1Nephi8- Thoughts on Seeds

What do you feel when you hold a seed?
After you've gathered grains of every kind?
If you liken them to your own needs-
Behold, visions may come to your mind

Lehi did this while in the wilderness
And he saw a man dressed in a brilliant white
Who beckoned him to pass the dark dreariness
That was engulfing, thus he prayed with all his might

In time he arose to behold a field-
Spacious and wide- and beyond- a tree
Its fruit, sweeter than any plant could yield
With whiteness brighter than any he'd ever seen

His eyes cast round to where his family stood
At the head of the river and near by
Would they partake as he hoped that they would?
“Please come”, he offered with a loud cry

Some did come and of the fruit partook
It fed their souls with exceeding joy
Dark mist arose and it was hard to look
For, he'd yet sons to come eat and enjoy

Then, he saw strangers along a narrow track
Who pressed along with a rod they held to
Some wandered off and did not come back
While others, after eating, withdrew as shame grew

For across the river ever came the loud scoffs
Of the pride filled people in a spacious building
And as they were wearing the finest apparel they mocked
The humble who enjoyed what the beloved tree was yielding

Ever he worried, would his lost sons find their way?
For he knew how easily seeds could be cast off
As in the nearby depths some drowned straight away
While, still, those who were haughty looked down from aloft

They with their hardened hearts, continually scorn
And distance themselves with their seed
While I to my straylings did ever call out and warn
This fruit is sweet and delicious indeed!

-Lehi's vision, 1 Nephi: 8

Steadfast and Immovable

Steadfast and Immovable, Always Abounding in Good Works
-Built upon the Master- As our foundation

What does it mean to be steadfast and immovable?
That I stand firmly Christ-like and unalterable;
Though mocks and scorns of the world call out to confuse me,
I'll defend virtue, integrity, and chastity.

As Captain Moroni's stripling warrior, I will fight
To maintain my worthiness. I will stand for the right.
My foundation is built on the Lord- Here I stand.
Though mighty whirlwinds blow- There is safety at hand.

I know for myself- I am firm and steadfast- I am free.
As I ponder and follow in faith- God speaks to me.
I'll progress and prepare- one drop of oil at a time.
To refuel my lamp, I will study, pray, and be kind.

I can become consistent in my preparation.
For the best fruit, I will declare my dedication.
My gospel roots can sink deep when they are well nourished.
With steady drops of living water, I will flourish.

Thoughts from Elder Bednar' talk.

Always Abounding in Good Works, Jan 2008, “Steadfast and Immovable, ” New Era

Poems Based on President Packer's talks

The Light of Christ

Christ spoke of a light which shineth.
To our eyes it enlighteth.
And, to our minds it quickeneth.

The Spirit of Christ can be likened to sunlight.
It stands brilliant though evil tries the world unto blight.
Our guardian angel, as cause and effect fight.

With this light, we have been created equally.
Endowed to all man so we will act sensibly.
It gives insight to instruct us sufficiently.

Yet this light is invisible.
To touch, it's intangible.
And it is indestructible.

Inside man the light can warn and guard and be our guide.
It enlightens us for the blessing of all mankind.
That each man may be accountable for his life.

Like a fan to a flame can burn much brighter.
This light dwells in all man and makes us better.
And can nourish with goodness to the comforter.

Yet this light is invisible.
To touch, it's intangible.
And it is indestructible.

This Holy light can become ignited by the Holy Ghost.
And bring to memory things taught by a Heavenly host,
Where familiar gospel truths ring from afar tolls.

May those bells heighten our courage, so we can grow.
May we tell all man of the Light so they can know,
How to feast on the words of Christ

 where e'er we go.

Yet this light is invisible.

To touch, it's intangible.
And it is indestructible.
- Boyd K. Packer

The Weak and Simple

No respecter of persons,
Our Lord has called the weak.
In a solemn procedure,
He calls those simply meek.
He qualifies those who serve.
Though they're untrained and unlearned.
That ev'ry man may speak
In the name of God the Son.
That faith might also increase
To break the mighty and strong ones.

In the service of the Lord,
It is not where but how.
One neither seeks nor declines.
Through our mouth, He endows.
The Lord's gospel is proclaimed,
Through the meek and not the famed.
That ev'ry man may speak
In the name of God the Son.
That faith might also increase
To break the mighty and strong ones.

As such was called young Joseph,
To organize God's church.
That we'd see it's through priesthood,
Not position, nor perch;
That we are governed and lead
By a living seen Godhead.
We do not pay clergy
We are taught with love instead.
As we're hungry for the truth
We are taught by living bread.

He commands unto the ends.
Our God has thus spoken,
With focus on the family-
Sealed love at home transcends.
We are taught from little ones-
Who from God have freshly come.
Our testimony is
All that we need to possess.
For we see Him work through us.
And of His hand, we confess.

-President Packer- Otherwise known as a frog
who has learned to jump very high

A Defense and A Refuge


After hiking as far as they could,
The apostles and the prophet stood
High above the valley- their new home.
With God’s blessings, no longer to roam.

To a walking stick, they tied a cloth.
On a high peak they waved it aloft.
As an ensign to all from the storm.
A raised standard which was not the norm.

Here, the mountain of the Lord

His high and holy place

Exalted above the hills

Here the veil to eternity, we embrace

Here was Zion that the Savior chose.
Here they’d blossom as a unique rose.
Those pioneers survived circumstance,
With Christ’s image in their countenance.

The lord’s moral standard we must preach
To those seeking refuge we will teach.
The pioneers’ homes had been taken.
Through trials their faith was not shaken.

Here, the mountain of the Lord

His high and holy place

Exalted above the hills

Here the veil to eternity, we embrace

If we’re doing the best that we can,
We can light a path for fellow man.
As a candle placed upon a high peak
Our flame can burn bright for all who seek.

