Trials & Redemption (Unedited Institute Notes)

Have you ever felt:   

misunderstood   
no hope   
betrayed   
really sad   
lose of loved ones   
alone   
   
the atonement   
comfort, empower,    
You can turn to Christ in all things.   
   
Stirring   
Thomas Marsh   
President of the Quorum of the Twelve   
Joseph Smith sent many of the twelve on missions   
   
discontentment   
apostasy - new prophet   
D&C 112 revelation for Thomas Marsh   
10 Be thou humble; and the Lord thy God shall lead thee by the hand, and give thee answer to thy prayers.   
11 I know thy heart, and have heard thy prayers concerning thy brethren. Be not partial towards them in love above many others, but let thy love be for them as for thyself; and let thy love abound unto all men, and unto all who love my name.   
12 And pray for thy brethren of the Twelve. Admonish them sharply for my name’s sake, and let them be admonished for all their sins, and be ye faithful before me unto my name.   
   
15 Exalt not yourselves; rebel not against my servant Joseph; for verily I say unto you, I am with him, and my hand shall be over him; and the keys which I have given unto him, and also to youward, shall not be taken from him till I come.   
16 Verily I say unto you, my servant Thomas, thou art the man whom I have chosen to hold the keys of my kingdom, as pertaining to the Twelve, abroad among all nations   
   
Don't worry about other peoples' stewardship.   
   
Doubt cause us to inch away.   
   
Testimony of the Prophet   
confirmation with polyngomy   
personal revelation is vital.   
   
Liberty Jail   
False accusations by apostate members.   
four months   
   
D&C 121:1-6   
1 O God, where art thou? And where is the pavilion that covereth thy hiding place?   
2 How long shall thy hand be stayed, and thine eye, yea thy pure eye, behold from the eternal heavens the wrongs of thy people and of thy servants, and thine ear be penetrated with their cries?   
3 Yea, O Lord, how long shall they suffer these wrongs and unlawful oppressions, before thine heart shall be softened toward them, and thy bowels be moved with compassion toward them?   
4 O Lord God Almighty, maker of heaven, earth, and seas, and of all things that in them are, and who controllest and subjectest the devil, and the dark and benighted dominion of Sheol—stretch forth thy hand; let thine eye pierce; let thy pavilion be taken up; let thy hiding place no longer be covered; let thine ear be inclined; let thine heart be softened, and thy bowels moved with compassion toward us.   
5 Let thine anger be kindled against our enemies; and, in the fury of thine heart, with thy sword avenge us of our wrongs.   
6 Remember thy suffering saints, O our God; and thy servants will rejoice in thy name forever.   
   
Where art thou?   
Why can't I understand you?   
How long do I have to suffer?   
   
Took a year to recover from a round of chemo because she doesn't have the enzyme to metabolize the chemotherapy   
grant me patience and I need it now.   
   
Endure well   
become bitter or better   
Right perspective   
   
Outward controllable   
inward overwhelming   
   
D&C 122   
7 And if thou shouldst be cast into the pit, or into the hands of murderers, and the sentence of death passed upon thee; if thou be cast into the deep; if the billowing surge conspire against thee; if fierce winds become thine enemy; if the heavens gather blackness, and all the elements combine to hedge up the way; and above all, if the very jaws of hell shall gape open the mouth wide after thee, know thou, my son, that all these things shall give thee experience, and shall be for thy good.   
8 The Son of Man hath descended below them all. Art thou greater than he?   
9 Therefore, hold on thy way, and the priesthood shall remain with thee; for their bounds are set, they cannot pass. Thy days are known, and thy years shall not be numbered less; therefore, fear not what man can do, for God shall be with you forever and ever.   
   
9 Therefore, hold on thy way, and the priesthood shall remain with thee; for their bounds are set, they cannot pass.    
Thy days are known, and thy years shall not be numbered less; therefore,    
fear not what man can do, for God shall be with you forever and ever.   
God knows everything about us, having a plan.   
   
Shake off the dust   
the dust of life's experience   
   
Mark 6:11 And whosoever shall not receive you, nor hear you, when ye depart thence, shake off the dust under your feet for a testimony against them. Verily I say unto you, It shall be more tolerable for Sodom and Gomorrha in the day of judgment, than for that city.   
   
Liberty, a prison temple?   
a place of learning.   
spiritual   
revelatory   
experience   
   
You can have sacred more revelatory experiences in any situation good and bad,   
Every experience can be redemptive   
God can turn any prison into a temple.   
   
Alvin Smith   
His mother described him as "a youth of singular goodness of disposition," whose "nobleness and generosity" blessed those around him "every hour of his existence."   
When Alvin died, the family asked a Presbyterian minister in Palmyra, New York, to officiate at his funeral. As Alvin had not been a member of the minister’s congregation, the clergyman asserted in his sermon that Alvin could not be saved. William Smith, Joseph’s younger brother, recalled: “[The minister] … intimated very strongly that [Alvin] had gone to hell, for Alvin was not a church member, but he was a good boy and my father did not like it.”   
   
D&C   
Section 137   
A vision given to Joseph Smith the Prophet, in the temple at Kirtland, Ohio, January 21, 1836. The occasion was the administration of ordinances in preparation for the dedication of the temple.   
1–6, The Prophet sees his brother Alvin in the celestial kingdom; 7–9, The doctrine of salvation for the dead is revealed; 10, All children are saved in the celestial kingdom   
   
1 The heavens were opened upon us, and I beheld the celestial kingdom of God, and the glory thereof, whether in the body or out I cannot tell.   
2 I saw the transcendent beauty of the gate through which the heirs of that kingdom will enter, which was like unto circling flames of fire;   
3 Also the blazing throne of God, whereon was seated the Father and the Son.   
4 I saw the beautiful streets of that kingdom, which had the appearance of being paved with gold.   
5 I saw Father Adam and Abraham; and my father and my mother; my brother Alvin, that has long since slept;   
6 And marveled how it was that he had obtained an inheritance in that kingdom, seeing that he had departed this life before the Lord had set his hand to gather Israel the second time, and had not been baptized for the remission of sins   
7 Thus came the voice of the Lord unto me, saying: All who have died without a knowledge of this gospel, who would have received it if they had been permitted to tarry, shall be heirs of the celestial kingdom of God;   
8 Also all that shall die henceforth without a knowledge of it, who would have received it with all their hearts, shall be heirs of that kingdom;   
9 For I, the Lord, will judge all men according to their works, according to the desire of their hearts.   
10 And I also beheld that all children who die before they arrive at the years of accountability are saved in the celestial kingdom of heaven.   
   
Mother & Father was not dead during the time of the vision.   
   
Salvation is determined by the desires of men.   
Justice & mercy is truly balanced perfectly.   
   
