Today I am Enough

John 12: Mary of Bethany Six days before Passover (and His death), Jesus went to Bethany. While there he had dinner with Mary, Martha, Lazarus (who he raised from the dead the chapter before) and several apostles. Verse 3. Interestingly - Mark and Matthew both mention she anointed His head, while John says the feet. These are both scared - so it very well could have been both. The ointment that she used is mentioned to be very expensive. Mark 14:5  300 pence was probably about $50 for us. However, the daily wage was about &0.17. If you multiply that by 300 (a yearly wage), then it's $50. So really, it was an entire year's wage! Which is closer to $30,000 - $40,000 + for us today. This is a very expensive gift! - as Judas Iscariot points out. There is a lot of foreshadowing of what is to come from Judas.  Verse 5 + 6 say Jesus' response I think is one that we all need to take in more often though. Verses 7 + 8 (JST in 7) Let's break all this down a little bit more of what exactly is happening with Mary. She has this incredibly expensive oil. She come to Jesus and anoints his feet with it. The feet were VERY dirty in those days.  Servants were usually the ones to wash guests' feet b/c it was not a pleasant job.  Mary used her hair. It's such a symbolic thought. Women usually wore their hair up, so for her to take it down while guests are over, and then use that to make sure she anoints the Savior's feet is such a humbling place she put herself. However, she also was showing so much love. She understood the significance of the Savior. She may not have completely understood what was coming, but she knew that something was changing and soon. As the apostles watched this - and maybe more than just Judas was a little surprised. Do you think a few days later, when Jesus washed their feet they thought of this moment with Mary at all? It seems like it may have come to mind with the nature of the conversation that had come up.  I believe that Jesus is showing so much gratitude towards Mary. So much love. She has been with them in their ministries. She is a disciple and a follower. A friend.  He talks of being gone and she knows who He is. This is her gift to Him.

This is back in John 8 - so two weeks ago in our reading. We start the chapter with Jesus teaching in the temple, when in come some pharisees with this woman who was “caught in the very act” of adultery. At the time they were following the Mosaic law - as we know. In the Book that I often quote from “Walk with the Women in the New Testament '' there are some interesting insights we can gain. Hannah tells us of the history of the women in that time who were taken in adultery and what happened to them. I'm going to quote from her book here for a moment to make sure you have a good picture. From “Sisters at the Well” page 91 it says: Page 418 of Hannah's book Hannah goes on to say … Men were allowed to send their wife to experience this even if they just suspected that their wife had something - no evidence necessary.  So this woman is brought to the Savior - “caught in the very act” - had her punishment been even harsher before they brought her here? Maybe. They had decided she'd be killed, but thought they'd ask Jesus first. Jesus then writes on the ground. We have no idea what He wrote.  Did He write to avert eyes away from the woman?  Then Jesus Teaches: This they said, tempting him, that they might have to accuse him. But Jesus stooped down, and with his finger wrote on the ground, as though he heard them not. 7 So when they continued asking him, he lifted up himself, and said unto them, He that is without sin among you, let him first cast a stone at her. 8 And again he stooped down, and wrote on the ground. Again - he writes on the ground. To avert eyes to Him? Maybe. 9 And they which heard it, being convicted by their own conscience, went out one by one, beginning at the eldest, even unto the last: and Jesus was left alone, and the woman standing in the midst. 10 When Jesus had lifted up himself, and saw none but the woman, he said unto her, Woman, where are those thine accusers? hath no man condemned thee? “She said, No man, Lord. And Jesus said unto her, Neither do I condemn thee: go, and sin no more. And the woman glorified God from that hour, and believed on his name.” So it is with us. We are often better about judging other people and pointing out what they've done wrong and we forget to turn our own finger around and recognize our short comings, faults and even sins. We are also great at being our own worst critic.  Our focus needs to be on our relationship with Jesus Christ - not on anyone else's. Our focus needs to be to keep the commandments in our personal life. Keeping our covenants. Strengthening our testimony in Jesus Christ and the modern day prophets. Repenting. Turning to Him. Changing our lives because of His atonement and all He has done - just as she did in the end. When that is our focus, we will be more graceful with other people. We will be able judge less and love more.

Meg is sharing her thoughts on strengthening. We can strengthen our spouse, our family and those around us. We also get into how the temple and our covenants are wrapped into strengthening. Follow Meg on Instagram! Find out all the details of the Your Divine Role as a Latter-Day Saint Woman by following the link.

Leanne teaches us what charity looks like in today's world! You are going to love this episode and all that she teaches! Follow Leanne on Instagram! Find out all the details of the ⁠Your Divine Role as a Latter-Day Saint Woman ⁠by following the link.

Briana is sharing some recent insights on learning to love life! You do not want to miss out on this episode! There are some amazing insights and tools that Briana shares with us. Follow Briana on Instagram! Make sure you are on ⁠my email list⁠ so you can sign up for the Your Divine Role Course coming at the end of the week!

Emma and I dive into the temple and the Priesthood today. We both want as many people to really understand the power of the Priesthood, not just the office. There are a lot of different parts. Let's dive into today so we can better understand all we can do! Follow Emma on Instagram! Make sure you are on ⁠my email list⁠ so you can sign up for the Your Divine Role Course coming at the end of the week!

Michelle Cox is joining me and sharing a beautiful thought. We are going to be discussing how we can find Jesus in those moments that feel hard or uncomfortable. We also talk about what the atonement really means and how we see it in our lives. Follow Michelle on Instagram! Make sure you are on my email list so you can sign up for the Your Divine Role Course coming at the end of the week!

Heather and I are going to be discussing how we can be a devoted disciple of Jesus Christ! Follow Heather on Instagram! Make sure you are on ⁠my email list⁠ so you can sign up for the Your Divine Role Course coming at the end of the week!

Hayley Clark and I are sitting down today and talking about service, remembering and how it all ties into Jesus Christ and our relationship with Him! Follow Hayley on Instagram! Make sure you are on ⁠my email list⁠ so you can sign up for the Your Divine Role Course coming at the end of the week!

Erin Ropelado is joining me today as we discuss the importance of the Relief Society Declaration. Erin shares her very personal experience with the Declaration and how she has personally been deeply effected by it's words. Follow Erin on Instagram! Make sure you are on ⁠my email list⁠ so you can sign up for the Your Divine Role Course coming at the end of the week!

Welcome to the podcast! I'm so thrilled to be updating you on the new name, and what is coming in the next week! Your Divine Role as a Latter-Day Saint Woman is a new course I have created to help you strengthen your relationship with Jesus Christ and understand your divine role here at this time! You are a divine role. Your Heavenly Father has a plan for you. Let's figure it out and know that we can look to Him and be strengthened. JOIN THE EMAIL LIST

Matthew 18 + Luke 10 A Certain Woman:  Luke 10:38-42 The Invitation Verse 38 Jesus is in the home because Martha invited Him! This is her home. Also sat … Verse 39 The word also indicates that Marth has spent time at the feet of the Savior. Service Verse 40 Martha was serving. She was not making any bad choices. Quote from “Walking With the Women of the New Testament”. “The Lord cannot build His kingdom without Relief Society.” Julie B. Beck Oneness Verse 41 Christ is inviting both Mary and Martha to be a part of His discipleship. Oneness: To be one with Jesus Christ in the way that Jesus Christ is one with God. Find out the details about and sign up for my new course YOUR DIVINE PURPOSE.

