Wednesday, October 31, 2018
LIFE'S LESSONS LEARNED!!
We might send out clearer signals – if we were to say – this – or – that food is tasty and pleasing – rather than always saying – I love spaghetti – or – German chocolate cake – etc.!! ----- We might send out clearer signals – if we were to say – the physical attraction I have for you – is exciting – and – stimulating – rather than always saying – I the love the way you make me feel!!
Tuesday, October 30, 2018
LIFE'S LESSONS LEARNED!!
If we had a greater variety of subjects – in our conversations – we would be more interesting people – and – probably communicate our views more accurately!! ----- One of the words we often overuse – and thereby – often send out – messages which are misunderstood – is love!!
Monday, October 29, 2018
LIFE'S LESSONS LEARNED!!
Many times the assurance – of the correctness of our decisions – comes only after we have completed the journey!! ----- Silent prayers of the heart – are often – more sincere – and – powerful – than vocal – or – public prayers!!
Sunday, October 28, 2018
PROPHECY FULFILLED
I am often impressed with the marvelous capabilities of our minds, such as those times when mine suddenly brings up remembrances which happened decades ago. As I was reviewing Nephi’s continued teachings to his people, as guided by a revelatory experience which accompanied his reading from the words of Isaiah, with the aid of what seems to be unlimited vision I was once again able to see in great detail the little white house with the beautiful red flamboyant tree which draped over the entire roof.
I was once again sitting in the chapel area of the little house, which served not only as our living quarters, but also was where we held the meetings for the small branch in Ciudad Valles, San Luis Potosi, Mexico. Since in those days of antiquity in the latter part of 1958 there was no such thing as a language training facility in the missionary system of the Church, I arrived in Mexico with the Spanish I had gained while barely passing Spanish I and II at Garden Grove Union High School. I suspect my abilities were above the taco and burrito level, but not by much.
As I would sit with the primary children of the branch, which were mostly from the Martinez family, I would point at the light and they would say luz. I would point at the chairs and they would say silla. I would point at the table and they would say mesa. When I was walking through the streets of the town I would continue to point and Elder Davis my senior companion/trainer would say arbol, barco, caballo.
In this way I learned a lot of the names of objects, but my main beginnings of being able to communicate came from two sources. I listened intently as my companion would speak and give lessons and try to pick up some meaning as those he was teaching spewed out their replies at the speed of light. However, the main source of my learning Spanish resulted from a daily exercise where Elder Davis would read a passage in the Book of Mormon in English and then I would read the same passage in Spanish. I will probably never know for sure whether it was the prayers which we offered as we were involved in this task or the task itself, but whichever it was, as we drew close to finishing the Book of Mormon I was beginning to communicate in Spanish and my testimony of the Book of Mormon had increased dramatically.
The reason I was thrust back into those memorable days when I was about to leave the era of being a teen, is that I have witnessed the words Nephi is teaching his people in chapters 29 and 30 of Second Nephi being dramatically fulfilled during the 60 years which have sped by since those pointing and learning days in that little house with the beautiful red flamboyant tree draping over the roof.
In those so well remembered days, there were just over 1 ½ million members in the Church and in Mexico they had just divided the Mexican Mission into two missions. One serving the southern part of Mexico and one the northern part of Mexico which were presided over by two brothers Joseph and Israel Bentley. As I write this Thought in 2018 the Church has grown to have a membership of over 16 million and in Mexico there are now 34 missions.
Nephi spoke of people rejecting the Book of Mormon because they were already in possession of books of scripture. He spoke of peoples from all nations coming to Christ and becoming covenant people. He told of nations being gathered in preparation for the Second Coming of the Savior and the day when Satan would no longer have power over the hearts of men. But the verses in these chapters which have made the most profound impact on my life are 7 and 8 of Second Nephi chapter 29.
Know ye not that there are more nations than one? Know ye not that I, the Lord your God, have created all men, and that I remember those who are upon the isles of the sea; and that I rule in the heavens above and in the earth beneath; and I bring forth my word unto the children of men, yea, even upon all the nations of the earth?
Wherefore murmur ye, because that ye shall receive more of my word? Know ye not that the testimony of two nations is a witness unto you that I am God, that I remember one nation like unto another? Wherefore, I speak the same words unto one nation like unto another. And when the two nations shall run together the testimony of the two nations shall run together also.
And just like that, my mind takes me back to the many times I had the privilege of teaching classes on the Religions of the World. Almost every time I watch Jeopardy I am reminded of how many details of the world’s religions I no longer remember, but reading these two verses quickly reminds me of the imprinting upon my mind of how many important and fundamental beliefs are shared by the religions of the world. I have come to the firm conviction that regardless of what words our native tongue uses to speak the name of God, we are all speaking of the same being.
There are several possibilities which exist when we read Nephi’s words of God having spoken to all nations and to all the children of men. Either God hasn’t really kept track of His doings, Nephi misunderstood the revelation he had received, or Heavenly Father has indeed spoken to all His children and their testimonies are all important for us to help us gain greater understanding of the workings of Heavenly Father with His children.
In chapter 30 of Second Nephi, Nephi teaches of a day when the truths which have been given by God to all nations will have been bent by the philosophies of men and the true restored gospel would be sent forth among his descendants, declared unto the remnants of the Jews (House of Israel) and preached unto the gentiles.
8 And it shall come to pass that the Lord God shall commence his work among all nations, kindreds, tongues, and people, to bring about the restoration of his people upon the earth.
Although 60 years of spectacular growth have taken place since I suffered through those cold showers in the little white house in Ciudad Villas, Mexico, when I compare the growth of the Church in its first 180 years to the population of the world it adds up to but a pittance, but as the living Prophet of the Lord, Russell M. Nelson, recently reminded us, since the gathering is taking place on both sides of the veil, we quickly become aware of the billions who are being prepared to accept their ordinances which are being performed in the 159 operating Houses of the Lord.
There goes my long term memory again back to 1958 when there were only two Stake Centers in all of Mexico and now it is a country with 13 Temples and more than a thousand Stake Centers.
I will be looking at the world from a much different vantage point in the year 2078, but I am very sure the stone seen by Daniel which was cut out of a mountain and would roll forth until it filled the whole earth will have multiplied significantly.
