Scripture Study: 1 Peter 1:1-9. 2:12, 15, 20-25. 3:11-16 4:12-19
Thanks for reading. I wanted to start off with a realization that I have had very recently in my life. We have reasons for influence in our character, and in our decisions.
1) Character if affected by our virtues
We all will have personalities that allow us to have diversity in life. However, when it comes to life, the virtues we lack, or improve will change our character. For example, if we lack faith, it will shape our character into a doubtful person with our dealings in life. On the other hand, if we have charity, we will love others and help them in any possible way. So if there is a character flaw we have, it can be fixed by improving the corresponding virtue associated with it to give strength unto all things in life.
2) Choices and decisions
Our decisions go further than virtues, because they are a reflection of our thoughts. If we allow bad thoughts do be entertained in our minds, we allow darkness into our souls. Then it becomes our character to be evil doers instead of righteous. If we follow God and allow light to abide in our souls, we will make decisions for good. A bad deed is never done in an instant, but is premeditated no matter how brief or thought out. Even our reflexes show the training we give to them to react in certain situations.
God wants our virtues and character to reflect who He is. God is perfect and knows what pure and true everlasting happiness is; the rest of us are still learning. We suffer trials that we may learn how to perfect our virtues and make decisions that lead us back to our Father in heaven; where everlasting happiness resides. It is a symbol of His love unto us, because on an eternal perspective, if we endure in faith and exact obedience, we will find true happiness. It is never easy to watch something you love suffer, but God in His infinite wisdom endures that pain because He realizes our potential. Therefore, it is a privilege to suffer trials, because then we know that God is giving us an opportunity to becoming more like He is and enjoy the blessings that He has. On our part, our attitude can highly affect how much we really need to suffer in these trials. God pours out His blessings upon the patient and the faithful. When we complain, we allow doubt to fight faith and become stubborn to the counsel of God. Why suffer longer than necessary? Or more than we have to? But endure it well, and the armies of heaven will give us strength to press forward.
Christ has made it possible to overcome our trials, and give us strength to endure them. During the great act of the atonement, Christ suffered all. Christ endured pains such as hunger, thirst, disease, betrayal, and any type of suffering we can and ever will feel in our lives. He has already paid the ransom on our sins, so if we repent and follow His teachings, we will not have to pay the penalty of justice, and enjoy the blessings of our good deeds. Since Christ suffered these things, He has compassion on us for our sufferings, because He has felt it; for He has descended below them all. His hand is stretched forth always, to lift us up when we are down. He understands our pains, and knows how to perfectly nurture us to allow us to be healed. So let's use this gift for our benefit, for the price is already paid.
We have so much to be grateful for, so much has been given to us through the divine love of God the Father, His son Jesus Christ, and the Holy Ghost. Ingratitude comes from a focus on oneself. Remembering everything that happens to you that is bad, and forgetting all that has been given from the Lord. I am so grateful for everything Heavenly Father has given me. Even every breath I take is a blessing from Him. I am grateful for the Lord Jesus Christ, His sacrifice was an act of pure love, and has infinitely blessed me in my life. I am grateful for my family always being there for me. Friends that support me and give encouragement. And for all things I see as a blessing, and even the blessings I don't always recognize. We can always feel content in our trials, let us use all of the blessings given us, and be grateful in all circumstances. Happy Thanksgiving everybody! Thanks for reading.
Thursday, November 24, 2011
Saturday, November 19, 2011
Questions answered in Hebrews 13
I love finding answers to questions in the scriptures. And I have found that this chapter contains some amazing answers to life in a short 25 versus. I invite you to read this chapter and follow along to the references as we go through these questions.
How should we treat strangers in those "bonds"?
(Verses 1-3) So what are the bonds? Everybody in life goes through specific, or unique experiences that teaches valuable general principles of how we should live. Or in other words, we are all learning to become more like God, so that we can stand blameless at the judgment bar, after receiving perfect recollection, and enter into His rest. It is when we start comparing our lives to others when we get envy, jealousy, or pride; but if done so with love, it can bring humility. The truth is, life is tough; we are all in the bonds of temptation and a corrupt world around us. But, we never know how a simple act of kindness can help someone, even if we never know it. "For thereby some have entertained angels unawares." We all need a helping hand sometimes, and God's hand is always stretched forth all the day long for us. May we return the favor, and stretch out our hand for others.
