Saturday, August 31, 2019
LIFE'S LESSONS LEARNED!!
We will be standing on safe ground – if we use the words of – The Publisher of Peace – when we are making our meager attempts – to publish peace!!
Friday, August 30, 2019
LIFE'S LESSONS LEARNED!!
The one hope – for someone who is attempting to publish peace – is that the Lord has declared – that ultimately peace – will reign on the earth!!
Thursday, August 29, 2019
LIFE'S LESSONS LEARNED!!
For those who have decided – to attempt to be publishers of peace – there will be days – when their efforts seem to have been – mostly in vain!!
Wednesday, August 28, 2019
LIFE'S LESSONS LEARNED!!
However – it isn’t all that wonderful – to arrive at a time in you life – when you are no longer capable – of performing some tasks in life!!
Tuesday, August 27, 2019
LIFE'S LESSONS LEARNED!!
It is actually comforting – and – nice – to arrive at a time in one’s life – when you are no longer – capable of performing – some tasks in life!!
Monday, August 26, 2019
LIFE'S LESSONS LEARNED!!
It is sad – that the sadness bug – seems to be more contagious – that the happiness bug!!
Sunday, August 25, 2019
POWER OF THE WORD 1
As I opened my scriptures to chapters 11 and 12 of the Book of Alma it didn’t take me very long to realize that since a lawyer named Zeezrom was involved, this week’s Thought would end up being different than most.
I didn’t even try to find a central theme and build around it, since when dealing with lawyers of Zeezrom’s type before his conversion one has to expect to be tossed to and fro by winds of attempted deception and confusion.
Therefore, if you decide to read today’s Thought, you need to expect to be on a mental roller coaster journey with many twists and turns and with varying themes.
In order to create at least a sense of continuity before getting into the exchange between Alma and Zeezrom we need to be reminded of Amulek’s stirring testimony as he ended his discussion with this cunning lawyer which had a softening effect upon the barrister.
39 And Amulek said unto him: Yea, he is the very Eternal Father of heaven and of earth, and all things which in them are; he is the beginning and the end, the first and the last;
40 And he shall come into the world to redeem his people; and he shall take upon him the transgressions of those who believe on his name; and these are they that shall have eternal life, and salvation cometh to none else…
41 Therefore the wicked remain as though there had been no redemption made, except it be the loosing of the bands of death; for behold, the day cometh that all shall rise from the dead and stand before God, and be judged according to their works…
45 Now, behold, I have spoken unto you concerning the death of the mortal body, and also concerning the resurrection of the mortal body. I say unto you that this mortal body is raised to an immortal body, that is from death, even from the first death unto life, that they can die no more; their spirits uniting with their bodies, never to be divided; thus the whole becoming spiritual and immortal, that they can no more see corruption.
46 Now, when Amulek had finished these words the people began again to be astonished, and also Zeezrom began to tremble.
A missionary doesn’t have to be laboring in the vineyard of the Lord very long before they gain the understanding that when companions support one another with the bearing of sincere and powerful testimonies there is a strong synergetic effect which multiplies their words by more than a factor of 2. By the time Alma begins to speak in chapter 12 of the book of Alma, the mighty testimonies which he and his companion have already borne have started to affect Zeezrom physically and the process of conversion to God and His servants has begun.
1 Now Alma, seeing that the words of Amulek had silenced Zeezrom, for he beheld that Amulek had caught him in his lying and deceiving to destroy him, and seeing that he began to tremble under a consciousness of his guilt, he opened his mouth and began to speak unto him, and to establish the words of Amulek, and to explain things beyond, or to unfold the scriptures beyond that which Amulek had done...
3 Now Zeezrom, seeing that thou hast been taken in thy lying and craftiness, for thou hast not lied unto men only but thou hast lied unto God; for behold, he knows all thy thoughts, and thou seest that thy thoughts are made known unto us by his Spirit…
6 And behold I say unto you all that this was a snare of the adversary, which he has laid to catch this people, that he might bring you into subjection unto him, that he might encircle you about with his chains, that he might chain you down to everlasting destruction, according to the power of his captivity.
7 Now when Alma had spoken these words, Zeezrom began to tremble more exceedingly, for he was convinced more and more of the power of God; and he was also convinced that Alma and Amulek had a knowledge of him, for he was convinced that they knew the thoughts and intents of his heart; for power was given unto them that they might know of these things according to the spirit of prophecy.
Anyone who has had the experience of watching the effect of the power of the word borne by sincere testimony, has probably also watched the change come upon someone from having a spirit of adversity to having one of sincere inquiry. Therefore, it should come as no surprise to those who have enjoyed these sacred moments, that as Zeezrom’s heart begins to soften and he begins to be teachable his accusations turn to sincere questionings.
8 And Zeezrom began to inquire of them diligently, that he might know more concerning the kingdom of God. And he said unto Alma: What does this mean which Amulek hath spoken concerning the resurrection of the dead, that all shall rise from the dead, both the just and the unjust, and are brought to stand before God to be judged according to their works?
9 And now Alma began to expound these things unto him, saying: It is given unto many to know the mysteries of God; nevertheless they are laid under a strict command that they shall not impart only according to the portion of his word which he doth grant unto the children of men, according to the heed and diligence which they give unto him.
10 And therefore, he that will harden his heart, the same receiveth the lesser portion of the word; and he that will not harden his heart, to him is given the greater portion of the word, until it is given unto him to know the mysteries of God until he know them in full.
11 And they that will harden their hearts, to them is given the lesser portion of the word until they know nothing concerning his mysteries; and then they are taken captive by the devil, and led by his will down to destruction. Now this is what is meant by the chains of hell.
