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.

OH HOW LOVELY WAS THE MORNING!

How thankful I am for a young boy who decided to pray. Many people have heard this name but very few have listened intently to his experience. His understanding of the Gospel of Jesus Christ grew with heart felt prayers and a willing to listen. His name is Joseph Smith. 

I know that Joseph Smith truly saw God the Father and His Son Jesus Christ. I know he talked with Them. I know that you too can know of this experience if you sincerely pray about it. I know this by the Power of the Holy Ghost. I love this message as it is the beginning of bringing families together for eternity.

                                                      The Rising by Nashville Tribute Band

O GOD, WHERE ART THOU?

Have you ever thought to yourself in a time of need, "O GOD, WHERE ART THOU?" Know you are completely normal. I think at least once in our life we are going to be sitting there thinking this. Many times have I needed help and no one was there. I even felt at times God was not there but in all reality I was just not listening.

Prayer and prophecies written by Joseph Smith the Prophet while he was a prisoner in the jail at Liberty, Missouri, dated 20 March 1839. The Prophet and several companions had been months in prison

"O God, where art thou? And where is the pavilion that covereth thy hiding place?

 How long shall thy hand be stayed, and thine eye, yea thy pure eye, behold from the eternal heavens the wrongs of thy people and of thy servants, and thine ear be penetrated with their cries?

Yea, O Lord, how long shall they suffer these wrongs and unlawful oppressions, before thine heart shall be softened toward them, and thy bowels be moved with compassion toward them?

 O Lord God Almighty, maker of heaven, earth, and seas, and of all things that in them are, and who controllest and subjectest the devil, and the dark and benighted dominion of Sheol—stretch forth thy hand; let thine eye pierce; let thy pavilion be taken up; let thy hiding place no longer be covered; let thine ear be inclined; let thine heart be softened, and thy bowels moved with compassion toward us.

 Let thineanger be kindled against our enemies; and, in the fury of thine heart, with thy sword avenge us of our wrongs.

 Remember thy suffering saints, O our God; and thy servants will rejoice in thy name forever."

God responded to him by saying,

"My son, peace be unto thy soul; thine adversity and thine afflictions shall be but a mall moment;

 And then, if thou endure it well, God shall exalt thee on high; thou shalt triumph over all thy foes.

 Thy friends do stand by thee, and they shall hail thee again with warm hearts and friendly hands.

 Thou art not yet as Job; thy friends do not contend against thee, neither charge thee with transgression, as they did Job...."

That is truly words of comfort. Now maybe we don't hear God's voice but we can open the scriptures and read what God says to us. We may not have experiences like this but do know what God is listening to us. He answers our prayers in His due time. It is so hard to work by His time when we think we need everything right now. Thank goodness He sees the big picture and gives everything to us when we truly need it.

Take a minute and think about a time that God has answered your prayer. Did you see the benefit of when He answered it? Did you thank Him? These are important questions especially the second one. If we don't thank God for the things He gives us why should He give us more?

Prayer is so important in our lives.

Using the Supernal Gift of Prayer

Richard G. Scott
Of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles

 

The Gift of Prayer

Prayer is a supernal gift of our Father in Heaven to every soul. Think of it: the absolute Supreme Being, the most all-knowing, all-seeing, all-powerful personage, encourages you and me, as insignificant as we are, to converse with Him as our Father. Actually, because He knows how desperately we need His guidance, He commands, “Thou shalt pray vocally as well as in thy heart; yea, before the world as well as in secret, in public as well as in private.”

It matters not our circumstance, be we humble or arrogant, poor or rich, free or enslaved, learned or ignorant, loved or forsaken, we can address Him. We need no appointment. Our supplication can be brief or can occupy all the time needed. It can be an extended expression of love and gratitude or an urgent plea for help.

How Should You Pray?

We pray to our Heavenly Father in the sacred name of His Beloved Son, Jesus Christ. Prayer is most effective when we strive to be clean and obedient, with worthy motives, and are willing to do what He asks. Humble, trusting prayer brings direction and peace.

Don’t worry about your clumsily expressed feelings. Just talk to your compassionate, understanding Father. You are His precious child whom He loves perfectly and wants to help. As you pray, recognize that Father in Heaven is near and He is listening.

A key to improved prayer is to learn to ask the right questions. Consider changing from asking for the things you want to honestly seeking what He wants for you. Then as you learn His will, pray that you will be led to have the strength to fulfill it.