Matthew 15-17; Mark 7-9 Woman expecting Miracles Mark 7:25-26 It is significant that we are told this woman is a Greek.  Jesus was mainly teaching the Jews. That was His mission. Those that were not Jews were outside of the inner circle - outcasts to a certain degree. So this woman was not included in that inner circle. However, she knew about Jesus.  She sought after Him - even though she knew He may not heal her daughter. Mark 7:27 We know Jesus is not cruel or mean.  This verse may seem that way - which is why we need to discuss it in a little more detail. If you've just made dinner - you've spent an hour or two on it, and your family sits to eat. Who will have priority? You, your husband, your children, right? Afterwards, if there are some leftovers maybe you'd let your dog have them.  Usually the dog doesn't eat first though (usually of course). Jesus is reminding her that He is there to teach these people - that is His priority. Mark 7:28 She is not offended - she understands.  Really in this response, she's telling Jesus where her stance is on Him, and His words and teachings. She is telling Him - I will take the crumbs. I will take what I can have right now while I wait for more to come. Jesus Christ delivers Matthew 15:28 Jesus sees that she's genuine. She isn't there just because she has heard of Him.  She knows Him. She's heard His teachings. She wants to be a follower of Jesus Christ and knows He can heal her daughter. She pleads with Him to heal. Once He knows her place - she tells her and heals her daughter. I always love the stories of healings that happen from afar. Those when the people being healed are not in the presence of Jesus Christ. Maybe I connect with it because it's how we would be healed today.o

Easter Birth + Resurrection Birth is miraculous. We don't know a lot about how the women's body can create that life - but it can.  While in the womb millions of cells become a human being. A baby is created from seemingly small things. This can give us hope in the resurrection - the bringing together of the human decayed body and making it whole and new again. Bones that are decayed can come together and be remade into the person they once were. BYU Scholar wrote: Pages 150-151 of book Matthew 28:9  First to touch Jesus Matthew 28:1 Mary Magdalene The other Mary (James + Joses mother) Mark 16:1 Mary Magdalene Mary the mother of James + Joses Salome Luke 24:10 Mary Magdalene Joanna Mary the mother of James Other women that were with them, John 20: 1-3, 11-18 Mary Magdalene

Ether 10 - Moroni 10  Faith Ether 10 +  11 is a lot more of the same thing we've been reading about. Wars. The righteous become wicked, etc. Ether 12:2-4 In verse 6 Moroni pops in and wants to tell us more about faith. Throughout this chapter “faith” is mentioned 36 times!  In verse 6 Moroni gives us the definition of faith that we quote over, and over and over.  Moroni shares examples of faith with us so we can better understand what it really looks like: Jesus Christ coming to Earth, Law of Moses, Law of Moses fulfilled, Alma and Amulek causing the prison to tumble to the earth, Nephi and Lehi that caused a change in the Lamanite, Ammon's great miracles with the Lamanites, 3 Nephites. Miracles come AFTER our faith and when we FIRST show that we believe in Jesus Christ. Brother of Jared's faith: verses 20-21, 30 Weakness: Ether 12:27 Seek Jesus: 12:39-41 War The Book of Ether ends with war. A LOT of war. In chapter 15 we are told that MILLIONS have died. Cariantumr remembers what he was told by the prophets and tries to repent. Verse 3. In verse 23 + 25 we find out how few people are left. Then in 29, it is just Coriantumr and Shiz. Coriantumr slays Shiz and then he died. Verses 32-34 Prayers Moroni first tells us in chapter 1 that he thought he said goodbye because he wouldn't be around too much longer. But he's still around, so he'll share a little bit more. Chapter 2 is the prayer for conferring the gift of the Holy Ghost. Chapter 3 is the prayer to ordain priests and teachers. Chapter 4 and 5 are the sacrament prayers. Chapter 6 is all about baptism and repenting. Chapter 7 is Moroni writing his father, Mormon's, words down. 7:11-12 Various verses teaching that Light/Good comes from Christ. Verse 25-26, 33, 41-42, 45, 47-48 Chapter 8 is all about infant baptism and how it is an abomination of the Lord. Verse 8-10 Chapter 9 is another epistle to Moroni and he talks about the wars going on around him. A Promise and Gifts from God Moroni 10:3-5 What does Moroni's promise mean? What can it look like for each of us as individuals? What are my own experiences with it? President Nelson April 2018 “The Prophet Joseph Smith set a pattern for us to follow in resolving our questions. Drawn to the promise of James that if we lack wisdom we may ask of God,8 the boy Joseph took his question directly to Heavenly Father. He sought personal revelation, and his seeking opened this last dispensation. In like manner, what will your seeking open for you? What wisdom do you lack? What do you feel an urgent need to know or understand? Follow the example of the Prophet Joseph. Find a quiet place where you can regularly go. Humble yourself before God. Pour out your heart to your Heavenly Father. Turn to Him for answers and for comfort. Pray in the name of Jesus Christ about your concerns, your fears, your weaknesses—yes, the very longings of your heart. And then listen! Write the thoughts that come to your mind. Record your feelings and follow through with actions that you are prompted to take. As you repeat this process day after day, month after month, year after year, you will “grow into the principle of revelation.”9 Does God really want to speak to you? Yes!”“I exhort thee” - SIX TIMES Verse 4, 7, 8, 19, 27, 30 Ask God, Deny not the power of God, Deny not the gifts of God, remember God is the same, Remember these things, Come unto Christ. Spiritual gifts from God Verses 8-18 How can we know our own gifts? How can we gain new gifts? Verse 32-22 Promises of the Book of Mormon Take Moroni's invitation Live Zoom Call April 21st @7 PM Eastern Times

Matthew 14; Mark 6; John 5-6 Jesus' Sisters In Matthew 13 (from last week) and Mark 6 (this week) we get a small glimpse into Jesus' family. Jesus returns to Nazarath with His Disciples. He begins teaching in the synagogue and many are confused almost. They know Him. Isn't this Mary and Joseph's son? His brothers James, Joses, and Juda and Simon? His sisters are here with us. We know from this that He has at least 2 sisters since it is plural. We also know those sisters still live at home, or perhaps are married and have stayed. It's exciting to know that Jesus grew up with Sisters. He would have interacted and learned so much about women from, not only Mary, but them as well. They would have been the first women He interacted with, and who may have known of His divine calling. Herodias + her Daughter More often than not, we find righteous women in the scriptures. Today, we do not though. Go through this story. It is in several of the chapters this week. Herodias was Phillips wife. Phillip passes away and his brother, Herod, takes his wife, Herodias as his own. John the Baptist has told them that it wasn't lawful for him to has his brothers wife. This was against the Law of Moses. Well, Herodias didn't like that and wanted John killed. However, she couldn't make that call and her husband put him in prison b/c He was a man of God and did not think that John had done anything to have him killed. It is Herod's birthday and they are celebrating. Herodias' daughter comes out and dances. In the Women of the New Testament book - Hannah mentioned that often we think this is some sort of seductive dance. It never says that though. At this time, and situation, it would have been common for a young girl (10-11) to do a dance at a party that is more theatrical or gymnastics in nature. He enjoys it and offers her whatever she'd like. So goes and consults with her mother. Who tells her daughter to ask for John's head on a charger. Can you imagine asking your 11 year old to ask for that? The king has to follow through b/c he's made an oath and in front of a LOT of people! So, he sent it to have that done. The servant brings the head of John the Baptist to the GIRL! To the damsel the scriptures say. Needless to say, Herodias was a wicked woman who was teaching her daughter her ways. Feeding the 5,000 They feed 5000 + women and children. Jesus taught families that day. He fed families that day. It was not just the men, but the women and children who followed Him too. Satan wants us to believe that there isn't enough for everyone. That we need to be selfish with our possessions, our blessings, our spiritual gifts, etc. HE wants us to think there isn't enough to go around. However, this story shows us that there is enough. There is enough for 5,000 men PLUS the women and children in the company. (Matthew 14:21) Peter Walking on Water “One of the clearest messages in the New Testament is that Jesus Christ is a healer. Accounts of the Savior healing the sick and afflicted are many—from a woman with a fever to a widow's son who had died. Why the emphasis on physical healing? What messages might there be for us in these miracles? Certainly one obvious message is that Jesus Christ is the Son of God, with power over all things, including our physical pains and imperfections. But another meaning is found in His words to the skeptical scribes: “That ye may know that the Son of man hath power on earth to forgive sins” (Mark 2:10). So when you read about a blind person or a leper being healed, you might think of the healing—both spiritual and physical—that you can receive from the Savior and hear Him say to you, “Thy faith hath saved thee” (Luke 7:50).” CFM Manual

