Talk given 27 November 2011
Topic: Enjoying the Journey or Finding Joy in the Journey.
Just above my computer is a calendar page that says
“Life is 10% what happens to you and 90% what you do with what happens to you.”
I had an experience this week that really brought that quote front and center in my mind.
Wednesday morning I found myself in a sad way. I had gotten up late that morning, I was feeling sluggish and my whole “game” was off. My morning routine could not take place as normal.
I was feeling hurt and a bit sorry for myself because of some things that had happened previously - though I‘ll not share those details. I’ll just say that there were some silly things running through my head and selfish feelings attacking my heart.
;) And, just to put you all at ease, it involved no one in this room.
I decided to not work on my talk that morning even though I knew it needed more attention. I just wasn’t in the right mood to make it work, so I spent a couple hours wasting time and having my own personal pity party as I searched through some favorite blogs. I just kept waiting for me to kick myself up and away from the computer to work on the pies I needed to make, but it wasn‘t happening.
I came across a blog that I have been watching and I have often wondered if this gal was a member of the church. That day she wrote a post of 50 things she was thankful for, and half a dozen of those things told me that she probably is a member. At least she is thankful for “getting to serve a mission, her testimony of Christ, her calling in her church, for the Spirit and feeling guided, for Christ‘s Atonement, and for her family.”
As I read through her list and thought of my own, something all of a sudden touched my heart and I was okay.
And just as suddenly, my pity party ended!
It was around that time that I realized what had taken place that morning, or not taken place, creating a great atmosphere for my pity party.
Problem number 1 -
I had forgotten to say my personal prayer. When I pray I always feel peace and that makes me feel better. Always!
Prayer does not remove me from the trial or sorrow or problem of whatever kind it might be, but prayer always makes me feel better.
In our last General Conference President Monson reminded us that
“Communication with our Father in Heaven - including our prayers to Him and His inspiration to us - is necessary in order for us to weather the storms and trials of life.” (p82)
Oh how I know this to be true!
Problem number 2 -
I had forgotten to read my scriptures that morning.
When I read the scriptures I always feel better! Always!
Even though I am not removed from the trial or sorrow or problem of whatever kind it might be, reading the scriptures always makes me feel better.
We must “feast upon the words of Christ; for behold, the words of Christ will tell you all things what ye should do.” (2 Nephi 32:3)
I testify that in them we find strength and joy.
Pres. Leavitt’s counsel during Ward Conference was to read the BofM and give of ourselves to others. His promise to us if we did this was that we would find “a way out”, we would find “peace, and the ability to overcome.”
Following his counsel will help us enjoy our journey - that is why he gave this counsel to us.
Problem number 3 -
I forgot to give of myself and think of others - to serve. I was feeling a bit self-centered that morning… it was all about me!
Charity is what this gospel is all about! We find joy in serving others.
When I remember to think of and help and serve others I am always happier! Always!
Doing so does not remove me from the trial or sorrow or problem of whatever kind it might be, but it does make me feel better.
Mark Twain said “Grief can take care of itself; but to get the full value of joy you must have someone to divide it with.”
President Monson told us that “We will never regret the kind words spoken or the affection shown. Rather, our regrets will come if such things are omitted from our relationships with those who mean the most to us.”
Problem number 4 -
I had forgotten to be grateful that morning.
I was totally saturated in my pity party and couldn’t - or wouldn’t - see the Light.
When I remember to be grateful I always feel better! Always!
Even though I am not removed from the trial or sorrow or problem of whatever kind it might be, having a Grateful Heart always makes me feel better.
Every day this month I have been writing about something I am grateful for. I‘ve been trying to "...live in thanksgiving daily, for the many mercies and blessing which he doth bestow upon [me]." (Alma 34:38)
It has been a wonderful and enjoyable experience for me, and I‘ve decided to continue with it, at least for awhile.
But, Wednesday morning (back to that pity party I was throwing) I was feeling not so grateful for anything. Not because I had nothing to be grateful for, but because I had forgotten to be grateful. For a short time that morning, I had forgotten the important things in life…and I was kind of miserable.
Sometimes we get caught up in wishing for something different and hoping that tomorrow will bring greater reason to be happy.
But we must realize that
“It is not happy people who are thankful, It is thankful people who are happy.”
and
“Gratitude turns what we have into enough”
President Monson said;
“I believe that among the greatest lessons we are to learn in this short sojourn upon the earth are the lessons that help us distinguish between what is important and what is not. I plead with you not to let those most important things pass you by as you plan for that illusive and nonexistent future when you will have time to do all that you want to do. Instead, find joy in the journey - now.”
We must choose to not focus on what is missing from our lives at the moment, but instead be grateful for what is present in our lives.
Often times the title of a book is the only thing I read. They are like Capsule Sermons, and I sometimes get as much out of them as I do the whole book. Here is one I like - “Pain is Inevitable - Misery is Optional!”
Things don’t always turn out the way we hope, but we can still enjoy the journey.
“What we see mainly depends on what we look for.”
I’m reminded of Elder Wirthlin telling about his family taking a trip, only to find out after hours on the road that they ended up in the wrong place. They laughed about it instead of getting upset. He then encouraged us with these words - “Come what may and love it!”
Let us cheerfully do all things. (D&C 123:17)
The Lord has said, “ ye cannot bear all things now; nevertheless, be of good cheer, for I will lead you along [your journey]” (D&C 78:18)
During the last General Conference Elder Cook shared with us his experience.
He was just finishing his first week as a General Authority and was heading down the elevator with an overloaded briefcase and a heavy heart. His head was down as he stared blankly at the floor.
The door opened and someone walked in, but Elder Cook did not look up.
As the door closed he heard someone ask, “What are you looking at down there?”
He recognized the voice as Pres. Monson, and quickly looked up to respond, saying “Oh, nothing.”
President Monson smiled and lovingly suggested, while pointing heavenward, “It is better to look up!”
