043024, Tuesday, Journal Entry

Vitals: Weight 226.1

Book of Mormon Reading: 2 Nephi 4

Journal Entry 

Today will be a busy day for me. I will start with a 0600 Endowment session at the Orem temple (or temple is closed this month for maintenance). Then Cathy and I will have breakfast with Jake at 0900. And later we will work at the Lindon Bishop's Storehouse. 

Yesterday we took a long drive up through Kamas and down to the Fashion Place Mall in Murray. After we got home, Beth called to see if we were available for a visit. We were and Beth and Karen came over. We enjoyed a nice visit then we got tacos from Smoked Tacos and played a fun game of five Crowns. Karen drove me over to Smoked Tacos and she sort of indicated that she is leaning toward settling here in Utah mostly because of family and church ties. She is a terrific woman and never married. I think she is in her 50s now and would still make a wonderful wife for the right guy but...

Come Follow Me 

9 Believe in God; believe that he is, and that he created all things, both in heaven and in earth; believe that he has all wisdom, and all power, both in heaven and in earth; believe that man doth not comprehend all the things which the Lord can comprehend.

"Honestly acknowledge your questions and your concerns, but first and forever fan the flame of your faith, because all things are possible to them that believe."

Elder Jeffrey R. Holland Of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, April 2013

042924, Monday, Journal Entry

Vitals: Weight 228.3

Book of Mormon Reading: 2 Nephi 3

Journal Entry 

We enjoyed a quiet Sunday at home together. We went to church but sorrento the remainder of the day at home. I went for an afternoon walk in our neighborhood while Cathy rested at home. Today there isn't much planned. 

Come Follow Me 

Mosiah 3: 20 And moreover, I say unto you, that the time shall come when the knowledge of a Savior shall spread throughout every nation, kindred, tongue, and people.

"This work of the Lord is indeed great and marvelous, but it moves forward essentially unnoticed by many of mankind’s political, cultural, and academic leaders. It progresses one heart and one family at a time, silently and unobtrusively, its sacred message blessing people everywhere…Our most important message, which we are both divinely commissioned and commanded to take everywhere in the world, is that there is a Savior. He lived in the meridian of time. He atoned for our sins, was crucified, and was resurrected. That matchless message, which we proclaim with authority from God, is the real reason this Church grows as it does."

Elder L. Whitney Clayton Of the Presidency of the Seventy, October 2011

Mosiah 4:2 And they had viewed themselves in their own carnal state, even less than the dust of the earth. And they all cried aloud with one voice, saying: O have mercy, and apply the atoning blood of Christ that we may receive forgiveness of our sins, and our hearts may be purified; for we believe in Jesus Christ, the Son of God, who created heaven and earth, and all things; who shall come down among the children of men.

3 And it came to pass that after they had spoken these words the Spirit of the Lord came upon them, and they were filled with joy, having received a remission of their sins, and having peace of conscience, because of the exceeding faith which they had in Jesus Christ who should come, according to the words which king Benjamin had spoken unto them.

"Joy is a gift for the faithful. It is the gift that comes from intentionally trying to live a righteous life, as taught by Jesus Christ...

When we choose Heavenly Father to be our God and when we can feel the Savior’s Atonement working in our lives, we will be filled with joy. Every time we nurture our spouse and guide our children, every time we forgive someone or ask for forgiveness, we can feel joy.

Every day that you and I choose to live celestial laws, every day that we keep our covenants and help others to do the same, joy will be ours."

President Russell M. Nelson, President of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, October 2016

042824, Sunday, Journal Entry

Vitals: Weight 227.5, BP 114/77 (Standing 80/67)

Book of Mormon Reading: 2 Nephi 2

Journal Entry 

Cathy was feeling better and we worked together at the Bishops Storehouse. Then went for a neighborhood walk. The weather is cold and rainy again. It seems we are being teased with a day or two of nice weather interspersed with nearly winter-like weather.

Today I'm going to sing in the ward choir so I will need to go to choir rehearsal. Then it's Sacrament meeting and Elders Quorum meeting.

Also, today is Eric Bednar's birthday. Eric is a long time friend from Kentucky and recently was called as an Area Seventy.

His father is David A. Bednar of the Quorum of The Twelve Apostles.

I first met Eric when he was serving as the Crestwood Kentucky Stake Young Men President and I was on the High Council. We hit it off as friends. He was later called as Bishop of Crestwood 2nd Ward and I was called as a Branch President in the Shawnee Branch an inner-city area in Louisville. 

I was moved and impressed when at Christmas time he suggested that members of his ward who were relatively well off should consider offering Christmas gifts to members of our branch who were mostly hurting for resources. Many of our members were blessed to be helped by members from Crestwood.

After being released as Branch President and after ward boundaries were adjusted, we found ourselves being members of his ward and I was called to be the  Ward Executive Secretary. We served together in that Bishopric until he was called as Stake President. 

At some point, he started sending me birthday greetings on my birthday so I made a point of finding out his birthday. We have been exchanging brief birthday greetings ever since.

Come Follow Me 

Mosiah 1-3

When you hear the word king, you might think of crowns, servants, and thrones. In Mosiah 1–3, you will read about a different kind of king. Rather than living off the labors of his people, King Benjamin “labored with [his] own hands” (Mosiah 2:14). Instead of having others serve him, he served his people “with all the might, mind and strength which the Lord [had] granted unto [him]” (Mosiah 2:11). This king did not want his people to worship him; rather, he taught them to worship their Heavenly King, Jesus Christ. King Benjamin understood that it is “the Lord Omnipotent who reigneth” (Mosiah 3:5), who came “down from heaven” and went “forth amongst men, … that salvation might come unto the children of men even through faith on his name” (Mosiah 3:5, 9).

I just this morning discovered the updates to the "Library" app that help with Come Follow Me. I will be using these resources much more thoroughly mooching forward.

042724, Saturday, Journal Entry

Vitals: Weight 226.4

Book of Mormon Reading: The Second Book of Nephi, An account of the death of Lehi. Nephi’s brethren rebel against him. The Lord warns Nephi to depart into the wilderness. His journeyings in the wilderness, and so forth. Chapter 1

Journal Entry 

I had written entries here but somehow they were lost. The photos are off the nearly demolished Provo Temple and the piano recital featuring, among others of course, Erica and Jill.

