12 For my soul delighteth in the song of the heart; yea, the song of the righteous is a prayer unto me, and it shall be answered with a blessing upon their heads.
I have always loved this scripture! It is referring to when revelation was given for Emma Smith was to put together sacred hymns for the church. When I first read this scripture I thought of the many times that I have sat in sacrament meeting and felt as if the hymn I was singing was giving words to the prayer in my heart. I know that in those moments my Heavenly Father is listening - to my prayer.
When I looked closer at this scripture and its footnotes it can be read as "God delighteth in the communication of the heart" it also references the "song of the righteous" as a prayer. So whether it be a song that gives our prayer the words our heart was looking for or a prayer in our heart that communicates with our Heavenly Father; "it shall be answered". What am amazing promise!
If you chose a hymn to describe your prayer this morning, what would it be? "There is sunshine in my soul today" ... maybe "Lead kindly light amidst encircling gloom". Is it one of gratitude, need for comfort? Something to think about today as you say your prayers and keep a prayer in your heart.
Love,
Sister Emett
Tuesday, May 31, 2011
Monday, May 30, 2011
Psalms 107:28-30
28 Then they cry unto the Lord in their trouble, and he bringeth them out of their distresses.
29 He maketh the storm a calm, so that the waves thereof are still.
30 Then are they glad because they be quiet; so he bringeth them unto their desired haven.
These scriptures remind of the hymn Master, the Tempest is Raging, which goes, in part:
If we turn to the Lord in prayer during the "tempests" of our lives, He will calm the waves and help us weather the storm. I remember during a particularly stormy period of my life, I was feeling overwhelmed and unable to meet the challenges that I was facing. I said to a friend, "I don't know who said that the Lord doesn't give us more than we can handle, because that is not true! I can't handle this! It's too much for me!" Her response has always stuck with me. She said, "I don't know about that, but I do know that the scriptures say that with God nothing is impossible." (Mark 10:27). I really believe that there are things that come to us in our lives that we can't handle. Things that are bigger than us. Things that we are not prepared to endure. But, I also truly believe that it is in those times that we can turn our burdens over to the Lord, and He will help us carry them and will make it possible to do anything we need to do in our lives. So, if you find yourself in choppy water, turn to the Lord. Pray to your Father in Heaven, who loves you dearly. He will bring you through your storm and guide you into your desired haven. He will give you peace.
Love,
Sister Jones
29 He maketh the storm a calm, so that the waves thereof are still.
30 Then are they glad because they be quiet; so he bringeth them unto their desired haven.
These scriptures remind of the hymn Master, the Tempest is Raging, which goes, in part:
Master, the tempest is raging!
The billows are tossing high!
The sky is o’ershadowed with blackness.
No shelter or help is nigh.
Carest thou not that we perish?
How canst thou lie asleep
When each moment so madly is threat’ning
A grave in the angry deep?
And then the assuring chorus:
The winds and the waves shall obey thy will:
Peace, be still, peace, be still.
Whether the wrath of the storm-tossed sea
Or demons or men or whatever it be,
No waters can swallow the ship where lies
The Master of ocean and earth and skies.
They all shall sweetly obey thy will:
Peace, be still; peace, be still.
They all shall sweetly obey thy will:
Peace, peace, be still.If we turn to the Lord in prayer during the "tempests" of our lives, He will calm the waves and help us weather the storm. I remember during a particularly stormy period of my life, I was feeling overwhelmed and unable to meet the challenges that I was facing. I said to a friend, "I don't know who said that the Lord doesn't give us more than we can handle, because that is not true! I can't handle this! It's too much for me!" Her response has always stuck with me. She said, "I don't know about that, but I do know that the scriptures say that with God nothing is impossible." (Mark 10:27). I really believe that there are things that come to us in our lives that we can't handle. Things that are bigger than us. Things that we are not prepared to endure. But, I also truly believe that it is in those times that we can turn our burdens over to the Lord, and He will help us carry them and will make it possible to do anything we need to do in our lives. So, if you find yourself in choppy water, turn to the Lord. Pray to your Father in Heaven, who loves you dearly. He will bring you through your storm and guide you into your desired haven. He will give you peace.
Love,
Sister Jones
Sunday, May 29, 2011
1 Thessalonians 5:17-23
17 Pray without ceasing.
18 In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you.
19 Quench not the Spirit.
20 Despise not prophesyings.
21 Prove all things; hold fast that which is good.
22 Abstain from all appearance of evil.
23 And the very God of peace sanctify you wholly; and I pray God your whole spirit and soul and body be preserved blameless unto the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ.
18 In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you.
19 Quench not the Spirit.
20 Despise not prophesyings.
21 Prove all things; hold fast that which is good.
22 Abstain from all appearance of evil.
23 And the very God of peace sanctify you wholly; and I pray God your whole spirit and soul and body be preserved blameless unto the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ.
These scriptures have many ideas and blessing of ways to get the most of our prayers. Praying always, with gratitude for all our blessings. A few General Conference's ago Elder Bednar give a talk about gratitude, he suggested that once in a while when we pray we should only say thank you for our blessing and not ask for anything. I have tried this, I remember one morning when I started my prayer and I felt the spirit whisper "make this a gratitude prayer", at first I didn't want to, I had so much to ask for and help in many areas for my day, but I tried it and by the end of my prayer I was so glad. I felt love from Heavenly Father, I felt more grateful for all the blessing I have and the problems that I needed help from seemed a little more doable. I was also thinking of Verse 19 "Quench Not the Spirit". Who would not want the spirit, who would try and put it out when you have the spirit with you? Well surprisingly enough, all of us. Many times we have the spirit, we know that prayers work, we felt the power in reading our scriptures, we get blessing from priesthood blessing. But mornings come and we don't have time to pray, night time comes and we are to sleepy to say our prayer, we don't ask for special blessing because we think we should do things on our own, we are quenching the spirit, we are not letting the spirit work in us. The cool thing is Heavenly Father knows this is how we learn and grow, he will still be there. Jesus Christ is still there with his arms wide open. Each day we try, we are better than we think. Love Sister MaryAnn Jensen
Saturday, May 28, 2011
Alma 37:36-37
36 Yea, and cry unto God for all thy support; yea, let all thy doings be unto the Lord, and whithersoever thou goest let it be in the Lord; yea, let all thy thoughts be directed unto the Lord; yea, let the affections of thy heart be placed upon the Lord forever.
37 Counsel with the Lord in all thy doings, and he will direct thee for good; yea, when thou liest down at night lie down unto the Lord, that he may watch over you in your sleep; and when thou risest in the morning let thy heart be full of thanks unto God; and if ye do these things, ye shall be lifted up at the last day.
Need Help? Ask God!, Need Guidance? Ask God!, Isn't it wonderful, (with all we have to do every day, places to go, meetings, doctor appointments, school, church, work, etc.) when we want God in our lives, all we have to do is Ask. No where to go, No appointment to make, No open/closed hours to worry about. Just make the moment and Ask God!
The other day, someone who hadn't seen me in a few weeks, made the comment, where is Carol's smiling face? It made me stop and think. What am I doing with my life, how will I be remembered by those around me. If I counsel with the Lord in all my doings, I think I will be appreciated for what I bring. (Even if my own kids, just think I'm a mean old mom.)
When I wake up am I happy and greatful for the new day? When I go to bed, do I ask God to watch over me, and keep me safe from harm?
When I work on this blog, I feel so good about what I write, until a few days later, I re-read my comments, and see that you could really be confused about what I mean......so, Please pray about these scriptures, and then with the Lord and Holy Ghost's help, you will understand.
As always with Love and Gratitude, Sister Woolsey
37 Counsel with the Lord in all thy doings, and he will direct thee for good; yea, when thou liest down at night lie down unto the Lord, that he may watch over you in your sleep; and when thou risest in the morning let thy heart be full of thanks unto God; and if ye do these things, ye shall be lifted up at the last day.
Need Help? Ask God!, Need Guidance? Ask God!, Isn't it wonderful, (with all we have to do every day, places to go, meetings, doctor appointments, school, church, work, etc.) when we want God in our lives, all we have to do is Ask. No where to go, No appointment to make, No open/closed hours to worry about. Just make the moment and Ask God!
The other day, someone who hadn't seen me in a few weeks, made the comment, where is Carol's smiling face? It made me stop and think. What am I doing with my life, how will I be remembered by those around me. If I counsel with the Lord in all my doings, I think I will be appreciated for what I bring. (Even if my own kids, just think I'm a mean old mom.)
When I wake up am I happy and greatful for the new day? When I go to bed, do I ask God to watch over me, and keep me safe from harm?
When I work on this blog, I feel so good about what I write, until a few days later, I re-read my comments, and see that you could really be confused about what I mean......so, Please pray about these scriptures, and then with the Lord and Holy Ghost's help, you will understand.