1840   
Baptism for the dead was first revealed in a funeral that Joseph Smith spoke at.   
The saints were excited in the introduction, practicing it without order.   
D&C 124 formalizes Baptism for the dead.   
   
D&C 127:5-7; 128:8   
proper recording with ordinance performance by the one holding the priesthood authority   
D&C 128:6-7   
records are part of book used at judgment day   
D&C 128:15, 17-18   
   
   
M Russell Ballard   
Responsibility given to a child   
Two years later, Joseph F., along with his family and faithful mother, Mary Fielding Smith, left his home in Nauvoo for Winter Quarters. Although not yet eight years old, Joseph F. was required to drive one of the oxteams from Montrose, Iowa, to Winter Quarters and then later on to the Salt Lake Valley, arriving when he was almost 10. I hope you boys and young men are listening and will realize the responsibility and expectation placed on Joseph F. during his boyhood.   
   
He endured a lot of death in his life; losing his father, mother, & daughter.   
That year was particularly painful for him. He grieved over the death toll in the Great World War that continued to climb to over 20 million people killed. Additionally, a flu pandemic was spreading around the world, taking the lives of as many as 100 million people.   
   
& many other family members   
   
And so it was on October 3, 1918, having experienced intense sorrow over the millions who had died in the world through war and disease as well as the deaths of his own family members, President Smith received the heavenly revelation known as “the vision of the redemption of the dead.”   
   
Read section 138 of Doctrine and Covenants with this introduction.

Your Treasure is Where Your Heart is.

Today I started noting how to focus on Heavenly things, for your treasure is where your heart is. This was inspired by the 'Come, follow me' curriculum. Seek after Heavenly things because they will never perish. The following are my thoughts and notes:

Don't seek the pursuits of pride.

- glory of men

I almost considered writing about the many pursuits of pride, but the term "glory of men" from Jesus Christ sums it up simply. If one find seeking the "glory of men" in their desires, the individual should evaluate their ambitions.

Don't talk or make visual presentations about your works.

- Alms and miracles 

Don't talk about your spiritual work. Let it talk for itself. Don't talk about the miracles in your life casually or regularly. Keep all of these things sacred. Treasure them secretly in prayer, and God will openly reward the faithful saints.

Your Treasure is Where Your Heart is.

Today I started noting how to focus on Heavenly things, for your treasure is where your heart is. Seek after Heavenly things because they will never perish. The following are my thoughts and notes:

Don't seek the pursuits of pride.

- glory of men

I almost considered writing about the many pursuits of pride, but the term "glory of men" from Jesus Christ sums it up simply. If one find seeking the "glory of men" in their desires, the individual should evaluate their ambitions.

Don't talk or make visual presentations about your works.

- Alms and miracles 

don't talk about your spiritual work. Let it talk for itself. Don't talk about the miracles in your life casually or regularly. Keep all of these things sacred. Treasure them secretly in prayer, and God will openly reward the faithful saints openly.

The Standards of Taking Care of a Cat

The job was simple. I fed them a couple hours late, but everything went late today. Taking care of cats is simple. The standards of taking care of a cat by our instruction are the following:

- give 1/6 cup of food twice a day

- serve clean drinking water once a day

- a clean the litter box; guessing twice a day

- Jessica threw out the cat litter yesterday. She said to do that twice a week; I believe.

The opposite is actually true.

'The phrase “I never knew you” in Matthew 7:23 was changed in the Joseph Smith Translation to “Ye never knew me” (Matthew 7:23, footnote a).' (Come, follow me) [Questions are from the same section.]

How does this change help you better understand what the Lord taught in verses 21–22 about doing His will? 

A doctrinal change is given, for the King James Translation says that Jesus Christ only knows the people, who are faithful to the gospel; however, it is the opposite. Only people, who are faithful to the gospel, truly know Jesus Christ.

How well do you feel you know the Lord? 

I think that I know him well. I read Jesus the Christ by Elder Talmage and the New Testament to learn of his life.

What can you do to know Him better?

I can learn of him more by practicing his attributes; then, I can learn of his thought patterns.

Learning from the example of the Lord's Prayer

Family Home Evening included watching videos of the Sermon on the Mount and discussing it. I learned from the Lord's Prayer that his example shows that man should express humility to God, seeking his will. Jesus Christ has also expressed that gratitude is appreciated in the story of the Ten Lepers' healing. 

I was reminded of D&C 59:21 "And in nothing doth man offend God, or against none is his wrath kindled, save those who confess not his hand in all things, and obey not his commandments." I would like to bear unto you my witness that my life would be meaningless without Heavenly Father, and his plan of Happiness. My efforts have not brought me to my station in life, but I trust that God will provide for me. His grace has blessed my best effort, and I express gratitude in this wise often.

Asking a retired sports columnist about writing side job opportunities.

I engaged in a couple new friendships in my temple service last Saturday; one, a service missionary, and the other, a retired sports columnist. I asked the columnist about writing side job opportunities. He said that newspaper companies don't have the staff to cover all of the events that they desire, and that correspondence writing is an opportunity. I may have used the wrong terminology. One would go to events, and write an article about it. My life is so busy that it would be hard to fit it in. I would have to network with newspaper companies to figure out this opportunity.

It is okay if you don't feel the spirit emotionally regularly.

During Sacrament meeting a mother talked about her experience with the Holy Ghost. Many people feel the spirit emotionally. She is not one of them. I am the same way. I sympathize with her, feeling disfunctional. Her talk cited an apostle recently stating that it is okay to not feel the spirit regularly. Everyone has a different relationship with God the Father. I wrote that I understand the mind receives promptings from good and bad sources. Fundamentally we have one's spirit, the light of Christ, and the Holy Ghost. The bad side has the natural man and Satan. My good thoughts come from the light of Christ and the Holy Ghost. This is how I recognize the Holy Ghost in my life. There are different personality such as: abstract artistic thinkers, analytical thinkers, logic oriented people, and emotional empathetic people. The Holy Ghost works with the thought orientation of all man, and he does not work the same way with everyone.

Raising Stripling Warriors

This morning I finished reading the chapter of Alma 56, introducing the stripling warriors. I wrote that we need to treat the raising generation as stripling warriors because they have the faith to turn the tides of war. Completing the chapter, I learned how stripling warriors were treated as they grew up.

I believe that their valience comes from the faith in God implanted in them by the teaching of their parents. 

