Where is your Focus?

Sorry I haven't written lately. Things have been really hectic and I don't have the computer as long. I have been pondering lately about where is the focus my focus? What do I want to accomplish in this life? What do I want in the eternities?  These are all just basic questions but the truth behind it is these questions may change how we view things, and what we focus upon.


I am forever thinking about what I want to do for a career. I have my mind on my dream but is there something else I should do? I am always pondering and dreaming about this. Last night in fact I had a dream that a police officer asked me for some id and I pulled out an Active Duty Marine Corps. ID. When I decided to come on a mission I was actually filling out the paperwork for the Marine Corps. I thought that was pretty cool. I would still absolutely love to go and serve in the military. God is showing me the path of where I need to be though which is even greater!


I have a question for you, "Where is your focus?" This is a pretty general question but lets think of it deeper. Do you focus more on what happened in the past than you do on the present? Do you set your family aside to get the pleasures that you so please? Do you focus on work more than you focus on being the father of your children? There are times that we do need to focus on work. Because of the economy many fathers and mother are having to work more than one job which really cuts down time at home. They are trying to provided for their children's needs.I am not a parent yet so I don't understand exactly what it is like to take care of my own kids. I have helped with nieces and nephews though. I have rented my own house and paid my own bills. So I am not completely knowledgeable in this subject, but I do know that there is a lot that has to be done.


Does it seem like to you that there is no fun and play because of all the things that you have to do? Do you feel the list of things to do keeps getting longer and longer? Welcome to the reality of life where in order to slow down the pace you have to do it. You have to take control of the situation and decide what is the most important. You are in control of your life ALWAYS REMEMBER that! Nobody else can be. You can let others influence your life but they can't make you do anything. Many times people say the Devil makes them do it but that is NOT SO! They say they can't do anything to change their life and that is false. Does God make you do anything? He ALWAYS INVITES you to do something. Lets think about this for a second.


Is your life focus on doing the will of our Heavenly Father? That is the number one step in our life. How do we figure out His will? That is something you have to do personally. You will need to humble yourself and admit you need help and then get on your knees and pray to your ever so loving Father in Heaven. Talk to Him and ask what you should do. Figure out what His will is for you and not what you want to do. This will be completely personal for you. Maybe some things will be for your family or something but you can not receive revelation for someone you do not have stewardship over. Write the answer you receive down as this is so important. We as humans can hardly remember things sometimes and when you write it down you got paper that will remember it for you.


There are many things we need to focus on in our lives but there are many things we surely do not need to have any participation in even though you think you may to be cool or popular or liked. If that is why you are doing it then surely it is the wrong reason. Some of the things we need to focus on are things the latter-day prophets are speaking about. Examples are GOD, Education, FAMILY, etc..


We as individuals know what we need to focus on. We can pray to see if it is right to focus on. We can seek help and guidance from parents, spouse, etc.. ALWAYS REMEMBER God is right there waiting to help, but He is waiting for us to ask. I know that if we focus on the things of God that we will not have to worry about the rest.

In 3 Nephi 13:19-21 Christ counsels us,
"Lay not up for yourselves treasures upon earth, where moth and rust doth corrupt, and thieves break through and steal;

But lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust doth corrupt, and where thieves do not break through nor steal.

For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also."

 Christ says in 3 Nephi 11:31-34,
"Therefore take no thought, saying, What shall we eat? or, What shall we drink? or, Wherewithal shall we be clothed?
For your heavenly Father knoweth that ye have need of all these things.

But seek ye first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things shall be added unto you.
Take therefore no thought for the morrow, for the morrow shall take thought for the things of itself.
Sufficient is the day unto the evil thereof."

As we listen to this counsel we have been promised by the Savior Himself the things that we need will be given to us as we seek first the kingdom of God.

As I have been taking my own advice and finding out what God wants me to do I am learning so much and changing so much in my life. I am changing career choices along with going to a different school and where I should live after my mission. He is guiding me in this process as I listen to His counsel. My dreams are not what He wants me to do. It is hard to accept at times but I know it is for me that He is directing me this way. I am so thankful for having such a Loving Father in Heaven. I know that as we listen to His counsel whether we understand it or not we will be directed to success. Try this because it really works and helps out in decisions whether difficult or easy He will help.

CHASTITY

Why are we to keep ourselves chaste? Kids will ask my friends do this why can't I?

