did ya pray about it?

James 1:5

Joseph Smith—History 1:11-13

Pondering and lost? Have you prayed about it?

2 Nephi 32:4

Why do we do this to ourselves? No need to pick a spot in the forest. Just pray.

Doctrine & Covenants 12:5

Personal invite from the Lord . . . But we're silly, imperfect, overthinking, distracted, over complicating beings.

That's why God gave us ancient and modern prophets to remind us as well as friends and family. So, "Did you think to pray?". Yeah, I forgot too. Here’s a reminder for both of us.

peace vs happy

To follow evil influences can never result in a feeling of peace simply because peace is a gift from God and it only comes through the Spirit of God. “Wickedness never was happiness” (Alma 41:10). In our day-to-day actions, it is often the small and simple things that will have a long-lasting impact (see Alma 37:6–7). What we say, how we act, and how we choose to react will influence not only ourselves but also those around us. We can build up, or we can tear down.

Rest unto Your Souls  

By Elder Per G. Malm

October 2010

Alma 41:10 has often reminded me that there is a distinct difference between carnal pleasures or enjoyments and true happiness or joy. Elder Malm's distinction of peace is an excellent indicator. There can be peace in the midst of life's atrocities. I've learned that it may take a strong will and devotion to discipleship. Nevertheless, in the midst of even ongoing trials, we can find peace.

if / then

Ether 4:15

I love "if/then" statements. It clearly outlines directions and results. Ether 4 has a lot of "if/then" or "when/then" statements.   

I chose verse 15 because it first says to rend the veil of unbelief and states what the unbelief is causing. That's nice but how? Then it tells you how, "call upon the Father in my name, with a broken heart and a contrite spirit". Sometimes, answers are obvious and easy. Sometimes, they aren't. It could be the difference of a day that clouds our sight and understanding.   

Life's rough and there's all kinds of storms. Having those obvious instructions help keep us going the right direction.

sealing power

One of the things i enjoy doing is cross referencing principles and doctrine between the Bible, Book of Mormon, and Doctrine & Covenants / Pearl of Great Price. It's not an attempt to prove anything to anyone. It has really helped me better understand God’s relationships with diverse people, compare doctrine in various cultures, compare and connect people living principles (or not living them) and the outcome, and appreciate the consistency of God’s dealing with His children.   

Here's today's connections. It's not all of the references. Feel free to add some.  

Sealing power

Matthew 16:19

Helaman 10:7

Doctrine & Covenants 1:8