How is marriage looked upon?
(Verse 4)- "Marriage is honourable in all, and the bed undefiled: but whoremongers and adulterers God will judge." There are so many sacred things God has entrusted unto His children. Imagine, somebody borrowing an item that is precious to you. This may be a car, a watch, money, or maybe your child when he or she is going on a date. Then you find out, that they have history of treating this item poorly, or not using it for it's purpose, or giving respect. How would you feel if then, they did that to your gift? We are children of God, your spouse, if not married, your date, is one of them. God cherishes His children, if we are to live, or associate with one of His children, we should treat it how He would want us to.
What warnings are given about covetousness?
(Verse 5) Being content with the things we have can be very difficult. Especially if we compare our things with others. We live in a world of technology. Everything is being upgraded! Ipod, Ipad, Iphone, Iwho knows! There will always be someone that has more, in worldly comparisons, than you do. But what matters most, is your relationship with Heavenly Father and your progression back to His presence. If we gained the whole world and lost our own soul, would we be content? In an eternal perspective, knowing we could have done better will prevail over temporal possessions.
What is the same yesterday, today, and forever?
(Verse 8) "Jesus Christ the same yesterday, and to day, and for ever." God will never change or deviate. His paths are always straight and He is one eternal round. We must be cautious of certain things that only bring temporary happiness. Such things may disguise themselves as bringing happiness, but only for a short while before leaving you by yourself with the same problems, if not more added problems. If we focus on eternal happiness such as, family, friends, helping others, love unfeigned, learning, service for the Lord in all it's forms, we will see a change in us that is everlasting. The Spirit will bring joy into our souls in times of hardships and help us feel content. Because Jesus Christ is eternal, and He can bring joy and happiness in any time of our lives if we seek Him.
How are we sanctified?
(Verse 12) "Wherefore Jesus also, that he might sanctify the people with his own blood, suffered without the gate." Don't you find it interesting, that in our own bodies, the blood is what heals? A cut, blood heals it. Tight muscles, circulating blood relieves it. If they are sanctified, or clean, they may just get worse. So many comparisons can be made, and so when we read that through the blood of Christ we are sanctified, is there not a type in this? Christ suffered all things: pain, sickness, disease, thirst, hunger, and all things for our sins and many more. There is not a type of suffering He hasn't felt, a feeling of guilt, that he doesn't understand. Holding in unnecessary guilt or pain only poisons ourselves. We can turn to Him because He knows how we feel, and how to get out of it. His blood will heal our pains, our physical and spiritual wounds.
How do we respond to those who rule over us?
(Verse 7) Faithful leaders have been chosen by God, to be servers of Christ unto us. Taking offense is a choice and highly depends on our attitude. Blame is at the root of being offended, making our need for correction someone else's fault. I am saying this, knowing that correction can be given gracefully also, on our part and for others. It doesn't have to be ridiculing, so when giving advise, be graceful. When taking advice, whether ridiculing or graceful, be understanding. For we all have something to work on until we are perfected, and if we change now, we will have the advantage in the long run.
Who did Paul ask the people to pray for?
(Verse 18) "Pray for us..." We are to pray for the Prophet and leaders of God. President Monson, the prophet of the LDS church, has dedicated His life to serve Christ, just like many of us have. His lifestyle is most likely different though, everyday of his life he is being directed by God for Christ's church. He prays for all of us, and is doing all within his power to serve us. Let us do the same.
How should we treat strangers in those "bonds"?
(Verses 1-3) So what are the bonds? Everybody in life goes through specific, or unique experiences that teaches valuable general principles of how we should live. Or in other words, we are all learning to become more like God, so that we can stand blameless at the judgment bar, after receiving perfect recollection, and enter into His rest. It is when we start comparing our lives to others when we get envy, jealousy, or pride; but if done so with love, it can bring humility. The truth is, life is tough; we are all in the bonds of temptation and a corrupt world around us. But, we never know how a simple act of kindness can help someone, even if we never know it. "For thereby some have entertained angels unawares." We all need a helping hand sometimes, and God's hand is always stretched forth all the day long for us. May we return the favor, and stretch out our hand for others.
