Proverbs 31 Women's Blog

My Adventurous trip to Las Vegas Mission

2013-11-18T00:30:00.000-05:00

At our September Circle conference, our Pacific coast Ladies' Circle President was inspired to have a road trip for our sisters to visit the sisters at the Las Vegas Mission. I had a desire to go but did not want to drive the hours to get there. My sister in law who is an airline retiree suggested I fly stand by so I took her up on the opportunity.

Let me begin by saying it was an awesome weekend. I was listed to leave standby on the 8th of November at 5pm, my cousin who lives in Las Vegas was all set to pick me up from the airport. At 9am that morning, I decided to check the flights and found the 5pm flight was over booked and no way could I get on it. The only flight I had any chance of getting on was the 11am flight.

I found myself rushing like crazy finished packing and called my friend to take me to the airport. Thank God she got me to the airport with in the half hour. When I went in the airport, the lines were so long I panicked and for some reason just walked past everyone and went up to a lady who was helping a customer at the Kiosk. I walked over to the kiosk and up to the worker. I don't know why I walked up to her, but I did and asked her if she could help me, I explained that I was scheduled on the 5pm flight but I wanted to get on the 11am flight and I was not listed. She says did the Lord send you to me??? I started to cry. She said don't cry, don't worry I will take care of you. She punched in all my info in the computer and tagged my bag she said go on to security. I got up to security and the line was forever, a man who was directing the line looked at my pass and said go straight thru, you don't have to wait. I always beep when I go thru the scanner because I have artificial knees this time when I went thru the security scanner, would you believe I did not beep. I grabbed my luggage and ran to the gate. When I got there, I was #10 on the standby list. I could not believe it, I said Lord if you want me to be with the sisters, make a way for me to be there. When I lifted my head, I was number 1 and they called my name. I went up to the counter and the man at the counter said do you want to go first class??? I said yes and got on. I called my cousin told him what happen and he said no problem I will pick you up. He and his wife are so special, the mission meets in the recreation room where they live and It is a blessing to see them working for the Lord. What a blessing and need I say how thankful I am to have experienced such an awesome adventure.

It taught me to trust in the Lord always and never doubt that if he wants you to be somewhere he will find the way to bring you there.

Don't ever doubt his greatness.

Proverbs 3:5 - Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding.

Much Love,

Sis V.

October Conference 2013

2013-11-04T00:30:00.000-05:00

Our annual conference concluded on Sunday October 13, 2013. As many of you may know, several experiences were submitted to the Apostles for their review and believing that they have autonomous merit brought them to the conference floor where they could be reviewed by the ministry; the whole being responsible for accepting or rejecting the lot. Six of these experiences were accepted as revelation to the church. Printed copies were distributed to the elders and teachers, and they in turn are to take them back to their branches to read and inform the members.

God has laid before the church a task and by receiving we are accountable as individuals for implementing these scriptural based truths in our lives today.

We were privileged to have Apostle Joel Gehly in our meeting Sunday night after conference. He was asked to occupy the pulpit and to bring forth the experiences to the congregation, a mixed group from all over the church, which he did. How wonderful it was to hear and ingest what God has given his church. Believing that God is the same yesterday, today and forever, we know he is a God that reveals, works, moves and instructs just as he did in the scripture, and will continue to do through all ages of time, as long as there are a people that will hear and obey his voice.

The following is some of what we heard: Your heart must be right and to purge yourself of all sin, iniquity and pride. Repair all spiritual breaches. Seek the welfare of others and not your own glory. Put God first. Follow God's spirit, his word and the principles and teachings of Jesus Christ and implement them in your lives.

In accord we were given this (abbreviated) message:

Great is the day that is before you. Great will be the things you will see.
Follow God's precepts and receive his blessings. This is the time when God's judgments befall this land. This land will be purged for Israel, for they will be gathered. Sincere believers who have accepted Jesus Christ and his ways will be carried to a place of safety if their hearts are right.
Believe and have faith. The world is beginning to crumble and turmoil will increase. It will continue to worsen.

Of course we were also told, as the scripture states, "...the righteous need not fear."

God has always forewarned his people and they in turn can accept or reject the message. The inhabitants of Jerusalem were warned to amend their ways, or like Shiloh, God's judgments would befall them. They had ears but they would not hear. In Jeremiah it says that God sent prophets, rising up early to warn them. Lehi said there were many prophets in Jerusalem. Yet they would not turn. All these scriptures are for our benefit. We have also received an early warning, if you will. It is the time to trim our lamps and be found watching when the bridegroom cometh, and not slothful, caught unawares having no oil in our lamps. Though there be a coming turmoil and tumults of all kinds, a glorious future awaits the people of God. In Him we trust.

Alma 34:36
"...the Lord hath said he dwelleth not in unholy temples, but in the hearts of the righteous doth he dwell..."

Illusions

2013-10-24T23:32:00.000-04:00

Last week, I had my niece and her husband visiting from Michigan. Her and her brother came to live with us when they were kids. We kept them for 3 years when my sister in law had a nervous breakdown. My niece had not been back to California since she left at age 15. She was excited to visit the old house and her school. While visiting we did the tourist things and one of them was attending a brunch at the Magic Castle. My son has a membership to the castle so we enjoyed the brunch and magic shows. We kept saying how do they do that? It is all smoke and mirrors and illusion. I remembered a line I read once that “God’s love overcomes all of our sin, our despair, and our illusions.”

The final statement is what got my attention, “… and our illusions”.

When I first read this statement, I automatically thought that God is more concerned with us overcoming the types of illusions that we ourselves concoct in our lives, Illusions like:

“If I just lose weight I’ll be happy”
“I can handle this by myself”
“If I just win the lotto I can buy that car”
“I can’t make a difference”
“God has abandoned me.”

And the list goes on… Part of the reason for all these illusions is because of the type of environment we live in. The world we live in bombards us with thousands of messages a day, quite often, this is where the illusions come from. If we see an ad with everyone smiling and laughing enough times we begin to believe that the product is the very thing that will make us happy.

“Your illusions shall not controll you because you are not controlled by the world’s illusions, but by God's grace”.
God promises to overcome all of the illusions that we believe; God promises to guide us in how we live. When we put our trust In God and live our lives by what God says (and not by what the world says) we live a Godly life. A life free from the disappointment, despair, and pain brought on by believing illusions.

Romans 6:14
“ For sin shall not have dominion over you: for ye are not under the law, but under grace."

Sis. Virginia

The Blessing of a Testimony

2013-10-15T00:30:00.000-04:00

I received as a gift The Blessing of a Testimony from my Mom on Saturday at our Ladies' Circle meeting. That night before going to bed I decided I would read some of the testimonies.

I came to the testimony found on page 4 from our young Sister Juliet Bogle. I noticed she wrote one of her favorite scriptures found in Matthew 6:34 Take therefore no thought for the morrow; for the morrow shall take thought for the things of itself. Sufficient unto the day is the evil thereof.

The last verse, "...sufficient unto the day is the evil thereof..." really stuck out at me. I read it several times over and couldn't grasp the meaning of it. So I asked, what does this mean, Lord, please show me or tell me. Allow me to have an understanding.

Wow, did the Lord answer my prayer because the very next day (conference Sunday) was a feast. We were fed from the Lord's table and this was the message He fed us through His Power, delivered by his Priesthood, and Brother Chuck Maddox even used this exact line of scripture. AMAZING! Even that does not express what I am feeling. I can not thank God enough for all his blessings which began through a testimony and a blessing of wanting to know more and asking for a greater understanding of God's word.

How important our testimonies are. I was so blessed in reading just the little bit and look forward to reading more so I can feel God's blessings over and over again.