It probably took longer than it should have for me to come to the realization that the process we call learning has more to do with the receptiveness of the student than the abilities of the teacher. I know I spent too many years believing I could put on an entertaining show which would fill students with the desire to drink in the words of the performance. During those years I was never ever able to understand why some of my students seemed to have so little interest and in fact there were even those who preferred visiting with their friends or napping during my performances!
Since I spent a vast portion of my life in the role of a teacher, it was a career changing time of my life when I realized effective teaching comes not by what or how words are presented, but it was dependent on whether the student had been stimulated into having a self-interest about the words which were being spoken.
It should not surprise us that in almost every advancement we have of coming to know the mysteries of God, it will not be dependent upon God’s willingness to give us his word, but upon our willingness to heed and diligently seek for his words. Just as during my teaching career I had students who left classes with no new learning or even with less than they entered the class with, Alma informs us that gaining more understanding of the gospel is not determined by God’s willingness to impart His word, but upon our willingness to receive His word.
What a sad thing it would be if when we return to our Heavenly Home, we came to the realization that because we had been unwilling listeners, we were returning to our Heavenly Parent’s with less understanding than when we departed for our earthly mission.
(To be continued)
THOUGHTS FOR A SABBATH DAY – WILLIAM L. RILEY
EDITED BY – KATHLEEN W. RILEY
PEACE + JOY + LOVE + FAITH + HOPE + CHARITY = THE GOOD LIFE
I didn’t even try to find a central theme and build around it, since when dealing with lawyers of Zeezrom’s type before his conversion one has to expect to be tossed to and fro by winds of attempted deception and confusion.
Therefore, if you decide to read today’s Thought, you need to expect to be on a mental roller coaster journey with many twists and turns and with varying themes.
In order to create at least a sense of continuity before getting into the exchange between Alma and Zeezrom we need to be reminded of Amulek’s stirring testimony as he ended his discussion with this cunning lawyer which had a softening effect upon the barrister.
39 And Amulek said unto him: Yea, he is the very Eternal Father of heaven and of earth, and all things which in them are; he is the beginning and the end, the first and the last;
40 And he shall come into the world to redeem his people; and he shall take upon him the transgressions of those who believe on his name; and these are they that shall have eternal life, and salvation cometh to none else…
41 Therefore the wicked remain as though there had been no redemption made, except it be the loosing of the bands of death; for behold, the day cometh that all shall rise from the dead and stand before God, and be judged according to their works…
45 Now, behold, I have spoken unto you concerning the death of the mortal body, and also concerning the resurrection of the mortal body. I say unto you that this mortal body is raised to an immortal body, that is from death, even from the first death unto life, that they can die no more; their spirits uniting with their bodies, never to be divided; thus the whole becoming spiritual and immortal, that they can no more see corruption.
46 Now, when Amulek had finished these words the people began again to be astonished, and also Zeezrom began to tremble.
A missionary doesn’t have to be laboring in the vineyard of the Lord very long before they gain the understanding that when companions support one another with the bearing of sincere and powerful testimonies there is a strong synergetic effect which multiplies their words by more than a factor of 2. By the time Alma begins to speak in chapter 12 of the book of Alma, the mighty testimonies which he and his companion have already borne have started to affect Zeezrom physically and the process of conversion to God and His servants has begun.
1 Now Alma, seeing that the words of Amulek had silenced Zeezrom, for he beheld that Amulek had caught him in his lying and deceiving to destroy him, and seeing that he began to tremble under a consciousness of his guilt, he opened his mouth and began to speak unto him, and to establish the words of Amulek, and to explain things beyond, or to unfold the scriptures beyond that which Amulek had done...
3 Now Zeezrom, seeing that thou hast been taken in thy lying and craftiness, for thou hast not lied unto men only but thou hast lied unto God; for behold, he knows all thy thoughts, and thou seest that thy thoughts are made known unto us by his Spirit…
6 And behold I say unto you all that this was a snare of the adversary, which he has laid to catch this people, that he might bring you into subjection unto him, that he might encircle you about with his chains, that he might chain you down to everlasting destruction, according to the power of his captivity.
7 Now when Alma had spoken these words, Zeezrom began to tremble more exceedingly, for he was convinced more and more of the power of God; and he was also convinced that Alma and Amulek had a knowledge of him, for he was convinced that they knew the thoughts and intents of his heart; for power was given unto them that they might know of these things according to the spirit of prophecy.
Anyone who has had the experience of watching the effect of the power of the word borne by sincere testimony, has probably also watched the change come upon someone from having a spirit of adversity to having one of sincere inquiry. Therefore, it should come as no surprise to those who have enjoyed these sacred moments, that as Zeezrom’s heart begins to soften and he begins to be teachable his accusations turn to sincere questionings.
8 And Zeezrom began to inquire of them diligently, that he might know more concerning the kingdom of God. And he said unto Alma: What does this mean which Amulek hath spoken concerning the resurrection of the dead, that all shall rise from the dead, both the just and the unjust, and are brought to stand before God to be judged according to their works?
9 And now Alma began to expound these things unto him, saying: It is given unto many to know the mysteries of God; nevertheless they are laid under a strict command that they shall not impart only according to the portion of his word which he doth grant unto the children of men, according to the heed and diligence which they give unto him.
10 And therefore, he that will harden his heart, the same receiveth the lesser portion of the word; and he that will not harden his heart, to him is given the greater portion of the word, until it is given unto him to know the mysteries of God until he know them in full.
11 And they that will harden their hearts, to them is given the lesser portion of the word until they know nothing concerning his mysteries; and then they are taken captive by the devil, and led by his will down to destruction. Now this is what is meant by the chains of hell.