4 Nephi - Ether 9 Pride Creeks Into Their Hearts - 4th Nephi 194 years of peace and everyone getting along! I love verses 15 + 16. Love of God = No contention. I can't even imagine living in this world. My own home isn't usually this peaceful, lol. This downfall is interesting though. In verse 20 it says a “small part” began to revolt. Then around 210 pride began to creep in and it took over! Other churches were built up and they were mocking and persecuting each other to get gain. It says in verse 28 that Satan had power over them. 29-34 Persecuting disciples of Jesus Christ. This all happened in a span of 20 years. By the year 300 everyone was wicked except the disciples of Jesus Christ. We Meet Mormon - Mormon 1 Mormon is TEN when Ammaron approaches him and tells him about the plates, and that in 14 years he'll need to go and get them. But until then, he'll be able to recall all that happens in those 14 years when the time comes! Whoa! Then we learn that there was a war, and then peace. And then so much wickedness came over that … verse 13. Read 1 Samuel 3:1 At 15 Mormon saw Jesus Christ! Verses 15-17 Stay Strong - Mormon 2 We become weakened when we don't have the strength of the Lord to help us! Verse 26 Strength of the Lord allows the Spirit to guide and direct our path. Without that we become weak. Mormon Leaves, and Comes Back - Mormon 4-5 In verse 23 of Chapter 4 it says … Then verse 1 of chapter 5 says … Chapter 5, verses 17-18 Mormon Testifies of Jesus Christ - Chapter 7 Doubt Not - Chapter 9 verse 27 Ether - Story of the Brother of Jared Language Confounded (1:34-42)- Jared asks his brother to ask the Lord for help. The Lord has compassion and allows them to speak to each other. Jared asks his brother to inquire where they should go. Lord has compassion and tells them He has a land of promise for them. Getting Ready to Go (2:2-5) Then verses 12-13 = they stay where they are. In verse 14 the Lord rebukes them. They go to work finishing up getting ready. Three Problems. In verse 19 The Brother of Jared comes across 3 problems. Air. Light. Steering. Verse 20 = God will solve air for them. Verse 24 = God will solve steering for them. However, in verse 22-23 BOJ must solve light. Finding Light Veres 1 - white and clear Veres 2 - Do not be angry with me in my weakness. Humility before God. Verse 3 - Take pity on me Verse 4 - I know your power. Touch these THINGS. Seeing the Finger of God Verse 6, 9-13. Verse 17 Moroni chimes in. Verse 19, and chapters 5 + 6 are written by him. What else the Brother of Jared Saw Verse 22-28 The Journey Chapter 6 verse 2 = Light Verses 5-7 Buried in the depths of the sea.

Matthew 13, Luke 8, 13 Mary Magdalene This is our first introduction to Mary Magdalene. It is also interesting to note that she is listed first, in these verses as well as other verses we will get to. This may indicate that she was a leader or had seniority to some of the other women in the group. Luke tells us right away that she has been healed and had 7 devils cast out. We can assume that this was a severe case of mental health for her. That it was a miracle indeed for her to be able to function again. As we read these accounts, it seems like these devils create these people to not be in their right mind - like mental health struggles. Christ was healing these men and women. Elder Holland reminded us “Though we may feel we are “like a broken vessel,” as the Psalmist says, we must remember, that vessel is in the hands of the divine potter. Broken minds can be healed just the way broken bones and broken hearts are healed. While God is at work making those repairs, the rest of us can help by being merciful, nonjudgmental, and kind.” We can learn from Mary that Christ is the ultimate healer, and that He can make all things possible and heal all infirmities. Joanna Luke 8:3 Joanna is the second woman listed of those that Christ healed. Just so we know who she is, Chuza Herod. The title her husband has, in Greek, means to manage a household or an estate. He was likely one of Herod's head servants and he and Joanna would have lived very well and been close to the family. Quote by Richard Holzapefel Walking with the Women of the New Testament page 86. (affiliate link) Susanna Luke 8:3 We do not know much about Susanna. Only that she was healed and followed Jesus Christ. It even says, “...and other certain women.” It is likely that as these women followed along with Jesus they helped meet His needs of food, clothing and even shelter. Luke 23:27, Matthew 27:55 We learn that Christ wanted women to be with Him to be disciples with everyone else. He loved and encouraged them. Other Certain Women of the Company Luke 13:11-13 Christ is teaching in one of the synagogues on the sabbath. We find out that there is a woman who (read verse 11). It would have been common if men and women were both attending that the women were on one side and men on the other side. Sometimes, women would even be covered by a vail. In verse 12 we are told that Jesus saw this woman. Then He called her to come to Him. This doesn't happen often in scripture. Most of the time people are coming to Him - He doesn't call to others as often though. We aren't quite sure what is happening with her. It says, Spirit of infirmity for 18 years, and that she was bowed together. In verse 16 it says that Satan had bound. Those are the only clues we really have though. So, Christ calls this woman over and He lays His hands on her head and immediately she sits up straight and glorifies God. The rulers of the synagogues are angry b/c He healed on the Sabbath. He comes and says you are more worried about your animals than about this woman. In verse 16-17 says …

Sermon on the Mount Chapter 12-14 the people in Americas are getting the opportunity to hear the Beatitudes Love your enemies (12:44) How to pray (13:6-8) Pattern of prayer (13:9-14 Lord's Prayer) Seek first the kingdom of God (12:31-34) Ask, seek knock (14:7) False prophets (14:15) Wise man vs foolish man (14:24-27) These are the Other Sheep of My Fold - Chapter 15 Law of Moses is fulfilled in Him Nephites are the other sheep spoken of. They understood not THREE times. Other sheep TWO times. Healing and Blessing - Chapter 17 Heals + blesses children Sacrament - Chapter 18 Jesus teaches the sacrament Verses 15-24 are about praying alway and holding up your light. TALK ABOUT THIS. Desire for the Holy Ghost - Chapter 19 I love that in verse 9 we learn that the greatest desire to to receive the Holy Ghost. Then a few verse later Jesus goes up away from the people to pray. While he's praying in 21-23 we get to read Jesus Christ advocating for the people! We get to read this incredible gift that we've all been given happen! Right there. Miracle Sacrament - Chapter 20 In verse 6 we read that there was no bread or wine, but that it didn't matter and there was bread and wine to have the sacrament a second time. Remember, Remember - Chapter 23 Verses 9-14 we learn that the words and teachings of Samuel the Lamanite were never written down! It's been 39 years since it happened! Jesus reminds Nephi that it was never written down, and Nephi hadn't ever realized it. Elder Anderson said in his talk Spiritual Defining Memories from April 2020 "Embrace your sacred memories. Believe them. Write them down. Share them with your family. Trust that they come to you from your Heavenly Father and His Beloved Son. Let them bring patience to your doubts and understanding to your difficulties. I promise you that as you willingly acknowledge and carefully treasure the spiritually defining events in your life, more and more will come to you. Heavenly Father knows you and loves you!" 3 Nephites - Chapter 28 3 Nephites - talk about this entire chapter. Call to Action - Chapter 30 Verse 2 at the end - Nephi's call to action for all of us.