Come Follow Me 

 Mosiah 3: 19 For the natural man is an enemy to God, and has been from the fall of Adam, and will be, forever and ever, unless he yields to the enticings of the Holy Spirit, and putteth off the natural man and becometh a saint through the atonement of Christ the Lord, and becometh as a child, submissive, meek, humble, patient, full of love, willing to submit to all things which the Lord seeth fit to inflict upon him, even as a child doth submit to his father.

"How, then, do we overcome the world? King Benjamin taught us how… Each time you seek for and follow the promptings of the Spirit, each time you do anything good—things that “the natural man” would not do—you are overcoming the world.

Overcoming the world is not an event that happens in a day or two. It happens over a lifetime as we repeatedly embrace the doctrine of Christ."

President Russell M. Nelson 

I bear witness that when Christ comes, He needs to recognize us—not as nominal members listed on a faded baptismal record but as thoroughly committed, faithfully believing, covenant-keeping disciples. This is an urgent matter for all of us, lest we ever hear with devastating regret: “I never knew you,”

President Jeffrey R. Holland,  Acting President of the Quorum of the Twelve Apost

042624, Friday, Journal Entry

Vitals: Weight 225.5

Book of Mormon Reading: 1 Nephi 22

Journal Entry 

Today we don't have much planned. Cathy has relapsed some in that she is in a lot of pain. I haven't seen her yet this morning so I'm hoping there will be improvement. It's hard for her. She has some ministering visits planned and hopefully she'll be able to do those. I'm not sure what I'm going to do. But there is the basement to work on... Our the garage. Both need to be reorganized and cleaned up.

Come Follow Me 

Mosiah 3:17 And moreover, I say unto you, that there shall be no other name given nor any other way nor means whereby salvation can come unto the children of men, only in and through the name of Christ, the Lord Omnipotent.

"To fathers and mothers, to grandfathers and grandmothers, and to those without children of their own who lovingly nurture children and youth, my counsel is to speak more frequently about Jesus Christ. In His holy name is great spiritual power…As you reverently speak about the Savior—in the car, on the bus, at the dinner table, as you kneel in prayer, during scripture study, or in late-night conversations—the Spirit of the Lord will accompany your words."

Elder Neil L. Andersen Of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, April 2010

042524, Thursday, Journal Entry

Vitals: weight 227.7

Book of Mormon Reading: 1 Nephi 21

Journal Entry 

I worked the early shift at the temple as a substitute today. It was a pleasant variation from my normal Wednesday assignment of dressing room coordinator. I didn't have to start until 0615 and I was assigned to veils and Initiatories. An enjoyable day. 

Dennis Gauger and his wife, Katy, canceled our lunch date because Dennis has a new fracture in his foot. Poor guy is having a tough go. I hope he heals up quickly. 

Come Follow Me 

Mosiah 2: 41 And moreover, I would desire that ye should consider on the blessed and happy state of those that keep the commandments of God. For behold, they are blessed in all things, both temporal and spiritual; and if they hold out faithful to the end they are received into heaven, that thereby they may dwell with God in a state of never-ending happiness. O remember, remember that these things are true; for the Lord God hath spoken it.

"As we strive to live the higher laws of Jesus Christ, our hearts and our very natures begin to change. The Savior lifts us above the pull of this fallen world by blessing us with greater charity, humility, generosity, kindness, self-discipline, peace, and rest."

 President Russell M. Nelson, President of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, October 2022

This is one of the reasons I enjoy the Book of Mormon so much. It teaches gospel principles so clearly.

042424, Wednesday, Journal Entry

Vitals: Weight 229.2

Book of Mormon Reading: 1 Nephi 20

Journal Entry 

Wednesday is temple day. Had to be there at 0445. I found out today that this will be my last day as Dressing Room Coordinator. We will be on maintenance break until June 5th and on that day I will orient my replacement and after that I will be starting at 0615 and be officiating endowment sessions. Should be a nice change.

The church officially announced that new Lehi temple will be right where we predicted. That was fast. It was announced at General Conference earlier this month and now the location is official. These are exciting times.

Come Follow Me 

Mosiah 2: 21 I say unto you that if ye should serve him who has created you from the beginning, and is preserving you from day to day, by lending you breath, that ye may live and move and do according to your own will, and even supporting you from one moment to another—I say, if ye should serve him with all your whole souls yet ye would be unprofitable servants.

“This book presupposes a belief in God and in life’s high purpose. Without God, repentance would have little meaning, and forgiveness would be both unnecessary and unreal. If there were no God, life would indeed be meaningless; … we might find justification in an urge to live only for today, to ‘eat, drink and be merry,’ to dissipate, to satisfy every worldly desire. If there were no God there would be no redemption, no resurrection, no eternities to anticipate, and consequently no hope.” (Spencer W. Kimball, The Miracle of Forgiveness, Salt Lake City: Bookcraft, 1969, pp. 3–4.)

Amen!

042324, Tuesday, Journal Entry

Vitals: Weight 225.5

Book of Mormon Reading: 1 Nephi 19

Journal Entry 

We worked most of the day in our front garden. Most of what we planted is small right now but will grow into larger bushes and plants as time goes by.

Today, Cathy has a hair appointment at 1000 but we were hoping to have breakfast with Jake at 0915. That won't work so I'm going to suggest that Jake comes and pick me up and let Cathy go to her hair appointment because we only have the one car. We'll see.

Come Follow Me 

Mosiah 2:17 And behold, I tell you these things that ye may learn wisdom; that ye may learn that when ye are in the service of your fellow beings ye are only in the service of your God.

"Remember that the first and great commandment is to love God with our heart, might, mind, and strength. All that we do should be motivated by our love for Him and for His Son. As we develop our love for Them by keeping Their commandments, our capacity to love ourselves and to love others will increase. We will begin to serve family, friends, and neighbors because we will see them as the Savior sees them—as sons and daughters of God."

Elder Peter M. Johnson Of the Seventy, October 2019

Mosiah 2:41 And moreover, I would desire that ye should consider on the blessed and happy state of those that keep the commandments of God. For behold, they are blessed in all things, both temporal and spiritual; and if they hold out faithful to the end they are received into heaven, that thereby they may dwell with God in a state of never‐ending happiness. 

O remember, remember that these things are true; for the Lord God hath spoken it.

(Scripture of the Day, ScripturePlus)

"Knowing that service is what gives our Father in Heaven fulfillment, and knowing that we want to be where He is and as He is, why must we be commanded to serve one another? Oh, for the glorious day when these things all come naturally because of the purity of our hearts. In that day there will be no need for a commandment because we will have experienced for ourselves that we are truly happy only when we are engaged in unselfish service. Let us use the freedom which comes from self-reliance in giving and serving."

