Lehi identifies "sense" and "insensibility" as opposite outcomes made possible by opposition. Sense means intentional awareness, so insensibility must mean intentional unawareness. We can choose to perceive and discern the good and the evil around us.
“Worthy Is the Lamb”
In the book of Revelation, John describes an anxious moment in the premortal existence, where we all realized that none of us could fulfill God's plan for our happiness. We were overjoyed to learn that Jesus Christ could open the book and fulfill the plan
Bridling My Tongue
James warns us to watch our words. They can be surprisingly harmful if we're not careful. We can govern our tongues by (1) managing our thoughts, (2) pausing before speaking, and (3) looking for encouraging and uplifting things to say.
Without the Camp
When sacrifices were performed in ancient Israel, the bodies of the animals were burned "without the camp." Jesus was similarly crucified outside of the walls of Jerusalem. We must meet Him there: outside of our comfort zone and our usual social circles.
“Be Careful for Nothing”
When Paul told church members in Philippi to "be careful for nothing," what did he mean? It's good to be careful, but there comes a point when carefulness begins to tear us apart. The remedy is increased faith, coupled with simplifying our discipleship.
The Fruit of the Spirit
How can we recognize the influence of the Holy Ghost? Paul provides two contrasting lists to help us identify the Spirit of the Lord: "the works of the flesh" vs. "the fruit of the Spirit." These lists can help us invite God's Spirit into our hearts.
“He Hath Dispersed”
God will never run out of blessings, so why do we cling to the blessings we have already received? There comes a point when we are struggling to retain things we can't keep, to the detriment of people who need those things right now.
Running the Race
We can learn a lot about the race of life from the more localized races we run. We need to keep going even it gets hard. We need to pace ourselves. We need to set aside unnecessary burdens. And we need to keep our eye on the goal.
Wisdom and Foolishness
Our perception of wisdom is not very reliable. We may overestimate other people's understanding and our own. The key is humility. Jacob and Paul counseled us to become fools before God. We need to recognize what we lack and be willing to learn from Him.
Truth and Soberness
Paul told Festus that his words were "of truth and soberness." Words of truth are in harmony with reality. Words of soberness are disciplined and serious. The sons of Helaman were "men of truth and soberness." Their courage was governed by reason.