The book of Jonah contains a poetic prayer which the prophet offered from the belly of the fish. In that prayer, he laments the blessings lost by those who turn away from God, and he vows to be faithful to the covenants he has made: They that observe lying vanities forsake their own mercy. But I will... Continue Reading →
Without Money
The gift of eternal salvation is priceless. It can't be bought. No amount of time, effort, or money would match its value. Perhaps that's why Isaiah emphasizes twice that money is not required to receive it: Thus saith the Lord, Ye have sold yourselves for nought; and ye shall be redeemed without money. Isaiah 52:3 Ho, every one that thirsteth,... Continue Reading →
“In the High and Holy Place”
We worship God not only out of gratitude for his loving-kindness but also in recognition of His supremacy. He is our divine parent, and He has the ability and the desire help us improve, to make us more like Him. Through the prophet Isaiah, God emphasized His own perfection and the perfection of the place... Continue Reading →
O Be Joyful
Based on: Psalm 100 Core message: The gospel can bring pure joy into our lives if we will just get out of our own way and let it happen. Related Book of Mormon passages: 1 Nephi 1:15, 2 Nephi 9:3, 2 Nephi 11:8
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
Neither to the Right Hand nor to the Left
As Moses prepared his people to enter the promised land, he warned them multiple times not to turn "to the right hand or the left," but to stay focused on keeping God's commandments (Deuteronomy 5:32, 17:11, 20, 28:14). After Moses' departure, the Lord reiterated this charge to Joshua, who extended it again to the Israelites... Continue Reading →
“Holiness to the Lord”
The clothing Aaron wore in the ancient tabernacle had profound significance. God instructed Moses, "Thou shalt make holy garments for Aaron thy brother for glory and for beauty" (Exodus 28:2). This clothing reminded everyone, including Aaron himself, of his role in bringing the children of Israel closer to God. The articles of clothing included: A blue robe, with... Continue Reading →
In Paradise
One of the thieves who was crucified with the Savior made a desperate final request: "Lord, remember me when thou comest into thy kingdom." In response, Jesus promised, "To day shalt thou be with me in paradise" (Luke 23:42-43). The Greek word paradeisos (παράδεισος) in that passage comes from two Persian roots: pairi- "around" and diz "to make,... Continue Reading →
Milk and Honey
I've been thinking about promised lands today. When God appeared to Moses on Mount Horeb, he promised not only to deliver the children of Israel from captivity but also to lead them "unto a land flowing with milk and honey" (Exodus 3:8). So before the Israelites even began their journey, they had a destination in mind. Lehi's... Continue Reading →
The Creator
All things were made by him; and without him was not any thing made that was made.John 1:3 The scriptures teach that Jesus Christ created the heavens and the earth under the direction of the Father. "Worlds without number have I created," God told Moses, "...and by the Son I created them" (Moses 1:33). Multiple... Continue Reading →
Book of Mormon Study Notes 