We have a refuge and a defense
In our homes and our inheritance.
We do not attack or turn flighty
But, in faith we’ll pray to Almighty.

Here, the mountain of the Lord

His high and holy place

Exalted above the hills

Here the veil to eternity, we embrace

-President  Boyd K Packer


Who Is Jesus Christ?


The Father asked,
"Whom shall I send?
Who'll follow my plan
To the very end?"

One spoke freely,
"I, Thy First Son
Here am I, send me
And Thy will be done."

And one in protest
Of our Father's plan
This son took to test
Till one third was banned

Before us epochs
Behind us eons
Creation in check
And a world soon spawned

A place for man
The earth was formed
By Jehovah's hand

Our God, to be for

In God's image
First man was made
As Jehovah pledged
God's glory displayed

Adam and Eve
In the Garden
Used their agency
And fell from Eden

Lucifer, fallen
Came to tempt Eve
Adam determined
He, too, must believe

Left free to choose
There's repentance...
But wicked hands bruise
And there's consequence

Where's mankind's place?
In our Father's plan?
Jesus would show grace
And save earth and man

The Bread of Life
The Messiah
The Alpha of Light
And the Omega

Would come to earth
Born of Mary
With humble birth
Sin's load to carry

With all man's guilt
And sorrow too
Drops of blood were spilled.
Born for me and for you.

Evil piled
Too, mortal pain
Us, He reconciled
He forsook hell's claim

He bore taunting
And took abuse
He suffered scourging
With pain too profuse

He the world's Light
Who could call on legions
Laid down His own life
To take it up again

The ransom paid
Soon the earth reeled.
In the tomb, He lay.
The law was fulfilled

T'was He who died
For all of our sins
He, hated and tried.
When would He ascend?

On the third day
He was risen
Mankind was now saved
To live without end

I kneel to find
Words of gratitude
Agency is mine
This I choose to do


The Moving of the Water See this as a song at the end of the post...


A moving of the water
Caused by an angel that dipped
Healed the first one to enter
As unseen hands to head slipped

A gathering of the infirm
Await the water's stir
Whose turn to wash and be healed?
Before the waters stilled
----------------------
Impaired in body or mind
This sprinkling of mankind
Cannot care for themselves
And depend on someone else

Those who are in the family
Feel the blame, guiltily
That it's a result of sin
But, this is false doctrine

As Jesus passed a blind man
He taught of handicaps
He said of nature's sovereign
God's manifest in them

Don't ridicule or discard
What nature disregards
The infirm are innocent
And, not all ignorant

If we laugh at their expense
Let there be recompense
Those who mimic a palsy
May they fall where all see

Oh, that we were afflicted
With blindness, inflicted
And not see imperfection
Then, we'd know perfection

We should become like angels
Who move and water swells
By one act that we perform
We heal what's in deform

Our spirits locked in the flesh
Not always well they mesh
We'll serve without apathy
With love, not sympathy

Lest we die prematurely
We'll need some aid, surely
Let our works make an account
For when our needs, too, mount

When we resurrect, one day
Some we'll look a new way
Like the pool of Bethesda
One blink and it is done

For now might we just glimpse
The infirm's small attempts
For they've a spirit's guiding
Though often it's hiding

As everyone must progress-
A step by step process
May we help those handicapped
To be spiritually tapped

Each spirit's intelligent
What's now is earthly sent
When the sleeping dust's restored
We'll rejoice, with the Lord

There will be fullness of joy
Flesh no longer destroyed
The day of healing will come
With no more blind, deaf or dumb

see below for this poem in song...



Washed Clean

I was racked with torment

Stuck with all my varied sins

How I was harrowed up

So exposed and harried with 

Then, I was taught repentance

A chance to start anew!

Here is what I learned. By chance

It will start a change in you!

Our conduct is based on values
And more so the gospel improves us
As we learn doctrines and their use
We see the Atonement of Jesus

The doctrines can change behavior
Quicker than behavioral study
With the first we can become pure
With the latter we're long seen muddy

It is truly exhilarating
To ask and become spiritually cleansed
We're consoled. It's liberating
When we're not harrowed up by our sins

Just as we're obedient to laws
There are laws for ordinances too
The gospel can wash us of flaws
With values to help us become new

Boyd K. Packer
"Washed Clean"
Ensign May 1997, 9

Alma 36:17-19
17 And it came to pass that as I was thus racked with torment, while I was harrowed up by the memory of my many sins, behold, I remembered also to have heard my father prophesy unto the people concerning the coming of one Jesus Christ, a Son of God, to atone for the sins of the world.
18 Now, as my mind caught hold upon this thought, I cried within my heart: O Jesus, thou Son of God, have mercy on me, who am in the gall of bitterness, and am encircled about by the everlasting chains of death.
19 And now, behold, when I thought this, I could remember my pains no more; yea, I was harrowed up by the memory of my sins no more.

1. www.vocabulary.com › dictionary › harrowedHarrowed - Definition, Meaning & Synonyms | Vocabulary.com

   The adjective harrowed describes an anxious, troubled feeling. You may tell your friends you're fine, but your harrowed face betrays the fact that you're worried about your missing cat.