Matthew 11-12 + Luke 11 Come Unto Me - Matthew 11:28-30 28 ¶ Come unto me, all ye that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you crest. 29 Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls. 30 For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light. Footnote for 29a is for the word YOKE. It says, “Jesus Christ, Taking the Name of.” So when we take His yoke - we are taking His name, or making covenants by being baptized. When we are yoked WITH Him, He is able to offer us this help. Footnote 29c is for the work MEEK. The footnote for this says, “gentle and humble.” In the talk by Elder Bendar called “Meek and Lowly in Heart” Elder Bednar discusses in detail the attribute and gift of meekness. He says, “Please notice the characteristic the Lord used to describe Himself in the following scripture: “Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls.” Instructively, the Savior chose to emphasize meekness from among all the attributes and virtues He potentially could have selected. A similar pattern is evident in a revelation received by the Prophet Joseph Smith in 1829. The Lord declared, “Learn of me, and listen to my words; walk in the meekness of my Spirit, and you shall have peace in me.” Meekness is a defining attribute of the Redeemer and is distinguished by righteous responsiveness, willing submissiveness, and strong self-restraint. This quality helps us to understand more completely the respective reactions of Amulek, Pahoran, President Nelson, and President Eyring.” Footnote 29f is for the word REST. President Nelson has gone into great detail about this word, and I would direct you to His talk “Overcome the World and Find Rest.” The footnote does tell us that we can look up the word COMFORT though. I love this idea of finding comfort in our souls when we come unto Him. That is what he offers and comfort and rest can be one and the same. A Certain Woman in the Company In Luke 11 verses 27-28 we learn about a Certain woman of the company. There was a group gathered and Jesus cast out devils of a man that was dumb and heal him. Then Jesus taught that a house divided will fall. Then in 27 we read ... I believe that Christ's response in 28 is one of agreeing and also comparing. Just as our mothers and their nurturing us as babes is essential and something to rejoice in - so it shall be rejoiced that those that hear the word of God and keep it. Walking wtih the Women of the New Testament page 93. (affiliate link)

Nephi Prophecies Samuel the Lamanite Signs of Christ's Birth Signs of Christ's Death Jesus Speaks Jesus Comes!

Matthew 9-10, Mark 5, Luke 9 Jairus' Daughter Jairus was a ruler of a synagogue in Jerusalem. He comes up to Jesus, falls at His feet and asks Him to come. In verse 23 … Jairus must have been acquainted with Jesus to some extent. He knew exactly who Jesus was when he saw Him - and knew that He could heal. Jesus begins to go with Jairus. There are a lot of people following them. In the midst of their walk to the young girl - a woman tuches His garment and is healed. Jesus stopped to talk with her for a moment. While they are stopped - Jairus' servant finds him and lets him know that his daughter has passed. I love the words Jesus offers Jairus in verse 35 as he's just gotten this news. Jesus, Jairus, Peter, James and John all go to the house. When they arrive Jesus lets everyone know that the girl is alive and sends everyone except the apostles, Jairus and his wife away. Let's read the miracle in verse 41-43 Sometimes it feels like it's too late to ask for our Saviors help. Sometimes we think He's being slow - as in this story when He stops and talks to someone else. He is with us. He can comfort us and guide our lives so that miracles will still take place even when time, and people and circumstances don't see to be on our side. Woman with the Issue of Blood In the middle of this story of Jairus trying to save his daughter - we meet a “Certain woman”. To begin I would like to read an excerpt from Walking with the Women of the New Testament (affiliate link)pages 52-53. This explains in detail more about what menstruation was like for these women and about being clean/unclean. In verse 25, footnote A we see that the “issue of blood” could be called hemorrhage - or intense vaginal bleeding. Something like this today would be if a woman we going through 1 pad/hour! During the time of the Mosaic law - a woman who had an issue of blood was unclean during that time anything she touched (lay on, sat on, food prepared) was considered unclean. If others touched her they had a washing ritual they had to do. This woman had been unclean for TWELVE YEARS! That meant that she had no had any contact with anyone. She was not able to even attend the temple or worship services. Mark 5:26 - this is where we get a glimpse into what her life had been like. Having lost so much blood for so long - we can assume that she was probably exhausted. I'm sure just going to the Savior - then being around so many people (who she wasn't supposed to touch b/c she was unclean). We know from verse 24 that there were a lot of people following Him in this moment. She didn't need to talk to Him. She didn't need to ask Him. She just KNEW that if she could TOUCH Him - she would be healed. Her faith has always amazed me. She just wanted to TOUCH Him. And she did. Verse 29. I love verse 30 though. She didn't tell or ask or anything. She touched. He knew. He felt virtue - or power - leave Him. He asked. His disciples thought He was crazy. There were so many people around - everyone was touching Him. But this was different. Jesus could feel the power leave Him. He knew something beautiful had just happened to someone in this crowd. Verse 33 - she was so scared. She was worried. She had been unclean. But, she told Him the truth. Jesus responds in verse 34 - Thy faith hath made thee whole; go in peace. The tenderness that Jesus offers her. The understanding. The compassion. The love. It just touches my heart every time. How has the Savior healed you when you've reached out in desperation - even in just a moment where He was your only hope in that moment? Look for ways that He is manifesting His li

Alma 52 - Helaman 8 The Army of Helaman Forms. Lamanites had begun to take possession of some of the Nephite lands. The Nephites needed help - but the Anti-Nephi-Lehies had made the covenant to not fight anymore. In verse 16 we see the beginning of the formation of the Army of Helaman. Description of them in verses 20-23 The Webster 1850 Dictionary defines “Stripling” as: A youth in the state of adolescence, or just passing from boyhood to manhood; a lad. These are going to be like the teachers in your ward. Maybe some priests. That's who these young men were. 2,000 Stripling Warriors. 56:17, 19, 44-48, 54-56 2,060 – 57: 5-6, 20-21, 25-27 58:11-12, 33 + 37 Moroni's Epistle to Pahoran Chapter 59: Moroni is pretty upset with Pahoran. He isn't sure why things aren't being sent, and why they aren't getting the help that they were anticipating. He writes a kind - yet firm, letter to Pahoran. Chapter 60: Pahoran writes back and explains that the people have come against the government and are trying to overthrow everything. Moroni leaves and comes to help Pahoran with the situation. They were successful and they were able to get things under control again. Nephites vs Lamanites The Book of Helaman is actually the Son of Helaman. So he begins this book. We learn immediately about the darkness that is happening all around. One of my favorite verses is Helaman 3:23. They had been going through this period where the Nephites were extremely righteous and prospering. Then by Helaman 4 the Nephites are now weak like the Lamanites when they are fighting. Then they repent and do well for a while, then cycle back down. It's constant up and down through a lot of these chapters. Nephi + Lehi (The Son's of Helaman) Helaman (the son of Helaman) gets old, and gives the land and everything over to his sons Nephi and Lehi. They are great missionaries. Chapter 5 verses 6-7 – family history. Then verses 9 - 12 Nephi and Lehi go and teach. They are reject and everyone is very unhappy with them. Verse 23, 24, 26. Voice comes 3 times. 31, 32, 33 Some repent and are encircled with fire along with Nephi and Lehi. Nephi and Lehi have done great missionary work and the Nephites and Lamaites are living and working side by side. Exceedingly Wicked Three years into that situation - they became exceedingly wicked. Secret murderers and robbing and other things begin to take hold of these people. Chapter 6, verses 21, 27, 28, 29 - all of it is Satan. Chapter 6:34, 36 Chapter 7 and 8 are the beginning of the Lamaintes being the righteous people. Verse 7 - how many times do we wish that? However, Nephi went through a LOT of really hard things. Sometimes the grass seems greener - but it's important to remember it's not. Prophets Called by God Chapter 8: 10-20 The importance of prophets who are led by God.

