Emunah- Stand Firm

 

You can lean your whole weight

Upon the Lord, our God

Stand firm and steadfast, emunah

For God helps to bear all you've got

In truth, you need not buckle

Under your heavy load

He knows your times of trouble

Such is the strength of God

Faith is not just abstract

It is more than a thought

Or a feelings to enact

It's what keeps you standing, taught

A prayer of faith is said

And all around you hear "amen"

In support of what comes ahead

Just like Aaron and Hur back then

During the battle with Amalek

Moses held out the staff of God

And his arms were upheld

Steady until the enemy was gone

The righteous live by emunah

The righteous live by emunah

They find strength to live upon

The righteous live by emunah  

Verse 1] You can lean your whole weight Upon the Lord, our God Stand firm and steadfast, emunah For God helps to bear all you've got In truth, you need not buckle Under your heavy load He knows your times of trouble Such is the strength of God [Pre-Chorus] Faith is not just abstract It is more than a thought Or of feelings to enact It's what keeps you standing, taught A prayer of faith is said And all around you hear amen In support of what comes ahead Just like Aaron and Hur back then [Chorus] The righteous live by emunah The righteous live by emunah They find strength to live upon The righteous live by emunah The righteous live by emunah The righteous live by emunah Hold my arms when I grow weak The righteous live by emunah [Verse 2] During the battle with Amalek Moses held out the staff of God And his arms were upheld Steady until the enemy was gone When my hands are tired and shaking You lift what I can't hold When my heart is worn and breaking You steady my soul [Pre-Chorus] Faith is not just abstract It is more than a thought Or of feelings to enact It's what keeps you standing, taught A prayer of faith is said And all around you hear amen In support of what comes ahead Just like Aaron and Hur back then [Chorus] The righteous live by emunah The righteous live by emunah They find strength to live upon The righteous live by emunah The righteous live by emunah The righteous live by emunah Hold my arms when I grow weak The righteous live by emunah [Bridge] When the night feels long And my strength runs dry You remain my song You lift me high Hands still raised in trust Heart still set on You What You start in us You carry through [Final Chorus] The righteous live by emunah The righteous live by emunah They find strength to live upon The righteous live by emunah The righteous live by emunah The righteous live by emunah Hold my arms when I grow weak The righteous live by emunah

Habakkuk 2:4, "the righteous will live by his emunah" - quoted three times in the New Testament - and the honest, centuries-old ambiguity over whether it means "faith" or "faithfulness" - What it means when the Bible calls GOD Himself emunah - faithful, reliable, load-bearing, incapable of buckling

steadfast and immovable

Hebrews 11:1 — “Now faith is confidence in what we hope for and assurance about what we do not see.”

Faith is a relationship of confidence in God’s character, His promises, and His faithfulness.

Have a Challenge and Go for the Victory! This Our Time to Accept the Challenge

Have a challenge?
Go for the victory!
Aim to be known
And make history!

This is our time
For excellence
While tempering much
Through obedience

This is our time
To find our path
This is our time
To escape from wrath

Might we seek God
To develop in full
Might we in life
For this is our school

[Verse 1] Have a challenge? Go for the victory! Aim to be known And make history! [Pre-Chorus] This is our time For excellence While tempering much Through obedience [Chorus] This is our time This is our time To find our path To escape from wrath This is our time This is our time (to be made whole) (to walk in truth) [Verse 2] Might we seek God To develop in full Might we in life For this is our school [Pre-Chorus] This is our time For excellence While tempering much Through obedience [Chorus] This is our time This is our time To find our path To escape from wrath This is our time This is our time (to be made whole) (to walk in truth) [Bridge] Teach our hands to stay Our hearts to lean Shape us in the fire Till we are clean [Final Chorus] This is our time This is our time To find our path To escape from wrath This is our time This is our time (to be made whole) (to walk in truth)

Equals- Light of Christ- Expand Anew

With the Light of Christ we're made as equals
Endowed with the ability to think
And recognize Heavenly calls
There to spiritually explore and drink

As we meditate we're oft sensitive
To truths that teach and guide
With self-improvement as the motive
The Light will grow inside

Sometimes we think or say
A new thought and know it's true
As it too shows us the way
To expand in Light anew

Verse 1] With the Light of Christ we're made as equals Endowed with the ability to think To recognize Heavenly calls And spiritually explore and drink [Pre-Chorus] As we meditate we're oft sensitive To truths that teach and guide With self-improvement as the motive The Light will grow inside [Chorus] Light of Christ Light of Christ We grow in You Light of Christ Light of Christ Expand in Light anew (Expand in Light anew) [Verse 2] Exploring we think or say A new thought and know it's true As it too shows us the way To expand in Light anew [Pre-Chorus] As we meditate we're oft sensitive To truths that teach and guide With self-improvement as the motive The Light will grow inside [Chorus] Light of Christ Light of Christ We grow in You Light of Christ Light of Christ Expand in Light anew (Expand in Light anew) [Bridge] A new thought and know it's true To recognize Heavenly calls And spiritually explore and drink Till mercy fills us all [Chorus] Light of Christ Light of Christ We grow in You Light of Christ Light of Christ Expand in Light anew (Expand in Light anew

A Clap of Thunder- Desert Rains

A clap of thunder
Came unannounced
And we ran for cover
For it was pronounced

It was just enough
To soak the hard ground
This rain from above
What a blessing grand!

This hot desert storm
In the midst of a drought
Is what we prayed for

In faith, with little doubt

God heard our prayers

He knows our needs

He feels. He cares

He hears.  He sees.

