Every Day Conversion

I wish I had paid more attention to Mosiah 26 when I was serving as a bishop. 

There is SO MUCH in this chapter that can help us in our day to day lives as we strive to hear Christ's voice, repent and draw nearer to Him. 

There's also a lot that can be learned about Church discipline and its role in helping members repent and draw nearer to the Savior. 

In today's episode I share some personal experiences I had while serving as a bishop with regards to church discipline...and what I learned about the atonement from it. 

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You may have heard the phrase, "The Lord helps those who help themselves."

Well, King Zeniff's people are a perfect example of this statement...they went up to battle the Lamanites "...in the strength of the Lord", but only after they'd prepared in every way possible. 

In today's episode we talk about the importance of doing our part and utilizing the skills, abilities and intelligence that the Lord has blessed us with, as well as revisiting the blessing and promise that Lehi gave to the children of Laman and Lemuel before he passed away. 

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As I have been studying this week a single question kept coming back to me...

How in the heck did Limhi become such a righteous king, when his father was one of the most notorious men and rulers mentioned in the Book of Mormon? 

I've spent several days asking myself that exact question and going back through the scriptures to learn what kind of man King Limhi was, what kind of man King Noah was and what kind of man Limhi's grandfather, King Zeniff was...and I came to an interesting conclusion. 

My conclusion is, in no way, supported by the scriptural text...but it's not disproved by it either...and I think it's probably one of the best explanations as to how King Limhi could have been the man he was, taking into account the kind of man his father was. 

I explain my conclusion in this episode. 

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I didn't feel like studying today. 

I think it's important to acknowledge that we won't always WANT to study...we won't always FEEL like reading the scriptures. 

But we do it anyway. 

Because we're commanded to...and we know that it will help us in our lives - both immediately and long term. 

I talk about that in today's episode, as well as talking about Mosiah 5-6. 

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Mosiah 4 is packed with awesome information. 

In today's episode we talk about the importance of ongoing and consistent action. 

I also share a quote from Brigham Young that I absolutely love that ties in with King Benjamin's counsel about imparting of your substance to others. 

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As I read Mosiah 3 I realized something that had never occurred to me before...practically this entire chapter is a direct quote from an angel of the Lord to King Benjamin! 

That makes what is said even more amazing! 

It is exactly what the Lord wanted to be told to Benjamin! 

In this episode I share some of my favorite parts of this chapter - including the 3 verses that bring me so much joy every time I read them! 

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Never before when I've read Mosiah 2 did I realize how clearly and concisely King Benjamin teaches the doctrine of the atonement. 

As I read it this time, I was blown away at how clearly he teaches that salvation is a free gift and that there is nothing we can do to merit salvation on our own. 

I also learned (or rather, re-learned) that our keeping of the commandments has nothing to do with "earning" salvation...that that price was paid long ago. 

We can either choose Christ's plan, which says that our best is good enough...even if "our best" is worse today than it was yesterday...or we can choose the plan of justice, which says that no matter how good we do, it will never be good enough...even if it's consistently better tomorrow than it was today. 

We also talk about how we can know whether we are in "good standing" with the Lord and His plan. 

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As I read through Mosiah 1, I had some very interesting thoughts. 

The most pressing, was the thought that King Benjamin spent his entire life trying to get his people to the point where they could make a national covenant with their God. 

I share more about this in the episode, including the books that I've read that first opened my eyes to the idea of a "national covenant." 

I also share my thoughts about what I learned personally about being a better parent from King Benjamin. 

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The Book of Mormon is a TREASURE when it comes to learning about Jesus Christ and His atonement. 

As I prepare for Easter this week, I started going through all the references to the atonement found in the Book of Mormon. 

In today's episode, I share some scattered thoughts about the atonement that I had as I studied this morning. 

There really isn't any theme to what I share...except the central theme of the atonement itself. 

I hope these thoughts help you to dig deeper into learning about and studying the atonement and what we learn from it in the Book of Mormon. 

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For my personal study today, I spent some time reviewing my notes from each General Conference session. 

As I did so, I noticed a theme - receiving revelation. 

So I decided to distill down the keys to receiving revelation that I learned from the April 2020 General Conference. 

In today's episode I share some of those keys that I learned as I looked through my notes. 

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In this episode I share some of my thought about what we heard in the April 2020 General Conference. 

This Conference truly was memorable and unforgettable for me personally. 

I was left with no doubt in my mind that revelation and the Restoration are ongoing and happening in the present tense. 

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As I continue to prepare for Conference, I asked the question, "What can I learn about receiving revelation from Joseph Smith's experience?" 

As I read through Joseph Smith History, I applied the keys to revelation that I had previously discovered in 1 Nephi 11 to Joseph's experience to see if I could identify those same keys...and I did. 

