Spiritual Pictogram

It is a great feeling when you have memorized a quote or scripture, and someone mentions it in a talk at church. It becomes a spiritual pictogram filed in your heart, like:

"I want to help you ‘fly right’ in the gathering storms of the last days. You are the pilot. Your responsibility is to think about the consequences of every choice you make." Elder Robert Hales

Now picture a tiny plane icon, filed on your spiritual area of apps.

This Type Of Obedience- A Goal

The expressions of our joy in wanting, or our willingness to reach beyond simply obeying him, begin a meaningful relationship of peace, faith, and love with him.

Home

..."This may have not been your dream, but you believed in me"...

This a line from Michael Buble's hit "Home", a favorite of mine shedding forth sentiment of my life's love, my wife.  She has stood with me through our journey. Especially as my physical circumstance is, I'd say- ...slow.

Christmas Thoughts

Christmas thoughts from the baby grand-girls;

"Santa says Ho-No"

"Merry Christmas ever"

"What Will Ye"

“Therefore what will ye that I should prepare for you that ye may have light when ye are swallowed up in the depths of the sea?”

Excerpt From: The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. “Book of Mormon.” The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Ether.

When in moments like this question, we feel sunk.  Yet, God opens his voice and heart to invite his willingness to give us, as we humbly seek his available loving aid.

The Conductor

I learned from experiencing a Christmas program that a conductors engagement with the choir and congregation with a infectious smile and a spirit to inspire- Who wouldn't want to sing and be uplifted.  The conductors baby son shared too by waving his tiny arms while Mom led.

My faith was elevated:

37 For with God nothing shall be impossible.

30 For mine eyes have seen thy salvation;

A Favorite Verse

“Behold, I stand at the door, and knock: if any man hear my voice, and open the door, I will bcome in to him, and will sup with him, and he with me.”

Excerpt From: Revelations

Posts

Reached 300.

Deed

A self giving "before and after" deed of any event is translated, heavenly, inspired scripture to me.

Our Shield

Love is our honor and we are stronger together. This can and should be held a standard in any relationship, especially of Family. 

Fruit Salad

A great fruit salad; chop grapes, slice bananas, add whip cream, and cut up a snicker candy bar.

Taking the five loaves and the two fish and looking up to heaven, he gave thanks and broke them. Then he gave them to the disciples to distribute to the people. They all ate and were satisfied, and the disciples picked up twelve basketfuls of broken pieces that were left over.
Luke 9:16

Road Trip

There is nothing like a road trip with bottled water, licorice, nutter-butters, Pringles, and halos! Hip hip hooray!!

Warmth

How can we have the influence of th Holy Ghost? Remembering what God has done for us. Gratulation will overcome you. This comfort is a great blessing.

Forest, Waters, Dish

"And now it came to pass that all this was done in Mormon, yea, by the waters of Mormon, in the forest that was near the waters of Mormon; yea, the place of Mormon, the waters of Mormon, the forest of Mormon, how beautiful are they to the eyes of them who there came to the knowledge of their Redeemer; yea, and how blessed are they, for they shall sing to his praise forever." Alma

“And they were built after a manner that they were exceedingly tight, even that they would hold water like unto a dish; and the bottom thereof was tight like unto a dish; and the sides thereof were tight like unto a dish; and the ends thereof were peaked; and the top thereof was tight like unto a dish; and the length thereof was the length of a tree; and the door thereof, when it was shut, was tight like unto a dish.” Ether

I love these verses. They had to be translated from a poem, chant or song.  The repetitive pattern shown by "like unto a dish"   and "waters of Mormon, forest of Mormon" indicates such an occurrence. I believe they were told this way, as this culture taught their children to remember like how we remember "see Dick and Jane" sequences as young children. The formation of language and gospel culture is displayed by these writing patterns.

Tiny Thankful Pumpkin

A happy moment was highlighted for me as the family was gathering for Thanksgiving dinner- Our grandson wearing his uncles 20 year old infant sweater presenting to us his tiny thankful pumpkin. He was so proud of himself.

Be Faithful

"And let us be faithful unto the Lord", as stated in Ether chapter one, portrays two messages: one, an attitude of our faith, and two, a joy received from such faith.

Still

A great way to read the Book Of Mormon is to look up key words from a verse, using the 1828 dictionary (Noah's).  In the Book Of Mormon, like this one verse: Mormon 9:14- the word "still" used five times.  Now read it by looking up the Noah's interpretation, "still"- STILL, verb transitive [G., to put, set, place, Gr., to send, and with style, stool, stall.] 