Verse 1] A clap of thunder Came unannounced And we ran for cover For it was pronounced It was just enough To soak the hard ground This rain from above What a blessing grand! [Pre-Chorus] This hot desert storm In the midst of a drought Is what we prayed for In faith, with little doubt God heard our prayers He knows our needs He feels. He cares He hears. He sees. [Chorus] He hears, He sees He hears, He sees What we need, He gives (what we need, He gives) He hears, He sees He hears, He sees Rain on the dry ground (rain on the dry ground) [Verse 2] The dust gave way To a softer place What was cracked and empty Was touched by grace We bowed our heads With tears in our eyes For mercy came down From the open skies [Pre-Chorus] This hot desert storm In the midst of a drought Is what we prayed for In faith, with little doubt God heard our prayers He knows our needs He feels. He cares He hears. He sees. [Chorus] He hears, He sees He hears, He sees What we need, He gives (what we need, He gives) He hears, He sees He hears, He sees Rain on the dry ground (rain on the dry ground) [Bridge] And if the sky stays still We will trust Him still If the well runs low We will trust Him still But when the thunder came And the storm broke through We knew every drop Was a promise true [Final Chorus] He hears, He sees He hears, He sees What we need, He gives (what we need, He gives) He hears, He sees He hears, He sees Rain on the dry ground (rain on the dry ground) He hears, He sees He hears, He sees Faith in the hard ground (faith in the hard ground)

Who'll Walk the Trail of our Pioneers?

Who'll walk the trail
Of our pioneers?
Their faith did not pale
But calmed all their fears

On these paths they left
A legacy of faith
Though blizzards swept
Their trust was not faint

With naught to eat
They pressed on
With frozen feet
On, towards Zion

Through desert, mountain, and prairie
They took all that they could
United in Christ to carry
Hope and brotherhood

Seventy thousand trekked
Before the railroads came
Snow, mud, and rain unchecked
Fell... and God was not blamed

Chilled, wet, malnourished, weak
They pushed handcarts forward
From icy rivers to mountain peaks
They dared not to look rearward

Thirteen hundred miles later
Imagine the joy and relief
To have what they had prayed for
A place to blossom with belief

[Verse 1] Who'll walk the trail Of our pioneers? Their faith did not pale But calmed all their fears On these paths they left A legacy of faith Though blizzards swept Their trust was not faint [Pre-Chorus] With naught to eat They pressed on With frozen feet On, towards Zion [Chorus] Who'll walk the trail? Who'll walk the trail? Legacy of faith Legacy of faith Through desert, mountain, and prairie They carried hope and brotherhood United in Christ to carry Hope and brotherhood [Verse 2] Seventy thousand trekked Before the railroads came Snow, mud, and rain unchecked Fell... and God was not blamed Chilled, wet, malnourished, weak They pushed handcarts forward From icy rivers to mountain peaks They dared not to look rearward [Pre-Chorus] With naught to eat They pressed on With frozen feet On, towards Zion [Chorus] Who'll walk the trail? Who'll walk the trail? Legacy of faith Legacy of faith Through desert, mountain, and prairie They carried hope and brotherhood United in Christ to carry Hope and brotherhood [Bridge] Thirteen hundred miles later Imagine the joy and relief To have what they had prayed for A place to blossom with belief [Final Chorus] Who'll walk the trail? Who'll walk the trail? Legacy of faith Legacy of faith Through desert, mountain, and prairie They carried hope and brotherhood United in Christ to carry Hope and brotherhood Who'll walk the trail? Who'll walk the trail? Legacy of faith Legacy of faith

Let Us Be As Job

Let us lay aside
Every weight we bear
And no longer hide
From our Father's care

Let us be as Job
Patient in all ways
His faith did naught but grow
For all of His days

He had known great wealth
Blessed beyond measure
Then he lost his health
And all one could treasure

Still Job, then, honored
The trust He had been given
As strength he gathered
Through the hope of heaven

[Verse 1] Let us lay aside Every weight we bear And no longer hide From our Father's care Let us be as Job Patient in all ways His faith did naught but grow For all of His days [Pre-Chorus] He had known great wealth Blessed beyond measure Then he lost his health And all one could treasure Still he stood in faith Still he held on tight When the world went dark He reached for light [Chorus] Let us lay aside Let us lay aside Our Father's care Is here tonight Let us be as Job Let us be as Job Patient in all ways Held by His light [Verse 2] He had known great wealth Blessed beyond measure Then he lost his health And all one could treasure Still Job, then, honored The trust He had been given As strength he gathered Through the hope of heaven [Pre-Chorus] He had known the rain He had known the flame Yet he kept his name And he kept his frame Through the dust and ash Through the broken ground Faith was in his hands When none was found [Chorus] Let us lay aside Let us lay aside Our Father's care Is here tonight Let us be as Job Let us be as Job Patient in all ways Held by His light [Bridge] When the sorrow stays And the answers wait Teach our hearts to bend Not to break If we lose it all Still we will sing Hope will rise again In the sheltering [Final Chorus] Let us lay aside Let us lay aside Our Father's care Is here tonight Let us be as Job Let us be as Job Patient in all ways Held by His light

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 is not easy

But the prize is worth the price

The steps may be humbling

But they bring you close to Christ

[Verse 1]

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

[Pre-Chorus]

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

[Chorus]

Repentance is not easy

The prize is worth the price

The steps may be humbling

They bring you close to Christ

The prize is worth the price

The prize is worth the price

[Verse 2]