As always with Love and Gratitude, Sister Woolsey
Friday, May 27, 2011
Moroni 7:26
26 And after that he came men also were saved by faith in his name; and by faith, they become the sons of God. And as surely as Christ liveth he spake these words unto our fathers, saying: Whatsoever thing ye shall ask the Father in my name, which is good, in faith believing that ye shall receive, behold, it shall be done unto you.
Memorial Day is a bittersweet holiday for me. I look forward to it because it means that the school year is almost over and that I get 2 1/2 months off of work (Yaa!!). What makes it bittersweet is the trip we take to the cemetery every year. It's been almost 15 years since I lost my Dad to cancer. While I remember him often, on Memorial day we visit his grave site. It's an interesting thing to look down at a gravestone of someone who had such a huge impact on your life. I often wonder as I do so, what he thinks of me and what I have done with my life. His gravestone lists his name, my mom's name, and the names of each of his children. That means that my own name is right there next to his on that gravestone. Maybe you've heard the question before, "What have you done with my name?" That is what goes through my mind as I am there at that physical reminder of my Dad.
My dad was (and is) one of my greatest heroes. He was my champion, my cheerleader. Much of what I accomplished in my high school and college career was motivated in part by a desire to please him, to make him proud of me. He listened to me when I cried, he cheered my successes, he fueled my love of music, and even greatly influenced my career decision. I was blessed to have my Dad as one of my professors in graduate school. He would babysit my oldest when he was just a baby and I was in class, and proudly show him off to all of his colleagues (or just anyone that was around). I knew that he loved my child as much as he loved me.
Because of how much he loved me, it is still important to me that I live a life that he would be proud of. What have I done with his name? Have I lived a life that reflects all of the wonderful qualities that he taught me? Would someone who knew him, recognize his wonderful qualities in me, his daughter?
This scriptures invites us, through faith, to become sons (or daughters) of God. All of our Heavenly Father's good qualities are inside of us, because we are his children. As much as my Dad loves me, and I love him, our Heavenly Father's love for us is even stronger! It's hard to even comprehend how much love that is. In return, are we living up to His name? When I stand at my Dad's graveside, I make a renewed commitment to do a better job of living up to who he wanted me to be. When I pray, that is my chance to let my Heavenly Father know that I want to be recognized as one of His daughters. To recommit to live a life that He can be proud of. Just as my own Dad was there to listen to me through my tears, our Heavenly Father wants to hear all of our problems. Just as my Dad was my biggest supporter, our Heavenly Father wants, more than anything, for us to be happy and successful in our life's journey. When you say your prayers today, think of someone who is your biggest champion, and remember that your Heavenly Father loves you even more perfectly. Wow! Aren't we lucky to know that?
Have a wonderful day knowing how much you are loved!
Sis. Norris
Memorial Day is a bittersweet holiday for me. I look forward to it because it means that the school year is almost over and that I get 2 1/2 months off of work (Yaa!!). What makes it bittersweet is the trip we take to the cemetery every year. It's been almost 15 years since I lost my Dad to cancer. While I remember him often, on Memorial day we visit his grave site. It's an interesting thing to look down at a gravestone of someone who had such a huge impact on your life. I often wonder as I do so, what he thinks of me and what I have done with my life. His gravestone lists his name, my mom's name, and the names of each of his children. That means that my own name is right there next to his on that gravestone. Maybe you've heard the question before, "What have you done with my name?" That is what goes through my mind as I am there at that physical reminder of my Dad.
My dad was (and is) one of my greatest heroes. He was my champion, my cheerleader. Much of what I accomplished in my high school and college career was motivated in part by a desire to please him, to make him proud of me. He listened to me when I cried, he cheered my successes, he fueled my love of music, and even greatly influenced my career decision. I was blessed to have my Dad as one of my professors in graduate school. He would babysit my oldest when he was just a baby and I was in class, and proudly show him off to all of his colleagues (or just anyone that was around). I knew that he loved my child as much as he loved me.
Because of how much he loved me, it is still important to me that I live a life that he would be proud of. What have I done with his name? Have I lived a life that reflects all of the wonderful qualities that he taught me? Would someone who knew him, recognize his wonderful qualities in me, his daughter?
This scriptures invites us, through faith, to become sons (or daughters) of God. All of our Heavenly Father's good qualities are inside of us, because we are his children. As much as my Dad loves me, and I love him, our Heavenly Father's love for us is even stronger! It's hard to even comprehend how much love that is. In return, are we living up to His name? When I stand at my Dad's graveside, I make a renewed commitment to do a better job of living up to who he wanted me to be. When I pray, that is my chance to let my Heavenly Father know that I want to be recognized as one of His daughters. To recommit to live a life that He can be proud of. Just as my own Dad was there to listen to me through my tears, our Heavenly Father wants to hear all of our problems. Just as my Dad was my biggest supporter, our Heavenly Father wants, more than anything, for us to be happy and successful in our life's journey. When you say your prayers today, think of someone who is your biggest champion, and remember that your Heavenly Father loves you even more perfectly. Wow! Aren't we lucky to know that?
Have a wonderful day knowing how much you are loved!
Sis. Norris
Thursday, May 26, 2011
D&C 68:28
28 And they shall also teach their children to pray, and to walk uprightly before the Lord.
One of my favorite quotes goes something like this, "Preach the Gospel. And, if necessary use words." The best way to teach someone is by example. I know you Young Women don't have children yet, but if you get in the habit now of praying morning and night (and throughout the day), you can carry that into your marriage. Then, as you kneel in prayer alone and with your husband, your children will see you and their testimony of prayer will be strengthened. They will learn to pray from your example. And, won't it be easier to start that habit now rather then when you have little children running around? I testify to you that the things you learn now, and the habits that you form now will effect your life as a wife and a mother. Start today and make morning and evening prayer a priority in your life. Then, when you do have children they will learn from your example and will "walk uprightly before the Lord".
Love you,
Sister Norman
One of my favorite quotes goes something like this, "Preach the Gospel. And, if necessary use words." The best way to teach someone is by example. I know you Young Women don't have children yet, but if you get in the habit now of praying morning and night (and throughout the day), you can carry that into your marriage. Then, as you kneel in prayer alone and with your husband, your children will see you and their testimony of prayer will be strengthened. They will learn to pray from your example. And, won't it be easier to start that habit now rather then when you have little children running around? I testify to you that the things you learn now, and the habits that you form now will effect your life as a wife and a mother. Start today and make morning and evening prayer a priority in your life. Then, when you do have children they will learn from your example and will "walk uprightly before the Lord".
Love you,
Sister Norman
Wednesday, May 25, 2011
Helaman 3:35
"Nevertheless they did fast and pray oft, and did wax stronger and stronger in their humility, and firmer and firmer in the faith of Christ, unto the filling their souls with joy and consolation, yea, even to the purifying and the sanctification of their hearts, which sanctification cometh because of their yielding their hearts unto God."
As a kindergartner, you probably made an art project of a traffic light and learned a song about the meaning of each color of that light. And then as you got in the car with your parents, you watched and understood that green meant go and red meant stop, but when the light turned yellow, you may have become puzzled because people didn’t always slow down. In our fast paced society, many drivers ignore the prepare to stop warning given by the yellow light and instead increase their speed in order to make it through the light. If you have driven through the roundabout on 4800 West, you probably have realized that the yield signs are often ignored by many drivers. When obeyed, these signs and lights keep those on the roads safe, but when ignored can put our lives at risk. When we follow the sign and yield, we give way to the other driver. At times, we may need to exercise patience in following these traffic laws. Those who ignore the lights and signs usually feel as if they know what is best.
As a kindergartner, you probably made an art project of a traffic light and learned a song about the meaning of each color of that light. And then as you got in the car with your parents, you watched and understood that green meant go and red meant stop, but when the light turned yellow, you may have become puzzled because people didn’t always slow down. In our fast paced society, many drivers ignore the prepare to stop warning given by the yellow light and instead increase their speed in order to make it through the light. If you have driven through the roundabout on 4800 West, you probably have realized that the yield signs are often ignored by many drivers. When obeyed, these signs and lights keep those on the roads safe, but when ignored can put our lives at risk. When we follow the sign and yield, we give way to the other driver. At times, we may need to exercise patience in following these traffic laws. Those who ignore the lights and signs usually feel as if they know what is best.
Yield means to give way to influence, to submit, or surrender. When we yield our hearts to God, we willingly give way for His influence to be felt and submit to His desires for us. We must slow down and allow His spirit to be felt. We acknowledge that He knows what is best for us. We recognize that obeying His laws brings us safety. At times, our patience may be tested when we want trials to be removed and answers to come quickly. The Bible dictionary states that “Prayer is the act by which the will of the Father and the will of the child are brought into correspondence with each other. The object of prayer is not to change the will of God, but to secure for ourselves and for others blessings that God is already willing to grant, but that are made conditional on our asking for them.” As you kneel to pray today, before asking for the things you want, take the time to slow down and yield to your Father’s influence, and then ask for the blessings that He desires for you. Don't be in a hurry as you pray because you will miss the moments God has given you to feel His love for you.
