Transcending Ordinary Methods

One of my very favorite books is "A Rational Theology" by John D. Widtsoe. Last night, R and I had an awesome conversation about the many mind-blowing principles that make the gospel of Jesus Christ so... well, there just aren't really adequate words to describe that. Perhaps, I should just say that when a person feels the truth, it is unlike any other feeling this earth offers.

This is just one of the many amazing teachings Elder Widtsoe offers in his book:

"By the holy spirit, which fills every person, man may obtain information from the Lord. By its means come the messages which transcend the ordinary methods of acquiring knowledge. By it man may readily communicate with God, or God with him."

Wow.

What Do I Hold?

John 14:27 - Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.


Russel M. Nelson (of the Quorom of the Twelve) remarks about this scripture, "His peace is not necessarily political; His peace is personal. But that spirit of inner peace is driven away by contention."

We live in a world so contentious, that media companies make serious profits by pitting two opposing sides against one another and we eat it up. As experts "debate" the issues of the day, we allow contention into our lives.

I believe it's our responsibility to stay informed about what's happening in the world and be involved. Can we do this without participating in contentious argument... the kind that doesn't actually solve problems or work towards solutions? Do we have to listen to "our" side bash the "other" side? Can we have inner peace while feeling politically contentious?


Proverbs 11:12 - He that is void of wisdom despiseth his neighbour: but a man of understanding holdeth his peace.

Simplify

Now that we are moving... again(!), I'm feeling a need to simplify my life and all that encompasses. I've been ignoring this blog for quite some time because I feel too overwhelmed by it. Solution? Simplify. I will, for the time being, be posting spiritual thoughts and other such quick-ish things. I feel so fortunate for the progress I've made lately in the spiritual arena, due to many lovely people whom have been helping me better understand the gospel. I intend to express my gratitude by sharing my experiences with the outpouring of love our Heavenly Father and Savior provide through the scriptures and through the small, and large, experiences in my life.

In 1 Nephi 11, of the Book of Mormon, Nephi sees the vision of the tree of life and of the virgin Mary, mother of Jesus. At one point during his vision, Nephi is asked by an angel if he understands. He replies:

"I know that He loveth his children; nevertheless I do not know the meaning of all things. (1 Nephi 11:17)"

I love this scripture because it illustrates that we don't have to understand the depths of the gospel to know that our Heavenly Father loves us. We can study our scriptures and learn more, progressing in our understanding... but we don't have to posses all the answers to know that we are loved... perfectly. What a blessing.