Joseph Smith certainly was familiar with this dictionary, as the Book Of Mormon was published in 1830.

First Hand

In temple service you will see first hand the pattern and practice (that and this) principle shown by our loving Heavenly Father.

A Pattern And Practice

By following the "that and this" principle, and a "that and this" pattern over and over, your gospel practice and knowledge will increase.  

That, This

From one of last verses in Mormon 7:

"this is written for the intent that ye may believe that; and if ye believe that ye will believe this also; and if ye believe this ye will know"

O Ye Fair Ones

The people knew only death and knew of their pending, future doom. And his "ten thousand slain, destroyed or fallen" by the sword in their arms witnessed by Mormon multiple times certainly caused him to say and hope, “O ye fair ones, how could ye have departed from the ways of the Lord! O ye fair ones, how could ye have rejected that Jesus, who stood with open arms to receive you!”

“For behold, this is written for the intent that ye may believe that; and if ye believe that ye will believe this also; and if ye believe this ye will know concerning your fathers, and also the marvelous works which were wrought by the power of God among them.”

Mormon 6,7

Keeping our focus in believing on him will only reveal his marvelous power.

Gospel Football

A speaker at church mentioned this list:

Football metaphors associated with the gospel:

Gear up; tools or equipment used as protection against temptations 

Greatest Coach, Jesus Christ always defending and motivating

Build up your teammates, edifying each other

Use of the playbook whether you win or lose; always striving to be like the Savior

Temple Visit

So much can be learned by going to the temple. It puts perspective and focus to your path.  It gives you knowledge to prove faithful until your next visit.

And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God. Romans 12:2

Carrots And A Blue Balloon

What makes me smile is seeing my little granddaughter carrying carrots, and my grandson holding his blue balloon in his car seat on a long road trip.

Mother Intuition

This morning was beyond my imagination of what happened.  

As on a walk in the yard with our twin neices, little Sam triggered a swarm of bees. In the panic, bees engulfed us. I tried to swat them away from Sam because I could not pick her up and run with my condition.  I saw a batch of bees on Sam's shoulder, I fanned them off. All I could say was "run" to her and Annie, and yell for help while I fell to the ground swatting bees from me as well. Amazingly Tille heard my faint sound of help in the house, and ran outside to rescue Sam.

Tille's aid, a mothers instinct to hear, saved Sam and Annie, especially Sam from a very far worse and threatening situation.  Then again, instincts kicked in from Tille's Mother at school, and her sister Jony from her home, both to come aid, help and be a calming influence of comfort. And Pezy grabbing Annie.

Tip

Don't ask for a hot dog at a German delicatessen because all you will get is a small stick of meat without a bun, and a weird look.

3 Words

Prayer brings comfort.

Bear G.

This thought by Bear G. reminded me of the Wright Brothers courage. "Faith and fear may sail into your harbor, but only allow faith to drop anchor." Bear G.

Learned At Church

I learned that the best part of our worship on Sunday is just plain singing hymns.  It really makes participation a delight when singing. When you sing pay attention to the words you are voicing.  A sermon can be teaching you from phrase to phrase or measure to measure.  "Lead kindly light" and "master the tempest is raging" have profound messages for us to remember- Lead thou me on, and Peace, be still.

The Power Of Two

The story of the Wright Brothers is truly inspirational.  They were hardworking, determined, and relentless in solving human flight.  They were mostly self taught. Reviewing theories and science with themselves.  Such from books in their library at home. Once they obtained flight they were more anxious to even fly further and faster.  I was inspired how they authentically rested from work on Sunday.  It was something how there testing and results were constantly reviewed, photographed and recorded.  Europe especially captured the flight craze- in circus like fashion to see Wilbur fly.  I feel we can learn from them.  And they did it mostly with means from there small bicycle shop.

It was if modern flight could not have been pursued any faster by just one, it had to be two. One to be attached to the plane, and the other to follow and catch and push at the start and stops; and two to review patterns, concepts and model. Even they were caught often imitating bird species in flight. They involved people in the fun, science, thrill, and danger of flight. They inspired victory over people's imagination to fly for years, a reality. Real life Chitty Chitty Bang Bangs they were.

By flight, they expanded the globe by transporting all of us faster to each other and to far places now reached.  

