The Wind Beneath our Wings
What laws of nature will carry us on our flight?
Over high mountains to a destination bright?
A strong forward thrust, a powerful uplift.
With faith- the principle power- in the cockpit.
We're on a journey, the gospel is at the core-
at the center of our hearts and forevermore.
With agency, we choose Jesus as copilot.
With Him we spiritually soar more self-reliant.
He's placed His temples as beacons to light our way
Towards Heav'nly Father whom we love and obey
Our safety lies in the virtue of our lives
Our Savior teaches us how to prioritize.
We've the commandments, we take on Jesus' name.
The test comes in practicing what we proclaim.
For Christlike attributes, we take directions.
We'll be contrite in spirit and make corrections.
With faith and hope over oceans of temptations.
The winds' beneath our wings for our destination.
-Elder Uchtdorf
1903
In 1903, A dream of mankind was fulfilled
Wilbur and Orville made the first controlled powered flight
They'd worked many jobs. But, as inventors, how they thrilled.
For 13 seconds they soared and proved their hopes were right.
They'd done their homework. They knew the laws of gravity.
They had controls, wings and an engine to stay aloft.
They could get up off the ground and brave they proved to be.
They were determined and they did not heed those who scoffed.
------------------------------------------------
With our goals defined, and if we work diligently.
We will soon be on a controlled path that takes us far
Where self mastery and the Spirit guides us gently.
And choices mirror where our thoughts and desires are.
To lift up our souls we raise our eyes unto the hills.
Where there is brightness above the thick clouds which threaten.
Where there is brilliance so bright that the whole being thrills.
Where shines God's power to lift us up and thus strengthen.
- Elder Uchtdorf
Have We Not Reason to Rejoice?
It is true there are wars and rumors of wars.
But, our hearts shall not fear, nor will we ignore
The reasons we have to rejoice and live for.
We've our Lord's atonement- we've forevermore.
And despite all of our downward tendencies,
We can have light and hope amidst challenges.
For, these too shall be but for experience.
Let's rejoice and sing songs - and depart not hence.
The gospels sweet message enlightens our mind.
Warms our heart, no matter what troubles we find.
Our eyes change and we leave old viewpoints behind.
Then we can focus on- being meek and kind.
Our Lord has divine power that lifts to new heights.
His grace is sufficient, He helps raise our sights.
When burdens are too great, He'll help make them light.
Let's turn to Him with all- our hearts, soul and might.
What is the gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ?
It's good news, glad tidings, it is truth and light.
No other name given brings eternal life.
He declares in plainness - and our souls delight.
We've the first principles and we've ord'nances.
Our faith is unshaken, we'll prove we're steadfast.
We offer broken hearts, there's second chances.
We are as new creatures- we've divine guidance.
And what does it mean to endure to the end?
The straight and narrow path, takes us past hard bends.
And as we hang on tight, this command He sends:
From sunrise to sunrise- love your fellowmen.
Jesus Christ wants us to succeed in this life.
Though mountains shall depart, He is ever kind.
He'll help us be faithful, though there's sins and strife.
The Savior heals our hearts- and our wounds He binds.
-Elder Uchtdorf
Point of Safe Return
Can we pass the point of safe return?
Where going back is not an option?
The gospel provides extra fuel to burn,
To find, with hope, our destination.
If we have sinned, if we have gone wrong,
We can repent through the Lord's atonement.
Through Christ we are never too far gone.
Though Satan misquotes the scriptures intent.
He would like to imply there is no mercy.
To make us lose hope and become like him.
His counterfeit work has deceived many.
He's the “accuser” and author of sin.
What is God's plan for our safe return?
Jesus and His perfect Atonement.
It's up to us to learn and to discern.
Just why from the Father, the Savior was sent.
This life is our time of probation.
Our time to feel the consequence for sin,
Let's value the plan of redemption,
Where we feel love and mercy from within.
This is His work, His plan of happiness.
Though His influence goes undetected
When we don't feel we've His forgiveness,
With His wings, we're divinely protected.
We're all short of the glory of God.
We can witness the bitter pains of sin.
His mercy leads to safe routes with His rod-
To hope, no matter what trouble we're in.
We know forgiveness is as real as sin.
When there's faith, there's nothing wavering.
The tormented soul can be forgiven.
Where there's joy so sweet as for savoring.
Clean confession yields a fresh attitude,
To a brilliant day despite the night.
Where grace saves after all that we do,
Grace brings us back, choosing more of what's right.
How can we know we've been forgiven?
God will wipe away our tears of anguish.
Thus, we're enjoying His loving influence,
His encircling arms, one can distinguish.
Christ will carry burdens and our guilt.
When we're clean, the Holy Ghost verifies.
As it testifies, our strength is built.
We'll feel new again, as it sanctifies.
Our Savior taught us of this eternal truth.
He taught us how He'll forgive all debt.
We, must forgive debtors we are bound to.
On this journey that's not over yet.
Satan lies and tries to torment us.
He knows we dwell on sins that we commit.
By remembering sins we're kept with justice-
From a broken heart, contrite in spirit.
We must show courage and be nobler.
We can face strong headwinds, low altitudes,
And, diversions of the destroyer
If we develop Christ-like attributes
We'll purge the heart and mind of what weakens.
Christ saves us, from our thoughts that undermine.
It is our time to soar with joys endless.
The atonement's for all- all of the time.
- Elder Uchtdorf
Blessings of the Restoration
Early in the spring
Of eighteen hundred and twenty
With light descending
Joseph learned of love and mercy
Through study and prayer
We are blessed with firm faith in Christ.
Thus, we can declare,
Joseph Smith's vision blesses lives.
This testimony
Comes as an universal gift.
With matchless bounty
And encircling love that does lift.
Humbly and with faith,
We can know for ourselves this truth.
Others show the way-
Souls enlarge, minds enlighten too.
Joseph, we honor
For his great faith and heart of gold.
We, too, won't cower-
We can testify with hearts bold.
-President Uchtdorf
See the End from the Beginning
We can see the end
From the beginning
As with hearts we tend
To righteous living
If we trust the Lord
And learn to obey
We are in accord
For a chosen way
The priesthood we bear
Is a force for good
We extend God's care
And do as He would
When we're positive
And self- disciplined
We've freedom to live
And with laws we blend
God's hand's over us
He knows what's latent
There is much to trust
That's beyond this moment
We have potential
And God knows each strength
What is essential
To reach high at length?
For the Strength of Youth
Gives temple standards
We must live its truths
To our core innards
Though we are challenged
With uncertain times
We're not discouraged
There's work, as one climbs
Doubts we entertain
And frustrations too
Help Satan to reign
Our ears are his tool
He whispers "give up,
You will not succeed"
But, that's not enough!
We know God does lead
We know we must learn
To follow God's will
For this we must yearn
For this we must thrill
The Spirit tell us
Whom we should follow
Our Beloved Jesus
Our Lord, we'll all know
May we recognize
Our need to convert
The atonement buys
We must not revert
Immortality!
Plus eternal life!
Principality
Bought with all our strife
It is for this end
That we can see now
May our heart now tend
To what God would to endow
Dieter F. Uchtdorf
Ensign May 2006
What a Joy to Have a Prophet
What a joy to have a prophet
We are privileged to be taught
May his words to us now uplift
May we follow as we ought
Here the joy is universal
As we're spirits of our God
Now the gospel's in dispersal
May we sing hymns to our God
We've been blessed by pioneer Saints
They showed courage through the years
Following the prophet with faith
We feel kinship with their tears
Our Lord's redeemed every human
And His work has been unfurled
Now the gospel's reaching to them
By those around all this world
God speaks with a perfect clear voice
Through His watchmen on the towers
He calms fears and our hearts rejoice
As we're blessed with love He showers
There's a balm in Gilead assured
As we become diligent
Through the prophet, we are encouraged
May we do as we've been sent
May we learn wisdom and order
And find within given strength
Peace will be a lovely border
When we've the Lord close at length
2 Nephi 31:3
3 For my soul delighteth in plainness;
for after this manner doth the Lord God
work among the children of men.
For the Lord God giveth light unto the
understanding; for he speaketh unto men
according to their language, unto their understanding
Mosiah 4:27
27 And see that all these things are done
in wisdom and order; for it is not requisite
that a man should run faster than he has
strength. And again, it is expedient
that he should be diligent,
that thereby he might win the prize;
therefore, all things must be done in order.
Dieter F. Uchtdorf,
“Heeding the Voice of the Prophets,”
Liahona, Jul 2008, 2–5
A Passenger Jet Took Flight
A passenger jet took flight
In nineteen seventy-nine
To overlook the sight
Of a world white and sublime
To Antarctica and back
With preset coordinates
But, they were two degrees off track
As they descended for just minutes
The white of the clouds above
And the white of all that was below
Hid, till the panels sounded of
What was all in white- soon to show
It was too late, when they saw in terror
A volcano of 12,000 feet!
Twenty-eight miles off course from one error
Of a matter of just a few degrees!
All the passengers were killed on board
As the plane crashed into the volcano
From an error they went way off course
And became a lesson for all to know
In all our actions and all our roles
The longer it takes to get on course
The greater the distance from our goal
And come when it is too late- Oh, the remorse
When to laws we don't adhere
Irregardless of how we've strayed
The way back is certain and clear
As for us the Lord has paid
As we are agents unto ourselves
We should show gratitude for our lives
And measure our actions as one delves
Treasuring the journey as one strives
The difference between happiness
That's eternal and misery
Oft lies between our repentance
And our knowledge of mapery
A Matter of a Few Degrees
President Dieter F. Uchtdorf
Ensign May 2008, 57
Studying the gospel is like- Catching a double rainbow; Each drop of wisdom reflects light- Hinting there is more to see and know!
Sunday, January 20, 2008
Poems based on Elder Richard G. Scott's Talks
Living Right
[Verse 1]
This world is in trouble
It's values have declined
When temptations double
Some do all they feel inclined
We have clear instruction-
A pattern for success
When we reach a junction
We can pray when in distress
[Chorus]
[Verse 1]
This world is in trouble
It's values have declined
When temptations double
Some do all they feel inclined
We have clear instruction-
A pattern for success
When we reach a junction
We can pray when in distress
[Chorus]
If we ask worthily
We are safe from destruction
When we react humbly
We receive direction
[Verse 2]
When e'er we trust in God
There is help in our dealings
Where our feet need to trod-
He will give us quiet promptings
Sometimes answers we need
Come a piece at a time
Without character we'd
Not benefit all mankind
[Chorus]
If we ask worthily
We can receive instruction
With faith and humility
We receive direction
We are safe from destruction
When we react humbly
We receive direction
[Verse 2]
When e'er we trust in God
There is help in our dealings
Where our feet need to trod-
He will give us quiet promptings
Sometimes answers we need
Come a piece at a time
Without character we'd
Not benefit all mankind
[Chorus]
If we ask worthily
We can receive instruction
With faith and humility
We receive direction
[Verse 3]
Expanded character
Enhances our faith
This valuable factor
Helps us to not deviate
How do we keep resolve
When decisions abound?