Should you ever feel distanced from our Father, it could be for many reasons. Whatever the cause, as you continue to plead for help, He will guide you to do that which will restore your confidence that He is near. Pray even when you have no desire to pray. Sometimes, like a child, you may misbehave and feel you cannot approach your Father with a problem. That is when you most need to pray. Never feel you are too unworthy to pray.

I wonder if we can ever really fathom the immense power of prayer until we encounter an overpowering, urgent problem and realize that we are powerless to resolve it. Then we will turn to our Father in humble recognition of our total dependence on Him. It helps to find a secluded place where our feelings can be vocally expressed as long and as intensely as necessary.

I have done that. Once I had an experience that caused me immense anxiety. It had nothing to do with disobedience or transgression but with a vitally important human relationship. For some time I poured my heart out in urgent prayer. Yet try as I might, I could find no solution, no settling of the powerful stirring within me. I pled for help from that Eternal Father I have come to know and trust completely. I could see no path that would provide the calm that is my blessing generally to enjoy. Sleep overcame me. When I awoke, I was totally at peace. Again I knelt in solemn prayer and asked, “Lord, how is it done?” In my heart, I knew the answer was His love and His concern for me. Such is the power of sincere prayer to a compassionate Father.

How Are Prayers Answered?

Often when we pray for help with a significant matter, Heavenly Father will give us gentle promptings that require us to think, exercise faith, work, at times struggle, then act. It is a step-by-step process that enables us to discern inspired answers.

I have discovered that what sometimes seems an impenetrable barrier to communication is a giant step to be taken in trust. Seldom will you receive a complete response all at once. It will come a piece at a time, in packets, so that you will grow in capacity. As each piece is followed in faith, you will be led to other portions until you have the whole answer. That pattern requires you to exercise faith in our Father’s capacity to respond. While sometimes it’s very hard, it results in significant personal growth.

He will always hear your prayers and will invariably answer them. However, His answers will seldom come while you are on your knees praying, even when you may plead for an immediate response. Rather, He will prompt you in quiet moments when the Spirit can most effectively touch your mind and heart. Hence, you should find periods of quiet time to recognize when you are being instructed and strengthened. His pattern causes you to grow.

President David O. McKay testified, “It is true that the answers to our prayers may not always come as direct and at the time, nor in the manner, we anticipate; but they do come, and at a time and in a manner best for the interests of him who offers the supplication.” Be thankful that sometimes God lets you struggle for a long time before that answer comes. Your character will grow; your faith will increase. There is a relationship between those two: the greater your faith, the stronger your character; and increased character enhances your ability to exercise even greater faith.

On occasion, the Lord will give you an answer before you ask. This can occur when you are unaware of a danger or may be doing the wrong thing, mistakenly trusting that it is correct.

It is so hard when sincere prayer about something you desire very much is not answered the way you want. It is difficult to understand why your exercise of deep and sincere faith from an obedient life does not grant the desired result. The Savior taught, “Whatsoever ye ask the Father in my name it shall be given unto you, that is expedient for you." At times it is difficult to recognize what is best or expedient for you over time. Your life will be easier when you accept that what God does in your life is for your eternal good.

You are asked to look for an answer to your prayers. Obey the Master’s counsel to “study it out in your mind.” Often you will think of a solution; as you seek confirmation that your answer is right, help will come. It may be through your prayers, or as an impression of the Holy Ghost, and at times by the intervention of others." (End Quote)

I LOVE  the chances which I have to talk with God. I love being able to tell Him how I am doing. Yea He knows already but He loves hearing from us. It brings great joy to Him to see us humble ourselves before Him. When we are in that situation of praying, "O GOD, WHERE ART THOU?" Just remember He is listening and waiting for us always to come before Him.

For the Beauty of the Earth

For the Beauty of the Earth. I absolutely love the earth our God has created for us to live in. There is so much beauty here. Yea there is some not so beautiful things but hey this is God showing His love for us with all of these beautiful scenes. Just look around the world and see all the different landscapes, cultures, creatures and everything else. It is magnificient. Can you just imagine what God is willing to yet give to us?

I was in a park on Monday and saw these mini waterfalls and wanted a picture. They have come to good use.

Just imagine what it would take to create something as beautiful as this.