In Ancient Times, Came a Balm- The Balm of Gilead

In ancient times came a balm
For healing and for calm
From out of Gilead it came
And was asked for by name

In our day of disorders
Many are cured or ordered
And much can be prevented
If what's inside is tended

As for good health there are rules
Rest and exercise are useful tools
For maintained quality of lifestyles
And for preventing growing stress piles

But, this does not seem to be enough
Our minds can make life real tough
And how stuck thoughts will manifest
Into ill health all of us can attest

My message is an appeal
To those who feel at ill
My message is a kind plea
To those who know not peace

There is a spirit in man
Which can become ill and sad
And as we are prone to sin
Obedience is the best medicine

If you suffer from worry
Or cannot control fury
All these negative thoughts
Clutter up like junk lots

Put up a "no dumping" sign
And to God's laws realign
What's inside can be healed
As our bad thoughts are stilled

And the cure's found in prayer
May we oft be found there
To find soothing and healing
And be spiritually feeling

If we've a troubling heartache
Or are burdened by a mistake
Prayer's as though a transfusion
To ease and end confusion

And those "oughts" that were in control
Seem petty as we're freed from their toll
And the beam lifts from our eyes
So we see beautiful skies

There is strength as we gain understanding
That the Lord's inside us for our standing
And as the Prince of Peace, He knows our pain
And would that we pray and take on His name

The more we've His Spirit and the Comforter
We are more eased of disease and disorder
Forgive, forget and leave it alone
And, be grateful that our Lord did atone

There is a healing balm
That has to be applied
Our Lord can heal and calm
And, through prayer it is supplied

Boyd K. Packer
The Balm of Gilead
New Era, Aug 1979 36

Jer. 8: 22
Is there no balm in Gilead;
is there no physician there?
why then is not the health
of the daughter of my people recovered?

Jesus Christ the Master Healer

[Verse 1]

Why did the Savior suffer for me?
He must know and love me so deeply!
My debt to Him is incalculably great.
For He bore all the world's sins, at Hells' gate!
What power was His to carry the load?
To lift all flesh to a heav'nly abode?

Chorus]

How deep, the love of Jesus

the Master Healer of us all

He suffered deeply for us

He conquered sin and death- His call

[Verse 2]

I have sore trials that I must bear,
They deepen my faith.  I feel His kind care.
I know He heals wounds and mends broken hearts.
That peace and comfort, His Spirit imparts.
His gift to each cannot be destroyed by death.
He offers to all, His life giving breath.

Chorus]

How deep, the love of Jesus

the Master Healer of us all

He suffered deeply for us

He conquered sin and death- His call

[Verse 3]
The Master Healer in perfect frame,
Gives resurrection to those once lame.
Am I not also in need of this healing?
Thanks to Him, I am not past feeling.
Thanks to Him, there are brighter days ahead.
As He heals me I am spiritually fed.

Chorus]

How deep, the love of Jesus

the Master Healer of us all

He suffered deeply for us

He conquered sin and death- His call

-Elder Russell M. Nelson- Jesus suffered deeply,
because He loves us deeply!

85, Nov 2005, Russell M. Nelson, “Jesus Christ—
the Master Healer, ” Ensign

lds & Mormon Blogs

Thanks to David H. Sundwall

Poems Based on Elder Ballard's talks

We believe other lands had visits from Christ.
They saw signs in the heavens, they knew His name.
He taught them, they felt His wounds, He dried their eyes.
The Book of Mormon testifies that He came.

We're Christians otherwise nicknamed “The Mormons”.
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints-
And our missionaries can teach you lessons.
But, you can read on if you have time constraints...

Facts
Here are some facts to introduce us to you...
The Lord's Church was restored in 1830.
We've priesthood, apostles, and a prophet, too.
Our pioneers frontiered and proved how we're sturdy.

We've members in 176 countries
With 13 millions members, we are rising.
We don't smoke, drink alcohol, coffee or teas.
We've unpaid clergy, we serve and pay tithing.


Faith in God
We believe that God is our Heavenly Father.
And we are literally His spirit offspring.
That's why our names start with brother and sister.
And why the gospel sounds with a familiar ring.

We worship our Savior, our Lord Jesus Christ .
We try to be like Him, we pray in His name.
Those with priesthood are authorized and baptize.
Through total immersion we're never the same.

Family
Every Monday night's reserved for the family.
Where we'll teach each other, sing, pray and have fun.
We're known for having practiced polygamy.
Biblically restored, then abandoned, now shunned.

As families, we attend Sunday services.
We instruct each other using the scriptures.
In temples we perform sacred ordinances.
That seals families committed to their futures.

Fruits of the Gospel
The Savior said, “By their fruits, ye shall know them.”
For our Lord, we strive to be in His image.
To be healthier, we have the Word of Wisdom.
In love, we've a divorce rate lower than average.

We've shown our excellence in education
Missionaries surpass in their languages,
They pay their own way to teach. It's not a vacation!
With compassion, Saints serve and share from their wages.

This Was Simple and Short
These are a few thoughts, that come straight from the heart.
May these words build a bridge of understanding.
So together we'll rise up and make a new start.
Let's seek for the good, with friendships longstanding.

If you're still wanting to know a little more
Our doors stand wide open, where the Lord calls you.
You're what our missionaries hoped and trained for.
To witness that for man Christ died and now lives too.



O Be Wise

“Oh be wise, what can I say more.”
Wrote Jacob, to meekly implore.
A prophet thus speaks from the dust.
His wisdom, from God, we can trust.
He'd sincere energy of soul.
Each man, too, may magnify role.
We can serve both wisely and well.
When we do, it's easy to tell,
For we'll know their hopes and their dreams.
This is not as hard as it seems.

Oh be wise, I say to myself.
I must take the book off the shelf.
When I read of the prophets plea.
I know I feel the urgency.
Self-compelled I know what to do.
Simply put, I should follow through.
Innovate, through inspiration.
Contemplate, through meditation.
It's our chance to serve and to grow.
Stewardships are made to be so.

Near the beginning of the Book of Mormon, the prophet Jacob gives us the following counsel: “O be wise; what can I say more?” (Jacob 6:12)

-Elder Ballard

The Greatest Miracle of All

From Elder M. Russell Ballard's remarks honoring the Crandall Canyon mine collapse
To the Tune: Come Ye Children of the Lord

There is one who knows us best.
He only can give true rest.
He knows every ounce of pain.
For us He suffered, was slain.

