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.
Fire, Snow, Sun, and Great Waters
Joseph Smith and Oliver Cowdery described the Savior using biblical imagery: eyes like fire, hair like the snow, a countenance like the sun, and a voice like great waters. These metaphors remind us that the Savior knows us perfectly, that He is pure and holy, that He radiates light, and that He speaks with power.
Creatures, Living Things, and Beasts
Three related Greek words appear in the book of Revelation: ktisma (creature), zóon (living thing), and thérion (wild beast). Recognizing the differences helps us understand the Lord's answers to Joseph Smith's questions in Doctrine and Covenants 77, and can help us better appreciate how God's love is manifest through His creations.
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.
Thy Calling, Thy Duty
God's callings serve two purposes: giving us opportunities to serve others while simultaneously opening our hearts to receive the sanctifying power of Jesus Christ.
Wickedness
The Book of Mormon teaches several principles which can help us navigate environments where people are making wrong choices. 1. We are all wicked. 2. Wickedness is not binary. 3. Wickedness need not be permanent. 4. As we become less wicked, God can entrust us with more responsibilities.
A Job Description for Servants of God
Doctrine and Covenants 4 reads like a job description. It states the need, the expectations, the compensation, and two lists of qualifications. We don't need all of those qualifications to get started. With God's help, we can develop them as we serve.
Without Principle
Moroni described his people as being "without principle." An unprincipled person is governed by passion instead of reason, and is therefore difficult to teach or lead. True joy comes only when we discipline ourselves to live according to true principles.
“I Judge Better Things of You”
After telling his listeners that a lack of miracles implies a lack of faith, Mormon adds, "I judge better things of you." God can help us see the good in others. We will be judged as we judge, so why wouldn't we look for the best in the people around us?
“O God…”
The expression "O God" is characteristic of the Old Testament, and particularly the book of Psalms. The few times it appears in the Book of Mormon, it conveys a special earnestness. So, it's fitting that the sacrament prayers would begin with those words.