Love, Sister Linnell
Tuesday, May 24, 2011
1 Nephi 18:3
3 And I, Nephi, did go into the mount oft, and I did pray oft unto the Lord; wherefore the Lord showed unto me great things.
Nephi was asked to build a ship. He was asked to build a ship like he had never seen before.
How often are we faced with something that we have not seen before? This happens to me all the time and I wonder how am I going to do that. Nephi was a good example of what we can do.
He went into the mount oft, and did pray oft. We can find a place of refuge just like Nephi to pray and ask for guidance with the things we are facing. We can go to the temple often to pray, we can also find a quiet spot at home. Remember to wait and listen for the answers to your problems.
Love,
Sister Madsen
Nephi was asked to build a ship. He was asked to build a ship like he had never seen before.
How often are we faced with something that we have not seen before? This happens to me all the time and I wonder how am I going to do that. Nephi was a good example of what we can do.
He went into the mount oft, and did pray oft. We can find a place of refuge just like Nephi to pray and ask for guidance with the things we are facing. We can go to the temple often to pray, we can also find a quiet spot at home. Remember to wait and listen for the answers to your problems.
Love,
Sister Madsen
Monday, May 23, 2011
Acts 27:35
35 And when he had thus spoken, he took bread, and gave thanks to God in presence of them all: and when he had broken it, he began to eat.
Have you ever given thanks to your Heavenly Father "in the presence of them all"? If you have ever been asked to pray at a meeting, gathering, or even a family meal than you have!!
What a wonderful opportunity to not only express your thanks to your Heavenly Father for your blessings, but to be able to share your testimony of Him and his goodness to those in your presence. Sometimes when I am in a meeting and I am asked to pray, I feel self conscious and nervous. I wonder, "What am I going to say?" I have actually said a little private prayer before offering a public prayer so that my Heavenly Father will guide me to the words I should say. I have been in meetings where the prayer offered seemed like it was just for me, and I knew that the person praying was listening to the spirit for inspiration.
If we take opportunities to pray privately, and publicly our testimony of prayer will grow. If we include our Heavenly Father in our thanks for things both large and small we will also have more gratitude.
I LOVE YOU!!
Sister Horne
Have you ever given thanks to your Heavenly Father "in the presence of them all"? If you have ever been asked to pray at a meeting, gathering, or even a family meal than you have!!
What a wonderful opportunity to not only express your thanks to your Heavenly Father for your blessings, but to be able to share your testimony of Him and his goodness to those in your presence. Sometimes when I am in a meeting and I am asked to pray, I feel self conscious and nervous. I wonder, "What am I going to say?" I have actually said a little private prayer before offering a public prayer so that my Heavenly Father will guide me to the words I should say. I have been in meetings where the prayer offered seemed like it was just for me, and I knew that the person praying was listening to the spirit for inspiration.
If we take opportunities to pray privately, and publicly our testimony of prayer will grow. If we include our Heavenly Father in our thanks for things both large and small we will also have more gratitude.
I LOVE YOU!!
Sister Horne
Sunday, May 22, 2011
Psalms 55:16-17 & 22
16 As for me, I will call upon God; and the Lord shall save me.
17 Evening, and morning, and at noon, will I pray, and cry aloud: and he shall hear my voice.
22 Cast thy burden upon the Lord, and he shall sustain thee: he shall never suffer the righteous to be moved.
17 Evening, and morning, and at noon, will I pray, and cry aloud: and he shall hear my voice.
22 Cast thy burden upon the Lord, and he shall sustain thee: he shall never suffer the righteous to be moved.
This last Sunday I was asked to teach in YW for ward conferences on the subject of personal revelation. So it has been a topic on my mind. In my lesson I referenced a quote by President Uchtdorf which states:
"Often, the answer to our prayer does not come while we’re on our knees but while we’re on our feet serving the Lord and serving those around us. "
Just a few minutes ago I was upstairs cutting up a cantaloupe for my kids to eat. Yes, it is not the time I would expect to receive any answers to my prayers. But I felt an impression regarding a family matter that has been weighing on me lately. You see this particular matter was the subject of much of my prayers last Tuesday evening and Wednesday morning. And while I sure would have loved an immediate answer to this after my prayer, I knew it would come when I was ready and open to it. I just didn't expect it while I was standing in my kitchen cutting fruit. Following these thoughts and feelings, Pres. Uchtdorf's words immediately came to my mind.
I am so grateful for a Heavenly Father that will always answer our heartfelt prayers. Keep the prayer in your heart, pray often and have faith. In the quiet moments of your day, the spirit will speak to you. I testify of this!
Love,
Sister Emett
Saturday, May 21, 2011
Alma 34:38-39
38 That ye contend no more against the Holy Ghost, but that ye receive it, and take upon you the name of Christ; that ye humble yourselves even to the dust, and worship God, in whatsoever place ye may be in, in spirit and in truth; and that ye live in thanksgiving daily, for the many mercies and blessings which he doth bestow upon you.
39 Yea, and I also exhort you, my brethren, that ye be watchful unto prayer continually, that ye may not be led away by the temptations of the devil, that he may not overpower you, that ye may not become his subjects at the last day; for behold, he rewardeth you no good thing.
"Live in thanksgiving daily, for the many mercies and blessing which he doth bestow upon you." What great advice! I find that when I remember to do this, I am happy and grateful. When I forget to do this, I get grumpy and feel like life is unfair. It doesn't matter what is going on in our lives, there will always be blessings to count.
In the book The Hiding Place, by Corrie Ten Boom, the author recounts her time in a Nazi concentration camp during the Holocaust. Corrie wasn't a Jew. She was a Christian who sheltered Jews, so she and her sister Betsie are sent to a horrific concentration camp. By a miracle, she is able to sneak in part of the New Testament and is able to read from it during her stay. Betsie tells Corrie that they must give thanks in all things. The following is an excerpt from the book of a conversation between Betsie and Corrie:
What can we find to give thanks for today? Everything in our life is a blessing, even the things that seem to be burdens or trials. So, my challenge is to start giving thanks today for everything you have. Everything, even if it's the "fleas" of your life--the things that are hard, annoying, or difficult. The Lord blesses us through our experiences here, and as we learn to be grateful for everything, we will find more joy in our lives.
Love,
Sister Jones
39 Yea, and I also exhort you, my brethren, that ye be watchful unto prayer continually, that ye may not be led away by the temptations of the devil, that he may not overpower you, that ye may not become his subjects at the last day; for behold, he rewardeth you no good thing.
"Live in thanksgiving daily, for the many mercies and blessing which he doth bestow upon you." What great advice! I find that when I remember to do this, I am happy and grateful. When I forget to do this, I get grumpy and feel like life is unfair. It doesn't matter what is going on in our lives, there will always be blessings to count.
In the book The Hiding Place, by Corrie Ten Boom, the author recounts her time in a Nazi concentration camp during the Holocaust. Corrie wasn't a Jew. She was a Christian who sheltered Jews, so she and her sister Betsie are sent to a horrific concentration camp. By a miracle, she is able to sneak in part of the New Testament and is able to read from it during her stay. Betsie tells Corrie that they must give thanks in all things. The following is an excerpt from the book of a conversation between Betsie and Corrie:
Corrie and Betsie are incredulous that out of all the barracks in the concentration camp, their barracks are the only one that the guards will not enter, thus leaving them some degree of freedom. They find out later, it’s because of the fleas. Corrie really is grateful for those fleas.” . . . ‘Rejoice always, pray constantly, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus -’”
“That’s it, Corrie! That’s His answer. ‘Give thanks in all circumstances! That’s what we can do. We can start right now to thank God for every single thing about this new barracks!”
I stared at her, than around me at the dark, foul-aired room.
“Such as?” I said.
“Such as being assigned here together.”
I bit my lip. “Oh yes, Lord Jesus!”
“Such as what you’re holding in your hands.”
I looked down at the Bible. “Yes! Thank You, dear Lord, there was no inspection when we entered here! Thank You for all the women, here in this room, who will meet You in these pages.”
“Yes,” said Betsie. “Thank You for the very crowding here. Since we’re packed so close, that many more will hear!” She look at me expectantly. “Corrie!” she prodded.
“Oh, all right. Thank You for the jammed, crammed, stuffed, packed, suffocating crowds.”
“Thank You,” Betsie went on serenely, “for the fleas and for -”
The fleas! This was too much. “Bestsie, there’s no way even God can make me grateful for a flea.”
“‘Give thanks in all circumstances,;” she quoted. “It doesn’t say ‘in pleasant circumstances.’ Fleas are a part of this place where God has put us.”
And so we stood between piers of bunks and gave thanks for fleas. But this time I was sure Betsie was wrong.