Our hearts won't be troubled, now
With fears flayed to rest, and how?
His love enfolds us with His peace.
May our love for Him increase.

We endure and weep the night.
Then joy comes with morning light.
He bears what ere shadows fall-
The great miracle for all.

He has borne all man's sorrows.
Our hope for bright tomorrows,
We know His love is so pure.
With faith we cope and endure.


The Miracle of the Holy Bible

Four thousand years of sacred history
The Bible was preserved by holy men
It gives account of Christ's words and ministry
They are found in the old and new testament

They were protected through the dark ages
Through the countless conflicts of generations
Yet, still testifies of Christ in its pages
Though there'd been many hands and translations

We owe so much for each man's inspired words
We owe so much to the many martyrs
Who served all their lives and made record
And, too, we revere those called the reformers

God does direct what His scriptures should say
He's whom we place our trust and confidence
We are blessed to have the bible today
And, it's not by chance or coincidence

Here we learn of the teachings of Jesus
Here love and obedience can increase
Honest study of holy words help us
On our quest towards happiness and peace

Tens of millions find God in the Bible
Here they find truth to feed and guide their faith
Their dream to have freedoms, were not idle
They saught to be led by God and not fate

When the bible went into the household
It helped each man to search which doctrines were true
Now more light and wisdom can and does unfold
Influenced by one who asked what to do

Prompted by words he read in the bible
He went alone to a grove, to God beseech
Now what happened next, there's no denial
God and Jesus came to Joseph to teach

Without the bible, where would mankind be?
It led Joseph, who was schooled for manhood
From golden plates, he began translating
Then God's church was restored and, too, priesthood

Now we've the most correct of any book
For it was preserved and protected also
Translated by seers, he used to look
With this companion works, the church does grow!

Now, we've another testament of Christ
As the world grows in knowledge of all kinds
We're thankful our father hears our cries
That to every humble seeker- truth he finds

The bible is a pillar of our faith
And is a powerful witness of the Savior
It witnesses anew, and God may be praised
For the Latter- Days, we have help to endure!

-Elder Ballard

Family- What Matters the Most, Lasts the Longest

What matters the most, lasts the longest
And with our families, we are strongest
It should be strengthened and up foremost
There is no question- love gives the most

When we've a conflict or a crisis
There is a lot that we must process
We're reminded that families connect
They are supportive, as they protect

This is even more true after life
As a husband longs to see his wife
And each spouse searches for their mother
For their siblings, and for their father

In the spirit world, there's no question
We'll need our families as we station
The prophet issued to all the world
A clarion call- stern in it's word

Some priorities shut the child out
As declined values confuse and doubt
Ahead of its time, and for our age
God's given counsel in simple page

As the notions of society
Contrast with all that they now should be
For the survival of the family
We must define it- ev'r so clearly

Marriage is solemn- wife and husband
One woman, one man- with wedding band
Gender has purpose, that's premortal
And is essential and eternal

A husband and wife, God has ordained
And calamities rise when it's disdained
Couples now should live responsibly
With marriage vows of fidelity

Children should be reared or placed within
Honorable homes who've prayed for them
They are entitled to be cared for
As extended families lend support

As though a banner of liberty
This proclamation waves perfectly
It's for everyone- we're meant to be
Raised in honored homes committedly

Parenting involves great sacrifice
When there's selfishness- who pays the price?
If there is a change- a "tolerance"
Who is brunted with the consequence?

Our precious children, are now confused
The family has changed- as pawns they're used
Our Heavenly Father stands with wisdom
He's proclaimed to the earthly kingdoms

The family's in need of scaffolding
Which comes from the prayers they are holding
And, weekly there should be an evening
Set aside for home and believing

Each member should feel they are cherished
And are known by their brother, Jesus
His message to all can't be denied
"Love one another-For you I've died!"

We must now measure, we must fulfill
And live according to Father's will
What matter's the most, lasts the longest
He's counseled families- where we're strongest

Elder M. Russell Ballard
What Matters Most is What Lasts Longest
November 2005 Ensign

Lifting, Bending, and Twisting

Lifting, bending, and twisting
Every day in their homes
A young mother's existing
To find for what she combs

Under the couch and loveseat
Are toys and books and things
Wherever the children meet
With them there's much each brings

Perhaps one day she can rest
While the children stay calm
And even though they are at breast
There's nothing in her palm

As she captures the moment
She sees her best reward
Her precious children are lent
And she is the steward

This world busily demands
And children know this too
Yet, a mother understands
And knows just what to do

There's not a more worthy role
Than that of motherhood
And though it takes its toll
She'd striving as she should

She relies on her instincts
As each child's so diff'rent
Though her daily tasks may stink
At home she is content

A child's in need of well-being
While in formative years
And thus must have a routine
Or are oft found in tears

And so there's times of frustration
As things are overlooked
She makes a correlation
And knows she's overbooked

Each family needs unstructured time
When they can laugh and play
That's when bonding becomes prime
And shining joys display

Every good thing is brought to pass
By small and simple things
Like moments in photograph
Can capture the heart strings

So when a daughter of God's giv'n
A day to spend her way
All her thoughts while away she's liv'n
Are of them- thus, she prays

This is how the church is preserved
And we must give her aid
For while her role is observed
Firm foundations are laid

What's the best use of her spare time?
That she draw from the well
And, that she enrich her life
In what she may excel

Poems based on Elder Cook's talks

Live by Faith and Not by Fear see below- the song

[Verse 1]All over the world, there are good Latter- Day Saints

As truths are unfurled, faith abounds without restraints

Though we've drought conditions, we can find living waters

And our homes can be safe, midst precarious matters

[Chorus]

