Verily, Verily

Verily, I say unto you
All ye see me do
See ye do likewise

Prepare in every needful way
Giving heed unto the things I say
And ye shall have everlasting life

St. John 6: 47
Verily, verily, I say unto you,
He that believeth on me hath everlasting life.


rhymezone-verily
adverb: in truth; beyond doubt or question
Example: "Trust in the Lord...and verily thou shalt be fed- Ps 37:3"
adverb: truly or confidentially
Example: "I verily think so"

Can be supported and verified to be true...verify

We Will Ever Find

We will ever find
That we're more of one mind
When we're Christ-like and kind

For what's simply sure
This yields love that is pure
And new hope to endure

If Jesus Had Come to our Day

If Jesus had come to our day...
For His descent as a small infant
The media would be in the way
And how our faith would be so different

Recognized as the Son of God since birth
Generations would line up for miles
Too, He would be asked to travel the earth
And turn to the cameras with hugs and smiles

If Jesus had come to our day
We would press and not leave Him alone
We would record each thing He would say
And not a free moment would be His to own

Through His influence, pure love would lead
Til we were rid of contention and fear
For we'd be anxious to turn a good deed
Just in the chance He might come to be near

Adam fell That Men Might Be

Adam fell that we might be
And, too that we might have joy
Sometimes this is hard to see
When much threatens to destroy

With advancements our homes fill with comforts
As in no other generation known to man
Thus, we must beware lest this distorts
The knowledge of our purpose and God's plan

With courage unto this end we awaken
And vow to be virtuous and chaste
That we feel neither bereft nor forsaken
But, have what is sweet and delightsome to taste

With courage might our lips refrain
From finding faults one with another
That we'll not judge there to put down with disdain
But love, encourage, and look for what's good in each other

With courage we will stand firmly planted
There to defend that which we believe
With power, love, and sound minds granted
We'll not fear nor fall to those who deceive

As at times the world is destructive and dark
We vow to become emotionally, physically, and spiritually strong
That with the Light of the gospel we're prepared to embark
Amongst the family of believers where we know we belong

President Thomas S. Monson
New Era, May 2009,
May You Have Courage

2 Ne. 2: 25
Adam fell that men might be; and men are, that they might have joy.

Shall We Get Lost Everywhere We Go?

Shall we get lost everywhere we go?
When we have gifts that can navigate?
We have assistance that we can know
The right course t'wards the celestial gate

gift one- free agency schooled with the Light of Christ for conscience:

We've ability and power to choose
As a part of our earthly descent
And towards good, our Father behooves
Through invitation and enticement

We've a natural capacity
To distinguish between right and wrong
And just like any other faculty
The more it's used well, it grows strong

And as we're ever linked to Christ
We speak through Him to our Father
Such that we're given light to our eyes
And can find a gift like no other

gift two- the Gift of the Holy Ghost

Those who become sensitive to choice
Do receive the Gift of the Holy Ghost
For therein is safety to rejoice
As we've the guidance from a heavenly host

There we feel God's warm reception
And directions for where to look
There to be saved from deception
And find words of love in His book

gift three- the capacity to believe the words of those who testify of Jesus Christ

The writ of prophets through the ages
Are from God that His plan might be known
The sole purpose of what's on the pages
Is so we'll not get lost on our way home

gift four- the gift of eternal love

To that place which is in Heaven above
Where there is brightness and glorious peace
Where one is gifted with eternal love
And placed on a path that does ever increase


Elder Jose A. Teixeira
Gifts to Help Us Navigate our Life
Ensign, May 2009,

Moses 1:39 For behold, this is my work and my glory—to bring to pass the immortality and eternal life of man.

Moroni 7:13 But behold, that which is of God inviteth and enticeth to do good continually; wherefore, every thing which inviteth and enticeth to do good, and to love God, and to serve him, is inspired of God.


D&C 46:14 To others it is given to believe on their words, that they also might have eternal life if they continue faithful.

Amos 3:7 Surely the Lord God will do nothing, but he revealeth his secret unto his servants the prophets.

So a Young Mother Can Be More At Home

So a young mother can be more at home
Her husband earned the wages all alone
As, too, he took time to treat her like a queen
With long walks there to dream on dates that were lean

And traveling with them were all the children
Given freedom to explore the countryside
With wide open space much does thrill them
Where the security of childhood was not denied

But sooner or later the children grow tired
With want for attention and comfort
As both of their parents are desired
For affection, rest, and resort

resort- something or someone turned to
for assistance or security;
a frequently visited place

A Teenager

A teenager facing a lone birth
Gives her child a start of better worth
In her arms, one last parting kiss
Her heart aches- for what she will miss

Then to the arms of two others goes the babe
Anxious, excited, and thankful
They have practiced, prepared, and prayed
And now as parents they are so careful


Who can love one more than that?
Who can parent better than that?

Shall We But Eat and Drink and Ever Make Merry?

Shall we but eat and drink and ever make merry?
When to good we could link each day here we tarry?

Our minds and hearts can be as a fruitful soil
Or they can be polluted to produce that which does spoil

I am learning that in everything I see, God can be found
As truth inscribes all things and eternity is round

The Battle of Evil and Good

The battle of evil upon good ever rages
As the strengths of God's children increases to be
The buffets of darkness ever swirl through the ages
While casting dark shadows with subtlety

The forces of light must each take to handle
God's torches of brightness held high for the evening
As ever the night time is sleepless and painful
When others from torches are found soon leaving

Woe to the children of light who don't hold on
For the destroyer wants you and will take you home
Come precious children of light and please hold on
A drop at a time there'll be oil in that lamp of your own

But, one torch without oil has been left abandoned
In the brightness of day those left know what to do
They ever keep vigil o'er their love who's now stranded
Through a fast they have faith that God's light will shine through

The torches for brightness ever need new oil
Through covenants and good works- the deeds of the faithful
It must be received daily and weekly through toil
While those in the darkness become disdainful

Come open your eyes to see what's illuminated
As the doctrines from Christ are seen spiritually
Come open your heart till what's dark is eliminated
That your lamp might command the shadows to flee

The worth of each soul is great in the sight of our Father
He would that each repent and hear Him when called
He sent His own Son to redeem and to suffer
That we might hold torches and there be enthralled

Ever and ever the battle must be fought
The young must be prepared to join in the fight
Through the light of the gospel- through the spirit one's taught
As such our counsel must ever be right

Thus the war between darkness and light is still raging
While torch bearers stand tall with hope for victory
With the virtue of God's word a lost waif's now seeing
With a mind and heart opened to God's love and mysteries

Thoughts from
Teaching True Doctrine
President Henry B. Eyring
Ensign, April 2009, 5

Line Upon Line

Shall He smooth our paths where e'er we go?
So that sorrows and troubles we might never know?
Shall He bless us before we even think to ask?
That we not appreciate a burden or the sweat from a task?

