tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-28748894221454752352023-11-15T23:30:08.528-08:00The Straight And NarrowNarrow is the gate and straight is the way that leads to eternal life. This is the path I choose to follow. What path will you follow?Elder David Mahrthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17279319330570852283noreply@blogger.comBlogger55125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2874889422145475235.post-72727283140219723832011-07-06T11:11:00.000-07:002011-07-06T11:11:55.129-07:00BecomeRecently my thoughts and experiences have caused me to reflect on the true meaning of life. I had realized that in the course of my mission I had become preoccupied with things of little consequence. As a result of my actions I had inadvertently distanced myself from God. My true purpose in life had been forgotten. This week I have begun to reacquaint myself with this truth. This blog will reveal what I have rediscovered. <br />
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The purpose of life is for us to come here, gain bodies, make choices, and to return to life with God. Living in the presence of God is called eternal life, which is the greatest of all the gifts of God (<a href="http://lds.org/scriptures/dc-testament/dc/14?lang=eng&query=eternal+life">D&C 14:7</a>). Those who recieve eternal life inherit all that God has (<a href="http://lds.org/scriptures/nt/rom/8.16?lang=eng#15">Romans 8:16</a>). That's a great purpose that I hope we all can remember. Remembering this helps us to live our lives in a way that will qualify us for this gift.<br />
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<a href="http://www.blogger.com/%20%20%20http://lds.org/general-conference/2000/10/the-challenge-to-become?lang=eng&query=charity">Dallin H. Oaks</a>, an <a href="http://mormon.org/restoration/#authority-to-lead-his-church-restored">Apostle</a> of the Lord, taught us what is required to qualify in this parable:<br />
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<div class="" uri="/general-conference/2000/10/the-challenge-to-become.p5">"A wealthy father knew that if he were to bestow his wealth upon a child who had not yet developed the needed wisdom and stature, the inheritance would probably be wasted. The father said to his child:</div><div class="" uri="/general-conference/2000/10/the-challenge-to-become.p5"><br />
</div><div class="" uri="/general-conference/2000/10/the-challenge-to-become.p6">“All that I have I desire to give you—not only my wealth, but also my position and standing among men. That which I <i>have</i> I can easily give you, but that which I <i>am</i> you must obtain for yourself. You will qualify for your inheritance by learning what I have learned and by living as I have lived. I will give you the laws and principles by which I have acquired my wisdom and stature. Follow my example, mastering as I have mastered, and you will become as I am, and all that I have will be yours.”</div><div class="" uri="/general-conference/2000/10/the-challenge-to-become.p6"><br />
</div><div class="" uri="/general-conference/2000/10/the-challenge-to-become.p6">He goes on to state that:</div><div class="" uri="/general-conference/2000/10/the-challenge-to-become.p6"><br />
</div>"The Final Judgment is not just an evaluation of a sum total of good and evil acts—what we have <i>done.</i> It is an acknowledgment of the final effect of our acts and thoughts—what we have <i>become.</i> It is not enough for anyone just to go through the motions. The commandments, ordinances, and covenants of the gospel are not a list of deposits required to be made in some heavenly account. The gospel of Jesus Christ is a plan that shows us how to become what our Heavenly Father desires us to become."<br />
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What is the purpose of this life then: to become like our Heavenly Father. How do we achieve that purpose: through the Gospel of Jesus Christ. It is important therefore that we focus more on what we are becoming.<br />
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I know that this is true because the spirit has born witness to me as I wrote this blog. This truth has changed the way I think and act. I had been doing all the right things on my mission, but I was not becoming what God wanted me to be. I now understand what Paul meant when he said:<br />
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"Though I speak with the tongues of men and of angels, and have not charity, I am become <span class="clarityWord">as</span> sounding brass, or a tinkling cymbal.<a class="bookmark-anchor dontHighlight" href="http://www.blogger.com/post-edit.g?blogID=2874889422145475235&postID=7272728314021972383" name="2"></a><span class="verse"></span>And though I have <span class="clarityWord">the gift of</span> prophecy, and understand all mysteries, and all knowledge; and though I have all faith, so that I could remove mountains, and have not charity, I am nothing" (<a href="http://lds.org/scriptures/nt/1-cor/13?lang=eng">1 Corinthians 13:1-2</a>)<br />
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Charity is a measure of what we become. It is the pure love of Christ. Paul emphasized that it doesn't matter what skills he has, if he has not become like Christ those skills mean nothing. <br />
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I know that this is true. It has changed my life. I invite everyone to remember their purpose in this life. May God bless us as we strive to become what we are divinely appointed to become. May we all develop charity that when we will stand before Christ to be judged we will be like him. (<a href="http://lds.org/scriptures/nt/1-jn/3?lang=eng">1 John 3:1-5</a>)<br />
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<a href="http://mormon.org/missionaries/">Click here to have missionaries over to your home to learn more about the Purpose of Life</a>.<br />
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<a href="http://mormon.org/free-book-of-mormon/">Click here to order a free Book of Mormon that teaches us the purpose of life.</a>Elder David Mahrthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17279319330570852283noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2874889422145475235.post-45086478005734442222011-06-13T13:46:00.000-07:002011-06-13T13:46:29.025-07:00Progressive Post: Trust in the Lord<span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">I am so proud to be a missionary serving in the California Santa Rosa Mission. I love the hills, the diversity of flowers and fruit, and the redwood trees. California is a beautiful state. It is rich in landscape and in people. I have especially loved and appreciated the people of California. I am currently serving in Vallejo and I agree one hundred percent with what </span><a href="http://elderdanejones.blogspot.com/"><span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">Elder Jones</span></a><span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;"> has said about this area. My brothers and sisters here have taught me so much about perserverance and about holding to the simple truths of the gospel.</span><br />
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqRMD7CzDOEHlICNw5om529UUoJ2EgRFwgeO81-1yhRyoNpg5uU6WmggmaFjPICGnQqhbeVYaX6uOIlDeMJdWKeD1HFPV_GExD1F9nQFGmbcFkCENfCHYXli9-tbsi3Um89M_cejcZ71Ex/s220/DSCF2889.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Preview" border="0" class="previewImageDiv" id="USI_195prx6z42lae_picImg" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqRMD7CzDOEHlICNw5om529UUoJ2EgRFwgeO81-1yhRyoNpg5uU6WmggmaFjPICGnQqhbeVYaX6uOIlDeMJdWKeD1HFPV_GExD1F9nQFGmbcFkCENfCHYXli9-tbsi3Um89M_cejcZ71Ex/s220/DSCF2889.JPG" style="height: 165px; width: 220px;" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqRMD7CzDOEHlICNw5om529UUoJ2EgRFwgeO81-1yhRyoNpg5uU6WmggmaFjPICGnQqhbeVYaX6uOIlDeMJdWKeD1HFPV_GExD1F9nQFGmbcFkCENfCHYXli9-tbsi3Um89M_cejcZ71Ex/s220/DSCF2889.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">Rather than restate everything that has been written about Vallejo, I want to talk about my experiences in the Northernmost city of our mission, Crescent City. It is the first area I have served in therefore it will always have a special place in my heart. Having gotten the pleasure of serving in both wards all the members in that city are family to me. It is no different with the people I taught and contacted. I love them and I appreciate what they have given me. I've never met a more humble city than Crescent City. Above all that I was taught the main lesson that I learned from my five months stay was to trust in the Lord.</span></div><span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;"><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">I'll let Alma the Younger sum it all up for me: "I do know that whosoever shall put their trust in God shall be supported in their trials, and their troubles, and their afflictions, and shall be lifted up at the last day. And I would not that ye think that I know of myself—not of the temporal but of the spiritual, not of the carnal mind but of God. Now, behold, I say unto you, if I had not been born of God I should not have known these things" (</span><a href="http://lds.org/scriptures/bofm/alma/36?lang=eng"><span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">Alma 36: 3-5</span></a><span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">). Not only was I born into the mission in Crescent City, but I experienced a spiritual rebirth. That rebirth was a result of the trials and challenges that I faced as a new missionary. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">Before I came on my mission I would often back down from a challenge. There were many opportunities in my life that I missed because I was afraid of failing. Rather than manning up and seizing the moment I cowered and withdrew. Fear had always overpowered my faith. For the first time in my life I buckled up and got to work. I seized every opportunity I could to serve others and to teach. I worked myself into the ground for the people there. I stood up for what I believed and I lived what I preached. Because I chose to exercise my faith I was able to accomplish miracles. The biggest miracle however was my own spiritual growth.</span><br />
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<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><a href="http://a6.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc4/156361_119187801482382_100001734883361_115442_8149987_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; cssfloat: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img alt="" aria-busy="false" aria-describedby="fbPhotoTheaterCaption" border="0" class="spotlight" height="240px" src="http://a6.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc4/156361_119187801482382_100001734883361_115442_8149987_n.jpg" width="320px" /></a><span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">When I first came out I had some fears and doubts about my ability to be a successful missionary. The Lord took care of that fast. I was nailed time and time again with experiences where I had to choose to act in faith or cower in fear. Never before in my life did I go through that many challenges all at once. It seemed like there was no end to the trials I was facing. I had to rely on something other than myself to make it through. I quickly learned that I could trust in God. Each time I put it in the Lord's hands everything worked out. Relief came and miracles happened in every case. God provided for me. His "grace was sufficient"(</span><a href="http://lds.org/scriptures/bofm/ether/12?lang=eng"><span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">Ether 12:27</span></a><span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">). That lesson has helped me through all of my trials since. I have learned to face trial with faith. From my first months in Crescent City I have had the capacity to enjoy every moment of my mission. This is because I know that I can put my trust in the Lord.</span></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;"><br />
</span></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">I believe His words to Alma and his people when they were delivered from bondage. The Lord told them </span><span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">"this will I do that ye may stand as witnesses for me hereafter, and that ye may know of a surety that I, the Lord God, do visit my people in their afflictions."(</span><a href="http://lds.org/scriptures/bofm/mosiah/24?lang=eng"><span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">Mosiah 24:14</span></a><span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">) I know that that is true. I am so thankful for the privilege it was to serve in Crescent City. I now have the faith to do all that the Lord requires of me. I know that He will go with me as I strive to deliver others from their afflictions and bring them into the waters of baptism. This is Church is most definately true. I love the experiences I have had while serving in the California Santa Rosa Mission. I'm excited to hear from </span><a href="http://eldertreywilliams.blogspot.com/"><span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">Elder Trey Williams</span></a><span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;"> about what he has learned from his experiences on his mission. Keep following the Progressive Post.</span></div>Elder David Mahrthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17279319330570852283noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2874889422145475235.post-45803345519919611632011-06-03T12:40:00.000-07:002011-06-03T12:40:07.506-07:00"How Firm a Foundation"<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">We hand out a pass along card that has a picture of the Salt Lake Temple on it. On the back are a few questions of the soul and an invitation to visit the website mormon.org. I love the Salt Lake temple. Many people that we give the pass along card to are astonished by the beauty of the building. I admit it is a wonderful sight to see. What is even more astonishing however, is the temple's construction. </span><br />
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<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><a href="http://www.russpage.net/wp-content/uploads/2008/01/salt-lake-temple-under-construction-1880s.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; cssfloat: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="185px" src="http://www.russpage.net/wp-content/uploads/2008/01/salt-lake-temple-under-construction-1880s.jpg" width="320px" /></span></a><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The Salt Lake Temple took 39 years to build. The foundation of the temple took 14 years alone. President Young said he wanted to see the temple built so strong that “it will endure through the Millennium”(</span><a href="http://lds.org/ldsorg/v/index.jsp?hideNav=1&locale=0&sourceId=582ba41f6cc20110VgnVCM100000176f620a____&vgnextoid=198bf4b13819d110VgnVCM1000003a94610aRCRD"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">lds.org</span></a><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">) That is why so much time was spent on building the foundation of the temple. If the foundation will hold and stand so will the work on top of it. A sturdy foundation enables the rest of the building to function as it should. A house with a weak foundation will not stand. However, a house with a strong foundation can withstand the rains, floods, winds, earthquakes, and other tests that confront it. Brigham Young and the early saints understood this concept and took it into consideration as they built the temple. In fact, after 5 years of building the foundation the Saints had to completely restart because a crack was found in one of the foundation stones.</span></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">When Christ had established his Church he also established it on a firm foundation. We read in the</span><a href="http://lds.org/scriptures/nt/eph/2?lang=eng"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> Ephesians</span></a><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> that the Church was "built upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Jesus Christ himself being the chief corner stone." When the apostles were martyred the foundation was destroyed and the rest of the Church was affected. Eventually that Church fell. God understood the importance of that foundation and in our time he has built a new one. That is the reason why he called Joseph Smith to be a prophet and under his hand ordained 12 Apostles. With that foundation restored God once again brought His Church back onto the earth with the promise that it would stand until Christ will come again. </span></div><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The Salt Lake temple is a testimony of the faithfulness of the saints and of the importance of this Latter-day work. It stands as a witness to all nations that Jesus is the Christ and that he leads and directs the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints today. He does this through living prophets and apostles. This is the same foundation that the original church was built upon. I know that this is true and I am grateful for the foundation upon which this church is built. I know that it will never fall. The Lord stated through His prophet:</span><br />
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<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; text-align: center;"><a href="http://mormontemples.net/wp-content/uploads/2011/03/ArtBook__119_119__SaltLakeTemple____.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="320px" src="http://mormontemples.net/wp-content/uploads/2011/03/ArtBook__119_119__SaltLakeTemple____.jpg" width="318px" /></span></a><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">"</span><a href="http://lds.org/manual/teachings-of-presidents-of-the-church-joseph-smith/chapter-38-the-wentworth-letter?lang=eng&query=wentworth+letter"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The Standard of Truth</span></a><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> has been erected; no unhallowed hand can stop the work from progressing; persecutions may rage, mobs may combine, armies may assemble, calumny may defame, but the truth of God will go forth boldly, nobly, and independent, till it has penetrated every continent, visited every clime, swept every country, and sounded in every ear, till the purposes of God shall be accomplished, and the Great Jehovah shall say the work is done."</span></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Til the end has come the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints will stand as the Lord has promised. This is because of the foundation upon which it is built "which is a sure foundation, whereon if men build they shall not fall."(</span><a href="http://lds.org/scriptures/bofm/hel/5.12?lang=eng#11"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Helaman 5:12</span></a><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">) That foundation is the same as when Christ had originally formed his church. It has been restored and it will not fall. Of this I testify as a missionary for the Church of Jesus Christ.</span></div>Elder David Mahrthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17279319330570852283noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2874889422145475235.post-74026970930174627072011-06-01T16:41:00.000-07:002011-08-08T20:37:32.555-07:00Beans and Crackers or Feast and MusicI am so excited to finally be able to read Conference in the Ensign. It is such a great blessing. We get to read the words of modern day prophets and apostles over and over again. This morning I studied President Uchtdorf's talk titled "<a href="http://lds.org/scriptures/dc-testament/dc/123?lang=eng&query=kept+truth+because+they+know+find">Your Potential, Your Privilege</a>." As I read, I remembered when he delivered this message in April. He began his talk with this story:<br />
