The most fundamental aspect of Christianity is that Jesus Christ suffered and died for the sins of the world. Because of his sacrifice, humanity can be redeemed.
The atonement of Christ is not a secret, and sects ranging from the most energetic protestants and evangelicals to the most stoic and reserved orthodox disciples are usually not shy about expressing their total reliance on the sacrifice of Jesus.
Scriptures from all periods of time have references to this doctrine. Consider the following:
"Surely he hath borne our griefs, and carried our sorrows: yet we did esteem him stricken, smitten of God, and afflicted. But he was wounded for our transgressions, he was bruised for our iniquities: the chastisement of our peace was upon him; and with his stripes we are healed...
Yet it pleased the Lord to bruise him; he hath put him to grief: when thou shalt make his soul an offering for sin, he shall see his seed, he shall prolong his days, and the pleasure of the Lord shall prosper in his hand. He shall see of the travail of his soul, and shall be satisfied: by his knowledge shall my righteous servant justify many; for he shall bear their iniquities. Therefore will I divide him a portion with the great, and he shall divide the spoil with the strong; because he hath poured out his soul unto death: and he was numbered with the transgressors; and he bare the sin of many, and made intercession for the transgressors." (Isaiah 53:4-5,10-12)
The doctrine is confirmed in the New Testament as well:
"For Christ also hath once suffered for sins, the just for the unjust, that he might bring us to God, being put to death in the flesh, but quickened by the Spirit" (1 Peter 3:18)
The Book of Mormon is also clear on the need for the atonement of Christ:
"And now, the plan of mercy could not be brought about except an atonement should be made; therefore God himself atoneth for the sins of the world, to bring about the plan of mercy, to appease the demands of justice, that God might be a perfect, just God, and a merciful God also." (Alma 42:15)
The concept was explained by Jesus himself in one of the most famous verses ever:
"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)
Because of its familiarity, Christians tend to take it for granted, and the faithless tend to treat it as false, and the reasoning behind this event is lost. It is worth closer inspection.
Our Heavenly Father has issued a series of laws, the violation of which condemns an individual to perpetual outcast from the presence of God (Alma 11:37). To escape this condemnation, God extends mercy to the penitent, but only because his son was subjected to unspeakable torture and then subsequently brutally slain at Golgotha.
If God loved his children and wanted to pardon sins, why would his forgiving power require the savage torture and slaughter of someone else?
Of course, the problem with this assessment is that it is based on our perception that sin is little more than an error in judgement, and that the consequences of these actions do not produce unseen effects.
Consider the invention of the shoe-fitting flouroscope. This device represented a new application for x-rays, and blasted the feet of the user with radiation so that the bones as well as the outline of the shoe were visible to promote better fitting shoes. As more information about radiation was discovered, links between the use of such devices and bone cancer were discovered. Though the immediate effects were not visible, over time and with increased understanding, the negative consequences were exposed.
Similarly, those who indulge in behaviors that contradict the commandments of God and the counsel of his prophets may not seem to have any immediate negative consequences, but our current inability to see and understand the spiritual aspects of human life make it impossible for us to understand the negative impact of sin on a spirit.
What we could not see or understand, Jesus Christ could. Though angels attended him as he endured the cruel process by which he could heal the spiritual damage of sin, he prayed earnestly for another way to do it (Luke 22:42). Blood oozed through his skin as he was subjected to pressures and pains beyond human comprehension (Luke 22:44). Ultimately, he had to endure the pain on the cross without any help (Matthew 27:46).
Forgiveness of sins was never a matter of pretending like it did not happen... It involves repairing spiritual damage. It requires restoring matter that, unlike mortal flesh and blood, is permanent. This is not a cheap experience, and cannot be simply done on a whim. It required a specific and deliberate process, that could only be performed by one person... the son of God himself.
"Yet it pleased the Lord to bruise him..." "that he might bring us to God..." "to bring about the plan of mercy..." "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."
More than sparing himself excruciating pain, he wanted to help you, and I, and all of us realize our potential. He paid the price to heal us. Even now, he sends his prophets to plead with us to use his power. For all those who come to him, he will give gift he purchased with such a great price... the miracle of forgiveness.
Tuesday, June 7, 2016
Monday, May 23, 2016
Why was God so scary?
Many people view the God of the Old Testament as a vengeful and angry being who only softened after thousands of years to change his tune to one of "love thy neighbor as thyself."
I have already spoken somewhat on this topic, but I would like to explore another aspect of the question in this post.
A fundamental principle in Christianity is the omnipotence of God. God has the ability to portray himself in any way that he would like. Non-threatening features that made Baymax lovable in Big Hero 6, and an environment filled with rainbows, unicorns, and bacon might really demonstrate that God cares about us, and that he wants us to be comfortable, happy, and safe.
When there are accounts of encounters with God, even when they contain symbolic representations, comfort and bliss are rarely seen. Consider the experience of Isaiah:
"I saw also the Lord sitting upon a throne, high and lifted up, and his train filled the temple. Above it stood the seraphims: each one had six wings; with twain he covered his face, and with twain he covered his feet, and with twain he did fly. And one cried unto another, and said, Holy, holy, holy, is the Lord of hosts: the whole earth is full of his glory. And the posts of the door moved at the voice of him that cried, and the house was filled with smoke." (Isaiah 6:1-4)
Six winged angels flying around a smoke-filled room as God sat on a lofty throne probably did not convey the idea that it was time to relax and discuss happy things. By what Isaiah said, we know that he was worried about being so close to the Lord.
"Then said I, Woe is me! for I am undone; because I am a man of unclean lips, and I dwell in the midst of a people of unclean lips: for mine eyes have seen the King, the Lord of hosts." (Isaiah 6:5)
Naturally, God could have provided consolation and shown his prophet a sign of his love, mercy, and affection in this moment of fear. Instead, he sent one of the seraphim to place a hot coal on Isaiah's mouth to purge him of sins. Of course, this was not the end of the frightening aspects of Isaiah's vision. After Isaiah volunteered to speak to the people, he was given the message the Lord wished to deliver.
"Go, and tell this people, Hear ye indeed, but understand not; and see ye indeed, but perceive not. Make the heart of this people fat, and make their ears heavy, and shut their eyes; lest they see with their eyes, and hear with their ears, and understand with their heart, and convert, and be healed." (Isaiah 6:9-10)
God asked Isaiah to tell the people to stop listening to him so that he would not have to bless them. Of course, because we know that God is loving, and wants to heal us, we can infer that this must have been a temporary message to encourage people to return to him.