What does Sexual Purity mean? Chastity is sexual purity. Those who are chaste are morally clean in their thoughts, words, and actions. Chastity means not having any sexual relations before marriage. It also means complete fidelity to husband or wife during marriage.

Physical intimacy between husband and wife is beautiful and sacred. It is ordained of God for the creation of children and for the expression of love within marriage.

In the world today, Satan has led many people to believe that sexual intimacy outside of marriage is acceptable. But in God's sight, it is a serious sin. It is an abuse of the power He has given us to create life. The prophet Alma taught that sexual sins are more serious than any other sins except murder and denying the Holy Ghost (see Alma 39:3-5).

Sometimes people try to convince themselves that sexual relations outside of marriage are acceptable if the participants love one another. This is not true. Breaking the law of chastity and encouraging someone else to do so is not an expression of love. People who love each other will never endanger one another's happiness and safety in exchange for temporary personal pleasure.

When people care for one another enough to keep the law of chastity, their love, trust, and commitment increase, resulting in greater happiness and unity. In contrast, relationships built on sexual immorality sour quickly. Those who engage in sexual immorality often feel fear, guilt, and shame. Bitterness, jealousy, and hatred soon replace any positive feelings that once existed in their relationship.

Our Heavenly Father has given us the law of chastity for our protection. Obedience to this law is essential to personal peace and strength of character and to happiness in the home. Those who keep themselves sexually pure will avoid the spiritual and emotional damage that always comes from sharing physical intimacies with someone outside of marriage. Those who keep themselves sexually pure will be sensitive to the Holy Ghost's guidance, strength, comfort, and protection and will fulfill an important requirement for receiving a temple recommend and participating in temple ordinances.

Like other violations of the law of chastity, homosexual activity is a serious sin. It is contrary to the purposes of human sexuality (see Romans 1:24-32). It distorts loving relationships and prevents people from receiving the blessings that can be found in family life and the saving ordinances of the gospel.

sufficient in the Lord's standard of personal purity. The Lord requires a high moral standard of His disciples, including complete fidelity to one's spouse in thought and conduct. In the Sermon on the Mount, He said: “Ye have heard that it was said by them of old time, Thou shalt not commit adultery: But I say unto you, That whosoever looketh on a woman to lust after her hath committed adultery with her already in his heart” (Matthew 5:27-28). In the latter days He has said, “Thou shalt not . . . commit adultery, . . . nor do anything like unto it” (D&C 59:6). And He has reemphasized the principle He taught in the Sermon on the Mount: “He that looketh on a woman to lust after her, or if any shall commit adultery in their hearts, they shall not have the Spirit, but shall deny the faith and shall fear” (D&C 63:16). These warnings apply to all people, whether they are married or single.

Those who find themselves struggling with sexual temptations, including feelings of same-gender attraction, should not give in to those temptations. People can choose to avoid such behavior and receive the Lord's help as they pray for strength and work to overcome the problem.

Keeping the Law of Chastity

No matter how strong temptations seem, the Lord will help us withstand them if we choose to follow Him. The Apostle Paul declared, “There hath no temptation taken you but such as is common to man: but God is faithful, who will not suffer you to be tempted above that ye are able; but will with the temptation also make a way to escape, that ye may be able to bear it” (1 Corinthians 10:13). The following counsel can help us overcome the frequent and blatant temptations in the world today:

Decide now to be chaste. We need to make this decision only once. We can make the decision now, before the temptation comes, and let our decision be so firm and with such deep commitment that it can never be shaken. We can determine now that we will never do anything outside of marriage to arouse the powerful emotions that must be expressed only in marriage. We can determine now that we will be completely true to our spouse.

Control our thoughts. No one commits sexual sin in an instant. Immoral acts always begin with impure thoughts. If we allow our thoughts to linger on obscene or immoral things, we have already taken the first step toward immorality. We must flee immediately from situations that may lead to sin and pray for constant strength to resist temptation and control our thoughts. We can make this a part of our daily prayers.

Stay away from pornography. We must not view, read, or listen to anything that depicts or describes the human body or sexual conduct in a way that can arouse sexual feelings. Pornographic materials are addictive and destructive. They can rob us of our self-respect and of a sense of the beauties of life. They can tear us down and lead to evil thoughts and abusive conduct.