And now, in the city Antiparah were stationed the strongest army of the Lamanites; yea, the most numerous...And it came to pass that we did flee before them, northward. And thus we did lead away the most powerful army of the Lamanites;... And now Antipus, beholding our danger, did speed the march of his army. But behold, it was night; therefore they did not overtake us, neither did Antipus overtake them; therefore we did camp for the night... And it came to pass that again, when the light of the morning came we saw the Lamanites upon us, and we did flee before them. But it came to pass that they did not pursue us far before they halted; and it was in the morning of the third day of the seventh month. 
And now, whether they were overtaken by Antipus we knew not, but I said unto my men: Behold, we know not but they have halted for the purpose that we should come against them, that they might catch us in their snare; Therefore what say ye, my sons, will ye go against them to battle? And now I say unto you, my beloved brother Moroni, that never had I seen so great courage, nay, not amongst all the Nephites. 
For as I had ever called them my sons (for they were all of them very young) even so they said unto me: Father, behold our God is with us, and he will not suffer that we should fall; then let us go forth; we would not slay our brethren if they would let us alone; therefore let us go, lest they should overpower the army of Antipus. Now they never had fought, yet they did not fear death; and they did think more upon the liberty of their fathers than they did upon their lives; yea, they had been taught by their mothers, that if they did not doubt, God would deliver them. And they rehearsed unto me the words of their mothers, saying: We do not doubt our mothers knew it... 
But behold, to my great joy, there had not one soul of them fallen to the earth; yea, and they had fought as if with the strength of God; yea, never were men known to have fought with such miraculous strength; and with such mighty power did they fall upon the Lamanites, that they did frighten them; and for this cause did the Lamanites deliver themselves up as prisoners of war. (Alma 56:34, 36, 38, 41-48, & 56)

The sons of the Anti-Nephi-Lehi people believed that God would divinely protect them; insomuch-that, none of them would die. There were only two thousand of them, and they did not fear the largest and strongest army of the Lamanites; although, none were trained in combat. How could this be true?

The key is faith in Jesus Christ, and the youth obtained it through the teaching of their parents. 

Faith is based on the word of God and revelation. The stripling warriors did not just make up the belief that God would protect them. I believe that the Anti-Nephi-Lehi people fasted and prayed for the preservation of their children's lives, and God granted according to their desires by revelation.

This type of faith is a higher level of faith than the regular standards of belief. The temple recommend interview has many questions similar to the baptismal interview. These questions are the standards of faith in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Each question requires revelations; however, God designed that when an individual learns the truth fulness of the Book of Mormon that all of the questions are affirmed. If God told an individual something, the individual should act based on that knowledge. This is faith. Faith is not a blind belief because people receive revelation and knowledge of God. Faith is also known as an assurance.

One must trust the assurances that an individual is given. Faith weavers in doubt.

The stripling warriors trusted God's word that he would protect them. They would have died, if they doubted. We need to trust in our revelations today, for doubt will destroy faith, knowledge, and revelation, if we don't continually remember them. The stripling warriors would not have this higher level of faith, if they were not raised by stalwart parents in the gospel, teaching of faith in Christ. 

What is the sacrament?

I was studying the law of Moses, relating it to the higher law given in the sermon on the mount, but Christ spoke so simply that I didn't think writing notes were necessary.

The following notes are from Sacrament meeting last Sunday, for I heard Ben a former student of mine ask her mother...:

What is the sacrament?   

I imagined teaching my child during the sacrament, saying the following.

Look. The bread represents the flesh of Jesus Christ. It is broken. The flesh of God is broken because all men will die, but Jesus has power over death. When he died, he resurrected, returning to the presence of Heavenly Father.   

Look. The water represents the blood of Jesus Christ, which was shed, when he was doing the atonement. The atonement of Christ allows God to forgiven, heal, and comfort man.    

Partaking of the bread and water is an ordinance that renews my promises with God.

The Little Sons of Helamen

Reading the Book of Mormon this morning, I was impressed by the description of the stripling warriors. Helaman called them "little sons." (Alma 56:30) I imagine the Aaronic Priesthood age youth. Art typically depicts them as strong and "large in stature." 

The Kingdom of God's youth are mighty enough to turn the tides of war. The youth are the hope of the future, and all of them truly can have the faith to come home alive from the war as all of the sons of Helamen did. Let us believe that our youth have the faith of Christ to withstand Satan's attacks, and treat them as  such.

Easing the wear on a Hamilton Beach bread machine

Baking 2 pound loaves of wheat bread, I finally discovered a way after years of using a bread machine to ease the wear of its operation. It typically skips gears, making loud noices, because the dough is thick and rough on the kneading appendage. I learned to put the last half cup of wheat flour after its mixing the first four cups of wheat flour with ease about five minutes into its routine.

What is the covenant of salt?

I am working on a scripture study activity over a couple days, but I have a simple precept to write about.

I learned about the covenant of salt, which I never was taught about before. It is very symbolic, yet is very real too. It is mentioned in the following verse:

"All the heave offerings of the holy things, which the children of Israel offer unto the Lord, have I given thee, and thy sons and thy daughters with thee, by a statute for ever: it is a covenant of salt for ever before the Lord unto thee and to thy seed with thee." (Numbers 18:19)

In the Old Testament we hear of prophets, numbering the minimum amount of saints required to preserve a nation from destruction. This is a tangible fruit of the covenant of salt. Abraham is known for negotiating with God about how many people were required to save Sodom and Gomorrah in Genesis 18.

"Salt has long been used to preserve, flavor, and purify... When salt loses its savor, it becomes ineffective, or “good for nothing” (Matthew 5:13). This happens when it is mixed with or contaminated by other elements. As disciples of Christ, we keep our “savor” by avoiding spiritual contamination from the world. This allows us to fulfill our preserving and purifying work as the salt of the earth—for example, through sharing the gospel and being an influence for good in the world (see D&C 103:9–10)." (Come, follow me)

The benefits of salt are a reflection of God's promises to preserving and purifying his covenant people. Salt pulling out flavor could represent the joy of the gospel. We truly have to work at the gospel to pull the joys of life to our taste. The gospel is not easy, but it is easier on man than life in the corrupt world.

One can be depressed and valiant at the same time.

"Yea, and they were depressed in body as well as in spirit, for they had fought valiantly by day and toiled by night to maintain their cities; and thus they had suffered great afflictions of every kind. And now they were determined to conquer in this place or die; therefore you may well suppose that this little force which I brought with me, yea, those sons of mine, gave them great hopes and much joy." (Alma 56:16-17)

Depressed people contend against an enemy day and night, facing a hopeless situation. They fear for their lives. This is a physical situation for the Nephite in these verses, but a spiritual war is depressing people daily.

One interesting thing, which is revealed in these verses, is that people can be depressed and be valiant in the fight for our lives.

Another great thing is that faith in Christ fulfills all that one can hope for. The sons of the Anti-Nephi-Lehi people were a great example of faith in Jesus Christ. They trusted in their lives so much to the Lord that all of them returned home from the war. We can share the burden of the depressed, relieving them of their fear. Although it is temperary, they will be comforted, feeling your love. The Nephites found much joy and hope in the stripling warriors. We can be stripling warriors in the spiritual war of today.

