is about divine healing, how the scars of past experiences, especially those not caused by our own choice, can be healed and forgotten.
http://www.lds.org/general-conference/1994/04/a-divine-prescription-for-spiritual-healing?lang=eng
The beauty and power of mind and memory is where my studies and thought's have taken me today! If anyone has any thought's I'd love to hear because I myself wish to do much better. The more specific topic I'd like to focus on is how our negative experiences can affect us and hold us back from progression. I myself have had experiences that I feel hold me back and hinder me from enjoying peace at certain moments in my life. In this section I'd like to share examples of what holds us back and then share possible solutions. I've realized at this very moment that I'm also completely out of time so I'll get back on another day to post my thoughts! I did find a link that talked upon the subject.
To learn from an Apostle of God click this link!! - This addresses learning from the past
http://www.lds.org/general-conference/2009/04/learning-the-lessons-of-the-past?lang=eng
This talk is about divine healing, how the scars of past experiences, especially those not caused by our own choice, can be healed and forgotten.
http://www.lds.org/general-conference/1994/04/a-divine-prescription-for-spiritual-healing?lang=eng
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