We work harder and longer when our efforts are infused with a sense of mission. Captain Moroni's people were victorious because they "were inspired by a better cause." When we enlist in "the cause of Christ," our daily efforts contribute to the most uplifting and important work on earth.
These Truths
The Declaration of Independence of the United States articulates several important principles which are affirmed in modern revelation. These principles include the equality of God's children, our universal ability to recognize truth, and the right of each person to seek after happiness.
What Does It Mean to “Gird Up Your Loins”?
Throughout the Old Testament, beginning with Passover instructions, "girding one's loins" indicated readiness to act. In modern revelation, the Lord has instructed us nine times to gird up our loins. We do so by taking courage and being mentally prepared to act in righteousness as God's work continues to unfold.
The Remnant Shall Return
Isaiah's prophecy about the remnant of Israel returning to God assures that no matter how far they are from home, they are not out of God's sight. Book of Mormon authors echo this sentiment: God is mindful of you, wherever you are, and you can come home.
King-men
Why would a person vote to eliminate their own freedom? I've been intrigued the past couple of weeks by the children of Israel, who insisted on having a king, even after the prophet Samuel warned them of the terrible consequences of this decision: Their children would suffer, they would lose control over their possessions, and... Continue Reading →
The Voice of the People
When the prophet Samuel was old, he tried to appoint his sons to succeed him as leaders over Israel. But the Israelites were not willing to follow his sons, and they requested that he appoint a king. Samuel was troubled. He didn't think it wise to give one person that much power, and he thought... Continue Reading →
Your Healer
At a place which the children of Israel called Marah ("bitter"), because the water was undrinkable, the Lord taught Moses how to make the water sweet. He didn't have Moses use his rod or simply speak some words. Instead, He showed Moses a tree, which when placed in the water, made it sweet. Moses then... Continue Reading →
Poured Out
As Jacob traveled to Padan-aram to live with his uncle, he had a dream in which the Lord renewed the promise He had made to Jacob's father and grandfather. Waking the next morning, Jacob built a stone pillar and poured oil on it as a form of worship. (See Genesis 28:18.) Years later, after Jacob... Continue Reading →
King-Men and Freedom of Speech
Words matter. Words have an impact, for good or for evil. Jesus said, "Every idle word that men shall speak, they shall give an account thereof in the day of judgment" (Matthew 12:36). And Alma warned the people of Ammonihah, some of whom were guilty of deceiving others, "Our words will condemn us" (Alma 12:24).... Continue Reading →
Your Influence – Alma 46:9
Never underestimate the influence that one person can have. Mormon opens his account of the seven-year war between the Nephites and the Lamanites by focusing on two leaders: Amalickiah and Moroni. After describing the influence Amalickiah had over many of the Nephites and the disruptive effect of his leadership, Mormon explains what we can learn... Continue Reading →