Family Gems - 31 October 2008

Husbands Direct Righteous Living in the Home

“ ‘Husbands, love your wives, even as Christ also loved the church, and gave himself for it’ (Eph. 5:25). With that kind of love, brethren, we will be better husbands and fathers, more loving and spiritual leaders. Happiness at home is most likely to be achieved when practices there are founded upon the teachings of Jesus Christ (see Ensign, Nov. 1995, 102). Ours is the responsibility to ensure that we have family prayer, scripture study, and family home evening. Ours is the responsibility to prepare our children to receive the ordinances of salvation and exaltation and the blessings promised to tithe payers. Ours is the privilege to bestow priesthood blessings of healing, comfort, and direction.”

Russell M. Nelson, “Our Sacred Duty to Honor Women,” Ensign, May 1999, 39-40

Topics: Fatherhood

Young Single Adult Gems - 31 October 2008

Christ's Unwavering Love and Support

"In the moonlit silence of that Near Eastern night, every acute pain, every heartfelt grief, every crushing wrong and human hurt experienced by every man, woman, and child in the human family was to be heaped upon his weary shoulders. But in such a moment, when someone might have said it to him, he rather says to us, 'Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.' (John 14:27.)"

Jeffrey R. Holland, "He Loved Them unto the End," Ensign, Nov. 1989, 25)

Topics: Jesus Christ

Church History Gems - 31 October 2008

Eternal Triumph

"I think we can all understand the horrible shock and grief members of the Church must have felt as news of the Martyrdom spread to Nauvoo. Dan Jones, who spent the night before the Martyrdom in Carthage but who was not present at the time of the murders, gave this poignant description of what he encountered in Nauvoo upon the return of the bodies of Joseph and Hyrum:

" 'Oh, the sorrowful scene to be seen in Nauvoo that day! There has never been nor will there ever be anything like it; everyone sad along the streets, all the shops closed and every business forgotten. Onward I quickened my pace until I reached the house of the late Joseph Smith. I pushed my way through the sorrowful crowd until I reached the room where his body and that of his brother had been placed. . . . There they lay in their coffins side by side, majestic men as they suffered side by side from prison to prison for years, and they labored together, shoulder to shoulder, to build the kingdom of Immanuel; eternal love bound them steadfastly to each other and to their God until death; and now my eyes beheld . . . their elderly mother, godly and sorrowful, . . . a hand on each one of her sons . . . , her heart nearly broken by the excruciating agony and the indescribable grief. At the head of the deceased sat the dear wife of each one and around their father stood four of Joseph's little children and six of Hyrum's children crying out intermittently, "My dear father." . . . "Oh, my father." And from the hearts of the mothers, "My husband killed," and the grey-haired mother groaning pitifully, "Oh, my sons, my sons" ' (Dan Jones, "The Martyrdom of Joseph Smith and His Brother Hyrum," Brigham Young University Studies 24, no. 1 [Winter 1984]: 93).

"Still, Mother Lucy Mack reported that even in the midst of so much grief and despair, there was comfort and peace. As she cried in agony, 'My God, my God, why hast thou forsaken this family!' she reported hearing a voice reply, 'I have taken them to myself, that they might have rest.' Then, as she looked upon the mortal remains of her two sons, she said, 'I seemed almost to hear them say, "Mother, weep not for us, we have overcome the world by love; we carried to them the gospel, that their souls might be saved; they slew us for our testimony, and thus placed us beyond their power; their ascendency is for a moment, ours is an eternal triumph" ' (History of Joseph Smith by His Mother, Lucy Mack Smith [Salt Lake City: Bookcraft, 1958], pp. 324-25)."

M. Russell Ballard, "Brothers Bound by Love and Faith," Ensign, Sept. 1994, 66-67

Topics: Joseph Smith

Daily Gems - 31 October 2008

Being an Example for Your Family

"The family section in For the Strength of Youth gives some great ways you can be 'an example of the believers' in your own home:

" 'Be cheerful, helpful, and considerate of others. . . . Concern yourself with the needs of other family members. . . .

" 'Honor your parents by showing love and respect for them and by being obedient. . . . Participate in family activities and traditions, including family prayer, family home evenings, and family scripture reading. These traditions strengthen and unify families. . . .

" 'Strengthen your relationships with your brothers and sisters. They can become your closest friends' (10-11).

"Example is often the best teacher. Who in your family could benefit from your example--a brother, a sister, your mom or dad?"

Mary N. Cook, "Strengthen Home and Family," Ensign, Nov. 2007, 12

Topics: Family

Youth Gems - 30 October 2008

Are You a Standard for Others?