It probably took longer than it should have for me to come to the realization that the process we call learning has more to do with the receptiveness of the student than the abilities of the teacher. I know I spent too many years believing I could put on an entertaining show which would fill students with the desire to drink in the words of the performance. During those years I was never ever able to understand why some of my students seemed to have so little interest and in fact there were even those who preferred visiting with their friends or napping during my performances!
Since I spent a vast portion of my life in the role of a teacher, it was a career changing time of my life when I realized effective teaching comes not by what or how words are presented, but it was dependent on whether the student had been stimulated into having a self-interest about the words which were being spoken.
It should not surprise us that in almost every advancement we have of coming to know the mysteries of God, it will not be dependent upon God’s willingness to give us his word, but upon our willingness to heed and diligently seek for his words. Just as during my teaching career I had students who left classes with no new learning or even with less than they entered the class with, Alma informs us that gaining more understanding of the gospel is not determined by God’s willingness to impart His word, but upon our willingness to receive His word.
What a sad thing it would be if when we return to our Heavenly Home, we came to the realization that because we had been unwilling listeners, we were returning to our Heavenly Parent’s with less understanding than when we departed for our earthly mission.
(To be continued)
THOUGHTS FOR A SABBATH DAY – WILLIAM L. RILEY
EDITED BY – KATHLEEN W. RILEY
PEACE + JOY + LOVE + FAITH + HOPE + CHARITY = THE GOOD LIFE
Saturday, August 24, 2019
LIFE'S LESSONS LEARNED!!
I have often prayed – that joy would become as contagious – as the common cold!!
Friday, August 23, 2019
LIFE'S LESSONS LEARNED!!
I have noticed – there are people – who see a little blue in cloudy skies – and – there are people – who see a few clouds in blue skies – I have also noticed – that the latter group – seem to have more joy in their lives!!
Thursday, August 22, 2019
LIFE'S LESSONS LEARNED!!
One of the sure ways – to continue to receive blessings – is to generously share with others – the benefits of blessings received!!
Wednesday, August 21, 2019
LIFE'S LESSONS LEARNED!!
One of the ways – to continue to receive blessings – is to be exceedingly grateful – for those you have received!!
Tuesday, August 20, 2019
LIFE'S LESSONS LEARNED!!
Since mortals are incapable of knowing all things – they are likewise incapable – of gaining a testimony – of all things!!
Monday, August 19, 2019
LIFE'S LESSONS LEARNED!!
There will never be a stronger testimony – born of one’s faith – than when we bear witness – of the veracity – of the first principles – and – ordinances of the gospel!!
Sunday, August 18, 2019
BELIEVEST THOU THAT THERE IS A GOD
I have a friend, Paul Hansen, who after extensive study, used his engineering skills and with the aid of computers and a very expensive engraving machine was able to make and print a pretty authentic looking facsimile of the plates Moroni hid away in the Hill Cumorah. He came away with a greater testimony than most of the labor intensive effort which would have been required of Mormon and Moroni to engrave the abridged history of Lehi’s descendants on the gold plates which they had manufactured.
In the conversations I had with Paul when he was doing his personal laborious work of producing his set of simulated plates, I was left with the understanding of the dedication these ancient prophets had in engraving this marvelous record which has been the means of bringing countless thousands to remember their Heavenly Father and His Son, Jesus the Christ.
The remembrance of these conversations has come to me on other occasions, but when I was rereading chapter 11 of the Book of Alma in The Book of Mormon Another Testament of Jesus Christ, with the desire to be inspired on what to write in this Thought, I was reminded that if we read these precious words with casualness we will often fall short of gaining life confirming messages.
A casual perusal of this chapter could cause us to think ‘that is interesting’ or ‘why did I need to know that’ or ‘this could have really been abridged to be one verse’. Never the less, we find Alma having written the words of his missionary companion Amulek and Mormon having engraved on gold plates, the preparation of which must have taken a good deal of time to mine and manufacture before he was able to put the reformed Egyptian symbols upon them informing us of a monetary system whose foundational value was on a measure of barley.
In verses 23 and 24 of the 11 chapter of the Book of Alma, Amulek drives the purpose of this treatise into our souls. With his monetary system lesson and his information about the wicked maneuverings of the lawyers of Ammonihah in order to fill their purses with Senums, Shums and Shiblons he boldly proclaims Knowest thou that the righteous yieldeth to no such temptations? Believest thou that there is a God? Nay, thou Knowest that there is a God, but thou lovest lucre more than him.
There is probably no way to accurately calculate the total number hours which Mormon and Moroni spent preparing the plates which Moroni eventually placed in the Hill Cumorah.
It would be difficult to measure the amount of sacrifice required of Alma, his wife and family for him to travel throughout the Land of the Nephites striving to bring lost sheep back to the Savior’s fold.
It would be impossible to measure the faith required of Nephi to begin building a ship and then to set forth upon the Many Waters not knowing what shore Lehi’s and Sarah’s descendants would be cast upon.
The reason such names as Ruth, David, Moses, Joseph and Mormon are revered and remembered by generations is not for their harvests, battles, laws, forgiveness nor dedication to saving a record for the welfare of future generations, but because we marvel at the firmness of their belief in God which motivated them to heroic dedication.
Believest thou that there is a God?
Yea Lord thou knowest I believe!
But, my gym membership cost many (limnah) and physical appearance and health are very important.
***
Believest thou that there is a God?
Yea Lord thou knowest I believe!
But, if I dedicate more hours to my career I will have many additional (leah) to help provide for the wants of my family.
***
Believest thou that there is a God?
Yea Lord thou knowest I believe!
But, I find little honor or glory within the walls of my home therefore it is worth the (esroms) to have additional platforms and stages where my true value can be appreciate.
***
And that’s a lot of measures of barley!
