Doctrine and Covenants 1

Come follow me. Such a beautiful invitation by a man bursting with love.

Happy new year!

Happy old year!

2021 brings a new area of study. I have a lot to learn about the book, I am not very familiar with it. I have been a member of my church for 33 years, but whatever I have learned from all the classes has not stuck with me. 

One of the things I want to try is getting a calendar and writing out the dates. For example: it was November 1 in 1831. So on November the first I would write out that it was the day they decided to create a book of the doctrines, covenants, and commandments given to start this church. To start this time of more knowledge and truth.

And each week has something assigned to study. Each week has it's own chapter in the book. Each chapter starts with words that haunt me. "Record your impressions"

I feel deeply blessed that I enjoy writing. Although there are other ways to record my impressions. Even as simple as talking to others about them. 

ME, I'm writing. Who will read what I write? Who knows. Is that even the point? The effort to explain myself is its own reward.

I still struggle with the way the questions are worded. 

I like the idea that God will compensate every man for his work. I try to do good things, for the sake of doing what is right. I try to help others along the way, as I walk my path.

I am ok with the idea that the Lord will measure me according to the measure that I gave to my fellow man. It's been a strong motivation for me to remain kind and forgiving.

I like the way the scriptures can be so vivid sometimes. "his sword is bathed in heaven" whatever that actually means. And how the it will bring the church out of obscurity and out of darkness. It creates a picture in my mind.

I also highly value humility. So I like the part where it says that inasmuch as they were humble they might be made strong, and blessed from on high, and receive knowledge from time to time. I want strength and blessings and to keep a sharp mind.

I also like how it says that peace shall be taken from the earth, and the devils shall have power over his own dominion. And also the Lord shall have power over his saints, and shall reign in their midst.

The bottom line is verse 39, the bottom line of chapter 1. And the truth abideth forever and ever.

I have two goals for the new year. To seek more truth, and to cling to it. To shorten the gap between knowing better and doing better. It is frustrating when there is a difference between what I know, and what I do anyway.

I pray that God will bless my efforts and lift my heart. I hope that whatever comes next, I am being more fully prepared for the future as it arrives.