Mulling

I have been thinking it over.  The topic of "kindness" has been mulling around my mind.  It was heightened at the temple today when a brother was telling me of a couple of wheelchairs available when needed for patrons. He was very helpful and he went beyond his normal service to share with me the information.

Topical Dive Subject

A scriptural dive for a topic to study this month can be a searching experience. Think it over the next few days.  Make it a matter of prayer. Get on your knees- pray, or even it exercises your mind during parts of your day that may be slow, to come up with a topic. What areas of my life need help or what topic am I curious about? Begin now, and keep your swim goggles on.

Another Add-On

Ponderizing is a great personal tool;  elevate it further by memorizing "script-ions"- conference talk memes. 

Tape

Packaging your heart sometimes takes a good taping job.

Belief

Samuel said magnificent signs would be sent “to the intent that [the people] might believe that these signs and these wonders should come to pass upon all the face of this land, to the intent that there should be no cause for unbelief among the children of men …” (Heleman 14:28)

My Planet Mobile

I saw the display of the red blood moon in the dark sky tonight.  It reminded me of a one of the planets displayed from the planet mobile I had hanging from my bedroom ceiling as a boy.  It spoke to my mind, of His- God's power and efforts to communicate to little me. How majestic he is.  His power and care far beyond my understanding, yet I yearn for it.  Such power gives me healing, redemption, a purpose, his hope, and his extended, encircling love. It also spoke to me that we together should be gathered, united singing "oh I want to be in that number when the saints go marching in".

Rough Waters

"The Lord’s way is not to sit at the side of the stream and wait for the water to pass before we cross. It is to come together, roll up our sleeves, go to work, and build a bridge or a boat to cross the waters of our challenges."

Dieter Urfdorf

Shoebox

Parable of the shoebox. When you punch a little hole on top, a ray of light shoots inside and brightens the view. The shoebox is prayer.

Tomato Bush

What do I do with the Saviour's teachings in my life?  Write a teaching of his and apply it to your living.  Such a seed to plant in our already converted heart and mind- your soil can only flourish. His promise multiplies.  Our fear diminishes that promise. Remain positive and hopeful.  Like the boy Timmie, wanting the large tomato bush which could be bought for 5 cents. But he only had 2 cents. The store owner saying it is worth 5 cents, you should get the small one. Timmie gave the store owner his 2 cents and said, "I'll be back in a week for the large one."

Why...it grows

Good soil and bright sunshine.

Plant

A seed...It grows-

His Comfort

MY SONG IN THE NIGHT

Southern Folk Hymn
arr. Paul J. Christiansen

O Jesus my Savior, my song in the night,
Come to us with Thy tender love,
my soul’s delight.
Unto Thee, O Lord, in affliction I call,
My comfort by day, and my song in the night.

O why should I wander, an alien from Thee,
Or cry in the desert Thy face to see?
My comfort and joy, my soul’s delight,
O Jesus my Savior, my song in the night.

My song in the night, my song in the night,
in the night, in the night, in the night.

O Jesus my Savior, my song in the night.
Come to us with Thy tender love,
my soul’s delight.
My comfort and joy, my soul’s delight,
O Jesus my Savior, my song in the night.

My song my song in the night,
in the night, my song
My comfort and joy, my soul’s delight.
O Jesus my savior, my song in the night,
in the night. My song in the night.

The Mormon Tabernacle Choir sing an arrangement by Mack Wilberg, the last few measures amazing. YouTube it.

Hum this...

http://www.azlyrics.com/lyrics/norahjones/sunrise.html

; To start the morning.

Easy Listening

One may transcend scripture reading when applying it with smooth jazz or motab music.

Learned At Church

I hear many voices in my mind, I need to heed the ones beckoning me to be good and faithful.

Funneling

Is a form of inspiration.  But when you do it beware, your purpose for finding, diving or seeking an answer to a question will be multiplied. Take a conference talk, study it. The speaker will most likely reference another conference talk.  Go to it, now study that. Repeat this process- funneling for more will then lead you on to borrowing choice concepts to live by or incorporate.

Monday

"Feed your faith, choose to believe".
Elder Kyle McKay

Answer The Questions

A fun way to learn a talk.  Is to answer the questions within the message.  Many speakers will include reflective questions to keep you engaged.

Classic

"In returning home from a meeting I found this sticky note from my young son, it read, "Dad, you need to call someone".  Maybe we should all take that counsel."