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 is not the end

[Pre-Chorus]

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

[Chorus]

Repentance is not easy

The prize is worth the price

The steps may be humbling

They bring you close to Christ

The prize is worth the price

The prize is worth the price

[Bridge]

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

[Final Chorus]

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 is not easy

The prize is worth the price

The steps may be humbling

They bring you close to Christ

The prize is worth the price

The prize is worth the price

Repentance and Conversion - Russell M. Nelson

102–5, May 2007, Russell M. Nelson,
“Repentance and Conversion, ” Liahona

Highest Ground

We are grouping people with suffixes ists and ites

And are defining them into tidy boxes, too 

Then we are labeling them with an ism or even two

For the practices or actions they do

Any labeled box that one opposes

Is only fair game for any insult

And can go as far as inviting murder

For someone extreme enough to do it 

But a nation divided cannot stand

So we must lay contention down

And listen more to understand

Can we meet at the highest ground?

Can we meet at a sound place of love?

Where harmful threats come to no one

Can we offer peace and rise above

All the bad things that we have done?

For we have become distracted 

With bigot blaming and accusing

And our weaknesses have attracted

Those who'd pay for more bruising

Yes, if we fail as a nation

Another power will take its place

Weapons and all freedoms will go

As their ways we are forced to embrace

[Verse 1] We are grouping people with suffixes ists and ites And are defining them into tidy boxes, too Then we are labeling them with an ism or even two For the practices or actions they do Any labeled box that one opposes Is only fair game for any insult And can go as far as inviting murder For someone extreme enough to do it [Pre-Chorus] But a nation divided cannot stand So we must lay contention down And listen more to understand Can we meet at the highest ground? [Chorus] Can we meet at the highest ground? Can we meet at a sound place of love? Where harmful threats come to no one Can we offer peace and rise above All the bad things that we have done? All the bad things that we have done? Can we meet at the highest ground? Can we meet at a sound place of love? [Verse 2] For we have become distracted With bigot blaming and accusing And our weaknesses have attracted Those who'd pay for more bruising If we fail to be civil as a nation Another power will take its place All of our weapons and freedoms will go As their ways we are forced to embrace [Bridge] So we must lay contention down And listen more to understand Can we meet at the highest ground? Can we meet at a sound place of love? [Chorus] Can we meet at the highest ground? Can we meet at a sound place of love? Where harmful threats come to no one Can we offer peace and rise above All the bad things that we have done? All the bad things that we have done? Can we meet at the highest ground? Can we meet at a sound place of love?

The Book of Mormon contains warnings about the dangers of divisions among people, particularly those identified by the suffix "-ites." In 4 Nephi 1:15-17, it emphasizes a time of unity among the people, stating that there were no robbers, murderers, or any manner of "-ites," highlighting the importance of being one in Christ and heirs to the kingdom of God

Calm as a Summer's Morning

In haste, I wrote to Governor Ford

Assuring compliance, without disturbance

The printing press now lay shattered

But, still anger rose up against the Saints

I was arrested, the charges were baseless

But, when I was released, this angered mobs more

Hundreds more now assembled

To destroy the temple and burn homes, they swore

The enemy thought that to destroy me

Would put a final end to our presence

But I knew my blood would not put an end

To their thirst for more blood, in the spirit of hatred and vengeance

For many feel threatened by more than our church

They see how we've filled and prospered the land

The governor was sending occupying troops, I learned

Hyrum came. I knew I was being sent to be slaughtered, just like a lamb

I kissed Emma and each our children, too

"You are coming back,"  Emma said through tears

But I knew this time what the mob would do

And I bravely mounted my horse, and waved off my fears

I was as “Calm As A Summer’s Morning.”

Our horse's gait was steady and strong

I left the peaceful place of Nauvoo

To surrender though I knew they were wrong

And along the street at each gate

In truth, for a last goodbye

Saints stood firm prepared to wave

To call, "I love you!" and to cry

[Verse 1] In haste, I wrote to Governor Ford Assuring compliance, without disturbance The printing press now lay shattered But, still anger rose up against the Saints I was arrested, the charges were baseless But, when I was released, this angered mobs more [Chorus] Calm As A Summer’s Morning Calm As A Summer’s Morning I knew this time what the mob would do And I bravely mounted my horse [Verse 2] Hundreds more now assembled To destroy the temple and burn homes, they swore The enemy thought that to destroy me Would put a final end to our presence But I knew my blood would not put an end To their thirst for more blood, in the spirit of hatred and vengeance [Pre-Chorus] For many feel threatened by more than our church They see how we've filled and prospered the land The governor was sending occupying troops, I learned Hyrum came. I knew I was being sent to be slaughtered, just like a lamb [Chorus] Calm As A Summer’s Morning Calm As A Summer’s Morning I knew this time what the mob would do And I bravely mounted my horse [Bridge] I kissed Emma and each our children, too You are coming back, Emma said through tears But I knew this time what the mob would do And I bravely mounted my horse, and waved off my fears [Verse 3] I was as “Calm As A Summer’s Morning.” Our horse's gait was steady and strong I left the peaceful place of Nauvoo To surrender though I knew they were wrong And along the street at each gate In truth, for a last goodbye Saints stood firm prepared to wave To call, I love you! and to cry [Chorus] Calm As A Summer’s Morning Calm As A Summer’s Morning I knew this time what the mob would do And I bravely mounted my horse

https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/history/saints-v1/44-a-lamb-to-the-slaughter?lang=eng

Read this to get an understanding of that day.  Joseph and Hyrum actually circled back because he ran into the leader of the troop and they wanted the Nauvoo militia to surrender their weapons.  They helped make sure this happened with peace.