He repeated that counsel before leaving the elevator - “Now, remember, it is better to look up.” (P33 Nov 2011 Ensign)
Looking up would not have taken Elder Cook’s problems away, but it would have made them seem lighter.
”lift up your head and be of good cheer.” 3 Ne 1:13
As members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints we are truly blessed to know the great plan of happiness, to know who we are and what our destiny will be, and to receive the blessings that come when we follow His plan.
We know where to find joy. We know that finding joy is a choice.
We know that joy doesn’t come from doing what we want, unless what we want is the same as doing what we should.
Working at righteous tasks and pursuing righteous desires allows the Lord’s Spirit to abide in us. The scriptures tell us that “The fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, meekness, temperance…” (Galatians 5:22-23)
Doing what we should does not mean that we will be free from sorrow or pain, but it is the Lord’s way, and the Lord’s way is the way to joy, happiness and peace, and it has been since the beginning.
Adam and Eve had a wonderfully beautiful garden to live in, but in that state, they did not recognize the beauty and goodness of it.
They were “in a state of innocence, having no joy, for they knew no misery; doing no good, for they knew no sin.” (2 ne 2:23)
But, there was a plan. The Plan of Salvation, a Plan of Happiness.
“All things have been done in the wisdom of him who knoweth all things.” (2 Ne 2:24)
“Adam fell that men might be; and men are, that they might have joy.” (2 Ne 25)
and
Joy is doing “all things whatsoever the Lord [our] God shall command.” (Abr. 3:25)
Obeying the commandments does not remove us from the trials or sorrows or problems of whatever kind they might be, but when I obey I always feel happier. Always!
Elder Costa said “All who seek happiness can find it in the Gospel of Jesus Christ taught in His Church.” and “True happiness comes from keeping the commandments of God.”
I love this paragraph in the introduction to the Bible - “But among all our joys, there was no one that more filled our hearts, than the blessed continuance of the preaching of God’s sacred Word among us; which is that inestimable treasure, which excelleth all the riches of the earth; because the fruit thereof extended itself, not only to the time spent in this transitory world, but directed and disposeth men unto that eternal happiness which is above in heaven.”
[No joy more filled our hearts than the blessed continuance of the preaching of God’s sacred Word.]
In the book of Mosiah we read that “King Benjamin [taught] his sons the language and prophecies of their fathers.” (chapter one preface) He taught them to “search [the records or scriptures] diligently, that [they] might profit thereby…” and to “ keep the commandments of God…” (Mos 1:7)
Just as king Benjamin taught his sons, he taught his people the principles of the gospel that would bless their lives and help them enjoy their journey if they lived those principles.
We too have a prophet who has taught and continues to teach his people principles of the gospel that would bless our lives and help us enjoy our journey if we live those principles.
They are much the same as what king Benjamin taught his people, and these principles are always given with a promise.
This is a joyful religion, one of hope, strength, and peace.
Pres. Uchtdorf reminded us that “The Gospel is the only way to happily ever after.”
I testify that living the gospel can be accomplished with the help of the Lord, through personal discipline, as we remember to make wise choices.
I also testify that when we find ourselves not living the gospel as we should, having transgressed any law and taken a wrong turn in our journey we can quickly correct our ways and step back on the right path.
I did quickly repent of my misstep Wednesday morning. I said my prayer and read my scriptures, and began to remember those most important things. And Wednesday became an enjoyable day.
Elder Christofferson reminded us that “Repentance is a divine gift…, [that] points us to freedom, confidence, and peace.”
“The divine gift of repentance is the key to happiness here and hereafter.” (p38)
We enjoy life more when we are “clean” and temple worthy. Remember that repentance can take place any time in life.
Repenting may not remove me from the trial or sorrow or problem of whatever kind it might be, but it will always make me happier. Always!
In Luke 2 we read that the angel came to the shepherds saying “Fear not: for, behold I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people” and then announced the birth of our “Saviour, Christ the Lord.”
This was not only good tidings of great joy to those shepherds, it was good tidings of great joy for all of us. This news should make us joyful in our journey.
May we remember our Savior this time of year as we celebrate His birth, but let us not forget Him when the season is over. He is our reason to rejoice and He is our reason to enjoy the journey here on earth.
“for in this world your joy is not full, but in [Christ] your joy is full.” (D&C 101:36)
“the Lord will direct thee for good” (Alma 37:32) and
“His Spirit…shall fill your soul with joy” (D&C11:13)
“Put your trust in that Spirit which leadeth to do good,” and it “shall fill your soul with joy” (D&C 11:12–13).
Pres. Uchtdorf said “Our journey toward perfection is long, but we can find wonder and delight in even the tiniest steps in that journey.” (P120 )
My hope today is that we never loose sight of the things that bring joy to our lives, and I testify that those things that bring joy to our lives are Christ and His teachings.
Monday, November 28, 2011
Monday, November 14, 2011
2 Nephi 9:9
A thought from this morning's scripture reading.
When we do things secretly, wishing no one else to see, because we know it is wrong, we are following the will of the devil..., that being who "stirreth up the children of men unto secret combinations of murder and all manner of secret works of darkness"
When we do things secretly, wishing no one else to see, because we know it is wrong, we are following the will of the devil..., that being who "stirreth up the children of men unto secret combinations of murder and all manner of secret works of darkness"
Saturday, November 12, 2011
The Lord is my Strength!
I was searching online for a quote "The Lord is my Strength" and realized something quite profound, yet so very simple.
When images and comments came up I saw a few spiritual references and appreciated them in their own individual way. Then as I scrolled down I noticed other photos that didn't seem to apply to my request and wondered why they were included.
That is when it hit me! I saw the captions under the images and understood why those images were there. Each had a caption similar to this; "Oh, my lord!" (left un-capitalized on purpose)
I suddenly felt the importance of realizing who our Lord is and how the secular world often "worships" things as their "lord" just as I saw in these images of men or women of a sensual nature, or delicious food, or other things that do not lead us to our Lord if that is our lord. I am sorry for those who do not understand this. They are truly missing something, and may not even recognize it.
