Fear isn't always a bad thing. King Benjamin taught his people to always remember God's greatness and their nothingness. Enos worked to keep his people "in the fear of the Lord." When coupled with trust, that fear transforms from despair into confidence, because God responds with mercy and grace.
He Shall Direct Thy Paths
The wisdom literature of the Old Testament, specifically the books of Proverbs and Ecclesiastes, focuses on several topics that are also prominent in the Book of Mormon, including disciplining speech and emotions, the corrupting influence of wealth, the dangers of pride, and the importance of family.
Psalms 91-100
91. My Refuge 92. Flourishing 93. Mightier Than Many Waters 94. He That Planted the Ear 95. Harden Not Your Hearts 96. Let the Earth Be Glad 97. Zion Heard 98. Let the Floods Clap Their Hands 99. He Is Holy 100. Jubilate Deo
I Will Declare What He Hath Done for My Soul
Last week, I wrote about Psalms 1-50 — 10 psalms per day, M-F. This week, I'm writing about Psalms 51-100. In this presentation from Brigham Young University last October, I discuss how Alma used Psalm 95 in his second Ammonihah sermon. Like Alma, we can incorporate these poetic expressions of devotion into our own worship.
How Did Book of Mormon Authors Use Psalms 1-50?
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
Bread Only
Moses explained that manna taught an important principle: We need more than physical food. Our spirits also need the word of God. Book of Mormon prophets taught the same principle, inviting us to "feast" on the word of God, by hearing, pondering, and acting.
Accepted of the Lord
God loves all of His children perfectly. We please Him when we are humble, when we repent, and when we make every sacrifice He asks of us. In that way, we prepare for the ultimate manifestation of His acceptance—to be welcomed into His presence.
Reason and Revelation
God invites His disciples to blend sound judgment with spiritual direction. Nephi and Moroni taught that we can learn "all things" from the Holy Ghost, yet Jacob teaches us to "be wise." D&C 62:8 fuses these concepts, encouraging us to decide “according to judgment and the direction of the Spirit.” This combination facilitates spiritual growth.
“Cleave Unto” Your Covenants
The Lord counseled Emma Smith, "cleave unto the covenants which thou hast made." When we cleave unto our covenants, we have confidence in the promises we've received from God, we invest in our relationship with Him, and we find joy in the blessings we receive from Him each day.