"My call to you is the same as Moroni's call: 'Awake, and arise . . . , O daughter[s] of Zion' (Moroni 10:31). He saw you. He saw this day. These are your days! It is up to you to decide that you will 'arise and shine forth.' I believe that as you awake and arise, your light will be a standard to the nations, but I also believe your standards will be a light to the nations. You are set apart. You distinguished yourselves in the premortal existence. Your lineage carries with it a covenant and promises. You have inherited the spiritual attributes of the faithful—even Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. Your very nature reflects your divine heritage and destiny."

Elaine S. Dalton, "It Shows in Your Face," Ensign, May 2006, 111

Topics: Example

Daily Gems - 30 October 2008

The Two Hemisphere Story of Jesus Christ

"The scriptural story of Jesus Christ is indeed a two hemisphere story. While Mary and Joseph in the East were making preparations for the holy child's birth in Bethlehem, Nephi in the West was being taught by the premortal Messiah. To Nephi the Lord said, 'Be of good cheer; . . . on the morrow come I into the world, to show unto the world that I will fulfil all that which I have caused to be spoken by the mouth of my holy prophets' (3 Nephi 1:13).

"To doubters of that second witness--the Book of Mormon--the Lord issued a warning: 'Because you have treated lightly the things you have received . . . [you] shall remain under . . . condemnation until [you] repent and remember . . . the Book of Mormon and the former commandments which I have given . . . , [the Bible, and] . . . do according to that which I have written' (D&C 84:54, 57).

"The Lord provided other scriptures of the Restoration and declared that those words will also be fulfilled (see Joseph Smith--Matthew 1:31 25). With these scriptural witnesses, false doctrines will be confounded. With these scriptural witnesses, doctrines of the Bible are not only reaffirmed but clarified."

Russell M. Nelson, "Scriptural Witnesses," Ensign, Nov. 2007, 44

Topics: Jesus Christ, Restoration

Church History Gems - 29 October 2008

Come Along, Precious One

"To the east and south of the Tabernacle on Temple Square, marking the entrance to the valley of the Great Salt Lake and standing as a sentinel pointing the way, is located 'This Is the Place' monument. Here is featured Brigham Young--his back turned to the privations, hardships, and struggles of the long desert way, his outstretched arm pointing to the valley of precious promise.

"Miles that once took months are now traveled in minutes. The many hundreds of thousands of visitors who pause at the monument each year tingle with the spirit of pioneer tradition. Such tradition reaches its high point each year on Pioneer Day, July 24th. A grateful Church membership sets aside the busy cares of our fast-moving world and reflects on the everlasting principles which helped guide those noble pioneers to their promised land.

"That first trek of 1847, organized and led by Brigham Young, is described by historians as one of the great epics of United States history. Mormon pioneers by the hundreds suffered and died from disease, exposure, or starvation. There were some who, lacking wagons and teams, literally walked the 1,300 miles across the plains and through the mountains, pushing and pulling handcarts. In these groups, one in six perished.

"For many, the journey didn't begin at Nauvoo, Kirtland, Far West, or New York, but rather in distant England, Scotland, Scandinavia, or Germany. Tiny children could not fully comprehend the dynamic faith which motivated their parents to leave behind family, friends, comfort, and security. A little one might ask, 'Mommy, why are we leaving home? Where are we going?'

" 'Come along, precious one; we're going to Zion, the city of our God.' "

Thomas S. Monson, "Come, Follow Me," Ensign, July 1988, 2

Topics: Faith

Daily Gems - 29 October 2008

Three Separate and Distinct Beings

"To acknowledge the scriptural evidence that otherwise perfectly united members of the Godhead are nevertheless separate and distinct beings is not to be guilty of polytheism; it is, rather, part of the great revelation Jesus came to deliver concerning the nature of divine beings. Perhaps the Apostle Paul said it best: 'Christ Jesus . . . being in the form of God, thought it not robbery to be equal with God' (Philippians 2:5 6)."

Jeffrey R. Holland, "The Only True God and Jesus Christ Whom He Hath Sent," Ensign, Nov. 2007, 41 42

Topics: Jesus Christ, Scripture

Youth Gems - 28 October 2008

The Strength of Youth

"Living the standards set in For the Strength of Youth will make you feel good about yourself. Write those standards into your heart and mind, and live accordingly. Compare each of those standards with where you are today. Listen to the Spirit, who will teach you what you need to do to become more like Jesus."