I truly thank God for allowing us to be able to have the work we do as Sisters in his church and look forward to meeting new Sisters through the testimonies we share.

Love,

Sister Cindy Bright

General Ladies' Uplift Circle October Conference 2013

2013-10-14T00:30:00.000-04:00

It's amazing what an encouraging word can do. (Thanks Sis. Angie!) That being said I'm going to try and recap a bit of our General Ladies' Uplift Circle Conference for those of you who weren't there. And it is certain that I'll miss something, so those things you can mention in the comment section below.

We got to the Greensburg Branch bright and early on Saturday Oct. 12, 2013. As we approached the building we noticed a rainbow in the sky above the church and was able to snap a picture with Sis. JoAnn Niehl underneath it. As we entered the building Sis. Marty Jumper,(fundraising committee member) was already there setting up to sell cups, bags, note cards, zipper pulls, pins, etc., all with the Circle logo. The sisters began arriving, all so happy, full of smiles and greeting each other warmly. I think I can speak for all when I say that we were anticipating a great day.

Sis. Lisa Champine, our General Circle President, opened the meeting and welcomed all in attendance. She noted that it was a special day, for the first time in several years we had thirty years of Circle leadership in attendance; Sisters Arline Whitton, Lorraine DeMercurio and Karen Progar.

As the devotion Sis. Bonnie Metzler was asked to give a presentation on the work in Columbia, which she and her husband Bro. Alan have been involved in for several years. Afterward Bro. Alan, Bro. Rich Scaglione and Bro. Lawrence King, the committee in charge of the work, were also invited to say a few words. (Bro. Lawrence said he thought we needed more women in the mission field as there is a need for it.)

Following was our business conference. Was it boring? No. The day was wonderful. I love to hear the sisters sing. Boy that Sis. Diane Surdock can really play the piano! Sisters Judy Coppa and Rosemary Ausilio led the singing morning and afternoon.

Here are some of the highlights of our day:
We donated $500.00 to the work in Calgary, Alberta, Canada. We donated $5000.00 for the printing of a paperback Book of Mormon in English to be used in the missionary field. $1,900.00 toward land purchase in India and $1,900.00 toward the Liberia Brewerville Mission building effort. Our special project for the next six month is to raise $5,000.00 toward the purchase of a vehicle for Malawi.

Bro. Tom Curtin gave a presentation on the work in Dominica. Again, it was wonderful to see such dedication to these works, and the love for their people. The General Circle has supported this work and it was very gratifying to see the fruits of our labors.

Our fundraiser luncheon was a great success (thanks Bro. Dave Gibson, Sis. Marty Jumper and all who volunteered to help with serving). The food was delicious. And to our delight and amazement we made approximately $2000.00 from the combined fundraising efforts and collection. If there are any of you who don't know, these monies will be used in the next six months to aid the missionary efforts of the church.

The Proverbs 31 Women's blog is in transition. More on that as details become available.Your submissions are still needed, so please continue to write and forward them to Sis. Becky Tarbuk. The GLUC Fellowship weekends will continue to be every three years - the next one being in 2016.

We had special prayer for Bro. Bob Nicklow and the Micale family.

The Youth Enhancement officers are getting ready to do a re-launch with some exciting activities for our young women. Sis. KarenJo Pandone introduced the Scrip Program - a way to make "free money" for the NAOC Native American Operating Committee.

We are in the planning stages of compiling 100 years of General Circle history in time for our 100'th Anniversary. Sis. Karen Progar is looking for volunteers to help with the process.

We had a good representation of our Area Presidents and probably 100 Circle sisters in attendance.

Sis. Lisa closed with an inspired message to the Sisters reinforcing that we are an integral part of the great work of the Lord. We are all important and our work is important.

We closed with hymn# 146 in The Songs of Zion, Sing Glory....our God has done wonderful things!

Editoral note: Attend Circle meetings. Join the Sisters in the great work of the Lord! It's wonderful!

May God's richest blessings by yours,
Sis. Becky

Rebellion/Love

2013-10-02T00:30:00.000-04:00

When I heard that this weeks topic was Love, I had already started a blog on Rebellion. Okay, I switched gears and thought how can I combine the two? I found that they do indeed go together.

I have a grandson that is very rebellious. His father is in the military and very strict and regimented. He disciplines because he loves his son and wants him to grow to be a good citizen. God is the same, we rebel and he in turn Loves us until we calm down and follow his example.

Rebellion is anything that goes against the norm.. Rebellion that we act out of is often rooted in pain—a hurtful event or past, where the plague of unresolved issues are allowed to operate in one’s heart and mind. Those issues do not just go away. Only Gods love can erase the past and will make your future sharing Gods love with others that are hurting

It is important that we “Be self-controlled and alert. The enemy prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour.” Our only hope for peace and restoration is the power and love of God through Jesus. God is the biggest proponent of love that I know. He loved the world so much that he gave His only begotten son, Jesus, for it. God wants us to be Loving, caring, gentle and supportive of one another in every way possible. We are to show that love as God has done for each of us.

So Love one another, Depend and be devoted to one another, Wash one another's feet, Rejoice with each other, Weep with each other, Live in harmony, Don't judge, Accept one another, Greet one another with a kiss, care for each other, Serve, Be kind, Forgive, Be compassionate, Encourage each other, Carry each others burdens, offer hospitality, be clothed in humility, Don't slander, Don't spread rumors, confess your sins to each other, Pray for one another, Fellowship with one another, and lastly be there to comfort one that is hurting.

When we care enough to share our burdens and carry them for each other, that to me is a huge act of Love.

2 Corinthians 1:4

Who comforteth us in all our tribulation, that we may be able to comfort them which are in any trouble, by the comfort wherewith we ourselves are comforted of God.

I love you all dearly,
Sis V.

He Drew Me With His Cords of Love

2013-09-30T00:30:00.000-04:00

One day the above words came to me and I felt such a blessing. As I thought upon it the words began to sink deeper and deeper into my heart. I searched for them in the scripture and online and have gathered a few thoughts and verse that I hope will be a blessing to you as well.

"I drew them with cords of a man, with bands of love!" -Hosea 11:4

A cord is singular but a band is a three fold cord.

One writer says he draws us with the gentle cords of man such as with a testimony or the preaching of the word. He drew me with his bands of love - the Father, Son, and the Holy Ghost; the combined convincing power that changes a life and we are bound in his love forever.

I've found a friend, O such a friend,
He loved me ere I knew him;
He drew me with the cords of love
And thus bound me to him.

And 'round my heart still closely twine;
Those ties which nought can sever,
For I am His and He is mine,
Forever and forever.

To add to the theme of God's love a brother recently sent me some of his experiences. Among them I found this:

I had asked God to show me his love. While visiting another branch a brother came up to me and gave me a big hug and cried on my shoulder and said over and over, "I love this brother, I love this brother..." It was so strong an emotion that I suddenly realized that this was not my Brother speaking to me, it was God telling me how much he really loved me.

He concluded by saying, "Is it not something how God works through others?!"

Let His love shine through you today!

If you would like to contribute to the this week's topic of love, please do. See Wanna be a guest blogger? on the right of the page.

Sacrifice

2013-09-25T00:30:00.000-04:00

This week the news was talking about a Jewish ritual called Kaparot. For centuries Jewish people have been slaughtering chickens through a religious sacrificial ritual that takes place near Yom Kippur. The practice is increasingly the target of protests by animal rights activists

I began to ponder on the word Sacrifice and thought about the many times I sacrificed for my children and elderly parents. I don't regret those sacrifices and as painful as they were at times, I can only turn my thoughts to Christ who made the ultimate sacrifice by dying on the cross for me. How can I ever complain? When I sacrifice I do it out of love.

