Sections 109, 110, 115

This is the Kirtland temple dedicatory prayer. I love vs. 7 of 109: "And as all have not faith, seek ye diligently and teach one another words of wisdom; yea seek ye out of the best books..." All don't yet have faith, and we are all trying to increase our faith. Seek diligently and teach each other so our faith can be mutually strengthened.

When we enter the temple we can feel the power of God, and leave armed with His power. This is truly a tremendous blessing! We must "arise and shine forth that they light may be a standard for the nations." This is exactly what Pres. Monson was talking about at devotional! I think it also goes along with the part I mentioned at the beginning of this--when you have a light, shine so others may be benefited as well. Others will see our light and testimony and be strengthened.

Section 107, OD 2

I wonder, what does it mean when it says "Seth was a perfect man"? This section really made me think; wow, life is wonderful and all but I'm sure glad I won't live to be 496! :) I wonder why life expectancy has changed by so much? That's really interesting.

I wonder what it would've been like to be among the first the brethren in Africa to hear that they could now hold the priesthood. I'll bet their joy was simply inexplicable.

Section 102

These are the minutes for organizing the high council of the church. I think it's so neat that this revealed organization is what is still used today--and it works so well! Heavenly Father truly knows everything and knows what is best.

Sections 103, 105

After MUCH tribulation cometh the blessing. This is why the Lord permitted the saints to be persecuted, and why we have challenges and trials today. After much suffering, we are blessed--more than we thought possible! I have a strong testimony of this principle, especially as of late. Last semester I had some big challenges and trials that stretched my faith to new limits. After much suffering I have had enormous blessings come this semester. I have been blessed in ways that I simply did not foresee when I was experiencing the trials. Heavenly Father knows us better than we know ourselves, and He blesses us in better ways and at better times than we could ever plan or dream of.

Sections 87, 98, 134

WOW, this revelation is meticulously accurate about the Civil War! how amazing! And how could Joseph Smith have known all of that? It was obviously revelation. Interesting that the call to stand in holy places comes right after the description of the civil war. I wonder why?

Section 98 was given in response to the persecution of the Saints. Our afflictions are not only for our own good, but for the good of others and the Glory of God. God has not given us these experience for ourselves only. We need to share them so that others may benefit as well.

Sections 94, 95, 97

I really like how in all three of these sections, the Lord starts out by saying "you whom I love" or "my friends" or some variety. The Lord truly loves us and considers us friends. We need to consider Him our greatest friend, and rely on Him like we would rely on a dear friend (even more so!) I also like where it says, regarding the building of church houses, "If you keep my commandments you shall have power to build it." If we keep the commandments, we will be blessed with enabling power from Heaven helping us to fulfill those commandments. But sometimes we have to take steps into the dark, keeping a commandment even if it seems impossible. As we show faith and keep the commandments, no matter how difficult, a way will be provided.

Section 93

Jesus Christ received "grace for grace, until he received a fulness". When I read this I apply it to myself and my desire to learn, improve, achieve, and receive answers. I will receive line upon line, here a little, there a little until I receive a fulness. Christ is truly our example in everything, including being patient as we receive one part of our learning and growth at a time! We need to trust God's timing over our own idea of what would be nice. Also, we are truly the tabernacles (temples) of God. Since we are His children, we house part of Him within us. I must take care of my body AND my spirit (this is mentioned again!) because I house Divine qualities that I inherited from Heavenly Father. And I house a Divine spirit that has the potential to become like God. How neat is that?? I really need to make sure my body and my mind are a place where that kind of spirit can dwell and be nurtured and taken care of.