Helaman 6-7

Quote "Every [convert] needs three things: a friend, a responsibility, and nurturing with the 'good word of God.' It is our duty and opportunity to provide these things."

~President Gordon B. Hinckley

Question "What kind of friend are you to converts, members who are new to your ward, or the less-active? What things do you do to nourish others with the word of the Lord?"

I love this quote by Pres. Hinckley. I think many converts can feel overwhelmed when they join the church because a lot of times they are given a calling right away, and they are like "whoa, I just joined this church, I don't know what I'm doing, or how to do this job". But it is through serving in the church that you develop your testimony, and learn that we are all just humble beings trying the best we can, and even those that are born and raised in the church feel inadequate for their callings at times.

As far as befriending new members, I think for me, it is a case by case basis. Not because I don't feel it is important to welcome all new members, but because in all honesty, I am not going to be the difference for every person that comes to church. There is a lot of diversity in every ward, and that is important because everyone needs friends, and everyone clicks with certain people. So, I personally don't feel pressure that as soon as I see someone new to rush up and introduce myself....I will eventually sit by them, or see them somewhere, and then I will talk to them. I like it to feel natural, I don't like that forced friendship feeling. But that is just me. In any case, following your promptings by the spirit is what is going to make the difference. If I feel prompted, I try to act. The Lord knows better than I do what and who will make the difference for each one of His children.

Helaman 4-5

Quote "We have an increasing number who have been convinced, through the Book of Mormon, that Jesus is the Christ. Now we need an increasing number who will use the Book of Mormon to become committed to Christ. We need to be convinced and committed."

~President Ezra Taft Benson

Question "What are some things you can do to build upon the sure foundation?"

Building a sure foundation requires faith, repentance, and a desire to do God's will. The best way to build upon it is to do the work that we've been asked to do, read our scriptures, say our prayers, preach the gospel of Jesus Christ, go to church, pay our tithing, love our neighbors as ourselves, feed the hungry, clothe the naked, lift up the hands that hang down, and strengthen the feeble knees, be willing to do what the Lord asks us to do, and not seek after the things of the world.

The more I read the Book of Mormon, the more my testimony of Jesus Christ is strengthened. The more I learn about the gospel of Jesus Christ, the more I realize how little I know, and have even a greater desire to know more. I can't even imagine the faith that Nephi and Lehi had in today's reading, to have those amazing things happen to them. Today's world is just as evil, however, the deliverers of the message are not cast into prison just for trying to teach their beliefs. But if a similar situation could happen today, it would be interesting to see how many people would stop their selfish lifestyles, and repent.

Helaman 1-3

Quote "If Satan can succeed in creating in us the pastime of arguing, quarreling, and contention, it is easier for him to bind us with heavier sins which can destroy our eternal lives."

~Elder Marvin J. Ashton

Question "How can you avoid contention in your family and other relationships?"

I think, even though it sounds cheesy, is to live by the Golden Rule "Do unto others as you would have them do unto you." I know that when I really stop and think about what I am doing, and how I am treating others, I think about whether or not I would want to be treated that way. The other things are, of course, prayer, scripture study, and going to church, and just trying to be righteous overall. It is more difficult to be harsh and mean, and have contention when you are trying your best to invite the Spirit of God to guide you in your life.

Alma 62-63

Quote "These people all had basically the same experience. The war was the same length for all people; yet out of the same experience some were hardened and some were softened.

What made the difference?

It was what they thought of God and his Son."

~C. Max Caldwell

Question "When you experience trials, do you feel your heart is hardened or softened? What can you do to improve your thoughts of Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ? How do you think this will help to soften your heart?"

I am human, so of course I don't enjoy going through trials, and when the trial first starts, or maybe after it lingers for a while, I'm sure I complain, way too much. However, I do have a very strong testimony that the Lord's will needs to be done, not mine. He allows all kinds of suffering, illnesses, and other hardships, but in essence, it is for our own good. We have free agency to choose, and we have learning opportunities at every turn in this life. If He just made everything be easy, and good for us all of the time, our free-agency would cease to exist, and we would be as Adam and Eve in the Garden of Eden, not knowing good from evil, and we would never appreciate these precious gifts....especially the Atonement. The only way for us to truly appreciate the Atonement of Jesus Christ is to go through trials, so that we can see, that our trial, in comparison to Christ's, is so minute, and that HE KNOWS what we are going through. He is the only one that really knows what each and every person is suffering with, and going through, and the only way to have comfort and support in our trials, is to lean on Him.

We've had many many trials in our family, and there have been times that I'm not sure if I'll be able to forgive, but through God, ALL THINGS ARE POSSIBLE. He can and does take bad things, and make good come from them. Trials also bring compassion to us. When you go through something hard, then see someone else going through it, you feel compassion for them.

