If You're Not Wrong, You Can't Repent

If you can’t see you’re wrong, you’re not going to repent. How is it even possible to repent if you can’t see your problem? Real repentance can only begin when your conscience convicts you. I emphasize BEGIN to repent. The recognition of your dysfunction has to come from deep within you. No human can tell you what you need to do to repent. It is your connection with God that initiates this process. 

Repentance doesn’t need to take a long time, but it usually does. Once I’ve recognized my dysfunction, it usually takes me about 5 years of constant effort to repent. There are many examples I could share; I’ll share just two:

A Christmas Present for Jesus

Years ago, I wanted to give Jesus a Christmas present. He’s already paid for my sins, so at least I could give Him those. I might sound stingy, but I decided to give Him just one of my sins. My plan was to make a real change throughout the year in the upward direction. 

I started with my most annoying dysfunction. It was something I learned to do as a child, a family dynamic that felt comfortable and natural. . . using pouting, sulking, manipulating, and guilt tripping to maneuver and operate when things didn’t go my way. I really didn’t like it when others used these tactics on me. I remember telling my mother, “You’re sending me on a guilt trip, and I am not going!!!” But I could see I was also using those same tactics on others because they kind of worked some of the time.  

So the process of repentance began. Time after time, I failed. What used to be unnoticeable by me stood out like a sore thumb. It was obvious I wasn’t doing too well. It was like cleaning up the cobwebs and cluttered rooms of my soul. It would have been easier to keep the door shut on some of the rooms. I would clean up one mess, just to see another mess that was hidden under the clutter.

I didn’t do it alone. I felt the Lord’s guidance and encouragement, but He didn’t just take away the dysfunction. I was required to learn the lessons. I was given many situations where I would practice. I tripped and fell many times. My dysfunction became so obvious to me, and I saw my weakness and failure glaring back at me. 

A year later, I was apologizing to Jesus for giving Him the same boring present I gave Him the previous year. I had made some progress, but there was still a lot to learn. After five years of continued attention, I finally felt I had improved to the point where I could BEGIN to repent of another dysfunction. Yes, I still have hiccups here and there, but I am different than I was. As a bonus, I am now quite good at identifying the manipulator and all that goes along with that package. 

I continue to give away my dysfunction to Jesus but am kind of slow. It takes a long time for me to be successful in keeping some of the most simple commandments. The process continues year after year.

Currently Repenting Of . . . 

The summer of 2021, I was in a situation that was super triggering. When I am triggered, it is ALWAYS my problem. I’ve believed this principle for over 35 years and have even published a picture book about this guiding principle. 

I struggled for months, and I couldn’t figure out my problem. It really looked like the other person’s problem, but I knew that couldn’t be true. So, I laid my case before the Lord and asked, “What is my problem?” 

The answer came quickly and clearly, “You are a codependent people pleaser. Do not project your garbage onto others, and when they project their garbage onto you, receive it as meaning nothing.” 

Wow! Jesus was right. None of my friends would have given me that feedback, but it was true. Jesus identified the root of my issue. I was trying to please someone else, and they couldn’t be pleased. When I stopped trying to please them, the problem resolved itself. 

For the last three years, I’ve been given many opportunities to repent of my codependent people-pleasing tendencies. I've been in this repentance cycle for a little less than three years. I am learning to trust God in all things and stop depending on unstable humans for validation and acceptance. I am happier than I’ve ever been, and am feeling freedom I did not know was possible. It’s been lonely at times, but absolutely worth it! I’m in the middle of a repentance cycle. We’ll see what happens in the next 2 ½ years.

God is Offering Much ... Take It or Leave It!

Today, God is offering us much, even a covenant. If we're not too stubborn to repent, love one another, and gratefully receive it, our needs will be met and our joy can be full.

"Now, hear the words of the Lord to those who receive this covenant this day: 

All you who have turned from your wicked ways and repented of your evil doings, of lying and deceiving, and of all whoredoms, and of secret abominations, idolatries, murders, priestcrafts, envying, and strife, and from all wickedness and abominations, and have come unto me, and been baptized in my name, and have received a remission of your sins, and received the Holy Ghost, are now numbered with my people who are of the house of Israel. I say to you:

Teach your children to honor me.

Seek to recover the lost sheep remnant of this land and of Israel and no longer forsake them. Bring them unto me and teach them of my ways, to walk in them.

And I, the Lord your God, will be with you and will never forsake you and I will lead you in the path which will bring peace to you in the troubling season now fast approaching.

I will raise you up and protect you, abide with you, and gather you in due time, and this shall be a land of promise to you as your inheritance from me.

The Earth will yield her increase, and you will flourish upon the mountains and upon the hills, and the wicked will not come against you because the fear of the Lord will be with you.

I will visit my house, which the remnant of my people shall build, and I will dwell therein, to be among you, and no one will need to say, Know ye the Lord, for you all shall know me, from the least to the greatest.

I will teach you things that have been hidden from the foundation of the world and your understanding will reach unto Heaven.

And you shall be called the children of the Most High God, and I will preserve you against the harvest.

And the angels sent to harvest the world will gather the wicked into bundles to be burned, but will pass over you as my peculiar treasure.

But if you do not honor me, nor seek to recover my people Israel, nor teach your children to honor me, nor care for the poor among you, nor help lighten one another’s burdens, then you have no promise from me and I will raise up other people who will honor and serve me and give unto them this land, and if they repent I will abide with them.

The time is now far spent, therefore labor with me and do not forsake my covenant to perform it; study my words and let them be the standard for your faith and I will add thereto many treasures. Love one another and you will be mine, and I will preserve you, and raise you up, and abide with you for ever. AMEN." (Answer and Covenant Pages 11-12)

The Lord's offer, covenant and promises are open to all who believe and desire to participate and accept His ways. 

"It is not enough to receive my covenant, but you must also abide it. And all who abide it, whether on this land or any other land, will be mine and I will watch over them and protect them in the day of harvest, and gather them in as a hen gathers her chicks under her wings. I will number you among the remnant of Jacob, no longer outcasts, and you will inherit the promises of Israel. You shall be my people and I will be your God and the sword will not devour you. And unto those who will receive will more be given until they know the mysteries of God in full.

But remember that without the fruit of repentance, and a broken heart and a contrite spirit, you cannot keep my covenant; for I, your Lord, am meek and lowly of heart. Be like me." (Answer and Covenant Page 7)

John Wrested Much; More Being Wrested Today ... Few Take Notice!