If we are single and dating, always treat our date with respect. Those who are dating must never treat their date as an object to be used for lustful desires. They should carefully plan positive and constructive activities so that they are not left alone without anything to do. They should stay in areas of safety where they can easily control themselves. They should not participate in conversations or activities that arouse sexual feelings, such as passionate kissing, lying with or on top of another person, or touching the private, sacred parts of another person's body, with or without clothing.

If we are married, be faithful to our spouse in our thoughts, words, and actions. The Lord has said: “Thou shalt love thy wife with all thy heart, and shalt cleave unto her and none else. And he that looketh upon a woman to lust after her shall deny the faith, and shall not have the Spirit; and if he repents not he shall be cast out” (D&C 42:22-23). We should never flirt in any way. As much as possible, we should avoid being alone with anyone of the opposite sex and ask ourselves if our spouse would be pleased if he or she knew of our words or actions. We should remember the Apostle Paul's counsel to “abstain from all appearance of evil” (1 Thessalonians 5:22). When we stay away from such circumstances, temptation gets no chance to develop. 

Forgiveness for the Repentant

The best course is complete moral cleanliness. It is wrong to commit sexual sins with the thought that we will simply repent later. This attitude is a sin itself, showing irreverence for the Lord and the covenants we make with Him. However, those who have committed sexual sins can be forgiven by the Lord if they repent.

Repentance is difficult, but it is possible (see Isaiah 1:18). The despair of sin can be replaced with the sweet peace of forgiveness.

The other day I heard a story of a very young teenager who enjoyed the pleasure of sexual intercourse. There are reasons we are not to do this and she found out why. She now has a sexually transmitted disease along with cancer cells in her female parts. This is absolutely horrible. These commandments are there to keep us safe from these things. God knows what He is doing, but we deny His advice frequently.

How can I Strengthen my Relationship with my Wife?

This is another question that I get asked a lot. So I have pondered and continually ponder this also. For one day I will be married and I will have to know what to do. Here are some basic points that I came up with after reading talks from Apostles of the Lord.

These are again just ideas, you have to put forth the desire to strengthen the relationship first.

• TEMPLE MARRIAGE
• COMPLETE FIDELITY
• ATTEND TEMPLE REGULARLY (TOGETHER)
• DATE NIGHT FREQUENTLY
• SCRIPTURE STUDY AND PRAYER DAILY (TOGETHER)
• LOVE ONE ANOTHER
• SERVE ONE ANOTHER
• THE POWERS OF PRO-CREATION ARE SACRED AND ARE TO BE PROTECTED
• NOT SO MUCH MARRYING THE RIGHT PERSON, BUT BEING THE RIGHT PERSON
• EXERCISE FAITH
• CHOOSE YOUR LOVE, LOVE YOUR CHOICE
• PARENTING MANUAL=SCRIPTURES
• TEACH CHILDREN IN LOVE AND RIGHTEOUSNESS
• MOTHER HAVE THE DIVINE POWER TO KNOW HOW TO HELP CHILDREN
• TEACH CHILDREN PRINCIPLE OF THE GOSPEL (TOGETHER)
• BASK IN THE SPIRIT TOGETHER
• ENJOY THE TRIALS AND TRIBULATIONS BECAUSE LOVE IS A COMMITMENT. IF YOU TRULY LOVE HER, YOU WON'T LET ANYTHING GET IN BETWEEN YOU
• COMFORT YOUR WIFE AT ALL TIMES
• YOUR WIFE IS A SPECIAL DAUGHTER OF GOD, YOU BETTER TAKE CARE OF HER

Mark 10:6-8 states, "But from the beginning of the creation God made them male and female.
For this cause shall a man leave his father and mother, and cleave to his wife;
And they twain shall be one flesh: so then they are no more twain but one flesh."

Elder Dallin H. Oaks said, "A good marriage does not require a perfect man or a perfect woman. It only requires a man and a woman committed to strive together toward perfection.

Whatever the outcome and no matter how difficult your experiences, you have the promise that you will not be denied the blessings of eternal family relationships if you love the Lord, keep His commandments, and just do the best you can. From personal experience, I testify to the sweetness of the marriage and family life that the family proclamation describes as founded upon a husband and wife’s “solemn responsibility to love and care for each other and for their children” and “upon the teachings of the Lord Jesus Christ."

