121. Unto the Hills 122. Let Us Go into the House of the Lord 123. Unto Thee Lift I Up Mine Eyes 124. If It Had Not Been the Lord 125. As the Mountains 126. Turn Again Our Captivity 127. Children Are an Heritage 128. A Happy Household 129. Many a Time 130. De Profundis
How Did Book of Mormon Authors Use Psalms 1-50?
Book of Mormon authors followed the "performances and ordinances" of the law of Moses, but the psalms gave them a language for spiritual life. They used psalmic language to describe their internal spiritual experiences, to preach sermons, to explain events in their narratives, and to express gratitude and joy.
Psalms 11-20
11. Foundation and Tempest 12. Pure Words Like Tried Silver 13. How Long? 14. None that Doeth Good 15. Who Shall Abide in Thy Tabernacle? 16. Thou Wilt Not Leave My Soul in Hell 17. Night Visit 18. The Steel Bow 19. More Precious than Gold, Sweeter than Honey 20. The Lord Hear Thee
Job’s Wrestle Before God
Job frequently interrupts his speeches to his friends with prayers to God. His prayers are raw and candid, reflecting his feelings as he suffered. But when God finally speaks to him, Job answers humbly. We can speak openly to God, and we should be prepared to receive His guidance when it comes.
Yet Will I Trust in Him
Some form of the book of Job was likely on the brass plates. The book is closely paraphrased several times, and Ezekiel helps us understand that Job likely predated Lehi. All of the characters teach some truths, and the Book of Mormon can help us recognize them.
“They Shall Be Upon Aaron’s Heart”
Priests in ancient Israel were teachers with accountability for the spiritual welfare of their people. Their vestments and ordinances were intended to help the people become holy. As Jacob and Alma explained in the Book of Mormon, priesthood is ultimately a call to purity through Christ.
Joseph and Nephi
Joseph's brothers resented his dreams foretelling their subservience to him. Laman and Lemuel resented Nephi for the same reason. Their anger reflected their own insecurities. Nephi and Joseph were wise to "heed them not," but to move forward, trusting God.
“Let Your Hearts Rejoice”
Joseph Smith ended a letter to the church with a rousing invitation: "Let your hearts rejoice, and be exceedingly glad." There are many reasons why we don't allow ourselves to feel joy, including ingratitude, perfectionism, conformity, and misguided empathy. Joy can be contagious, and our examples of joyful living may inspire and uplift others.
My Education Plan
Solomon urged us, "With all thy getting, get understanding." Nephi praised his parents for teaching him "in all [their] learning." And in modern revelation, the Lord instructed us to "seek learning, even by study and also by faith." This counsel applies to us at every stage of life. We need to organize our ongoing education.
Beautiful Garments
Isaiah expressed the joy he wanted his people to feel by encouraging them to "put on [their] beautiful garments." The phrase appears several times in the Book of Mormon and in Doctrine and Covenants 82. God wants us to celebrate our bright futuree. Temple worship and covenants can help us prepare for the Savior's return.