"Then said I, Lord, how long? And he answered, Until the cities be wasted without inhabitant, and the houses without man, and the land be utterly desolate, And the Lord have removed men far away, and there be a great forsaking in the midst of the land." (Isaiah 6:11-12)
So, maybe not just a short-term rebuke?
Even with knowledge of the fall of Judah to Babylon and the return to Judah under Persian rule, this situation still prompts a person to ask, "why was God so scary?"
There are several reasons for the manner of presentation that the Lord used:
1. God is trying to protect us from things that are actually scary. The idea of a devil is not just a metaphor representing negative aspects of human behavior... there are actual beings in the unseen world that seek to do us harm, and that are only vulnerable to divine power. (JSH 1:14-17) Pretending that everything is fine and that there are no problems is disingenuous.
2. Life requires dealing with difficult and painful issues. It is natural to seek comfort in times of difficulty, but the greatest heroes from humanity did not gain honor and respect by becoming comfortable in trying times, but by rising to meet the challenges that they faced. This is not to say that God wants people to be miserable, but that sometimes, it is more important to stand up for righteousness than to feel comfortable in wickedness. Dealing with frightening and uncomfortable truths can help people meet their potential.
3. Nobody is conceited when six-winged Seraphim put hot coals on their mouths. Jesus frequently encountered people who thought they were better than they actually were. Some of them were persuaded to be humble by gentle admonitions to repent, but some required harsher language. Jesus exposed the ignorance of those who tried to outsmart him, the weaknesses of those who pressed him for special guidance, and even to the leader of his chosen Apostles said "Get thee behind me, Satan: thou art an offence unto me: for thou savourest not the things that be of God, but those that be of men." (Matthew 16:23) A bit more humility is probably the most effective thing that God can help us acquire by presenting himself in ways that are confusing or frightening. At some point, each person should realize that it is OK if they don't understand everything, or have worries, concerns, or troubles. The person who sticks with God allies themselves with someone who does understand everything, and has power to overcome obstacles we do not yet even comprehend.
Ultimately, the idea that God is frightening or confusing disappears from the hearts of those who persist in following his guidance. Consider how Isaiah later declared:
"For a small moment have I forsaken thee; but with great mercies will I gather thee. In a little wrath I hid my face from thee for a moment; but with everlasting kindness will I have mercy on thee, saith the Lord thy Redeemer." (Isaiah 54:7-8)
In the end, God does love us, and wants what is best for us. Do not let anything sway you otherwise.
I have already spoken somewhat on this topic, but I would like to explore another aspect of the question in this post.
A fundamental principle in Christianity is the omnipotence of God. God has the ability to portray himself in any way that he would like. Non-threatening features that made Baymax lovable in Big Hero 6, and an environment filled with rainbows, unicorns, and bacon might really demonstrate that God cares about us, and that he wants us to be comfortable, happy, and safe.
When there are accounts of encounters with God, even when they contain symbolic representations, comfort and bliss are rarely seen. Consider the experience of Isaiah:
"I saw also the Lord sitting upon a throne, high and lifted up, and his train filled the temple. Above it stood the seraphims: each one had six wings; with twain he covered his face, and with twain he covered his feet, and with twain he did fly. And one cried unto another, and said, Holy, holy, holy, is the Lord of hosts: the whole earth is full of his glory. And the posts of the door moved at the voice of him that cried, and the house was filled with smoke." (Isaiah 6:1-4)
Six winged angels flying around a smoke-filled room as God sat on a lofty throne probably did not convey the idea that it was time to relax and discuss happy things. By what Isaiah said, we know that he was worried about being so close to the Lord.
"Then said I, Woe is me! for I am undone; because I am a man of unclean lips, and I dwell in the midst of a people of unclean lips: for mine eyes have seen the King, the Lord of hosts." (Isaiah 6:5)
Naturally, God could have provided consolation and shown his prophet a sign of his love, mercy, and affection in this moment of fear. Instead, he sent one of the seraphim to place a hot coal on Isaiah's mouth to purge him of sins. Of course, this was not the end of the frightening aspects of Isaiah's vision. After Isaiah volunteered to speak to the people, he was given the message the Lord wished to deliver.
"Go, and tell this people, Hear ye indeed, but understand not; and see ye indeed, but perceive not. Make the heart of this people fat, and make their ears heavy, and shut their eyes; lest they see with their eyes, and hear with their ears, and understand with their heart, and convert, and be healed." (Isaiah 6:9-10)
God asked Isaiah to tell the people to stop listening to him so that he would not have to bless them. Of course, because we know that God is loving, and wants to heal us, we can infer that this must have been a temporary message to encourage people to return to him.
"Then said I, Lord, how long? And he answered, Until the cities be wasted without inhabitant, and the houses without man, and the land be utterly desolate, And the Lord have removed men far away, and there be a great forsaking in the midst of the land." (Isaiah 6:11-12)
So, maybe not just a short-term rebuke?
Even with knowledge of the fall of Judah to Babylon and the return to Judah under Persian rule, this situation still prompts a person to ask, "why was God so scary?"
There are several reasons for the manner of presentation that the Lord used:
1. God is trying to protect us from things that are actually scary. The idea of a devil is not just a metaphor representing negative aspects of human behavior... there are actual beings in the unseen world that seek to do us harm, and that are only vulnerable to divine power. (JSH 1:14-17) Pretending that everything is fine and that there are no problems is disingenuous.
2. Life requires dealing with difficult and painful issues. It is natural to seek comfort in times of difficulty, but the greatest heroes from humanity did not gain honor and respect by becoming comfortable in trying times, but by rising to meet the challenges that they faced. This is not to say that God wants people to be miserable, but that sometimes, it is more important to stand up for righteousness than to feel comfortable in wickedness. Dealing with frightening and uncomfortable truths can help people meet their potential.