Today most believe and accept John the Baptist as one sent by God. We have scriptural records and history to back up this view, but it was not until further revelations given through the Prophet Joseph Smith that we began to more fully understood and take notice of the events and the great significance of it all.

Here is what was revealed through Joseph Smith:

“Which gospel is the gospel of repentance and of baptism, and the remission of sins, and the law of carnal commandments, which the Lord in his wrath caused to continue with the house of Aaron among the children of Israel until John, whom God raised up, being filled with the Holy Ghost from his mother’s womb. For he was baptized while he was yet in his childhood, and was ordained by the angel of God at the time he was eight days old unto this power, to overthrow the kingdom of the Jews, and to make straight the way of the Lord before the face of his people, to prepare them for the coming of the Lord, in whose hand is given all power.” (D&C 84:27-28)

The Greatness and Mission of John the Baptist:

(Teachings of the Prophet Joseph Smith, Pages 275-276, emphasis added)

The question arose from the saying of Jesus--"Among those that are born of women there is not a greater prophet than John the Baptist; but he that is least in the kingdom of God is greater than he." How is it that John was considered one of the greatest prophets? His miracles could not have constituted his greatness.

First. He was entrusted with a divine mission of preparing the way before the face of the Lord. Whoever had such a trust committed to him before or since? No man.

Secondly. He was entrusted with the important mission, and it was required at his hands, to baptize the Son of Man. Whoever had the honor of doing that? Whoever had so great a privilege and glory? Whoever led the Son of God into the waters of baptism, and had the privilege of beholding the Holy Ghost descend in the form of a dove, or rather in the sign of the dove, in witness of that administration? The sign of the dove was instituted before the creation of the world, a witness for the Holy Ghost, and the devil cannot come in the sign of a dove. The Holy Ghost is a personage, and is in the form of a personage. It does not confine itself to the form of the dove, but in sign of the dove. The Holy Ghost cannot be transformed into a dove; but the sign of a dove was given to John to signify the truth of the deed, as the dove is an emblem or token of truth and innocence.

Thirdly. John, at that time, was the only legal administrator in the affairs of the kingdom there was then on the earth, and holding the keys of power. The Jews had to obey his instructions or be damned, by their own law; and Christ Himself fulfilled all righteousness in becoming obedient to the law which he had given to Moses on the mount, and thereby magnified it and made it honorable, instead of destroying it. The son of Zacharias wrested the keys, the kingdom, the power, the glory from the Jews, by the holy anointing and decree of heaven, and these three reasons constitute him the greatest prophet born of a woman.

At the time John acted among the Jews, the great hidden effort behind the scenes required to bring to pass John the Baptist's mission went almost entirely unnoticed. Certainly, the Jews failed to pay adequate attention to John's mission and didn't even give thought about what he was doing right before their very eyes. As John, the son of Zacharias, wrested the keys, the kingdom, the power, the glory from the Jews, the bonafide religious leaders of the Jews were oblivious and unaware of the momentous events in motion that would cause overwhelming effects to them and their precious kingdom.

God's house is a house of order. He does it according to patterns. It is not God's purpose to abandon the restoration, but it is His purpose to preserve the restoration, which at this moment is in terrible jeopardy. The restoration itself must be rescued and preserved. If you cannot detect the terrible changes it has undergone and is now undergoing, then you are blind indeed. Shall God forget the work he began through Joseph? Shall this now universally downward course be permitted without His hand being bared again? Or shall a kind and merciful God take steps to give us a chance to preserve it with His assistance, if we choose to act?

What if the LDS church has, in fact, gone far enough astray from the restoration through Joseph Smith that God has now determined it best to order His house differently before His return (second coming)? What if God has already called a servant today that He has entrusted with a divine mission of preparing the way before the face of the Lord? What if the servant He has called today is the only legal administrator in the affairs of the kingdom here currently on the earth? What if the servant is holding the keys of power? What if the gentiles today have to obey his instructions or be damned, by their own law? What if God's servant has been ordained and received authority from God unto this power, to overthrow the kingdom of the gentiles (LDS church specifically), and to make straight the way of the Lord before the face of his people, to prepare them for the coming of the Lord, in whose hand is given all power? What if the servant of God today has already commenced his important mission? What if he has faithfully heeded the word of God and thereby wrested the keys, the kingdom, the power, the glory from the LDS church, gentile religious leaders, and the entire hierarchy of power, by the holy anointing and decree of heaven? What if the bonafide religious leaders of the gentile LDS church are presently oblivious and unaware of the momentous events in motion here and now that will cause overwhelming effects to them and their precious kingdom?

If this has indeed happened and proceeding forward under the direction of God, would your perspectives change? Would this cause you to reconsider your beliefs, actions, and focus? Would it be apparent to you and even necessary to repent, change and face God, and pay close attention to His word, declarations, and instructions as you hear His voice coming to you, “whether by mine own voice or by the voice of my servants, it is the same”? Are the gentiles today much different than the Jews were two millennial ago? God ordered His house differently among the Jews preparing them for the coming of the Lord (first coming) and now He is reordering His house among the gentiles preparing for His second coming. Is this particular pattern of God plain and obvious to you now or do you suppose it is just by chance?

If you are interested in reading the words of the servant about this very issue, here is a link, from which this post is based and partially quoted:  

(Lecture #10 – Preserving the Restoration, Pages 6-8 … and more)

Take Time With God

Take time to think, ponder and pray! Talking with God alone can bring peace and understanding, and a whole new perspective.

“In consequence of these things, I often felt condemned for my weakness and imperfections; when, on the evening of the above-mentioned twenty-first of September, after I had retired to my bed for the night, I betook myself to prayer and supplication to Almighty God for forgiveness of all my sins and follies, and also for a manifestation to me, that I might know of my state and standing before him; for I had full confidence in obtaining a divine manifestation, as I previously had one.” (Joseph Smith—History 1:29)

Satan does not love us and wants to keep mortals occupied and busy with the things of this world and forget about talking with God, repenting, and coming unto Him. 