Oh, may we ever have a prayer in our heart
Wishing and wanting what the Lord would to us impart
Yet, as our minds and hearts would simply overflow
We only learn line upon line, what He would that we know

He gives us trials and pain while on this earth
To know the joy and beauty of our own birth
He gives us oppositions that we must face
To prepare us that we with God might embrace

May we submit to all we're given here to learn
And stay humble ever seeking for things to discern
Yet, as our minds and hearts would simply overflow
We only learn line upon line, what He would that we know

As it's through God, we live with borrowed breath
We know the day will come that we'll experience death
Pray the Lord comes to receive us triumphant
With outstretched arms welcoming outward and bent

Oh may we ever have clean hands and pure hearts
Prepared come what may to sing "How Great Thou Art"
Our greatest gift comes from our God above
Our life for learning- t'wards eternal love

2 Ne. 28: 30
30 For behold, 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; and blessed are those who hearken unto my precepts, and lend an ear unto my counsel, for they shall learn wisdom; for unto him that creceiveth I will give more; and from them that shall say, We have enough, from them shall be taken away even that which they have.

D&C 98: 12
12 For he will give unto the faithful line upon line, precept upon precept; and I will try you and prove you herewith.

D&C 128: 21
21 And again, the voice of God in the chamber of old Father Whitmer, in Fayette, Seneca county, and at sundry times, and in divers places through all the travels and tribulations of this Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints! And the voice of Michael, the archangel; the voice of Gabriel, and of Raphael, and of divers angels, from Michael or Adam down to the present time, all declaring their dispensation, their rights, their keys, their honors, their majesty and glory, and the power of their priesthood; giving line upon line, precept upon precept; here a little, and there a little; giving us consolation by holding forth that which is to come, confirming our Hope!

THE BOOK OF THE PROPHET
ISAIAH
CHAPTER 28
Woe to the drunkards of Ephraim!—Revelation comes line upon line, and precept upon precept—Christ, the sure foundation, is promised.
Woe to the crown of pride, to the drunkards of Ephraim, whose glorious beauty is a fading flower, which are on the head of the fat valleys of them that are overcome with wine! Behold, the Lord hath a mighty and strong one, which as a tempest of hail and a destroying storm, as a flood of mighty waters overflowing, shall cast down to the earth with the hand. The crown of pride, the drunkards of Ephraim, shall be trodden under feet: And the glorious beauty, which is on the head of the fat valley, shall be a fading flower, and as the hasty fruit before the summer; which when he that looketh upon it seeth, while it is yet in his hand he eateth it up.
¶ In that day shall the Lord of hosts be for a crown of glory, and for a diadem of beauty, unto the residue of his people, And for a spirit of judgment to him that sitteth in judgment, and for strength to them that turn the battle to the gate.
¶ But they also have erred through swine, and through strong drink are out of the way; the priest and the prophet have erred through strong drink, they are swallowed up of wine, they are out of the way through strong drink; they err in vision, they stumble in judgment. For all tables are full of vomit and filthiness, so that there is no place clean. Whom shall he teach acknowledge? and whom shall he make to understand doctrine? them that are weaned from the milk, and drawn from the breasts. For precept must be upon precept, precept upon precept; line upon line, line upon line; here a little, and there a little: For with stammering lips and another tongue will he speak to this people. To whom he said, This is the rest wherewith ye may cause the weary to rest; and this is the refreshing: yet they would not hear. But the word of the Lord was unto them precept upon precept, precept upon precept; line upon line, line upon line; here a little, and there a little; that they might go, and fall backward, and be broken, and snared, and taken.
¶ Wherefore hear the word of the Lord, ye scornful men, that rule this people which is in Jerusalem. Because ye have said, We have made a covenant with death, and with hell are we at agreement; when the overflowing scourge shall pass through, it shall not come unto us: for we have made lies our refuge, and under falsehood have we hid ourselves:
¶ Therefore thus saith the Lord God, Behold, I lay in Zion for a foundation a stone, a tried stone, a precious corner stone, a sure foundation: he that believeth shall not make haste. Judgment also will I lay to the line, and righteousness to the plummet: and the hail shall sweep away the refuge of lies, and the waters shall overflow the hiding place.
¶ And your covenant with death shall be disannulled, and your agreement with hell shall not stand; when the overflowing scourge shall pass through, then ye shall be trodden down by it. From the time that it goeth forth it shall take you: for morning by morning shall it pass over, by day and by night: and it shall be a vexation only to understand the report. For the bed is shorter than that a man can stretch himself on it: and the covering narrower than that he can wrap himself in it. For the Lord shall rise up as in amount Perazim, he shall be wroth as in the valley of Gibeon, that he may do his work, his strange work; and bring to pass his act, his strange act. Now therefore be ye not mockers, lest your bands be made strong: for I have heard from the Lord God of hosts a consumption, even determined upon the whole earth.
¶ Give ye ear, and hear my voice; hearken, and hear my speech. Doth the plowman plow all day to sow? doth he open and break the clods of his ground? When he hath made plain the face thereof, doth he not cast abroad the fitches, and scatter the cummin, and cast in the principal wheat and the appointed barley and the rie in their place?
For his God doth instruct him to discretion, and doth teach him.
For the fitches are not threshed with a threshing instrument, neither is a cart wheel turned about upon the cummin; but the fitches are beaten out with a staff, and the cummin with a rod. Bread corn is bruised; because he will not ever be threshing it, nor break it with the wheel of his cart, nor bruise it with his horsemen. This also cometh forth from the Lord of hosts, which is wonderful in counsel, and excellent in working.

