Scripture Sunday

Being a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints is not always easy.  I've always had a strong testimony of my belief's and I know what I believe is absolute truth.  Some have said our gospel was built on a lie.  I disagree.  Yes, I understand how the "Joseph Smith" story could seem incredibly over the top and misconstrued from a dream.  However, if you know your bible very well (which I have to admit I don't) you could go to Ezekiel 37:16-17, Isaiah 11:10-12 or Malachi 3:1-3.  In Ezekiel, Joseph's name is actually mentioned and it is said that the stick of Judah and the stick of Joseph will be joined.  Isaiah speaks of the Lord setting his hand again 'the second time' to recover the remnant of his people.  In Malachi it speaks of a 'messenger' that will be sent to prepare the way for the lord....hence, the second coming.  Like I said...I'm not a great scriptorian, but I do understand that after Christ was crucified the true gospel dwindled away and was lost for a long space of time.  So, when Isaiah speaks of the Lord setting his hand a 'second time' I believe, with confidence, he is referring to Joseph Smith not only restoring the correct gospel to the earth, but also the priesthood and the recovering of the 'lost plates' or Book of Mormon.

Another point I can understand the confusion in would be the validity of the Book of Mormon.  Well, to that I say...Yes, there were plates of brass found buried in the earth and yes they were translated by Joseph Smith.  I can justify my belief by asking the 'questioner' this, "Can a 3rd grader translate ancient hebrew?"  The answer would be no.  Then I would ask, "Did you know Joseph Smith did not attend school after the 3rd grade?"  That's not to say that Joseph wasn't a smart man, he was raised in a time where more often than not it was acceptable to leave school to help work the land or the family trade.  Also, would any man put himself through persecution, torture and abandonment for such a grandiose lie?  No.  When we lie, if that lie becomes extremely out of control, we abandon our lie...that's just human nature.  I'm pretty sure I would give up my lie after my first beating, whipping, being tarred and feathered, jailed under a building without daylight...yah, I'd give it up.  Joseph Smith didn't.  That's why I believe he is a man of God and the Book of Mormon is true!  People don't go through that much pain and persecution and come out of it with a happy, ever believing heart.  Joseph Smith did!  And, all to protect a sacred book and the restored gospel of Jesus Christ.  Yes, he saw God and yes he was lead by God.

I'm not a perfect 'Mormon Girl' but I am proud to be a member of my church.  It's not easy for me to wear my funny underwear, and it's not always easy to get ready for church every sunday and attend meetings.  But I love my Father in Heaven and I love my Savior, Jesus Christ.  They know me personally and appreciate my unique qualities.  They have protected and nourished me and my family.  They have saved my oldest daughter from death.  They made my youngest daughter a stalwart believer.  They led me to the man I love and adore more that anything else.  I respect all faiths, I find them interesting and sometimes valuable.  I could not force someone to believe what I believe, but if interested I would tell them to read this...and then see how they feel - 

"In the beginning pages of the book of mormon there are many testimonies of it's truth.  However, if you will just read the Testimony of the Prophet Joseph Smith, that's all I would ask.  You can venture further after that if you wish.  I recommend: 1 Nephi 4: 6 - 18 or Moroni 10 (the last chapter in the Book of Mormon).  

I've given enough scripture.  If anyone ever comes across this post, look these scriptures up.  See what you think ;]

I will leave you with my testimony...

I know the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter day Saints is true and correct as it was given to and translated by Joseph Smith.  I believe in the power of prayer.  I know that there is life after death and we will be judged with a perfect and unconditional judgement.  I believe that God and His son Jesus Christ are living beings who love every single person individually and with a pure love.  I am a daughter of God, therefore I am of divine nature and worth.  I trust in the Prophets from past dispensations and the present time.  I believe in the power of family and unconditional love.  I know that Christ was crucified to save us from our sin and enable us to return to live with Him someday.  I love my Heavenly Father and my Savior, Jesus Christ.

Peace and Kindness :]