It is hard to understand sometimes why we are faced with a certain trial, but reading the scriptures, and praying can really help us through them....whether it is for answers and understanding, or just comfort and patience. The Lord's ways are not our ways, and that is a hard thing to accept sometimes, but that is just the way it is. We can fight all we want against the Lord.....but it will profit us NOTHING!

Alma 60-61

Quote "When you look in the dictionary for the most important word, do you know what it is? It could be remember ...our greatest need is to remember."

~President Spencer W. Kimball

Quote "Satan wants us to be slow to remember what we have received and heard. He wants us to minimize and even forget the quiet witnesses of the Spirit that have told us who we really are."

~Sister Susan L. Warner

Question "What helps you to not forget the spiritual experiences you've had?"

I know that the correct answer here is keeping a journal, and I wish I could say it was my answer. I have been horrible at keeping a journal. I need to be better at keeping a journal. I just talk about my experiences, and hope that I remember them, but that is not the best way to always remember.

I love the epistles back and forth between Moroni, and Pahoran, because they are so joyous in each others righteousness. They encourage each other to stay righteous and faithful. They delight in the safety of each other, and in their freedoms, and liberties, and blessings from God. I know I've said it a couple of times before, but this part of the Book of Mormon is just my favorite!!!

Alma 57-59

Quote "He whose name this church bears has promised the He will be in our midst, lead us along, go before us, and even fight our battles. He has further counseled, 'Be not afraid of your enemies, for I have decreed in my heart...that I will prove you in all things, whether you will abide in my covenant, even unto death, that you may be found worthy' (D&C 98:14)."

~Elder Neal A. Maxwell

Question "How can the Lord help you overcome fear?"

Fear is the opposite of faith....and yet I personally fear many things through my worldly eyes. But, when I look at things through my spiritual eyes, I realize that we should not fear. Fear does not come from the Lord, and considering that He is more powerful than all, if we are keeping His commandments, and our covenants, we don't need to fear, because He will help us in all things.

I was just talking to my daughter this morning, she was asking me what it would be like when she dies. After talking to her about it, I asked her why she wanted to know, and she replied that she was scared of dying. I remember being scared of dying when I was little, and my kids are scared of lots of different things, and having me as a mother, probably doesn't help that. However, I am trying to set a better example for my kids, and am constantly telling them that if you are keeping the commandments, and living as righteously as you can, that you don't need to be afraid.

I just think that it is something that you have to have your own life experiences with, and that the Lord works with all of His children in different ways. There are many of His children that are fearful, and they will be strengthened according to their desires, and experiences, and depending on what is necessary for their missions here on earth.

I can see in this reading why the Nephites might be fearful of the Lamanites, because their hatred was so strong, and they just kept attacking, and attacking them, every chance they got. I'm sure that was difficult for the Nephites. Yet, the majority of them chose to be faithful, and not let fear overtake them. They chose to trust in the Lord, and the Lord helped them because of their obedience and faithfulness.

Get Back on Schedule

If you are up to date with your reading, take time to study: Alma 42

Alma 55-56

Quote "We need more mothers who know the truth, whose children do not doubt their mothers know it."

~Elder Neal A. Maxwell

Question "What important lessons have you learned from your mother?"

My mother is an amazingly spiritual woman! My mother, like the mothers of the Stripling Warriors, is a convert to the church. She has an unbelievable understanding of the Gospel, and of the scriptures. She is one of the few people I know that knows the Bible (Old and New Testaments) as well as the Book of Mormon.....she delights in them. She has taught me the Gospel of Jesus Christ. She has taught me what it means to have a testimony of our Savior, and how to apply it in my life. She has taught me that there is comfort and joy and answers in the scriptures. She has taught me that there is peace in the temple. She has taught me that the work that I do as a mother is the most important work I will ever do. She is still in the process of teaching me how to forgive myself, and love myself, and let go of things, and move on. She has taught me how the Atonement of Jesus Christ conquers all. She has lost two children, and has had a very hard life, and yet she has taught me that good can come from bad, that we CAN trust the Lord to be there when we can't take another step, and that we need HIM every second of every day of our lives! She has taught me that it is never good to dwell on the negative, and to look for the good. She has taught me how to laugh! She has taught me that the "gospel principles are a guide to live by, not a stick to beat ourselves with."

I love my mother so very very much. I tell her everyday (several times a day) that I love her, and appreciate her for all that she does! I love you mommy, don't know what in the world I would do without you!

Alma 52-54

Quote "In the spiritual battles you are waging, I see you as today's sons of Helaman."

~President Ezra Taft Benson

Question "Notice how Mormon describes these young men. How are you living so that you can likened to the stripling warriors?"