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<div class="" uri="/general-conference/2011/04/your-potential-your-privilege.p1">"There once was a man whose lifelong dream was to board a cruise ship and sail the Mediterranean Sea. He dreamed of walking the streets of Rome, Athens, and Istanbul. He saved every penny until he had enough for his passage. Since money was tight, he brought an extra suitcase filled with cans of beans, boxes of crackers, and bags of powdered lemonade, and that is what he lived on every day.</div><div class="" uri="/general-conference/2011/04/your-potential-your-privilege.p1"><br />
</div><div class="" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;" uri="/general-conference/2011/04/your-potential-your-privilege.p2"><a href="http://www.caribbeancruiseships.net/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/Caribbean-Cruise-Ships.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; cssfloat: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a>He would have loved to take part in the many activities offered on the ship—working out in the gym, playing miniature golf, and swimming in the pool. He envied those who went to movies, shows, and cultural presentations. And, oh, how he yearned for only a taste of the amazing food he saw on the ship—every meal appeared to be a feast! But the man wanted to spend so very little money that he didn’t participate in any of these. He was able to see the cities he had longed to visit, but for the most part of the journey, he stayed in his cabin and ate only his humble food.</div><div class="" uri="/general-conference/2011/04/your-potential-your-privilege.p2"><br />
</div><div class="" uri="/general-conference/2011/04/your-potential-your-privilege.p3">On the last day of the cruise, a crew member asked him which of the farewell parties he would be attending. It was then that the man learned that not only the farewell party but almost everything on board the cruise ship—the food, the entertainment, all the activities—had been included in the price of his ticket. Too late the man realized that he had been living far beneath his privileges."</div><br />
How often in our lives do we live beneath our potential? If we understood our relationship to God we would come to see that our potential is limitless. The fact that we are all sons and daughters of a loving Heavenly Father testifies to us that we have divine potential. God's purpose is to enable each one of us to recieve the blessings he has and to live with Him through the eternities. That was the reason we were sent to Earth in the first place. This life is our time to prepare to meet God (<a href="http://lds.org/scriptures/bofm/alma/34?lang=eng">Alma 34:32</a>) How would we feel if at the end of our life here on Earth we discovered that we lived far below our potential? We would be unprepared to meet God because we didnt use our time here wisely. Instead of enjoying the abundance of joy that life has to offer, we sat in our room and ate beans and crackers. We would feel much like the man in President Uchtdorf's story. <br />
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President Uchtdorf stated: "We live beneath our privileges when we fail to partake of the feast of happiness, peace, and joy that God grants so bountifully." There are many people out there who are living below their potential. It is not any fault of their own. "For there are many yet on the earth among all sects, parties, and denominations, who are blinded by the subtle craftiness of men, whereby they lie in wait to deceive, and who are only kept from the truth because they know not where to find it." (<a href="http://lds.org/scriptures/dc-testament/dc/123?lang=eng&query=kept+truth+because+they+know+find">D&C 123:12</a>). Guess what? We know where to find it. The only way to enjoy fully the blessings of God in this life and in the eternities is found through the Gospel of Jesus Christ as Restored through the Prophet Joseph Smith. This is because the Gospel in its fullness has been brought back onto the earth. There is no other way.<br />
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<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><a href="http://blog.mrm.org/wp-content/uploads/2007/09/unleash.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a>We are all on this cruiseship together. It is our responsibility to help everyone live up to their potential. Would we let our brothers and sisters sit in their room and eat beans and crackers? For me that answer is no. It is up to all who have been warned to warn their neighbor. I will do all in my power to help others reach their divine potential. </div><br />
Spread the word. <br />
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Read President Uchtdorf's full address, "<a href="http://lds.org/general-conference/2011/04/your-potential-your-privilege?lang=eng&query=Dieter+F.+Uchtdorf,+April+2011">Your Potential, Your Privelege</a>"Elder David Mahrthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17279319330570852283noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2874889422145475235.post-35587681881342382922011-05-26T14:12:00.000-07:002011-05-26T14:12:39.299-07:00Called to Serve: On the Other Side of the Veil<div class="GBThreadMessageRow_Body_Content"><span style="font-size: large;">This last week I heard from a friend that someone who meant a lot to me had passed away. I was shocked when I heard the news and thankful that I had been informed. It was a great blessing to have heard because I have been away from him for 6 months. This man and his wife had joined the church a year ago. They are stalwart saints who have powerful testimonies of the truthfulness of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. When I served in their area they treated me like family. I love them and they will always be a part of my life. Here on the earth and in the eternities. I want to tell you a bit about his death and bear testimony of the life after.</span></div><div class="GBThreadMessageRow_Body_Content"><span style="font-size: large;"><a name='more'></a></span></div><div class="GBThreadMessageRow_Body_Content" style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;"></span> </div><div class="GBThreadMessageRow_Body_Content" style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;">Since it has been a year since their baptism they have the </span><span style="font-size: large;">opportunity of being sealed in the temple. They were to become an eternal family this weekend. They had their recommends and the date was set with the temple for them to go through, recieve their endowments, and be sealed. My friend also recieved his Patriarchal Blessing this week. In that blessing it said that he would be called to serve a mission soon. I recieved this email from a member yesterday, </span></div><div class="GBThreadMessageRow_Body_Content"><span style="font-size: large;"></span> </div><div class="GBThreadMessageRow_Body_Content" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">"The funeral was yesterday in Cave Junction and was like a missionary discussion. It went well. They were returning from the Patriarch when they stopped to eat because of his blood sugar. His blessing said he would be called to serve a mission soon. She said they didn't realize how soon. She was sealed to him today as they both had already had their interviews and recommends." </span></div><div class="GBThreadMessageRow_Body_Content" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"></span> </div><div class="GBThreadMessageRow_Body_Content" style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;">My dear Brother had passed while his wife and him were on their way home from the Patriarch. He had died very soon after. He was called to serve his mission on the other side of the veil. He is still sealed to his wife and he is doing work in the spirit world. There is life after this. It was that very fact that caused his wife to continue forth with the sealing. She knows that they will be together again. Family is forever. </span></div><div class="GBThreadMessageRow_Body_Content" style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;"></span> </div><div class="GBThreadMessageRow_Body_Content" style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;">I know that this is true. I dont know everything that goes on in the next life, but I do know that our families watch over us. I know that the gospel is being preached in the Spirit World so that "they might be </span><span style="font-size: large;">judged</span><span style="font-size: large;"> according to men in the flesh, but live according to God in the spirit" (<a href="http://lds.org/scriptures/nt/1-pet/4?lang=eng">1 Peter 4:6</a>) My friend is fulfilling his mission to preach the gospel in the world of spirits. The work that takes place there is just as vital as the work on our side. His wife will feel his presence and be blessed for his faithfulness. He is not very far from her. </span><span style="font-size: large;">I know this is true.</span></div>Elder David Mahrthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17279319330570852283noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2874889422145475235.post-39992705648794996152011-05-25T11:57:00.000-07:002011-08-08T20:38:10.457-07:00I Will Follow You<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaVftvRJqQVAGOmlGoQd9cyk_zef-6wXYfbu8nKWMeuefrWX9SyCSF9LRgv-q5HkC7Xkzj27rROlUNhi5XZqwDfnZ5zdgths1qe85oO8XMjf_IddyONne-Ir4u9yruRdWScQZr6Dkss6E/s1600/Jesus+Baptism.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a>This weekend was a very special weekend for me. I got to be a part of a few baptisms. After the first baptism I gave a talk. At the beginning of the talk I asked her how she felt. Her response: "I've never felt this good in my life." I have ran those words through my head time and time again. It was special for me to hear her say that. Baptism is such an important event. It marks the beginning of a new life as a follower of Jesus Christ. "Therefore we are <a class="footnote" href="http://lds.org/scriptures/nt/rom/6.4?lang=eng#" id="footnote4" jquery1306349490068="22" rel="/scriptures/chapter/footnote/default.xqy?volumeUri=nt&bookUri=rom&chapterUri=6&noteID=4a&lang=eng">buried</a> with him by <a class="footnote" href="http://lds.org/scriptures/nt/rom/6.4?lang=eng#" id="footnote5" jquery1306349490068="23" rel="/scriptures/chapter/footnote/default.xqy?volumeUri=nt&bookUri=rom&chapterUri=6&noteID=4b&lang=eng">baptism</a> into death: that like as Christ was raised up from the <a class="footnote" href="http://lds.org/scriptures/nt/rom/6.4?lang=eng#" id="footnote6" jquery1306349490068="24" rel="/scriptures/chapter/footnote/default.xqy?volumeUri=nt&bookUri=rom&chapterUri=6&noteID=4c&lang=eng">dead</a> by the glory of the Father, even so we also should <a class="footnote" href="http://lds.org/scriptures/nt/rom/6.4?lang=eng#" id="footnote7" jquery1306349490068="25" rel="/scriptures/chapter/footnote/default.xqy?volumeUri=nt&bookUri=rom&chapterUri=6&noteID=4d&lang=eng">walk</a> in <a class="footnote" href="http://lds.org/scriptures/nt/rom/6.4?lang=eng#" id="footnote8" jquery1306349490068="26" rel="/scriptures/chapter/footnote/default.xqy?volumeUri=nt&bookUri=rom&chapterUri=6&noteID=4e&lang=eng">newness</a> of life." (<a href="http://lds.org/scriptures/nt/rom/6.4?lang=eng#3">Romans 6:4</a>) Everyone who is baptized by priesthood authority experiences rebirth and is cleansed from their sins. This is exactly what happened to our recent convert.</div><br />
Following that baptism we had another baptism. This was a young man who was 18. I got to have a one on one interview with him. He is a special kid and is going to do a lot with his life. During his baptism he spoke. While he spoke he read this poem that he wrote:<br />
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</div><div style="text-align: center;"><em>"I go through stages of obesession and depression no doubt self inflicted </em></div><div class="GBThreadMessageRow_ReferrerLink" style="text-align: center;"><em></em></div><div class="GBThreadMessageRow_Body_Attachment" style="text-align: center;"><em></em></div><div bindpoint="root" class="GBThreadMessageRow_Image" style="text-align: center;"><em>the wind in my sails has all but vanised </em></div><div bindpoint="root" class="GBThreadMessageRow_ReferrerLink" style="text-align: center;"><em></em></div><div bindpoint="root" class="GBThreadMessageRow_Body_Attachment" style="text-align: center;"><em></em></div><div bindpoint="root" class="GBThreadMessageRow_Image" style="text-align: center;"><em>im stuck </em></div><div bindpoint="root" class="GBThreadMessageRow_ReferrerLink" style="text-align: center;"><em></em></div><div bindpoint="root" class="GBThreadMessageRow_Body_Attachment" style="text-align: center;"><em></em></div><div bindpoint="root" class="GBThreadMessageRow_Image" style="text-align: center;"><em>not up nor down here nor there </em></div><div bindpoint="root" class="GBThreadMessageRow_ReferrerLink" style="text-align: center;"><em></em></div><div bindpoint="root" class="GBThreadMessageRow_Body_Attachment" style="text-align: center;"><em></em></div><div bindpoint="root" class="GBThreadMessageRow_Image" style="text-align: center;"><em>but no where </em></div><div bindpoint="root" class="GBThreadMessageRow_ReferrerLink" style="text-align: center;"><em></em></div><div bindpoint="root" class="GBThreadMessageRow_Body_Attachment" style="text-align: center;"><em></em></div><div bindpoint="root" class="GBThreadMessageRow_Image" style="text-align: center;"><em>after lifetimes of self defeat from the stress i finally realize </em></div><div bindpoint="root" class="GBThreadMessageRow_ReferrerLink" style="text-align: center;"><em></em></div><div bindpoint="root" class="GBThreadMessageRow_Body_Attachment" style="text-align: center;"><em></em></div><div bindpoint="root" class="GBThreadMessageRow_Image" style="text-align: center;"><em>who cares where i am or where im going </em></div><div bindpoint="root" class="GBThreadMessageRow_ReferrerLink" style="text-align: center;"><em></em></div><div bindpoint="root" class="GBThreadMessageRow_Body_Attachment" style="text-align: center;"><em></em></div><div bindpoint="root" class="GBThreadMessageRow_Image" style="text-align: center;"><em>im here and i have you to help me through </em></div><div bindpoint="root" class="GBThreadMessageRow_ReferrerLink" style="text-align: center;"><em></em></div><div bindpoint="root" class="GBThreadMessageRow_Body_Attachment" style="text-align: center;"><em></em></div><div bindpoint="root" class="GBThreadMessageRow_Image" style="text-align: center;"><em>then in less than a moment my sails have been filled </em></div><div bindpoint="root" class="GBThreadMessageRow_Image" style="text-align: center;"><a class="GBThreadMessageRow_Image_Link" href="http://www.facebook.com/win.cowger"><span style="color: #3b5998;"><em></em></span></a></div><div bindpoint="root" class="GBThreadMessageRow_Body" style="text-align: center;"><div class="GBThreadMessageRow_Body_Content"><em>FULL SPEED AHEAD </em></div><div class="GBThreadMessageRow_ReferrerLink"><em></em></div><div class="GBThreadMessageRow_Body_Attachment"><em></em></div></div><div bindpoint="root" class="GBThreadMessageRow_Image" style="text-align: center;"><em>but yet something is still left unsaid </em></div><div bindpoint="root" class="GBThreadMessageRow_Image" style="text-align: center;"><a class="GBThreadMessageRow_Image_Link" href="http://www.facebook.com/win.cowger"><span style="color: #3b5998;"><em></em></span></a></div><div bindpoint="root" class="GBThreadMessageRow_Body" style="text-align: center;"><div class="GBThreadMessageRow_Body_Content"><em>even with the horizon in my midst </em></div><div class="GBThreadMessageRow_ReferrerLink"><em></em></div><div class="GBThreadMessageRow_Body_Attachment"><em></em></div></div><div bindpoint="root" class="GBThreadMessageRow_Image" style="text-align: center;"><em>the past a dream forgotten </em></div><div bindpoint="root" class="GBThreadMessageRow_Image" style="text-align: center;"><a class="GBThreadMessageRow_Image_Link" href="http://www.facebook.com/win.cowger"><span style="color: #3b5998;"><em></em></span></a></div><div bindpoint="root" class="GBThreadMessageRow_Body" style="text-align: center;"><div class="GBThreadMessageRow_Body_Content"><em>i shutter </em></div><div class="GBThreadMessageRow_ReferrerLink"><em></em></div><div class="GBThreadMessageRow_Body_Attachment"><em></em></div></div><div bindpoint="root" class="GBThreadMessageRow_Image" style="text-align: center;"><em>and the seas themselves begin to quake </em></div><div bindpoint="root" class="GBThreadMessageRow_ReferrerLink" style="text-align: center;"><em></em></div><div bindpoint="root" class="GBThreadMessageRow_Body_Attachment" style="text-align: center;"><em></em></div><div bindpoint="root" class="GBThreadMessageRow_Image" style="text-align: center;"><em>was it a mistake </em></div><div bindpoint="root" class="GBThreadMessageRow_ReferrerLink" style="text-align: center;"><em></em></div><div bindpoint="root" class="GBThreadMessageRow_Body_Attachment" style="text-align: center;"><em></em></div><div bindpoint="root" class="GBThreadMessageRow_Image" style="text-align: center;"><em>i put my trust in you </em></div><div bindpoint="root" class="GBThreadMessageRow_ReferrerLink" style="text-align: center;"><em></em></div><div bindpoint="root" class="GBThreadMessageRow_Body_Attachment" style="text-align: center;"><em></em></div><div bindpoint="root" class="GBThreadMessageRow_Image" style="text-align: center;"><em>and now the waters shake </em></div><div bindpoint="root" class="GBThreadMessageRow_ReferrerLink" style="text-align: center;"><em></em></div><div bindpoint="root" class="GBThreadMessageRow_Body_Attachment" style="text-align: center;"><em></em></div><div bindpoint="root" class="GBThreadMessageRow_Image" style="text-align: center;"><em>i tremble and curse