"Be still, and know that I am God" (Psalms 46:10; D&C 202:16)

Day #5

Today, I am sharing two scriptures because they have the same statement in both of them that I strive to live by. They have become a part of my meditation and personal scripture study in a whole new way. Let me share them with you.

"Be still, and know that I am God: I will be exalted among the heathen, I will be exalted in the earth."

(Psalms 46:10 italics added)

"Therefore, let your hearts be comforted concerning Zion; for all flesh is in mine hands; be still and know that I am God." 

(D&C 101:16 italics added)

In this world that is rarely quiet, and in my mind that sometimes wants to just chatter away endlessly, this positive way of living, by being still, has really influenced my life for the better. When I try and follow this admonition from God, it is then that I can really feel and know what I need to do. It is in the stillness that I am able to receive personal revelation. It is in being still that I am taught the truths about God and His ways.

I can promise that if you follow this admonition, to take time to "be still" every day, even for 10 minutes or less, it will multiply your understanding and love of God and you will receive insight and comfort that you need in your life. This I testify.

The mountains are still there in all kinds of weather.
When I am still, and the storms rage, I come to know that God is always there.
The weather changes and things always get better.

"Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you" (John 14:27)

Day #4

This particular scripture frequently goes through my head.

"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." 

(John 14:27)

I am always grateful when it starts going through my head because of the comfort and calm that it brings to my heart. "The peace of God, which passeth all understanding" (Philippians 4:7) is stronger and more powerful than any earthly comforts. When I let God's peace lead me, fear departs, and I have the strength to endure...even if it is just for another moment.

God's peace also helps me increase in faith when I don't always understand the "why" of something- whether it be policy changes, personal challenges, doctrine, or anything that may cause a "why" in my life. God is not a god of confusion or anger. He is a God of peace. And for this I am deeply grateful.

"Look unto me in every thought; doubt not, fear not". D&C 6:36

Day #3:
The verse I am thankful for today is D&C 6:36. It reads:

"Look unto me in every thought; doubt not, fear not".

I am so grateful for the simple doctrine that is taught in this passage of scripture. It gives me instruction on what to do in any given situation. I must focus to my thoughts on God. I must trust God. And I must exercise faith in God so that fear will have no room to survive or grow. It is not always easy to do these three things, but when I do them, I am able to feel peace and comfort, and when needed, I am given the courage to wait.

The interesting part in all this is that the easiest ways I have found to direct my thoughts to God are the "primary answers": pray, read the scriptures, sing a primary song or hum my favorite hymn, love and serve my family. I am so grateful for simple ways to focus on God. He definitely makes it worth the effort.

What are ways you look to God in all your thoughts?

"Quench not the Spirit" (1 Thessalonians 5:19)

Day #2:
I first paid attention to this particular scripture when my children were little. It was easy for them to memorize and taught a principle of the gospel in a very simple manner. At bed time, when it is late and we recite a scripture together, this is frequently chosen: 

"Quench not the Spirit" 

(1 Thessalonians 5:19)

I am grateful for this scripture because I am reminded of the importance of the Spirit and it's power in my life. I want my behavior to enable me to have an abundance of the Spirit- not less. Personal revelation (1 Corinthians 2:10-14), peace, joy (Galatians 5:22), comfort, "brings all things to [my] remembrance" (John 14:26)- these are just a few of the blessings of the Spirit. I want to have it with me always. And so does Heavenly Father (Moroni 4:3). 

(here is a link for the video if it doesn't work: video)

"O be wise; what can I say more?" (Jacob 6:12)

Someone had the great idea to post something they are grateful for until Thanksgiving. I am going to a variation on this. I will post a scripture I am thankful/grateful for everyday until Thanksgiving.

Day #1:
My first scripture is: "O be wise; what can I say more" (Jacob 6:12).

I have always loved this short verse. I am grateful for the simple yet powerful truth it teaches. I have always tried to teach our children to "make good choices", and I feel like this verse says it perfectly. 

I am grateful for the scriptures and the power they bring into my life. #Ilovetoreadthescriptures