President Marion G. Romney Second Counselor in the First Presidency, October 1982

042224, Monday, Journal Entry

Vitals: Weight 226.1

Book of Mormon Reading: 1 Nephi 18

Journal Entry 

We went to Sacrament Meeting and Sunday School and took an afternoon walk in the neighborhood. Great weather. Beautiful day. My sore back enjoyed a restful day.

Come Follow Me 

Mosiah 2:9 And these are the words which he spake and caused to be written, saying: My brethren, all ye that have assembled yourselves together, you that can hear my words which I shall speak unto you this day; for I have not commanded you to come up hither to trifle with the words which I shall speak, but that you should hearken unto me, and open your ears that ye may hear, and your hearts that ye may understand, and your minds that the mysteries of God may be unfolded to your view.

"Your soul will be blessed as you learn to listen, then listen to learn from children, parents, partners, neighbors, and Church leaders, all of which will heighten capacity to hear counsel from on high.Carefully listen to learn from the Lord through the still small voice—the Holy Spirit—which leads to truth. Listen to learn by studying scriptures that record His holy mind and will. Listen to learn in prayer, for He will answer the humble who truly seek Him. The wise listen to learn from the Lord. I testify of Him and certify that as we “hearken and … hear the voice of the Lord,” we will be blessed, “for the hour of his coming is nigh."

President Russell M Nelson 

The book of Mosiah, coming where it does after The Words of Mormon, it's the beginning of the account after the lost 116 pages. It's interesting to understand this even though I'm not sure I do. Scholars of the Book of Mormon seen to find this all very interesting. I, being seriously simple minded, believe that the Book of Mormon as it now exists contains principles and doctrine that describe the gospel of Jesus Christ so that we can learn what we need to learn in order to progress with our lives. 

The book is true. It contains the fullness of the Gospel of Jesus Christ and it exists the way the Lord wants it to exist and that is all I need to know.

042124, Sunday, Journal Entry

Vitals: Weight 227.2, BP 111/62

Book of Mormon Reading: 1 Nephi 17

3 And thus we see that the commandments of God must be fulfilled. And if it so be that the children of men keep the commandments of God he doth nourish them, and strengthen them, and provide means whereby they can accomplish the thing which he has commanded them; wherefore, he did provide means for us while we did sojourn in the wilderness.

We need to remember why we are here on earth and when we are called upon to serve and given the opportunity to serve we should do it gratefully even if it is difficult.

Journal Entry 

The Bishops Storehouse was not as busy as it usually is on Saturday mornings - not sure why. 

The weather is good and we were able to walk outside at Rock Canyon Park. Then we tried to rest from our labors. Both of us are getting older and more frail. We still have work to do in our front garden and we're hoping to do it tomorrow. We have aches and pains that inhibit our efforts and hopefully by tomorrow we will be feeling better.

Come Follow Me 

Words of  Mormon 1:7 And I do this for a wise purpose; for thus it whispereth me, according to the workings of the Spirit of the Lord which is in me. And now, I do not know all things; but the Lord knoweth all things which are to come; wherefore, he worketh in me to do according to his will.

"The prophet Mormon…did not live to see the results of his work. Yet he understood that the Lord was carefully leading him along…[H]e felt inspired to include the small plates of Nephi with his record…Although Mormon did not know of the future loss of the 116 manuscript pages, the Lord did and prepared a way to overcome that obstacle long before it occurred.

The Father is aware of us, knows our needs, and will help us perfectly. Sometimes that help is given in the very moment or at least soon after we ask for divine help. Sometimes our most earnest and worthy desires are not answered in the way we hope, but we find that God has greater blessings in store. And sometimes our righteous desires are not granted in this life."

Elder Brook P. Hales Of the Seventy, April 2019

042024, Saturday, Journal Entry

Vitals: Weight 226.1

Book of Mormon Reading: 1 Nephi 16

Journal Entry

After breakfast we took a little drive as we sometimes do and noticed that the work of dismantling the Provo Temple had begun in earnest in that the steeple and the statue of the angel Moroni had been removed.

This is a photo I took not too long ago from Rock Canyon Park showing the old steeple and statue with Utah Lake in the background.

A new temple will be built on the same grounds and it will actually be officially called the Provo Rock Canyon Temple.

We worked on our front garden for most of the rest of the day planting new bushes and other plants. We got a good start and hopefully will be able to finish the project early next week.

It will probably be a year or two before the efforts will be noticeable but I think it will be quite spectacular when done and grown.

We will serve in the Bishops Storehouse later this morning then rest from our labor.

Come Follow Me 

Omni 1:26 And now, my beloved brethren, I would that ye should come unto Christ, who is the Holy One of Israel, and partake of his salvation, and the power of his redemption. Yea, come unto him, and offer your whole souls as an offering unto him, and continue in fasting and praying, and endure to the end; and as the Lord liveth ye will be saved.

"But how is this possible? To many of us, such a standard of whole-souled commitment seems out of reach. We are already stretched so thin. How can we balance the many demands of life with our desires to offer our whole souls to the Lord?…

Being a disciple of Jesus Christ is not just one of many things we do. The Savior is the motivating power behind all that we do. He is not a rest stop in our journey. He is not a scenic byway or even a major landmark. He is “the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by [Jesus Christ].” That is the Way and our ultimate destination.

If we want the Savior to lift us heavenward, then our commitment to Him and His gospel can’t be casual or occasional."

Elder Dieter F. Uchtdorf Of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, April 2022

I really enjoy the We Believe app because usually it takes a very important Gospel principle contained in the current Come Follow Me curriculum and emphasizes it. Today is a good example of what I'm talking about. The I turn to the ScripturePlus app for a more detailed discussion of today's reading.

041924, Friday, Journal Entry

Vitals: BP 123/75 (Standing 81/61), A1C 6.7, Weight 226.8

Book of Mormon Reading : 1 Nephi 15

Journal Entry 

I have had a sore back for several days now. It isn't a constant soreness but it manifests itself when I engage in certain physical activities. So yesterday was our pickleball day and I know that it really takes all four of us to play doubles with each other. I took a couple of  ibuprofen capsules and played. I took it slow and easy and got through it OK. 

Then I had a urological procedure to address another issue. Old age is catching up with me. But that procedure seemed to go well but will take time to know for certain... 7-10 days. I'll try to remember to report back but I tend to believe that urological issues probably don't belong in my daily journal at least not in any detailed manner.

