From the earliest generations, people have kept books of remembrance—spiritual records which remind people of their ancestors and reinforce their faith in God. We can also feel a sense of belonging and build our faith by reviewing memories of our ancestors.
“Teach These Things Freely Unto Your Children”
Enoch knew Adam because Adam was still alive during much of his ministry. But Enoch also recognized the value of the spiritual record Adam had kept, which he called "a book of remembrance." This written record was one way Adam fulfilled God's commandment: "Teach these things freely unto your children."
Speak Often One with Another
Jesus prophesied of the gathering of Israel and instructed church members to meet together often. Those two concepts are more closely connected than we might realize. When we accept the gospel, we become part of a community of saints who strengthen one another by talking often about our faith.
Biblical Allusions in Doctrine and Covenants 133
The apostle Paul foresaw a time when God would "gather together in one all things in Christ." The Savior illustrated how this is done in His words to Lehi's descendants (3 Nephi 16, 20-22) and again in Doctrine and Covenants 133. He quotes numerous biblical passages, demonstrating that prophets speak with a unified voice.
Why Does Tithing Promote Unity?
In ancient Israel and in modern times, tithing is both an act of devotion to God and an expression of belonging to His church. The blessings of tithing promised by Malachi are collective blessings, and as we all donate, we build a united covenant community.
Tithing and the Day of Burning
Malachi taught that God blesses us when we pay tithing. He also prophesied of a day which will "burn as an oven." Modern revelation combines these concepts: "He that is tithed shall not be burned at [the Savior's] coming." Tithing prepares us to stand in God's presence by opening our hearts to receive His grace.
Old Testament Prophecies of the Second Coming
Four Old Testament prophecies quoted by Moroni to Joseph Smith teach us how to prepare for the Second Coming of Jesus Christ: 1. Strengthen families with priesthood power 2. Gather Israel and preach the gospel 3. Hear Him 4. Receive personal revelation
“The Lord Is Nigh”
In 1831, the Savior warned, "Prepare ye...for the Lord is nigh." If the Savior's return was "nigh" in 1831, it must be even more imminent today. President Russell M. Nelson has urged us to prepare by learning about the Atonement of Jesus Christ each week.
What Do You Delight In?
Mormon said his people "delighted in everything save that which is good." When we delight in something, we immerse ourselves in it and savor it. So what delights you, and how can you adjust your actions and attitudes to be more delighted by good things?
Chronicling My Life
When I was in high school, I discovered something about note-taking. When I write something down, I remember it. I retain new information better when I carefully record it, even if I never look at my notes again. We write for many reasons, including to connect with other people, to share important information, and to... Continue Reading →