Everything in Earth and Sky

Everything on Earth and in the sky
Denotes to mankind there is a God
That when death comes one's given to sigh
For the loss of what's gone abroad

Of what greater sign could one find
That there is a Supreme Creator
Than to look at creatures of each kind
The actors in God's theatre

The bug, the bird, even the human
Will give answer to it's purpose
For the time on earth so grand
That's not available through purchase

For it has been given freely
To fulfill our Father's plan
As all life on earth ideally
Is for the benefit of man

Alma 30: 44
But Alma said unto him: Thou hast had signs enough; will ye tempt your God? Will ye say, Show unto me a sign, when ye have the testimony of all these thy brethren, and also all the holy prophets? The scriptures are laid before thee, yea, and all things denote there is a God; yea, even the earth, and call things that are upon the face of it, yea, and its motion, yea, and also all the planets which move in their regular form do witness that there is a Supreme Creator.

There is a Straight Course to Bliss

We've a straight course to eternal bliss
Which is as simple as giving heed to a compass
It's found inside a precious and marvelous book
That gives us God's guidance if we but open and look

And that which we find inside ever changes
If we but obey and pray to find the pages
Ever from day to day according to our needs
This gloriously written Book of Mormon leads

Might we declare the word and be sober
Until our course on this earth is over
Might we find the easiness of way it gives
Beyond this vale of sorrow, to see and live

Alma 37:44-47
For behold, it is as easy to give heed to the word of Christ, which will point to you a straight course to eternal bliss, as it was for our fathers to give heed to this compass, which would point unto them a straight course to the promised land.
And now I say, is there not a type in this thing? For just as surely as this director did bring our fathers, by following its course, to the promised land, shall the words of Christ, if we follow their course, carry us beyond this vale of sorrow into a far better land of promise.
O my son, do not let us be slothful because of the easiness of the way; for so was it with our fathers; for so was it prepared for them, that if they would look they might live; even so it is with us. The way is prepared, and if we will look we may live forever.
And now, my son, see that ye take care of these sacred things, yea, see that ye look to God and live. Go unto this people and declare the word, and be sober. My son, farewell.

With a Plan to Emerge Victorious

With a plan to emerge victorious
We face life's challenge head on
For beyond is what's bright and most glorious
Once our fears are forgotten and gone

For, once what's surpassed is foregone
There is healing from all that shatters
Unto cheer for redemption that is strong
There to realize our faith is what truly matters


President Thomas S. Monson
Be of Good Cheer
Ensign, May 2009,

Be of Good Cheer

The once sagging economy
Has taken a nasty nosedive
To where it ought not to be
This is simply a part of our lives...

God hath not given us the spirit of fear
But, of power, of love, and sound minds
Rejoice, all mankind, and be of good cheer
For as ye seek, so shall ye find

Far too numerous to mention
We’ve examples of those with much strength
Who during troubling times and great tension
Endured and emerged victorious at length....

It is often our attitude
That pulls us through come what may
As we persevere with gratitude
As we learn, grow, and find joy in the day

The future is surely as bright as our faith
Our courage, and determination
As the powers of heaven so patient await
Offering peace regardless our station

Be of Good Cheer
President Thomas S. Monson
Ensign, May 2009,

2 Timothy 1:7

"God hath not givn us the spirit of fear;
but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind."

Though the Storm Clouds Gather

Though the storm clouds do gather
And down upon us the rains pour
We've knowledge of Heavenly Father
And the comfort of our Savior

There's naught that can defeat us
If we walk uprightly before God
For our covenants made through Jesus
Keep us ever safe on gospel sod

Be of Good Cheer
Thomas S. Monson
Ensign, May 2009,

We Pray to the Father in the Name of the Son

We pray to the Father in the name of the Son
For they are in purpose ever as one
As on earth, the Lord through intercessory prayers
Showed He ever mediates over mankind's affairs

We have received precious lessons
From the Lord concerning prayers
And within records of these sessions
We've a glimpse how much He cares

Picture in your mind
The Savior for you and me
Kneeling deep in prayer
With pleas for unity

We too can pray to be
Of one heart and one mind
With God and with family
And more, with all mankind

The Lord hears our simple prayers
Offered humbly and in faith
They need not be of excess share
But, of a necessary length

How is it best to enhance our prayers?
But, with the language befitting kings
As with Thee, Thy, and Thine we become heirs
Of all that the Atonement brings

How is it best to enhance each prayer?
But with the Gift of the Holy Ghost
For then we've the right words to share
And the assistance of a Heavenly host

How else can one enhance a prayer
But by showing humility through fasting
But let us give a caution here
We need not fast with eyes downward casting

As we counsel with the Lord we've strength and power
And, too, our wills become swallowed up with the Father
Such that we feel He is there in each crucial hour
As, too, we speak to God through the way that Christ does offer

Elder Russell M. Nelson
Lessons from the Lord's Prayers
Ensign, May 2009,

He Loves Us More Than That

Our Savior, perfect in every way
Loves us more than we can know
He lights upon our minds each day
Even when love for Him does not show...

Of the boss for whom we labor
To whom our obedience is exact
Who compensates each endeavor
He loves us by far more than that

Of the spouse for whom we offer
Commitment, loyalty and love intact
Who bears with us when e'er we suffer
He loves us by far more than that

Of the small child for whom we worry
And seek to teach and make an impact
Who, for safety, obeys in a hurry
He loves us by far more than that

Each relationship with which we enter
Forms a bond as though a contract
Yet, fails to complete us as our center
For Christ loves us more perfectly than that

He is who gives us breath and wisdom
Knows who we are and who we can be
And we can ever put our trust in Him
For He leads man on love's path of eternity

Swallowed Up in the Will of the Father

Consolingly, God's grace flows
Not only to those who obey Him
But, to those who seek so to do
And plea for the blessings of heaven

There are those who love God valiantly
And, also acknowledge how they fall short
They with vows of consecration, live reverently
And are conscientious in prayer and exhort

A second group of members are honorable
They too fall short, yet seek not to do much more
They being neither wicked nor miserable
Have missed living deeply in the things we're here for

A third group lives their lives without the Master
Having minds upon the things of the flesh
This is but the path of pain and disaster
As estranged to the lord, to another they mesh...