your name </em></div><div bindpoint="root" class="GBThreadMessageRow_Image" style="text-align: center;"><a class="GBThreadMessageRow_Image_Link" href="http://www.facebook.com/win.cowger"><span style="color: #3b5998;"><em></em></span></a></div><div bindpoint="root" class="GBThreadMessageRow_Body" style="text-align: center;"><div class="GBThreadMessageRow_Body_Content"><em>even though i am the one to blame </em></div><div class="GBThreadMessageRow_ReferrerLink"><em></em></div><div class="GBThreadMessageRow_Body_Attachment"><em></em></div></div><div bindpoint="root" class="GBThreadMessageRow_Image" style="text-align: center;"><em>now again </em></div><div bindpoint="root" class="GBThreadMessageRow_ReferrerLink" style="text-align: center;"><em></em></div><div bindpoint="root" class="GBThreadMessageRow_Body_Attachment" style="text-align: center;"><em></em></div><div bindpoint="root" class="GBThreadMessageRow_Image" style="text-align: center;"><em>im stuck </em></div><div bindpoint="root" class="GBThreadMessageRow_ReferrerLink" style="text-align: center;"><em></em></div><div bindpoint="root" class="GBThreadMessageRow_Body_Attachment" style="text-align: center;"><em></em></div><div bindpoint="root" class="GBThreadMessageRow_Image" style="text-align: center;"><em>in a rut </em></div><div bindpoint="root" class="GBThreadMessageRow_Image" style="text-align: center;"><a class="GBThreadMessageRow_Image_Link" href="http://www.facebook.com/win.cowger"><span style="color: #3b5998;"><em></em></span></a></div><div bindpoint="root" class="GBThreadMessageRow_Body" style="text-align: center;"><div class="GBThreadMessageRow_Body_Content"><em>but... </em></div></div><div bindpoint="root" class="GBThreadMessageRow_Image" style="text-align: center;"><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><em>mabye </em></div></div><div bindpoint="root" class="GBThreadMessageRow_ReferrerLink" style="text-align: center;"><em></em></div><div bindpoint="root" class="GBThreadMessageRow_Body_Attachment" style="text-align: center;"><em></em></div><div bindpoint="root" class="GBThreadMessageRow_Image" style="text-align: center;"><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><em>just mabye ill ask you one more time to fill my sails take them as you will </em></div></div><div bindpoint="root" class="GBThreadMessageRow_ReferrerLink" style="text-align: center;"><em></em></div><div bindpoint="root" class="GBThreadMessageRow_Body_Attachment" style="text-align: center;"><em></em></div><div bindpoint="root" class="GBThreadMessageRow_Image" style="text-align: center;"><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><em>no matter that be rough, or smooth seas </em></div></div><div bindpoint="root" class="GBThreadMessageRow_ReferrerLink" style="text-align: center;"><em></em></div><div bindpoint="root" class="GBThreadMessageRow_Body_Attachment" style="text-align: center;"><em></em></div><div bindpoint="root" class="GBThreadMessageRow_Image" style="text-align: center;"><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><em>just to get another glance of the land on the horizon when my fear forsook you</em></div></div><div bindpoint="root" class="GBThreadMessageRow_ReferrerLink" style="text-align: center;"><em></em></div><div bindpoint="root" class="GBThreadMessageRow_Body_Attachment" style="text-align: center;"><em></em></div><div bindpoint="root" class="GBThreadMessageRow_Image" style="text-align: center;"><div class="GBThreadMessageRow_ReferrerLink"><em></em></div></div><div bindpoint="root" class="GBThreadMessageRow_Main" style="text-align: center;"><div class="GBThreadMessageRow_Body"><div class="GBThreadMessageRow_Body_Content"><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><em>my mind be the sails i ask you to fill </em></div></div><div class="GBThreadMessageRow_ReferrerLink"><em></em></div><div class="GBThreadMessageRow_Body_Attachment"><em></em></div></div></div><div bindpoint="root" class="GBThreadMessageRow_Image" style="text-align: center;"><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><em>my heart the compass to direct me </em></div></div><div bindpoint="root" class="GBThreadMessageRow_ReferrerLink" style="text-align: center;"><em></em></div><div bindpoint="root" class="GBThreadMessageRow_Body_Attachment" style="text-align: center;"><em></em></div><div bindpoint="root" class="GBThreadMessageRow_Body_Content" style="text-align: center;"><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><em>i will follow you!"</em></div></div><div bindpoint="root" class="GBThreadMessageRow_Body_Content" style="text-align: center;"><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div></div><div bindpoint="root" class="GBThreadMessageRow_Body_Content" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; text-align: left;">He is a follower of Christ. He showed that by being baptized in the same manner Christ was baptized: by immersion and by someone who held the priesthood. What a sacred and holy event. I'm grateful I got the privilege to attend. These things are true, baptism is real. <a href="http://mormon.org/restoration/#authority-to-lead-his-church-restored">The authority has been restored.</a> The examples that my brother and sister have set this weekend by being baptized has changed my life just as it has transformed theirs. I thank them.</div>Elder David Mahrthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17279319330570852283noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2874889422145475235.post-82843446122916625442011-05-18T11:30:00.000-07:002011-05-18T11:30:57.470-07:00Small and SimpleI have a very sporadic personality. For me it is easy to pick up new things and drop them fast. I love change and I used to get uncomfortable with consistency. It has always been in my nature to expect big results in a short period of time. To put it simply I'm more of a sprinter than a long distance runner. Rather than being able to conserve my energy I like to get it all out in quick bursts. This pattern of thought and behavior unfortunately is not in harmony with God's way. It is a symptom of the carnal mind, a result of our temporal existence in the flesh.<br />
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God's way on the other hand is much different. The Lord's way, "suffereth long, and is kind and envieth not, and is not puffed up, seeketh not her own, is not easily provoked, thinketh no evil, and rejoiceth not in iniquity but rejoiceth in the truth, beareth all things, believeth all things, hopeth all things, endureth all things."(<a href="http://lds.org/scriptures/bofm/moro/7.45?lang=eng#44">Moroni 7:45</a>) Gods way focuses on the eternal. Since eternity is a much longer space of time than our life on earth God sees things much differently. Since this is the case our life here is a "a time to prepare to meet God" (<a href="http://lds.org/scriptures/bofm/alma/34?lang=eng">Alma 34:32</a>). Therefore as we follow God we "prepare for that endless state".<br />
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To teach us and prepare us for the eternities God follows a pattern of revealing truth "line upon line, precept upon precept." He can see the end from the beginning and he knows what we need and how to help us learn and prepare. It is for this reason that God works in small and simple means. Small in simple builds eternal attributes. Through these means we become more prepared to live with God. We don't reach heaven in an instant. Instead we show our faith through our devotion to following Christ and as we live His <a href="http://mormon.org/jesus-christ/">gospel</a>. When we make consistent righteous choices we become more like our Heavenly Father. We forsake the carnal and focus on the eternal.<br />
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<a href="http://lds.org/church/news/elder-david-a-bednar-teaches-about-the-spiritual-pattern-of-small-and-simple-things?lang=eng&query=Small+Simple+Bednar">Elder David A. Bednar</a> of the Twelve Apostles recently stated that: "Ordinary people who faithfully, diligently, and consistently do simple things that are right before God will bring forth extraordinary results." I know that this is true. It is the way of the disciple and it helps prepare us for the eternities.<br />
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I know that this is how God works. I'm doing my best to repent everyday and to focus on the small and simple things. I have seen great blessings come as I slow down and see things from an eternal perspective. I encourage everyone else to do the same.<br />
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<a href="http://lds.org/church/news/elder-david-a-bednar-teaches-about-the-spiritual-pattern-of-small-and-simple-things?lang=eng&query=Small+Simple+Bednar">Read the rest of Elder Bednar's talk.</a><br />
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<a href="http://mormon.org/plan-of-happiness/">Visit our website to discover the small and simple truths that have been brought back to the earth.</a>Elder David Mahrthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17279319330570852283noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2874889422145475235.post-35204107398342663552011-05-17T13:44:00.000-07:002011-08-08T20:38:57.909-07:00More Important Than What You Do<span style="font-size: large;">Life is busy. There are so many different things that go along with it. As a missionary the list of things to do seems endless. Everyday I worry about what I should study, what I should say, who i should see, where I should go, etc. I'm sure everyone at some point has felt a little worn down by an infinite to do list. I know that with all the things I do it is easy for me to overwhelmed. With the list of to do's being so great I find myself asking: what should I focus on? I have learned an invaluable lesson lately about what is most important in life. </span><br />
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<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><a href="http://themasterstable.files.wordpress.com/2009/04/jesus_shepherd.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><span style="font-size: large;">I'm grateful I have Jesus Christ to look to. He answered my question about what I need to do. He said, "Verily, verily, I say unto you, this is my gospel; and ye know the things that ye must <i>do</i> in my church; for the works which ye have seen me <i>do</i> that shall ye also <em>do." </em>(</span><a href="http://lds.org/scriptures/bofm/3-ne/27?lang=eng"><span style="font-size: large;">3 Nephi 27:21</span></a><span style="font-size: large;">) However, I'm sure the Savior didnt have to worry about fixing the vacuum, conducting a Zone meeting, changing the oil in the car, write a blog, avoid eating anything with gluten in it... I could list tons of things the Savior didnt do that I absolutely have to do. I think Christ's counsel to follow his example goes deeper than the to do lists that we have. Christ wants us to look inwardly. He asked a more important question than "what should I put emphasis on in my to do list." His question was: "what manner of men ought ye to be?" His answer: "Verily I say unto you, even as I am." (</span><a href="http://lds.org/scriptures/bofm/3-ne/27?lang=eng"><span style="font-size: large;">3 Nephi 27:27</span></a><span style="font-size: large;">) </span></div><br />
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><span style="font-size: large;">I think too often in life my focus has been too much on the things I need to do, instead of the person I need to be. It is for this reason that I get overwhelmed. The to do list is too long! That is why life is extremely busy. The way that we do the things Christ has done is to become like him. Who we are determines what we will do. </span><a href="http://lds.org/general-conference/2011/04/what-manner-of-men-and-women-ought-ye-to-be?lang=eng&query=manner+men+women+ought"><span style="font-size: large;">Elder Robbins </span></a><span style="font-size: large;">taught at the last General Conference that "To <i>be</i> and to <i>do</i> are inseparable. As interdependent doctrines they reinforce and promote each other." I know that this is true. He goes on to say. "Christlike<i> to be</i>’s cannot be seen, but they are the motivating force behind what we <i>do,</i> which can be seen."</span></div><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">As I have placed my focus on what I need to be my life has changed drastically. What I am going to do has already been determined. I act in a way that will allign my will with my Heavenly Father's. If we focus on who we need to be our days will be full of joy. The activities that we choose to engage ourselves in will be more meaningful. We will have greater love for everyone. Most importantly we will become more like our Savior. Our to do's are geared towards our to be. We begin to see the real reason behind why we <em>must </em>do them. </span><br />
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<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><span style="font-size: large;">My prayer is that we all strive to be more Christlike and to reach out in love to everyone who is around us. I know that this will inspire others to change. They will desire to do even as our Savior has done.</span></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><span style="font-size: large;">To find out more about how this principle applies to parenting read the entire talk by Elder Robbins</span></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><a href="http://lds.org/general-conference/2011/04/what-manner-of-men-and-women-ought-ye-to-be?lang=eng&query=manner+men+women+ought"><span style="font-size: large;">"What Manner of Men and Women Ought Ye to Be?"</span></a></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><span style="font-size: large;">To read about what the Savior asks us to do you can read the </span><a href="http://lds.org/scriptures/bofm?lang=eng"><span style="font-size: large;">Book of Mormon online</span></a><span style="font-size: large;"> or order a free one from </span><a href="http://mormon.org/free-book-of-mormon/"><span style="font-size: large;">our church website</span></a><span style="font-size: large;">.</span>Elder David Mahrthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17279319330570852283noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2874889422145475235.post-35669715427013847912011-05-13T10:49:00.000-07:002011-08-08T20:39:59.002-07:00The Way<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The more I learn about the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints the more converted I become. I am just so grateful for the organization that God has established. He is most certainly a God of order. Look at how expansive and organized the universe is, or even the Earth, and the human body. He is not a creator of chaos. ALL things are done in order. It is no different with his Church here on the earth.</span></div><br />
<a name='more'></a><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><a href="http://www.madtomatoe.com/wp-content/uploads/2008/02/across-the-universe.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; cssfloat: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a></div><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">It is a fact that while we are here on earth we are separated from God's presence. He calls servants to teach us His will and to establish His church amongst His children. He gives them His priesthood, which is the authority to act in the name of God. "Some mistakenly think it (the priesthood) gives one the power to tell other people what to do. What it actually means is that a person can act in God’s name in behalf of His church—like when we give someone power of attorney so they can act in their behalf."(<a href="http://mormon.org/">Mormon.org</a>) The priesthood is how God establishes order on the earth.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">This was true when Christ established His church. While Christ was on the Earth, "He chose twelve men to be His apostles—including Peter, James and John—and laid His hands on their heads to give them authority called the priesthood to perform baptisms, govern His church, and spread His word throughout the world."(<a href="http://mormon.org/">Mormon.org</a>) However, with the death of the apostles that priesthood was lost and the Church fell away from the original Gospel that Jesus Christ had established. Without this authority on the Earth things essentially fell into chaos, the opposite of God.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Thankfully God has reached out in love and reestablished his Church again on the Earth. He did so in the same manner Christ established the Church, by the priesthood. This priesthood was restored "Prior to the organization of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints" through the Prophet Joseph Smith. He, "received priesthood authority at the hands of John the Baptist, Peter, James, and John who received that same “power and authority” from Jesus Christ Himself (</span><a href="http://lds.org/scriptures/nt/luke/9.1?lang=eng#primary" target="_blank"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Luke 9:1</span></a><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">). These men appeared as angels and bestowed the priesthood upon Joseph Smith. The prophet today, Thomas S. Monson, is the authorized successor to Joseph Smith. He and the Church’s other Apostles trace their priesthood authority back to Jesus Christ in an unbroken chain of ordinations."(<a href="http://mormon.org/">Mormon.org</a>) </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I am just amazed at how much God loves us. Amidst a world full of confusion and disaster God has restored His Holy order again on the Earth. He leads the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints today just as he has his church in the past: through the priesthood and through revelation. I know for myself that "there is none other way nor name given under heaven whereby man can be saved in the kingdom of God." (</span><a href="http://lds.org/scriptures/bofm/2-ne/31.21?lang=eng#20"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">2 Nephi 31</span></a><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">) That way is through His Son Jesus Christ. He gave "his life a ransom for many" (</span><a href="http://lds.org/scriptures/nt/mark/10.45?lang=eng#44"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Mark 10:45</span></a><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">). It has been this way since before the foundations of this world. It is so now. That is why God has restored the Church of Jesus Christ again on the earth. </span><br />