President Spencer W. Kimball taught: “Two individuals approaching the marriage altar must realize that to attain the happy marriage which they hope for they must know that marriage … means sacrifice, sharing, and even a reduction of some personal liberties. It means long, hard economizing. It means children who bring with them financial burdens, service burdens, care and worry burdens; but also it means the deepest and sweetest emotions of all.”


Bountiful Utah Temple Sealing Room. This is where couples are sealed together for time and all eternity.

 Richard W. Linford said,
"Twenty Ways to Make a Good Marriage Great"
1. Night and Morning Prayer … to say thanks, to ask for help in your marriage and family, to worship together.

2. A Weekly Planning Meeting … to discuss the calendar, talk over needs and problems, decide priorities and next steps. (Write decisions in a journal, including goals and discussion topics, and reasons for each.)

3. A Daily Phone Call or Personal Conversation … to say “I love you,” to touch base, to discuss the day, to show you care.

4. A Weekly Date … to a favorite park, a concert, the library, the gym; or staying home for a candlelight dinner, a game, or a mutual hobby.

5. Patience Regardless … of missed meals, tardiness, forgotten favors, a thoughtless remark, impatience.

6. Daily Service … helping with house or yard work, mending a piece of clothing, taking a turn with the sick baby, fixing a favorite meal. (Write it down. Do it!)

7. A Budget … to tie down income and expenses, help set financial goals, and give you control over your finances.

8. Listening … not only to what is said, but also to what is meant.

9. Regular Attendance … at church—and where possible—the temple.

10. Daily Scripture Reading … to learn the gospel, to receive inspiration for yourself and your marriage, to become more like Jesus.

11. Working Together … caring for a garden, painting a bedroom, washing the car, scrubbing floors, building a piece of furniture, writing a poem together, team teaching a class.

12. Forgiving Each Other … always learning from each other, trying a different way, being the first to make peace.

13. Courtesies … like saying please and thank you, not interrupting or belittling, not doing all the talking, continuing the niceties of courtship.

14. Soft and Kind Words … of tenderness, compassion, empathy.

15. Learning Together by … reading to each other, discussing ideas, taking a class.

16. Respecting … opinions, ideas, privacy.

17. Supporting Your Spouse’s … Church callings and righteous goals.

18. Caring for Your Spouse’s Family by … enjoying their company, praying for them, serving them, overlooking differences.

19. Occasional Gifts … such as a note, a needed item—but mostly gifts of time and self.

20. Loving with All Your Heart. “Thou shalt love thy wife [thy husband] with all thy heart, and shalt cleave unto her [him] and none else.” (D&C 42:22.)

Marriages are Eternal and are meant to be that way from the beginning of this world.

What are the apostles warning us of today? #2

In the most recent General Conference for THE CHURCH OF JESUS CHRIST OF LATTER-DAYS SAINTS President Thomas S. Monson speaks on something that is troubling him. I am going to take a few parts of his talk in here. From the Priesthood Session he speaks of "Priesthood Power." 

Thomas S. Monson

President of the Church

"I prayed and studied long about what I might say tonight. I wish not to offend anyone. I thought, “What are the challenges we have? What do I deal with every day that causes me to weep sometimes late into the night? I thought that I would try to address a few of those challenges tonight. Some will apply to the young men. Some will apply to those who are middle aged. Some will apply to those who are a little bit above middle age. We don’t talk about old age.