Dieter F. Uchtdorf, "See the End from the Beginning," Ensign, May 2006, 45

Topics: Example

Daily Gems - 28 October 2008

Spiritual Energy from the Holy Ghost

"When we invite the Holy Ghost to fill our minds with light and knowledge, He 'quickens' us, that is to say, enlightens and enlivens the inner man or woman. As a result we notice a measurable difference in our soul. We feel strengthened, filled with peace and joy. We possess spiritual energy and enthusiasm, both of which enhance our natural abilities. We can accomplish more than we otherwise could do on our own. We yearn to become a holier person."

Keith K. Hilbig, "Quench Not the Spirit Which Quickens the Inner Man," Ensign, Nov. 2007, 38

Topics: Holy Ghost, Spirituality

Young Single Adult Gems - 27 October 2008

Practicing Restraint

"You cannot afford in any degree to become involved with pornography, whatever its form. You simply cannot afford to become involved in immoral practices--or to let down the bars of sexual restraint. The emotions that stir within you which make boys attractive to girls and girls attractive to boys are part of a divine plan, but they must be restrained, subdued, and kept under control, or they will destroy you and make you unworthy of many of the great blessings which the Lord has in store for you."

Gordon B. Hinckley, , " 'A Chosen Generation,' " Ensign, May 1992, 71)

Topics: Plan of Salvation

Family Gems - 27 October 2008

We Strengthen Our Families

We Strengthen Our Families as We Teach through Word and Example

“As we teach our children the gospel through word and example, our families are spiritually strengthened and fortified.”

Robert D. Hales, "Strengthening Families: Our Sacred Duty,” Ensign, May 1999, 32

Topics: Family

Daily Gems - 27 October 2008

Thinking, Feeling, and Acting as Missionaries Do

"If we want to understand and help our missionaries, we must have faith as missionaries have faith, we must think as missionaries think, and we must feel as missionaries feel. How can we achieve that?

"One important way, of course, is to be with the missionaries and see them do what they do. But another way for us is to get acquainted with Preach My Gospel and learn more about missionary work. Ever since President McKay said, 'Every member a missionary' (in Conference Report, Apr. 1959, 122), members have been striving to become more active in sharing the gospel. With Preach My Gospel, we have a marvelous guide to better help us act upon this invitation. Our own study of Preach My Gospel will not only help us to develop a greater understanding and appreciation for our missionaries, but it will help us in our own day to day life."

Erich W. Kopischke, "Preach My Gospel--the Unifying Tool between Members and Missionaries," Ensign, Nov. 2007, 33

Topics: Duty

Church History Gems - 27 October 2008

Missionaries to Canada

"In 1836 Parley P. Pratt went to Canada following a great prophecy uttered by Heber C. Kimball in which Brother Pratt was instructed to go to Toronto. He was told that he would there find people waiting for him who would receive the gospel, and that from there the gospel would spread into England, where a great work would be done. In Toronto he found President John Taylor, the Fieldings, and many others.

"In August of the next year, 1837, the Prophet Joseph Smith, with Sidney Rigdon and Thomas B. Marsh, then President of the Twelve Apostles, visited Toronto. Riding in a carriage and holding evening meetings by candlelight, they visited the churches. Elder Taylor accompanied them. He said: 'This was as great a treat to me as I ever enjoyed. I had daily opportunities of conversing with them, of listening to their instructions, and in participating in the rich stores of intelligence that flowed continually from the Prophet Joseph.'

"Recounting this history brings to my mind the experience of John E. Page as the Prophet Joseph Smith called him to serve a mission in Canada. 'But I can't go on a mission to Canada, Brother Joseph,' protested John E. Page. 'I don't even have a coat to wear.'

" 'Here,' said Joseph Smith, removing his own coat, 'take this, and the Lord will bless you.'

"John E. Page left Kirtland, Ohio, May 31, 1836, on his first mission as an elder of the Church. He labored in Canada for two years. During that time, he traveled over five thousand miles, mostly on foot, and baptized some six hundred people."

Thomas S. Monson, "Days Never to Be Forgotten," Ensign, Nov. 1990, 68

Topics: Missionary Work

Church History Gems - 24 October 2008

Prophet of God

"Joseph Smith was not only a great man, but he was an inspired servant of the Lord, a prophet of God. His greatness consists in one thing--the truthfulness of his declaration that he saw the Father and the Son and that he responded to the reality of that divine revelation. Part of the divine revelation was instruction to reestablish the true and living Church, restored in these modern times as it existed in the day of the Savior's own mortal ministry. The Prophet Joseph Smith said the Church of Jesus Christ was 'organized in accordance with commandments and revelations given by Him to ourselves in these last days, as well as according to the order of the Church as recorded in the New Testament.' (History of the Church, 1:79.)