Luke 7 The woman who anoints the feet of Jesus is so similar to another story, that we will come back to her story in a little bit. Widow of Nain – Luke 7: 11-15 In verse 11 we are introduced to a mother. Her son is being “carried out” - which means he was being carried a funeral bier. He had died. There was a BYU scholar who wrote the following (see page 42 of Walking with the Women of the New Testament affiliate link). It goes on to say that many people from the city were with her. Then Jesus saw her. In verse 13 it says, “... He had compassion on her and said, weep not.” This is so telling of the Savior and His love. Compassion The Guide to the Scriptures (in your app - scriptures - then the first option. This is an amazing resource) defines compassion as literally “to suffer with.” It also means to show sympathy, pity, and mercy for another. The word mercy is defined as: The Spirit of Compassion, tenderness and forgiveness. Jesus Christ offers all of these things to use through His atonement. So Jesus had compassion on this widow who had also lost her son. At this time having a man in your life was actually very important. So to have lost her husband and her son added another level of difficulty this woman was going to be experiencing in her life. Jesus saw her situation and decided to show compassion in the form of mercy. The first thing He does is comfort her. Weep Not He had compassion and then said unto her, weep not. I can't imagine the tenderness and love those words were spoken with. Jesus knew how hard this situation was for her. The only thing he says to her is “weep not”. He knew that He was about to offer a miracle that no one else could give her. He knew that things were about to change and be different. How often do we have a comforting feeling from the Spirit about something that is troubling us, and we are able to hold onto that hope and wait for the next step we have felt Jesus will take or give us to take? Sometimes our peace from the Holy Ghost is a lot like Jesus saying to us, “week not” and having compassion on us. He is with you and by your side just as he was by the side of this widow. He heals In verse 14-15 it says … I love how 15 ends. He delivered him to his mother. Jesus has compassion. He tells her to weep not. He goes over to the young man (we have no clues as to if he had been ill for a long time, if he passed suddenly, or if something else happened to him) and says, Arise, and the boy rises. Then he is delivered to his mother whom the Savior had just spoken to a moment ago. Can you even imagine? The beautiful part about this is that we will get to have experiences where those we have not gotten to walk through this life with - will rise again and we will get to have a reunion with them, just as this mother and son were reunited. That is still the same compassion and mercy as this woman was given. Hers was just given in the beginning of her mourning. Don't forget that He has offered his compassion and mercy to you in all your hardships. If our miracle looks different than this woman's miracle - just remember that there is still a miracle in the atonement of Jesus Christ for every single one of us. It is only because of His atonement that even this young man was raised from the dead. Jesus Christ loves each and every one of us. Seek His miracles in your daily life. Seek and even ask to recognize His mercy and even miracles that are happening all around you. They are there!

Prayer of Zenos - Alma 33 He Hears us = 8 times in 8 verses (verses 4-11) He is merciful = 5 times in 6 verses. (verses 4-9) How have you seen this in your life? When have you felt like your prayers were heard? When have you felt the mercy of your Savior? I'd encourage you to take time and write this down. Words of Amulek - Alma 34 Cry unto Him = 9 times in 10 verses (verses 18-27) Verses 27 + 28 Amulek exhorts in verses 39-41 Trust + Small + SimpleAlma Alma 36: 3 TRUST IN GOD = SUPPORT IN TRIALS Chapter 37:5 -7 Small + Simple. The Primary/SS answers are the answers. They are the small + simple things. They are what matters the most. President Oaks in April of 2018 “So is the powerful effect over time of the small and simple things we are taught in the scriptures and by living prophets. Consider the scripture study we've been taught to incorporate into our daily lives. Or consider the personal prayers and the kneeling family prayers that are regular practices for faithful Latter-day Saints. Consider attendance at seminary for youth or institute classes for young adults. Though each of these practices may seem to be small and simple, over time they result in powerful spiritual uplift and growth. This occurs because each of these small and simple things invites the companionship of the Holy Ghost, the Testifier who enlightens us and guides us into truth, as President Eyring has explained.” God has entrusted you: verse 14 Counsel with the Lord: 37 The importance of FAITH + the Liahona: 40 + 41 Easiness of the way: 46 + 47 Alma 40 “It mattereth not” verse 5 + 8. How can we find peace with things that are hard to understand? Worth the Wrestle by Sheri Dew (affiliate link) Title of Liberty! Alma 46:12 - 17, 36 A belonging. This was a way to come together as a people and a church. Moroni Prepares his people for battle. Alma 48: 7-10 Moroni and others are “Men of God. Verses 11-19 What does this look like for us today? Prophets and apostles? Your ministering sisters? Chapter 49 shows the importance of being prepared and following the council of the Lord. Verses 13-15, 18 and 23. This is reminding me of the importance of food storage!

Fast Offerings Alms - Money or food given to the poor. Verses 1-5 How we should give to others. How to Pray Verse 6-8 Do so in private calling upon our Heavenly Father. The Lord's Prayer Check out Matthew 6:9 footnote a. These isn't something we are to repeat - it is something we should use as a guide for our own prayers. Recognize Him. Let Him know our needs Ask for forgiveness Ask for help. How to Fast Verses 16-18 Do so in private. Be a Light. Verse 20-23 Chooses a Master. Verses Consider the Lilies Verses 28-34 We will be taken care of. He knows our needs. He will provide if we have faith in Him. Trust Him to know me and my needs and that He will take care of all of them for me. Matthew 7 Verses 1-11 are basically all JST. Verse 7 and 8, do not have a JST. ASK - Given SEEK - Find KNOCK - Open Verses 14-21 False prophets Hypocrites Guile Go against prophet Go against God's teachings Social Media - THIS IS NOT WHERE WE GO FOR KNOWLEDGE!!! Verse 21-29 Wise man and foolish man. We can stand against everything that is thrown at us when our foundation is Jesus Christ. He is what will give us power to endure the hard things in this life. President Nelson has told us we need to believe. If we only have a desire to believe, we are still building that rock foundation. Desire to believe - nelson

Alma 14-32 Zeezrom is Healed - Alma 15: 7-11 Ammon + King Lamoni - Starts in Alma 18 Abish! - Alma 19:16 Alma 23 - 7 Laminate Cities are converted. Call themselves Anti-Nephi-Lehi's. Alma 24 they bury their weapons of war. Alma 31 + 32 Alma 32:21-22 President Nelson's Talk Christ is Risen: Faith in Him to Move Mountains from April 2021

Matthew 5 + Luke 6 Sermon on the Mount The sermon on the mount is one of the most recognizable sermons Jesus Christ gave. He went to the mountain, sat down and taught all those who found Him and listened. He taught in a relatable way. Reaching us where we currently are and giving us hope of where we could someday be. Find the blessings in the hard. He tells us we are blessed when we are having trials - not just in the great parts or great days. Read Matthew 5:1-12 Our Day Star Rising, Elder Holland's book page 15 Let Your Light Shine Verse 16-17 Love Your Enemy Matthew 5 Verse 44-48 Luke 6 verses 27, 35-38 Our Day Star Rising, Elder Holland's book page 92-93 Jesus Restores a Man's Hand Luke 6:6-12

I am so thrilled to have Erin from Seek This Jesus Study on the podcast today. She is teaching us all about the five learning styles, how to know which one you are, and how to apply that knowledge into your daily scripture study! I hope you'll listen and learn with Erin today! Join Erin's General Conference Study starting February 20th! It's going to be amazing! Find our your learning style here. Check out her Instagram here.