Look at these waterfalls. Doesn't that just look so nice. As a missionary that water looks really nice. Hearing the water go over the falls is just so relaxing. The sound of rushing water reminds me of Gods beautiful creations. I just love it. What brings peace into your life? There are many things that bring peace to our lives. We are each different and different things bring us peace. For example some just love to go on a walk in the nature. That is so relaxing and well leave the world at home when you go on that walk. Go in there and just think about your Heavenly Father and His Son Jesus Christ, think about all of your many blessings. Take a walk with your spouse if you are married and talk about your joys and happiness. Talk about your goals for your kids. Talk about how much you love each other. Just have an enjoyable time and remember the many mercies of our God. This is one of the biggest helps in keeping a marriage strong. Taking that time alone with each other is soo important make sure your spouse truly knows you love them. Take your kids on a walk as a family. Enjoy these memories because I promise you that your kids will, if it is peaceful and enjoyable. It will also be good exercise for you which will keep you healthy. Who hates fresh air like come on now? Maybe it is hot or cold but it is the part of being together. As a family go camping or do something outdoors.

Have you ever taken time to yourself to just ponder? Before my mission when I was frusturated I would take a drive. I would cry my eyes out sometimes, but when I was out I would talk with God. I would put the world to the side and focus on the things that matters most. I remember there was this one time. I had got in a disagreement and I just didn't want to be around for a while. I got in my good ole Cavalier and I went on a drive. I got just outside of town and parked. It was a dark snowy night. I drove on a back road and parked and I just sat there and thought. I pondered what I had in my life and what I was hopefully going to have. I was doubting on going on a mission. I was really nervous, scared and I will be honest I was just loving my life and my job. I didn't want to turn my back on the world. I have now come on my mission and this is the best time of my life thus far. Not only have I learned so much, but I get to see the beautiful state of Tennessee.

I would recommend all just to take some time and ponder about where you are heading, what you are doing and who you want to become. Open your eyes to see who God wants you to become. Do what you know is right. Enjoy the beauty of the earth. God has given us this earth to enjoy it.

ENJOY THE OUTDOORS FOR THEY WERE CREATED FOR YOU AND I!

The GODHEAD!

What is the Godhead? Who is in the Godhead? There are many false teachings about the Godhead. Well lets clarify the true doctrine of the Godhead.

Donald Q. Cannon, Larry E. Dahl, and John W. Welch say,

The Personal Nature of God and the Godhead

Though most people who believe the Bible accept the idea of a Godhead composed of the Father, Son, and Holy Ghost, Joseph Smith revealed an understanding of the Godhead that differed from the views found in the creeds of his day. The main Christian sects of the nineteenth century taught of “one God in Trinity, and Trinity in Unity, neither confounding the persons: nor dividing the Substance” and of “one only living and true God, … a most pure spirit, invisible, without body, parts, or passions, immutable, immense, eternal, incomprehensible.” Although other churches and individuals held that the Father and the Son are separate entities, Joseph Smith uniquely taught that the Father, Son, and Holy Ghost are three distinct personages, with the Father and the Son having bodies of “flesh and bones as tangible as man’s,” and with the Holy Ghost being a “personage of Spirit.” (D&C 130:22.)

God the Father. The truths about God that Joseph Smith restored are of paramount importance. In 1844, he taught that “it is the first principle of the Gospel to know for a certainty the Character of God, and to know that we may converse with him as one man converses with another.” Ten years earlier, the Lectures on Faith, which Joseph Smith directed and approved, taught that to acquire faith unto salvation one needs a correct idea of God’s character, perfections, and attributes, and that one needs to know that the course of life one is pursuing is according to God’s will. He also added, “If men do not comprehend the character of God, they do not comprehend themselves.”

The Prophet explained that “God himself was once as we are now, and is an exalted man, and sits enthroned in yonder heavens”; that “he was once a man like us; yea, that God himself, the Father of us all, dwelt on an earth, the same as Jesus Christ himself did”; and that he “worked out his kingdom with fear and trembling.” Through the Prophet, we learn that we “are begotten sons and daughters unto God” and that Christ is the Firstborn. (D&C 76:24; see D&C 93:21–22; Heb. 12:7–9.) As God’s children, we may become gods ourselves through Christ’s atonement and the plan of salvation, being joint heirs of Christ of “all that [the] Father hath.” (D&C 84:38; see also Rom. 8:17; D&C 76:58–60; D&C 132:19–21.) Along with these concepts is the concept of divine parents, including an exalted Mother who stands beside God the Father.

The LDS doctrine of Heavenly Father has led one recent commentator to write, “The Mormons espouse a radical, anthropomorphic conception of God that sets them far apart from other religions.” That concept includes the truth that man and woman are created in the image of God. (See Moses 6:9; Gen. 1:27.) These truths draw all men and women into a relationship with God built upon familial love, trust, feelings of self-worth, hope, and humility, all in proper balance.

