"Do our Duty; that is best; leave unto the Lord the rest."

An old poet once said,
"Who does his task from day to day

And meets whatever comes his way,

Believing God has willed it so,

Has found true greatness here below.

Who guards his post no matter where,

Believing God must need him there,

Although but lowly toil it be,

Has risen to nobility.

For great and low there is one test,

’Tis that each man shall do his best,

Who works with all the strength he can

Shall never die in debt to man."

Joseph B. Wirthlin understood this duty spoken of by this poet. He gave us this powerful truth, "When we accept duties willingly and faithfully, we find happiness. Those who make happiness the chief objective of life are bound to fail, for happiness is a by-product rather than an end in itself. Happiness comes from doing one’s duty and knowing that his life is in harmony with God and His commandments..." 

It is my testimony, that nothing in this world brings us greater happiness than fulfilling the duties that we as God's children have. After all, the greatest duty, spoken of by the Savior, is to, "love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind." (Matthew 22:37)

This may very well be my last blog post, as a full-time missionary. If so, I want it known to whoever reads this, that I know that God lives. Jesus, His Son, was a sinless sacrifice for us. I love Him. I know that the fulness of His gospel is found in this, the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. The Book of Mormon is truly, another testament of Jesus Christ. Without that testament, my testimony wouldn't be what it is. It is my prayer, as well as the will of the Father, that, "every man [and woman] [may] learn his duty, and... act in the office in which he is appointed, in all diligence." (Doctrine and Covenants 107:99) Doing so will bring us to the Savior of the world. Yall stay classy!

Elder Hill

Know it, and do it: "Converted unto the Lord"

Elder David A. Bednar, an Apostle of the Lord Jesus Christ, said, "We should know the gospel is true and be true to the gospel." In the trying time that we live in, the Lord is not just asking for soldiers who'll volunteer, He's asking for soldiers who will fight for His cause. This is undoubtedly a war, and all those who wish to take upon them the name of Christ, (Christians) have been drafted.
What is the essence of conversion? Elder Bednar describes it as, "constant devotion to the revealed truth we have received." And, "consistently being true to the gospel." It is not enough to simply know that Christ lives, and that His gospel is true, we have to stand by those principles in the heat of battle. When we find ourselves doing what we are supposed to do, ESPECIALLY when it isn't popular or practical, we can know that we are on the path to conversion.
The Apostle Paul is an outstanding example of one who was converted. He stood before rulers of both church and state, and never wavered from his testimony of Christ crucified. He was incredible! Here is the encouraging thing, though: Paul was still a mortal man. He wasn't perfect. In fact, he didn't get along with his first missionary companion, Barnabas. The scripture reads that, "the contention was so sharp between them, that they departed asunder one from the other."(Acts 15:39) But Paul was a good man who could declare, "I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith." (2 Timothy 4:7) That my friends, is a man who knew it, and did it. He was converted.
I hope that we will all, myself included, wear out our days striving to become converted to our Savior, and His gospel. Elder Bednar concludes, "And as each of us becomes more fully converted, we will strengthen our families, our friends, and our associates." I know this is true. Stay classy!
Elder Hill

The Shot Clock of Life

In a professional basketball game, the moment a team gets the ball in their possession, they have 24 seconds score a basket or else they will have to turn the ball over, or forfeit it, to the other team. The "shot clock" was introduced to basketball to increase the pace and excitement of the game. Well, life is a lot like a shot clock.

