2 Nephi 26

It is amazing how prophets speak to people of future generations with such great attachment and love. "And after Christ shall have risen from the dead he shall show himself unto you, my children, and my beloved brethren; and the words which he shall speak unto you shall be the law which ye shall do (1). "And after the Messiah shall come there shall be signs given unto my people of his birth, and also of his death and resurrection; and great and terrible shall that day be unto the wicked (3),...And they shall be visited with thunderings, and lightenings, and earthquakes, and all manner of destructions (6)...O the pain, and the anguish of my soul for the loss of the slain of my people! For I Nephi, have seen it, and it well nigh consumeth me before the presence of the Lord; but I must cry unto my God: Thy ways are just" (7).
Nephi rejoices in what the righteous will experience; "But behold, the righteous that hearken unto the words of the prophets, and destroy them not, but look forward unto Christ with steadfastness for the signs which are given, notwithstanding all persecution---behold, they are they which shall not perish. But the Son of righteousness shall appear unto them; and he shall heal them, and they shall have peace with him,..." (8-9).
Nephi again speaks of the Jews, but this time includes the Gentiles (other people). "And as I spake concerning the convincing of the Jews, that Jesus is the very Christ, it must needs be that the Gentiles be convinced also that Jesus is the Christ, the Eternal God; And that he manifesteth himself unto all those who believe in him, by the power of the Holy Ghost; yea, unto every nation, kindred, tongue, and people, working mighty miracles, signs, and wonders, among the children of men according to their faith" (12-13). God teaches all people of the world of his Son. Many great prophets have been instrumental in helping to mold peoples and nations character and to prepare a world ready to receive Christ.

2 Nephi 25

According to Nephi Isaiah's words are not easy to understand. Nephi delights in plainness and prophecies that his words will be easily understood (1-4). The Jews understood Isaiah's writings. Nephi understands the ways of the Jews and he is filled with prophecy so he can understand Isaiah's writings and his soul delighteth in them (4-7).
Nephi prophecies that the Jews will be destroyed from generation to generation because of iniquity. They will never be destroyed unless they are first warned by prophets (9). When Jesus comes among them they will reject Him and crucify him. After 3 days he will "rise from the dead, with healing in his wings; and all those who shall believe on his name shall be saved in the kingdom of God" (12-13). The Jews will be scattered among all nations (15) and be persecuted "until they shall be persuaded to believe in Christ, the Son of God, and the atonement, which is infinite for all mankind---and when that day is come that they shall believe in Christ, and worship the Father in his name, with pure hearts and clean hands...he will proceed to do a marvelous work and a wonder among the children of men" (16-17).

2 Nephi 24 compare Isa. 14

The Lord will choose Israel and set them in their own land (vs. 1). "In that day the Lord shall give thee rest, from thy sorrow and...fear (vs 3). "How art thou fallen from heaven, O Lucifer, son of the morning! Art thou cut down to the ground, which did weaken the nations (vs. 12)! Lucifer thought to rule over God (vs. 13-14). "Yet thou shalt be brought down to hell, to the sides of the pit" (vs. 15). The Lord has all power; He will rise up against the wicked so those that are oppressed by them will have "his yoke depart from off them, and his burden depart from off their shoulders" (vs.21-24 and 25). This is the purpose of the earth; "and this is the hand that is stretched out upon all nations" (vs. 26). Verses 28-31 is the destruction by the Assyrians in succeeding generations (this could represent the destruction in the last days). Verse 32 brings comfort and a message "What shall then answer the messengers of the nations? That the Lord hath founded Zion, and the poor of his people shall trust in it."

2 Nephi 23 compare Isa. 13

I have not wanted to post about this chapter and have put it off today because it is a description of the destruction of the wicked. My heart aches for the wicked, for those that desire to do harm rather than good. I feel like Ammon and his brethren when they were so concerned about the souls of the Lamanites because they did not want them to be lost. According to Parry (1998) verses 2-5 "comprises the Lord's command to us to gather Israel by hoisting a banner or ensign on a mountain; calling with a voice; and beckoning with the hand. When these three signals are given, the earth cannot doubt the veracity of the invitation to join the Saints in Zion.
Those who gather will come from all parts of the earth (13:5), will be sanctified in the temple (13:3), and will become part of the Lord's army to serve in the holy war against evil (13:4-5), all of which will occur in preparation for the Lord's coming when he will destroy modern Babylon as he destroyed ancient Babylon. As the Lord invites his people to gather to Zion, and the temple, Satan simultaneously entices people to become part of Babylon (14:4-20)" (p. 129). We know that we will not be left alone, to fight this battle against evil. Ultimately God will be the one to wage the war of destruction and end the conflict. Such phraseology as destroy the whole land, howl ye, hands be faint, every man's heart shall melt, afraid, pangs and sorrows, faces as flames, punish the world for evil, shake the heavens, and the earth shall remove out of her place, consummate the sorrow of this time.

2 Nephi 22 compare Isaiah 12. Merry Christmas!

A better chapter for Christmas morning could not have been handpicked. I too, with Isaiah, praise and honor the Lord this joyous day. In the book "Understanding Isaiah," Parry refers to Isaiah 12 as "Israel's 'Songs of Salvation' that we will sing in the future, perhaps at Christ's coming or during the Millennium." Verse 2 introduces this work as just that, "Behold, God is my salvation; I will trust, and not be afraid; for the Lord Jehovah is my strength and my song; he also has become my salvation." Verse 6 refers to the time we will sing this song, "Cry out and shout, thou inhabitant of Zion; for great is the Holy One of Israel in the midst of thee." When Christ will reign in our midst we will honor him and all that he has accomplished for us and this will be known in all the earth.

2 Nephi 21compare Isaiah 11

There is so much we can learn from Isaiah about our day and Christ's Millennial reign. I am grateful that the earth will be prepared and return to its Eden state. This is why the destruction of the wicked is immanent. The earth cannot be in a temple-like state without a cleansing. "They shall not hurt nor destroy in all my holy mountain..." (vs. 9). The term mountain has always been used when referring to temples, as introduced by Moses when he went into the mount to speak to the Lord. Verse 9 also teaches that the "earth shall be full of the knowledge of the Lord. Joseph Smith quoted this statement, but he added that it will be 'sacred knowledge' that will fill the earth" (Parry, Parry, & Petersen p. 120).
Verse 11 teaches that the Lord will "set his hand again the second time to recover his people."
My favorite verse is verse 8, "And the sucking child shall play on the hole of the asp, and the weaned child shall put his hand on the cockatrice's den. Parry (1998) makes it apparent that this does not only refer to the peacefulness between man and beast; it refers to God's children not being harmed by poisonous serpents, or the one who is referred to as the serpent. Satan will be bound during Christ's Millennial reign.

His Hand is Stretched out Still

There are several running themes in the Book of Isaiah. In chapters 19 and 20 of second Nephi His hand is stretched out still is used to depict the tender mercies of the Lord. Prior to this statement is cited the unrighteous behavior of the inhabitants of the earth. The oppressor and the oppressed are mentioned in chapter 20, which is Isaiah's chapter 10.

The oppressor makes unrighteous decrees and write grievousness which they have prescribed (vs. 1). These decrees turn away the needy and prey upon the widows and fatherless (vs. 2). They, the oppressors, will take charge of the spoil (or the wealth) and tread down the people (vs. 6). His (the oppressor's) heart is to destroy and cut off nations (vs. 7). They are proud and do make themselves altogether kings (vs. 8). He saith, "By the strength of my hand and by my wisdom I have done these things; for I am prudent; and I have moved the borders of the people and have robbed their treasures, and I have put down the inhabitants like a valiant man; and my hand hath found as a nest the riches of the people; and as one gathereth eggs that are left have I gathered all the earth; and there was none that moved the wing, or opened the mouth, or peeped" (vs. 13 -14).

The Lord's response to the wicked oppressor, "I will punish the fruit of the stout heart of the king of Assyria, and the glory of his high looks" (vs 12). The Lord asks, "Shall the ax boast itself against him that heweth therewith? Shall the saw magnify itself against him that shaketh it (vs. 15)? "Behold, the Lord, the Lord of Hosts shall lop the bough with terror; and the high ones of stature shall be hewn down; and the haughty shall be humbled" (vs. 33).