Jesus Christ. Joseph Smith learned early of the distinctness of Jesus Christ and God the Father. In the Sacred Grove, fourteen-year-old Joseph saw “two Personages, whose brightness and glory defy all description, standing above [him] in the air.” He learned of their relationship when one of the personages declared, “This is My Beloved Son. Hear Him!” (JS—H 1:17; italics in original.) He saw that the Father and the Son were two separate beings. He experienced the fact that a man could actually converse with Jesus Christ “as one man converses with another.” We do not know all that he learned during that marvelous vision; he later testified, “Many other things did he say unto me, which I cannot write at this time.” (JS—H 1:20.)

From his many translations and revelations from God, the Prophet received much more information about the Savior. While the Bible is full of information about Christ, the knowledge revealed to Joseph Smith affirms, clarifies, and offers even more. The following teachings of the Prophet describe the Lord in the context of history and the plan of salvation.

Premortal existence. Jesus was in the beginning with the Father and was the Father’s firstborn spirit child. (See D&C 93:21; John 17:1, 4–5; Col. 1:15–16.) He volunteered and was chosen, sustained, and foreordained in the premortal existence to be the Savior of the world. (See Ether 3:14; Moses 4:1–4; Abr. 3:22–28; 1 Pet. 1:20.) He created the earth and is thus called the “very Eternal Father of heaven and of earth.” (Mosiah 15:4; see also Mosiah 3:8; Hel. 14:12; John 1:1–3.) He was Jehovah—the God of the Old Testament, the Holy One of Israel. As Jehovah, he “gave the law” of Moses and “covenanted with [his] people Israel.” (3 Ne. 15:5; see also 2 Ne. 25:29; D&C 110:1–4; 1 Cor. 10:1–4.)

Mortal existence. He was the Son of God, the “Only Begotten of the Father” in the flesh. (D&C 76:20–23.) He fulfilled all righteousness by demonstrating his obedience to his Father and by setting an example for the rest of mankind. (See 2 Ne. 31:5–9; Heb. 5:8–9.) In working out the Atonement, Christ took upon himself the sins of all mankind, suffering “more than man can suffer, except it be unto death” (Mosiah 3:7), trembling because of pain and bleeding at every pore (see D&C 19:18; Luke 22:44), so that “he may know according to the flesh how to succor his people according to their infirmities” (Alma 7:12; Heb. 4:8–9). He laid down his life and took it up again. These things he did that we “might not suffer if [we] would repent” (D&C 19:16), and that he might “bring to pass the resurrection of the dead” (2 Ne. 2:8). Because of these things, he is our advocate, pleading our cause before the Father. (See D&C 38:3–5; 1 Jn. 2:1.)

Postmortal existence. Between his death and resurrection, the Savior visited the world of departed spirits. There he taught the righteous and authorized faithful spirits to preach the gospel to all the dead, including the wicked, so that everyone would have the opportunity to accept the full gospel of salvation. He is now exalted and perfected like his Father. (See 3 Ne. 12:48; Acts 7:55.) Ultimately, he will take the role of the Father as the Father will “take a higher exaltation,” and God will be “thus glorified and exalted in the salvation and exaltation of all his children.”

The Holy Ghost. The Bible gives little detail about the personage of the Holy Ghost. The Prophet, however, gave us a number of insights about that spirit being and his office. On several occasions, especially in Nauvoo in 1842–43, the Prophet spoke of the Holy Ghost as a being “in the form of a personage,” as a “spirit without tabernacle,” separate and distinct from the personages of the Father and the Son. According to the George Laub journal, on another occasion Joseph taught that “the Holy Ghost is yet a spiritual body and waiting to take to himself a body.”

Joseph Smith also explained the difference between a testimony from the Holy Ghost and the gift or right to the constant companionship of the Holy Ghost. In translating the Book of Mormon, he unfolded the meaning of the baptism of fire and of the Holy Ghost. (See 2 Ne. 31:13–14; Mosiah 27:24–26; Matt. 3:11.) Speaking to the Saints, Joseph distinguished between the roles of the First Comforter—the Holy Ghost—and the Second Comforter—the Savior himself. (See John 14:15–21.)

In the beginning, Adam, Seth, and other ancient patriarchs knew these truths about the Godhead because the gospel was declared to them “by holy angels sent forth from the presence of God, and by his own voice, and by the gift of the Holy Ghost.” (Moses 5:58.) Joseph Smith testified that prophets such as Isaiah, Ezekiel, John, and Paul were among those taught “face to face,” who had the heavens opened to them, had “the personage of Jesus Christ to attend [them] … from time to time,” and even had the Father manifest himself unto them.