Elder Kyle McKay

Dive-

Diving through a conference report can yield marvelous treasures by reviewing the references cited by the speaker.

https://www.lds.org/general-conference/2015/04/why-marriage-why-family?lang=eng#

A Renewal

The sacrament renews and aligns us to God's circular sphere of eternity. To his will. Each time we go around the circle, we flywheel and elevate ourselves to another level, a higher plane.  Then again...

The Ring

A scripture references "one eternal round." Yes we rotate around and around, like in a ring or a circular sphere.  Our Heavenly Father has an immortalized one, of mind and body.  His is the full ring.  Our's is a half ring most of the time.  It is our test in life to align ourselves with him, both mind and spirit as much as we can.  To become at one with our Savior.  It is all part of the plan.  This we recreate time and time again. A ring or one "of one eternal round".

Inspired Thoughts

When they come to your mind, be sure to record them.

Learned At Church

I learned that a stake float had a purpose.  It was when the speaker who had the assignment learned that it was a fun family activity to see all the Floats the day before at the preview. Sometimes an assignment seems beyond oneself to do. Then as you accept and do, it's purpose is revealed.

And the other speaker reluctantly did what a leader had requested, then blessings followed when the counsel was taken.

We

Are we standing, or even ready to march for what we know to be right?

Dive Review

For the remainder of the year, since  the beginning of Scripture Man- from last August 2014,  we will be reviewing our references that we committed to memorization: in July and August 2015.

2 John 1:6

And this is love; that we walk in obedience to his commands.

Lesson Assignments

A valuable way to study your sunday school lesson assignment is to label the lesson with a favorite quote. Such labeling targets your mind to the core purpose or title of the lesson. Pick a key word from the lesson material, then search your mind for your favorite quote. It is a fun exercise.

Lesson:  We Are Witnesses, #28 New Testament

Quote:  "courage to say no when we should, courage to say yes when it is appropriate, and courage to do the right thing because it is right"
Thomas S. Monson

His Promise

The Lord's promise is that he will honor our sometimes downcast spirit with a courageous one when needed.

Birthday Thought

I am grateful to know my divine origin and destiny.

An Approach

"Drink deeply and often". Speaking of scripture reading- Henry B. Eyring

Be Revolutionary

“In referring to those of the rising generation, he said it is important that they “do not give themselves over to the poisonous [mentality] of the temporary, but rather be revolutionaries with the courage to seek true and lasting love, going against the common pattern”; this must be done.2” Pope Francis

Excerpt From: “Ensign May 2015.” iBooks.
This material may be protected by copyright.

God Bless America

A beautiful country!

Learned At Church

The power of reading the Book of Mormon helped a man make a dent in his habit of smoking 40 cigarettes a day to 0 in just two weeks.  

List

President Dieter Uchtdorf shares a few ways that the pioneers showed love for Heavenly Father. You can follow their example. Here are a few ideas to get you started:

Compassion

Write a kind note or make a treat for someone who is sad.

Help a classmate with his or her homework.

Work

Set a goal. Do something every day this month to help you reach your goal.

Help your parents make dinner.

Optimism

Make a list of 10 happy things in your life.

Smile at everyone you see.

Before and After

A great habit to get into when you read a verse of scripture is to read the verse before and after it. Exodus 31:16

15 Six days may work be done;
16 Wherefore the children of Israel shall keep the sabbath, to observe the sabbath throughout their generations, for a perpetual covenant.
17 It is a sign between me and the children of Israel for ever: for in six days the Lord made heaven and earth, and on the seventh day he rested, and was refreshed. (Old Testament, Exodus 31)

Blessing

"May the blessings of heaven rest upon you, my dear sisters. May you not trade a present thing of transient value for the greater good of sons and daughters, boys and girls, young men and women for whose upbringing you have an inescapable responsibility."
G. Hinckley

Scription

Thoughtfiller:

Hebrews 12:2

"Looking to Jesus, the founder and perfecter of our faith."

Fire of Faith

The constant water balloon volleys from the sidelines may occasionally get you wet, but they need never, never extinguish your burning fire of faith.
N. Anderson

Learned At Church

Continue to get back in the gospel saddle.

Markers

Markers are placed in the water to direct one where on the lake to be or even not to go.  Even a disoriented or an experienced swimmer can attest in a huge lake that eyeing a marker is vital and important to maintain. Let us be aware of life's markers placed before us, and follow them.

