King David (Never Given)

Brothers and sisters, there are thousands of stories in the scriptures that help us learn the nature of God and what we need in order to find the peace and love God has promises us. Some of my favorite lessons are included in the life and trials of King David.

In order to understand the full measure of his life, we need to understand why and how he was called to rule Israel. Samuel the prophet anointed his predecessor Saul, to be the King. Because of the wickedness of the Amalekites the Lord commanded Saul to destroy all that they had, and to spare none of them. Successful to a degree Saul and the Israelite army destroyed every Amalekite save the King – then they destroyed all that they thought was vile. But they saved the best of their flocks, taking the spoils of their conquest. Samuel came unto Saul, knowing from the Lord what had taken place. Saul, like many of us, justified his actions; he even blamed them on someone else. He declared that he had fulfilled his assignment and had saved the flocks in order to make a sacrifice to the Lord. But the Lord was asking for a sacrifice of obedience - not of flesh.

Samuel said – “when thou wasn’t little in thine own sight, was’t thou not made head of the tribes of Israel?” This is seemingly a common occurrence that when we are humble the Lord calls or uses us to accomplish his work – but as stated in D&C 121 “as soon as they get a little authority, as they suppose, they will immediately begin to exercise unrighteous dominion.” Saul’s pride overtook his judgment. He blamed others. “But the people took the spoil, sheep and oxen, the chief of the things which should have been utterly destroyed, to sacrifice unto the Lord their God.” Does the end, brother and sisters, justify the means? They claimed they would use the spoils to worship God – but in order to get the spoils they had disobeyed the counsel that was given.

Could this be similar to someone cheating others in business – claiming that they would help the poor or be better prepared to serve God because of their means? Or – to hypocritically pray for help to win the lottery so they could better serve God. Wouldn’t the Lord be able to provide such means in a way that the commandments would still be followed if such means were needed? Samuel asked; “Hath the Lord as great delight in .. offerings and sacrifice as in obeying the voice of the Lord? Behold to obey is better than sacrifice, and to hearken than the fat of rams.” The act of obedience and following the counsels of God shows a humble and willing soul and heart. Someone being little in their own sight, – indicates an understanding of their place with God, it’s an admission of our total dependency upon Him. Indeed we would be nothing without his assistance.

Saul was once obedient to the commands of God. He then questioned why they couldn’t keep some of the material belongings of the Amelikes – He started to think he knew more than God, that his commandments really weren’t that important. He justified his actions, even using religion or worshipping God as part of his excuse. He took pride in the things he was able to do - forgetting it was because of God that they were possible.

This pride and disobedience caused the Lord to reject Saul as the leader of Israel. Samuel was commanded to anoint another in his steed. He was told to go to Bethlehem and to Jesse, because the Lord had chosen one of his sons to be the new King of Israel. After seeing Jesse's sons Samuel was extremely impress because of their countenances and stature. But the Lord refused the older brothers stating: “the Lord seeth not as man seeth; for man looketh on the outward appearance, but the Lord looketh on the heart.” Such a statement should give all of us bald guys some hope – what we look like isn’t as important to God, but instead it’s what is in our hearts. Seven impressive young men passed by Samuel – all were rejected. Samuel asked if were any more children? There remained one more, the youngest who was watching over his father’s flocks. He was the one that had the pure heart, and with whom the Lord would call. Then Samuel anointed him to be King of Israel. This was David. The scripture state “the spirit of the Lord came upon David from that day forward.”

Samuel learned that he shouldn’t judge or discriminate because of someone’s appearance. Do we treat other differently because of their skin – economic circumstances – or just because they think or look differently than we do. The Lord looks on the heart and the straight of their faith.

I think that most people think first of David when it comes to his encounter with Goliath. Most fail to realize that this event happened after he had been anointed King of Israel. What promises were given in that blessing are unknown. Perhaps he received the same promise given to the Sons of Mosiah – which resulted in their willingness to place themselves in harm way in order to show the power of God.

Not even a member of the army – David was delivering supplies to his brothers, on the request of his father. His military experience had no encounters with mighty worriers – but with lions and wild beast defending his father’s flocks. While at the battlefront, hearing Goliath blasphemy before God he said: “Who is this uncircumcised Philistine, that he should defy the armies of the living God?” He questioned why no one would go against this giant of a man – he knew that the Lord would deliver him, because he had done it before. So without any armor, assistance and much confidence from those around him – he submitted his faith, courage and pure heart to the glory of God and the defense of his country.

As Goliath defiled the God of Israel and mocked David, David answered: “Thou cometh to me with a sword, and with a spear, and with a shield: but I come to thee in the name of the Lord of hosts, the God of the armies of Israel, whom thou hast defiled. This day will the Lord deliver thee into mine hands.” His faith and strength in the power of God was stronger than that of any other man – for the spirit of the Lord was with him. We all know the rest of the story. We all have had our own Goliaths in life – trials, challenges and pains that at first glance seem overwhelming or impossible to overcome. We need to come to the same understanding that David did, that with the assistance of the Lord nothing is impossible.

What is the will of the Father in our lives? Are our hearts pure, centered on the glory of God, or are we looking for the gratification and praise of men? Speaking of those that are unable to magnify their priesthood the Lord told us the reason - "because their hearts were set so much on the things of this world and aspire to the honors of men that they do not learn this one lesson – that the rights of the priesthood are inseparably connected with the powers of heaven, and that the powers of heaven cannot be controlled or handled only upon the principles of righteousness." This formula –may be simple in concept, but is seemingly hard for most of us to implement. The implementation is achieved by putting the things of God first – submitting to His will for each of us. The knowing of that "will" comes by the power of revelation, manifest by the Holy Ghost.

During the coming years David led the Israelite army, become a powerful and beloved King. He remained righteous most of his day. Indeed we could look upon the events that surrounded the life of this wonderful man and see some of the greatest stories of faith and dedication in the scriptures.

Then something happened that led to his downfall. One evening he rose from his bed and was walking on his roof and from his roof he saw a woman washing herself: and the woman was very beautiful to look upon. That event in it owns right, though inappropriate wasn’t the sin. It’s how he reacted and what he did next that led to his downfall. We don’t know if this was the only time that it had happened, or if it was her intent to be seem in the first place – but he looked upon her in a way that he shouldn’t have – which led him to sin. He enquired about her, he sent massagers to bring her to him. This was a man that was highly favored of the Lord – which had been blessed with perhaps everything he wanted. But he allowed an inappropriate thought to enter his heart and mind and began to dwell on it.