Not only Paul, but also the early Christians understood the true nature of God.  For example, they were often charged with abandoning monotheism and worshiping two Gods. They did not deny this. “We reasonably worship Jesus,” wrote Justin Martyr in the second century A.D., “having learned that He is the Son of the true God Himself, and holding Him in second place, and the prophetic spirit in the third.” 

With the apostasy and the loss of many plain and precious truths that were once part of the gospel (see 1 Ne. 13:26), the true knowledge of God was lost. The surviving fragments of truth were subsequently interpreted into mystery, and those who continued to believe in the basic truths about God were denounced as heretics. By the fourth century A.D., little remained of mankind’s original understanding of God. 

It is not surprising that the true knowledge of God would be one of Satan’s prime targets and one of the first fundamental doctrines to be lost. With the loss of the priesthood held by the original Apostles, the “key of the knowledge of God” (D&C 84:19), or “the fulness of the scriptures” (JST, Luke 11:53), was gone. That key was restored through Joseph Smith.

Also in Acts 7:55-56 we learn about the Godhead. Straight out of the New Testament it says, "But he, being full of the Holy Ghost, looked up stedfastly into heaven, and saw the glory of God, and Jesus standing on the right hand of God,

And said, Behold, I see the heavens opened, and the Son of man standing on the right hand of God."

Here Stephen saw a vision of God the Father with Jesus standing on the right side of Him. That enough proves the Godhead, how they are truly three separate beings. If you still don't acknowledge the true Godhead then get on your knees and with an open mind ask God Himself if this is true. He will manifest by the Holy Ghost. Pay specific attention to the thoughts and feelings that come to you. This will be the only way you can ever know.

I testify that They are three separate beings. I know this by the Power of the Holy Ghost! This is my testimony!

I LOVE TO SEE THE TEMPLE!

Out of all of the temples I went through and picked my three favorite temples. It is so hard to pick the favorite temples, but these three are equal. All number 1. These temples are (dun dun dun)...



The Bountiful Utah Temple!This temple was dedicated in 1995. I love it here. I look forward to the week after my mission ends when I will get to attend this temple. That is gonna be so exciting. I have not yet ever attended this temple but I have seen it many times and now I just can't wait to be there. Bountiful Utah Temple

 

Cardston Alberta Temple. This is my home temple. I just love this unique temple. This temple was dedicated in 1923. Cardston Alberta Temple



San Diego California Temple. This temple was dedicated in 1993. This is such a beautiful looking temple. I can't wait to go here one day! It is going to be a dream come true. San Diego California Temple

These are my three favorite temples. The best thing about each of them is they are the House of the Lord. These buildings are dedicated to the Lord.
 

"Everything that occurs in the temple is uplifting and ennobling. It speaks of life here and life beyond the grave. It speaks of the importance of the individual as a child of God. It speaks of the importance of the family and the eternity of the marriage relationship."

—Gordon B. Hinckley

"When you come to the temple you will love your family with a deeper love than you have ever felt before. The temple is about families."

—Richard H. Winkel

"I have hallowed this house, which thou hast built, to put my name there for ever; and mine eyes and mine heart shall be there perpetually."

—I Kings 9:3

"And thou shalt make a plate of pure gold, and grave upon it, like the engravings of a signet, HOLINESS TO THE LORD."

—Exodus 28:36

"The temple is a place of holiness. It is the most sacred and holy place on earth and should be treated with the greatest degree of reverence and respect."

—L. Lionel Kendrick

What are Mormon Temples used for?

Temples are houses of the Lord, the most sacred structures on the earth.
Anciently, the Lord directed Solomon to build a temple (1 Chronicles 28:1-6). This temple was a place where God could dwell, was a place of prayer, was a place of sacrifice and was a place where the principle and covenant of sacrifice was fundamental to worship.
At the time of the Restoration, the Lord commanded Joseph Smith to once again build temples on the earth. Like ancient temples, today’s temples are also sacred places where God may dwell; they are places of prayer and, although we no longer offer animal sacrifices because that was done away with when Jesus Christ became the Eternal Sacrifice for our sins, the principle and covenant of sacrifice is fundamental to our temple worship.
In temples, Church members participate in ordinances designed to unite their families together forever and help them return to God.
In the temple, members:

• Learn eternal truths.
• Receive sacred ordinances, including those that bind husband and wife together for eternity, as well as join children and parents (Malachi 4:5-6).
• Provide ordinances such as baptism for those who have died without the opportunity to receive the gospel of Jesus Christ. (1 Corinthians 15:29); 1 Peter 4:6)

Can a husband and wife be together forever? Do Mormons believe that families will live together in heaven?