THOUGHTS FOR A SABBATH DAY – WILLIAM L. RILEY
EDITED BY – KATHLEEN W. RILEY
I was once again sitting in the chapel area of the little house, which served not only as our living quarters, but also was where we held the meetings for the small branch in Ciudad Valles, San Luis Potosi, Mexico. Since in those days of antiquity in the latter part of 1958 there was no such thing as a language training facility in the missionary system of the Church, I arrived in Mexico with the Spanish I had gained while barely passing Spanish I and II at Garden Grove Union High School. I suspect my abilities were above the taco and burrito level, but not by much.
As I would sit with the primary children of the branch, which were mostly from the Martinez family, I would point at the light and they would say luz. I would point at the chairs and they would say silla. I would point at the table and they would say mesa. When I was walking through the streets of the town I would continue to point and Elder Davis my senior companion/trainer would say arbol, barco, caballo.
In this way I learned a lot of the names of objects, but my main beginnings of being able to communicate came from two sources. I listened intently as my companion would speak and give lessons and try to pick up some meaning as those he was teaching spewed out their replies at the speed of light. However, the main source of my learning Spanish resulted from a daily exercise where Elder Davis would read a passage in the Book of Mormon in English and then I would read the same passage in Spanish. I will probably never know for sure whether it was the prayers which we offered as we were involved in this task or the task itself, but whichever it was, as we drew close to finishing the Book of Mormon I was beginning to communicate in Spanish and my testimony of the Book of Mormon had increased dramatically.
The reason I was thrust back into those memorable days when I was about to leave the era of being a teen, is that I have witnessed the words Nephi is teaching his people in chapters 29 and 30 of Second Nephi being dramatically fulfilled during the 60 years which have sped by since those pointing and learning days in that little house with the beautiful red flamboyant tree draping over the roof.
In those so well remembered days, there were just over 1 ½ million members in the Church and in Mexico they had just divided the Mexican Mission into two missions. One serving the southern part of Mexico and one the northern part of Mexico which were presided over by two brothers Joseph and Israel Bentley. As I write this Thought in 2018 the Church has grown to have a membership of over 16 million and in Mexico there are now 34 missions.
Nephi spoke of people rejecting the Book of Mormon because they were already in possession of books of scripture. He spoke of peoples from all nations coming to Christ and becoming covenant people. He told of nations being gathered in preparation for the Second Coming of the Savior and the day when Satan would no longer have power over the hearts of men. But the verses in these chapters which have made the most profound impact on my life are 7 and 8 of Second Nephi chapter 29.
Know ye not that there are more nations than one? Know ye not that I, the Lord your God, have created all men, and that I remember those who are upon the isles of the sea; and that I rule in the heavens above and in the earth beneath; and I bring forth my word unto the children of men, yea, even upon all the nations of the earth?
Wherefore murmur ye, because that ye shall receive more of my word? Know ye not that the testimony of two nations is a witness unto you that I am God, that I remember one nation like unto another? Wherefore, I speak the same words unto one nation like unto another. And when the two nations shall run together the testimony of the two nations shall run together also.
And just like that, my mind takes me back to the many times I had the privilege of teaching classes on the Religions of the World. Almost every time I watch Jeopardy I am reminded of how many details of the world’s religions I no longer remember, but reading these two verses quickly reminds me of the imprinting upon my mind of how many important and fundamental beliefs are shared by the religions of the world. I have come to the firm conviction that regardless of what words our native tongue uses to speak the name of God, we are all speaking of the same being.
There are several possibilities which exist when we read Nephi’s words of God having spoken to all nations and to all the children of men. Either God hasn’t really kept track of His doings, Nephi misunderstood the revelation he had received, or Heavenly Father has indeed spoken to all His children and their testimonies are all important for us to help us gain greater understanding of the workings of Heavenly Father with His children.
In chapter 30 of Second Nephi, Nephi teaches of a day when the truths which have been given by God to all nations will have been bent by the philosophies of men and the true restored gospel would be sent forth among his descendants, declared unto the remnants of the Jews (House of Israel) and preached unto the gentiles.
8 And it shall come to pass that the Lord God shall commence his work among all nations, kindreds, tongues, and people, to bring about the restoration of his people upon the earth.
Although 60 years of spectacular growth have taken place since I suffered through those cold showers in the little white house in Ciudad Villas, Mexico, when I compare the growth of the Church in its first 180 years to the population of the world it adds up to but a pittance, but as the living Prophet of the Lord, Russell M. Nelson, recently reminded us, since the gathering is taking place on both sides of the veil, we quickly become aware of the billions who are being prepared to accept their ordinances which are being performed in the 159 operating Houses of the Lord.
There goes my long term memory again back to 1958 when there were only two Stake Centers in all of Mexico and now it is a country with 13 Temples and more than a thousand Stake Centers.
I will be looking at the world from a much different vantage point in the year 2078, but I am very sure the stone seen by Daniel which was cut out of a mountain and would roll forth until it filled the whole earth will have multiplied significantly.
THOUGHTS FOR A SABBATH DAY – WILLIAM L. RILEY
EDITED BY – KATHLEEN W. RILEY
Saturday, October 27, 2018
LIFE'S LESSONS LEARNED!!
Dedication – and – diligence – in fulfilling our assignments – and – callings – will result in growth – and – advancement!! ----- Those who go through life – imagining themselves as being perfect – will one da discover – the Lord uses – a very different set of measurements!!
Friday, October 26, 2018
LIFE'S LESSONS LEARNED!!
If we label tuna – Chicken of the Sea – should we not also call chicken – the Fish of the Land!! ----- accepting assignments – and – callings in the church – does not magically cause growth – and – advancement in one’s life!!
Thursday, October 25, 2018
LIFE'S LESSONS LEARNED!!
Receiving the gift of being healed – from a physical affliction – is a wonderful thing – however – having our souls healed – is a far greater gift!! ----- I think it is important to note – the Lord never felt it necessary – to detail those activities – which make the Sabbath Day a delight!!
Wednesday, October 24, 2018
LIFE'S LESSONS LEARNED!!
If every nation requires – the rest of the world – to adopt their culture – and – traditions – and – speak their language – we will become very boring – and – even more dysfunctional!! ----- The amount of joy we feel – during mortality – will always be conditional upon – the distance we put – between ourselves – and – our Heavenly Father!!
Tuesday, October 23, 2018
LIFE'S LESSONS LEARNED!!
