1. We can be called and chosen. 2. Don't get attached to temporary things. 3. We are motivated to serve by seeing others' service. 4. Keeping a written record changes us. 5. Following God accelerates our resurrection. 6. God will share His power with us.
Christmas: “Good Tidings of Great Joy” (December 18-24)
The symbols of Christmas can inspire us to emulate the Savior. In particular, the star, the tree, the inn at Bethlehem, the shepherds, the wise men, and gifts can all remind us of God's love and inspire us to serve His children better.
Revelation 6-14: “They Overcame … by the Blood of the Lamb” (December 11-17)
Principles from the book of Revelation: 1. "Washed white"—The Savior can purify us. 2. "Another angel"—God can restore all things. 3. "War in heaven"—We lived before we were born. 4. "Babylon is fallen"—Cultural influences can distort our perception.
Revelation 1-5: “Glory, and Power, Be unto … the Lamb for Ever” (December 4-10)
1. Jesus supports us from the beginning to the end. 2. The love of God provides incomparable joy. 3. God's blessings are reliable and permanent. 4. God can enlighten and empower us. 5. The gospel is for everyone, and we should help everyone feel welcome.
1-3 John; Jude: “God is Love” (November 27-December 3)
Lessons from the epistles of John and Jude: 1. We see God more clearly as we become more like Him. 2. We are changed through the atonement of Jesus Christ, symbolized by His blood. 3. God gives us responsibilities to help us grow. 4. Jesus is our advocate
1 and 2 Peter: “Rejoice with Joy Unspeakable and Full of Glory” (November 20-26)
Peter invited us to be holy. We do this by building on the solid foundation of Jesus Christ. That work continues after we die, in the spirit world. Peter said we should prepare to live in a new earth, because this one will pass away.
James: “Be Ye Doers of the Word, and Not Hearers Only” (November 13-19)
1. When you commit to something, follow through. 2. God is the source of all good gifts. 3. We must be mindful of widows and orphans. 4. Disciples of Christ are "easy to be entreated." 5. If you overcome lust, you can resist temptation. 6. Prayers matter.
Hebrews 7-13: “An High Priest of Good Things to Come” (November 6-12)
Lessons from the second half of Hebrews: 1. Jesus can help us purge our "dead works." 2. It's important to stay true to our convictions. 3. We receive some blessings only after we exercise faith. 4. When we do what is right, we are not alone.
Hebrews 1-6: “Jesus Christ, ‘the Author of Eternal Salvation'” (October 30-November 5)
Lessons from Hebrews: 1. Jesus can succor us because of His mortal experiences. 2. Prophets lead us to Jesus Christ. 3. We will find God's grace if we seek it. 4. God's word can inspire us to productive action. 5. God's blessings usually come gradually.
1 and 2 Timothy; Titus; Philemon: “Be Thou an Example of the Believers” (October 23-29)
Paul expressed love for Timothy and Titus, calling them his "sons." He taught them that church leaders must be self-disciplined and loving, that we should not suppress our righteous feelings, and that Jesus is our personal Mediator with the Father.