Today there are many ways to look upon a man or woman that we shouldn’t. Pornography seem to be running ramped – T.V., movies and the Internet seen to have an endless supple of inappropriate behavior. Do we come upon it innocently, and then allow our curiosity to overcome us. Do we awkwardly allow it to be seen in its simplest forms until we become desensitized to its existence? Some of us know that it isn’t good for us, but we think that it is different or exciting. Do you think it couldn’t happen to you – it happened to one of the Lords most valiant servants?

Prophets of God have warned us about this erosion of our tolerances – they have said: “first we abhor sin, then we tolerate it, then we embrace it.” We have seen this trend through out the world concerning chastity, and many other commandments.

These inappropriate thoughts are not just reserved to the law of chastity. King Benjamin made that clear when he said:

“And finally, I cannot tell you all the things whereby ye may commit sin; for there are divers ways and means, even so many that I cannot number them.”

Brothers and sisters, I would like to ask the question why are you here today? Is it because you feel obligated? Were you excited to hear the word of God? Do you consider it a social event? Was it to partake of the sacrament and renew you covenants with God? What ever the answer to that question is – you need to also ask yourself what will I do now because I was here? Has the spirit has whispered in your hearts and minds helping you to understood what you need to do in order to come unto Christ?

Testimony -

Favorite Campfire Scriptures (Never Given)

Welcome brethren – but most of all I would like to welcome the youth men here tonight. I would like to speak to each of you. Now, what I’m going to say could also help the old guys that are with you – so please do me a favor and wake them up if they fall asleep.

The decisions that you will be making in the next few years will influence the rest of your eternity. Now if you make a mistake – you will still have time to make it right, that’s what the atonement is all about. But it’s also been shown that those of you that mostly make righteousness decisions in your youth will avoid many of the hardest hurdles that can be put in your path. (Example)If you never taste alcohol you cannot become an alcoholic. You need to make the decision NOW to not do anything that you will regret latter in your life.

Those of you that know me very well know that I’m a “sports-aholic.” When I was younger I played some sort of sport almost every day. Now you need to know that back in those days we didn’t have video games – I-pods – cell phones. We did have T.V., but there were only three stations, and I had six sisters that ruled the roost – it was better if I was outside playing ball with my friends. I remember after my mission when we got cable and ESPN became a part of my life – 24 hours of sports. I sure that is just like heaven!

Now everyday on ESPN there is a program called Sports Center - an hour-long recap of what happened in the world of sports that day. During that program there is a segment called the TOP TEN, the ten best sports plays of the day.

I’ve spent a lot of years working in the young men’s programs of the church. I have been a: scout master, advisor, your men’s counselor and a young men’s president four different times. I’ve sat around hundreds of campfires – telling jocks, eating smores – and telling stories from the scriptures. I would like to talk about my top ten favorite scripture stories as they relate to you young men and the decisions you are about to make. There are 100’s of possibilities – your list may be different than mine.

#10 – Moses leading the children of Israel out of Egypt – Here was a man that could have been one of the rulers of the greatest country or Kingdoms in the history of the world. He rejected it all to learn about the God of his fathers and help those that couldn't help themselves. With the priesthood he showed the power of God is far mightier than the power of men. He divided the Red Sea and led Gods people to freedom on dry ground. Are you willing to reject the praise of friends or the world to get to know the GOD of your fathers?

#9 – Shadrach, Meshach, and Aded-nego – Many of you won’t recognize these names. These were three young men, perhaps missionary age, that were in bondage in Babylon to King Nebuchadnezzar – they were still given great authority and responsibility because of their abilities and character. The King made a golden idol – a man made God. He then commanded everyone in the Kingdom to worship this idol or they would be cast into a fiery furnace. The King questioned them and told them their fate if they didn’t worship his Gods – they answered and said, “Our God that we serve is able to deliver us – “But if not”…. we will not serve thy Gods, nor worship the golden image which thou has set up.” When they were thrown into the furnace it was so hot that those that threw them in perished doing so. But they were protected. Are you willing to stand up for what is right no matter the consequences that could follow? Do we have the faith that God would protect us? What a great campfire story.

#8 – Nephi going to get the plates of Labon. Despite the complaining of his older brothers Nephi said – “I will go and do the things the Lord hath commanded, for I know that the Lord giveth no commandment unto the children of men, save he shall prepare a way for them that they may accomplish the thing which he commandeth them.” We need to exercise total obedience to all of God’s commands – they may seem hard at times, but He will help us if He has commanded us to do it. The Lord has commanded all young men to prepare to serve an honorable mission – you need to start preparing today

#7 - King David - this is the same young man that killed Goliath. He had no armor or assistance from others. All he had was a sling, unwavering faith in God and a pure heart. He had shown this same kind of courage before protecting his father’s flocks from wild beast. He knew with the Lords help he was more powerful than this giant. He became a mighty King. Faithful and valiant - then he looked upon a woman that was not his wife in a way that he shouldn't have. This led to him breaking the law of Chastity and then he tried to hide his sins. One of Gods most beloved servants lost his standing with God. We should learn that no matter who we are - we need to be on guard, today there are many opportunities to look upon a woman in a way we shouldn't. Pornography can and will destroy your soul - run from it like it is a plague. Don’t touch others or ourselves in an inappropriate manner.

#6 - The Brother of Jared - What an amazing man. He wrote the sealed part of the Book of Mormon. He built barges or ships to come to the Promised Land. I envision they looked like large footballs floating in the ocean. But there were some problems - they couldn't breath inside the ships, there was no way to steer during the journey and they had no light in order to see. After asking the Lord – He gave him the solutions to the first two problems, then the Lord said about the third. "What will ye that I should do that ye may have light in your vessels?" The Lord will give you guidance and direction - but he also requires you to study it out - to make decisions and then ask him if it is right, or is in accordance with His will in our lives. The result was far beyond his expectations - He saw the finger of the Lord, he received increased revelation.