The fact of the matter is, we are all slowly expiring. Whether we like it or not, the clock is winding down. This is an important part of the great plan of our Eternal God. And because our time here is so precious, we need to make the most of it.
I love the beauties of nature, especially sunsets. The effect of a sunset lasts but for a small moment, and then the sun slips entirely behind the mountains of Idaho, or it disappears into the hills of Tennessee. Wherever it is, the beauty is often remarkable. But, a lot like the shot clock, it comes to an end.
The Gospel of Jesus Christ is the heaven sent aid that helps us make the most of this brief experience of mortality. When we are living the Savior's teachings, the 24 seconds we have with the ball in our possession, is remarkable. When the glow of our life slips behind the mountains, it will have been a beautiful sunset. I can't tell you how bad I want this to be the case in my life.
I have spoken a great deal about prophets and apostles, and about General Conference. Their words will help us make the most of our lives. Their counsel, when followed, will bring a successful life, well rooted in the Gospel of Jesus Christ. I can't tell you enough how much I love General Conference!
Well my friends, I hope that you have a wonderful week, and I invite you to resolve to try a little harder to be a little better. Every day, and every way, we get a little better. Stay classy.
Elder Hill

 

Don't let the opponent psyche you out!

I love sports, and I can at times be pretty competitive. But that is neither here nor there. In any athletic contest that arouses a high sense of competition, a successful tactic that has been used throughout the ages is called "pshyching them out." What this is, in essence, is engaging in some sort of conduct that distracts the opponent from their goal, their purpose, and their strengths. It is a scare tactic, if you will. If used successfully, even the greatest teams can be psyched into believing they are weak.
Our greatest opponent, the adversary of us all, is doing his very best to psyche us out. He is trying to convince us that we are not strong enough, or capable of accomplishing the things our Father in Heaven wants us to do. At times, we find ourselves allowing him to convince us of this. But we cannot let that happen. He will try to tell us that we are not of any worth, but our Heavenly Father is telling us otherwise; He is telling us the truth.
Prophets, who speak God's words, are telling us that we can in fact do this. We can be victorious, and we are of divine heritage. We are not ugly ducklings, but in fact majestic swans. President Dieter F. Uchtdorf in this video entitled, "Our True Identity," continues on this same topic. Click on the following link, and enjoy! (Video)
I know that we are greater than we suppose. We are on the winning team, so don't let the opponent psyche you out and keep you from performing at your very best. Stay classy.
Elder Hill
 

Heeding a prophet's counsel

Now, I don't know a lot about a lot. I'm just a young buck, but I am learning things as I go. One lesson that I am still trying to learn, is receiving counsel from someone else. At times, it is easy to graciously accept it! When it calls for me to change my course to one I never considered, it gets a bit harder. Especially if that call, is the call to repent. We as human beings, don't typically like being told what we're doing is wrong. Fair enough?
God has a will, purpose, and plan, for each of us. A lot of the time, it differs from our will or plan. Like Isaiah says, "For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, saith the Lord." (see Isaiah 55:8) It is so important for us to remember that, and say as did the Savior, "nevertheless not my will, but thine, be done." (see Luke 22:42) My question for you is this: how can we do the Father's will, if we don't know what it is? That my friends, is where prophets and the Spirit of God come in. We hear their counsel, take it to God in prayer, and by the Spirit we are taught, that that is what we must do to receive the blessings God has for us, and the path He wants us to travel. That is how we know His will, for us.
Next month, we will hear a prophet's counsel. We will hear God's will concerning us. It is our duty to take that counsel to the Father, and, surrendering our will to Him, follow that counsel. I promise you if we will, we will be so blessed for it. Have a great day, and stay classy!
Elder Hill

What is General Conference?