I am very grateful for my Savior and Lord, Jesus Christ. He is my strength!
When images and comments came up I saw a few spiritual references and appreciated them in their own individual way. Then as I scrolled down I noticed other photos that didn't seem to apply to my request and wondered why they were included.
That is when it hit me! I saw the captions under the images and understood why those images were there. Each had a caption similar to this; "Oh, my lord!" (left un-capitalized on purpose)
I suddenly felt the importance of realizing who our Lord is and how the secular world often "worships" things as their "lord" just as I saw in these images of men or women of a sensual nature, or delicious food, or other things that do not lead us to our Lord if that is our lord. I am sorry for those who do not understand this. They are truly missing something, and may not even recognize it.
I am very grateful for my Savior and Lord, Jesus Christ. He is my strength!
Saturday, October 29, 2011
Sunday, September 11, 2011
Our Family Rules to Live and Play by.
Because I don't want the screens to rule and ruin our lives.
Because I want us to consider and do the things that matter most and that will lead us to the Savior.
Because I want my children to build good character and be great citizens and disciples.
Because I want to be a good parent and teach my children the important things.
Alma 39:12
"Command thy children to do good, lest they be lead away...to destruction..." (it continues on about refraining from your iniquities).
It sounds like it's about what I want, but it's really about what the Lord expects of me as a parent and as each of us as a CHILD OF GOD. These rules also apply to me. (But I do want my children to find joy in living, and I know that joy is found most as we learn of and follow the teachings of the Savior.)
There are many things on that page, but there are many things left off. We shouldn't have to be commanded in all things, but should make many good decisions of our own free will and choice.
D&C 58:26-29
"For behold, it is not meet that I should command in all things; for he that is compelled in all things, the same is a slothful and not a wise servant; wherefore he receiveth no reward."
"Men should be anxiously engaged in a good cause, and do many things of their own free will, and bring to pass much righteousness.:
"For the power is in them, wherein they are agents unto themselves. And inasmuch as men do good they shall in nowise lose their reward."
"But he that doeth not anything until he is commanded, and receiveth a commandment with doubtful heart, and keepeth it with slothfulness, the same is damned."
Because I want us to consider and do the things that matter most and that will lead us to the Savior.
Because I want my children to build good character and be great citizens and disciples.
Because I want to be a good parent and teach my children the important things.
Alma 39:12
"Command thy children to do good, lest they be lead away...to destruction..." (it continues on about refraining from your iniquities).
It sounds like it's about what I want, but it's really about what the Lord expects of me as a parent and as each of us as a CHILD OF GOD. These rules also apply to me. (But I do want my children to find joy in living, and I know that joy is found most as we learn of and follow the teachings of the Savior.)
There are many things on that page, but there are many things left off. We shouldn't have to be commanded in all things, but should make many good decisions of our own free will and choice.
D&C 58:26-29
"For behold, it is not meet that I should command in all things; for he that is compelled in all things, the same is a slothful and not a wise servant; wherefore he receiveth no reward."
"Men should be anxiously engaged in a good cause, and do many things of their own free will, and bring to pass much righteousness.:
"For the power is in them, wherein they are agents unto themselves. And inasmuch as men do good they shall in nowise lose their reward."
"But he that doeth not anything until he is commanded, and receiveth a commandment with doubtful heart, and keepeth it with slothfulness, the same is damned."
Sunday, September 4, 2011
Still Pondering!
"Choose your love; Love your choice."
"...walk side by side as a son and a daughter of God."
"[be] the right person."
"...may righteousness guide our every step as we journey through life."
Pres. Monson (from April 2011 Conf.)
"...walk side by side as a son and a daughter of God."
"[be] the right person."
"...may righteousness guide our every step as we journey through life."
Pres. Monson (from April 2011 Conf.)
Saturday, September 3, 2011
Tuesday, April 12, 2011
Conference April 2011
Lest I Forget:
a few notes I kept while watching conference and re-reading the messages:
Sat. AM
President Thomas S. Monson
- New Temples announced (seems to be a common occurrence but is still so exciting to hear).
- Continue faithful in performing temple ordinances
- Thank you for your faith & devotion to gospel, love for another, service, donations.
- Contribute to General Missionary fund.
-Elder L. Tom Perry
- Study the New Testament
- The Savior should be the centerpiece of our lives.
- Sabbath Day observance must always include worship and partaking of the sacrament.
- Three things the Lord requires; 1. Keep selves unspotted (avoid worldly distractions and proper dress on the sabbath), 2. Go to the house of prayer, 3. Offer up sacraments unto the Lord (forsake and confess...repent).
- Be examples of the believers.
- Let your families be filled with love as honor sabbath.
Jean A. Stevens (1st C. Primary)
- Pay tithing.
- Humility, reverence, love for the Lord.
- What really matters most?
- Faith and Trust in the Lord.
- Behold your little ones. Embrace little children.
- God gave us families to help us become who He wants us to be.
- Follow His example.
Elder Walter F. Gonzalez
- Invite others to come and see what the church can add to the good things they already have.
- People who follow Christ are loving people who make and keep covenants.
- Take sacrament, attend temple, assist others, become true followers of Christ.
- We are happier when we follow teachings of Jesus Christ.
- His tender mercies will make us ... under any circumstances.
- Pattern our lives after the Savior.
- Exercise faith... repentance... make covenants.
Elder Kent F. Richards
- Purpose of pain - a gauge of the healing process. Patient.
- Pain brings you to a humility
- Spiritual pain - repentance.
- Opposition is part of the plan.
- The Savior is not a silent observer - He is our physician.
- In Him we can find peace & solace.
Elder Quentin L. Cook
- Mormon migration / women were incredible . . . because of the way they face trials of life.
- TV rich and family time poor.
- Do not be judgemental.
- Prayerfully consider choices and how they affect your family.