What can we find to give thanks for today? Everything in our life is a blessing, even the things that seem to be burdens or trials. So, my challenge is to start giving thanks today for everything you have. Everything, even if it's the "fleas" of your life--the things that are hard, annoying, or difficult. The Lord blesses us through our experiences here, and as we learn to be grateful for everything, we will find more joy in our lives.
Love,
Sister Jones
Friday, May 20, 2011
D&C 59:9
9 And that thou mayest more fully keep thyself unspotted from the world, thou shalt go to the house of prayer and offer up thy sacraments upon my holy day
The times that I have visited the local Middle and High Schools and walked the halls, I have been sadden by the horrible language that I hear. I am sad that our youth have to hear this everyday, more sad if it is our Young Women and Young Men in our wards and Stake that are using offensive language. Today's prayer scripture has an awesome blessing attached to it, if we keep the Sabbath Day holy, if we go to church with a prayer in our hearts and partake of the sacrament we can be unspotted by the world. A cool image came to my mind, to see our youth walking around with big bubbles around them and all the ugliness and offensiveness bouncing off and only goodness and love can get through, can you imagine this too, to be unspotted from the world. A challenge for you, this Sunday pray in the morning before church that you will feel the power of the covenants you made at baptism, at church listen to the sacrament prayers and try hard to focus on Jesus Christ,think of ways that he has helped you and ways that you can help him. After church find a quiet place and pray again. I think you will find that you turned an ordinary Sunday into a Sabbath day, a special day that puts a bubble around you for the rest of the week. Prayers work, they have power.
Have a wonderful Day, and a wonderful Sabbath, Love Sister MaryAnn Jensen
The times that I have visited the local Middle and High Schools and walked the halls, I have been sadden by the horrible language that I hear. I am sad that our youth have to hear this everyday, more sad if it is our Young Women and Young Men in our wards and Stake that are using offensive language. Today's prayer scripture has an awesome blessing attached to it, if we keep the Sabbath Day holy, if we go to church with a prayer in our hearts and partake of the sacrament we can be unspotted by the world. A cool image came to my mind, to see our youth walking around with big bubbles around them and all the ugliness and offensiveness bouncing off and only goodness and love can get through, can you imagine this too, to be unspotted from the world. A challenge for you, this Sunday pray in the morning before church that you will feel the power of the covenants you made at baptism, at church listen to the sacrament prayers and try hard to focus on Jesus Christ,think of ways that he has helped you and ways that you can help him. After church find a quiet place and pray again. I think you will find that you turned an ordinary Sunday into a Sabbath day, a special day that puts a bubble around you for the rest of the week. Prayers work, they have power.
Have a wonderful Day, and a wonderful Sabbath, Love Sister MaryAnn Jensen
Thursday, May 19, 2011
Alma 8:10
10 Nevertheless Alma labored much in the spirit, wrestling with God in mighty prayer, that he would pour out his Spirit upon the people who were in the city; that he would also grant that he might baptize them unto repentance.
Have you ever looked around you and wished you could just get others see what they are giving up? Did you wish you knew how to ask God for help? I know it sounds simple, and it is. Just speak from your heart, God is listening. Make today different, look for an opportunity to serve those around you, maybe it's a smile, or a Hello, maybe it's holding a door for someone. Maybe it's including a friend in your morning prayers. Only you can make a difference.
Love, Sister Woolsey
Have you ever looked around you and wished you could just get others see what they are giving up? Did you wish you knew how to ask God for help? I know it sounds simple, and it is. Just speak from your heart, God is listening. Make today different, look for an opportunity to serve those around you, maybe it's a smile, or a Hello, maybe it's holding a door for someone. Maybe it's including a friend in your morning prayers. Only you can make a difference.
Love, Sister Woolsey
Wednesday, May 18, 2011
2 Chronicles 15:4
4 But when they in their trouble did turn unto the Lord God of Israel, and sought him, he was found of them.
I love this concept. "He was found of them" One of my favorite pictures of the Savior is the one where He is standing at the door waiting for us to knock. There is no door knob on the door. The Savior is waiting for us. At times in my life when I am feeling distant, where my life is out of joint and I'm struggling, when I take inventory of how I am doing I find that I have moved away from my Savior. What a concept of hope that when we turn to Him in our time of trouble He promises that we will find Him! Not only that but He's telling us that that is okay. Sometimes when I now that I am feeling distant, I feel guilty that I am only coming to Him when I am in trouble. But in this scripture He tells us that it is okay. We can find Him when we turn to Him. I consider this the greatest gift that I have been given.. No matter what, He is there. We can find Him.
Love you all,
Sis. Norris
I love this concept. "He was found of them" One of my favorite pictures of the Savior is the one where He is standing at the door waiting for us to knock. There is no door knob on the door. The Savior is waiting for us. At times in my life when I am feeling distant, where my life is out of joint and I'm struggling, when I take inventory of how I am doing I find that I have moved away from my Savior. What a concept of hope that when we turn to Him in our time of trouble He promises that we will find Him! Not only that but He's telling us that that is okay. Sometimes when I now that I am feeling distant, I feel guilty that I am only coming to Him when I am in trouble. But in this scripture He tells us that it is okay. We can find Him when we turn to Him. I consider this the greatest gift that I have been given.. No matter what, He is there. We can find Him.
Love you all,
Sis. Norris
Tuesday, May 17, 2011
Jonah 2:7
7 When my soul fainted within me I remembered the Lord: and my prayer came in unto thee, into thine holy temple.
This scripture is referring to Jonah, when he was in the belly of a whale. He was praying to Heavenly Father for help in his afflictions. I mean, he was stuck in the belly of a whale. That is quite the affliction!
Do you ever feel Jonah? Like you are so deep in a trial, that there is no way out? Do you feel like your burdens are too heavy, too much to handle? I urge you to pray! The Lord will help you. His Spirit will comfort you. It may be in the Lord's time. (This is a hard one for me still to understand.) And, His answer may be no. But, I trust that the Lord is merciful and kind and just and He will always be there for you. He will guide you through your afflictions. You probably will not have to be vomited out like a fish from the belly of a whale. But, you will eventually find peace and understanding in your trials.
Love you,
Sister Norman
This scripture is referring to Jonah, when he was in the belly of a whale. He was praying to Heavenly Father for help in his afflictions. I mean, he was stuck in the belly of a whale. That is quite the affliction!
Do you ever feel Jonah? Like you are so deep in a trial, that there is no way out? Do you feel like your burdens are too heavy, too much to handle? I urge you to pray! The Lord will help you. His Spirit will comfort you. It may be in the Lord's time. (This is a hard one for me still to understand.) And, His answer may be no. But, I trust that the Lord is merciful and kind and just and He will always be there for you. He will guide you through your afflictions. You probably will not have to be vomited out like a fish from the belly of a whale. But, you will eventually find peace and understanding in your trials.
Love you,
Sister Norman
Monday, May 16, 2011
D&C 52:15
"Wherefore he that prayeth, whose spirit is contrite, the same is accepted of me if he obey mine ordinances."
Have you ever felt rejected by a friend? Maybe you have longed to be a part of a group or club at school, but they haven’t accepted you. Most of us feel a need to be accepted by our friends and even those not in our social group. We may worry about how our choices will be received and accepted by others. Acceptance by others seems to be vital to our self-worth. Often times we are not included because others are selfish, petty, and cruel. Trying to navigate the rules of acceptance by our peers could often bring one to feel frustrated, and as if they have no value. As I look back on my teenage years, I wonder why so much energy was used to be accepted by people who didn’t always have my best interest. It seemed a lot of hard work to wear the right clothes, say the right things, and act the right way to be accepted.
We don’t need to wear a certain pair of jeans or belong to the popular group to be accepted by our Heavenly Father. The Lord loves us for who we are because we are His creation. His rules of acceptance are not arbitrary. They don’t change on a whim. He wants us to be a part of His group. All He asks is that we be teachable and willing to obey His commandments. Through humble prayer, we can know of our standing before the Lord, and as we seek His guidance, we can feel His love and acceptance. He does know what experiences and decisions are best for us. Knowing that we are His daughter provides our true source of worth. As you long to feel acceptance, pour out your heart to your Father, and He will bless you with His love, and you will know that you are a daughter of great worth.
