Principles about pride from Proverbs, Ecclesiastes, and the Book of Mormon: 1. Humility opens the door to God's grace. 2. Pride distorts self-perception. 3. Pride prevents people from receiving correction. 4. Pride causes contention.
Words
Principles about words in Proverbs and Ecclesiastes: 1. Words have great power to heal and to harm. 2. Lying and flattery are destructive. 3. Words can inflame or extinguish contention. 4. We are accountable for our words.
He Shall Direct Thy Paths
The wisdom literature of the Old Testament, specifically the books of Proverbs and Ecclesiastes, focuses on several topics that are also prominent in the Book of Mormon, including disciplining speech and emotions, the corrupting influence of wealth, the dangers of pride, and the importance of family.
Psalm Themes in the Book of Mormon
After three weeks summarizing 150 psalms and finding 67 Book of Mormon connections, I discuss four overarching psalmic themes which also appear in the Book of Mormon: tender mercies, the hazards of pit-digging, the sorrows of death and pains of hell, and the importance of approaching God with broken hearts and contrite spirits.
Psalms 121-130
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.