- Husbands and wives, prayerfully counsel together understanding we are accountable to God.
- Errand of angels is given to women.
- Labor = missionary work, temple and family history, teaching gospel, care for poor and needy.
- Sustain and support bishop.
President Henry B. Eyring
- Consecrate time, talents and means to help others. Lift up those in need.
- Renew and strengthen commitment to act.
- Give a greater Fast Offering
- Everyone is happier and feels more self respect when we care for family and others.
- You cannot give yourself poor!
- Unity ... When we join hands to help people in need the Lord joins our hearts.
- Draw your family into the work with you.
- Seek out the poor.
- Upcoming "Day of Service"
- Go about doing good!
Sat. pm
President Dieter F. Uchtdorf
- thank you for your sustaining vote, your continued faith, devotion, and prayers.
By Brook P. Hales
- Statistical report informed of 52,225 missionaries (6 are from Royal II ward,2 are from Hebdon family, 3 are from Rodeback family)
President Boyd K. Packer
- Scriptures
- Use full name of the Church
- Restored Church, Gospel, Priesthood.
- Word of Wisdom
- Great Plan of Happiness centers on families.
- We must and we can resist temptations of any kind.
- Leave it alone! Can't bring her back, will only make it worse. Forgive and forget.
- Be positive and happy and not afraid of life.
- We can be guided by the Holy Ghost.
- Come unto Him.
Elder Russell M. Nelson
- We live to die and we die to live.
- All that the future holds in store for each sacred child of God will be shaped by his or her parents, family, friends, and teachers.
- Combat fears by strengthening faith.
- Let your faith be focused on our loving Heavenly Father and Savior, Jesus Christ.
- Each is a child of God, each born with challenges to overcome and Faith to be developed. Time of trial and testing.
- Teach of faith...
- Obedience!
- God's holy angels are ever on call to help us.
- The Lord responded by changing the Prophet's (Joseph Smith) perspective.
- All things work out for your good.
- God will heed your heart felt prayers.
- Pay tithing = keep your name enrolled ..., protect you ....
- Divine Nature & Infinite Worth
- Each reserved until this time to be born.
- Do not have to fight battles alone. He will help us.
-Our knowledge of the gospel and our love of our Heavenly Father and of our Savior will comfort and sustain us and bring joy to our hearts as we walk uprightly and keep the commandments.
- Pres. Monson's quote, Your future is as bright as your faith. Face your future with faith.
Elder Richard J. Maynes
- Eternal Families. Fundamental to order of Heaven.
- Child of God.
- Adversary wants to destroy the Plan.
- Christ centered home. (FHE, Fam scripture and prayer)
- Great power and protection ... in establishing celestial traditions in home and helping us overcome....
- Parents held accountable. Word and Example.
- Parents responsible to teach their children in love and righteousness...with words and through example.
- Children play important role / help make family strong.
Elder Cecil O. Samuelson Jr.
- Trust in the Lord - in His love and His timing.
- Remember the purpose of life is to be tested and stretched.
- Musts = daily prayer, scripture & gospel study, attend meetings, visiting teaching, hometeaching, assignments.
- People do good and important things because they have testimonies....we also gain testimonies because of what we do.
Elder Dallin H. Oaks
- Desire dictates our priorities, priorities shape our choices, choices determine our actions.
- 3 essentials that preceded the promised blessing: desire, labor and faith.
- Food vs Fast
- Faith = a desire to believe
- Seek the best things
- Readjust desire to things of eternity
- Cut and carve ourselves free from addictions...
- Lost desire for sin = a personal decision
- What consistently desire is what we'll become.
- Eternal beings / Help and love all
- Secure and preserve a marriage for eternity. Righteous desires that lead to eternal life.
Elder M. Russell Ballard
- Spring = renewal of light and life.
- All beareth record of Jesus Christ.
- So busy looking for large nuggets , missing the flecks of gold. By small and simple things great things are brought to pass.
- Focus on things that matter most.
- Love God with all heart, soul, mind, and love neighbor as self.
- Pure love of Christ =
Charity begins at home / Practice golden rule.
Serve in Church. No gossip or unkind words.
Serve in Community. Kindness is an essence of greatness.
Missionary service. Full time and as friends and neighbors.
- Glorious consequences flow from small but deliberate deeds.
- unless lose self in service of others there is little ... our lives.
Priesthood Session
Elder Neil L. Andersen
- Serve a mission.
- Sacrifice.
Elder Steven E. Snow
- Hope is an emotion which brings richness to our everyday lives.
- We must spend time in Family Home Evening and worthwhile family activities.
- We must teach our children to pray...read with them in the scriptures and teach them important gospel principles.
- Never let hope be displaced by fear.
- Press forward with a steadfastness in Christ, having a perfect brightness of hope, and a love of God and of all men.
Larry M. Gibson (1st C. YM)
- Priesthood Quorum responsibilities. Be worthy.
President Dieter F. Uchtdorf
- Do it! Now!
- Read scriptures and listen to the words of the prophets with all your heart and mind. Commit to reading scriptures and handbooks, with purpose and focus.
Don't let a day go by without doing something to act on the promptings of the Spirit.
- earnestly seek personal revelation and inspiration.
- experience joy in daily priesthood service.
President Henry B. Eyring
- learn duties of priesthood
- sit in counsel
- have love for each other that comes from great faith
- teach and be taught
- be a peacemaker
- patience and humility
- labor for the salvation of men
- be diligent and obedient in the priesthood
President Thomas S. Monson
- Personal worthiness!
- Many movies...(media) portray behavior which is in direct opposition to the laws of God. Do not subject yourself to the innuendo and outright filth which are so often found there.
- Lyrics... fall into same category.
- Do not use profane language. Stay away from pornography.
- Avoid alcohol, tobacco, drugs, addictions which you would be hard pressed to conquer.
- A strong testimony of our Savior and of His gospel will help see your through to safety.
- Read the Book of Mormon, prayerfully, desire to know truth.