I hope more than anything that I am raising stripling warriors...that they will "know the truth". Living righteously is the only way to be like the stripling warriors, for they were full of faith, and obedience to the commandments. They didn't just know it, they acted upon their beliefs for righteous purposes. In this reading my love and admiration for Captain Moroni also deepens, as he is so good, and so fearless, how could anyone not just love him? He is such an example of what all men should be! And if it weren't for his diligence in preserving the land of the Nephites, the stripling warriors would have been obliterated along with the other people of Ammon, because the contentions among the Nephites, would have caused them to fall into the hands of the Lamanites! This is such an exciting part of the Book of Mormon, and I don't even want to write about it, I just want to keep reading it, and encourage anyone out there to do the same!!!

Alma 50-51

Quote "Mormon wants to teach what will be of most worth to us, and his use of the words thus and thus we see make the lessons easier to recognize and understand. Pay close attention to the 'thus we see' phrases in the Book of Mormon. Here Mormon wants you to understand that the Lord is keeping His word to Lehi and blessing the Nephites with prosperity when they keep the commandments."

~Elder Henry B. Eyring

Question "In what ways has the Lord kept his word to you?"

I have received so many blessings that I am not even remotely worthy of, that I can't wrap my head around how to answer this question. He has given me everything, and protects me daily from things that I don't even want to know about. He does give specific blessings for keeping specific commandments, but He also blesses His children without them asking, or knowing. The Lord is bound by His word, and that is the same for everyone! He loves us, and wants us to be happy, and wants us to return and live with Him, and He gives us all the tools to do it, we just have to learn to use the tools.

Alma 47-49

Quote "Be true to your own convictions. You know what is right, and you know what is wrong. You know when you are doing the proper thing...We need not fear as long as we have in our lives the power that comes from righteously living by the truth."

~President Gordon B. Hinckley

Question "The Lamanites did no want to go to battle against the Nephites, but they also did not want to displease the king (Alma 47:2). Have you ever been in a situation where you wanted to do the right thing, but were afraid you would displease someone? Why is it always better to do the right thing than to worry about what others might think of you?"

This is tough for me, because I think when you are young, it is harder to stand strong, because you aren't really sure who you are, and you desire acceptance, even if it costs you. I have this discussion with my son all the time, because I see him saying and doing things that he wouldn't normally say or do to make his friends like him. I always tell him that the only person it is important to please is Heavenly Father. I think as you get older, this gets a little easier, but that's not to say that situations don't come up that you still have to deal with these hard decisions.

Right now, we are kind of faced with this kind of decision in our office. We are dealing the insurance companies that are trying to say how the patient should be treated, when they have never even met this person, they have only collected all their money. They are not paying the Dr.'s fairly at all, and they are not doing what is in the policy holder's best interest. The right thing to do is if all Dr.'s would stand together and say "enough of this, we are not going to take any insurance company that does not treat the Dr. and patient fairly." However, if we go this route, it will upset many patients, and we will lose many patients that will go to a Dr. that still accepts their insurance (because, let's get real, there are always businesses that are desperate enough to take whatever they can get).

Although these decisions may not be life or death, these can be very difficult situations, and in some cases there is not a clear cut right or wrong answer. So, being prayerful about these decisions is so important. To pray to know what is the right thing to do, and secondly, praying to have the courage to do the right thing! Even if this is a hard thing.....the only "real happiness" comes from keeping the commandments of God!

Alma 44-46

Quote "The value of a country rests upon the values of its people. For the people of God, for the people who want peace, for their women and their children, there is only one way, one church and one Lord."

~Elder Charles Dider

Question "Why do the wicked go to war? How are their motives different from the reasons why the righteous go to war?"

This truly is my favorite part of the Book of Mormon. I love Captain Moroni, and what he did, and what he stood for. I love that this righteous man refused to allow evil to prevail, and threaten his fellow brethren, and their wives and their children! I wish so badly that every judge in this country, and every leader was as righteous and fearless as Captain Moroni. I love that he wasn't worried about whether people were going to say "Oh, I don't think that is the right way to handle this," he did what he knew in his heart was right, and he went out and reminded others to do it too! He did not accept complacency in his brethren....I just love him! (I'll stop my tangent now, I could go on all day!)

The wicked go to war because they have hatred in their hearts! Some of their intent is to kill as many as they can, others desire to subject their targets into bondage, and some desire money, wealth or power. They are not satisfied with their own lives, and have a greater desire to destroy someone else's happiness and freedom than just trying to improve their own life.

There is a very big difference between the wicked and the righteous going to war. The righteous have no desire for bloodshed. They have no desire to gain more land, or wealth, or power. They have no desire to take over another people and make slaves out of them. The only reason that the righteous go to war is to protect their freedom, their families, and their way of life. So many seek to destroy the righteous, and even though they are commanded to love our brethren, and not to kill our brethren, the Lord has told the righteous that it is right that they defend themselves, even unto bloodshed, because if they don't, the wicked will obliterate them, and there would only be wicked on the earth.

