2020 has been a remarkable year! I know it's been difficult for many and tragic for some. We have all had to make some adjustments and have endured some unexpected challenges. But we have received amazing blessings along the way. I think Nephi's words in the first verse of the Book of Mormon are applicable... Continue Reading →
Introductory Pages of the Book of Mormon (Dec 30 – Jan 5)
During the first week of 2020, we are studying the introductory pages of the Book of Mormon—all of the content which precedes 1 Nephi. What is in these pages? The Title Page of the Book of Mormon lays out the purposes of the book. The Introduction provides some background information about the book and an invitation for... Continue Reading →
Beware Lest Thou Forget the Lord
At the end of Moses's life, he delivered a series of discourses to prepare his people to enter their promised land. Book of Mormon prophets quote from these sermons, applying them to their own people and to us. Moses's words in Deuteronomy can help us prepare to enter our promised lands.
Accounting for Israel
Moses numbered his people so that he could fulfill his responsibility to them. Book of Mormon prophets inherited and extended this practice, including men, women, and children. To be numbered is to be known and to be accountable.
Balaam’s Integrity
Even under intense pressure from the Moabite king, Balaam refused to curse Israel. He repeatedly affirmed that he took his direction from God and would not deviate from God's instructions. Book of Mormon prophets including Samuel, Abinadi, and Mormon showed the same integrity, sharing messages from God with exactness even to hostile audiences.
Moses and the Discerning of Gifts
Moses received amazing prophetic gifts, but he didn't have every gift. Instead, God helped him learn to recognize the gifts of others, including Aaron's gift as a spokesperson, Bezaleel's skills as an artisan, and even the inspiration received by Eldad and Medad. Prophets can help us each contribute to the work with our unique gifts.
If There Be a Prophet
Ammon explained to Limhi that prophetic gifts come from God. Numbers illustrates that fact. We see Moses leading, revealing divine truths, and praying for his people. He makes mistakes, but he represents God, and the people's response to him indicates their orientation toward God.
We Are Well Able: Caleb and Joshua
Twelve scouts saw the same promised land. Ten saw walled cities and said, "We can't do it." Two saw milk and honey and said, "We are well able." When challenges come, recognize the positive signs, keep the negative in perspective, and trust that God can help you achieve worthy goals.
The Brass Serpent
Book of Mormon prophets derived multiple lessons from the story of the brass serpent. Nephi taught that we shouldn't reject simple solutions. Alma added that we shouldn't be too sure of our doubts. And another prophet named Nephi emphasized that we too can be healed by looking up to Christ.
Rebel Not Ye Against the Lord, Neither Fear
The book of Numbers is an account of the Israelites' experiences during their forty-year sojourn in the wilderness. Its stories teach the importance of simple faith and of avoiding overcomplicating things.
Then Will I Remember My Covenant
God does not abandon His covenants. Leviticus 26 declares that we may turn away from our covenants again and again, but when we choose to repent, the covenant is still there. That's why the Book of Mormon testifies that when we understand God's covenants, we will realize that we are not cast off forever.
Being Holy
"Ye shall be holy," the Lord told Israel. Then He provided specific instructions for holy behavior, including caring for the vulnerable, dealing honestly, and loving our neighbors. King Benjamin taught these principles to his people, reminding them that no list could could anticipate every situation they would face.