We can learn how to reduce conflict by studying the Lord's instructions to church members who were being violently persecuted in 1833: 1. Don't escalate. 2. Set appropriate boundaries, and communicate them clearly. 3. Defense is about ending violence, not exacting revenge. 4. Remember that the Lord is eager to forgive.
To Advance the Cause
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.
“Prepare Your Hearts”
Our success in facing challenges depends on our emotional and spiritual readiness. The words of prophets can help our hearts be more settled, courageous, connected, and committed. General conference this weekend provides a powerful opportunity to prepare our hearts for the challenges we will face in the future.
How to Recognize the Holy Ghost
God taught Oliver Cowdery four principles about personal revelation which can help us recognize messages from God: 1. Messages from God enlighten us. 2. Messages from God dispel fear and build faith. 3. God speaks to both our mind and our heart. 4. The Spirit of God confirms positive choices with positive feelings.
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?
“Never to Give an Offense”
The Nephites were taught to defend themselves but "never to give an offense." We all know how difficult that is. Often, people take offense where none is intended. But we can often frame our words and actions in ways that are conducive to peace.
War and Peace
Some principles for dealing with conflict from the Book of Mormon: 1. Disciples of Christ promote peace. 2. We have a duty as citizens to uphold the law. 3. Some things are worth fighting for. 4. Comfort and bless those who are harmed by conflict.
A Better Cause
The first time that we hear about Captain Moroni is when he leads the Nephite armies to victory against Zerahemnah's Lamanite army. As the narrator, Mormon makes it a point to contrast the motivations of these two armies: [Zerahemnah's] designs were to stir up the Lamanites to anger against the Nephites; this he did that he might usurp great... Continue Reading →
Glory
Lift up your heads, O ye gates; even lift them up, ye everlasting doors; and the King of glory shall come in.Who is this King of glory? The LORD of hosts, he is the King of glory.Psalm 24:9-10 What is glory? The word appears 225 times in the King James Version of the Old Testament,... Continue Reading →
The Sanctity of Life
A disciple of Jesus Christ has a reverence and respect for living things. "Thou shalt not kill," God commanded on Mount Sinai (Exodus 20:13, Deuteronomy 5:17, Mosiah 13:21). And Jesus extended that commandment to less violent offenses: don't get angry; don't say unkind things. (See Matthew 5:21, 3 Nephi 12:21.) When we recognize that all... Continue Reading →