Family relationships can last forever—not just for this life.
Just as some of life’s sweetest joys can come through family associations, the loss of a beloved family member can be a source of our deepest sorrows.
Jesus Christ gave power to His disciples to seal families together forever when He said, “And it will give unto thee the keys of the kingdom of heaven: and whatsoever thou shalt loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven” (Matthew 16:19).
Death does not need to be the end of our relationships with cherished loved ones. The Lord revealed to Joseph Smith that the “same sociality which exists among us here will exist among us there [in eternity], only it will be coupled with eternal glory” (Doctrine and Covenants 130:2).
Family members who accept the Atonement of Jesus Christ and follow His example can be together forever through sacred ordinances performed in God’s holy temples. These ordinances seal a husband and wife together for all eternity and children to their parents as an eternal family. (See: “The Family: A Proclamation to the World”)

I know families can be together forever with the sealing powers of the Priesthood here in these Temples. I know that all will receive the Gospel whether they be living or dead. I know that when the temple is attended regularly the Spirit within you is much stronger as long as you are going worthily. I know that marriage inside the temple is for eternity and not till death do you part. This is part of God's great plan! Families are so important in this plan that He has given us temples to be sealed together in for time and all eternity. For this is the House of the Lord!

What is this Doctrine on Families?

One of the biggest questions of the church is the Doctrine of the Family. I will be honest, this is my favorite. I love talking about families. Many think of family such as being just friends. That is so very true. The biggest picture is we are all sons and daughters of a Loving Heavenly Father. He is truly our Father. I love talking to Heavenly Father about everything. He knows everything so there is no point trying to hide anything right. His love is remarkable.

The Apostles declare in behalf of THE CHURCH OF JESUS CHRIST OF LATTER-DAY SAINTS about the ordination of families. It states so clearly,
The Family: A Proclamation to the World
"We, the First Presidency and the Council of the Twelve Apostles of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, solemnly proclaim that marriage between a man and a woman is ordained of God and that the family is central to the Creator’s plan for the eternal destiny of His children.
All human beings—male and female—are created in the image of God. Each is a beloved spirit son or daughter of heavenly parents, and, as such, each has a divine nature and destiny. Gender is an essential characteristic of individual premortal, mortal, and eternal identity and purpose.
In the premortal realm, spirit sons and daughters knew and worshipped God as their Eternal Father and accepted His plan by which His children could obtain a physical body and gain earthly experience to progress toward perfection and ultimately realize their divine destiny as heirs of eternal life. The divine plan of happiness enables family relationships to be perpetuated beyond the grave. Sacred ordinances and covenants available in holy temples make it possible for individuals to return to the presence of God and for families to be united eternally.
The first commandment that God gave to Adam and Eve pertained to their potential for parenthood as husband and wife. We declare that God’s commandment for His children to multiply and replenish the earth remains in force. We further declare that God has commanded that the sacred powers of procreation are to be employed only between man and woman, lawfully wedded as husband and wife.
We declare the means by which mortal life is created to be divinely appointed. We affirm the sanctity of life and of its importance in God’s eternal plan.
Husband and wife have a solemn responsibility to love and care for each other and for their children. “Children are an heritage of the Lord” (Psalm 127:3). Parents have a sacred duty to rear their children in love and righteousness, to provide for their physical and spiritual needs, and to teach them to love and serve one another, observe the commandments of God, and be law-abiding citizens wherever they live. Husbands and wives—mothers and fathers—will be held accountable before God for the discharge of these obligations.
The family is ordained of God. Marriage between man and woman is essential to His 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. Happiness in family life is most likely to be achieved when founded upon the teachings of the Lord Jesus Christ. Successful marriages and families are established and maintained on principles of faith, prayer, repentance, forgiveness, respect, love, compassion, work, and wholesome recreational activities. By divine design, fathers are to preside over their families in love and righteousness and are responsible to provide the necessities of life and protection for their families. Mothers are primarily responsible for the nurture of their children. In these sacred responsibilities, fathers and mothers are obligated to help one another as equal partners. Disability, death, or other circumstances may necessitate individual adaptation. Extended families should lend support when needed.
We warn that individuals who violate covenants of chastity, who abuse spouse or offspring, or who fail to fulfill family responsibilities will one day stand accountable before God. Further, we warn that the disintegration of the family will bring upon individuals, communities, and nations the calamities foretold by ancient and modern prophets."
We call upon responsible citizens and officers of government everywhere to promote those measures designed to maintain and strengthen the family as the fundamental unit of society."