Temptations will dissolve
When to the scriptures we are found
[Chorus]
If we ask worthily
We can receive instruction
With faith and humility
We receive direction
Expanded character
Enhances our faith
This valuable factor
Helps us to not deviate
How do we keep resolve
When decisions abound?
Temptations will dissolve
When to the scriptures we are found
[Chorus]
If we ask worthily
We can receive instruction
With faith and humility
We receive direction
[Bridge]
Our moral character
Weaves one thread at time
To reach our full measure
Upwards we must climb
[Chorus]
If we ask worthily
We can receive instruction
With faith and humility
We receive direction
A moment intense
A moment intense-
With problems immense
Drops us to our knees,
Enveloped with strong pleas
Our prayers can be brief
Or burdening with grief
He is there to hear
For, He is ever near
When we need guidance
We are not left to chance
Wisdom does impart
Unto the mind and heart
If we desire the spirit
Prayer will calm and quiet
For what is expedient
Prayer is the main ingredient
The more we struggle
To daily juggle
Our character grows
As gratitude flows
Prayer
Weaves one thread at time
To reach our full measure
Upwards we must climb
[Chorus]
If we ask worthily
We can receive instruction
With faith and humility
We receive direction
A moment intense
A moment intense-
With problems immense
Drops us to our knees,
Enveloped with strong pleas
Our prayers can be brief
Or burdening with grief
He is there to hear
For, He is ever near
When we need guidance
We are not left to chance
Wisdom does impart
Unto the mind and heart
If we desire the spirit
Prayer will calm and quiet
For what is expedient
Prayer is the main ingredient
The more we struggle
To daily juggle
Our character grows
As gratitude flows
Prayer
When Life is intense and we feel lost- powerless
The wise seek humbly for direction- with passion
And yearning, from God. He knows what is for our best
We've new conviction that we need His compassion
Our prayers can be brief, or take the time that we need
He is there for us, though we may feel forsaken
For He's our Father to Him we pray and we plead
With urgent problems, He who knows best does listen
To feel His guidance, we must find peace and quiet
We need to reflect and to ponder where to start
What is expedient? He'll calm us when thoughts riot
He will impart words into our mind and our heart
The more we struggle, our character grows and grows
To find solutions, we must study trials out
And ask the Father- what's best for us, for He knows
As has been promised, peace of mind will come about
Here I retire, to contemplate, mankind's fate
With all of my heart, I pour out thanks. He knows me
How am I doing? Am I staying in the gate?
Life is bittersweet and I am in need of Thee
- Richard G. Scott
The Atonement
[Verse 1]
Our dear Redeemer secured anchors for our safe ascent
Below all, He suffered solo as He'd been sent
Our Redeemer will belay, be our guide on our way
He knows all that we do crave
To the Father His paths do pave
He extends torn hands to all to save us from the fall
If we simply listen to Him and heed His soft call
In time the endless paths we face we will safely clear
If we seek His guidance and keep all the required strong gear
Below all, He suffered solo as He'd been sent
Our Redeemer will belay, be our guide on our way
He knows all that we do crave
To the Father His paths do pave
He extends torn hands to all to save us from the fall
If we simply listen to Him and heed His soft call
In time the endless paths we face we will safely clear
If we seek His guidance and keep all the required strong gear
[Chorus]
The Atonement Can Secure Our Peace and Happiness,
as He anchors Gods' love inside each one of us
[Verse 2]
[Verse 2]
With Gods' own plan as His focus, as His sole compass
He came to satisfy sheer justice and to strengthen us
As the innocent lamb He came, His pure life was slain
From all sin He did refrain
To gain more than all of our pain
He came to conquer all thereof mankind’s devoid of
And show us the perfect love of Father above
If we center our lives on Jesus the Christ
We'll find peace throughout our climb and then sweet eternal new life
He came to satisfy sheer justice and to strengthen us
As the innocent lamb He came, His pure life was slain
From all sin He did refrain
To gain more than all of our pain
He came to conquer all thereof mankind’s devoid of
And show us the perfect love of Father above
If we center our lives on Jesus the Christ
We'll find peace throughout our climb and then sweet eternal new life
[Chorus]
The Atonement Can Secure Our Peace and Happiness,
as He anchors Gods' love inside each one of us
[Verse 3]
[Verse 3]
He knows all the slips each man can make when we Him forsake
And we think our own paths to make, though the wrong we take
For tender mercies yet bound can place us safely sound
He's tried and secured the ground
As once we were lost, we are homeward found
To endure the climb, we need the rod for pressing up
Towards Him who knows of us and drank the bitter cup
His knowledge lifts our spirit, if we will but hear it
And be Christ-like inherent, praying through His good merit
And we think our own paths to make, though the wrong we take
For tender mercies yet bound can place us safely sound
He's tried and secured the ground
As once we were lost, we are homeward found
To endure the climb, we need the rod for pressing up
Towards Him who knows of us and drank the bitter cup
His knowledge lifts our spirit, if we will but hear it
And be Christ-like inherent, praying through His good merit
[Chorus]
The Atonement Can Secure Our Peace and Happiness,
as He anchors Gods' love inside each one of us
[Chorus]
The Atonement Can Secure Our Peace and Happiness,
as He anchors Gods' love inside each one of us
-Richard G. Scott
To Heal the Shattering Consequences of Abuse
Some matters are so sensitive
That they are seldom mentioned
To further the distress it gives
Is not at all the intention
There is light we all can feel
Through dark clouds to see much clearer
Tenderly, may you see and heal
And be relieved of all that terror
Unrighteous acts unto the weak
Have done what's beyond belief
It's of sexual abuse that I speak
And of the path towards relief
As moral agency's misused
The tides rise with vicious sin
The one who causes the abuse
Violates all that is within
To rectify all that's unjust
Our Savior felt all our pain
And, so, the perpetrator thus
Can repent, and resolve from blame
----------------------------
That they are seldom mentioned
To further the distress it gives
Is not at all the intention
There is light we all can feel
Through dark clouds to see much clearer
Tenderly, may you see and heal
And be relieved of all that terror
Unrighteous acts unto the weak
Have done what's beyond belief
It's of sexual abuse that I speak
And of the path towards relief
As moral agency's misused
The tides rise with vicious sin
The one who causes the abuse
Violates all that is within
To rectify all that's unjust
Our Savior felt all our pain
And, so, the perpetrator thus
Can repent, and resolve from blame
----------------------------
[Verse 1]
Some matters are so sensitive
That they are seldom mentioned
To further the distress it gives
Is not at all the intention
There is light we all can feel
Through dark clouds to see much clearer
Tenderly, may you see and heal
And be relieved of all that terror
To further the distress it gives
Is not at all the intention
There is light we all can feel
Through dark clouds to see much clearer
Tenderly, may you see and heal
And be relieved of all that terror
Believe and know that a victim
Can radiate happiness
As the atonement works within
T'wards a pure love that can be sensed
There's a journey to recovery
And an end to trepidation
As there's a blessed discovery
The atonement's an invitation
[Verse 2]
Can radiate happiness
As the atonement works within
T'wards a pure love that can be sensed
There's a journey to recovery
And an end to trepidation
As there's a blessed discovery
The atonement's an invitation
[Chorus]
How great the love of Jesus
He truly saves us and rights each wrong
He teaches us how to move on
His love reaches. He is our healing song
Christ alone can share the burden
As one exercises faith
And all that once had been hurled in
Is seen and the heart does not faint
But see's the true source of abuse
The reviler of God's laws
Has been the author to accuse
And get inside with his claws
As one exercises faith
And all that once had been hurled in
Is seen and the heart does not faint
But see's the true source of abuse
The reviler of God's laws
Has been the author to accuse
And get inside with his claws
To blind alleys SATAN leads
Where like him, one thinks life's unfair
And then his strategy he breeds-
With tragedy comes despair
And in his manipulation
The victim loses faith and trust
And falls to alienation
Comfortless, the heart forms a crust
Where like him, one thinks life's unfair
And then his strategy he breeds-
With tragedy comes despair
And in his manipulation
The victim loses faith and trust
And falls to alienation
Comfortless, the heart forms a crust
[Chorus]
How great the love of Jesus
He truly saves us and rights each wrong
He teaches us how to move on
His love reaches. He is our healing song
[Verse 4]
Never is it the way to live
Alone with pain too hard to bear
It is so important to forgive
For a broken heart to repair
It will take a prayerful journey
For understanding of strife
And, oh how the abuser needs
To not be pious in this life...
Alone with pain too hard to bear
It is so important to forgive
For a broken heart to repair
It will take a prayerful journey
For understanding of strife
And, oh how the abuser needs
To not be pious in this life...
Oh, how the abuser needs to stop
And seek to be rescued now
As sins make its way to the top
And before God we all we bow
For the healing of harm you've caused
Show the abused how you languish
For them show you've changed- not just paused
Recognize their mental anguish
Through the study of the atonement
And possibly also counseling
All can see why Christ alone was sent
And, oh the joy for this we should sing
And seek to be rescued now
As sins make its way to the top
And before God we all we bow
For the healing of harm you've caused
Show the abused how you languish
For them show you've changed- not just paused
Recognize their mental anguish
[Chorus]
How great the love of Jesus
He truly saves us and rights each wrong
He teaches us how to move on
His love reaches. He is our healing song
And possibly also counseling
All can see why Christ alone was sent
And, oh the joy for this we should sing
[Chorus]
How great the love of Jesus
He truly saves us and rights each wrong
He teaches us how to move on
His love reaches. He is our healing song
Richard G. Scott
To Heal the Shattering Consequences of Abuse
Ensign, May 2008, 41
Richard G. Scott
To Heal the Shattering Consequences of Abuse
Ensign, May 2008, 41
Teaching Requires Communication
Teaching requires communication
That encourages participation
And as engaged students raise up their hands
This action signifies desire to understand
Thus, permitting the Holy Ghost to teach
A personalized message best to reach
Through the use of agency one is taught
Those who are passive find they've received naught
Richard G. Scott
To Learn and Teach More Effectively
Devotional address 21 August 2007
Knowledge is Power
[Verse 1]
Knowledge is power
In the world today
The fullness of light does shower
On each dawning of a bright new day
From all that we learn
And from our talents
We can bless and help others in turn
As teaching and learning does balance
The best known resource
For truth of all kinds
Is when the Holy Ghost guides our course
And spiritual promptings light our minds
Knowledge is power
In the world today
The fullness of light does shower
On each dawning of a bright new day
From all that we learn
And from our talents
We can bless and help others in turn
As teaching and learning does balance
The best known resource
For truth of all kinds
Is when the Holy Ghost guides our course
And spiritual promptings light our minds
[Chorus]
Knowledge is power
Yes, seek for the best
Let God empower
You with light be blessed
[Verse 2]
Once a thought is lit
Our senses expand
And for our eternal benefit
God's true principles we more understand
Whatever we seek
We see, hear, and feel
As we pray for promptings and are meek
The precious impressions come to avail
With paper and pen
In a secure place
As though a new path of light burst open
We write things that come before our face
[Chorus]
We've laws to obey
To gain this wisdom
But by faith, repentance, and prayer each day
The sweet whisperings of the spirit will come
[Verse 2]
Once a thought is lit
Our senses expand
And for our eternal benefit
God's true principles we more understand
Whatever we seek
We see, hear, and feel
As we pray for promptings and are meek
The precious impressions come to avail
With paper and pen
In a secure place
As though a new path of light burst open
We write things that come before our face
[Chorus]
Knowledge is power
Yes, seek for the best
Let God empower
You with light be blessed
We've laws to obey
To gain this wisdom
But by faith, repentance, and prayer each day
The sweet whisperings of the spirit will come
[Chorus]
Richard G. Scott
To Learn and to Teach More Effectively
Devotional address 21 August 2007
Knowledge is power
Yes, seek for the best
Let God empower
You with light be blessed
........Richard G. Scott
To Learn and to Teach More Effectively
Devotional address 21 August 2007
Poems based on Elder Oaks' talks
DIVORCE?
