THE END

Because the new format does not work for me, I will no longer be using my blog page. If you wish to receive my Thoughts and Life's Lessons Learned as I write them send me your email address either by direct message on Face Book or by email!!

LIFE'S LESSONS LEARNED!!

It is becoming abundantly apparent – that a generation not too far in the future – will have no idea that HOLY – was once part of holidays!! ❣️THINK + PLAN + PREPARE + DO ➡️ GENTLENESS + KINDNESS + CARING + GENEROSITY ➡️ HUGS + PEACE + JOY + LOVE ➡️ INTEGRITY + FAITH + HOPE + CHARITY❣️ = 💞THE GOOD LIFE💞

LIFE'S LESSONS LEARNED!!

Some teachers can base a whole course of study on a few verses of scripture – then there are those who find it difficult to find anything meaningful to teach about using all of the Standard Works!!

❣️THINK + PLAN + PREPARE + DO ➡️ GENTLENESS + KINDNESS + CARING + GENEROSITY ➡️ HUGS + PEACE + JOY + LOVE ➡️ INTEGRITY + FAITH + HOPE + CHARITY❣️ = 💞THE GOOD LIFE💞

LIFE'S LESSONS LEARNED!!

We are such strange creatures – many times we cease to pray because our lives are full of blessings – then at other times – we cease to pray because the struggles of life overwhelm us!!

❣️THINK + PLAN + PREPARE + DO ➡️ GENTLENESS + KINDNESS + CARING + GENEROSITY ➡️ HUGS + PEACE + JOY + LOVE ➡️ INTEGRITY + FAITH + HOPE + CHARITY❣️ = 💞THE GOOD LIFE💞

LIFE'S LESSONS LEARNED!!

The failure of the fulfilling of a revelation from the Lord – is more a measure of the lack of faith – and – diligence of those to whom the revelation was given – than of the truthfulness of that which was revealed!!

❣️THINK + PLAN + PREPARE + DO ➡️ GENTLENESS + KINDNESS + CARING + GENEROSITY ➡️ HUGS + PEACE + JOY + LOVE ➡️ INTEGRITY + FAITH + HOPE + CHARITY❣️ = 💞THE GOOD LIFE💞

REMAINING RIGHTEOUS DURING PERILOUS TIMES

Some years ago Elder Boyd K. Packer taught that as the Second Coming of the Savior nears, the gulf between the righteous and the unrighteous mortal children of our Heavenly Parents would become greater and greater. As we read chapters 2 through 4 of Third Nephi it is not difficult to believe that since he was an ardent student of the scriptures, he was probably influenced in his teaching by the example of what took place with the descendants of Lehi and Sarah as the First Coming of the Savior became eminent.

I do not find it needful to rehearse the description of the evils which were prevalent among Lehi’s descendants during the last few years before the birth of the Christ Child since we are constantly bombarded with then in our 21st century daily walk.

I have no idea if the righteous of the last days before the Second Coming of the Lord will live their days filled with the treat of extermination, but I feel it is beneficial to read the description of those who were preserved by the Lord in righteousness found in verses 29 – 33 of chapter 4 of Third Nephi.

May the Lord preserve his people in righteousness and in holiness of heart, that they may cause to be felled to the earth all who shall seek to slay them because of power and secret combinations, even as this man hath been felled to the earth.

And they did rejoice and cry again with one voice, saying: May the God of Abraham, and the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob, protect this people in righteousness, so long as they shall call on the name of their God for protection.

And it came to pass that they did break forth, all as one, in singing, and praising their God for the great thing which he had done for them, in preserving them from falling into the hands of their enemies.

Yea, they did cry: Hosanna to the Most High God. And they did cry: Blessed be the name of the Lord God Almighty, the Most High God.

And their hearts were swollen with joy, unto the gushing out of many tears, because of the great goodness of God in delivering them out of the hands of their enemies; and they knew it was because of their repentance and their humility that they had been delivered from an everlasting destruction.

As I was reading these words penned so many centuries ago I was reminded of the many things about which the Living Prophets of our day have asked us to pray.

That religious freedom will be protected and upheld.

That our hearts will remain pure and protected from the evils of the world.

That we will be led and guided about to whom and how we can be ministers.

That our lives will be defined by spirituality.

That the work of the Lord will go forth and fill the whole earth.

That we might become living witnesses of Jesus the Christ.

That we will have the strength to stand in holy places.

That our daily walk will be led by inspiration.

That we will live worthy of personal revelation.

That we will become sensitive to and hear His voice.

That we will walk with a perfect brightness of hope.

That our homes will become a refuge from the world.

As I was compiling this list from the teachings we received from the last General Conference of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, a prayer went through my mind that our prayers should also include a plea to the Lord that we might be saved from the atrocities which befell the righteous descendants of Lehi just before the birth of the Christ Child in Bethlehem.

The scriptures bear testimony that the only way any of our Heavenly Parents children will have a happy ending to our time on earth is if we incorporate all the characteristics and attributes taught to us and demonstrated in the Gospel of Jesus the Christ.

May the Lord bless us and sustain us in our righteous attempts to be worthy of His Eternal Grace, Mercy and Love.


THOUGHTS FOR A SABBATH DAY – WILLIAM L. RILEY

EDITED BY – KATHLEEN W. RILEY

❣️THINK + PLAN + PREPARE + DO ➡️ GENTLENESS + KINDNESS + CARING + GENEROSITY ➡️ HUGS + PEACE + JOY + LOVE ➡️ INTEGRITY + FAITH + HOPE + CHARITY❣️ = 💞THE GOOD LIFE💞

LIFE'S LESSONS LEARNED!!

Having a stewardship – which involves the lives of others – brings greater accountability as the size of the group increases!!

LIFE'S LESSONS LEARNED!!

There is a danger – as the membership of a group increases – the absence of one of the members will be noticed less!!

LIFE'S LESSONS LEARNED!!

We will always fall short of present day personal applications of the scriptures – if we do not keep them current – with updates made by living prophets!!

LIFE'S LESSONS LEARNED!!

Controlled class contributions – contribute too positive conclusions!!

LIFE'S LESSONS LEARNED!!

When the teacher allows the students to dictate the direction a lessons goes – it might end up positively – but – it also has a greater probability of becoming a disaster!!

LIFE'S LESSONS LEARNED!!

Only when we are repeating actions which lead to character growth – will we be blessed with greater character!!

LIVES WHICH HAVE BEEN BLESSED BY LIVING PROPHETS

As we transition from the Book of Helaman to the Book of Third Nephi in The Book of Mormon Another Testament of Jesus Christ we are greeted with two interesting accounts. First, Nephi who is both the writer of the last chapters of the Book of Helaman and most of the Book of Third Nephi gives a wonderful genealogical synopsis of his line going back to the first chief judge over the lands of the Nephites: Nephi the son of Helaman who was the son of Helaman who was the son of Alma who was the son of Alma. Second, he writes of the extreme differences between those who have rejected Samuel’s prophecies and those who continued to believe in the coming of the Son of God.

Nevertheless, the people began to harden their hearts, all save it were the most believing part of them, both of the Nephites and also of the Lamanites, and began to depend upon their own strength and upon their own wisdom, saying: Some things they may have guessed right, among so many; but behold, we know that all these great and marvelous works cannot come to pass, of which has been spoken.

And they began to reason and to contend among themselves, saying: That it is not reasonable that such a being as a Christ shall come; if so, and he be the Son of God, the Father of heaven and of earth, as it has been spoken, why will he not show himself unto us as well as unto them who shall be at Jerusalem?

Yea, why will he not show himself in this land as well as in the land of Jerusalem?

But behold, we know that this is a wicked tradition, which has been handed down unto us by our fathers, to cause us that we should believe in some great and marvelous thing which should come to pass, but not among us, but in a land which is far distant, a land which we know not; therefore they can keep us in ignorance, for we cannot witness with our own eyes that they are true.

And they will, by the cunning and the mysterious arts of the evil one, work some great mystery which we cannot understand, which will keep us down to be servants to their words, and also servants unto them, for we depend upon them to teach us the word; and thus will they keep us in ignorance if we will yield ourselves unto them, all the days of our lives. (Helaman 16: 15-21)

This great manifestation of wickedness happened in spite of the many signs and wonders which took place which were a fulfillment of Samuel’s prophecies. The majority of the people rejected the teachings of their living prophet Nephi and with their hearts hardened they appointed a day on which if the ultimate sign of there being a night and a day with no night was not fulfilled all those who remained faithful to the voice of the living prophet would be put to death.

On the eve of that appointed day of desolation Nephi bowed himself down upon the earth and cried mightily to his God.

And it came to pass that he cried mightily unto the Lord all that day; and behold, the voice of the Lord came unto him, saying: Lift up your head and be of good cheer; for behold, the time is at hand, and on this night shall the sign be given, and on the morrow come I into the world, to show unto the world that I will fulfil all that which I have caused to be spoken by the mouth of my holy prophets.

Behold, I come unto my own, to fulfil all things which I have made known unto the children of men from the foundation of the world, and to do the will, both of the Father and of the Son—of the Father because of me, and of the Son because of my flesh. And behold, the time is at hand, and this night shall the sign be given. (3 Nephi 1: 12-14)

Although we are currently living in a day when religious freedom is once again being threatened by those who have made of themselves living gods, gratefully we have not as yet come to the point where believers will be cast into fiery pits, burned at the stake or beheaded. We are definitely in a time when revelation is being denied or at best that there is only individual inspiration, which negates the need for prophets.

My life has been so abundantly blessed because of the words of living prophets that I would be amiss if I did not bear witness of their guidance in my life and pray with all my heart that I will continue to be diligent in hearkening unto their words.

David O. McKay:

The prophet of my youth who I had more personal experience with than any other prophet of the latter days, since we lived in Garden Grove, California and belonged to the Santa Ana, California Stake. During that period of the history of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints one of their properties was a small house in Laguna Beach, California, where he vacationed and which was also at that time part of the Santa Ana Stake.

It could have been because of his flowing white hair, but mostly because of his example of how a man of God treated his eternal brothers and sisters. Anyway, I never had a doubt that he was the Lord’s anointed.

One stake conference when He was in attendance I also happened to be the youth speaker assigned to speak in a session of conference. Besides being very nervous I also received the understanding that there is a difference in the power of the words of living prophets and a young teacher in the Aaronic Priesthood.

Joseph Fielding Smith:

Although he was the Prophet of the whole church for a very short time, his impact was profound because of his prophetic writings and the changes he made while serving as the longest anointed living prophet.