But I ALSO found that I needed to update one of the keys that I had previously identified. 

In this episode I share that update and my "framework for revelation" that I have seen in every single instance of someone receiving revelation, as well as the times that I have received revelation in my own life. 

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Sometimes when you ask Heavenly Father a question in prayer, the answer comes almost instantly. 

This morning was one of those times. 

I asked what He wanted me to know prior to General Conference and I got a somewhat unexpected answer.

It was clear to me that it was, indeed, the answer to my prayer and that I needed to act on it. 

In this episode I share with you my answer...and encourage you to ask that same questions yourself in these days leading up to the April 2020 General Conference. 

(and if you're listening to this AFTER the April Conference, you can STILL ask the question, and I'll bet Heavenly Father will answer you as well!)

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Have you read President Nelson's article in the April 2020 Ensign? 

It is available now on the Church's website and it is amazing. 

In today's episode, in preparation for the upcoming General Conference, I read this article and it was eye-opening and confirmed again to me that we are truly led by a prophet of God. 

Listen to the parts that stuck out to me in this episode, and then go to the show notes to get a link to read the entire article. 

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Words of Mormon is a very unique addition to the Book of Mormon. 

Essentially, it's an insight into WHY everything before it was included in the Book of Mormon.  

It also reminded me of the logistical miracle that IS the Book of Mormon. 

I go into this in depth in the episode, but just think of everything that had to work just right in order for us to have the Book of Mormon today. 

It's amazing! 

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Today's episode covers the remainder of the book of Enos, as well as the books of Jarom and Omni. 

One of the most profound things I learned as I read these books was how the different groups in the Book of Mormon intersect and interacted with each other. 

It really is interesting! 

Also - I had the thought that our allegiance needs to be to the truth, not necessarily to the Church (meaning the people, cultures and practices of individuals). I explain more of what I mean in the episode. 

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Elder Jeffrey R. Holland said once, "Salvation is not a cheap experience."

And if anyone exemplifies that sentiment, it is Enos and his determination to pray all day and all night to receive a remission of his sins. 

In today's episode I share more of Elder Holland's quote, as well as looking at Enos' life - who he was and what he did that allowed him to have the marvelous spiritual experience that he had. 

I also share a truth about prayer that I don't think we talk about enough. 

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As I finished my study of Jacob 5 today, I noticed a few things that I had not noticed before. 

Things specifically about the Restoration of the Gospel and how involved the Lord is in His work in our day. 

I also appreciated reading what Jacob felt was most important about Zenos' allegory in Jacob 6. 

Listen to today's episode to hear more of what I learned. 

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What is the key ingredient to bringing forth good fruit? 

As I studied the beginning of Jacob 5 today, I had some insights that I had never had before regarding this question. 

I've always only associated the type of ground or soil with being the determining factor in bringing forth good fruit, but my studies today turned that on it's head! 

We talk about that, as well as some thoughts I've had in the past week with regards to COVID-19 and how it's changed my view of the Restoration of the Gospel and the blessings associated with it. 

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Nephi warns about esteeming things of value as naught in 2 Nephi 33...

...which got me to thinking about how we are invited to do things or make changes today by our leaders. 

They are often quiet and subtle invitations, rather than a loud, booming "Thus saith the Lord!"

So are we listening to those invitations?

Do we even hear them when they come? 

This is what we discuss in today's episode. 

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I was led to ask a sobering question during my study this morning...

"Where do I shut the Lord out of my life?" 

That is a sobering question. 

And it came from reading Nephi's pleading in 2 Nephi 32 for us to pray always, before we do ANYTHING!

Listen to this episode to learn more about what led me to ask this questions of myself. 

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My study of 2 Nephi 30 provided some wonderful insights with regards to covenants and promises. 

But, the BIGGER insight was an insight about how Satan gains and maintains his power and leverage in our personal lives. 

Once you understand how he derives his power over us, the Gospel plan makes more sense and you realize why Christ asks us to do what He does and how quickly we can limit Satan's power in our day to day lives. 

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Faith is one of the first principles of the Gospel, and it is indispensable to our salvation. 

But, the Lord frequently proves things to His children as well. 

2 Nephi 29 is a great example of that. 

The Lord clearly proves through multiple arguments that not only did He cause the Book of Mormon to be written, but that it is well within His ability and right to speak to whomever and whenever He so chooses. 

In today's episode we look into those arguments more closely. 

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Brigham Young is quoted as saying, “The worst fear that I have about [members of this Church] is that they will get rich in this country, forget God and his people, wax fat, and kick themselves out of the Church and go to hell."

Nephi seems to concur and think that "carnal security" and thinking that "all is well" is one of the biggest challenges that members of the Church will face. 