A Dive

Your perspective surely changes swimming in the mass of a lake compared to the public pool. Especially in my condition.

Then for every two strokes of my attempt to get back to the boat, the boat bobbed away by three or four waves.  I remained while the boat carried.  

My daughter, a rope, and my life jacket preserved and sustained me or I would not have reached the boat. I was at a point completely helpless.  

So much of this rings true of what our Savior can do for each of us in life; sometimes helpless along the way, then he will carry us.

Focus

In this Dive of topic: focus.  Ponder your purpose of becoming perfected.  We can only attain perfection by increasing our faith and focal points of life.  Discipline is a key ingredient.

"This life is your four minutes; essential — check points which move us through our spiritual performance on earth. These spiritual markers are the essential God-given ordinances of the gospel." Elder Stevenson

Find your passion, then secure, enlarge and capture the markers and checkpoints with all your grit; dig deep and in- tunnel your focus.

Topic To Dive-Focus

These scriptures:

3 Nephi 19:

39 Verily, verily, I say unto you, that my people shall know my name; yea, in that day they shall know that I am he that doth speak.

Hebrews 12:2

Looking to Jesus, the founder and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is seated at the right hand of the throne of God.

Finding Happiness And Meaning

http://news.stanford.edu/news/2014/january/meaningful-happy-life-010114.html

From the article:

"People have strong inner desires that shape their lives with purpose and focus – qualities that ultimately make for a uniquely human experience," said Aaker.

Pondering A Topic

Today and tomorrow I am going to ponder a topic to study.

She Knew This

Elder Bednar said correct knowledge of and faith in the Lord “empower us to hush our fears because Jesus Christ is the only source of enduring peace.”

Trust and confidence in Christ and a ready reliance on His merits, mercy and grace lead to hope through His Atonement in the Resurrection and eternal life (Moroni 7:41), said Elder Bednar. “Such faith and hope invite into our lives the sweet peace of conscience for which we all yearn,” he said. “The power of the Atonement makes repentance possible and quells the despair caused by sin; it also strengthens us to see, do and become good in ways that we could never recognize or accomplish with our limited mortal capacity.”

Strength Gained

When I think how horrible things are for me, someone else has it worse"

-cancer survivor

"Not why burdens, but why am I here? A gift"

- cancer survivor

"I fear differently, fear now is that I know"

-next cancer surgery

Learned At Church

As one who held his newborn daughter, he expressed to himself- "I surely can be more than I am"- looking into her eyes.

We Seek

"When we seek to 'complete' rather than 'compete,' it is so much easier to cheer each other on!" —Sister Linda K. Burton, “We’ll Ascend Together.”

Standing Together

"From my office window I see brides and grooms every day having their pictures taken among beautiful flowers and shooting fountains. The groom often carries his bride in his arms, at least for a few staggering steps, while the photographer shoots wedding pictures. Every time I see that, I think of couples I have known who in time—sometimes in a very short time after their wedding day—had to carry each other in other ways when life became hard."
Henry B. Eyring

L. Tom Perry

"The Lord is very kind. Even though some experiences are hard, he floods your mind with memories and gives you other opportunities. Life doesn't end just because you have a tragedy—there's a new mountain to climb. Don't spend a lot of time sulking over what you've lost. Get on with climbing the next mountain."

Then...

LEAD, Kindly Light, amid the encircling gloom

Lead Thou me on!

The night is dark, and I am far from home—

Lead Thou me on!

Keep Thou my feet; I do not ask to see

The distant scene—one step enough for me.

I was not ever thus, nor pray'd that Thou

Shouldst lead me on.

I loved to choose and see my path, but now

Lead Thou me on!

I loved the garish day, and, spite of fears,

Pride ruled my will: remember not past years.

{157} So long Thy power hath blest me, sure it still

Will lead me on,

O'er moor and fen, o'er crag and torrent, till

The night is gone;

And with the morn those angel faces smile

Which I have loved long since, and lost awhile.

At Sea. June 16, 1833

Great Discovery

32 It was meet that we should make merry, and be glad: for this thy brother was dead, and is alive again; and was lost, and is found. (New Testament, Luke, Luke 15)

A Long Drive

I drove a solid 10 hours today. The southwestern part of Montana, Idaho, Washington provide a beautiful drive. It was well worth it seeing our curly haired granddaughters. Then I looked at some cool beach pictures of our smiley grandson before bed. It provides a feeling; like when I hear a musical piece or dance, performed to perfection.

