Troubled in Spirit

Each time I read John chapter 13, I am reminded of the Savior’s perfect example as a peacemaker. Jesus lovingly washed the feet of the Apostles. Then, we read, “he was troubled in spirit”33 as He thought about one He loved preparing to betray Him. I have tried to imagine the thoughts and feelings of the Savior […]

Direction Forward

The cardinal direction for all of us in mortality is to come unto and be perfected in Christ.16 Holy covenants and ordinances help us to keep our focus upon the Savior and strive, with His grace,17 to become more like Him. Most assuredly, “an unseen [power] will aid me and you in the glorious cause of truth.”18 […]

The Answer

His gospel is the only answer when many in the world are stunned with fear.3 This underscores the urgent need for us to follow the Lord’s instruction to His disciples to “go … into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature.”4 We have the sacred responsibility to share the power and peace of Jesus Christ with all who will listen […]

Action Today

Yes, we should learn from the past, and yes, we should prepare for the future. But only now can we do. Now is the time we can learn. Now is the time we can repent. Now is the time we can bless others and “lift up the hands which hang down.”2 As Mormon counseled his son Moroni, “Let us labor diligently; … for we […]

Balance and Lift

If we want to find balance in life, and if we want the Savior to lift us heavenward, then our commitment to Him and His gospel can’t be casual or occasional. Like the widow at Jerusalem, we must offer Him our whole souls. Our offering may be small, but it must come from our heart […]

Coming to the Fold of God

We learn how to come into the fold from the word of God, which is the doctrine taught by Jesus Christ and His prophets.16 When we follow the doctrine of Christ and come into the fold through faith in Jesus Christ, repentance, baptism and confirmation, and continuing faithfulness,17 Alma promised four specific, personal blessings. You may (1) “be redeemed of […]

Awesome!

My brothers and sisters, when we truly are in awe of Jesus Christ and His gospel, we are happier, we have more enthusiasm for God’s work, and we recognize the Lord’s hand in all things. Additionally, our study of God’s words is more meaningful; our prayers, more intentional; our worship, more reverent; our service in […]

Effective Scripture Study

To be most effective, your experiences with the scriptures must be your own.5 Reading or hearing about another person’s experiences and insights can be helpful, but that won’t bring the same converting power. There is no substitute for the time you spend in the scriptures, hearing the Holy Ghost speak directly to you. – Mark L. Pace, “Conversion Is […]

What About Us?

So what about us? Should we be intimidated or afraid? Should we live our religion at periscope depth? Surely not! With faith in Christ, we need not fear the reproach of men or be afraid of their revilings.16 With the Savior at the helm and living prophets to lead and guide us, “who can be against […]

Royalty

Dear brothers and sisters, each of us is a prince or princess. We have been sent to mortality by a loving Heavenly Father to enjoy the blessing of a body that would become immortal through the Atonement and Resurrection of Jesus Christ. We are expected to prepare to return to God’s presence by proving that […]