He mentions this specific issue TWICE in 2 Nephi 28. 

In this episode we'll talk about this warning, the other tactics Satan uses as well as Nephi's warning about not dismissing ongoing revelation. 

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Two themes really stuck out to me as I studied 2 Nephi 26 and 27. 

The first was the prophecies regarding the coming forth of the Book of Mormon. 

The second was a reminder that God has not ceased to talk to man...and while the prophet today may not say "thus saith the Lord" or translate a new record from ancient sources...he COULD. 

Those keys and responsibilities are still here with us in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints...and should the Lord require those things, President Nelson (or any other prophet) stand ready to fulfill them. 

That's pretty cool...and we talk about that in today's episode. 

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There are some chapters in the Book of Mormon that seem to be pivotal chapters. 

Chapters that are quoted more often than others. 

Chapters that, when someone mentions them, we say "Ohhh, that's a great chapter!"

Chapters that we seem go to, in order to answer questions and strengthen our testimonies. 

In today's episode, I share why I think those chapters are so universally cherished by members past and present. 

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I had a massive realization as I studied this morning...

And the realization became even MORE significant to me as I recorded this episode. 

You cannot have physical freedom without first internalizing and accepting spiritual freedom through the atonement. 

It's a pattern that is repeated throughout the scriptures over and over again! 

Listen to today's episode for a few examples and how I came to this realization. 

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In this episode we review 2 Nephi 11-15 and there is a LOT to review. 

We talk about the three witnesses present at the beginning of the Book of Mormon and the importance of being worthy to attend (and actually attending) the temple.

I share a new insight to the allegory of Israel being a vineyard and the Lord being the owner of the vineyard. 

And we look at the interesting phrase found in Chapter 15 that really exemplifies the way the Lord uses punishments and chastisement to invite us to repent and return to him. 

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In 2 Nephi 10, Jacob focuses heavily on the fulfilling of His promises and the gathering of Israel. 

In connection with those events, Jacob quotes many of the promises and prophecies of the Lord regarding the promise land. 

We dig into the words of Jacob about the gathering, as well as a few things that President Nelson has said in the past few years about the gather of Israel to get an idea of the magnitude of what the gathering of Israel will entail. 

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As I finished my study of 2 Nephi 9, I had an interesting observation.

I realized that just because the Book of Mormon says over and over that the "wicked take the truth to be hard", that doesn't mean that only the wicked are corrected or chastised by the Lord. 

We are ALL corrected and chastised...the difference is how we respond to that chastisement. 

In today's episode we'll talk about that distinction and what we need to do to respond to correction from the Lord. 

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As Jacob begins his discourse in 2 Nephi 9, he teaches almost exclusively the Plan of Salvation. 

But as I started reading it, there was one theme within the Plan of Salvation that I kept coming back to. 

It's exactly what the Savior says in Matthew 11 - "Come unto me."

And exactly what he says in 3 Nephi 10 - "How oft would I have gathered you."

And in 2 Nephi 7 - "when I called...there was none to answer."

Christ is always bidding us to come unto him.

He's made His decision, He wants to save us. 

Now the decision is ours...will we let him? 

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Apparently the prophecies and words of Isaiah in Isaiah 49-51 are extremely important. 

Nephi quoted Isaiah 49 himself at the end of 1 Nephi, and then, he asked Jacob to quote the same scriptures in 2 Nephi 6. 

I guess we should probably pay attention! 

In today's episode we read about all the effort the Lord puts into trying to reach out to us and save and redeem us...and how too often, we just don't respond to his invitation. 

2 Nephi 6-8 are amazing chapters, and obviously they were important to Nephi and Jacob...so they should probably warrant our attention as well! 

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As I studied 2 Nephi 4 this morning, I was blown away as I realized several things that I'd never realized before. 

The BIGGEST thing that changed during my study this time is that I didn't read "Nephi's Psalm" in isolation. 

I realized that as Nephi wrote this...he was dealing with newly becoming the leader of his family, the spiritual leader as the prophet and was struggling to keep the family and the church from tearing apart! 

It was extremely insightful when I read it with that in mind. 

Listen to this episode to learn more. 

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Satan has done a good job and completely changing the paradigm around our decisions. 

I hear people say things like "there's no good choice" or that they have to choose between "the lesser of two evils." 

Satan has convinced us that that is our choice...the problem is, that is NOT our choice. 

Lehi clearly states that the choice is between "liberty and eternal life" and "captivity and death." 

In today's episode I dig into this idea of choosing "the lesser of two evils" and, to be honest, I get a little fired up about it! 

Take a listen, and let me know what you think!

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During my study I realized that I really wish there was a verse-by-verse commentary of the book of Isaiah, written by the prophet Nephi. 