We who've sufficient faith, do avoid major sins of commission
But, as we're the first group, we must get outside of our needs
And, strive to rise above the placid sins of omission
Unto a burning desire to tilt toward God with service as our deeds

As according to our desires shall it be done unto us
God can educate the very core of our souls if we so want
For as we align our natures to the path of Jesus
We are strengthened with His name upon us and become one

When we learn to ever pray before the Lord's alter
We allow ourselves to be swallowed up in His will
And as this is truly all we have to offer
Our submission assists us that our works fulfill

As we've trials, we humbly seek out inspiration
Through a process that requires, first, we believe
For it's through nothing save the spirit of revelation
That the highest blessings given to man, we receive

As we shed our old selves, do we lose our identity that makes us sing?
What of our roles, our time, possessions, and preeminence?
Well, gone would be the consuming preoccupations of lesser things
For we then become the creatures, we prepared for in the pre-existence

With submission comes enhanced capacity to live as Christ spoke
No longer weak, we expand deliberately ever outward with joy
And with confidence we square our shoulders to better bear the yoke
That we with our brethren might know what God would have us enjoy

May the malignant mole of materialism in us be removed
And the perplexing trials help us comprehend what we're here for
May we humbly trust and do as our Heavenly Father has behooved
And drop by drop fill our cup of consecration till it brims o'er

Elder Neal A. Maxwell
Swallowed Up in the Will of the Master
Ensign, November 1995, 22

D&C 46:9 For verily I say unto you, they are given for the benefit of those who love me and keep all my commandments, and him that seeketh so to do; that all may be benefited that seek or that ask of me, that ask and not for a sign that they may consume it upon their lusts.

D&C 11:17 And then, behold, according to your desires, yea, even according to your faith shall it be done unto you.

D&C 4:3 Therefore, if ye have desires to serve God ye are called to the work;

Mosiah 15: 7 Yea, even so he shall be led, crucified, and slain, the flesh becoming subject even unto death, the will of the Son being swallowed up in the will of the Father.

A leader

Humbly, are you the kind of leader
That instills strengths and confidence?
That compensates those who are eager
Who work to know and do without hesitance?

Then come what may till an unforeseen day
When a crisis storms upon and hits full force
That, though suddenly, you've been called away
Each labors still at their appointed course

For they're sure you'll approve of what they do
As they, like you, humbly pray before each task
Then be certain if you're possessed of this virtue
Your good name before and behind you ever lasts

Thoughts from reading President Henry B. Eyring's comments
upon being awarded the Distinguished Public Service Award
from the Washington D.C. Chapter of the BYU Management Society

LDS Magazine
President Henry B. Eyring Teaches leadership Principles to BYU Management Society
click on above title to read the article

The Lord's Prayer

The Lord has taught us how to pray
With set patterns for what to say
Of this, the prophets have written
And given that we might search within

First, we address Heavenly Father
With reverence, in meekness proper
Then, with vows to submit to His will
We pray for each blessing to fulfill

Too, we've cries and pleas for safety
As temptations lead us to swaying
Such that we're humble to forgive
To be found without sin's motive

As, too we pray out of hunger
We ask for nourishment to linger
That we be strengthened and fed
To be spiritually and physically led

And such that bread gives us life
We pray to receive the spirit of Christ
And, have His name placed upon us
While we also pray in His name, thus

Then, as even the Savior ended with amen
We close the same, thinking of God in heaven
This acknowledges His great power and glory
That He is the author and finisher of life's story

Russell M. Nelson
Lessons from the Lord's Prayers
Ensign, May 2009, 46

Matthew 6: 9-13
After this manner therefore pray ye: Our Father which art in heaven, Hallowed be thy name. Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven.
Give us this day our daily bread. And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil: For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, for ever. Amen.

The Passover Lamb

To help Israel recall their deliverance
The priests sacrificed a first born...
And we've the sacrament for remembrance
That Christ suffered while our sins He bore

The Passover lambs for the coming year
Were inspected one by one for blemishes
And symbolically it has become clear
That the priests sought for faults in Jesus

For just like the lamb's blood over the door
Made it possible for death to pass by
Our partaking of the blood that did pour
Saves us for what otherwise our sins would deny

Our Savior, perfect in every way
Has ransomed us from death and hell
That we might enjoy that perfect day
Of resurrection and eternal swell

Let us come oft to remember
And take His name upon us anew
That we not spiritually slumber
But, be filled with His spirit too

Thoughts from reading:
Reflections on the Savior's Last Week
by Eric D. Huntsman
Ensign, April 2009, 52

Alone On a bench

Alone on a bench
With dreams in my heart
Of any ol' job
And a fresh new start

If I were to cry
What good would that do?
I'll just have to try
And prepare for something new

And on this bright day
People walk to and fro
They have found their way
And in their walk it shows

We each have a purpose
And high goals to pursue
We've knowledge to purchase
Through good works that we do

I'll widen my search
Unto a growing circle
And to God I'll rehearse
Till hope does encircle

Just A Single Drop

Just as a single drop
Can cause quite a ripple
The best tool for change is
Ever simply, simple

The Time Is Now At Hand

The time is now to stand
Upon your own two feet
And for your self to understand
How to face challenges you meet

"How is this done?" I ask
But through prayer while alone
For there in is strength to task
That your own faith- you do own

The Elders Waited At a Door

The Elders waited at a door
As I was passing by that street
When I had so much to pray for
Was it just chance that we did meet?

To start, I asked where they were from
And did they have a moment for me?
As to this new city I had come
And knew not where to plant my feet

Immediately, I was put at rest
And no longer felt I was in danger
As though great burdens were off my chest
For they assisted me, though a stranger

How does one decide where to live?
When just days from a distant land?
But to ask those who in service do give
And have walked down each street first hand

And while the choice was still mine
I was suggested a ward that was near
I thanked them for being so kind
As I was restored to faith and good cheer

They who tell of the truth restored
Restored my sanity unto safety
As though through windows of heaven down poured
Tender mercy to replace my anxiety

Thank you Elder Ramos and Elder Carnell


While in Las Vegas searching for a house I saw 3 different arrests on my first day
and was very uncomfortable with the first lender I met. The elders were a blessing from heaven. I only had 5 days to find a house and didn't know anyone... But, when you see the missionary badge, you have a familiar friend indeed.