General Conference is amazing, and I want to help those who don't understand what it is, see why it is so amazing. It is a semiannual gathering of the Church, where the leaders of the Church speak to us the messages that God wants you and I to hear. It is held at this center (picture above) in Salt Lake City, Utah.
Have you ever wondered if God were to call an Apostle in our day, like Paul or John in their day, to write letters to the Church, what would they say? What would God command His representitives to say to the children of God? I have, and I've also seen and heard those words God has delivered to you and I, in our very day. They come in great abundance, in General Conference.
The Prophet on the earth, who is the President of the Church of Jesus Christ, will speak to us. Many of the 12 Apostles will also speak. I testify to you, their words are true, and they are from God. As you sit at their feet in an attitude of prayer and question, their words will feel deeply personal. You will find yourself saying, "Was that said just for me? Did he or she have me in mind when they prepared their words?" I have felt that. And such feelings have come because the Spirit will personalize their words, just for you.
President Dieter F. Uchtdorf of the First Presidency of the Church, said, "The words spoken at general conference should be a compass that points the way for us during the coming months." If we will follow their counsel, we will be led to that path God wants us to walk.
So how do we watch this televised event? The Church has a way cool site that gives all the details, so check it out, and if you have any questions about it, please ask! (Link to this site)
My friends, come listen to a prophet's voice this October 6th and 7th. And stay classy.
Elder Hill 

And He gave some Apostles, and some Prophets

Looking back through the Old Testament, I ask, why did God call prophets? For what purpose were these men divinely commissioned to speak, sometimes harshly, to God's beloved children? To this question I submit this which is one of many reasons: to lead God's children out of Babylon, and into Zion.
Moses was a perfect example of this. When he was called to be God's voice to Israel, the covenant people were in bondage to the paganistic Egyptians. The next almost half a century was spent bringing God's people out of Babylon, and to establish Zion. This was one of his purposes, being a prophet of God.
Today, we believe God has again called a prophet to the earth. Beginning with Joseph Smith, down through his successors who walk today upon the earth. Twice a year in a conference that is held open to the public, God's prophets call His children out of Babylon, and back into Zion. He does the very same thing Moses, Abraham, and many of the ancient prophets have done.
I want to talk more about this General Conference, and about the significance of it, but alas my time at the library is up! So, stay tuned, and stay classy.
Elder Hill

Seek, and ye shall find

The Savior has given you and I the promise, that, "Every one that asketh receiveth; and he that seeketh findeth; and to him that knocketh it shall be opened." (see Matthew 7:8) Do you really believe that? I want you to know that I do. And I trust that our Heavenly Father will, "give good things to them that ask him." (v. 11)
Joseph Smith believed that, too. He was a young man, much like you and I, who was seeking for truth. God's will concerning this young lad, was the most important thing to him. As he read in the scriptures, "If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him," (see James 1:5) he resolved that the only remedy for his confusion was an answer from God. That conclusion led to an avalanche of revelation, intertwined with divine authority. In this video, members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints describe the experience Joseph had of which I made reference to. As you watch it, think about how his feelings relate to yours.

 

I know that the experience Joseph Smith had was real. Because I believed Christ when He said, "Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you." ( see Matthew 7:7) Trust in Him, and trust that promise. Have a great day, and stay classy!

Elder Hill

The Hand was not Stayed

One of the most touching stories from the Old Testament is the account of Abraham and his son Isaac. The scriptures teach that Abraham was commanded to sacrifice his son Isaac, who came at so great a cost. And to fulfill the commandment from the Lord, the preperations were made. Abraham placed the wood in order, and bound his son upon the altar. Moments before Abraham was to sacrifice his son, the deeply welcomed order came, "Lay not thine hand upon the lad, neither do thou any thing unto him: for now I know that thou fearest God, seeing thou hast not withheld thy son, thine only son from me." (see Genesis 22:9-10,12) This touching experience is a representation of the sacrifice God the Father would make of His Son, Jesus Christ. Except, there is one difference.
Jesus Christ came into the world to take upon Him our sins, and make salvation possible to the children of God. He knew that this would require a perfect sacrifice, He being the only one capable of doing it. Even as sure as He was of this glorious plan, and of the supreme yielding of His will to His Father's, the difficulty cannot be fathomed by man. When this Son was placed upon the, figuratively speaking, altar, the hand was not stayed. No call came from the heavens to stop the excrutiatingly painful suffering and death. The Most High God of the universe, watched His Son suffer and die. At one point, He even withdrew His Spirit, leading Christ to exclaim, "My God, my God, why hast thou forsaken me? (see Mark 15:34) The late Neal A. Maxwell once stated, "I praise the Father for all that He experienced as He watched His Firstborn, His Beloved, and His Only Begotten, with whom He was well pleased, suffer all that Jesus suffered." (see full address)
I love my Savior, and will praise His name forever for all that He has done for me. I love the Father, Who sent His Son to die for us. His Atonement came at so great a cost. May we receive the fullness of the blessings and promises of that act I pray, in the name of Jesus Christ, amen. Stay classy my friends.
Elder Hill

