You will be able to find talks for the 2010 year here:
http://sites.google.com/site/primarytalks/
Sunday, November 29, 2009
Thursday, May 1, 2008
The priesthood can bless and strengthen my family.
May 2008, Talk #4
The priesthood is the eternal power and authority of God.
Through the priesthood God created and governs the heavens
and the earth.
God gives priesthood authority to worthy male members of the Church so they can act in His name.
We must have priesthood authority to act in the name of God when performing the sacred ordinances of the gospel, such as baptism, confirmation, administration of the sacrament, and temple marriage.
The most important exercise of the priesthood takes place in the family. Each husband and father in the Church should strive to be worthy to hold the Melchizedek Priesthood. With his wife as an equal partner, he presides in righteousness and love, serving as the family’s spiritual leader. He leads the family in regular prayer, scripture study, and family home evening.
He works with his wife to teach the children and help them prepare to receive the ordinances of salvation. He gives priesthood blessings for direction, healing, and comfort.
Young men who are members of the church can be ordained to the priesthood when they are 12 years old. Some of you may have an older brother who is a deacon, teacher or priest. These young men can also bring the blessings of the priesthood into our homes.
If your family does not have anyone who holds the priesthood, then your home teachers, priesthood leadership, or members of your ward can help your family to receive the blessings of the priesthood in your home.
The priesthood is the eternal power and authority of God.
Through the priesthood God created and governs the heavens
and the earth.
God gives priesthood authority to worthy male members of the Church so they can act in His name.
We must have priesthood authority to act in the name of God when performing the sacred ordinances of the gospel, such as baptism, confirmation, administration of the sacrament, and temple marriage.
The most important exercise of the priesthood takes place in the family. Each husband and father in the Church should strive to be worthy to hold the Melchizedek Priesthood. With his wife as an equal partner, he presides in righteousness and love, serving as the family’s spiritual leader. He leads the family in regular prayer, scripture study, and family home evening.
He works with his wife to teach the children and help them prepare to receive the ordinances of salvation. He gives priesthood blessings for direction, healing, and comfort.
Young men who are members of the church can be ordained to the priesthood when they are 12 years old. Some of you may have an older brother who is a deacon, teacher or priest. These young men can also bring the blessings of the priesthood into our homes.
If your family does not have anyone who holds the priesthood, then your home teachers, priesthood leadership, or members of your ward can help your family to receive the blessings of the priesthood in your home.
Elder Douglas L. Callister of the Seventy shared the following story about the blessings of the priesthood in his family:
Years ago our youngest child had a serious bone tumor in his lower back. When he was taken to the hospital for surgery, I overheard the doctors in the hallway talking about his condition. They said it was likely that nothing could be done to save our boy’s life.
When I went back in my son’s room, I tried to encourage him. I assured him that he was receiving the finest medical care. He said, “Daddy, I’m not counting on the doctors. I’m counting on my blessing. You laid your hands on my head, and you blessed me. And I have faith that the blessing will be fulfilled.”
My son was healed. His life is an example of the power of a priesthood blessing. One of the lessons I’ve learned through my Church service is that our Father in Heaven loves little children. He loves to bless them, and He often blesses them through His priesthood servants. Friend, Jul 2006, 8–9
I know that the gospel of Jesus Christ is true. I know that Heavenly Father has given worthy men the power to act in his name. I know that our families can be blessed by this priesthood power.
Scripture study, family prayer, and family home evening can strengthen my family
May 2008, Talk #3
In 1915 President Joseph F. Smith and his counselors in the First Presidency began a Churchwide effort to strengthen the family. They called on parents in the Church to gather their children once each week for a “Home Evening.” Families were to take time to pray and sing together, read the scriptures, teach the gospel to one another, and participate in other activities that would build family unity.
For more than ninety years our living prophets have counseled member of the church to hold regular Family Home evenings.
We can learn about working, serving, and playing together in family home evening. Prophets have promised us that our families will grow stronger when we use this time to study gospel principles and enjoy being together.
In 1915 President Joseph F. Smith and his counselors in the First Presidency began a Churchwide effort to strengthen the family. They called on parents in the Church to gather their children once each week for a “Home Evening.” Families were to take time to pray and sing together, read the scriptures, teach the gospel to one another, and participate in other activities that would build family unity.
For more than ninety years our living prophets have counseled member of the church to hold regular Family Home evenings.
We can learn about working, serving, and playing together in family home evening. Prophets have promised us that our families will grow stronger when we use this time to study gospel principles and enjoy being together.
President Ezra Taft Benson taught: “Families must spend more time together in work and recreation. Family home evenings should be scheduled once a week as a time for recreation, work projects, skits, songs around the piano, games, special refreshments, and family prayers. … This practice will bind a family together, in love, pride, tradition, strength, and loyalty” (Ensign, Nov. 1982, 60).