3. Nobody is conceited when six-winged Seraphim put hot coals on their mouths. Jesus frequently encountered people who thought they were better than they actually were. Some of them were persuaded to be humble by gentle admonitions to repent, but some required harsher language. Jesus exposed the ignorance of those who tried to outsmart him, the weaknesses of those who pressed him for special guidance, and even to the leader of his chosen Apostles said "Get thee behind me, Satan: thou art an offence unto me: for thou savourest not the things that be of God, but those that be of men." (Matthew 16:23) A bit more humility is probably the most effective thing that God can help us acquire by presenting himself in ways that are confusing or frightening. At some point, each person should realize that it is OK if they don't understand everything, or have worries, concerns, or troubles. The person who sticks with God allies themselves with someone who does understand everything, and has power to overcome obstacles we do not yet even comprehend.
Ultimately, the idea that God is frightening or confusing disappears from the hearts of those who persist in following his guidance. Consider how Isaiah later declared:
"For a small moment have I forsaken thee; but with great mercies will I gather thee. In a little wrath I hid my face from thee for a moment; but with everlasting kindness will I have mercy on thee, saith the Lord thy Redeemer." (Isaiah 54:7-8)
In the end, God does love us, and wants what is best for us. Do not let anything sway you otherwise.
Wednesday, May 11, 2016
The point of pointless suffering
The story of Job is one of the most confusing stories in the Old Testament. God and Satan seem to make a bet on the faithfulness of a man being dependent upon his circumstances. In this seemingly cruel "experiment," Job was stripped of his possessions, many of his family were killed, and he was afflicted with terrible pain.
Modern Christians seem to be fond of platitudes such as "everything happens for a reason," or "he never said it would be easy, he only said it would be worth it."
These ideas initially seem to fall apart in the situation of Job. He just suffered for no apparent reason. His friends turned against him in accusation to add insult to injury. In the end, his problems all went away and he was blessed, but for what reason were these things done to begin with?
The same questions are frequently asked regarding modern tragedies. When children suffer from diseases beyond their control, or people are afflicted with poverty and hardship through no fault of their own, people wonder why God, who is supposed to love us, would allow these difficulties if he were truly omnipotent.
Toward the end of the story of Job, God asks him a set of rhetorical questions to illustrate the point that Job has relatively no power and but little understanding. In Job 38, the Lord asks the following:
"Where wast thou when I laid the foundations of the earth? declare, if thou hast understanding. Who hath laid the measures thereof, if thou knowest? or who hath stretched the line upon it? Whereupon are the foundations thereof fastened? or who laid the corner stone thereof; When the morning stars sang together, and all the sons of God shouted for joy?" (Job 38:4-7)
Instead of offering words of comfort and consolation, or reason and explanation, the Lord highlighted Job's ignorance. Why?
People get so involved in their current circumstances that they tend to forget the investment that God made when he forged the earth and sent humanity to live on its surface. He speaks with power because he is conveying the idea that the circumstances of life are not an accident, and there is no person whose birth or existence on this world is based on a whim. These questions allude to a truth that is fundamental to understanding the difficulties of mortality:
"When the morning stars sang together, and all the sons of God shouted for joy?"
Combined with the understanding that we have from other prophets, that humans are the offspring of God (Acts 17:26-29), this means that there was a time in which we sang together before the foundations of the world... and that we shouted for joy. Contemporary prophesy teaches the cause of our joy was our Heavenly Father's grand plan of happiness: a course that could lead his children to become "heirs of God, and joint-heirs with Christ." (Romans 8:16-17)
As we were, it would have been impossible for us to inherit the gift of eternal life. We needed to become more... to undergo a physical and spiritual rebirth (John 3:3-5). The challenges of life are specifically designed to alter us, and purge us from the ungodly (Malachi 3:2-3).
The details of how circumstances can help us prepare for the kingdom of God are frequently beyond our immediate comprehension, but a complete understanding is not necessary (1 Corinthians 13:12). What is necessary is having enough faith and desire to do what is right regardless of the circumstances (Hebrews 11:6).
The difficulties that came upon Job were not without purpose. In his extremity, he learned that he could hold to what was right and true even when it was excruciatingly difficult. He trusted that, no matter what, God would make things right in the end:
"Though he slay me, yet will I trust in him: but I will maintain mine own ways before him. He also shall be my salvation" (Job 13:15-16)
Ultimately, the question for each Christian is "will I follow the Lord only when it is convenient?" If faith is conditional, it is not strong enough to bring the changing power of Jesus Christ. As he explained, only those who hear and do that which he taught will have a strong enough foundation to weather the tempests of life (Matthew 7:24-27).
In the end, the purposes of all things will be understood, and those who, like Job, keep faith regardless of circumstances, will be as they were before the foundations of the earth... they will sing together and shout for joy!
Modern Christians seem to be fond of platitudes such as "everything happens for a reason," or "he never said it would be easy, he only said it would be worth it."
These ideas initially seem to fall apart in the situation of Job. He just suffered for no apparent reason. His friends turned against him in accusation to add insult to injury. In the end, his problems all went away and he was blessed, but for what reason were these things done to begin with?
The same questions are frequently asked regarding modern tragedies. When children suffer from diseases beyond their control, or people are afflicted with poverty and hardship through no fault of their own, people wonder why God, who is supposed to love us, would allow these difficulties if he were truly omnipotent.
Toward the end of the story of Job, God asks him a set of rhetorical questions to illustrate the point that Job has relatively no power and but little understanding. In Job 38, the Lord asks the following:
"Where wast thou when I laid the foundations of the earth? declare, if thou hast understanding. Who hath laid the measures thereof, if thou knowest? or who hath stretched the line upon it? Whereupon are the foundations thereof fastened? or who laid the corner stone thereof; When the morning stars sang together, and all the sons of God shouted for joy?" (Job 38:4-7)
Instead of offering words of comfort and consolation, or reason and explanation, the Lord highlighted Job's ignorance. Why?
People get so involved in their current circumstances that they tend to forget the investment that God made when he forged the earth and sent humanity to live on its surface. He speaks with power because he is conveying the idea that the circumstances of life are not an accident, and there is no person whose birth or existence on this world is based on a whim. These questions allude to a truth that is fundamental to understanding the difficulties of mortality:
"When the morning stars sang together, and all the sons of God shouted for joy?"
Combined with the understanding that we have from other prophets, that humans are the offspring of God (Acts 17:26-29), this means that there was a time in which we sang together before the foundations of the world... and that we shouted for joy. Contemporary prophesy teaches the cause of our joy was our Heavenly Father's grand plan of happiness: a course that could lead his children to become "heirs of God, and joint-heirs with Christ." (Romans 8:16-17)
As we were, it would have been impossible for us to inherit the gift of eternal life. We needed to become more... to undergo a physical and spiritual rebirth (John 3:3-5). The challenges of life are specifically designed to alter us, and purge us from the ungodly (Malachi 3:2-3).