Come Follow Me 

Jarom 1: 4 And there are many among us who have many revelations, for they are not all stiffnecked. And as many as are not stiffnecked and have faith, have communion with the Holy Spirit, which maketh manifest unto the children of men, according to their faith.

"Whatever our Church calling, we can pray to our Heavenly Father and receive guidance and direction, be warned about dangers and distractions, and be enabled to accomplish things we simply could not do on our own. If we will truly receive the Holy Ghost and learn to discern and understand His promptings, we will be guided in matters large and small."

Revelation for the Church, Revelation for Our Lives By President Russell M. Nelson President of the Church, April 2018

"In coming days, it will not be possible to survive spiritually without the guiding, directing, comforting, and constant influence of the Holy Ghost."

This is a truly important teaching and should be pondered and adopted.

"On matters of principle, conduct, religious observance, and righteous living, we are in control. Our faith in and worship of God the Father and His Son, Jesus Christ, is a choice that we make."

Elder Quintin L. Cook of the Quorum of Twelve Apostles

041824, Thursday, Journal Entry

Vitals: Weight 227.0

Book of Mormon Reading: 1 Nephi 14

Journal Entry 

The temple was very busy this morning. We had, I believe, 94 patrons in our 0900 session. 

We sometimes wonder at the number of new temples being built especially here in Utah Valley where the new Lehi temple was just announced. That will make eight temples just here in Utah County. There is a tendency to believe these will be needed during the Millenium and I'm sure that's true but we are performing thousands of temple ordinances every day just in the Mount Timpanogos temple right now. I can't even begin to imagine how the work is organized right now on the other side of the Veil but it has to be nothing short of spectacular. I am very happy to be working in the temple on a regular basis.

After finishing up at the temple, I met up with Jake for lunch with my Wasatch Blue retired LAPD group at Marley's. They have great "Sliders" which are small hamburgers. Jake seemed to enjoy it and several of our retirees enjoyed visiting with him. 

Later Cathy and I took a drive out west past Saratoga Springs just to kind of see what's there and there's nothing. But I was somewhat in awe of the view of Mt Timpanogos from there, thus the photo.

Come Follow Me 

Enos 1:27 And I soon go to the place of my rest, which is with my Redeemer; for I know that in him I shall rest. And I rejoice in the day when my mortal shall put on immortality, and shall stand before him; then shall I see his face with pleasure, and he will say unto me: Come unto me, ye blessed, there is a place prepared for you in the mansions of my Father. Amen.

"Between now and the time the Lord returns “with power and great glory” (Joseph Smith—Matthew 1:36), He will bestow countless privileges, blessings, and miracles upon the faithful.

As we strive to live the higher laws of Jesus Christ, first our hearts and then our very natures begin to change. The Savior lifts us above the pull of this fallen world by blessing us with greater charity, humility, generosity, kindness, self-discipline, peace, and, yes, rest."

President Russell M. Nelson, October 2023

"Every person who has lived or will yet live upon the earth “shall be brought to stand before the bar of God, to be judged of him according to [his or her] works whether they be good or whether they be evil.” If our desires have been for righteousness and our works good, then the judgment bar will be pleasing."

. Elder David A. Bednar of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, April 2015

041724, Wednesday, Journal Entry

Vitals: Weight 224.4

Book of Mormon Reading: 1 Nephi 13

Journal Entry 

Wednesday morning. Had a good day at the Bishops Storehouse and completed five Initiatories at the temple yesterday morning but a poor night's sleep last night. Going to the temple this morning for my ordinance worker shift. More later.

041624, Tuesday, Journal Entry

Vitals: Weight 226.6

Book of Mormon Reading: 1 Nephi 12

Journal Entry 

I'm not sure why but I have been using a substandard charging cord for my iPad and a piece of it broke off in the charging port so that I couldn't charge it. So we drove to the Apple store and they were able to fix it.  I will use an approved charging cord henceforth. After we walked in the Fashion Place Mall for our daily exercise. The weather was cold and rainy again.

On the way home we decided to try the Trellis Cafe for lunch at Thanksgiving Point. The Tulip Festival was in progress but because of bad weather there wasn't much of a crowd. The tulips are looking good. We love beautiful gardens.

Cathy is still recovering from her broken pelvis and our morning activities pretty much did her in for the day.

Today I an going to do Initiatories at the temple early then get my hair cut. Then I'll take Cathy to meet Jake for breakfast at Corner Bakery. We will serve at the Bishops Storehouse this afternoon. 

Come Follow Me 

Enos 1: 8 And he said unto me: Because of thy faith in Christ, whom thou hast never before heard nor seen. And many years pass away before he shall manifest himself in the flesh; wherefore, go to, thy faith hath made thee whole.

"The experience of Enos has taught me the same precious lesson. When I pray with faith, I have the Savior as my advocate with the Father and I can feel that my prayer reaches heaven. Answers come. Blessings are received. There is peace and joy even in hard times."

President Henry B. Eyring Second Counselor in the First Presidency, April 2020

041524, Monday, Journal Entry

Vitals: Weight 226.6, A1C 6.8, BP 136/79 (Standing: 131/83)

Book of Mormon Reading: 1 Nephi 11

Journal Entry 

Yesterday was a beautiful spring day and we decided to drive to our temple, the Mount Timpanogos Temple, to go for our walk. 

Come Follow Me 

"In the divine plan of our Heavenly Father, physical and spiritual separation from His presence are necessary. Prayer is an essential and enabling spiritual link between God and man. Without prayer, there is no possible return to the Father. Without prayer, sufficient faith to understand and keep the commandments is impossible. Without prayer, the necessary spiritual power to avoid temptation and overcome trials and adversity would be unavailable. Without prayer, repentance, forgiveness and the cleansing power of the Atonement are unattainable. With the power of personal prayer, all things are possible.

Prayer enables personal revelation and spiritual gifts through the Holy Ghost. It is the spiritual channel made available to all God’s children, giving us constant access to our Eternal Father, His Beloved Son, and the Holy Ghost. Prayer is powerful and compelling evidence of the reality of God the Eternal Father. Personal prayer is indispensable to understanding God and our divine identity."

Improving Your Personal Prayers By Elder Kevin W. Pearson Of the Seventy

From a devotional address given at Brigham Young University–Hawaii on May 17, 2011. For the full text in English, visit devotional.byuh.edu.