We have also been instructed to study the scriptures as a family and to have family prayer. When we study and pray together as a family, we grow closer to the lord. We are able to discuss what we are learning and how, as a family we can apply the teachings of the scriptures in our lives.
President Gordon B. Hinckley said: "“Parents, safeguard your families. Pray together. There is no substitute for family prayer when all kneel together before the Lord.”
I know that by following the council of our prophets, my family is strengthened and blessed.
I know that it is important to have Family Home Evening, and to have family scripture study and prayer. I know that when we do these things, our family is blessed and that I can feel the warmth of the Holy Ghost.
Each member of my family has a divine role.
May 2008, Talk #2
Each person has an important place in his or her family.
Through prophets the Lord has explained how fathers,
mothers, and children should behave and feel toward one
another.
Each of us need to learn what the Lord expects us to do to fulfill our purpose as a family. If we all do our part, we will be able to live together as a family forever.
Some families have a mother, a father and children. Other families do not. Not all families are the same, and that is OK.
Mothers and fathers have certain responsibilities within the family. They should be examples to their children and teach them right from wrong.
It is the duty of the father to provide for the physical needs of the family. This means that he makes sure that all members of his family have the necessary food, housing, clothing and education. The father is also responsible for bringing the blessings of the priesthood to family members.
Mothers have the sacred responsibility to care for and teach her children. She also helps to make the home a warm and loving place to be.
As members of families children have responsibilities too. Children share the responsibility of building a happy home with their parents. Children should obey the commandments and cooperate with other family members. Children are commanded to honor their parents.
President Spencer W. Kimball said that children should learn
to work and to share responsibilities in the home and yard.
They should be given assignments to keep the house neat and
clean.
When each member of a family understands their role and accepts the responsibilities that come along with it, our homes can be happy and cheerful places where the spirit of the Lord can dwell.
I am very thankful for my family. I am thankful that we have prophets who have taught us about our responsibilities as members of families. I love my family and I know that if we all do our part we can be together forever.
Each person has an important place in his or her family.
Through prophets the Lord has explained how fathers,
mothers, and children should behave and feel toward one
another.
Each of us need to learn what the Lord expects us to do to fulfill our purpose as a family. If we all do our part, we will be able to live together as a family forever.
Some families have a mother, a father and children. Other families do not. Not all families are the same, and that is OK.
Mothers and fathers have certain responsibilities within the family. They should be examples to their children and teach them right from wrong.
It is the duty of the father to provide for the physical needs of the family. This means that he makes sure that all members of his family have the necessary food, housing, clothing and education. The father is also responsible for bringing the blessings of the priesthood to family members.
Mothers have the sacred responsibility to care for and teach her children. She also helps to make the home a warm and loving place to be.
As members of families children have responsibilities too. Children share the responsibility of building a happy home with their parents. Children should obey the commandments and cooperate with other family members. Children are commanded to honor their parents.
President Spencer W. Kimball said that children should learn
to work and to share responsibilities in the home and yard.
They should be given assignments to keep the house neat and
clean.
When each member of a family understands their role and accepts the responsibilities that come along with it, our homes can be happy and cheerful places where the spirit of the Lord can dwell.
I am very thankful for my family. I am thankful that we have prophets who have taught us about our responsibilities as members of families. I love my family and I know that if we all do our part we can be together forever.
Families in the scriptures teach me how to strengthen my family.
May 2008, Talk #1
The scriptures are full of stories about families. Adam and Eve were the first family that Heavenly Father sent to earth. We can read about them in the first book of the Bible, Genesis.
Adam and Eve were good parents. We know that they taught their children the gospel. Heavenly Father gave our parents children to care for and to love until they return to him someday.
He wants us all to learn how to be worthy to live with him after this life. Heavenly Father expects parents to teach their children the commandments and to take care of their children’s needs. This
is a great responsibility for our parents.
Heavenly father has taught us that children should love and honor their parents. We can show love for our parents in many different ways.
Two ways that we can love and honor our parents is by being helpful and obedient. When we do these things, we not only show our love for our earthly parents, we also show our love to Heavenly Father.
We can find many stories in the scriptures that are examples of children helping and obeying their parents.
Nephi was obedient when his father Lehi instructed his family that they needed to leave their home and many of their belongings behind so that they could flee the wickedness of their city.
Moroni helped his father by continuing to record the history of his people. Because Moroni was obedient, we are blessed to have the Book of Mormon to help us today.
I am glad that we can read about families in the scriptures. I know that their stories can help me learn how to strengthen my family. I know that by being helpful and obedient my I can help my family to be closer to Heavenly Father.