The details of how circumstances can help us prepare for the kingdom of God are frequently beyond our immediate comprehension, but a complete understanding is not necessary (1 Corinthians 13:12). What is necessary is having enough faith and desire to do what is right regardless of the circumstances (Hebrews 11:6).
The difficulties that came upon Job were not without purpose. In his extremity, he learned that he could hold to what was right and true even when it was excruciatingly difficult. He trusted that, no matter what, God would make things right in the end:
"Though he slay me, yet will I trust in him: but I will maintain mine own ways before him. He also shall be my salvation" (Job 13:15-16)
Ultimately, the question for each Christian is "will I follow the Lord only when it is convenient?" If faith is conditional, it is not strong enough to bring the changing power of Jesus Christ. As he explained, only those who hear and do that which he taught will have a strong enough foundation to weather the tempests of life (Matthew 7:24-27).
In the end, the purposes of all things will be understood, and those who, like Job, keep faith regardless of circumstances, will be as they were before the foundations of the earth... they will sing together and shout for joy!
Wednesday, April 27, 2016
The Prophet said something I don't like... now what?
God has used prophets in nearly all his dealings with mankind. From Moses to John the Baptist, and from the Apostle Peter to the Apostle Paul, God has spoken words of counsel, comfort, and correction through his chosen servants.
Sometimes these messages are received, but frequently, these words are rejected. Prophets are asked to speak unpopular things. Who wants to hear that they are bad and in need of repentance, especially when there are those who will quote a couple scriptures and tell you about how much you deserve good things? Samuel, a Lamanite prophet, observed this tendency:
"Behold ye are worse than they; for as the Lord liveth, if a prophet come among you and declareth unto you the word of the Lord, which testifieth of your sins and iniquities, ye are angry with him, and cast him out and seek all manner of ways to destroy him; yea, you will say that he is a false prophet, and that he is a sinner, and of the devil, because he testifieth that your deeds are evil. But behold, if a man shall come among you and shall say: Do this, and there is no iniquity; do that and ye shall not suffer; yea, he will say: Walk after the pride of your own hearts; yea, walk after the pride of your eyes, and do whatsoever your heart desireth—and if a man shall come among you and say this, ye will receive him, and say that he is a prophet. Yea, ye will lift him up, and ye will give unto him of your substance; ye will give unto him of your gold, and of your silver, and ye will clothe him with costly apparel; and because he speaketh flattering words unto you, and he saith that all is well, then ye will not find fault with him." (Helaman 13:26-28)
In modern times, people have found fault with any number of policies. Prophets who have advocated for defending marriage between a man and a woman (The Family: A Proclamation to the World), or who have warned of the perils of socialism (Ezra Taft Benson), or who have counseled against civil disobedience (Kentucky County Clerk issue).
Of course, prophets are not infallible... they are men, and all men except Jesus Christ have sinned and fallen short of the glory of God (Romans 3:23). Jonah was swallowed by a whale, Moses was reprimanded for handling situations with his family and with Israel, the brother of Jared was chastised for hours because of the infrequency of his prayer, and Isaiah confessed that he was a man of unclean lips.
That having been said, when a prophet speaks as instructed by God, it is intended that their counsel be received and accepted. Jesus himself taught:
"He that receiveth a prophet in the name of a prophet shall receive a prophet’s reward; and he that receiveth a righteous man in the name of a righteous man shall receive a righteous man’s reward." (Matthew 10:41)
While there are false prophets, God tends to be a bit more careful about what his actual prophets are permitted to say. Consider this lesser known story from the book of Kings:
"And, behold, there came a man of God out of Judah by the word of the Lord unto Beth-el: and Jeroboam stood by the altar to burn incense. And he cried against the altar in the word of the Lord, and said, O altar, altar, thus saith the Lord; Behold, a child shall be born unto the house of David, Josiah by name; and upon thee shall he offer the priests of the high places that burn incense upon thee, and men’s bones shall be burnt upon thee. And he gave a sign the same day, saying, This is the sign which the Lord hath spoken; Behold, the altar shall be rent, and the ashes that are upon it shall be poured out. And it came to pass, when king Jeroboam heard the saying of the man of God, which had cried against the altar in Beth-el, that he put forth his hand from the altar, saying, Lay hold on him. And his hand, which he put forth against him, dried up, so that he could not pull it in again to him. The altar also was rent, and the ashes poured out from the altar, according to the sign which the man of God had given by the word of the Lord." (1 Kings 13:1-5)
At first, this story is fairly straightforward. Jeroboam the son of Nebat had forsaken the worship of the Lord for political reasons, and a prophet of Judah spoke the words that God had given him. He had been commanded not to eat or drink, and to travel in a particular way, and because he had done exactly as he had been commanded, the power of God was made manifest.
Recognizing the power of the Lord, Jeroboam asked that the prophet pray for his hand. When he had, Jeroboam's hand was restored. Unfortunately, Jeroboam's belief stopped when he had what he thought he needed. The prophet of Judah began his journey back, and here is where the story takes an unexpected turn:
"Now there dwelt an old prophet in Beth-el; and his sons came and told him all the works that the man of God had done that day in Beth-el: the words which he had spoken unto the king, them they told also to their father...
"And went after the man of God, and found him sitting under an oak: and he said unto him, Art thou the man of God that camest from Judah? And he said, I am. Then he said unto him, Come home with me, and eat bread. And he said, I may not return with thee, nor go in with thee: neither will I eat bread nor drink water with thee in this place: For it was said to me by the word of the Lord, Thou shalt eat no bread nor drink water there, nor turn again to go by the way that thou camest.
"He said unto him, I am a prophet also as thou art; and an angel spake unto me by the word of the Lord, saying, Bring him back with thee into thine house, that he may eat bread and drink water. But he lied unto him. So he went back with him, and did eat bread in his house, and drank water.
"And it came to pass, as they sat at the table, that the word of the Lord came unto the prophet that brought him back: And he cried unto the man of God that came from Judah, saying, Thus saith the Lord, Forasmuch as thou hast disobeyed the mouth of the Lord, and hast not kept the commandment which the Lord thy God commanded thee, But camest back, and hast eaten bread and drunk water in the place, of the which the Lord did say to thee, Eat no bread, and drink no water; thy carcase shall not come unto the sepulchre of thy fathers.