Seriously. He makes Isaiah SO MUCH easier to understand! 

In this episode we look at 1 Nephi 20-22. 

Chapters 20 and 21 are Nephi quoting Isaiah, and 22 is Nephi breaking down exactly what Isaiah is talking about...as well as summarizing basically all of 1 Nephi - from Chapter 8 to the end. 

1 Nephi 22 is an invaluable discourse on Lehi's dream, Nephi's vision and the words of Isaiah...and I had never realized it before today! 

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As I read through 1 Nephi 19 today, I realized that the main theme of the entire chapter could be boiled down into 2 words...

Everlasting Covenant. 

That really is what the chapter is all about - so much so that I wrote that next to the chapter heading in my scriptures... 

"All about the Everlasting Covenant"

I also found three phrases that trigger me to think about the everlasting covenant every time I read them in the scriptures. 

Listen to this episode to learn what they are. 

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As I studied 1 Nephi 17, I realized that a phrase that Lord uses in 2 Nephi could adequately describe what He taught Lehi and Nephi over and over and what he tried to teach Laman and Lemuel over and over...

And, quite honestly, what He tries to teach all His children throughout the scriptures and even today. 

"I am able to do mine own work." 

In other words, just do what I ask you to do, don't doubt me, trust the process and it'll work out like it's suppose to. 

We talk about that in depth in today's episode, along with highlighting an amazing correlation to the house of Israel that I never saw before in the Book of Mormon! 

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Why did Lehi even NEED the Liahona?  

That's the question that started my studies today. 

But, what my studies ended with was much more powerful and more applicable in my life. 

And that's what I talk about in today's episode. 

Listen now. 

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What is the difference between Lehi and Nephi's testimonies and that of Laman and Lemuel? 

I believe the answer is found in 1 Nephi 15...and it comes down to this simple phrase:

"Those who pay, pay attention." 

I first heard that from my friend, Jon Workman with regards to business and marketing, but I believe it applies well to Laman and Lemuel. 

Then didn't work for the knowledge that Nephi gave them in 1 Nephi 15...it was just given to them. 

And because of that, it didn't last. It didn't stick. It didn't sink deep into their souls. 

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How do you help your children learn to receive and, more importantly, recognize revelation? 

That's the question that has been on my mind for the last 24 hours. 

It's easy to TELL our kids how the Spirit feels and how he speaks to us...but is that what we should be doing? 

I've come to realize that taking the time to help our children learn the process of receiving revelation and recognizing it when it comes when they are young is one of the most important things we can teach them. 

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This episode was a tough one to get through. 

As I studied 1 Nephi 12-13, I had some great thoughts and ideas come to me with regards to what Nephi saw when the descendants of the Lamanites were "...scattered before the Gentiles and were smitten."

That led me to reread the account of James S. Brown's (grandfather to former member of the First Presidency, Hugh B. Brown) interaction with the Shoshone Indian Chief, Chief Washakie, who is my wife's 6th Great Grandfather. 

As I read that account, and really as I recorded this episode, I realized that I have been a witness to the fulfillment of Lehi's prophecy and promise to the children of Laman and Lemuel...and I lost it! 

Fair warning - I straight up cried while recording this episode. 

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In the first verse of 1 Nephi 11, Nephi says that he was "caught away...into an exceedingly high mountain." 

This comment led me to consider the similarities and characteristics that mountains and temples share - since often in the scriptures prophets had temple-like experiences at the top of mountains (i.e. Moses, Elijah, Ezekiel, Christ, John, Nephi, the Brother of Jared and others). 

It led to a long and interesting study of the topic that really impacted the way I view the temple and my temple experiences. 

I share some of the highlights of that study in today's episode. 

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As I sat down to study today, I decided to review the notes I've made from all my personal study this week. 

It's something I should do more often, and something I recommend everyone do. 

This review led me to digging into a question I asked myself earlier this week in my study journal and led to some really great realizations about HOW my family and I study, and how I help my kids learn how to study and receive revelation for themselves. 

Take a listen to hear my thoughts. 

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On the heels of my realization I shared in Episode 11, today I realized that there is a SPECIFIC REASON that 1 Nephi 10 is, well, 1 Nephi 10. 

I have a feeling there is a specific reason that Nephi says what he does in between Lehi's dream and his own vision and interpretation of Lehi's dream. 

It took me a few times of reading through, summarizing, and really thinking through it...but I realized that Nephi teaches the entire Gospel of Jesus Christ in just 5 verses inside chapter 10. 

It was a pretty cool realization. 

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What makes the Book of Mormon different? 

Simple. 

It was written, compiled and translated by prophets of God.

That means that every. single. chapter...

Every verse...

Every WORD is inspired. 