He made major changes in the publications of the church. The change which was the most dramatic was how it paved the way for setting the priesthood offices of the church in order. He defrock all of the stake seventies which, although we did not realize it at the time, was the beginning of establishing the Seventy as the arm of the Apostles and Prophets to govern The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints throughout the world no matter how much the membership multiplied and spread.

Although I was one of those defrocked stake seventies, I am grateful to have had my days lengthened to see the prophetic manifestation of his words.

Spencer W. Kimball:

His pronouncement that the day would come when there would be hundreds of thousands serving missionaries still causes bumps on the backs of my arms and fills my heart with joy every time I
am blessed to recall his powerful message.

When Kathleen and I were blessed to be called by President Gordon B. Hinckley to preside as leaders of the Bogota, Colombia Mission, we had little idea what a powerful part of our earthly journey would take place while serving with the wonderful missionaries among those spiritual members of the church and the marvelous Colombian people.

When we returned from that exceptional three year experience all reference to our life’s experiences were either BC (before Colombia) and AC (after Colombia).

One of the blessings of my retirement years has been, through the miracle of cyber transmissions to return to be in regular contact with so many of those who were part of our pre mission, mission and post mission life.

We will forever be grateful that we were blessed by the Lord to be a small part of the fulfillment of President Kimball’s prophetic utterance.

Russell M. Nelson:

Will be remembered for many things no matter how long his period of being the Prophet to the whole church may be, but his putting the church in order in so many ways because of his continuing the restoration of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints through revelations of the Lord’s will.

Although there have been many more anointed prophets, seers and revelators, such as Boyd K. Packer, Neil A. Maxwell, Bruce R, McConkie, Richard G. Scott and Jeffrey R. Holland who have been tremendous molders of my faith, my understanding and conversion to the worship of a God of Mercy, Grace and Love, I will have to allow the testimony of these few to stand as a witness to my gratefulness to have lived when the world was blessed to have living prophets to guide and direct those who were of a contrite spirit and a humbled heart.

My prayer is that each of us will be wise like those who faithfully believed in the words of Samuel and Nephi and thereby had the privilege of being personally ministered to by the resurrected Savior.


THOUGHTS FOR A SABBATH DAY – WILLIAM L. RILEY

EDITED BY – KATHLEEN W. RILEY

❣️THINK + PLAN + PREPARE + DO ➡️ GENTLENESS + KINDNESS + CARING + GENEROSITY ➡️ HUGS + PEACE + JOY + LOVE ➡️ INTEGRITY + FAITH + HOPE + CHARITY❣️ = 💞THE GOOD LIFE💞

LIFE'S LESSONS LEARNED!!

Poking your enemy with a stick – will not make them your friend!!

LIFE'S LESSONS LEARNED!!

Hitting a hornet’s nest with a stick – will never cause the inhabitants to react in a peaceful – and – calm way!!

LIFE'S LESSONS LEARNED!!

If we have a propensity to repeat doing something in the wrong way – we will continue to suffer from the experience!!

LIFE'S LESSONS LEARNED!!

Just because we repeat doing the same thing many times – it will not necessarily mean it will cause a change in our character!!

LIFE'S LESSONS LEARNED!!

Having one’s teachings verified by living prophets – as well as the whisperings of the Holy Spirit – overwhelms one with comfort!!

LIFE'S LESSONS LEARNED!!

Whenever two people are together – there will always be at least two opinions – on most subjects!!

THE TEACHINGS OF SAMUEL THE LAMANITE PROPHET 3

After calling the descendants of Lehi to repentance and having told them of the consequences which awaited their continuance in the pathways of the natural man, Samuel reveals to them the central event of Good News of Jesus the Christ and the signs which would testify to those in the Americas of there happening.

And behold, he said unto them: Behold, I give unto you a sign; for five years more cometh, and behold, then cometh the Son of God to redeem all those who shall believe on his name.

And behold, this will I give unto you for a sign at the time of his coming; for behold, there shall be great lights in heaven, insomuch that in the night before he cometh there shall be no darkness, insomuch that it shall appear unto man as if it was day.

Therefore, there shall be one day and a night and a day, as if it were one day and there were no night; and this shall be unto you for a sign; for ye shall know of the rising of the sun and also of its setting; therefore they shall know of a surety that there shall be two days and a night; nevertheless the night shall not be darkened; and it shall be the night before he is born.

And behold, there shall be a new star arise, such as one as never have beheld; and this also shall be a sign unto you.

And behold, this is not all, there shall be many signs and wonders in heaven. (Helaman 14: 2-6)

Although the scriptures contain an abundance of the signs and events which will precede the second coming of the Son of God to reign as the King of Kings upon the earth, there will be many in the last days just like those who heard the specifics contained in Samuel’s sermon who will find reasons to continue to ignore and rationalize away the prophesized events.

The restoration of all things in the fullness of times will be questioned and denied as just the imaginings of a frenzied mind.

The constant news of nations warring with nations will be looked at as just the inhabitants of the world continuing to be as dysfunctional as they have always been.

The building of houses which have no space between them, causing an atmosphere where contention reigns making it impossible to find inner peace, will be looked at as a natural result of overpopulation having nothing to do with ancient prophecies.

The opening of nations so that the restored gospel can be taught to all nations tongues and people will be looked upon as a natural consequence of a sects growth.

Temples being built around the world will likewise be ignored and counted as a natural event which follows the growth of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints.

The list could go on until this Thought is completely about the signs of the Second Coming being ignored, but the following reminder of Samuel’s warning to those who ignore the signs and the call to repentance should be sufficient to cause us to ponder upon the foretold coming events.

And now, my beloved brethren, behold, I declare unto you that except ye shall repent your houses shall be left unto you desolate.

Yea, except ye repent, your women shall have great cause to mourn in the day that they shall give suck; for ye shall attempt to flee and there shall be no place for refuge; yea, and wo unto them which are with child, for they shall be heavy and cannot flee; therefore, they shall be trodden down and shall be left to perish.

Yea, wo unto this people who are called the people of Nephi except they shall repent, when they shall see all these signs and wonders which shall be showed unto them; for behold, they have been a chosen people of the Lord; yea, the people of Nephi hath he loved, and also hath he chastened them; yea, in the days of their iniquities hath he chastened them because he loveth them. (Helaman 15: 1-3)

It is heart warming that Samuel included his marvelous testimony of the Atonement of Jesus the Christ as part of his powerful call to repentance. But then again is it not faith in the Lord Jesus the Christ which brings us to repent and become obedient to the principles of the Good News.

That ye might know of the coming of Jesus Christ, the Son of God, the Father of heaven and of earth, the Creator of all things from the beginning; and that ye might know of the signs of his coming, to the intent that ye might believe on his name.

And if ye believe on his name ye will repent of all your sins, that thereby ye may have a remission of them through his merits.

And behold, again, another sign I give unto you, yea, a sign of his death.

For behold, he surely must die that salvation may come; yea, it behooveth him and becometh expedient that he dieth, to bring to pass the resurrection of the dead, that thereby men may be brought into the presence of the Lord.

Yea, behold, this death bringeth to pass the resurrection, and redeemeth all mankind from the first death—that spiritual death; for all mankind, by the fall of Adam being cut off from the presence of the Lord, are considered as dead, both as to things temporal and to things spiritual.

But behold, the resurrection of Christ redeemeth mankind, yea, even all mankind, and bringeth them back into the presence of the Lord.

Yea, and it bringeth to pass the condition of repentance, that whosoever repenteth the same is not hewn down and cast into the fire; but whosoever repenteth not is hewn down and cast into the fire; and there cometh upon them again a spiritual death, yea, a second death, for they are cut off again as to things pertaining to righteousness.

Therefore repent ye, repent ye, lest by knowing these things and not doing them ye shall suffer yourselves to come under condemnation, and ye are brought down unto this second death. (Helaman 14: 12-19)

May the Lord bless us with wisdom and strength that we may be found among those who desired, sought and found faith in Jesus the Christ, which faith sustained them and brought them to a righteous repentance as the signs of His Second Coming unfold.


THOUGHTS FOR A SABBATH DAY – WILLIAM L. RILEY

EDITED BY – KATHLEEN W. RILEY

❣️THINK + PLAN + PREPARE + DO ➡️ GENTLENESS + KINDNESS + CARING + GENEROSITY ➡️ HUGS + PEACE + JOY + LOVE ➡️ INTEGRITY + FAITH + HOPE + CHARITY❣️ = 💞THE GOOD LIFE💞

LIFE'S LESSONS LEARNED!!

A question I still ponder – is the inequitable distributions of trials – which are born by Heavenly Father’s children during mortality!!

LIFE'S LESSONS LEARNED

It would be wonderful if there were a remote button on some people – which would turn them off – when they become annoying!!

LIFE'S LESSONS LEARNED!!

There are those who tend to forget – that other people also have stewardships which occupy their lives!!

LIFE'S LESSONS LEARNED!!

I suspect any mortal who is convinced they have arrived at the point where they have final – and – absolute answers about the meaning of our eternal journey – will awaken from death’s slumber – wondering if they had been studying the wrong texts!!

LIFE'S LESSONS LEARNED!!

Most missionaries – who are called to serve – to a field where it requires the learning of a new language – after struggling through the Mission Training Center – arrive at their assigned countries – wondering if they had been studying the wrong language!!

LIFE'S LESSONS LEARNED!!

One of the most awkward events I ever witnessed – was when a ‘close talker’ – and – a ‘please don’t invade my space’ person – were trying to have a conversation at a party!!

THE TEACHINGS OF SAMUEL THE LAMANITE PROPHET 2

After writing last week’s Thought and reviewing it I realized it was written after the manner I had of preparing lessons for the adult classes I taught during the five years after I retired from the Church Education System. The only difference was that I was the only one adding points of discussion to the words of the scriptures rather than being aided by the students in the class. There is little wonder this memory came to me since those were years of great teaching enjoyment where I was often gifted with spiritual insights and understandings.

Now that I have had my little trip down a fond memory lane I will resume my searching and commenting on the teachings of the great Lamanite Prophet Samuel.

And now when ye talk, ye say: If our days had been in the days of our fathers of old, we would not have slain the prophets; we would not have stoned them, and cast them out.

Behold ye are worse than they; for as the Lord liveth, if a prophet come among you and declareth unto you the word of the Lord, which testifieth of your sins and iniquities, ye are angry with him, and cast him out and seek all manner of ways to destroy him; yea, you will say that he is a false prophet, and that he is a sinner, and of the devil, because he testifieth that your deeds are evil.

But behold, if a man shall come among you and shall say: Do this, and there is no iniquity; do that and ye shall not suffer; yea, he will say: Walk after the pride of your own hearts; yea, walk after the pride of your eyes, and do whatsoever your heart desireth—and if a man shall come among you and say this, ye will receive him, and say that he is a prophet.