How is marriage looked upon?
(Verse 4)- "Marriage is honourable in all, and the bed undefiled: but whoremongers and adulterers God will judge." There are so many sacred things God has entrusted unto His children. Imagine, somebody borrowing an item that is precious to you. This may be a car, a watch, money, or maybe your child when he or she is going on a date. Then you find out, that they have history of treating this item poorly, or not using it for it's purpose, or giving respect. How would you feel if then, they did that to your gift? We are children of God, your spouse, if not married, your date, is one of them. God cherishes His children, if we are to live, or associate with one of His children, we should treat it how He would want us to.
What warnings are given about covetousness?
(Verse 5) Being content with the things we have can be very difficult. Especially if we compare our things with others. We live in a world of technology. Everything is being upgraded! Ipod, Ipad, Iphone, Iwho knows! There will always be someone that has more, in worldly comparisons, than you do. But what matters most, is your relationship with Heavenly Father and your progression back to His presence. If we gained the whole world and lost our own soul, would we be content? In an eternal perspective, knowing we could have done better will prevail over temporal possessions.
What is the same yesterday, today, and forever?
(Verse 8) "Jesus Christ the same yesterday, and to day, and for ever." God will never change or deviate. His paths are always straight and He is one eternal round. We must be cautious of certain things that only bring temporary happiness. Such things may disguise themselves as bringing happiness, but only for a short while before leaving you by yourself with the same problems, if not more added problems. If we focus on eternal happiness such as, family, friends, helping others, love unfeigned, learning, service for the Lord in all it's forms, we will see a change in us that is everlasting. The Spirit will bring joy into our souls in times of hardships and help us feel content. Because Jesus Christ is eternal, and He can bring joy and happiness in any time of our lives if we seek Him.
How are we sanctified?
(Verse 12) "Wherefore Jesus also, that he might sanctify the people with his own blood, suffered without the gate." Don't you find it interesting, that in our own bodies, the blood is what heals? A cut, blood heals it. Tight muscles, circulating blood relieves it. If they are sanctified, or clean, they may just get worse. So many comparisons can be made, and so when we read that through the blood of Christ we are sanctified, is there not a type in this? Christ suffered all things: pain, sickness, disease, thirst, hunger, and all things for our sins and many more. There is not a type of suffering He hasn't felt, a feeling of guilt, that he doesn't understand. Holding in unnecessary guilt or pain only poisons ourselves. We can turn to Him because He knows how we feel, and how to get out of it. His blood will heal our pains, our physical and spiritual wounds.
How do we respond to those who rule over us?
(Verse 7) Faithful leaders have been chosen by God, to be servers of Christ unto us. Taking offense is a choice and highly depends on our attitude. Blame is at the root of being offended, making our need for correction someone else's fault. I am saying this, knowing that correction can be given gracefully also, on our part and for others. It doesn't have to be ridiculing, so when giving advise, be graceful. When taking advice, whether ridiculing or graceful, be understanding. For we all have something to work on until we are perfected, and if we change now, we will have the advantage in the long run.
Who did Paul ask the people to pray for?
(Verse 18) "Pray for us..." We are to pray for the Prophet and leaders of God. President Monson, the prophet of the LDS church, has dedicated His life to serve Christ, just like many of us have. His lifestyle is most likely different though, everyday of his life he is being directed by God for Christ's church. He prays for all of us, and is doing all within his power to serve us. Let us do the same.
Saturday, November 5, 2011
Finding Solutions To All of Life's Challenges Through Scriptures.
Problem #1
Many people complain and argue over petty things in Church meetings or throughout the week.
Phillipians 2:1-8, 14-15 I suggest reading these passages on your own time.
In these scriptures, Paul is writing to the Phillipians about having unity in Christ. Christ said, "Come follow me." An invitation to walk with Him through life, to learn from the experiences as you walk, and become more like He is as you learn of His ways. Any disputation comes from the lack of knowledge, and vainglory. I say lack of knowledge, because in an argument, you usually don't see it from the other perspective; but ultimately, if all people saw God's perspective on the matter, disputations would be done away. As for vainglory, pride is the focus on one's self. No one else. In verse 15, Paul talks about being blameless, what I feel to be the exact opposite. When you are blameless, you don't point your finger at others. You except responsibility for your actions no matter what you do. We ought to be blameless before God, to learn His ways, that disputation can be done away.