"And it came to pass, after he had eaten bread, and after he had drunk, that he saddled for him the ass, to wit, for the prophet whom he had brought back. And when he was gone, a lion met him by the way, and slew him: and his carcase was cast in the way, and the ass stood by it, the lion also stood by the carcase." (1 Kings 13:11-24)
Because God expects his children to follow his prophets, he carefully ensures that they represent him properly. As Wilford Woodruff taught, "The Lord will never permit me or any other man who stands as President of this Church to lead you astray. It is not in the programme. It is not in the mind of God. If I were to attempt that, the Lord would remove me out of my place, and so He will any other man who attempts to lead the children of men astray from the oracles of God and from their duty." This means you don't have to worry that the Prophet is leading you down the wrong path.
So if the Prophet of the Lord has said something that makes you feel uncomfortable, or suggested an idea that is not in harmony with your political or social beliefs, or has advocated for anything else that you don't like... it's a good bet that following the prophet is the best way to feel better about it.
God did not send you to earth only to hear pleasant things, or have a leisurely life, but to help you reach your ultimate potential. The path of Christ was never meant to be easy, why should the words of his prophets always be easy to hear? He himself said: "And he that taketh not his cross, and followeth after me, is not worthy of me." (Matthew 10:38)
Those who have heeded the counsel of Christ's prophets and apostles, whether they liked it or not, will be those who are prepared for his return.
Sunday, March 27, 2016
What if the worst should happen?
One of the most interesting mechanisms in great stories is when the protagonist(s) define the worst possible situation, and then, in spite of their best efforts to evade this situation, it happens.
Han Solo went to tremendous lengths to evade capture by Darth Vader in The Empire Strikes Back. After a lengthy pursuit with great obstacles, they mask their escape by floating away with the garbage of a Star Destroyer, and then make their way to Cloud City. The worst case scenario is clearly shown to be getting caught by Darth Vader. Then, the worst happens: it is revealed that Vader was there the whole time, and that they are completely powerless against him... even to the point that Han Solo is frozen and hauled away by a bounty hunter. Luke's efforts to save his friends fail, and the resolution of the story is ultimately left to the subsequent film, Return of the Jedi.
Some films portray this idea multiple times. Consider the risk that is taken by Indiana Jones to go back to Berlin and obtain the rest of his father's grail diary. Knowing the risk, Jones disguises himself as a German officer and obtains the diary from Doctor Elsa Schneider. Then, the worst imaginable thing occurs: he bumps into Adolf Hitler himself, who notices the diary clutched in Jones's hand. The dictator takes the book, and then, to the surprise of Jones (and the audience) he signs his name and returns it to him.
There are many other instances of this idea in Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade, but one that is particularly outstanding is when the perils of the trials that protect the grail are demonstrated. After witnessing a terrifying beheading, Jones, his father, Marcus Brody, and Sallah are discovered and captured by the Nazis. If it were not bad enough to know that Indiana would likely be forced to go through these dangerous trials, the Nazis make the situation even more desperate by putting a time limit on the task: they shoot Indiana's father in the gut. The worst possible situation is resolved in dramatic fashion as the divine power of the grail heals Henry's grievous injury.
The examples of this idea are not limited to action or adventure films. They are found in books, TV shows, manga, and numerous other types of media. More than its entertainment value, perhaps it is important for its thematic message... what if the worst should happen? Many worry about the future, and many are justified in their anxiety.
The reality of anxiety about the future is perhaps what makes actual events that describe these situations even more compelling. There is no situation that better exemplifies this idea than that of the Apostles at the time of the crucifixion of Jesus Christ.
They believed that Jesus was not just a great prophet, and not just a worker of miracles... but that he was the literal Son of God... the promised Messiah. (Matthew 16:16) It was not a new thing for Jesus to be in danger... he had been threatened many times, but he always seemed to have power to escape. (Luke 4:29-30, John 10:39)
The question, what if the worst should happen? was something for which Peter seemed prepared. Even after Jesus prophesied that he would deny him, he protested: "Peter said unto him, Though I should die with thee, yet will I not deny thee. Likewise also said all the disciples." (Matthew 26:35)
In the end, the machinations of the chief priests and scribes seemed to work. They had bought Judas Iscariot for thirty pieces of silver to prevent him from escaping again, and had a large number of men with swords and staves to take him from Gethsemane. Peter tried to keep to his word, and struck out at one of them, but Jesus forbade him, and even healed the ear of Malchus, the man who had been wounded. (Luke 22:51)
At the command of the Son of God, his disciples fled. There was no blending in with a crowd and escaping. He was taken before the Sanhedrin, and condemned by his enemies. They brought him to Pontius Pilate, but in spite of his desire to free Jesus, he gave in to the bloodthirsty mob who demanded his crucifixion.
Some of his disciples were there as they lifted him up on the cross. Perhaps there was still a bit of hope left as they watched.. after all... he was the Son of God. Perhaps they offered prayers and begged God to preserve his son... Perhaps they begged him not to let the worst happen... but it did.
How it must have broken their spirits to hear their Messiah cry out "My God, My God, why has thou forsaken me?" It must have been clear to his mother when he asked John to look after her, that the worst was about to happen. Finally, he cried with a loud voice, and died.
I can only imagine the pain and doubt that must have come to the disciples. Their champion had been taken, their master had been defeated, their King had been betrayed, their Messiah had been slain. The worst had happened.
What do you do when the basis of your faith is gone? What should you think when everything for which you have dedicated your life is taken away? As inspiring as Jesus had been, all that was left of him was in the tomb of Joseph of Arimathea. Though he had raised Lazarus from the dead, there was no one left to raise him.
Of course, the story did not end there. The women came to his tomb to honor him and anoint his body, but they found instead two angels. They stated, as though they should have known better, "Why seek ye the living among the dead? He is not here, but is risen..." (Luke 24:5-6)
Peter and John rushed to the tomb, and found that it was empty, but they did not yet understand.
At last, their slain master appeared to them, alive and well. He had a physical body; he was not just a spiritual manifestation. (Luke 24:39-43) While he had died, not even death was enough to defeat the Son of God. His enemies had mocked him, saying that he could not save himself... but he did save himself.