God, on the other hand, loves His children equally, wants us to understand Him, and is "as eager to meet with and touch us as we should be to know and touch Him." (The Second Comforter - Conversing with The Lord Through the Veil, page 417)

“Therefore I command you to repent—repent, lest I smite you by the rod of my mouth, and by my wrath, and by my anger, and your sufferings be sore—how sore you know not, how exquisite you know not, yea, how hard to bear you know not. Wherefore, I command you again to repent, lest I humble you with my almighty power; and that you confess your sins, lest you suffer these punishments of which I have spoken, of which in the smallest, yea, even in the least degree you have tasted at the time I withdrew my Spirit.” (D&C 19:15,20)

“And now, my beloved brethren, I perceive that ye ponder still in your hearts; and it grieveth me that I must speak concerning this thing. For if ye would hearken unto the Spirit which teacheth a man to pray, ye would know that ye must pray; for the evil spirit teacheth not a man to pray, but teacheth him that he must not pray. But behold, I say unto you that ye must pray always, and not faint; that ye must not perform any thing unto the Lord save in the first place ye shall pray unto the Father in the name of Christ, that he will consecrate thy performance unto thee, that thy performance may be for the welfare of thy soul.” (2 Nephi 32:8-9)

“Nevertheless the children of God were commanded that they should gather themselves together oft, and join in fasting and mighty prayer in behalf of the welfare of the souls of those who knew not God.” (Alma 6:6)

I have been profoundly struck by these words of God. Have you identified the word of God being taught today? Are you giving strict heed to the message He has sent? Have you and are you repenting in all sincerity of heart? Have you been baptized anew? Do you pray unto the Father in the name of Christ? Does God consecrate your performance?  Is your performance proving to be for the welfare of your soul?   Do you speak and converse with the Lord through the veil? Have you asked God what your state and standing is with Him? Do you now know your state and standing with God? Are the children of God gathering themselves together often and joining in fasting and mighty prayer in behalf of the welfare of the souls of those who know not God?

 

"Taking time to do nothing (at least from the perspective of this world and putting forth the minimum energy necessary to meet mortal needs and obligations) often brings everything (the things that matter most) into perspective" ... because as an individual spends less time in the "rat race" of this world and more time conversing with God, focusing on and obeying the things pertaining to the kingdom of God, and gathering further light and knowledge, she will know her state and standing with God and have so much the advantage in the world to come.

“And again, verily I say unto you, my friends, I leave these sayings with you to ponder in your hearts, with this commandment which I give unto you, that ye shall call upon me while I am near—Draw near unto me and I will draw near unto you; seek me diligently and ye shall find me; ask, and ye shall receive; knock, and it shall be opened unto you.” (D&C 88:62-63)

My Church – What It Is and Isn't

“There is this interesting statement by the Lord found in D&C 10:67-68: “Behold, this is my doctrine - whosoever repenteth and cometh unto me, the same is my church. Whosoever declareth more or less than this, the same is not of me, but is against me; therefore he is not of my church.”

The statement requires us to

1. Repent, and then

2. Come unto Christ.

Repentance is a lifelong process.  As we get further light and knowledge we have to incorporate it into our lives and change behavior.  Over a lifetime, this should be dynamic, not static.

The more difficult explanation is to “Come unto Him.”  It is my view that this includes fully receiving Him into your life as did the brother of Jared, Nephi, Enos, Enoch, Abraham, Moses, Joseph Smith, Daniel, Isaiah, Jacob, Mormon, Moroni, Alma the Younger, Paul, and so many others who have testified of Him.  That is a subject so great that the entire body of scriptures exist to help us accomplish it.

Significant, too, is that whatever is “more or less” than this is not “of my church” according to the Lord.  So we have to take great care to not overstate or understate this doctrine of His.  Adding endless requirements by the commandments of men is “against Him.”  Similarly, any failure to declare the essential nature of coming to Him is also “against Him.”  I think the first verse of D&C 93 is a formula for coming to Him.  That formula declares that, when it is followed, you will see His face and know that He is." (DS 3-3-10)

So ... Is there any other way or possibility for an individual to be of His church without first repenting, coming unto Him, receiving redemption from Him, conversing with Him face to face, and knowing Him? According to the words of Christ, do you consider yourself to be of His Church? Do you qualify ? Why or why not? If not, are you willing to fully receive Him into your life and meet the requirements He has set to become of His Church?

The Followers of Christ Were Baptized Again (Part 3)

If, in the past, some level of apostasy has occurred over and over again, and God has repeatedly corrected and called repentance to His people, and He has consistently given to His servants the authority to baptize and He continually commanded His people to come unto Him and be baptized / re-baptized, could that pattern be repeating itself once again today? Could all this really be happening all over again? As it was with those in the past and as apostasy progressively increases today among ALL churches, would it seem reasonable that, in our time, we have need to repent and face God?

All are guilty of sin and error; All need repentance; And God requires all to receive an acceptable, authorized, and authoritative baptism in order to survive His return.

Would you be willing to read, hear, and learn about God's call of repentance to you? Would you be willing to partake of a rite designed by God to show that you have repented? Whether or not you have been previously baptized, would you be willing to consider receiving baptism / re-baptism today? Would it be valuable for you to have your name on record testifying that you recognize the Word of God, accept His current instructions, are receiving and applying them through repentance, and have been baptized as He advised? Would you be willing to acknowledge baptism as a required sign God has asked us to perform as a witness of our repentance?

The Lord gave us a serious warning: “I say, hearken unto my voice, lest death shall overtake you; in an hour when ye think not the summer shall be past, and the harvest ended, and your souls not saved.” (D&C 45:2.)

Whether you are Catholic, Mormon, Protestant, Methodist, Islam, Muslim, Hindu, Buddhist, Atheist, or any other, would you be willing to learn, believe, and act according to the doctrine of Christ? Referring only to the doctrine of Christ, which He declared, would you consider becoming “one” with Christ and each other, independent of religion, and receiving the baptism now being offered? Would you be interested in reading and considering His Word, understanding more fully the doctrine of Christ, learning more about His offer and commandment of baptism, and being baptized by one, who has authority given him of Jesus Christ?

If you are interested, here is some information that may be helpful:

• Doctrine of Christ
  3 Nephi 11:31-40
  2 Nephi 31:5 through 2 Nephi 32:6
  D&C 10:67-68
  Moses 6:50-68
  
  
• Learn more about the baptism now being offered, for which the Lord vouches:
  
  
  MP3 Format, Audiobook Format, Streaming Audio, PDF Transcripts
  
  
  
  
  10^th Lecture on YouTube
  
  
  
  
  
  
• Receiving baptism by one, who has authority given him of Jesus Christ:
  
  
  Almost 41 years ago, I was baptized in the LDS church by my father and the words of the baptismal prayer were, “Having been commissioned of Jesus Christ, I baptize you ...”
  
  
  Recently, I was able to identify, recognize, and receive His Word delivered by a true messenger from the presence of God. A servant, for whom the Lord vouches, teaches the truth with power, knows what he is talking about, and clearly declares the message as Christ directs it, which is independent of churches, religious authorities, public opinions, and “politically correct” views.
  