Happiness in the World v. The Kingdom of God

"Everybody wants to be happy, but not everyone looks for happiness in the same places. Some search for it in worldly power and position, others in wealth or in satisfying physical appetites. Jesus Christ came to teach the way to lasting happiness, to teach what it truly means to be blessed. What do you learn about obtaining lasting happiness from Matthew 5:1–12 and Luke 6:20–26? How is this different from the world’s view of happiness?" (Come, follow me)

Find joy in the eternal perspective. Life in the world is not true happiness. Happiness comes from living, pondering, and talking about the gospel of Jesus Christ. The world may find pleasure in vain things, gratifying pride, and carnal endulgence; however, the saints of God embrace temperance, modesty, and charity. These are sources of joy, self-esteem, and peace. Don't worry about what other people say about you especially if it is false or they persecute you for your faith in Christ.

The references are quoted below.

"And seeing the multitudes, he went up into a mountain: and when he was set, his disciples came unto him: And he opened his mouth, and taught them, saying, Blessed are the poor in spirit: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Blessed are they that mourn: for they shall be comforted. Blessed are the meek: for they shall inherit the earth. Blessed are they which do hunger and thirst after righteousness: for they shall be filled. Blessed are the merciful: for they shall obtain mercy. Blessed are the pure in heart: for they shall see God. Blessed are the peacemakers: for they shall be called the children of God. Blessed are they which are persecuted for righteousness’ sake: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Blessed are ye, when men shall revile you, and persecute you, and shall say all manner of evil against you falsely, for my sake. Rejoice, and be exceeding glad: for great is your reward in heaven: for so persecuted they the prophets which were before you." (Matthew 5:1-12)

"And he lifted up his eyes on his disciples, and said, Blessed be ye poor: for yours is the kingdom of God. Blessed are ye that hunger now: for ye shall be filled. Blessed are ye that weep now: for ye shall laugh. Blessed are ye, when men shall hate you, and when they shall separate you from their company, and shall reproach you, and cast out your name as evil, for the Son of man’s sake. Rejoice ye in that day, and leap for joy: for, behold, your reward is great in heaven: for in the like manner did their fathers unto the prophets. But woe unto you that are rich! for ye have received your consolation. Woe unto you that are full! for ye shall hunger. Woe unto you that laugh now! for ye shall mourn and weep. Woe unto you, when all men shall speak well of you! for so did their fathers to the false prophets." (Luke 6:20-26)

If water can change to wine by the power of God, you can change too.

"As you read about the Savior changing water into wine in John 2:1–11, what insights do you gain about the power of Christ to change you?" (Come, follow me)

When I first read this, I thought that it did not apply to life much, ignoring it until Jessica brought it up last night.

"And [the third day of the week] (JST John 2:1) there was a marriage in Cana of Galilee; and the mother of Jesus was there: And both Jesus was called, and his disciples, to the marriage. And when they wanted wine, the mother of Jesus saith unto him, They have no wine. 

Jesus saith unto her, [Woman, what wilt thou have me to do for thee? that will I do; for mine hour is not yet come.] (JST John 2:4)

His mother saith unto the servants, Whatsoever he saith unto you, do it.

And there were set there six waterpots of stone, after the manner of the purifying of the Jews, containing two or three firkins apiece. Jesus saith unto them, Fill the waterpots with water. And they filled them up to the brim. And he saith unto them, Draw out now, and bear unto the governor of the feast. And they bare it. 

When the ruler of the feast had tasted the water that was made wine, and knew not whence it was: (but the servants which drew the water knew;) the governor of the feast called the bridegroom, And saith unto him, Every man at the beginning doth set forth good wine; and when men have well drunk, then that which is worse: but thou hast kept the good wine until now. 

This beginning of miracles did Jesus in Cana of Galilee, and manifested forth his glory; and his disciples believed on him." (John 2:1-11)

The water changed to wine as the wind and waves did. The weather and water were obedient to the will of the Lord. 

"And there arose a great storm of wind, and the waves beat into the ship, so that it was now full. And he was in the hinder part of the ship, asleep on a pillow: and they awake him, and say unto him, Master, carest thou not that we perish? And he arose, and rebuked the wind, and said unto the sea, Peace, be still. And the wind ceased, and there was a great calm. And he said unto them, Why are ye so fearful? how is it that ye have no faith? And they feared exceedingly, and said one to another, What manner of man is this, that even the wind and the sea obey him?" (Mark 4:37 -41)

Why would Satan tempt Christ to command stones to become bread, if it were not possible?

"And the devil said unto him, If thou be the Son of God, command this stone that it be made bread.

And Jesus answered him, saying, It is written, That man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word of God." (Luke 4:3-4)

The options to choose are much more for man than water and stone, yet water and stone can change by the power of God. These Earthly elements have faith in God for they knew him before the creation of the Earth.

"And the Gods ordered, saying: Let the waters under the heaven be gathered together unto one place, and let the earth come up dry; and it was so as they ordered; And the Gods pronounced the dry land, Earth; and the gathering together of the waters, pronounced they, Great Waters; and the Gods saw that they were obeyed." (Abraham 4:9-10)

The water would not have changed to wine, if the servants did not have faith in Jesus; just as, the disciples could not cast out the devil in the lunatic child. Although the devils knew that they had the authority to cast out devils, the devils did not obey them. Their faith in Christ was limited at that time. Faith precedes miracles.

"Lord, have mercy on my son: for he is lunatic, and sore vexed: for ofttimes he falleth into the fire, and oft into the water. And I brought him to thy disciples, and they could not cure him.

Then Jesus answered and said, O faithless and perverse generation, how long shall I be with you? how long shall I suffer you? bring him hither to me. And Jesus rebuked the devil; and he departed out of him: and the child was cured from that very hour.

Then came the disciples to Jesus apart, and said, Why could not we cast him out?

And Jesus said unto them, Because of your unbelief: for verily I say unto you, If ye have faith as a grain of mustard seed, ye shall say unto this mountain, Remove hence to yonder place; and it shall remove; and nothing shall be impossible unto you." (Matthew 17:15-20)

Faith without works is dead. Man have greater agency than stone and water, but some people feel that they cannot change. My life is a witness that man can change by faith in Jesus Christ and obedience. 

As a teenager, Satan trapped me in sin that I was stuck in for a third of my life; at that time in my life. Only by obedience to the principle of fasting did my faith in Christ access his power to change. God delivered me from Satan's grasp. My life would be damned and miserable without the gospel of Jesus Christ.

