Book of Mormon - Alma 23:18

June 28, 2010: It says here that the curse of God did not follow those Lamanites who converted to the gospel. If you read one of the footnotes that takes you to 3 Nephi it says those people became fair skinned. So, did the same thing happen with these Lamanites? I would think so. What an amazing thing that would be to see your skin change color.

I am also thinking ahead in the story and wanted to jot down this thought. The King of all the Lamanites is converted and he allows religious freedom throughout the land. Now, later, those that join the Church are forced to flee and live under the protection of the Nephites. We have to suppose that this King of all the Lamanites is one of the refugees (or was martyred). He told Aaron back in Alma 22 that he would be willing to give up his kingdom to know God. Aaron tells him he doesn't have to do that, he just has to give up his sins. Though we don't know exactly what happened to the King, all indications are that he truly did have to give up his kingdom for the gospel. He was a great, great man. Humble and quick to do the will of God. I hope to meet this King of the Lamanites one day.

(Addendum: Actually, the scriptures tell us a little later that the King died and conferred the kingdom upon his son. But still, his descendants had to give up the kingdom for the gospel and they did it, no questions asked, because they knew how important it was to follow God.)

Book of Mormon - Alma 22:15-18

June 27, 2010: I absolutely love his story about the conversion of the Lamanite King. I love to see how humble he becomes and so willing to give up his sins to receive the Spirit of the Lord. I pray that I too can be humble enough to give up my sins so that I can be filled with the Spirit and have joy. Receiving those gifts will be far better than any temporary pleasure and I want and need those eternal gifts.

Good Works #3

3. Read Mosiah 18:7-10, and in your journal list three ways you can comfort others or help them bear their burdens. Do the things on your list, and tell a family member or leader about the experience and how your attitude and understanding have changed.

April 4, 2010: Goals
~ Ways I can comfort others or help them bear their burdens ~
1. Be a listening ear. Listen attentively when others need to share their difficult situations.
2. Smile at acquaintances and strangers I meet on the street, at the store, at church, at work, etc.
3. Look for opportunities to serve others - simple things such as opening a door or giving directions or helping wherever I see a need.

June 24, 2010: Results
After striving for several weeks now to 1) be a listening ear, 2) smile at others, 3) look for opportunities to help, I find that these weeks have overall been very pleasant. I know I have been happier and more full of hope and I have even made some new friends and strengthened other relationships. It is a blessing and privilege to serve others and be instruments to help those in need.

Book of Mormon - Alma 19

June 23, 2010: I feel like I am reading this story of King Lamoni for the first time - I saw so many new things and could really picture all that was going on. What an amazing conversion of the King and his household. I especially love to see how eager they all are to share the gospel. We all need to be just as eager. What a wonderful gift we have in being members of the true church. We should be declaring this happiness to all.

I also like the statement that their hearts had been changed, they had no more desire to do evil. As we live the gospel our hearts do change for we are filled with the love of God who changes us.

Book of Mormon - Alma 7:17

June 7, 2010: "Because your faith is strong...great is my joy." It is interesting how joyful I feel to see my young women demonstrate their faith in the Lord. I absolutely know what Alma was talking about here - and the Savior says it later. It is a blessing to see those you love following the path of righteousness and growing in their faith.