LAST WEEK RECAP Before we jump into Alma, let's do a recap of last week. We did not have a podcast episode! I had to substitute a kindergarten class unexpectedly and could not do all the things. However, last week had so many great events.Mosiah 9-22 is the record of Zeniff. Which is so neat. We get several break off stories in Mosiah. We hear about what's happened to those who were separated at various times. Mosiah 11 is the story of Abinidi! In chapter 13, I love that he says, in verse 3 … It reminded me of Nephi and his brothers when Nephi was building the boat. The power that comes to the Lords prophets when they are in need of protection. In chapter 15 verses 1-3 when I read these it seemed to explain to me whey we sometimes hear Jesus Christ referred to as the Father at times. In chapter 17, Alma, who is one of King Noah's priests, believes Abinidi and flees b/c they weren't happy with him when he didn't want to kill Abinidi. Alma runs and finds the waters of Mormon. He writes down everything Abinidi taught. While this is going on Abinidi is put to death. Alma begins his teachings. He starts with a small group that ends up growing and baptizing a lot of people. ALMA THE ELDER We start off with Alma and his people in the wilderness. He is with those who left or were driven out by King Noah. In verse 17-20 it talks about how they were prospering and doing well in the city of Helam.Verse 21-22. They are going to be brought into a bondage - they encounter the Lamanites and the Lamenites say that they are going to protect them. However, they do not do that. They end up telling the people of Alma that they can not pray. In chapter 24: 12-16 Alma says I love that in verse 21 - they took time to Thank the Lord and recognize HIS part and His hand in what had happened. ALMA THE YOUNGER In Alma 27 we meet Alma the Younger and his friends. I want to go ahead and read verse 1 and 3. Some of these were Alma the younger and 3 of Mosiah's sons. Vs. 9Verse 11-16 - I love that he's told to remember those in his past and their lives and stories. This just struck me of the importance of those who have gone before us and their impact on our lives. Of course this is one of those stories most of us know and understand. Alma the younger is converted and becomes a great prophet. Where can you find yourself in this story? What has happened in your life that has strengthened your testimony and made you feel like you want to share the gospel of Jesus Christ? In chapter 29 we get judges appointed. We will see this as the “calendar” for quite some time moving forward. Then Alma begins. The book of Alma is the book of Alma the Younger. He was appointed to be the first chief judge.In chapter 1 of Alma let's read verses 24-26. I also love verse s33. The idea that when we become more still and are righteous, we will not commit wickedness. In Alma 5 Alma is talking to the people of Zarahemla. Let's talk a little about verse 12-16, 19, 21, 26, 27, 28, 31, 34, 36, 40, 43.How do we receive answers: Alma 1:45-46, 48. In Alma 7 Alma testifies and talks of Jesus Christ and His life. He talks about Mary,and the atonement, the resurrection and the deliverance. We are invited to come and be baptized, repent and receive the Holy Ghost. In Alma 8, Alma travels to Melek. It is NOT received well and leaves pretty quickly. However, in verse 15 it says. I love Alma's response in verse 18. Then he will meet Amulek! The great duo is finally coming together. The rest of our section for the week is with these two teachings in Ammonihah. We are going to jump to the end of 13, and chapter 14. I know 14 isn't until next week, technically, but since the story finishes up in 14, I snuck it in. This is when Alma and Amulek are captured. Next week we are reading to Alma 32!

Turning Water to Wine: John 2 I was excited to start reading these chapters only to discover that we were reading about Mary again! I love reading about Mary. Jesus and Mary are at a wedding feast. Traditionally, as you may know, the best wine was served first, while everyone could enjoy it, and as the night wore on, the wine quality slipped - if you will. They filled them to the brim, it says in verse 7, with water. Then He tells the servants to serve it. I love this. There is so much to learn. Mary asks Him to help. He doesn't know exactly what to do, and even asks, “What have I do to with thee?” What do you want me to do Mother? What are we hoping He'll do? What are we expecting of Him? He used this water and pots that were used for purification. What an incredible symbol of Him and His mission and what will become of Him. Pure. He takes this water meant for purification and makes it the BEST wine the ruler has EVER hard. He gives this to the ruler at the end - when the wine has run out. How often have you ever felt worn out, ready to give up, gone. But then Jesus … He shows up in your life in a small, simple way - but it feels like a miracle, b/c it is. He will always show up better than we can imagine. He will make our water moments in life turn into the best wine that we actually can not imagine. He will always make our lives better than we ever could or can when we are willing to turn our lives over to Him and start living for Him. Woman at the Well: John 4 I love that there are a handful of stories about women who are unnamed in the scriptures. This might sound strange - but I love that these women allow us to put ourselves in their lives in a different way than those who are named. I am also very excited for the day when I can meet these women and find out what their names actually are and talk to them about their experiences with the Savior. As I believe most of us are aware, the Jews and the Samaritans were not on good terms at all. In any way. If a Samartian had even touched some food or water Jews considered it unclean. They did not associate in any capacity. This is one of the reasons the woman is so surprised that Jesus is talking to her - let alone asking about water. After asking for a drink, and the woman questioning Him, He says in verse 10 … Giving a small hint that maybe He is someone who can offer her something different, or is someone different. In verse 11 she calls Him “Sir”. She asks if He is greater than Jacob's well? He says inverse 14 … She says, “Sir, give me this water….” in verse 15. Jesus then asks her to go get her husband. She says she has none - and Jesus responds by letting her know about her personal life. After hearing these words, in verse 19… She's gone from Sir to Prophet. Jesus testifies of things to come, and she says she knows about Christ in verse 25-26. The beautiful thing that Jesus does is meet us where we are. Elder Holland so beautifully says, “...He met the student where she was in order to take her where she needed to go.” The woman knew about the well, she knew of Christ coming. She said she knew about Christ - and He revealed that He was that Christ. He takes what she understands and teaches her with those things. He will meet us where we are along the covenant path and in our various journeys. He knows us so individually and will allow us to become closer to Him in a variety of ways that may differ in specifics from one person to the next. However, He will always come to us and reach towards us - no matter where we are - and He will love us.

He Makes Up What We Lack Jacob Enos Family History Lesson Picture Here Mosiah

This week we read about the baptism of Jesus Christ and the Godhead! We also learn about Simon’s Mother-in-law, and other healings that took place that very beginning of Jesus’ ministry. Jesus Is Baptized The Godhead – Three Distinct Beings What Shall I Do? Casting Out Spirits Simon's Mother-in-law Healings Leper No Longer

Week 4: Jan 15 – 21: 2 Nephi 11 – 29 My Soul Delight: Chapters 11 – 12  Delight in the word of Prophets: Chapter 25 His Spirit is Always With Us: Chapter 26 Coming Forth of the Book of Mormon: Chapter 27 Why We Need a Bible: Chapter 29

Week 4: Jan 15 – 21: 2 Nephi 11 – 29 My Soul Delight: Chapters 11 – 12  Delight in the word of Prophets: Chapter 25 His Spirit is Always With Us: Chapter 26 Coming Forth of the Book of Mormon: Chapter 27 Why We Need a Bible: Chapter 29

The Word was Jesus – John 1:1 He is the Life – John 1:4 Light – John 1:9 Three Necessities Baptism Jesus Comes – Apostles Choose Him Fig Tree Moments I hope you'll take time to ponder on a time in your life when you felt Seen By Him. If you haven't felt that in […]

Week 2: 1 Nephi 14 – 2 Nephi 10 Isaiah Pattern of Prayer: 1 Nephi 15: 8-11 Act Instead of React: 1 Nephi 16 Nothing is Impossible with Him: 1 Nephi 17 You are Graven: 1 Nephi 21: 13-16 Because of Jesus – 2 Nephi 10:23-25 Other Thoughts

Today we will be talking about Matthew 2 and Luke 2. We are going to study Mary and Anna. I'm so excited to talk about the Mother of Jesus and Anna the prophetess. Links listed in notes are affiliate links. The Manger The Inn(s) The Carpenter + the Virgin Was Mary Alone? The Shepherds Pondering […]

The Book of Mormon is another testament of Jesus Christ. It is important to remember that the Book of Mormon is another testament of Jesus Christ! This week we are reading from the Title Page to 1 Nephi 13. Don't skip out on the Title Page, Introduction to the Book of mormon and the Testimony […]