#5 - Amman’s Missionary journey - How could be a list without Amman cutting off the arms of his enemies. Serving the King of the Laminates he was excited when something went wrong - in the past this would have caused all of the servant and himself to be put to death. He saw an opportunity to show the power of God. He and his brothers gave everything they had while serving their mission. The result was thousands of Laminates coming unto Christ. When you serve your mission - you will need to have the spirit of the Lord with you and give everything you have. A mission isn't always easy - but it's worth every sacrifice we may be called to endure

#4 - Elisha - This is my favorite campfire story, sitting in the mountain valley with a group of young men. Israel was at war - the King of Syria was mad because Israel seemingly knew their moves before they made them. So they came up with a wonderful idea - lets capture the prophet. In the night this great army surrounded the city in which the prophet lived. There was a young man living with and helping him - perhaps he was a deacon, when the boy came out he saw the army surrounding the city. He went to the prophet and asked what they should do. Elisha answered - "Fear not; for those that be with us are more than they that be with them. And Elisha prayed, and said, Lord open his eyes that he may see. and the Lord opened the eyes of the young man; and he saw; and, behold, the mountain was full of horses and chariots of fire round about Elisha." Brethren - those that are righteous will always be more than those that aren't and they can be protected by the powers of heaven. Are you worthy to receive heavenly assistance? I testify that the angels of God know you and will administer to your needs.

#3 - The Stripling Warriors - I don't need to spend much time on this one – all of us know the story. None of them perished in war, they fought valiantly with courage and straight, but behold, this was not all - they were men who were true at all times in whatsoever thing they were entrusted. They fulfilled their responsibilities. Their mothers taught them what was right. Brethren listen to your Mothers and Fathers - be faithful in all you are asked to do. The almost 55,000 missionaries in the field are similar to these Stripling Warrior – we need to be valiant and serve where needed.

#2 - Joseph Smiths first vision - This is the greatest event that has happened in this dispensation. It was the beginning of the restoration of the gospel on the earth. The restoration of the priesthood - the power and authority of God on the earth. If this event happened - the Book of Mormon is true - there is a living prophet on the earth - he is guiding and directing us. This should be your desire - to receive a testimony of the restoration of the gospel. That God lives and answers our prayers. The Prophet Joseph Smith was your age when he received these manifestations - you can receive a testimony of these events and the truthfulness of the gospel as well

#1 - The Atonement of the Savior Jesus Christ. This is the greatest event in history - it opened the door of salvation, a way to be forgiven of our sins and return to be as God. Every organization, event, meeting in the church and family should be directed to this purpose, to bring us closer to the Savior - to accept his sacrifice and repent of our sins, to become as He is. Then as eternal families to return to live with God. This is the reason we do what we do - that we have the priesthood - that we go on missions and help those in need. Our goal should not only be to receive this testimony - but too tell every living soul that Jesus is the Christ and He loves for each of us.

These are some of the greatest stories in the scriptures. We need to read them over and over - along with all the scriptures. As well do so the spirit of the Lord will be with us and give us the direction that we need.

Dry Canyon 7/17/11 (Never given )

Congratulations to Elder Christiansen –

One of my Favorite activities in stake leadership is when missionaries come home and report to the Stake Presidency and High Council about their opportunity to serve the Lord as a missionary.

Their spirit – enthusiasm and smiles are contagious as they speak about those individuals with whom they have served, sacrificed for and loved. The Lord allowed them to be His personal and special witness – testifying of the divinity and truthfulness of this wonderful work. All of us that have had the opportunity to serve, and any of us that have been a part of someone’s conversion – know that there is no better feeling than to see the light of the gospel ignited in the soul of someone that they love.

Indeed the Lords words in D&C 18: 15 – have great meaning

And if it so be that you should labor all your days in crying repentance unto this people, and bring, save it be one soul unto me, how great shall be your joy with him in the kingdom of my father!

These people will be eternally grateful – but perhaps the greatest conversion or the most important person to come unto Christ for our salvation is ourselves.

As a missionary I had the opportunity to see many souls come to knowledge of the truth and enter the waters of baptism – but none had greater manifestations of the spirit and a change of heart more than I did.

Indeed as Alma states – I desire “to sing the song of redeeming love.” The greatest part of the story is the answer to his next question – “do you feel so now?” The answer is a resounding yes! And even at a greater magnitude than when I returned from my mission.

Now – before you start thinking that I’m planning to be translated – I like the Apostle Paul to the Corinthians – “have been given thorns in the flesh, the messenger(s) of Satan to buffet me, lest I should be exalted above measure.” All of us have bought’s of discouragement, a lack of gratitude, and way too often we feel alone and have to search for the companionship of the Holy Ghost. But, my testimony and knowledge is stronger than any other time in my life. – For which I am grateful.

Not to insinuate that this will happen to Elder Christensen – but, why do some missionaries / or for that matter any faithful member of the church – with responsibilities lose this fire – take a vacation or sabbatical from it’s teachings and the covenants that we have made? Is it a conscience choice – or did it just happens over time – others claim they never really believe it in the first place?

In order to understand our testimonies, we need to know what they are and how we get one. “A testimony is a manifestation of the spirit of the truthfulness of a principle – or doctrine of the gospel – or a manifestation of the existence or reality that God lives and Jesus is the Christ. The receiving of these witnesses or manifestations is revelation.

In our last General Conference, Elder Bednar spoke about the Spirit of Revelation and how it works in each of our lives. He used two examples of light – to explain how revelation can come to each of us.

I quote -

The first experience occurred(s) as we entered a dark room and turned on a light switch. Remember how in an instant a bright flood of illumination fill(s) the room and caused the darkness to disappear. What previously had been unseen and uncertain became clear and recognizable. This experience was characterized by immediate and intense recognition of light.

The second experience (takes) place as we watch night turn into morning. Do you recall the slow and almost imperceptible increase in light on the horizon? In contrast to turning on a light in a dark room, the light from the rising sun (will) not immediately burst forth. Rather, gradually and steadily the intensity of the light increased, and the darkness of night (is) replaced by the radiance of morning. Eventually, the sun did dawn over the skyline. But the visual evidence of the sun’s impending arrival (are) apparent hours before the sun actually appeared over the horizon. This experience was characterized by subtle and gradual discernment of light.

Brothers and sisters - these are common occurrences that happen to us each day. Elder Bednar cont…

Some revelations are received immediately and intensely; some are recognized gradually and subtly. The two experiences with light I described help us to better understand these two basic patterns of revelation.