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<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgc7HLB45J6fo9jaBXSb_zNAhexsGY-rR78mUrnwgFshRYPu208NNzQMTprUFO7g4Iokbw29JJ6HeddDVr3Qa-HgTBx-o_XgNB5vUs74P_KOq7MijV_IyRexen_hkWU2b50r2s2sAkbeZO/s1600/JesusBaptized.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Christ invites everyone to follow him and be baptized by someone holding the proper priesthood authority. I am one of His messenger and have been set a part to extend the same invitation in His stead. Will you follow the example of Jesus Christ and be baptized by someone holding the proper priesthood authority of God? </span></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I promise that everyone who acknowledges His order and His way will be saved in the kingdom of God and will find lasting peace in this life. This is the Gospel of Jesus Christ and it has been and always will be. His arms of mercy are extended to as many as will come unto him and be partakers of His sacrifice. </span></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">"I am the Only Begotten of the Father from the beginning, henceforth and forever, that as thou hast fallen thou mayest be re<page-break page="12">deemed, and all mankind, even as <span class="highlight">many</span> as <span class="highlight">will" (<a href="http://lds.org/scriptures/search?lang=eng&type=verse&query=as+many+as+will&testament=pgp">Moses 5:9</a>).</span></span></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;"><a href="http://mormon.org/missionaries/">Will you meet with the missionaries and prepare yourself to be baptized?</a></span></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;"><a href="http://mormon.org/chat/">Want to chat with mormon missionaries online?</a></span></div><br />
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</div>Elder David Mahrthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17279319330570852283noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2874889422145475235.post-59282037260319236442011-05-06T21:00:00.000-07:002011-08-08T20:40:46.846-07:00Because Jesus is the Christ<span style="font-size: large;">One of my favorite hymns is "A Poor Wayfaring Man of Grief." I found out some new information about it tonight. It was the last hymn that Joseph Smith heard before he was martyred. John Taylor sang the song all the way through twice. My affection for this hymn has grown even deeper. I love it. It is all about serving the Lord through our actions towards others and our commitment to giving our all to him.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">I'm sure as Joseph Smith sat in Carthage Jail this verse took on significant meaning for him:</span><br />
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<div align="center"><em><span style="font-size: large;">In pris'n I saw him next, condemned</span></em></div><div align="center"><em><span style="font-size: large;">To meet a traitor's doom at morn.</span></em></div><div align="center"><em><span style="font-size: large;">The tide of lying tonuges I stemmed,</span></em></div><div align="center"><em><span style="font-size: large;">And honored him 'mid shame and scorn.</span></em></div><div align="center"><em><span style="font-size: large;">My friendship's utmost zeal to try,</span></em></div><div align="center"><em><span style="font-size: large;">He asked if I for him would die.</span></em></div><div align="center"><em><span style="font-size: large;">The flesh was weak, my blood ran chill,</span></em></div><div align="center"><em><span style="font-size: large;">But my free spirit cried, "I will"</span></em></div><div align="center"><br />
</div><div align="left" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><a href="http://www.lightplanet.com/mormons/people/joseph_smith/joseph_smith_martyrdom.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><span style="font-size: large;">There have been many who have died defending the faith. Joseph Smith is just one of many. Christ had asked for their life, and they willing gave it. What has Christ asked you to do?</span></div><div align="left"><br />
</div><div align="left"><span style="font-size: large;">I'm grateful Christ has not yet required my life. He has asked me to do other things though. One of which is give up 2 years to serve a mission. Along with that comes many other responsibilities. I am asked to talk to everyone, to invite others to be baptized, to follow a missionary schedule, to build up the ward where I serve, and the list of things goes on. These things seem so little to me when compared to what others have done for Christ. It matters not what he asks us to do. What matters is whether or not we are willing to do it. </span></div><div align="left"><br />
</div><div align="left"><span style="font-size: large;">The reason why Joseph Smith, myself, and many others act when they are called is simply because Jesus is the Christ. We understand that Christ has given us his all. He gave us his life. He suffered for our sins, sorrows, pains, temptations, and afflictions. He was despised and rejected of men. He descended below all things. Yet he overcame death. He conquered sin. He rose above all things. He sits at the right hand of the Father. All power is given to him in heaven and in earth. He is our Savior and our Redeemer. </span></div><div align="left"><br />
</div><div align="left"><span style="font-size: large;">If he did all those things for me I know that I can do all things through him. In fact he has promised me all things if I am faithful. These promises are extended to as many as will come unto him. His arms are open to everyone. He invites everyone to "</span><a class="footnote" href="http://lds.org/scriptures/bofm/3-ne/27?lang=eng#" id="footnote28" jquery1304740151783="45" rel="/scriptures/chapter/footnote/default.xqy?volumeUri=bofm&bookUri=3-ne&chapterUri=27&noteID=20a&lang=eng"><span style="font-size: large;">Repent</span></a> <span style="font-size: large;">and come unto me and be<sup class="studyNoteMarker">b</sup></span><a class="footnote" href="http://lds.org/scriptures/bofm/3-ne/27?lang=eng#" id="footnote29" jquery1304740151783="46" rel="/scriptures/chapter/footnote/default.xqy?volumeUri=bofm&bookUri=3-ne&chapterUri=27&noteID=20b&lang=eng"><span style="font-size: large;">baptized</span></a><span style="font-size: large;"> in my name, that ye may be </span><a class="footnote" href="http://lds.org/scriptures/bofm/3-ne/27?lang=eng#" id="footnote30" jquery1304740151783="47" rel="/scriptures/chapter/footnote/default.xqy?volumeUri=bofm&bookUri=3-ne&chapterUri=27&noteID=20c&lang=eng"><span style="font-size: large;">sanctified</span></a><span style="font-size: large;"> by the reception of the Holy Ghost, that ye may stand </span><a class="footnote" href="http://lds.org/scriptures/bofm/3-ne/27?lang=eng#" id="footnote31" jquery1304740151783="48" rel="/scriptures/chapter/footnote/default.xqy?volumeUri=bofm&bookUri=3-ne&chapterUri=27&noteID=20d&lang=eng"><span style="font-size: large;">spotless</span></a><span style="font-size: large;"> before me at the last day."(<a href="http://lds.org/scriptures/bofm/3-ne/27?lang=eng">3 Nephi 27:20</a>)</span></div><div align="left"><br />
</div><div align="left"><span style="font-size: large;">This is my calling: to invite others to come unto Christ by helping them to recieve the restored Gospel through faith in Jesus Christ and his Atonement, repentance, baptism, recieving the gift of the Holy Ghost, and enduring to the end. I am here to open the doors of the Celestial Kingdom to the sons and daughters of God. I do these things because Jesus is the Christ. </span></div><div align="left"><br />
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</div><div align="left"><span style="font-size: large;">Find out how you can serve Christ by reading the rest of the lyrics to "<a href="http://lds.org/churchmusic/detailmusicPlayer/index.html?searchlanguage=1&searchcollection=1&searchseqstart=29&searchsubseqstart=%20&searchseqend=29&searchsubseqend=ZZZ">A Poor Wayfaring Man of Grief</a>"</span></div><div align="left"><br />
</div><div align="left"><span style="font-size: large;">Read in the Book of Mormon what Christs expects of you, "<a href="http://lds.org/scriptures/bofm/2-ne/9?lang=eng">2 Nephi 9</a>)</span></div>Elder David Mahrthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17279319330570852283noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2874889422145475235.post-7536068681069790752011-04-28T13:35:00.000-07:002011-08-08T20:41:11.879-07:00Prayer and Scripture Study<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><span style="font-size: large;">I have been reflecting lately about my commitment to follow my Savior Jesus Christ. This was sparked primarily by Church on Easter Sunday. As a missionary Easter took on a different meaning to me. Each week as I partake of the sacrament I am reminded of his sacrifice. I truly appreciated his suffering and death on the Cross. This made me feel at peace knowing that he has felt as I have felt. It is such a great expression of love. Easter this year reminded me not just of his sacrifice but of his Ressurection. He overcame all things, including death. This brings me joy knowing that if I follow him to the end I too can overcome all things. I can be held, "guiltless before my Father" at that day when I will stand before Christ to be judged (</span><a href="http://lds.org/scriptures/bofm/3-ne/27?lang=eng"><span style="font-size: large;">3 Nephi 27:16</span></a><span style="font-size: large;">). That is the hope that keeps me going.</span></div><span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<a name='more'></a><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"></div><span style="font-size: large;">I wanted to write today about two things that have helped me in my life to hold true to this hope. These habits have helped me to remember my Savior and to make correct choices. I know that by studying the scriptures and praying often I can be close to my Savior and thus be at peace and experience lasting joy. These two things, though small, will lead to lasting conversion to our Savior.</span><br />
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<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><a href="http://lds.org/topic/book-of-mormon/images/mormons-books.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><span style="font-size: large;">The moment I became converted to the Gospel was the moment I decided to follow the counsel of my Bishop and read my scriptures every day. I remember the first time that I started reading the Book of Mormon. I didnt understand a word that book was saying. However, I remember the feeling that I got as I read. This feeling had changed my attitude for the rest of the day. From that day forward I could recognize the difference from the days I read and the days I didn't. The more I read the more I understood. I quickly became in love with the scriptures. </span></div><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">I know that what Nephi taught is true when he said, "Feast upon the words of Christ; for behold, the words of Christ will tell you all things what ye should do." (<a href="http://lds.org/scriptures/bofm/2-ne/32?lang=eng">2 Nephi 32:3</a>) I continue to feast upon them because they open the door to revelation and show me what I need to do and become. (<a href="http://lds.org/languages/additionalmanuals/preachgospel/PreachMyGospel___00_00_Complete__36617_eng_.pdf">PMG 73</a>) Scripture study keeps me close to my Savior. It has invited the spirit into my life and shows me what I should do throughout the day. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Through the scriptures we develop faith in Christ. It is necessary for lasting conversion to read, pray, and ponder the word of God. It is the same for the people of old as it is for us today. This is because the word of God is the same yesterday, today, and forever. I am with Jacob when he stated that: "We search the prophets, and we have many revelations...and having all of these witnesses we obtain a hope, and our faith becometh unshaken, insomuch that we truly can command in the of Jesus and the very trees obey us, or the mountains, or the waves of the sea." (<a href="http://lds.org/scriptures/bofm/jacob/4?lang=eng">Jacob 4:6</a>). Our faith will never fail us if we search dilligently the scriptures.</span><br />
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<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><span style="font-size: large;">God commands us to pray to him. "Prayer is a supernal gift of our Father in Heaven to every soul. Think of it: the absolute Supreme Being, the most all-knowing, all-seeing, all-powerful personage, encourages you and me, as insignificant as we are, to converse with Him as our Father." (<a href="http://lds.org/general-conference/2007/04/using-the-supernal-gift-of-prayer?lang=eng&query=richard+G.+Scott,+prayer">Richard G. Scott</a>) Prayer is direct communication with God. He hears us. It is so important to pray to him often throughout the day. Prayer is the way i recieved my answer that the Book of Mormon is true. It is through prayer that I discovered I needed to serve a mission. Since I have this gift of prayer I am able to recieve divine assistance. Assistance that I have found invaluable in missionary service and life in general. </span></div><br />
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhq3EQ_K2x-DVi_O4azNk8d1pC7TRm2Klr9vIAVIpwyTIreVbevd4-S0VP5rsrrN6UJydU9irtjkx_xaj0dmj504Lc55yp_HBeUG1BRnJGyLbmVYAMhmzvLckb3n4Q6rq9cM369wxZbozI/s1600/Prayer.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; cssfloat: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a><span style="font-size: large;">I want to quote the blessings that come from prayer as expressed in Preach My Gospel. "As we pray with faith, sincerity, and real intent, we will see God's influence in our lives. He will guide us in our daily lives and help us make good decisions. He will bless us with feelings of comfort and peace. He will warn us of danger and strenghten us to resist temptation. he will forgive our sins. We will feel closer to Him...We can recognize when the Holy Ghost is teaching us truth. Our minds will be filled with inspiring and uplifting thoughts. We will be enlightened, or given new knowledge. Our hearts will have feelings of peace, joy, and love. We will want to do good and be helpful to others." (<a href="http://lds.org/languages/additionalmanuals/preachgospel/PreachMyGospel___00_00_Complete__36617_eng_.pdf">PMG 73</a>) How important is prayer. Enough said right? </span></div><br />
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><span style="font-size: large;">I have experienced all of these blessings promised. I know that prayer and scripture study is how I have maintained my relationship with Christ. It is how I will continue to remember him. Through these two simple things I know what I need to do each day to honor my Savior and overcome all things as he did. </span></div><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">I know that he rose from the dead. I know that he is the Son of God. I know that he suffered for all our sins, temptations, pains, sicknesses, and sorrows. I know he is our Savior and Redeemer. I love my brother Jesus Christ. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://mormon.org/restoration/#god-restored-christs-church-through-joseph-smith">Read how prayer brought upon the Restoration of Jesus Christ's Church in the Latter-Days.</a></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://lds.org/general-conference/2007/04/using-the-supernal-gift-of-prayer?lang=eng&query=richard+G.+Scott,+prayer">Read a modern day apostles talk on Prayer.</a> </span><br />
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Elder David Mahrthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17279319330570852283noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2874889422145475235.post-57011442306418444512011-04-24T19:45:00.000-07:002011-04-24T19:45:50.985-07:00The Vacaville Saints<span style="font-size: large;">Well since I am leaving Vacaville tomorrow I have decided to write today about the people of Vacaville who have been angels in my life. Miracles have happened every day. I list only a few of the many that I have been blessed to witness and be a part of in my short stay with the Vacaville Saints.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Back in January there was a family who needed to be out of their house by the end of the weekend. They had no one to help them move their furniture or clean. Everyone who was supposed to be there had bailed. The person who owned the house was a single mother who works two jobs and has two kids. We walked into the situtation and after one phone call help was there. The next morning a dozen people showed up to help move. No one knew the woman or her family, but there everyone was with two trucks and a trailer. In a few hours all of the furniture was moved into the new house. A few nights later four Sisters from the ward showed up to help deep clean the inside and get it ready for rent. The mother was overwhelmed with gratitude. A miracle occured. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">For four and a half months the Relief Society sisters of the ward became professionals at searching labels. As if the burden of having to cook for the Elders wasnt enough, the food had to be Gluten-free. I'm so grateful for all the mothers who slaved away in the kitchen and on the computer to prepare food for a young man on a mission. This was a miracle to me.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">The Young Womens room was packed with members who came to witness the baptism of Cera King. The Young Women then sang a beautiful song that brought the spirit powerfully into the room. All were in tears. What a great miracle! A young women entering the waters of baptism and a ward family close by with arms outstretched to welcome her. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Bruce Jensen baptized his wife Susan Jensen on March 7th, 2011. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">The Young men prepared a special tray of sacrament bread in order to provide for my specific dietary needs. Each week the tray of Gluten-free bread (home-made by Sister Weinzinger) was passed to everyone on the stand. The deacon would then pin point where I was sitting and would make sure I partook of the sacrament. What faithful priesthood holders! I'm grateful for this simple miracle these young men performed in my life.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">13 Baptisms total in 2011 for the Vacaville Stake. On track to double converts from last year. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">A humble blind man said his first prayer. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">A ward council worked together to produce a working Top 15. A program that focuses on conversion and reactivation efforst within the ward. A program that will bless the lives of many as it continues to progress and meet the needs of those of Gods children who have been selected.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Every priest-age young man handed out a Book of Mormon. Some handed out up to four copies of the Book of Mormon to their friends. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">A young woman invited her friend to be taught by the missionaries. A poweful lesson was taught with the acceptance of a future baptismal date. The same young women has handed out many copies of the Book of Mormon to friends. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Young men came out EVERY week to support us in our missionary efforts and to add their testimony to our teaching appointments. </span><br />