This refrain can be remembered:

Dance, then, wherever you may be;
I am the Lord of the Dance, said he,
and I'll lead you all, wherever you may be,
and I'll lead you all in the dance, said he.

Building

I believe wholeheartedly that a Mothers influence can build and secure future generations. I have been an recipient of such a mother. Even today I am a witness of a mother who is now influencing her own daughters.  And I see our daughters doing amazing things with their little ones.

Countenance

A good way to improve your scripture reading comprehension is to re-read a chapter by going backwards.  It works great with your iPad or iPhone.

I found this gem 3 Nephi 19:25; the Savior's countenance appeared with these descriptive words- as a smile, shining and whiteness.

Metal

The Shield

"The plan designed by the Father contemplates that man and woman, husband and wife, working together, fit each child individually with a shield of faith made to buckle on so firmly that it can neither be pulled off nor penetrated by those fiery darts.

It takes the steady strength of a father to hammer out the metal of it and the tender hands of a mother to polish and fit it on. Sometimes one parent is left to do it alone. It is difficult, but it can be done" Boyd K. Packer

Following Scripture Man can help in this molding process, sealing the silver "S" to your heart.

Eyes and Hands

Grand possibilities and  decisions open, when you place his hand in yours.

"The real voyage of discovery consists not in seeking new landscapes, but in having new eyes." a smart church man said this-

39 ¶And Jesus said, "I am come into this world, that they which see not might see"; John 9:

God Of All Praising

The answer to the last post- when we feel that gospel love each time we worship.

Forward Thinking

How can we each increase our ability to "see" more faithfully?

His Promise

John 8:12

Then spake Jesus again unto them, saying, I am the light of the world: he that followeth me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life.

Good News II

A calling we all have.  The gospel can help us find it through our journey.

15  among whom ye shine as lights in the world;
Philippians 2.

Topic

Gospel, the good news!

Another Weekend

"As you retire to bed, think about the successes and failures of the day and what will make the next day a little better. And thank your Heavenly Father for the manna He has placed along your path that sustained you through the day. Your reflections will increase your faith in Him as you see His hand helping you to endure some things and to change others. You will be able to rejoice in one more day, one more step toward eternal life."
Elder D. Todd Christofferson

Warming Body

After being two days without power in the home, I enjoyed a prepared cup of cocoa 

from a boiling cup of water brewed in the fireplace.

Sabbath Preparation

I select a quiet room.  And review a scripture or quote with each finger until I have gone through all ten on my hand.  Like this one:

"Our faith can reach beyond the limits of current reason."

then select a key word:  

Reach

Now remember the word throughout your day...then...

Tomorrow capture this quote or scripture in your mind, in your quiet place.

Happiness

No one is pre destined to receive any less than everything the father has to offer us! 
T. Christofferson

I like this because his offerings to us are beyond comprehension- bringing  so much joy and happiness in our lives.

A Good Life

Living is like what this script-ion says:

"Live your life to be a good example of what you believe."
Robert D. Hales

Tweets

Today so many messages and tweets inspired me from conference. However my greatest joy was sharing with my wife a joyous Easter with our family.  The day she mostly planned and prepared. She is awesome!

List- the mind

Reward it

Clear it

Fill it

Use it

Ease it

And finally... Humor it

35 And I will raise me up a faithful priest, that shall do according to that which is in mine heart and in my mind: and I will build him a sure house; and he shall walk before mine anointed for ever.

1 Samuel 2:35

The Whole Lump

⁹ A little leaven leaveneth the whole lump. Galatians 5

The larger impact of the ingredients to produce a hot loaf of bread is its smaller mortzel and power, influence of leaven. Leaven spreads its power throughout the larger portion of flour.  May each of us spread, be as leaven of Christ Jesus, to a hungering world. However small we are in this vast and immense world-large are impact can be.

"We should be persons of goodwill toward all."

Loving Others, Living with Differences

Dallin Oakes

Walking

for a cause today will be special. It will create in this little life hope and enpowerment for perhaps a cure.  But an awareness of his special mission that we are all part of. A great journey begins.

No No

This makes me smile:

When you ask our granddaughters what Jesus says, they respond "no, no".