Live by faith and not by fear

Our Savior ever, ever is near

And His plan has been laid clear

[Verse 2]The gospel teaches us how to increase our faith

If we but listen, the Prophet teaches the way

When we have the Spirit, we serve and lengthen our stride

And, from temple's beacon, we're bright, no longer to hide

[Chorus]

Live by faith and not by fear

Our Savior ever, ever is near

And His plan has been laid clear

[Verse 3]When we feel weighed down, we can increase faith and prayer

We emphasize love, we reflect and feel aware

When we reach a crossroad, we'll follow Christ and not fear

He will share our burdens and make them easy to bear

[Chorus]

Live by faith and not by fear

Our Savior ever, ever is near

And His plan has been laid clear

[Bridge]

This is the time

More than ever before

To listen and obey

And for the Lord, labor

[Chorus]

Live by faith and not by fear

Our Savior ever, ever is near

And His plan has been laid clear

May We Heed Our Prophet

In California Santa
Ana winds blew
Carrying fires up
Smoke and heat grew

Some must risk their lives
To sufficate flames
Yet, onward sparks thrived
While rescues worked in waves

From this we can learn
A crisis comes quickly
To all it can burn
Poor, rich, strong or sickly

At first it's subtle
An ember to arise
Then all is crucial
As it's right before our eyes

Gone would be the home
Along with everything
But, perhaps a phone
Which would be the best thing?

With news emerging...
There's a shelter to wait
With homeless merging
They had succumbed to fate

The church springs to aid
So faith will not fade
Food, blankets and water
Midst prayers to Heavenly Father

Faith must be in tact
And organization
All's at risk in fact
A stark realization

--------------

In the promised land
During conference session
Bad news came at hand...
"There's a stuck procession"

The priesthood holders
Gave heed to the prophet
Dropping church folders
They thought not twice of it

Time was against them
To save those pioneers
On the verge of death
They must brave their fears

As the snow drifts stormed
Twas terrible indeed
Yet, rescue teams formed
For those in dire need

In a selfless act
At Sweet Water some laved
Their faith was in tact
They carried those they'd saved

When the prophet called
Their love was heroic
To serve no one stalled
Though the waters icy thick

May we not forget
May we act in like kind
Those in dire need fret
And, of those may we find

In conference we hear
What's for our best profit
His message is clear
May we heed our prophet

Poems based on Elder Groberg's talks

Here and Now

Here and now, I can know what my life is about
I can be assured of my mission, my true route
If I pray and study and do what God requires
I will start, I will move, in tune with God's desires
I'll seek growth; keep moving, though challenged by mistakes
I will learn, prayerfully to discern as I do what it takes
Though the sea boils high as it tries to engulf me
I'll exert all of my energy, vigorously

Here and now, I can know what I am meant to do
I can pray and not faint. I can know what is true
Dear Father, consecrate what I do, to Thy care
May what I do perform be for my soul's welfare
With one line at a time I will try with my might
I'll trust Thee to help me keep my goal in clear sight
I'll seek not for riches, But, I'll seek for Thy wisdom
This I'll pray. Then I'll say “Look out world, Here I come.”

- Elder Groberg

Poems based on Elder Bednar's talks

Clean Hands and a Pure Heart

During His three day ministry
Our Savior of the world
Called and authorized disciples
in His doctrines they were schooled
He healed the sick, and blessed children
as He prayed for His people
He then succinctly summarized
principles of His gospel

“Unto Me, come,” the Savior taught
Come and make sacred covenants
And, renunciate all your sins
unto baptismal ord'nance
In His own time and His own way
and according to His will
We can come to know Him,
as those in the land of Bountiful

Once repentant, we are baptized
our hearts turn towards our God
And the Holy Ghost prepares us
to stand Holy without spot
Through Christ's merits, mercy and grace
our commitment does not drift
He's our Light, which does guide us
our faith in Him, His gift

There is purpose in our journey
we walk in newness of life
When we yield our hearts unto God
we obtain the mind of Christ
Where once carnal, we're cleansed and healed
As with fire we're refined
And the Holy Ghost sanctifies
and the soul is purified

When we've no more disposition
to do that which is evil-
Our hands are clean and we reach out
We become His Disciple
We should avoid and overcome
And, repent, be cleansed from sin
The Lord helps us do and be good
and change our hearts from within

With clean hands and with a pure heart
We ascend unto the hills
Where the sick and poor are now fed
And there's faith, which God instills
May we offer our Lord pure hearts
with clean hands as we were meant
May we apply the atonement
And, do as we are now sent

He raised the dead
He healed the sick
He cleansed leprosy
He knows my heart
He knows my hands
And, I know He loves me


We Must Be Born Again

May we sing to thee, Thy spiritually reborn?
Prepared and immersed, bless us and adorn
We want to be more transparently clean
Baptism transformed us to a new sheen

We want to show faith, and make use of priesthood
Till saturated, continually good
Blessed as new creatures, from this mighty change
Help thoughts and desires be pure, rearranged

May we absorb truths, keep covenants that protect
Seek line upon line, precept on precept
Help us stay renewed, with motives refined
Imperceptibly, more with Thee aligned

May might mind and strength, help us take on Christ’s name
When we do much good, we're never the same
Complete burial, total immersion
When we are reborn, it's by conversion

We speak from the soul with renewed energy
To all in the land, the bond and the free
Culminate our steps to change and transform
Born to preach of Christ, we'll cry and forewarn

Dear Father shed forth to all who now are true
More gratitude for the Holy Ghost, too
Help us feel it warn, when we are amiss
We want to stay clean and sealed with promise



Steadfast and Immovable,
Always Abounding in Good Works
-Built upon the Master- As our foundation

What does it mean to be steadfast and immovable?
That I stand firmly Christ-like and unalterable;
Though mocks and scorns of the world call out to confuse me,
I'll defend virtue, integrity, and chastity.