Tuesday, April 1, 2008
The prophet teaches me to read and pray about the Book of Mormon
April 2008, Talk #3
Our living prophet, President Thomas S. Monson said “The holy scriptures are for children, to fill their eager minds with sacred truth.” President Ezra Taft Benson said “There is a book [that] we need to study daily, … namely the Book of Mormon. I love that book." Our latter-day prophets have instructed us that we should read and pray about the Book of Mormon. Grandpa Jones had just finished reading Collin's favorite book "The Big Red Truck" when Collin asked "Grandpa, what is your favorite book?" Grandpa Jones replied "I would have to say that it is The Book of Mormon. It has truly changed my life." Collin had a confused look on his face. He could understand why Grandpa might like the Book of Mormon. Collin thought about how much he liked it when his parents or primary teachers told him the story of how brave Nephi had been when he went to get the brass plates from the wicked king. He also liked the story of King Benjamin teaching all of the people but he just couldn't understand how these stories could change his life. "Grandpa" Collin asked "What do you mean that The Book of Mormon Changed your life?" Collin's grandpa explained that when he was a young boy like Collin, his family had never heard of the Book of Mormon. He told Collin that when he was 17 years old, his parents answered the door one day to find two missionaries from the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints asking if they could share a message about Jesus Christ with their family. "You see Collin..." Said Grandpa Jones "These missionaries came into our home and told us about the Prophet Joseph Smith. They taught us about the Book of Mormon and the priesthood. They taught us about Heavenly Father's plan and that we could live together as a family forever if we would repent, be baptized and keep the commandments." Grandpa Jones also told Collin that the missionaries challenged his family to read the Book of Mormon and to pray to find out if it was true. They said that if we could know by the power of the Holy Ghost that the Book of Mormon was true that we would know that they were true representatives of the Lord and that their message was true. "Collin," said Grandpa Jones, "We did read the Book of Mormon. The Holy Ghost let us know that it was the word of god. It is because of the Book of Mormon that all of us belong to the Church of Jesus Christ." "Wow Grandpa!" Said Collin... "I guess the Book of Mormon really did change your life and mine too!" For the first time in his life, Collin realized how important the Book of Mormon is. He realized that it was more than just a story book. Colin understood why the Prophets have told us to read and pray about the Book of Mormon. I am glad that we have been given the Book of Mormon and I know that if will read and pray about it, Heavenly Father will answer our prayers.
The prophet teaches me that I should love and forgive others
April 2008, Talk #2
President Gordon B. Hinckley said: "May God help us to be a little kinder, to be more forgiving, to lay aside old grudges and nurture them no more."
He was asking us to love and forgive others. As followers of Christ we are commanded to love our neighbors. If someone does something that hurts us or upsets us, we need to forgive them.
Sometimes it is hard to forgive others. Even though it is hard, it is a commandment and we must obey it. Heavenly father will help us to forgive if we will go to him in prayer and ask for his help.
A good example of forgiveness can be found in First Nephi. After the prophet Lehi and his family left Jerusalem, Nephi's older brothers Laman and Lemuel began to rebel against those who were living righteously.
Nephi told his older brothers that they were sinning and that they needed to repent. Laman and Lemuel became very angry with Nephi. They tied him up and planned to leave him to be eaten by wild animals.
Nephi prayed to heavenly father and asked for help. The ropes were loosened from his hands and feet. This made Laman and Lemuel even angrier and they tried to hurt Nephi.
Some of the other righteous people pleaded with Laman and Lemuel not to hurt Nephi. Nephi's older brothers hearts were softened and they were sorry for their wickedness.
Laman and Lemuel bowed down before Nephi and asked for his forgiveness. Instead of being angry with his brothers for trying to hurt him, Nephi said that he “did frankly forgive them all that they had done, and … did exhort them that they would pray unto the Lord their God for forgiveness” (1 Ne. 7:21).
We, too, can choose to forgive those who have hurt or offended us. Forgiving others is a necessary part of Heavenly Father's plan. Heavenly Father will forgive us for our sins, if we will forgive others.
President Gordon B. Hinckley said: "May God help us to be a little kinder, to be more forgiving, to lay aside old grudges and nurture them no more."
He was asking us to love and forgive others. As followers of Christ we are commanded to love our neighbors. If someone does something that hurts us or upsets us, we need to forgive them.
Sometimes it is hard to forgive others. Even though it is hard, it is a commandment and we must obey it. Heavenly father will help us to forgive if we will go to him in prayer and ask for his help.
A good example of forgiveness can be found in First Nephi. After the prophet Lehi and his family left Jerusalem, Nephi's older brothers Laman and Lemuel began to rebel against those who were living righteously.
Nephi told his older brothers that they were sinning and that they needed to repent. Laman and Lemuel became very angry with Nephi. They tied him up and planned to leave him to be eaten by wild animals.
Nephi prayed to heavenly father and asked for help. The ropes were loosened from his hands and feet. This made Laman and Lemuel even angrier and they tried to hurt Nephi.
Some of the other righteous people pleaded with Laman and Lemuel not to hurt Nephi. Nephi's older brothers hearts were softened and they were sorry for their wickedness.