  
  In our society, the Word of God is almost always unpopular, criticized, and rejected. When I was being taught about some of my abominations, iniquities, and misunderstandings, I was surprised when I learned what I needed to do to repent. After receiving communication from God and having a few “scales of darkness” fall from my eyes, I saw that I had things upside down and backwards. I could see why Nephi would say, “Wo unto them that call evil good, and good evil, that put darkness for light, and light for darkness, that put bitter for sweet, and sweet for bitter!” (2 Nephi 15:20)
  
  
  I was called to repentance and instructed to be re-baptized by one with authority.
  
  
  Recognizing that apostasy in the LDS church had reached a point, which was unacceptable to God, and acknowledging the fact that my baptism, from the Lord's point of view, was no longer considered sufficient, the necessity to be re-baptized became extremely clear to me. I sought out and found an individual, who had authority given him of Jesus Christ, to baptize me using the words that Jesus instructed in 3 Nephi 11:25. During the month of September of 2014, I was re-baptized. My friend, calling me by name (my first name, or the name by which I am best known by my closest friends, not including my middle or last name) and saying, “Having authority given me of Jesus Christ, I baptize you ...”, immersed me in the water, and I came forth again out of the water. This is what I recorded after my baptism:
  
  
  For the last two days, Satan has worked hard on me. He did not want me to be re-baptized. I felt extremely “blah” and weak. He attempted to persuade me that my new baptism wouldn't count. I cast out evil entities and told Satan to depart, and his influence was not welcome. As time drew nearer, I felt terribly disturbed, frustrated, and agitated. I refused to succumb to the Satanic stupidity and moved forward anyway. Contrary to my experience, my family members all seemed very excited and at peace about going to be re-baptized. It was very difficult for me, even as I was entering the water, but I continued believing the truth, cast out falsehood, and trusted in God. When I came up out of the water, I felt extremely happy and pleased and at peace, especially so after feeling an evil presence the previous two days. I am very satisfied and feel that my baptism by water is complete. I came out of the water full of joy, smiling and looking to heaven. I saw with my eyes clouds and a beautiful overcast sky, but felt and said out loud, “God is here”. I am not a man of many words, but God was with me and completely reversed my inside feelings from extreme “blah”, sadness, hopelessness, and doubt to extreme happiness, peace, faith, gladness, and hope. From the time of entering the water to the time I came out of the water was like night and day. What a change!!

The Followers of Christ Were Baptized Again (Part 1)

Reading from the Book of Mormon, let's take a closer look at the Nephite society just prior to Christ's ministry among the people. Let's observe the changes that occurred over a short period of time and the resulting outcomes. Take note of what was manifested, their social characteristics, values, beliefs, and common every day living. It is interesting to observe their levels of faith exercised and manifested by their works performed and spiritual assignments completed …. or not. Notice any ordinances performed and their significance and meaning. (See 3 Nephi 6,7)

• 28th year: Continual peace. Life seems stable and happy.

• 29th Year: Disputings, pride, boastings, exceedingly great riches, great persecutions, many merchants, lawyers, and officers, distinguished by ranks according to their riches and their chances for learning, some lifted up in pride, others were exceedingly humble, railing, persecution, all manner of afflictions, church began to be broken up. (3 Nephi 6:9-14)

• 30th Year: Church was broken up in all the land save it were among a few of the Lamanites who were converted unto the true faith. Satan had great power to stir the people: iniquity, pride, seek power, authority, riches, vain things of the world, lost peace, state of awful wickedness, did willfully rebel against God (3 Nephi 6:14-18) Men inspired from heaven sent forth preaching, testifying boldly of the sins and iniquities of the people. Many people angered exceedingly against the messengers of God, but chiefly the chief judges, high priests, and lawyers. God's messengers were accused, judged, and secretly put to death contrary to the laws of the land. Secret combinations of friends, kindreds, and almost all the lawyers and high priests did unite and covenant, which covenant was given and administered by the devil, to combine against all righteousness and to deliver the guilty murderers from the grasp of justice. And they set at defiance the law and rights of their country. (3 Nephi 6:19-30) Murdered the chief judge. The people separated into tribes. The government and the regulations of the government were destroyed. Great contention reigned and few righteous men remained among them. Jacob, who became a king over this wicked band, was one of the chiefest who had given his voice against the prophets who testified of Jesus. Jacob and the wicked band did take flight out of the land (3 Nephi 7:1-13)

• 31st Year: They were divided into tribes, every man according to his family, kindred and friends. Not united as to their laws and their manner of government. Strict laws that one tribe should not trespass against another. Their hearts were turned from the Lord their God, and they did stone the prophets and did cast them out from among them. Nephi, having been visited by angels and also the voice of the Lord and having had power given unto him that he might know concerning the ministry of Christ, began to testify boldly repentance and remission of sins through faith on the Lord Jesus Christ. And Nephi did minister with power and with great authority. The people were angry with him, even because he had greater power than they, for it were not possible that they could disbelieve his words, for so great was his faith on the Lord Jesus Christ that angels did minister unto him daily. And in the name of Jesus did he cast out devils and unclean spirits; and even his brother did he raise from the dead, after he had been stoned and suffered death by the people. And the people saw it, and did witness of it, and were angry with him because of his power; and he did also do many more miracles, in the sight of the people, in the name of Jesus. And it came to pass that the thirty and first year did pass away, and there were but few who were converted unto the Lord; but as many as were converted did truly signify unto the people that they had been visited by the power and Spirit of God, which was in Jesus Christ, in whom they believed. (3 Nephi 7:14-21)

• 32nd and 33rd Years: Devils cast out, many healed of their sicknesses and their infirmities, wrought upon by the Spirit of God, miracles among the people. Nephi did cry unto the people and did preach unto them repentance and remission of sins. There were none who were brought unto repentance who were not baptized with water. Therefore, there were ordained of Nephi, men unto this ministry, that all such as should come unto them should be baptized with water, and this as a witness and a testimony before God, and unto the people, that they had repented and received a remission of their sins. Many were baptized unto repentance during the 33rd year. (3 Nephi 7:22-26)

• Take note that early during Nephi's ministry, few were converted unto the Lord, but toward the end of the “window of opportunity” many repented and were baptized with water, as a witness and testimony before God that they were willing to keep His commandments. The people, who were converted, recognized the true messenger as he delivered the Word of God. He called repentance and spoke regarding their wickedness and abominations, the hardness of their hearts, and the blindness of their minds. God's message also denounced their disputings, pride, exceedingly great riches, persecutions, afflictions, and being distinguished by ranks according to their riches and their chances for learning. Not only did they recognize and acknowledge their wickedness and errors, but they changed their ways, repented, faced God, and witnessed obedience by baptism.