"For the first time in eighteen hundred years, God had revealed himself as a personal being. Furthermore, the Father and the Son demonstrated the undeniable truth that they are separate and distinct personages. Indeed, the relationship of the Father and the Son was reaffirmed by the divine introduction to the boy prophet, 'This is My Beloved Son. Hear Him.' (JS--H 1:17.) Those who were baptized into the Church on the sixth of April, 1830, believed in the existence of a personal God; they believed that his reality and the reality of his Son, Jesus Christ, constitute the eternal foundation upon which this Church is built."

Howard W. Hunter, "The Sixth Day of April, 1830," Ensign, May 1991, 64

Topics: Jesus Christ

Daily Gems - 24 October 2008

A Divine Shield against Temptation

"When we have received a forgiveness of sins, a broken heart serves as a divine shield against temptation. Nephi prayed, 'May the gates of hell be shut continually before me, because that my heart is broken and my spirit is contrite!' (2 Nephi 4:32). King Benjamin taught his people that if they would walk in the depths of humility, they might ever rejoice, 'be filled with the love of God, and always retain a remission of . . . sins' (Mosiah 4:12). When we yield our hearts to the Lord, the attractions of the world simply lose their luster."

Bruce D. Porter, "A Broken Heart and a Contrite Spirit," Ensign, Nov. 2007, 32

Topics: Temptation, Forgiveness

Young Single Adult Gems - 24 October 2008

The Importance of Prayer

"You need His help, and you know that you need His help. You cannot do it alone. You will come to realize that and recognize that more and more as the years pass. So live that in good conscience you can speak with the Lord. Get on your knees and thank Him for His goodness to you and express to Him the righteous desires of your hearts. The miracle of it all is that He hears. He responds. He answers--not always as we might wish He would answer, but there is no question in my mind that He answers."

Gordon B. Hinckley, "A Prophet's Counsel and Prayer for Youth," Ensign, Jan. 2001, 10

Topics: Prayer

Family Gems - 24 October 2008

Good Women Are a Vital Influence to Young Men

“You young men need to know that you can hardly achieve your highest potential without the influence of good women, particularly your mother and, in a few years, a good wife. Learn now to show respect and gratitude. Remember that your mother is your mother. She should not need to issue orders. Her wish, her hope, her hint should provide direction that you would honor.”

Russell M. Nelson, “Our Sacred Duty to Honor Women,” Ensign, May 1999, 38

Topic: Womanhood

The Home Is the Most Significant Classroom

“Perhaps most significant of all classrooms is the classroom of the home. It is in the home that we form our attitudes, our deeply held beliefs. It is in the home that hope is fostered or destroyed. Our homes are the laboratories of our lives. What we do there determines the course of our lives when we leave home. Dr. Stuart E. Rosenberg wrote in his book The Road to Confidence, ‘Despite all new inventions and modern designs, fads and fetishes, no one has yet invented, or will ever invent, a satisfying substitute for one’s own family.’ ”

Thomas S. Monson, “Precious Children—A Gift from God,” Ensign, Nov 1991, 68

Topics: Family

Daily Gems - 23 October 2008

Heavenly Father's Love for Us

"Sometimes the greatest love is not found in the dramatic scenes that poets and writers immortalize. Often, the greatest manifestations of love are the simple acts of kindness and caring we extend to those we meet along the path of life.

"True love lasts forever. It is eternally patient and forgiving. It believes, hopes, and endures all things. That is the love our Heavenly Father bears for us."

Joseph B Wirthlin, "The Great Commandment," Ensign, Nov. 2007, 29

Topics: Love, God the Father

Youth Gems - 23 October 2008

What Does the Future Hold for Me?

"The Lord wants you, my young friends, to desire with all your heart to keep these standards and live by the gospel truths found in the scriptures. As you do this, you will see beyond the moment, and you will see your bright and wonderful future with great opportunities and responsibilities. You will be willing to work hard and endure long, and you will have an optimistic outlook on life. You will see that your life's road will lead you to the house of the Lord first and then to serve a full-time mission, representing the Savior wherever He will send you. After your mission you will organize and plan your life based on the same standards. Therefore, in your mind's eye you will see yourself entering the house of the Lord for an eternal marriage and family. Your priorities in life will change to match the priorities given to us by the Savior. And God will bless you and open the eyes of your understanding so you can see the end from the beginning."

Dieter F. Uchtdorf, "See the End from the Beginning," Ensign, May 2006, 44-45

Topics: Temple Work