A light turned on in a dark room is like receiving a message from God quickly, completely, and all at once. Many of us have experienced this pattern of revelation as we have been given answers to sincere prayers or been provided with needed direction or protection, according to God’s will and timing. Descriptions of such immediate and intense manifestations are found in the scriptures, recounted in Church history, and evidenced in our own lives. Indeed, these mighty miracles do occur. However, this pattern of revelation tends to be more rare than common.

The gradual increase of light radiating from the rising sun is like receiving a message from God “line upon line, precept upon precept” (2 Nephi 28:30). Most frequently, revelation comes in small increments over time and is granted according to our desire, worthiness, and preparation. Such communications from Heavenly Father gradually and gently “distil upon [our souls] as the dews from heaven” (D&C 121:45). This pattern of revelation tends to be more common than rare.

Chances are that most of us have had both methods of revelation in our lives. But those moments of intense manifestations will be fleeting if they are not followed up with the constant companionship of the Holy Ghost. Laman and Lemual we’re visited by angels – Cain walked and talked with God. Oliver Cowdrey and Martine Harris both fell away from the church after all they had seen and heard.

The scriptures also tell us that the seeds of truth always perform better when they are planted in fertile ground. That’s one of the blessings of a missionary as they contact someone that has never heard or felt the truths of the gospel. I know Elder Christensen loves to ski – it’s kind of like coming upon fresh power that has never been touched. These feeling are new and make a huge impart on the pure in heart that are seeking the Savior and His will in their lives.

Now lets talk about these wonderful returned missionaries – what have they been doing for the past two years? They have been preparing the soil that the seeds of truth have being planted in – they have been nurturing and watering these truths with selfless service – continual prayer and scripture study - then the greatest tool - love. Each of these acts is like powerful fertilizers that stimulate the soul and testify of the divinity of God and this wonderful work.

One difficulty in the church is that not all new converts continue to be active – this is also the same for some of us old guys – why? Because we forget to continue to fertilize our testimonies, or we take offence with someone or something that we can’t control. No wonder President Hinckley said that all new converts in the church need a friend, a calling and nurturing in the gospel of Christ. Being offended is an interesting event for me – I will admit that I’m sure I’ve offended far more people than have offended me.

What if the Savior wouldn’t have fulfilled his assignment because someone had treated Him unfairly?

Revisiting Elder Bednar’s analogy of light – I believe those that lose their testimonies most of the time do it the same way that they received it small pieces at a time. At first imperceptible degrees of change – They set their heart on the things of the world and the honors of men. They stop sincere prayer and searching the scriptures. These are replaced with repetitive quick prayers – have you ever said a prayer and right after not remembered what you just said. Our study becomes casual and at the last minute in order to be ready for the class we are assigned to teach. I couldn’t count the number of time I has seen individual preparing their lesson during sacrament meeting. Good thing we have sacrament meeting first. We allow the filth of the world to creep in through the Internet – movies – and television; they start out slow and can become addictions.

These and countless other examples are like turning the dimmer switch on the lights of our testimonies little by little until we find our selves and darkness and despair. This is when the buffeting of Satan allows us to be critical of our leaders and take offence because of the imperfections of men.

Now it’s going to be impossible for Elder Christensen – or any of us to continue to participate as fully in the things of the spirit as a full time missionary does. Work, school, family and just the trials of life seem to dull or spiritual senses. But, when we continue to put the things of God first in our lives the Lord will make up the differences. As we do the little things each day - we are preparing our soil or souls so that the seeds of faith can grow and flourish.

I would like to invite each of you to take a moment of reflection. Ask yourselves how is the strength of my testimony at this time of my life? Is it stronger than it has been before – do I have questions and concern that are bothering me? Is it strong enough that I could share it at any time no matter what the cost? We should remember the greatest bearing of our testimonies is in the way we live our lives.

When the children of Israel were being led out of Egypt and journeyed to the Promised Land the Lord tested their resolve. Because they had hardened their hearts he sent fiery serpents among them. And after they were bitten he prepared a way that they might be healed; and the labor which they had to perform was to look; and because of the simpleness of the way, or the easiness of it, there were many that perished.

Because of complacency or laziness do we fail to do the simple things – or as the Israelites do they seem too trivial – that we don’t humble ourselves to be strictly obedient to all the words of God. Indeed by small and simple thing are great things brought to pass.

Perhaps the most used missionary scripture is a formula to receive revelation. Not only is it the promise to find out if the Book of Mormon is true – but it can be used to find the truth of all things and the assistance we all need as we forge this wilderness of life.

Moroni 10:3-5

Behold, I would exhort you that when ye shall read these things, if it be wisdom in God that ye should read them, that ye would remember how merciful the Lord hath been unto the children of men, from the creation of Adam even down until the time that ye shall receive these things, and ponder it in your hearts.

And when ye shall receive these things, I would exhort you that ye would ask God, the Eternal Father, in the name of Christ, if these things are not true; and if ye shall ask with a sincere heart, with real intent, having faith in Christ, he will manifest the truth of it unto you, by the power of the Holy Ghost.

And by the power of the Holy Ghost ye may know the truth of all things.

What a great promise – does it seem simple and direct? Let’s remember how much the Lord has done for us – and that He loves each of us. Evaluate out standing and act on the things we know we need to correct.

Testimony -

Oath and Covenant - Priesthood leadership

Brethren there is an oft-used scripture that all of us know in the D&C that states:

There is a law, irrevocably decreed in the heaven before the foundation of this world, upon which all blessings are predicated –

And when we obtain any blessing from God, it is by obedience to that law upon which it is predicated.

We as Latter-day Saints are a covenant making people. The gospel is a covenant!

I hope that all of you read President Romney’s talk on the Oath and Covenant of the Priesthood.

We started our covenant making while in the pre-existence, then on this earth in the waters of baptism, when we partake of the sacrament, received the priesthood and entered the temples of God.

A covenant in a promise between God and ourselves. (Do we really understand its importance and the responsibilities that come with it?)

(STORY)

(I love to watch basketball – to a fault. One day I wanted to see a certain basketball game - I found out what network it was suppose to be on. I sat down on my bed with the remote to see if I could find it. I found out that it wasn't part of my viewing options.

But on the station that was right next to it was something that caught my interest. There was a televangelist that made me think I was at a Aggie basketball game - he was standing behind the pulpit jumping up and down - with his arm out stretched saying I believe. His congregation wasn't as in sink like the Aggies student section - a few of them had their hands in the air and were saying Amen.