Dear Father, we join hands and kneel together.
We want to see this marriage last, yet forever.
Help us keep our love precious and living,
While there is prospect of life and healing.
Help us be hopeful, considerate, kind.
We unite in this plea, in this hard climb.
Soften hearts; help wounds mend. There is pain.
Help us be patient again and again.
Help us to see the other's good side, a bond to gain.
Help us count our companion as our best friend.
United most humbly, we seek thy guidance,
Healed by the atonement as our second chance.
There is much to overcome, we agree, on each side.
As life was not meant to be an easy ride.
Help us remember the good of the past,
Think of the children first and of our needs last.
We've hope for their future and want their well being.
We've our bishop's judgment and have sought out counseling,
For we can dwell up wrongs, yet, again and again.
Help us to overcome faults, forgive, and strengthen.
Our Inspired Constitutions
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 united this founding group,
Though they could not pay for their own troupe.
With borrowed money and with debt,
They had much work, they must do yet.
A bill of rights, soverenity,
How to treat each man with dignity,
How to maintain the rights of all flesh,
And politically combine for what is best.
We Know Not What Showers
We know not what showers over the mountainside.
And, must heed the voice of the Spirit our guide.
For there's floods which may come to wash us out.
And, we need faith- when it's easy to doubt.
We have revelation spoken from God to man.
A promised gift that can impel us to “I can!”
The Lord has not left us unassisted.
He's our strength. And, for us, He persisted.
He gives testimony, prophecy, and comfort.
He teaches us restraint, and gives us full support.
It's a grand priv'ledge to every true saint.
We're informed, we can run, and we'll not faint.
Although we may not see our Lord from face to face.
His blessings now extend to all the human race.
Our Savior endured pain unassisted.
Yet, with faith and covenants, we are assisted.
He Heals the Heavy Laden
With His yoke upon us, may our burden by light.
He has healed the sick and lame. And, He has restored sight.
One way or another, we feel inadequate
When challenged with affliction, we wish that it would quit.
Whether sicknesses are spiritual or mental
Or emotional or more, He healed them one and all
He caused the deaf to hear and, He cleansed leprosy.
Though withered they were restored, He caused the blind to see.
Of each ailments of man- He knows how they feel
Though not limited, His span.. It's our faith that we heal.
He knows us to each hair, for us He bore anguish
He paid the price for sin. And for Him we now languish.
For He carries our burdens by giving us patience,
Or understanding, or strength for our experience.
Each heavy laden man- can turn to the Savior
Each, lest He fall to despair, bound to - endless pressure.
We can come unto Christ, In Him be perfected.
By the power of the atonement, He'll cleanse what's infected.-
Good, Better, Best
Our time has limits- yes.
And, the world rushes by.
Who is in need of us?
Oh, if we had wings to fly...
When we are together
May we feel the clock slow;
And ponder forever.
Where each moment we will know.
We try to do what's “good”.
And hope for what is “best”.
Progressing as we should.
Towards “better” is the quest.
We resolve and factor.
And think where we have flown.
When we self- monitor.
We will find where we have grown.
What we learn, we can teach.
From lessons we'll prepare.
With thoughts in how to reach.
Then, apply it with great care.
Tesimony
We discover much from how we feel
We gather wisdom from what we see
There is one more way that is just as real
It is a spiritual witnessing
And, to the learner it means a great deal
It's the Holy Ghost reaching our soul
Though to the natural man it can't be learned
Into our mind and heart God's truths are told
There to be received and then discerned
It often grows as to others it is burned
A testimony of gospel facts
Cannot be sold or even preached
It's a gift borne of out of certain acts
To the humble seeker, it is reached
Oft come when in prayer one has beseeched
The young Joseph Smith learned from God this way
He bore testimony of a great light
Shown to him after he had knelt to pray
Then Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ
Came before his eyes with much to say
And this was the miracle, from his faith
That was his testimony, what of ours?
How can we come to know what he said is true?
First, desire then sincere prayer empowers
Sometimes included is fasting too
Then there's patience, process, and bearing it new
There is much we can do to help it grow
What's at our core so testimonies aren't weak?
An assurance of God's love- we need to know
That we have a Savior kind, pure, and meek
And, that the Holy Ghost can dwell and speak
There's more to have His spirit with us
We must partake of the sacrament
And, not be ashamed to speak of Jesus
Some have a gift for direct obtainment
And we can learn through their discernment
We've each a gift and a path to God
And we're each different as the sands of the sea
Yet, the Holy Ghost speaks to all through a rod
Where the deaf can hear and the blind now see
We've much to do and we've help to be
The Testimony That We Bear
The testimony that we bear
Comes from these things that we share:
Gospel truths we appreciate
And how they've taught us as of late
About the Godhead, and the plan
The atonement and salvation of man
Of the restorations and power of prayer
How in the hour of need, God is there
It's not of travels, nor do we preach
It's a witness that to us God does reach
That His tender mercy has become more real
As we obey, study, and humbly kneel
"Testimony"
Dear Father, we join hands and kneel together.
We want to see this marriage last, yet forever.
Help us keep our love precious and living,
While there is prospect of life and healing.
Help us be hopeful, considerate, kind.
We unite in this plea, in this hard climb.
Soften hearts; help wounds mend. There is pain.
Help us be patient again and again.
Help us to see the other's good side, a bond to gain.
Help us count our companion as our best friend.
United most humbly, we seek thy guidance,
Healed by the atonement as our second chance.
There is much to overcome, we agree, on each side.
As life was not meant to be an easy ride.
Help us remember the good of the past,
Think of the children first and of our needs last.
We've hope for their future and want their well being.
We've our bishop's judgment and have sought out counseling,
For we can dwell up wrongs, yet, again and again.
Help us to overcome faults, forgive, and strengthen.
Our Inspired Constitutions
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 united this founding group,
Though they could not pay for their own troupe.
With borrowed money and with debt,
They had much work, they must do yet.
A bill of rights, soverenity,
How to treat each man with dignity,
How to maintain the rights of all flesh,
And politically combine for what is best.
We Know Not What Showers
We know not what showers over the mountainside.
And, must heed the voice of the Spirit our guide.
For there's floods which may come to wash us out.
And, we need faith- when it's easy to doubt.
We have revelation spoken from God to man.
A promised gift that can impel us to “I can!”
The Lord has not left us unassisted.
He's our strength. And, for us, He persisted.
He gives testimony, prophecy, and comfort.
He teaches us restraint, and gives us full support.
It's a grand priv'ledge to every true saint.
We're informed, we can run, and we'll not faint.
Although we may not see our Lord from face to face.
His blessings now extend to all the human race.
Our Savior endured pain unassisted.
Yet, with faith and covenants, we are assisted.
He Heals the Heavy Laden
With His yoke upon us, may our burden by light.
He has healed the sick and lame. And, He has restored sight.
One way or another, we feel inadequate
When challenged with affliction, we wish that it would quit.
Whether sicknesses are spiritual or mental
Or emotional or more, He healed them one and all
He caused the deaf to hear and, He cleansed leprosy.
Though withered they were restored, He caused the blind to see.
Of each ailments of man- He knows how they feel
Though not limited, His span.. It's our faith that we heal.
He knows us to each hair, for us He bore anguish
He paid the price for sin. And for Him we now languish.
For He carries our burdens by giving us patience,
Or understanding, or strength for our experience.
Each heavy laden man- can turn to the Savior
Each, lest He fall to despair, bound to - endless pressure.
We can come unto Christ, In Him be perfected.
By the power of the atonement, He'll cleanse what's infected.-
Good, Better, Best
Our time has limits- yes.
And, the world rushes by.
Who is in need of us?
Oh, if we had wings to fly...
When we are together
May we feel the clock slow;
And ponder forever.
Where each moment we will know.
We try to do what's “good”.
And hope for what is “best”.
Progressing as we should.
Towards “better” is the quest.
We resolve and factor.
And think where we have flown.
When we self- monitor.
We will find where we have grown.
What we learn, we can teach.
From lessons we'll prepare.
With thoughts in how to reach.
Then, apply it with great care.
Tesimony
We discover much from how we feel
We gather wisdom from what we see
There is one more way that is just as real
It is a spiritual witnessing
And, to the learner it means a great deal
It's the Holy Ghost reaching our soul
Though to the natural man it can't be learned
Into our mind and heart God's truths are told
There to be received and then discerned
It often grows as to others it is burned
A testimony of gospel facts
Cannot be sold or even preached
It's a gift borne of out of certain acts
To the humble seeker, it is reached
Oft come when in prayer one has beseeched
The young Joseph Smith learned from God this way
He bore testimony of a great light
Shown to him after he had knelt to pray
Then Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ
Came before his eyes with much to say
And this was the miracle, from his faith
That was his testimony, what of ours?
How can we come to know what he said is true?
First, desire then sincere prayer empowers
Sometimes included is fasting too
Then there's patience, process, and bearing it new
There is much we can do to help it grow
What's at our core so testimonies aren't weak?
An assurance of God's love- we need to know
That we have a Savior kind, pure, and meek
And, that the Holy Ghost can dwell and speak
There's more to have His spirit with us
We must partake of the sacrament
And, not be ashamed to speak of Jesus
Some have a gift for direct obtainment
And we can learn through their discernment
We've each a gift and a path to God
And we're each different as the sands of the sea
Yet, the Holy Ghost speaks to all through a rod
Where the deaf can hear and the blind now see
We've much to do and we've help to be
The Testimony That We Bear
The testimony that we bear
Comes from these things that we share:
Gospel truths we appreciate
And how they've taught us as of late
About the Godhead, and the plan
The atonement and salvation of man
Of the restorations and power of prayer
How in the hour of need, God is there
It's not of travels, nor do we preach
It's a witness that to us God does reach
That His tender mercy has become more real
As we obey, study, and humbly kneel
"Testimony"
Poems based on Elder Wirthlin's talks
Life's Lessons Learned
If I were to examine my life,
Would I like who I have come to be?
Have I learned life's lessons though there's strife?
Did I listen to those who coached me?
All I have learned has shaped my destiny.
Prayerfully, I'll reflect on my life.
Have I kept the Lord close beside me?
Did I stay strong though there's fear of strife?
Did I say no when things tempted me?
All I have done has shaped my destiny.
I'll set high goals to improve my life.
And create what will inspire me.
Consistently, I will pray through strife.
I will think of those who have taught me,
With my eyes on the things that will shape me.