Good Read

Galatians 5:14

From The Golden Rule

24 ¶Therefore whosoever heareth these sayings of mine, and doeth them, I will liken him unto a wise man, which built his house upon a rock: 

25 And the rain descended, and the floods came, and the winds blew, and beat upon that house; and it fell not: for it was founded upon a rock. 

26 And every one that heareth these sayings of mine, and doeth them not, shall be likened unto a foolish man, which built his house upon the sand: 

27 And the rain descended, and the floods came, and the winds blew, and beat upon that house; and it fell: and great was the fall of it. Matthew 7:

#201 post

It is always a fun exercise when you accomplish something to whistle a favorite tune.

How

A great way to study the scriptures is by  beginning with a question to answer, like- how can (this teaching or learning help me), how are (does this principle I am studying compare or contrast with another, and how do (I instill this teaching to my living)?

He Knew

25 And needed not that any should testify of man: for he knew what was in man.

John 2:25

http://www.lds.org/scriptures/nt/john/2?lang=eng

I love this scripture.  Christ our brother, knows what we our about. In man = what we can become and achieve.

And...

27 And if men come unto me I will show unto them their weakness. I give unto men weakness that they may be humble; and my grace is sufficient for all men that humble themselves before me; for if they humble themselves before me, and have faith in me, then will I make weak things become strong unto them.

Ether 12:27

http://www.lds.org/scriptures/bofm/ether/12?lang=eng

Gospel Living

Gospel living should not be like spiritual jerry-rigging, but be more like spiritual chalktalk.

Victory

The greatest victory of life is living and finding ways to overcome. 

Scripture Man

Learned At Church

A sister described how she was thankful that she was inspired to be in tune with her living because little did she know of a future time that she needed the strength.  

It began with a morning jog when her earbud was needing adjustment; after fixing it near the intersection, an errand truck barreled through just when and where she was going to run without the adjustment. Yet, the future held something different that she could never have imagined.

Are we in tune for when or where we need to be?

Easy List

Reset, Regroup, Reenergize.
Richard G. Scott

Then I'll add...Repeat.

Redemption

12 Behold, he created Adam, and by Adam came the fall of man. And because of the fall of man came Jesus Christ, even the Father and the Son; and because of Jesus Christ came the redemption of man.

13 And because of the redemption of man, which came by Jesus Christ, they are brought back into the presence of the Lord; yea, this is wherein all men are redeemed, because the death of Christ bringeth to pass the resurrection, which bringeth to pass a redemption from an endless sleep, from which sleep all men shall be awakened by the power of God when the trump shall sound; and they shall come forth, both small and great, and all shall stand before his bar, being redeemed and loosed from this eternal band of death, which death is a temporal death.
Mormon 9:12-13

http://www.lds.org/scriptures/bofm/morm/9?lang=eng

"eth"

28    For he hath answered the ends of the law, and he claimeth all those who have faith in him; and they who have faith in him will cleave unto every good thing; wherefore he advocateth the cause of the children of men; and he dwelleth eternally in the heavens. Moroni 7:

Learned At Church

A young man voiced concerns over his faith in God, and fate of man in the earth. He said that the reading of the scriptures helped him to overcome them, and found comfort from his reading, "For I, Nephi, have seen it, and it well nigh consumeth me before the presence of the Lord; but I must cry unto my God: Thy ways are just." 2 Nephi 26:7- And he "trusteth in thee"- Isaiah 26:3. We need to recognize his ways, and trust in, of, and from him.

Pondering

A wonderful habit to acquire is to ponder.  Select a quiet place. Sit. Read a verse of scripture. When you have finished. Answer these questions in your mind.  Why was it written? How can it help me or someone else? And where is another scripture like it?

Try it with this one:

3 Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on thee: because he trusteth in thee. (Old Testament, Isaiah 26)

Learned At Church

I am still pondering the conversion story from yesterday.  I found these thoughts that defined perhaps her understanding of the hummingbird within nature.