- Do what is necessary to obtain a testimony and keep it vital and alive through obedience, regular prayer, scripture study.
- Attend church, seminary, institute.
- Cease any unrighteousness.
- reject false concepts and false teachings and remain true to that which God commands.
- there is no shame in having to scrimp and save...learn to sacrifice and make difficult decisions.
- be resourceful and committed to making your marriage work.
- exercise faith.
- seek an eternal companion...choose your love; love your choice.
- discipline selves so we stand above the ways of the world...be honorable and decent.
- be the right person.
- Safeguard, treasure, live worthy of the gift of the priesthood.
- let righteousness guide every step.
Sunday am
President Dieter F. Uchtdorf
- God speaks to His prophets and apostles and to all His children.
- "find self waiting"
- Diligently seek to find and know Him. Comes one piece at a time (like puzzle). Each piece helps us see the big picture more clearly then recognize the grand beauty of it all.
- Move forward with faith.
- Turn down the volume control
- hearken to the promptings of the Spirit and heed them.
- "Lord, what will Thou have me do?"
- Serve each other. Be sensitive.
- Texting and blogging...
- If we are joyful and at peace with world, people will want to know more.
- Preach gospel at all times and if necessary, use words!
- Move forward with faith, hope, charity.
Elder Paul V. Johnson
- Affliction is part of our mortal existence
- Trial of your faith to see if we'll do all the Lord commanded
- Putting on the Divine Nature.
- All that we suffered and endure builds character...
- "You won't be the same, you'll be awesome!"
- Burn away dross ... pure gold.
- Only way to see the views is to make the climb
- Investigators often face tribulation
- A particular challenge can prepare us for ...
- Face difficult challenges with faith.
Bishop H. David Burton
- Welfare program
- Personal responsibility and self reliance
- Purpose, promise, principles
- Service, sacrifice, consecration
- horse died, strapped yoke to their own backs
- be kind to the poor. Care for others. Be kind.
Silvia H. Allred (1st C. RS)
- One heart and one mind.
- Love the Lord and love neighbor as self.
- visit poor and needy and administer to...bless others...serve
- discipleship.
- RS
- Love is the guiding principle.
Elder David A. Bednar
- Two ordinary experiences with light.
- Spirit of revelation should be operative in our lives.
- Available to all who receive baptism and Holy Ghost and act in faith to receive.
- sincere desire and worthiness invite spirit of revelation.
- Thoughts and feeling that come into heart and mind.
- apply unto it
- Shun inappropriate media...addictive substances and behaviors. Tools of the adversary can impair and eventually destroy our capacity to recognize and respond to the subtle messages from God delivered by the power of His Spirit.
- Light turned on in a dark room = instant, complete, all at once = more rare than common
- Gradual rising sun - small increments over time, line upon line = more common than rare.
- Sometimes we overlook the small...
- Press forward obediently and with faith in the Savior.
- Do our best. Strive to do good and be better.
- Act, not be acted upon.
President Thomas S. Monson
- Welfare program inspired of God.
- Temples bring joy to faithful members...
- Sacrifice to attend and have Spirit in our homes.
- 85% of members live within 2 hours of a temple.
- The work is ours to do.
- Qualify to enter/worthy to enter temple.
- teach children importance of temples
- as go to temple and remember covenants we will be more able to bear every trial and overcome each temptation. We'll find peace and be renewed and fortified.
- Follow in the footsteps of the Savior.
Sunday pm
Elder Richard G. Scott
- 2 vital pillars (vital to God's plan) marriage and the family.
- Temple sealing will help you draw closer together and find greater joy and fulfillment in mortality.
- Don't waste time on idle pursuits.
- YM = serve mission and marry
- Express love and gratitude to spouse often
- Child forever theirs because of temple covenants
Elder D. Todd Christofferson
- "Be perfect even as I or Father in Heaven"
- done ... become
- willingly seek and accept correction / chastening
- Become self correcting.
- Parents must correct their children.
Elder Carl B. Pratt
- Teach family in home
- He remembers those who honestly pay tithing
- When obey = blessed
- Tithing is not a matter of money but of faith in the Lord.
- Lord does not promise wealth. He blesses with wisdom / wisdom to budget and to manage, etc.
- The Lord's richest blessings are spiritual. (family, friends, gospel)
Elder Lynn G. Robbins
- To Be or Not to Be! Even as I am! To BE or to DO
- do without being = hypocrites, pretender, false image to others
- be without doing = void (faith without works), false image to self
- do = baptism. be = faith. do = sacrament. be = worthy to partake of sacrament.
- To do = event list check off when done. To be = cannot be checked off, must always be.
- Be begets and is motive behind Do
- What attributes would correct behaviour?
- Discipline in love, not in anger, long suffering....by persuasion, longsuffering, gentleness, meekness, kindness.
- What we did wrong is not who we are. An act not an identity.
- Professions nor possessions should identify who one is.
- Develop Christlike attributes! Do as He did.
Elder Benjamin De Hoyos
- Radio talk show / religions of the world. Name of the Church given by God
- refers to it's members = Latter Day Saints
- To become saints = conduct family prayer and Scripture study, family history, consecrate time to worship in temple frequently, serve as missionaries... Charity...
- Come to know Savior thru afflictions and trials.
- Move forward with patience.
- Place confidence in the Lord and He will sustain us.
- Understanding of the doctrine of Christ and His Atonement will be the source of our strength and peace (internal tranquility)
- Let not your heart be troubled, nor afraid.
Elder C. Scott Grow
- his brother / Prodigal Son / miracle of Atonement
- repent & forsake sins
- Began in garden of Gethsemane...continued on cross...culminated at resurrection.
- moral agency / life style
- He heals the transgressor. He heals the innocent who suffer because of those transgressors.
- Immerse yourself in prayer and scripture study.
Elder Jeffrey R. Holland
- hill = Ensign Peak / conference = standard to nation
- Reflect on messages
- messages = no coordination except with heaven. Something for everyone. Mortal messengers with angelic messages.
