Multiple scriptures discuss "the tree of life," referring either to the second named tree in the Garden of Eden, representing immortality (Genesis 2:9, 2 Nephi 2:15, Alma 12:22-26, Alma 42:2-5) or to the focal point of Lehi's dream, representing the love of God as manifest through Jesus Christ (1 Nephi 8:10, 1 Nephi 11:25, 1... Continue Reading →
The Rock of Our Salvation
Based on: Psalm 89 Core message: When we focus more fully on Jesus Christ, we build on a secure foundation. Related Book of Mormon passages: 2 Nephi 4:30, 2 Nephi 9:45
All the Ends of the Earth
Based on: Psalm 98 Core message: The entire world benefits from the Savior's light, even non-believers. We all have reason to rejoice. Related Book of Mormon passages: Mosiah 12:24, Mosiah 15:18-31
Cast Thy Burden Upon the Lord
Based on: Psalm 55 Core message: God will ease our burdens as we draw nearer to Him. Even if He doesn't take them away, He can make them seem light. Related Book of Mormon passages: Mosiah 24:14-15, Alma 33:23
My Shepherd
Based on: Psalm 23 Core message: Jesus is the good shepherd (John 10:11). He provides gentle leadership. It is up to us whether we will follow Him. Related Book of Mormon passages: Alma 5:60, Helaman 7:18, Mormon 5:18
The Lord Is My Light
Based on: Psalm 27 Core message: Some hymns represent a personal testimony, even though we sing them as a group. "The Lord is my light," not "The Lord is the light." Related Book of Mormon passage: 2 Nephi 22:2
“I Will Heal Thee”
Hezekiah was very ill. The prophet, Isaiah, visited him and told him that he would not recover. He was going to die. But Hezekiah wasn't willing to accept that answer. Laying on his bed, he turned toward the wall and offered the following heartfelt prayer: "I beseech thee, O Lord, remember now how I have walked... Continue Reading →
All the Prophets
On the afternoon of the first Easter, two believers walked from Jerusalem to Emmaus, about 7.5 miles. A stranger joined them who seemed to know nothing about the events of the weekend in Jerusalem. When they shared their disillusionment at the death of Jesus and their bewilderment about reports that He was alive, the stranger... Continue Reading →
Acquainted with Grief
Isaiah prophesied that Jesus would be "a man of sorrows, and acquainted with grief" (Isaiah 53:3, Mosiah 14:3) The word translated "sorrows" in this passage—makobot (מַכְאֹב֖וֹת)—means literally "pains," and the word translated "grief"—choli (חֱלִי)—means "sickness," so the passage is as much about physical suffering as it is about emotional anguish. Alma's reference to this passage... Continue Reading →
The Bitter Cup
King David described the agony of having no one to comfort you in your adversity: I looked for some to take pity, but there was none; and for comforters, but I found none.They gave me also gall for my meat; and in my thirst they gave me vinegar to drink.Psalm 69:20-21 Jesus repeatedly spoke of a cup filled with bitter liquid... Continue Reading →
Book of Mormon Study Notes 