That is why it is so important to have men like Captain Moroni, who are willing to stand for truth and righteousness, and willing to strap on their helmets, and armor, and bravely stand against those who would love to crush them!

Alma 42-43

Quote "How great the wisdom and the love

That filled the courts on high

And sent the Savior from above

To suffer, bleed, and die!"

~Hymn 195

Question "How does understanding the Fall help you more fully love Jesus and appreciate what He did for us?"

The way that Alma lays it all out for his sons is just beautiful, plain, and clear. We would all be completely cut off from our Father in Heaven, if it weren't for Jesus Christ and His Atoning Sacrifice. We have been given this probationary time to repent of our sins. And even though we are cut off from our Father's presence right now....we have a life~line....we have a Savior that helps us have hope! When we study the Fall of Adam, we have a greater understanding of our purpose here on here.

Alma 39-41

Quote "You cannot do wrong and feel right. It is impossible."

~ President Ezra Taft Benson

Question "How important is it to you to follow the counsel of your parents and other righteous priesthood leaders?"

(Read Alma 36:17~ During the time Alma was racked with torment for his sins whose words did he remember that caused him to cry out for forgiveness?)

I feel like now that I am a parent, I can see how parents want nothing more than their kids to be happy, and successful in this life. I'm not sure that I fully appreciated that growing up, although, I was the youngest of 5 kids, and did see my parents suffer a lot over their kids decisions. I would love to take what I know, and transplant that information into my children's brains to spare them the pain and grief that I have experienced. I'm gonna have to say that it is absolutely crucial that children today know that following the counsel of their parents, as well as righteous priesthood leaders is for their own protection and happiness. You just can't be happy when you are making bad choices for yourself....you just can't.

Parents have a heavy burden, and responsibility to do all they can to ensure that their children have been taught the ways of the Lord. I know when Alma the younger was tormented, that he did remember the words of his father, and I believe he knew in that instance, how much his father loved him, and how much he had grieved his father with the decisions that he made. And most importantly, he knew that his father had taught him the truth, because in that instance, he prayed that Jesus would have mercy on his soul, and all of his pain was immediately replaced with joy. And how relieved must Alma, the father, had been, to know that he had done all he could to teach his son righteous principles, and that his son was able to recall his words when he needed them the most. If my child were in a similar state, I would hope that my words and teachings would be able to help them through, that I had done my job well enough.

I sincerely hope that I can teach my children to trust in my words, and also the words of the prophet, and leaders of the church, and hope that they have good experiences, and good teachers to reinforce those beliefs.

Alma 37-38

Quote "I have little or no fear for the young man or the young woman, who honestly and conscientiously supplicate God twice a day for the guidance of His Spirit. I am sure that when the temptation comes they will have strength to overcome it by the inspiration that shall be given to them. Supplicating the Lord for the guidance of His Spirit places around us a safeguard, and if we...honestly seek the guidance of the Spirit of the Lord, I can assure you that we will receive it."

~President Heber J. Grant

Question "What are some things you talk to the Lord about? How does He direct you for good?"

We have been commanded to pray always, over all things, daily. This is sort of a challenge for me because I do not like to have a lot of repetition in my prayers, yet this seems unavoidable. I have talked to the Lord about a wide variety of topics in my life, from a simple blessing on the food, to the most painful, sorrowful things of my heart. I, personally, mostly pray to do better, to be better, to have a greater desire to be better, and to be forgiven. I pray for my children, and family, our military, the missionaries, friends, neighbors, those in need, and lots of other things.

The Lord directs us for good through the Holy Ghost, and through the scriptures. The Holy Ghost is Heavenly Father's way of talking to us, and answering us. When we get a good feeling from the Holy Ghost, we know we are pleasing our Heavenly Father. He has also given us the scriptures to tell us how we should live our lives, and what He expects out of us. We know that if we keep His commandments that we are headed in a good direction.

Alma 34-36

Quote "The thought of intentionally committing serous sin now and repenting later is perilously wrong. Never do that. Many start that journey of intentional transgression and never make it back. Premeditated sin has greater penalties and is harder to overcome. If there is sin, repent now - while you can."

~Elder Richard G. Scott

Question "What does Satan do to try to keep you from repenting? How many reasons can you think of for why it's important to repent now?"

Satan does not want us to repent for obvious reasons....he wants us to be cut off from the presence of God. He wants us to be as miserable as he is, and he will stop at nothing to get as many people away from God as he is able.
I'm sure there are many reasons to repent now, but one main one that stands out to me, and that is so that we can be closer to God. His spirit cannot dwell in unholy places....and as human beings, we are unholy A LOT! Repentance is necessary.
Last Saturday, I was at a baptism, and Bishop Nevitt was talking about repentance. He was saying that the most communicated message in the scriptures is repentance. He said that he has never been able to read his scriptures without seeing "repent" in them.
It is vital that we turn away from sin, humble ourselves, and submit our will to God's, in order to receive His guidance, and His love, and His blessings.