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</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Every Young Women pondered and prayed about a friend that they wanted to share the gospel with. They wrote their names down on a pass along card and agreed to work with the missionaries to focus their efforts on sharing the gospel with their friend.</span><br />
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</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">A Young women moved in with her Grandmother and began attending church at the first of the year. She agreed on the first lesson to be baptized. Since the first lesson she has attended seminary every morning and she refuses to miss a day of church. What a blessing that move was. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Every ward in the Vacaville stake has had a baptism this year.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">These are only a few that I have the time to write this evening. The list could go on and on. With each new area are new faces and new experiences. I'm forever grateful for everyone who has helped me in my life. It is true that you recieve more blessings from the Lord than you can ever repay. Thank you Vacaville Saints for being angels in the lives of many. We are all family.</span></span>Elder David Mahrthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17279319330570852283noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2874889422145475235.post-64813766232171809842011-04-18T11:28:00.000-07:002011-04-18T11:28:11.953-07:00How Can I Know?<span style="font-family: Palatino-Roman; font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-family: Palatino-Roman; font-size: large;"></span></span><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">"We invite all men everywhere to read the Book of Mormon, to ponder in their hearts the message it contains, and then to ask God, the Eternal Father, in the name of Christ if the book is true. Those who pursue this course and ask in faith will gain a testimony of its truth and divinity by the power of the Holy Ghost."</div><div style="text-align: center;">(<a href="http://lds.org/scriptures/bofm/introduction?lang=eng">Introduction</a>)</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">As missionaries this witness from the Holy Ghost is the central focus of our teaching. We teach with the hope that "power of the Holy Ghost" will carry our message "unto the hearts of the children of men" (<a href="http://lds.org/scriptures/bofm/2-ne/33?lang=eng">2 Nephi 33:1</a>). One way this happens is when those we teach seek earnestly to know the truth of what we teach by asking God. "No one can know of spiritual truths without prayer"(<a href="http://lds.org/languages/additionalmanuals/preachgospel/PreachMyGospel___00_00_Complete__36617_eng_.pdf">PMG 39</a>). He is the author of all truth. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">Jesus taught "Ask, and it <span class="highlight">shall</span> be given you; <span class="highlight">seek</span>, and ye <span class="highlight">shall</span> <span class="highlight">find</span>; knock, and it <span class="highlight">shall</span> be opened unto you."(<a href="http://lds.org/scriptures/nt/luke/11.9?lang=eng#8">Luke 11:9</a>) The invitation is there. All who seek to know of truth can find answers. The only requirement is that they ask of God. "In answer to our prayers, the Holy Ghost will teach us truth through our feelings and thoughts. Feelings that come from the Holy Ghost are powerful, but they are also usually gentle and quiet. (<a href="http://lds.org/languages/additionalmanuals/preachgospel/PreachMyGospel___00_00_Complete__36617_eng_.pdf">PMG 39</a>)" I have felt such feelings in my life. As we dilligently seek we will learn to recognize the answers to our prayers. God will teach us.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">"As we begin to feel that what we are learning is true, we will desire to know all that we can about the Restoration. Knowing that the Book of Mormon is true leads to a knowledge that Joseph Smith was called as a prophet and that the gospel of Jesus Christ was restored through him." (<a href="http://lds.org/languages/additionalmanuals/preachgospel/PreachMyGospel___00_00_Complete__36617_eng_.pdf">PMG 39</a>)</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;"><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><a href="http://www.ldsrevelations.com/blog/images/firstvision.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://www.ldsrevelations.com/blog/images/firstvision.jpg" width="153" /></a>We have a unique message for the world. God has reached out in love to restore His gospel through a living prophet. This is true. I testify that it is. I have come to know for myself that God and Jesus Christ did indeed appear to Joseph Smith in the Sacred Grove. I know this because I have asked God. I have read the Book of Mormon. I know that it is true. The Spirit has born witness to me of this truth. I invite everyone to do the same and I promise as a servant of Jesus Christ that you will have the same results. God will hear your prayers and you will know for yourself. You will desire to know all you can about the Restoration. </div></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">Do you have the courage to ask, seek, and knock?</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;"><a href="http://mormon.org/free-book-of-mormon/">Order a Free Book of Mormon</a></div><div style="text-align: left;"><a href="http://mormon.org/missionaries/">Take the Lessons from the Missionaries</a></div>Elder David Mahrthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17279319330570852283noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2874889422145475235.post-89042565362757955852011-04-15T15:10:00.000-07:002011-08-08T20:42:00.538-07:00A Broken Bow<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><span style="font-size: large;">Why do bad things happen to good people? Now that is a question for the soul that I have often pondered to myself. Do bad things happen in my life? You bet they do. Daily. I'm so grateful for these experiences. I know that they all happen for a reason. Everyone goes through difficult times. However, what we do because of them defines who we are. When it comes to trials, there are no accidents. I take comfort knowing that we will not be tried above that which we are able to bear (</span><a href="http://lds.org/scriptures/nt/1-cor/10?lang=eng"><span style="font-size: large;">1 Cor 10:13</span></a><span style="font-size: large;">). As I studied the scriptures this morning I discovered the answer to that question of the soul. </span></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><a href="http://www.winborg.com/jer-Nephis_Broken_Bow/Jer_Nephi's-Broken-Bow.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><span style="font-size: large;">I was reading in the Book of Mormon about Nephi and an experience he had while he was traveling through the wilderness with his family. Back then there were no Safeways nearby so they had to hunt and forage for their food. The way they hunted was by bow and arrow. No guns or lazer scopes back then. Nephi had the best bow though. His was made from "fine steel". His brothers bows were pretty worn out. They relied on the use of his bow to get food. Without his bow they were stranded in the wilderness without any way of getting anything to eat. One day while hunting something unfortunate happened. Nephi broke his bow. </span></div><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Why would God allow that to happen? Now they cant get any food and they'll starve. Was he doing anything wrong? Not at all. In fact the family was doing everything right. They followed the Lord when He told them to leave Jerusalem (</span><a href="http://lds.org/scriptures/bofm/1-ne/2?lang=eng"><span style="font-size: large;">1 Nephi 2</span></a><span style="font-size: large;">). They went back to retrieve the plates (</span><a href="http://lds.org/scriptures/bofm/1-ne/3?lang=eng"><span style="font-size: large;">1 Nephi 3</span></a><span style="font-size: large;">). They left all their posessions behind to follow the Lord. Something bad had happened to good people. </span><br />
<br />
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><a href="http://lds.org/bc/content/shared/content/images/gospel-library/magazine/friendlp.nfo:o:2bee.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; cssfloat: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a><span style="font-size: large;">Nephi reccounts how they reacted "And it came to pass that Laman and Lemuel and the sons of Ishmael did begin to murmur exceedingly, because of their sufferings and afflictions in the wilderness; and also my father began to murmur against the Lord his God; yea, and they were all exceedingly sorrowful, even that they did murmur against the Lord." (</span><a href="http://lds.org/scriptures/bofm/1-ne/16?lang=eng"><span style="font-size: large;">1 Nephi 16: 20</span></a><span style="font-size: large;">) On the other hand, here is how Nephi reacted: "And it came to pass that I, Nephi, did make out of wood a bow, and out of a straight stick, an arrow; wherefore, I did arm myself with a bow and an arrow, with a sling and with stones. And I said unto my father: Whither shall I go to obtain food?" (</span><a href="http://lds.org/scriptures/bofm/1-ne/16?lang=eng"><span style="font-size: large;">1 Nephi 16:23</span></a><span style="font-size: large;">). Nephi was then shown where to go to obtain food and he "did slay wild beasts" and obtained food for his family. </span></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><span style="font-size: large;">We have two choices when responding to bad things. One is to murmur and complain. The other is to buckle up and act. We decide what happens as a result of the trials that are placed in front of us. Had Nephi and his family all murmured and complained they would have perished in the wilderness. However, because Nephi chose to remain calm and did what he could with what was given the family lived to reach the promised land. </span></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><span style="font-size: large;">Yes bad things happen to good people. How they react is what defines them as good people. There is opposition in all things. Just because we choose the right does not mean we are exempt from trial and sorrow. We are however entitled to divine help and will recieve it as we act in faith to overcome adversity. Through our trials we are refined. </span></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><span style="font-size: large;">I bear my testimony that the Book of Mormon answers the Questions of the Soul. I know that it is the word of God as is the Bible. I know that through it we can recieve guidance in our own lives and we can overcome our trials. I know that it testifies of Jesus Christ as our Savior and Redeemer. Through him we can overcome all things.</span></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><span style="font-size: large;">Order a free Book of Mormon for yourself so that the questions you have in your soul can be answerd. </span></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><a href="http://mormon.org/free-book-of-mormon/"><span style="font-size: large;">http://mormon.org/free-book-of-mormon/</span></a></div>Elder David Mahrthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17279319330570852283noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2874889422145475235.post-7222244876398502352011-04-11T20:39:00.000-07:002011-08-08T20:42:26.762-07:00The Greatest Test<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><a href="http://school.discoveryeducation.com/clipart/images/dmbtest.gif" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; cssfloat: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a><span style="font-size: large;">I've been hearing a lot from the youth in our ward about this standardized test they have to take this week. Their teachers have been cramming all the material in their classes to prepare them for it. The purpose of this test and any test for that matter is to measure how much students have been learning. A good student prepares dilligently through study and paying close attention in class. A poor student will neglect any work and will show up to the test unprepared. You can guess who will score higher. This is because one put the time in and the other did not. The scores of the tests would thus measure who prepared and learned more. </span></div><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">However, if each student was allowed to have their teacher there with them to help them answer each question things would be a little different. Both would pass with flying colors. Would the scores of this type of test show which student learned and prepared more? This would not be an adequate measure and the purpose of the test would be null and void. </span><br />
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<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><span style="font-size: large;">This life is like a test. It is a time given for men to prepare to meet God (</span><a href="http://lds.org/scriptures/bofm/alma/34?lang=eng"><span style="font-size: large;">Alma 34:32</span></a><span style="font-size: large;">). In this life we are separated from the presence of God. We do not remember our life with Him before we came to Earth nor do we remember our purpose here. We are meant to walk by faith. This is necessary for our growth. This allows for us to learn and progress. A righteous person prepares and studies in order to be ready for the next life. He searches for truth and does all he can to know the will of his Heavenly Father and to understand his purpose here. A wicked person on the other hand chooses not to prepare. They spend their time on worldly pursuit where "moth and rust doth corrupt" (</span><a href="http://lds.org/scriptures/nt/matt/6.19?lang=eng#18"><span style="font-size: large;">Matthew 6:19</span></a><span style="font-size: large;">). Those who prepare will be happier in this life and will recieve eternal life in the life to come (</span><a href="http://lds.org/scriptures/nt/john/17.3?lang=eng#2"><span style="font-size: large;">John 17:3</span></a><span style="font-size: large;">). Those who do not prepare however will forfeit those blessings because they put off the spirit of God (</span><a href="http://www.blogger.com/post-edit.g?blogID=2874889422145475235&postID=722224487639850235"><span style="font-size: large;">Alma 30:42</span></a><span style="font-size: large;">). If it were any other way the test would be null and void. God would cease to be God (</span><a href="http://lds.org/scriptures/bofm/alma/42?lang=eng"><span style="font-size: large;">Alma 42</span></a><span style="font-size: large;">). </span></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><a href="http://www.brandeis.edu/acserv/bugs/images/birdseye%20group%20involved.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><span style="font-size: large;">I know that God has a perfect plan. I testify that this life is the time for men to perform their labors. We are here for a reason. Truth is at our fingertips. There is no excuse for not knowing the things of the Lord. The scriptures are laid before us. We have a prophet for our day. The Church of Jesus Christ has been restored. We know what is at stake and we know what Christ expects of us. No one is blameless. With Alma I caution: "And now, as I said unto you before, as ye have had so many witnesses, therefore, I beseech of you that ye do not procrastinate the day of your repentance until the end; for after this day of life, which is given us to prepare for eternity, behold, if we do not improve our time while in this life, then cometh the night of darkness wherein there can be no labor performed. Ye cannot say, when ye are brought to that awful crisis, that I will repent, that I will return to my God. Nay, ye cannot say this; for that same spirit which doth possess your bodies at the time that ye go out of this life, that same spirit will have power to possess your body in that eternal world (</span><a href="http://lds.org/scriptures/bofm/alma/34?lang=eng"><span style="font-size: large;">Alma 34:33-34</span></a><span style="font-size: large;">)" Let us be like the good student who does all he can to prepare rather than the poor student who doesn't study. It will be worth it when we all stand before Christ to be judged. We will then recieve an accounting of what we did while on our mortal probation. </span></div><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Good luck on the tests this week Vanden!! I hope ya'll score high. You're all such great students and good examples to me. Thank you.</span>Elder David Mahrthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17279319330570852283noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2874889422145475235.post-21583000670029476572011-04-06T11:38:00.000-07:002011-08-08T20:42:55.154-07:00Fasting and Prayer<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEip-nChoeIKvycY4AI22S7wKZZqQ9OP1_VXWBiVDgyWO3U2aIO7vuyKz8Pcug-us1Yd6cpVfM5CBzl7ME1bc74ke0RDsdJI9KvEpxvW7kJ_OoODhl2Ui9aIFMjT0FIFZGImCt6F8zRi_Dc/s1600/Healing+Miracle.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><span style="font-size: large;">The scriptures are full of miracles. I love reading in the Gospels how Christ healed the sick, caused the lame to walk, and the blind to see. Even more miraculous was when he raised Lazarus from the dead. I love in Acts when Peter and the Apostles baptized thousands on the day of the Pentecost. I love reading the stories in the Book of Mormon how Alma the Younger baptized thousands of saints in the surrounding Nephite cities. Even more miraculous was when the Sons of Mosiah baptized thousands of Lamanite converts. These people had been immersed in sin and without God for centuries, yet through the faith of these men the hearts of the Lamanites were changed. I admit that in the past I have wondered where these miracles are today. </span></div><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">All these miracles were wrought by faith (</span><a href="http://lds.org/scriptures/bofm/ether/12.12?lang=eng#11"><span style="font-size: large;">Ether 12</span></a><span style="font-size: large;">, </span><a href="http://lds.org/scriptures/nt/heb/11?lang=eng"><span style="font-size: large;">Hebrew 11</span></a><span style="font-size: large;">). Moroni taught us that "the reason why he ceaseth to do </span><span style="font-size: large;">miracles</span><span style="font-size: large;"> among the children of men is because that they dwindle in unbelief, and depart from the right way, and know not the God in whom they should </span><span style="font-size: large;">trust</span><span style="font-size: large;">." However he extends this promise, "</span><span style="font-size: large;">Behold, I say unto you that whoso believeth in Christ, doubting nothing, </span><span style="font-size: large;">whatsoever</span><span style="font-size: large;"> he shall ask the Father in the name of Christ it shall be granted him; and this </span><span style="font-size: large;">promise</span><span style="font-size: large;"> is unto all, even unto the ends of the earth (</span><a href="http://lds.org/scriptures/bofm/morm/9.19?lang=eng#18"><span style="font-size: large;">Mormon 9:20-21</span></a><span style="font-size: large;">)" These miracles do happen today. They can happen in our communities and in our families. God is no respector of persons. He works according to the faith of his children.