I have discovered during my life that one of my greatest talents was my ability to rationalize the personal agenda items of my desires into a position of prominence ahead of my belief in God.
As I read Amulek’s testimony to Zeezrom in the concluding verses of the chapter 11 of the Book of Mosiah, I am moved to once again evaluate the level of my commitment to my belief that there is a God and how it corresponds to my daily walk.
38 Now Zeezrom saith again unto him: Is the Son of God the very Eternal Father?
39 And Amulek said unto him: Yea, he is the very Eternal Father of heaven and of earth, and all things which in them are; he is the beginning and the end, the first and the last;
40 And he shall come into the world to redeem his people; and he shall take upon him the transgressions of those who believe on his name; and these are they that shall have eternal life, and salvation cometh to none else.
43 The spirit and the body shall be reunited again in its perfect form; both limb and joint shall be restored to its proper frame, even as we now are at this time; and we shall be brought to stand before God, knowing even as we know now, and have a bright recollection of all our guilt.
And Amulek left all he had and journeyed with Alma as his missionary companion.
We may never be required to totally consecrate our lives and forsake all of our wants, never the less, an evaluation as to the relative relationship of my belief in God and my daily activities is probably worthy of meaningful pondering.
YEA LORD THOU KNOWEST I BELIEVE
THOUGHTS FOR A SABBATH DAY – WILLIAM L. RILEY
EDITED BY – KATHLEEN W. RILEY
PEACE - JOY - LOVE - FAITH - HOPE - CHARITY = A GOOD LIFE
In the conversations I had with Paul when he was doing his personal laborious work of producing his set of simulated plates, I was left with the understanding of the dedication these ancient prophets had in engraving this marvelous record which has been the means of bringing countless thousands to remember their Heavenly Father and His Son, Jesus the Christ.
The remembrance of these conversations has come to me on other occasions, but when I was rereading chapter 11 of the Book of Alma in The Book of Mormon Another Testament of Jesus Christ, with the desire to be inspired on what to write in this Thought, I was reminded that if we read these precious words with casualness we will often fall short of gaining life confirming messages.
A casual perusal of this chapter could cause us to think ‘that is interesting’ or ‘why did I need to know that’ or ‘this could have really been abridged to be one verse’. Never the less, we find Alma having written the words of his missionary companion Amulek and Mormon having engraved on gold plates, the preparation of which must have taken a good deal of time to mine and manufacture before he was able to put the reformed Egyptian symbols upon them informing us of a monetary system whose foundational value was on a measure of barley.
In verses 23 and 24 of the 11 chapter of the Book of Alma, Amulek drives the purpose of this treatise into our souls. With his monetary system lesson and his information about the wicked maneuverings of the lawyers of Ammonihah in order to fill their purses with Senums, Shums and Shiblons he boldly proclaims Knowest thou that the righteous yieldeth to no such temptations? Believest thou that there is a God? Nay, thou Knowest that there is a God, but thou lovest lucre more than him.
There is probably no way to accurately calculate the total number hours which Mormon and Moroni spent preparing the plates which Moroni eventually placed in the Hill Cumorah.
It would be difficult to measure the amount of sacrifice required of Alma, his wife and family for him to travel throughout the Land of the Nephites striving to bring lost sheep back to the Savior’s fold.
It would be impossible to measure the faith required of Nephi to begin building a ship and then to set forth upon the Many Waters not knowing what shore Lehi’s and Sarah’s descendants would be cast upon.
The reason such names as Ruth, David, Moses, Joseph and Mormon are revered and remembered by generations is not for their harvests, battles, laws, forgiveness nor dedication to saving a record for the welfare of future generations, but because we marvel at the firmness of their belief in God which motivated them to heroic dedication.
Believest thou that there is a God?
Yea Lord thou knowest I believe!
But, my gym membership cost many (limnah) and physical appearance and health are very important.
***
Believest thou that there is a God?
Yea Lord thou knowest I believe!
But, if I dedicate more hours to my career I will have many additional (leah) to help provide for the wants of my family.
***
Believest thou that there is a God?
Yea Lord thou knowest I believe!
But, I find little honor or glory within the walls of my home therefore it is worth the (esroms) to have additional platforms and stages where my true value can be appreciate.
***
And that’s a lot of measures of barley!
I have discovered during my life that one of my greatest talents was my ability to rationalize the personal agenda items of my desires into a position of prominence ahead of my belief in God.
As I read Amulek’s testimony to Zeezrom in the concluding verses of the chapter 11 of the Book of Mosiah, I am moved to once again evaluate the level of my commitment to my belief that there is a God and how it corresponds to my daily walk.
38 Now Zeezrom saith again unto him: Is the Son of God the very Eternal Father?
39 And Amulek said unto him: Yea, he is the very Eternal Father of heaven and of earth, and all things which in them are; he is the beginning and the end, the first and the last;
40 And he shall come into the world to redeem his people; and he shall take upon him the transgressions of those who believe on his name; and these are they that shall have eternal life, and salvation cometh to none else.
43 The spirit and the body shall be reunited again in its perfect form; both limb and joint shall be restored to its proper frame, even as we now are at this time; and we shall be brought to stand before God, knowing even as we know now, and have a bright recollection of all our guilt.
And Amulek left all he had and journeyed with Alma as his missionary companion.
We may never be required to totally consecrate our lives and forsake all of our wants, never the less, an evaluation as to the relative relationship of my belief in God and my daily activities is probably worthy of meaningful pondering.
YEA LORD THOU KNOWEST I BELIEVE
THOUGHTS FOR A SABBATH DAY – WILLIAM L. RILEY
EDITED BY – KATHLEEN W. RILEY
PEACE - JOY - LOVE - FAITH - HOPE - CHARITY = A GOOD LIFE
Saturday, August 17, 2019
LIFE'S LESSONS LEARNED!!