Yea, ye will lift him up, and ye will give unto him of your substance; ye will give unto him of your gold, and of your silver, and ye will clothe him with costly apparel; and because he speaketh flattering words unto you, and he saith that all is well, then ye will not find fault with him.

O ye wicked and ye perverse generation; ye hardened and ye stiffnecked people, how long will ye suppose that the Lord will suffer you? Yea, how long will ye suffer yourselves to be led by foolish and blind guides? Yea, how long will ye choose darkness rather than light?

Yea, behold, the anger of the Lord is already kindled against you; behold, he hath cursed the land because of your iniquity.

And behold, the time cometh that he curseth your riches, that they become slippery, that ye cannot hold them; and in the days of your poverty ye cannot retain them.

And in the days of your poverty ye shall cry unto the Lord; and in vain shall ye cry, for your desolation is already come upon you, and your destruction is made sure; and then shall ye weep and howl in that day, saith the Lord of Hosts. And then shall ye lament, and say:

O that I had repented, and had not killed the prophets, and stoned them, and cast them out. Yea, in that day ye shall say: O that we had remembered the Lord our God in the day that he gave us our riches, and then they would not have become slippery that we should lose them; for behold, our riches are gone from us.

Behold, we lay a tool here and on the morrow it is gone; and behold, our swords are taken from us in the day we have sought them for battle.

Yea, we have hid up our treasures and they have slipped away from us, because of the curse of the land.

O that we had repented in the day that the word of the Lord came unto us; for behold the land is cursed, and all things are become slippery, and we cannot hold them.

Behold, we are surrounded by demons, yea, we are encircled about by the angels of him who hath sought to destroy our souls. Behold, our iniquities are great. O Lord, canst thou not turn away thine anger from us? And this shall be your language in those days.

But behold, your days of probation are past; ye have procrastinated the day of your salvation until it is everlastingly too late, and your destruction is made sure; yea, for ye have sought all the days of your lives for that which ye could not obtain; and ye have sought for happiness in doing iniquity, which thing is contrary to the nature of that righteousness which is in our great and Eternal Head.

O ye people of the land, that ye would hear my words! And I pray that the anger of the Lord be turned away from you, and that ye would repent and be saved. (Helaman 13: 25-39)

I have included this lengthy passage from Samuel’s teachings because it is probably one of the most complete outlines of the tendencies of the natural man found in scripture. I am sure if we were in a classroom setting the students in attendance would be able to point out all of the natural man attributes which stand as a barrier to our progress, but since I don’t have that privilege during this technological period of my teaching life I will try to identify them.

The natural man has a tendency to judge themselves wiser and more intelligent than their ancestors, therefore they would not fall into the same traps as their forefathers.

The natural man has a tendency to find it hard to be reprimanded even though the counsel given may be an accurate description of their failings, while being very willing to hear any words whether true or false about how wonderful they are.

The natural man has a tendency to honor as mentors and make anyone a hero who will praise and accept their carnal tendencies.

The natural man has a tendency to follow blind guides and choose to walk in the darkness of the world rather than the light of Christ.

The natural man has a tendency to remain in his wickedness as long as he continues to prosper.

The natural man has a tendency to temporarily turn to a divine source when their riches and security are threatened.

The natural man who is humbled unto change may well find he had delayed too long in turning to repentance.

The prophets of God will never cease to pray and will continue to admonish natural men to repent and be saved.

During the four score years of my life the pattern of temporary repentance of the one or the many has been a pattern I have often seen repeated. May we be wise lest the Lord is driven to cause us to be humble is my sincere prayer.

(To be continued)

THOUGHTS FOR A SABBATH DAY – WILLIAM L. RILEY

EDITED BY – KATHLEEN W. RILEY

❣️THINK + PLAN + PREPARE + DO ➡️ GENTLENESS + KINDNESS + CARING + GENEROSITY ➡️ HUGS + PEACE + JOY + LOVE ➡️ INTEGRITY + FAITH + HOPE + CHARITY❣️ = 💞THE GOOD LIFE💞

LIFE'S LESSONS LEARNED!!

It would be nice if the front row center seats at church – were prized as much as the front row center seats in theaters!!

LIFE'S LESSONS LEARNED!!

Since I have now written more than 6,000 Life's Lessons Learned – and – the well doesn’t seem to have run dry – the sixth book I am preparing will also be published!!

LIFE'S LESSONS LEARNED!!

When writing the guessoirs of my life – I struggled to know when to stop – that struggle now seems minuscule – compared to the struggle of knowing when to stop writing these – Life's Lessons Learned ditties!!

LIFE'S LESSONS LEARNED!!

There are projects which have very small beginnings – where it is impossible to count the eventual cost!!

LIFE'S LESSONS LEARNED!!

There are days when our souls become so spiritually filled – that the load makes us feel weak!!

LIFE'S LESSONS LEARNED!!

Our Father in Heaven who has been doing His work – or bringing to pass the immortality of His children – for a very long time – should not have His methods questioned!!

THE TEACHINGS OF SAMUEL THE LAMANITE PROPHET 1

In chapters 13 thru 15 of the Book of Helaman in The Book of Mormon Another Testament of Jesus Christ we read about a Lamanite prophet called Samuel who comes among the Nephites and, among other teachings, prophesies of their eventual destruction. Although the ways to avoid utter destruction is the overriding theme of his teachings I find many of his thoughts worthy of serious pondering for we who live during the third decade of the 21st century.

And behold, an angel of the Lord hath declared it unto me, and he did bring glad tidings to my soul. And behold, I was sent unto you to declare it unto you also, that ye might have glad tidings; but behold ye would not receive me. (Helaman 13:7)

Although we may be trained in public speaking and have spent years learning how to and practice teaching there is no greater way to ensure our words will have a powerful effect on an audience than to have had them authored by an Angel.

I suspect few of us will have angelic ghost writers compose our speeches for us during our mortal lives, but gratefully the whisperings of the Holy Spirit are available to all who will seek that aid.

Besides a speaker or teacher being inspired to utter revelatory words, all of us likewise need to seek the help of heavenly inspiration to understand and know how to apply words which come to us from those who have received them.

We should never let ourselves become victims to the negative consequences of failing to heed revelatory instructions from one who has received them, in whatever manner the Lord may have seen proper to bestow them.

Yea, wo unto this great city of Zarahemla; for behold, it is because of those who are righteous that it is saved; yea, wo unto this great city, for I perceive, saith the Lord, that there are many, yea, even the more part of this great city, that will harden their hearts against me, saith the Lord.

But blessed are they who will repent, for them will I spare. But behold, if it were not for the righteous who are in this great city, behold, I would cause that fire should come down out of heaven and destroy it.

But behold, it is for the righteous’ sake that it is spared. But behold, the time cometh, saith the Lord, that when ye shall cast out the righteous from among you, then shall ye be ripe for destruction; yea, wo be unto this great city, because of the wickedness and abominations which are in her. (Helaman 13:12–14)

The clouds which come to block details in my memory don’t allow me to recall the exact time nor which prophet of the Dispensation of the Fullness of Time pronounced it, but I remember the impact it had on my younger mind when he gave the same pronouncement as Samuel that there are times when destruction does not happen because of the righteous who abide among a people.

Two thoughts come to me: First, is that this is one more way we can be of service to our sisters and brothers who abide with us simultaneously on the earth. Second, that it seems this protection has its limits.

The one limit that Samuel mentions is that when the wicked begin to slay the righteous is that saving umbrella will be removed. I suspect that even if slaying does not take place the degree of wickedness can reach a point where destruction is the only solution for the Lord.

Yea, and wo be unto all the cities which are in the land round about, which are possessed by the Nephites, because of the wickedness and abominations which are in them.

And behold, a curse shall come upon the land, saith the Lord of Hosts, because of the people’s sake who are upon the land, yea, because of their wickedness and their abominations.

And it shall come to pass, saith the Lord of Hosts, yea, our great and true God, that whoso shall hide up treasures in the earth shall find them again no more, because of the great curse of the land, save he be a righteous man and shall hide it up unto the Lord.

For I will, saith the Lord, that they shall hide up their treasures unto me; and cursed be they who hide not up their treasures unto me; for none hideth up their treasures unto me save it be the righteous; and he that hideth not up his treasures unto me, cursed is he, and also the treasure, and none shall redeem it because of the curse of the land.

And the day shall come that they shall hide up their treasures, because they have set their hearts upon riches; and because they have set their hearts upon their riches, and will hide up their treasures when they shall flee before their enemies; because they will not hide them up unto me, cursed be they and also their treasures; and in that day shall they be smitten, saith the Lord.

Behold ye, the people of this great city, and hearken unto my words; yea, hearken unto the words which the Lord saith; for behold, he saith that ye are cursed because of your riches, and also are your riches cursed because ye have set your hearts upon them, and have not hearkened unto the words of him who gave them unto you.

Ye do not remember the Lord your God in the things with which he hath blessed you, but ye do always remember your riches, not to thank the Lord your God for them; yea, your hearts are not drawn out unto the Lord, but they do swell with great pride, unto boasting, and unto great swelling, envyings, strifes, malice, persecutions, and murders, and all manner of iniquities. (Helaman 13:16-22)

Before adding any of my own thoughts to those of Samuel, I feel impressed to add the teachings of Jacob the son of Lehi who was born in the wilderness and succeeded Nephi the son of Lehi as prophet of the Nephites. A quick scriptural search will make known to us that this concern about the dangers which accompany the accumulation of riches was shared by the prophets whose words are found in the Old Testament, the New Testament and the Doctrine and Covenants as well as The Book of Mormon Another Testament of Jesus Christ.

O that he would rid you from this iniquity and abomination. And, O that ye would listen unto the word of his commands, and let not this pride of your hearts destroy your souls!

Think of your brethren like unto yourselves, and be familiar with all and free with your substance, that they may be rich like unto you.

But before ye seek for riches, seek ye for the kingdom of God.

And after ye have obtained a hope in Christ ye shall obtain riches, if ye seek them; and ye will seek them for the intent to ado good—to clothe the naked, and to feed the hungry, and to liberate the captive, and administer relief to the sick and the afflicted.

And now, my brethren, I have spoken unto you concerning pride; and those of you which have afflicted your neighbor, and persecuted him because ye were proud in your hearts, of the things which God hath given you, what say ye of it? (Jacob 2:16-20)

Those who have made even a casual following of my Thoughts will surely remember how often I have spoken about the extra burden those who are born into poverty carry during their mortal probation, but from the writings of the prophets we also learn that those who are blessed with an excess of the riches of the world, likewise, can be ladened with exceptional tests which may curtail their righteous progression. I suspect there are those on both ends of the continuum who would innocently gladly switch positions. It makes one wonder if in the paragraphs of Heavenly Father’s Plan which apply to us individually if our all knowing Father pre ordained where on the riches spectrum we should tarry during mortality to provide us with the greatest test of our faith.