As Captain Moroni's stripling warrior, I will fight
To maintain my worthiness. I will stand for the right.
My foundation is built on the Lord- Here I stand.
Though mighty whirlwinds blow- There is safety at hand.

I know for myself- I am firm and steadfast- I am free.
As I ponder and follow in faith- God speaks to me.
I'll progress and prepare- one drop of oil at a time.
To refuel my lamp, I will study, pray, and be kind.

I can become consistent in my preparation.
For the best fruit, I will declare my dedication.
My gospel roots can sink deep when they are well nourished.
With steady drops of living water, I will flourish.


Seek Learning By Faith

As we look forward and anticipate
An ever confused and turbulent time
It becomes essential to seek learning by faith
Where there is spiritual strength and direction in life
And protection in the knowledge we obtain

Learning by faith opens the pathway into the heart
Hoping for things which are not seen but are true
All that the teacher spiritually prepared to impart
To demonstrate, persuade and testify anew
Through the Holy Ghost, if we will but do our part

Faith in action enables us to press forward
Assured that we've found the correct understanding
Though we're uncertain and where we are going is hard
We step into darkness from the light where we're standing
Which provides evidence of faith and we coil upward

In God's grand division of all His creations
They're things to act and things to be acted upon
We have been blessed with the power to be agents
The Lord safeguards us from Lucifer's rebellion
And, thus we learn to be morally obedient

When we're receptive our learning is not passive
We become actors and doers of the word
Our pondering invites learning in the process
The Holy Ghost whispers truth of what is heard
And from faith's pathway to the heart- there's a witness

In Joseph's time ministers told him what to do
In the midst of this war of word and tumult of thought
He went to a grove to pray of which church spoke the truth
He sought learning by faith, he wanted to be taught
Through faith, the Word of God spoke to him in his youth

To answer a deep question, no matter what it is
The Holy Ghost is a teacher from the Father
As a member of the Godhead it witnesses
And can enter into the heart of the learner
It is a sacred Gift, if we've faith it blesses

In 2005, we were invited to grow
To read the Book of Mormon, in a matter of months
To act and not be acted upon, while here below
The world is trouble, what is it one really wants?
The faith to step in the dark, and trust where to go


Because We Have Them Before Our Eyes

Because we have them before our eyes
We'll learn to hear His voice in the word
A written recording for our time
Is felt in our heart. Where it is heard
For new impressions, to brighten our mind

It takes a life time to come unto Christ
For all that we learn, know and do
Is developed and deepened in kind
As we press forward and learn all anew
For each can feast on the truths there to find

To those who'll hear, He calls "follow me"
As His door is opened unto us
Imagine the things then we will see
Reverent reflecting, one cannot rush
when we record our thoughts, more there will be!

-Elder Bednar

The Spiritual Gift of Being Quick to Observe

A message is heard.
It leaves an impact.
It wasn't a word.
Or even a fact.
What made us discern?
Our spiritual ears?
Or observed concern
Mingled with tears?
As new resolve nears.

Without a reserve
We're set, we resolve.
“Be quick to observe,”
As care does evolve,
When we have felt moved.
We know we must leap.
It's time to be proved.
We've promptings to keep.
We are not lost sheep.

Through prayer we're given
Power to detect
What is from heaven,
What not to neglect.
Our growth we'll behold.
Where once was concealed,
Our good will unfold,
Spiritually revealed.
And, resolve is sealed.

- Elder Bednar


God's Tender Mercies

God’s tender mercies can be found
When emotions are tightly wound.
A special sign to show He cares
And He’s with us, our troubles He bares.
A favorite Hymn, words in a talk.
Witness to us in whose footsteps we walk.
We feel as though with God our spirit mingles
We are left in awe with loving tingles.

Our thoughts provide a place to grow.
Where new enlightenment can flow.
Thus storing all our decisions,
We are grateful for those guided actions.
We ponder our life in our prayers.
Then we gain perspective from one who cares.
We feel as though with God our spirit mingles
We feel we are held by wings of eagles.

The future holds great mysteries.
We’ve potential and destinies.
A noble lasting new-found birth.
We’ll have added glory beyond our worth.
In celestial mansions we’ll live.
Dwelling close to Him who’s Son He did give.
Then we’ll know that with God our spirit mingles
We’ll see we are surrounded by angels.

-Elder Bednar

And Nothing Shall Offend Them

Through the strengthening power of the atonement
An offense is over-ruled. We triumph
We can live together with at-one-ment
If we petition in prayer for guidance

Keeping covenants requires dedication
And, of the many who've left their covenants
They are in need of our inspiration
We need prayer to open walls of offense

Why have they not been participating
In the blessings and programs of the church?
Ofttimes they're lifestyles are dissipating
And, grievances have turned them away hurt

These are some of the reasons some have cited:
Some felt excluded and without a friend.
Until some have moved or died
Some vow to not set foot in again

With commandments they struggled to live within
They avoided change and went another way
Do they remember the spirit given?
Do they remember what the scriptures say?