The oppressed ( saith the Lord) "without me shall bow down under the prisoners, and they shall fall under the slain (vs. 4). " The Assyrian; he shall smite thee with a rod, and shall lift up his staff against thee' (vs 24). There shall be a scourge and a slaughter (vs. 26).

The Lord's has two responses to the oppressed. The Lord will send leanness and kindle a burning of fire (vs. 17), "And the light of Israel shall be for a fire, and his Holy One for a flame, and shall burn and shall devour his thorns and his briers in one day" (vs. 18). He counsels "O my people that dwellest in Zion, be not afraid...For yet a very little while, and the indignation shall cease, and mine anger in their destruction" (vs. 24 and 25). The Lord needs to perform his whole work (of refining) upon Mount Zion and upon Jerusalem (vs. 12). But "his burden shall be taken away from off thy shoulder, and his yoke from off thy neck, and the yoke shall be destroyed because of he anointing (footnote; Jesus Christ, Messiah)" (vs. 27).

Chapter 21 speaks more of what the Lord will do for those that have endured the refining process and chosen righteousness over wickedness, those who have not turned their backs on Jesus Christ but have allowed Him to embrace, nurture, teach and guide them. Yet to all the theme that rings clear and strong to all, both the oppressor and the oppressed is "But His hand is stretched out still" (Chap. 19:12, 17, 21; Chap 20:4). And we shall lift up the voice (vs. 30) and shout, "For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given; and the government shall be upon his shoulder; and his name shall be called, Wonderful, Counselor, The Might God, The Everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace. Of the increase of government and peace there is no end, upon the throne of David, and upon his kingdom to order it, and to establish it with judgment and with justice from henceforth, even forever..." (2 Nephi 19:6).

2 Nephi 18 compare Isaiah 8

Isaiah is given a prophecy from the Lord. He records this prophecy with two witnesses. He is told that his wife (the prophetess) will conceive and that before the baby is old enough to call them mother and father "that Assyria will capture Damascus, Syria, Samaria, and Israel" (Parry, Parry & Peterson, 1998 p. 82). The child's name Maher-shalal-hash-baz means "destruction is imminent" (footnote 1b). Parry (1998) parallels this prophecy with the announcement of Jesus birth in Isaiah's preceding chapter. "Both were named by revelation from God, and both entered the world during times of political upheaval and warfare. Maher-shalal-hash-baz prophesies the manner in which Israel would be speedily destroyed and then plundered; likewise, Jesus Christ will come down to judge the world and speedily destroy those who are wicked. Jewish tradition holds that the prophetess belonged to a royal line. If this is indeed true, then Maher-shalal-hash-baz was of royal lineage, as was Jesus Christ" (Parry, 1998 p. 81-82).

Parry D., Parry J., Peterson T. (1998) Understanding Isaiah. Salt Lake City, UT. Deseret Book Company, Inc.

2 Nephi 17 compare Isaiah 7

Ahaz, king of Judah was concerned because two great enemies were warring against Jerusalem (vs. 1) and desire to conquer her. In verse 4 the Lord quiets Ahaz and encourages him to not be faint-hearted for "It shall not stand,neither shall it come to pass" (vs. 7). Verse 11 speaks of asking for a sign and verse 14 answers that request; "Therefore, the Lord himself shall give you a sign--Behold, a virgin shall conceive, and shall bear a son, and shall call his name Immanuel." According to the Bible dictionary the meaning of Immanuel is "God with us. Also Emmanuel. A name-title given as a sign of God's deliverance. Identified by Matthew (1:18-25) as a prophecy of Jesus' birth into mortality. It signifies that Christ as God will be born into mortality of a virgin and will be among the people to save and redeem them. This prophecy received its fulfillment in Christ."

2 Nephi 15 compare Isaiah 5

I once had a friend tell me that first he needed to cast the stones out and prepare the soil before he could plant the seed. Verse 2 mentions gathering out the stones and planting the choicest vine. The vine brought forth wild grapes (vs. 4). Then he does something unusual he takes away the protective hedge and wall (vs. 5) and allows thorns to grow; he doesn't dig it or prune it and he withholds rain from it (vs. 6). How can this be beneficial for his choice vine? Verses 12 and 13 speak of a people who regard not the Lord (have no knowledge), they are famished and thirsty. Verse 14 describes hell as opening her mouth wide. I imagine a whirlpool and we are being sucked in. But the mighty and lofty will be humbled (vs. 15). "But the Lord of Hosts shall be exalted in judgment, and God that is holy shall be sanctified in righteousness" (vs. 16).

This is also the chapter the refers to our day as when people will "call evil good, and good evil, that put darkness for light, and light for darkness, that put bitter for sweet, and sweet for bitter!" (vs. 20). "Who justify the wicked for reward, and take away the righteousness of the righteous from him!" (vs. 23) Yet we need not fear for the Lord "...he will lift up an ensign to the nations from far, and will hiss unto them from the end of the earth; and behold, they shall come with speed swiftly; none shall be weary or stumble among them" (vs. 26). Let us be strong in the strength of the Lord. It is when we are famished and thirsty that if we turn to the Lord he can send the blessings of the rains and the protective wall and hedge and then he can til the soil and we will bring forth good fruit, not wild fruit and we will be harvested.

2 Nephi 13 compare Isaiah 3

In Hebrew the word holy "has the root meaning of temple...The group becomes holy because of the cleansing/purging process identified by Isaiah as the 'spirit of judgment' and the spirit of burning' (4:4)" (Parry, 1998 p. 48). Much of this chapter according to Parry (p. 48-49) is about the cleansing process of the temple and how the temple in the latter-days is a place of spiritual safety and refuge. The atonement is also significant in this chapter. "The filth of the children of Israel will be washed away by the ordinance of baptism and cleansed by the blood of Jesus, a process in which the Holy Ghost plays a prominent role. Joseph Smith taught that 'as the Holy Ghost falls upon one of the literal seed of Abraham, it is calm and serene; and his whole soul and body are only exercised by the spirit of intelligence; while the effect of the Holy Ghost upon a gentile, is to purge out the old blood, and make him actually of the seed of Abraham'...Jesus blood is able to purge and cleanse our souls from iniquity because of Jesus' innocence, sinlessness, and perfection."

Parry, D., Parry, J., Peterson, T. (1998) Understanding Isaiah. Salt Lake City, UT, Deseret Book Company.

2 Nephi 12 and Zechariah 10

Verse 3 of 2 Nephi 12 is one of the places where it is written that when Christ reigns upon the earth, the word of the Lord will come from Jerusalem, and the law will come from Zion (or the American Continent). Prior to Christ's second coming the Lord will have forsaken the house of Jacob because they are replenished from the east (soothsayers) (vs. 6). Many in our great nation are no longer listening to God, they are relying on the wisdom of men and some of our leaders and citizens are being directed, or replenished by those in eastern countries. In Zechariah 10:2 we are informed that "the diviners have seen a lie, and have told false dreams." We need to be careful that we are not listening to the wrong voices and are not "at ease in Zion" (2 Nephi 28:24-25). We are told that in the last days there will be no end to our treasures or our chariots, and we will worship what we make with our own hands. The great and the mean man will not humble himself before the Lord (vs. 7-9). But when the Day of the Lord comes the proud and the lofty will be brought low and the LORD alone shall be exalted (vs. 12, 17). God will bring again Abraham's seed out of Egypt and Assyria(Zech.10:9-12). We know that the tribe of Judah (Jews) were restored to Israel after they had been taken captive. We also know that Abraham's seed have been scattered throughout the whole earth and they will be restored in the latter-days. And Judah will be made as God's goodly horse in battle (Zech. 10: 3). "And they shall be as mighty men, which tread down their enemies in the mire of the streets in the battle: and they shall fight, because the Lord is with them, and the riders on horses shall be confounded" (10: 6). In times past, a good horse was everything in battle and often the reason for being victorious. The wicked will be smitten (2 Nephi 12:10) their gold and silver will have no value (vs. 20). They shall go into mountains, rocks and caves because of the fear of the Lord, for his glory will shake terribly the earth (vs. 12). I love verse 22, "Cease ye from man, whose breath is in his nostrils; for wherein is he to be accounted of." Men when they get power, in worldly circles, feel they are unconquerable; but, the truth is they are just flesh. Evil men may cause injustices, but the Lord can easily smite them. He is all powerful, he created man; He put the breath of life into man, and He can just as easily take it from him. God allows man to flounder, to test each wo/man's merit, to strengthen the weak through experience but those who trod men under their feel and defile them will have to suffer. This is the Lord's determination and judgment. We as humans are all fallen and sinful; we all need redemption which comes only through Christ, Jesus.