Knowing God's Love for all Mankind- Keepers of His Light

Knowing God's love for all mankind
Let's safeguard the truth's He's given
All over the world He lights minds to find
A glimpse of Him and of heaven

We can be keepers of His light
As we perceive where it goes
God's wisdom pure and bright
To the seeker brilliantly flows

If there is anything virtuous,
Lovely, or of good report
Let us share it more amongst us
And feel warmth through God's support

Then, as with light we speak
Others come to where we stand
Unto our lamp to seek,
Feel, and understand

[Verse 1]

Knowing God's love for all mankind

Let's safeguard the truths He's given

All over the world He lights minds to find

A glimpse of Him and of heaven

[Pre-Chorus]

We can be keepers of His light

As we perceive where it goes

God's wisdom pure and bright

To the seeker brilliantly flows

[Chorus]

Keepers of His light

Keepers of His light

We share what is true

And make the dark grow dim

Keepers of His light

Keepers of His light

Through every good thing

We lead them back to Him

(keepers of His light)

[Verse 2]

If there is anything virtuous

Lovely, or of good report

Let us share it more amongst us

And feel warmth through God's support

[Pre-Chorus]

Then, as with light we speak

Others come to where we stand

Unto our lamp to seek

Feel, and understand

[Chorus]

Keepers of His light

Keepers of His light

We share what is true

And make the dark grow dim

Keepers of His light

Keepers of His light

Through every good thing

We lead them back to Him

(keepers of His light)

[Bridge]

Let our words be clean

Let our hearts be still

Let our hands give way

To His perfect will

One small flame can call

Many home again

When we shine His love

Heaven leans in

[Final Chorus]

Keepers of His light

Keepers of His light

We share what is true

And make the dark grow dim

Keepers of His light

Keepers of His light

Through every good thing

We lead them back to Him

(keepers of His light)

Pondering: God's love for man and the internet. How seeing the inspiration of things around us and mentioning it actually draws seekers to the gospel as they search the internet to know more of what is praiseworthy. The Article of Faith- which says: If there is anything virtuous, lovely, or of good report or praiseworthy, we seek after these things. (for they've come of light and truth) Wouldn't it be pleasing to God if we sought after these things more. No wonder the Conference talks quote from many things that show God is lighting all mankind?

'In 1855, in an address delivered in the Bowery at Salt Lake City, Elder Parley P. Pratt, an early leader of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, said: "We would do well to look into the bearings of the history of nations, and the dealings of God with them, as impartially as we can, at all times, and cull out all the good there has been, is, or may be, and acknowledge the hand of God in all things, in His dealings with the nations as well as in other things" (Journal of Discourses, 3:42).'
Elder Pratt's thoughts echo the teachings of some ancient American prophets. Permit me to quote from the Book of Mormon:


'And the Lord God hath sent his holy prophets among all the children of men, to declare these things to every kindred, nation, and tongue. (Mosiah 3:13; emphasis added)
For behold, the Lord doth grant unto all nations, of their own nation and tongue, to teach his word, yea, in wisdom, all that he seeth fit that they should have. (Alma 29:8; emphasis added)
Thus saith the Lord God: I will give unto the children of men line upon line, precept upon precept, here a little and there a little.... I bring forth my word unto the children of men, yea, even upon all the nations of the earth...For I command all men...that they shall write the words which I speak unto them.... I shall also speak unto all nations of the earth and they shall write it. (2 Nephi 28:30; 29:7, 11, 12; emphasis added) '


'How very fortunate for mankind that God's word was given in diverse ways to the people of India, of Persia, of Babylon, of Arabia, of China, of Greece, of Rome, and of America. Each spark of inspiration, each revealed law, and each guideline for living was an expression of God's limitless love for the family of Adam. It mattered not whether the word came in high or low places or whether it was conveyed in loud or in muted voices. Some of God's light was reflected through a religious leader in ancient Arabia; additional light was received by an American religious leader in the nineteenth century. What mattered was that saving truth was received by man from God-the divine fountain of eternal truth. And what mattered even more was whether those who received such truths had sufficient reciprocating love and faith to live accordingly.'
'On 15 February 1978, the First Presidency of the LDS Church issued a statement to the world regarding God's love for all mankind. I desire to read portions of that statement. As I do so, you will note that thoughts previously mentioned are amplified. '
'Based upon ancient and modern revelation, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints gladly teaches and declares the Christian doctrine that all men and women are brothers and sisters, not only by blood relationship from common mortal progenitors but also as literal spirit children of an Eternal Father.
The great religious leaders of the world such as Muhammad, Confucius, and the Reformers, as well as philosophers including Socrates, Plato, and others, received a portion of God's light. Moral truths were given to them by God to enlighten whole nations and to bring a higher level of understanding to individuals...
Consistent with these truths, we believe that God has given and will give to all peoples sufficient knowledge to help them on their way to eternal salvation, either in this life or in the life to come...
Our message therefore is one of special love and concern for the eternal welfare of all men and women, regardless of religious belief, race, or nationality, knowing that we are truly brothers and sisters because we are sons and daughters of the same Eternal Father.'

God's Love for Mankind
Elder Carlos E. Asay
Mormons and Muslims: Spiritual Foundations and Modern Manifestations, ed. Palmer, Spencer J., (Provo, UT: Religious Studies Center, Brigham Young University 2002), 51-61.