Laman and Lemuel bowed down before Nephi and asked for his forgiveness. Instead of being angry with his brothers for trying to hurt him, Nephi said that he “did frankly forgive them all that they had done, and … did exhort them that they would pray unto the Lord their God for forgiveness” (1 Ne. 7:21).
We, too, can choose to forgive those who have hurt or offended us. Forgiving others is a necessary part of Heavenly Father's plan. Heavenly Father will forgive us for our sins, if we will forgive others.
The prophet holds all priesthood keys and leads the Church as directed by the Lord.
April 2008, Talk #1
We are members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. It is Christ's true church.
Heavenly father has called a very special person to help us understand what Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ want us to do while we are here on the earth.
This man speaks with Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ. Then he tells each of us what they have said. This man is called a Prophet. He is the leader of our church.
Our prophet today is President Thomas S. Monson. He was called to be the prophet after President Hinkley died earlier this year.
Joseph Smith was the first president of the church. Jesus Christ gave him the authority to use the priesthood to bless the members of the church. This authority is known as "Priesthood Keys".
Just like you have a key to open the door of your house when it is locked, priesthood keys open the door to Heavenly Fathers blessings and the ordinances necessary to return to live with Heavenly Father.
Without priesthood keys, we could not be baptized or receive the gift of the holy ghost. These keys also make it possible for our families to be sealed so that we can be together forever.
President Monson holds all of the priesthood keys necessary to do the Lord's work here on earth. He shares these keys with others when he calls Apostles, Stake Presidents and Bishops so that they can help with the lord's work.
I know that we are led by a prophet of god. I know that he is directed by the Lord. I know that he holds the keys of the priesthood and that because he does, I can receive all the ordinances necessary to live with heavenly father again one day.
Saturday, March 1, 2008
Jesus Christ lives today. He will come again.
March 2008, Talk #4
Jesus Christ lives today. He will come again.
After Jesus Christ died on the cross his body was put in a tomb. After three days he was resurrected and he came back to earth and showed the apostles and some of his friends the wounds in his hands, feet and side.
Because we know that Jesus Christ was resurrected, we know that he lives even today.
In the Book of Mormon we can read about Jesus visiting the people on the American Continent. We also know that he has appeared to Latter-Day prophets. Jesus appeared to Joseph Smith in the sacred grove when Joseph prayed to know which church was true.
The scriptures tell us and the prophets have taught us that Jesus will come and live again on earth. This great event is called the "Second Coming"
We do not know when Jesus will come again but we need to do all we can to be prepared for that day. We can do that by accepting the teachings of the gospel and making them a part of our lives.
We should listen to the teachings of our living prophet and live worthy to have the Holy Ghost with us.
We should look forward to the Savior's coming with happiness and without fear. The Lord said: “Fear not, little flock, the kingdom is yours until I come. Behold, I come quickly. Even so. Amen” (D&C 35:27). I know that Jesus Christ lives. I know he loves each of his children and I know that one day he will return and live on earth again.
Jesus Christ showed me how to do the will of Heavenly Father
March 2008, Talk #3
When Jesus was on the earth a lawyer asked him a question. He wanted to know what the most important commandment was. “Jesus said unto him, Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind. This is the first and great commandment. And the second is like unto it, Thou shalt love thy neighbor as thyself." Matthew 22:36–40
Jesus taught us that it is important to love our neighbors and friends and love the lord.
There are many ways that we can show love for our friends and neighbors such as saying kind things, providing acts of service or inviting them to our homes.
But how do we show our love for the Lord?
Jesus answered this question when he said, “He that hath my commandments, and keepeth them, he it is that loveth me: and he that loveth me shall be loved of my Father” (John 14:21).
The will of Heavenly father is that each of his children obey his commandments so that we can return to live with him someday.
We should obey Heavenly Father's commandments because we love Jesus and Heavenly Father and we want to serve them, not because we are scared that we will be punished if we don't.
Jesus Christ is our example in how we should be obedient to Heavenly Father. Jesus Said: “I came down from heaven, not to do mine own will, but the will of him that sent me” (John 6:38)
It is important to obey all of Heavenly Father's commandments even if we think that we can't or don't understand why. The prophet Nephi taught us “I will go and do the things which the Lord hath commanded, for I know that the Lord giveth no commandments unto the children of men, save he shall prepare a way for them that they may accomplish the thing which he commandeth them” (1 Nephi 3:7).
I am thankful for Jesus Christ's example and that he taught us how to do the will of our Heavenly Father. I know that if we obey the commandments we will be happy and our Father in Heaven will be happy too.
When Jesus was on the earth a lawyer asked him a question. He wanted to know what the most important commandment was. “Jesus said unto him, Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind. This is the first and great commandment. And the second is like unto it, Thou shalt love thy neighbor as thyself." Matthew 22:36–40
Jesus taught us that it is important to love our neighbors and friends and love the lord.