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Our friends can become converted to the gospel. Our communities can embrace the teachings of Jesus Christ. We must act in faith. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">There is a story in the Gospel of Mark about a man who was possessed with a devil. The disciples of Jesus tried to cast him out, but they could not. Christ upon seeing this rebukes the evil spirit and commands it to leave. Afterwards his disciples approached him and asked: "Why could not we cast him out? </span><span style="font-size: large;">And he said unto them, This kind can come forth by nothing, but by prayer and fasting.</span> <span style="font-size: large;">(</span><a href="http://lds.org/scriptures/nt/mark/9.29?lang=eng#28"><span style="font-size: large;">Mark 9:28-29</span></a><span style="font-size: large;">)" I know that one way miracles are wrought is just as Christ taught: by much prayer and fasting. </span><span style="font-size: large;">This was how the Sons of Mosiah were able to have so much success amongst the Lamanites. (<a href="http://lds.org/scriptures/bofm/alma/17.3?lang=eng#2">Alma 17:3</a>) </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">I know that as we join in fasting and prayer for those we love God will provide a way for them to accept the fullness of the Gospel as Restored in these latter days. We must exercise our faith and go and do all we can. Then we must patiently await for the promises of the Lord to be fulfilled. Expect miracles. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Our message is for everyone.</span>Elder David Mahrthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17279319330570852283noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2874889422145475235.post-72133814314728937772011-04-03T20:56:00.000-07:002011-04-03T20:56:51.136-07:00Get That Mote Out<span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: large;">I am caused to reflect upon the Saviors teaching about looking inwardly. He taught: </span></span><br />
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<div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: large;">"Judge </span><span style="font-size: large;">not, that ye be not </span><span style="font-size: large;">judged</span>.</span><a class="bookmark dontHighlight" href="" name="2"><span style="color: black; font-size: large;"> </span></a><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: large;">For with what </span><span style="font-size: large;">judgment</span><span style="font-size: large;"> ye judge, ye shall be judged: and with what </span><span style="font-size: large;">measure</span><span style="font-size: large;"> ye mete, it shall be </span><span style="font-size: large;">measured</span><span style="font-size: large;"> to you again. </span></span><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: large;">And</span><span style="font-size: large;"> why beholdest thou the </span><span style="font-size: large;">mote</span><span style="font-size: large;"> that is in thy brother’s eye, but considerest not the </span><span style="font-size: large;">beam</span><span style="font-size: large;"> that is in thine own eye?" (<a href="http://lds.org/scriptures/nt/matt/7.3?lang=eng#2">Matthew 7:3-5</a>)</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;">We all have weaknesses. I am guilty of judging others and placing expectations upon others. It is not within my power to do such. Who am I to judge another. I'm grateful I can repent and look inwardly. I feel impressed to proclaim that we all should pray to discover the beam that is within our own eye. I know that as I have strived to look inwardly it shows outwardly in the way that I treat and think of others. </span></div>Elder David Mahrthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17279319330570852283noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2874889422145475235.post-79326296430583099622011-03-31T20:52:00.000-07:002011-08-08T20:43:24.278-07:00The Night Is Darkest Before Dawn<span style="font-size: large;">"The night is darkest before dawn" has rung true on my mission. I know that it was after the most difficult and trying times that the greatest blessings came. I know can recognize that when I am struggling there is light just around the corner. I get excited when trials come my way because I know that Satan tries us before the big moments in our lives.</span><br />
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<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><a href="http://cdn.physorg.com/newman/gfx/news/hires/2009/light.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; cssfloat: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://lds.org/liahona/2000/06/cast-not-away-therefore-your-confidence?lang=eng&query=Cast+away+thy+confidence">Elder Jeffrey R. Holland</a> said in a talk that, "</span><span style="font-size: large;">It is the plain and very sobering truth that before great moments, certainly before great spiritual moments, there can come adversity, opposition, and darkness. Life has some of those moments for us, and occasionally they come just as we are approaching an important decision or a significant step in our lives." This is important to remember so that we are prepared for those times. We should anticipate them so that we are ready when they come. Understanding this principle will help all to never lose their footing. This is how our faith grows.</span></div><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">He goes on to say, "</span><span style="font-size: large;">I wish to encourage every one of us regarding the opposition that so often comes after enlightened decisions have been made, after moments of revelation and conviction have given us a peace and an assurance we thought we would never lose." We should never give up. </span><span style="font-size: large;">Paul says in these moments to "</span><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="emphasis">Cast not away therefore your confidence,</span> which hath great recompence of reward. </span><span style="font-size: large;">For ye have need of patience, that, after ye have done the will of God, ye might receive the promise" We should continue to do the will of God and exercise our faith. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">This is so true for everyone who is investigating the Church. Satan does not want them to make these important steps in their life. Elder Holland speaks directly to these precious souls when he says,"</span><span style="font-size: large;">Sure it is tough—before you join the Church, while you are trying to join, and after you have joined. That is the way it has always been, Paul says, but don’t draw back. Don’t panic and retreat. Don’t lose your confidence. Don’t forget how you once felt. Don’t distrust the experience you had." This church is true. The adversary is real, and he wants us to be miserable like himself. We cannot let him lead us away from the things that we know are true. If it felt right at the moment, it is right now. God will guide us and he will help us to face our challenges.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">We should always maintain our confidence in our spiritual choices. Listening to the spirit will help us to fill our lives with light. This will enable us to resist temptation. The Lords counsel to Joseph Smith and Oliver Cowdery applies equally to us today when he said, "Verily, verily, I say unto you, if you desire a further witness, cast your mind upon the night that you cried unto me in your heart, that you might </span><span style="font-size: large;">know</span><span style="font-size: large;"> concerning the truth of these things. </span><span style="font-size: large;">Did I not speak <sup class="studyNoteMarker">a</sup></span><span style="font-size: large;">peace</span><span style="font-size: large;"> to your mind concerning the matter? What greater </span><span style="font-size: large;">witness</span><span style="font-size: large;">can you have than from God? </span><span style="font-size: large;">And now, behold, you have received a </span><span style="font-size: large;">witness" (<a href="http://lds.org/scriptures/dc-testament/dc/6?lang=eng">D&C 6:22-24</a>). Do not let your guard down, but always be watchful. "Pray always lest ye be tempted"(<a href="http://lds.org/scriptures/search?lang=eng&query=pray+always+lest+ye+be+tempted">3 Nephi 18:15</a>)</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">It is our duty to make those big decisions and endure to the end. I know that the Lord will assist us as we rely on him. </span>Elder David Mahrthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17279319330570852283noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2874889422145475235.post-70179391854669758602011-03-26T20:58:00.000-07:002011-08-08T20:44:00.446-07:00Conversion: By Small Means<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><a href="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4071/4246754252_7687ef6bed.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; cssfloat: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a><span style="font-size: large;">Lately my mind has been focused on what a miracle conversion is. I have often wondered what brings about true conversion. As I've thought about this topic I've reflected back on my own life and my own conversion to the Gospel. The first thing that I have come to understand is that conversion is a process. It requires repeatedly applying the Gospel throughout life. It is the only pattern of behavior, however, that will lead to absolute peace in this life and eternal life in the life to come. The Savior has said, "I am the way, the truth, and the life; no man cometh unto the Father, but by me." (<a href="http://lds.org/scriptures/nt/john/14.6?lang=eng#5">John 14:6</a>) Conversion is so important. The consequences of conversion are eternal. I'd like to relate some experiences from my own conversion and give some tips on simple things we can do to help our friends become converted to the restored Gospel. </span></div><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">I remember walking out of the Bishops office a few years ago with my mind set on never coming back to Church again. It felt completely hopeless and a bit frustrated. I was asked to change, but I wasn't ready to do it. I never thought once, that I would even be able to. My bishop, however, had left me with a list of scriptures that he asked me to read. A few nights later, my circumstances left me by myself in my dorm room dusting off the Book of Mormon. As I made that decision my life began to change. </span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">I began to read the Book of Mormon every night, I started to pray often, and eventually I mustered the courage to come to Church. Through these simple means I came to know for myself that Jesus is the Christ and that he lived and died for my sins. I'm grateful for that, and I have never lost those habits. My conversion is a direct result of these simple steps. In order for one to be truly converted they must repeat this behavior. Everyone can come to know that Christ lives today and that he has restored his church onto the Earth as they pray with sincerity, read with real intent, and worship in Church at every opportunity. </span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">I know that as we strive to help our friends and family to develop these small habits they will experience true conversion. They will be baptized and the effects of the Atonement will be felt fully in their lives. There is no other way. We have the keys and authority to do such. No one else can give them this but us.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">I'm so grateful that the way is simple. We need to have faith in the converting power of the gospel. In order to gain that faith true conversion must be felt in our own lives. This kind of conversion is expressed in our desire to share what we have with others. </span><br />
<br />
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><span style="font-size: large;">This was illustrated in Lehi's dream of the tree of life. "And it came to pass that I did go forth and partake of the <sup class="studyNoteMarker">a</sup><a class="footnote" href="http://lds.org/scriptures/bofm/1-ne/8?lang=eng#" id="footnote13" jquery1301197082125="28" rel="/scriptures/chapter/footnote/default.xqy?volumeUri=bofm&bookUri=1-ne&chapterUri=8&noteID=11a&lang=eng"><span style="color: #486fae;">fruit</span></a> thereof; and I beheld that it was most sweet, above all that I ever before tasted. Yea, and I beheld that the fruit thereof was white, to exceed all the <sup class="studyNoteMarker">b</sup><a class="footnote" href="http://lds.org/scriptures/bofm/1-ne/8?lang=eng#" id="footnote14" jquery1301197082125="29" rel="/scriptures/chapter/footnote/default.xqy?volumeUri=bofm&bookUri=1-ne&chapterUri=8&noteID=11b&lang=eng"><span style="color: #486fae;">whiteness</span></a> that I had ever seen.<a class="bookmark dontHighlight" href="about:blank" name="12"><span style="color: #486fae;"> </span></a>And as I partook of the fruit thereof it filled my soul with exceedingly great <sup class="studyNoteMarker">a</sup><a class="footnote" href="http://lds.org/scriptures/bofm/1-ne/8?lang=eng#" id="footnote15" jquery1301197082125="30" rel="/scriptures/chapter/footnote/default.xqy?volumeUri=bofm&bookUri=1-ne&chapterUri=8&noteID=12a&lang=eng"><span style="color: #486fae;">joy</span></a>; wherefore, I began to be <sup class="studyNoteMarker">b</sup><a class="footnote" href="http://lds.org/scriptures/bofm/1-ne/8?lang=eng#" id="footnote16" jquery1301197082125="31" rel="/scriptures/chapter/footnote/default.xqy?volumeUri=bofm&bookUri=1-ne&chapterUri=8&noteID=12b&lang=eng"><span style="color: #486fae;">desirous</span></a> that my family should partake of it also; for I knew that it was <sup class="studyNoteMarker">c</sup><a class="footnote" href="http://lds.org/scriptures/bofm/1-ne/8?lang=eng#" id="footnote17" jquery1301197082125="32" rel="/scriptures/chapter/footnote/default.xqy?volumeUri=bofm&bookUri=1-ne&chapterUri=8&noteID=12c&lang=eng"><span style="color: #486fae;">desirable</span></a> above all other fruit." (<a href="http://lds.org/scriptures/bofm/1-ne/8?lang=eng">1 Nephi 8:11-12</a>)</span></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><span style="font-size: large;">I know that the fruit of the Gospel is delicious above all other fruit. It is up to us to share that fruit with others and help them along the conversion process, which in reality requires a lifetime of following Jesus Christ. It has to start somewhere though. Be the instigator to change the lives of those you care about.</span></div>Elder David Mahrthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17279319330570852283noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2874889422145475235.post-60970058960992120522011-03-17T11:18:00.000-07:002011-08-08T20:44:21.054-07:00How Can I Know?<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><span style="font-size: large;">I have found in my life a constant struggle to recognize Gods influence. It is consistent with God's plan for it to be this way. This is because it is given to man to choose. "Wherefore, the Lord God gave unto man that he should <sup class="studyNoteMarker">a</sup></span><a class="footnote" href="http://lds.org/scriptures/bofm/2-ne/2?lang=eng#" id="footnote43" jquery1300384125628="67" rel="/scriptures/chapter/footnote/default.xqy?volumeUri=bofm&bookUri=2-ne&chapterUri=2&noteID=16a&lang=eng"><span style="font-size: large;">act</span></a><span style="font-size: large;"> for himself. Wherefore, man could not <sup class="studyNoteMarker">b</sup></span><a class="footnote" href="http://lds.org/scriptures/bofm/2-ne/2?lang=eng#" id="footnote44" jquery1300384125628="68" rel="/scriptures/chapter/footnote/default.xqy?volumeUri=bofm&bookUri=2-ne&chapterUri=2&noteID=16b&lang=eng"><span style="font-size: large;">act</span></a><span style="font-size: large;"> for himself save it should be that he was <sup class="studyNoteMarker">c</sup></span><a class="footnote" href="http://lds.org/scriptures/bofm/2-ne/2?lang=eng#" id="footnote45" jquery1300384125628="69" rel="/scriptures/chapter/footnote/default.xqy?volumeUri=bofm&bookUri=2-ne&chapterUri=2&noteID=16c&lang=eng"><span style="font-size: large;">enticed</span></a><span style="font-size: large;"> by the one or the other" (</span><a href="http://lds.org/scriptures/bofm/2-ne/2?lang=eng"><span style="font-size: large;">2 Nephi 2:16</span></a><span style="font-size: large;">). I think that I often lose sight of this. However I'm so grateful for it. God trusts me to make right choices. That's some serious responsibility right there. However, sometimes I don't have confidence in myself to make the right decisions. How can I know if I am making the right choice?</span></div><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">One way I can know that I am following God's will if I am keeping His commandments. When I sin the answer is pretty simple. The gospel is easy. We must have faith in Christ, repent, partake of the sacrament (or be baptized), and let the Holy Ghost sanctify me. In this way I can be forgiven and know that I am following God's will. Be careful however to overcomplicate things. In the Book of Mormon we can see the effect of that through the story of Lehi and his family. </span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">In this account Lehi was led through the wilderness over to the America's by a golden compass called the Liahona. As long as they were righteous and kept the commandments the spindles on the compass pointed the course they should follow. Unfortunately however, "Because those miracles were worked by <sup class="studyNoteMarker">a</sup></span><a class="footnote" href="http://lds.org/scriptures/bofm/alma/37?lang=eng#" id="footnote72" jquery1300384894113="96" rel="/scriptures/chapter/footnote/default.xqy?volumeUri=bofm&bookUri=alma&chapterUri=37&noteID=41a&lang=eng"><span style="font-size: large;">small</span></a><span style="font-size: large;"> means...They were <sup class="studyNoteMarker">b</sup></span><a class="footnote" href="http://lds.org/scriptures/bofm/alma/37?lang=eng#" id="footnote73" jquery1300384894113="97" rel="/scriptures/chapter/footnote/default.xqy?volumeUri=bofm&bookUri=alma&chapterUri=37&noteID=41b&lang=eng"><span style="font-size: large;">slothful</span></a><span style="font-size: large;">, and forgot to exercise their faith and diligence and then those marvelous works ceased, and they did not progress in their journey." (</span><a href="http://lds.org/scriptures/bofm/alma/37?lang=eng"><span style="font-size: large;">Alma 37:41</span></a><span style="font-size: large;">) Since the way for them to be guided was so easy they began to be slothful and they halted their progression. We too should not slip because of the easiness of the way. </span><br />