2 Nephi 11

The law of witnesses is established in verses two and three. Jacob, Nephi, and Isaiah testify that they have seen their Redeemer. Nephi delights in proving unto his people the truth of the coming of Christ (vs. 4). All truth comes from God. Truth is gained from many sources, but the truth that teaches of God's Son is most valuable. Verse four also mentions, "all things that have been given of God...are for the typifying of him (Christ)." God created the heavens and the earth which also typify of Christ. The earth alone with all its complexities and beauty testify there is a supreme creator. "For if there be no Christ there be no God; and if there be no God we are not, for there could have been no creation. But there is a God, and he is Christ" (vs. 7). I with Nephi delight in truth. "And by the power of the Holy Ghost ye may know the truth of all things" (Moroni 10:5).

2 Nephi 10

I love the promises in the Book of Mormon; "And this land shall be a land of liberty unto the Gentiles, and there shall be no kings upon the land, who shall raise up unto the Gentiles." This also reflects Crystal's last post. When we see our nation struggling to remain a free the promises for the last days are reassuring; that we shall be a free nation, that the wicked will not destroy the righteous, that the church will continue to roll forward, and that Jesus Christ will return in glory.

I also love the last three verses of this chapter that focus on the principle of agency. "Therefore cheer up your hearts, and remember that ye are free to act for yourselves--to choose the way of everlasting death or the way of eternal life. Wherefore, my beloved brethren, reconcile yourselves to the will of God, and not to the will of the devil and the flesh; and remember, after ye are reconciled unto God, that is is only in and through the grace of God that ye are saved. Wherefore, may God raise you from death by the power of the resurrection, and also from everlasting death by the power of the atonement that ye may be received into the eternal kingdom of God, that ye may praise him through grace divine. Amen" (vs. 23-25). Grace is a powerful gospel principle as well. We are free to choose, but it is only through grace after all we can do that we can be saved. In this mortal state we are all sinners and are fallen and therefore have to rely on the grace of God.

2 Nephi 9

These are my favorite verses from 2 Nephi 9. Jacob is still teaching his people. "For I know that ye have searched much, many of you, to know of things to come' wherefore I know that ye know that our flesh must waste away and die; nevertheless, in our bodies we shall see God" (vs. 4). "For as death hat passed upon all men to fulfil the merciful plan of the great Creator, there must needs be a power of resurrection and the resurrection must needs come unto man by reason of the fall; and the fall came by reason of transgression; and because man became fallen they were cut off from the presence of the Lord" (vs. 6). "And because of the way of deliverance of our God; the Holy One of Israel, this death, of which I have spoken, which is the temporal, shall deliver up its dead; which death is the grave" (vs. 11). "O the greatness of the mercy of our God, the Holy One of Israel! For he delivereth his saints from that awful monster the devil, and death, and hell, and that lake of fire and brimstone, which is endless torment" (vs. 19). "For the atonement satisfieth the demands of his justice upon all those who have not the law given to them, that they are delivered from that awful monster, death and hell, and the devil, and the lake of fire and brimstone, which is endless torment; and they are restored to that God who gave them breath, which is the Holy One of Israel" (vs. 26). "O, my beloved brethren, give ear to my words. Remember the greatness of the Holy One of Israel. Do not say that I have spoken hard things against you; for if ye do, ye will revile against the truth; for I have spoken the words of your Maker. I know that the words of truth are hard against uncleanness; but the righteous fear them not, for they love the truth and are not shaken" (vs. 40). I also like verse 20, "O how great the holiness of our God! For he knoweth all things, and there is not anything save he knows it."

2 Nephi 8

Isaiah instructs the righteous to look to Abraham from whence we came (vs. 1). The Lord will comfort Zion and make her wilderness Eden- the garden of the Lord. Joy, gladness, thanksgiving and the voice of melody will be found therein (vs. 3). They way Isaiah writes is eloquent. There is none that can compare with the imagery. How could anything be more descriptive than Eden being referred to as the garden of the Lord. The next example also describes the law of the Lord and what God wants us to understand about his law. It is better than anything I have ever heard or read. "a law shall proceed from me, and I will make my judgment to rest for a light for the people" (vs. 4). This brings at least two images or ideas into my mind. One is a light that shines in darkness; it is clear and bright with no illusion, no misconception. The next is how God's law lightens our burdens, so not only does it give us a clear, or bright path to follow, but the Lord doing so, lifts our challenges and make them easy to bear. This is especially true, not only when we accept his guidance, but, when we feel his constant presence. It eases all trouble, all sorrow, and all sin. It heals and replenishes. I look forward to that day when the heavens and earth shall vanish away like smoke (vs. 6). We need not fear as we put on our strength in the Lord. My people, in whose heart I have written my law fear not men, neither their reproach nor their reviling (vs. 7). When Zion is established "the redeemed of the Lord shall return, and come with singing unto Zion; and everlasting joy and holiness shall be upon their heads; and they shall obtain gladness and joy; sorrow and mourning shall flee away" (vs. 11). "As the Lord created the heaven and the earth originally, so will he create a new heaven and a new earth in the millennial day" (Parry, P. 1998, p. 455).

Parry, P. and Parry, J. and Peterson, T. Understanding Isaiah. Salt Lake City, UT. Deseret Book

2 Nephi 7

I feel that I get so much more out of these scriptures than I am able to share but I will continue to try my best. "Wherefore, when I came, there was no man; when I called, yea, there was none to answer. O house of Israel, is my hand shortened at all that it cannot redeem, or have I no power to deliver?..." (vs. 2). God is the one that has the power, not us. "Behold all ye that kindle fire, that compass yourselves about with sparks, walk in the light of your fire and in the sparks which ye have kindled. This shall ye have of mine hand---ye shall lie down in sorrow" (vs. 11). The last part of this verse is not a threat, just the end result of trying to live without God. In my college course a healthy sense of self and a healthy sense of need are explored. Autonomy is important for ambition, understanding and adventure but there are natural limits. We see this in young children as they "encounter trials of hunger, injury, or loneliness, they...turn to their caregiver for help and comfort. The same pattern can be seen in (our) spiritual lives. In order to draw close to God, to understand his grace and love, we must also understand our need for God" (p. 36) Paul in Romans 7 could "not find God's healing love until he acknowledged his broken, needy condition (p. 37). "A healthy awareness of human fallenness enhances our relationship with God by getting our eyes off ourselves and onto God's magnificent character" (p. 42). "A healthy sense of self allows us to exercise freedom, accept responsibility, and make good decisions. A healthy sense of need allows us to keep our humanness in perspective and to keep us looking to God for hope and direction" (p. 83). To draw our attention to God's magnificent character verses 2 and 3 mention a few of the things God has power to do, such as, dry up the sea, make the rivers a wilderness, clothe the heavens with blackness. God's mightiest power is exemplified in the saving of each human soul and how we are turned to him through the challenges of daily life. When I find myself focusing on myself and all that I have to accomplish; ignoring or shutting out promptings with my business; this is when I feel anxious, annoyed and rushed. When I let Christ into my life and have a prayer in my heart in all I do; I feel centered and at peace. I pray for the day when my confidence in God and his ways will wax strong and make me sufficient. I do know it is my times of trial that have moved me closer to God, through prayer and scripture study, and for this I am eternally grateful. I love my Savior and his saving power. He is mighty to save.