Here I Can Breathe- understanding depression

 

My heart has flat lined

And feels no joy

There's no light designed

That I enjoy

A smile would crack

My worn face

In strength, I lack

I need grace

My chemistry's off

Stress makes it worse

I see others laugh

I'm way off course

In a sea drowning

Trying to catch my breath

You see me frowning

It's because I feel like death

I float in the pain

As I sleep in bed

Though no rest, again!

I try food instead

And then I walk

To keep my calm

Here I can talk

To God, my balm

Here I can breathe

I can see God's hand

And in my breast

Warmth, He understands

[Verse 1]

My heart has flat lined

And feels no joy

There's no light designed

That I enjoy

A smile would crack

My worn face

In strength, I lack

I need grace

[Pre-Chorus]

My chemistry's off

Stress makes it worse

I see others laugh

I'm way off course

In a sea drowning

Trying to catch my breath

You see me frowning

It's because I feel like death

[Chorus]

Where can I breathe

(To catch my breath)

Where can I breathe

Such anxiety

Clutching my breast

With cold gripping hands

[Verse 2]

I float in the pain

As I sleep in bed

Though no rest, again!

I try food instead

And then I walk

To keep my calm

Here I can talk

To God, my balm

[Pre-Chorus]

My chemistry's off

Stress makes it worse

I see others laugh

I'm way off course

In a sea drowning

Trying to catch my breath

You see me frowning

It's because I feel like death

[Chorus]

Here I can breathe

(Here I can breathe)

Here I can breathe

God's hand is on me

Warmth in my breast

Warmth, He understands

[Bridge]

Here I can talk

To God, my balm

Here I can breathe

And I can see God's hand

When I'm worn thin

He understands

[Final Chorus]

Here I can breathe

(Here I can breathe)

Here I can breathe

God's hand is on me

Warmth in my breast

Warmth, He understands

Here I can breathe

(Here I can breathe)

Here I can breathe

And I can see His hand

Depression symptoms like emotional numbness, anxiety, insomnia, and physical distress while highlighting faith-based relief through prayer and walking and talking to God as a "balm." feeling His hand, and that He understands.. drug resistant depression

Time is a Funny Thing- Where Did Time Go? a song about aging and dementia

Time is a funny thing

It likes to play memory tricks

In games like Hide and Seek

Or watch as its long hand slowly ticks

As though to say, "

It’s time we upped the antics!

Where did time go?

I say and can't recall.

When did I grow

To not remember at all?

As time, now, has fallen into a deep sleep crawl

[Verse 1] Time is a funny thing It likes to play memory tricks In games like Hide and Seek Or watch as its long hand slowly ticks As though to say, It’s time we upped the antics! [Pre-Chorus] Oh time I see your face As you demand attention And I watch, just in case I've a moment to mention [Chorus] Where did time go? Where did time go? I swear it was here a minute ago Where did time go? [Verse 2] Oh, where did time go? I say and can't recall. When did I grow To not remember at all? As time, now, has fallen Into a deep sleep crawl [Pre-Chorus] Oh time I see your face As you demand attention And I watch, just in case I've a moment to mention [Chorus] Where did time go? Where did time go? I swear it was here a minute ago Where did time go? [Bridge] If I blink, it slips If I chase, it drifts Through my hands like rain Through the cracks and the gifts [Chorus] Where did time go? Where did time go? I swear it was here a minute ago Where did time go?

Metaphorically 

describes memory loss =time playing hide and seek- "Where did time go?" 

Time slipping "through my hands like rain." 

The confusion and forgotten moments= time "falls into a deep sleep crawl." 

 First Mom 

Now Dad 

Time teaches and reaches= a face demanding attention

Our Inspired Constitution

inspired by

 Dallin H. Oaks,

Ensign, Feb 1992, 68
“The Divinely Inspired Constitution, ”

We have an inspired constitution
What exactly does that mean to me?
Through the law and through obedience
I can enjoy life and liberty

How did the quest for freedom begin?
What led these men to struggle within?
How many of them each other knew
Did they speak from where their yearnings grew?

For checks and balances more seasoned
Our founding fathers met and reasoned
As common cause became their goal
It united them with purpose whole

A miracle did unite this group
Though they could not pay for their own troupe
With borrowed money and with debt
They had much work that they must do yet

A bill of rights, sovereignty
How to treat each man with dignity
How to maintain the rights of all flesh
Yet politically combine and mesh

Dallin H. Oaks,
Ensign, Feb 1992, 68
“The Divinely Inspired Constitution, ”

Doors of Death

Broken into two songs: 

A crucial component of life
Comes at the doors of death
When we lose a husband or wife
We feel lost 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 we've lost
We've divine command from above
To weep when there's a loss
The only way to avoid tears
Is to remove all the love
Oh, the reunion with our dears
When we return to home above!