Love, Sister Linnell
Sunday, May 15, 2011
2 Nephi 4:30-35
30 Rejoice, O my heart, and cry unto the Lord, and say: O Lord, I will praise thee forever; yea, my soul will rejoice in thee, my God, and the rock of my salvation. 31 O Lord, wilt thou redeem my soul? Wilt thou deliver me out of the hands of mine enemies? Wilt thou make me that I may shake at the appearance of sin? 32 May the gates of hell be shut continually before me, because that my heart is broken and my spirit is contrite! O Lord, wilt thou not shut the gates of thy righteousness before me, that I may walk in the path of the low valley, that I may be strict in the plain road! 33 O Lord, wilt thou encircle me around in the robe of thy righteousness! O Lord, wilt thou make a way for mine escape before mine enemies! Wilt thou make my path straight before me! Wilt thou not place a stumbling block in my way—but that thou wouldst clear my way before me, and hedge not up my way, but the ways of mine enemy. 34 O Lord, I have trusted in thee, and I will trust in thee forever. I will not put my trust in the arm of flesh; for I know that cursed is he that putteth his trust in the arm of flesh. Yea, cursed is he that putteth his trust in man or maketh flesh his arm. 35 Yea, I know that God will give liberally to him that asketh. Yea, my God will give me, if I ask not amiss; therefore I will lift up my voice unto thee; yea, I will cry unto thee, my God, the rock of my righteousness. Behold, my voice shall forever ascend up unto thee, my rock and mine everlasting God. Amen.
This is Nephi putting his whole trust in God. It also is a prayer unto god. He gives a pattern that we could follow. First he rejoices in God, then in vers 31 he asks for forgivesness and asks for help against sin. He asks for help with his enemies in 33. Then in 35 he says I know that God will give liberally to him that asketh. He delcares that God is the rock of righteousness and that he will pray unto God forever.
We can always rely on the Lord no matter what. I like that this scripture says ask and god will give liberally. Let God be your rock he will always be there to listen.
Love,
Sister Madsen
This is Nephi putting his whole trust in God. It also is a prayer unto god. He gives a pattern that we could follow. First he rejoices in God, then in vers 31 he asks for forgivesness and asks for help against sin. He asks for help with his enemies in 33. Then in 35 he says I know that God will give liberally to him that asketh. He delcares that God is the rock of righteousness and that he will pray unto God forever.
We can always rely on the Lord no matter what. I like that this scripture says ask and god will give liberally. Let God be your rock he will always be there to listen.
Love,
Sister Madsen
Saturday, May 14, 2011
1 John 3:22-24
22 And whatsoever we ask, we receive of him, because we keep his commandments, and do those things that are pleasing in his sight.
23 And this is his commandment, That we should believe on the name of his Son Jesus Christ, and love one another, as he gave us commandment.
24 And he that keepeth his commandments dwelleth in him, and he in him. And hereby we know that he abideth in us, by the Spirit which he hath given us.
We were discussing the subject of prayer the other night at dinner. I told my boys that they could find the answer to anything in the scriptures and would be given the answer to whatever they desired if they offered a sincere prayer. Their skeptical looks reminded me of a time a few months ago when I was really struggling with my college math class.
I was home alone, working on my homework and feeling increasingly frustrated because I did not understand the concepts. I suddenly felt the impression to pray. I thanked my Heavenly Father for the opportunity I had to be in school and learn new things. I then expressed my frustration at my inability to grasp my math homework. I ended my prayer and started on my homework again. I was able to finish my homework and I was doing so my son came home from school. He asked how my homework was going and I told him how frustrated I had been, but after my prayer I was able to understand and finish rather quickly. He was surprised that I would receive Heavenly help for homework, but I explained that we can receive help for whatever our righteous desires may be.
I told this story to my boys and bore testimony that they will receive help from their Heavenly Father on ANY problem if they just ask.
I bear the same testimony to each of you. If you have a big problem, or one that seems silly and insignificant please know that your Heavenly Father wants to help you, if you will just ask.
I LOVE YOU!
Sister Horne
23 And this is his commandment, That we should believe on the name of his Son Jesus Christ, and love one another, as he gave us commandment.
24 And he that keepeth his commandments dwelleth in him, and he in him. And hereby we know that he abideth in us, by the Spirit which he hath given us.
We were discussing the subject of prayer the other night at dinner. I told my boys that they could find the answer to anything in the scriptures and would be given the answer to whatever they desired if they offered a sincere prayer. Their skeptical looks reminded me of a time a few months ago when I was really struggling with my college math class.
I was home alone, working on my homework and feeling increasingly frustrated because I did not understand the concepts. I suddenly felt the impression to pray. I thanked my Heavenly Father for the opportunity I had to be in school and learn new things. I then expressed my frustration at my inability to grasp my math homework. I ended my prayer and started on my homework again. I was able to finish my homework and I was doing so my son came home from school. He asked how my homework was going and I told him how frustrated I had been, but after my prayer I was able to understand and finish rather quickly. He was surprised that I would receive Heavenly help for homework, but I explained that we can receive help for whatever our righteous desires may be.
I told this story to my boys and bore testimony that they will receive help from their Heavenly Father on ANY problem if they just ask.
I bear the same testimony to each of you. If you have a big problem, or one that seems silly and insignificant please know that your Heavenly Father wants to help you, if you will just ask.
I LOVE YOU!
Sister Horne
Friday, May 13, 2011
D&C 10:5
5 Pray always, that you may come off conqueror; yea, that you may conquer Satan, and that you may escape the hands of the servants of Satan that do uphold his work.
Who doesn't want to "come off conqueror" when if comes to Satan? His influences are all around us these days. We each have power over them with the help of the Holy Ghost. Pray for that power! I know that by doing so we will recognize the evil for what it is and be able to immediately turn away with confidence. Then we will be the CONQUEROR!!!!
Love,
Sister Emett
Thursday, May 12, 2011
1 Timothy 2:8
"I will therefore that men pray every where, lifting up holy hands, without wrath and doubting."
The phrase in this scripture that stands out to me is "without wrath and doubting." Do we pray without doubting?
It was the summer of 2004 in Austin, Texas. My 2 year old son Spencer was smack in the middle of a full year of chemotherapy for a rare childhood cancer called rhabdomyosarcoma. My oldest daughter Annie was 4 years old, and my youngest daughter Sophie was 1. I normally had a neighbor friend watch my girls while I went to the hospital with Spencer for treatment, because the days were long and it was hard to manage three small children in a hospital environment all day long. But this particular morning we had gone in for a "quick" appointment to check Spencer's blood levels. It turned out that he was, once again, severely low on blood and needed a transfusion. So, our morning trip ended up being an all day trip. My youngest two didn't get the naps they needed and we finally hit the freeway to make the 30 minute drive home right around 5pm, just as rush hour hit I-35.
Spencer (2) was nauseated from the chemotherapy and not feeling well. Sophie (1) was crying because she hadn't napped and was overly tired. Annie (4) was hungry, because we had not brought any food to the hospital with us and so she hadn't eaten well. We were all overwhelmed and exhausted from a long and trying day. Just as we pulled on to the freeway, traffic came to a complete stop. We were not going anywhere. I don't remember exactly what I said, but I know that I voiced my frustration at being stuck in traffic. My 4 year old piped up from the backseat, "Why don't we say a prayer, Mom?"
I'm ashamed to admit that my first thought was, "How do I explain to my 4 year old that God has more important things to do than control traffic on I-35? If we're going to pray for something, there are bigger things to pray for, and the Lord isn't going to trouble Himself with rush hour traffic on a Wednesday afternoon." Instead I said, "Okay. Why don't you say a prayer, Annie?" Her quick response was, "You say it, Mom."
Sighing, I conceded and said a quick prayer, asking Heavenly Father to help us get home safely and to help make the cars move. I closed the prayer and immediately traffic started moving. Within the minute, cars were moving at freeway speeds again and I was left feeling overwhelmed with humility. I have no doubt that it was because of the faith of my 4 year old that my prayer was answered, and not my own (lack of) faith. I had wondered why Heavenly Father would answer such an insignificant prayer. But, I realized that He wants to answer our prayers. He wants to help us out when He can. He didn't take the bigger trial of Spencer's cancer diagnosis and treatment away, but He answered little prayers and provided blessing after blessing along the way to ease the burden and show that His hand was still in our lives.
We do not need to doubt. Our Father loves us and wants to help us. We can ask in faith, without doubting, for His help. He is there. He will hear your prayers. He will bless you.
Love,
Sister Jones
The phrase in this scripture that stands out to me is "without wrath and doubting." Do we pray without doubting?
It was the summer of 2004 in Austin, Texas. My 2 year old son Spencer was smack in the middle of a full year of chemotherapy for a rare childhood cancer called rhabdomyosarcoma. My oldest daughter Annie was 4 years old, and my youngest daughter Sophie was 1. I normally had a neighbor friend watch my girls while I went to the hospital with Spencer for treatment, because the days were long and it was hard to manage three small children in a hospital environment all day long. But this particular morning we had gone in for a "quick" appointment to check Spencer's blood levels. It turned out that he was, once again, severely low on blood and needed a transfusion. So, our morning trip ended up being an all day trip. My youngest two didn't get the naps they needed and we finally hit the freeway to make the 30 minute drive home right around 5pm, just as rush hour hit I-35.
Spencer (2) was nauseated from the chemotherapy and not feeling well. Sophie (1) was crying because she hadn't napped and was overly tired. Annie (4) was hungry, because we had not brought any food to the hospital with us and so she hadn't eaten well. We were all overwhelmed and exhausted from a long and trying day. Just as we pulled on to the freeway, traffic came to a complete stop. We were not going anywhere. I don't remember exactly what I said, but I know that I voiced my frustration at being stuck in traffic. My 4 year old piped up from the backseat, "Why don't we say a prayer, Mom?"