The prophets through the ages have connected what is in our hearts about riches as the most important test we must pass. Even to those who have very little of the bounties of the world the Lord has admonished them about where their hearts must be.

And again, I say unto the poor, ye who have not and yet have sufficient, that ye remain from day to day; I mean all you who deny the beggar, because ye have not; I would that ye say in your hearts that: I give not because I have not, but if I had I would give.

And now, if ye say this in your hearts ye remain guiltless, otherwise ye are condemned; and your condemnation is just for ye covet that which ye have not received.

And now, for the sake of these things which I have spoken unto you—that is, for the sake of retaining a remission of your sins from day to day, that ye may walk guiltless before God—I would that ye should impart of your substance to the poor, every man according to that which he hath, such as feeding the hungry, clothing the naked, visiting the sick and administering to their relief, both spiritually and temporally, according to their wants. (Mosiah 4:24-26)

So what is it that these teachings of the scriptures tell us must be in our hearts concerning riches or the lack of riches?

The scriptures teach us that we must always remember the earth and all that there is therein are the Lord’s, not ours. It would be wonderful if some of the teachings of the ancient cultures which inhabited the lands of the Americas, the African continent and the Islands of the sea concerning the fallacy of being the owner of properties and stuff hadn’t been destroyed by those who came, conquered and subsequently replaced these higher value systems.

The words of the prophets also tell us that whatever the amount of His world’s wealth we have had placed under our stewardship during our lives, we must always remember these riches were not given to us to be able to live in luxury, but were give so that we would learn to be righteous servants who are conscious of the hungry, naked and sick and what we can do to lighten their burdens.

Before ending today’s thought it would be well to remember the counsel of Mosiah found in (Mosiah 4:27).

And see that all these things are done in wisdom and order; for it is not requisite that a man should run faster than he has strength. And again, it is expedient that he should be diligent, that thereby he might win the prize; therefore, all things must be done in order.

The early converts in the Dispensation of Jesus the Christ who isolated themselves and brought all they had to their Christian communities, without having provided means for the continuation of sustenance, soon found themselves being overwhelmed with the conditions of universal poverty.

The early converts in the Dispensation of the Fulness of Times when given the principles of the United Order failed miserably, because as the Prophet Joseph Smith Jr. taught they were like children who tried to use tools without first having learned.

I am grateful for the way the Lord has instructed and provided the opportunity for those who have been given, through the means of tithes and offerings a way to provide for those in need.

(To be continued)


THOUGHTS FOR A SABBATH DAY – WILLIAM L. RILEY

EDITED BY – KATHLEEN W. RILEY

❣️THINK + PLAN + PREPARE + DO ➡️ GENTLENESS + KINDNESS + CARING + GENEROSITY ➡️ HUGS + PEACE + JOY + LOVE ➡️ INTEGRITY + FAITH + HOPE + CHARITY❣️ = 💞THE GOOD LIFE💞

LIFE'S LESSONS LEARNED!!

There is no doubt – we will all undergo our own sifting process – and – have our own reactions to it – to determine whether we will be counted as wheat – or – chaff!!

LIFE'S LESSONS LEARNED!!

It does not really matter if I am the only one – who hears the whisperings of the Holy Spirit – and – receives this added upon gift – it will always be counted as a great personal leap in my progression along the Lord’s path!!

LIFE'S LESSONS LEARNED!!

When we have paid the price to receive the confirmation from the Holy Spirit – concerning the truthfulness of the foundational principles of the restored Gospel – we will have learned the process required to receive a true witness of all things!!

LIFE'S LESSONS LEARNED!!

Before we dedicate ourselves to paying the price to achieve a goal – it will always be wise to make sure the goal is worth – the required dedication of time – talent – and – resources!!

LIFE'S LESSONS LEARNED!!

Since Jesus the Christ is the light in all things – we should never be so egotistical – as to think that we might have our own independent light!!

LIFE'S LESSONS LEARNED!!

I must avoid being confused about whether – I am a conduit for the Light of Christ – and – thinking I have light independent of Him!!

OVERCOMING OUR MORTAL NATURES

The Thought I am about to write requires a few statements of my understanding of the earthly portion of our quest to gain Eternal Lives and live with our Eternal Parents everlastingly.

None of our Heavenly Parent’s children are born into equal circumstances nor do they exist is the same environments nor do they share equal mortal spans.

Because of the uniqueness of our earthly journeys, our pathway towards fulfilling the mortal portion of our Heavenly Father’s Plan will likewise be unique.

Because of the uniqueness of our earthly journeys we will have unequal opportunities during mortality to progress towards the completion of Heavenly Father’s work and glory upon us.

Because of the individual-ness of our mortal journey, the just judgements of God will also be done using an individual scale for each of His children.

All of our Heavenly Parent’s children will be rewarded with the greatest amount of glory the Justice, Mercy, Grace and Love of God can make possible.

However, I believe besides making of us complete beings by joining our spirit body with our physical body, there is one part of the earthly portion of Heavenly Father’s Plan which most of his children can at least begin. The first step in our journey to return with honor to dwell with our Heavenly Parents is to over come what the scriptures describe as the natural man who is plagued with being carnal, sensual and devilish.

One of the most complete lists of what a natural man is, is given by Nephi the Son of Helaman the Son of Helaman the Son of Alma in chapter 12 of the Book of Helaman in The Book of Mormon Another Testament of Jesus Christ.

Although I prefer to think about the positive steps of our mortal journey I feel this list of Nephi’s is useful in helping us understand the characteristics and attributes which are contrary to those of our Heavenly Parents, whose natures we will all eventually understand is our desired goal. As the Savior said in His Sermon on the Mount, we must become perfect even as our Father in Heaven is perfect.

Helaman 12

1 And thus we can behold how false, and also the unsteadiness of the hearts of the children of men; yea, we can see that the Lord in his great infinite goodness doth bless and prosper those who put their trust in him.

2 Yea, and we may see at the very time when he doth prosper his people, yea, in the increase of their fields, their flocks and their herds, and in gold, and in silver, and in all manner of precious things of every kind and art; sparing their lives, and delivering them out of the hands of their enemies; softening the hearts of their enemies that they should not declare wars against them; yea, and in fine, doing all things for the welfare and happiness of his people; yea, then is the time that they do harden their hearts, and do forget the Lord their God, and do trample under their feet the Holy One—yea, and this because of their ease, and their exceedingly great prosperity.

3 And thus we see that except the Lord doth chasten his people with many afflictions, yea, except he doth visit them with death and with terror, and with famine and with all manner of pestilence, they will not remember him.

4 O how foolish, and how vain, and how evil, and devilish, and how quick to do iniquity, and how slow to do good, are the children of men; yea, how quick to hearken unto the words of the evil one, and to set their hearts upon the vain things of the world!

5 Yea, how quick to be lifted up in pride; yea, how quick to boast, and do all manner of that which is iniquity; and how slow are they to remember the Lord their God, and to give ear unto his counsels, yea, how slow to walk in wisdom’s paths!

6 Behold,they do not desire that the Lord their God, who hath created them, should rule and reign over them; notwithstanding his great goodness and his mercy towards them, they do set at naught his counsels, and they will not that he should be their guide.

7 O how great is the nothingness of the children of men; yea, even they are bless than the dust of the earth.

Nephi goes on to emphasize the nothingness of man by testifying how the elements of the earth are obedient while we stumble along following our mortal natural-ness.

Although this list does not cover the ‘do not’ commandments such as stealing, adultery, murder and lying, I believe it is of ultimate importance because it explains the negative components of our natures which hinder our being obedient to the wisdom and guidance of our Heavenly Father.

Therefore, it seems we should be concentrating on changing our natures, rather than concentrating on certain acts and behaviors.

Elder Bruce R. McConkie when teaching about our mortal probationary journey would draw a straight upward slanted line on the board and then, just as Nephi the Son of Lehi had long ago proclaimed, explained we must press forward with a steadfastness in Christ. He would always emphasize that pace was not the essential element to our progression, but going forward and upward were the keys essential to becoming like our Heavenly Parents.

Many times our pace is halting because we fail to replace the natural man parts of our makeup with those of becoming good and honorable men. As Moroni is finishing the abridgement of the Nephite history he provides an understanding which should fill our hearts with the hope and understanding of the nature we must develop if we are to advance forward and upward in our quest to become like our Heavenly Parents.

Moroni 7

12 Wherefore, all things which are good cometh of God; and that which is evil cometh of the devil; for the devil is an enemy unto God, and fighteth against him continually, and inviteth and enticeth to sin, and to do that which is evil continually.

13 But behold, that which is of God inviteth and enticeth to do good continually; wherefore, every thing which inviteth and enticeth to do good, and to love God, and to serve him, is inspired of God.

14 Wherefore, take heed, my beloved brethren, that ye do not judge that which is evil to be of God, or that which is good and of God to be of the devil.

15 For behold, my brethren, it is given unto you to judge, that ye may know good from evil; and the way to judge is as plain, that ye may know with a perfect knowledge, as the daylight is from the dark night.

16 For behold, the Spirit of Christ is given to every man, that he may know good from evil; wherefore, I show unto you the way to judge; for every thing which inviteth to do good, and to persuade to believe in Christ, is sent forth by the power and gift of Christ; wherefore ye may know with a perfect knowledge it is of God.

17 But whatsoever thing persuadeth men to do evil, and believe not in Christ, and deny him, and serve not God, then ye may know with a perfect knowledge it is of the devil; for after this manner doth the devil work, for he persuadeth no man to do good, no, not one; neither do his angels; neither do they who subject themselves unto him.

18 And now, my brethren, seeing that ye know the light by which ye may judge, which light is the light of Christ, see that ye do not judge wrongfully; for with that same judgment which ye judge ye shall also be judged.

19 Wherefore, I beseech of you, brethren, that ye should search diligently in the light of Christ that ye may know good from evil; and if ye will lay hold upon every good thing, and condemn it not, ye certainly will be a child of Christ.

I pray the Lord will bless us all, that wherever we might find ourselves on our eternal journey, we might have the Light of Christ to guide us away from our mortal natural-ness and towards having a nature desirous of being counselled by the Minister of Ministers.