President Henry B. Eyring proclaims,

“The first commandment that God gave to Adam and Eve pertained to their potential for parenthood as husband and wife. We declare that God’s commandment for His children to multiply and replenish the earth remains in force. We further declare that God has commanded that the sacred powers of procreation are to be employed only between man and woman, lawfully wedded as husband and wife.

“We declare the means by which mortal life is created to be divinely appointed. We affirm the sanctity of life and of its importance in God’s eternal plan."

We would also see that the commandment to be chaste, to employ the powers of procreation only as husband and wife, is not limiting but, rather, expanding and exalting. Children are the inheritance of the Lord to us in this life and also in eternity. Eternal life is not only to have forever our descendants from this life. It is also to have eternal increase. This is the description of what awaits those of us married as husband and wife in the temple by a servant of God with authority to offer us the sacred sealing ordinances. Here are the words of the Lord:

“It shall be done unto them in all things whatsoever my servant hath put upon them, in time, and through all eternity; and shall be of full force when they are out of the world; and they shall pass by the angels, and the gods, which are set there, to their exaltation and glory in all things, as hath been sealed upon their heads, which glory shall be a fulness and a continuation of the seeds forever and ever.

“Then shall they be gods, because they have no end; therefore shall they be from everlasting to everlasting” (D&C 132:19–20).

“Husband and wife have a solemn responsibility to love and care for each other and for their children. ‘Children are an heritage of the Lord’ (Ps. 127:3). Parents have a sacred duty to rear their children in love and righteousness, to provide for their physical and spiritual needs, to teach them to love and serve one another, to observe the commandments of God, and to be law-abiding citizens wherever they live. Husbands and wives—mothers and fathers—will be held accountable before God for the discharge of these obligations.

We cannot control what others choose to do, and so we cannot force our children to heaven, but we can determine what we will do. And we can decide that we will do all we can to bring down the powers of heaven into that family we want so much to have forever.

A key for us is in the proclamation: “Happiness in family life is most likely to be achieved when founded upon the teachings of the Lord Jesus Christ.”

The family unit is fundamental not only to society and to the Church but also to our hope for eternal life. We begin to practice in the family, the smaller unit, what will spread to the Church and to the society in which we live in this world, which will then be what we practice in families bound together forever by covenants and by faithfulness. We can start now to “promote those measures designed to maintain and strengthen the family.” I pray that we will. I pray that you will ask, “Father, how can I prepare?” Tell him how much you want what he desires to give you. You will receive impressions, and if you act on them, I promise you the help of the powers of heaven.

I testify that our Heavenly Father lives, that we lived with him as spirits, and that we would be lonely living anywhere but with him in the world to come. I testify that Jesus Christ is our Savior, that by suffering for the sins of all of us he made possible the changes in you and me that can give us eternal life. I testify that the Holy Ghost can fill us with hope and with perfect love. And I testify that the sealing power restored to Joseph Smith and now held by President Gordon B. Hinckley can bind us in families and give us eternal life, if we do all that we can do in faith."

(End Quote)

 
Families are eternal. That is a portion of our unique message to the world. We believe that families can be sealed together for time and all eternity only in the Temple or House of the Lord. The priesthood ministers this sacred ordinance.

The families today have shrunk. Many people are stopping at 1, 2 or 3 children. I imagine if we truly understood the doctrine here we would be doing everything possible to get all of these children here on earth. At times it may be difficult with children but just think of how much they truly mean to you. Honestly without the joys of parenthood what would you have?

“President Brigham Young explained that our families are not yet ours. The Lord has committed them to us to see how we will treat them. Only if we are faithful will they be given to us forever. What we do on earth determines whether or not we will be worthy to become heavenly parents.”

I love my family and I know we will be together forever as long as we do our best in this life. I am so excited for the day that I will have a family of my own. Kids running around being kids, my future wife keeping me in line. That is family. No matter how hard the storm is hitting or how bad Satan is attacking the family we have one thing to keep us together. That is LOVE! 
I know this is God's plan. They way I know this is by the Spirit of the Lord. I exhort all to ask God if the family is eternal and He will answer.

You Just Got to LOVE on People!

  So while I was thinking about what I should write my blog about I remembered a missionary always saying this one phrase, "You just got to love on people!" To be honest this is such a true so inspired phrase. Have you ever wondered what showing a little love to someone can do for them. Maybe that is a smile, a hug, or saying hi, saying I care about you or even I love you! To us some of these things may seem like so small but in reality maybe the person receiving this plight gesture needed it. Maybe you have been the receiver of one of these gestures. What did that gesture do for you?