We must never forget – the reason we attend church meetings – is to have our beliefs – and – faith strengthened – not to be impressed – by someone’s talent – or – intellect!! ----- Even with the weekly reminder – of the covenants we have made – as we partake of the emblems of the Sacrament – most of us still fall short – of always remembering the Lord!!
Monday, October 22, 2018
LIFE'S LESSONS LEARNED!!
Genuine love – never has anything to do – with financial status!! ----- We will never enjoy the fruits of genuine love – if we expect – others to recognize us – as the center of the universe!! ----- There are times it seem like – the main reason we have experiences in life – is so that we will have something to remember – and talk about – during our advanced years!!
Sunday, October 21, 2018
UNHEEDED WARNINGS
Although I deviated from the formula for covering the Isaiah passages when Nephi was reading from Isaiah chapters 2 – 14 and recording them in his own writing in 2 Nephi 12 – 24, as I write this Thought based on 2 Nephi 27 or Isaiah 29 I will once again use the following guidelines; first, that I might succeed in my efforts to demonstrate what Nephi was trying to have his people understand from the passages of Isaiah he was quoting; second, I will be able to faithfully include Elder Bruce R. McConkie’s chapter preface statements in the English LDS edition of the Bible with some additional brief personal comments which will not distract from his interpretation of Isaiah’s words; third, that I might succeed in my efforts to communicate a very personal meaning I am receiving at the moment; and fourth, that perhaps I might succeed in my efforts to provide a stimulus for whoever might be reading my Thoughts that week to seek their own individual instructions from the words of Isaiah.
Second Nephi 27, 28
Nephi’s explanation to his people about Chapter 29 of Isaiah:
Nephi uses what to us is an unfamiliar use of the word constrained, when he says he has been constrained by the Spirit to prophecy of things which will surely come to pass.
He foretold of a book of great worth to his seed and to the remnants of the House of Israel which would be written and come forth.
He taught that in the day when the book came forth, churches would built up, but not unto the Lord and could be identified because their priests would contend one with another, these priests, because they denied the utterances of the Holy Spirit would be left to teach their own learning. They would deny the power of God to the point of teaching that God had done his work of redemption and would not perform miracles any longer, hence, He was no longer active but had given his power to men.
The teachings of these false churches would include the philosophy of live and enjoy the moment, because any wrong would bear very few consequences from God.
They would work in darkness thinking they could hide their doctrines of foolishness devised by their puffed up hearts.
These churches will be identified by the characteristics of pride, robbing the poor, persecuting the meek and poor in heart and the wearing of costly apparel.
He foresees another group who will be lulled away into carnal security, into thinking whatever they are doing is OK.
He also sees those who hearken to the words of God and build their lives upon the Rock of Salvation and build their lives line upon line learning wisdom from the counsel of the Lord.
It only takes a few sentences of reading Nephi’s teaching to his people about what he had read from the words of Isaiah for us to understand that he was struck with the perilous conditions his posterity would be facing in that future era he had seen in revelation.
Elder Bruce R. McConkie’s preface statements from Isaiah 29 and 2 Nephi 27:
A people (the Nephites) will speak as a voice from the dust.
The Apostasy, restoration of the gospel, and coming forth of a sealed book (the Book of Mormon) are foretold.
Darkness and apostasy will cover the earth in the last days.
The Book of Mormon will come forth. Three witnesses will testify of the book.
The learned man will say he cannot read the sealed book.
The Lord will do a marvelous work and a wonder.
We quickly become aware that Elder McConkie wanted the saints of the restored church to glean that Isaiah had seen in vision the restoration of the Lord’s Kingdom in the latter days and the coming forth of the Book of Mormon as the firm foundation upon which it would be built.
Personal meanings I received as I reviewed these chapters:
It may have been as a result of a conversation Kathleen and I had during breakfast this morning, and perhaps it could be because I see it as such a perilous condition of our present day world, but my thoughts were moved to pondering upon verse 21 and 22 of Second Nephi chapter 28.
And others will he pacify, and lull them away into carnal security, that they will say: All is well in Zion; yea, Zion prospereth, all is well—and thus the devil cheateth their souls, and leadeth them away carefully down to hell. And behold, others he flattereth away, and telleth them there is no hell; and he saith unto them: I am no devil, for there is none—and thus he whispereth in their ears, until he grasps them with his awful chains, from whence there is no deliverance.
Lucifer, from the very beginning, believed unwaveringly in the use of force which makes the Eternal Principle of Agency null and void. I have long believed that the awful chains Nephi speaks of here come upon us as we ironically use our Agency to heed his whisperings and yield our ability to choose to his binding flatterings.
I am absolutely certain that Satan has no preference what whispered lie we choose to forge the links of the chain which causes us to lose our inability to use our Agency, just as long as we continue to add link to link until we are securely bound.
The words of living Apostles and Prophets have made our task of identifying the devilish whisperings which are blaring around the world easy to recognize.
We have been warned against mind numbing substances which are always presented as ‘just one will never harm you’. Yet the whisperings bind even the very elect!
We have been warned about the mind controlling effects of pornography and coveting a neighbor’s wife. Yet the whisperings bind even the
very elect!
We have been warned about the siren effect of putting our hearts upon riches. Yet the whisperings bind even the very elect!
We have been warned about the controlling of lives which comes from seeking honor and fame. Yet the whisperings bind even the very elect!
We have been warned and forewarned. Yet the whisperings bind even the very elect!
In my own little world of meager understanding, I have attempted to build upon a creed which first proclaims that anything I choose to do which will lessen my ability to keep my use of Agency totally valid should be shunned and, second, warns that anything which causes me to lose humility and become prideful thinking I am the master of myself, makes me vulnerable to the soul binding whisperings of he who has always desired to use force over freedom.
Readers thoughts as they read this Thought and reviewed the words of Isaiah and Nephi:
THOUGHTS FOR A SABBATH DAY – WILLIAM L. RILEY
EDITED BY – KATHLEEN W. RILEY
Second Nephi 27, 28
Nephi’s explanation to his people about Chapter 29 of Isaiah:
Nephi uses what to us is an unfamiliar use of the word constrained, when he says he has been constrained by the Spirit to prophecy of things which will surely come to pass.
He foretold of a book of great worth to his seed and to the remnants of the House of Israel which would be written and come forth.