McMinn, M. (1996) Psychology, Theology, and Spirituality in Christian Counseling, Carol Streams, IL. Tyndale House Publishers, Inc.

2 Nephi 5 and 6

v. 5- The Lord warned Nephi that he should take those with him that would follow and flee into the wilderness. I have heard many stories about people that were warned and either fled or prepared themselves. I remember the story of a pioneer family that was sleeping in a covered wagon and the father was warned to move the wagon. Shortly after, lightning struck the tree where the wagon had been resting. The family would have been crushed. In Relief Society yesterday they talked about the earthquake in Chile and how the mission president's wife felt inspired to give the elders specific instructions about how they were to handle themselves when the earthquake would hit. There was not one missionary lost in the earthquake and many of the local leaders had also been impressed to prepare the members. The same thing had happened with the typhoon in the gulf. The leaders instructed members to evacuate and were unharmed because of their obedience. This is how the Lord uses commandments and inspiration. Commandments are specifically designed for our benefit.

When Jacob teaches the people it is recorded, "I am desirous for the welfare of your souls. Yea, mine anxiety is great for you" (vs. 3). I am grateful for concerned leaders who strive to strengthen the members of the church and give them the counsel they need so they can return to live with their Heavenly Father again.

2 Nephi 4 and Esther 3-5

This weeks Sunday School reading is entitled, "If I Perish, I Perish." Daniel and Esther both may have perished by someone's hand. Lehi dies in this chapter, but it is then Nephi who is left to deal with his brothers and has to flee for his life in the following chapter. Daniel, Esther, and Nephi all had great courage.

Nephi referred to the prophecies of Joseph who was carried into Egypt. Nephi states, "And the prophecies which he wrote, there are not many greater. And he prophesied concerning us, and our future generation; and they are written upon the plates of brass. I often wonder about the writing on the brass plates and how many more things we do not have in our Bible because the brass plates were carried into the wilderness with Lehi's family. Would these writings still have been lost to us even if they had remained in Jerusalem when Jerusalem was destroyed? I wish we had the writings of Joseph (vs. 2) and Zenos (Jacob 5-6 and Alma 32), Zenoch and Moses (Alma 32).

2 Nephi 3 and Daniel 6

The last time I read Lehi's blessing to Joseph I discovered that his seed would not all be destroyed (vs. 3). This meant a great deal to me because I thought all the Nephites were destroyed. I like the terminology about the writings of Judah and the writings of Joseph growing together (vs. 12). I have seen this happen quite often as I have been studying the Old Testament and the Book of Mormon.

In the book of Daniel Darius is appointed king. He appointed one hundred and twenty princes and three presidents and Daniel was preferred over the presidents and the princes, "because an excellent spirit was in him" (vs. 3). The presidents and princes were jealous of Daniel and sought to find something against him. They could not find anything. So they sought to find something against him in the way he worshiped his God. They knew that he prayed to his God so they got the king to sign a royal decree stating that the people could only petition King Darius for 30 days, or be thrown in the lion's den. We all know the ending of this story. Darius fasted for Daniel and asked him to petition his God because he knew He could deliver him. The life that Daniel lived caused Darius to believe in Daniel's God.

2 Nephi 2 and Daniel 3

Han-a-niah, Mishe-el, and Az-a-riah alias, Shadrach, Meshach, and A-bed--ne-go would not kneel down and worship the idol the king had built, and commanded that everyone should worship. (I found this interesting because many of the Jews in Jerusalem had been worshiping idols). The king asked them why they would not worship his idol and he rehearsed unto them the punishment of being burned in a fiery furnace. They answered, "If it be so, our God whom we serve is able to deliver us from the burning fiery furnace, and he will deliver us out of thine hand, O king" (Daniel 3:17). The king was angry and he had the furnace heated 7 times hotter than usual. The mighty men that threw these three young men into the furnace died from the heat. Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego were delivered. The king said that "there is no other God that can deliver after this sort" (vs. 29).

Jacob, Lehi's firstborn in the wilderness, also suffered many afflictions. This was not at the hand of a king but his own brothers. Lehi told Jacob that God would consecrate his afflictions for his gain (2 Nephi 2:2). Jacob had seen his Redeemer; "And thou hast beheld in thy youth his glory; wherefore, thou art blessed even as they unto whom he shall minister in the flesh..." (vs. 4). Shadrach, Meshach, and A-bednego also beheld His glory while in the fiery furnace; It was reported to the king "...Lo, I see four men loose, walking in the midst of the fire, and they have no hurt; and the form of the fourth is like the Son of God" (Daniel 3:25). "Wherefore, how great the importance to make these things known unto the inhabitants of the earth, that they may know that there is no flesh that can dwell in the presence of God, save it be through the merits, and mercy, and grace of the Holy Messiah..." (2 Nephi 2:8). "And men are instructed sufficiently that they know good from evil..." (vs. 5). "Wherefore, men are free according to the flesh; and all things are given them which are expedient unto man, And they are free to choose liberty and eternal life, through the great Mediator of all men, or to choose captivity and death, according to the captivity and power of the devil...And now, my sons (and daughters), I would that ye should look to the great Mediator, and hearken unto his great commandments; and be faithful unto his words, and choose eternal life, according to the will of his Holy Spirit" (vs. 27-28). The creation, the fall, Adam and Eve, and opposition in all things, are also spoken of in this chapter and I cannot begin to do it justice. This is a powerful chapter. As I read about the creation and also about prophets testimonies I thought about those who deny the creation and call it creationism; I felt to listen to Alma's testimony and echo with him, "...For behold, I say unto you, I know there is a God, and also that Christ shall come. An now what evidence have ye that there is no God, or that Christ cometh not? I say unto you that ye have none, save it be your word only. But, behold, I have all things as a testimony that these things are true; and ye also have all things as a testimony unto you that they are true...Ye have testimony of all...the holy prophets...yea, all things denote there is a God; yea, even the earth, and all things that are upon the face of it, yea, and its motion, yea, and also all the planets which move in their regular form do witness that there is a Supreme Creator" (39-44).

2 Nephi 1 and Daniel 1

It has been interesting how my Book of Mormon reading is keeping right in step with the Old Testament Sunday School reading. Lehi tells his children that he has seen a vision wherein Jerusalem has been destroyed. The first verse in Daniel tells us that the King of Babylon came to Jerusalem and besieged it. He also carried away children of Israel and of the king's seed and brought them to be taught in the language and arts of the Chaldeans (vs. 3-4).

There is also a comparison between Lehi's counsel to his sons to be men and the type of men Daniel and his friends turn out to be. Lehi further explains, "be determined in one mind and in one heart, united in all things" (vs. 21). This also reminds me of Adam's blog post about masculinity that he posted several months ago (very well written). Daniel, Han-a-niah, Misha-el, and Az-a-riah refused to eat of the kings meat and drink of his wine. They were determined in one heart and one mind. They also were aware of the consequences of disobeying the king. They became stronger in mind and in body eating pulse and water to drink than they others that were fed on the kings meat. "As for these four children, God gave them knowledge and skill in all learning and wisdom: and Daniel had understanding in all visions and dreams" (vs. 17). The king found none like them and they stood before the king in all matters of wisdom and understanding (vs. 18-20).

I just love verse 15. Lehi is saying that he must soon die, "But behold, the Lord hath redeemed my soul from hell; I have beheld his glory, and I am encircled about eternally in the arms of his love.