I'm ashamed to admit that my first thought was, "How do I explain to my 4 year old that God has more important things to do than control traffic on I-35? If we're going to pray for something, there are bigger things to pray for, and the Lord isn't going to trouble Himself with rush hour traffic on a Wednesday afternoon." Instead I said, "Okay. Why don't you say a prayer, Annie?" Her quick response was, "You say it, Mom."
Sighing, I conceded and said a quick prayer, asking Heavenly Father to help us get home safely and to help make the cars move. I closed the prayer and immediately traffic started moving. Within the minute, cars were moving at freeway speeds again and I was left feeling overwhelmed with humility. I have no doubt that it was because of the faith of my 4 year old that my prayer was answered, and not my own (lack of) faith. I had wondered why Heavenly Father would answer such an insignificant prayer. But, I realized that He wants to answer our prayers. He wants to help us out when He can. He didn't take the bigger trial of Spencer's cancer diagnosis and treatment away, but He answered little prayers and provided blessing after blessing along the way to ease the burden and show that His hand was still in our lives.
We do not need to doubt. Our Father loves us and wants to help us. We can ask in faith, without doubting, for His help. He is there. He will hear your prayers. He will bless you.
Love,
Sister Jones
Wednesday, May 11, 2011
Psalms 5:3&12
3 My voice shalt thou hear in the morning, O Lord; in the morning will I direct my prayer unto thee, and will look up.
12 For thou, Lord, wilt bless the righteous; with favour wilt thou compass him as with a shield.
I love this scripture because it reminds me of how important my morning prayers are. Through my life I have found that I have said my night time prays much more than praying first thing in the morning, but looking back I can see that when I pray in the morning my prays stick with me longer, I ponder and pray more often during the day, I feel I am directed, protected, and in tune better. Often we are taught through this scripture, along with many others and through our living prophets that our morning prayers should be for help, protection, direction and that our night time prayers should be one of thankfulness and gratitude. I really think we need these morning prayers, we need a compass for direction and a shield for protection.
Find your special place this morning and Pray.
I Love You, Sister MaryAnn Jensen
12 For thou, Lord, wilt bless the righteous; with favour wilt thou compass him as with a shield.
I love this scripture because it reminds me of how important my morning prayers are. Through my life I have found that I have said my night time prays much more than praying first thing in the morning, but looking back I can see that when I pray in the morning my prays stick with me longer, I ponder and pray more often during the day, I feel I am directed, protected, and in tune better. Often we are taught through this scripture, along with many others and through our living prophets that our morning prayers should be for help, protection, direction and that our night time prayers should be one of thankfulness and gratitude. I really think we need these morning prayers, we need a compass for direction and a shield for protection.
Find your special place this morning and Pray.
I Love You, Sister MaryAnn Jensen
Tuesday, May 10, 2011
Joseph Smith-History 1:29
29 In consequence of these things, I often felt condemned for my weakness and imperfections; when, on the evening of the above-mentioned twenty-first of September, after I had retired to my bed for the night, I betook myself to prayer and supplication to Almighty God for forgiveness of all my sins and follies, and also for a manifestation to me, that I might know of my state and standing before him; for I had full confidence in obtaining a divine manifestation, as I previously had one.
When you have made a mistake, do I wonder how that effects my relatonship with my parents? Am I letting them down ? Will they forgive me? Do they still love me? Can I forgive myself?
So Joseph wants to know these things from our Father in Heaven, so he goes to him, and asks, seeking both his forgiveness, and a blessing. I remember a time when I wanted some money to buy a birthday present for a friend, and my mom wouldn't give me the money. Well, one of my brothers had a coin collection, so I "borrowed" from him. In the moment "the gift" was the only thing that mattered....but after, I felt horrible. I hid in my room and pushed the dresser in front of the door...I didn't want anyone to talk to me..I didn't want to hear how disappointed they were with me. They couldn't be as disappointed in me, as I was with myself. (I was almost 7 when this happened.) I am greatful for the lesson I learned from this. I learned that yes, I made a mistake, but I was still loved, and could be forgiven. I couldn't make it right, the money was spent, the coins were lost. I could only repent and never do it again.
Love, Sister Woolsey
When you have made a mistake, do I wonder how that effects my relatonship with my parents? Am I letting them down ? Will they forgive me? Do they still love me? Can I forgive myself?
So Joseph wants to know these things from our Father in Heaven, so he goes to him, and asks, seeking both his forgiveness, and a blessing. I remember a time when I wanted some money to buy a birthday present for a friend, and my mom wouldn't give me the money. Well, one of my brothers had a coin collection, so I "borrowed" from him. In the moment "the gift" was the only thing that mattered....but after, I felt horrible. I hid in my room and pushed the dresser in front of the door...I didn't want anyone to talk to me..I didn't want to hear how disappointed they were with me. They couldn't be as disappointed in me, as I was with myself. (I was almost 7 when this happened.) I am greatful for the lesson I learned from this. I learned that yes, I made a mistake, but I was still loved, and could be forgiven. I couldn't make it right, the money was spent, the coins were lost. I could only repent and never do it again.
Love, Sister Woolsey
Monday, May 9, 2011
Mark 11:24-25
24 Therefore I say unto you, What things soever ye desire, when ye pray, believe that ye receive them, and ye shall have them.
25 And when ye stand praying, forgive, if ye have ought against any: that your Father also which is in heaven may forgive you your trespasses.
Youth all over the world are standing and proclaiming "We Believe!" When Sis. Linnell first shared with us the theme for Girls Camp this year, I was struck by the simple power in the statement. "Because I believe, I will not cease to call upon God." There is so much power in prayer. It has the power to change our lives. To bring peace, to provide answers, to soften our hearts, to bless, to forgive. Through the power of prayer we have access to the power of our Heavenly Father. So when He tells us that whatsoever we desire,... we shall have it, do we believe Him?
As we really learn to pray (a lifelong process, at least for me) we learn to believe that He is listening, to believe that He loves us. As we continue to pray, we learn to believe that He will answer us. When we believe this, we learn to turn to our Heavenly Father more often.
It will change your life when you learn to not only believe in Him, but to actually believe that He will do everything that He has promised. And yes, He will do it for you. I know this because I have put it to the test. I am continually amazed at the power when I kneel in earnest prayer, really looking for an answer. I believe in Him - that He is my Heavenly Father, and I believe Him - that He will do all that He has promised. I also know that He believes in you.
Desire. Ask. Believe.
Love, Sis. Norris
25 And when ye stand praying, forgive, if ye have ought against any: that your Father also which is in heaven may forgive you your trespasses.
Youth all over the world are standing and proclaiming "We Believe!" When Sis. Linnell first shared with us the theme for Girls Camp this year, I was struck by the simple power in the statement. "Because I believe, I will not cease to call upon God." There is so much power in prayer. It has the power to change our lives. To bring peace, to provide answers, to soften our hearts, to bless, to forgive. Through the power of prayer we have access to the power of our Heavenly Father. So when He tells us that whatsoever we desire,... we shall have it, do we believe Him?
As we really learn to pray (a lifelong process, at least for me) we learn to believe that He is listening, to believe that He loves us. As we continue to pray, we learn to believe that He will answer us. When we believe this, we learn to turn to our Heavenly Father more often.
It will change your life when you learn to not only believe in Him, but to actually believe that He will do everything that He has promised. And yes, He will do it for you. I know this because I have put it to the test. I am continually amazed at the power when I kneel in earnest prayer, really looking for an answer. I believe in Him - that He is my Heavenly Father, and I believe Him - that He will do all that He has promised. I also know that He believes in you.
Desire. Ask. Believe.
Love, Sis. Norris
Sunday, May 8, 2011
3 Nephi 17:15-23
15 And when he had said these words, he himself also knelt upon the earth; and behold he prayed unto the Father, and the things which he prayed cannot be written, and the multitude did bear record who heard him.
16 And after this manner do they bear record: The eye hath never seen, neither hath the ear heard, before, so great and marvelous things as we saw and heard Jesus speak unto the Father;
17 And no tongue can speak, neither can there be written by any man, neither can the hearts of men conceive so great and marvelous things as we both saw and heard Jesus speak; and no one can conceive of the joy which filled our souls at the time we heard him pray for us unto the Father.
18 And it came to pass that when Jesus had made an end of praying unto the Father, he arose; but so great was the joy of the multitude that they were overcome.
19 And it came to pass that Jesus spake unto them, and bade them arise.
20 And they arose from the earth, and he said unto them: Blessed are ye because of your faith. And now behold, my joy is full.
21 And when he had said these words, he wept, and the multitude bare record of it, and he took their little children, one by one, and blessed them, and prayed unto the Father for them.