He taught that in the day when the book came forth, churches would built up, but not unto the Lord and could be identified because their priests would contend one with another, these priests, because they denied the utterances of the Holy Spirit would be left to teach their own learning. They would deny the power of God to the point of teaching that God had done his work of redemption and would not perform miracles any longer, hence, He was no longer active but had given his power to men.
The teachings of these false churches would include the philosophy of live and enjoy the moment, because any wrong would bear very few consequences from God.
They would work in darkness thinking they could hide their doctrines of foolishness devised by their puffed up hearts.
These churches will be identified by the characteristics of pride, robbing the poor, persecuting the meek and poor in heart and the wearing of costly apparel.
He foresees another group who will be lulled away into carnal security, into thinking whatever they are doing is OK.
He also sees those who hearken to the words of God and build their lives upon the Rock of Salvation and build their lives line upon line learning wisdom from the counsel of the Lord.
It only takes a few sentences of reading Nephi’s teaching to his people about what he had read from the words of Isaiah for us to understand that he was struck with the perilous conditions his posterity would be facing in that future era he had seen in revelation.
Elder Bruce R. McConkie’s preface statements from Isaiah 29 and 2 Nephi 27:
A people (the Nephites) will speak as a voice from the dust.
The Apostasy, restoration of the gospel, and coming forth of a sealed book (the Book of Mormon) are foretold.
Darkness and apostasy will cover the earth in the last days.
The Book of Mormon will come forth. Three witnesses will testify of the book.
The learned man will say he cannot read the sealed book.
The Lord will do a marvelous work and a wonder.
We quickly become aware that Elder McConkie wanted the saints of the restored church to glean that Isaiah had seen in vision the restoration of the Lord’s Kingdom in the latter days and the coming forth of the Book of Mormon as the firm foundation upon which it would be built.
Personal meanings I received as I reviewed these chapters:
It may have been as a result of a conversation Kathleen and I had during breakfast this morning, and perhaps it could be because I see it as such a perilous condition of our present day world, but my thoughts were moved to pondering upon verse 21 and 22 of Second Nephi chapter 28.
And others will he pacify, and lull them away into carnal security, that they will say: All is well in Zion; yea, Zion prospereth, all is well—and thus the devil cheateth their souls, and leadeth them away carefully down to hell. And behold, others he flattereth away, and telleth them there is no hell; and he saith unto them: I am no devil, for there is none—and thus he whispereth in their ears, until he grasps them with his awful chains, from whence there is no deliverance.
Lucifer, from the very beginning, believed unwaveringly in the use of force which makes the Eternal Principle of Agency null and void. I have long believed that the awful chains Nephi speaks of here come upon us as we ironically use our Agency to heed his whisperings and yield our ability to choose to his binding flatterings.
I am absolutely certain that Satan has no preference what whispered lie we choose to forge the links of the chain which causes us to lose our inability to use our Agency, just as long as we continue to add link to link until we are securely bound.
The words of living Apostles and Prophets have made our task of identifying the devilish whisperings which are blaring around the world easy to recognize.
We have been warned against mind numbing substances which are always presented as ‘just one will never harm you’. Yet the whisperings bind even the very elect!
We have been warned about the mind controlling effects of pornography and coveting a neighbor’s wife. Yet the whisperings bind even the
very elect!
We have been warned about the siren effect of putting our hearts upon riches. Yet the whisperings bind even the very elect!
We have been warned about the controlling of lives which comes from seeking honor and fame. Yet the whisperings bind even the very elect!
We have been warned and forewarned. Yet the whisperings bind even the very elect!
In my own little world of meager understanding, I have attempted to build upon a creed which first proclaims that anything I choose to do which will lessen my ability to keep my use of Agency totally valid should be shunned and, second, warns that anything which causes me to lose humility and become prideful thinking I am the master of myself, makes me vulnerable to the soul binding whisperings of he who has always desired to use force over freedom.
Readers thoughts as they read this Thought and reviewed the words of Isaiah and Nephi:
THOUGHTS FOR A SABBATH DAY – WILLIAM L. RILEY
EDITED BY – KATHLEEN W. RILEY
Saturday, October 20, 2018
LIFE'S LESSONS LEARNED!!
Just because the Lord – often calls those who believe in Him – friends – does not give them license – to forget – that He is – their Savior – and – Redeemer!! ----- Hope in the unobtainable – or – unknowable – will always result in frustration!!
Friday, October 19, 2018
LIFE'S LESSONS LEARNED!!
I don’t think the world would be a worse place – if there were more tolerance – and – less bigotry – more inclusions – and – less exclusion!! ----- No nation will ever be a better place – if its citizens reject the notion – of being under God!!
Thursday, October 18, 2018
LIFE'S LESSONS LEARNED!!
I doubt our Heavenly Father – ever intended – our level of obedience to His commandments – should ever diminish the importance of His admonition – that loving one another – is second only to our loving God!!
Wednesday, October 17, 2018
LIFE'S LESSONS LEARNED!!
The words the Savior gave us – in His marvelous sermon on the mount – if adhered too – should build a fence – which will keep us safe – from breaking the laws given to Moses!! ----- The mercy of the Lord may never be strained – but – we often do things – which strain the mercy of one another!!
Tuesday, October 16, 2018
LIFE'S LESSONS LEARNED!!
We seem to progress much more rapidly – when wee concentrate on those things – the Lord has said we should do – rather than on those things – He told us not to do!! ----- Since the lord has asked us to publish peace – it should not surprise us – that the devil – would so strongly go about – publishing contention!!
Monday, October 15, 2018
LIFE'S LESSONS LEARNED!!
It must be a terribly powerful force – that is exercised – to change the love – and – trust of a child – which makes space for hate – and – mistrust – which so many adults – seem to allow to dominate their lives!!
Sunday, October 14, 2018
SACRED SOILS OF SOULS
Second Nephi 26 – Nephi continues to teach us his broadened understanding as he studied the words of Isaiah
One of the blessings I received when I retired from full time employment and teaching in the Church Education System was that I was able to continue to teach for another five years. This additional five years was such a personally rewarding experience spent with students who attended with no ulterior motive other than wanting to participate in studying the Word. If I could have been in total control of things I would have extended this opportunity another decade or so. But alas, my body had other plans and it soon became apparent that my blessing was only going to have a duration of those five short years.