And that changes the way we should view it. 

That is what I learned from my study of 1 Nephi 9. 

Listen to the full episode now to hear me expound on this idea. 

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In his dream, Lehi sees several different groups of people - each with distinct characteristics. 

Much can be learned, both what to do and what NOT to do, by studying each of these groups. 

In today's episode, we dig into each group, as well as compare these groups to the groups outlined in the Parable of the Sower in the book of Matthew. 

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As I read through Nephi's account of his father's vision of the tree of life, I noticed something I had never seen before. 

When we talk about this vision, we always talk about the straight and narrow path, rod of iron, mists of darkness, river of water, and the great and spacious building...but there is one more aspect of this vision that had never occurred to me. 

And it's the aspect that was most influential in getting Sariah, Sam and Nephi to the tree! 

I share what it is in today's episode. 

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In today's episode I share some insights shared with me by my good friend, Jon Workman. 

Jon sent me a voice memo this morning with some really neat insights regarding a few things he learned about receiving revelation as he studied the Book of Mormon. 

You'll learn what those insights were, as well as a few thoughts that I had because of his insights. 

I also ask a question that is complete speculation on my part...but I think it's worth asking. 

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Are you actively constrained by the Spirit in your life? 

It seems there are two level levels of following the Spirit...

The first is to recognize when the Spirit leaves, and use that as your indication that you should stop doing whatever it is that you're doing. 

This is good and MUCH better than NOT having the Spirit in the first place and not paying attention to it. 

But a BETTER course of action is to actively recognize when you HAVE the Spirit and what it's prompting you to do...so you don't lose it at all. 

The story of Nephi and his brothers attempting to get the plates of brass is a wonderful case study in the importance of actively utilizing the Spirit. 

And that's what today's episode is all about. 

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What if the Book of Mormon isn't as miraculous as we think it is? 

Serious question. 

Listen to the full episode to understand what I'm asking...and what I mean by it. 

It's probably not what you think...

And honestly, the reason I ask the question just might make it seem MORE miraculous - at least that's what it did for me! 

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The Book of Mormon was written and preserved for our day. 

No where is that more evident than in the very first chapter of that book! 

In today’s episode we dig into 1 Nephi 1 - including a brand new insight into what 1 Nephi is about that dramatically changed out I read it! 

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The culmination of a lot of events and self-reflection led to the question that the Spirit asked me this morning as I sat down for my scripture study. 

And almost immediately after the question, was a piece of counsel for what I needed to do with the answer to that question. 

In this episode, I share what the question and counsel was...and encourage you to ask yourself the same question, and follow the same counsel. 

I think you'll find it a very rewarding experience, I know I did! 

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As I was studying the the Testimony of the Prophet Joseph Smith I had a realization about why I might not receive answers when I pray for them...and what I can do to GET those answers. 

I discuss it in depth in this episode, but it involves asking a specific question when you the answer you seek doesn't come right away. 

I share what the question is in this episode. 

We also talk about a principle I learned as I studied his testimony that relates to Pres. Thomas S. Monson's well-known quote, "When you're on the Lord's errand, you're entitled to the Lord's help." 

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President Ezra Taft Benson referred to the Book of Mormon as ..."one of the most significant gifts given to the world in modern times." 

Do we view the Book of Mormon that way? 

Do we value it the way that we should? 

In today's episode we look at the Introduction and the Testimonies of the Three and Eight Witnesses. 

We'll discuss the many things that the Introduction tells us that the Book of Mormon does, as well as the centuries of preparation that went into us having the Book of Mormon today. 

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President Ezra Taft Benson said that "The golden question of the Book of Mormon is, 'Do you want to learn more of Christ?'"

In today's episode I share what I learned as I studied the Title Page of the Book of Mormon, as well as the first chapter of Pres. Benson's book, "A Witness and a Warning." 

I also share how you can get a FREE Book of Mormon bookmark to use in your studies this year. 

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Before my study for this episode, I had never really considered how King Herod may have felt during the birth of Christ. 

Sure, like everyone, I had known that Herod felt threatened by Christ's birth - that He he was a threat to his power, but as I studied this time, I realized there is much more we can learn from Herod and his experience within the nativity story. 

Take a listen to the episode now to hear what I mean. 

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In this episode of our mini-series, "In Their Shoes", we look at the Wise Men. 

These were men of means, men of faith and men willing to put their possessions where their faith was and sacrifice all. 

There is much we can learn from the wise men, however many there were and wherever they were from. 

Take a listen to this episode to dig deeper into these lessons. 

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In this, the third episode in our Christmas week mini-series looking at the lives of individuals that were part of or witness to the very first Christmas, we are looking at the shepherds. 