Enos 1: 3 Behold, I went to hunt beasts in the forests; and the words which I had often heard my father speak concerning eternal life, and the joy of the saints, sunk deep into my heart.

4 And my soul hungered; and I kneeled down before my Maker, and I cried unto him in mighty prayer and supplication for mine own soul; and all the day long did I cry unto him; yea, and when the night came I did still raise my voice high that it reached the heavens.

5 And there came a voice unto me, saying: Enos, thy sins are forgiven thee, and thou shalt be blessed.

6 And I, Enos, knew that God could not lie; wherefore, my guilt was swept away.

"When we sincerely repent, no spiritual scar remains, no matter what we have done, how serious it was, or how many times we repeated it. As often as we repent and seek forgiveness with real intent, we can be forgiven. What a remarkable gift from our Savior, Jesus Christ! The Holy Ghost can assure us that we have been forgiven. As we sense joy and peace, guilt is swept away, and we are no longer tormented by our sin."

Elder Dale G. Renlund Of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, April 2022

041424, Sunday, Journal Entry

 

Vitals: Weight 226.8

Book of Mormon Reading: 1 Nephi 10

Journal Entry 

We served at the Bishops Storehouse yesterday. It was busy as Saturdays usually are. A lot of people have started utilizing that blessing. And I'm glad to be helping there. 

I found that it's tempting to be judgemental when people come in and pick up literally hundreds of dollars worth of food and other necessary household supplies but I'm grateful to leave the judging to the Lord. I do hope that the food we provide is not being wasted but other than that I just hope that people who need it are getting it.

In this period where the church seems to be doing well financially it is very satisfying to me to help people get food to eat.

After serving at the Storehouse we went over to Centennial Elementary school in Orem and watched Jake coach Fredrick's T-ball team. The photo here shows Jake with Fredrick right in front of him. Their whole family was there and we enjoyed a nice visit. Then they all went to Lagoon to ride rides and we went home. It was a beautiful day.

Come Follow Me 

Jacob 7:10 And I said unto him: Believest thou the scriptures? And he said, Yea.

11 And I said unto him: Then ye do not understand them; for they truly testify of Christ. Behold, I say unto you that none of the prophets have written, nor prophesied, save they have spoken concerning this Christ.

12 And this is not all—it has been made manifest unto me, for I have heard and seen; and it also has been made manifest unto me by the power of the Holy Ghost; wherefore, I know if there should be no atonement made all mankind must be lost.

"You know from your own experience what a testimony is. President Joseph Fielding Smith taught that a testimony “is a convincing knowledge given by revelation to [a person] who humbly seeks the truth.” He said of testimony and the Holy Ghost, who brings that revelation, “Its convincing power is so great that there can be no doubt left in the mind when the Spirit has spoken. It is the only way that a person can truly know that Jesus is the Christ and that his gospel is true.”

President Henry B. Eyring, April 2011

"In the Book of Mormon the prophet Jacob, in his encounter with Sherem the anti-Christ...Jacob points out three sources of truth—the scriptures, the prophets, and the Holy Ghost—that testify of Christ. They will help us build “upon the rock of our Redeemer, who is Christ, the Son of God.”

Elder Sheldon F. Child Of the First Quorum of the Seventy, October 2003

041324, Saturday, Journal Entry

Vitals: Weight 228.3, I keep track of my weight daily because it gives me the ability to make adjustments in how I'm eating without getting too far off track. For example, I like to shoot for weighing 225. At 228.3 I can try to recall what I ate or what else I might have done that c intrigued to me being up by 3 pounds and make the needed adjustments. I'm planning on weighing less tomorrow and I'll do that by paying closer attention to what I eat and maybe getting a little more exercise. We'll see.

Book of Mormon Reading: 1 Nephi 9

Journal Entry 

Cathy is still recovering from her injuries and still has some pain. I took her to an appointment with her doctor who took xrays and found that she is recovering well and her pain is to be expected. She went with me to the Bishops Storehouse last Tuesday but she may not want to go today. Saturdays are usually very busy and somewhat chaotic. We'll see.

I made an appointment to do Initiatories at the temple next Tuesday morning. My thinking is that I can do Initiatories at 7a.m., get my haircut at 8 and still go to breakfast with Cathy and Jake at 9:15. 

Come Follow Me 

Jacob 7:5 And he had hope to shake me from the faith, notwithstanding the many revelations and the many things which I had seen concerning these things; for I truly had seen angels, and they had ministered unto me. And also, I had heard the voice of the Lord speaking unto me in very word, from time to time; wherefore, I could not be shaken.

"As we venture forth on our individual voyages, may we sail safely the seas of life. May we have the courage of a Daniel, that we might remain true and faithful despite the sin and temptation which surround us. May our testimonies be as deep and as strong as that of Jacob, the brother of Nephi, who, when confronted by one who sought in every way possible to destroy his faith, declared, “I could not be shaken."

President Thomas S Monson 

041224, Friday, Journal Entry

Vitals: Weight 227.0

Book of Mormon Reading: 1 Nephi 8

Journal Entry 

We played pickleball again. The photo shows from left to right, Chuck Sandgren, Bill Harvey, me and Art Sandgren.

Cathy and I drove downtown and walked around the Salt Lake Temple which is still under significant construction. It probably won't be done until sometime in 2026, but it should be spectacular when completed. The whole two block temple square including the Beehive House, Lion House, Joseph Smith Memorial Building and the temple should be a very nice place to visit.

Later Jake and his four kids came over for a visit and tacos. We enjoyed that as well. Big day.

Come Follow Me 

Jacob 6:11 O then, my beloved brethren, repent ye, and enter in at the strait gate, and continue in the way which is narrow, until ye shall obtain eternal life.

12 O be wise; what can I say more?

"Brothers and sisters, be wise with your families. Be wise in fulfilling your Church callings. Be wise with your time. Be wise in balancing all of your responsibilities. O be wise, my beloved brothers and sisters. What can I say more?" 

Elder M. Russell Ballard, October 2006

041124, Thursday, Journal Entry

Vitals: Weight 228.1

Book of Mormon Reading: 1 Nephi 7

Journal Entry 

The temple was quite busy yesterday. At least the men's dressing room (my kingdom) was very busy. We had 90 people each signed up for the 9:00 and  9:30 Endowment sessions and 80 for the  10:00 session. I learned that Monday and Tuesday were also very full. I believe that the emphasis on temple covenants and temple attendance in last weekend's general conference was taken seriously . I hope it continues. 