A reflection on the RFI process

Conversing with engineers/a company to resolve a request for information is interesting. All stakeholders come with very different perspectives. If our operation and mindset are similar, we would be competitors rather than a client or customer. We would not hire them, if we did not need their product. The company would not have a product, if it did not resolve a designer’s need; therefore, none of the entities have similar operations because they would not be needed otherwise. If they do, they would be competitors and not work with each other. Don't expect people who operate differently to understand and agree. They will approach things differently, and each entity's service is needed to complete the project/product. The incorporation of each entity's contribution is the key to resolving issues according to my experience today. We need people to provide different services and products, or we would all be competitors, not working together. The unity of many entities results in a product/project that one entity or many like-minded individuals who compete cannot create. The combination of entities to resolve an issue will achieve a bigger picture success. The owner/customer typically needs and provides the means for bigger picture success. They may not know what they need/want, but the bigger picture success will be needed. The collaboration of many unique entities can achieve the things, where no individual understands all parts. This collaboration requires skill and critical thinking. It requires human inaction and an exchange of thoughts.

Being born again, comes by the Spirit of God through ordinances.

"The Prophet Joseph Smith taught, “Being born again, comes by the Spirit of God through ordinances” (Teachings of Presidents of the Church: Joseph Smith [2007], 95). 

What role did your baptism (being “born of water” [John 3:5]) and confirmation (being born “of the Spirit” [John 3:5]) play in being born again?" (Come, follow me)

Baptism represents death and a new life, when an individual is emerged in the water. Their sins are forgiven as they enter into the covenant. The Gift of the Holy Ghost endowed upon man at Confirmation allows an individual to have the spirit as a constant companion.

This is my understanding of the mind. Our minds are drawn to weaknesses and strengths, and people's minds get thoughts from two sources.

"Man could not act for himself save it should be that he was enticed by the one or the other." "For it must needs be, that there is an opposition in all things. If not so, my firstborn in the wilderness, righteousness could not be brought to pass, neither wickedness, neither holiness nor misery, neither good nor bad." (2 Nephi 2:16 & 11)

When man takes upon themselves the covenant of baptism, man have more consistent promptings of the Holy Ghost. They become more Godly. Confirmation, the ordinance, granting the Gift of the Holy Ghost, is key to being born again because God will guide his covenant people to a life where man can recognize in them that they have taken upon themselves the name of Christ, becoming a new person.

Words that I learned in my first journal entry in Thai

เส้นทางแปลภาษาไทยของฉัน = My Thai Translation Journey

กุมภาพันธ์ = February

กุมภาพันธ์=February 

อาทิตย์ = Week

มาถึงที่= arrive at

งาน=work

เปียก=wet

ที่เกี่ยวข้อง= involved

เกี่ยวข้อง=concerned

แล้ว=last, already, previous

การตรวจสอบ=inspections

เอกสาร=document

ปรับปรุง=update adverb

นำสมัย= update verb

โพย=list record

การควบคุมคุณภาพ=quality control

การก่อสร้าง= construction

การตรวจสอบ = verification, check, exam

เวลา=Time

พ้น= elapse, pass

รวดเร็ว= quick

สองวันที่=two days

การเขียน=writing

เขียน=write

เขานอน=going to sleep

"there is no end to my works, neither to my words." (Moses 1:38)

One may ask. Why do members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints have more scripture? Is not the Bible the complete word of God? 

There is no end to the word of God. The word of God is revealed through his prophets, and this is his eternal pattern. All prophets recorded their revelations as scripture, and there are a lot more records than the contents of the Bible. 

It seems that a qualification for a religion for the world's societies is that it has to remain in apostasy. I assert that the apostasy has closed on the Church of Jesus Christ with the opening the great and last dispensation. Apostasy comes when the people reject the prophets, and they have to be withdrawn until God sees fit to call a new prophet. Many of these prophets are martyred. "This generation shall have my word through you (Joseph)." (D&C 5:10) 

Joseph Smith Jr. recieved many gifts and revelations, including the priesthood and the keys of the kingdom. 

The focus of the Doctrine & Covenants is our relationship with God. Many sections of the Doctrine and Covenants is in response to reading scriptures. A passage in the introduction of the Doctrine & Covenants is the following:

"In the revelations, the doctrines of the gospel are set forth with explanations about such fundamental matters as the nature of the Godhead, the origin of man, the reality of Satan, the purpose of mortality, the necessity for obedience, the need for repentance, the workings of the Holy Spirit, the ordinances and performances that pertain to salvation, the destiny of the earth, the future conditions of man after the Resurrection and the Judgment, the eternity of the marriage relationship, and the eternal nature of the family."

 There is a Joseph Smith Translation Bible side by side. Over 3000 verses were revised by the inspiration of God in the book.    

The great and last dispensation will not end in apostasy. We live in the latter-days, and the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is led by Jesus Christ through a living prophet, who has all the priesthood keys to run the church and kingdom of God. 

"We believe all that God has revealed, all that He does now reveal, and we believe that He will yet reveal many great and important things pertaining to the Kingdom of God." (The ninth Article of Faith)

Are you acting according to your true identity?

I found time to read the Book of Mormon this morning. I read Ammoron's response to Moroni's request to trade captive families for prisoners. I thought that it was odd that he claimed that he is a Lamanite, when he is a descendant of Zoram. I think that people need to be careful with the philosophy or tradition that they subscribe to. Many people don't act themselves because the world has developed a philosophy or tradition to wrap everyone up in. I was also inspired to listen to Mormon Channel talk radio this morning. They were talking about a timely 100 year old talk, saying science and religion are opposites. There is a concept of blind doubt; just as blind faith. People need to wake up from their blind doubt,  blind faith, worldly philosophy, and tradition. 

"Each is a beloved spirit son or daughter of heavenly parents, and, as such, each has a divine nature and destiny. Gender is an essential characteristic of individual premortal, mortal, and eternal identity and purpose." (The Family: A Proclamation to the World)

Men do not define themselves. We have all been elected to a great role in the church and Kingdom of God, but we have to choose and seize our life eternal by faith in Christ, repentance, and beginning the covenant path with baptism.

The famine, which is prophesied by Amos, is over.

The famine, which is prophesied by Amos, is over. The truth of Christ's Gospel is restored. 

"Behold, the days come, saith the Lord God, that I will send a famine in the land, not a famine of bread, nor a thirst for water, but of hearing the words of the Lord: And they shall wander from sea to sea, and from the north even to the east, they shall run to and fro to seek the word of the Lord, and shall not find it. In that day shall the fair virgins and young men faint for thirst." (Amos 8:11-13)

One may relate looking 'to and fro to seek the word of the Lord,' not finding the answers of the soul's questions. A great gift from God that will answer a lot of life's questions is the Book of Mormon. Heavenly Father had this prophets write the records abridged in the Book of Mormon for the latter-days. 

Jesus Christ and his gospel is known as the Bread of Life and the Living Water. The gospel fills us with the Holy Ghost. 