We don’t need to have a testimony – of all things – to be a faithful – and – true witness!!
Friday, August 16, 2019
LIFE'S LESSONS LEARNED!!
The more specific – we live the principles – we bear testimony of – the more believable our witness becomes!!
Thursday, August 15, 2019
LIFE'S LESSONS LEARNED!!
Everyone needs to learn – having the joy sucked from your life – by miserable people – is still a personal choice!!
Wednesday, August 14, 2019
LIFE'S LESSONS LEARNED!!
Everyone needs to learn – joy cannot be purchased – or – borrowed from others – but – is a home grown product – we gain through personal effort!!
Tuesday, August 13, 2019
LIFE'S LESSONS LEARNED!!
There are some people – who demonstrate a tremendous lack of joy in their lives – and – even seem to suck the joy – from all those who surround them!!
Monday, August 12, 2019
LIFE'S LESSONS LEARNED!!
There are some people – who could become extremely rich – if they could package – and – sell the formula – for the joy – they get out of living!!
Sunday, August 11, 2019
WHY I AM ME
As I was reading chapters 8 and 9 of the Book of Mosiah in The Book of Mormon Another Testament of Jesus Christ, the question of why I currently am who I am came back into my mind. This question has constantly buffeted around in my consciousness for many decades. Specifically, it was verse 16 of chapter nine, it was the traditions of their fathers that caused them to remain in a state of ignorance, which caused me to revisit this plaguing quandary of why I am me.
How much influence does my ‘fleshly clothed premortal spirit being’ have in influencing why I have become me during mortality?
How much influence have my parents had as contributors to why I have become me during mortality?
How much have mentors and individual study influenced why I have become me during mortality?
How much have pigmentation, place, education, career, trials and blessings influenced why I have become me during mortality?
The easy answer seems to be the fall back answer on all multiple choice questions, all of the above, but it also causes one to ponder on why my journey was what it was.
Why did my premortal spirit being which has been clothed in my physical tabernacle become what it is?
Why was I blessed to be born of goodly parents, while others were born in households plagued by traditions of ignorance?
Why did I have the advantage of unlimited sources of books and mentors, while others had scant interaction with them?
Why was I born who and where I was and had advantageous life experiences while others portion of these blessings was miniscule in comparison?
I apologize for introducing this personal ‘why I am me’ struggle I have had during my life to any who may have been at peace and not have struggled with the question. It may be helpful for those who have likewise struggled to know that because I have had this on going query I have become less myopic in by views of nationalities, governments and religions along with all the other prejudices which tend to divide the populace of the world. Likewise, it has caused me to become deeply converted to the universality of the kinship of the earth’s inhabitance and the oneness of our Eternal Parentage. Finally, it has caused me to greatly expand my thoughts about my earthly probationary period and its influence on why I am me, to not only include all that I am becoming during my present mortal journey, but all I became during my premortal existence, and all that I will become during my eternal post mortal existence.
If I haven’t given you sufficient material to ponder, let me add just a few more questions which you might spend a few minutes thinking about.
Why would the spec of time called mortality, completely erase the influences of my premortal state or negate the influences of my everlasting post-mortal existence?
Why would the influences of my earthly parentage outweigh the influences of having been nurtured by Exalted Parents during my premortal state and the continuous post-mortal work and glory of my Heavenly Father in molding who I will be eternally?
Why would the advantages or disadvantages of the personal availability of the minute amount of knowledge we have available during mortality be more of an influence on forming who I am eternally, more than the omniscience available in the realms of Deity?
When all of the mortal causes of prejudices are removed, does it not stand to reason that Zionistic oneness mortals seldom achieve will become the norm?
Just a few last comments about who I have been, why I am currently me and who I will be eternally and how this understanding demands accountability for what I do with my life.
The only reason Heavenly Father blesses us with advantages during mortality is so that we can be instruments, as were Alma and Amulek, in His service to invite His children to come unto Christ.
When we have committed ourselves to the Prince of Peace we are thereby enlisted in his army of Publishers of Peace and denouncers of all contention.
We must all come to the understanding that being blessed with more than is sufficient for our needs is not given to us to provide a personal luxurious lifestyle, but so that we can clothe the naked, feed the hungry and lift the heads which hang low.
We will not add to becoming who we will be throughout the eternities while here on earth, unless we become dedicated to putting upon ourselves the attributes, characteristics and perfections of God.
May the Spirit of the Lord so attend and influence us this week and always so that with the help of our Creator we may step forward on our extensive path of becoming who we were created to become.
THOUGHTS FOR A SABBATH DAY – WILLIAM L. RILEY
EDITED BY – KATHLEEN W. RILEY
PEACE - JOY - LOVE - FAITH - HOPE - CHARITY
How much influence does my ‘fleshly clothed premortal spirit being’ have in influencing why I have become me during mortality?
How much influence have my parents had as contributors to why I have become me during mortality?
How much have mentors and individual study influenced why I have become me during mortality?
How much have pigmentation, place, education, career, trials and blessings influenced why I have become me during mortality?
The easy answer seems to be the fall back answer on all multiple choice questions, all of the above, but it also causes one to ponder on why my journey was what it was.
Why did my premortal spirit being which has been clothed in my physical tabernacle become what it is?
Why was I blessed to be born of goodly parents, while others were born in households plagued by traditions of ignorance?
Why did I have the advantage of unlimited sources of books and mentors, while others had scant interaction with them?
Why was I born who and where I was and had advantageous life experiences while others portion of these blessings was miniscule in comparison?