The Law of the Fast
The day has come at last.
Now, humbly I will fast.
For what purpose, I pray,
Can be strengthened today?
At testimonies feast
I hope faith to increase!
I know spiritual power
Attends the sacred hour.
As testimonies born
Ease burdens heavy worn.
Expressed blessings abound
In grateful hearts they're found.
I love Heavenly Father.
To fast is not a bother.
Although I am hungry,
With prayer it reminds me
Of those who have much less.
To them offerings bless.
This Sunday has Come at Last to Humbly Pray
This Sunday has come at last to humbly pray .
And, now, what purpose will I fast today?
What part of my faith needs fortifying?
Perhaps it's what drains me into crying!
How oft have I let this day slip away?
Without any thought to fast and to pray?
I'll trust and obey it's only for my good-
Thus, loving Heavenly Father, as I should.
I can show my love to my fellow man.
I'll observe this simple plan. Yes, I can.
If I for them do pray, they will notice
The good that comes from this noble practice!
We must lift our heart, our minds, our voices.
A fast will help us make better choices.
With love we'll generously succor the weak.
And lift up hands who in need pray and seek.
The Great Command
They sought to find in Him a flaw.
He would not deride or use a rod.
“Master”, they asked, “What is the great law?”
He replied, “ Thou shalt love thy God.”
Our Savior, they could not defraud.
I will love God, with all my heart,
With all my soul, with all my mind.
I'm known of Him, the Great Thou Art.
And, to self and man, I am kind.
Though men despise, I'll be refined.
When one argues, contentions sway.
We know to be more unified.
This is the more excellent way.
As our Lord exemplified-
With charity all's dignified.
With the love of God, I am filled.
This is the measure of my soul.
With His love, my spirit is thrilled.
And, blessing others is my role.
In service, I will Him extol.
Eternal love lasts forever.
It is patient and forgiving.
To be Christ-like, we endeavor.
He sees beyond what's shortcoming.
We're glorious and becoming.
With Christ's image, we are transformed.
He shares our pain and we soften.
A heart once bitter is reformed.
With perspective, hates forgotten.
And, we feel His love more often.
Obedience is a delight.
Love frees us from the weight of pain.
We are vibrant and carry light.
We want all man to feel the same.
With the Lord we've so much to gain.
Unto the sick, we minister.
To the hungry, we offer food.
And, sacrament's administered
To remember beatitudes.
With these emblems, we are renewed.
Our Savior gives us tools to cope.
He gives water from which we draw.
His Light gives us reason to hope.
His love's for us, and we're in awe.
All things hang upon love's great law.
Our Father in heaven provides
Love infinite, eternal.
With this heart, we improve our lives.
He offers Christ- Love is not final-
Blood sealed- the greatest love of all.
And He offers a gift that guides,
That, when we're righteous it teaches,
Inspires, comforts, and resides.
What behooves us, it beseeches.
From this gift, God's love far reaches.
Come Sunday
When all is suddenly dark
And life seems bleak and stark
I picture a gray Friday
When all seemed to be in vain.
Our Lord was upon a cross.
And, for mankind, all seemed lost.
The earth shook and darkness grew.
What were the Saints then to do?
And, too, the temple was rent.
Where holy prayers could be sent.
The Son of Heav'nly Father
No more to walk on water.
He tortured and killed, what grave sorrow.
Gone was their hope in bright tomorrow.
That Friday was the darkest
In hist'ry, by the farthest.
Devastating sorrow gnawed.
As deep in their souls it clawed.
Their beloved Savior had died.
But, soon hope came, their tears dried.
The worst doom could not endure.
Eternal Life was now assured!
The glorious Lord was now raised.
They cried and upon Him gazed.
Though dark days come. We've Fridays.
Bright days await. We've Sundays.
For us in Heaven there is a place.
There is a Lord and He gives us grace.
Band of Brothers
In the fires of shared experience
Come some of the closest friendships
They form bonds based on love and trust
Where otherwise emotions crush
From a shared grief or happiness
Comes an amplified tenderness
When we struggle, we must gather
To share what really does matter
To preach the gospel, To change lives
To leave home comforts, To baptize
To serve God and build His kingdom
And humbly seek out for wisdom
United by a common goal
To usher in another soul
As we link our arms together
We soon journey towards forever
Never forget the value of
A great cause and of selfless love
Captain Moroni rent his coat
And to his countrymen, he wrote
In memory of our religion,
freedom, peace, wives and our children
Once united, he could lead them
To transcend their lives to his vision
Threatened by familiar neighbors
The two- thousand stripling warriors
Were needed to fight in the war
They prepared for what was in store
With armory, swords, and knives
They trusted God would save their lives
And they knew why they too must fight
To help their fathers keep their plight
They learned of faith from their mothers
To fear's a thick fog which smothers
When we are loyal and faithful
The impossible is possible
Each night we can write down new goals
For each labor and varied roles
So each day we'll learn, as we grow
Keeping bonds, for Christ our hero
Living Water to Quench Spiritual Thirst
To journey from Judea to Galilee
The Savior journeyed to Sychar
T'was a shorter route, for His ministry
He stopped at Jacob's well, though without a jar
Though Jews and Samaritans never mixed
Jesus requested some fresh water
And the woman was all the more perplexed
To hear He was the gift of Heavenly Father
Of living water she was intrigued
How could one drink and never thirst again?
The thought physically appealed indeed
With fancies of magic, which are of men
Throughout history men have sought for youth
A fountain that springs everlasting life
Yet, the fountain is Jesus Christ in truth
It is vain to think of avoiding age and strife
Only the faithful can tap the well
Where we quench our thirst for happiness
Without keeping commandments, we fail
He told her she currently slept in this
He told the things that she ever did
Astonished, she left her lone water pot
Her amazement just could not be hid
She told others to believe it or not
A crowd arrived to see and hear Him
To gain knowledge, they asked and they delved
They besought that He'd tarry with them
They knew they heard the Messiah himself
He refreshed them and quenched their yearning
In our day many spiritually thirst
For meaning and direction they're searching
May we run and tell them where the well bursts
A cool satisfying drink of insights
Is for those who crave knowledge and are parched
Whose spirits cry out for what sustains life
There to enliven their withering hearts
Many have been deceived by craftiness
For truth- they know not where to find it
The gospel's a cup of happiness
Bubbling forth from our living prophet
If we hold a cistern that is broken
We will be parched and suffer from drought
The water shares mysteries of God spoken
Which dries up when good works are not about
May we be refreshed continually
And be anointed- for our Lord endows
May we find His spring habitually
And drink deeply in His Holy House
If I were to examine my life,
Would I like who I have come to be?
Have I learned life's lessons though there's strife?
Did I listen to those who coached me?
All I have learned has shaped my destiny.
Prayerfully, I'll reflect on my life.
Have I kept the Lord close beside me?
Did I stay strong though there's fear of strife?
Did I say no when things tempted me?
All I have done has shaped my destiny.
I'll set high goals to improve my life.
And create what will inspire me.
Consistently, I will pray through strife.
I will think of those who have taught me,
With my eyes on the things that will shape me.
The Law of the Fast
The day has come at last.
Now, humbly I will fast.
For what purpose, I pray,
Can be strengthened today?
At testimonies feast
I hope faith to increase!
I know spiritual power
Attends the sacred hour.
As testimonies born
Ease burdens heavy worn.
Expressed blessings abound
In grateful hearts they're found.
I love Heavenly Father.
To fast is not a bother.
Although I am hungry,
With prayer it reminds me
Of those who have much less.
To them offerings bless.
This Sunday has Come at Last to Humbly Pray
This Sunday has come at last to humbly pray .
And, now, what purpose will I fast today?
What part of my faith needs fortifying?
Perhaps it's what drains me into crying!
How oft have I let this day slip away?
Without any thought to fast and to pray?
I'll trust and obey it's only for my good-
Thus, loving Heavenly Father, as I should.
I can show my love to my fellow man.
I'll observe this simple plan. Yes, I can.
If I for them do pray, they will notice
The good that comes from this noble practice!
We must lift our heart, our minds, our voices.
A fast will help us make better choices.
With love we'll generously succor the weak.
And lift up hands who in need pray and seek.
The Great Command
They sought to find in Him a flaw.
He would not deride or use a rod.
“Master”, they asked, “What is the great law?”
He replied, “ Thou shalt love thy God.”
Our Savior, they could not defraud.
I will love God, with all my heart,
With all my soul, with all my mind.
I'm known of Him, the Great Thou Art.
And, to self and man, I am kind.
Though men despise, I'll be refined.
When one argues, contentions sway.
We know to be more unified.
This is the more excellent way.
As our Lord exemplified-
With charity all's dignified.
With the love of God, I am filled.
This is the measure of my soul.
With His love, my spirit is thrilled.
And, blessing others is my role.
In service, I will Him extol.
Eternal love lasts forever.
It is patient and forgiving.
To be Christ-like, we endeavor.
He sees beyond what's shortcoming.
We're glorious and becoming.
With Christ's image, we are transformed.
He shares our pain and we soften.
A heart once bitter is reformed.
With perspective, hates forgotten.
And, we feel His love more often.
Obedience is a delight.
Love frees us from the weight of pain.
We are vibrant and carry light.
We want all man to feel the same.
With the Lord we've so much to gain.
Unto the sick, we minister.
To the hungry, we offer food.
And, sacrament's administered
To remember beatitudes.
With these emblems, we are renewed.
Our Savior gives us tools to cope.
He gives water from which we draw.
His Light gives us reason to hope.
His love's for us, and we're in awe.
All things hang upon love's great law.
Our Father in heaven provides
Love infinite, eternal.
With this heart, we improve our lives.
He offers Christ- Love is not final-
Blood sealed- the greatest love of all.
And He offers a gift that guides,
That, when we're righteous it teaches,
Inspires, comforts, and resides.
What behooves us, it beseeches.
From this gift, God's love far reaches.
Come Sunday
When all is suddenly dark
And life seems bleak and stark
I picture a gray Friday
When all seemed to be in vain.
Our Lord was upon a cross.
And, for mankind, all seemed lost.
The earth shook and darkness grew.
What were the Saints then to do?
And, too, the temple was rent.
Where holy prayers could be sent.
The Son of Heav'nly Father
No more to walk on water.
He tortured and killed, what grave sorrow.
Gone was their hope in bright tomorrow.
That Friday was the darkest
In hist'ry, by the farthest.
Devastating sorrow gnawed.
As deep in their souls it clawed.
Their beloved Savior had died.
But, soon hope came, their tears dried.
The worst doom could not endure.
Eternal Life was now assured!
The glorious Lord was now raised.
They cried and upon Him gazed.
Though dark days come. We've Fridays.
Bright days await. We've Sundays.
For us in Heaven there is a place.
There is a Lord and He gives us grace.