THOUGHTS FOR A SABBATH DAY – WILLIAM L. RILEY

EDITED BY – KATHLEEN W. RILEY

❣️THINK + PLAN + PREPARE + DO ➡️ GENTLENESS + KINDNESS + CARING + GENEROSITY ➡️ HUGS + PEACE + JOY + LOVE ➡️ INTEGRITY + FAITH + HOPE + CHARITY❣️ = 💞THE GOOD LIFE💞

LIFE'S LESSONS LEARNED!!

When feeding wild birds be aware – that many other creatures will assume – the food you have put out is also for them!!

LIFE'S LESSONS LEARNED!!

Before deciding to become a feeder of wild birds – it would be wise – to talk to someone who has had the experience!!

LIFE'S LESSONS LEARNED!!

I am so glad that the prophet Isaiah saw that a great highway was going to be needed – to accommodate all those who would be walking on the Lord’s path – during the Dispensation of the Fullness of Times!!

LIFE'S LESSONS LEARNED!!

Even though we may fall short of hearing the Master’s voice – we would be wise to seek the counsel of those who can hear His voice!!

LIFE'S LESSONS LEARNED!!

Even though we might have chosen the Savior as our mentor – His counsel will do us little good – unless we are willing to adhere to His teachings!!

LIFE'S LESSONS LEARNED!!

If we wish to maximize our time on earth – we need to employ the Lord as our mentor!!

POWER TO SEAL ON EARTH AND IN HEAVEN 2

Before expressing my personal insights, feelings and experiences while serving as a sealer in the Newport Beach California Temple, I want to begin this Thought with some excerpts from Russell M. Nelson, the present holder of all the keys of the Priesthood available on the earth today including the power to seal on earth and in heaven.

Russell M. Nelson – Of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles – General Conference, April 2009

Personal Preparation for Temple Blessings

Those who enter the temple are also to bear the attribute of holiness. … We can acquire holiness only by enduring and persistent personal effort.

Under President Gordon B. Hinckley’s inspired direction, temples are now more accessible than ever. Inscribed on each temple are the words “Holiness to the Lord.”1 That statement designates both the temple and its purposes as holy. Those who enter the temple are also to bear the attribute of holiness… We can acquire holiness only by enduring and persistent personal effort.

The Temple

President Hinckley said that “these unique and wonderful buildings, and the ordinances administered therein, represent the ultimate in our worship. These ordinances become the most profound expressions of our theology.”

The Endowment

In the temple we receive an endowment, which is, literally speaking, a gift. In receiving this gift, we should understand its significance and the importance of keeping sacred covenants. Each temple ordinance “is not just a ritual to go through, it is an act of solemn promising.”

The temple endowment was given by revelation. Thus, it is best understood by revelation, prayerfully sought with a sincere heart. President Brigham Young said, “Your endowment is, to receive all those ordinances in the house of the Lord, which are necessary for you, after you have departed this life, to enable you to walk back to the presence of the Father, … and gain your eternal exaltation.”

Sealing Authority

In preparing to receive the endowment and other ordinances of the temple, we should understand the sealing authority of the priesthood. Jesus referred to this authority long ago when He taught His Apostles, “Whatsoever thou shalt bind on earth shall be bound in heaven.” That same authority has been restored in these latter days. Just as priesthood is eternal—without beginning or end—so is the effect of priesthood ordinances that bind families together forever.

Temple ordinances, covenants, endowments, and sealings enable individuals to be reconciled with the Lord and families to be sealed beyond the veil of death. Obedience to temple covenants qualifies us for eternal life, the greatest gift of God to man. Eternal life is more than immortality. Eternal life is exaltation in the highest heaven—the kind of life that God lives.

Spiritual Preparation for the Temple

Because the ordinances and covenants of the temple are sacred, we are under solemn obligation not to speak outside the temple of that which occurs in the temple. There are, however, some principles we can discuss.

Each temple is a house of learning. There we are taught in the Master’s way. His way differs from modes of others. His way is ancient and rich with symbolism. We can learn much by pondering the reality for which each symbol stands. Teachings of the temple are beautifully simple and simply beautiful. They are understood by the humble, yet they can excite the intellect of the brightest minds.

With each ordinance is a covenant—a promise. A covenant made with God is not restrictive, but protective. Such a concept is not new. For example, if our water supply is not clean, we filter the water to screen out harmful ingredients. Divine covenants help us to filter out of our minds impurities that could harm us. When we choose to deny ourselves of all ungodliness, we lose nothing of value and gain the glory of eternal life. Covenants do not hold us down; they elevate us beyond the limits of our own power and perspective.

Eternal Perspective

President Hinckley has explained that lofty perspective: “There is a goal beyond the Resurrection,” he said. “That is exaltation in our Father’s kingdom. … It will begin with acceptance of him as our Eternal Father and of his son as our living Redeemer. It will involve participation in various ordinances, each one important and necessary. The first of these is baptism by immersion in water, without which, according to the Savior, a man cannot enter into the kingdom of God. There must follow the birth of the Spirit, the gift of the Holy Ghost. Then in succession through the years will come, for men, ordination to the priesthood, followed by the blessings of the temple for both men and women who are worthy to enter therein. These temple blessings include our washings and anointings that we may be clean before the Lord. They include the … endowment of obligations and blessings that motivate us to behavior compatible with the principles of the gospel. They include the sealing ordinances by which that which is bound on earth is bound in heaven, providing for the continuity of the family.”

Ordinances of the temple relate to personal progress and to the redemption of departed ancestors as well. “For their salvation is necessary and essential to our salvation, … they without us cannot be made perfect—neither can we without our dead be made perfect.” Service in their behalf provides repeated opportunities for temple worship. And that service deserves commitment to a planned schedule. By doing for others what they cannot do for themselves, we emulate the pattern of the Savior, who wrought the Atonement to bless the lives of other people.

I am confident that pondering these remarks by President Nelson would amply supply us all with sufficient thoughts to enrich our Sabbath day. Never the less, I would like to add some of my personal thoughts garnered from remembering my days as an active sealer in the House of the Lord.

The writers of scripture have used countless ways to express the Plan of our Heavenly Father which outlines the process by which His Work and Glory are brought to pass. As I served in the temple there were three whose meaning was an endowment to my mind; The Plan of Happiness, The Plan of Redemption and Salvation and The Plan of Exaltation.

Each of these plans have in common the principle of oneness.

The Plan of Happiness relates to the state which can be enjoyed by any one who is striving to live the principles of the gospel while in mortality. As it is recorded in The Book of Mormon Another Testament of Jesus Christ concerning those who lived lives of righteousness, ‘There never were a happier people’.

The Plan of Redemption and Salvation not only requires living the principles required in the Plan of Happiness, but also makes it clear that the First Principles and Ordinances of the Gospel; Faith in the Lord Jesus the Christ and His Atoning Sacrifice, Baptism by immersion by one having authority and receiving the Holy Spirit by the ordinance of laying on of hands by one having authority are essential to receive the blessing of redemption and salvation.

The Plan of Exaltation requires living the principles in the Plan of Happiness, and The Plan of Redemption and Salvation, and teaches us that the sealing ordinances done in the Houses of the Lord are essential (wherein, wives are sealed to husbands, husbands are sealed to wives, children are sealed to parents and parents are sealed children) extending from Adam and Eve until the work is finished for all the children of our Heavenly Parents who have or will abide on this beautiful world.

As we ponder and study these plans it becomes apparent that in all of these plans no one stands alone. No one will ever achieve total Happiness alone. No one will ever achieve total happiness without surrounding themselves with people who are striving to be good and honorable. In fact, the more we can expand our circle of those who are living the tenets of the Plan of Happiness the greater degree of Happiness we will enjoy.

When the Savior, while in mortality, called and taught special witnesses He never intended His disciples to be limited to a very select group, but gave instructions for those special witnesses to go forth and teach and gather all the world unto Him and His gospel. The Plan of Redemption and Salvation increases in blessings for all as the number of adherents increases. The very essence of this plan is based on ministering through inclusiveness.

The Plan of Exaltation is the most inclusive of all. As was stated in last week’s Thought it includes all the children in all generations and dispensations. When properly understood our definition of family becomes magnificently magnified.
Just one last thought about the oneness required to bring to pass happiness, redemption, salvation and exaltation of all of Heavenly Father’s children who are willing to answer His call to come unto Him.

In the garden Eve was brought unto Adam to become his help meet or as the phrase is expressed in Hebrew עזר כנגדו (ezer kenegedo). The ‘wisdom of men’ have over the centuries distorted the meaning of this word so badly that women have been considered almost like personal servants to their husbands to do his every bidding, which even today continues to bring animosity between men and women who were intended to become one. In fact this sad misunderstanding could not be further from the truth. There are many words which have been used to portray the true meaning of help meet, but the one I personally prefer is ‘the other half of ones self’. Each female was to bring her talents, attributes and strengths and they were to be added to the talents, attributes and strengths of the male making of the two a stronger one. The combining of the uniqueness of each is what made them complete.

We can easily see that when the principle of oneness (help meet) is applied to the Plan of Happiness, the unique talents, attributes and strengths of each individual living the principles of the gospel cause a synergistic increase of happiness to the whole.

Likewise, we can understand that as the Plan of Redemption and Salvation includes multitudes rather than the few, the promises inherent in this plan multiply and become universally shared blessings.

It is wonderful to contemplate the totality of oneness which will be enjoyed when the entire worthy offspring of our Heavenly Parents are sealed as one Eternal Family.

I will forever count it as a blessing and great privilege to have participated in the sealing of countless brothers and sisters who are our Heavenly Parents children on both sides of the veil.


THOUGHTS FOR A SABBATH DAY – WILLIAM L. RILEY

EDITED BY – KATHLEEN W. RILEY

❣️THINK + PLAN + PREPARE + DO ➡️ GENTLENESS + KINDNESS + CARING + GENEROSITY ➡️ HUGS + PEACE + JOY + LOVE ➡️ INTEGRITY + FAITH + HOPE + CHARITY❣️ = 💞THE GOOD LIFE💞

LIFE'S LESSONS LEARNED!!

There will come a time when wearing our one’s life in the service of the Lord – doesn’t take much effort – and – it seems like it has already reached its maximum!!

LIFE'S LESSONS LEARNED!!

There is no human voice which can move us to choose the right – as convincingly as the Holy Spirit!!

LIFE'S LESSONS LEARNED!!

When we ask the Lord to aid us with His powers – and – then strive with all our might – the possibility of Satan coming away triumphant is almost impossible!!

LIFE'S LESSONS LEARNED!!

When we strive to fight the forces of evil alone – and – expect to come away triumphant – we may have placed ourselves on a path of an impossible quest!!

LIFE'S LESSONS LEARNED!!