 

Why is the Gospel the "Good News?"

As defined by the Bible Dictionary, the word gospel means good news. (See "Gospels," Bible Dictionary) So what is the "good news," and what good news does it bring to you and I?
Elder D. Todd Christofferson, an Apostle of the Lord Jesus Christ, said that, "The good news is that death is not the end of existence and our separation from God is temporary. We have a Savior, Jesus Christ, the divine Son of God, who by His Atonement has overcome death and hell..." (Full address) This "good news" is true. I know that it is. I know that Jesus Christ is our Savior, and that God has an amazing plan for our families. I don't know what greater news we could ever hear! I pray every day that someone I meet will accept our message of great tidings and glad joy.
"Although the world has troubles," said Elder Jeffrey R. Holland, "the gospel brings happiness and hope and eternity." Two thousand years ago, angels appeared to wise men, heralding the birth of Jesus Christ. (See Luke 2:8-14) Even today, angels continue to appear, adorned with black name tags, proclaiming the "good news." I encourage you to heed their message. (please visit mormon.org/missionaries) Have a great day, and stay classy.
Elder Hill

 

Being Men is more important than being Manly

A great friend of mine once said, "Often times we are more worried about being manly than being men." The man who said this, is 70 years old. Although you wouldn't know that by talking with him, or by knowing a little bit about what he does. Regardless of how manly he may be with his impressive military career, he is a man. A man of God.
Lehi, a Book of Mormon prophet, counselled his two oldest sons to, "Arise from the dust, my sons, and be men." (see 2 Nephi 1:21) My father fits what Lehi desired his sons so desperately to be. He knows his duty in the home, and he silently and most often without recognition, does it. I love him for that.
"Most importantly," declared D. Todd Christofferson, "when we consider the admonition to be men, we must think of Jesus Christ. When Pilate brought Jesus forth wearing a crown of thorns, he declared, “Behold the man!” (see John 19:4–5). Pilate may not have fully understood the significance of his own words, but the Lord indeed stood before the people then as He stands today—the highest ideal of manhood. Behold the man!""
Let us follow the admonition He gave in the New World, and be men. Even as He is. (see 3 Nephi 27:27) Stay classy.
Elder Hill

"As many as I love, I rebuke and chasten"

I love the scripture in John 3:19 that reads, "As many as I love, I rebuke and chasten: be zealous therefore, and repent." When I was in high school, my mom watched my grades like a hawk stalking a mouse in a hay field. If they dropped below her approval, I knew about it. At the time I didn't appreciate it! But now as I look back, my mom's firm stance kept my efforts honest. The results are obvious. I'm not scared to admit my mom was right! But we'll talk about this on another occasion.
God has called prophets from the days of Adam, to speak to men the Lord's rebuke, and to explain the chastening that they often received. These moments reveal the Father's love for His children. He only wants our happiness, and if we are doing things contrary to His commandments, it cannot bring the results He wants us to have. That is why He rebukes us. That is why He chastens us. He wants us to be happy! And to stand worthy of the greatest blessings He has to offer to us. I love Him, and I have such a strong testimony of this eternal truth. Have a great day, and stay classy.
Elder Hill 