Nothing was ever the same after. There is much that could be said about the resurrection, and the power of Christ to deliver. The bold faith and leadership of the Apostles was completely renewed, and the world was changed as the teachings of Christ were spread throughout the world. But perhaps one of the most important elements of the story is the answer to the question what if the worst should happen? The answer is that nothing is beyond his power. Nothing is too hard for him to make right.
If the worst should happen,
Christ will heal every wound,
Christ will mend every broken heart,
Christ will purge every wrong,
Christ will revoke even death...
He will save us all.
Han Solo went to tremendous lengths to evade capture by Darth Vader in The Empire Strikes Back. After a lengthy pursuit with great obstacles, they mask their escape by floating away with the garbage of a Star Destroyer, and then make their way to Cloud City. The worst case scenario is clearly shown to be getting caught by Darth Vader. Then, the worst happens: it is revealed that Vader was there the whole time, and that they are completely powerless against him... even to the point that Han Solo is frozen and hauled away by a bounty hunter. Luke's efforts to save his friends fail, and the resolution of the story is ultimately left to the subsequent film, Return of the Jedi.
Some films portray this idea multiple times. Consider the risk that is taken by Indiana Jones to go back to Berlin and obtain the rest of his father's grail diary. Knowing the risk, Jones disguises himself as a German officer and obtains the diary from Doctor Elsa Schneider. Then, the worst imaginable thing occurs: he bumps into Adolf Hitler himself, who notices the diary clutched in Jones's hand. The dictator takes the book, and then, to the surprise of Jones (and the audience) he signs his name and returns it to him.
There are many other instances of this idea in Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade, but one that is particularly outstanding is when the perils of the trials that protect the grail are demonstrated. After witnessing a terrifying beheading, Jones, his father, Marcus Brody, and Sallah are discovered and captured by the Nazis. If it were not bad enough to know that Indiana would likely be forced to go through these dangerous trials, the Nazis make the situation even more desperate by putting a time limit on the task: they shoot Indiana's father in the gut. The worst possible situation is resolved in dramatic fashion as the divine power of the grail heals Henry's grievous injury.
The examples of this idea are not limited to action or adventure films. They are found in books, TV shows, manga, and numerous other types of media. More than its entertainment value, perhaps it is important for its thematic message... what if the worst should happen? Many worry about the future, and many are justified in their anxiety.
The reality of anxiety about the future is perhaps what makes actual events that describe these situations even more compelling. There is no situation that better exemplifies this idea than that of the Apostles at the time of the crucifixion of Jesus Christ.
They believed that Jesus was not just a great prophet, and not just a worker of miracles... but that he was the literal Son of God... the promised Messiah. (Matthew 16:16) It was not a new thing for Jesus to be in danger... he had been threatened many times, but he always seemed to have power to escape. (Luke 4:29-30, John 10:39)
The question, what if the worst should happen? was something for which Peter seemed prepared. Even after Jesus prophesied that he would deny him, he protested: "Peter said unto him, Though I should die with thee, yet will I not deny thee. Likewise also said all the disciples." (Matthew 26:35)
In the end, the machinations of the chief priests and scribes seemed to work. They had bought Judas Iscariot for thirty pieces of silver to prevent him from escaping again, and had a large number of men with swords and staves to take him from Gethsemane. Peter tried to keep to his word, and struck out at one of them, but Jesus forbade him, and even healed the ear of Malchus, the man who had been wounded. (Luke 22:51)
At the command of the Son of God, his disciples fled. There was no blending in with a crowd and escaping. He was taken before the Sanhedrin, and condemned by his enemies. They brought him to Pontius Pilate, but in spite of his desire to free Jesus, he gave in to the bloodthirsty mob who demanded his crucifixion.
Some of his disciples were there as they lifted him up on the cross. Perhaps there was still a bit of hope left as they watched.. after all... he was the Son of God. Perhaps they offered prayers and begged God to preserve his son... Perhaps they begged him not to let the worst happen... but it did.
How it must have broken their spirits to hear their Messiah cry out "My God, My God, why has thou forsaken me?" It must have been clear to his mother when he asked John to look after her, that the worst was about to happen. Finally, he cried with a loud voice, and died.
I can only imagine the pain and doubt that must have come to the disciples. Their champion had been taken, their master had been defeated, their King had been betrayed, their Messiah had been slain. The worst had happened.
What do you do when the basis of your faith is gone? What should you think when everything for which you have dedicated your life is taken away? As inspiring as Jesus had been, all that was left of him was in the tomb of Joseph of Arimathea. Though he had raised Lazarus from the dead, there was no one left to raise him.
Of course, the story did not end there. The women came to his tomb to honor him and anoint his body, but they found instead two angels. They stated, as though they should have known better, "Why seek ye the living among the dead? He is not here, but is risen..." (Luke 24:5-6)
Peter and John rushed to the tomb, and found that it was empty, but they did not yet understand.
At last, their slain master appeared to them, alive and well. He had a physical body; he was not just a spiritual manifestation. (Luke 24:39-43) While he had died, not even death was enough to defeat the Son of God. His enemies had mocked him, saying that he could not save himself... but he did save himself.
Nothing was ever the same after. There is much that could be said about the resurrection, and the power of Christ to deliver. The bold faith and leadership of the Apostles was completely renewed, and the world was changed as the teachings of Christ were spread throughout the world. But perhaps one of the most important elements of the story is the answer to the question what if the worst should happen? The answer is that nothing is beyond his power. Nothing is too hard for him to make right.
If the worst should happen,
Christ will heal every wound,
Christ will mend every broken heart,
Christ will purge every wrong,
Christ will revoke even death...
He will save us all.
Tuesday, March 22, 2016
Courage and Common Sense
One of the most famous stories of courage is when young David, son of Jesse, stood against the titanic Goliath of Gath. David had no armor, and no large weapons, and his very appearance was taken by the giant as an insult.