Band of Brothers
In the fires of shared experience
Come some of the closest friendships
They form bonds based on love and trust
Where otherwise emotions crush
From a shared grief or happiness
Comes an amplified tenderness
When we struggle, we must gather
To share what really does matter
To preach the gospel, To change lives
To leave home comforts, To baptize
To serve God and build His kingdom
And humbly seek out for wisdom
United by a common goal
To usher in another soul
As we link our arms together
We soon journey towards forever
Never forget the value of
A great cause and of selfless love
Captain Moroni rent his coat
And to his countrymen, he wrote
In memory of our religion,
freedom, peace, wives and our children
Once united, he could lead them
To transcend their lives to his vision
Threatened by familiar neighbors
The two- thousand stripling warriors
Were needed to fight in the war
They prepared for what was in store
With armory, swords, and knives
They trusted God would save their lives
And they knew why they too must fight
To help their fathers keep their plight
They learned of faith from their mothers
To fear's a thick fog which smothers
When we are loyal and faithful
The impossible is possible
Each night we can write down new goals
For each labor and varied roles
So each day we'll learn, as we grow
Keeping bonds, for Christ our hero
Living Water to Quench Spiritual Thirst
To journey from Judea to Galilee
The Savior journeyed to Sychar
T'was a shorter route, for His ministry
He stopped at Jacob's well, though without a jar
Though Jews and Samaritans never mixed
Jesus requested some fresh water
And the woman was all the more perplexed
To hear He was the gift of Heavenly Father
Of living water she was intrigued
How could one drink and never thirst again?
The thought physically appealed indeed
With fancies of magic, which are of men
Throughout history men have sought for youth
A fountain that springs everlasting life
Yet, the fountain is Jesus Christ in truth
It is vain to think of avoiding age and strife
Only the faithful can tap the well
Where we quench our thirst for happiness
Without keeping commandments, we fail
He told her she currently slept in this
He told the things that she ever did
Astonished, she left her lone water pot
Her amazement just could not be hid
She told others to believe it or not
A crowd arrived to see and hear Him
To gain knowledge, they asked and they delved
They besought that He'd tarry with them
They knew they heard the Messiah himself
He refreshed them and quenched their yearning
In our day many spiritually thirst
For meaning and direction they're searching
May we run and tell them where the well bursts
A cool satisfying drink of insights
Is for those who crave knowledge and are parched
Whose spirits cry out for what sustains life
There to enliven their withering hearts
Many have been deceived by craftiness
For truth- they know not where to find it
The gospel's a cup of happiness
Bubbling forth from our living prophet
If we hold a cistern that is broken
We will be parched and suffer from drought
The water shares mysteries of God spoken
Which dries up when good works are not about
May we be refreshed continually
And be anointed- for our Lord endows
May we find His spring habitually
And drink deeply in His Holy House
Live in Thanksgiving Daily
In a day of Thanksgiving,
What should be abundant?
Gratitude for just living
Marks a soul triumphant!
I'll do your chores, you do mine
Thankful for what each does.
We will contribute in kind.
In service, without fuss.
There's lots of things we don't have.
Are we then unhappy?
On God focus, and not cave
We will then feel happy.
It takes a little talent
To exercise each day
Three things yield powers immense.
With goals along the way.
First, we must open our eyes.
And see what's bountiful.
The brilliance of the skies.
Makes earth so beautiful.
Next, we must open our hearts.
And fill our souls with good.
Repent, rejoice- there is fresh starts
In living as one should.
Last, we must open our arms.
And serve our fellow man.
With our love to those in alarm-
We're God's help, and we're His hands.
Every day's a new canvas
For this we are grateful.
And with thanks for all that's vast.
We feel joy that's delightful.
Jesus Concern for the One
How oft did He find time for solitude?
When the needs of the lost were not done.
While surrounded by the multitudes
He always had concern for the one
We've been commissioned to do likewise.
May we see others through Christ-like eyes.
Today some are weary and have strayed
When we've ninety-nine who should we seek?
One who may be different? Or heavy lade?
Of the way they look, act, think and speak
Do they think that they're not befitting?
And from the flock find themselves slipping?
But, the Lord who has peopled the earth
Placed us as a vibrant orchestra
Each of us as fine instruments of worth
That adds to complex beauty and spectra.
In every single personality
Lies a depth rich with ability
The miscellanea of creation
Is a testament of self-esteem
We are like God in variation
Black and white, male and female, bond and free
One flesh is not above another
For, in fact, spiritually we are brothers
Whenever a Saint trips, slips or falls
Who is the best to help one back up ?
He's the Master, and for each He calls
He who submitted and bore the cup.
Let's lend encouragement and support
For we are all imperfect and fall short.
It's at the Lord's Church we find doctrine
That's redemptive- full of charity
Where we can lose ourselves and begin
To give service with variety
For this we'll consecrate talents and skills
According to as the Father wills
For the entire membership of the Church
General Conference is an inspiring time of the year
As we're instructed and edified
We learn how to act upon the laws we hold dear
Great things are happening in God's kingdom
We are moving forward as never before
The great mountain will fill the whole earth
And if we are righteous, we'll see so much more
We Can All Benefit by Looking Deep Inside
We can all benefit by looking deep inside
During reverent moments of worship
To be proved true, there's nothing we will hide
As we journey in our membership
Each Sunday's a spiritual checkup
That helps navigate life's highways and byways
During sacrament meetings while we sup
We can get our bearings and see the right ways
To stay on the narrow path of faith
With the Bishop, we've worthiness interviews
Have we pursued what's foolish or vain?
It's easy to get diverted from what is true
Truth provides virtues unto our lives
Steadfast, loyal, honest, and just are but a few
In our career paths, as one strives
We must not serve two masters, but always be true
With full faith in their every footstep
The pioneers forged and tempered their souls
Without the Lord, they would be inept
May we too be true, in all of our roles
Never Give Up, Never
Never give up, never
Persevere to the end
Why would you risk or want to sever
The hope of fullness with our Lord, our friend
The course is the easy way
When the goal stays in sight
Even when there comes a trial of faith
And there's sorrow, temptation and blight
This opposition helps us
So that we'll not be passive
But ever following Jesus
For there's help He alone can give
For us, He's paved the course
Through His suffering and death
He knows our every sorrow and remorse
And each pitfall to the very depth
He will endow us with gifts
If we but remain true and sure
Having His Spirit in us uplifts
And strengthens us so that we'll endure
May we more learn to be like Him
And seek to know the Father's will
When there's lost sheep, may we tend them
For we've each a course to fulfill
Poems based on Elder Hales' talks
HOW CAN WE KNOW?
- Elder Hales
WE HAVE AXIOMS TO GUIDE OUR LIFE
By the gift and power of the Holy Ghost,
We can know and cherish testimony's post.
Once received and carried within it enables us.
When we've doubts, the Holy Ghost's the source we trust.
It gives personal revelation of our role,
A deep and lasting impression on our soul.
It lights our way as it directs our conduct.
As an attentive host, it is there to instruct.
Our testimony's true north on a compass.
All aspects of our life, it can encompass.
It is our shield to quench all the fiery darts.
As we obey, there's peace and joys it imparts.
As it speaks understanding into our hearts.
Our testimonies are measured by faith.
Faith is testimony, Testimony's faith.
When it's strong we help others seek for truth.
Humbly, they can pray, as Joseph in his youth.
We can know where we came from, where we're going.
When we've testimonies, knowledge is flowing.
A light will arise to our understanding.
We won't let it extinguish, though life's demanding.
We give our testimony through our service.
This is our duty, this is our purpose.
Our testimony comes with adhesiveness.
As we grow in faith and show our willingness.
We will have fruits of faith, and we'll have happiness.
- Elder Hales
WE HAVE AXIOMS TO GUIDE OUR LIFE
We have axioms to guide our lives,
To drive agency and to make us wise.
When there's debris that is in our way.
Do we plow ahead or do we pray?
We know Heavenly Father assists us,
As we show trust, it was ever thus.
The light of faith helps us move forward,
With eyes on Christ, whom we lean toward.
Christ said, “I would thou wert cold or hot.”
I'll show gratitude that for us He fought.
I will move with determination.
I'll be like Jesus when there is friction.
A sparks can cause a large fire.
Yet, my loyalty will not tire.
I'll see the good and not criticize.
I'll see enemies through Christ-like eyes.
Do I rely on the natural man?
God is my strength, I'll confess His hand.
I will ponder and learn from mistakes.
I will improve, do whatever it takes.
I have entered to finish the race.
I'll keep covenants for victories embrace.
I will look ahead, take the long view.
I will be patient, in all that I do.
We have agency to use for good.
I regret when I don't pray as I should.
We can study and know what is right.
Then we'll not regret what's in hind sight.
The world is moving farther away.
I'll be a light on the hill, today,
For some come through great darkness to see,
As the distance increases to be.
This earth time's our university.
We've temporal gains under gravity.
Do my long lost friends remember me?
Of my morals, just what did they see?
Did they see in me what I believe?
Have I learned, before this earth I leave,
Temple’s eternal curriculum?
This earth teaches from a pendulum!
The Light and Life is Without End
The Light and Life is without end
And the night is now far spent
The day's at hand of our Lord
As His marvelous light shines forth
In Bethlehem, a light was shown
And a promise was fulfilled
It did not end when Christ did groan
Nor will it ever be stilled
The restoration has begun
That His Glory might be seen
Fair as the moon, clear as the sun
Out bursts forth marvelous light beams
Unto all the ends of the earth
The good shepherd tends His sheep
In their own tongue He is heard
As they awake from a deep sleep
Let us cast off works of darkness
And each become a disciple
Armored to endure hardness
We shine the light of the gospel
Romans 13:11-12
11 And that, knowing the time, that now it is high time to awake out of sleep: for now is our salvation nearer than when we believed.
12 The night is far spent, the day is at hand: let us therefore cast off the works of darkness, and let us put on the armour of light.
The Darkness Dispels
The darkness dispels
There is beauty that's bright
And all else soon pales
To the beautiful sight
Glorious and risen
Stands our God and His Son
The world now glistens
In this dispensation
When we do what's wrong
The day turns into night
But it won't stay long
If we do what is right
We've the Light of Life
We've the Light of Life
From our Brother, Jesus
He knows of our strife
And He is there for us
Those who've been baptized
Have a gift that's a shield
Satan's tricks can't hide
Amongst a brightened field
Evil can't conquer
If we choose what yields light
We've light from our Brother
To see light through the night
We've a Light That is Strong
We have holy light that is strong
To steer us from Babylon
If we use our heart, might, mind and strength
Though dimness surrounds, we've light at length
There are some who live in the dark mists
And are missing true happiness
Those blind, who have been led away
Will say they knew not till that day
After death there is a bright light
Of what's beyond some have had sight
There is brightness to prepare for
After we die- we know there is more
We Cannot Save the Air We Breathe-
So Too, We Can't Save Light
We cannot save the air we breathe
From the world we can't be sheathed
So too, we can't save light
And, daily we must face the night
Without faith, we stumble along
And do things that are wrong
The adversary will come in
And we'll stagger as though drunk in sin
Evil is never far away
It would that we're in darkness all day
It lurks round the corner
And, we're often found the mourner
The light of the spirit can fade
If we don't stay engaged
Alone, the strength we lack
For darkness must be pushed back
A generator on a bike
Through effort can light the night
As too, the gospel is applied
God's holy spirit is supplied
As the Holy Ghost is received
It helps us to not be deceived
The more we search, ponder, and pray
We'll become bright for that perfect day
Brought Forth Out of Darkness
Brought forth out of darkness
Into His marvelous light
As each man does discern
How to do more of what's right
The Lord's temple stands tall
In the top of the mountains
With light it beacons all
To flow in from the nations
Out of obscurity
We see brightly lit spires
Which proclaim purity
As to all it inspires
There's a light in our eyes
And a warmth in our hands
In the gospel there lies
Love, the soul understands
As it lights fires within
We come to recognize the source
As we journey from sin
We're on a beautiful course
We've each the Light of Christ
That we've brought with us to earth
To do good, it invites
Unto a light of great worth
Given to burn within us-
The Gift of the Holy Ghost-
Testifies of Jesus
When we're baptized, it's bestowed
As part of the Godhead
This spirit of personage
Guides us, spiritually led
T'wards the day when we're judged
Elder Robert D. Hales
"Out of Darkness into
His Marvelous Light"
Ensign, May 2002
Isaiah 2:2
2 And it shall come to pass in the last days, that the mountain of the Lord’s house shall be established in the top of the mountains, and shall be exalted above the hills; and all nations shall flow unto it.