Because Christ sacrificed so much for me, I can sacrifice for Him. I might have doubts about whether I can accomplish what he wants me to accomplish. But, when I am willing to sacrifice and pay any price for Him, then I do accomplish His mission for my life. When I am overcome with doubt, uncertainty, or discouragement, I go to the Cross. When I have a sense of loss, or a sense of failure about Christ's mission for me, I go to the Cross. I accept Jesus hanging upon the Cross making such a sacrifice for me, that no sacrifice I make for Him will ever be great enough. If you take Christ's sacrifice upon the Cross into your heart, then going the extra mile, giving an extra push, and enduring is worth it.

Hebrews 13:16

But to do good and to communicate forget not: for with such sacrifices God is well pleased.

Sis V.

The Book of Ether Quiz

2013-09-21T00:30:00.000-04:00

*The Book of Ether Quiz could be used to test your own knowledge or used as a teachers copy when teaching a class. I wish I were able to present it in a better format. Even still, it is a great study tool.

What was the Source of Moroni's account concerning the people that were destroyed in the North Country?   The Book of Ether

Why did Moroni not write anything concerning the time period from Adam down to the time of the time of the great tower?    The Jews had those records

What part of the record was Moroni going to give us?    From the time of the tower until they were destroyed

Who wrote the record of the Jaredites? Ether

What did Jared want his brother to ask the Lord?    That the Lord would turn away His anger from his friends and not confound the language--not drive them out of the land.

What did the Lord promise to do in the promised land?    He will meet the and the land will be greater than any nation

What did the Jaredites carry with them in their journey?    A lot of animals and stuff for food

What is the interpretation of deseret?    Honey Bee

What were the decrees of God concerning the land of promise which the Jaredites were to inhabit?    They must serve god or be they will be wiped off

who is the God of the Promised Land?    Jesus Christ
Why did two problems did the brother of Jared recognize in the barges?    No LIGHT & AIR

What solution was given by the Lord to the first problem?    He told them to cut holes in the boat that could be opened for air

How did the Lord respond to the second problem?    Had the brother of Jared think of something--He took rocks to the Lord to touch and light up.

What was the result of the fall according to the brother of Jared?    We are unworthy and evil

What did the brother of Jared request that the Lord do to the sixteen stones?    Touch them to make them shine in the dark

What was taken off the eyes of the brother of Jared?    The veil

Why did the brother of Jared fall down with fear?    He thought he would be smitten/ He didn't know that God had a BODY

What is the result of man being redeemed from the fall?    We are brought back into the Lord's presence

How were all men created in the beginning?    After the image of Christ

What resemblance is there between the spirit body and the physical body?    They look the same

Why could the brother of Jared "not be kept from beholding within the veil"?    His great amount of faith
when will the things which the brother of Jared saw and heard "go forth unto the world"?    After Christ comes in the flesh

What did the Lord give the brother of Jared that would be sealed up with his record? For what purpose were they given?    Translating stones

Now what did the Lord show to the brother of Jared?    All people--Before and After him

When were the things that the brother of Jared wrote to come forth?    After Christ came and was crucified.

What did Moroni write on the plates which were sealed?    The things the brother of Jared saw

When will the Gentiles be able to have the revelations of the brother of Jared?    When they repent and are clean before the Lord

What blessing will come to those who believe the things which the Lord speaks?    They will know all things/ Christ will manifest himself to them

What promise is given to those who believe these things?    They will be visited with manifestations of the Spirit and know and bear record of the truth

What can be said about things that persuade men to do good?    They are of God

What other records will be unfolded in the latter days, in the eyes of all people?    The things written by John

To whom was Moroni addressing his remarks in chapter 5?    Joseph Smith

How and why were three to be shown the plates?    By the power of God--That they might know with surety the truth.

What, in addition to the testimony of three, would show forth the power of god?    The Holy Ghost

When shall we know that Moroni did have authority for his work?    When we see Moroni and stand with him before God at judgment

How were the Jaredites able to proceed towards the Promised Land?    There was a great wind upon the ocean.

To what were their vessels likened?    A dish, the Ark of Noah

How long were they on the water?    344 days

What was the desire of Jared's family which was grievous to Jared and his brother?    They wanted a king

What event brought to pass the saying of the brother of Jared that they would be "brought into captivity"?    Corihor took the land of Mormon (his own fathers land) captive

How was the kingdom restored to Kib?    Shule (Kids son) made swords, gathers people, and fought

How was the kingdom restored to Shule?    His sons rescued him from captivity

What did the Lord do in the days of Shule? What was the reaction of the people?    He sent PROPHETS to declare repentance-- the people didn't like it but Shule protected them and the people eventually repented.

How was Jared able to obtain half of his fathers kingdom?    Flattery and cunning words

Where did the daughter of jared get her idea to redeem the kingdom?    By following the example of the evil people of old (Satan)

What oath did Akish require of the house of Jared and all his kinsfolk?    An oath from Cain--of the devil

What was the cause of the Nephite and Jaredite destruction?    Secret oaths and covenants

What did Moroni say about nations which uphold secret combinations?    They will be destroyed.

Why was it wisdom in God to show these things to the Gentiles?    So we can repent and prevent!!

What did the Lord command the Gentiles?    That when we see secret oath and combinations around us we will recognize that they are terrible

How did Akish get the throne from his father-in-law, Jared?    He married Jared's daughter and murdered Jared

Why was Omer restored to the land of his inheritance?    Because there was a war

What was removed from the land and what happened during the reign of Emer?    The curse was removed and they began to prosper

What happened to Emer before he died?    He anointed his son Coriantum as king

What happened to Coriantum in his old age and how long did he live?    He married someone younger so he could have kids, 142 Years

Why did Heth "embrace the secret pland of old"?    To destroy his father so he could reign

Of what did the prophets testify after Heth slew his father? There would be a great curse and famine

When the people did not follow the prophets, what occurred?    there was a famine and many died

What also came on the face of the land?    Poisonous serpents

When did rain come again on the face of the earth?    When they had humbled themselves

How did Heth and his household meet their deaths?    Famine

What did Riplakish do that was not right in the sight of the Lord?    Had many wives and concubines--put a heavy burden of taxes on the people

Although Morianton did do justice to the people, why was he cut off from the presence of the Lord?    His whoredoms

How blessed were the people in the days of Lib?    VERY--They prospered

What had the robbers adopted in the days of Com?    The old ways--Secret oaths and combinations to destroy the city

Of what did the prophets testify in the days of Com?    The people would be destroyed if they did not repent

Of What did the prophets testify in the days of the brother of Shiblom?    The people would be destroyed if they did not repent--there would be a curse

Of what did the prophets testify in the days of Ethem?    The people would be destroyed if they did not repent

Why did these people reject the prophets?    Their secret society and wicket abominations

During whose reign did Ehter prophecy and why wasn't he restrained?    Coriantumr--They spirit of the Lord was with him was too strong to be restrained

What was the prophecy of Ether?    Repentance--have faith or they would be destroyed

What makes men "sure and steadfast, always abounding in good works"?    Those who believe with a surety and have faith

Why did the people not believe the words of Ether?    They didn't see the things he was prophesying of

What did Moroni say he was going to show the world?    Faith is things which are hoped for and not seen

When did Christ show himself to the father after his resurrection?    After they had faith

What stories of faith did Moroni recount?
a. Those of old were called
b. Receiving the Law of Moses
c. Alma/Amulek getting out of Jail
d. Nephi/Lehi changing the Lamanites
e. Ammon and the Lamanites
f. 3 Nephites being able to live forever
g. Brother of Jared--The rocks and seeing God's finger

Why was it that some could not be kept from within the veil?    Their great faith

What was Moroni's concern about the Gentiles who would reieve the records?    He thought they would mock the writings because they were not very gifted writers

What will the Lord show unto His people if they come unto Him?    Their weakness

Why does the Lord give us weakness?    To make us humble

What brings us unto the fountain of all righteousness?    Faith, Hope, and Charity

What did Moroni say Christ had prepared? What was required to go there?    A mansion, Man must hope

How did Moroni define charity?    The love that God has shown for the children of men

What was Moroni's prayer for the Gentiles? What was the Lord's reply?    Prayed that the gentiles might have grace so they could have charity--The Lord said not to worry about the gentiles because he had been faithful

When will we meet Moroni? What will we know?    At judgment day--We will know that he has seen God and talked to him face to face, the things he said were true

What did Moroni command us to do?    Seek this Jesus

When did the land of the Americas become a choice land above all others?    After the waters had receded from off the face of it

What did Ether teach about the New Jerusalem?    It will be destroyed then built up again--It will be the seed of Joseph and be a holy land to the Lord.