<br />
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><span style="font-size: large;">The way to judge is simple: if it is good and inviteth to follow Christ then it is from God, if it is bad and enticeth to do evil it is of the Devil. So how can I tell if I'm being guided? If I am moving closer to God. Mormon teaches us this principle. We read: "</span><span style="font-size: large;">Wherefore, all things which are <sup class="studyNoteMarker">a</sup></span><a class="footnote" href="http://lds.org/scriptures/bofm/moro/7?lang=eng#" id="footnote20" jquery1300383998177="44" rel="/scriptures/chapter/footnote/default.xqy?volumeUri=bofm&bookUri=moro&chapterUri=7&noteID=12a&lang=eng"><span style="font-size: large;">good</span></a><span style="font-size: large;"> cometh of God; and that which is <sup class="studyNoteMarker">b</sup></span><a class="footnote" href="http://lds.org/scriptures/bofm/moro/7?lang=eng#" id="footnote21" jquery1300383998177="45" rel="/scriptures/chapter/footnote/default.xqy?volumeUri=bofm&bookUri=moro&chapterUri=7&noteID=12b&lang=eng"><span style="font-size: large;">evil</span></a><span style="font-size: large;"> cometh of the devil; for the devil is an enemy unto God, and fighteth against him continually, and inviteth and enticeth to <sup class="studyNoteMarker">c</sup></span><a class="footnote" href="http://lds.org/scriptures/bofm/moro/7?lang=eng#" id="footnote22" jquery1300383998177="46" rel="/scriptures/chapter/footnote/default.xqy?volumeUri=bofm&bookUri=moro&chapterUri=7&noteID=12c&lang=eng"><span style="font-size: large;">sin</span></a><span style="font-size: large;">, and to do that which is evil continually. But behold, that which is of God inviteth and enticeth to do <sup class="studyNoteMarker">a</sup></span><a class="footnote" href="http://lds.org/scriptures/bofm/moro/7?lang=eng#" id="footnote23" jquery1300383998177="47" rel="/scriptures/chapter/footnote/default.xqy?volumeUri=bofm&bookUri=moro&chapterUri=7&noteID=13a&lang=eng"><span style="font-size: large;">good</span></a><span style="font-size: large;"> continually; wherefore, every thing which inviteth and <sup class="studyNoteMarker">b</sup></span><a class="footnote" href="http://lds.org/scriptures/bofm/moro/7?lang=eng#" id="footnote24" jquery1300383998177="48" rel="/scriptures/chapter/footnote/default.xqy?volumeUri=bofm&bookUri=moro&chapterUri=7&noteID=13b&lang=eng"><span style="font-size: large;">enticeth</span></a><span style="font-size: large;"> to do <sup class="studyNoteMarker">c</sup></span><a class="footnote" href="http://lds.org/scriptures/bofm/moro/7?lang=eng#" id="footnote25" jquery1300383998177="49" rel="/scriptures/chapter/footnote/default.xqy?volumeUri=bofm&bookUri=moro&chapterUri=7&noteID=13c&lang=eng"><span style="font-size: large;">good</span></a><span style="font-size: large;">, and to love God, and to serve him, is <sup class="studyNoteMarker">d</sup></span><a class="footnote" href="http://lds.org/scriptures/bofm/moro/7?lang=eng#" id="footnote26" jquery1300383998177="50" rel="/scriptures/chapter/footnote/default.xqy?volumeUri=bofm&bookUri=moro&chapterUri=7&noteID=13d&lang=eng"><span style="font-size: large;">inspired</span></a><span style="font-size: large;"> of God." (</span><a href="http://lds.org/scriptures/bofm/moro/7?lang=eng"><span style="font-size: large;">Moroni 7:12-13</span></a><span style="font-size: large;">) Simple enough?</span></div><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">I'm thankful for this counsel. Through it I can find hope as I strive to make correct decisions. Even though some decisions are hard, God will support us as we strive to find him in our lives. I know that when we follow God we become happier and we can see his influence in our lives. Through these results we can know that something is from God. As we live the gospel we see the progress of our journey. In order to know for yourself, you must do it. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">I invite everyone to come unto Christ and find out for yourself that these things are true. Joseph Smith was a prophet. Jesus Christ lives today. He is our Savior and Redeemer. There is life after death. Only through the Gospel can we experience the fullest measure of joy in this life and eternal life in the next.</span>Elder David Mahrthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17279319330570852283noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2874889422145475235.post-20018414866298360052011-03-13T21:10:00.000-07:002011-08-08T20:44:47.535-07:00There is Hope Smiling Brightly Before Us<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><span style="font-size: large;"></span></div><span style="font-size: large;">The recent tsunami that hit Japan causes us to despair. It is difficult to see such destruction. Nature isn't always kind. With so much death and turmoil it is easy to get discouraged and suffer a loss of hope. This event didn't just affect those who passed away in the crashing wave. It affects us all. </span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Other events in our lives may cause us to lose hope. Whether it be a death in the family or even as simple as failing an exam. For me it is my own individual weaknesses. I lose hope because I doubt that I have the ability to help others. I lose hope because I doubt that I can overcome a difficult event in my life. Loss of hope affects us in many ways. Without hope we lose faith. We can become selfish and our life begins to spiral downward. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<a name='more'></a><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Strong hope, on the other hand, propels us towards eternal life. Through it miracles are wrought. <a href="http://lds.org/general-conference/1994/10/brightness-of-hope?lang=eng&query=brightness+hope">Elder Neal A. Maxwell</a> said, "</span><span style="font-size: large;">While weak hope leaves us at the mercy of our moods and events, “brightness of hope” produces illuminated individuals. Their luminosity is seen, and things are also seen by it! Such hope permits us to “press forward” even when dark clouds oppress." He goes on to say how we receive such hope. "</span><span style="font-size: large;">Only the acceptance of the revelations of God can bring both direction and correction and, in turn, bring a “brightness of hope” (</span><a class="scriptureRef" href="http://lds.org/scriptures/bofm/2-ne/31.20?lang=eng#19"><span style="color: #486fae; font-size: large;">2 Ne. 31:20</span></a><span style="font-size: large;">). Real hope does not automatically “spring eternal” unless it is connected with eternal things." Hope is inspired from feasting upon the words of Christ. When we live eternal principles we begin to develop hope. Our lives are enriched and we become "illuminated individuals". It is in this way that we can be a beacon when hard times confront us.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Those who do not rely on God but rather place their hope in the world recieve only temporary relief. <a href="http://lds.org/general-conference/1994/10/brightness-of-hope?lang=eng&query=brightness+hope">Elder Maxwell</a> said of this, "</span><span style="font-size: large;">Hope helps us to walk by faith, not by sight. This can actually be safer. When unaided spiritually, natural sight often shrinks from the odds (see </span><a class="scriptureRef" href="http://lds.org/scriptures/nt/2-cor/5.7?lang=eng#6"><span style="color: #486fae; font-size: large;">2 Cor. 5:7</span></a><span style="font-size: large;">). It is immobilized by improbabilities. Mauled by his moods and intimidated by his fears, the natural man overreacts to, while hope overrides, the disappointments of the day."</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">I know that hope is so important. <a href="http://lds.org/general-conference/1994/10/brightness-of-hope?lang=eng&query=brightness+hope">Elder Maxwell </a>finishes his talk by saying, "</span><span style="font-size: large;">Those with true hope often see their personal circumstances shaken, like kaleidoscopes, again and again. Yet with the “eye of faith,” they still see divine pattern and purpose (</span><a class="scriptureRef" href="http://lds.org/scriptures/bofm/alma/5.15?lang=eng#14"><span style="color: #486fae; font-size: large;">Alma 5:15</span></a><span style="font-size: large;">)." With hope no matter how hard we are shaken we will always be bright. This is because we know who we are and we know our purpose in life. God blesses those who walk by faith. I close with the last two verses of the hymn, "<a href="http://lds.org/churchmusic/detailmusicPlayer/index.html?searchlanguage=1&searchcollection=1&searchseqstart=19&searchsubseqstart=%20&searchseqend=19&searchsubseqend=ZZZ">We Thank Thee Oh God For A Prophet</a>".</span><br />
<div uri="/general-conference/1994/10/brightness-of-hope.p23"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;" uri="/general-conference/1994/10/brightness-of-hope.p23"><span style="font-size: large;">When dark clouds of trouble hang o’er us<br />
And threaten our peace to destroy,<br />
<strong>There is hope smiling brightly before us,</strong></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">And we know that deliv’rance is nigh;<br />
We doubt not the Lord, nor His goodness,<br />
We’ve proved Him in days that are past;<br />
The wicked who fight against Zion,<br />
Will surely be smitten at last.<br />
<br />
We’ll sing of His goodness and mercy,<br />
We’ll praise Him by day and by night,<br />
Rejoice in His glorious Gospel,<br />
And bask in its lifegiving light;<br />
Thus on to eternal perfection<br />
The honest and faithful will go,<br />
While they who reject this glad message,<br />
Shall never such happiness know.</span></div>Elder David Mahrthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17279319330570852283noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2874889422145475235.post-12829627597821536122011-03-09T11:30:00.000-08:002011-08-08T20:45:17.852-07:00Almost Is Not Enough<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><span style="font-size: large;">Right before I came on my mission I found out that I had Celiacs disease. The only cure: don't eat food containing Gluten! I did just that. I gave up Gluten in my diet, or so I thought. I have recently discovered that my Celiacs disease restricts me more than I thought. I couldnt believe all the stuff that Gluten is in. At first I was reluctant to eliminate all the foods I was supposed to be avoiding. I have already given up everything that I used to enjoy and now I was asked to give up even more. It was difficult to act even though I was promised that I would feel healthier once I kept the diet. </span><span style="font-size: large;">I didnt feel like my health was too bad anyways. I was feeling great. </span><span style="font-size: large;">At the constant nagging of my companion, however, I was convinced to go all the way. </span></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><span style="font-size: large;">The results were not immediate. I woke up the next day and felt the same as I normally did. If it werent for my companion I would have quit right then and there, but I kept living the diet. After a couple of days my health began to improve. I began to feel more energized and the complexion in my face began to change. I could think clearer and it was much easier to concentrate. Because I went Gluten free all the way I have been blessed with great health and I'm much happier.</span><br />
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<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><span style="font-size: large;">There is always something more we can be doing in life to draw us closer to our Heavenly Father. While on this earth we all suffer from spiritual Celiacs. We all are alergic to sin. Whenever we make a bad choice we poison ourselves and our spirits are grieved. The cure: stop making bad choices because "wickedness never was happiness" (<a href="http://lds.org/scriptures/bofm/alma/41.10?lang=eng#9">Alma 41:10</a>) </span></div><br />
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><span style="font-size: large;">When I go shopping for food I dont buy food with Gluten in it. Common sense right? Similarly one way to avoid sin is to not surround yourself with temptation. If you place yourself in a situation where you will be tempted you are in essence shopping for food that you are allergic to. That doesnt make much sense does it? So don't move yourself into a position where the adversary has home court advantage. </span></div><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Also, the longer I'm Gluten free the more I know what I can and cant eat. Thus, the longer you avoid sin the easier it is for you to make correct choices. Through experience we can learn right from wrong. </span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Before I choose to eat anything I first look at the labels to see if there is anything in my food that contains Gluten. Before you make any decision you should look to the scriptures and the words of the prophets. They are the labels for our lives. They teach us the commandments and how to live a happy life. Through them we can know what is good for us and what is bad for us. Aren't you grateful God put a label on life so we can see the ingredients! It would be foolish not to look at them. If in doubt, search the scriptures.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Reccounting my recent experience we sometimes may not feel the difference immediately. The commandments are the same way. Righteousness is a lifelong pursuit. The longer we live the commandments the stronger we become. <a href="http://lds.org/general-conference/2010/10/the-transforming-power-of-faith-and-character?lang=eng&query=Strength+Character">Richard G. Scott</a> of the 12 Apostles stated: "A consistent, righteous life produces an inner power and strength that can be permanently resistant to the eroding influence of sin and transgression." The longer I live my diet the better I feel. You may not feel the difference at first, but the blessings do come. </span><br />
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<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><span style="font-size: large;">I'm so thankful that I've found out that I have this disease. I was sick but I didnt know it. So many people are sick and they dont know the cure. My whole life I ate things with Gluten. I lived with it. Life was good. N</span><span style="font-size: large;">evertheless, I still had Celiacs. Thats something I can never deny. Had I kept eating like that I would have suffered permanent damage. Everyone needs to know they are sinning. It is so important. If they dont find out they will suffer because they know not the truth. </span></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><span style="font-size: large;">For those who think they can choose to live only certain commandments you are damaging yourself spiritually. Gluten is Gluten no matter what it is in. Almost living the diet is not enough. I'm still poisoning myself. It is the same with Sin. It is so important to strive to live all the commandments. We forfiet the blessings when we choose not to live certain commandments. </span></div><br />
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><span style="font-size: large;">I hope we all choose to live the Celiac way and keep the diet. Avoid sin. Choose to live righteously. I know that as you do you will be happy and you will recognize more and more the importance of keeping the commandments. </span></div>Elder David Mahrthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17279319330570852283noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2874889422145475235.post-1075553646912759602011-03-01T11:47:00.000-08:002011-08-08T20:45:51.336-07:00"Come Follow Me"<div class="italic1"><span style="font-size: large;">Jesus Christ is such an important part of my life. I've realized as a missionary the impact His life has had on the world. He is the only Begotten of the Father. He is full of grace and truth. He is the Holy Messiah. As I look back on my life I am so grateful for this knowledge. I love Him for what he has done for all of us. I know that through Him I can be cleansed from my sins. Through Him I have received peace and happiness. I have a hope for eternal life because I know that through Jesus Christ I can return to live with God. </span></div><div class="italic1"><br />
</div><div class="italic1"><span style="font-size: large;">My relationship with Christ has grown as I have read the Book of Mormon. It teaches clearly what Jesus Christ has done for us and what he expects from us. Within the <a href="http://mormon.org/book-of-mormon/">Book of Mormon</a> is the "fullness of the everlasting Gospel" <a href="http://lds.org/scriptures/bofm/introduction?lang=eng">(Intro</a>). It is taught so simply that no one can misunderstand. With this additional testament of Jesus Christ we know more fully that, </span><span style="font-size: large;">"Without the grace and mercy made possible by His Atonement, we could not be saved from sin."(<a href="http://mormon.org/">http://mormon.org/</a>) This doctrine is taught so simply within the pages of this book. </span></div><div class="italic1"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="italic1" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><span style="font-size: large;">Recorded in the <a href="http://mormon.org/book-of-mormon/">Book of Mormon</a> is Christ's personal ministry amongst the people that lived in America. He taught His disciples there that, "No<span style="font-size: large;"> unclean thing can enter into his kingdom; therefore nothing entereth into his rest</span><span style="font-size: large;"> save it be those who have washed</span><span style="font-size: large;"> their garments in my blood, because of their faith, and the repentance of all their sins, and their faithfulness unto the end. </span><span style="font-size: large;">Now this is the commandment: Repent</span><span style="font-size: large;">, all ye ends of the earth, and come unto me and be baptized</span><span style="font-size: large;"> in my name, that ye may be sanctified</span><span style="font-size: large;"> by the reception of the Holy Ghost, that ye may stand spotless</span><span style="font-size: large;"> before me at the last day. </span><span style="font-size: large;">Verily, verily, I say unto you, this is my gospel." (<a href="http://lds.org/scriptures/bofm/3-ne/27?lang=eng">3 Nephi 27:19-21</a>) It is taught plainly there what we need to do to return to live with God. </span></span></div><div class="italic1"><br />