Where once they might have viewed us severely
We pray that they might feel of our concern
If we'd visit and ask them sincerely
Perhaps the spirit might help them return

One of the Lord's disciples has proclaimed
It is time to stop feeling offended
Each of us do things of which we're ashamed
It's time for the lost sheep to feel tended

All must act and not be acted upon
As free agents we can choose for our good
It is time to find the faith that we stand on
The Holy Ghost will witness how we should

Ask in Faith

May the Holy Ghost assist
As we consider meaningful prayer
For when we've faith, we'll enlist
All of heaven's blessing which lie there

An example of great faith
Was given to us by young Joseph
Who asked and did not abraid
When he read the first word- if

He believed the words of James
He wanted to know what should be done
With churches of many names
He could not decide on anyone

He went to a grove of trees
And sought prayer after much pondering
He humbly expressed his pleas
In him, there was nothing wavering

For faith without works is dead
If there's but one-way interaction
He knew on where his thoughts led
T'wards Jesus Christ and righteous action

We've increased capacity
As wells of knowledge flow and inspire
To live our lives spiritually
There's power in faith filled desire

A prayer of faith might include
A review of all we've been given
With thoughts based on gratitude
This is the way each prayer should begin

When we pray for missionaries
It also mean we pray to give aid
With faith we'll find who carries
A prepared heart with some questions laid

We pray too for the needy
For those who are sick and afflicted
May we do whate'er needs be
To show God's love is unrestricted

We've each known anxiety
We can turn to God and petition
When we fear propriety
And become stuck in hesitation

Prayers are consecrated work
Expressed to our Father in Heaven
Prayers of faith require effort
We're not finished when we say "amen"

As we follow this pattern
We are blessed to recognize and act
On the things that we discern
We can seek help to complete our pact

Sometimes prayers may be denied
For we'll not oft receive a witness
Until our faith has been tried
And we increase spiritual fitness

"Not my will, but Thine, be done"
Though hard it is to accept God's will
We can bear as did the Son
In faith, we've prayers of peace that are still

Poems based on Elder Nelson's talks

In A Day That's Lacking Restraint

In a day that's lacking in restraint
We need to be wholesome and quaint
The Master has called out, “repent”
To proclaim this- prophets were sent
We can be washed and found worthy
We can have hope on our journey
Spread the news to all upon the land
The Kingdom of God is now at hand
We can change and come unto Christ
Thus avoiding a sad tragic life
The prize of joy is worth the price
For those who are swamped much in sin
The gospel life helps us change from within

What does it mean to repent?
Does it mean we feel some regret?
Our sorrow must be so sincere
Each patient step must include prayer
The first step is recognition
Then there's remorse unto confession
We confess to all those we offend
Though we're sincere, this in not the end
The next step is restitution
We can restore without spite's friction
We'll show faith to this fruition
For all those who are swamped much in sin
The gospel life brings a change from within

When Jesus said we must repent
With soul and mind is what He meant
To not repeat, He said there's more
For we've eternal life in store
We're asked to change even our breath
Thus avoiding a spiritual death
When we repent we are converted
Our whole being is then diverted
We repent in thought and in deed
The fruit of repentance is so sweet!
With the love of God as our treat
For all those who are swamped much in sin
The gospel life builds us from deep within

Repentance and Conversion - Russell M. Nelson


Jesus Christ the Master Healer

Why did the Savior suffer for me?
He must know and love me so deeply!
My debt to Him is incalculably great
He took away the world's sins, even hate!
What power was His to carry the load?
He lifts all up to a heav'nly abode

When I've sore trials that I must bear
I'll deepen my faith and show I care
I know He can heal wounds and broken hearts
That peace and comfort, His Spirit imparts
His gift to each can't be destroyed by death
He grants unto all, His living breath

The Master Healer in perfect frame
Gives resurrection to those once lame
Am I not also in need of healing?
Thanks to Him, I am not past feeling
Thanks to Him, there are bright days ahead
As He heals me, with the water and bread

-Elder Russell M. Nelson-
Jesus suffered deeply, because He loves us deeply!


Faith in Jesus Christ

The genesis of a human body
Begins with the union of just two cells
Twenty- three chromosomes from each unite
What this child will look like, this cell fortells

Twenty- two days later, heart beats are heard
In four more days blood's in circulation
As cells multiply and divide away
Into an amazing creation

From electricity, the heart works hard
Delicate valves open and close in pace
Soon form the eyes to see and ears to hear
As the nerves and muscles grow in their place

The body is made with back-up systems
Tools for resistance are generated
The bones can mend, skin can heal, and leaks can seal
As fixed temperatures are regulated

Unto every kingdom is given a law
And every law has bounds and conditions
This scientists can measure and define
Laws apply to all of God's creations

The phase of the moon, the stars in the sky-
Their courses are fixed to heaven and earth
Such order bears witness of majesty
In seven days, God formed law and all birth

The scriptures declare of our beginning
Each man's been organized in God's image
The male and female, created He them
For us laws were formed, to the very edge

Dynamic faith in our Lord Jesus Christ
Lend to our minds a new way of thinking
Works form a conversion and change of heart
That cannot come from eating and drinking

We're made alive in Christ, because of faith
And of Him we're spiritually begotten
There's strength to press forward with steadfastness
Feeling the love of God unto all men

With the Book of Mormon and the Bible
We've scriptures in each hand and we promise
With full purpose of heart, we preach of Christ
And show through faith and our works, we are His

I testify that Jesus is the Christ
As Son of the Living Father
He is our Savior and our Advocate
He has laws to obey, one with another

-Russell M. Nelson, “Faith in Jesus Christ,”
Liahona, Mar 2008, 24–30

Faith

Faith is the substance of things hoped for
The evidence of things not seen
While abounding towards forevermore
Steadfast with hope that's bright and clean

Faith at the foundation is personal
There Christ can dwell inside the heart
It is the Gospel's first principle
Where roots are grounded for their start

We come in unity of our faith
To grow in knowledge of God's Son
Here we come to talk of Christ and pray
Oh, may our hearts sing out as one

With faith, we are made alive in Christ
And, we're no longer tossed about
May our voices ring to God on high
We have faith, of this there's no doubt

Listen to Learn

There's good counsel to receive instruction
So you're found wise and safe from destruction
Surley, we'll find wisdom from each neighbor,
Child, parent, leader, and from the Lord
Are we eager to listen, when in distress?
Or when there's trials we need to address?