It is sad that so few including those who have received the blessing of understanding – seldom seek – and – therefore seldom experience all the promised blessings of the gift of the Holy Spirit!!

LIFE'S LESSONS LEARNED!!

Those who have experienced life’s greatest tragedies – have undoubtedly – also received the comforting of the Holy Spirit more abundantly!!

POWER TO SEAL ON EARTH AND IN HEAVEN 1

In chapters 8 through 10 of the book of Helaman in The Book of Mormon Another Testament of Jesus Christ, Nephi the son of Helaman writes about two events which could not be further apart on the extreme ends of a continuum.

At one extreme he writes the about corrupt leaders of the Nephite nation and at the other extreme he writes about Nephi the son of Helaman receiving the sealing power of the Priesthood.

Hardly a day goes by that we are not witnesses to or something is written about some leader abusing their office somewhere in the world. We don’t need to say a good deal about that particular signpost written as a warning to those who would receive Nephi’s words in the latter days.

As far as the sealing power which was given to him, God says unto Nephi: Behold, I give unto you power, that whatsoever ye shall seal on earth shall be sealed in heaven; and whatsoever ye shall loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven; and thus shall ye have power among this people. (Helaman 10:7)

To help us further understand the gift of sealing power which is given to benefit both those who receive their ordinances while living as well as those who receive these ordinances by proxy having not had the opportunity while living on earth, which was given to Nephi the son of Helaman I add the following excerpts from the Doctrine and Covenants section 128:8-18.

Now, the nature of this ordinance consists in the power of the priesthood, by the revelation of Jesus Christ, wherein it is granted that whatsoever you bind on earth shall be bound in heaven, and whatsoever you loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven… whether they themselves have attended to the ordinances in their own propria persona, or by the means of their own agents, according to the ordinance which God has prepared for their salvation from before the foundation of the world, according to the records which they have kept concerning their dead.

…in all ages of the world, whenever the Lord has given a dispensation of the priesthood to any man by actual revelation, or any set of men, this power has always been given. Hence, whatsoever those men did in authority, in the name of the Lord, and did it truly and faithfully, and kept a proper and faithful record of the same, it became a law on earth and in heaven, and could not be annulled, according to the decrees of the great Jehovah…

And again, for the precedent, Matthew 16:18, 19: And I say also unto thee, That thou art Peter, and upon this rock I will build my church; and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it. And I will give unto thee the keys of the kingdom of heaven: and whatsoever thou shalt bind on earth shall be bound in heaven; and whatsoever thou shalt loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven…

Herein is glory and honor, and immortality and eternal life—The ordinance of baptism by water, to be immersed therein in order to answer to the likeness of the dead, that one principle might accord with the other; to be immersed in the water and come forth out of the water is in the likeness of the resurrection of the dead in coming forth out of their graves; hence, this ordinance was instituted to form a relationship with the ordinance of baptism for the dead, being in likeness of the dead…

And now, my dearly beloved brethren and sisters, let me assure you that these are principles in relation to the dead and the living that cannot be lightly passed over, as pertaining to our salvation. For their salvation is necessary and essential to our salvation, as Paul says concerning the fathers—that they without us cannot be made perfect—neither can we without our dead be made perfect.

And now, in relation to the baptism for the dead, I will give you another quotation of Paul, 1 Corinthians 15:29: Else what shall they do which are baptized for the dead, if the dead rise not at all? Why are they then baptized for the dead? And again, in connection with this quotation I will give you a quotation from one of the prophets, who had his eye fixed on the restoration of the priesthood, the glories to be revealed in the last days, and in an especial manner this most glorious of all subjects belonging to the everlasting gospel, namely, the baptism for the dead; for Malachi says, last chapter, verses 5th and 6th: Behold, I will send you Elijah the prophet before the coming of the great and dreadful day of the Lord: And he shall turn the heart of the fathers to the children, and the heart of the children to their fathers, lest I come and smite the earth with a curse.

I might have rendered a plainer translation to this, but it is sufficiently plain to suit my purpose as it stands. It is sufficient to know, in this case, that the earth will be smitten with a curse unless there is a welding link of some kind or other between the fathers and the children, upon some subject or other—and behold what is that subject? It is the baptism for the dead. For we without them cannot be made perfect; neither can they without us be made perfect. Neither can they nor we be made perfect without those who have died in the gospel also; for it is necessary in the ushering in of the dispensation of the fulness of times, which dispensation is now beginning to usher in, that a whole and complete and perfect union, and welding together of dispensations, and keys, and powers, and glories should take place, and be revealed from the days of Adam even to the present time. And not only this, but those things which never have been revealed from the foundation of the world, but have been kept hid from the wise and prudent, shall be revealed unto babes and sucklings in this, the dispensation of the fulness of times.

These words from section 128 speak of the ordinance of baptism and hint at ordinances which are sealed by priesthood power which provide a link between husbands to wives, parents to children, generations to generations and dispensations to dispensations. In the following verse from Doctrine and Covenants 132:7 we find these sealings apply not only to all people, but all ordinances necessary for salvation and exaltation.

And verily I say unto you, that the conditions of this law are these: All covenants, contracts, bonds, obligations, oaths, vows, performances, connections, associations, or expectations, that are not made and entered into and sealed by the Holy Spirit of promise, of him who is anointed, both as well for time and for all eternity, and that too most holy, by revelation and commandment through the medium of mine anointed, whom I have appointed on the earth to hold this power (and I have appointed unto my servant Joseph to hold this power in the last days, and there is never but one on the earth at a time on whom this power and the keys of this priesthood are conferred), are of no efficacy, virtue, or force in and after the resurrection from the dead; for all contracts that are not made unto this end have an end when men are dead.

Today the President of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, Russell M. Nelson, like Joseph Smith Jr., is the only person on the earth to hold the keys to seal on earth as well as in heaven, but he also has the power to authorize others to administer the sealing ordinances. I was blessed to actively participate as one of those who the living Prophet of God authorized to perform these sealing ordinances. In the coming week I hope to share some of the understandings and impressions I had as I was privileged to participate in the binding ordinances of the gospel.

(To be continued)


THOUGHTS FOR A SABBATH DAY – WILLIAM L. RILEY

EDITED BY – KATHLEEN W. RILEY

❣️THINK + PLAN + PREPARE + DO ➡️ GENTLENESS + KINDNESS + CARING + GENEROSITY ➡️ HUGS + PEACE + JOY + LOVE ➡️ INTEGRITY + FAITH + HOPE + CHARITY❣️ = 💞THE GOOD LIFE💞

LIFE'S LESSONS LEARNED!!

The whisperings of the Holy Spirit rarely come with long explanations of the reasoning behind their message – but – our subsequent obedience brings the light of understanding!!

LIFE'S LESSONS LEARNED!!

The difference between great – and – average authors – es that average authors usually fall short in their ability to write in such a way – that the reader hears the tone – and – level of the voices of their characters!!

LIFE'S LESSONS LEARNED!!

When reading an author’s words it is important that the reader hears the words – with the proper intonation – and – emphasis which the author meant for them to be heard!!

LIFE'S LESSONS LEARNED!!

The tone – and – manner we use to say words – may be more powerful – and – effective than the words we are using!!

LIFE'S LESSONS LEARNED!!

When we look at others – and – envision what they can become – rather than what they currently are – it is a dramatic step – in becoming a loving and meaningful mentor!!

LIFE'S LESSONS LEARNED!!

The path which a person takes to change from the religion of their fathers – only seems easy to those who never had to walk that path!!

EASINESS AND WILLINGNESS TO BELIEVE

As I was searching chapters five and six of the book of Helaman in The Book of Mormon Another Testament of Jesus Christ I was forcibly struck with the words Nephi and Lehi (who were given these names by their father Helaman in remembrance of their forefathers Lehi and Nephi) used when recording the results of their preaching 25 years before the birth of the Savior and 58 years before His crucifixion.

And thus we see that the Lord began to pour out his Spirit upon the Lamanites, because of their easiness and willingness to believe in his words. (Helaman 6: 36)

The great irony of these words is that they were referring to the Lamanites, who for centuries, with the exception of the Anti Nephi Lehies, had rejected the word of God; while the Nephites who had over and over again been greatly blessed, had become wise in their own eyes and rejected the teachings of the Living Prophets.

This seems to be one of the historical certainties repeated during almost every dispensation of the gospel.

The dispensation of Adam turns wicked and comes to an end because of tempestuous destruction which ushers in the dispensation of Noah.

The dispensation of Noah comes to a corrupted human sacrificial end and ushers in the dispensation of Abraham.

The dispensation of Abraham ends in divided familial chaos and slavery and ushers in the dispensation of Moses.

The dispensation of Lehi ends in inhuman cannibalism and blood thirstiness and then the remnants must await the restoration of the gospel in the Latter Days to usher in the dispensation of the Fulness of Times .

The dispensation of Moses ends with its political and religious leaders becoming lights unto themselves ushering in the dispensation of Jesus the Christ.

The dispensation of Jesus the Christ ends in apostacy, everyman believing according to their own thoughts and nations waring against nations.

The dispensation of the Fullness of Times…

The apostle John’s book which he wrote while he was on the isle of Patmos, which bears the name of Revelation in the Holy Scriptures prophesies that the dispensation of the Fulness of Times will end with a third of the earths inhabitants being destroyed because of having chosen the path of evil rather than righteousness ushering in the Millennial dispensation of Jesus the Christ.

Besides these many historical witnesses, we who are living in the dispensation of the Fulness of Times have The Book of Mormon Another Testament of Jesus Christ as a testimony outlining the probable events leading up to the Second coming of Jesus the Christ.

In these same chapters five and six of Helaman, Nephi and Lehi record the characteristics of those on the path of evil and those on the path of righteousness.

BY THEIR FRUITS YE SHALL KNOW THEM:

Characteristics of those who choose to tread the evil path.

Stiffnecked, choosing not to be governed by law nor justice.

Work to corrupt laws for personal benefit.

Do works to be seen of men that they might boast of their own strength.

Believe all they possess has come to them as a result of their own strength and intelligence.

Seek to destroy the servants the Lord has sent to declare good tidings to them.

Set their hearts upon riches of the world.

Seek to be lifted and honored by others.

Do secret works of darkness; murder, adultery and all manner of wickedness.

Turn their hearts to the author of all sin.

Secret combinations abide and abound among them.

Have the Spirit of the Lord withdrawn from them and are left to struggle in the shadows of their own miniscule light.

Characteristics of those who strive to tread the path of righteousness.

Humbly attempt to follow just laws.

Seek to have laws which are equally administered among rich and poor.

Attempt to live ministering lives, striving to be of service to their neighbors.