Matthew 1 + Luke 1: Jan 2 - 8 The lineage of Jesus Christ Matthew starts off by telling us Joseph's lineage.  It includes 4 women. This is very rare. Thamar: Tamar from Genesis 38. Tamar had to take matters into her own hands when a group of men were not doing as they knew they should be doing. I talk about her more in Episode 60 Rachab - or Rahab from Joshua 6 She helps conceal the Israelite spies that Joshua sent into Jericho and her and her entire family are later saved during the destruction of Jericho because of her bravery and kindness. Ruth - Book of Ruth Ruth took an unusual path and arranged her own marriage. She relied on the Lord in her story. Wife of Urias - who is Bathsheba. 2 Samuel 11. Bathsheba has an interesting story. One that is unfortunate. However, she was faithful in raising her son Solomon. These women have incredible stories. They are all messy stories. None of them are perfect and all have been through a LOT.  A lot happened to preserve the lineage of Jesus Christ - and faithful women were a huge part of that line. These women are so relatable. They have been lied to. They struggle financially. They are marginalized. They are forgotten or they are outsiders. These women are us! These are the very women that Jesus was born to save.  He came for them. He came for me. He came for you! Mary + Elisabeth Elisabeth: Luke 1 Right away we learn what type of people Zacharias + Elisabeth are. Luke 1: 6 Righteous Walking in the commandments + ordinances We learn that Zacharias is at the altar - which is actually a once in a lifetime opportunity. He had been praying, when an angel (Gabriel)  comes and tells him that his prayer is heard and Elisabeth will have a son, and his name should be John.  He is told about John and how he shall tell the people of Jesus Christ and testify of him. However, Zacharias asks “Whereby shall I know this? For I am an old man, and my wife well stricken in years.” Then he is struck dumb. - unable to speak until the baby is born. For 9 months he cannot speak. In verse 20 we learn he is struck dumb b/c he doesn't believe the words of the angel. Then Elisabeth does conceive, and hides her pregnancy because she is so old and has been barren. Mary: Luke 1 The same angel that visited Zacharias also gets to visit Mary. We find out quickly what type of woman Mary is: Luke 1: 27-28 Virgin Highly Favored Blessed Believing Willing to do what is asked of her. In the book. Walking with the Women of the New Testament on page 32 it is explained that Espoused means more than engaged. It is a 2 step process. In the first step, there would have been a contract of sorts where Joseph would have signed it with witnesses present. Joseph also would have had to make some sort of gift/payment that could have been valuable jewelry of some sort. Possibly a ring. They were considered married, but did not share a home or anything like that. In order to get out of this situation, a formal divorcement would have had to be made. Formal marriage was the second step. As the angel tells Mary that she shall conceive and bring for Jesus she doesn't question who Jesus is. She is a faithful daughter of God who had most likely been taught the words from the Old Testament. She probably knew that Jesus would be born and what He was prophesied to do. She questions how that is possible b/c she has not been intimate with a man. The angels explain that the Holy Ghost will overshadow her. She's then told that her cousin - JST relative - Elisabeth is pregnant also. That she's 6 months pregnant even.  Luke 1:37 - 38 “Be it unto me.” I love these words from Mary. She is willing to do this thing that she probably doesn't fully understand. Being a faithful woman, I'm sure she knows what has been prophesied of the Lord. She was willing though. She believed it!

We are studying the Book of Mormon for the first 90 days of this year! If you'd like to join us, just go here and sign up! In the Come Follow Me book Elder David A. Bednar taught: “We should not expect the Church as an organization to teach or tell us everything we need to know and do to become devoted disciples and endure valiantly to the end. Rather, our personal responsibility is to learn what we should learn, to live as we know we should live, and to become who the Master would have us become. And our homes are the ultimate setting for learning, living, and becoming” (“Prepared to Obtain Every Needful Thing,” Ensign or Liahona, May 2019, 102).As we read the New Testament this year, seeking personal revelation is so important. Make sure you are looking for good sources when you do have questions.Seek understanding from GodAct in faith - keep doing those things you know you should to be close to your Heavenly Father and the Holy Ghost.Keep an eternal perspective. In April 2018 President Nelson said:“In like manner, what will your seeking open for you? What wisdom do you lack? What do you feel an urgent need to know or understand? Follow the example of the Prophet Joseph. Find a quiet place where you can regularly go. Humble yourself before God. Pour out your heart to your Heavenly Father. Turn to Him for answers and for comfort. Pray in the name of Jesus Christ about your concerns, your fears, your weaknesses—yes, the very longings of your heart. And then listen! Write the thoughts that come to your mind. Record your feelings and follow through with actions that you are prompted to take. As you repeat this process day after day, month after month, year after year, you will “grow into the principle of revelation.” Does God really want to speak to you? Yes!” Personal Revelation President Nelson gives us step by step how to receive personal revelation. In this last general conference he actually mentioned some of these same things.- As you are preparing to study and read this year - take these steps into account.- Find a quest place- Humble yourself before God- Pour out your heart to HF- Turn to Him for answers + comfort- Pray in the name of Jesus Christ about concerns, fears, weaknesses - longings of your heart- LISTEN!- Write down thoughts that come to you.- RECORD feelings- FOLLOW through! Other Insights: Marking - don't make this harder than it is. Grab one pen. Underline with it. Circle words or phrases with it. Put a rectangle around a word or phrase. Make notes in the margins. It's okay if it's messy and imperfect.Look for the JST's in the New Testament! These are important changes that have been implemented. It is one of the things that makes our Bible unique. Before reading a chapter just skim over the footnotes, and circle the JST at the bottom and then circle the letter that goes along with it in the verse - then you can remember to glance down and check out what's changed.Read first - gain your own insights and revelations. THEN go to other materials. Other Resources for Studying Scriptures: There are so many podcasts you can look up to get supplemental material.The CFM Manual is a great book to have with you as you read, along with the notebook. Jot down things that come to mind. If you like specific things to think about as you go along, use the CFM manual.I also love the “Walking with the Women of the New Testament” book - there is one for the Book of Mormon and Old Testament as well.One Minute Scripture Study is a great book for a quick CFM family discussion.Elder Holland just came out with a book called “Our Day Star Rising” that goes through chapters and gives insights on them.Finding Yourself in the New Testament is a new book by Al Caraway. It's beautifully written to help you put yourself and your experiences in those of the New Testament.*Affiliate links listed above. Make this time of studying the New Testament and the Book of Mormon a time that you focus on learning about J...

The wise hearted women in the Exodus teach us an incredibly important message. We talk about Exodus 35 this week on the podcast today. The wise hearted are asked to come and contribute to the building up of the tabernacle. This means everyone that has a talent or skill. Sister Bonnie Oscarson said, "Each member should know how much he or she is needed. Each person has something important to contribute and has unique talents and abilities that help move this important work along." (Young Women in the Work April 2018) What talents or gifts do you have that help you contribute to the work of the Lord? What can you bring to the "tabernacle" to help move the work of Gathering Israel? We all have gifts that are given to us, put into us, that help us to participate in His work! Make sure to check out all the Seeking Jesus podcast episodes here.

The Lord will always provide a way for us. That is what we learn from Tamar. If you're not looking, or you don't fully understand, you'll miss Him in her story though. The Lord slew Er, Tamar's husband, because he was wicked. However, in this time and place, if your husband died, and you had no children, it became the responsibility of the brother to father a child in place of his brother. The child was still considered to be his brothers child though. Judah, Er's father was not helping in making sure that Tamar was given an opportunity to have a child for Er. We are diving into his story, and what happens and how the Lord helped Tamar on this journey. The incredible thing is that the Lord provided a way. He always will. This is a huge lesson we learn from Tamar. The Lord will provide a way, even if other people are effecting out choices and the path we are on - the Lord can help provide a way. The incredible thing is that Tamar bore twins - and from one of those lines came about Jesus Christ. Learn more about Rachel and Leah's story here. Read the scriptures here.

Finding peace in our hard situations can be a challenge. When we do our best, and seek Jesus, we can find that peace even if we are unsure how things are going to turn out. Leah, Rachel and Jacob had no idea how things were going to be turning out in their lives. With a marriage that ended with a swapping of brides, serving 14 years instead of 7, children that came quickly at the beginning for one wife, and not at all for another. Life just doesn't turn out the way we think it will. We are going to talk about the ups and down of these two women. We are also going to dive into the meaning of the names of all these boys that are born and what significance the names pay in what is happening with these women. We also learn a lot about their character and love of God through their trials. However, in the midst of these trials we learn form Rachel and Leah that God has not forgotten us. He is there in all of our situations. He loves us. God will be beside you, walking and crying and comforting you every step of the way. If you are ready to be LIFTED closer to Christ - make sure to grab your tickets today! Last weeks podcast: Rebekah Find more about Come Follow Me