I apologize for introducing this personal ‘why I am me’ struggle I have had during my life to any who may have been at peace and not have struggled with the question. It may be helpful for those who have likewise struggled to know that because I have had this on going query I have become less myopic in by views of nationalities, governments and religions along with all the other prejudices which tend to divide the populace of the world. Likewise, it has caused me to become deeply converted to the universality of the kinship of the earth’s inhabitance and the oneness of our Eternal Parentage. Finally, it has caused me to greatly expand my thoughts about my earthly probationary period and its influence on why I am me, to not only include all that I am becoming during my present mortal journey, but all I became during my premortal existence, and all that I will become during my eternal post mortal existence.
If I haven’t given you sufficient material to ponder, let me add just a few more questions which you might spend a few minutes thinking about.
Why would the spec of time called mortality, completely erase the influences of my premortal state or negate the influences of my everlasting post-mortal existence?
Why would the influences of my earthly parentage outweigh the influences of having been nurtured by Exalted Parents during my premortal state and the continuous post-mortal work and glory of my Heavenly Father in molding who I will be eternally?
Why would the advantages or disadvantages of the personal availability of the minute amount of knowledge we have available during mortality be more of an influence on forming who I am eternally, more than the omniscience available in the realms of Deity?
When all of the mortal causes of prejudices are removed, does it not stand to reason that Zionistic oneness mortals seldom achieve will become the norm?
Just a few last comments about who I have been, why I am currently me and who I will be eternally and how this understanding demands accountability for what I do with my life.
The only reason Heavenly Father blesses us with advantages during mortality is so that we can be instruments, as were Alma and Amulek, in His service to invite His children to come unto Christ.
When we have committed ourselves to the Prince of Peace we are thereby enlisted in his army of Publishers of Peace and denouncers of all contention.
We must all come to the understanding that being blessed with more than is sufficient for our needs is not given to us to provide a personal luxurious lifestyle, but so that we can clothe the naked, feed the hungry and lift the heads which hang low.
We will not add to becoming who we will be throughout the eternities while here on earth, unless we become dedicated to putting upon ourselves the attributes, characteristics and perfections of God.
May the Spirit of the Lord so attend and influence us this week and always so that with the help of our Creator we may step forward on our extensive path of becoming who we were created to become.
THOUGHTS FOR A SABBATH DAY – WILLIAM L. RILEY
EDITED BY – KATHLEEN W. RILEY
PEACE - JOY - LOVE - FAITH - HOPE - CHARITY
Saturday, August 10, 2019
LIFE'S LESSONS LEARNED!!
Just like plants in the field – even though the same sun warms us all – we grow at different rates!!
Friday, August 9, 2019
LIFE'S LESSONS LEARNED!!
It is a mystery to me – why some people cannot recognize – the silent signals – which emanate from an audience – that should inform them – they have overextended their allotted time to speak!!
Thursday, August 8, 2019
LIFE'S LESSONS LEARNED!!
One of the peaceful blessings – which is showered upon us as we age – are the dimming clouds – which make it difficult – to recall unpleasant events of our lives!!
Wednesday, August 7, 2019
LIFE'S LESSONS LEARNED!!
One of the functions – of the brain – which we should all be grateful for – is that it takes only a minor stimulus – to recall wonderful memories!!
Tuesday, August 6, 2019
LIFE'S LESSONS LEARNED!!
We all have portions of our history – where memories are more pleasant – than the actual event!!
Monday, August 5, 2019
LIFE'S LESSONS LEARNED!!
There are times – during life’s journey – when a miracle in one person’s life – brings an extension of suffering – for others!!
Sunday, August 4, 2019
THE ETERNAL CIRCLE OF LIFE
I will never pretend to understand why the thought processes of others is the way it is, since most of the time I don’t even know why my own brain operates the way it does.
This morning when I was doing my morning routine at the computer and wasn’t really concentrating on the Thought I would be writing today, the chorus of the beautiful duet from Evita kept going through my mind.
[Eva:] So what happens now?
[Che:] Another suitcase in another hall
[Eva:] So what happens now?
[Che:] Take your picture off another wall
[Eva:] Where am I going to?
[Che:] You'll get by, you always have before
[Eva:] Where am I going to?
Somehow this caused me to start going through a list of things we do in life which seem to have a self-perpetuating renewal gene.
The last brush stoke on the painting of the Golden Gate Bridge is still drying when the workers begin the application of another coat of paint.
The last room in the house is made to sparkle and we know we must begin cleaning anew.
The last batter strikes out to end a frustrating season and the fans exclaim, wait ‘till next year.
When I opened The Book of Mormon Another Testament of Jesus Christ to the seventh chapter in the Book of Alma to receive some inspiration on what I was going to write this Thought about, it became clear that the process of inspiration was already in full gear. If you think I have trouble conceiving the way my brain processes information, you can understand why I have very little understanding of how the process of preparation by inspiration happens.
Anyway, beginning in the previously cited chapter of Alma, we find the Chief High Priest having had tremendous success in reestablishing the Church in the land of Zarahemla, he departs for another city, Gideon, and having had success in Gideon he departs for another city, Melek, and having had success in Melek he departs for another city Ammonihah… but there in is another Thought for another Sunday.
During Alma’s successful days in Gideon and Melek he adds the following teachings to what we know he gave to those in Zarahemla.
6 But behold, I trust that ye are not in a state of so much unbelief as were your brethren; I trust that ye are not lifted up in the pride of your hearts; yea, I trust that ye have not set your hearts upon riches and the vain things of the world; yea, I trust that you do not worship idols, but that ye do worship the true and the living God, and that ye look forward for the remission of your sins, with an everlasting faith, which is to come.
…this much I do know, that the Lord God hath power to do all things which are according to his word.