There are many ways that we can show love for our friends and neighbors such as saying kind things, providing acts of service or inviting them to our homes.
But how do we show our love for the Lord?
Jesus answered this question when he said, “He that hath my commandments, and keepeth them, he it is that loveth me: and he that loveth me shall be loved of my Father” (John 14:21).
The will of Heavenly father is that each of his children obey his commandments so that we can return to live with him someday.
We should obey Heavenly Father's commandments because we love Jesus and Heavenly Father and we want to serve them, not because we are scared that we will be punished if we don't.
Jesus Christ is our example in how we should be obedient to Heavenly Father. Jesus Said: “I came down from heaven, not to do mine own will, but the will of him that sent me” (John 6:38)
It is important to obey all of Heavenly Father's commandments even if we think that we can't or don't understand why. The prophet Nephi taught us “I will go and do the things which the Lord hath commanded, for I know that the Lord giveth no commandments unto the children of men, save he shall prepare a way for them that they may accomplish the thing which he commandeth them” (1 Nephi 3:7).
I am thankful for Jesus Christ's example and that he taught us how to do the will of our Heavenly Father. I know that if we obey the commandments we will be happy and our Father in Heaven will be happy too.
Jesus Christ Loves Me
March 2008, Talk #2
In primary we sing the song “I Feel My Savior’s Love”. Whenever I hear the words of this song it reminds me how much Jesus Christ loves me. I would like to share some of the words of this song with you.
In primary we sing the song “I Feel My Savior’s Love”. Whenever I hear the words of this song it reminds me how much Jesus Christ loves me. I would like to share some of the words of this song with you.
I feel my Savior’s love.
In all the world around me.
His spirit warms my soul
Through everything I see
I feel my Savior’s love.
And know that he will bless me.
I offer him my heart;
My shepherd he will be.
He knows I will follow him.
Give all my life to him.
I feel my Savior’s love
The love he freely gives me.
These words remind me that Jesus is our Savior, he died for each of us and because he did, we can return to live with Heavenly Father again someday.
Jesus suffered and died for us. He paid the price for our sins. This is called the “Atonement”.
While we are here on earth, each of us will make mistakes and sin. Because Jesus Christ died for us we can repent and become clean again.
Jesus did his part and he asks each of us to do our part by obeying the commandments, repenting when we sin and always remembering him.
I know that Jesus loves me and he loves each and every one of us. We can feel our Savior’s love when we do things that bring us closer to him like read the scriptures or say our prayers. I know that I can show my love for the Savior by following his example and obeying the commandments.
Jesus Christ is my Savior and the Savior of all mankind.
March 2008, Talk #1
Each of have at least one name. Some of us have names that are special to our family. Maybe you were named after one of your parents, grandparents, or a friend of the family.
My name is _______________ and I was given that name because _______________________________________.
In the scriptures, we can find over two hundred names for Jesus Christ. Each of these names helps us remember him and what he has done for us.
One of the very special names that we use when we talk about Jesus is “Savior”. The word savior means a person who saves, rescues or delivers.
As part of Heavenly Father’s plan, someone needed to pay the price for all of the mistakes that we make. Our older brother, Jesus Christ volunteered to come to earth and suffer and die for us to pay the price for our sins. Because he did this, we call him our Savior.
Jesus Christ suffered and died for you and for me. He did it for everyone who lives on the earth, even if they don’t believe in Heavenly Father’s plan.
Because Jesus is the Savior of the world, everyone who has faith, repents, is baptized and obeys the commandments can return to live with our Father in Heaven.
Jesus is my Savior, for
He rescues me from me.
I’ll try to explain just how to you.
It’s very clear to see.
Heavenly Father sent me here
To learn to choose the right.
I can’t get back to live with Him
Unless I win the fight.
Each day I have to make a choice.
Some days I seem to choose
The path that leads away from Christ,
And that’s the way I lose.
But God knew that I’d need some help,
So Jesus said He’d come
And be my Savior so I can try
To be the best I can become.
And when I try to change my ways—
A better person be—
I can succeed because of Christ
Who gave His life for me.
Poem by: Blythe Rackham, “Jesus Is My Savior,”
Friend, Apr 2006, 26-27
Friday, February 1, 2008
The Doctrine and Covenants teaches me how to live the gospel
February 2008, Talk #4
The Bible and the Book of Mormon contain the writings of the prophets who lived long ago. The Doctrine and Covenants is different from these books because it contains modern revelation.
To contain Modern Revelation means that Heavenly Father has given instructions to the prophets for the people who are living on the earth today.
About 175 years ago the living prophet was Joseph Smith Jr. He wrote down the revelations that he received from the lord and we can read them today in the Doctrine and Covenants.