Approximately two years later, Christ visited these same people, who had earlier accepted the Word of God delivered through a true messenger. These people had previously repented, faced God, and were baptized, but now the previous dispensation was closing and Christ was opening the new. For years, Nephi had been testifying boldly, preaching the doctrine of Christ, ministering, and baptizing. Yet, when Christ appeared and gave further instructions, the authoritative baptisms done earlier by Nephi and others were no longer sufficient, therefore, they were to be baptized again. Jesus Christ gave Nephi and others power to baptize in the new dispensation. The same individuals who had received baptism earlier were re-baptized anew, a sign of belief in Christ and faith in His teachings, instructions, and Word.

Here is the record of Christ's instructions and the words of Christ spoken to Nephi (the same man) : “And it came to pass that he spake unto Nephi (for Nephi was among the multitude) and he commanded him that he should come forth. And Nephi arose and went forth, and bowed himself before the Lord and did kiss his feet. And the Lord commanded him that he should arise. And he arose and stood before him. And the Lord said unto him: I give unto you power that ye shall baptize this people when I am again ascended into heaven. And again the Lord called others, and said unto them likewise; and he gave unto them power to baptize. And he said unto them: On this wise shall ye baptize; and there shall be no disputations among you. Verily I say unto you, that whoso repenteth of his sins through your words, and desireth to be baptized in my name, on this wise shall ye baptize them—Behold, ye shall go down and stand in the water, and in my name shall ye baptize them. And now behold, these are the words which ye shall say, calling them by name, saying: Having authority given me of Jesus Christ, I baptize you in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost. Amen. And then shall ye immerse them in the water, and come forth again out of the water.” (3 Nephi 11:18-26.)

Whenever God sends a message, either by His own voice or by the voice of His servants, re-baptism is the precise way to accept the message and, therefore, is a continuing gospel principle to be practiced. The same individuals, who were authoritatively baptized at an earlier date, later received a message from God and were re-baptized to witness to the Father their willingness to accept the message and to obey His commandments. God's work can be seen through patterns.

Another example of this pattern of re-baptism is portrayed through the account of Alma in the courts of King Noah. After hearing God's call of repentance and a warning delivered through His servant Abinadi, Alma, a priest and leader in the religious hierarchy, believed the disturbing prophecy and the testimony of an unknown man, who did not possess church authority, religious credentials, or impressive social status but served as an unpopular messenger of God. Alma heard, received, gave heed to, and wrote the Word of God. His sins were made evident to him and his conscience was pierced with guilt and wickedness. Abinadi had exposed the iniquities and errors of King Noah, his kingdom, and his people. Alma recognized that his own priestly work, adorned with religious authority in the courts of King Noah, was not acceptable to God and would not work. Therefore, he spoke up, pled with the king hoping to save the life of Abinadi, was cast out from among them, witnessed the anger of king Noah, ran for his life, and “got out of Dodge”!

“Alma, who had fled from the servants of king Noah, repented of his sins and iniquities, and went about privately among the people, and began to teach the words of Abinadi” (Mosiah 18:1)

Apparently, Alma had a change of heart and chose to repent and face God, instead of yielding to men and institutions, or succumbing to the attractive offers of the world, including power, authority, influence, prestige, fame, and money. He proceeded by teaching others the message of God, receiving Christ's authority to re-baptize, and then re-baptizing others in the waters of Mormon. (Mosiah 18)

Another example of the baptism / re-baptism pattern shows up in this interesting verse where the Lord is speaking to Mormon. “And it came to pass that the Lord did say unto me: Cry unto this people—Repent ye, and come unto me, and be ye baptized, and build up again my church, and ye shall be spared." (Mormon 3:2 bold, underline added)

Yet another and latter-day example is shown during the early years of the LDS church. Re-baptism was practiced in Mormonism during the time of Joseph Smith as a sign of repentance and acceptance. Re-baptism was further practiced during the leadership of Brigham Young.

This baptism / re-baptism pattern plays out again and again. Every time God sends a message to His people, either by His own voice or by the voice of His servants, re-baptism is manifested and practiced as a sound principle of the gospel. It is God's way for His people to accept His message of repentance. Re-baptism is the action used to manifest recognition of wickedness, error, iniquity, or any sin, of which an individual becomes aware. By accepting God's message and being re-baptized, a person is showing belief in the Word of God and exercising faith in the doctrine of Christ (3 Nephi 11:31-40; 2 Nephi 31:5-21, 32:1-6; D&C 10:67-68). They neither add to it nor take away from the doctrine of Christ. According to scriptural accounts, this pattern of baptism / re-baptism occurs time and time again. In each case, apostasy from God is apparent and His correction and a call of repentance is manifested. The ordinance of baptism / re-baptism is a sign of faith in Christ and the proper way to show acceptance of God's work and His current work and doings in each / this generation.

“Turn, all ye Gentiles, from your wicked ways; and repent of your evil doings, of your lyings and deceivings, and of your whoredoms, and of your secret abominations, and your idolatries, and of your murders, and your priestcrafts, and your envyings, and your strifes, and from all your wickedness and abominations, and come unto me, and be baptized in my name, that ye may receive a remission of your sins, and be filled with the Holy Ghost, that ye may be numbered with my people who are of the house of Israel.” (3 Nephi 30:2)

The Lord clearly states that baptism is necessary in order to be saved. One is not able to enter the kingdom of God without being born of water and of the Spirit (John 3:5, 3 Nephi 11:38) “Therefore come and be baptized unto repentance, that ye may be washed from your sins, that ye may have faith on the Lamb of God, who taketh away the sins of the world, who is mighty to save and to cleanse from all unrighteousness. (Alma 7:14)

The Book of Mormon, which contains “the fulness of the gospel of Jesus Christ” (D&C 20:9), informs us concerning baptism, clarifies what is required by the Lord, explains His commandments to be obeyed, and displays His example to be followed.