D&C 1:30
30 And also those to whom these commandments were given, might have power to lay the foundation of this church, and to bring it forth out of obscurity and out of darkness, the only true and living church upon the face of the whole earth, with which I, the Lord, am well pleased, speaking unto the church collectively and not individually—
Micah 4: 1
1 But in the last days it shall come to pass, that the mountain of the house of the Lord shall be established in the top of the mountains, and it shall be exalted above the hills; and people shall flow unto it.
I Know What I Feel
I know what I feel
I’ve a light inside me
And I know that it’s real
For it helps me to see
Where did it come from?
Can I keep it also?
The Holy Ghost’s won
When we seek what to know
When I’m baptized new
And doing as I should
It is received through
The holy priesthood
I've this extra light
To warn me of sin
My guide that's bright
Warms me from within
What of my loved ones?
Can they search for this too?
A warm feeling comes
When I ask what to do
Gaining a Testimony of God the Father, His Son Jesus Christ and in the Holy Ghost
I ponder continually
Of God and His Son
I've a testimony
How the two are one
People o'er all the world
Do struggle to know
Who is our Savior and Lord?
And does knowledge still flow?
Oft the Exemplar sent prayers
To Heavenly Father
And the scriptures declare
Of their love to each other
Tender obedience
And glorious trust
United as one in stance
And in their love for us
The Father and Son are real
Two distinct beings
What I know I can feel
And truth- I'm receiving
If any lack wisdom
They can search in prayer
To the humble, light will come
In James 1:5 this is clear
A witness comes from heaven
To teach of the Son
And to Joseph Smith was given
This pattern for how it's done
First we must have a desire
That reaches our soul
Then alone to pray, we must retire
And obedience must be our goal
We pray in the name of
Our Savior, Jesus
As our mediator above
He has proved He loves us
If you truly believe
With all your heart
Then in surety you'll receive
And this is only the start...
What has been told to me
Can be told to you
The Holy Ghost is the key
To tell you what is true
Elder Robert D. Hales
Ensign, May 2008, 29
Gaining a Testimony of God the Father;
His Son, Jesus Christ;
and the Holy Ghost
Stance: More general:attitude, position, posture
More specific:attention, erectness, uprightness
James 1: 5
5 If any of you lack wisdom,
let him ask of God, that giveth
to all men liberally, and upbraideth not;
and it shall be given him.
To drive agency and to make us wise.
When there's debris that is in our way.
Do we plow ahead or do we pray?
We know Heavenly Father assists us,
As we show trust, it was ever thus.
The light of faith helps us move forward,
With eyes on Christ, whom we lean toward.
Christ said, “I would thou wert cold or hot.”
I'll show gratitude that for us He fought.
I will move with determination.
I'll be like Jesus when there is friction.
A sparks can cause a large fire.
Yet, my loyalty will not tire.
I'll see the good and not criticize.
I'll see enemies through Christ-like eyes.
Do I rely on the natural man?
God is my strength, I'll confess His hand.
I will ponder and learn from mistakes.
I will improve, do whatever it takes.
I have entered to finish the race.
I'll keep covenants for victories embrace.
I will look ahead, take the long view.
I will be patient, in all that I do.
We have agency to use for good.
I regret when I don't pray as I should.
We can study and know what is right.
Then we'll not regret what's in hind sight.
The world is moving farther away.
I'll be a light on the hill, today,
For some come through great darkness to see,
As the distance increases to be.
This earth time's our university.
We've temporal gains under gravity.
Do my long lost friends remember me?
Of my morals, just what did they see?
Did they see in me what I believe?
Have I learned, before this earth I leave,
Temple’s eternal curriculum?
This earth teaches from a pendulum!
The Light and Life is Without End
The Light and Life is without end
And the night is now far spent
The day's at hand of our Lord
As His marvelous light shines forth
In Bethlehem, a light was shown
And a promise was fulfilled
It did not end when Christ did groan
Nor will it ever be stilled
The restoration has begun
That His Glory might be seen
Fair as the moon, clear as the sun
Out bursts forth marvelous light beams
Unto all the ends of the earth
The good shepherd tends His sheep
In their own tongue He is heard
As they awake from a deep sleep
Let us cast off works of darkness
And each become a disciple
Armored to endure hardness
We shine the light of the gospel
Romans 13:11-12
11 And that, knowing the time, that now it is high time to awake out of sleep: for now is our salvation nearer than when we believed.
12 The night is far spent, the day is at hand: let us therefore cast off the works of darkness, and let us put on the armour of light.
The Darkness Dispels
The darkness dispels
There is beauty that's bright
And all else soon pales
To the beautiful sight
Glorious and risen
Stands our God and His Son
The world now glistens
In this dispensation
When we do what's wrong
The day turns into night
But it won't stay long
If we do what is right
We've the Light of Life
We've the Light of Life
From our Brother, Jesus
He knows of our strife
And He is there for us
Those who've been baptized
Have a gift that's a shield
Satan's tricks can't hide
Amongst a brightened field
Evil can't conquer
If we choose what yields light
We've light from our Brother
To see light through the night
We've a Light That is Strong
We have holy light that is strong
To steer us from Babylon
If we use our heart, might, mind and strength
Though dimness surrounds, we've light at length
There are some who live in the dark mists
And are missing true happiness
Those blind, who have been led away
Will say they knew not till that day
After death there is a bright light
Of what's beyond some have had sight
There is brightness to prepare for
After we die- we know there is more
We Cannot Save the Air We Breathe-
So Too, We Can't Save Light
We cannot save the air we breathe
From the world we can't be sheathed
So too, we can't save light
And, daily we must face the night
Without faith, we stumble along
And do things that are wrong
The adversary will come in
And we'll stagger as though drunk in sin
Evil is never far away
It would that we're in darkness all day
It lurks round the corner
And, we're often found the mourner
The light of the spirit can fade
If we don't stay engaged
Alone, the strength we lack
For darkness must be pushed back
A generator on a bike
Through effort can light the night
As too, the gospel is applied
God's holy spirit is supplied
As the Holy Ghost is received
It helps us to not be deceived
The more we search, ponder, and pray
We'll become bright for that perfect day
Brought Forth Out of Darkness
Brought forth out of darkness
Into His marvelous light
As each man does discern
How to do more of what's right
The Lord's temple stands tall
In the top of the mountains
With light it beacons all
To flow in from the nations
Out of obscurity
We see brightly lit spires
Which proclaim purity
As to all it inspires
There's a light in our eyes
And a warmth in our hands
In the gospel there lies
Love, the soul understands
As it lights fires within
We come to recognize the source
As we journey from sin
We're on a beautiful course
We've each the Light of Christ
That we've brought with us to earth
To do good, it invites
Unto a light of great worth
Given to burn within us-
The Gift of the Holy Ghost-
Testifies of Jesus
When we're baptized, it's bestowed
As part of the Godhead
This spirit of personage
Guides us, spiritually led
T'wards the day when we're judged
Elder Robert D. Hales
"Out of Darkness into
His Marvelous Light"
Ensign, May 2002
Isaiah 2:2
2 And it shall come to pass in the last days, that the mountain of the Lord’s house shall be established in the top of the mountains, and shall be exalted above the hills; and all nations shall flow unto it.
D&C 1:30
30 And also those to whom these commandments were given, might have power to lay the foundation of this church, and to bring it forth out of obscurity and out of darkness, the only true and living church upon the face of the whole earth, with which I, the Lord, am well pleased, speaking unto the church collectively and not individually—
Micah 4: 1
1 But in the last days it shall come to pass, that the mountain of the house of the Lord shall be established in the top of the mountains, and it shall be exalted above the hills; and people shall flow unto it.
I Know What I Feel
I know what I feel
I’ve a light inside me
And I know that it’s real
For it helps me to see
Where did it come from?
Can I keep it also?
The Holy Ghost’s won
When we seek what to know
When I’m baptized new
And doing as I should
It is received through
The holy priesthood
I've this extra light
To warn me of sin
My guide that's bright
Warms me from within
What of my loved ones?
Can they search for this too?
A warm feeling comes
When I ask what to do
Gaining a Testimony of God the Father, His Son Jesus Christ and in the Holy Ghost
I ponder continually
Of God and His Son
I've a testimony
How the two are one
People o'er all the world
Do struggle to know
Who is our Savior and Lord?
And does knowledge still flow?
Oft the Exemplar sent prayers
To Heavenly Father
And the scriptures declare
Of their love to each other
Tender obedience
And glorious trust
United as one in stance
And in their love for us
The Father and Son are real
Two distinct beings
What I know I can feel
And truth- I'm receiving
If any lack wisdom
They can search in prayer
To the humble, light will come
In James 1:5 this is clear
A witness comes from heaven
To teach of the Son
And to Joseph Smith was given
This pattern for how it's done
First we must have a desire
That reaches our soul
Then alone to pray, we must retire
And obedience must be our goal
We pray in the name of
Our Savior, Jesus
As our mediator above
He has proved He loves us
If you truly believe
With all your heart
Then in surety you'll receive
And this is only the start...
What has been told to me
Can be told to you
The Holy Ghost is the key
To tell you what is true
Elder Robert D. Hales
Ensign, May 2008, 29
Gaining a Testimony of God the Father;
His Son, Jesus Christ;
and the Holy Ghost
Stance: More general:attitude, position, posture
More specific:attention, erectness, uprightness
James 1: 5
5 If any of you lack wisdom,
let him ask of God, that giveth
to all men liberally, and upbraideth not;
and it shall be given him.
Our God Truly is God
Our God Truly is God
Oh God, where art Thou?
I cry out to Thee
For guidance, and how
With humility
As I ponder Thee
I can see Thy hand
Working hard for me
And for every man.
Those who disbelieve
Need not look too far
For our bodies leave
Proof in who Thou art
We've our eyes and hands
So complex from birth
There one understands
True beauty and worth
The blind and infirm
Through Thy Son could feel
All Thy love confirmed
And saw Thou art real!