The Doctrine and Covenants was not written by Joseph Smith. It contains Heavenly Father's words to the members of his Church. Jesus Christ told Joseph Smith what to write.
This special book helps each of us live the gospel by teaching us how Heavenly father wants his church organized and what each member of the church needs to do to help with Heavenly Father's work.
Some of the very important teachings which can be found in the Doctrine and Covenants include the law of health known as the Word of Wisdom. This teaches us that Heavenly Father wants us to be healthy and not let anything into our bodies that could harm us or make us sick.
We also learn about the origination of the Church and the the responsibilities of the priesthood.
We are very fortunate to have the Doctrine and Covenants to help us live the gospel. Heavenly father loves us and continues to give us revelation through our prophets. I know that by following the voice of the lord through his prophets we can choose the right.
Book of Mormon stories teach me how to live the gospel
February 2008, Talk #3
When President Ezra Taft Benson was the living Prophet and President of the Church, he wrote a letter to all of the children of the church. In this letter he said:
"How pleased I am to hear of your love for the Book of Mormon. I love it too, and Heavenly Father wants you to continue to learn from the Book of Mormon every day. It’s Heavenly Father’s special gift to you. By following its teachings, you will learn to do the will of our Father in Heaven."
In this special message to primary children everywhere, President Benson told us that the stories found in the Book of Mormon will help us live the gospel.
In the book of Mosiah we can read the story of Abinadi and Alma. Abinadi was a prophet who tried to teach a wicked king named King Noah about the gospel. He told the wicked king that he needed to repent. The king did not like this so he had Abinadi burned to death. Before Abinadi died, he was able to preach the gospel to the king and his wicked priests.
One of King Noah's wicked priests was a man named Alma. He believed Abinadi's words about the gospel of Jesus Christ. He knew that he needed to repent of his sins and obey the commandments.
Alma did repent of his sins and he became a great missionary. He went to the Waters of Mormon and preached the gospel. He taught people about Jesus Christ and about the importance of baptism. The Lord gave Alma the authority to baptize the people who believed in the gospel. Alma taught and baptized many people.
Even though this is just one of the many stories that can be found in the Book of Mormon it teaches us many ways that we can live the gospel. Like Abinadi, we should always stand up for what we believe in. Like Alma we should know that we can repent, obey the commandments and be good missionaries. This story also teaches us that to live the gospel of Jesus Christ we must be baptized.
I am thankful for the Book of Mormon. I know that what President Benson said about following its teachings is true.
Bible Stories Teach Me How to Live the Gospel
February 2008, Talk #2
From the story of Adam and Eve in the Garden of Eden to the teachings of the Apostles of Christ's church, the stories found in the Holy Bible help me learn how to live the gospel.
From the story of Adam and Eve in the Garden of Eden to the teachings of the Apostles of Christ's church, the stories found in the Holy Bible help me learn how to live the gospel.
The Bible helps me understand Heavenly Father's plan and what I must to to live with him again.
One story that helps me live the gospel is from the book of Exodus.
God chose a man named Moses to be the prophet to lead the children of Israel out of captivity in Egypt. Moses parted the Red Sea to help his people escape from the armies that were chasing them. Later, Moses asked God to help his people who did not have any food. God listened to Moses and gave them manna to eat.
After Moses and his people had been in the wilderness for two months, Moses went up on a mountain and spoke to the Lord. He told Moses to gather all of the people together and the lord taught them rules that they should follow. These rules are known as "The Ten Commandments".
Even though the Ten Commandments were given to people thousands of years ago, they are still very important today. By living these commandments each of us can be on the path to eternal life.
Some of the ways that I am trying to live the gospel and obey the commandments are by: Loving Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ; Keeping the Sabbath Day Holy; Honoring my parents; Using clean language; and Treating others with love and respect.
I am grateful for the stories of the Bible. I know that by studying the Bible we can learn how to live the gospel and follow Heavenly Father's plan.
The Bible and the Book of Mormon Testify of Jesus Christ
February 2008, Talk #1
The 8th article of faith states: "We believe the Bible to be the word of God as far as it is translated correctly; we also believe the Book of Mormon to be the word of God."
The Bible and the Book of Mormon are both witnesses of Jesus Christ. They teach that He is the Son of God, that He is our example and that he lived a perfect life. They testify that He is the Savior of the world, that he died for us and because of his sacrifice we can live with Heavenly Father again.
As members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints we are blessed to have other scriptures that help us better understand the Bible and the teachings of Jesus Christ. These scriptures including the Book of Mormon, the Doctrine and Covenants and the Pearl of Great Price all testify of Christ.
Our Heavenly Father has promised us great blessing for reading, studying and obeying the scriptures. When we read about Jesus in the scriptures the Holy Ghost will help us know that what we are reading is true.
I am thankful for the scriptures. I know that they testify of Jesus Christ and that by studying the stories found in the Bible and Book of Mormon my testimony of Jesus Christ will grow.