“And now, if the Lamb of God, he being holy, should have need to be baptized by water, to fulfil all righteousness, O then, how much more need have we, being unholy, to be baptized, yea, even by water! And now, I would ask of you, my beloved brethren, wherein the Lamb of God did fulfil all righteousness in being baptized by water? Know ye not that he was holy? But notwithstanding he being holy, he showeth unto the children of men that, according to the flesh he humbleth himself before the Father, and witnesseth unto the Father that he would be obedient unto him in keeping his commandments. Wherefore, after he was baptized with water the Holy Ghost descended upon him in the form of a dove. And again, it showeth unto the children of men the straitness of the path, and the narrowness of the gate, by which they should enter, he having set the example before them. And he said unto the children of men: Follow thou me. Wherefore, my beloved brethren, can we follow Jesus save we shall be willing to keep the commandments of the Father? And the Father said: Repent ye, repent ye, and be baptized in the name of my Beloved Son." (2 Nephi 31:5-11)

“Yea, repent and be baptized, every one of you, for a remission of your sins; yea, be baptized even by water, and then cometh the baptism of fire and of the Holy Ghost. Behold, verily, verily, I say unto you, this is my gospel; and remember that they shall have faith in me or they can in nowise be saved;” (D&C 33:11-12)

Therefore, we should have no question about whether or not baptism is fundamentally essential and plays an indispensable part of the gospel of Jesus Christ (D&C 39:6). Christ has repeatedly and unequivocally declared that an individual must repent and be baptized to inherit the kingdom of God.

Thinking or assuming “all is well in zion”, some may say, “I am saved. I have already been baptized by one with authority. No need to worry about me! You should actually go talk with the other guy.” But, what if the Lord sent a recent message? What if a servant of God speaks today? What if apostasy has occurred in a church that once had His authority to baptize? What if the religious organization, in which Christ has previously accepted the ordinance of baptism  has lost connection with God and no longer has His support? What if God no longer vouches for the baptisms performed therein? What if the church is now considered by Christ to be in apostasy, under condemnation, can no longer claim to be His church, and has lost the authority to perform correct, legal, and authoritative baptisms? What would that mean to you?

Therefore, some key personal questions may arise: Have I been baptized unto the Lord according to His current instructions? Is there something going on here? What have I missed? Do I need to update my understanding with God? Today, as the Lord is preparing for His return, does my baptism currently count? Does my baptism sufficiently qualify with the Lord? Here and now in this moment in time, is my baptism sufficent for me to be spared? Or is it necessary that I become acquainted with His latest Word, receive it, repent, and be re-baptized? What is my spiritual state and how do I currently stand with God?

… to be continued

What Would You Say If You Saw Us? Part 2

We, the latter day saint gentiles, play a key part in the visions many prophets have seen and are now seeing. Our day has been revealed in detail and these prophets are eyewitnesses of us and our doings. Moroni, who is a prophet of God and lived about 1000 years after Nephi, finishes the record of his father Mormon, sees our day, prophecies, warns, and speaks a few eye-opening words to us. “Behold, I speak unto you as if ye were present, and yet ye are not. But behold, Jesus Christ hath shown you unto me, and I know your doing” Mormon 8:35.

So, what did Moroni see and record concerning us and our day? How did he describe us? What did he say about the conditions of the world? People? Other circumstances? Did Moroni include any information, counsel, recommendations, advice, warnings, or admonitions? Did Moroni praise, honor, or pay tribute to us? Was he pleased with what he saw, applaud our righteous performance, or wish he were part of a chosen generation like us? Or did he throw out criticism, scolding, disapproval, and condemnation?

What are some of the gentile characteristics that Moroni mentioned? Did he note that miracles are basically done away among the gentiles?  Did he talk about secret combinations and works of darkness? The power of God is denied? Churches become defiled? Building churches to get gain? Pride? Wearing very fine apparel? Envy? Strifes? Malice? Persecutions? Iniquities? Building up secret abominations to get gain? Society deteriorating? Murders? Robbing? Lying? Deceivings? Whoredoms? False teachings and beliefs? Preaching that you can do anything you want and the Lord will uphold you at the last day? Believing that for your money you can be forgiven? Transfiguring the holy word of God? Selling your selves for that which will canker? Widows mourning? Orphans mourning? Blood crying from the ground? Wars? Earthquakes? Great pollutions? Destructions? Judgments? Damnations?

Do we love money, elegant church buildings, fancy clothes, houses, cars, and our substance more than we love the poor and the needy, the sick and the afflicted? Do we suffer the hungry, and the needy, and the naked, and the sick and the afflicted to pass by, and notice them not? Mormon 8:26-41

Are there corrupt churches in our midst? Is every single gentile church polluted because of the pride of our hearts? A very chilling question is this: “Why have ye polluted the holy church of God?” Mormon 8:38 What church is the holy church of God? Does it exist now? Where is it? Who belongs to it? Who polluted it? When was it polluted? How was it polluted? Is it being polluted still? If it has been polluted, is being polluted, or both; is it still holy? Where do we stand? This sounds like serious stuff. Do we even want to know the answers? Are we offended when we are called to repentance? 

Why are we ashamed to take upon us the name of Christ? Mormon 8:38 Why do we lay up for ourselves treasures upon earth, where moth and rust doth corrupt, and where thieves break through and steal Matthew 6:19, but refuse or fail to lay up for ourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust doth corrupt, and where thieves do not break through nor steal? Matthew 6:20 Why do we prefer the things of the world instead of what God offers?

Why don’t we believe in and entertain angels? Is it because of our unbelief? Moroni 7 Why don’t we care enough to rend the veil of unbelief which doth cause us to remain in our awful state of wickedness, and hardness of heart, and blindness of mind and be saved? Be redeemed? Receive the Second Comforter? And make a claim on eternal life? Ether 4:15

According to Moroni, “The sword of vengeance hangeth over you; and the time soon cometh that he avengeth the blood of the saints upon you, for he will not suffer their cries any longer” Mormon 8:41 Who are the saints that are crying? To whom are they crying? Why are they crying?