Identify the various New Jerusalems or holy cities of which Ether prophesied.
a. ????
b. In America
c. Lehi's Jerusalem

When the remnant of Joseph builds a New Jerusalem on their land of inheritance, for how long shall it not be confounded?    Until the end of the world

When will the scripture be fulfilled.. "they who were first, who shall be last; they who were last, who shall be first"?    When the Jew gather and except the gospel that the gentiles already have

Why did Moroni not write more of Ether's prophecies?    He was forbidden to write them

What conditional prophecy did Ether give Coriantumr?    If they would repent the Lord would give him his kingdom and spare his people

What "great curse" came upon the land?    If someone put something like a tool on his shelf or wherever it was supposed to go the next day it would be gone.

What happened to Gilead?    He was murdered by his high priest

How did the people become divided?    They began to gather together in armies

What "thus we see" message did Moroni write to the future reader of the record?    Thus we see that the Lord destroyed them with his wrath because of their wickedness and abominations

Why do Shiz's army return to their camp although Coriantumr was wounded?    They had lost so many men, women and, children on both sides

What did Coriantumr remember when he had recovered from his wounds?    The words that Ether had spoken to him

What did he see?    Two million(s) people had already been killed

What did Coriantumr request of Shiz in his epistle?    Spare the people and he would give up the kingdom

The hill Ramah was the site of the last Jaredite battle. Later another important battle was fought at the same site.

What battle was it?    The final battle between the Nephites and Lamanites

Which categories of Jaredites were armed with weapons of war?    Men, Women, and Children

What did the people do at night?    They lamented, howled, and cried for the loss of their people

Why did Shiz refuse to accept Coriantumr's second offer to give up the Kingdom?    Satan had power over him

In what manner did Ether hide the records?    In the manner that the people of Limhi did find them

What were the last words of Ether? Whether I be translated or suffer the will of the Lord in the flesh, it mattereth not, if it so be that I am save in the kingdom of God.

The Jaredites for children

2013-09-20T00:30:00.001-04:00

Draw and color picture(s) on the blanks to complete each sentence correctly.

1. In their journey to the promised land, the Jaredites took their flocks, _______________ of the waters, and swarms of _______________ (Ether 2:1–3).
2. The Lord came down in a _______________ to talk to the brother of Jared (Ether 2:4).
3. The Lord told the brother of Jared to build _______________ that would be as watertight as a _______________ (Ether 2:16–17).
4. The brother of Jared saw the _______________ of the Lord when He touched the sixteen stones (Ether 3:5–8).
5. When the people were righteous, the promised land was rich with _______________, grain, fine cloth, precious metals, and many animals, including _______________ (Ether 9:16–19).
6. When the people became unrighteous and would not repent, the Lord caused a famine and poisonous _______________ to be on the land (Ether 9:30–33).
7. Ether was cast out by the people, and he hid in the cavity of a _______________ and wrote the Jaredite history (Ether 13:13–14).
8. The army of Coriantumr pitched their _______________ by the _______________ Ramah, where Mormon hid the _______________ (Ether 15:11).

Answers:

[illustrations] Illustrated by Julie F. Young

(1) fish, bees; (2) cloud; (3) barges, dish; (4) finger; (5) fruit, any animal mentioned; (6) serpents; (7) rock; (8) tents, hill, records (gold plates).

Circle the correct answer to each question, then color all the pictures.

1. How did Jared and his people go to the promised land?

2. What did the Brother of Jared use for light?

3. Because of his great faith, whom did the brother of Jared see?

Illustrated by Robyn S. Officer

The Jaredite and Olmec Connection

2013-09-19T00:30:00.000-04:00

I don't want to say too much about the Olmec civilization because I don't know that much about it myself, only that many credible sources have come to believe that they and the Jaredites were one and the same. I've included just a few illustrations to head you off in your own sort of expedition. There are all sorts of clues in the record of Ether regarding land description and how blessed they were as a people and why their mysterious disappearance. The internet is full of discourses on the matter so all you have to do is search, or rather, like all good archeologists.... dig.

The Jaredites and Olmec Connection

In 1941, at a conference sponsored by the Mexican Society of Anthropology, new findings were presented about a race of people that predated the Mayans in Mesoamerica. Though scholars did their best to discredit the findings, this culture which has come to be known as the Olmecs has been shown to reach back to pre-Christian times during which most of the Book of Mormon history took place, particularly the Jaredites.

A Catholic priest named Ixtlilxochitl who wrote the history of Mexico in 1568 wrote that, after the great flood, the people built a very high tower. Their languages were confounded and they were scattered to all parts of the earth. However there were some who's language was not confounded.

Compare the Book of Ether chapter 1 v. 33 and 34

Which Jared came forth with his brother and their families, with some others and their families, from the great tower, at the time the Lord confounded the language of the people, and swore in his wrath that they should be scattered upon all the face of the earth; and according to the word of the Lord the people were scattered.

And the brother of Jared being a large and might man, and a man highly favored of the Lord, Jared, his brother, said unto him: Cry unto the Lord, that he will not confound us that we may not understand our words.

They eventually came to Mesoamerica after having first crossed many lands and waters, living in caves and passing through great trials and tribulations. Most archeologist date the Olmec culture between 2500 BC - 300 BC. Though the Book of Mormon does not give the exact dates for the Jaredites, 2500 BC - 300 BC would be very close!

Both the Jaredite culture and the Olmec culture reached their zenith around the same time period
(1500 BC - 300 BC)

The Nephite Limhi expedition that is mentioned in Mosiah 8 accidentally discovered the remains of a civilization that had been destroyed some 200 years earlier. They reported that the breastplates and weapons of war were very large...too big for a Nephite. Ixtlilxochitl reports that the Mexican's ancestors were giants, that they had many wars and dissensions among themselves and that their civilization came to an end in civil war as a result of their grave sins they had committed.

Both Ixtlilxochitl and Ether 11 talk about a great destruction that occurred prior to the final civil war destruction. Ixtlilxochitl reports great hurricanes with major destruction. Ether reports a similar phenomena. Both the archaeological record of the Olmecs and the Jaredite record in the Book of Mormon point to a catastrophic and violent civil war which destroyed the civilization.

We know the Olmecs lived around the Gulf of Mexico area near a huge water basin called the Papaloapan Water Basin. Ether 15 describes the last great Jaredite battle and says it was near a large body of water called Ripliancum, or "to exceed all".

I'm sure there is much more to be said concerning the Jaredite and Olmec civilizations. If you want to know more you can do your own search. Glean from the internet as the information is not hard to find. Youtube is good source on documentaries on the subject.