My Eyes Were Once Heavy

My eyes were once heavy
With the things of the world
Till I awoke unto Christ
And saw His gospel unfurled

Now ever may they raised
To receive of more light
Far above what's grey and hazed
Unto a beautiful sight

Men of Judgement

Men of judgement raised Him up
To see what He would do
They gave Him bitterness to sup
To humiliate Him anew

Again and again, they mocked
Encircling Him below
While wagging their heads they scoffed
Taunting for His powers to show

And show He did- for us
As he patiently endured
He spoke not of what's unjust
But gave His hope and love assured

The Kiss of Scorn

When Judas gave Jesus the kiss of scorn
Oh, how it had better, he'd never been born
For as he did collude in such an awful act
Certainly, there will come a judgement that is exact

What have I done to lay blame on the lord?
Through rebellion, selfishness, and discord
When I'm not living up to God's higher law
I have dismissed him, who is worthy of awe

Luke 22: 47-48
And while he yet spake, behold a multitude, and he that was called Judas, one of the twelve, went before them, and drew near unto Jesus to kiss him.
But Jesus said unto him, Judas, betrayest thou the Son of man with a kiss?

We Will Maintain

We will maintain our stance on high ground
And call for the Lord as our defense
For with His power around, safety is found
And we can say "Lucifer, Get Thee Hence!"

And as we find the parameters are sealed
We give thanks that freedom is at hand
That we've independence, to be taught and healed
As more of the atonement we come to understand

Our Reverence

Our reverence invites revelation
Drop by drop for our education
To the depths of our hearts and mind it reaches
As it provides for, comforts, guides, and teaches

Only as we open our whole souls and forsake
Are we then found worthy to partake
Of the bread and water, the body and blood
Of the Master Teacher, that great blessings flood

The Fruits of the Gospel

The fruits of the gospel
Are satisfyingly sweet
As with delight one's given
What's nourishing to eat

To one is given knowledge
To another faith to believe
That through commitment full fledged
There's covenants one can receive

He Trod the Winepress Alone

He trod the winepress alone
To provide what's pure and holy
Exclusively, this was His to own
And certainly the path was lonely

While Kneeling

While kneeling in the dark in humble prayer
I bowed my head, folded my arms and I did share...
The words I spoke came to me right then
Such that I can't wait to say my prayers again

How Much

How much, I know not of
That I am blessed through prayer
Yet, I know of God's love
And recognize His care

The Mind is Like Water

The mind is like water in the daylight's sheen
Reflecting and absorbing all that is seen
Yet, only the surface reflects what is known
As it ripples with what passes by or is thrown

As our best resources we must block where they flow
But, as we do, we too channel where they will go
There to provide and sustain for our needs
As we keep them from where pollutions leads

May our minds be pure as the mountain stream
That we may forever dream of what is clean
That we'll be lead to the wells of living water
To be impressed of the things that truly matter

Precious Is

Precious is what's between a man and wife
Their marriage is the bud of family life
Where each child formed blossoms as a unique flower
Which, too, may bloom bouquets as more love does shower

Russell M. Nelson
25 April 2006
Nurturing marriage

Through No Failings of Their Own

Through no failings of their own
Some travail life's challenges alone
But those worthy have this promise
That they'll married in eternal bliss

Oh, That I Were An Angel

Oh, that I were an angel
I'd bless the human race
I'd go to the right and left of man
And would go out before their face

Oh, that I were an angel
Called to extend Father's love
I would work to prepare His people
For their great day to ascend above

Where ever there is sorrow
Or a need for heavenly Light
There is sufficient strength to borrow
And there is wisdom blessedly bright

Come men and pray for angels
To assist you each new day
That when ever life is dangerous
There is naught reason to be afraid

D&C 84: 88
And whoso receiveth you, there I will be also, for I will go before your face. I will be on your right hand and on your left, and my Spirit shall be in your hearts, and mine angels round about you, to bear you up.

Spiritual Strength is a Gift

Spiritual strength is a gift from God
It sustains as we serve one another
When we learn to give all of our might, mind, and strength
Our own burdens ease while we assist our brothers

Like muscles strained to exhaustion
Carrying burdens can help us too
For our natures change to compensate
That we might complete whatever we're asked to do

And what causes this change to take place?
But, the influence of the Lord's Atonement
Which strengthens and fits us for His companionship
To become equal to the task for which we are sent


Henry B. Eyring,
“O Ye That Embark,”
Ensign, Nov 2008, 57–60

D&C 4:2
“Therefore, O ye that embark in the service of God, see that ye serve him with all your heart, might, mind and strength, that ye may stand blameless before God at the last day.”

I Am Only Half Awake

I am only half awake to who I can be
Habitually, I fail to use that sleepy side of me
Though there is a great force in intellectual attraction
The excellence of education is not knowledge it is action!

Inspired by passages from Dale Carnegie's book
How to Win Friends and Influence People
page xix

A Man With the Warmth of Midday

A man with the warmth of midday
Extended to me a sacred call
And I could not doubt the things he did say
For the love in his eyes said it all

I felt his eyes pierce deeply
As he measured of my soul
Next, his arms came to me sweeping
To welcome me unto my new role

Now, to those of you in my presence
I ask for your forgiveness and faith
I ask for your prayers and patience
As I feel humbled as a poor waif

I know that I am not yet what I must become
My knees are weak and my emotions are bare
As I express thanks for your sustaining vote
In many respects I've no talents to spare

But, I take solace that in one qualification
The Lord has prepared me with clarity
That I know who He is without equivocation
To go forth and serve Him in this call of rarity


Neil L. Andersen
Come Unto Him
Ensign, May 2009, 78

There is A Light Shining From Above

There is a light
Shining from above
To give us hope
Wisdom and love

The Light of Christ
Rests upon all life
To give us joy
And strength to strive

The Things of God Are of Great Import

The things of God are of great import
Such that they require threads of faith
And ever is one applying effort
Lest unraveling causes our hope to grow faint

With strong threads one's ready for weaving
To be encircled in the warmth of God's love
But, beware- flaxen chords hide for deceiving
As they seek to weaken the strength made thereof

They're the ills of the world reaching to mingle
To destroy fine texture and pattern
All they need is one thread on which to single
For from there, comes the pull for tatter