Are they being despised, hated, persecuted, and reviled? By whom?  For what? Why? Are they despised and rejected of men; persons of sorrows and acquainted with grief, and esteemed as naught? Isaiah 53:2-7 Are they oppressed and afflicted by the world, but humbly submit to God? Do they try to repay and get even with offenders, or do they leave the judgment and vengeance of their enemies to whom it belongs, even the Lord? Romans 12:19, Mormon 8:20

Who offends, mocks, and sheds the blood of the saints? Over who does the sword of vengeance hang? Why? Somebody must not be paying attention to God, ignoring Him, or just plain rebelling against Him. Why would somebody revile and persecute another and say all manner of evil against them falsely, for Christ’s sake? Matthew 5:11 I suppose all prophets who come from the presence of God wonder why this is the case. Joseph did. JSH 1:25

What does it mean to be a saint? Will a saint be quickened and be caught up to meet Him? D&C 88:96 See God? Matthew 5:8 Would a saint be wise, noble, and virtuous seeking counsel, authority, and blessings constantly from under the hand of God? D&C 122:2 Is a saint one who receives the pleasing word of God and feasts upon his love with a firm mind forever? Jacob 3:2 Does a saint have clean hands and a pure heart? Does it have something to do with Zion? D&C 97:21-26 

“And the Lord called his people Zion, because they were of one heart and one mind, and dwelt in righteousness; and there was no poor among them” Moses 7:18. Does one with a broken heart and a contrite spirit qualify for Zion? Shall a saint see the kingdom of God coming in power and great glory unto their deliverance? D&C 56:18 Would a saint return to God, come to their inheritances, and sing songs of everlasting joy, to build up the waste places of Zion? D&C 101:18 Would a saint rend the veil of unbelief, repent, be redeemed, and know Christ, having faith no longer but knowing without doubting? Ether 3:19

What does it mean NOT to be a saint? Hmmm, not to be profound, but I suppose it would be opposite of being one.  I think Nephi and Moroni were doing a pretty good job describing a non-saint, who is condemned, not redeemed, miserable, and a damned soul, who “would be more miserable to dwell with a holy and just God, under a consciousness of your filthiness before him, than ye would to dwell with the damned souls in hell” Mormon 9:4-5.

Oh, maybe I got carried away. That was us gentiles they were talking about, wasn’t it? That doesn’t sound very good at all. It can be quite alarming to some and cause anxiety and fear among the ill equipped and unprepared. Upon the wicked, it will kindle a flame of unquenchable fire.

Both Nephi and Moroni must have seen the same vision about our day. They are in concert crying repentance, pronouncing warnings, and declaring judgments upon us as the latter day saint gentiles.

But they seem to be so negative and are not saying nice things about us. What great evil have we done to deserve that kind of criticism, reprimand, and rebuke? What great sins have we committed, that we should be condemned of God or judged of these men? We are a strong, favored, and preferred people, aren’t we? We are too great to be destroyed; besides we are the chosen generation, right?

Just who is this Nephi and Moroni anyway? By what authority do they prophecy evil against us, God’s elect people? We are a righteous and prosperous people with power, and we are regarded with respect, admiration, and high esteem, right? Do you think these guys are true prophets? Or are they just prophesying in vain? This sounds uncomfortably too familiar, doesn’t it? Mosiah 12:13-15

Maybe we should kill them because they are destroying our craft Alma 35:3. If we get rid of them, maybe their message will go away and stop disturbing us.  They’re already dead, but their words are still here.  Now what do we do?  Let’s be like the Zoramites and just not listen to them and cast out the ones that do listen. Or maybe we can switch identities and pretend we aren’t the gentiles.  Let’s hide so God can’t find us.

So back to this craft of ours, many years have gone into building this craft.  It provides us a comfortable living.  It makes us wealthy.  It feeds our ego and pride. It assures us of our righteousness before God. Why destroy it now?  Don’t we need to feed each other’s self-esteem? That’s why we go to church, right?

Paul would probably be rejected and reviled today, like he was in his day.  Paul is persuading people to turn away from worshipping false gods.  Why would he do that? Doesn’t he know we need our craft to make money? If the people find out what’s going on, even our great temple will be despised and her magnificence destroyed.  Right now we have people throughout the entire world worshipping the gods we’ve created.  We cannot allow people like Paul to keep talking! Acts 19:25-27 By our craft we generate money to build shopping malls, make donations to law firms, build a huge mega church, and contribute to the development of the Babylonian empire.

I believe Nephi, Moroni, and many others commune with heaven. I think they know what they are talking about. Would it be worth reading their words, carefully considering them, and acting upon what is revealed through the power of the Holy Ghost? I am absolutely persuaded to re-evaluate my views and the traditions of my fathers, step back, and take a serious long look at this stuff. I think it would be very wise to talk to God about it with a sincere heart and with real intent.

What would you say if you saw us in vision 2600 years ago? 1600 years ago? Now?

Awakening to Our Awful Situation

“While the bridegroom tarried, they all slumbered and slept” Matthew 25:5. Who wants to be sleeping when He comes? Who will miss the wedding? What is the difference between the wise and foolish ones? What does it look like to be sleeping? What does it look like to be awake?

One of the most successful means the adversary uses to keep us in a state of slumber is to prevent us from seeing the obvious. Satan wants our eyes to be blind and shut. He wants our ears to be closed and deaf. The adversary damns another soul each time he manages to obscure truth in plain sight and prevent one from awakening to the awful situation in which we find ourselves.

“The devil laugheth, and his angels rejoice, because of the slain of the fair sons and daughters of my people; and it is because of their iniquity and abominations that they are fallen!” 3 Nephi 9:2. He glories in trickery and deception. He proclaims, “All is well in Zion; yea, Zion prospereth, all is well—and thus the devil cheateth their souls, and leadeth them away carefully down to hell” 2 Nephi 28:21.

The evil spirit seeks to cover the truth and hide the fact that “All is NOT well in Zion.” If he succeeds and we believe his lies, his deadly noose tightens and the chains of hell are wrapped around us. If he can keep us entertained or lulled in the deep sleep until the night cometh, he can forestall us from recognizing our awful situation. He then seals us his and the chains of hell hold us captive.

“For behold, if ye have procrastinated the day of your repentance even until death, behold, ye have become subjected to the spirit of the devil, and he doth seal you his; therefore, the Spirit of the Lord hath withdrawn from you, and hath no place in you, and the devil hath all power over you; and this is the final state of the wicked” Alma 34:35.

Prophets, through all generations of time sent from the presence of God, expose Satan’s deception and deceit. They declare the word of God with confidence and power. True messengers of Christ proclaim the call of repentance to the children of men. Repent! Change your course! Turn around and face God! Follow Christ, not me! He’s the only One who can save you! Helaman 5:9

Repentance is critical in the journey to salvation.  Without it, we will be damned. That’s probably the main reason repentance is the central message of the scriptures and the word of God delivered through prophets.

When a clear and direct message of truth and repentance is declared to a wicked and idolatrous people, it usually pushes many painful buttons, offends pride, and often threatens the false traditions of the fathers. “The guilty taketh the truth to be hard, for it cutteth them to the very center.” 1 Nephi 16:2

“The words of truth are hard against all uncleanness; but the righteous fear them not, for they love the truth and are not shaken” 2 Nephi 9:40. Truth that contradicts traditions of men can turn life upside down, inside out, and backwards. To some, truth can be quite irritating, infuriating, and frightening.