We have come to the earth in troubled times. The moral compass of the masses has gradually shifted to an “almost anything goes” position.I’ve lived long enough to have witnessed much of the metamorphosis of society’s morals. Where once the standards of the Church and the standards of society were mostly compatible, now there is a wide chasm between us, and it’s growing ever wider.Many movies and television shows portray behavior which is in direct opposition to the laws of God. Do not subject yourself to the innuendo and outright filth which are so often found there. The lyrics in much of today’s music fall in the same category. The profanity so prevalent around us today would never have been tolerated in the not-too-distant past. Sadly, the Lord’s name is taken in vain over and over again. Recall with me the commandment—one of the ten—which the Lord revealed to Moses on Mount Sinai: “Thou shalt not take the name of the Lord thy God in vain; for the Lord will not hold him guiltless that taketh his name in vain.”  I am sorry that any of us is subjected to profane language, and I plead with you not to use it. I implore you not to say or to do anything of which you cannot be proud.Stay completely away from pornography. Do not allow yourself to view it, ever. It has proven to be an addiction which is more than difficult to overcome. Avoid alcohol and tobacco or any other drugs, also addictions which you would be hard pressed to conquer.What will protect you from the sin and evil around you? I maintain that a strong testimony of our Savior and of His gospel will help see you through to safety. If you have not read the Book of Mormon, read it. I will not ask for a show of hands. If you do so prayerfully and with a sincere desire to know the truth, the Holy Ghost will manifest its truth to you. If it is true—and it is—then Joseph Smith was a prophet who saw God the Father and His Son, Jesus Christ. The Church is true. If you do not already have a testimony of these things, do that which is necessary to obtain one. It is essential for you to have your own testimony, for the testimonies of others will carry you only so far. Once obtained, a testimony needs to be kept vital and alive through obedience to the commandments of God and through regular prayer and scripture study. Attend church. You young men, attend seminary or institute if such is available to you. The Savior of mankind described Himself as being in the world but not of the world.  We also can be in the world but not of the world as we reject false concepts and false teachings and remain true to that which God has commanded. Now, I have thought a lot lately about you young men who are of an age to marry but who have not yet felt to do so. I see lovely young ladies who desire to be married and to raise families, and yet their opportunities are limited because so many young men are postponing marriage. Now, I have thought a lot lately about you young men who are of an age to marry but who have not yet felt to do so. I see lovely young ladies who desire to be married and to raise families, and yet their opportunities are limited because so many young men are postponing marriage. This is not a new situation. Much has been said concerning this matter by past Presidents of the Church. I share with you just one or two examples of their counsel.

"Said President Harold B. Lee, “We are not doing our duty as holders of the priesthood when we go beyond the marriageable age and withhold ourselves from an honorable marriage to these lovely women.” 

President Gordon B. Hinckley said this: “My heart reaches out to … our single sisters, who long for marriage and cannot seem to find it. … I have far less sympathy for the young men, who under the customs of our society, have the prerogative to take the initiative in these matters but in so many cases fail to do so.

I realize there are many reasons why you may be hesitating to take that step of getting married. If you are concerned about providing financially for a wife and family, may I assure you that there is no shame in a couple having to scrimp and save. It is generally during these challenging times that you will grow closer together as you learn to sacrifice and to make difficult decisions. Perhaps you are afraid of making the wrong choice. To this I say that you need to exercise faith. Find someone with whom you can be compatible. Realize that you will not be able to anticipate every challenge which may arise, but be assured that almost anything can be worked out if you are resourceful and if you are committed to making your marriage work. Perhaps you are having a little too much fun being single, taking extravagant vacations, buying expensive cars and toys, and just generally enjoying the carefree life with your friends. I’ve encountered groups of you running around together, and I admit that I’ve wondered why you aren’t out with the young ladies. Brethren, there is a point at which it’s time to think seriously about marriage and to seek a companion with whom you want to spend eternity. If you choose wisely and if you are committed to the success of your marriage, there is nothing in this life which will bring you greater happiness. When you marry, brethren, you will wish to marry in the house of the Lord. For you who hold the priesthood, there should be no other option. Be careful lest you destroy your eligibility to be so married. You can keep your courtship within proper bounds while still having a wonderful time. President Hinckley taught that it is up to each of us who hold the priesthood of God to discipline ourselves so that we stand above the ways of the world. It is essential that we be honorable and decent men. Our actions must be above reproach. The words we speak, the way we treat others, and the way we live our lives all impact our effectiveness as men and boys holding the priesthood.

The gift of the priesthood is priceless. It carries with it the authority to act as God’s servants, to administer to the sick, to bless our families, and to bless others as well. Its authority can reach beyond the veil of death, on into the eternities. There is nothing else to compare with it in all this world. Safeguard it, treasure it, live worthy of it. My beloved brethren, may righteousness guide our every step as we journey through life. Today and always, may we be worthy recipients of the divine power of the priesthood we bear. May it bless our lives and may we use it to bless the lives of others, as did He who lived and died for us—even Jesus Christ, our Lord and Savior. This is my prayer in His sacred name, His holy name, amen."