One of the reasons these years were so special is that for the first time in my life I was able to choose my own curriculum and develop my own course outlines and lessons. I had felt it to some degree, but now more powerfully than ever I was struck with the awesome responsibility one takes on when they embark on treading in the sacred soils of souls.
Another reason these hours spent studying and teaching were so wonderful is that in a small way I was having an experience not unlike what I imagine Nephi had, as he studied the words of Isaiah and then likened them unto his people. As I created lesson outlines from the words of ancient and living prophets, I had the joy of receiving an understanding of how their words should be presented to those participating with me during those wonderful windup years of being in the classroom, and the precepts which should be stressed to those who were treading through the trials of a technological era.
A third reason and the one which ties this introduction into Nephi’s words in Chapter 26 of Second Nephi is he gives us caution and encouragement when we attempt to teach. His words seem to me to be a pleading to those who find themselves entering into the sacred soils of souls that they always remember whose work it is and what pitfalls can befall one who has this opportunity.
8 But behold, the righteous that hearken unto the words of the prophets, and destroy them not, but look forward unto Christ with steadfastness…
I do not in any way labor under the misconception that having had the opportunity of teaching four to six hours a day, five to seven days a week for fifty plus years, I would be found guiltless of having destroyed the words of the Prophets. I also read in these words of Nephi that he is not only talking about destroying the words, but also giving caution about destroying those who might hear you talk about the word. Likewise, I have no doubt and am grateful that the law of repentance applies to our faltering ways as we attempt to teach by hearkening and striving not to destroy the words of the prophets.
11 For the Spirit of the Lord will not always strive with man. And when the Spirit ceaseth to strive with man then cometh speedy destruction, and this grieveth my soul.
Although the mercy and grace of the Lord are everlasting, universal and unceasing, never the less, as we attempt to teach his word it would be wise not to continue destructive methods and concentrate on being sensitive to the whisperings of the Holy Spirit that our souls be not grieved.
12 And as I spake concerning the convincing of the Jews, that Jesus is the very Christ, it must needs be that the Gentiles be convinced also that Jesus is the Christ, the Eternal God …
Nephi reminds that the ultimate purpose of all our efforts as we teach the word is to convince all of Heavenly Father’s children that Jesus is the very Christ. How often do we find ourselves diverted into teaching in other arenas which in no way fulfill the commission given to Publishers of Peace? Sadly, we may even fall into the trap of adorning ourselves with capes in an attempt to aggrandize our personal visage.
15. … yet the words of the righteous shall be written, and the prayers of the faithful shall be heard, and all those who have dwindled in unbelief shall not be forgotten.
16 For those who shall be destroyed shall speak unto them out of the ground, and their speech shall be low out of the dust, and their voice shall be as one that hath a familiar spirit; for the Lord God will give unto him power, that he may whisper concerning them, even as it were out of the ground; and their speech shall whisper out of the dust.
17 For thus saith the Lord God: They shall write the things which shall be done among them, and they shall be written and sealed up in a book, and those who have dwindled in unbelief shall not have them, for they seek to destroy the things of God.
As my body took command of the amount of time I was able to stand, I became aware of a trio of blessings; First, that I was taught by a capable mentor and able to learn and apply some fundamental aptitude on the computer; Second, that the five years I spent writing my own lesson outlines caused all lingering fears from my High School red streaked essays to evaporate; Third, having Kathleen at my side to edit my words and even correct the autocorrect on the computer programs. I am not so delusional as to think that my written words will come forth from the dust to bless future generations, but I have bestowed them upon my immediate progeny and until Amazon blows them away they will be accessible. The very thought of not having the words of ancient and modern prophets to guide my personally being convinced that Jesus is the very Christ, causes a shiver to go down my spine.
20 And the Gentiles are lifted up in the pride of their eyes, and have stumbled, because of the greatness of their stumbling block, that they have built up many churches; nevertheless, they put down the power and miracles of God, and preach up unto themselves their own wisdom and their own learning, that they may get gain and grind upon the face of the poor.
29 He commandeth that there shall be no priestcrafts; for, behold, priestcrafts are that men preach and set themselves up for a light unto the world, that they may get gain and praise of the world; but they seek not the welfare of Zion.
31 But the laborer in Zion shall labor for Zion; for if they labor for money they shall perish.
Plain enough!!
24 He doeth not anything save it be for the benefit of the world; for he loveth the world, even that he layeth down his own life that he may draw all men unto him. Wherefore, he commandeth none that they shall not partake of his salvation.
25 Behold, doth he cry unto any, saying: Depart from me? Behold, I say unto you, Nay; but he saith: Come unto me all ye ends of the earth, buy milk and honey, without money and without price.
In a day when it has become a popular pursuit of many to decry the atrocities perpetuated upon the world in the name of religion, while ignoring the charity which has been done because hearts were turned to God, we are reminded of the commission to help all to understand the universal Atoning act of the Savior. It is ironic that we live in a day when there are so many who are dedicated to spewing words which are divisive and destructive, that we also find so many who turn their backs on the very teachings which would help us overcome our differences.
33 … for he doeth that which is good among the children of men; and he doeth nothing save it be plain unto the children of men; and he inviteth them all to come unto him and partake of his goodness; and he denieth none that come unto him, black and white, bond and free, male and female; and he remembereth the heathen; and all are alike unto God, both Jew and Gentile.
It becomes clear as we finish this reminder of our responsibility to be about the business of convincing others that Jesus is the very Christ, we will only be able to be as effective in our efforts as our prejudices allow us to be. Therefore, if we have any ill feelings toward any one, for any reason, our ability to effectively encourage them on their quest will be diminished.
THOUGHTS FOR A SABBATH DAY – WILLIAM L. RILEY
EDITED BY – KATHLEEN W. RILEY
One of the blessings I received when I retired from full time employment and teaching in the Church Education System was that I was able to continue to teach for another five years. This additional five years was such a personally rewarding experience spent with students who attended with no ulterior motive other than wanting to participate in studying the Word. If I could have been in total control of things I would have extended this opportunity another decade or so. But alas, my body had other plans and it soon became apparent that my blessing was only going to have a duration of those five short years.
One of the reasons these years were so special is that for the first time in my life I was able to choose my own curriculum and develop my own course outlines and lessons. I had felt it to some degree, but now more powerfully than ever I was struck with the awesome responsibility one takes on when they embark on treading in the sacred soils of souls.