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

As seedlings of God while on earth
We were born to die and then live
From blossoms to flowers of worth
We've a journey with a motive
To everything there's a season,
A time, a plan, and a purpose
We each are here for a reason
And life's lessons will further us

Home Above

Verse 1] a crucial component of life comes at death when we lose a husband or wife we feel lost 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 [Pre-Chorus] 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 [Chorus] the deepest expression of love is to mourn for those we've lost we've divine command from above to weep when there's a loss the only way to avoid tears is to remove all the love oh the reunion with our dears when we return to home above [Verse 2] god's our primary directive spiritually for handling when we've eternal perspective we're peace past understanding life does not begin with birth nor does it end with death prior to birth we had worth we'll go on without breath [Pre-Chorus] as seedlings of god while on earth we were born to die and then live from blossoms to flowers of worth [Chorus] the deepest expression of love is to mourn for those we've lost we've divine command from above to weep when there's a loss the only way to avoid tears is to remove all the love oh the reunion with our dears when we return to home above [Bridge] we've a journey with a motive to everything there's a season a time a plan and a purpose we each are here for a reason and life's lessons will further us [Final Chorus] the deepest expression of love is to mourn for those we've lost we've divine command from above to weep when there's a loss the only way to avoid tears is to remove all the love oh the reunion with our dears when we return to home above

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, and denied
With opportunity gone
As we see clearly each wrong
That of our sins, we'll not be saved
Except we repent, and have them 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 how 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 our Father's will
The grave must deliver up
The body and spirit cuff
To become a living soul
That's immortal in its new role

Our bodies will be perfect
As they are 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 kind care
Be generous and give thanks
And seal unto your family its ranks
For with loved ones close to enjoy
Death's door will be sweet unto 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 will come eventually
When we've reached our time full-fledged
Then we slip away ever so gently

Russell M. Nelson
"Doors of Death",
Ensign, May 1992 pg 72

Doors of Death

[Verse 1] We pass through, not around, death's doors On a returning trip To live with the Father once more Though trials we would skip Death's essential to happiness And there's life beyond the veil If we could just peek and witness How we'd prepare there to dwell [Chorus] For this much we know within The real sting of death is sin As the spirit's mortified From God, separate, and denied With opportunity gone As we see clearly each wrong That of our sins, we'll not be saved Except we repent, and have them waived [Verse 2] 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 how we lean But, with them much can be gleaned [Verse 3] 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 [Bridge] Returned to God and His home Where a state of rest is known This is temporary still According to our Father's will The grave must deliver up The body and spirit cuff To become a living soul That's immortal in its new role [Verse 4] Our bodies will be perfect As they are 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 [Outro] 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 will come eventually When we've reached our time full-fledged Then we slip away ever so gently

For Now This is Goodbye

 

You died suddenly,

I was unprepared to let you go

I feel for our family

And how to grieve, we want to know

Some share their own stories

Their experience is a comfort

I know I'm not along

And I've found the help I've sought for

You were so special to me

There's a hole in my heart

I shake my head, it's crazy

I won't see you again, it's hard

No more laughter and long talks

No more being real on long walks

No more time with you my friend

But, I know this life is not the end

So here I am saying goodbye

I've been told it's ok to cy

I love you and I miss you

For now, this is goodbye

Verse 1] You died suddenly I was unprepared to let you go I feel for my family And how to grieve, we want to know Some share their own stories Their experience is a comfort I know I'm not along And I've found the help I've sought for [Chorus] For now, this is goodbye For now, this is goodbye I love you and I miss you I hold you in my mind [Verse 2] You were so special to me There's a hole in my heart I shake my head, it's crazy I won't see you again, it's hard No more laughter and long talks No more being real on long walks No more time with you my friend But, I know this life is not the end [Chorus] For now, this is goodbye For now, this is goodbye I love you and I miss you I hold you in my mind [Bridge] So here I am saying goodbye I've been told it's ok to cy I love you and I miss you For now, this is goodbye [Chorus] For now, this is goodbye For now, this is goodbye I love you and I miss you I hold you in my mind

Rene Cain, grieve all you need.

Grace to See Me- Never Presume

Never presume 

That you know best

You're not a judge

Life is a test

Sitting in the chapel

Are those who get a second glance

Know, they are God's people

Growing through circumstance

I am yet single

Love's not at my door

Don't point a finger

I am safe with the Lord

I have a child

That disturbs the peace

He is not mild

Still my love does increase

I am barely here

Please give me some grace

Smile, let me be clear

I need a cheerful face

We each have a story

It is ours to tell

Don't judge or feel sorry

With God, all is well

Put away your myopic scope

If you want to help

Please pray and share reasons hope

I know for myself

It's not always easy to cope

Verse 1] Never presume That you know best You're not a judge Life is a test Sitting in the chapel Are those who get a second glance Know, they are God's people Growing through circumstance [Pre-Chorus] I am yet single Love's not at my door Don't point a finger I am safe with the Lord I have a child That disturbs the peace He is not mild Still my love does increase [Chorus] Don't judge me Don't feel sorry We each have a story It is ours to tell Don't judge me Don't feel sorry With God, all is well With God, all is well [Verse 2] I am barely here Please give me some grace Smile, let me be clear I need a cheerful face Put away your myopic scope If you want to help Please pray and share reasons hope I know for myself [Pre-Chorus] It's not always easy to cope Some days I tremble low But mercy leaves a brighter rope And helps me let it go [Chorus] Don't judge me Don't feel sorry We each have a story It is ours to tell Don't judge me Don't feel sorry With God, all is well With God, all is well [Bridge] Listen close before you speak Hold my hand, don't count my scars Some are strong and some are weak Still the Father knows who we are [Final Chorus] Don't judge me Don't feel sorry We each have a story It is ours to tell Don't judge me Don't feel sorry With God, all is well With God, all is well [Outro] Please pray and share reasons hope With God, all is well

@TheUnderTiny @BradJamesRadio
Thinking about a conversations in x.com

https://x.com/TheUnderTiny/status/2086120223904760077?s=20

The Last Thing That I Want

The last thing that I want
Is to tell you what to do
But I think I should acknowledge
What I feel, and speak to you

The changes that we see
The uneasiness we feel
Are things that shouldn't be
Let us talk and let love heal

Is there something aching you?