"And when the Philistine looked about, and saw David, he disdained him: for he was but a youth, and ruddy, and of a fair countenance. And the Philistine said unto David, Am I a dog, that thou comest to me with staves? And the Philistine cursed David by his gods. And the Philistine said to David, Come to me, and I will give thy flesh unto the fowls of the air, and to the beasts of the field." (1 Samuel 17:42-44)
David had confidence that the strength and experience of this massive man of war was no match for the power of the Lord... and he did not cower away at the giant's threats:
"Then said David to the Philistine, Thou comest to me with a sword, and with a spear, and with a shield: but I come to thee in the name of the Lord of hosts, the God of the armies of Israel, whom thou hast defied. This day will the Lord deliver thee into mine hand; and I will smite thee, and take thine head from thee; and I will give the carcases of the host of the Philistines this day unto the fowls of the air, and to the wild beasts of the earth; that all the earth may know that there is a God in Israel. And all this assembly shall know that the Lord saveth not with sword and spear: for the battle is the Lord’s, and he will give you into our hands." (1 Samuel 17:45-47)
The scriptures indicate that David then ran toward the giant. Using his sling, he knocked Goliath down, and then finished the job with the Philistine's own sword.
Perhaps one of the reasons this story is so popular is because it shows that there is no problem too big for the Lord to solve. The righteous have no need to fear, because God will protect them, and even if he doesn't, he will make things right in the end. Confederate General Stonewall Jackson said:
"Captain, my religious belief teaches me to feel as safe in battle as in bed. God has fixed the time for my death. I do not concern myself about that, but to be always ready, no matter when it may overtake me....That is the way all men should live, and then all would be equally brave."
A story that is far less famous from the life of David came later, as he fled from the wrath of jealous King Saul:
"And David arose, and fled that day for fear of Saul, and went to Achish the king of Gath. And the servants of Achish said unto him, Is not this David the king of the land? did they not sing one to another of him in dances, saying, Saul hath slain his thousands, and David his ten thousands? And David laid up these words in his heart, and was sore afraid of Achish the king of Gath. And he changed his behaviour before them, and feigned himself mad in their hands, and scrabbled on the doors of the gate, and let his spittle fall down upon his beard. Then said Achish unto his servants, Lo, ye see the man is mad: wherefore then have ye brought him to me? Have I need of mad men, that ye have brought this fellow to play the mad man in my presence? shall this fellow come into my house?" (1 Samuel 21:10-15)
Instead of boldly announcing that the Lord would overcome the Philistines in Gath, he pretended insanity to be ignored by them. Where was the courage of his youth?
Of course, here was a situation in which common sense was required. With no safe refuge in his home, he needed to be able to go unnoticed in the land of the Philistines.
Perhaps the contrasting circumstances led the preacher to conclude this:
"To every thing there is a season, and a time to every purpose under the heaven: A time to be born, and a time to die; a time to plant, and a time to pluck up that which is planted; A time to kill, and a time to heal; a time to break down, and a time to build up; A time to weep, and a time to laugh; a time to mourn, and a time to dance; A time to cast away stones, and a time to gather stones together; a time to embrace, and a time to refrain from embracing; A time to get, and a time to lose; a time to keep, and a time to cast away; A time to rend, and a time to sew; a time to keep silence, and a time to speak; A time to love, and a time to hate; a time of war, and a time of peace." (Ecclesiastes 3 1-8)
Being able to know what God wants by hearing his voice (Matthew 16:17) or by recognizing his servants (Matthew 10:41) is critical in knowing what is right. When the will of God is being discovered, God expects his children to use common sense (1 Kings 19:11). When a man learns what God would have him do, let that man's heart be filled with confidence and courage (1 Nephi 3:7).
"And when the Philistine looked about, and saw David, he disdained him: for he was but a youth, and ruddy, and of a fair countenance. And the Philistine said unto David, Am I a dog, that thou comest to me with staves? And the Philistine cursed David by his gods. And the Philistine said to David, Come to me, and I will give thy flesh unto the fowls of the air, and to the beasts of the field." (1 Samuel 17:42-44)
David had confidence that the strength and experience of this massive man of war was no match for the power of the Lord... and he did not cower away at the giant's threats:
"Then said David to the Philistine, Thou comest to me with a sword, and with a spear, and with a shield: but I come to thee in the name of the Lord of hosts, the God of the armies of Israel, whom thou hast defied. This day will the Lord deliver thee into mine hand; and I will smite thee, and take thine head from thee; and I will give the carcases of the host of the Philistines this day unto the fowls of the air, and to the wild beasts of the earth; that all the earth may know that there is a God in Israel. And all this assembly shall know that the Lord saveth not with sword and spear: for the battle is the Lord’s, and he will give you into our hands." (1 Samuel 17:45-47)
The scriptures indicate that David then ran toward the giant. Using his sling, he knocked Goliath down, and then finished the job with the Philistine's own sword.
Perhaps one of the reasons this story is so popular is because it shows that there is no problem too big for the Lord to solve. The righteous have no need to fear, because God will protect them, and even if he doesn't, he will make things right in the end. Confederate General Stonewall Jackson said:
"Captain, my religious belief teaches me to feel as safe in battle as in bed. God has fixed the time for my death. I do not concern myself about that, but to be always ready, no matter when it may overtake me....That is the way all men should live, and then all would be equally brave."
A story that is far less famous from the life of David came later, as he fled from the wrath of jealous King Saul:
"And David arose, and fled that day for fear of Saul, and went to Achish the king of Gath. And the servants of Achish said unto him, Is not this David the king of the land? did they not sing one to another of him in dances, saying, Saul hath slain his thousands, and David his ten thousands? And David laid up these words in his heart, and was sore afraid of Achish the king of Gath. And he changed his behaviour before them, and feigned himself mad in their hands, and scrabbled on the doors of the gate, and let his spittle fall down upon his beard. Then said Achish unto his servants, Lo, ye see the man is mad: wherefore then have ye brought him to me? Have I need of mad men, that ye have brought this fellow to play the mad man in my presence? shall this fellow come into my house?" (1 Samuel 21:10-15)
Instead of boldly announcing that the Lord would overcome the Philistines in Gath, he pretended insanity to be ignored by them. Where was the courage of his youth?
Of course, here was a situation in which common sense was required. With no safe refuge in his home, he needed to be able to go unnoticed in the land of the Philistines.