Everything God does is for our good

Hello there! It's been a while since I've posted a blog. So, better late than never! This morning I read a scripture that I just have to share with anyone who is willing to listen. In the Book of Mormon, I read in Helaman chapter 12, verse 2, "...and in fine, doing all things for the welfare and happiness of his people..." It came in the middle of a lengthy verse, but when I read that I had to stop and soak it in for a minute. What did Nephi, the prophet who made the remark, mean by it?
In life we can see the hand of God in the blessings we receive. But do we look for His hand in the trials we endure? Not too often. Speaking for myself, at least. As Nephi teaches, though, all things God does is for the benefit of His children. IF, and that's a big if, we will trust in Him. It says in the verse prior to this one, "we can see that the Lord in his great infinite goodness doth bless and prosper those who put their trust in him."
I know that everything God does, is for our good. I invite you to look at your life, in prayer, and try to point out His hand. You will find it, I promise. Trust Him. He will never forsake you. My friends, have a great day! And stay classy.
Elder Hill

I want you to have a Book of Mormon

Since I have begun writing these blogs, I haven't offered too many other perspectives on the things I talk about. So today, I wanna do just that. I can assure you, I have done my best to express what the Book of Mormon: Another Testament of Jesus Christ means to me. And this video shares what this book of scripture means to this young man.

I know that the Book of Mormon is the word of God. It has changed my life forever. And will continue to do so, as long as dust never accumulates on it's cover. Jesus Christ lives. And a burning testimony of this can come or be strengthened by reading this book. If you have never read it or don't own one, I want you to have one and feast upon it's words. I invite you to go to http://mormon.org/free-book-of-mormon/ and there you can request a free copy. I promise you, from the depths of my soul, that you will not regret it. If you will sincerely read it, prayerfully, you will wish that you had found it sooner. Stay classy.

Elder Hill

My kindness shall not depart from thee

So there I was. Driving through a canyon in Idaho, at a rate of speed that would have made Dale Earnhardt Jr. tremble. Midway through my qualifying session, another vehicle approached. Who was it, you might ask? I'll give you a hint: it wasn't the Schwan's man. It was an Idaho State Trooper. He followed procedure, I submitted, and I walked away with a rather expensive date with the court system. The first thought that entered my mind was, for sure my mother would not forgive me for it. Primarily because she specifically warned me not to speed. Knowing my tendencies, she provided ample warning which I chose not to follow. What happened next, will never be forgotten. My mom forgave me.
A beloved scripture of mine comes from the words of the prophet Isaiah. It reads, "For the mountains shall depart, and the hills be removed; but my kindness shall not depart from thee." There is nothing on this planet that can seperate us from the Love of God. The Apostle Paul knew this very well. (See Romans 8:35-39) But there is one thing that can. Ourselves. God will forgive us of all of our wrongs, if we are truly repentant. We can always come back to Him. His kindness shall not depart from us, but we far too often depart from Him.
That mercy that I felt from my mother, will not be forgotten. I learned a very important lesson from that experience. And the love I felt from both of my parents, provided all the rebuking I needed. When we make a mistake, we feel that the Loving Arm of Jesus Christ cannot reach the depths to which we have sunk. How little do we know about His atoning sacrifice, if that is the case. Elder C. Scott Grow said it best, "There is no sin or transgression, pain or sorrow, which is outside of the healing power of His Atonement."
This is a truth of which I have a personal testimony of. And I give my personal witness, that there is nothing that can seperate us from the love and kindness of the Great God of the universe. Stay classy.
Elder Hill

