Book of Mormon authors followed the "performances and ordinances" of the law of Moses, but the psalms gave them a language for spiritual life. They used psalmic language to describe their internal spiritual experiences, to preach sermons, to explain events in their narratives, and to express gratitude and joy.
Psalms 11-20
11. Foundation and Tempest 12. Pure Words Like Tried Silver 13. How Long? 14. None that Doeth Good 15. Who Shall Abide in Thy Tabernacle? 16. Thou Wilt Not Leave My Soul in Hell 17. Night Visit 18. The Steel Bow 19. More Precious than Gold, Sweeter than Honey 20. The Lord Hear Thee
Strengthening Families
The Family Proclamation ends with a call to action, urging us all to strengthen families. Laws, company policies, schools, neighbors, and extended family can all have a significant impact. It's important for us to see the people around us as members of families and to consider how we are supporting and strengthening those families.
By Me or by My Word
The Savior taught Joseph Smith that only God can create eternal things. Therefore, if we want our marriages to last forever, we must enter the covenant as He established it and live according to His teachings within the marriage.
“Take Especial Care of Your Family”
God told Brigham Young to “take especial care of your family.” That counsel still stands today. President Dallin H. Oaks recently reminded us that family work, recreation, and learning are sacred priorities. When we turn off distractions, we will find sufficient time to fulfill our family responsibilities.
Becoming and Remaining Pure in Heart
When are hearts are pure, we produce good fruit, we feel God's love, and we become prepared to meet Him. We become more pure by eliminating contaminants like pride and envy and by striving to live in accordance with God's will.
Biblical References in Doctrine and Covenants 76
The revelation recorded in Doctrine and Covenants 76 was prompted by meditation about a single Bible verse, but it contains an enormous number of biblical paraphrases and allusions. The revelation demonstrates the unity of God's word as revealed to many prophets and apostles throughout history.
What Is the Second Death?
Jesus overcame death for us in three ways: Because of Him, our bodies and spirits will be reunited after we die. We will also be reunited with God, at least temporarily. Finally, He can help us be prepared at that time to stay in God's presence forever.
A Hundredth Part: Mormon’s Editorial Decisions
Book of Mormon authors made it clear how much they were leaving out as they wrote this "abridgment" of their history. Here's a diagram showing how many words are dedicated to each of the 103 decades in the book.
Out of Much Affliction
Three principles from Paul about suffering: 1. God loves us and will comfort us when we suffer. 2. Suffering can result in growth and progression with God's help. 3. We can find joy when we suffer, particularly when we maintain an eternal perspective.