- To comfort the afflicted and to afflict the comfortable (Harold B. Lee)
- can't always have it your way
- Salvation can only come His way.
President Thomas S. Monson
- Long remember messages and read and study them.
- Face challenges / Heavenly Father is mindful of us and will bless us.
- Be a good citizen and neighbor
- Be an example of honesty and integrity
- Love the Savior
General Young Women Meeting (March 26th)
Ann M. Dibb (2nd C. YW)
- 13th A of F is a guide for righteousness.
- be honest and true, sincere, steadfast, loyal...
- live the standards and strive to follow Christ's example.
Mary N. Cook (1st C. YW)
- benevolent = to wish someone well...to be kind, well meaning, and charitable.
- We must learn about the Savior and follow His ways.
- Unity
- refrain from judging and criticizing / make everyone feel valued
- be mindful of your grandparents and elderly
- be cheerful, helpful, and considerate of others. Seek to be a peacemaker rather than to tease, fight, and quarrel.
- Follow our prophet. Learn from his example and listen to his words.
- Center our lives on Jesus Christ.
- love and serve.
Elaine S. Dalton (YW Gen. Pres.)
- Walk in the path of virtue and cleave unto your covenants.
- Stand guard of yourself, your family, and all those with whom you associate. Be guardians of virtue. (a guardian is someone who protects, shields, and defends.)
- Personal training = daily personal prayers, daily reading of B0fM and working on Personal Progress.
- Always be modest in dress, speech, actions and in use of social media.
- Be faithful. Be obedient
- you will be given strength, the Holy Ghost will guide you, you'll be surrounded by heavenly hosts of angels.
- Prepare to enter temple and make covenants
President Henry B. Eyring
- Nurture your testimony. It can fortify you and lead your path to eternal life.
- Testimony comes in pieces and parts.
- frequent heartfelt prayers of faith are crucial, hungering for the word of God in the scriptures, and the obedience to the truth we have received
(Last updated 5/26/11)
a few notes I kept while watching conference and re-reading the messages:
Sat. AM
President Thomas S. Monson
- New Temples announced (seems to be a common occurrence but is still so exciting to hear).
- Continue faithful in performing temple ordinances
- Thank you for your faith & devotion to gospel, love for another, service, donations.
- Contribute to General Missionary fund.
-Elder L. Tom Perry
- Study the New Testament
- The Savior should be the centerpiece of our lives.
- Sabbath Day observance must always include worship and partaking of the sacrament.
- Three things the Lord requires; 1. Keep selves unspotted (avoid worldly distractions and proper dress on the sabbath), 2. Go to the house of prayer, 3. Offer up sacraments unto the Lord (forsake and confess...repent).
- Be examples of the believers.
- Let your families be filled with love as honor sabbath.
Jean A. Stevens (1st C. Primary)
- Pay tithing.
- Humility, reverence, love for the Lord.
- What really matters most?
- Faith and Trust in the Lord.
- Behold your little ones. Embrace little children.
- God gave us families to help us become who He wants us to be.
- Follow His example.
Elder Walter F. Gonzalez
- Invite others to come and see what the church can add to the good things they already have.
- People who follow Christ are loving people who make and keep covenants.
- Take sacrament, attend temple, assist others, become true followers of Christ.
- We are happier when we follow teachings of Jesus Christ.
- His tender mercies will make us ... under any circumstances.
- Pattern our lives after the Savior.
- Exercise faith... repentance... make covenants.
Elder Kent F. Richards
- Purpose of pain - a gauge of the healing process. Patient.
- Pain brings you to a humility
- Spiritual pain - repentance.
- Opposition is part of the plan.
- The Savior is not a silent observer - He is our physician.
- In Him we can find peace & solace.
Elder Quentin L. Cook
- Mormon migration / women were incredible . . . because of the way they face trials of life.
- TV rich and family time poor.
- Do not be judgemental.
- Prayerfully consider choices and how they affect your family.
- Husbands and wives, prayerfully counsel together understanding we are accountable to God.
- Errand of angels is given to women.
- Labor = missionary work, temple and family history, teaching gospel, care for poor and needy.
- Sustain and support bishop.
President Henry B. Eyring
- Consecrate time, talents and means to help others. Lift up those in need.
- Renew and strengthen commitment to act.
- Give a greater Fast Offering
- Everyone is happier and feels more self respect when we care for family and others.
- You cannot give yourself poor!
- Unity ... When we join hands to help people in need the Lord joins our hearts.
- Draw your family into the work with you.
- Seek out the poor.
- Upcoming "Day of Service"
- Go about doing good!
Sat. pm
President Dieter F. Uchtdorf
- thank you for your sustaining vote, your continued faith, devotion, and prayers.
By Brook P. Hales
- Statistical report informed of 52,225 missionaries (6 are from Royal II ward,2 are from Hebdon family, 3 are from Rodeback family)
President Boyd K. Packer
- Scriptures
- Use full name of the Church
- Restored Church, Gospel, Priesthood.
- Word of Wisdom
- Great Plan of Happiness centers on families.
- We must and we can resist temptations of any kind.
- Leave it alone! Can't bring her back, will only make it worse. Forgive and forget.
- Be positive and happy and not afraid of life.
- We can be guided by the Holy Ghost.
- Come unto Him.
Elder Russell M. Nelson
- We live to die and we die to live.
- All that the future holds in store for each sacred child of God will be shaped by his or her parents, family, friends, and teachers.
- Combat fears by strengthening faith.
- Let your faith be focused on our loving Heavenly Father and Savior, Jesus Christ.
- Each is a child of God, each born with challenges to overcome and Faith to be developed. Time of trial and testing.
- Teach of faith...
- Obedience!
- God's holy angels are ever on call to help us.
- The Lord responded by changing the Prophet's (Joseph Smith) perspective.
- All things work out for your good.
- God will heed your heart felt prayers.
- Pay tithing = keep your name enrolled ..., protect you ....