After he was done he pulled out a large key ring about six inches in diameter and some large skeleton keys on it. He started to shake them - and said these represent the Keys of the Kingdom of Heaven. He proceeded to say that they are give to all followers of Christ and those that believe in the Bible. HE then pulled out a small plastic set of keys (baby's toy) and shook them and said they represent the keys that Satan holds.)

I'm sure he got his reference from Matt 16:19

I give unto you the key of the Kingdom of Heaven.

He didn’t quote the rest of the verse or those before it, that put it into context.

These words were spoken by the Savior to Peter the chief Apostle. After the Savior asked who do men say that I am? Peter answered – “Thou art the Christ the Son of the Living God.” The Savior told him he received that knowledge by revelation.

He then told him he would give unto him the keys of the kingdom of heaven: and whatsoever thou shalt bind on earth shall be bound in heaven.

This was the man that would be at the head of the Church – that would be given all the authority and responsibility after the death of the Savior.

When each of us gets our Temple recommend we are asked the question –

Do you sustain the President of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints as a Prophet, Seer and Revelator – and the only person on the earth that holds and is authorized to exercise all priesthood keys?

Brethren, not only was this authority given to Peter, but has also been given to President Thomas S. Monson. These keys are then delegated through the lines of authority to those called to exercise them.

President Larsen has the Keys for this stake –

Each of the Bishops hold the Keys for the individual Wards –

Elders Presidents, Teacher and Deacons Presidents are given authority for their individual Quorums.

Each of us has callings and responsibilities that have come under the direction of these Keys.

- With these callings come promises, blessings and covenants between each of us and God.

Unlike the televangelist said – this power and authority doesn’t come to all professors or followers of Christ or because of one belief in the Bible.

- Simon saw that through the laying on of the Apostles hands the Holy Ghost was given, he offered them money.

Saying, “give me also this power, that on whomsoever I lay hands, he may receive the Holy Ghost.”

I think that on occasions we don’t understand or appreciate what having the priesthood means or can do for yourself and our families.

Is it because every young man in the Church receives it – and that it is commonplace or seems like a formality?

Numerous Prophets have told us that those that receive the Priesthood were foreordained to receive such. Is it a coincidence that you were born into a covenant home and the area in which we live – or that you received the missionaries message and knew of its truthfulness?

Those that are holders of the priesthood are in the extreme minority.

- There is great responsibility that is given.

- But, there is even great promised blessing.

Those faithful to the lesser priesthood are promised to the ministering of Angels.

President Romney reading from the 84 sections of the D&C told us that it is also available to the Melchizedek Priesthood as well.

As we magnify it - our blessing are: Sanctification, Renewing of our Bodies, we can become Princes and Kings, Members of his Church and Kingdom, the Elect of God and are given all that the Father has.

Who wouldn’t want those blessings?

We must magnify that priesthood to receive the promised blessings.

President Romney stated that we must do three things to magnify our priesthood:

1) That we obtain the knowledge of the gospel.

2) That we comply in our personal living with the standards of the gospel.

3) That we give dedicated service.

We must learn our duty – live in accordance with that knowledge – and serve diligently.

All throughout the scriptures there are wonderful examples of the results of Truly Dedicated Service.

- Angels were sent to help them, hearts were softened, seemingly impossible tasks were accomplished, and mountains were moved before them.

President Romney stated -

The nature of this service is spelled out in detail in the revelations and by the living prophets. The burden of it the Lord has laid upon his priesthood. It can be done properly only by men who are magnifying their priesthood—who know the gospel, conform their lives to its standards, and enthusiastically give dedicated service in the spirit of the divine proclamation that “men should be anxiously engaged in a good cause, and do many things of their own free will, and bring to pass much righteousness; for the power is in them” (D&C 58:27–28).

Elder Perry has asked us to do curtain things – that if accomplished can save hundreds of souls for eternity – many more missionaries will be sent throughout the world to bring truth and righteousness to a troubled world.

We all know the blessing that will come from bringing one soul unto God – lets start with the one closest to us – our own, by magnifying the priesthood opportunities we have been given.

Stake Conf. 2011 - Sunday morning

Brother and sisters – it’s great to be here. This session of conference is the first for many of you – as it has replaced your primary, Sunday school, YM & YW today. I would like to welcome each of you young people with your parents. Others of you this is the second or third session of our stake conference that you have been invited to attended. Now whether you attended those sessions is another matter.

Some of you may think you have to listen to the members of the stake presidency quite often. I hope that what I have prepared today will be beneficial to each of you and give you some direction and help in strengthening your testimonies.

All of us have had individuals in our lives that have strengthened – taught and helped us in our times of need. Many of these people in my life have come from the pages of the scriptures.

I don’t know how it worked in the preexistence, what events in the history of the world we were able to witness or participate in, or if that was even possible. We know from the scriptures that at the birth of the Savior there was heavenly host singing praise to God – if my voice in the preexistence was the same as it is now – I may not have been invited. What would it have been like to see the children of Israel leave Egypt, Elisha calling fire down from heaven to witness the existence of the true and living God. To be there and see the faith of the stripling warriors fighting for the liberty of mothers.

If we were allowed to see some of these events as they had transpired, which ones would have been at the top of your list – most of us would have included any event where the Savior was present? His birth, His appearance to the Nephite’s – His atoning sacrifices. That one may have been hard for us to see – knowing that it was our actions that caused His suffering. But understanding the great plan of salvation - I’m sure we would have known that the price had been paid and that the gate had been opened.

We know that during His suffering the Savior was able to see His seed - or those of us that would make the atonement effective in their lives. I’m sure that gave Him straight during His time of need – He knew it was necessary for all of us. With this act, we now have the opportunity to return and live with God. What a waste it would be if we failed to make it effective in our lives.

Another event that would be on MY list was the last address of King Benjamin gave to the people with whom he served and loved.

His sermon was so powerful that all the people believed his words – the scripture states

“ They all cried with one voice, saying: Yea we believe all the words which thou hast spoken unto us;”

Then it tells what the spirit did to them –

“Has wrought a mighty change in us, or in our hearts, that we have no more disposition to do evil, but to do good continually.”

Can you imagine how powerful the spirit must have been, to have such an impact on the whole kingdom?