</div><div class="italic1"><span style="font-size: large;">Nephi, a prophet in the <a href="http://mormon.org/book-of-mormon/">Book of Mormon</a> actually witnessed in vision the baptism of Jesus Christ in Jerusalem almost 600 years before Christ was born. He explains why this was shown to him, "for this cause have they been shown unto me, that ye might know the gate by which ye should enter. For the gate by which ye should enter is repentance and baptism</span><span style="font-size: large;"> by water; and then cometh a remission</span><span style="font-size: large;"> of your sins by fire and by the Holy Ghost."(<a href="http://lds.org/scriptures/bofm/2-ne/31?lang=eng">2 Nephi 31: 17</a>) The Book of Mormon is flooded with <span style="background-color: white;">simple doctrinal truths such as this. </span></span></div><div class="italic1"><br />
</div><div class="italic1" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: large;">We can learn through the scriptures that everyone needs to enter in at the gate by being baptized so that they can recieve a remission of their sins through the Gift of the Holy Ghost. I'm so thankful to know the simplicity of the Gospel. Our decision to follow Christ must be coupled with baptism by authority in order for one to recieve a remission of sins! Jesus Christ taught the importance of this authority clearly when he visited the people in the America's. He also taught the manner in which people were to be baptized. We read:</span></div><div class="italic1"><br />
</div><div class="italic1"><span style="font-size: large;">"I give unto you power that ye shall baptize this people when I am again ascended into heaven. And again the Lord called others, and said unto them likewise; and he gave unto them power to baptize. And he said unto them: On this wise shall ye baptize; and there shall be no disputations among you. Verily I say unto you, that whoso repenteth of his sins through your words, and desireth to be baptized in my name, on this wise shall ye baptize them—Behold, ye shall go down and stand in the water, and in my name shall ye baptize them. And now behold, these are the words which ye shall say, calling them by name, saying: Having authority given me of Jesus Christ, I baptize you in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost. Amen. And then shall ye immerse</span><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: large;"> them in the water, and come forth again out of the water</span><span style="font-size: large;">.</span>" (<a href="http://lds.org/scriptures/bofm/3-ne/11?lang=eng">3 Nephi 11: 21-26</a>)</span></div><div class="italic1"><br />
</div><div class="italic1"><span style="font-size: large;">I'm so thankful to have the <a href="http://mormon.org/book-of-mormon/">Book of Mormon</a> in these last days to help me to understand what I need to do to be cleansed from my sins. I know that through Jesus Christ we can be cleansed from all sin as we obey His Gospel. The first step in that being repentance and baptism. That's the gate. That is where it all begins. No one can fully enjoy the blessings of Jesus Christ's Atonement until they are baptized by someone holding the authority of Jesus Christ. I'm so grateful to know that this authority is again on the earth. I'm so grateful for the infinite wisdom of my Savior and my Redeemer: Jesus Christ. The way to eternal life is prepared, the gate is narrow, and the path is straight.</span></div><div class="italic1"><br />
</div><div class="italic1"><span style="font-size: large;">To learn more about the Gospel of Jesus Christ click on this link. </span></div><div class="italic1"><a href="http://mormon.org/jesus-christ/"><span style="font-size: large;">http://mormon.org/jesus-christ/</span></a></div><div class="italic1"><br />
</div><div class="italic1"><span style="font-size: large;">To learn more about the authority to baptize click on this link.</span></div><div class="italic1"><a href="http://mormon.org/restoration/"><span style="font-size: large;">http://mormon.org/restoration/</span></a></div><div class="italic1"><br />
</div>Elder David Mahrthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17279319330570852283noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2874889422145475235.post-41907787771755844612011-02-26T11:40:00.000-08:002011-08-10T10:53:02.610-07:00Choice: Our Power to Become<span style="font-size: large;">God is the greatest teacher. He knows how to get through to us. He knows His children. His plan for us to become like him is perfect. The way is prepared through Jesus Christ. That way is called the Gospel. Through it we all can return to live with Him despite our imperfections. As we live the Gospel we become more like Christ and the Spirit changes us.</span><br />
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<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><span style="font-size: large;">I have experienced that change this past week. I was taught in a very direct way to be temperate in all things. I've got a very addictive personality and once I get going on something I really get going. It's all or nothing for Elder Mahrt. This gets me into trouble sometimes. It can be very destructive if I neglect the other things in my life. Well, God put experiences in my path that woke me up to those others things. Purification is a painful process sometimes, but I'm grateful that I was shown to ease up a bit. I know that I was able to grow because of my obedience. I live the commandments therefore I am entitled to the Spirits guidance.</span></div><br />
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><span style="font-size: large;">Everyone is entitled to be taught by God. It is within us all to grow and become like our Savior. As children of God we have great potential. In fact we are commanded to become like Him. "Be ye therefore perfect even as your Father which is in Heaven is perfect" (<a href="http://lds.org/scriptures/nt/matt/5.48?lang=eng#47">Matt 5:48</a>). That's a goal we probably wont achieve in this life. However, it is a goal to strive for, not obsess over. </span></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><span style="font-size: large;"></span></div><span style="font-size: large;">We can know we are on the right track as we keep other commandments God has given us. In the Bible we are taught, "</span><span style="font-size: large;">hereby we do know that we know him, if we keep</span><span style="font-size: large;"> his commandments. </span><span style="font-size: large;">He that saith, I know him, and keepeth not his commandments</span><span style="font-size: large;">, is a liar</span><span style="font-size: large;">, and the truth is not in him. </span><span style="font-size: large;">But whoso keepeth</span><span style="font-size: large;"> his word, in him verily is the love of God perfected: hereby know we that we are in</span><span style="font-size: large;"> him." (<a href="http://lds.org/scriptures/nt/1-jn/2?lang=eng">1 John 2</a>) Thus we see that when we keep the commandments we become like Him. Our choices are so important in our progression.</span><br />
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<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://lds.org/study/prophets-speak-today/unto-all-the-world/law-allows-us-to-reach-our-potential-says-elder-christofferson?lang=eng">Elder Christofferson</a> stated in a recent address: <span style="font-size: large;">“<em>Our own choices will always be critical to what we become</em>, and the capacity and power to choose are . . . dependent on laws instituted by or under the authority of God. These laws link particular actions to fixed outcomes, which gives meaning to the power to choose." Whenever we obey the laws God has given us we become. This is because we are entitled to recieve the consequences for those actions. The Lord is bound when we do what He says (<a href="http://lds.org/scriptures/dc-testament/dc/82.10?lang=eng#9">D&C 82:10</a>).</span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">I know that as we are obedient we can rest assured that we will become like our Savior. God will guide us along the path. It will be a long road, but it is in essence the very reason we are here experiences life in mortality. </span><br />
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<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><span style="font-size: large;">I am grateful that the Lord has taught me so much and continues to guide my path. I love making choices. Obedience is a quest, not a burden. I invite everyone to have greater hope to become more like our Savior. God will help us along this path. He will not leave us comfortless. I leave with this scripture in the book of <a href="http://lds.org/scriptures/nt/1-jn/3?lang=eng">1 John</a>. This is my hope:</span></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; text-align: center;"><a class="bookmark dontHighlight" href="about:blank" name="2"><em><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></em></a><span style="font-size: large;">"<em>Beloved, now are we the sons </em><em>of God, and it doth not yet appear what we shall be: but we know that, when he shall appear</em><em>, we shall be like</em><em> him; for we shall see</em><em> him as he is.</em></span><a class="bookmark dontHighlight" href="about:blank" name="3"><span style="font-size: large;"><em> </em></span></a><span style="font-size: large;"><em>And every man that hath this hope</em></span><span style="font-size: large;"><em> in him purifieth</em></span><span style="font-size: large;"><em> himself, even as he is pure."</em></span></div></div>Elder David Mahrthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17279319330570852283noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2874889422145475235.post-65223700019805480902011-02-23T10:32:00.000-08:002011-08-10T10:53:37.017-07:00"To Choose or Not to Choose"<div uri="/manual/for-the-strength-of-youth-fulfilling-our-duty-to-god/agency-and-accountability.p1"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><span style="font-size: large;">I have been thinking a lot lately about how our choices affect us. A <a href="http://mormon.org/book-of-mormon/">Book of Mormon</a> scripture teaches us that all, "men are instructed sufficiently that they know </span><span style="font-size: large;">good from evil." (<a href="http://lds.org/scriptures/bofm/2-ne/2?lang=eng">2 Nephi 2:5</a>) We are all born with the Light of Christ which teaches us right from wrong. Since we are all children of God "we are instructed sufficiently" thus we each are going to be accountable for the choices we make. If it were not so "God would cease to be God."(<a href="http://lds.org/scriptures/bofm/alma/42?lang=eng">Alma 42:22</a>)</span></div><div uri="/manual/for-the-strength-of-youth-fulfilling-our-duty-to-god/agency-and-accountability.p1"><br />
</div><div uri="/manual/for-the-strength-of-youth-fulfilling-our-duty-to-god/agency-and-accountability.p1"><span style="font-size: large;">Every parent knows the importance of accountability while raising a child. Every teacher knows the importance of establishing rules and consequences in establishing order within a classroom. All Managers establish guidelines for their employees to live by to ensure efficiency within the workplace. This principle is not new. It is the most important principle in governing anything. It is how we learn. </span></div><div uri="/manual/for-the-strength-of-youth-fulfilling-our-duty-to-god/agency-and-accountability.p1"><br />
</div><div uri="/manual/for-the-strength-of-youth-fulfilling-our-duty-to-god/agency-and-accountability.p1"><span style="font-size: large;">It is no different in heaven. God will hold us all accountable, however he lets us choose. He gives us commandments, yet he lets us act for ourselves. Agency is important in Gods plan. In the "<a href="https://lds.org/youth/for-the-strength-of-youth/agency-and-accountability?lang=eng">For The Strength of Youth</a>" pamphlet established by the church we learn about agency:</span></div><div uri="/manual/for-the-strength-of-youth-fulfilling-our-duty-to-god/agency-and-accountability.p1"><br />
</div><div uri="/manual/for-the-strength-of-youth-fulfilling-our-duty-to-god/agency-and-accountability.p1"><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><span style="font-size: large;">"Your Heavenly Father has given you agency, the ability to choose right from wrong and to act for yourself.... While you are here on earth, you are being proven to see if you will use your agency to show your love for God by keeping His commandments.While you are free to choose for yourself, you are not free to choose the consequences of your actions. When you make a choice, you will receive the consequences of that choice. The consequences may not be immediate, but they will always follow, for good or bad. Wrong choices delay your progression and lead to heartache and misery. Right choices lead to happiness and eternal life. That is why it is so important for you to choose what is right throughout your life."</span></div></div><div uri="/manual/for-the-strength-of-youth-fulfilling-our-duty-to-god/agency-and-accountability.p1"><br />
</div><div uri="/manual/for-the-strength-of-youth-fulfilling-our-duty-to-god/agency-and-accountability.p1"><span style="font-size: large;">It goes on to say:</span></div><div uri="/manual/for-the-strength-of-youth-fulfilling-our-duty-to-god/agency-and-accountability.p1"><br />
</div><div uri="/manual/for-the-strength-of-youth-fulfilling-our-duty-to-god/agency-and-accountability.p1"><span style="font-size: large;">"You are a child of God with great strength. You have the ability to choose righteousness and happiness, no matter what your circumstances." </span></div><div uri="/manual/for-the-strength-of-youth-fulfilling-our-duty-to-god/agency-and-accountability.p1"><br />
</div><div uri="/manual/for-the-strength-of-youth-fulfilling-our-duty-to-god/agency-and-accountability.p1"><span style="font-size: large;">I add my testimony that these things are true. It is so important to make good decisions. However, I also know that no body is perfect. That's why God sent His Son. I know that through our Savior Jesus Christ we can be cleansed from the mistakes we make. When we stand before God to be judged we will be guiltless before the Father. We have to follow him and keep his commandments. We must repent, be baptized by one holding the authority, and receive the gift of the Holy Ghost. Through this we can inherit Gods kingdom. Without it we are left to suffer the consequences for our actions. </span></div><div uri="/manual/for-the-strength-of-youth-fulfilling-our-duty-to-god/agency-and-accountability.p1"><br />
</div><div uri="/manual/for-the-strength-of-youth-fulfilling-our-duty-to-god/agency-and-accountability.p1"><span style="font-size: large;">The prophet Nephi teaches this clearly: "Wherefore, men are free</span><span style="font-size: large;"> according to the flesh</span><span style="font-size: large;">; and all</span><span style="font-size: large;"> things are given</span><span style="font-size: large;"> them which are expedient unto man. And they are free to choose liberty</span><span style="font-size: large;"> and eternal life,</span><span style="font-size: large;"> through the great Mediator of all men, or to choose captivity and death, according to the captivity and power of the devil; for he seeketh that all men might be miserable</span><span style="font-size: large;"> like unto himself."(<a href="https://lds.org/scriptures/bofm/2-ne/2?lang=eng">2 Nephi 2:27</a>)</span></div><div uri="/manual/for-the-strength-of-youth-fulfilling-our-duty-to-god/agency-and-accountability.p1"><br />
</div><div uri="/manual/for-the-strength-of-youth-fulfilling-our-duty-to-god/agency-and-accountability.p1"><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><span style="font-size: large;">It is either liberty and eternal life or captivity and death. Very simple. I think I'll chose the first one. I know that as we follow the commandments we can be happy and we can return to live with God. It is so important to exercise our agency righteously and choose to obey rather than rebel.</span></div></div><div uri="/manual/for-the-strength-of-youth-fulfilling-our-duty-to-god/agency-and-accountability.p1"><br />
</div><div uri="/manual/for-the-strength-of-youth-fulfilling-our-duty-to-god/agency-and-accountability.p1"><span style="font-size: large;">Obedience = Happiness</span></div><div uri="/manual/for-the-strength-of-youth-fulfilling-our-duty-to-god/agency-and-accountability.p1"><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><span style="font-size: large;">Disobedience = Unhappiness</span></div></div><div uri="/manual/for-the-strength-of-youth-fulfilling-our-duty-to-god/agency-and-accountability.p1"><br />
</div><div uri="/manual/for-the-strength-of-youth-fulfilling-our-duty-to-god/agency-and-accountability.p1"><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><span style="font-size: large;">Sin is so destructive. I cannot say it enough. We must do as Nephi says and "look to the great Mediator</span><span style="font-size: large;">, and hearken unto his great commandments; and be faithful unto his words, and choose eternal life, according to the will of his Holy Spirit And not choose eternal death, according to the will of the flesh and the evil</span><span style="font-size: large;"> which is therein, which giveth the spirit of the devil power to captivate</span><span style="font-size: large;">, to bring you down to hell</span><span style="font-size: large;">, that he may reign over you in his own kingdom."(<a href="https://lds.org/scriptures/bofm/2-ne/2?lang=eng">2 Nephi 2:28-29</a>)</span></div></div><div uri="/manual/for-the-strength-of-youth-fulfilling-our-duty-to-god/agency-and-accountability.p1"><br />
</div><div uri="/manual/for-the-strength-of-youth-fulfilling-our-duty-to-god/agency-and-accountability.p1"><span style="font-size: large;">These things are true and I speak boldly of them because I know so. We cannot allow sin to destroy us. The righteous use of our agency will bring eternal life which gift is the greatest of all the gifts of God. </span></div>Elder David Mahrthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17279319330570852283noreply@blogger.com1