Hugh Nibley observed and pointed out that there is nothing quite as annoying as being awakened out of a deep sleep (Last Call: An Apocalyptic Warning from the Book of Mormon, p. 23).  I suppose very few really appreciate being disturbed in slumber and being called to repentance. Hardly anyone enjoys hearing about the awful situation one is in and the road to hell one is actively following.

It’s not fun to discover bona-fide religious leaders acting as wolves in sheep’s clothing Matthew 7:15. It can be very disturbing to realize my misconceptions and errors. It may be unsettling to become aware that I have practiced idolatry for my entire life, trusted in men more than God, and entertained the false belief that I am saved by simply belonging to a church bearing the name of Christ. 3 Nephi 27:8

It can be distressing to become conscious and understand that when I follow other men and trust in them for salvation, I merit no more than a telestial reward and glory D&C76:98-100. It can be horrifying to be alerted to and made aware of eternal facts, truths, and realities. It can be seriously shocking and sickening to my soul to find out I have “received not the gospel, neither the testimony of Jesus, neither the prophets, neither the everlasting covenant” D&C 76:101, when all along I assumed I had. It’s dreadful to realize I have only sacrificed my life for foolish and worthless returns. It’s alarming to discover I was climbing the wrong ladder that leads to nowhere.

How devastating it would be to comprehend that I cannot be gathered with the saints, to be caught up unto the church of the Firstborn, and received into the cloud. D&C 76:102. How terrible to be compared to liars, sorcerers, adulterers, whoremongers, and whosoever loves and makes a lie. D&C 76:103

What an awful situation to suffer the wrath of God on earth, suffer the vengeance of eternal fire, and be cast down to hell and suffer the wrath of Almighty God, until the fulness of times, when Christ shall have subdued all enemies under his feet, and shall have perfected his work. D&C 76:104-106 

Being unconscious sometimes seems to be less stressful, less demanding, and much easier, at least for now, than facing the truth, accepting God’s words at face value, and making the necessary adjustments and corrections needed to repent and return unto God.  When it comes right down to it, deep sleep and slumber can be very pleasant until we awaken and realize the awful situation we face here.

Jacob declared, “O my brethren, hearken unto my words; arouse the faculties of your souls; shake yourselves that ye may awake from the slumber of death; and loose yourselves from the pains of hell that ye may not become angels to the devil, to be cast into that lake of fire and brimstone which is the second death” Jacob 3:11.

Mormon describes the reaction of individuals who come into the presence of God without having been redeemed from the fall. Any person who comes into God’s presence in their fallen state of filthiness and nakedness would rather be in hell than to dwell with a holy and just God. Mormon 9:4-5

Speaking to his son, Alma the younger said, “Therefore, O my son, whosoever will come may come and partake of the waters of life freely; and whosoever will not come the same is not compelled to come; but in the last day it shall be restored unto him according to his deeds” Alma 42:27.

To obtain the waters of life, all you have to do is come. No one is compelled to come, just those who want to. It’s an open offer to all and it’s free with no strings attached. No one is forced, manipulated, or controlled. All can think, believe, and do what they want. It is absolutely voluntary and everyone has the choice to accept it or reject it.

However, there is personal responsibility. We will be held accountable for our individual choices. If the offer of God is discarded or ignored, we will receive the connected and undeniable consequences. The offer is available to all, we can choose to be awake and claim it or to sleep and lose it, but we each stand accountable for our deeds.

“O that ye would awake; awake from a deep sleep, yea, even from the sleep of hell, and shake off the awful chains by which ye are bound, which are the chains which bind the children of men, that they are carried away captive down to the eternal gulf of misery and woe” 2 Nephi 1:13.

“And it came to pass that when Jesus had ended these sayings he said unto his disciples: Enter ye in at the strait gate; for strait is the gate, and narrow is the way that leads to life, and few there be that find it; but wide is the gate, and broad the way which leads to death, and many there be that travel therein, until the night cometh, wherein no man can work” 3 Nephi 27:33.

It’s time to face the music, wake up, hear and see the truth, repent now without procrastination, come unto Christ, be redeemed, and enter the gate before the night cometh Alma 34:33.

Contention is Not of Me

This morning our family had a discussion on repentance and the importance of it. We identified a few commandments and laws of God that we are aware of, but fail to obey.

Later this morning as I was pondering, I realized that I personally know at least one well-known law of God that I have carelessly rejected. In this particular case, I have ignored it, pushed it off to the side, and refused to obey God in this issue.

As a young child, I thought teasing my brothers and sister was fun and entertaining. A poke here, a push there seemed to bring some sort of satisfaction. As an adult, I’ve had the same weakness with my children.

It would begin in play, move on to teasing, and usually go too far, leaving a wake of confusion and contention. Of course, the teasing was all in fun. For some strange reason, I liked getting a reaction. I would receive a false payoff sufficient to entice me to tease again later.

My parents taught me well, and I received consequences for teasing siblings. Jennifer, my wife, counseled me to stop “stirring the pot” at home, cease such foolish behavior, and invite peace rather than contention.

Jesus taught: “For verily, verily I say unto you, he that hath the spirit of contention is not of me, but is of the devil, who is the father of contention, and he stirreth up the hearts of men to contend with anger, one with another. Behold, this is not my doctrine, to stir up the hearts of men with anger, one against another; but this is my doctrine, that such things should be done away.” (3 Nephi 11:29-30)

In spite of being taught by good parents, encouraged by a loving wife, and commanded by God Himself, I still continued to tease. I had not sufficiently reflected about the contention I was promoting and the evil effects that I was passing on to my children. Being free from the habit and sin did not appear important enough to me to abandon it and sacrifice the tendency.

Until today, I had not yet resolved to stop, cease, quit, change, and repent by making a 180-degree turn-around, turn away from sin and face God. Now, consequences, guilt, and remorse have sufficiently pierced my soul to get my attention.

I feel a change of heart in regard to my agitating actions that promote feelings of anger and contention. I feel a hope and a desire to repent. I recognize the tremendous value in not “looking back” and never “stirring the pot” again.

It feels liberating just to think about it and to believe that my Savior is there for me. In John 14:6, Jesus taught, “I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me.”

Christ is capable and willing to help me overcome both sin and death, neither of which can I do alone. He has paid the price for me, and only through Him are my sins forgiven and death overcome. Only through Him can I be redeemed from the fall and return to the presence of the Father.