"In many traditional cultures of the Western world, the hummingbird has powerful religious and spiritual significance. In the high Andes of South America, it is a symbol of resurrection. Hopi and Zuni legends tell of hummingbirds’ intervening on behalf of humans, convincing the gods to bring rain. Other mystical traditions hold that it represents the past and the future and opens up the heart’s center, bringing joy, happiness, and love into the world. One thing was certain: Any way I looked at it, having a hummer on my front porch was a good thing." New Jersey Jewish Times 

Amy Lederman, a syndicated columnist, Jewish educator, and the author of To Life! Jewish Reflections on Everyday Living

1. "The essence of ethnographic analysis is the study of people in their own setting and environment. As I had shared prior,  The Jewish Home physical environment  has many  artistic interpretations and representations of the Tree of Life.   The trees are signs, and they signify  life, nurturing, their significance According to online site titled My Jewish Learning, the Hebrew creation myth speaks about the significance of the tree to Jewish culture and faith. The tree is a sign that symbolizes “life giving source that sustains and nourishes…” They continue to disclose the following: “Yahweh planted a garden in Eden, and caused to spring up from the soil every kind of tree, enticing to look at and good to eat, with the Tree of Life in the middle of the garden. Its beauty of gold and crimson transcends all other things created; it’s crown covers the entire garden and four streams – of milk, honey, wine and oil – issue from its roots.”"

Works Cited Madison, D. Soyini. Critical Ethnography: Method, Ethics, and Performance. Thousand Oaks, CA: Sage Publications, Inc., 2012.

Resource Site: My Jewish Learning http://www.myjewishlearning.com/holidays/Jewish_Holidays/Tu_Bishvat/Ideas_and_Beliefs/Trees_in_Jewish_Thought.shtml

Kitchen Window

A recent convert gave a compelling talk at stake conference of her families journey to baptism. I like when she talked about an appearing hummingbird out her kitchen window.  She described the magical creature it was, sent from heaven, seldom seen. A memory of the meaning of a hummingbird from her childhood.

In her prayer she sought for guidance; an answer of her doubt or question that she was having-perhaps a message. 

Another time looking out the window she saw the hummingbird reappear- "an answer, a lightning bolt, the humming bird from my Heavenly Father, opening my eyes in my journey."

Hint

When I study the sunday school lesson, a scripture chapter or priesthood lesson, I add/mark one of my "scriptions" (15 quotes I memorize from the past LDS general Conference) to a scripture within the lesson, or to the relevant message or material. By doing this it adds the information in the tab section. It broadens, personalizes, and contemporizes the knowledge being reviewed.

Example:

TETB, chapter 4, paragraph 1, heading one "...disappointments and discouragements-that is part of life..."

then note or tag it with:

Scription, Thomas S. Monson, "...look heavenward for that unfailing sense of direction..." October LDS Conference, 2014.

Learned At Church

"Is being a saint today different by living a latter-day gospel?"

We move from point a to b; spiritually curving, swerelinh, getting there-

Yet one, tapped into Infinity in all directions; horizontal and vertical; understanding eternity beyond what we mortals can- then blessing all of us. (freely ye have received, freely give, Matthew 10:8)

http://www.lds.org/scriptures/nt/matt/10?lang=eng

32 And every man whose spirit receiveth not the light is under condemnation.

33 For man is spirit. The elements are eternal, and spirit and element, inseparably connected, receive a fulness of joy;

D&C 93:32-33

Are we using or applying our agency beyond "something we are not now"?

We cannot love unless we our free to choose; it is our choice.

Today those spiritually alert look at the objectives, check the guidelines laid down by the Lord and his prophets, and then prayerfully act--without having to be commanded “in all things.” This attitude prepares men for godhood. …

Ezra Taft Benson

The Shield

"Prayer is the stabilizing weapon we have against Satan. The more constant our prayers, the less opportunity there is for him to find a crack in our armor." Former Football Coach Lavell Edwards, BYU

List

1. Be grateful.
2. Be smart.
3. Be clean.
4. Be true.
5. Be humble.
6. Be prayerful; by Gordon B. Hinckley

Learning from Worship

"The secure anchors of His laws will assure safety and success as you scale the challenges you will face." R. Scott

"Life evermore will know, through thee our friend." Hymn 181

"Our sustaining of prophets is a personal commitment that we will do our utmost to uphold their prophetic priorities." Nelson

Alma 33:23, comfort of the word of God.

What a glorious blessing! For when we want to speak to God, we pray. And when we want Him to speak to us, we search the scriptures; for His words are spoken through His prophets. Robert D. Hales

"We are to live in the world but not be of the world. We must live in the world because, as Jesus taught in a parable, His kingdom is “like leaven,” whose function is to raise the whole mass by its influence." D. Oakes

"The call in every age—and especially our age—is Joshua’s call: “Sanctify yourselves: for to morrow the Lord will do wonders among you.”

 " Jeffrey R. Holland