Is it something we have done?

We see your frustration

How this halts the good to come

We stand firm on this one thing

Contention destroys the home

A negative attitude will bring

Nothing good to be known

We used to feel so close

All you show is you don't care

But, now your heart is closed

Do you have something to share?

If not, we'll give you space

But, please give us some grace

Show respect and courtesy

What a family should be

Verse 1] The last thing that I want Is to tell you what to do But I think I should acknowledge What I feel, and speak to you The changes that we see The uneasiness we feel Are things that shouldn't be Let us talk and let love heal [Pre-Chorus] Is there something aching you? Is it something we have done? We see your frustration How this halts the good to come We stand firm on this one thing Contention destroys the home [Chorus] Let us talk and let love heal Let us talk and let love heal A negative attitude will bring Nothing good to be known [Verse 2] We used to feel so close All you show is you don't care But, now your heart is closed Do you have something to share? If not, we'll give you space But, please give us some grace Show respect and courtesy What a family should be [Bridge] We don't want the wall We want a way back in We don't want the weight To keep us split within Say what's aching you Say it plain and true [Chorus] Let us talk and let love heal Let us talk and let love heal A negative attitude will bring Nothing good to be known [Outro] Show respect and courtesy What a family should be

GCBC Week 2: “Can Ye Feel So Now?” By Elder Quentin L. Cook ...

diapersanddivinity.com/.../gcbc-week-2-can-ye-feel-so-now-by-elder...

Oct 14, 2012 – How do you think Elder Cook's counsel can be helpful to you and your family? ... 16 Responses to GCBC Week 2: “Can Ye Feel So Now? ... Lack of commitment and apathy are huge attitudes I see in lots of acquaintances and .

The church has a great parenting class.  We are having lessons from it at a stake level.  We have been practicing voicing concerns by attacking frustrations and not the person.  It is a plea for help and not an attack on the child. Trying to take it to the next level.  How does the Savior feel when we go against what he has taught? He still sees the beauty in each of us and what we can become. He offers hope. How would He want us to parent? We have to stay gentle, inviting, being an example and not being acted upon while being firm to our expectations.

Profanity

He who is deserving of the highest acclaim
Watches us from heaven above
And each time we utter out His name
May it be with praise and love

Jesus, our elder brother
Has borne all of our woes
And He would that we love one another
The great cost for this, He knows

Both names as diety are sacred
Titles of majesty, for awe
They're not words of habit bred
For anger clenched along the jaw

Each word used as profanity

Shows but our ignorance 
Attacks our dignity
When what we need is assistance

When we have pain amidst commotions
Let us respond like our Elder Brother
For when suffered strong emotions
His would not say what harms another

[Verse 1] He who is deserving of the highest acclaim Watches us from heaven above And each time we utter out His name May it be with praise and love Jesus, our elder brother Has borne all of our woes [Pre-Chorus] And He would that we love one another The great cost for this, He knows [Chorus] Jesus, our elder brother Teach us love one another May we speak with praise and love May our hearts look up above Jesus, our elder brother Jesus, our elder brother [Verse 2] Both names as diety are sacred Titles of majesty, for awe They're not words of habit bred For anger clenched along the jaw Each word used as profanity Shows but our ignorance Attacks our dignity When what we need is assistance [Pre-Chorus] When we have pain amidst commotions Let us respond like our Elder Brother [Chorus] Jesus, our elder brother Teach us love one another May we speak with praise and love May our hearts look up above Jesus, our elder brother Jesus, our elder brother [Bridge] For when suffered strong emotions His would not say what harms another Quiet mercy, steady grace Let His peace remake our face [Final Chorus] Jesus, our elder brother Teach us love one another May we speak with praise and love May our hearts look up above Jesus, our elder brother Jesus, our elder brother

Ex. 20: 7
7 Thou shalt not take the name of the Lord thy God in vain; for the Lord will not hold him guiltless that taketh his name in vain.

Deut. 5: 11
11 Thou shalt not take the name of the Lord thy God in vain: for the Lord will not hold him guiltless that taketh his name in vain.

Mosiah 13: 15
15 Thou shalt not take the name of the Lord thy God in vain; for the Lord will not hold him guiltless that taketh his name in vain.

Ps. 139: 20
20 For they speak against thee wickedly, and thine enemies take thy name in vain.

Prov. 30: 9
9 Lest I be full, and deny thee, and say, Who is the Lord? or lest I be poor, and steal, and take the name of my God in vain.

2 Ne. 26: 32
32 And again, the Lord God hath acommanded that men should not murder; that they should not lie; that they should not steal; that they should not take the name of the Lord their God in vain; that they should not envy; that they should not have malice; that they should not contend one with another; that they should not commit whoredoms; and that they should do none of these things; for whoso doeth them shall perish.