Maps, Migrations and Landings

The Book of Mormon tells of three groups of people that came to the Americas. The map above is one example of the route that the Jaredites may have traveled.

In reading The Book of Mormon there are distinct clues as to where the Jaredites, Nephites and Mulekites may have landed when reaching the Americas. One of the most credible sources of information on this topic is a book entitled People, Places and Prophecies by Verneil W. Simmons. (She's #1 on my "people I want to meet" list)

Book of Mormon timeline

2013-09-18T00:30:00.001-04:00

The timelines above are the same except one is black and white and the other in color for printing preference. I hope when making a copy that all of the words will be legible. Either way, this timeline would make a great book mark to keep in your Book of Mormon. It would also be a great hand-out, especially for those who are just learning and are still trying to figure out how all these people and places correspond with the other. I don't know how many times in reading I think to myself, Wait a minute, where are we, what year is it, was this before Christ or after Christ, etc. It's easy to get turned around. Even after thirty some years in the Gospel I am endeavoring to see The Book of Mormon more clearly in my minds eye. Only study can do that for you. (The spirit of God is our helper that takes what you've learned from the mind and into the heart. The word of God in the mind and heart is a powerful thing that is able to transform our life from and average walk with God to a spirit filled one. Of course, we are not in that place everyday but study yields a greater experience). I'll support that statement with one of my favorite scriptures referring to the sons of Mosiah:

"...they had waxed strong in the knowledge of the truth; for they were men of a sound understanding and they had searched the scriptures diligently, that they might know the word of God. But this is not all; they had given themselves to much prayer and fasting; therefore they had the spirit of prophecy, and the spirit of revelation, and when they taught, they taught with power and authority of God." Alma 17:2-3

May the Lord's richest blessing by yours,
Sis. Becky

Jaredite Location and Events Study Tool

2013-09-17T00:30:00.000-04:00

Dates

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Jaredite Locations and Events

~2200 to ~2500 BC

The Jaredites, led by Jared and the Brother of Jared, departed from the Tower of Babel [which they called the great tower (Ether 1:3; 1:33) or just the tower (Ether 1:5)]. They left to migrate to "a land which is choice above all the lands of the earth" (Ether 1:38,42; Ether 2:7), and a land of promise (Ether 2:8-10) in the Americas, and in which they could serve the God of the land who is Jesus Christ (Ether 2:8-12). They built closed barges (Ether 2:16) which were miraculously lit by transparent shining stones (Ether 3:4), and set forth into the sea.

Ether 6:11-12 - And thus they were driven forth, three hundred and forty and four days upon the water. And they did land upon the shore of the promised land. Ether 6:18 - And it came to pass that they began to spread upon the face of the land, and to multiply and to till the earth; and they did wax strong in the land.

The Jaredites first landed in a place the Nephites later called the land of Desolation (Alma 22:30). The land was not desolate (except that it did not contain much timber); but "because of the greatness of the destruction of the people who had before inhabited the land it was called desolate" by the Nephites (Helaman 3:6).
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Still ~2200 to ~2500 BC

After Jared's son Orihah was named king (Ether 6:27), and both Jared and his brother had died (Ether 6:29), Corihor rebelled against his father Kib the king (and son of Orihah). Corihor went to the land of Nehor (Ether 7:4); and after gathering strength he invaded the land of Moron where his father the king dwelt, taking Kib captive (Ether 7:5). The land of Moron was near the land which was later called Desolation by the Nephites (Ether 7:6).
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Between
~2500 and ~279 BC

For something like 2,000 years, the Jaredites alternately lived righteously and suffered rivalries between kingdoms; and they lived at times in prosperity and at other times in famine. They inhabited the land that the Nephites later called the land northward.

Ether 10:19-21 - Wherefore they did go into the land southward, to hunt food for the people of the land, for the land was covered with animals of the forest. ... And they built a great city by the narrow neck of land, by the place where the sea divides the land. And they did preserve the land southward for a wilderness, to get game. And the whole face of the land northward was covered with inhabitants.
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There are virtually no dates given in the Jaredite record. See also the Note below concerning the final destruction of the Jaredites, which may have been closer to ~550 BC than ~279 BC.

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Shortly before
the time between
~279 and ~130 BC

As the Jaredites descended into anarchy and wickedness, many prophets prophesied of the destruction of that great people unless they would repent and return to serving the Lord (Ether 11:1). The people rejected the prophets; and the prophets were put to death (Ether 11:5). Many more prophets came to warn the people that "the Lord would utterly destroy them from off the face of the earth except they repented of their iniquities" (Ether 11:12). The prophets were again rejected (Ether 11:13).

Ether 11:20-21 - And in the days of Coriantor there also came many prophets, and prophesied of great and marvelous things, and cried repentance unto the people, and except they should repent the Lord God would execute judgment against them to their utter destruction; And that the Lord God would send or bring forth another people to possess the land, by his power, after the manner by which he brought their fathers. Ether 11:22-23 - And they did reject all the words of the prophets, because of their secret society and wicked abominations. And it came to pass that Coriantor begat Ether, and he [Coriantor] died, having dwelt in captivity all his days.

Ether prophesied many things concerning their history and the Americas; but his warnings were rejected.

Ether 13:2-4 - For behold, they rejected all the words of Ether; for he truly told them of all things, from the beginning of man; and that after the waters had receded from off the face of this land it became a choice land above all other lands, a chosen land of the Lord; wherefore the Lord would have that all men should serve him who dwell upon the face thereof; And that it was the place of the New Jerusalem, which should come down out of heaven, and the holy sanctuary of the Lord. Behold, Ether saw the days of Christ, and he spake concerning a New Jerusalem upon this land.

As the wars and insurrections raged on, Ether hid himself in a cave (Ether 13:13). In a short time, he was commanded (Ether 13:20) to go and prophesy to king Coriantumr, that if he would repent the Lord would spare his people.

Ether 13:21-22 - Otherwise they should be destroyed, and all his household save it were himself. And he should only live to see the fulfilling of the prophecies which had been spoken concerning another people receiving the land for their inheritance; and Coriantumr should receive a burial by them; and every soul should be destroyed save it were Coriantumr. And it came to pass that Coriantumr repented not, neither his household, neither the people; and the wars ceased not; and they sought to kill Ether, but he fled from before them and hid again in the cavity of the rock. Ether 13:25 - Now there began to be a war upon all the face of the land, every man with his band fighting for that which he desired.

After many more battles, there were only two factions left.

Ether 14:20 - And they were divided; and a part of them fled to the army of Shiz, and a part of them fled to the army of Coriantumr. Ether 14:28 - And they [the army of Shiz] pitched their tents in the valley of Corihor; and Coriantumr pitched his tents in the valley of Shurr. Now the valley of Shurr was near the hill Comnor; wherefore, Coriantumr did gather his armies together upon the hill Comnor, and did sound a trumpet unto the armies of Shiz to invite them forth to battle.

Coriantumr was wounded in that battle. Ultimately, he began to repent; but it was to no avail.

Ether 15:1-3 - AND it came to pass when Coriantumr had recovered of his wounds, he began to remember the words which Ether had spoken unto him. He saw that there had been slain by the sword already nearly two millions of his people, and he began to sorrow in his heart; yea, there had been slain two millions of mighty men, and also their wives and their children. He began to repent of the evil which he had done; he began to remember the words which had been spoken by the mouth of all the prophets, and he saw them that they were fulfilled thus far, every whit; and his soul mourned and refused to be comforted. Ether 15:8,10 - And it came to pass that he came to the waters of Ripliancum, which, by interpretation, is large, or to exceed all; wherefore, when they came to these waters they pitched their tents; and Shiz also pitched his tents near unto them; and therefore on the morrow they did come to battle. ... And it came to pass that the armies of Coriantumr did press upon the armies of Shiz that they beat them, that they caused them to flee before them; and they did flee southward, and did pitch their tents in a place which was called Ogath.