What can be done when the cloth shreds?
But be steadfast and increase the weaving
As a steady supply of purest threads
Can be corded before they're weaved in

Through covenant making and through prayer
One finds the peaceable things of God
That while continually applying watch care
One can weave an expanse that is broad

I Knew It, and I Knew That God Knew It
Carolyn Colton

BYU Women’s Conference April 2005

Easter Is Here We've Thanks

Every soul at the age of accountability
Acts for good or bad with growing ability
Since we are learning and prone to sin and fall
The Savior suffered and atoned with love for one and all
Every pain that will be and ever was known to man
Rested heavily upon the shoulders of this lone and perfect man


In the garden, it did not end- as he was then arrested
Sentenced to flogging, then death, while the growing crowds jested

He was nailed to a tree in a very sure way
Enduring agony with but good things to say
Remembering His mother and the apostles, too
Even, He prayed for those knowing not what they do

When God abandoned Him to darkness for a season
Ever, He found it more painful than this sentence of treason
Voluntarily and solitarily this needed to be done
Ever, that He'd know the shame of sin though He the perfect Son

That it was very much a spiritual death, the skies darkened knowing
Heaven had closed Him to the comfort that had kept Him going
And eternally grateful I am for the hardest price He paid
Never again, we vow, will He have to confront sin without our aid
Kindred with our brother, we will not sell our loyalty
Simple and true, as Saints we'll stand by Him, our Lord of royalty

Thoughts after pondering
None Were With Him
Jeffrey R. Holland
Ensign, May 2009, 86

Truly this is an acrostic poem
Please comment and let me know if I said anything that can be worded more accurately...

Out of A Single Thought

Out of a single thought
So much more can grow
That from a single man
There is so much to know

The Lord's at His Table Now Offering

The Lord's at His table now offering
The water and the broken bread
That we might be cleansed of sin's suffering
And sup to be spiritually fed

With all of our heart we each partake
And promise to keep our covenants
That we of all our sins might forsake
And be blessed by His sacrament

Come now and let us be more reverent
That prayers might be received anew
We lift up our voices to heaven
For help in the things we should do

With hands we are weekly out reaching
To have the lord's spirit in us
As to our lips we are e'er touching
The emblems of our Lord Jesus

Who walks in the spirit of meekness?
With minds that have been purified?
Who seeks to be strengthened in weakness?
And freed from each sin that has tried?

Our Savior molds us as new creatures
To put off the natural man
He leads us unto the safe pastures
To drink deeply at the mountain

Here we have Christ's help with our burdens
That they might be carried with ease
He compensates us for our labors
That here we might ever know peace

In the world there is tribulation
But, we've hope and reason to cheer
For there's a path to exaltation
And our Lord does ever stand near

The Lord's Body Was Taken Down

The Lord’s body was taken down
And placed inside a burial tomb
Was He but of temporary renown?
The grief of the Saints consumed

When Mary Magdalene
Saw the tomb was empty
She fell to imagining
Evil acts of the Pharisees

The body had been stolen!
She ran to tell of the thievery
But, in truth, death’s doors had been broken
That the dead could receive delivery

Easter is the Season of Hope and Renewal

Easter is the season of hope and renewal
When we honor the advent of the risen Lord
Of all earth’s events, this is the crowning jewel
As the ransom of mankind, only he could afford

As sure as the Redeemer was crucified
He, too, rose triumphant from the tomb
He the lamb without spot, suffered and died
That our lives with our Father might resume

As God’s children, we are the beneficiaries
Of His tender mercy and atoning grace
As such- peace to our minds and hearts, He carries
For He is way, the truth, and the life we embrace

First Presidency issues Easter message
LDS.org
Saturday, Apr. 11, 2009

click on the title to read article from the MormonTimes

The Great Family of Believers

The great family of believers
Marched on with faith t’wards eternal life
On a journey as the achievers
They bore Christ’s name and reservoirs of light

As the path was uphill every day
Each shared the burden of the load
That with each step they made their way
Closer to their heav’nly abode

At first, each knew where to place their feet
And had confidence in the route
But, as they trekked on, some called out, retreat!
For, they’d began sinking in doubt

And with that one knelt to pray
For the guidance to know what to do
And to this one, he heard God say
“You know enough, to see you through”

He tucked this away for remembrance
For God does not oft speak to man
That when another faced a hindrance
A flood of confidence from God began

“I don’t even know if God loves me”
A young man stated, planning to leave
But, as sure as a forceful feeling can be
This leader was given to perceive

"God does love you, and you know it!” He said
And the young man started to cry
For he’d become overpowered by dread
He admitted in shame, he'd gone awry

Now, to each that this leader spoke to
Came the same spiritual power
That others were restored to hope too
And were saved in their difficult hour

But, one day, came the hardest test
They came to know of death and sorrow
Till one by one their souls came to rest
For they’d see their love in a distant morrow

As each knew enough, for they already knew
And were just in need of a reminder
They each became as a little child too
That the believer was also the finder...

Today, far up the mountain, they still travel
Moving step by step and line upon line
No longer confused and o'ercome to grovel
As they ever hold to God's powers divine

Elder Neil L. Andersen
You Know Enough
Ensign, November, 2008

grovel
show submission or fear

When You Turn Your Back

When you turn your back
On what is grand
There is strength you lack
And less at hand

If we bow before
The eye of God
We're humble for
His help and rod

That in our need
To cross the desert
Our Lord does feed
A sweet pure dessert

His love is like
Water to a root
That as we hike
We've precious fruit

Some Things We Have

Some things we have
And some we have not
When our hearts are full
We share as we ought

Why Do You Tease Me?