22 And when he had done this he wept again;
23 And he spake unto the multitude, and said unto them: Behold your little ones.
This is one of my most favorite passages of scripture. It strengthens my testimony of Jesus Christ and His love for us each time I read it. We don't know what Jesus said in His prayer at this time, but we know it was "great" and "marvelous". The part that really is amazing to me, however says, "no one can conceive of the joy which filled our souls at the time we heard him pray for us unto the Father." Can you imagine being there at that time and feeling this joy and happiness? Can you imagine Jesus praying to Heavenly Father for you?
I know that prayer can be like this for us, even in our day. We can pray with faith in Jesus Christ's name and He will be our advocate to the Father. He will plead our case to the Father. He has our best interests in mind. We can know that they both hear our prayers. It touched me to know that Jesus wept as He prayed. Prayer can be and should be an emotional thing. We can express our deepest feelings to our Heavenly Father. I know that making prayer an important part of our lives can make our joy full.
16 And after this manner do they bear record: The eye hath never seen, neither hath the ear heard, before, so great and marvelous things as we saw and heard Jesus speak unto the Father;
17 And no tongue can speak, neither can there be written by any man, neither can the hearts of men conceive so great and marvelous things as we both saw and heard Jesus speak; and no one can conceive of the joy which filled our souls at the time we heard him pray for us unto the Father.
18 And it came to pass that when Jesus had made an end of praying unto the Father, he arose; but so great was the joy of the multitude that they were overcome.
19 And it came to pass that Jesus spake unto them, and bade them arise.
20 And they arose from the earth, and he said unto them: Blessed are ye because of your faith. And now behold, my joy is full.
21 And when he had said these words, he wept, and the multitude bare record of it, and he took their little children, one by one, and blessed them, and prayed unto the Father for them.
22 And when he had done this he wept again;
23 And he spake unto the multitude, and said unto them: Behold your little ones.
This is one of my most favorite passages of scripture. It strengthens my testimony of Jesus Christ and His love for us each time I read it. We don't know what Jesus said in His prayer at this time, but we know it was "great" and "marvelous". The part that really is amazing to me, however says, "no one can conceive of the joy which filled our souls at the time we heard him pray for us unto the Father." Can you imagine being there at that time and feeling this joy and happiness? Can you imagine Jesus praying to Heavenly Father for you?
I know that prayer can be like this for us, even in our day. We can pray with faith in Jesus Christ's name and He will be our advocate to the Father. He will plead our case to the Father. He has our best interests in mind. We can know that they both hear our prayers. It touched me to know that Jesus wept as He prayed. Prayer can be and should be an emotional thing. We can express our deepest feelings to our Heavenly Father. I know that making prayer an important part of our lives can make our joy full.
Saturday, May 7, 2011
Matthew 6:5-13
5 And when thou prayest, thou shalt not be as the hypocrites are: for they love to pray standing in the synagogues and in the corners of the streets, that they may be seen of men. Verily I say unto you, They have their reward.
6 But thou, when thou prayest, enter into thy closet, and when thou hast shut thy door, pray to thy Father which is in secret; and thy Father which seeth in secret shall reward thee openly.
7 But when ye pray, use not vain repetitions, as the heathen do: for they think that they shall be heard for their much speaking.
8 Be not ye therefore like unto them: for your Father knoweth what things ye have need of, before ye ask him.
9 After this manner therefore pray ye: Our Father which art in heaven, Hallowed be thy name.
10 Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven.
11 Give us this day our daily bread.
12 And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors.
13 And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil: For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, for ever. Amen.
6 But thou, when thou prayest, enter into thy closet, and when thou hast shut thy door, pray to thy Father which is in secret; and thy Father which seeth in secret shall reward thee openly.
7 But when ye pray, use not vain repetitions, as the heathen do: for they think that they shall be heard for their much speaking.
8 Be not ye therefore like unto them: for your Father knoweth what things ye have need of, before ye ask him.
9 After this manner therefore pray ye: Our Father which art in heaven, Hallowed be thy name.
10 Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven.
11 Give us this day our daily bread.
12 And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors.
13 And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil: For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, for ever. Amen.
Over the past five years, I have taught a variety of youth Sunday School classes, and inevitably we would have a conversation similar to this each week:
Names have been changed to protect the innocent. ;)
Youth: Various loud conversations about the exciting events of their Saturday night happenings.
Me: Okay, it’s time to get started. Debbie, could you please give us an opening prayer?
Debbie: I said the prayer last week. I think it is Doug’s turn.
Doug: I always have to say the prayer. Why don’t you ask Shelly?
Shelly: Ugh!
Travis: You know your spouse gets hotter with every prayer you say!
Shelly: Fine. I will say it if I don’t have to stand.
And then the prayer would include one or more of the following:
- Please bless those who aren’t here this week that they will come next week.
- Please help us to learn something new this week.
- Please take us home in safety.
- Please help us to remember to keep the Sabbath Day holy.
All of these requests are worthy desires, but I often felt that they had become what the scriptures refer to as “vain repetitions”. For some reason, when we pray publicly, we often fall into the habit of saying what we may feel is safe and acceptable instead of speaking from our hearts.
What would happen in our classrooms if we changed our perspective on prayer? What if when we were asked to pray, we willingly stood up in front of the class and paused a few seconds before beginning to invite the spirit to touch our hearts, and then spoke to our Heavenly Father on behalf of our classmates, would it feel as if we had actually invited the Lord to be in the class with us? Would we then behave differently?
As you pray, think about who is not attending. Mention them specifically by name. Let your Heavenly Father know that you miss them and desire to be aware of how you can help them. Let Heavenly Father know that you are aware that the temptations the youth face today are challenging, and as the youth of the church attend their meetings that you desire help and strength to live lives according to gospel standards. Is there an actual concern about returning home safely, or is it just filler because we don’t know what else to say? Maybe we could ask that we return home with a desire to be a better daughter, wife or mother. And that we spend the day remembering our Savior Jesus Christ and do things to draw closer to Him.
Praying publicly can feel overwhelming, and we may feel self-conscious about the words we choose. But if we see it as an opportunity to ask Heavenly Father to help our friends and teachers, prayer will not seem a burden but an occasion to bless others. When we worry more about what Heavenly Father wants us to say and less about what we think our peers would want to hear, Heavenly Father will bless us with the things we should say.
Love, Sister Linnell
Friday, May 6, 2011
Alma 17:3
3 But this is not all; they had given themselves to much prayer, and fasting; therefore they had the spirit of prophecy, and the spirit of revelation, and when they taught, they taught with power and authority of God.
This scripture is refering to the sons of Mosiah. How they prepared themselves before they went there separate ways to preach to the Lamanites. They studied the scriptures and then prayed and fasted. By doing this they were able to call upon God and were able to be great missionaries. Fasting and Praying made the sons of Mosiah stronger and were able to make a great impact on the Lamanites.
As the end of the school year approaches many of you have finals you are studying for. I challenge you to not only study but let Fasting and Prayer be part of your preparation to do well on your tests. We can also make ourselves stronger spiritually by making prayer and fasting a part of our lives.
Love, Sister Madsen
This scripture is refering to the sons of Mosiah. How they prepared themselves before they went there separate ways to preach to the Lamanites. They studied the scriptures and then prayed and fasted. By doing this they were able to call upon God and were able to be great missionaries. Fasting and Praying made the sons of Mosiah stronger and were able to make a great impact on the Lamanites.
As the end of the school year approaches many of you have finals you are studying for. I challenge you to not only study but let Fasting and Prayer be part of your preparation to do well on your tests. We can also make ourselves stronger spiritually by making prayer and fasting a part of our lives.
Love, Sister Madsen
Thursday, May 5, 2011
Exodus 15:1-2
1 Then sang Moses and the children of Israel this song unto the Lord, and spake, saying, I will sing unto the Lord, for he hath triumphed gloriously: the horse and his rider hath he thrown into the sea.
2 The Lord is my strength and song, and he is become my salvation: he is my God, and I will prepare him an habitation; my father’s God, and I will exalt him.
Have you ever just read the words to your favorite Hymn? I love to spend those quiet, reflective moments during the Sacrament re-reading the words to the Hymn we just sang, or any of my other favorites. Each song is like a written prayer of gratitude, supplication, or sometimes both to our Heavenly Father.
When we think about praying constantly we can involve Hymns in our thoughts, and listen to them when we have the opportunity. I have a 1 1/2 hour commute everyday to and from the U of U. At first I would spend that time flipping amongst the various radio stations trying to find something to pass the time, but I discovered that this was more annoying than anything. Then I decided to put the Ensign, Conference Talks, and Hymns on my Mp3 player and listen to those through my cars speakers. WHAT A DIFFERENCE!!!! I now ponder the words of our prophets, think of people in my life, and receive quiet inspiration as I spend my drive in prayer. I focus better in class, feel more appreciative of those around me, and even find my studies to be better applied.