And the people and the army of Coriantumr gathered at the hill Ramah, which the Nephites called the hill Cumorah. And they prepared for a final battle with the people and the army of Shiz.

Ether 15:11 ff - And it came to pass that the army of Coriantumr did pitch their tents by the hill Ramah; and it was that same hill where my father Mormon did hide up the records unto the Lord, which were sacred. 13 And it came to pass that Ether did behold all the doings of the people; and he beheld that the people who were for Coriantumr were gathered together to the army of Coriantumr; and the people who were for Shiz were gathered together to the army of Shiz.
14 Wherefore, they were for the space of four years gathering together the people, that they might get all who were upon the face of the land, and that they might receive all the strength which it was possible that they could receive.
15 And it came to pass that when they were all gathered together, every one to the army which he would, with their wives and their children—both men, women and children being armed with weapons of war, having shields, and breastplates, and head-plates, and being clothed after the manner of war—they did march forth one against another to battle; and they fought all that day, and conquered not.
16 And it came to pass that when it was night they were weary, and retired to their camps; and after they had retired to their camps they took up a howling and a lamentation for the loss of the slain of their people; and so great were their cries, their howlings and lamentations, that they did rend the air exceedingly.
17 And it came to pass that on the morrow they did go again to battle, and great and terrible was that day; nevertheless, they conquered not, and when the night came again they did rend the air with their cries, and their howlings, and their mournings, for the loss of the slain of their people.
18 And it came to pass that Coriantumr wrote again an epistle unto Shiz, desiring that he would not come again to battle, but that he would take the kingdom, and spare the lives of the people.
19 But behold, the Spirit of the Lord had ceased striving with them, and Satan had full power over the hearts of the people; for they were given up unto the hardness of their hearts, and the blindness of their minds that they might be destroyed; wherefore they went again to battle.
20 And it came to pass that they fought all that day, and when the night came they slept upon their swords.
21 And on the morrow they fought even until the night came.
22 And when the night came they were drunken with anger, even as a man who is drunken with wine; and they slept again upon their swords.
23 And on the morrow they fought again; and when the night came they had all fallen by the sword save it were fifty and two of the people of Coriantumr, and sixty and nine of the people of Shiz.
24 And it came to pass that they slept upon their swords that night, and on the morrow they fought again, and they contended in their might with their swords and with their shields, all that day.
25 And when the night came there were thirty and two of the people of Shiz, and twenty and seven of the people of Coriantumr.
26 And it came to pass that they ate and slept, and prepared for death on the morrow. And they were large and mighty men as to the strength of men.
27 And it came to pass that they fought for the space of three hours, and they fainted with the loss of blood.
28 And it came to pass that when the men of Coriantumr had received sufficient strength that they could walk, they were about to flee for their lives; but behold, Shiz arose, and also his men, and he swore in his wrath that he would slay Coriantumr or he would perish by the sword.
29 Wherefore, he did pursue them, and on the morrow he did overtake them; and they fought again with the sword. And it came to pass that when they had all fallen by the sword, save it were Coriantumr and Shiz, behold Shiz had fainted with the loss of blood.
30 And it came to pass that when Coriantumr had leaned upon his sword, that he rested a little, he smote off the head of Shiz.
31 And it came to pass that after he had smitten off the head of Shiz, that Shiz raised up on his hands and fell; and after that he had struggled for breath, he died.
32 And it came to pass that Coriantumr fell to the earth, and became as if he had no life.
33 And the Lord spake unto Ether, and said unto him: Go forth. And he went forth, and beheld that the words of the Lord had all been fulfilled; and he finished his record; (and the hundredth part I have not written) and he hid them in a manner that the people of Limhi did find them.

Note that it was the people of Zarahemla who discovered Coriantumr and the stone mentioned in Omni 1:20 (in the days of Mosiah the 1st). [Note also that the discovery of Coriantumr shortly after the final destruction of the Jaredite nation may have taken place much earlier (perhaps around 550 BC), with only the report of that discovery being made during the days of Mosiah the 1st]. But it was the people of Limhi who discovered the plates of ore (Mosiah 21:25-27; ~122 BC) which Ether had written and hid in the land Desolation (Ether 15:33; following the Jaredite annihilation), and which were later translated into the Book of Ether by king Mosiah, son of king Benjamin (Mosiah 28:11).
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Between
~279 and ~130 BC

The people of Zarahemla found Coriantumr after the destruction of all the Jaredite nation. He lived with them just under a year, and they buried him, as Ether had prophesied. They found Coriantumr in the days of Mosiah the 1st.

Omni 1:20-22 - And it came to pass in the days of Mosiah, there was a large stone brought unto him with engravings on it; and he did interpret the engravings by the gift and power of God. And they gave an account of one Coriantumr, and the slain of his people. And Coriantumr was discovered by the people of Zarahemla; and he dwelt with them for the space of nine moons. It also spake a few words concerning his fathers. And his first parents came out from the tower, at the time the Lord confounded the language of the people; and the severity of the Lord fell upon them according to his judgments, which are just; and their bones lay scattered in the land northward.

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Summer Reading - Ether

2013-09-16T00:30:00.000-04:00

Nothing typifies summer better than a tomato sandwich and a good read.

I have been pouring over the book of Ether and it's pages slowly, savoring every bite, not wanting it to end, inspecting every word. Amazing what a bit of solitude can yield.

I'm currently reading in the 12'th chapter and find myself uttering under my breath, 'this must be one of the most beautiful scriptures ever recorded.' I am amazed how the Lord worked with the brother of Jared because of his perfect faith in God and His Son Jesus Christ, as well as the words of Christ portrayed through Moroni's literary efforts.

Summery: Moroni abridges the writings of Ether, Ether being the last prophet to give a written account of the Jaredite people. They, a group of migrating hopefuls who fled from the tower of Babel, of whom I dare say, must have all had a good measure of faith at a time of confusion and the confounding of languages that they found themselves to be a part of so great a company of goodly men willing to follow God's instruction solely by way of revelation. It was through the request of Jared and the petitioning prayer and great faith of his brother, a man who was highly favored of the Lord, that their languages were not confounded, but delivered instead to a land of promise, a land of their inheritance, where all mankind must serve God or be swept off - The Americas.

Of the brother of Jared it is recorded by Moroni: "there never were greater things made manifest than those which were made manifest unto the brother of Jared" - Ether 4:4.

He (Christ) showed unto the brother of Jared all the inhabitants of the earth which had been, and also all that would be; and he withheld them not from his sight, even unto the ends of the earth..." Ether 3:25.

And because of the knowledge of this man he could not be kept from beholding within the veil; and he saw the finger of Jesus, which when he saw, he fell with fear; for he knew that it was the finger of the Lord; and he had faith no longer, for he knew, nothing doubting. Wherefore, having this perfect knowledge of God, he could not be kept from within the veil; therefore he saw Jesus; and he did minister unto him". Ether 3:19

"...therefore the Lord could not withhold anything from him, for he knew that the Lord could show him all things. And it came to pass that the Lord commanded him that he should seal them up (the records which are upon the plates); and I will show them in mine own due time unto the children of men. Ether 4:27

Concerning the Jaredite record, we have just an abridgement in The Book of Mormon as recorded in the book of Ether. The record itself from which the abridgement was made still lies somewhere in the recesses of the earth, hid up, the whereabouts of which no man knows. As for its contents, namely the writings of the brother of Jared and all his many revelations, Moroni told the Lord, "for thou madest him (the brother of Jared) that the things which he wrote were mighty even as thou art (Christ), unto the overpowering of man to read them."