Another reason these hours spent studying and teaching were so wonderful is that in a small way I was having an experience not unlike what I imagine Nephi had, as he studied the words of Isaiah and then likened them unto his people. As I created lesson outlines from the words of ancient and living prophets, I had the joy of receiving an understanding of how their words should be presented to those participating with me during those wonderful windup years of being in the classroom, and the precepts which should be stressed to those who were treading through the trials of a technological era.
A third reason and the one which ties this introduction into Nephi’s words in Chapter 26 of Second Nephi is he gives us caution and encouragement when we attempt to teach. His words seem to me to be a pleading to those who find themselves entering into the sacred soils of souls that they always remember whose work it is and what pitfalls can befall one who has this opportunity.
8 But behold, the righteous that hearken unto the words of the prophets, and destroy them not, but look forward unto Christ with steadfastness…
I do not in any way labor under the misconception that having had the opportunity of teaching four to six hours a day, five to seven days a week for fifty plus years, I would be found guiltless of having destroyed the words of the Prophets. I also read in these words of Nephi that he is not only talking about destroying the words, but also giving caution about destroying those who might hear you talk about the word. Likewise, I have no doubt and am grateful that the law of repentance applies to our faltering ways as we attempt to teach by hearkening and striving not to destroy the words of the prophets.
11 For the Spirit of the Lord will not always strive with man. And when the Spirit ceaseth to strive with man then cometh speedy destruction, and this grieveth my soul.
Although the mercy and grace of the Lord are everlasting, universal and unceasing, never the less, as we attempt to teach his word it would be wise not to continue destructive methods and concentrate on being sensitive to the whisperings of the Holy Spirit that our souls be not grieved.
12 And as I spake concerning the convincing of the Jews, that Jesus is the very Christ, it must needs be that the Gentiles be convinced also that Jesus is the Christ, the Eternal God …
Nephi reminds that the ultimate purpose of all our efforts as we teach the word is to convince all of Heavenly Father’s children that Jesus is the very Christ. How often do we find ourselves diverted into teaching in other arenas which in no way fulfill the commission given to Publishers of Peace? Sadly, we may even fall into the trap of adorning ourselves with capes in an attempt to aggrandize our personal visage.
15. … yet the words of the righteous shall be written, and the prayers of the faithful shall be heard, and all those who have dwindled in unbelief shall not be forgotten.
16 For those who shall be destroyed shall speak unto them out of the ground, and their speech shall be low out of the dust, and their voice shall be as one that hath a familiar spirit; for the Lord God will give unto him power, that he may whisper concerning them, even as it were out of the ground; and their speech shall whisper out of the dust.
17 For thus saith the Lord God: They shall write the things which shall be done among them, and they shall be written and sealed up in a book, and those who have dwindled in unbelief shall not have them, for they seek to destroy the things of God.
As my body took command of the amount of time I was able to stand, I became aware of a trio of blessings; First, that I was taught by a capable mentor and able to learn and apply some fundamental aptitude on the computer; Second, that the five years I spent writing my own lesson outlines caused all lingering fears from my High School red streaked essays to evaporate; Third, having Kathleen at my side to edit my words and even correct the autocorrect on the computer programs. I am not so delusional as to think that my written words will come forth from the dust to bless future generations, but I have bestowed them upon my immediate progeny and until Amazon blows them away they will be accessible. The very thought of not having the words of ancient and modern prophets to guide my personally being convinced that Jesus is the very Christ, causes a shiver to go down my spine.
20 And the Gentiles are lifted up in the pride of their eyes, and have stumbled, because of the greatness of their stumbling block, that they have built up many churches; nevertheless, they put down the power and miracles of God, and preach up unto themselves their own wisdom and their own learning, that they may get gain and grind upon the face of the poor.
29 He commandeth that there shall be no priestcrafts; for, behold, priestcrafts are that men preach and set themselves up for a light unto the world, that they may get gain and praise of the world; but they seek not the welfare of Zion.
31 But the laborer in Zion shall labor for Zion; for if they labor for money they shall perish.
Plain enough!!
24 He doeth not anything save it be for the benefit of the world; for he loveth the world, even that he layeth down his own life that he may draw all men unto him. Wherefore, he commandeth none that they shall not partake of his salvation.
25 Behold, doth he cry unto any, saying: Depart from me? Behold, I say unto you, Nay; but he saith: Come unto me all ye ends of the earth, buy milk and honey, without money and without price.
In a day when it has become a popular pursuit of many to decry the atrocities perpetuated upon the world in the name of religion, while ignoring the charity which has been done because hearts were turned to God, we are reminded of the commission to help all to understand the universal Atoning act of the Savior. It is ironic that we live in a day when there are so many who are dedicated to spewing words which are divisive and destructive, that we also find so many who turn their backs on the very teachings which would help us overcome our differences.
33 … for he doeth that which is good among the children of men; and he doeth nothing save it be plain unto the children of men; and he inviteth them all to come unto him and partake of his goodness; and he denieth none that come unto him, black and white, bond and free, male and female; and he remembereth the heathen; and all are alike unto God, both Jew and Gentile.
It becomes clear as we finish this reminder of our responsibility to be about the business of convincing others that Jesus is the very Christ, we will only be able to be as effective in our efforts as our prejudices allow us to be. Therefore, if we have any ill feelings toward any one, for any reason, our ability to effectively encourage them on their quest will be diminished.
THOUGHTS FOR A SABBATH DAY – WILLIAM L. RILEY
EDITED BY – KATHLEEN W. RILEY
Saturday, October 13, 2018
LIFE'S LESSONS LEARNED!!
If the learning curve we go through during the first 12 years of our lives – were to continue as the normal – throughout our lives – we would be much more advanced as a society!! ----- It would be to our advantage – if we took seriously – the admonition – that we came to earth – to be added upon!!
Friday, October 12, 2018
LIFE'S LESSONS LEARNED!!
There are times – when aging causes one to hear less – is a blessing – and – there are time when it is a curse!! ----- When aging causes one to hear less – most of the time – during a program given by Primary children – when the only thing that is understood – is that children can really be cute!!
Thursday, October 11, 2018
LIFE'S LESSONS LEARNED!!