Problem #2
Many people rely on the testimony of their parents, and feel it might be good enough for their own Salvation.
Phillipians 2: 12-15
I feel the greatest phrase in these scriptures are: Work out your Salvation with fear and trembling. Work: Our efforts alone will not give us salvation, but through Christ and repentance, we can become like He is and accomplish the Lord's work relying on Him, and doing your best. With fear and trembling, when these two elements are in your life, comfort is a rare thing. As we get to comfortable in the gospel, we usually aren't using our God given time to be efficient in our learning of experiences. It is hard to be anxiously engaged, when repetition is involved, and stay motivated. But we must always fight against complacency, and accelerate in the gospel. Then your testimony is your own, and not founded upon a foundation that holds it up based on your parents; but Christ's foundation, which will never fall or crumble.
Problem #3
Many investigators want to join the church, but are afraid of their family not accepting them.
Joseph Smith Jr. said, "A religion that does not require the sacrifice of all things, never has power sufficient enough to produce the faith necessary unto life and salvation." The Lord requires a full sacrifice, even all we have, for Him. And then when we do, we inherit All that the Father hath in heaven after giving up everything from the world. Phillipians 4:13 I can do all things in Christ which strengtheneth me. Phillipians 3:14 I press toward the mark for the prize of a high calling in Christ Jesus. Christ will be our support even if our family might not be, but if we sacrifice for the Lord for the testimony He blessed us with, then we will blessed forever for our sacrifice of Earthly things. Our families will know the truth, all hidden things will be revealed. But what we do with our knowledge from God now, will determine our blessings now and through eternity.
Brett Jones
Many people complain and argue over petty things in Church meetings or throughout the week.
Phillipians 2:1-8, 14-15 I suggest reading these passages on your own time.
In these scriptures, Paul is writing to the Phillipians about having unity in Christ. Christ said, "Come follow me." An invitation to walk with Him through life, to learn from the experiences as you walk, and become more like He is as you learn of His ways. Any disputation comes from the lack of knowledge, and vainglory. I say lack of knowledge, because in an argument, you usually don't see it from the other perspective; but ultimately, if all people saw God's perspective on the matter, disputations would be done away. As for vainglory, pride is the focus on one's self. No one else. In verse 15, Paul talks about being blameless, what I feel to be the exact opposite. When you are blameless, you don't point your finger at others. You except responsibility for your actions no matter what you do. We ought to be blameless before God, to learn His ways, that disputation can be done away.
Problem #2
Many people rely on the testimony of their parents, and feel it might be good enough for their own Salvation.
Phillipians 2: 12-15
I feel the greatest phrase in these scriptures are: Work out your Salvation with fear and trembling. Work: Our efforts alone will not give us salvation, but through Christ and repentance, we can become like He is and accomplish the Lord's work relying on Him, and doing your best. With fear and trembling, when these two elements are in your life, comfort is a rare thing. As we get to comfortable in the gospel, we usually aren't using our God given time to be efficient in our learning of experiences. It is hard to be anxiously engaged, when repetition is involved, and stay motivated. But we must always fight against complacency, and accelerate in the gospel. Then your testimony is your own, and not founded upon a foundation that holds it up based on your parents; but Christ's foundation, which will never fall or crumble.
Problem #3
Many investigators want to join the church, but are afraid of their family not accepting them.
Joseph Smith Jr. said, "A religion that does not require the sacrifice of all things, never has power sufficient enough to produce the faith necessary unto life and salvation." The Lord requires a full sacrifice, even all we have, for Him. And then when we do, we inherit All that the Father hath in heaven after giving up everything from the world. Phillipians 4:13 I can do all things in Christ which strengtheneth me. Phillipians 3:14 I press toward the mark for the prize of a high calling in Christ Jesus. Christ will be our support even if our family might not be, but if we sacrifice for the Lord for the testimony He blessed us with, then we will blessed forever for our sacrifice of Earthly things. Our families will know the truth, all hidden things will be revealed. But what we do with our knowledge from God now, will determine our blessings now and through eternity.
Brett Jones
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