Seek the reassurance of the Holy Spirit to verify the words of the Lord’s servants.

Recognize their nothingness, never ceasing to recognize the greatness of God.

Give all glory and acknowledgement to God.

Work in the brightness of noon day that all may see the light of God which they hold up.

Turn their hearts to the word of God.

Seek to have the Holy Spirit with them at all times.

Strive to walk on a path lighted by the glory of the Son of God.

May we be wise, after the many dispensational testimonies we have been given, to think those thoughts, say those words and do those works which will stand as a witness that we have indeed chosen to tread the path of righteousness.


THOUGHTS FOR A SABBATH DAY – WILLIAM L. RILEY

EDITED BY – KATHLEEN W. RILEY

❣️THINK + PLAN + PREPARE + DO ➡️ GENTLENESS + KINDNESS + CARING + GENEROSITY ➡️ HUGS + PEACE + JOY + LOVE ➡️ INTEGRITY + FAITH + HOPE + CHARITY❣️ = 💞THE GOOD LIFE💞

LIFE'S LESSONS LEARNED!!

Hating – and – demeaning others because they do not see the world – from the same slanted view as one’s personal elite group – may be the highest form of hypocrisy – and – bigotry!!

LIFE'S LESSONS LEARNED!!

The designs – and – philosophies of men – will always multiply the faults of others – while justifying personal short comings!!

LIFE'S LESSONS LEARNED!!

Serving saves more souls – than entertainment – or – adventure!!

LIFE'S LESSONS LEARNED!!

Working – and – wearing out one’s life in the Lord’s service – is a privilege – and – blessing!!

LIFE'S LESSONS LEARNED!!

Everyone who holds the Priesthood of God should be humbled – when they realize by this same power – the dead have been risen – the blind have been given sight – and – the heavens are held in their harmonious orbits!!

LIFE'S LESSONS LEARNED!!

Those who have grown by serving others – hopefully – understand the great gift they have been given!!

SEARCHING THE SCRIPTURES

The Book of Mormon Another Testament of Jesus Christ – Helaman 5: 5-13

For they remembered the words which their father Helaman spake unto them. And these are the words which he spake: Behold, my sons, I desire that ye should remember to keep the commandments of God; and I would that ye should declare unto the people these words. Behold, I have given unto you the names of our first parents (Lehi – Nephi) who came out of the land of Jerusalem; and this I have done that when you remember your names ye may remember them; and when ye remember them ye may remember their works; and when ye remember their works ye may know how that it is said, and also written, that they were good.

Therefore, my sons, I would that ye should do that which is good, that it may be said of you, and also written, even as it has been said and written of them.

And now my sons, behold I have somewhat more to desire of you, which desire is, that ye may not do these things that ye may boast, but that ye may do these things to lay up for yourselves a treasure in heaven, yea, which is eternal, and which fadeth not away; yea, that ye may have that precious gift of eternal life, which we have reason to suppose hath been given to our fathers. O remember, remember, my sons, the words which king Benjamin spake unto his people; yea, remember that there is no other way nor means whereby man can be saved, only through the atoning blood of Jesus Christ, who shall come; yea, remember that he cometh to redeem the world.

And remember also the words which Amulek spake unto Zeezrom, in the city of Ammonihah; for he said unto him that the Lord surely should come to redeem his people, but that he should not come to redeem them in their sins, but to redeem them from their sins. And he hath power given unto him from the Father to redeem them from their sins because of repentance; therefore he hath sent his angels to declare the tidings of the conditions of repentance, which bringeth unto the power of the Redeemer, unto the salvation of their souls.

And now, my sons, remember, remember that it is upon the rock of our Redeemer, who is Christ, the Son of God, that ye must build your foundation; that when the devil shall send forth his mighty winds, yea, his shafts in the whirlwind, yea, when all his hail and his mighty storm shall beat upon you, it shall have no power over you to drag you down to the gulf of misery and endless wo, because of the rock upon which ye are built, which is a sure foundation, a foundation whereon if men build they cannot fall.

And it came to pass that these were the words which Helaman taught to his sons; yea, he did teach them many things which are not written, and also many things which are written.

We have often been given the admonition not only to read the scriptures, but to search them. We have also been given examples of various ways to accomplish this task such as; choosing a subject in the topical guide and then read, study and learn what the scriptures teach about that subject, another way might be while reading the scriptures chronologically take time to read all the references at the bottom of each page and I have even heard of those who do the flip the pages of the scriptures, blindly point to a verse and then do an exhaustive study of the principle in that verse.

One of my favorite ways of searching the scriptures includes the following steps:
While doing the first reading of a new set of scriptures I key word each verse as I read. Although my key wording would be marking the verses in red rather than bolding them as I have the verses from chapter 5 of Helaman above.

During subsequent readings, such as I have been doing as I have been writing Thoughts for a Sabbath Day based on the Book of Mormon, my searching often involves pondering upon what I have come to understand about the passages I have key worded.

I hope in the following paragraphs to demonstrate examples of my searching/pondering process. You will immediately realize that this process needs no structure nor proper sequencing, just allowing the thoughts to flow and fill one’s consciousness.

Keep the commandments – declare unto the people these words

Although the gospel good news is based on eternal truth, the sincerity of my declarations of these truths will only be of efficacy to those who might hear my words to the degree I am faithfully living them.

Have we not been taught an evil tree cannot bring forth good fruit.

Should my lack of perfection keep me from being a witness, it seems even the least of us can contribute to the current degree of our current understanding and faithfulness.

Etc. …

Given names of first parents – remember them – their works – they were good

My own surname, a portion of the names sons and grandsons have been known in my ancestral line for at least eight generations.

In an age when parents seem to place names upon their children based on cleverness and uniqueness we may have lost the benefit of bearing the name of those whose lives and sacrifices made our existence and comforts possible.

When people lose the ancestral anchors which hold them in place during the storms of life the possibility of drifting away from established safe paths may become greater.

Etc. …

Do these things that ye may boast – lay up for yourselves a treasure in heaven – that precious gift of eternal life

How often do we forget the purpose for all we do is to please God not our brothers and sisters?
When ever we seek and receive the acclamations of our brothers and sisters we have our reward and should not expect any when the life span passes.

Setting one’s sight on some level of earthly honor rather than eternal life is short sighted and will usually result in one falling far short of the most precious treasures.

Etc. …

Words which king Benjamin spake – words which Amulek spake unto Zeezrom

A person seldom rises to a level higher than they whom they choose as their mentors.

Once one has a testimony that there are those who have been commissioned to speak words which have come to them from everlasting sources, it behooves them to be especially attentive to those words.

One is on a dangerous path which could cause them to end up in a pit, when they convince themselves they have the ultimate answers to the purposes of life.

Etc. …

Not come to redeem them in their sins – redeem them from their sins - because of repentance -sent his angels to declare the tidings of the conditions of repentance – power of the Redeemer, unto the salvation of their souls.

Upon the rock of our Redeemer, who is Christ, the Son of God, that ye must build your foundation; that when the devil shall send forth his mighty winds, yea, his shafts in the whirlwind, yea, when all his hail and his mighty storm shall beat upon you, it shall have no power over you – foundation whereon if men build they cannot fall.

It is wonderful that the first principles of the gospel remain consistent in all dispensations. Later in this chapter the ordinance of baptism is also spoken of.

I often wonder about how many religious traditions are really necessary. Boyd K. Packer once made the statement that the only thing we need besides the first principles and ordinances of the gospel are the words of the Lord found in the scriptures and the living prophets.

This passage gives added meaning to the words of the primary song which stated, the wise man built his house upon a rock.

Etc. …

I don’t believe this method of searching the scriptures will result in one becoming a scriptural scholar, but I have found it a useful tool to help remind and reassure me of those ideas and teachings I value and desire to be part of my life.

I pray the Lord will lead each of us to the methods of searching the scriptures which will cause them to be treasures in our hearts, pearls of great price and the words which will lead us unto eternal life.


THOUGHTS FOR A SABBATH DAY – WILLIAM L. RILEY

EDITED BY – KATHLEEN W. RILEY

❣️THINK + PLAN + PREPARE + DO ➡️ GENTLENESS + KINDNESS + CARING + GENEROSITY ➡️ HUGS + PEACE + JOY + LOVE ➡️ INTEGRITY + FAITH + HOPE + CHARITY❣️ = 💞THE GOOD LIFE💞

LIFE'S LESSONS LEARNED!!

When we understand the importance of the work we have been called to do – we will be motivated to serve more diligently!!

LIFE'S LESSONS LEARNED!!

We should show our gratitude for having been called to serve – by being diligent in our stewardships!!

LIFE'S LESSONS LEARNED!!

Thankfully – the Lord will not judge us nor our neighbors – using the same set of measurements – which we use to judge one another!!

LIFE'S LESSONS LEARNED!!

Most of us will be amazed when we see those – who enter into Heavenly Father’s Kingdom ahead of us!!

LIFE'S LESSONS LEARNED!!

There are those who describe the Gospel path as being so narrow – that it becomes doubtful – if anyone will be able to stay on it!!

LIFE'S LESSONS LEARNED!!

Replacing fear – and – anxiety with love – and – confidence is the real goal of the Good News!!

WHAT LIFE’S EXPERIENCES MEAN TO THE PROCESS OF MY BECOMING

As I have mentioned in several of my Thoughts for a Sabbath Day, one of the activities which has been a constant during my life is people watching. I should also add that I do a lot of assessing while I am observing the comings and goings of my eternal brothers and sisters. One of the conclusions I have come to is that most of the reason why people react to various stimuli in their lives happens because of previous negative or positive experiences in that realm of their life’s events.

For example, I have previously written that it is difficult for me to enjoy the companionship of a dog, because of previously having had such experiences end in the tragic loss of my best friends.

Likewise, although I enjoy painted scenes of glittering new fallen snow, I have zero desire to have snow as part of my daily experience. Although there are many reasons why snow stimulates a negative personal reaction I will illustrate my previously mentioned postulate with two examples.

When I was in my early teens a group of my peers, with proper supervision, went on a tubing excursion in the mountains east of where we lived in Southern California. One of the sledding devices we had was a rectangular plastic slider which allowed for two or three people to experience the exhilarating rapid decent down a hillside on freshly fallen snow. On the last journey I ever made on any type of device down a snowy patch of land, I was in the front of the afore mentioned device with two buddies behind me. As we were rapidly descending the front tip of the plastic slider hit something solid hidden just below the new fallen snow, which resulted in the three of us continuing our downward descent without anything beneath us. It would be more accurate to say that I had nothing beneath me, because my two buddies were on top of me. When we came to a stop I quickly realized the white beneath my head had turned crimson. I wore the scabs for several weeks thereafter.