Be still, and know that I am God

Those of you who know a little about me, know that I can quote movies like it's nobody's business. Well believe it or not, I have learned a lot from a quote found in one of my favorite movies. It goes, "Life moves pretty fast. If you don't stop and look around every once in a while, you could miss it." We find similar advice in this phrase: "Be still, and know that I am God." The first came from Ferris Buehler, and the second, from a psalmist in the word of God.
In this life, it can at times feel like a race. As we are hurrying so quickly to get to the next checkpoint, we miss the beauty and the grandeur of the path by which we are moving so rapidly down. Growing up, I knew all about this race. My sister and I kept our parents constantly engaged in our various activities, but I will never forget those moments where we were still. Pausing, if you will. Now, I'm not referring to the "pause" that the hare took in his race against the tortouise. We do not want to drop out of this race, for, His presence is what we seek at the end of it. We can't make it there if we stop moving.
Parents who pause to spend time with their children, may never fully realize what they are doing. It is in that pause that we can know that He is God, our Father, and that it is the Gospel of His Son that brings us eternal joy. I will never forget the times spent with my mom talking about whatever is on my mind. Even she at times would need to talk to me. There never seemed to be a time restraint on these moments.
Pausing allows revelation to flow, because it gives the Spirit an oppurtunity to press upon us truth. The Spirit "...speaks of things as they really are, and... as they really will be." Test this verity, and you will be amazed.
This race, is a race worth running. But it is not required "that a man should run faster than he has strength." My friends, make time to be still. Doing so will help you know God. Of this I promise. Have a great day and stay classy.
Elder Hill

We believe God. What does that mean?

What is the difference between believing in God, and believing God? Well, I'm gonna put what I believe up on the shelf. You can take it down if you want to.
An article of our faith states, "We believe all that God has revealed, all that He does now reveal, and we believe that He will yet reveal many great and important things pertaining to the Kingdom of God." In essence, we believe that what He says, is true. So when He says, "my works are without end, and also my words, for they never cease," He means it. His words never cease. That is why we believe that He will yet reveal many great and important things pertaining to the Kingdom of God.
The Apostle Paul taught the Hebrews, "Jesus Christ the same yesterday, and to day, and for ever." A prophet in the Book of Mormon adds his testimony of this eternal verity by saying, "And again I speak unto you who deny the revelations of God, and say that they are done away, that there are no revelations, nor prophecies... do we not read that God is the same yesterday, today, and forever, and in him there is no variableness neither shadow of changing?" The Old and New Testaments are proof of God's revelatory pattern to His children. He spoke to people in days of old, and He continues to do so through His servants the prophets. He never changes, and His words never cease. This is why we believe in modern-day prophets. And we believe God. In my next blog, I'm going to talk about what I mean by modern-day prophets. So, stay tuned folks. Have an awesome day! And stay classy.
Elder Hill

Who is Jesus, the Christ?

As Jesus stood before Pilate to be judged, the interrogation climaxed with the Savior's declaration, "To this end was I born, and for this cause came I into the world, that I should bear witness unto the truth. Every one that is of the truth heareth my voice." (John 18:37) Today my friends, I wish to declare this selfsame truth.
First, who is He? And to what 'end was He born?' Jesus Christ is the Son of the Living God. He was chosen in the "determinate council" and "foreknowledge of God" (Acts 2:23) to come forth and redeem the world from it's fallen state. Every aspect of the Father's plan of salvation is enabled by the suffering and death of His Son, Jesus Christ.
It is pretty safe to say that Jesus Christ is everything, am I right? Even though He is everything: the Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the end; We must know how personal He is with us. We are everything to Him. Consider the parable of the prodigal son. (Luke 15:11-32) That story was given, to teach us His incredible joy in the soul that repents and returns to God. (Doctrine and Covenants 18:13) What about the allegory of the "good Shepherd?" (John 10) He knows His "sheep" by name. He knows you, and I, by name. But it goes so much deeper than a mere acquintance.
I have written quite a few different blogs about His atonement, but I wanna tell you my personal feelings about Jesus Christ. I know that He lives. I know that He satisfied the demands of justice by standing in our place and taking upon Him all of our sins, on the conditions of repentance. I have felt His hand more than once. He has supported me and comforted me when I really needed it. He has never abandoned me, or given up on me. He stands at the right hand of the Father in celestial glory, yet, He stands at our side when we are far from it. He is the good shepherd. And He is calling after you and I all the day long. Heed is call, and come to Him. Pray to the Father with all the energy of heart, that you may realize who you are in His eyes. My faith in Him has been strengthened dramatically through the scriptures. Especially the Book of Mormon. If you want to have engraven on your soul the reality and divinity of Jesus Christ, I invite you to read it prayerfully. My testimony of Him doesn't stand alone. Hear also the testimony of modern day Apostles and Prophets. The Living Christ: The Testimony of the Apostles. I love you all, and I love our Savior Jesus Christ. True, He is everything. But He is my everything, too. Stay classy.
Elder Hill