Also, speculation about the location of the newly announced Lehi temple -- and it is only speculation at this point -- is that it will be at the location indicated in the attached map photos.

This is the map that Jake sent me when I told him that there was speculation that the Church had recently purchased a little over 20 acres north of the Timpanogos Highway in the eastern part of Lehi. Jake confirmed that the area outlined in red was purchased about a year ago by the church according to county records and that it is about 21 acres. Hmmm.

This is a copy of Google maps of the area. In this map the area north of W 3950 N and west of Center Street seems to match the area that Jacob found.

We drov up there and it truly is a beautiful site. There are new homes being built all around there and the view of Utah Lake and the rest of Utah Valley to the south are breathtaking. 

I must emphasize that this is mere speculation at this point but it seems very likely that this will be the location of the new Lehi temple.

Come Follow Me 

Jacob 6:7 For behold, after ye have been nourished by the good word of God all the day long, will ye bring forth evil fruit, that ye must be hewn down and cast into the fire?

8 Behold, will ye reject these words? Will ye reject the words of the prophets; and will ye reject all the words which have been spoken concerning Christ, after so many have spoken concerning him; and deny the good word of Christ, and the power of God, and the gift of the Holy Ghost, and quench the Holy Spirit, and make a mock of the great plan of redemption, which hath been laid for you?

"Our mortal probation is not easy...We are blessed to come to this earth and gain a mortal body. This life is our opportunity to prove ourselves and exercise our agency. We can choose to follow Heavenly Father’s eternal plan of salvation and redemption, or we can try to find our own way. We can be obedient and keep His commandments, or we can reject them and face the consequences that will surely follow."

Ann M. Dibb, Second Counselor in the Young Women General Presidency, October 2009

041024, Wednesday, Journal Entry

Vitals: Weight 227.2

Book of Mormon Reading: 1 Nephi 6

Journal Entry 

Enjoyed serving in the Bishops Storehouse yesterday with Cathy. Everyone welcomed her back. I have my temple assignment this morning so I'll finish this up later.

I'll add to this in tomorrow's post. I did read all six verses of 1 Nephi Chapter 6 while at the temple. 😇

Come Follow Me 

Jacob 6:5 Wherefore, my beloved brethren, I beseech of you in words of soberness that ye would repent, and come with full purpose of heart, and cleave unto God as he cleaveth unto you. And while his arm of mercy is extended towards you in the light of the day, harden not your hearts.

6 Yea, today, if ye will hear his voice, harden not your hearts; for why will ye die?

"As we consider the prophet’s invitation to learn to hear God’s voice, are our hearts determined or hardened? Let us remember the counsel given in Jacob 6:6: “Yea, today, if ye will hear his voice, harden not your hearts; for why will ye die?” Let us be determined to let God prevail in our lives…Although earth and hell may combine against us, they cannot prevail if we choose to let God prevail by establishing our lives upon His rock."

By Elder Chi Hong (Sam) Wong Of the Seventy, April 2021

040924, Tuesday, Journal Entry

Vitals: Weight 226.1

Book of Mormon Reading  1 Nephi 5

Journal Entry 

Beth's daughter (my niece) Julie Hinkson came to visit and brought her daughter, Hannah. We enjoyed a nice visit. I'm grateful that she felt compelled to some degree to connect with us. It has caused me to ponder the importance of family organizations and especially wives and mothers in the eternities and that's a good thing.

Come Follow Me 

In the alligory of the Olive trees, Jacob explained the basis of "the fruits of His Vineyard" which are family connections.

Jacob 5:71 And the Lord of the vineyard said unto them: “Go to, and labor in the vineyard, with your might. For behold, this is the last time that I shall nourish my vineyard; for the end is nigh at hand, and the season speedily cometh; and if ye labor with your might with me ye shall have joy in the fruit which I shall lay up unto myself against the time which will soon come.” 72 And it came to pass that the servants did go and labor with their mights; and the Lord of the vineyard labored also with them; and they did obey the commandments of the Lord of the vineyard in all things. 73 And there began to be the natural fruit again in the vineyard; and the natural branches began to grow and thrive exceedingl...

Jacob 6:4 And how merciful is our God unto us, for he remembereth the house of Israel, both roots and branches; and he stretches forth his hands unto them all the day long; and they are a stiffnecked and a gainsaying people; but as many as will not harden their hearts shall be saved in the kingdom of God.

"The essential doctrine of uniting families came forth line upon line and precept upon precept. Vicarious ordinances are at the heart of welding together eternal families, connecting roots to branches... The thought of being associated in the eternal realm is indeed glorious.

What a great time to be alive. This is the last dispensation, and we can feel the hastening of the work of salvation in every area where a saving ordinance is involved. We now have temples across much of the world to provide these saving ordinances. Family commitments and expectations should be at the top of our priorities to protect our divine destiny.

Jesus Christ gave His life as a vicarious atonement. He resolved the ultimate question raised by Job. He overcame death for all mankind, which we could not do for ourselves. We can, however, perform vicarious ordinances and truly become saviors on Mount Zion for our own families in order that we, with them, might be exalted as well as saved."

"Roots and Branches" by Elder Quentin L. Cook Of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, April 2014

040824, Monday, Journal Entry

Vitals: Weight 226.4, BP  117/69 (Standing 71/55, GMI 7.0

Book of Mormon Reading: 1Nephi 4

Journal Entry 

I enjoyed watching each session of General Conference the last two days. Yesterday I went for a long walk after the last session and listened again to the last three talks while walking including President Nelson's talk. 

It's truly fascinating that we are getting among the fifteen newly announced temples a new temple in Lehi... And in Cincinnati. In today's thinking these temples and many others might not seem to be needed. For example when we lived in Crestwood, Kentucky where the Louisville temple is located, the Louisville temple was open on Tuesday and Thursday evenings and on Wednesday mornings with two endowment sessions total on each of those days. As I recall there were four endowment sessions on Fridays and five on Saturdays. In other words the temple wasn't very busy. Now, with a new temple in Cincinnati they might be even less busy as most of the saints in Cincinnati attended the Louisville temple. And in Lehi we will have the eighth temple in Utah County. There are times when the Mt Timpanogos temple is busy but not overly so. And that is with the Provo Temple being closed and the Heber Valley temple still in the planning stages.