9 But behold, the Spirit hath said this much unto me, saying: Cry unto this people, saying—Repent ye, and prepare the way of the Lord, and walk in his paths, which are straight; for behold, the kingdom of heaven is at hand, and the Son of God cometh upon the face of the earth.
10 And behold, he shall be born of Mary, at Jerusalem which is the land of our forefathers, she being a virgin, a precious and chosen vessel, who shall be overshadowed and conceive by the power of the Holy Ghost, and bring forth a son, yea, even the Son of God.
11 And he shall go forth, suffering pains and afflictions and temptations of every kind; and this that the word might be fulfilled which saith he will take upon him the pains and the sicknesses of his people.
12 And he will take upon him death, that he may loose the bands of death which bind his people; and he will take upon him their infirmities, that his bowels may be filled with mercy, according to the flesh, that he may know according to the flesh how to succor his people according to their infirmities.
13 Now the Spirit knoweth all things; nevertheless the Son of God suffereth according to the flesh that he might take upon him the sins of his people, that he might blot out their transgressions according to the power of his deliverance; and now behold, this is the testimony which is in me.
14 Now I say unto you that ye must repent, and be born again; for the Spirit saith if ye are not born again ye cannot inherit the kingdom of heaven; therefore come and be baptized unto repentance, that ye may be washed from your sins, that ye may have faith on the Lamb of God, who taketh away the sins of the world, who is mighty to save and to cleanse from all unrighteousness.
21 And he doth not dwell in unholy temples; neither can filthiness or anything which is unclean be received into the kingdom of God; therefore I say unto you the time shall come, yea, and it shall be at the last day, that he who is filthy shall remain in his filthiness.
22 And now my beloved brethren, I have said these things unto you that I might awaken you to a sense of your duty to God, that ye may walk blameless before him, that ye may walk after the holy order of God, after which ye have been received.
23 And now I would that ye should be humble, and be submissive and gentle; easy to be entreated; full of patience and long-suffering; being temperate in all things; being diligent in keeping the commandments of God at all times; asking for whatsoever things ye stand in need, both spiritual and temporal; always returning thanks unto God for whatsoever things ye do receive.
24 And see that ye have faith, hope, and charity, and then ye will always abound in good works.
Even with these additional teachings I suspect we have but a small portion of what Alma taught during his missionary journeys.
It does not follow my usual pattern of writing these Thoughts to attempt to direct what ponderings the Holy Spirit might direct the reader to ponder, but today I would like to include in this Thought some of the ponderings which have passed through my mind as I have been searching Alma’s words during his missionary journey.
Is there ever a time when it might be appropriate to compare our relative progress to another’s?
When prophets receive such detailed revelations, such as the name of the earthly mother of the Son of God and the events of His earthly sojourn, does it make us wonder about how all things past, present and future are within the parameters of Heavenly Father’s Omnipresence and Omniscience?
Was one of the reasons for the extensive understanding about each of our lives which was gained through the Savior completing His Atoning act, so that he would have all knowledge necessary to make righteous judgements for each of Heavenly Father’s children?
Why does the gestation period of being Born Again seem such a variable among those who are baptized?
What are we to understand about the challenges which will confront us when Alma says we are baptized unto repentance?
When is the last day spoken of by Alma when it will no longer be possible for our filthiness to be removed?
How often should I seek an update on the duty I have to God and an evaluation of how I am doing?
Is there a more concise listing of the attributes, characteristics and perfections of Godliness which I should be attempting to acquire than those found in the 23rd and 24th verses of chapter 7 of the Book of Alma?
As I return to the thoughts which came to my mind about the repetitious-ness of life’s experiences, besides the understanding that this brings both an increase in our ability to do things better and more efficiently, Alma gives us an insight into the eternalness of what we find happening over and over again in our mortal lives.
20 I perceive that it has been made known unto you, by the testimony of his word, that he cannot walk in crooked paths; neither doth he vary from that which he hath said; neither hath he a shadow of turning from the right to the left, or from that which is right to that which is wrong; therefore, his course is one eternal round.
[Eva:] So what happens now?
[Che:] Another suitcase in another hall
[Eva:] So what happens now?
[Che:] Take your picture off another wall
[Eva:] Where am I going to?
[Che:] You'll get by, you always have before
[Eva:] Where am I going to?
I pray that the next time we have the thought pass through our minds, ‘oh no, not again’ we will count it as a blessing rather than a curse.
THOUGHTS FOR A SABBATH DAY – WILLIAM L. RILEY
EDITED BY – KATHLEEN W. RILEY
PEACE - JOY - LOVE - FAITH - HOPE - CHARITY
This morning when I was doing my morning routine at the computer and wasn’t really concentrating on the Thought I would be writing today, the chorus of the beautiful duet from Evita kept going through my mind.
[Eva:] So what happens now?
[Che:] Another suitcase in another hall
[Eva:] So what happens now?
[Che:] Take your picture off another wall
[Eva:] Where am I going to?
[Che:] You'll get by, you always have before
[Eva:] Where am I going to?
Somehow this caused me to start going through a list of things we do in life which seem to have a self-perpetuating renewal gene.
The last brush stoke on the painting of the Golden Gate Bridge is still drying when the workers begin the application of another coat of paint.
The last room in the house is made to sparkle and we know we must begin cleaning anew.
The last batter strikes out to end a frustrating season and the fans exclaim, wait ‘till next year.
When I opened The Book of Mormon Another Testament of Jesus Christ to the seventh chapter in the Book of Alma to receive some inspiration on what I was going to write this Thought about, it became clear that the process of inspiration was already in full gear. If you think I have trouble conceiving the way my brain processes information, you can understand why I have very little understanding of how the process of preparation by inspiration happens.