When I look at hands
I am in amaze
They grasp and expand
For creative ways
I know who Thou art
I'm in Thine image
I can do my part-
And, with my hands, I'll start!
-Elder Douglas L. Callister
64–68, Jan 2008, “Our God Truly Is God, ”
Ensign
Oh God, where art Thou?
I cry out to Thee
For guidance, and how
With humility
As I ponder Thee
I can see Thy hand
Working hard for me
And for every man.
Those who disbelieve
Need not look too far
For our bodies leave
Proof in who Thou art
We've our eyes and hands
So complex from birth
There one understands
True beauty and worth
The blind and infirm
Through Thy Son could feel
All Thy love confirmed
And saw Thou art real!
When I look at hands
I am in amaze
They grasp and expand
For creative ways
I know who Thou art
I'm in Thine image
I can do my part-
And, with my hands, I'll start!
-Elder Douglas L. Callister
64–68, Jan 2008, “Our God Truly Is God, ”
Ensign
Poems based on President Eyring's talks
Deliverance
No two people with the same circumstance.
All with moments of need for deliverance.
When these tests stretch us, we cry out more-
All our pain and sorrow Christ atoned for.
He has gazed upon our face where there's grief.
He offers a special gift for relief.
To invite the Holy Ghost we must do.
We've best intentions, we must follow through.
When we face struggles of opposition
The Holy Ghost help us make decisions.
Our deliverance requires repentance.
With humility, we stand the best chance.
We humbly struggle to be free of sin.
With the lord's help- it's a battle we'll win.
We can feel hope for the day of judgment.
We'll see His face with the joy we were meant.
For now we can serve, in His name, with love.
And come to discern God's will from above.
-President Henry B. Erying
O Remember, Remember
If we write down just a few things that happen each new day,
We'll see the hand of God reaching to our fam'lies today.
Although we don't remember God and His Beloved Son.
If we seek Him, God will show us the things which He has done.
The Holy Ghost can bring light through a veil of dark blindness.
A journal shows a path to God. We'll recognize kindness.
O remember, please remember how you have been so blessed.
And establish, writing habits and of His hand confess.
When we're faithful God protects us and helps us to prosper.
Then is the time that we harden and think God's laws hamper.
It's easy to forget blessings, and thus we should give heed.
For what's inside our hearts can change the blessings eyes have seen.
So, too, the grind of poverty and distress darkens hope.
Then it's hard for the Holy Ghost to prompt what helps us cope.
O remember, please remember how you have been so blessed.
And establish, writing habits and of His hand confess.
There is a cure and a pattern in the sacrament prayers.
We promise God and our natures change as we know He cares.
The Holy Ghost is His Gift that reveals things through a veil.
We'll see God's hand in our service. He strengthens what is frail..
Our warm feelings can stir others so they will remember.
When we've Christ's name that's upon us, there's mercy that's tender.
The atonement helps us live lives that lead us toward God.
And we have help to remember the paths He helps us trod.
-President Henry B. Eyring
Feeding the Lambs
In Galilee, our resurrected Lord,
With a prepared meal, waited in the dawn.
As the disciples drew near to the shore,
He called out where to cast their nets upon.
And, when their nets more than filled, how they rushed.
It was their Lord who stood there with a meal!
He taught them how to feed, love is a must.
When lambs are nourished, God then warms and fills.
Each Latter-Day Saint is numbered.
To those yet tender, we covenant to teach.
They must know that of God they're remembered.
We've been blessed, we've capacity to reach.
As new lambs enter baptismal waters,
Our Lord prepares a meal for us and waits.
When we're nourished we've words from the Father.
And, thus we strengthen those in need of faith.
We can and must nourish with all our hearts.
To show our gratitude for the Lord's meal.
For unto all, He grants- His love imparts.
As we show we care, tender lambs are filled.
And, when the storms beat down at the last day.
We'll not be harrowed up by the whirlwinds.
The Shepherd's flock can gather in their place.
Where the power of heaven pours and descends. (Alma 26:5–7).
- President Henry B. Eyring
I Invite You to Come Unto Christ
I invite you to come unto Christ,
Though mere words cannot suffice.
May I, of His life expound?
That He, in your heart may be found?
During Our Lord's ministry,
Precious few came to know Him,
Though all He did made history.
Though He offered pure love to them.
He's our bright miracle
And our plan for happiness.
His arms extend to encircle,
With joy and love. He's Holiness.
There is no other name that saves.
He gives assurance to us.
There's no better path than he paves.
He teaches of faith, hope and trust.
It warms my heart to speak of Him
And of all He's done for me.
Through times of sorrow and of sin,
His love's been there enveloping.
His life's example paves the way.
I will strive to be like Him.
I'll keep my covenants and obey
What I promised at baptism.
May you find faith to do His will,
As the Spirit manifests.
Know that His promise does fulfill.
May you feel joy within your breast.
This Day
Each day Thou gives us is as a fine treasure,
For me and my house to serve with great pleasure.
I've sought Thee early to find and to know Thee.
Bless this wise servant for what brings cleansing.
We have been given probation to improve.
While we have bodies that we control and can move,
We can know which tasks we do matter the most.
Bless me with promptings of the Holy Ghost.
Prayerful reading can set our course each new day.
When we submit, we act without a delay.
Will my garments be white to go no more out?
Help me to know how I can show Thee I'm devout.
We are here to prepare for eternal life.
We rejoiced to prove we're faithful though there's strife.
We can show we will do all the Lord does ask.
Help me to choose against temptations strong grasp.
We needed someone with grace and God's favor.
Who could perform with love as beloved Savior?
We chose Jesus Christ to come qualify us.
Help me not procrastinate, while there's justice.
Although we may struggle with complacency,
We have been placed purposely since infancy.
Though we're seasoned we have not yet done our part.
Help me show endurance with a steadfast heart.
Though I'm discouraged with my circumstance,
I will carry burdens with more confidence.
Each day as thy servant I'll follow through.
Bless me to know what I can here and now do.
I know Jesus suffered my infirmities.
He prayed for all men despite His agonies.
He forgave His enemies and their lies.
Help me to forgive and build eternal ties.
Help me be thankful that I am yet alive.
And to recognize that with Thee I do strive.
As a small payment for debt from Christ's purchase,
Help me share His charity through kind service.
Of those who petition Thy aid, help me see.
Bless me to hear Thy voice and know their need.
Remind me to pray to Thee both night and day.
Help me know my Savior, in His name I pray.
No two people with the same circumstance.
All with moments of need for deliverance.
When these tests stretch us, we cry out more-
All our pain and sorrow Christ atoned for.
He has gazed upon our face where there's grief.
He offers a special gift for relief.
To invite the Holy Ghost we must do.
We've best intentions, we must follow through.
When we face struggles of opposition
The Holy Ghost help us make decisions.
Our deliverance requires repentance.
With humility, we stand the best chance.
We humbly struggle to be free of sin.
With the lord's help- it's a battle we'll win.
We can feel hope for the day of judgment.
We'll see His face with the joy we were meant.
For now we can serve, in His name, with love.
And come to discern God's will from above.
-President Henry B. Erying
O Remember, Remember
If we write down just a few things that happen each new day,
We'll see the hand of God reaching to our fam'lies today.
Although we don't remember God and His Beloved Son.
If we seek Him, God will show us the things which He has done.
The Holy Ghost can bring light through a veil of dark blindness.
A journal shows a path to God. We'll recognize kindness.
O remember, please remember how you have been so blessed.
And establish, writing habits and of His hand confess.
When we're faithful God protects us and helps us to prosper.
Then is the time that we harden and think God's laws hamper.
It's easy to forget blessings, and thus we should give heed.
For what's inside our hearts can change the blessings eyes have seen.
So, too, the grind of poverty and distress darkens hope.
Then it's hard for the Holy Ghost to prompt what helps us cope.
O remember, please remember how you have been so blessed.
And establish, writing habits and of His hand confess.
There is a cure and a pattern in the sacrament prayers.
We promise God and our natures change as we know He cares.
The Holy Ghost is His Gift that reveals things through a veil.
We'll see God's hand in our service. He strengthens what is frail..
Our warm feelings can stir others so they will remember.
When we've Christ's name that's upon us, there's mercy that's tender.
The atonement helps us live lives that lead us toward God.
And we have help to remember the paths He helps us trod.
-President Henry B. Eyring
Feeding the Lambs
In Galilee, our resurrected Lord,
With a prepared meal, waited in the dawn.
As the disciples drew near to the shore,
He called out where to cast their nets upon.
And, when their nets more than filled, how they rushed.
It was their Lord who stood there with a meal!
He taught them how to feed, love is a must.
When lambs are nourished, God then warms and fills.
Each Latter-Day Saint is numbered.
To those yet tender, we covenant to teach.
They must know that of God they're remembered.
We've been blessed, we've capacity to reach.
As new lambs enter baptismal waters,
Our Lord prepares a meal for us and waits.
When we're nourished we've words from the Father.
And, thus we strengthen those in need of faith.
We can and must nourish with all our hearts.
To show our gratitude for the Lord's meal.
For unto all, He grants- His love imparts.
As we show we care, tender lambs are filled.
And, when the storms beat down at the last day.
We'll not be harrowed up by the whirlwinds.
The Shepherd's flock can gather in their place.
Where the power of heaven pours and descends. (Alma 26:5–7).
- President Henry B. Eyring
I Invite You to Come Unto Christ
I invite you to come unto Christ,
Though mere words cannot suffice.
May I, of His life expound?
That He, in your heart may be found?
During Our Lord's ministry,
Precious few came to know Him,
Though all He did made history.
Though He offered pure love to them.
He's our bright miracle
And our plan for happiness.
His arms extend to encircle,
With joy and love. He's Holiness.
There is no other name that saves.
He gives assurance to us.
There's no better path than he paves.
He teaches of faith, hope and trust.
It warms my heart to speak of Him
And of all He's done for me.
Through times of sorrow and of sin,
His love's been there enveloping.
His life's example paves the way.
I will strive to be like Him.
I'll keep my covenants and obey
What I promised at baptism.
May you find faith to do His will,
As the Spirit manifests.
Know that His promise does fulfill.
May you feel joy within your breast.
This Day
Each day Thou gives us is as a fine treasure,
For me and my house to serve with great pleasure.
I've sought Thee early to find and to know Thee.
Bless this wise servant for what brings cleansing.
We have been given probation to improve.
While we have bodies that we control and can move,
We can know which tasks we do matter the most.
Bless me with promptings of the Holy Ghost.
Prayerful reading can set our course each new day.
When we submit, we act without a delay.
Will my garments be white to go no more out?
Help me to know how I can show Thee I'm devout.
We are here to prepare for eternal life.
We rejoiced to prove we're faithful though there's strife.
We can show we will do all the Lord does ask.
Help me to choose against temptations strong grasp.
We needed someone with grace and God's favor.
Who could perform with love as beloved Savior?
We chose Jesus Christ to come qualify us.
Help me not procrastinate, while there's justice.
Although we may struggle with complacency,
We have been placed purposely since infancy.
Though we're seasoned we have not yet done our part.
Help me show endurance with a steadfast heart.
Though I'm discouraged with my circumstance,
I will carry burdens with more confidence.