Alma 32-33

Quote "Of all our needs, I think the greatest is an increase of faith"

~President Gordon B. Hinckley

Question "How often do you exercise faith? What difference can "a particle of faith" make in our actions? (see Matthew 17:20)

I exercise faith every day in some form. Every time I say a prayer, give service, keep a commandment, think about my Savior, read my scriptures....etc. That is not to say that my faith is great. I think my own personal faith is stronger in some areas than others.

I love Alma's discussion with the "humble", when he discusses the particle of faith. This is such a great missionary lesson. Are there not those all around us in our world that believe nothing, or that believe in God, but not sure what to do about it, and also those that seek after truth? I know people that have said things such as "I've never seen evidence of a God, so I can't believe He is real". Alma says "Now I ask, is this faith? Behold, I say unto you nay; for if a man knoweth a thing he hath no cause to believe, for he knoweth it."

Even if he have no more than a desire to believe, we can use that "particle of faith" and test it to see if our faith grows from it. It doesn't take long for that seed of faith to start to swell, since we are all born with the Light of Christ, our spirits know the truth!

Halloween 2010

This Halloween...

Happy Halloween Everyone 2010!!!!

Temporarily OOO (Out of Order)

This blog is currently closed for construction!

Alma 30-31

Quote "Korihor's arguments sound very contemporary to the modern reader, but Alma used a timeless and ultimately undeniable weapon in response- the power of a personal testimony."

~Elder Jeffrey R. Holland

Question "How did Alma respond to Korihor's claim that there is no God?"

I love Alma dearly. I know that he suffered painful repentance, and that his heart was so good that it pained him to see others following unrighteous paths. After his sore repentance, he spent his entire life trying to save souls through preaching the gospel, I believe he sincerely did not desire one soul lost.
I couldn't agree more with Elder Holland's quote...we hear these same arguments today, the same things that Korihor said 70 years B.C......"...there is no God; religion imprisons you, and keeps you from truly being free; believing in Christ is just a foolish tradition....etc".
Alma responds to him in wisdom asking him point blank if he believes in God, and in Christ....Korihor responds "Nay". Alma turns the tables on him and says what proof have YOU that there is no God, and no Christ? Alma then bears strong testimony that he knows that there is a God, and a Christ also. That there is plenty of evidence not only by the scriptures and the holy prophets, but just the existence of the Earth, and all of the planets that move in regular form testify that there is a God.
Korihor says he will continue to deny God until a sign should be shown unto him. Well, Alma had an answer for that....."....thou hast had signs enough; will ye tempt your God? Will ye say, show unto me a sign, when ye have the testimony of all these thy brethren, and also all the holy prophets?.......Behold, I am grieved because of the hardness of your heart, yea, that ye will still resist the spirit of the truth, that thy soul may be destroyed. But behold, it is better that thy soul should be lost than that thou shouldst be the means of bringing many souls down to destruction, by thy lying and by thy flattering words; therefore if thou shalt deny again, behold God shall smite thee, that thou shalt become dumb, that thou shalt never open thy mouth any more, that thou shalt not deceive this people any more."
So, Alma gave Korihor ample opportunity to confess his belief in God, but it took the act of being struck dumb to humble Korihor enough to admit his lies. He ended up confessing about an angel he had seen that told him to go and preach these lies. (On a side note, I find it interesting that someone could see an angel, and the angel tells them that there is no God, and to tell everyone that there is no God.....why would an angel exist if God did not exist? Crazy, to me personally)
After Korihor confesses the truth, he wants Alma to remove his curse, but Alma is wise and basically says "no way, you'll just go out and do it again".
And so we see time and time again, men that preach against the truthfulness of the Gospel. The things that are happening today are not new or original arguments for why we should all just "eat, drink and be merry (and sleep with every person we meet)". But the truth of the Gospel of Jesus Christ has stood the test of time.....because it is TRUE! It hasn't changed. Since the beginning of time we have had a record of what the people on this earth have done, their testimonies and dealings with the Lord and His angels, and there is nothing that is ever going to remove it from the earth....no matter how bad things get....the Gospel is, has been, and always will be true!!!!

Shiflet Family Reunion

So, this weekend we had our annual Shiflet Family Reunion. It was Jeff's oldest brother Bruce's turn to plan it, so we went to Ft. Grant where he lived. We hiked through the back side of Mt. Graham, it was absolutely beautiful up there....then had some really good BBQ pork. Thank you Bruce and Susie for all of your hospitality! :) (And Don for driving us around in your truck!)

