Likening the Scriptures to Ourselves

As I’ve prepared for my new, upcoming calling as Seminary teacher (of which, I’m sure, you will hear a lot about!), I have seriously pondered Nephi’s method of teaching. You see, as Nephi instructed his brothers, he states, “I did liken all scriptures unto us, that it might be for our profit and learning” (1 Nephi 19:23). As he put himself in the scriptures, they began to mean more to him. Similarly, it is my hope as Seminary teacher to help my students realize that all scripture – even from the Old Testament – relates to them in some way. … Continue reading

Scripture Study: 1 Nephi 1:6-9

In verse five, we read that Lehi did pray with all his heart on behalf of his people. Today as we move into verse six, we’ll see the result of that most fervent prayer. “And it came to pass as he prayed unto the Lord, there came a pillar of fire and dwelt upon a rock before him; and he saw and heard much; and because of the things which he saw and heard he did quake and tremble exceedingly.” Because of his focused, sincere prayer, Lehi was given a vision of such magnitude that the fire which symbolized it … Continue reading

Scripture Study: 1 Nephi 1:2-5

In 1 Nephi 1:2, Nephi tells us that he makes this record in the language of his fathers, and then in verse 3, he bears us his testimony and stands as a witness that the things upon the plates are true. He says, speaking of the record, “and I make it according to my knowledge.” He doesn’t say, “I make it because my father told me to,” or “I make it based on stories my father related.” He says that he makes it according to his knowledge, meaning that he knows, for himself personally, that the things he wrote are … Continue reading

Scripture Study: 1 Nephi 1:1

I have a tendency to rush my scripture reading, going from verse to verse as quickly as I can. It’s an easy way to polish off ten or fifteen verses in a hurry, but I’m not getting the meat off the bone, so to speak. I’ve set myself a goal of reading through each of the standard works slowly, really looking at each line and listening to the words as they resonate within me. I invite you to join me on this journey. Starting with 1 Nephi 1:1, which I believe is the most read verse out of any in … Continue reading

Chronology of the Old Testament

I have a confession to make. My scriptural knowledge is fairly weak in the realm of the Old Testament. That must be why I was called to teach the book for Seminary this year! I have been preparing for the calling all summer, and along the way, have learned a wide variety of things. One of them has dramatically shifted my understanding of the Old Testament. That is: the Old Testament is not in chronological order. I always assumed that the first part of the Bible was like most of the Book of Mormon or New Testament, that each book … Continue reading

LDS Family Week in Review: July 22-28

From pioneers to the scriptures to helping our youth, this week has brought a great deal of variety. I hope you will find something to help you in your spiritual walk. Monday, July 23rd: In Pray for Comfort, we talked about praying throughout our trials. In How Do You Know When You’ve Lost the Spirit?, we talk about the slow and gradual loss of the Holy Ghost. And in General Conference: “To the Aaronic Priesthood: Preparing for the Decade of Decision,” we reviewed Elder Robert D. Hales talk to the young men of the church. Tuesday, July 24th: In Dinner … Continue reading

General Conference From the Past: “Look to God and Live”

In October 1978, Elder Carlos E. Asay of the Quorum of the Seventy gave a talk entitled “Look to God and Live.” In this talk, he described the importance of keeping our gaze focused on Christ. In doing so, we, too, might look to our Father in Heaven and receive eternal life. Elder Asay provides various stories, in and out of the scriptures. He begins by speaking of a man who had sunk low. Involved in drinking and in drugs, this man always kept his head low, focused on the feet of those around him. Said Elder Asay, “this alcoholic … Continue reading