Perhaps the contrasting circumstances led the preacher to conclude this:
"To every thing there is a season, and a time to every purpose under the heaven: A time to be born, and a time to die; a time to plant, and a time to pluck up that which is planted; A time to kill, and a time to heal; a time to break down, and a time to build up; A time to weep, and a time to laugh; a time to mourn, and a time to dance; A time to cast away stones, and a time to gather stones together; a time to embrace, and a time to refrain from embracing; A time to get, and a time to lose; a time to keep, and a time to cast away; A time to rend, and a time to sew; a time to keep silence, and a time to speak; A time to love, and a time to hate; a time of war, and a time of peace." (Ecclesiastes 3 1-8)
Being able to know what God wants by hearing his voice (Matthew 16:17) or by recognizing his servants (Matthew 10:41) is critical in knowing what is right. When the will of God is being discovered, God expects his children to use common sense (1 Kings 19:11). When a man learns what God would have him do, let that man's heart be filled with confidence and courage (1 Nephi 3:7).
Tuesday, March 8, 2016
Humility and Confidence
Jesus was an enemy of pride. He was frequently approached by scribes and Pharisees who wanted to assert their superiority by trying to point out flaws in Jesus or his disciples. They were concerned about unwashed hands (Matthew 15:2) and Sabbath day rules adherence (Matthew 12:10), but only because they sought to elevate themselves above the followers of Christ. Jesus warned about this behavior by giving this parable:
"When thou art bidden of any man to a wedding, sit not down in the highest room; lest a more honourable man than thou be bidden of him; And he that bade thee and him come and say to thee, Give this man place; and thou begin with shame to take the lowest room. But when thou art bidden, go and sit down in the lowest room; that when he that bade thee cometh, he may say unto thee, Friend, go up higher: then shalt thou have worship in the presence of them that sit at meat with thee. For whosoever exalteth himself shall be abased; and he that humbleth himself shall be exalted." (Luke 14:8-11, emphasis added)
Their are numerous examples of people who believed that they were better than they were being put down. Pharaoh, the King of Egypt, believed that he was entitled to the service of the Hebrew children, even after enduring great plagues. Only his complete defeat in the depths of the Red Sea stopped him. (Exodus 14) Saul believed he did not need to wait for Samuel to administer in priestly ordinances. (1 Samuel 13) Haman believed that the king wanted to bestow honors upon him rather than Mordecai, and ultimately found himself hanging on the gallows he had prepared for the man he hated. (Esther 6-7)
As much as God despises a proud heart (Proverbs 6:16-17), he is not desirous that his children be depressed or that they hate themselves or that they fail to believe they can be successful. Consider the story of Jonah. His disbelief that he could succeed in preaching the word of the Lord to the people of Nineveh led him to try to escape from God by boarding a ship to Tarshish. (Jonah 1:3) Even after being humbled in the belly of a big fish for three days, he did not believe that his preaching would be successful, and when they repented, he became angry. (Jonah 4:1-3) Though he had been humbled to the point that he recognized the power of God, he prayed for his own death. His self-loathing was answered by God with a lesson. The Lord explained that he had never wanted to destroy Nineveh, but that the people there were valuable to him.
Here is the dilemma with which many people struggle. On the one hand, people are reminded that they are nothing next to God. Consider the teachings of King Benjamin:
"And now I ask, can ye say aught of yourselves? I answer you, Nay. Ye cannot say that ye are even as much as the dust of the earth; yet ye were created of the dust of the earth; but behold, it belongeth to him who created you." (Mosiah 2:25)
On the other hand, people are reminded that they are loved and valued by God. Consider the teaching of Paul:
"Nay, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him that loved us. For I am persuaded, that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor powers, nor things present, nor things to come, Nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature, shall be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord." (Romans 8:37-39)
In one case, we are asked not to glory in ourselves, and in the other case, we are reminded that we are the work and glory of God. It can seem as though God is simultaneously saying "you're worthless" and "you're priceless."
Is it possible to be humble, and to be confident? Is it possible to show faith and courage without developing pride?
One of the best examples of this very thing can be found in Gideon. He was called by God a "mighty man of valor" (Judges 6:12), but he described himself as being poor, and the least of his father's house. Notwithstanding his reservations, he acted with courage as the Lord directed him to destroy the altar of Baal. Though there were some who sought his life, the Lord protected him.
Gideon did not presume to think that he was infallible, even after being called by God, he wanted to ensure that he was doing the will of God. He prayed and asked the Lord to confirm that he was doing his will by two signs involving fleece and morning dew. One night, the fleece of wool was soaked with moisture and the land was dry, and the next night, the fleece was dry and the land was wet, just as he asked.
While seeking signs is typically a sign of wickedness and faithlessness (Matthew 12:39), Gideon was not demanding that God prove himself, he was seeking to know that he was following God. This is the type of request to which James referred when he said "If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not, and it shall be given him." (James 1:5)
Humility can be demonstrated by seeking God's guidance through prayer. A humble person is one who recognizes the value of omniscience above their own wisdom.
Ultimately, Gideon's most famous victory came when he whittled his army down to 300 men, sending home any who were afraid, and then those who did not lap water as they drank like animals. (Judges 7:4-7) These three hundred men spread themselves in the camp of the Midianites, and then cried out "The sword of the Lord, and of Gideon!" (Judges 7:19-23) The enemies of Israel slew one another in the confusion, and Gideon prevailed.
Sneaking into an enemy camp is certainly not a plan for the faint of heart. Had they been discovered too soon, the Midianites would have slaughtered them. Even executing the plan correctly, they ran the risk that the Midianites would be disciplined enough to recognize friend from foe. The most important element of these 300 men was their faith that God would deliver them.
Humility can be demonstrated by faithful obedience to his counsel. This does not mean cowering or doubting, but rather, it means acting with confidence that God is able to protect and aid those who follow him.
There are certainly times in which good people are not protected. Innocents are hurt. Prophets have been mocked and thrown out. Jesus Christ himself was betrayed and murdered. In the end though, God will prevail.
This truth does not mean it is a good idea to go to others and assert superiority to them. It does not mean that one person's struggles make them inferior to those who seem not to have struggles. The idea is that everyone needs God. In spite of the miraculous victory of Gideon, after his death, the people returned to idolatry, and the protection of the Lord was withdrawn, and many died in a power struggle. (Judges 9) Those who set themselves up above others were put down.
Confidence is not the same as pride. It is possible to have confidence in the Lord, and in the words of his prophets and apostles without asserting superiority over others. Just as it was with Gideon, strength does not come from comparing oneself with others, it comes from ensuring that a person is doing the will of God, and then being confident that God will make everything right. That is the "sword of the Lord, and of Gideon!"... it is that those who exalt themselves shall be abased, and those who humble themselves shall be exalted.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)