Jeff and KT on our hike

Everyone standing around throwing rocks in the creek

The creek was very pretty!

Derek (Mr. D) and Austin
Uncle B taking pics

Kyle on this rickety ol' pipe thing that crosses the creek!

(He actually crossed it!)

Jeff finding an alternate route

The first rain drop of our hike!

The clouds covered the top of the mountain!

Tyler showing off his baby pinecones! He loved those things!

Then....the fall! Jeff carrying Tyler, steps on a slippery wobbely rock, and does a front flip, and sacrifices himself to save Tyler. Tyler had a scrape on his leg, Jeff slid into a tree, and the wobbely rock crashed into his leg....I was right behind and saw the whole thing....I think my heart stopped for a minute. It was steep and slippery out there!
This is the worse leg!

After we got down the mountain...Jeff took Tyler for a ride on the quad...at first he did NOT like the sound of that!

5 min later...he was nothing but smiles...again again again!!!!
Jacob brought his dads Range Rover Offroad Vehicle...so fun!
I thought KT would be too scared of the noise, but Jeff talked her into a ride, and she LOVED it!
The "guys" Dave, Jacob, Bruce, Chad and Jeff
When we first left to come home from Safford, I saw the rays of light coming through the cloud...then I realized a few minutes later where the rays were...
Shining right over the Gila Valley Temple!

This was my first time at the Gila Valley Temple...so pretty!

When we came around the corner, I snapped a pic, and then when I was looking through the pics later I saw this light....doesn't it look like an angel guarding the temple?

Alma 27-29

Quote "True converts are those who "listen to the teachings and testimonies of missionaries and change their lives, leaving the past behind them, and moving forward into a new life."

~President Hinckley

Question "What is zeal? What difference does it make to have "zeal towards God"?"

Zeal is faithfulness, honesty, exactness in keeping the commandments, and doing it with great pleasure! In other words, having no other desire other than doing that which is right and pleasing to God.

I think zeal makes a great difference when you are talking about our attitudes toward God. We can go to church and keep the commandments, and do all that which is required, and receive blessings for our obedience, and still miss the big picture of why we do it all. I think when you add zeal into the mix, you are always consciously thinking about who our Savior is, what He has done for us, and want to do every possible thing you can to show Him that you are willing to do whatever it takes to be faithful and loyal to Him, and show Him gratitude through righteous living.

The people of Ammon were known for their "zeal towards God", that they were completely honest in all of their dealings. Can you imagine a land like that today? Where no one was trying to get ahead by charging a little extra, or selling things that they know will break, or no theft or robbery, no politicians making empty promises and trying to get gain. That sounds pretty great to me!

Alma 24-26

Quote "As children of God we are somebody. He will build us, mold us, and magnify us if we will but hold our heads up, our arms out, and walk with him. What a great blessing to be created in his image and know of our true potential in and through him! What a great blessing to know that in his strength we can do all things!"

~Elder Marvin J. Ashton

Question "What do you think some of the "mighty miracles" may be that the Lord will work through you?"

This is tricky to answer. I fear that any answer I may give may come across as vain and prideful, but to deny the miracles of the Lord would be worse....I know that I of myself am not responsible for any great works, but everything good I have done has been a direct result of the Lord. I don't know if the Lord has or will used me for any "mighty" miracles, but I have seen and been a part of miracles.

I believe that the gift of life is a miracle....so growing and giving birth to my children is a miracle to me. Also, the opportunity to raise them and teach them the truth in all things opens the door many types and chances for miracles all the time.

I was never a missionary, but I give full credit to missionaries because I believe them to be daily instruments in the miracles of the Lord. No, you don't have to be a full-time missionary to teach or share the Gospel, but I have not personally been the instrument for anyone's conversion as of yet. (Still holding out hope though). I do teach gospel principals daily to my children...so in that regard I am an instrument.

I believe that small acts of services can bring about miracles through the direct guidance of the spirit. I have heard and seen experiences where people were going through difficult things, and prayed for help and comfort, and later that day, there would be a knock on the door from someone who answered that prayer. I'm not sure if I've ever been that person or not, but hopefully I will be at some point.

I also believe that miracles happen through priesthood blessings. Even though I don't hold the priesthood, my faith supports the priesthood, and I always encourage blessings to be given, because I believe in their power.

I'm never going to be a prophet, but I don't believe I have to be, to be used as an instrument in the hands of the Lord. I have witnessed miracles, and maybe that will be my only part in the Lord's plan...just to testify that I have seen them, I have witnessed them, I know that they are real. I feel like Ammon, and cannot say enough about the goodness of God, and all that He has done for His children. Miracle after miracle, by any definition, they are right there in front of us! He loves us, and He wants us to return to live with Him. And gives us these miracles, some small, and some mighty, to build our faith, that we will have a greater desire to draw closer to Him, and to strive harder to do what He has asked, so that we will be able to return to Him.