"I will go" - those are the words of Rebekah when Abraham's servant said they needed to leave right away and that they couldn't wait the 10 days that her family was requesting. Luckily, they were willing to ask her opinion and be okay letting that happen. Rebekah was king and willing to serve Abraham's servant even when she didn't have to. Maybe it was just part of who she was to serve travelers she met at the well. Maybe that day, a though came to help this traveler in particular - and she did. She said the exact words in the exact order that he had barely finished praying for a women to say in order to know who should be Isaac's wife. They left, and Rebekah and Isaac loved each other - they had a good life. Rebekah struggled to get pregnant, but eventually did. She had twins - but there was a lot going on when she was pregnant with these babies and she sought the help of the Lord. He told her that the "elder shall serve the younger." This would come to pass many years later when the birthright was given to Jacob instead of Esau. Isaac thought he was giving the birthright to Esau, but it was Jacob - under the direction of Rebekah. However, instead of taking that blessing away, Isaac let Jacob keep those blessings and gave another to Esau. Rebekah loved her son - and was worried for him when she found out that Esau was going to kill Jacob. She send Jacob to her brothers home to find a wife, and we don't actually know if she ever saw him again. She loved the Lord. Rebekah wanted to follow through with personal revelation, she wanted to serve, she was willing to go when asked, she wanted to do what she felt was right and she was blessed for doing that. Julie B. Beck's talk referenced in the podcast Listen to the last episode about Lot's Wife here

Sometimes in the thick of life it's hard to accept that the hard can be God's plan, and that it's better than our own plan. Far too often we think our plan is the way to go, and the best path. It makes sense to our limited mortal selves and why can't God just see that that is how it should be? Lot's wife has a lot going on when we meet her in this part of her story. Three holy men have just come and warn them that they need to leave because the city is going to be destroyed. They have three daughters who are married. Lot talks to their husbands, they do not take him seriously. In the morning the holy men take Lot, his wife and their 2 daughters out of the house quickly. Lot's wife turns back - after being told not to - and is turned into a pillar of salt. Why did she turn back? We often are told it's because her heart wasn't in the right place and she longed to be there. Let's take a different approach. In the book Women in the Old Testament, we are given a new point of view. What if Lot's wife turns around out of grief or sorrow? She has just left behind 3 daughters, 3 sons-in-law and potentially grandchildren. What if she turns to make sure they aren't coming, or to see what's happened to them, or maybe she longs to be with her children? God's plan does not always match ours. Heartbreak, trials, and sickness all come our way even when we follow His plan. His plan is greater though. Do you have faith to move forward without looking back to what He has in store for you? Catch up on last weeks podcast about Sarah + Hagar

Sarah wanted the blessings of becoming a mother so desperately. She was a righteous woman with a righteous desire. So why wasn't she being blessed in the ways she was pleading for? I'm sure this situation was beyond difficult and incredibly frustrating. I think many of us can put ourselves in Sarah's shoes without any problem. In God's time, Sarah was given the blessings she'd been pleading for - and far more than she could ever imagine. Sometimes we have to wait longer than we think is possible for blessings. Sometimes we have to wait until the next life. Blessings come when we ask sometimes too. It's in the waiting that we become closer to our Father though. It's in the waiting that our faith is tested, and sometimes sees to fail us. When we are in the waiting though, we can become closer to Him too. It is in the waiting that we become more than we ever imagined we could. The growth in our lives happens in the waiting periods. Hagar + Ishmael We can learn so much from Hagar as well. Hagar was asked to leave when Ishmael was around 17/18 years old. They left and lived in the wilderness. Abraham had given them water and food, but it soon ran out. Hagar we sure they were going to die. Ishmael prayed and his prayer was answered. Hagar turned around a well was behind her. God didn't remove them from the wilderness, but He provided a well for them to be renewed. He does the same for us. The trials are not always removed, but He gives us strength in them in ways we can see - like a well, and sometimes He gives us strength in ways we can not see until after it has passed. There is so much to learn from Sarah and Hagar this week! Make sure you didn't miss the last episode! Episode 55 is all about Noah's wife!

Navigating the trials and the hardships in your life with the waters that seem to never recede can be so difficult, especially when it seems they will end. Heavenly Father will bless you for your efforts. He will bring dry land back into your life again. He loves you and is grateful you're willing to trust in Him and what He's asking you to do. You have all the reason to look up and have joy. He is in the flood and the art parts of your life. The waters will recede, we will be able to get off the ark and we will be able to find the rainbow that He has given us. In today's episode we look at how Noah and his wife were navigating building, loading, getting on and staying on the ark for over a year. It was a long hard journey. However, so are the trials in your life. He will be with you. It may seem like He isn't and the journey may seem to take WAY longer than anticipated, but He is there, and will help you until the waters recede and the rainbow appears. Check out last weeks lesson on Enoch.

God weeps with you. What's what we learn from Enoch this week. He is there, and he weeps for wickedness, and sorrow. This week in Moses 7, we learn about the rest of Enoch's life. Last week in the podcast about Moses 6, we talked about the word becoming, and how Enoch was taking the leap of faith in the Lord to become His disciple. Enoch walked with God, learns from God and was brought up to the Mount Simeon to learn. He is transfigured and see the world and what is coming. He hears the earth and how tired she is. She weeps for her. As they see the wickedness in the world God weeps. Why does he weep? God is so sad for those who have heard his word and turned away. He weeps for those who do not listen to Enoch's message and continue in their wicked ways. He loves. That's actually why He weeps! Jesus taught us about weeping when he wept with Mary and Martha after their brother died. Before the miracle we know today - that they didn't know was coming - He took time to weep with them. He cried with these sisters in their loss. Jesus loved so deeply. He mourned with those that mourn. This is the same thing that's happening. God mourns because of loss. He's love some of his precious children.

The process of becoming more like Jesus Christ isn't the process of becoming perfect - it's just the process of becoming. We are going to learn about Enoch today. Enoch was called by God, and he did not feel like he was the right person. However, God reassured him that he was the right person, and that He'd be standing by his side the entire time. Enoch is called the teach a people about the teachings from the Book of Remembrance. He teaches of repentance, baptism, receiving the Holy Ghost, having the Priesthood of God, being a child of God, and becoming like Christ. The becoming is everything listed there. It is learning to repent, and keep our covenants. Living our lives so that the Holy Ghost can direct our paths. Understanding our priesthood power and authority, and using it! It is allowing our will to be His will. To walk the hard path and trust that He will be by our side - just as He was by Enoch's side. Learning to trust the Lord is also part of our becoming like Him. It is part of our purpose here on Earth. Proverbs 3:5-6 says: 5 Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. 6 In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths. When we can trust Him, we lean on Him. In turn He will direct our paths. We have to assume that He will direct them in a way that will be in the best interest of our lives. Sometimes this means taking a huge leap of blind faith. It's scary, and hard. It can be incredible at the same time though. Heavenly Father loves you. He is cheering you on. He is helping you become like Jesus Christ every day! This weeks reading: Genesis 5 | Moses 6 Did you listen to my Interview with Melinda Brown about Eve? It's incredible! Listen here.

Are you ready to start understanding Eve a little bit more? Melinda Brown has studied Eve for a long time, and has so much amazing insight to share with us today. We are going to learn new things, new perspective and learn to not only understand Eve a little bit more, but love her a little bit more. Eve is incredible and she was so brave! You can learn more about Eve through reading Melinda's incredible book, Eve & Adam: Discovering the Beautiful Balance. About Melinda Brown: Melinda Wheelwright Brown is the author of Eve & Adam: Discovering the Beautiful Balance, which was published by Deseret Book in March 2020, just as the world was going into COVID lockdown. That book grew out of her passion for solving problems, particularly those faced by women. Prior to its release, she spent three years studying, researching, and praying about Eve, the Fall, the need for mortal experiences, and how our Heavenly Parents feel about their daughters and sons. She says she didn't set out to write a book, but all that work mysteriously grew into one. When she's not at her desk, she's often supporting great organizations working to lift and support women, such as Fight the New Drug, Days for Girls, and the Elizabeth Smart Foundation, whose board she currently serves on. She earned a bachelor's degree in economics from BYU. Mindy and her husband, Doug, are the parents of four children and have three darling grandsons. Her very happiest day would be spent with all of them, exploring their favorite South Carolina beach together, searching for sand dollars. Follow Melinda on Instagram Seeking Jesus Series Eve and Adam by Melinda Brown Genesis 3-4 + Moses 4-5