If you believe, as I do, that there must soon be a much greater need for temples than seems to exist today, then there is clearly going to be some exciting and dramatic developments in the not too distant future. I am totally convinced that our church is the true church of Jesus Christ and that our current president, first presidency and the Quorum of Twelve Apostles are receiving constant guidance from above. I need to make sure I'm doing all I can to be on the right side of history.

Cathy seems to be doing better and she's planning on joining me at 4th Bishops Storehouse tomorrow for our regular assigned shift.

Come Follow Me 

Jacob 4:13 Behold, my brethren, he that prophesieth, let him prophesy to the understanding of men; for the Spirit speaketh the truth and lieth not. Wherefore, it speaketh of things as they really are, and of things as they really will be; wherefore, these things are manifested unto us plainly, for the salvation of our souls. But behold, we are not witnesses alone in these things; for God also spake them unto prophets of old.

"And then comes instruction that can be applied to all of us trying to dig about and find good fruit in our own little vineyards: “Ye shall clear away the bad according as the good shall grow.”

Unity doesn’t magically happen; it takes work. It’s messy, sometimes uncomfortable, and happens gradually when we clear away the bad as fast as the good can grow."

Sharon Eubank First Counselor in the Relief Society General Presidency, October 2020

Jacob 5: 65 And as they begin to grow ye shall clear away the branches which bring forth bitter fruit, according to the strength of the good and the size thereof; and ye shall not clear away the bad thereof all at once, lest the roots thereof should be too strong for the graft, and the graft thereof shall perish, and I lose the trees of my vineyard.

66 For it grieveth me that I should lose the trees of my vineyard; wherefore ye shall clear away the bad according as the good shall grow, that the root and the top may be equal in strength, until the good shall overcome the bad, and the bad be hewn down and cast into the fire, that they cumber not the ground of my vineyard; and thus will I sweep away the bad out of my vineyard.

040724, Sunday, Journal Entry

Vitals: Weight 227.0 (3 days in a row)

Book of Mormon reading: 1 Nephi 3

Journal Entry 

I watched the Saturday morning and most of the Saturday afternoon sessions of conference. Plus we went to Fashion Place Mall to walk. The weather was terrible -- almost blizzard-like. President Nelson who is nearly 100 years old was at home for the morning session but was present for the afternoon session. I will watch the rest of the afternoon session and the evening session this morning and then the Sunday sessions later today hopefully.

The Apostle, Elder Gary E. Stevenson, conducted the afternoon session and Elder Dale G. Renlund conducted the Saturday evening session. In my opinion having Apostles conduct the sessions is a great idea.

Come Follow Me 

Jacob 4:13 Behold, my brethren, he that prophesieth, let him prophesy to the understanding of men; for the Spirit speaketh the truth and lieth not. Wherefore, it speaketh of things as they really are, and of things as they really will be; wherefore, these things are manifested unto us plainly, for the salvation of our souls. But behold, we are not witnesses alone in these things; for God also spake them unto prophets of old.

It is important for us to stay close to the Lord and to recognize the Spirit as it speaks to us.

"Our Savior and Redeemer, Jesus Christ, will perform some of His mightiest works between now and when He comes again. We will see miraculous indications that God the Father and His Son, Jesus Christ, preside over this Church in majesty and glory. But in coming days, it will not be possible to survive spiritually without the guiding, directing, comforting, and constant influence of the Holy Ghost."

Revelation for the Church, Revelation for Our Lives

By President Russell M. Nelson, President of the Church, April 2018

040624, Saturday, Journal Entry - Eric Bednar called to The Seventy, Tenth Quorum

Vitals: Weight 227.0

Book of Mormon reading: 1 Nephi 2

Journal Entry 

Today is General Conference. I noticed in yesterday's Church News that Eric Bednar has been called as an Area Authority Seventy. I served as Executive Secretary in the Crestwood Second Ward Bishopric with him when he was our Bishop and we are friends to this day. He has been the stake president in Crestwood Stake for the last few years. He is one of the best men I have ever known and through him I was able to spend time with and somewhat get to know his dad, Elder David A. Bednar. To the right is my text exchange with Eric.

Come Follow Me 

Jacob 4:10 Wherefore, brethren, seek not to counsel the Lord, but to take counsel from his hand. For behold, ye yourselves know that he counseleth in wisdom, and in justice, and in great mercy, over all his works.

"Some misunderstand the promises of God to mean that obedience to Him yields specific outcomes on a fixed schedule…God will indeed honor His covenants and promises to each of us. We need not worry about that. The atoning power of Jesus Christ, who descended below all things and then ascended on high and who possesses all power in heaven and in earth, ensures that God can and will fulfill His promises. It is essential that we honor and obey His laws, but not every blessing predicated on obedience to law is shaped, designed, and timed according to our expectations. We do our best but must leave to Him the management of blessings, both temporal and spiritual."

Elder D. Todd Christofferson Of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, April 2022

“I used to pray that God would feed the hungry, or do this or that, but now I pray that he will guide me to do whatever I'm supposed to do, what I can do. I used to pray for answers, but now I'm praying for strength. I used to believe that prayer changes things, but now I know that prayer changes us and we change things.”

― Mother Teresa

040524, Friday, Journal Entry

Vitals: Weight 227.0

Book of Mormon: 1 Nephi 1.  In addition to the Come Follow Me study that will be ongoing through this year, I am going to reread the Book of Mormon separately by reading approximately one chapter a day.

Journal Entry

I drove to the Toyota dealership to get our new windshield installed. They open at 0700 and I arrived at 0645. When I got in, the service tech, which is the same one I had problems with before, said they couldn't proceed because he had not been notified that their parts department had received our windshield. I called their parts department on Wednesday and they verified for me that the windshield had arrived. Bottom line I was irritated so I called Cathy and started for home.

Cathy did a little research and found a place called Quick Fix in Pleasant Grove that had very good reviews. We went there and they were able to get the new windshield and installed it yesterday for nearly $500 less than Toyota wanted to charge me. They were very impressive and did a great job.

Pickle ball was fun as usual and good exercise.

Come Follow Me 

Jacob 4:7 Nevertheless, the Lord God showeth us our weakness that we may know that it is by his grace, and his great condescensions unto the children of men, that we have power to do these things.

"We cannot simply repent of being weak—nor does weakness itself make us unclean. We cannot grow spiritually unless we reject sin, but we also do not grow spiritually unless we accept our state of human weakness, respond to it with humility and faith, and learn through our weakness to trust in God. When Moroni fretted about the weakness of his writing, God did not tell him to repent. Instead, the Lord taught him to be humble and to have faith in Christ. As we are meek and faithful, God offers grace—not forgiveness—as the remedy for weakness. Grace is an enabling power from God to do what we cannot do on our own (see Bible Dictionary, “Grace”)—the appropriate godly remedy by which He can “make weak things become strong.”