1 Nephi 22

This is the second time recorded that Nephi's brothers asked him for enlightenment of spiritual things. To me it is ironic because many times they complain that Nephi takes it upon himself to be a leader over them. They asked him if the things that Isaiah had written pertained to things that were spiritual or things that were temporal. Nephi said it was both then he proceeded to tell how it was temporal in that the tribes of Israel will be scattered and they will be gathered. I think what I like most is that Nephi doesn't end with only interpreting what they have read about the gathering of the righteous and the destruction of the wicked but he dwells for sometime on the second coming of Jesus Christ and what the conditions will be. He also talks about how the righteous will be preserved in the final days when they wicked are fighting against the wicked. Nephi addresses the different ways that people are led away from Christ, through the lusts of the flesh, to be popular, to get gain, and power. I do belief there is a difference between being wicked and being weak. The wicked seek to control others and to lead them to be captive. The weak are those that submit to the wicked and the captivity of the devil.
I look forward to the coming of our Lord and Savior. I have never been very concerned about what might transpire prior to his coming, until recently. In this I probably err because it shows my lack of confidence in how God prepares and nurtures his children. We need to be humbled (or as it states in my recent college class "broken") so we can turn to the Lord for support, guidance, and peace. Verse 25 states "And he gathereth his children from the four quarters of the earth; and he numbereth his sheep, and they know him; and there shall be one fold and one shepherd; and he shall feed his sheep, and in him they shall find pasture." Christ loves all of his children and teaches them. He listens to their concerns and waits patiently for them to implore him in earnest prayer.

1 Nephi 21

Hearken ye that are broken off. Listen, O isles of the sea (vs. 1). The Lord will bring Jacob and be a light to the Gentiles (vs. 6). Kings shall see and princes shall arise and worship (vs. 7). The prisoners (those in spirit prison) that sit in darkness shall feed in thy ways, and their pastures shall be in high places (vs. 9). "Sing, O heavens; and be joyful, O earth; for the feet of those who are in the east shall be established; and break forth into singing, O mountains; for they shall be smitten no more; for the Lord hath comforted his people, and will have mercy upon his afflicted. But, behold, Zion hath said: The Lord hath forsaken me--but he will show that he hath not...Yea, they may forget, yet will I not forget thee, O house of Israel Behold, I have graven thee upon the palms of my hands; thy walls are continually before me (vs. 13-16). I have lost my children; I was left alone (vs. 21). The Gentiles shall bring thy sons in their arms (vs. 22). For I will contend with him that contendeth with thee, and I will save thy children (vs. 25). I, the Lord, am thy Savior and thy Redeemer, the Mighty One of Jacob (vs. 26).

1 Nephi 20 and Ezekiel 47

After Nephi tells us (the reader) that he teaches his people from the words of the prophet Isaiah he reads from Isaiah's writings in Chapter 20 and 21. In chapter 23 he then proceeds to liken these writings to themselves for their "profit and learning" and to "persuade them to believe in the Lord their Redeemer" (1 Nephi 19:23). Of our Redeemer Isaiah teaches, "And thus saith the Lord, thy Redeemer, the Holy One of Israel; I have sent him, the Lord thy God who teacheth thee to profit, who leadeth thee by the way thou shouldst go, hath done it. O that thou hadst hearkened to my commandments---then had thy peace been as a river, and thy righteousness as the waves of the sea" (vs. 17-18). "...The Lord hath redeemed his servant Jacob. And they thirsted not; he led them through the deserts; he caused the waters to flow out of the rock for them; he clave the rock also and the waters gushed out. And notwithstanding he hath done all this, and greater also, there is no peace, saith the Lord, unto the wicked" (vs. 20-22). Isaiah had been addressing those who were already baptized and had taken upon themselves Christ's name, those that call themselves "of the holy city." He tells them that from the beginning he has taught them former things. In other words he knows that they understand the gospel because they have been sufficiently taught.
The symbol of water is very important to the Lord. Water is the giver of all life, just as Jesus Christ is. Without Jesus we would not have spiritual or physical life. The Lord teaches Ezekiel about many things using water. When he crosses a river it is up to his ankles. He is instructed to cross again and it is up to his knees. Then again and it is up to his loins. Finally it becomes a great river that cannot be crossed. This river is flowing from the east side of the temple and it cleanses the Dead Sea. This chapter talks of trees, fruit, fishes and fishermen. To me this represents spreading the gospel. I know all peoples lives can benefit from the gospel. I also know that many people are already living lives of great worth even without the gospel because they listen to the Holy Spirit. I just love that the gospel gives even greater knowledge and blessings. It also brings with it greater responsibility, which is understandable. It is no different than someone gaining wisdom in the medical field and then not using or sharing it to benefit others. In verse 11 Ezekiel tells us that not all the sea will be healed. "But the miry places thereof and the marshes thereof shall not be healed; they shall be given to salt. It also talks of rivers being the borders of the inheritance of the Ten Tribes when they are restored. Oh to see the face of the land when it becomes beautified with Christ's return. All these things have been taught since the beginning of time and prophets have preserved the Lord's words for all God's children of all dispensations as they were ready to hear.

1 Nephi 19 and Ezekiel 44

Chapter 19 covers record keeping, the importance of prophets, weaknesses, what Jesus did for all mankind and people's reactions to him, the gathering of His people in the latter-days, and likening the scriptures to our own lives. It is always challenging to know what to choose as my favorite part. I love my Savior, Jesus Christ, so I'll begin there. In verse 11 it states that the Lord will visit all his people, "some with his voice, and others with lightnings and thunderings, but this is not the most important part of Nephi's message. In verse 9 the people spit upon Jesus and scourged him and he suffered it, "because of his loving kindness and his long-suffering towards the children of men." I guess what amazes me most about this situation is that a people could turn their backs upon Him after the many miracles he had performed in their behalf. They turned their hearts aside. When Israel (the Lord's people) are gathered in, "Yea, and all the earth shall see the salvation of the Lord, saith the prophet; every nation, kindred, tongue and people shall be blessed" (vs. 17), I know there will be great rejoicing.
I love verses 1-3 in Ezekiel. The Lord shows unto Ezekiel a gate. "Then said the Lord unto me; This gate shall be shut, it shall not be opened , and no man shall enter in by it; because the Lord, the God of Israel, hath entered in by it, therefore it shall be shut. It is for the prince; the prince, he shall sit in it to eat bread before the Lord; he shall enter by the way of the porch of that gate, and shall go out by the way of the same." I am grateful for that day when Christ entered that gate riding upon the donkey, and the people showed great love, devotion, and respect for their Lord and their King.

1 Nephi 18 and Ezekiel 43

In the preceding chapter verse 8, the Lord told Nephi, "construct a ship, after the manner which I shall show thee, that I may carry these people across these waters." "...and we did work timbers of curious workmanship. And the Lord did show me from time to time after what manner I should work the timbers of the ship. Now I, Nephi, did not work the timbers after the manner which was learned by men, neither did I build the ship after the manner of men; but I did build it after the manner which the Lord had shown unto me; Wherefore, it was not after the manner of men. And I, Nephi, did go into the mount oft, and I did pray oft unto the Lord; wherefore the Lord showed unto me great things" (1 Nephi 18:1-3).

Ezekiel did also receive very specific instructions about how to build something. His vision was pertaining to the construction of the temple. Our Heavenly Father at times gives us very specific directions. Sometimes we are given just general guidelines, but other times we are blessed with greater detail and step by step directions. I am grateful for whatever guidance and direction we are given. I am also grateful for the temple and the instruction given there. There are so many other teachings in this chapter, but I try to focus on just one or two.

1 Nephi 17 and Ezekiel 34

Friday I had so much homework that I couldn't see how I could get enough of it done so I could attend the temple the next day. (Hence the reason I haven't been posting; I have been reading, just not posting). But I just threw whatever I could find into my paper; finished my rough draft Friday night, and prof read it on the way home from the temple. Then typed the changes into my paper when I got home. It was amazing. "And thus we see that the commandments of the Lord (in this case, going to the temple) must be fulfilled. And if it so be that the children of men keep the commandments of God he doth nourish them, and strengthen them, and provide means whereby they can accomplish the thing which he has commanded them" (vs. 3). During Nephi's families' eight year journey in the wilderness the Lord said, "And I will also be your light in the wilderness; and I will prepare the way before you, if it so be that ye shall keep my commandments; wherefore, inasmuch as ye shall keep my commandments ye shall be led towards the promised land; and ye shall know it is by me that ye are led" (vs. 13). We talked about the gift of the Holy Ghost in Relief Society today. It was wonderful to listen to the experiences of personal witnesses by the sisters. The main idea that stuck with me is how much Heavenly Father cares about us and is willing to guide us. The Primary Program was today. It was so reverent and the music was beautiful. There were several solo numbers. The song that most impressed me was about our Savior returning to the earth. It began with a solo and then added a few more voices until all the children were singing the line about the Savior reigning on the earth. I felt the spirit so strong it brought tears to my eyes.