- Divine Nature & Infinite Worth
- Each reserved until this time to be born.
- Do not have to fight battles alone. He will help us.
-Our knowledge of the gospel and our love of our Heavenly Father and of our Savior will comfort and sustain us and bring joy to our hearts as we walk uprightly and keep the commandments.
- Pres. Monson's quote, Your future is as bright as your faith. Face your future with faith.
Elder Richard J. Maynes
- Eternal Families. Fundamental to order of Heaven.
- Child of God.
- Adversary wants to destroy the Plan.
- Christ centered home. (FHE, Fam scripture and prayer)
- Great power and protection ... in establishing celestial traditions in home and helping us overcome....
- Parents held accountable. Word and Example.
- Parents responsible to teach their children in love and righteousness...with words and through example.
- Children play important role / help make family strong.
Elder Cecil O. Samuelson Jr.
- Trust in the Lord - in His love and His timing.
- Remember the purpose of life is to be tested and stretched.
- Musts = daily prayer, scripture & gospel study, attend meetings, visiting teaching, hometeaching, assignments.
- People do good and important things because they have testimonies....we also gain testimonies because of what we do.
Elder Dallin H. Oaks
- Desire dictates our priorities, priorities shape our choices, choices determine our actions.
- 3 essentials that preceded the promised blessing: desire, labor and faith.
- Food vs Fast
- Faith = a desire to believe
- Seek the best things
- Readjust desire to things of eternity
- Cut and carve ourselves free from addictions...
- Lost desire for sin = a personal decision
- What consistently desire is what we'll become.
- Eternal beings / Help and love all
- Secure and preserve a marriage for eternity. Righteous desires that lead to eternal life.
Elder M. Russell Ballard
- Spring = renewal of light and life.
- All beareth record of Jesus Christ.
- So busy looking for large nuggets , missing the flecks of gold. By small and simple things great things are brought to pass.
- Focus on things that matter most.
- Love God with all heart, soul, mind, and love neighbor as self.
- Pure love of Christ =
Charity begins at home / Practice golden rule.
Serve in Church. No gossip or unkind words.
Serve in Community. Kindness is an essence of greatness.
Missionary service. Full time and as friends and neighbors.
- Glorious consequences flow from small but deliberate deeds.
- unless lose self in service of others there is little ... our lives.
Priesthood Session
Elder Neil L. Andersen
- Serve a mission.
- Sacrifice.
Elder Steven E. Snow
- Hope is an emotion which brings richness to our everyday lives.
- We must spend time in Family Home Evening and worthwhile family activities.
- We must teach our children to pray...read with them in the scriptures and teach them important gospel principles.
- Never let hope be displaced by fear.
- Press forward with a steadfastness in Christ, having a perfect brightness of hope, and a love of God and of all men.
Larry M. Gibson (1st C. YM)
- Priesthood Quorum responsibilities. Be worthy.
President Dieter F. Uchtdorf
- Do it! Now!
- Read scriptures and listen to the words of the prophets with all your heart and mind. Commit to reading scriptures and handbooks, with purpose and focus.
Don't let a day go by without doing something to act on the promptings of the Spirit.
- earnestly seek personal revelation and inspiration.
- experience joy in daily priesthood service.
President Henry B. Eyring
- learn duties of priesthood
- sit in counsel
- have love for each other that comes from great faith
- teach and be taught
- be a peacemaker
- patience and humility
- labor for the salvation of men
- be diligent and obedient in the priesthood
President Thomas S. Monson
- Personal worthiness!
- Many movies...(media) portray behavior which is in direct opposition to the laws of God. Do not subject yourself to the innuendo and outright filth which are so often found there.
- Lyrics... fall into same category.
- Do not use profane language. Stay away from pornography.
- Avoid alcohol, tobacco, drugs, addictions which you would be hard pressed to conquer.
- A strong testimony of our Savior and of His gospel will help see your through to safety.
- Read the Book of Mormon, prayerfully, desire to know truth.
- Do what is necessary to obtain a testimony and keep it vital and alive through obedience, regular prayer, scripture study.
- Attend church, seminary, institute.
- Cease any unrighteousness.
- reject false concepts and false teachings and remain true to that which God commands.
- there is no shame in having to scrimp and save...learn to sacrifice and make difficult decisions.
- be resourceful and committed to making your marriage work.
- exercise faith.
- seek an eternal companion...choose your love; love your choice.
- discipline selves so we stand above the ways of the world...be honorable and decent.
- be the right person.
- Safeguard, treasure, live worthy of the gift of the priesthood.
- let righteousness guide every step.
Sunday am
President Dieter F. Uchtdorf
- God speaks to His prophets and apostles and to all His children.
- "find self waiting"
- Diligently seek to find and know Him. Comes one piece at a time (like puzzle). Each piece helps us see the big picture more clearly then recognize the grand beauty of it all.
- Move forward with faith.
- Turn down the volume control
- hearken to the promptings of the Spirit and heed them.
- "Lord, what will Thou have me do?"
- Serve each other. Be sensitive.
- Texting and blogging...
- If we are joyful and at peace with world, people will want to know more.
- Preach gospel at all times and if necessary, use words!
- Move forward with faith, hope, charity.
Elder Paul V. Johnson
- Affliction is part of our mortal existence
- Trial of your faith to see if we'll do all the Lord commanded
- Putting on the Divine Nature.
- All that we suffered and endure builds character...
- "You won't be the same, you'll be awesome!"
- Burn away dross ... pure gold.
- Only way to see the views is to make the climb
- Investigators often face tribulation
- A particular challenge can prepare us for ...
- Face difficult challenges with faith.
Bishop H. David Burton
- Welfare program
- Personal responsibility and self reliance
- Purpose, promise, principles
- Service, sacrifice, consecration
- horse died, strapped yoke to their own backs
- be kind to the poor. Care for others. Be kind.
Silvia H. Allred (1st C. RS)
- One heart and one mind.