  I believe that love is what brings people together to be more united than ever before. We see this in many divers ways. When there is a natural disaster or any disasters and your friends and family come to your support, I ask, "Is there love?" If they did not love you then they would not come to help. Lets be honest here many times there are people helping out that don't even know you but what they do know is that you are a Son or Daughter of our Loving Heavenly Father. They see the sadness in your eyes they remember the many blessing which have been given to them. They want to help you because of there love for you. Maybe not all times will they show that love or aid but you will know that they are there to support you in the deepest ruts of life. For example there are many stories of when there is a tornado or other natural disaster that has caused huge damage. People from hundreds of miles away drive to assist in the support of those who were disturbed. They sleep in their cars or on the hard ground not caring because they know that many others are not as blessed. With these disasters God humbles the people and because of it many hearts are softened and from then they remember the Lord their God. In lifes trials do you seek guidance from your Heavenly Father who has shown you much love and invited you to talk with Him. I would exhort all to pray and gain a relationship with our kind gracious and Loving Heavenly Father.

  Back to love. Lets take the example of our Heavenly Fathers love for us. A scripture often quoted is John 3:16, 17, "For God so loved the world, that He gave His Only Begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life. For God sent not His Son into the world to condemn the world; but that the world through Him might be saved." God gave His Only Begotten knowing what Jesus Christ was going to have to bear for us. He knew the Jews were going to crucify His Son. He knew that Jesus Christ was going to have to suffer for all mankind which made Jesus Christ bleed from every pore as if it was sweat. How much pain and suffering our Heavenly Father went through watching this happening to His Son none of us can comprehend. The patience He has to have is remarkable. Brethren and Sisters I admonish all to think of the Love God has for you.

LOVE IS THE KEY! The key to open the blessings of Heaven more abundantly. The key to success in life. The key to joy and happiness that we all seek for. The key to return to live with our Heavenly Father. The key to strengthening marriage and family relations. The key to raising a successful family. The key to know how Heavenly Father feels about all His children. Love is center of this plan our Heavenly Father has given us to live. With marriage comes children and with these special children comes unconditional love. NO matter what your kids do, do you think you should stop loving those you gave life to?  It is the key that we must all pray and seek for.

President Henry B. Eyring said,

"Love is the motivating principle by which the Lord leads us along the way towards becoming like Him, our perfect example. Our way of life, hour by hour, must be filled with the love of God and love for others. There is no surprise in that, since the Lord proclaimed those as the first and great commandments. It is love of God that will lead us to keep His commandments. And love of others is at the heart of our capacity to obey Him.

Moroni 7:48 “Wherefore, my beloved brethren, pray unto the Father with all the energy of heart, that ye may be filled with this love, which he hath bestowed upon all who are true followers of his Son, Jesus Christ; that ye may become the sons of God; that when he shall appear we shall be like him, for we shall see him as he is; that we may have this hope; that we may be purified even as he is pure. Amen.”

For all of us it may be hard to see in our lives an increasing power to love and to see ourselves becoming more like the Savior, our perfect example. I wish to encourage you. You have had evidences that you are moving along the road to becoming more like Jesus. It will help to remember how you have felt, at times, like a little child, even in the midst of cares and trials. Think of children singing the song, "I'm trying to be like Jesus." You will remember that Jesus asked His disciples to bring the children to Him and said, "Suffer the little children to come unto me, ... for of such is the kingdom of God." You have felt the peace of a pure little child at times when you have tried to be like Jesus."(End Quote)

 

If you truly love your brother or your sister, your parents, children or your spouse, what will you let pull you apart? What will you let prevent you from being together for eternity? Yes there are gonna be things that are gonna happen because that is what Satan wants. Satan is jealous of the love we have for our brothers and sisters. He is jealous of the love from our Heavenly Father. He truly does seek to destroy the love you have for your family. He truly seeks to destroy your life. I know Satan is working on each of us. Some more than others but his angels are trying to destroy and scare us. Let us be faithful to our Heavenly Father though. Let us be steadfast and immovable always abounding in good works.

Remember Remember the blessings which have been promised to you. Remember the Heavens are there to support you in times of need. Pray and ask for Heavens help. I know by the power of the Holy Ghost that there is a God and He truly does love each one of us. I know that He knows us better than ourselves.
 

           

           "YOU JUST GOT TO LOVE ON PEOPLE"

"I'm Trying to be Like Jesus"

I’m trying to be like Jesus; I’m following in his ways.

I’m trying to love as he did, in all that I do and say.

At times I am tempted to make a wrong choice,

But I try to listen as the still small voice whispers,

“Love one another as Jesus loves you.

Try to show kindness in all that you do.

Be gentle and loving in deed and in thought,

For these are the things Jesus taught.