I saw a young boy – protecting himself from the bullying of his big brother – by trying to hide behind his scriptures – I don’t think he realized – the symbolism of his gesture!! ----- There are times – when trying to direct a group of children – is like trying to herd a – flock of wild turkeys!!
Wednesday, October 10, 2018
LIFE'S LESSONS LEARNED!!
Those who have the propensity – to do all things with their own strength – and – wisdom – will lose the great joy which comes – when our pleadings – are answered by the Lord!! ----- Those who have the propensity – to do all things with their own strength – and – wisdom – will never feel the marvels – of having Angels attend them!!
Tuesday, October 9, 2018
LIFE'S LESSONS LEARNED!!
If it weren’t for the Atonement – no one who ever shared this mortal experience – would ever have the knowledge – to fully understand us!! ----- One of the wonders which is often overlooked – is that the relating of life’s adventures – becomes – new – and – more exciting – with each new telling!!
Monday, October 8, 2018
LIFE'S LESSONS LEARNED!!
Those events – which seem to cause – the greatest stirrings in our souls – can never be adequately shared – with anyone else!! ----- We should be grateful – for the understanding – the Savior gained about us – through the Atonement!!
Sunday, October 7, 2018
A RECORD OF WHISPERINGS
I hope many of you took advantage of the opportunity during the past week to receive the revelatory gift which can accompany the reading, studying and searching the scriptures. As Nephi begins his multi chapter summary in Second Nephi chapter 25, noting what he had obtained through this gift as he searched the words of Isaiah gives us these assurances.
The words of Isaiah are difficult to understand if you do not understand the manner of prophesying among the Jews.
The Jews understand the things of the prophets better than any other people.
The words of Isaiah will be plain unto all who are filled with the spirit of prophecy.
Nephi,, being filled with the spirit of prophecy, will teach the words of Isaiah in plainness.
Many will be assured of the truth of the prophecies in the days they are fulfilled.
The revelatory words Nephi speaks concerning the prophecies of Isaiah shall be of great worth to Lehi’s descendants in the last days.
As I write about Nephi’s revelatory experiences which he had while searching the words of Isaiah and his subsequent teachings in plainness about these chapters of Isaiah, I hope that you might, likewise, have a marvelous experience with the revelatory gift which can accompany scripture study. It would be a wonderful thing if you had put some of those thoughts which came to you through the whisperings of the Holy Spirit in your computers or, as in days of yore, on paper with pen and pencil and you could now compare them with Nephi’s inspired teachings which are found in chapters 25 through 32 of Second Nephi and will be the source of my Thoughts for the next few weeks.
There is no doubt that while Nephi read the words of Isaiah he was being struck with the impression that the central and most important event which will ever happen upon this earth during its Telestial probationary period would be the earthly mission and the Atonement of Jesus the Christ. I could just have you read 2 Nephi Chapter 25 verses 18-30, but let me do an abridgement of these verses which I hope will highlight the plainness of his teachings.
There is save one Messiah spoken of by the prophets, and that Messiah is he who should be rejected of the Jews. For according to the words of the prophets, the Messiah cometh in six hundred years from the time that my father left Jerusalem; and according to the words of the prophets, and also the word of the angel of God, his name shall be Jesus Christ, the Son of God, and there is none other name given under heaven save it be this Jesus Christ whereby man can be saved.
Wherefore, the things I write shall go from generation to generation as long as the earth shall stand; and they shall go according to the will and pleasure of God; and the nations who shall possess them shall be judged of them according to the words which are written. For we labor diligently to write, to persuade our children, and also our brethren, to believe in Christ, and to be reconciled to God; for we know that it is by grace that we are saved, after all we can do.
Notwithstanding we believe in Christ, we keep the law of Moses, and look forward with steadfastness unto Christ, until the law shall be fulfilled. For, for this end was the law given; wherefore the law hath become dead unto us, and we are made alive in Christ because of our faith; yet we keep the law because of the commandments.
We talk of Christ, we rejoice in Christ, we preach of Christ, we prophesy of Christ, and we write according to our prophecies, that our children may know to what source they may look for a remission of their sins. For the right way is to believe in Christ and deny him not; for by denying him ye also deny the prophets and the law.
Now behold, I say unto you that the right way is to believe in Christ, and deny him not; and Christ is the Holy One of Israel; wherefore ye must bow down before him, and worship him with all your might, mind, and strength, and your whole soul; and if ye do this ye shall in nowise be cast out. And, inasmuch as it shall be expedient, ye must keep the performances and ordinances of God until the law shall be fulfilled which was given unto Moses.
If you have previously had any doubts about Nephi having been subject to Broadening his Understanding by Prophecy as he Searched the Scriptures, I would challenge you to find the prophecies he speaks of in plainness in the words of Isaiah which he read to his people.
Through Nephi’s example we should catch the vision that not only can the meaning of a verse be opened unto as we search the scriptures through the whisperings of the Holy Spirit, but the scriptural passages we are reading can also be a springboard to receiving completely new revelation on the messages of the scriptures.
This belief in the scriptures becoming a springboard to opening our hearts and minds to new and perhaps even unrelated revelation may be the very source of the counsel Elder Scott gave to Kathleen and me during a Mission Presidents Conference in Quito, Ecuador. He admonished us along with all the Mission Presidents and their wives who were in the conference, to take notes on what the Holy Spirit whispered to us while he was talking and not to just write down what he was saying.
This counsel has been a great blessing to me throughout the succeeding years as I have written thousands of these Spirit whisperings during meetings and when reading the scriptures and other writings. I feel so grateful for this blessing in my life that I am bestowing these whispered notes to my progeny in books titled Life's Lessons Learned. These Life's Lessons Learned have also been a source of daily additions on my blog and Face Book pages for many years.
Because of the joy following the counsel of an Apostle of the Lord has brought to me during the last 25 years of my life, I find little reason not to admonish all to make a habit of writing the whisperings which come as you study the scriptures or listen to the word. After all, had Nephi not written the impressions which came to him as he read the words of Isaiah we would not have his wonderful prophecies, testimony and promises which he has given us and I have been abridging.
THOUGHTS FOR A SABBATH DAY – WILLIAM L. RILEY
EDITED BY – KATHLEEN W. RILEY
The words of Isaiah are difficult to understand if you do not understand the manner of prophesying among the Jews.
The Jews understand the things of the prophets better than any other people.