"What might Jesus have meant when He told the Samaritan woman that whoever drinks the water He offers will never thirst? How is the gospel like living water?" (Come, follow me.)

"Jesus answered and said unto her, Whosoever drinketh of this water shall thirst again: But whosoever drinketh of the water that I shall give him shall never thirst; but the water that I shall give him shall be in him a well of water springing up into everlasting life." (John 4:13-14)

Imagine that you are full of the love of God, and all of your necessary questions are answered. There are questions that arise by doubt that can never be satisfied. It is not that the truth does not answer them, but doubt can never be satisfied. Faith fills our soul with hope for the perfect day. Faith requires many revelations. I said previously that the faith and belief of Jesus Christ is formal, and the Gift of the Holy Ghost ordinance by God's priesthood authority requires a interview with a church leader.

"And when Simon saw that through laying on of the apostles’ hands the Holy Ghost was given, he offered them money, Saying, Give me also this power, that on whomsoever I lay hands, he may receive the Holy Ghost. 

But Peter said unto him, Thy money perish with thee, because thou hast thought that the gift of God may be purchased with money." (Acts 8:18-20)

The priesthood authority is the power that man works on behalf of God. The power of God is manifested in the performance of ordinances. There is structure in the Kingdom of God. The priesthood authority of God is in his "only true and living church upon the face of the whole earth." (D&C 1:30) 

Please read the Book of Mormon. I need to get back to reading it daily. It will be the source of all life's answers, and one may never thirst by embracing the revelations in the Book. I am a witness of the power of the Priesthood authority and the Book of Mormon.

Nicodemus found the Light in darkness.

Nicodemus came to counsel with Jesus Christ at night, but he actually came to the Light of the World.

Last night Jessica & I discussed the following precept: "Savior used everyday things—birth, wind, water, and food—to teach spiritual truths." (Come, follow me)

"What teachings do you find in John 3:1–21 that might have inspired Nicodemus to follow Jesus and be born again?" (Come, follow me)

"And this is the condemnation, that light is come into the world, and men loved darkness rather than light, because their deeds were evil. For every one that doeth evil hateth the light, neither cometh to the light, lest his deeds should be reproved. But he that doeth truth cometh to the light, that his deeds may be made manifest, that they are wrought in God." (John 3:19-21)

Nicodemus was a Pharisee, witnessing first hand the hatred of the light; however, he truly sought after living truth. I have pondered pride, emnity, the natural man, the world, and other precepts; concerning this topic. Nicodemus is a man of prominence, and he understood the depth of the Jewish society, balancing his standing with man with the precepts that I mentioned. He publicly defended Jesus in the verses of John 7:45–52. Nicodemus recognized the light, and he embraced it.

We need to use social skills to balance our interactions with the world and Zion, the pure in heart. The people in the world are our spirit siblings. They don't know what to believe. They don't know where to find truth, not knowing who to trust. Share the love of God with the world, and they will learn of his true nature by seeing it in you.

"For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life." (John 3:16)

This verse of scripture is one of the greatest summaries of the plan of Salvation. All mankind would have perished, if Christ failed. His intellectent is unlike any Earthly man. He is the literal son of Heavenly Father; born of a virgin. The atonement of Jesus Christ provides the way for man's progress, forgiveness, happiness, wisdom, and providence. 

The belief in him is formal, and it is called the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Faith requires revelation. God has restored revelation and his communication with man. The truth has been restored that man may know the true understanding of scriptures and the word of God. This knowledge brings them to repentance and the covenants like baptism. This is the path to everlasting life that Christ may advocate for you to the Father at judgement day. The church and kingdom of God has been restored on Earth in his pattern from the beginning. That is through prophets. All of this is part of faith in Christ, and there is much more. Belief requires a practice of all of these things to be on the eternal life. Prayer is the key.

Mine hour is not yet come.

Pondering missionary work, I realized that Christ's mortal ministry was a designated time in his life.  He even had to remind his mother at 'a marriage in Cana of Galilee.'

"And when they wanted wine, the mother of Jesus saith unto him, They have no wine. Jesus saith unto her, Woman, what have I to do with thee? mine hour is not yet come." (Luke 2:3-4)

The following verses inspired the concluding thoughts last week:
  

JST, Matthew 3:24–26. Compare Matthew 2:23   
Jesus grows up and waits on the Lord before beginning His ministry.   
   
24 And it came to pass that Jesus grew up with his brethren, and waxed strong, and waited upon the Lord for the time of his ministry to come.   
25 And he served under his father, and he spake not as other men, neither could he be taught; for he needed not that any man should teach him.   
26 And after many years, the hour of his ministry drew nigh.   

Man has stages in life. Play, learning, work, family, retirement, & senior missions are an example. We should not feel pressured to do everything in the present time. Just do your best. Follow the Spirit, and trust in the mercy, love, and grace of Jesus Christ.

Learning from the Mother of Christ's Example

Mary's life in raising Jesus Christ is very limited, but her example of pondering her child's life is emphasized. Two scripture references in Luke say "But Mary kept all these things, and pondered them in her heart." (Luke 2:19) "His mother kept all these sayings in her heart." (Luke 2:51) Mary probably told Christ's disciples her account, saying that she did not understand at first, but she came to understand over time by pondering. Pondering is a key to revelation from Holy Ghost.

Joseph F. Smith is a testament of this precept, for he wrote "As I pondered over these things which are written, the eyes of my understanding were opened, and the Spirit of the Lord rested upon me," (D&C 138:11) I am a pondering person too, and I would like to add my testimony to this principle. My truths are realized through thinking. I know this not sympathetic; however sometimes, when I hear people struggle on receiving answers, I ponder 'If you just think about it, the answer will come. It doesn't have to take years.' Maybe I have a gift of the Spirit.

Have you felt the Savior calling you to follow Him?

The 'Come, follow me'  manual had me "Ponder these questions as you read Matthew 4:18–22 and Luke 5:1–11" after reading the following introduction:

President Ezra Taft Benson taught, “Men and women who turn their lives over to God will discover that He can make a lot more out of their lives than they can” (Teachings of Presidents of the Church: Ezra Taft Benson [2014], 42). This is what happened to Peter and his fellow fishermen. Jesus helped them realize that they could do more than catch fish—they could become “fishers of men” (Matthew 4:19; see also Luke 5:10). To help them see this, Jesus used experiences that were familiar to them.

When have you felt the Savior calling you to follow Him?    

The light of Christ always encourages me to have integrity, always serve man, and do my best in all my responsibilities.    

How can you show the Lord that you are willing to “[forsake] all” (Luke 5:11) to follow Him? 