The 8th article of faith states: "We believe the Bible to be the word of God as far as it is translated correctly; we also believe the Book of Mormon to be the word of God."
The Bible and the Book of Mormon are both witnesses of Jesus Christ. They teach that He is the Son of God, that He is our example and that he lived a perfect life. They testify that He is the Savior of the world, that he died for us and because of his sacrifice we can live with Heavenly Father again.
As members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints we are blessed to have other scriptures that help us better understand the Bible and the teachings of Jesus Christ. These scriptures including the Book of Mormon, the Doctrine and Covenants and the Pearl of Great Price all testify of Christ.
Our Heavenly Father has promised us great blessing for reading, studying and obeying the scriptures. When we read about Jesus in the scriptures the Holy Ghost will help us know that what we are reading is true.
I am thankful for the scriptures. I know that they testify of Jesus Christ and that by studying the stories found in the Bible and Book of Mormon my testimony of Jesus Christ will grow.
Tuesday, January 1, 2008
Jesus Created A World...
January 2008, Talk #4
In the beginning, Heavenly Father asked his son Jesus Christ to create a place for his Spirit Children to live. Jesus Christ, under the direction of Heavenly Father created the Earth. It took 6 days.
On the first day, Jesus divided light from the darkness creating day and night.
On the second day, he organized Heaven and Earth.
On the third day, he divided the land from the water and created all of the plants including trees, flowers, grasses, vegetables, and fruit.
On the fourth day, he created the sun, moon and stars.
On the fifth day, he created fish and birds.
On the sixth day, Jesus created the animals. Then Heavenly Father created man "in his 0wn image". This means that our bodies look like Heavenly Father's.
Adam and Eve were the first people on this earth. They were our first parents.
I am very thankful to have such a beautiful earth to live on. I know that It was created for me. I am thankful for the sunshine that keeps me warm and the plants that give me food. I am thankful for a Heavenly Father that loves me and wants me to be happy.
In the beginning, Heavenly Father asked his son Jesus Christ to create a place for his Spirit Children to live. Jesus Christ, under the direction of Heavenly Father created the Earth. It took 6 days.
On the first day, Jesus divided light from the darkness creating day and night.
On the second day, he organized Heaven and Earth.
On the third day, he divided the land from the water and created all of the plants including trees, flowers, grasses, vegetables, and fruit.
On the fourth day, he created the sun, moon and stars.
On the fifth day, he created fish and birds.
On the sixth day, Jesus created the animals. Then Heavenly Father created man "in his 0wn image". This means that our bodies look like Heavenly Father's.
Adam and Eve were the first people on this earth. They were our first parents.
I am very thankful to have such a beautiful earth to live on. I know that It was created for me. I am thankful for the sunshine that keeps me warm and the plants that give me food. I am thankful for a Heavenly Father that loves me and wants me to be happy.
Heavenly Father Gave Me Agency
January 2008, Talk #3
Every day we make choices. We might choose what to wear or what to have for breakfast. We choose what to say, what to read, what to watch and how we act. We choose how we will treat others.
The ability to make choices is called Agency. This is a very special gift from Heavenly Father. Without agency we would not be able to make our own choices.
In primary we often see the letters "CTR" they stand for "Choose the Right". Choosing the right is what agency is all about. Heavenly Father wants us to decide on our own if we are going to obey his commandments and follow His plan.
Heavenly father knew that it would be hard for us to make some choices. He knows that Satan will try to trick us.
We have been given some special tools to help us use our agency to choose the right.
Jesus Christ is our older brother and he is a perfect example. When we are faced with a choice we can always ask the question "What would Jesus do?"
Another tool that we have been given is the Holy Ghost. After you are baptized and have promised Heavenly Father that you will obey his commandments, he promises you the gift of the Holy Ghost. The holy ghost will bless you with peace when you choose the right.
We are also blessed to have people around us that love us and want to help us make the right decisions. Our parents, grandparents, primary teachers, brothers and sisters, the Bishop and even the Prophet can all offer us help and advice when we need it.
I'm glad that Heavenly Father trusts me and knows that I can choose the right. I am thankful for agency. I know that it is part of Heavenly Father's plan.
Every day we make choices. We might choose what to wear or what to have for breakfast. We choose what to say, what to read, what to watch and how we act. We choose how we will treat others.
The ability to make choices is called Agency. This is a very special gift from Heavenly Father. Without agency we would not be able to make our own choices.
In primary we often see the letters "CTR" they stand for "Choose the Right". Choosing the right is what agency is all about. Heavenly Father wants us to decide on our own if we are going to obey his commandments and follow His plan.
Heavenly father knew that it would be hard for us to make some choices. He knows that Satan will try to trick us.
We have been given some special tools to help us use our agency to choose the right.