Alma 21-23

Quote "No part of walking by faith is more difficult than walking the road of repentance. However, with 'faith unto repentance,' we can push roadblocks out of the way, moving forward to beg God for mercy...One simply surrenders, caring only about what God thinks, not what 'they' think...Giving away all our sins is the only way we can come to know God."

~Elder Neal A. Maxwell

Question "What are you willing to give to know Him?"

I love this whole story in the BOM where the sons of Mosiah, who were at one time not that different than the Lamanites in their unrighteous behavior, convert so many Lamanites. What touches me so much, and it goes along with today's question, is that when you have lived unrighteously, and caused pain to others, and then you come to a real knowledge of the Lord, it is just about unbearable to think that you could have been so horrible to your very own creator who loves you and has done nothing but bless you. Our Heavenly Father loves us so much, and His son Jesus Christ layed down His very own life for our sins....how wretched are we to so carelessly disregard that?

Alma the younger and the sons of Mosiah, were raised with the truth, they had been taught, and chose to ignore it. They chose to try to harm the church, and behave in such a rebellious way. They had the unique and fortunate experience to have an angel come down and tell them to stop or else... What they experienced was so painful, and wonderful at the same time, that for the rest of their lives, they were IMMOVABLE! We don't all get that privilege, but non-the-less, we need to "act as though we did see an angel". We need to be as humble as King Lamoni, and recognize the truth, and accept it as though our very eternal souls depended upon it....'cause....they do!

We do need to be willing to make any and every sacrifice that the Lord requires in order to show Him that we are willing and ready to do whatever it takes to live with Him again! The funny thing is, Satan wants us to think "oh, we are giving up so much..." when in reality, not only does the Lord help us give up the worldly things, but He blesses us with even more wonderful things than the thing we gave up! It's amazing!

I'm sure it was tough for those Lamanites to give up their weapons of war, as they were a blood thirsty people, just as it is difficult for us to give up the things that we need to....but it is sooooo worth it! I can really identify with Alma the younger, and the sons of Mosiah. I didn't try to persecute the church, but I have been somewhat inactive at times in my life, and know what it is like to be "converted" to the Gospel. I have never regreted anything of the world that I have sacrificed to have the Gospel in my life!

Alma 19-20

Quote "Anger is not an expression of strength. It is an indication of one's inability to control his thoughts, words, his emotions...When the weakness of anger takes over, the strength of reason leaves."

~President Gordon B. Hinckley

Question "When is it most difficult to control your anger? Why is it important to stay in control of your thoughts, words, and actions?"

Ummmm, I need to write this quote on a post-it note, and stick it to my forehead everyday! I do have a problem with anger at times, and it frustrates me that I don't have better control over my emotions. I am a very emotional person, and I react before I think things through. And there have been times, that well....let's just say Mel Gibson and I have a lot in common. Alright, maybe not that extreme (by the way, love Mel, and feel sorry for him)....but definitely have used anger as an expression more often than I care to admit!

It is most difficult for me to control my anger when I have had limited sleep, or when I see something so outrageous that other people find acceptable (I'm sure there are other occasions, but I'll just stick to these for now).

Here is why I need to learn to control my anger....it makes me feel bad about myself! I honestly don't have one intention in my body that really wants to hurt another human being...but when anger takes over, that is exactly what happens. I hurt the people that I am angry with. No one really wants to be yelled at, or name-called, or degraded....I know I don't want to be treated that way, and yet, I treat others that way at times. I have cried myself to sleep many nights feeling guilty for being such a bad mom, or mean wife.

The other problem is that others will see that in you, and may use it against you. I know many people that have gone through a divorce and the spouse talks about how verbally abusive, or "crazy" their spouse is. That leads to question what kind of parent they are, and most likely anger management classes.

And also, as a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, I am looked at by others as an example of my faith. What are they going to think of the Church by watching my behavior?

Alma 17-18

Quote "Fasting can help us overcome personal flaws and sins. It can help us overcome our weaknesses-help them become strengths. Fasting can help us become more humble, less prideful, less selfish, and more concerned about the needs of others. It can help us see more clearly our own mistakes and weaknesses and help us be less prone to criticize others...Throughout the scriptures the term fasting is usually combined with prayer...Fasting without prayer is just going hungry for 24 hours. But fasting combined with prayer brings increased spiritual power."

~Elder Carl B. Pratt

Question "What experiences have you had with fasting?"

I have had many fasts in my life...some more purposeful than others. I have fasted for forgiveness, sick family members, financial guidance, and many other reasons. Some of these experiences have led to immediate answers, and blessings. Other times, I haven't gotten immediate answers, but was blessed with more patience in waiting for an answer.