When we "always remember him" his spirit will be with us. Think about what you spend your quiet times thinking about and listening to. Is there something more beneficial?
I LOVE YOU!
Sister Horne
2 The Lord is my strength and song, and he is become my salvation: he is my God, and I will prepare him an habitation; my father’s God, and I will exalt him.
Have you ever just read the words to your favorite Hymn? I love to spend those quiet, reflective moments during the Sacrament re-reading the words to the Hymn we just sang, or any of my other favorites. Each song is like a written prayer of gratitude, supplication, or sometimes both to our Heavenly Father.
When we think about praying constantly we can involve Hymns in our thoughts, and listen to them when we have the opportunity. I have a 1 1/2 hour commute everyday to and from the U of U. At first I would spend that time flipping amongst the various radio stations trying to find something to pass the time, but I discovered that this was more annoying than anything. Then I decided to put the Ensign, Conference Talks, and Hymns on my Mp3 player and listen to those through my cars speakers. WHAT A DIFFERENCE!!!! I now ponder the words of our prophets, think of people in my life, and receive quiet inspiration as I spend my drive in prayer. I focus better in class, feel more appreciative of those around me, and even find my studies to be better applied.
When we "always remember him" his spirit will be with us. Think about what you spend your quiet times thinking about and listening to. Is there something more beneficial?
I LOVE YOU!
Sister Horne
Wednesday, May 4, 2011
Acts 6:4
4 But we will give ourselves continually to prayer, and to the ministry of the word.
When I was in college, I took a course on teachings of the living prophets. During that time I studied a talk by Richard G. Scott called "Recognizing Answers to Prayer." I feel impressed to share it, especially since I leaned on these words many times when making major decisions in my life. I remember pulling it out and reading it often when I was confused about answers to my prayers regarding whether to serve a mission, my schooling, and even who to marry. Here is my favorite part:
"He is our perfect Father. He loves us beyond our capacity to understand. He knows what is best for us. He sees the end from the beginning. He wants us to act to gain needed experience:
When He answers yes, it is to give us confidence.
When He answers no, it is to prevent error.
When He withholds an answer, it is to have us grow through faith in Him, obedience to His commandments, and a willingness to act on truth. We are expected to assume accountability by acting on a decision that is consistent with His teachings without prior confirmation. We are not to sit passively waiting or to murmur because the Lord has not spoken. We are to act."
Love,Sister Emett
Tuesday, May 3, 2011
3 Nephi 12:44
"But behold I say unto you, love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them who despitefully use you and persecute you;"
Not many commandments are harder, in my opinion, to keep than "love your enemies." It's pretty easy to love people who love us back--people who say nice things to us and treat us kindly. It's so much harder to love those who persecute us, tease us, use us, hurt us, and hate us. I think one of the keys to being able to live this commandment, though, is in this verse of scripture: pray for them. It's hard to pray for someone and not have your heart softened a little toward them. I find that when I pray for someone, I kind of start to see them as Jesus sees them, as a child of God, and I find it easier to forgive. When I'm mad at someone who has hurt me, if I pray for them, Heavenly Father blesses me with the extra measure of forgiveness and compassion that I need to let go of the anger in my heart and to love them despite their flaws or their wrongs against me. Try this today. Pray for someone who has hurt you or used you. Pray to love them and to see them as God sees them. It doesn't always happen right away, but as we pray for our enemies, and as we let go of the hate and anger in our hearts, there will be more room in there for God's love to take its place.
Love,
Sister Jones
Not many commandments are harder, in my opinion, to keep than "love your enemies." It's pretty easy to love people who love us back--people who say nice things to us and treat us kindly. It's so much harder to love those who persecute us, tease us, use us, hurt us, and hate us. I think one of the keys to being able to live this commandment, though, is in this verse of scripture: pray for them. It's hard to pray for someone and not have your heart softened a little toward them. I find that when I pray for someone, I kind of start to see them as Jesus sees them, as a child of God, and I find it easier to forgive. When I'm mad at someone who has hurt me, if I pray for them, Heavenly Father blesses me with the extra measure of forgiveness and compassion that I need to let go of the anger in my heart and to love them despite their flaws or their wrongs against me. Try this today. Pray for someone who has hurt you or used you. Pray to love them and to see them as God sees them. It doesn't always happen right away, but as we pray for our enemies, and as we let go of the hate and anger in our hearts, there will be more room in there for God's love to take its place.
Love,
Sister Jones
Monday, May 2, 2011
D&C 18:18
18 Ask the Father in my name, in faith believing that you shall receive, and you shall have the Holy Ghost, which manifesteth all things which are expedient unto the children of men.
Your Father in Heaven knows your name and knows your circumstance. He hears your prayers. He knows your hopes and dreams, including your fears and frustrations. And he knows what you can become through Faith in Him.
(quote by Elder Jeffrey R. Holland)
Heavenly Father has bigger plans for us than what we can see or understand, he can make us better, stronger than we ever can by ourselves, ask him, really believing that you are talking with him,believe that he is listening, really believe that he will answer, with our whole heart believe and the Holy Ghost will let you know, HE HEARD. I know that when I have prayed like this, really believing having faith, it has made a difference, my prayers are not just words but a real plead to someone who cares and can help, and I thank him.
Have a Great Day, Love MaryAnn Jensen
Your Father in Heaven knows your name and knows your circumstance. He hears your prayers. He knows your hopes and dreams, including your fears and frustrations. And he knows what you can become through Faith in Him.
(quote by Elder Jeffrey R. Holland)
Heavenly Father has bigger plans for us than what we can see or understand, he can make us better, stronger than we ever can by ourselves, ask him, really believing that you are talking with him,believe that he is listening, really believe that he will answer, with our whole heart believe and the Holy Ghost will let you know, HE HEARD. I know that when I have prayed like this, really believing having faith, it has made a difference, my prayers are not just words but a real plead to someone who cares and can help, and I thank him.
Have a Great Day, Love MaryAnn Jensen
Sunday, May 1, 2011
Luke 11:1-4 & 9-13
1 And it came to pass, that, as he was praying in a certain place, when he ceased, one of his disciples said unto him, Lord, teach us to pray, as John also taught his disciples.
2 And he said unto them, When ye pray, say, Our Father which art in heaven, Hallowed be thy name. Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done, as in heaven, so in earth.
3 Give us day by day our daily bread.
4 And forgive us our sins; for we also forgive every one that is indebted to us. And lead us not into temptation; but deliver us from evil.
9 And I say unto you, Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you.
10 For every one that asketh receiveth; and he that seeketh findeth; and to him that knocketh it shall be opened.
11 If a son shall ask bread of any of you that is a father, will he give him a stone? or if he ask a fish, will he for a fish give him a serpent?
12 Or if he shall ask an egg, will he offer him a scorpion?
13 If ye then, being evil, know how to give good gifts unto your children: how much more shall your heavenly Father give the Holy Spirit to them that ask him?
These scriptures remind of the many children in the world, that are hungry. If only, they and their parents knew to pray.
How often have you been hungry? not just for food, but for love, friends, companionship? What are you asking for in your prayers?
Our Father in Heaven wants us to be happy in all things. All he asks of us is 1. repent, 2. forgive, 3. knock and 4. ask.
If you struggle with how/what to pray for, here is something that may help.
1. Call upon Our Father in Heaven.
2. Tell him everything you are thankful for.
3. Tell him your troubles, ask for help with them.
4. Close in the name of Jesus Christ.
Remember to call "home" often, your father is always anxious to hear from you.
With Love, Sister Woolsey
2 And he said unto them, When ye pray, say, Our Father which art in heaven, Hallowed be thy name. Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done, as in heaven, so in earth.
3 Give us day by day our daily bread.
4 And forgive us our sins; for we also forgive every one that is indebted to us. And lead us not into temptation; but deliver us from evil.
9 And I say unto you, Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you.
10 For every one that asketh receiveth; and he that seeketh findeth; and to him that knocketh it shall be opened.
11 If a son shall ask bread of any of you that is a father, will he give him a stone? or if he ask a fish, will he for a fish give him a serpent?
12 Or if he shall ask an egg, will he offer him a scorpion?
13 If ye then, being evil, know how to give good gifts unto your children: how much more shall your heavenly Father give the Holy Spirit to them that ask him?
These scriptures remind of the many children in the world, that are hungry. If only, they and their parents knew to pray.
How often have you been hungry? not just for food, but for love, friends, companionship? What are you asking for in your prayers?
Our Father in Heaven wants us to be happy in all things. All he asks of us is 1. repent, 2. forgive, 3. knock and 4. ask.
If you struggle with how/what to pray for, here is something that may help.
1. Call upon Our Father in Heaven.
2. Tell him everything you are thankful for.
3. Tell him your troubles, ask for help with them.
4. Close in the name of Jesus Christ.
Remember to call "home" often, your father is always anxious to hear from you.
With Love, Sister Woolsey
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