• Serve at home   
  
• Prepare to serve senior missions 
  
• forsake worldly ambitions
  

Jesus Christ's gospel is designed to perfect us, preparing us to live in his Kingdom, a world without corruption. "Lord cannot look upon sin with the least degree of allowance." (D&C 1:31) "No unclean thing can dwell with God." (1 Ne. 10:21) Let us embrace the exalting path of the Gospel. Trust in God's love and grace.

   

My Secret to a Deeper Night's Rest

Last week I rediscovered a secret to deeper sleep. During high school an olympian visited my "promising" cross country team. I became inspired to become a health freak by his teaching; however, my sleeping secret was not learned from him. He taught the class that no matter what we do; we will wake up dehydrated from sleep; therefore, we need to drink a lot of water in the morning. 

This tells me that our body utilizes a lot of water in the highly beneficiary process of sleep. Sleep is most glorious when an individual goes to sleep early and wakes up early. I expect most people would reject my idea; however, I found that drinking a large glass of water or two until I feel hydrated will make my rest more deep and vivid. When I wake up in the night to use the restroom, I feel rested. I suggest not turning on the bathroom lights or any lights, and don't look at your phone. This is crazy; I know. I wake up in the middle of the night finding that I have a couple hours more to sleep; plus, I already feel great. Drink another large glass of water and go back to sleep. I may wake up a second time to do the same thing, but I have another glorious nap before the alarm goes off. I let go of this habit last week, and a lack of hydration weakened my sleep. Water is like the energy source for deeper sleep for me. I also use water to help keep myself awake during the day, if I was not punctual on sleep. Last night I was so excited to write about this, since I have time today, that it messed with my sleep, but I still slept deeply.

What Jesus Christ was sent to earth to do?

If you were asked to describe what Jesus Christ was sent to earth to do, what would you say?

I would say that Jesus Christ was chosen from the beginning to redeem all mankind by atoning for sin and overcoming death.

In Luke 4:18–19, the Savior described aspects of His own mission by quoting one of Isaiah’s prophecies about the Messiah (see Isaiah 61:1–2). 

"The Spirit of the Lord God is upon me; because the Lord hath anointed me to preach good tidings unto the meek; he hath sent me to bind up the brokenhearted, to proclaim liberty to the captives, and the opening of the prison to them that are bound; To proclaim the acceptable year of the Lord, and the day of vengeance of our God; to comfort all that mourn;" (Isaiah 61:1–2)

What do you learn about His mission as you read these verses?

"The Spirit of the Lord God is upon me" means to me that he came restore the gift of the Holy Ghost, the Melchizedek Priesthood.

"Because the Lord hath anointed me to preach good tidings unto the meek;" means to me that Jesus Christ is the source of truth.

"He hath sent me to bind up the brokenhearted," means to me that he is the second comforter after the Holy Ghost.

"To proclaim liberty to the captives, and the opening of the prison to them that are bound;" means the redemption that I mentioned earlier.

"To proclaim the acceptable year of the Lord" means to me that only mortality and the temporary life of the Earth, which ends at the second resurrection, is the time for man to accept the faith, repent, and covenants of Christ's gospel.

"The day of vengeance of our God" means to me that as God flood the Earth, cleansing it from the wicked inhabitance by baptism of water, the Earth will be cleansed again at the second coming of Christ, purging it from the wicked inhabitance by baptism of fire.

"To comfort all that mourn" means to me that Christ sets the example of the baptismal covenant by making the plan of salvation the reality, the way, the truth, and the light.

Snow Cycling

Cycling in the snow to work this morning, I felt my heart beat race because the road was a little slippery. The snow made my usually chill morning bike ride into an adrenaline, extreme sport. Someone called me brave.

When I biked home, I could rarely the spot snow on the roads, but it remained on tree branches, highlighting the beauty of the scenery. The nearly melted snow accented the depth of nature. These experiences remind me of my desires to be a landscape painter. I wish that God is collecting the paintings of my heart.

How are you a fisher of man?

Reviewing 'Come, follow me' for CTR 5, I am impressed by its example of relating scriptures to one's life. The first impression was the application of Luke 3:5:

"Every valley shall be filled, and every mountain and hill shall be brought low; and the crooked shall be made straight, and the rough ways shall be made smooth;"

I always thought this partially quoted prophecy of Isaiah was a description of the Millennium, the final thousand years of time on Earth, where "Christ will reign personally upon the earth; and, that the earth will be renewed and receive its paradisiacal glory." (the tenth article of faith) The example of relating scriptures to one's life by 'Come, follow me' shows a different interpretation.

The following is the quotation: 

"This is a message for all of us, including those who think they cannot change or do not need to change. If something as permanent as a mountain can be flattened, then surely the Lord can help us straighten our own crooked paths (see Luke 3:4–5). As we accept John the Baptist’s invitation to repent and change, we prepare our minds and hearts to receive Jesus Christ so that we too can “see the salvation of God” (Luke 3:6)."

I read another gem in the manual yesterday. "The Savior’s call, “Follow me, and I will make you fishers of men” (Matthew 4:19), applies to everyone, including children." When I read this, I thought about the principles of fishing that I know. I am thinking about fishing with a rod rather than a net. Fishing with a net seems to be overbearing. Fishing with a rod requires patience and a constant effort of inviting the fish to bite the lure. 

Thinking of my effort, I patiently have my line in the water by sharing the content of 'Single Adults' Blogs of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints' Facebook and Twitter pages. They have over 1500 followers. I don't know the depths of the fruits thereof, but I know that I helped a young woman in rural Washington find a young single adult congregation, finding a boyfriend. The pages are designed to serve the world. Years ago I helped a couple young women out of a troubling situation. One lives in the Philippines and the other in Africa. This fruit came because these people were open and sought after the gospel lure of my blogs and pages' invitations.

There are many ways to serve man. People will seek after the gospel lure of your invitations. Keep on inviting. Let your example shine. This is the purpose of 'Single Adults' Blogs of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints' Facebook and Twitter pages to share the good content of other church members, letting them shine brighter.

Man is not designed to think of themselves first.

After Jesus Christ was tempted by Satan, the first thing that he did is summon angels to minister to John the Baptist in jail. This is according to Joseph Smith Translation. "And now Jesus knew that John was cast into prison, and he sent angels, and, behold, they came and ministered unto him." (JST Matthew 4:11) In the King James Version of the bible, Matthew 4:11 says “Then the devil leaveth him, and, behold, angels came and ministered unto him.” One may have mixed feelings about Christ resisting Satan’s temptation to “If thou be the Son of God, cast thyself down: for it is written, He shall give his angels charge concerning thee: and in their hands they shall bear thee up, lest at any time thou dash thy foot against a stone;” then moments later, angels come and ministered unto him. Those mixed feelings are valid, and they can rest assured that angels did not minister to him. Jesus sent angels to minister to John the Baptist instead of our mis-translated verse of Matthew 4:11. This act is a great example of thinking of others before oneself. I have come to a realization when Jessica and I pondered this precept this morning.