President Monson stated how it keeps him up at night and is emotional for him. This is a Prophet of God who worries about this. I think we better rethink our lives and correct anything to become more in line with God's will. Through the Prophet Joseph Smith we received revelation on what is known as the Law of Chastity. Which warns us about sexual intercourse before and after marriage. We are to be virtuous at all times. Complete fidelity after marriage and abstain from sexual relationships before marriage. We can know us this by praying and asking if Joseph Smith is a Prophet of God. In the Bible it talks about Adultery and in the Book of Mormon also.  I know that the worlds moral ideas have fallen. This is horrible. God has a plan for us and we need to find out that plan. 

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What are the Apostles warning us of today? #1

Every April and October we get to listen to the Prophet and Apostles and other Church Leaders speak to those who will listen to their counsel in General Conference.Well first of all some of you may ask, "What is General Conference?"

General conference is a semiannual gathering of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. During general conference weekend, Church members and others who are interested gather worldwide in a series of two-hour sessions to receive inspiration and instruction from Church leaders. We get to hear from modern day prophet and apostles of the Lord Jesus Christ. They instruct us as if God would instruct us if He was walking this earth. They give us a voice of warning for dangers in the world. Dangers can be from immoral or economical dangers. One of the biggest dangers they have been speaking of is on the internet. Pornography is destroying not only marriages but oneself. Many many apostles and prophets are speaking upon this subject.

Elder Jeffrey R. Holland of the Quorum of the 12 Apostles states,

"Most days we all find ourselves assaulted by immoral messages of some kind flooding in on us from every angle. The darker sides of the movie, television, and music industry step further and further into offensive language and sexual misconduct. Tragically, the same computer and Internet service that allows me to do my family history and prepare those names for temple work could, without filters and controls, allow my children or grandchildren access to a global cesspool of perceptions that could blast a crater in their brains forever.

Remember that those young wives said their husbands’ infidelity began with an attraction to pornography, but immoral activity is not just a man’s problem, and husbands aren’t the only ones offending. The compromise available at the click of a mouse—including what can happen in a chat room’s virtual encounter—is no respecter of persons, male or female, young or old, married or single. And just to make sure that temptation is ever more accessible, the adversary is busy extending his coverage, as they say in the industry, to cell phones, video games, and MP3 players.

Whether we be single or married, young or old, let’s talk for a moment about how to guard against temptation in whatever form it may present itself. We may not be able to cure all of society’s ills today, but let’s speak of what some personal actions can be.

• Above all, start by separating yourself from people, materials, and circumstances that will harm you. As those battling something like alcoholism know, the pull of proximity can be fatal. So too in moral matters. Like Joseph in the presence of Potiphar’s wife, just run—run as far away as you can get from whatever or whoever it is that beguiles you. And please, when fleeing the scene of temptation, do not leave a forwarding address.
• Acknowledge that people bound by the chains of true addictions often need more help than self-help, and that may include you. Seek that help and welcome it. Talk to your bishop. Follow his counsel. Ask for a priesthood blessing. Use the Church’s Family Services offerings or seek other suitable professional help. Pray without ceasing. Ask for angels to help you.
• Along with filters on computers and a lock on affections, remember that the only real control in life is self-control. Exercise more control over even the marginal moments that confront you. If a TV show is indecent, turn it off. If a movie is crude, walk out. If an improper relationship is developing, sever it. Many of these influences, at least initially, may not technically be evil, but they can blunt our judgment, dull our spirituality, and lead to something that could be evil. An old proverb says that a journey of a thousand miles begins with one step, so watch your step.
• Like thieves in the night, unwelcome thoughts can and do seek entrance to our minds. But we don’t have to throw open the door, serve them tea and crumpets, and then tell them where the silverware is kept! (You shouldn’t be serving tea anyway.) Throw the rascals out! Replace lewd thoughts with hopeful images and joyful memories; picture the faces of those who love you and would be shattered if you let them down. More than one man has been saved from sin or stupidity by remembering the face of his mother, his wife, or his child waiting somewhere for him at home. Whatever thoughts you have, make sure they are welcome in your heart by invitation only. As an ancient poet once said, let will be your reason. 
• Cultivate and be where the Spirit of the Lord is. Make sure that includes your own home or apartment, dictating the kind of art, music, and literature you keep there. If you are endowed, go to the temple as often as your circumstances allow. Remember that the temple arms you “with [God’s] power, … [puts His] glory … round about [you], and [gives His] angels … charge over [you].”  And when you leave the temple, remember the symbols you take with you, never to be set aside or forgotten.