Imagine being enraptured by the presence of Jesus Christ unto the opening up of heaven's mysteries, and then given the ability to relay it so fully in writ that another is overpowered by the words of that account, even unto the experiencing of the glory of Jesus Christ. Oh, how we await the glories of heaven, the things that are promised to those who have this faith, hope and charity, which is the fountain of all righteousness.

The words of Christ to the brother of Jared, "...and the Lord said unto him: Write these things and seal them up; and I will show them in mine own due time unto the children of men. And so he sealed them up with the interpreters.

Now, Moroni, in abridging the Jaredite record fears that the Gentiles will mock his writings, for he was not mighty in writing like the brother of Jared (This reader thinks his writing is swell - swelling to the heart and soul, that is). Moroni confesses that though he was not mighty in writing, God had made him mighty in speaking.

"Thou hast made our words powerful and great, even that we cannot write them." - Moroni

The brother of Jared (~2200-2500 B.C.) and Moroni (~385 - 421 A.D.) saw things that were so great that they could not be uttered or written. Yet those things that they were permitted to write will come forth in our day and we look forward to it with an eye of faith. One place in the Book of Mormon indicates that the records will come forth to he who has an eye single to the glory of God.

Moroni 8:14-15 "And I am the same who hideth up this record unto the Lord;....and whoso bring it to light, him will the Lord bless. For none can have power to bring it to light save it be given him of God; for God wills that it shall be done with an eye single to his glory, or the welfare of the ancient and long dispersed covenant people of the Lord.

8:25 And behold, their prayers were also in behalf of him that the Lord should suffer to bring these things forth.

Though Joseph Smith (1830's) was gifted by God to bring forth a portion of these records to the world, known as the Book of Mormon, the full and unabridged account, a collection of many records, still lie silently in the earth awaiting their own sort of resurrection day.

Ether 1:4 (the plates) whoso findeth them, the same will have power that he may get the full account.

God, again, will chose a man, reveal the location and give him the power to retrieve, translate, and produce the full account to the world at the command of the Lord, I'm sure in some respects, much like before. God never fails, nor his plan. It will happen just as the scripture foretells. The surrounding events, we will have to wait and see. The unearthing of ancient sacred writings will not only bless our soul and satisfy our curiosities, but they will come forth with a mighty purpose; to the confounding of false doctrine and to the convincing all who will believe unto the truth.

Let us feast upon the riches of his word that we may become like them who could not be withheld from without the veil. Let us push away the junk food that Satan sets before us and choose rather to feast upon the meat of the Gospel. When we do this we give the Spirit of God occupancy to work and move within our lives, that we too might behold the glories of heaven and begin to see the mysteries unfold. It is offered unto all who will.

Can you add something to the few verses I've cited concerning the records? Have I accurately depicted what I've read? Is there something I've missed? Do you have a comment on the book of Ether itself or the Jaredite people? Do you know which route they took in coming to the Americas? Where they landed? How about corresponding archaeological or historical findings that may be connected with the Jaredites or that time period? I would be interested to hear how you were affected by reading the book of Ether.

May your days be well spent.
Sis. Becky

Live Well in Christ

2013-09-11T00:30:00.000-04:00

Last month a brother in California and a sister in Michigan both passed away the same day, same age with Pancreatic Cancer. Their departing was peaceful and I know they were anticipating the transition to be free of the suffering they went through. They had nothing to fear about the new phase of their existence because they had lived their life in Christ as faithful members of our church.

Were they famous? No, were they wealthy? No, at least by world standards, but they were wealthy in friends, brother and sisters, their love and compassion and their devotion to God. The wealth they had came from Gods blessings. We are reminded to live our life fully in God. Give Him each day and live each one in love and service to Him. Then when this life ends, we will have only anticipation!

We mourn our dear brother and our dear sister and pray for the family they left behind that God will send a comforter to them soon.

A quote from Mark Twain says: The fear of death follows from the fear of life, A man who live fully is prepared to die at any time.

Romans 8:10

But if Christ is in you, then even though your body is subject to death because of sin, the Spirit gives life because of righteousness

Sis. Virginia

Take Up Your Cross Daily

2013-09-05T00:30:00.000-04:00

If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow me.
Luke 9:23

I remember one time being so discouraged and God showed me that there was no place to lay our responsibility down - just like Christ. There will be days of great difficulty, and sorrows sprinkled here and there throughout out lives, yet we look unto God, calling upon Him to strengthen us, and by and by we are renewed.

Without God there is no joy in living. Oh wondrous grace, God found my place for me. -The Songs of Zion, My Place

To take up the cross of Christ is no great action done once for all; it consists in the continual practice of small duties. -J.H. Newman

I would have you, one by one, ask yourselves, Wherein do I take up the cross daily? - E. B. Posey

Have a blessed day.

Work of Love

2013-08-28T00:30:00.000-04:00

Vacation Bible School is a big deal at our branch. We have 40-70 children who come each year and one mother got baptized because her son attended VBS she now is a helper and loves doing it. This year a hispanic sister volunteered to be in charge and what a fine job she did. She was there every day, shy, seldom smiled, did not speak english and the children were respectful of her. Everyone questioned if she could handle the job. She worked hard and did it with Love. Yes it was a success!! and the children Loved it!!

Love is so important in your actions and your words. It is even more important than what you do.

A Thomas A. Kempis quote says: God regards with how much love a person performs a work, rather than how much he does.

1 Corinthians 16:14

Do everything in Love.

Obedience

2013-08-21T00:30:00.000-04:00

When my grandson had to do his homework, He would cry and say "It's too hard!" For a 5 year old mind obedience does seem difficult.

I know that I sometimes respond to God's commands with that 5 year old mentality. "It's too hard God! I can't do it!" But when I tell Him that, his response is "Trust Me, I'll help you." How awesome is that?

I know that I am not in this life by myself, I have the help and strength of Almighty God helping me obey, learn and grow. I have to remember that when I feel like I don't have the strength to keep moving forward, I don' have to do anything on my own. I call on God for help then trust that His strength and power are there for me.

Proverbs 3:5-6

Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths.

2013-08-15T23:57:00.001-04:00

Missionary work

Recently Brother Bob M. felt a calling to work among the Native American Indians tribes. He was active in African Missionary work for years, but now is actively working with the Native American Indians here in the U.S.

Missionary work could not happen if sacrifice were not involved. Our missionaries leave their home, families and comfort of life they know and travel to faraway countries, they definitely do so with sacrifice and love. Growing up I traveled to Muncie with my brother and other families. We brought food, clothing and candy. We sacrificed going in the middle of Winter when the snow and ice was so hazardous. Never did we complain that it was a sacrafice, we did it out of Love.

Each soul baptized by the sacrifice of our missionary brothers and sisters is truly holy fruit. Their sacrifice comes from their Love of God, which is so strong that their desire to serve Him is predominant in their hearts.

The responsibility of us who stay home is to be a missionary where we are by sharing God's love with those around us. Love enough to share God, Love enough to pray for our missionaries and trust that God will take care of them as they do his work.

Love is the root of missions; sacrifice is the fruit of missions.

Sis. Virginia

My Testimony

2013-08-14T00:30:00.000-04:00

I am praising and thanking God for being in my life all these years. He is my friend and a Savior. I know in my deepest pain and sorrow I can always go to Him in prayer. Not always do I get what I ask for . That's ok. I just have to keep praying even though I know it is not to be. His will be done not mine.
PRAISE GOD!

I want to thank all the brothers, sisters and friends who I know that have and are praying for me. I need those prayers. They keep me going just knowing you are there for me. I have a prayer list of 42 plus 4 groups I pray individually for each day as each person has different needs.