Each day as thy servant I'll follow through.
Bless me to know what I can here and now do.
I know Jesus suffered my infirmities.
He prayed for all men despite His agonies.
He forgave His enemies and their lies.
Help me to forgive and build eternal ties.
Help me be thankful that I am yet alive.
And to recognize that with Thee I do strive.
As a small payment for debt from Christ's purchase,
Help me share His charity through kind service.
Of those who petition Thy aid, help me see.
Bless me to hear Thy voice and know their need.
Remind me to pray to Thee both night and day.
Help me know my Savior, in His name I pray.
Safety in Counsel
A new prophet was put in today
We stood with raised hand for the record
In an orderly and patterned way
We sustained our new prophet adored
From the prophet's mouth the Lord calls us
With words of judgment and of mercy
He would to lead us to life's riches
Where there's glory and honor to see
The Savior offers us protection
He would that we accept His warnings
And ponder them with introspection
For if we don't there will be mournings
As a hen gathereth her chickens
To protect them from what would devour
The counsel of the prophet thickens
As his warnings to safety empower
-----------------------------------------
In the fall of 1838
The tensions ran high in Missouri
The Prophet Joseph Smith told the Saints
To seek protection from men's fury
In Far West refugees would be received
But, Brother Haun did not deliver
And his small settlement did not leave
Thus, at Haun's Mill there was massacre
For the first time in church history
The Prophet could not keep the Saints safe
They were in harms way for misery
T'was because of just one man's lack of faith
-----------------------------------------
In our own time we've been warned from sin
And where to find safety from sorrow
When warnings are repeated often
Watch and be ready for the morrow
The law of witnesses has been cast
When Prophets words seem repetitive
As one Prophet quotes a Prophet past
Our attention should be riveted
May our hearts be filled with gratitude
While we look to the path of safety
And, may we not look for latitude
Where e'er the prophets speaks may faith be
We're squaring with what we want to do
If we think his words are just advice
We may slacken and not follow through
But, we'll soon see God's counsel is wise
Some may consider God's word faulty
That there might be another motive
They mock and deride, proclaiming falsely
When what they should be thinking is "what if?"
----------------------------------------------
In the Book of Mormon- Korihor
Taught that church leaders sought for bondage
That they might glut on members labors
As they take away rights and privilege
This man argued for independence
Which misrepresents reality
For he sought power to influence
With his own rules for legality
--------------------------------------
To choose to take prophetic counsel
Changes the very ground where we stand
As the waters gather up and pool
Those obedient find safety at hand
The more they heard, the more they scoffed
The best time to have helped Noah soon passed
Perhaps on the ark they'd be aloft
If they'd listened the first time he asked
-------------------------------------------
Oft times when one chooses to delay
The first thing that's forgotten is prayer
Confirmation takes us from harms way
And places us safely into God's care
In an early account of Lehi's
He was warned that his family must leave
Those who pray can know where safety lies
If they but ask, then they will receive
------------------------------------------
To some are given the priesthood keys
With them the Lord makes stakes a safe place
They each bear responsibilities
To warn the Saints of what they must face
We then possess capability
To listen, give heed and then to act
With fervent prayer there's ability
Then with a lifeline, we'll stay intact
Those with ears have the faith to obey
As they learn to avoid grave danger
They learn to face fear and not dismay
For revelation's not a stranger
----------------------------------------------
Just like Thomas B. Marshal's accounts fooled
In our day, some elect are deceived
For they feel "they know best" when counseled
And self-exalt in their own belief
God offers counsel and it's for all
We're as an instrument in his hands
When we hear warnings- we'll sound His call
"Pray", we'll advise, "Then one understands"
----------------------------------------
Though sweet to lead someone to safety
Sometimes the counsel is hard to do
This Reddick Allred found it to be
As a storm made it life threatening too
He with supplies waited through the storm
Lest the Martin company should die
While snow blizzard's entombment did form
He refused to budge, though some said good-bye
As weeks had passed they said to give up
They took their supplies, they had lost faith
They turned back more wagons come to help
But, Allred strongly felt he should wait
One day, as he watched his frozen breath
The destitute company arrived
Dozens had suffered and froze to death
Because of this man the rest survived
-------------------------------------------
Sometimes we don't understand counsel
Or think it does not apply to us
Let's think of it as a sand sample
When we shake it the gold flakes show thus
The Lord's priesthood keys are on the earth
We are so blessed to know where to look
To find the things that are of the most worth
It just depends on the way faith's shook
Safety in Counsel
President Henry B. Eyring
Liahona, June 2008 pg 2-7
Matt. 23: 37
37 O Jerusalem, Jerusalem, thou that killest the prophets, and stonest them which are sent unto thee, how often would I have gathered thy children together, even as a hen gathereth her chickens under her wings, and ye would not! I turned a page by accident and turned from writing a poem from another talk. the first stanza is from one of the conference talks. perhaps you recognize it?...Ronald A. Rasband
Walk In the Light
We were all taught by Elohim,
He, the Father of our spirits
And we wanted to be like Him
To prove we're faithful, and fully His.
We've unique characteristics
He designed our earth life with love
And o'ersaw all the logistics
What can we experience enough of?
With a body of cravings that grow
We would be subject to illness.
Pain, suff'ring and death we would know
On our journey t'wards Father's fullness
We progressed as much as we could
And Lucifer rebelled the plan
He thought better of what we should
He'd forgo a body, rather than
Cast out with a third of the hosts
They spend all their time to deceive
Of their power to tempt, they do boast
Wanting to prevent what we'd receive
As part of Father's grand design
We'd need help to learn to behave
He lit up all the earth with a sign
A light for our conscience that would save
This Light had come from our Savior
Who never strayed from all that's right
He would condescend, though He's pure
And teach us how to walk in the light
As part of the plan, He must die
After suff'ring for all our sins
After all temptations were denied
He'd help us return, as He ransoms
We came as a babe that was mild
Our prior existence was veiled
So that we could learn as a child
All that we prepared for and detailed
Now, our lives are not perfect
We make mistakes, and often sin
But, tools are in place to protect
Though, for some, from God's laws they harden
As we learn to sense what is right
We become privileged to find more
Those with the Holy Ghost gain insight
And can be a light like the Savior
From our joy, we'll share the lights warmth
As it illuminates our path
Where for everyone there is room
Hoping to see what the Father hath.
You make choices every day
That will keep you walking in the light
And show new faith, when there is dim sight.
For, if not you are moving away.
May you watch, may you pray
May you help others to walk in the light,
May they see you've a countenance bright.
Glowing with warmth to brighten the way
April 2008
Walk in the Light
Henry B. Eyring
[Verse 1] We were all taught by Elohim, He, the Father of our spirits And we wanted to be like Him To prove we're faithful, and fully His We've unique characteristics He designed our earth life with love And o'ersaw all the logistics What can we experience enough of? [Pre-Chorus] With a body of cravings that grow We would be subject to illness Pain, suff'ring and death we would know On our journey t'wards Father's fullness He lit up all the earth with a sign A light for our conscience that would save This Light had come from our Savior Who never strayed from all that's right [Chorus] Walk in the light Walk in the light May they see you've a countenance bright Walk in the light Walk in the light Glowing with warmth to brighten the way [Verse 2] As part of the plan, He must die After suff'ring for all our sins After all temptations were denied He'd help us return, as He ransoms We came as a babe that was mild Our prior existence was veiled So that we could learn as a child All that we prepared for and detailed Now, our lives are not perfect We make mistakes, and often sin But, tools are in place to protect Though, for some, from God's laws they harden [Pre-Chorus] As we learn to sense what is right We become privileged to find more Those with the Holy Ghost gain insight And can be a light like the Savior From our joy, we'll share the lights warmth As it illuminates our path Where for everyone there is room Hoping to see what the Father hath [Chorus] Walk in the light Walk in the light May they see you've a countenance bright Walk in the light Walk in the light Glowing with warmth to brighten the way [Bridge] You make choices every day That will keep you walking in the light And show new faith, when hope is dim For, if not you are moving away May you watch, may you pray May you help others walk in the light May they see you've a countenance bright Glowing with warmth to brighten the way [Final Chorus] Walk in the light Walk in the light May they see you've a countenance bright Walk in the light Walk in the light Glowing with warmth to brighten the way
The True and Living Church
The true and living church-
Is clearly not obscure
With brilliance sure and dauntless
It's light spreads out of darkness
The Lord looks upon us
And all that is within
We must repent ever thus
Or His light in us grows dim
The keys of the priesthood
Will ever lodge on earth
To heaven it seals what's good
May we more realize our worth
To show our obedience
We do what is better
With God there's no allowance
To His laws we must measure
In our hearts we do search
For each way that sustains
As servants of the church
We'll heed those God ordains
We've an invitation
To aid those discouraged
Through our dedication
Those lost are encouraged
Let's range across the land
And give to those in need
Let's extend loving hands
And more spiritually feed
And God above who sees
Will shed forth glorious light
For honoring His keys
And for doing what's right
President Henry B. Eyring
Ensign May 2008, 8
obscure implies a hiding or veiling of meaning through some inadequacy of expression or withholding of full knowledge
dauntless adjective: invulnerable to fear or intimidation
Picture of Nauvoo temple under construction
dellahill.blogspot.com/2008/02/sunday-story.html
[Verse 1] The true and living church Is clearly not obscure With brilliance sure and dauntless Its light spreads out of darkness The Lord looks upon us And all that is within We must repent ever thus Or His light in us grows dim [Pre-Chorus] The keys of the priesthood Will ever lodge on earth To heaven it seals what's good May we more realize our worth [Chorus] The true and living church (hold to the light) The true and living church (we will do what's right) His light in us grows bright His light in us grows bright [Verse 2] To show our obedience We do what is better With God there's no allowance To His laws we must measure In our hearts we do search For each way that sustains As servants of the church We'll heed those God ordains [Pre-Chorus] We've an invitation To aid those discouraged Through our dedication Those lost are encouraged [Chorus] The true and living church (hold to the light) The true and living church (we will do what's right) His light in us grows bright His light in us grows bright [Bridge] Let's range across the land And give to those in need Let's extend loving hands And more spiritually feed And God above who sees Will shed forth glorious light For honoring His keys And for doing what's right [Final Chorus] The true and living church (hold to the light) The true and living church (we will do what's right) His light in us grows bright His light in us grows bright
Like the Change of a Light
Like the change of a light
Our children leave us behind
And though they are out of sight
They are never out of mind
We are left with memories
And, also butterflies
We hunger for their stories
And worry over cries
But, if they have heard us pray
And we have born a witness
Even though they're far away
They know of God's kindness
May they write upon their hearts
What e'er the Spirit whispers
For there God's will imparts
Great comfort as it stirs
May their soul hunger
And cry out loud oft
May they know what's tender
That their hearts remain soft
We feel this urgency
Because families link
Forever we're meant to be
And, danger's always on the brink
And if there be a tragedy
The worst would be from sin
But, in the dust of humility
May a conscience prick within
May a search for mercy call them back
With a desire for cleansing
May they return on the right track
As though loving arms they are sensing
President Henry B. Eyring
Write Upon My Heart
Ensign, November 2000, 85
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