The words of Isaiah will be plain unto all who are filled with the spirit of prophecy.
Nephi,, being filled with the spirit of prophecy, will teach the words of Isaiah in plainness.
Many will be assured of the truth of the prophecies in the days they are fulfilled.
The revelatory words Nephi speaks concerning the prophecies of Isaiah shall be of great worth to Lehi’s descendants in the last days.
As I write about Nephi’s revelatory experiences which he had while searching the words of Isaiah and his subsequent teachings in plainness about these chapters of Isaiah, I hope that you might, likewise, have a marvelous experience with the revelatory gift which can accompany scripture study. It would be a wonderful thing if you had put some of those thoughts which came to you through the whisperings of the Holy Spirit in your computers or, as in days of yore, on paper with pen and pencil and you could now compare them with Nephi’s inspired teachings which are found in chapters 25 through 32 of Second Nephi and will be the source of my Thoughts for the next few weeks.
There is no doubt that while Nephi read the words of Isaiah he was being struck with the impression that the central and most important event which will ever happen upon this earth during its Telestial probationary period would be the earthly mission and the Atonement of Jesus the Christ. I could just have you read 2 Nephi Chapter 25 verses 18-30, but let me do an abridgement of these verses which I hope will highlight the plainness of his teachings.
There is save one Messiah spoken of by the prophets, and that Messiah is he who should be rejected of the Jews. For according to the words of the prophets, the Messiah cometh in six hundred years from the time that my father left Jerusalem; and according to the words of the prophets, and also the word of the angel of God, his name shall be Jesus Christ, the Son of God, and there is none other name given under heaven save it be this Jesus Christ whereby man can be saved.
Wherefore, the things I write shall go from generation to generation as long as the earth shall stand; and they shall go according to the will and pleasure of God; and the nations who shall possess them shall be judged of them according to the words which are written. For we labor diligently to write, to persuade our children, and also our brethren, to believe in Christ, and to be reconciled to God; for we know that it is by grace that we are saved, after all we can do.
Notwithstanding we believe in Christ, we keep the law of Moses, and look forward with steadfastness unto Christ, until the law shall be fulfilled. For, for this end was the law given; wherefore the law hath become dead unto us, and we are made alive in Christ because of our faith; yet we keep the law because of the commandments.
We talk of Christ, we rejoice in Christ, we preach of Christ, we prophesy of Christ, and we write according to our prophecies, that our children may know to what source they may look for a remission of their sins. For the right way is to believe in Christ and deny him not; for by denying him ye also deny the prophets and the law.
Now behold, I say unto you that the right way is to believe in Christ, and deny him not; and Christ is the Holy One of Israel; wherefore ye must bow down before him, and worship him with all your might, mind, and strength, and your whole soul; and if ye do this ye shall in nowise be cast out. And, inasmuch as it shall be expedient, ye must keep the performances and ordinances of God until the law shall be fulfilled which was given unto Moses.
If you have previously had any doubts about Nephi having been subject to Broadening his Understanding by Prophecy as he Searched the Scriptures, I would challenge you to find the prophecies he speaks of in plainness in the words of Isaiah which he read to his people.
Through Nephi’s example we should catch the vision that not only can the meaning of a verse be opened unto as we search the scriptures through the whisperings of the Holy Spirit, but the scriptural passages we are reading can also be a springboard to receiving completely new revelation on the messages of the scriptures.
This belief in the scriptures becoming a springboard to opening our hearts and minds to new and perhaps even unrelated revelation may be the very source of the counsel Elder Scott gave to Kathleen and me during a Mission Presidents Conference in Quito, Ecuador. He admonished us along with all the Mission Presidents and their wives who were in the conference, to take notes on what the Holy Spirit whispered to us while he was talking and not to just write down what he was saying.
This counsel has been a great blessing to me throughout the succeeding years as I have written thousands of these Spirit whisperings during meetings and when reading the scriptures and other writings. I feel so grateful for this blessing in my life that I am bestowing these whispered notes to my progeny in books titled Life's Lessons Learned. These Life's Lessons Learned have also been a source of daily additions on my blog and Face Book pages for many years.
Because of the joy following the counsel of an Apostle of the Lord has brought to me during the last 25 years of my life, I find little reason not to admonish all to make a habit of writing the whisperings which come as you study the scriptures or listen to the word. After all, had Nephi not written the impressions which came to him as he read the words of Isaiah we would not have his wonderful prophecies, testimony and promises which he has given us and I have been abridging.
THOUGHTS FOR A SABBATH DAY – WILLIAM L. RILEY
EDITED BY – KATHLEEN W. RILEY
Saturday, October 6, 2018
LIFE'S LESSONS LEARNED!!
Aging – in and of itself – does not – bestow wisdom upon someone!! ----- Our daily greetings – would fill us with greater warmth – if they carried the same heat – which is generated – when we embrace a dear friend – who has been absent for several years!!
Friday, October 5, 2018
LIFE'S LESSONS LEARNED!!
There may be times – when we may be the only ones – who are able to recognize the blessings – Heavenly Father has poured down upon us. ----- Needy people – will never find complete satisfaction – or – feel their lives to be fulfilled!!
Thursday, October 4, 2018
LIFE'S LESSONS LEARNED!!
Since we will never know – the whole of another’s life – we need to be satisfied – and – appreciative – of that portion we do understand!! ----- No matter how clear – and – detailed – instructions might be given – there real value – can only be assessed – by how completely they are followed!!
Wednesday, October 3, 2018
LIFE'S LESSONS LEARNED!!
Believe it or not – there was a time – when we seldom had to be guarded – about the words we used – because – they might have a vulgar double meaning!! ----- Believing in – universal brotherhood and sisterhood – is ultimately – more a thing of the heart – than – a thing of the tongue!!
Tuesday, October 2, 2018
LIFE'S LESSONS LEARNED!!
There never will be an insult – or – issue – important enough – that we allow it to rob us – of peace of mind!! ----- We need to choose our causes carefully – because the always end up – occupying a major portion – or our time!!
Monday, October 1, 2018
LIFE'S LESSONS LEARNED!!
All of our moments of bitterness – will undoubtedly melt into nothingness – when we see clearly – and – understand perfectly – the growth those moments wrought!! ----- If families understood – the amount of joy they miss – because of discord – they would probably be more diligent – in striving to live in harmony!!
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