As I was praying for our Florida VBS. I remember being in charge of our Plumbrook VBS and all the planning that goes into it. New lessons, crafts, and thinking about what was best for the children so they would be fed spiritually and naturally.
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The song "Give the Best to the Master, Give Him the Strength of Your Youth" kept coming to mind. How true these words are. Young people work for the Lord while you can. Give Him the best you have and more when you think you have done your best. There is always more to give. Listen to the testimonies and calls for prayer. Pray for what anyone stands in need of. Know God hears their cries, and your prayers go before Him.

So let you light shine as a beacon so others can see it.
Remember- Prayer is the key to heaven but faith unlocks the door.

Love and God Bless.
Sister Dorothy Pastorelli

Florida

Why are we here?

2013-08-07T00:30:00.000-04:00

Lately I have been saying why am I here? what is my purpose? Now as I look at the sin and sorrow around us, I wish the world was differently. The good news is that God promises that this perfect world will once again be a reality—for all eternity. Pondering on this does not make our feelings easier, I guess when you are down, think about someone who is worse off than you. That alone should bring you to your knees and ask God for guidance.

So why did God create mankind? Genesis tells us there were at least two reasons: to enjoy joyful and unbroken fellowship with God and to exercise authority and rule over a perfect (as in all roses and no thorns) world. I find it hard to understand because of all the sin and enticement around us trying to suck us into the web of sin. So if we are to be joyful and unbroken fellowship with God, why is there so much evil? There has always been good and evil and we have choices, It is important to stay close to Gods heart, safe and sound and make the right choices. There are so many good wholesome earthy recreational places and things one can participate in, the answer is to always put God into the equation.

I have learned that, all who live in the time from Creation to that final end time, are a part of the process and plan. Its ending will be a glorious New Heaven where the promises will be seen fulfilled. Every thought and every action of all everyone, God’s friends and enemies alike will been factored in to His plan. Nothing takes God by surprise nor delays His time table. He is never late, always on time.

Sis V.

Visiting Our Pillars

2013-08-05T00:30:00.000-04:00

A few weeks a group of young sisters from the Detroit Inner City Mission got together to visit one of the older sisters in our Area. It was our desire to hear her testimony and how the Lord worked in her life. Sister Rose Milantoni has been a pillar in the Church along with her husband Brother Joe, so we were eager to hear what she had to say.

She began to tell us how her family met the Church. As a young child she fell in love with the Church and traveled as much as she could. During this period of time in our Region there were many brothers and sisters that had left the mafia to join the Church and she was an eyewitness to their conversions. Sister Rose talked to us about her baptism and how she and Brother Joe met and began dating. He was in the service while they dated and they were engaged when he returned.

For many years Sister Rose and Brother Joe moved around the Church serving the Lord and helping wherever there was a need. From living on reservations to starting the work in the Detroit Inner City mission at the Rex Hotel. Hearing about the mission that we currently attend was a blessing.

In spending time with our Sister I realized a few things. First of all, even though the period of time she grew up in seems very different from ours, we're still dealing with the same basic things. Also, listening to her testimony made my desire to serve the Lord much greater.

This small experience allowed me to see that visiting with pillars of our Church is so important. Hearing their testimonies not only inspires us to do more, but allows us to have more understanding in our walk with the Lord. I am so thankful to be apart of this Gospel.

May God Bless you all,
Sis. Chelsea P.
The Detroit Inner City Mission, Great Lakes Area

Titus 2:3-5 "The aged women likewise, that they be in behaviour as becometh holiness, not false accusers, not given to much wine, teachers of good things; That they may teach the young women to be sober, to love their husbands, to love their children, To be discreet, chaste, keepers at home, good, obedient to their own husbands, that the word of God be not blasphemed."

Character

2013-08-02T00:30:00.000-04:00

Strength of character is essential to withstand the trials of life. Last year was a nightmare for me, I went thru trials I never ever dreamed would come my way. As I look back thanking God for the strength he gave me to face the challenges, I know I could never have done it without the prayers offered on my behalf. People told me wow, you are such a strong person for going thru all the things you faced. Little did they know that when things do not turn out the way that I expect, I become agitated and irritable. It could be that I tend to forget that when my way of life is not in Gods hands, it leads to disappointment every time. Only when my life is led by God will it amount to anything. Being raised in this church has made me who I am and I thank God for calling me into his Gospel. But, there is always a part of me called “flesh” and desires its way most of the time and is not at all satisfied when things turn out differently. That's when my good character is needed to have hope in the Lord. My character made me understand that the trials in life actually made way for God being there to make my life better. It removed those things that stood between me and a right relationship with our Father. I found out I had to totally believe and have faith and hope that God would answer our prayers and thank God he did!!

Character is endurance and is honesty, courage and integrity. It means we have to be a moral and ethical person in an immoral and unethical world. It is that we have to develop a good reputation while becoming consistent in our belief in the Lord without wavering. Endurance is the ability and strength to continue and last. You cannot walk in the goodness of God without becoming humble before the Lord and put your trust that he will lead you thru the dark days and take that dream or vision to a reality despite all the enemies attempts to steal it from you! Character is what makes you God’s man or woman ready for the life that He created for us.

May God keep us close to his heart and continue to lead us.

Philippians 1:9-11
And this I pray, that your love may abound yet more and more in knowledge and in all judgment; That ye may approve things that are excellent; that ye may be sincere and without offense till the day of Christ. Being filled with the fruits of righteousness, which are by Jesus Christ, unto the glory and praise of God.

Sis. Virginia S.

FEAR

2013-07-23T00:30:00.000-04:00

Most of us have times when we are trapped by circumstances, when we feel helpless or afraid. Even when the danger isn’t as bad as having bombs pouring down on us, fear can be truly paralyzing. A problem that has been giving me anxiety lately made me turn to the scriptures. I turned to Exodus 14:14 and thought about the first part of the verse: The Lord shall fight for you, and ye shall hold your peace. Then I prayed that the Lord would take away my fear, and for him to assure me that he will fight for me even if I don't see it.

Sometimes it’s enough for me to simply cry to the Lord. To vent to Him. To have Him there to listen. It’s reassuring for me to pour out my heart to him knowing that He carries all my concerns with such great care.
I want understanding, often. I seek relief from my doubts, fears, and concerns. But it’s almost more important to me to be heard. I need to know that I matter. That my thoughts, heart, and voice matter. I need to know and feel that God hears me.

He DOES hear me and I DO matter to him. He provides me a way for my cry to come before Him and to rest at His feet.

I’m so thankful that my cry can come before the Lord in those moments and on those days. I’m so thankful that He never gets tired of me and that I’m not a burden for he is my best friend.

Sis V.

Pack Lightly

2013-07-18T00:30:00.000-04:00

How many of you would go on a trip without any luggage? Not me. I stuff as much as possible in a suitcase, just in case I might need it. I go to Maui every year to check on our condo and even though I have my Hawaii clothes there, I still pack a suitcase full of clothes. When Jesus sent out His 12 disciples to preach the gospel, He instructed them to take nothing with them--no staff, no bag, no bread, no money, no extra tunic. Doesn’t that sound strange? Jesus was teaching His disciples that He would provide for every need as they obeyed Him and taught in His name.

The same is true for us today, I have to think, I am not going to the a third world country, why do I pack like there is nothing there? More importantly, Jesus provides for us spiritually. He gives us strength, direction, understanding and wisdom. I have learned to pack lightly and leave the baggage at home. Less is best and God will provide.

Luke 9:3 And he said unto them, Take nothing for your journey, neither staves, nor scrip, neither bread, neither money; neither have two coats apiece.

Sis. V.