Although children & youth need to grow out of ecocentrism, the “everything revolves around an individual” thought patterns, I believe that man is not designed to think of themselves first. When people see an ecocentric person rant, they may find it amusing. My father-in-law always describes comedy as “an ordinary guy or gal struggling against insurmountable odds without many of the required skills and tools with which to win; yet never giving up hope.” An ecocentric person may be amusing to witness because they are illogical. I don’t know whether the quote helps, but this is what I understand about the quote. One may find an ecocentric scene funny because it is not realistic. A mature person does not think that everything revolves around them.  People are not designed to think about themselves constantly.

I have observed that people, who think about themselves too much, tend to have anxiety and depression. Thinking that I will step on people’s toes, I don’t know what to say more; however, I will say that man is not designed to be anxious and depressed.

When one thinks about others first, they will be more happy. They will be led more by God to bless others. They are more productive. The conclusion of this post does not seem satisfying. The conclusion that I believe that man is not designed to think of themselves first, but they should put others as their motivation, inspiration, and purpose. Let us live for others as we are designed to.

How to Resist Temptation: Learning from Christ's Example

In the account of Jesus Christ, telling his disciples how his forty day fast concluded, we learn of his example to resist temptations. Satan tempted him with hunger, pride, and kingdoms. 

I gathered the following ways to resist temptation:

Keep an eternal perspective. 

Ponder the doctrine of Christ

Remember the commandments & word of God.

An eternal perspective is an ever developing point of view, considering the long term affects of one's actions.

The doctrine of Christ is the plan of Salvation, Godhead, and atonement of Jesus Christ. Eternal perspectives are more fruitful, when it is based on the doctrine of Christ and truth.

It is hard to even recognize temptation, if an individual does not remember the commandments. "The Comforter, which is the Holy Ghost, whom the Father will send in my name, he shall teach you all things, and bring all things to your remembrance, whatsoever I have said unto you." (John 11:26) The Spirit will help you remember the commandments in time of temptation; however, verbalizing it like Christ can be a strength. 

Man's Temptations & Weaknesses are not Sin

Man's temptations and weaknesses are not sin; however, when men chose to follow the temptation, that is sin. People tend to unnecessarily feel guilty and define themselves by their weaknesses and temptation. Jesus Christ experienced every temptation, yet he lived a perfect life. He can be a great source of strength as described in the following scripture verses:

"And he shall go forth, suffering pains and afflictions and temptations of every kind; and this that the word might be fulfilled which saith he will take upon him the pains and the sicknesses of his people. And he will take upon him death, that he may loose the bands of death which bind his people; and he will take upon him their infirmities, that his bowels may be filled with mercy, according to the flesh, that he may know according to the flesh how to succor his people according to their infirmities." (Alma 7:11-12)

Counting up to 9,999,999

One thing that I have been writing about is my practice of counting in Thai. I reached up to 999 in my last update. I can count up to 9999999 now. Thai is interesting because there is a word for ten thousand & one hundred thousand. I developed a way for me to remember the order and name of each number. 

The learning aid is inspired or chosen because PMS exists. I don't know want it is. All I know is that it is a girl thing, and it messes with their emotions. I also add an R to the left, and a L on the right of PMS; RPMSL. Some things are backwards in the Thai language, so R, standing for 'right' hand, and L for 'left' hand is backward. L is not on the left, and R is not on the right of the acronym PMS. 

R stands for 100, which is pronounced Roy. The 'R' is rolled, but it is a very quick one. P stands for the word phan, which is 1000. The H is less emphasized. The ph does not make a F sound, or you will bring your significant other into your high digit numbers. 10,000 is pronounced 'muen'. The U is wierd in this word. I don't know an English word to illustrate the sound. 'San' is the word for 100,000 dollars. That word is simple, and 1,000,000 is simple too as it is pronounced 'Lan'. 

I like to practice the number 1,234,567 or ๑,๒๓๔,๕๖๗. It is pronounced Neng Lan Song San Sam Muen Si Phan Ha Roy Hok Sip Jet. 

๑ = 1 (Neng)

๑,๐๐๐,๐๐๐ = one million (Lan)

๒ = 2 (Song)

๑๐๐,๐๐๐ = one hundred thousand (San)

๓ = 3 (Sam)

๑๐,๐๐๐ = ten thousand (Muen)

๔ = 4 (Si)

๑,๐๐๐ = one thousand (Phan)

๕ = 5 (Ha)

๑๐๐ = one hundred (Roy)

๖ = 6 (Hok)

๑๐ = ten (Sib)

๗ = 7 (jet)

R(100)

P(1,000)

M(10,000)

S(100,000)

L(1,000,000)

I actually think counting in Thai is more simple than English. Many things are more simple in Thai.

Questioning Cycling Gear

Cycling home in the rain, I bike mostly up hill. Shoe covers & waterproof bicycle pants work great at keeping what they protect dry; however, I question waterproof cycling jackets. What is the use? I get home soaked anyways; instead of water, my shirt is drenched in sweat. It only makes sense if your bike ride is chill.

A Reflection on a Most Uplifting Missionary Work Institute Lesson

Jessica & I went to institute in the evening. The lesson was a most inspiring one about missionary work. I learned that people are more receptive when you are 100% a missionary. My casual attempts have felt overbearing or not authentic. People tend get defensive when I approach people about the church, having "two" sides or an awkward attempt. A missionary perhaps "fake" side, which rarely comes out, and my personal example. I tend to be a listening type of person with an accepting & comforting humor. I try to be interested in people being a true uplifting friend.

The teacher shared an example from his mission. Brother Diaz was known as the missionary machine. The following is his backstory to how he became 100% a missionary: Brother Diaz was deathly ill, &  he covenanted that he will consecrate himself to missionary work. When he recovered, he got sick again.  He definitely thought that he would die. He covenanted again; health for missionary service. Since he did not keep his promise, his promised health was withdrawn. His second covenant & health was paralyzing, but he had to dedicate himself or he will die. He became known as a missionary machine, sharing the gospel with everyone tactfully. The fruits of his efforts are hundreds converted. Every relationship for Brother Diaz was Christ oriented, seeking to bring each other to him, and people recognized that.

I was 100% a missionary at one time. My foremost experience was when I flew home alone from my mission in Jamaica. I taught every person around me about Christ, and they recognized my devotion. I had at least ten people. I even missed a flight because I was eating Iunch with a returning missionary like me, but for the Jehovah Witness religion. One person asked for my contact information, but I was a fool, declining his request. 

I have dreams occasionally to be back in the mission field. I love helping people to learn about the true plan for man's salvation & nature of God, but I don't understand how to be a Brother Diaz.