"It Isn’t a Sin to Be Weak" By Wendy Ulrich, The author lives in Utah, USA. April 2015

040424, Thursday, Journal Entry

Vitals: Wt. 226.8

Journal Entry 

The other day - Tuesday I think  - while driving on I-80 we hit a large pothole. We already had a very small crack in the lower passenger side of our windshield caused by a flying rock months ago but hitting the pothole caused that crack to get a lot bigger. So today I'm taking the car in to the Toyota dealership to get the windshield replaced. Looks like it's going to be expensive. I'll take the dealer's shuttle home then play pickleball with my friends. Then figure out how to go back and get our car.

Come Follow Me 

Jacob 3:1 But behold, I, Jacob, would speak unto you that are pure in heart. Look unto God with firmness of mind, and pray unto him with exceeding faith, and he will console you in your afflictions, and he will plead your cause, and send down justice upon those who seek your destruction.

The We Believe app addresses the above scripture. I am blessed at the present time to the extent that I don't see or remember any significant afflictions in my life. I truly believe in the above scripture but I can say that I am and have been blessed. There are probably afflictions in my life but I just don't dwell on them at all. I have a truly wonderful relationship with a loving wife and we get through everything together with help from on high.

I see tumultuous things happening all over the world and they seem to be occurrences that have been prophesied about as part of the last days. So far, we are very blessed in our life.

Jacob 4:6-7

 6 Wherefore, we search the prophets, and we have many revelations and the spirit of prophecy; and having all these witnesses we obtain a hope, and our faith becometh unshaken, insomuch that we truly can command in the name of Jesus and the very trees obey us, or the mountains, or the waves of the sea. 7 Nevertheless, the Lord God showeth us our weakness that we may know that it is by his grace, and his great condescensions unto the children of men, that we have power to do these things.

Amen!

040324, Wednesday, Journal Entry

Journal Entry 

Serving in the temple this morning. 

Come Follow Me 

Jacob 2: 19 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 do good—to clothe the naked, and to feed the hungry, and to liberate the captive, and administer relief to the sick and the afflicted.

"I pay tribute to all of you, to all who do so much and care so deeply and labor with “the intent to do good.” So many are so generous…I love you and your Heavenly Father loves you for all you are trying to do….Said the Prophet Joseph… “Respecting how much a man … shall give … we have no special instructions … ; he is to feed the hungry, to clothe the naked, to provide for the widow, to dry up the tear of the orphan, to comfort the afflicted, whether in this church, or in any other, or in no church at all, wherever he finds them.”

Elder Jeffrey R. Holland Of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, April 1996

040224, Tuesday, Journal Entry

Vitals: Weight 224.8, A1C 6.8

Journal Entry 

Cathy is still recovering. She has reached a point where she still has significant pain at times but is bored with inactivity. We drove to Fashion Place mask yesterday and walked some. I took a neighborhood walk later after we got home and finished my 7500+ steps. 

My weight is still down at 224.8 which is good and my A1C is down to 6.8 after climbing to 6.9 for a short time last week. I have Ozempic weekly injections but my favorite med so far is Mounjaro. So far I can't get it because it's too popular. I just placed another order but doubt that it can be filled. I may just settle on Ozempic and try to determine the best dosage for future use. It's an ongoing project.

I'm working at the Bishops Storehouse this afternoon. Cathy wants to join me but we're not sure that that's a good idea yet. We'll see how she feels later.

Come Follow Me 

Jacob 2:16 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!

"Pride is a damning sin in the true sense of that word. It limits or stops progression. The proud are not easily taught. They won’t change their minds to accept truths, because to do so implies they have been wrong."

President Ezra Taft Benson,"Beware of Pride", April 1989

"Pride" and "Proud" can be good things if used and experienced righteously. I don't think it takes deep thought to understand this so I won't go further but I do support what President Benson said in the above quote.

040124, Monday, Journal Entry

 Vitals: Wt. 224.8

Journal Entry 

Yesterday was Easter Sunday and we spent the whole day at home reading and watching TV. I had recorded the old movie, The Ten Commandments, featuring Charlton Heston. By recording it we were able to skip through the numerous commercial breaks. I had seen it before but actually enjoyed watching it again. I was able to get outside and walk my 7500+ steps and I concentrated on eating healthy resulting in this morning's weight of 224.8 lbs. We enjoyed our Come Follow Me lesson and basically enjoyed being home. The weather was cold and sometimes rainy so Cathy didn't join me for my walk but she will join me today, probably at one of the malls because it's still cold outside.

Come Follow Me 

Jacob chapter 1:15 And now it came to pass that the people of Nephi, under the reign of the second king, began to grow hard in their hearts, and indulge themselves somewhat in wicked practices, such as like unto David of old desiring many wives and concubines, and also Solomon, his son. 16 Yea, and they also began to search much gold and silver, and began to be lifted up somewhat in pride. 17 Wherefore I, Jacob, gave unto them these words as I taught them in the temple, having first obtained mine errand from the Lord. 18 For I, Jacob, and my brother Joseph had been consecrated priests and teachers of this people, by the hand of Nephi. 19 And we did magnify our office unto the Lord, taking upon us the responsibility, answering the sins of the people upon our own heads if we did not teach them the word of God with all diligence; wherefore, by laboring with our might their blood might not come upon our garments; otherwise their blood would come upon our garments, and we would not be found spotless at the last day.

Sometimes, as we grow older and closer to God, the Spirit moves us to say things we wouldn't otherwise say, and maybe even that we would rather not say. In such cases, however, one must be confident that one's errand truly is from the Lord. The last thing the Lord needs is for members of his kingdom to go forth, without his errand, and unjustly, untactfully, or inappropriately reprove others, whether their faults are real or only perceived.

I think the right way to approach giving reproof is modeled very well here by Jacob. He may have never said anything like this before to these people. If he was just a younger brother to Nephi and kind of tucked away in the temple a lot of the time and all of a sudden he comes out, this possibly was really out of character for him. I suspect his people were really quite startled. We don't know what the outcome was. Jacob doesn't say, but at least he did his job. That seems to be the important message. He did his job, and not only were his people warned, but we get the same warning today because Jacob recorded this important speech.