My favorite verse in Ezekiel 34 is verse 16, "I will seek that which was lost, and bring again that which was driven away, and will bind up that which was broken, and will strengthen that which was sick: but I will destroy the fat and the strong; I will feed them with judgment."

1 Nephi 16 and Ezekial 18

In Ezekial 16 (I accidentally read the wrong chapter) the Lord is relating to Jerusalem all that he has done for her and then he tells her everything she has done to offend him through all the sins she has committed. In some ways the Old Testament seems harsh to me but He was dealing with a people that had been influenced by surrounding nations and had taken up some very evil practices. Then the Lord states, "I will even deal with thee as thou hast done, which hast despised the oath in breaking the covenant. Nevertheless I will remember my covenant with thee in the days of thy youth, and I will establish unto thee an everlasting covenant. Then thou shalt remember thy ways, and be ashamed..." (vs. 59-61). Ezekial 18 calls the Lord's people to repentance, "But if the wicked will turn from all his sins that he hath committed, and keep all my statutes, and do that which is lawful and right, he shall surely live, he shall not die. Have I any pleasure at all that the wicked should die? saith the Lord God: and not that he should return from his ways, and live? Cast away from you all your transgressions, whereby ye have transgressed; and make you a new heart and a new spirit: for why will ye die, O house of Israel? For I have no pleasure in the death of him that dieth, saith the Lord God: wherefore turn yourselves, and live ye" (vs. 21, 23, 31-32). The Lord with great diligence and love looks to his people. He knows their hearts, thoughts, deeds, and words. He gives us experience so that we can be humble and reach for him.

This is evident in the experiences that Lehi's family was having in the wilderness. His sons joyfully married the daughters of Ishmael. They received directions from the Lord about where to travel in the wilderness. The suffered of hunger when the men could not provide food for their families. And, they wanted to return to Jerusalem when Ishmael died. This is how life gives us experience; some is joyful and some is experienced with great hardship and sorrow. When they struggled each experienced different ways of dealing with their stress. Every time something went wrong Lamen and Lemuel and others would murmur, even Lehi murmured against the Lord when everyone was hungry. It would be a great burden for a man to not be able to provide adequately for his family. Some of them even became angry to the point of wanting to cause injury to another human being. (I have been angry and somewhat complaining to the Lord today. I have felt inadequate today and that is frustrating. I am trying to get my emotions in control and do what I can to eliminate or accomplish some of the things that weigh me down). Nephi tried to solve his problems too by making a new bow and arrows and asking his father to tell him where to go to find food. His trust in the Lord never wavered. At times I can probably find myself handling different situations each of these ways. I only hope over time I will find myself with more confidence and diligence because of my faith in Jesus Christ who is there even when I cannot feel him.

1 Nephi 15

After Nephi received the revelations recorded in the last four chapters he returns to find his brother arguing because they cannot understand their father's vision. He asked them if they had prayed, or asked to know their meaning. Nephi reminds them that "If ye will not harden your hears, and ask me in faith, believing that ye shall receive, with diligence in keeping my commandments, surely these things shall be made known unto you" (vs. 11). He then answers each question they ask about: the olive tree and branches that are broken off, the Gentiles restoring the house of Israel, the tree of life, the rod of iron, the river of water, and the judgment day. The answers I liked the most were his description of the iron rod and the kingdom of heaven (associated with the judgment).

Nephi's answer concerning the iron rod.
"And I said unto them that it was the word of God; and whoso would hearken unto the word of God, and would hold fast unto it, they would never perish; neither could the temptations and the fiery darts of the adversary overpower them unto blindness, to lead them away to destruction" (vs. 24).

Nephi's answer about the kingdom of God (prior to this verse he spoke of the wicked).
"But behold, I say unto you, the kingdom of God is not filthy, and there cannot any unclean thing enter into the kingdom of God..." (vs. 34).
I found it interesting that Nephi's brothers rather than focusing on the guidance and eternal blessings the Lord gives us they said that Nephi had declared hard things unto them, even more than they could bear. How often do I find myself focusing on my weaknesses and do not value the good I do and all that Heavenly Father is helping me to achieve and enjoy.

1 Nephi 14

Last night at the end of our FHE activity we started talking about the economy and projected significant increases in food prices and how Walmart is going to discontinue to sell ammunition. I have been concerned about getting food storage and was putting away some but have not been able to, as of late. When I read this chapter I found two things that brought me comfort. I'm not saying we do not need to do what we can to be prepared temporally, but these things help me find peace.
1. vs. 2 and 3 talks about the great pit that is dug for those who have not hardened their hearts against God. "That great pit which hath been digged for the destruction of men shall be filled by those who digged it."
2. vs. 5 and 14 teaches that if we (the Gentiles) repent it shall be well with us and that the saints will be armed with righteousness and with the power of God in great glory. This is what I prefer to arm myself with rather than weapons, at least for me this is what is best.
"And when the day cometh that the wrath of God is poured out upon the mother of harlots, which is the great and abominable church of all the earth [those who seek the downfall of others for their own gain or power], whose founder is the devil, then, at that day, the work of the Father shall commence in preparing the way for the fulfilling of his covenants, which he hath made to his people..." (vs 17). I have been praying earnestly for our great nation that the people would elect righteous leaders whose purpose will be the well being of its citizens I feel that people are starting to wake up to the situation our nation is facing if we continue to use a bailout system and turn more and more power over to the government. I don't know if the best people were elected, but I will continue to pray for our country and our world leaders.

1 Nephi 12 and 13

Nephi sees all of his people destroy, because of the pride of (his) seed. It is when the angel is talking about wars and contentions that he finally tells Nephi what the river represented. It is interesting that this time he did not ask Nephi what he thought it meant, but explained it to him. The fountain of filthy water, in the wilderness, and the river are the depths of hell. The mists of darkness are the temptations of the devil. The large and spacious building represent is vain imaginations and the pride of the children of men.

In chapter 13 the Bible is introduced as the book that proceeded forth from the mouth of the Jew. The writings were like the engravings on the brass plates except that there were not so many. The importance of the Bible should not be understated. Many men went through a great deal to bring it forth to the public reader:

Gutenberg - invention of the printing press (mid-1400's)
John Wycliffe(1330-84) began first English translation of the Bible, died under house arrest.
Jan Hus (1372-1415) Bohemia-influenced by Wycliffe, stood trial for heresy, burned at the stake.
Martin Luther(1483-1546)Germany-translated the Bible into German, banned from empire.
William Tyndale (1494-1536) English translation from Greek and Hebrew, printed in Germany, smuggled into England. He was executed in Belgium as a Protestant heretic.
Huldrych Zwingli (1484-1531) Switzerland-67 articles of reform, killed in battle w/ Catholics
John Calvin (1509-64) Switzerland- church organization governed by elders. Puritans and Pilgrims took his thoughts to the New World.
(Ensign, June 1999, pp. 34-39)

1 Nephi 11 and Jer.31

When Nephi sees in vision the tree, he does not know its meaning until he is shown the virgin mother holding a child in her arms. Then the angel asks Nephi, "Knowest thou the meaning of the tree which thy father saw? And (he) answered him, saying: Yea, it is the love of God which sheddeth itself abroad in the hearts of the children of men; wherefore it is the most desirable above all things" (vs. 21, 22) The angel did not just answer Nephi's question to know the interpretation of the tree but taught with power and greater understanding. When Nephi beheld "the Son of God going forth among the children of men; and ...many fall down at his feet and worship him" (vs. 24), he knew that the "rod of iron was the word of God, which led to the fountain of living waters, or to the tree of life (vs. 25).

