2 Nephi 26

The description of the righteous is those who hearken to the words of the prophets and look forward to the coming of Christ with steadfastness (all the time and in all things).  How well do we follow the prophet’s counsel in our family? We need to do better about food storage, gardens, service, and so many things. I want to be righteous and see the Son of Man and have peace with him. I want to share that with my family. We HAVE to do better!

It’s interesting that Nephi told his people they were going to destroy themselves. If they had listened they could have avoided the calamity, they were clearly and directly warned. It just goes to show there is no safety away from the prophets. Which again, is a great reason for us to follow better! Haven’t we been warned of destruction and the need to have our storage and be prepared?

I wonder about the writings from the dust having a familiar spirit to the remaining Lamenites. How has that played out? Is that what people mean when they learn about the gospel and it sounds right, like something they already knew.

It’s interesting that Nephi says that the Gentiles raise up churches but put down the power and miracles of God and preach their own wisdom and learning. It’s true that so many churches deny miracles in this day, and everyone is confused about the priesthood and the power of God. And you go to school to learn to be a preacher rather than being called by the power of God and led by His Spirit. That phrase says so many things in such a simple way.

And the envying and strife and malice between churches is clear to be soon, too. I’m always amazed by “Christian” churches that behave in such unChrist-like ways. Isn’t that what all this terrorism comes down to also?

I can see the great wisdom of the Lord in not having paid clergy in our church. Then it would be so easy to turn your heart to the things of the world and turn away from Him. It’s so easy to get caught up in the need for money and power and recognition. I’m sure some leaders still struggle with that, without the pay. (Like me?)