Like most of the ancient prophets - we know very little about Benjamin’s youth, his trials, challenges and victories. But we do know a little more about his father. He was the first King Mosiah – a prophet, seer and revelator. He translated ancient records. He was the one that received the revelation from the Lord for himself and his people to leave the land of Nephi or be destroyed by the Lamanites. It appears to me that they didn’t know where they were going when they left, as the scriptures say –

(They) “Harkened unto the voice of the Lord and they were led by many preaching and prophesying…and they were led by the power of his arm.”

We don’t know how old Benjamin was at that time – was he in primary, perhaps even scared that they were leaving their homes and not knowing where they were going. On that journey they were led to the land of Zarahemla and to the people of Mulek – who had also been brought out of Jerusalem around the time of Lehi. These people were more numerous than the Nephities but had forgotten their God and the language of their fathers.

Mosiah set up the means whereby they started to teach them their language and the gospel of Jesus Christ. Was Benjamin a young man at this time and had an opportunity to serve as a missionary preaching the gospel? Is this when he started to learn to love these people, or were these events the beginning of Benjamin’s religious education and the strengthening of his testimony? When did Benjamin receive his testimony – was it at the feet of his prophet father – was it a manifestation of peace and safety that came from these experiences? I’m sure it was all of these – line upon line, precept on precept - just as each of us today have the opportunity to receive ours.

After Benjamin was made King – they had many wars and much bloodshed. Under his leadership the Lamanities were driven out of the land. These are the things we know about Benjamin before his sermon. Then he reiterated things that were common knowledge among his people. He had served them without receiving personal gain – he always had done the things of God first –

“When you are in the service of your fellow beings you are only in the service of your God.”

Something that is important to point out is that his father, a prophet of God – set him apart also as a prophet seer and revelator, and consecrated him as their king. Given the keys of the priesthood and the kingdom of God. After doing the best he could – which apparently was amazing. Now he was giving his last declaration, testimony and instruction to those with whom he had been given responsibility to serve. He didn’t seek that responsibility, but it was given to him from the Lord,

Where did he receive that message –why was it so important? He received it from and angel of God – it was the message that the Lord wanted to give to the people at that time. That is the responsibility of all prophets – it’s also the responsibility of all followers of Christ that are given the opportunity to teach or lead in the kingdom of God. Revelation can and should be apart of every church calling as it relates to the responsibilities of that call. This is also true when it come to the workings of a righteous family.

Brother and sisters – a patriarchal blessing is a very personal and sacred thing. One of the greatest blessings I received in mine was the promise that the angels of God know me and will administer to my needs. Unlike Benjamin – I haven’t had an angel appear to me and give the content of my talk today – but I have fasted and prayed for the guidance of the Lord and the spirit and power of the Holy Ghost to know what I should say. Like the rest of the stake presidency I too haven’t sought this responsibility. Shortly we will hear from President Hislop and President Larsen.

President Larsen holds the keys of authority for this stake - he is the one, with our support that receives revelation for the events related to the church in this area. Those that are chosen by the Lord to serve in these positions and also as general authorities – have another thing in common with Benjamin – he stated,

“ But I am like as yourselves, subject to all manner of infirmities in body and mind.”

Occasionally some people have problem with the church and lose their testimony because of the weaknesses of its members – leaders or not. He without sin cast the first stone. I’ve on occasion offended some of you, for which I am sorry. Please forgive me and anyone else that is standing in the way of you receiving the spirit of the Lord and the direction you need in your life.

Twice a year we have general conference – where we receive instruction from the general authorities of the church. At this time it is similar to King Benjamin’s discourse – these men are the ones that we sustain as prophets, seers and revolators. I’m sure that their messages are prepared with much fasting – prayer and revelation from the Savior on what He wants His people to know at this time.

Some of us might rightly say that they talk about the same subjects over and over – How great would it be if we had the same reaction that Benjamin’s people did and actually started following the counsel so they wouldn’t have to repeat themselves.

--All of you primary children – would you please do me a favor? Would you please remind your parents each day to read the scriptures together and have family prayer? Would you please make sure that each of your families has Family Home Evening every Monday night.

--To the youth of the stake – would you please make sure that you or any of your friends never use the Lord’s name in vain – or any other swear words. Would you please - at all cost remain morally clean and make sure your not the one to causes someone else to break that sacred commandment.

--To the holders of the priesthood – would you please promise me that you will always live worthy of that sacred responsibility? So if asked you could use that priesthood to help those in need. Also promise the Lord today that you will never / or never again look at pornography – that demeans the sacred covenants of marriage, belittles your mothers – wife’s – sisters and daughters.

--To the women of the stake, would you please understand how you dress effects the choices you and those around you - are and will make. Understand that you are of great worth – Satan desires you to believe you need to look a curtain way and that you need to be successful in the eyes of the world in order to be happy. These are lies.

--To everyone here today – would you please be nice to each other. Open up your circles of friendships to include those that need help and feel so alone. Would all of us forgive those that have made mistakes – and not hold it against them for the rest of their life? If I recall that would include everyone here. Share your faith and love of the Savior with those around you – trust in Him, stop being so negative.

Brothers and sisters – the list could go on and on. These are all things that we have heard from those given responsibility to guide and direct us. But I would venture to say that more that one of these requests is needed for every one of us.

In Oct. Conference – Elder Duncan – 70’s said:

Surely one of the crowning blessings of membership in this church is the blessing of being led by living prophets of God…. The prophet and President of the church today Thomas S. Monson receives Gods word for the entire membership of the church and for the world, in addition, we sustain as prophets, seers, and revolators the counselors in the First Presidency and the members of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles.

Brothers and sisters, the words of the prophets aren’t always popular or what the world or the learned think that is correct – but it will always be what is best for our eternal progression and personal happiness.

As Elder Duncan stated the prophet speaks for the Lord to the members of the church and to the world. The question is are we listening and following that counsel?

We as members of the Church are a weird or odd lot - of course some of us are weirder than others. We profess that our priesthood leaders can receive revelation and guidance to show us the way. We believe there are prophets, seers and revolator that can give us information that will bring us peace, direction and hope in these uncertain times. But statistically only a third of our members show up to stake conference - we don't know what percentage watches general conference. Or are we just excited it's a week off from our responsibilities. Do we know what they are saying?

Now I know I'm saying this to the ones that showed up - not the ones that decided to stay home and sleep-in. But is the Ensign that reprints the prophets words sitting on our end table unopened or is it tattered and torn as you search it's pages wanting to know what the prophets have told us at this time.