In Jeremiah the Lord looks toward the day when Israel will return to Him. "And it shall come to pass, that like as I have watched over them, to pluck up, and to break down, and to throw down, and to destroy and to afflict; so will I watch over them to build, and to plant, saith the Lord. Behold, the days come, saith the Lord, that I will make a new covenant with the house of Israel, and with the house of Judah. But this shall be the covenant that I will make with the house of Israel; After those days, saith the Lord, I will put my law in their inward parts, and write it int their hearts; and will be their God, and they shall be my people" (vrs. 28, 31, 33). There is so much joy and love in the feelings and words of our Savior as we will accept him and love to obey his word so we can know him. (Read verse 34)

1 Nephi 10 and Jer.29

This chapter is Jeremiah's letter to the people who had been carried away captive after Jerusalem had been destroyed. What great love the Lord has for his children to give them guidance even after they have reaped the consequences of their actions. God will always provide ways to teach and nurture his children.

Lehi is prophesying of the day when Jerusalem would be carried away captive into Babylon and then he prophesies of their return and when the Messiah would come. He speaks of John the Baptist preparing the way for him; also of Jesus Christ's crucifixion and resurrection. My favorite part is verse 17 where Nephi states that he is desirous to "see, and hear, and know of these things [Lehi's vision], by the power of the Holy Ghost, which is the gift of God unto all those who diligently seek him, as well in times of old as in the time that he should manifest himself unto the children of men." It is nice to feel the convincing power of the Holy Ghost and know for ourselves what God intends for us and what he wants to teach us.

1 Nephi 9 and Jer.16, 23

Jeremiah 16 verse 4 reminds me of the Dr. Quinn episode where all the Cheyenne are killed. "They shall die of grievous deaths; they shall not be lamented; neither shall they be buried." It is really sad when a great nation is destroyed. In Jeremiah the Lord could not extend his protection any longer. "...for I have taken my peace from this people, saith the Lord, even lovingkindness and mercies" (Jer. 16:5)
When we are obedient the Lord can bless us, when we are not, he cannot. "But if ye enter not into my law ye cannot receive the promise of my Father, which he made unto Abraham" (D&C 132:33). The promises we make to the Lord are the most sacred promises we can make. I have seen many times through joys and sorrows the blessings of the Lord. It is sad when an individual and/or a nation losses the blessings that could be theirs. "Who has set at naught the counsels of God, and has broken the most sacred promises which were made before God, and has depended upon his own judgment and boasted in his own wisdom" (D&C 3:13).
God wants to bless us as stated in Mormon 9 verse 21, "Behold, I say unto you that whoso believeth in Christ, doubting nothing, whatsoever he shall ask the Father in the name of Christ it shall be granted him; and this promise is unto all, even unto the ends of the earth." Jerusalem was destroyed as Jeremiah prophesied, "But, The Lord liveth, that brought up the children of Israel from the land of the north, and from all the lands whither he had driven them: and I will bring them again into their land that I gave unto their fathers" (Jer. 16:15). Jeremiah also speaks of the Gentiles coming to them and being hunters and fishers to teach the Israelites. Nephi made the record that he kept on plates for a 'wise purpose' which he knew not (v. 5). "But the Lord knoweth all things from the beginning; wherefore, he prepareth a way to accomplish all his works among the children of men; for behold, he hath all power unto the fulfilling of all his words. And thus it is. Amen" (v. 6).

1 Nephi 8 and Jer. 7-9, 13

Dad has asked me to paint Lehi's vision, therefore I have studied this passage many times but each time I do I see it in a different way. At the beginning of his dream/vision Lehi walks in darkness for many hours before calling on the Lord. I personally feel I would have called on the Lord to deliver me much sooner than Lehi describes it. Even before Lehi partook of the fruit he knew or sensed that it was 'desirable to make one happy.' Lehi, of course, wanted to share his happiness with his family and beckoned to them. In analyzing this as a painting I would want to capture the multitudes in the wilderness as in the world. The wilderness could curve to represent the curvature of the world. When I picture the iron rod I see symbols of ancient Hebrew writings engraved in the rod. I also envision the large and spacious building being filled with people that look as they did in the days of Lehi and in our day. This group of people are proud (arrogant) and ridiculing. When I picture the mists of darkness that cover the path I see a hand emerging from the darkness into bright light and grasping very firmly the iron rod. The people on the right side of the tree of life are happy and eating and sharing the fruit with friends as the rest peacefully on the grass and socialize. The people on the left of the tree are partaking of the fruit and then looking to the building with remorse on their faces and dropping their fruit on the ground. The fruit is white pure and round. Of course some people are lost in the river and drowned and others wander.
The chapters in Jeremiah show the sorrow of the Lord at the loss of Israel. "For the hurt of the daughter of my people am I hurt; I am black [Heb. 'gloomy']; astonishment hath taken hold on me" (Jer. 8:21). "Hear ye, and give ear; be not proud: for the Lord hath spoken. But if ye will not hear it, my soul shall weep in secret places for your pride; and mine eye shall weep sore, and run down with tears, because the Lord's flock is carried away captive" (Jer. 13: 15, 17). The Lord urges us not to trust in those who 'consistently deceive;' "And they will deceive everyone his neighbour, and will not speak the truth: they have taught their tongue to speak lies, and weary themselves to commit iniquity. But they have walked after they imaginations of their own heart...let not the wise man glory in his own wisdom,...But let him that glorieth glory in this, that he understandeth and knoweth me, that I am the Lord which exercise livingkindness, judgment, and righteousness, in the earth; for in these things I delight, saith the Lord (Jer. 5, 14, 23-24) All the Lord wants for us is for us to be able to abide in his love and feel of his kindness, and know Him. The only way to deeply feel these things is through the guidelines for life that he gives us. These blessings of knowing what will give us the greatest happiness, support, and love he showers down upon us. In gratitude I thank my God for his guidance and daily instruction.

1 Nephi 7 and Jer. 3-6

vs 14 Here we see the overlap of Lehi and Jeremiah when Nepi pleads with his brethren not to return to Jerusalem, "For behold the Spirit of the Lord ceaseth soon to strive with them [the people in Jerusalem]; for behold, they have rejected the prophets, and Jeremiah have they cast into prison. And they have sought to take away the life of my father, insomuch that they have driven him out of the land."
Jeremiah tells the people in Jerusalem, "We lie down in our shame, and our confusion covereth us; for we have sinned against the Lord our God, we and our fathers, from our youth even unto this day, and have not obeyed the voice of the Lord our God" (Jer. 3:25) and Nephi tells Laman and Lemuel, "How is it that ye have not hearkened unto the word of the Lord? Laman and Lemuel had other witnesses, "How is it that ye have forgotten that ye have seen an angel of the Lord? Yea, and how is it that ye have forgotten what great things the Lord hath done for us, in delivering us..." (vs. 10, 11). I feel so short sighted at times. There are so many times and so many ways the Lord has delivered me. I will mention just one. I saw the Lord's had directing me to find cures and relief for my fibromyalga symptoms, part of that solution was our move to Palmyra and meeting my nutritionist in church.
I was very frustrated about the direction of much of our political leadership, last night, and feel great struggling inside myself for our God given rights. Agency is foremost in God's laws. I don't want anyone taking that right away, but what Dad said is, "the Lord is mindful and watchful, this is in his hands. Yet as I said earlier, I tend to forget what the Lord has done for me in watching over me. In a church talk yesterday the speaker said he tells his friends he is allergic to pain and suffering, that is why he is a member of the church. That may seem silly to some, but even when trials do occur the Lord is always there to comfort when we let him. Some trials we bring on ourselves and some are brought on by others. The ones we bring on ourselves can be overcome, the ones brought on by others may bring a sense of helplessness. In all these challenges God can be our greatest source of strength.

1 Nephi 6 and Jer. 37, 38

In Sunday School we talked about how much time Jeremiah spent in prison. It is almost humorous in vs. 4 of chapter 37 "Now Jeremiah came in and went out among the people; for they had not put him into prison." They had to point out he was not in prison (he usually was). It is interesting to me how Zedekiah would seek Jeremiah's counsel but then would not follow it and would throw him back into prison. Jeremiah wanted to hear things from the prophet that would be pleasing unto him and unto men, but Jeremiah only stated that which was pleasing unto God.