Along the Higher Path

Along the higher path

You have resources galore

No matter where your are at

You've the gospel of the Lord

Knowledge is but a prayer away

Covenants and ordinances await

As through God's word you seek and pray

It is up to you to heed and obey

The higher path leads

To the mountain of the Lord

Here we come to seek

Holiness for ever more

heed- careful attention

[Verse 1] Along the higher path You have resources galore No matter where you are at You've the gospel of the Lord [Pre-Chorus] Knowledge is but a prayer away Covenants and ordinances await As through God's word you seek and pray It is up to you to heed and obey [Chorus] The higher path leads The higher path leads To the mountain of the Lord To the mountain of the Lord [Verse 2] We climb with worn-out shoes But mercy meets us there Your word is bread and light And hope is in the air [Pre-Chorus] Knowledge is but a prayer away Covenants and ordinances await As through God's word you seek and pray It is up to you to heed and obey [Chorus] The higher path leads The higher path leads To the mountain of the Lord To the mountain of the Lord [Bridge] Here we come to seek Holiness forevermore Keep our hearts awake Keep us near, keep us sure [Chorus] The higher path leads The higher path leads To the mountain of the Lord To the mountain of the Lord

Teleiono- To Reach a Distant End- Perfect Day Bud

In the stillness

In the quiet

In the predawn dark

A thought woke me

And it stayed there to park

Who is perfect?

How can that be?

The word complete

Came circling me

Rising, falling to see

Each little bud

Will be complete

When it grows up

To become fruit

And that will be us eventually

The Lord's command

Be ye perfect

I now understand

We've potential

Our goal is a distant end, eternal

A small bud now

Growing for the perfect day

To be picked, ripe

Fully developed with faith

Nourished by Christ light always

Verse 1] In the stillness, in the quiet In the predawn dark A thought woke me And it stayed there to park Who is perfect? How can that be? The word complete Came circling me [Pre-Chorus] Each little bud Will be complete When it grows up To become fruit And that will be us Eventually The Lord's command Keeps calling me [Chorus] Be ye perfect I now understand Be ye perfect By the Savior's hand We've potential Our goal is set A small bud now For the perfect day [Verse 2] Growing for the day To be picked, ripe Fully developed With faith and light Nourished by Christ Day by day This life, this journey Teaches me the way Keep moving forward Keep looking high For what we're meant to be In Christ, eternally [Pre-Chorus] Each little bud Will be complete When it grows up To become fruit And that will be us Eventually The Lord's command Keeps calling me [Chorus] Be ye perfect I now understand Be ye perfect By the Savior's hand We've potential Our goal is set A small bud now For the perfect day [Bridge] Not all at once But step by step Grace for the road And the soul He kept Incrementally We grow in You Till faith is finished And love breaks through [Final Chorus] Be ye perfect I now understand Be ye perfect By the Savior's hand We've potential Our goal is set A small bud now For the perfect day Be ye perfect Till the end of time In Christ, eternally We will shine

“In Matt. 5:48, be ye therefore perfect The infinitive form of the verb is teleiono, which means 'to reach a distant end, to be fully developed, to consummate, or to finish.'

Elder Bednar’s recent explanation of perfection will help set your mind at ease

By Emily Linder June 03, 2024 

https://www.ldsliving.com/elder-bednars-recent-explanation-of-perfection-is-a-must-read/s/12255

“In Matt. 5:48, the term perfect was translated from the Greek teleios, which means 'complete.' Teleios is an adjective derived from the noun telos, which means 'end.' The infinitive form of the verb is teleiono, which means 'to reach a distant end, to be fully developed, to consummate, or to finish.'

“Please note that the word does not imply 'freedom from error'; it implies 'achieving a distant objective.’ . . . The perfection that the Savior envisions for us is much more than errorless performance. It is the eternal expectation as expressed by the Lord in his great intercessory prayer to his Father—that we might be made perfect and be able to dwell with them in the eternities ahead.”

Tune It Out

There is a pull in this world

That is critical and distracting 

Tune it out with God's Word 

For what's spiritually enabling

It is ever exhausting

To seek for what does not exist

True happiness is a blessing

That from the world's pull, it lifts

Overcome the world

Through the power of spirit

Through the truths in God's Words

As you tune your ears you will hear Him

Repent as oft as you break

God's laws, whatever you've done

Every choice you are free to make

Let them, daily, be good ones

Each new day can become beautiful

See your problems with new eyes

Christ's atonement offers renewal

For hope and direction as life tries

let this warning be clear:

The world offers distractions

And the bondage that comes

When choices invite addictions

Verse 1] There is a pull in this world That is critical and distracting Tune it out with God's Word For what's spiritually enabling It is ever exhausting To seek for what does not exist True happiness is a blessing That from the world's pull, it lifts [Pre-Chorus] Overcome the world Through the power of spirit Through the truths in God's Words As you tune your ears, you will hear Him [Chorus] Overcome the world (Overcome the world) Through the power of spirit Through the power of spirit Let your choices be good (Your choices be good) And your heart be renewed And your heart be renewed [Verse 2] Repent as oft as you break God's laws, whatever you've done Every choice you are free to make Let them, daily, be good ones Each new day can become beautiful See your problems with new eyes Christ's atonement offers renewal For hope and direction as life tries [Pre-Chorus] Overcome the world Through the power of spirit Through the truths in God's Words As you tune your ears, you will hear Him [Chorus] Overcome the world (Overcome the world) Through the power of spirit Through the power of spirit Let your choices be good (Your choices be good) And your heart be renewed And your heart be renewed [Bridge] Let this warning be clear The world offers distractions And the bondage that comes When choices invite addictions But grace is calling And mercy still remains One honest step Can break those chains [Final Chorus] Overcome the world (Overcome the world) Through the power of spirit Through the power of spirit Let your choices be good (Your choices be good) And your heart be renewed And your heart be renewed Overcome the world (Overcome the world) Tune your ears, and hear Him Tune your ears, and hear Him

devotional July 31, 2026

to BYU pathways

Strengthen Your Faith as You face Life's Challenges