Primary 35 - Religious Freedom
Picture found here.
We wish to address our freedom of religion. When Joseph was alive, the various faith had solidified their place and attacked those who thought differently. Also, the rights were getting attacked more and more. In 1831 (thirty years before the civil war) freedom was a hotspot. The saints were being attacked for their belief in faith and personal freedom. The prophet approached the mayor, commissioner governor, and even the president for a resolution because the Lord asked us to honor and sustain the law and truly show that we believed in being subject to the president (Article of Faith 12).
...all things wherewith you have been afflicted shall work together for your good, and to my name’s glory, saith the Lord.
(D&C 98:3)
We know we were forced to leave the state but we must point out that these saints (though wonderful) were somewhat boastful and that may of upset the neighbors. They told things to their neighbors that they were not ready for. What made it worse, they did not obey the Lord in building a temple. When we are haughty (boastful) and vain it doesn't matter how much you tell the truth, it will not be received.
The Lord wants us to be friends as saints. We must realize that people are as obedient as they can be with the knowledge they have. When we approach with love, friendship and understanding, we open doors and people will listen to our message of the Lord, the Atonement, the Gospel, and the saving grace that is given to all of those that seek earnestly to love and obey the Lord in whatever fashion and capacity they can muster.
The next thing we want you to know is to seek to serve with all your heart.
When we meet the Savior, David O McKay said, He, the Savior, will ask us six questions...
1) How was your relationship with your spouse (a question that doesn't apply right now)?
2) How were your relationships with your children (a question that doesn't apply right now)?
3) What did you do with your talents given you in the preexistence?
4) How did you perform in your callings?
5) Not how you earned a living, but how you worked. Where you honest? Happy? Did you spread joy?
6) What contribution did you give to your family, friends, neighbors, and countrymen? Were you a better person to everyone you knew? Did you participate in government through voting, neighborhood clean-ups, helping your neighbors, and spreading joy to them?
(Brother Bingham embellished the prophet's words but the spirit is there.)
Brothers and sisters, be a good person no matter what happens to you in your life. Jesus asked us to love those that "despitefully use you" (Matt 5:43-44). Defend your faith with your testimony but do not use it as a weapon to hurt others. You know a lot.
We know that it's a lot to bear. Please bear with patience the message and know that we love you; your parents love you too. We testify as you follow and teach with the Spirit and love in your hearts that you will bring souls unto Christ. It is that love that allows the Holy Ghost to touch their hearts and open their minds. Again we love you guys and pray for you.
Have a great week.
Brothers Keller and Bingham
1) Read D&C 102-105
2) Write out how you can show love to those around you. How does that kindness open doors? Write out an experience you had while trying this during the week.
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