Nephi also declares he will write that which is pleasing unto God and not unto man. "For the fulness of mine intent is that I may persuade men to come unto the God of Abraham, and the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob, and be saved. Wherefore the things which I write are pleasing unto God and unto those who are not of the world." I hope the things that I write please the Lord. I have not been good at keeping up with a journal for sometime and even though this does not record my history it does record what means the very most to me, the promptings of the spirit. Many times I receive insight as I read, but rarely record it. I hope this gives each of you the opportunity to do the same. Thanks for your inspiration!

1 Nephi 5 and Jer. 26, 36

I had just complained to Dad about something that now seems insignificant compared to Sariah's concern for her sons' lives. The Lord always has a way of putting things into perspective for me. When Lehi was studying the brass plates, I realized, that he had never seen them before. It reminds me of when the Catholic Priest was the only one allowed to read the scriptures. I have a greater understanding of Lehi's excitement about the brass plates going forth unto all nations, kindreds, togues, and people who were of his seed (vs 18). Lehi was able for the first time to see his genealogy and discover he was of the lineage of Joseph who was sold into Egypt. He read about Adam and Eve and the writings of all the holy prophets.

Jeremiah is a prophet whose challenges were great. He was put in stocks and told to never prophesy again. Jeremiah stated "Then said I, I will not make mention of him, nor speak any more in his name. But his word was in mine heart as a burning fire shut up in my bones, and I was weary with forbearing, and I could not stay" (Jer. 20:9). Jeremiah was deeply saddened by his labour to teach an unrepentant nation. He also understood that the Lord "triest the righteous, and seest the reins [HEB- inward parts] and the heart" (vs. 12). In chapter 36 Jeremiah dictates to Baruch all the destructions to befall Judah and tells him to read it in the temple. The king and princes get word of it and take the roll and cut it with a penknife and throw it into the fire. Jeremiah was commanded of the Lord to write it all again and to prophesy of the punishment of all the kings house.
I love how the Lords words burn within a prophet. Many prophets have spoken boldly at the peril of their lives. Can the spirit burn any brighter than this?

1 Nephi 4 and Jer. 15, 20

vs. 2-3 Nephi relates the story of Moses parting the Red Sea and Israel going through on dry ground. It is a powerful scripture story, but what gave it more power was how he related it to themselves and what he and his brothers were going through, saying "Let us go up; the Lord is able to deliver us, even as our fathers, and to destroy Laban, even as the Egyptians." The other day I pictured, in my minds eye, a ladder. I had forgotten about it until I saw a picture of a ladder while looking for blog pictures and it jumped out at me as being important. It reminds me of Nephi's experience of being attracted to Laban's sword. His curiosity about it caused him to draw it from its sheath, then the Lord was able to prompt him. Had Nephi not had Laban's sword in his hand he probably would not have had the courage to do what he was required to do next. It is also interesting that without Laban's sword Nephi would not have had a pattern for constructing other swords to preserve his people. He was prepared to preserve his people physically and spiritually. Getting back to the ladder. Had I not seen the picture of the ladder I would not have asked Dad what is the story of Jacob's ladder about. He said it is a representation of our journey on this earth and returning to the presence of the Lord. Jacob, like Nephi was following directions from his father; He was returning to the land of his fathers to those of like faith to preserve his posterity unto the Lord by marrying in the faith. On his journey he lay down to sleep and dreamed a dream; "and behold a ladder set up on the earth, and the top of it reached to heaven: and behold the angels of God ascending and descending on it" (Genesis 28:12). This is important to me because I imagined seeing Angela climbing all the way to the top of the ladder and as she climbed, brightness increased; when she was almost to the top she slid down, then she climbed halfway up again and sat on a rung. There is a footnote for angels in the TG, defined as ministering spirits, and his ministers a flame of fire. I do not know why we are led to think of one thing or another, God alone knows all things. I am just grateful for his guidance and for the scriptures, especially the stories that stay with us, teach and strengthen us.

1 Nephi 3 and Jeremiah 2

I love Nephi's determination in vs. 15 stating that he and his brothers will not return to their father "until we have accomplished the thing which the Lord hath commanded us." I don't know how many times I have to tell myself I have to accomplish a particular task and other things will just have to wait. This week I haven't been studying as much as I need to, partly due to trying to get this blog going. I feel like this is something the Lord wants me to do and as Nephi "I know that the Lord giveth no commandment unto the children of men, save he shall prepare a way for them (to accomplish the task)" (vs.7). Accomplishing their task required all of their earthly possessions, which were "exceedingly great." To do what I need to do does not require more than earnest effort, ingenuity, and prayer.

"Wherefore I will plead with you, saith the Lord, and with your children's children will I plead" (Jeremiah 2:9). I love how the Lord is only interested in our welfare, he reaches to us with outstretched arms, to beckon us home. In this chapter we see the remorse of the Lord at loosing the love of his people, Israel; "They have forsaken me the fountain of living waters" (vs. 13). Isaiah explains "with joy shall ye draw water out of the wells of salvation" (12:3). And Nephi defines living waters as the "love of God" (1 Nephi 11:25).

1 Nephi 2 and Jeremiah 1

After Nephi describes Lehi's visions and the Lord's direction to leave Jerusalem. Nephi introduces his family and each of their dispositions. I would like to introduce my family but I will do that in a comment later today. What I would like to focus on is conversions. Nephi cried unto the Lord for his confirmation to all that his father was requiring of him and his family and his heart was softened. Sam believed on Nephi's words. These are two different types of conversions, neither any less significant than the other. Nephi received an answer through the Holy Spirit and then he believed. Sam also was most likely touched by the spirit as Nephi related his experience to him. I clearly remember when I first felt the spirit. I believe I was just 3 years old. I never talked to anyone about it, but it is still so clear I can feel it. I was in Primary singing "I am a Child of God" and I felt such a warmth wrap around me and a deep feeling of love that sent such a feeling of peace and reassurance all through me. I knew undoubtedly that I was of great worth to my Father in Heaven. My next experience similar, but different was when I received the gift of the Holy Ghost when I was 8. When I was 10 I prayed earnestly to not be frightened by a very frightening dog. I felt that I was being watched over but my fear was not relieved. It was then I realized God loves me and helps me during tough times, but does not always remove the uncomfortable situation. I cherish these experiences and many others, but these were my first and they have only multiplied a hundred times from then to now. I'll post more later, got to go.

1 Nephi 1

I have been thinking about some of the afflictions that each of you, as Nephi, are enduring. The first verse in chapter 1 tells us that Nephi had many afflictions in the course of his days, but from what I am understanding each of you could substitute your name for his, "I _Adam,__Crystal,__Angela,_etc._ having seen many afflictions in the course of my days, nevertheless, having been highly favored of the Lord in all my days." I know that Heavenly Father and our Savior are mindful of each of us through our struggles and blesses us not only through them, but because of them. I think I have less understanding about how this works in my own life than noticing what a patient loving parent Crystal is growing into, seeing Adam stretch to accommodate more demands on his time, some very rewarding-like Heather, and Angela dealing with a new set of learning obstacles. Realizing her value is much greater than what kind of a grade she may receive in a particular class, but in her determination, self-examination and refocusing her talents to find a perfect match for her. Coming back to Nephi many times my focus has been on Lehi's vision but this time I'll focus on the power of deliverance the Lord extends to us. Through comfort, guidance, we can be assured "that the tender mercies of the Lord are over all those whom he hat chosen, because of their faith, to make them mighty even unto the power of deliverance." God will grant us deliverance from frustration, obstacles, as well as persecution (this may even come from ourselves, as we view ourselves as less than we are, or are capable of being with the Lord's help). I'll finish with Lehi's praise, "O Lord God Amighty! Thy throne is high in the heavens, and thy power, and goodness, and mercy are over all the inhabitants of the earth; and, because thou art merciful, thou wilt not suffer those who come unto thee that they shall perish!" I am grateful for His watchful care for each of you and am so grateful that Heavenly Father as allowed me to be your mother so I can also administer love and care where I can and share in yours joys, sorrows, and your strengths. Thanks!