Jesus Christ is our older brother and he is a perfect example. When we are faced with a choice we can always ask the question "What would Jesus do?"
Another tool that we have been given is the Holy Ghost. After you are baptized and have promised Heavenly Father that you will obey his commandments, he promises you the gift of the Holy Ghost. The holy ghost will bless you with peace when you choose the right.
We are also blessed to have people around us that love us and want to help us make the right decisions. Our parents, grandparents, primary teachers, brothers and sisters, the Bishop and even the Prophet can all offer us help and advice when we need it.
I'm glad that Heavenly Father trusts me and knows that I can choose the right. I am thankful for agency. I know that it is part of Heavenly Father's plan.
I Chose Heavenly Father's Plan
January 2008, Talk #2
Before we were born we were invited to a big meeting in heaven where we learned about Heavenly Father's plan. We learned that the earth would be created and that it would be a place where we could come and have physical bodies.
Part of Heavenly Father's plan was for us to learn to choose between right and wrong. He knew that we would sometimes make mistakes and that someone would have to pay for them. He chose Jesus Christ to be our Savior. Jesus would give his own life to pay for our sins so that we could return to live with Heavenly Father after our earth life.
There was another spirit person there who wanted to take away our agency and force us all to follow him. That was Lucifer, or Satan. He didn’t want to follow Heavenly Father’s plan—he wanted his own plan.
Everyone who is here on earth decided to follow Heavenly Father's plan. Each of us has been given a body to take care of while we live on earth.
When we left our pre-earth life, Heavenly father placed something called a veil across our minds so that we would not remember what had happened before we were born. That way, we could learn to have faith in Him and Jesus Christ, to control our minds and our bodies, and to obey the commandments and choose the right.
I know that I chose the right plan before I came to earth. I know that if I continue to Choose the Right that I can return to live with Heavenly Father again. I know that Jesus Christ is our savior and that he died for our sins.
Before we were born we were invited to a big meeting in heaven where we learned about Heavenly Father's plan. We learned that the earth would be created and that it would be a place where we could come and have physical bodies.
Part of Heavenly Father's plan was for us to learn to choose between right and wrong. He knew that we would sometimes make mistakes and that someone would have to pay for them. He chose Jesus Christ to be our Savior. Jesus would give his own life to pay for our sins so that we could return to live with Heavenly Father after our earth life.
There was another spirit person there who wanted to take away our agency and force us all to follow him. That was Lucifer, or Satan. He didn’t want to follow Heavenly Father’s plan—he wanted his own plan.
Everyone who is here on earth decided to follow Heavenly Father's plan. Each of us has been given a body to take care of while we live on earth.
When we left our pre-earth life, Heavenly father placed something called a veil across our minds so that we would not remember what had happened before we were born. That way, we could learn to have faith in Him and Jesus Christ, to control our minds and our bodies, and to obey the commandments and choose the right.
I know that I chose the right plan before I came to earth. I know that if I continue to Choose the Right that I can return to live with Heavenly Father again. I know that Jesus Christ is our savior and that he died for our sins.
I Am a Child of God
January 2008 - Talk #1
I am a child of god. I have a Father in Heaven who loves me He wants me to be happy, and wants me to return to live with him again someday.
Before we were born, we lived with Heavenly Father. The place we lived before we were born is called the Pre-Mortal World. We came to this earth to get a body and to be tested.
Each of us were created in the image of Heavenly Father. This means that Heavenly Father's body looks like ours.
President Gordon B. Hinckley has said: "Never forget, my dear young friends, that you really are a child of God... He loves [you] and desires to help and bless. May life be kind to you, for you are indeed a child of God. "
Just like our parents on earth, our Heavenly Father wants us to make good choices. Before we came to earth, we made the choice to follow Heavenly Father's plan instead of Satan's. We decided that we wanted to receive a body and come to earth.
I know that I have a Father in Heaven. I know that he loves me and I know that I was created in his likeness. I know that if I continue to make good choices, I can live with Heavenly Father again one day
.
I am a child of god. I have a Father in Heaven who loves me He wants me to be happy, and wants me to return to live with him again someday.
Before we were born, we lived with Heavenly Father. The place we lived before we were born is called the Pre-Mortal World. We came to this earth to get a body and to be tested.
Each of us were created in the image of Heavenly Father. This means that Heavenly Father's body looks like ours.
President Gordon B. Hinckley has said: "Never forget, my dear young friends, that you really are a child of God... He loves [you] and desires to help and bless. May life be kind to you, for you are indeed a child of God. "
Just like our parents on earth, our Heavenly Father wants us to make good choices. Before we came to earth, we made the choice to follow Heavenly Father's plan instead of Satan's. We decided that we wanted to receive a body and come to earth.
I know that I have a Father in Heaven. I know that he loves me and I know that I was created in his likeness. I know that if I continue to make good choices, I can live with Heavenly Father again one day
.
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