Those humble sheep herders, who were witness to the very first announcement of the Savior's birth while abiding in the fields. 

There is much that we can learn from the simple and humble faith of these shepherds. 

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In our second installment of our Christmas week mini-series, "In Their Shoes", we look at Joseph. 

We don't have any record of anything Joseph said...but as the saying goes, "actions speak louder than words." 

And Joseph's actions shout from the rooftops of a man full of faith and service. 

There is much we can learn from Joseph's quiet example. 

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This is first installment of a Christmas week series titled "In Their Shoes". 

In today's episode, we're going to try to put ourselves in Mary's shoes. 

What was it like to experience what she experienced? 

How did she feel? 

What did she think? 

What must have gone through her mind as she pondered the fact that she was to be the mother of the Son of God? 

We'll dig into that in this episode. 

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As I studied chapters 8-11 in the book of Revelation, all I could think was that everything that will happen in the time leading up to the Second Coming is really intended to get us to choose a side. 

Earlier in Revelation, the Savior indicated his displeasure in those that were "lukewarm."

And now, the plagues, wars and other trials are causing those that will be alive during them to finally choose a side and stop being "lukewarm." 

In today's episode, we'll dig into chapters 8-11 and look at some of the highlights, as well as talk about how we can strive to understand some of the descriptions John uses. 

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As we have discussed in earlier episodes, Revelation 6-7 required utilizing all the resource materials available to understand what was going on! 

In today's episode we talk about the restoration of the Gospel, the gathering of the Twelve Tribes, and one of the most succinct overviews of how to return to God's presence that you can find anywhere in the scriptures. 

I also share with you a really neat resource that you're going to want to have for your Gospel study as we go into 2020!

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The Bible Dictionary says in its "Guidelines to Understanding" Revelation 1-3 that it "...shows clearly that the Church in that day was rapidly going into apostasy."

I respectfully disagree. 

Yes, that is part of it, but I think those chapters "clearly show" something very different. 

I believe they show a similar pattern that Heavenly Father have always utilized throughout history to warn, encourage, and motivate His children. 

Listen to this episode to learn more of what I mean. 

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As I began my study of the Book of Revelation this week, it was easier than I expected it to be. 

Part of it was that I actually applied what we talked about in Episode 125. 

I had the right mindset going into my study, I remembered a few things that we talked about in that episode about the Book of Revelation and I used the study resources that have been provided for us! 

There is some really cool doctrine in the first few chapters of Revelation, and in this episode we dig into those. 

I also go on a bit of a mini-rant about USING the study resources that we have been given...so you can listen for that too! 

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What is it about the Book of Revelation that freaks us out? 

Why are we so scared of it...when Joseph Smith said that it was "one of the plainest books God ever caused to be written."?

In today's episode we'll dig into why are scared of Revelation...and why we SHOULDN'T be scared of it. 

I share some of the things I found and learned that helped me to feel more comfortable studying Revelation over the next few weeks. 

Listen now. 

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I spent several months on my mission trying to figure out what the heck Jude 1:9 was all about. 

If you don't recall, this is the verse that talks about Michael the archangel and Satan "disputing about the body of Moses."

That is a fight you'd love to witness, isn't it? 

But what the heck is this verse referring to? 

Well, I discovered the answer in an old Ensign article...and now I'm sharing it with you in this episode. 

Listen now. 

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Sometimes you have a study session that is massively impactful. 

Seemingly trivial verses hit you hard, and lead you to ponder and consider things you'd never pondered and considered before. 

That is what today's episode is about. 

In the books of Second and Third John, two verses occupied the whole of my study time this morning...and it was certainly a spiritual experience. 

We talk about living the Gospel, not taking it for granted, as well as being a parent and raising children in the Gospel. 

Take a listen now. 

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There are times where the Joseph Smith Translation makes a small (but important) difference in the text.

And then there are times like the examples in today's lesson, where the Joseph Smith Translation completely changes the frame of reference and with the change of a single word, can teach a doctrinally significant lesson. 

When the JST changes "committeth" to "continueth" in 1 John 3, it is one of those times. 

Listen to today's episode as we discuss that change and WHY it's so important. 

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As the apostles struggled and strived to keep the early church together and on the right path, it must have been stressful. 

Fighting against persecutions on the outside, as well as old beliefs and traditions on the inside. 

It's no wonder that so much of the epistles in the New Testament focus on the need to live a Christlike life, rather than just proclaim a Christ-saved life. 

In today's episode we dig into these differences, as well what it means to have confidence in the presence of God. 

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Peter's counsel to the Saints in 1 Peter 2 is great counsel for us today. 

As a matter of fact, I believe it is EXACTLY the prophetic counsel that we need in society at this time. 

