Moses prophesied that Israel would be scattered, but he assured them that when they returned to God, He would turn their captivity and gather them. Jeremiah repeated this promise multiple times, even as his people were being scattered. We all experience forms of captivity. God can liberate us from the things that bind us.
With All Thy Heart
Moses promised the children of Israel that even after being scattered for turning away from God, they would find Him again if they sought Him wholeheartedly. Jeremiah echoed this promise to exiles in Babylon. Nephi and Moroni applied the promise to us: God will reveal truth if we seek diligently.
Prepare Ye the Way of the Lord
Isaiah described a messenger who would admonish Israel, "Prepare ye the way of the Lord." Like Matthew, Lehi identified this messenger as John the Baptist. Subsequent Book of Mormon prophets explained that we prepare the way of the Lord by repenting and walking in His paths, so that our reunion with Him will be joyful.
The Waters of Judah
Isaiah 48 is addressed to people who "are come forth out of the waters of Judah." The Book of Mormon adds the clarifying phrase "or out of the waters of baptism." That added phrase places the rest of the chapter, which condemns hypocrisy, within the context of a chosen covenant.
Psalms 101-110
101: No Wicked Thing 102: Thou Art the Same 103: As a Father 104: How Manifold Are Thy Works! 105: He Hath Remembered His Covenant 106: They Soon Forgat His Works 107: Oh That Men Would Praise the Lord! 108: My Heart Is Fixed 109: Let Them Curse, but Bless Thou 110:The Order of Melchizedek
Abraham, Tent-Dweller
Abraham lived in a tent, even though he was in the promised land. The author of Hebrews explained that he lived in a tent because he was looking forward to a permanent home that only God could provide. The tent indicated that he was rooted in God's promises, not in his current circumstances.
“Take Especial Care of Your Family”
God told Brigham Young to “take especial care of your family.” That counsel still stands today. President Dallin H. Oaks recently reminded us that family work, recreation, and learning are sacred priorities. When we turn off distractions, we will find sufficient time to fulfill our family responsibilities.
I, the Lord, Will Feel After Them
Paul taught the Athenians that God is hoping we will "feel after" Him. The Lord testified to Thomas B. Marsh that He is also "feeling after" us, and that if we don't harden our hearts, He will convert and heal us.
Unlocking Spiritual Knowledge
Paul described the ancient apostles as "stewards of the mysteries of God." In 1831, six church leaders were similarly assigned as "stewards over the revelations." How grateful we can be for inspired servants who have written and safeguarded God’s words so that we can access spiritual knowledge!
Preparing the Way of the Lord
Isaiah prophesied that a messenger would cry, "Prepare ye the way of the Lord." This prophecy applies not only to John the Baptist but to all of us. We prepare for the Second Coming of Jesus Christ by being peacemakers, praying for charity, garnishing our thoughts with virtue, and spending more time in the temple.