Most people in trouble end up crying, “What was I thinking?” Well, whatever they were thinking, they weren’t thinking of Christ.  So let us work a little harder at remembering Him—especially that He has “borne our griefs, and carried our sorrows … , [that] he was bruised for our iniquities … ; and with his stripes we are healed.” Surely it would guide our actions in a dramatic way if we remembered that every time we transgress, we hurt not only those we love, but we also hurt Him, who so dearly loves us. But if we do sin, however serious that sin may be, we can be rescued by that same majestic figure, He who bears the only name given under heaven whereby any man or woman can be saved." (Place No More for the Enemy of My Soul, April 2010 General Conference)

The adversary is huge into destroying peoples confidence and self control. Well guess what do you know how big our God is? Our God can help you overcome these problems. Whether it be video games or immoral activity God will help us. As we learned from the New Testament from Jesus Christ himself in Matthew 5:28 "But I say unto you, That whosoever looketh on a woman to lust after her hath committed adultery with her already in his heart." That is the voice of our Savior. Remember it always. Do not forget who all you are gonna be hurting. Would you like to cause more pain to our Savior by doing these self-degrating things. NO YOU DO NOT! I will answer that for you. He lived a perfect life and died while He was yet perfect. Who would want to harm someone that has only but showed Love towards you? If nothing else think about our Savior when in times of decision or temptation. Follow the counsel of Helaman to his sons in Alma 37:35-37

"O, remember, my son, and learn wisdom in thy youth; yea, learn in thy youth to keep the commandments of God.

 Yea, and cry unto God for all thy support; yea, let all thy doings be unto the Lord, and whithersoever thou goest let it be in the Lord; yea, let all thy thoughts be directed unto the Lord; yea, let the affections of thy heart be placed upon the Lord forever.

 Counsel with the Lord in all thy doings, and he will direct thee for good; yea, when thou liest down at night lie down unto the Lord, that he may watch over you in your sleep; and when thou risest in the morning let thy heart be full of thanks unto God; and if ye do these things, ye shall be lifted up at the last day."

There is nothing more I can say to add onto Helaman's comment in the Book of Mormon.

 Look at this picture. Why would you want to hurt Jesus even more?

Jesus still has His hands out stretched to you and I. It is not too late to come unto Him and be forgiven and healed by the Master Physician. If nothing else REMEMBER HE LOVES YOU UNCONDITIONALLY AND ETERNALLY. God Lives and Loves you and He invites all to come unto Him and be forgiven.

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STRENGTHENING MARRIAGE

Hello! I am so excited to talk about God's plan for us. I felt impresses to write this because many time on my mission this concern comes up. They always want answers so let hear the answers from the prophets. Not being married I admit I do not understand all but I sure do understand lots after seeing different marriages and helping people in their marriages. 

What Is the Lord’s View of Marriage, Family, and Home?

Mark 10:6-8 

“From the beginning of the creation God made them male and female. For this cause shall a man leave his father and mother, and cleave to his wife; and they twain shall be one flesh.”

The First Presidency and Quorum of the Twelve Apostles:“Marriage between a man and a woman is ordained of God. … Successful marriages and families are established and maintained on principles of faith, prayer, repentance, forgiveness, respect, love, compassion, work, and wholesome recreational activities” (“The Family: A Proclamation to the World,” Liahona, October 1998, 24).

What Simple Things Can Build Strong Family Relationships?

Mosiah 4:15 : “Ye will teach them to love one another, and to serve one another.”

The First Presidency: “We counsel parents and children to give highest priority to family prayer, family home evening, gospel study and instruction, and wholesome family activities. However worthy and appropriate other demands or activities may be, they must not be permitted to displace the divinely-appointed duties that only parents and families can adequately perform” (First Presidency letter, 11 February 1999; see Liahona, December 1999, 1).

President Gordon B. Hinckley: “A good marriage requires time. It requires effort. You have to work at it. You have to cultivate it. You have to forgive and forget. You have to be absolutely loyal” (“Life’s Obligations,” Liahona, May 1999, 4).

“I know of no single practice that will have a more salutary effect upon your lives than the practice of kneeling together as you begin and close each day. Somehow the little storms that seem to afflict every marriage are dissipated when, kneeling before the Lord, you thank him for one another, … then together invoke his blessings upon your lives” (“‘Except the Lord Build the House … ,’” Ensign, June 1971, 72).

“The Family: A Proclamation to the World.”