It's simple, yet profound, and it's what's missing in much of what we see in the news, on Facebook, and just about everywhere else in the public conversations. 

In today's episode we'll talk about that counsel - what it is and why I believe it's so vital for us today. 

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If you're in the United States, Thanksgiving is coming up this week and so it's fitting that today's episode be about gratitude. 

Yesterday, in our sacrament meeting, we had a wonderful talk given by a sister in our ward talking all about gratitude. 

She titled her talk "10 Lists" and, as you might be able to guess, she shared 10 lists that we could make of things we are grateful for to bring more joy into our lives. 

In today's episode, I'll share those 10 lists with you, and encourage you to spend some time with your family this week creating your own lists. 

You can get the full list of lists that are mentioned in this episode at https://www.everydayconversion.com/119

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At first glance, James' comments about faith being dead without works seems to be contrary to the idea of being saved by grace. 

But is it really? 

In this episode we'll dig into James' words and compare them to Paul's and see if we make sense of the possible contradictions. 

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On Sunday, November 17, 2019, the Church held a Face to Face broadcast presided over by Elder Gerrit W. Gong. 

During this event more information and details were shared about the new Children and Youth Program.

In today's episode I share my thoughts on these new details and program and how we, as parents, can best support our children in it. 

However, even if you don't have children, you should still learn about the program, because it will impact the entire church, and the principles can be applied by ALL members to enhance their spiritual growth! 

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In Hebrews 9-11, Paul is explaining that Christ has ALWAYS been the way to a remission of sins - even in Old Testament times of sacrifices, burnt offerings and other ordinances. 

Paul is trying to remind the Jews of his day that they are not saved by sacrifices...and they never have been. 

And this is important for us to remember even today. 

In this episode, we'll talk about how the ordinance of the sacrament helps us to remain focused on the true source of forgiveness of our sins, Jesus Christ. 

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Reading Hebrews chapter 6 led to some massive insights for me. 

It changed the way I viewed the ordinances and covenants that I have made with Heavenly Father. 

It changed the way that I viewed my worth in the eyes of my Heavenly Father. 

Take a moment to listen to this episode and see if it changes the way YOU view your relationship with your Heavenly Father. 

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Today's episode is really a continuation of Episode 112: Find Out the Character of God. 

After I finished recording that episode last week, I went back to my study journal and wrote down the impressions I had WHILE I was recording that episode. 

And it led to a question that I now try to ask myself every single time I interact with the Gospel in any way - whether it's scripture study, fulfilling my calling, attending the temple, serving, doing family history work, or anything else. 

Listen to this episode to learn what it is.

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For the past several days, I've been out of town at a conference for work...and it has been AMAZING!

However, it also made it very difficult to get my full scripture study in each day as well as kept me from being able to attend church.

...not to mention I wasn't able to record any podcast episodes! 

But there are some things I learned about how to study and feel the Spirit when you are busy and unable to get in your regular study that I wanted to share with you today. 

We ALL have days when we aren't able to study as we would like to...so what do you do in those situations? 

That is what today's episode is all about. 

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This episode took a very different turn than I expected it too. 

And it demonstrates the power of the Come, Follow Me Curriculum! 

I started off studying and pondering one of the prompts for this week's readings, and by the end of recording this episode, I had ended in a very different place, and had learned some really neat things! 

That's what happens when the Spirit is present in your study! 

Today we discuss the nature, character and attributes of God...and WHY we should spend more time talking about and teaching them to our children. 

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Paul, in talking about the Jews in Old Testament times, indicates that they were taught the Gospel just like he and the people of his time were (and as we are today). 

He also says that those in ancient times were not able to benefit from the Gospel because it wasn't "mixed with faith." 

That is a phrase that I really loved as I was studying this week, and in today's episode we dig into what it means to mix the Gospel with faith. 

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Several times in this week's readings, Paul has mentioned questions, and counseled Timothy and Titus to avoid them. 

So what IS the role of questions in the Gospel? 

Should we have questions? 

If so, what type of questions should we have? 

We'll talk about that in today's episode. 

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1 Tim 6:10 is one of the most commonly quoted...or shall I say, misquoted scriptures ever. 

We often hear that money is the root of all evil...but if we actually read the scripture, it says that the LOVE of money is the root of all evil. 

The issue isn't the thing (money), the issue is the LOVE of the thing. 

In today's episode we'll dig into the scriptures before and after that scripture to get a little more context about what Paul is teaching and what his opinion on money and those that have it is. 

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If you're like me, when you read 1 Timothy 4 when Paul talks about the latter-day apostasy, you point to it and say, 

"See!! It's happening now! It's terrible! Our society is horrible! Our culture is horrible! We're all going to hell in a hand basket!"

But is that REALLY what we should be focusing on from that chapter? 