I've hear on many occasions members concerns about the world in general and how hard thing are or are becoming. In our last conference there was a lot of council on this matter. Bishop Edgley looked at it with a different perspective in his sermon entitled "How faith is a choice" - He stated:

"We live in one of the greatest dispensations of all times - a time former prophets looked forward to, prophesied of, and, I believe, yearned for. However with all the heavenly blessings bestowed upon us, Satan, ever so real, is ever so active, and conflicting messages are continually bombarding all of us."

Brother and sisters from these comments we can see where those feelings of doom, gloom and fear are coming from - when in reality we are privileged to live in one of the greatest time in the history of the world.

Elder Neal Anderson - of the Twelve gave us hope when he stated:

"The Lord has not left us alone in our quest to return to him. Listen to his warning words alerting us to the danger ahead: Take ..heed, watch and pray. Beware lest ye... be deceived. Be watchful and careful. Beware lest ye also .. fall from your own stedfastness."

Perhaps my favorite comment in our last conference - relating to this matter was given by Elder Scott of the Quorum of the Twelve when he stated:

"God will not always reward you immediately according to your desires, Rather, God will respond with what in His eternal plan is best for you, when it will yield the greatest advantage. Be thankful that some times God lets you struggle for a long time before the answer comes. That causes faith to increase and your character to grow."

"If you have determined to live righteously, don't become discouraged, life my seem difficult now, but hold tight to that iron rod of truth, You are making better progress than you realize. Your struggles are defining character, discipline and confidence."

Brother and sisters, that quote is full of wonderful and difficult information. He says that God many times doesn't immediately reward us - He lets us struggle for a long time - life may be difficult.

But the positives in his comments far out weigh the negatives. God will respond according to His eternal plan what is best for each of us - when it will yield the greatest advantage. He told us the answer will come - your faith, character, discipline and confidence will grow. You are making better progress than you realize.

Those are great words that can give us strenght. But among his words is a responsibility and challenges - what we must do to make these promises come true.

Be thankful- God allows us to struggle, but we should also have gratitude for all of our blessings as well. Be determined to live rigthously. Don't be discouraged. Hold tight to the iron rod of truth.

We've learned the iron rod is the word of God - we find that word through our teachers and leaders - through the words of the living prophets - and in the Scriptures that we should be studying daily. Then the greatest manifestations of His word comes to each of us through revelation and the power of the Holy Ghost - confirming those sources and the fact that God lives and Jesus is the Christ.

Those that know me very well - know that I don't have much of a fashion sense - today I'm wearing a beautiful gold tie - which also happens to be the color of the Young Women's new value of virtue. This tie was given to me as a present from our stake Young Women's presidency because I was able to complete the challenge they gave to all the youth of our stake - to read the Book of Mormon and underline all the references to the Savior Jesus Christ - I also included any reference that had anything to do with any member of the Godhead.

As great as this tie is - it nothing compared to the other gift I received. I received further witness that God lives and that Jesus is the Christ. That he loves me and is guiding and directing my life. This manifestation has also come to me as I have read the words of the living prophets testifing of the truthfulness of this great work - and trying to follow their teachings.

Jan 2011 - Saturday night

A short time ago I had a conversation with an individual that was wondering how much influence the Lord really has in his life. It’s because of that conversation I want to address that topic.

I testify that those that are righteous have and will always be given assistance in their times of need. Far too often we think we know what is best in our lives and for our eternal progression – not always understanding what the Lord knows and how it could give us the strenght, growth and faith that is required to reach our full potential.

To the Prophet Joseph Smith the Lord stated:

And if thou shouldst be cast into the pit, or into the hands of murderers, and the sentence of death passed upon thee; if thou be cast into the deep; if the billowing surge conspire against thee; if fierce winds become thine enemy; if the heavens gather blackness, and all the elements combine to hedge up the way; and above all, if the very jaws of hell shall gape open the mouth wide after thee, know thou, my son, that all these things shall give thee experience, and shall be for thy good. (D&C 122:7)

Brothers and sisters - I don’t know about you – but I don’t see these things as being for my good. But they would defiantly be unforgettable experiences.

This is the same young man that at the age of seven was faced with the amputation of his leg - there was a possibility that it could be saved.

Was it a coincidence that Doctor Nathan Smith the only man in America who could have saved his leg - lived less than eight miles from his home? This was in an area of the country where there were still friontier type of conditions. Shortly after this event both of them moved to different parts of the country.

The operation was difficult and extremely painful – it is a testimony of the resolve and courage of the young Joseph Smith.

The Smith family moved a few miles west to the state of Vermont. It’s interesting to learn from the history of that area, that after they arrived, there were three winters in a row where the snowfall was far above normal, making farming difficult and almost nonproductive, this failure, causing the Smith family to move west to up state New York to the Palmyra area, where they hoped to better their condition. This brought Joseph to the Hill Cumorah area, where he needed to be.

If those three years in Vermont had been productive and easy - would they have wanted to go where the Lord wanted them to be? Or would they have been as humble or prepared to receive the challenges that accompanied the restoration.

These were just the challenges of his youth – for the rest of his life he was persecuted, lies were spread about his charactor and honesty. Some of his greatest critices were those who once embrassed his message. Despite these challenges – or maybe partly because of them them – D&C 135:3. 7

“Joseph Smith, the Prophet and Seer of the Lord, has done more, save Jesus only, for the salvation of men in this world, than any other man that ever lived in it. … He lived great, and he died great in the eyes of God and his people; and like most of the Lord’s anointed in ancient times, has sealed his mission and his works with his own blood; and so has his brother Hyrum. … Their innocent blood … is a witness to the truth of the everlasting gospel that all the world cannot impeach”

There is no doubt that the Lord guided and prepared the life and experiences of the Prophet Joseph Smith. But such preparations and assistance is the right and privilage of all followers of truth and rightousness. All men, woman and children throught the blessings and administration of the Aaronic Preisthood have the right to the administring of angels.

Not all events in our lives are guided and directed by the spirit – part of this mortal experience is for us to learn and grow through our agency or personal choices. In Nephi’s words, “the Lord God gave unto man that he should act for himself.” Be assured that if we remain faithful we will never have challenges greater than our capacity to overcome them – nor will the Lord forsake us, and when necessary he will take us by the hand and guide us throught the challenges we face. These events can be as miraculous as those surrounding the life the Savior and his followers throughout time.