Why do you tease me
And confuse my day?
Let's work together
It's the better way

Gracious Are They Who Give From the Heart

Gracious are they who give from the heart
Who charity, hope, and love do impart
Jesus once said Ye have done this for me
Whenever ye do it for all that you see

Might we extend His love to someone
That he who is hungry might feel nourished
Might we extend His hope to someone
To show compassion that they might feel cherished

Like unto a boy who gave up his pillow
To comfort a man who sleeps on the street
For naught is forgotten, not even a sparrow
And Christ's light is inside all whom we meet


Thomas S. Monson,
“A Doorway Called Love,”
Ensign, Nov 1987, 66

My Heart is Kind of Lonely

My heart is kind of lonely
And I wish for your return
For you are so part of me
That you make my poor heart burn


Waiting for the school year to end
As a teacher is true to her class
But, oh to be with her husband again...
In the desert place of Las Vegas

I Believe in the Pursuit of Endless Learning

I believe in the pursuit of endless learning
That study and faith brings forth the highest earnings
And as a child's taught to be helpful through responsibilities
There's joy in service as well as more confidence in abilities

But, there is something more important than all of this
Which is the desire to observe, question and notice
That when a particular subject is introduced
The mind opens and a piqued interest is produced

For therein is absorption, that the learning is retained
That the student is edified and new wisdom is obtained
Unto the exploration of the simple as well as complex
Enjoying the unraveling process which some others would perplex

If I were hired by your academy
I know it will benefit you as well as me
As I would work to improve learning each day
For that is how to teach in an academic way

Learning is More than Quietly Reading

Learning is more than just quietly reading
It's asking and thinking and it's more- it's needing
There's so much around us that's for our viewing
That our minds commands of us to be ever doing

And around us all nature seems to be talking
This I observe and sense as I'm out walking
When our minds are filled with light, we feel peace
May it be our desire for this to ever increase

A Massive Earthquake

A massive earthquake
All but destroyed the town
But, faith did not shake
Though each house tumbled down

For that which was left
Was love and family
And they could rebuild
Together happily

Their smiles looked out of place
Amidst all the rubble
And hope gleamed on each face
For they were but humble

In that profound hour
They had said a prayer
And to them did shower
Assurance of God's care

We need such Christians
For crucial days ahead
They're our illustrations
Of how faith is bred

As long as we've a temple
We've a place of peace
Though hardships assemble
Our faith (there) can increase

The Power of Covenants
Elder D. Todd Christofferson
Ensign, May 2009, 19

In the Thick Tall Brush

In the thick tall brush
Blew the mighty wind
And the sound did hush
Each cry he would send

Yet, the lone bird still
Raised his head to tweet
For his mom to trill
And land at his feet

To rest, he looked down
And the air grew silent
As he saw what was brown
A bug- juicy and giant

T'was his first meal of labor
Now he'd passed the test
For in a bush that neighbored
Was the mother redbreast...

The earth will provide
Simple lessons we need
Each will be a guide
If our eyes set to see

All the earth is ours
For toil and learning too
God knows the minutes and hours
And will teach us what to do

Jesus Rode a Donkey

Jesus rode a donkey
On that Palm Sunday
As a way to greet Him
They carpeted His way

With shouts of hosannah
They praised Him as a king
The promised Messiah
What freedom He would bring

Then, not understanding
They feared Him instead
Unto Caesar for handling
For they wished Him dead

From one thing to the next
People ever hunger
Whate'er the current text
They stop not to linger

But, the flame to each fades
Falling short to change
That to the next one trades
As priest crafts arrange

Yet, there is no secret
That there is but one way
Without which there is regret...
Ever, it is from hell, Christ does save

All wounds... He will heal
As well as banish strife
He is our Prince of Peace
Unto Eternal Life

Deiter F. Uchtdorf
The Way of the Disciple
Ensign, May 2009, 75

Palm Sunday is a Christian moveable feast which always falls on the Sunday before Easter Sunday. The feast commemorates an event mentioned by all four Canonical Gospels Mark 11:1-11, Matthew 21:1-11, Luke 19:28-44, and John 12:12-19: the triumphant entry of Jesus into Jerusalem in the days before his Passion.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Palm_Sunday

My Words Do Not Come Mincing

My words do not come mincing-
With love, let's speak heart to heart
Our temples are for filling
And it's time for this to start

Those within its shadows
Should set a goal today
To be the Saint who goes
And let naught get in the way

Dear couples go as dates
What greater activity for joy
Than to enter the holy gates
For the blessings there to enjoy


Richard G. Scott
Temple Worship: The Source of Strength and Power in Times of Need
Ensign, May 2009, 43

The Glory of the Father

The glory of the Father
Reflects upon Jesus Christ
T'was through an act of honor
He paid fully for this price

When we've our Savior's Light
Cast upon our countenance
We give honor to that night
He suffered for in advance

Each and every selfless act
Brings us closer to the Lord
Whose suffering was exact
That only He could afford

Yes, Temptations Do Persist

Yes, temptations do persist
But we've this help to resist...

As sacred music is a prayer to God
It soothes our minds of quite a lot
And while it's played in the background
We feel a sanctuary's all around

And, as music does stay in the head
We can play it before going to bed
That when we rise we feel rested
And more prepared to resist when tested

But, there's one thing for us to learn
That we must repent lest old thoughts return
We must expand our mind unto cleaning
And ever apply prayer for its intervening

sanctuary-
a shelter from danger or hardship

While Working Much Out in My Mind

While working much out in my mind
I came to know with clarity
That as I took to pen I could find
A tool for writing of verity

Without preconception
I experienced a change of will
That my heart opened for conception
For the holy words God did instill

But, what is the good of a page
If it is not read and applied?
As the paper does but yellow with age
And the advantage for the reader is denied

As such, the ancients labored much with their hands
To give us their records and holy writ
May we ponder from them to understand
The care they used for God's light to emit

They knew the value of having an open mind
an open will, and an open heart

verity -an enduring or necessary ethical or religious or aesthetic truth

There is a Pattern in our Lives

There is a pattern in our lives
That ever cycles as one strives
For when we're righteous upon the land
We are blessed with materials more at hand

And with such easiness of the way
We're prone to forget the need to pray
Then on our own we're filled with pride
That our morality begins to slide

Till off the straight and narrow we walk
Heeding the worldy who laugh and mock
And soon perhaps through greed we collapse
As independence suffers from this lapse

And as we're discontent we distrust religion
Thus, ignoring our past poor decisions
And determined to experience for ourselves
We know dreariness and our hard heart swells

What will happen next? But, a hunger to come back
Unto the roots of pure love felt on the right track
And out of the depths of misery comes a soulful longing
For an old trusted friend, and a sense of belonging

And as humility forms we shed drama that dismays
To be restored unto God's teachings and His ways
Here we find earthly angels who guide us to high ground
Where there is newness of life and a change that's profound

Then again blessings come as we pray unto thanks
Born out of desires to always remember
Thus we're found serving with our fellow Saints
Enjoying the fulness as a returned member

May our pride cycle continually disband and shorten
Until it's replaced with an eternally straight path
Till our lives are no longer misshappened
But, prepared to have all that the Father hath

Learning the Lessons of the Past
M. Russell Ballard
Ensign 2009, 31

You Can't Google or Text Message Faith

You can't google or text message faith
As it must be burned into the soul
That when the storm blows we'll not grow faint
But, have strength to accomplish our goals

It is through a process that faith takes root
Deep into our hearts for happiness and peace
Through study and obedience we make more room
For blessings and testimonies to increase

M. Russell Ballard
Learning the Lessons From the Past
Ensign, May 2009, 31

The Tribulation of the Mormons

The tribulation of the Mormons
Had been counted as deserving
Was it due to an unrighteous member
Who up close they saw as swerving?

