The Friendship-er Sept 2011
The Seed of Character
Have you ever wondered why you don't have a fruit tree in your backyard without ever having planted a fruit seed? Does it ever seem like you are trying your hardest to bear the fruits of a Christ like character, but get frustrated at the lack of 'fruit'?
Instead of focusing and getting frustrated at the seemingly million character traits to improve, how would you like to focus on one thing? This one thing will improve behavior more than focusing on behavior will improve behavior. The answer is found in Psalms 19:7: "The law of the Lord is perfect, converting the soul." So how can the law of the Lord change me? What is it about feasting on the word of God that can actually change my natural-man tendencies into a more enlightened, loving, glorious daughter of my Heavenly Father?
The answer lies in planting seeds. The prophet Alma said, "…we will compare the word to a seed." So what is the seed? The word of God contained in the scriptures! Once you plant the seed by feasting on the words contained in the scriptures, it will not only enlarge your soul, enlighten your understanding and expand your mind, but it will begin to be delicious to you. We will enjoy reading the scriptures more! With continued nourishment the seed will grow into a tree of life with fruit that is exceedingly white, sweet, and pure – "a tree springing up into everlasting life" (Alma 32:26-42). The tree of life grows within each person to change his or her heart and soul.
"Have ye spiritually been born of God? Have ye received his image in your countenances? Have ye experienced this mighty change in your hearts?" (Alma 5:14) If we have planted the seed already, are we feeling the joy that comes from bearing much fruit or have we neglected the seed? Changes in the heart and soul occur as a result of planting and nourishing the seed. If we took as much care of the seeds of character as a master gardener would take care of their seeds, we would see much fruit. In other words, we would begin to create a more Christ-like character as our hearts and minds digest Gods' words.
So how can I make sure that I nourish the seed as a study the scriptures?
- Study for a set amount of time rather than a certain number of chapters or verses. It is recommended to study for at least 30 minutes a day.
- Pray before you begin. Prayer invites revelation.
- Keep a scripture journal. Since the spirit speaks to our mind and heart, we will recognize the spirit more in our lives when we record what we feel and think as we search the scriptures.
"Knowledge carefully recorded is knowledge available in time of need. Spiritually sensitive information should be kept in a sacred place that communicates to the Lord how you treasure it. That practice enhances the likelihood of your receiving further light." (Richard G. Scott, "Acquiring Spiritual Knowledge, " Ensign, Nov. 1993, 86) (Continued on back)
Write anything that moves your soul – questions, comments, thoughts that you get as you read verses in the scriptures or attend class or walk by the river. Copy down some of the verses word for word. Write about the things the spirit is teaching you.
After you have nourished the seed by your diligence you will begin to see much 'fruit or blessings flow into your life. Ezra Taft Benson said, "I feel certain that if, in our homes, parents will read from the Book or Mormon prayerfully and regularly, both by themselves and with their children, the spirit of that great book will come to permeate our homes and all who dwell therein. The spirit of reverence will increase; mutual respect and consideration for each other will grow. The spirit of contention will depart. Parents will counsel their children in greater love and wisdom. Children will be more responsive and submissive to the counsel of their parents. Righteousness will increase. Faith, hope and charity – the pure love of Christ – will abound in our homes and lives, bringing in their wake peace, joy, and happiness" Ensign, May 1980, p.67).
I know that if we make our scripture study the foundation for our day that we will draw closer to God in our thoughts, and our actions - creating a more Christ like character.
Love, Nicole Anderson
September Lessons:
4 RS Presidency Message
11 Gospel Principles – Lesson 40 Temple Work & Family History
18 Gospel Principles- Lesson 41 The Postmortal Spirit World
25 TFOT- Elder David A. Bednar "The Spirit of Revelation"
September Birthdays:
Alisa D 1
Jessica D 3
Hannah W 3
Julie L 4
Gladys Z 7
Carol Lee H 9
Erin L 14
Edith M 14
Shirley P 14
Catherine T 20
Alice N 24
Sept. Visiting Teaching Message: Strengthening Families by Increasing Spirituality
Scripture Study: 12:30 on Wednesdays at Sister Tyskerud's, please call to confirm.