Sometimes it's hard to explain the how’s, why’s and where’s in ours life’s, or to understand how much the Lord is guiding and directing each of us. Elder Bednar quoting Nephi, called many of these events the tender mercies of God.

More than thirty years ago I was serving as a missionary in the New Mexico Albuquerque Mission. I had only been in the mission field for a few months - when I received a phone call from the president. It was during the middle of a month – a number of weeks from a scheduled transfer. He asked me, as soon as possible, to go to a different area. When I got there I was to contact the ward mission leader and to give the president a call. I was informed there had been some problems and that he wanted me to be the district leader and to do the best I could in rectifying the situation.

This new location was hundreds of miles away. I remember during the long bus ride – I questioned why I had been assigned to take care of the situation. After reaching the area I followed my instructions and met with the ward mission leader and called the mission president. Sadly not everyone is faithful in their responsibilities in the kingdom of God, this also applies to missionaries. There were three Elders transferred and one young man was sent home because of his actions. I learned a lot about the situation and events that had taken place – most of which were of a financial nature, there had been some unique behavior from a couple of missionaries, many of their actions had become public knowledge. There is no one else that knows more about the events that had transpired than I did. I did the best I could to clean-up and restore the confidence of those in the area and the reputation of the church. But what I had done could have been done by most of the Elders in the mission - I viewed it only as an opportunity to learn and become a better missionary.

Seventeen years later I was given the opportunity to serve as a Bishop. This opportunity came because of the formation of a new ward, which took place the same day I was sustained as its Bishop. I had been serving in a singles ward at the time and didn’t know most of the member of our new ward. For our first Sunday worship we had our sacrament meeting and then because there were no teachers called for Sunday school or any other organizations - we had a linger-longer to give everyone the opportunity to get to know each other. What better way is there to allow the members to meet and greet each other than over a stack of cookies? During this time I tried to talk to as many people as possible.

I remember walking up to a group of couples that were talking about where the men had served missions. Politely they ask if I had gone on a mission and where I had been able to serve. I answered the question and told them when I was there. One young women in the group asked if I had served in a curtain area – which also happened to be the location I an talking about. I told her that I had and loved it. She then took me by surprise and asked if I knew an Elder, calling him by name. I hadn’t heard that name for more than seventeen year – it was the Elder that had many of the problems and had been sent home. With a surprised tone I told her I know more about that Elder than anyone in the world and that he was a piece of work. At that time someone called my name and I needed to go to another part of the church – I excused myself and went to where I was needed.

Brothers and sisters - Personal revelation is just that, personal and unique to each individual. Over the next week or so this young lady continued to receive manifestations from the spirit that she needed to come see her Bishop. Seventeen year earlier this woman then a young girl was living in part of the area this Elder was serving. An Elder is trusted because of his calling – he broke that trust by touching her inappropriately on more than one occasion. She was scared as any young girl would have been and tried to tell her parents – but sadly they didn’t believe her because he was a missionary. He was then sent home because of the other things that happened which I was given the responsibility to rectify. She decided at that time that she would never tell another soul about the things that had taken place during that time. Despite her silence, these events continued to haunt her for those many years. Until her new Bishop told her he knew what kind of missionary he was – and then the spirit told her that I would believe what she needed to tell me.

After a couple of weeks she made an appointment to come and see me – the spirit was so strong and helped her to feel the love of the Lord and the power of the atonement. I assured her that not only did I believe her but also it was in complete character with the other thing I knew had happened at that time. It wasn’t her fault nor was she to blame herself anymore for the things that had taken place. We ended that appointment with a priesthood blessing. After she left my office I fell to my knees and thank my Father in Heaven for the marvelous miracle that had just taken place. I envisioned seventeen years earlier a faithful mission president on his knees in humble pray – asking which of his hundreds of missionaries he should sent to take care of the problems that had developed. I even think he would have been surprised at the answer he received, perhaps even asking again. Yes there were many missionaries that could have successfully taken care of these problems – but there was only one that would someday be the Bishop of this little girl. She only lived in our ward for a short period of time. I believe that they too had been guided to this location for this very purpose. I could take that a step further – there were many individuals that could have been the Bishop of this ward at that time as well. But the Lord inspired those in authority that it was suppose to be me at that time.

The Lord knows the beginning from the end - He is and will continue to prepare circumstances and individuals to help each of us in our times of need, sometimes we are prepared to help those with whom we will come in contact with. It’s our opportunity and responsibility to be worthy enough to be used as a tool in his hands.

Do we have the faith and confidence that the Lord will provide the means for our procession and exaltation? That it’s his time table and wisdom that is superior to ours.

Elder Bruce R. McConkie taught where that faith comes from.

“Faith is a gift of God bestowed as a reward for personal righteousness. It is always given when righteousness is present, and the greater the measure of obedience to God’s laws the greater will be the endowment of faith”

As with all gifts of the spirit – they are given to those that Love the Lord and put him first in their lives. As he stated “If you love me, keep my commandments. “

The questions that we should then ask – or evaluate are

- Do I have the faith necessary to trust the Lord in all of my doing?

- Am I being obedient enough to receive the guidance, direction and faith needed to reach my full potential?

- What areas do I need to work on – to allow the spirit to be with me and my family?

- Am I accepting the gifts of the Savior to help me repent of my sins and receive the cleansing power of the atonement?

The influence and blessings of the Lord are all over our lives and circumstances. We need to take the time to look for them and express graditude and thanks for our many blessings.

A testimony is a manifestation of the Holy Ghost of the truthfulness of an event, priciple or doctrine. The most importantant function of the Holy Ghost is to bear witness of God the Eternal Father and of the Savior Jesus Christ.

One of the greatest testimonies ever give, was by the Prophet Joseph Smith recorded in D&C: 76 22-24

“And now, after the many testimonies which have been given of him, this is the testimony, last of all, which we give of him: That he lives!

“For we saw him, even on the right hand of God; and we heard the voice bearing record that he is the Only Begotten of the Father—

“That by him, and through him, and of him, the worlds are and were created, and the inhabitants thereof are begotten sons and daughters unto God”

I add my testimony to his – that God lives and loves each of us, that Jesus is the Christ, the Savior of the world - He has paid the price for our happiness and exaltation. That we are indeed his Sons and Daughters. Of this I testify in the name of Jesus Christ – Amen.