Another event which added to my dislike of being involved directly with snow happened when we were returning from spending Christmas with Kathleen’s family. The windshield of our car was covered with snow and when I went to start the car, since the snow seemed fluffy I just turned the wipers on to clean it off. The wipers were frozen to the windshield under the freshly fallen snow, which resulted in the wipers breaking down. Our journey home was filled with trying to wipe the windshield while continuing to drive and stopping to do a necessary scraping. I should add that the tension which resulted for the family having to deal with periodic freezing did not diminish the negativity of the experience.

I have many other reactions to stimuli which have resulted in interesting character traits because of having been added upon by either positive or negative life experiences.

Earlier in the morning before I wrote this Thought, which was during the height of the COVID – 19 pandemic in the middle of April 2020, Kathleen and I were visiting about an event which happened in a family between a mother and her son and one of the conclusions which we discussed was that individuals have a tendency, during times of either positive or negative stimuli to have their normal reactions increase in intensity. Those who usually react with anger, hatred and prejudices seem to have those reactions heighten when stress levels increase. And likewise, those who have a propensity to be calm, loving and inclusive seem to have those emotional responses stimulated to a higher degree during times of stress. Therefore, we can add an additional observation to my people watching generated hypothesis, which is that as well as individual stimuli/reaction we can also put people into groups depending on the major characteristics which govern their emotions and actions.

The Book of Mormon Another Testament of Jesus Christ adds an interesting caveat. In that marvelous record we find testimony added upon testimony about what seems to be a tendency of all mankind. This testimony is given not only as instruction on a universal frailty, but as a warning to all mankind. We can start the sequence of the universal stimuli/reaction chain at any point in The Book of Mormon Another Testament of Jesus Christ because we are taught that it seems to be a cycle with no beginning nor end.

An abundance of riches has the propensity to fill hearts with pride.
Hearts filled with pride have a propensity to cause people with abundance to persecute those with less.

People with abundance seem to have an endless ability to persecute those of a lower state, including withholding food, clothing and lodging, smiting them physically and emotionally and mocking in every way possible.

People with abundance move towards relying on their own strength and intelligence, boasting upon their superiority.

When people are left to the results of their own strengths it is not long until they begin to lose that which they felt make them strong.

A great deal of time does not pass before they find themselves on the same level as those who they persecuted because of their inferiority.

Because they were made to be humble having been stripped of pride they turn away from their own strength and begin to seek the aid of God.

Because of having returned to God they are blessed and begin once again to be blessed with prosperity.

There begins to be those who prosper to a greater degree than others.

An abundance of riches has the propensity to fill hearts with pride…

Although what we are becoming because of our individual or characteristic reactions to the stimuli we have experienced during our lives may or may not have any significant eternal consequence, allowing ourselves to get stuck in the riches, pride, persecution part of the stimuli/reaction cycle described in The Book of Mormon Another Testament of Jesus Christ will result in negative mortal as well as eternal consequences. If we choose to return to God and strive to remain there with all our hearts, minds and strength the promised result will be positive mortal as well as eternal consequences.


THOUGHTS FOR A SABBATH DAY – WILLIAM L. RILEY

EDITED BY – KATHLEEN W. RILEY

❣️THINK + PLAN + PREPARE + DO ➡️ GENTLENESS + KINDNESS + CARING + GENEROSITY ➡️ HUGS + PEACE + JOY + LOVE ➡️ INTEGRITY + FAITH + HOPE + CHARITY❣️ = 💞THE GOOD LIFE💞

LIFE'S LESSONS LEARNED!!

We will develop into the being we were sent to become – more quickly – if we keep our minds on good – and – positive thoughts!!

LIFE'S LESSONS LEARNED!!

The most important change we can make during our process of becoming eternal beings – just may be changing what we think about!!

LIFE'S LESSONS LEARNED!!

We live commandments so we will be counted as being obedient – but – the real purpose of our mortal journey – is to change the nature of our physical bodies!!

LIFE'S LESSONS LEARNED!!

Spiritual awakenings seem to evolve on about a 600 year rotation – if we have to await the 24th century before the next cycle begins – it causes one to wonder if civilization will have ceased to exist!!

LIFE'S LESSONS LEARNED!!

The way mortals change the rules of life – in order to make the way easier – and – more comfortable – constantly adjusting the rules to fit their chosen life styles – would lead us to think they are preparing themselves to become – eternal geezer golfers!!

LIFE'S LESSONS LEARNED!!

High on the list of things we should be grateful for – is being blessed to be passing through mortality – when there are living apostles – and – prophets among us – who can signal to us when course corrections are needed!!

THE EPISTLES OF HELAMAN CONCERING HIS SONS

Although my heart does not delight in conflict nor war I recount the following history extracted from epistles Helaman wrote to his commander Moroni during the Nephite/Lamanite wars which are found in chapters 53-57 of the Book of Alma.

As you read this account which I have rearranged as if it might have been written in the twenty first century, I would hope you would pause while you are reading to ponder upon the following concepts.

The power and promises which come to us when we are faithful to the word of God.

The importance of making and keeping covenants.

Faithfulness is not always passed on or established though blood lines.

There is a reality to the universal kinship of mankind.

The power of the teachings and nurturing of mothers.

Although I have listed the power and teachings of mothers last, there is little doubt that this might be the most important lesson to be learned from this marvelous history which certainly has place along side of Daniel in the lions den and David and Goliath of stories which should be taught to every son during their youth by every mother.

And now behold, I have somewhat to say concerning the people of Ammon, who, in the beginning, were Lamanites; but by Ammon and his brethren, or rather by the power and word of God, they had been converted unto the Lord; and they had been brought down into the land of Zarahemla, and had ever since been protected by the Nephites. And because of their oath they had been kept from taking up arms against their brethren; for they had taken an oath that they never would shed blood more; and according to their oath they would have perished; yea, they would have suffered themselves to have fallen into the hands of their brethren, had it not been for the pity and the exceeding love which Ammon and his brethren had had for them.

And for this cause they were brought down into the land of Zarahemla; and they ever had been protected by the Nephites. But it came to pass that when they saw the danger, and the many afflictions and tribulations which the Nephites bore for them, they were moved with compassion and were desirous to take up arms in the defence of their country. But behold, as they were about to take their weapons of war, they were overpowered by the persuasions of Helaman and his brethren, for they were about to break the oath which they had made.

And Helaman feared lest by so doing they should lose their souls; therefore all those who had entered into this covenant were compelled to behold their brethren wade through their afflictions, in their dangerous circumstances at this time. But behold, it came to pass they had many sons, who had not entered into a covenant that they would not take their weapons of war to defend themselves against their enemies; therefore they did assemble themselves together at this time, as many as were able to take up arms, and they called themselves Nephites. And they entered into a covenant to fight for the liberty of the Nephites, yea, to protect the land unto the laying down of their lives; yea, even they covenanted that they never would give up their liberty, but they would fight in all cases to protect the Nephites and themselves from bondage.

Now behold, there were two thousand of those young men, who entered into this covenant and took their weapons of war to defend their country. And now behold, as they never had hitherto been a disadvantage to the Nephites, they became now at this period of time also a great support; for they took their weapons of war, and they would that Helaman should be their leader. And they were all young men, and they were exceedingly valiant for courage, and also for strength and activity; but behold, this was not all—they were men who were true at all times in whatsoever thing they were entrusted. Yea, they were men of truth and soberness, for they had been taught to keep the commandments of God and to walk uprightly before him. (Alma 53: 10-21)

Behold, two thousand of the sons of those men whom Ammon brought down out of the land of Nephi—now ye have known that these were descendants of Laman, who was the eldest son of our father Lehi; Now I need not rehearse unto you concerning their traditions or their unbelief, for thou knowest concerning all these things—Therefore it sufficeth me that I tell you that two thousand of these young men have taken their weapons of war, and would that I should be their leader; and we have come forth to defend our country. (Alma 56: 3-7)

For as I had ever called them my sons (for they were all of them very young) even so they said unto me: Father, behold our God is with us, and he will not suffer that we should fall; then let us go forth; we would not slay our brethren if they would let us alone; therefore let us go, lest they should overpower the army of Antipus.

Now they never had fought, yet they did not fear death; and they did think more upon the liberty of their fathers than they did upon their lives; yea, they had been taught by their mothers, that if they did not doubt, God would deliver them. And they rehearsed unto me the words of their mothers, saying: We do not doubt our mothers knew it. (Alma 56: 46-48)

Yea, and they did obey and observe to perform every word of command with exactness; yea, and even according to their faith it was done unto them; and I did remember the words which they said unto me that their mothers had taught them.

And now behold, it was these my sons, and those men who had been selected to convey the prisoners, to whom we owe this great victory; for it was they who did beat the Lamanites; therefore they were driven back to the city of Manti. And we retained our city Cumeni, and were not all destroyed by the sword; nevertheless, we had suffered great loss.

And it came to pass that after the Lamanites had fled, I immediately gave orders that my men who had been wounded should be taken from among the dead, and caused that their wounds should be dressed. And it came to pass that there were two hundred, out of my two thousand and sixty, who had fainted because of the loss of blood; nevertheless, according to the goodness of God, and to our great astonishment, and also the joy of our whole army, there was not one soul of them who did perish; yea, and neither was there one soul among them who had not received many wounds.

And now, their preservation was astonishing to our whole army, yea, that they should be spared while there was a thousand of our brethren who were slain. And we do justly ascribe it to the miraculous power of God, because of their exceeding faith in that which they had been taught to believe—that there was a just God, and whosoever did not doubt, that they should be preserved by his marvelous power. Now this was the faith of these of whom I have spoken; they are young, and their minds are firm, and they do put their trust in God continually. (Alma 57: 21-27)

And those sons of the people of Ammon, of whom I have so highly spoken, are with me in the city of Manti; and the Lord has supported them, yea, and kept them from falling by the sword, insomuch that even one soul has not been slain. But behold, they have received many wounds; nevertheless they stand fast in that liberty wherewith God has made them free; and they are strict to remember the Lord their God from day to day; yea, they do observe to keep his statutes, and his judgments, and his commandments continually; and their faith is strong in the prophecies concerning that which is to come. (Alma58: 39-40)


THOUGHTS FOR A SABBATH DAY – WILLIAM L. RILEY

EDITED BY – KATHLEEN W. RILEY

❣️THINK + PLAN + PREPARE + DO ➡️ GENTLENESS + KINDNESS + CARING + GENEROSITY ➡️ HUGS + PEACE + JOY + LOVE ➡️ INTEGRITY + FAITH + HOPE + CHARITY❣️ = 💞THE GOOD LIFE💞