When others express anguish, do we listen?
With both ears? Do we have to time fit them in?
When someone is in shock they speak openly
Do we interrupt and act most shockingly?
We can try to understand distressed feelings
Should we try ignoring them or pretending?

When young people are lonely or troubled
Their need for us to listen is now doubled
When they are behaving like a frenzied beast
That's when they seem to deserve favor the least
The wise listen to learn from children
Who in turn are wise- when obedient

The husband and wife listen best- together
Then they try to learn from one- another
Talking time is prime fro our love and commitment
For weed may choke out fruits requirement
When the garden is well cultivated
A marriage is proven and dedicated

When we listen, it promotes tolerance
We learn their true intent and sentiment
Even if their persuasions are diverse
We can be polite when ere we converse
We learn to listen and listen to learn
This too is how the spirit can discern

In our day the prophet is far reaching
And we must turn our ears to his teachings
He teaches us of how life is best enjoyed
Those who ignore will one day be destroyed
When we incline our ears, we listen
And we can see with our ears, the vision

We need to listen, to hearken, and obey
This is true when ere we read and when we pray
We feel inspired, we speak and then we wait
To understand the answer which comes by faith
We lend an ear unto counsel, with laws kept
Line upon line, we then hear Father's precepts


Come Hear and Understand

Come hear and understand the gospel
That is given to every people
Come learn of God and be of one
With every nation, kindred and tongue

We've potential for exaltation
We must work out our salvation
Through faith in Christ and repentance
We are baptized- as an ordinance

As individuals we must perceive
What covenants we make and receive
When we're given the Holy Ghost
We comprehend what we need the most

For the highest state of happiness
We'll focus on what acts in us
Then progress to our family
As the home is love's laboratory

Who's our guide to love one another?
He is our Elder Brother!
There's patience and kind service
As we walk in truth and soberness

For the increase of love desired
Oft a rebuke is required
May this lead t'wards eternal life
While learning from overcoming strife

We've each responsibility
We've each accountability
As lawful heirs sealings extend
Let's endure with love that never ends

"In God's eternal plan, salvation is
an individual matter;
Exaltation is a family matter"

Salvation and Exaltation


O Be Wise

“Oh be wise, what can I say more.”
Wrote Jacob, to meekly implore.
A prophet thus speaks from the dust.
His wisdom, from God, we can trust.
He'd sincere energy of soul.
Each man, too, may magnify his role.
We can serve both wisely and well.
When we do, it's easy to tell,
For we'll know their hopes and their dreams.
This is not as hard as it seems.

Oh be wise, I say to myself.
I must take the book off the shelf.
When I read of the prophets plea.
I know I feel the urgency.
Self-compelled I know what to do.
Simply put, I should follow through.
Innovate, through inspiration.
Contemplate, through meditation.
It's our chance to serve and to grow.
Stewardships are made to be so.

A crucial component of life
Comes at the doors of death
When we've lost a husband or wife
We're lonely and bereft
The separation evokes pangs
Of loneliness and shock
Where this heavy door hangs
There's an unbearable clock

The younger the greater the grief
They're seen as a victim
The tragedy's beyond belief
The loved one's far stricken
Yet, even when the infirm are called
Though it gives them relief
In some way they had stalled
And their last good-bye seems brief

The deepest expression of love
Is to mourn for those lost
We've divine command from above
To weep when there's a loss
The only way to avoid tears
Is to remove the love
Oh, the reunion with our dears
When we return home above!

God's our primary directive
Woe to them not handling
When we've eternal perspective
We've peace past understanding
Life does not begin with our birth
Nor does it end with death
Prior to birth we had worth
We can go on without breath!

As seedlings of God while on the earth
We were born to die then live
From blossoms to flowers of worth
We've a journey with motive
To everything there's a season
A time, and a purpose
With numbers too scarce to reason
Daily vasts return through purchase

We pass through- not around deaths doors
On a returning trip
To live with the Father once more
Though trials we would to skip
Deaths essential to happiness
And there's life beyond the veil
If we could just peek and witness-
How we'd prepare there to dwell!

For, this much we know within
The real sting of death is sin
As the spirit's mortified
From God, separate, denied
Opportunity gone
As we see clearly each wrong
In our sins, we'll not be saved
To repent, we're redeemed- waived

The twilight of life is long
It's difficult to be strong
We must endure physically
And learn to cope spiritually
we've a divine injunction
To endure till there's no function
With heavy hardships we lean
But, with them much can be gleaned

We must endure our trials
And suffer long with kind smiles
We'll pattern after the Lord
Through suffering, He loved, adored
And after tribulation
We're promised blessing's station
Our life is temporary
Then there's extraordinary

Returned to God and His home
Where a state of rest is known
This is temporary still
According to Father's will
The grave must deliver up
The body and spirit cuff
To become a living soul
Immortal in its new role

Our bodies will be perfect
As they're no longer subject
With eternal laws employed
These bodies can't be destroyed
Then comes the day of our Lord
Where our judgment is offered
There we'll be judged of our works
Presided by Christ and not clerks

Those who've almost to death crashed
Report seeing their whole life flashed
Having a rapid recall
They saw good and bad- It all
There's a sense of returning
And of a bright light burning
Some have seen their ancestors
But, their time was not answered

They live to tell us of peace
We know that life will increase
This is our time to prepare
We can bless others with care
Be generous and give thanks
And seal unto family ranks
With loved ones close to enjoy
Death's door will be sweet with joy

When our departure's at hand
May the veil of death be thin
As loved ones on both sides stand
There's comfort to journey in
Death does not hold one hostage
But, it comes eventually
When we've reached our time full-fledged
Then we slip away ever gently