I won't go into too many details, because some experiences are very personal, but I will say how grateful I am for the knowledge of fasting. Fasting always brings a certain amount of peace, and always brings blessings in some form or another. I am so grateful for any means that helps me feel closer to my Heavenly Father. It is hard in the hustle and bustle of day to day things to feel His spirit...but fasting (with prayer of course) really helps me feel more connected.

I will share a true story that recently happened that touched me.... I know a woman with a 7 year old little girl, that is dealing with some very hard circumstances....the daughter asked her mother "I know I have to have faith, and pray, but if there is something I want very badly, how do I get my prayer answered?" The mother replied "Well, fasting is one way to help our prayers get answered. When we fast, we are showing Heavenly Father, that we are willing to give something up very valuable to us, in order for Him to know how much that prayer means to us." So this little 7 year old girl, on her own decided that she was going to fast! So she fasted for 2 meals without any prompting or reminders from anyone, and prayed her heart out for this request. Later that evening, she received a phone call that answered her prayer! It's wonderful for me to realize that even our youth can have these life-changing experiences, and set an example for the adults around them!

Alma 14-16

Quote "The right question to ask is not why good people have trials, but how shall good people respond when they are tried?"

~Elder Marion D. Hanks

"Suffering can make saints of people as they learn patience, long suffering and self-mastery. The sufferings of our Savior were part of his education."

~President Spencer W. Kimball

Question "How do you respond to adversity?"

Well, if I'm answering honestly, I cry, kick, complain, and have a pity-party. Well, I guess I do that sometimes, and other times, I am humble, and optimistic, and cheerful about it. It just depends what the adversity is.

I can really relate to Amulek in this reading assignment, when he can't stand to watch the women and children be burned, and he wants to do something to stop it. I have seen someone I love very much, be put in a comparable situation, and it is UNBEARABLE! I didn't understand it, I still don't really fully understand it. I am trying to learn. And reading scriptures like this one helps me feel a little better about it...."But Alma said unto him: The Spirit constraineth me that I must not stretch forth mine hand; for behold the Lord receiveth them up unto himself, in glory; and he doth suffer that they may do this thing, or that the people may do this thing unto them, according to the hardness of their hearts, that the judgments which he shall exercise upon them in his wrath may be just; and the blood of the innocent shall stand as a witness against them, yea, and cry mightily against them at the last day." (Alma 14:11)

What I love about this scripture is that it clears up a lot of questions about why the Lord allows so much suffering in this life, and also the gift of agency. He has given us ALL agency, and He doesn't take it away. He allows His children to choose for themselves, good or evil, and there would be no real justice if He did take it away from some, and not others.

Sorry, I'm going on a tangent....back to the quote/question. I feel that sometimes, it is better to go through the challenges ourselves, than to see a loved-one suffer....especially children. However, part of learning to depend on the Lord comes from adversity, and if our loved ones, and children had no adversity, they couldn't develop their own testimonies about the Lord.

We all have good days, and bad days....and we all probably react accordingly to adverse situations. But it is good to always keep in mind to have an attitude of gratitude for adversity, because it brings so much opportunity with it. We have the chance to grow closer to our Savior through depending on Him, and we have the chance to learn and grow from the experience itself, and we learn to have charity and empathy for others going through similar problems. Adversity is necessary for us. It is not fun to go through, sometimes, it is excruciatingly painful....but it is necessary for our growth. So, we can mope and complain, that is our choice, as we all have agency....or we can look at the problem, and say "Lord, what would Thou have me learn from this? Please help me to learn everything I can from this, and please give me the strength and courage to get through it."

Alma 12-13

Quote "God has saved for the final inning some of His strongest and most valiant children...Make no mistake about it - you are a marked generation. There has never been more expected of the faithful in such a short period of time than there is of us...The final outcome is certain - the forces of righteousness will finally win. But what remains to be seen is where each of us personally, now and in the future, will stand in this battle - and how tall we will stand. Will we be true to...our foreordained mission?

~President Ezra Taft Benson

Question "To what callings do you think you've been foreordained?"

Hard question for me. The only thing I feel foreordained to personally, is motherhood. I may have other things, but that is all that comes to mind for me. Well, I guess I was a foreordained "Christian", but we all were since we all chose to follow Jesus and come to this Earth. I am far from living as a prophet.

I do believe I will be on the righteous side to the battle, I guess I already feel like every day I'm on the righteous side to the battle, despite my faults and sins, I believe in Jesus Christ. I want to do better, and I want to be better. I don't think I would ever feel worthy enough, or like I'm doing everything right.....the more right or good I do, the more I realize I need to do better.

I hope when my mission is over I will be able to look back, and marvel that I was able to accomplish it.....that's a really hard thing for me to imagine in my self-critical body! :)