- Love the Lord and love neighbor as self.
- visit poor and needy and administer to...bless others...serve
- discipleship.
- RS
- Love is the guiding principle.
Elder David A. Bednar
- Two ordinary experiences with light.
- Spirit of revelation should be operative in our lives.
- Available to all who receive baptism and Holy Ghost and act in faith to receive.
- sincere desire and worthiness invite spirit of revelation.
- Thoughts and feeling that come into heart and mind.
- apply unto it
- Shun inappropriate media...addictive substances and behaviors. Tools of the adversary can impair and eventually destroy our capacity to recognize and respond to the subtle messages from God delivered by the power of His Spirit.
- Light turned on in a dark room = instant, complete, all at once = more rare than common
- Gradual rising sun - small increments over time, line upon line = more common than rare.
- Sometimes we overlook the small...
- Press forward obediently and with faith in the Savior.
- Do our best. Strive to do good and be better.
- Act, not be acted upon.
President Thomas S. Monson
- Welfare program inspired of God.
- Temples bring joy to faithful members...
- Sacrifice to attend and have Spirit in our homes.
- 85% of members live within 2 hours of a temple.
- The work is ours to do.
- Qualify to enter/worthy to enter temple.
- teach children importance of temples
- as go to temple and remember covenants we will be more able to bear every trial and overcome each temptation. We'll find peace and be renewed and fortified.
- Follow in the footsteps of the Savior.
Sunday pm
Elder Richard G. Scott
- 2 vital pillars (vital to God's plan) marriage and the family.
- Temple sealing will help you draw closer together and find greater joy and fulfillment in mortality.
- Don't waste time on idle pursuits.
- YM = serve mission and marry
- Express love and gratitude to spouse often
- Child forever theirs because of temple covenants
Elder D. Todd Christofferson
- "Be perfect even as I or Father in Heaven"
- done ... become
- willingly seek and accept correction / chastening
- Become self correcting.
- Parents must correct their children.
Elder Carl B. Pratt
- Teach family in home
- He remembers those who honestly pay tithing
- When obey = blessed
- Tithing is not a matter of money but of faith in the Lord.
- Lord does not promise wealth. He blesses with wisdom / wisdom to budget and to manage, etc.
- The Lord's richest blessings are spiritual. (family, friends, gospel)
Elder Lynn G. Robbins
- To Be or Not to Be! Even as I am! To BE or to DO
- do without being = hypocrites, pretender, false image to others
- be without doing = void (faith without works), false image to self
- do = baptism. be = faith. do = sacrament. be = worthy to partake of sacrament.
- To do = event list check off when done. To be = cannot be checked off, must always be.
- Be begets and is motive behind Do
- What attributes would correct behaviour?
- Discipline in love, not in anger, long suffering....by persuasion, longsuffering, gentleness, meekness, kindness.
- What we did wrong is not who we are. An act not an identity.
- Professions nor possessions should identify who one is.
- Develop Christlike attributes! Do as He did.
Elder Benjamin De Hoyos
- Radio talk show / religions of the world. Name of the Church given by God
- refers to it's members = Latter Day Saints
- To become saints = conduct family prayer and Scripture study, family history, consecrate time to worship in temple frequently, serve as missionaries... Charity...
- Come to know Savior thru afflictions and trials.
- Move forward with patience.
- Place confidence in the Lord and He will sustain us.
- Understanding of the doctrine of Christ and His Atonement will be the source of our strength and peace (internal tranquility)
- Let not your heart be troubled, nor afraid.
Elder C. Scott Grow
- his brother / Prodigal Son / miracle of Atonement
- repent & forsake sins
- Began in garden of Gethsemane...continued on cross...culminated at resurrection.
- moral agency / life style
- He heals the transgressor. He heals the innocent who suffer because of those transgressors.
- Immerse yourself in prayer and scripture study.
Elder Jeffrey R. Holland
- hill = Ensign Peak / conference = standard to nation
- Reflect on messages
- messages = no coordination except with heaven. Something for everyone. Mortal messengers with angelic messages.
- To comfort the afflicted and to afflict the comfortable (Harold B. Lee)
- can't always have it your way
- Salvation can only come His way.
President Thomas S. Monson
- Long remember messages and read and study them.
- Face challenges / Heavenly Father is mindful of us and will bless us.
- Be a good citizen and neighbor
- Be an example of honesty and integrity
- Love the Savior
General Young Women Meeting (March 26th)
Ann M. Dibb (2nd C. YW)
- 13th A of F is a guide for righteousness.
- be honest and true, sincere, steadfast, loyal...
- live the standards and strive to follow Christ's example.
Mary N. Cook (1st C. YW)
- benevolent = to wish someone well...to be kind, well meaning, and charitable.
- We must learn about the Savior and follow His ways.
- Unity
- refrain from judging and criticizing / make everyone feel valued
- be mindful of your grandparents and elderly
- be cheerful, helpful, and considerate of others. Seek to be a peacemaker rather than to tease, fight, and quarrel.
- Follow our prophet. Learn from his example and listen to his words.
- Center our lives on Jesus Christ.
- love and serve.
Elaine S. Dalton (YW Gen. Pres.)
- Walk in the path of virtue and cleave unto your covenants.
- Stand guard of yourself, your family, and all those with whom you associate. Be guardians of virtue. (a guardian is someone who protects, shields, and defends.)
- Personal training = daily personal prayers, daily reading of B0fM and working on Personal Progress.
- Always be modest in dress, speech, actions and in use of social media.
- Be faithful. Be obedient
- you will be given strength, the Holy Ghost will guide you, you'll be surrounded by heavenly hosts of angels.
- Prepare to enter temple and make covenants
President Henry B. Eyring
- Nurture your testimony. It can fortify you and lead your path to eternal life.
- Testimony comes in pieces and parts.
- frequent heartfelt prayers of faith are crucial, hungering for the word of God in the scriptures, and the obedience to the truth we have received
(Last updated 5/26/11)
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