With a harsh view of our doctrine
One soon heeds the precepts of man
And becomes a stumbling block often
When there ought to be naught found against

And some join to mock knowing not of
But, of this threat, we are told we shall not judge
As such we have hope and will never give up
For it is given to all man to seek knowledge

When the pick and flower of England
Took board on the Amazon
A reporter came to inspect them
And found them favorable and grand some

And, in truth, the gospel is favorable
With God's all encompassing, compassionate plan
That men of faith become admirable
As unto hearts and lands, God's word brightens to expand

Elder Cook
Our Father’s Plan—Big Enough for All His Children
Ensign, April 2009,

The Tagedy in Death is Sin

The real tragedy of death is sin
Thus, let not your heart be troubled or afraid
There is a peace one can feel deep within
As eternal covenants are obeyed

A moment of uncertainty and anguish
Can certainly torment the breast
But, all the more reason to not be foolish
And, to look t'wards God's place of eternal rest

Elder Rafael E. Pino
Faith in Adversity
Ensign, May 2009, 41

Faith is a Spiritual Gift

Faith is a spiritual gift
Formed and kindled by hearing
And it will ever upwards lift
As to our covenants we're adhering

Faith begins with hope in the Savior
And is a reward for righteousness
Thus, obedient patterns of behavior
Will help guide us in the darkness

Faith is formed by developing focus
Like unto molecules in the sunlight hour
It's a spiritual photosynthesis
That lights the eye of faith unto power

Faith is a law of attraction
With specific molecular behavior
Enticed by belief and action
That all things are possible for endeavor

With such faith comes confidence
As well as great expectations
That one's steadfast with diligence
For brightness and inspiration

Elder Kevin W. Pearson
Faith in the Lord Jesus Christ
Ensign, May 2009, 38

When We Hear the Gunfire of Sin

Satan knows what's natural within
Yet we can't afford to fear Him one whit
Thus when we hear the gunfire of sin
We must not ignore, but take care of it

We will maintain our stance on high ground
And call for the Lord as our defense
For with His power a shield is found
And we can say "Lucifer, Get Thee Hence!"

And as we find the parameter's are sealed
We give thanks that safety is at hand
For through dependence, we are taught and healed
That a molecule of the atonement we understand


thoughts from ksl radio after conference speaking of
Elder Hales
Becoming Provident Providers Temporally and Spiritually
Esign, May 2009,7

Who Will Steer and Drive?

Who will steer and drive
That to our destination we will arrive?
Someone who is alert
And knows what's beyond the desert

Who Will Succor the Sufferer?

Who will succor
The sufferer?
But our anchor
The offerer

Those who are meek
And lowly of heart
Find what they seek
As the Lord imparts

To the distressed
What will He give?
Those who are impressed
Will feel hope that lives

And with inner peace
For happiness
There's an increase
Of pure joy in us

All Addictions

All addictions
Found upon the earth
Cause restrictions
And lower our self-worth

Yet we've a way
To restore freedom
To hold sins at bay
And be filled with wisdom

The cravings of
The natural man
Substitute God's love
For what ever is at hand

A deep hunger
Won't be satisfied
Till prayers are uttered
And the soul is tried

With humility one can afford
To conquer what's insatiable
It's the price to feast with the Lord
And taste what is incredible

The fruits of the Lord's gospel
Are satisfyingly sweet
That when we're given to sample
We lay our sins at His feet

Then as we know each week we sin
We seek cleansing of hands and hearts
Thus a reverence in us begins
For that which the sacrament imparts


Thoughts from Elder Hales conference talk
Becoming Provident Providers Temporally and Spiritually
Ensign, May 2009, 7

A Temple Dedication

A temple dedication
Furthers the work of the Lord
It prompts re-evaluation
And His children move forward

President Monson
Saturday conference session 2009

As Sure As the Sun Does Shine

As sure as the sun does shine
Progress comes as one tries
And with God's light from above
We've strength to do much more of

When at first we are weak
There is painful discomfort
If to prayer we do seek
We find faith in His comfort

In each task that we do
There is opposition
God will help us see it through
From a brighter position

From What We Learn

From what we learn
Come ways to cope
When to Christ we turn
We've light and hope

I've Felt That Kind of Pain Before

I've felt that kind of pain before
How it pressed upon, wracked, and tore
What can I do to help you through?
Perhaps lift you unto faith anew?

Let's start by reading of our dear Savior
Of how He suffered to pay and favor
I've found so much from His succoring
That He, through the oil press, is offering

Every time I serve to lift and aid
I can't help but think of the price He paid
Oh, how I want to give honor to that love
Unto charity, of which there can't be enough of

Like a Plant Turned

Like a plant turned
We've light and hope
And through faith in Christ we've learned
How best to cope

When we've known pain
We feel deeply
That when another's tears rain
We're found weeping

With clarity
Empathy buds
As then Christ-like charity
Blooms from above

There's no wonder
That we give plants
For, they show, more than words utter
How pure light is needed and spans

Our House is Under Water

Our house is "under water"
And yet it is not wet
The payments more than bother
Yet, we still pay on that large debt

It's the right thing to do
To meet our obligations
There's assistance to help us through
We've lowered interest invitations

A Day Hemmed in With Prayer

A day hemmed in with prayer
Rarely unravels
As under God's watch care
Life's stitch tends not to travel

For a straight and steady course
The thread moves in and out
That the master might endorse
The path that we're about