Life Changing Questions for the Book of Mormon Thoughts

I recently finished Life Changing Questions for the Book of Mormon Thoughts, by John Hamilton III and Brad Wilcox. I was really intrigued by the title of this book as "questions" has always been a fascinating point of study. I read The Question Behind the Question years ago and it brings up some powerful points about asking the right questions.

-A question frames our reality
-A question directs our focus

Tony Robbins also offers so stellar insights on the power of questions and I would recommend you check this thoughts out. I am a quote hoarder. I love quotes. I love thoughts and find the ability to simply state an insightful observation about the condition of man hypnotic.

Sadly compared to questions a quote is the fast food of cognitive dieting. It requires little from you, it is quick, and cheap. A question on the other hand has the capacity to nourish your mind cultivating you facilities to make connections that will be forever imprinted on your soul. Like I said I have a thing for questions so back to the book. Below I will share some of the insights that I really like for this writing. I will also start sharing my answer to other questions found in the Book of Mormon on Sundays.

Why Should my Heart Weep? 2Nephi 4:26

"tests make us more dependent on the Lord."

It amazes me how perfect the test of mortality is, there have been more moments in my life than I would care to admit that have broken me completely. There are scars and wounds on my body and soul that will never be fully healed in this mortal probation. I am grateful for these trials. I am grateful they have helped me see my "nothingness" and forced me to rely on the Lord. The sufferings in this life both self inflicted and otherwise will be the fuel of an eternal happiness and the refining fire of our souls.

"...there would be a time of healing, whether in this life or the next. Finally, he promised, " If you endure this test with a humble heart, there will come a time when you wouldn't trade having the use of your hand again for the important lessons you have learned from being without it." Dr. Jeffery

What Teach Ye This People? Mosiah 12:27

President Boyd K. Packer " True doctrine, understood, changes attitudes and behavior. The study of the doctrines of the gospel will improve behavior quicker than a study of the behavior will improve behavior. Preoccupation  with unworthy behavior can lead to unworthy behavior. That is why we stress so forcefully the study of the doctrines of the gospel.

Is the x factor to this behavior change the Light of Christ? Is if faith in Christ that brings us closer to our Celestial Nature? I am a self help junkie. I struggle with anxiety and depress and have sought healing more frequently from books, lectures, strategies, and "hacks" than the Lord. We would be wise to make regular passionate studying of the doctrines of the restored gospel a focal point in our lives. I believe this will give access to the spirit which will not only enlighten but also sanctify.

"To testify is to know and to declare. The gospel challenges us to be converted, which requires us to do and become." Dallin H Oaks

What a great follow up to the importance of studying. I often find myself in a trap of studying and not performing discipleship. Meaning I read and ponder but rarely but into planned deliberate action my studies. The wise and gentle Pres. Monson is the personification of the Gospel in Action. His life is one of dedicated love and service to others. I must strive to practice more doctrine principles than sit idly.

Are Ye Stripped of Pride Alama 5:28

Alma's questions about pride and envy can provide us with the opportunity to reflect on our lives and the degree to which we have eliminated pride. All of us struggle, to one degree or another with some aspect of pride.

I am under the current conclusion that pride is the driving force behind 80% of the actions we take in our lives. We are desperately trying to show off to be noticed to be appreciated. Debt, vanity, cheating, cruelty, gossiping, excess consumption are all red flags of a high level of pride. I find it interesting that the books talks about degrees of pride. It is not a simple yes, I am prideful or not I am not. We all have to seek out and eliminate the prideful parts of our nature. Such a cool way to look at pride.

What Evidence Have Ye That There is No God? Alma 30:40

Cultivate a diligent desire to know that God lives. This desire leads s to ponder on the things of heaven-to let the evidence of God all around us touch our hearts.

It is this very statement that inspired me to start this blog. The concept of cultivating righteous desires is simple and profound. What a great way to live our lives. Focusing on the wanting of Celestial Character, craving for spiritual growth and closeness with our Father. The "how" of cultivating these desire eludes me. I would love to hear others thoughts on this. Are you doing anything specifically to cultivate righteous desires? What is working? What is not?

Desires lead to actions sooner or later. I need to study this out further.

Summation questions are awesome and this book will help take your gospel study into the inner depths of the soul where the true religion dwells.