“Marriage between man and woman is essential to [God’s] eternal plan. Children are entitled to birth within the bonds of matrimony, and to be reared by a father and a mother who honor marital vows with complete fidelity.” ¹

President Gordon B. Hinckley has taught: “The Church lays great stress on the sanctity of the home and teaches that children are a blessing from the Lord. There is no principle on which the Latter-day Saints lay greater emphasis than the sacredness of the marriage covenant.” Because we know that family relationships can endure eternally, we understand the importance of marrying a righteous person in the right place and creating a home into which God can send His spirit children to be raised in righteousness.

The Sacred Marriage Covenant

From my own experiences of looking at families I see one common thing in strong homes and one common thing in weak homes. We will start out with the good. Strong homes and marriages are built upon the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Meaning we are trying to be like our Savior and do the things He would have us do. When we strengthen our relationship with our spouse we should also strengthen the relationship with our Heavenly Father. It is like a triangle with God and the top and the couple at each of the bottom corners. As we strengthen our relationship with God we also strengthen relationship with our spouse.By family daily prayer and scripture study we are drawing closer together. Life in marriage will not always be easy but when things are worked out life will be better.  Not always will our homes be in perfect shape because there is still gonna be some contention and opposition because we are human. No one is perfect. 

The thing I see in weak homes include not wanting to have a relationship with our Heavenly Father. Others include not having individual and family scripture study and prayer. For a Heavenly home we need to focus on Heavenly things. Reading scriptures and praying to our Heavenly Father is Heavenly things. We have been counseled by our prophet to do the above. 

I know that as we follow the counsel of our prophet our marriages and homes will be strengthened. God will help with it. I know that if you want a truly Heavenly relationship. We need to heed to the counsel from God's servants. As it says in Amos 3:7-Surely the Lord God will do nothing, but He revealeth His secret unto His servants the prophets. I hope this is accurate. I hope maybe if nothing else the counsel from prophets helps somebody out.

Take Care and I look forward to posting again. 

For a free copy of "Family: Proclamation to the World" go to mormon.org and request a missionary visit. They have copies to give if someone would like one.

Reared by a Father and a Mother

Church leaders have consistently affirmed that children are better off when born and reared in a family with both a mother and a father. The First Presidency made the following statement: “When a man and woman conceive a child out of wedlock, every effort should be made to encourage them to marry. When the probability of a successful marriage is unlikely due to age or other circumstances, unwed parents should be counseled to place the child for adoption through LDS Family Services to ensure that the baby will be sealed to temple-worthy parents.”  

Research by family scholars supports the Church’s position. A recent publication compares children of single or cohabiting parents with children of married parents. While single parents often succeed in rearing well-adjusted, responsible children, the report concludes that, taken as a whole, children who live with married parents are less likely to divorce or become unwed parents themselves, are less likely to experience poverty, tend to have higher grades, are more likely to attend college, and experience lower rates of unemployment. On average, children of married parents also experience better physical and mental health, have lower rates of substance abuse, experience less child abuse, and are less likely to commit suicide or engage in criminal behavior.  A strong, loving marriage is often the best gift parents can give children.

Marriage between Man and Woman

Because of pressures on government to permit marriages between two men or two women, in July 2004 the Church released a statement in support of defining marriage as the lawful union of a man and a woman. This definition is far more than a question of civil rights. Protecting marriage is a matter of deep commitment to an institution established by God our Father. This commitment shapes the moral climate in which mothers and fathers rear their children.

If governments were to alter the moral climate by legitimizing same-sex marriages, gender confusion would increase, particularly among children, and this would further blur the line between good and evil (see Isa. 5:20). Marriage is between man and woman ONLY! That is exactly how God created so why change it?

Love at Home

Marriage is indeed essential to God’s plan, but marriage alone is not the solution to all the problems families might encounter. Elder Neal A. Maxwell (1926–2004) of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles said: “Deliberate decisions must be made in order to achieve that desirable condition, ‘love at home,’ such as budgeting enough time at home to, among other things, express love to children by adding to their storehouse of happy memories. Singing that song is not enough; it must be matched by wise scheduling to benefit the family, which is often victimized by our busyness.” 

Other deliberate decisions husbands and wives can make include being faithful; overcoming personal weakness, including the tendency to criticize; and serving each other so that love deepens over time—ensuring that “love at home” is not just a trite phrase but a reality that each family can achieve.