Anyway, beginning in the previously cited chapter of Alma, we find the Chief High Priest having had tremendous success in reestablishing the Church in the land of Zarahemla, he departs for another city, Gideon, and having had success in Gideon he departs for another city, Melek, and having had success in Melek he departs for another city Ammonihah… but there in is another Thought for another Sunday.
During Alma’s successful days in Gideon and Melek he adds the following teachings to what we know he gave to those in Zarahemla.
6 But behold, I trust that ye are not in a state of so much unbelief as were your brethren; I trust that ye are not lifted up in the pride of your hearts; yea, I trust that ye have not set your hearts upon riches and the vain things of the world; yea, I trust that you do not worship idols, but that ye do worship the true and the living God, and that ye look forward for the remission of your sins, with an everlasting faith, which is to come.
…this much I do know, that the Lord God hath power to do all things which are according to his word.
9 But behold, the Spirit hath said this much unto me, saying: Cry unto this people, saying—Repent ye, and prepare the way of the Lord, and walk in his paths, which are straight; for behold, the kingdom of heaven is at hand, and the Son of God cometh upon the face of the earth.
10 And behold, he shall be born of Mary, at Jerusalem which is the land of our forefathers, she being a virgin, a precious and chosen vessel, who shall be overshadowed and conceive by the power of the Holy Ghost, and bring forth a son, yea, even the Son of God.
11 And he shall go forth, suffering pains and afflictions and temptations of every kind; and this that the word might be fulfilled which saith he will take upon him the pains and the sicknesses of his people.
12 And he will take upon him death, that he may loose the bands of death which bind his people; and he will take upon him their infirmities, that his bowels may be filled with mercy, according to the flesh, that he may know according to the flesh how to succor his people according to their infirmities.
13 Now the Spirit knoweth all things; nevertheless the Son of God suffereth according to the flesh that he might take upon him the sins of his people, that he might blot out their transgressions according to the power of his deliverance; and now behold, this is the testimony which is in me.
14 Now I say unto you that ye must repent, and be born again; for the Spirit saith if ye are not born again ye cannot inherit the kingdom of heaven; therefore come and be baptized unto repentance, that ye may be washed from your sins, that ye may have faith on the Lamb of God, who taketh away the sins of the world, who is mighty to save and to cleanse from all unrighteousness.
21 And he doth not dwell in unholy temples; neither can filthiness or anything which is unclean be received into the kingdom of God; therefore I say unto you the time shall come, yea, and it shall be at the last day, that he who is filthy shall remain in his filthiness.
22 And now my beloved brethren, I have said these things unto you that I might awaken you to a sense of your duty to God, that ye may walk blameless before him, that ye may walk after the holy order of God, after which ye have been received.
23 And now I would that ye should be humble, and be submissive and gentle; easy to be entreated; full of patience and long-suffering; being temperate in all things; being diligent in keeping the commandments of God at all times; asking for whatsoever things ye stand in need, both spiritual and temporal; always returning thanks unto God for whatsoever things ye do receive.
24 And see that ye have faith, hope, and charity, and then ye will always abound in good works.
Even with these additional teachings I suspect we have but a small portion of what Alma taught during his missionary journeys.
It does not follow my usual pattern of writing these Thoughts to attempt to direct what ponderings the Holy Spirit might direct the reader to ponder, but today I would like to include in this Thought some of the ponderings which have passed through my mind as I have been searching Alma’s words during his missionary journey.
Is there ever a time when it might be appropriate to compare our relative progress to another’s?
When prophets receive such detailed revelations, such as the name of the earthly mother of the Son of God and the events of His earthly sojourn, does it make us wonder about how all things past, present and future are within the parameters of Heavenly Father’s Omnipresence and Omniscience?
Was one of the reasons for the extensive understanding about each of our lives which was gained through the Savior completing His Atoning act, so that he would have all knowledge necessary to make righteous judgements for each of Heavenly Father’s children?
Why does the gestation period of being Born Again seem such a variable among those who are baptized?
What are we to understand about the challenges which will confront us when Alma says we are baptized unto repentance?
When is the last day spoken of by Alma when it will no longer be possible for our filthiness to be removed?
How often should I seek an update on the duty I have to God and an evaluation of how I am doing?
Is there a more concise listing of the attributes, characteristics and perfections of Godliness which I should be attempting to acquire than those found in the 23rd and 24th verses of chapter 7 of the Book of Alma?
As I return to the thoughts which came to my mind about the repetitious-ness of life’s experiences, besides the understanding that this brings both an increase in our ability to do things better and more efficiently, Alma gives us an insight into the eternalness of what we find happening over and over again in our mortal lives.
20 I perceive that it has been made known unto you, by the testimony of his word, that he cannot walk in crooked paths; neither doth he vary from that which he hath said; neither hath he a shadow of turning from the right to the left, or from that which is right to that which is wrong; therefore, his course is one eternal round.
[Eva:] So what happens now?
[Che:] Another suitcase in another hall
[Eva:] So what happens now?
[Che:] Take your picture off another wall
[Eva:] Where am I going to?
[Che:] You'll get by, you always have before
[Eva:] Where am I going to?
I pray that the next time we have the thought pass through our minds, ‘oh no, not again’ we will count it as a blessing rather than a curse.
THOUGHTS FOR A SABBATH DAY – WILLIAM L. RILEY
EDITED BY – KATHLEEN W. RILEY
PEACE - JOY - LOVE - FAITH - HOPE - CHARITY
Saturday, August 3, 2019
Friday, August 2, 2019
Thursday, August 1, 2019
LIFE'S LESSONS LEARNED!!
Accepting – my neighbor’s differences – is not usually a matter of them changing – but me!!
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