I don't think it is...and in today's episode, I'll share what I think we SHOULD be focusing on. 

Listen now.

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In 1 Timothy 3, Paul lays out the qualifications for a bishop and a deacon...and I REALLY dug deep into those qualifications in my study. 

As you may, or may not, know, I have served as a bishop...which means that I still hold the office of bishop, even though I'm not actively serving as one anymore. 

So these qualifications hit close to home for me...because these are the qualifications that Heavenly Father expects of me. 

But then I realized, there isn't a single one of those attributes that Heavenly Father doesn't ask ALL priesthood holders and ALL members of the Church to have and develop as well. 

So, these are not just qualifications for me and other bishops...these are qualifications for EVERYONE - from the newest member of the Church to the prophet himself! 

Take a listen as we dig into each of these qualifications and what each of them mean...as well as how you can support and help YOUR bishop to live up to these requirements. 

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It's been quite awhile since we've had a new episode...but today we're BACK! 

Thank you for being patient... life has been busy and I've been trying to figure out the BEST way to keep sharing insights with you to assist in your personal and family scripture study! 

...and I THINK I've figured it out! 

In today's episode I share what the new format will be, as well as some encourage from ancient and modern apostles to pray for our leaders. 

Listen now! 

Get the links to everything mentioned in this episode here: https://www.everydayconversion.com/106

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There is a lot of evil in the world, and a lot of practices that I definitely don't want my children seeing or taking part in. 

But the thing that scares me more than any of those things is them having to deal with being called "intolerant", "prejudice", etc. because of their religious convictions. 

I don't know how a teen or pre-teen child can be expected to have the maturity to handle those kind of attacks from their peers and adults around them. 

In today's episode we'll talk about that, as well as the Savior's counsel that is completely missing from the conversations and dialogue we see all around us in society, on social media and in the news. 

Questions: 

1. What does it mean to you to "love your enemies?"

2. How do you teach your children to be Christlike in today's culture? 

Get all the resources mentioned in this episode at https://www.everydayconversion.com/105

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It seems like whenever a theological discuss breaks out, the question of whether we are saved by grace or by works always comes up. 

And the discussions can become quite militant and heated! 

But the comment of noted Christian writer C.S. Lewis on the matter is very insightful. 

He said, "It [seems] to me like asking which blade in a pair of scissors is most necessary." 

The fact of the matter is that both are necessary components, but each for very different reasons. 

In today's episode we discuss some of the reasons, as well as sharing some insights I gathered while teaching the Gospel Doctrine class in my ward this past Sunday. 

Questions: 

1. How do you view the relationship between grace and works? 

2. What can you do to recognize God's grace more in your life? 

Get all the resources mentioned in this episode at https://www.everydayconversion.com/104

--- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/everydayconversion/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/everydayconversion/support

One of the major undertakings of the prophet Joseph Smith was his translation of the Bible. 

As a matter of fact, he regarded it as "a branch of his calling" as a prophet. 

And as you try to read and understand Romans 7, I'll bet you'll be glad he did! 

In this episode we'll dig more into what the Joseph Smith Translation is, why it's important as well as looking at how it clarifies and corrects Paul's teachings in Romans 7. 

Questions: 

1. Why do you think the Lord commanded Joseph Smith to do a translation of the Bible? 

2. How important do you think living prophets and apostles are to help us understand and interpret scripture?  

Get all the resources mentioned in this episode at https://www.everydayconversion.com/103

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Romans chapter 5 is the pivotal chapter in the book of Romans. 

Chapters 1-4 build up to chapter 5, and chapters 6-16 build upon the foundation laid by chapter 5. 

Viewing the book of Romans in this way completely changes the way you read every chapter. 

Listen to this episode to learn more about looking at Romans in this way. 

Questions: 

1. How does comparing Adam and Christ help you understand the purpose of the Savior better? 

2. Have you looked at the Book of Romans as centering on Romans chapter 5? How does this viewpoint affect how you read the book of Romans? 

Get all the resources mentioned in this episode at https://www.everydayconversion.com/102

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Earlier today I recorded a live study session on the Every Day Conversion Podcast Facebook page. 

I was joined by my kids, Brooklynn and Cash...as well as a few cameo appearances from my youngest, Carsten. 

Listen in as we discuss this week's Come, Follow Me lesson. 

This really is live and unscripted...there are all sorts of distractions, just like there probably is when your family studies the scriptures! 

That's part of life! 

You can watch the video of the lesson by clicking here. 

Questions: 

1. Why did Heavenly Father save Paul from the poisonous snake? 

2. What role did Paul's faith play in his being protected?

Get all the resources mentioned in this episode at https://www.everydayconversion.com/099

--- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/everydayconversion/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/everydayconversion/support