Who is God, the Father?

So there I was, immersed in the scriptures, like always, and I found something interesting that I wanted to share with you all. The thing that I learned, can be illustrated in the Book of Mormon as well as the Holy Bible.
Today, I wanna share it out of the Book of Mormon. In Alma chapter 22, there is a story about a missionary named Aaron, and his teaching the king of that land. As he began teaching the king, the first question he asked was, "Believest thou that there is a God?" (v.7) The king's response is, "I know that the Amalekites say that there is a God..." This man, did not fully understand his relationship with God, the Father, or His Son Jesus Christ. Aaron goes on to teach him, expounding the scriptures, and testifying by the power of the Holy Ghost that God lives. The king, after receiving this truth, prayed to the Father, "O God... wilt thou make thyself known unto me, and I will give away all my sins to know thee..." (v.18) This man would do anything to know God. Do we feel the same way?
Who is God, the Father? A modern-day Apostle, Elder Quentin L. Cook, taught, "God the Father is the Supreme Governor of the universe, the Power that gave us spiritual being, and the Author of the plan that gives us hope and potential. He is our Heavenly Father, and we lived in His presence as part of His family in the premortal life." He goes on to say, "The purpose of all that the Father has revealed, commanded, and initiated for the inhabitants of earth is to help us come to know Him, emulate Him, and become like Him so we can return to His holy presence." Sound like life eternal? Knowing the only true God, and Jesus Christ whom He has sent? (John 17:3)
In what I am going to say next, I do not for a second want it to be interpreted that I am demeaning the doctrine of another faith. Nor would I dare disrespect them. That is not what the Savior would do. But I must share what I believe, and why I believe it. "We do not accept the Athanasian Creed. We do not accept the Nicene Creed, nor any other creed based on tradition and the conclusions of men," said President Gordon B. Hinckley, the late President and Prophet of the Church.
And why do we not? Because God is not a mystery. He doesn't want to be. "How are we to trust, love, worship, to say nothing of strive to be like, One who is incomprehensible and unknowable?" (Elder Jeffrey R. Holland) Remember, life eternal is KNOWING God. Knowing our relationship with Him.
We gain a witness of this truth, by praying in faith to our Heavenly Father, and receiving a confirmation from the Holy Spirit.
Like I said before, my intentions are not to prove others wrong. I wish, as did Aaron, to help others realize their relationship with the Most High God. He lives. His Son, Jesus Christ, stands at His right hand. Both, in resplendent glory. I hope to hear some feedback! And for my next blog, I'm going to write about who Jesus Christ is. Stay tuned! Same time, same channel. Stay classy.
Elder Hill

see also:
 http://www.lds.org/general-conference/2007/10/the-only-true-god-and-jesus-christ-whom-he-hath-sent?lang=eng&query=only+true+god
http://www.lds.org/liahona/2012/02/the-doctrine-of-the-father?lang=eng&query=doctrine+father
http://www.lds.org/general-conference/1998/10/what-are-people-asking-about-us?lang=eng&query=people+asking

"The Holy Ghost... bring[s] all things to your remembrance."

It has once been said, that God gave us memory so that we could have roses in winter. Ohh man is this true! Winter in Kentucky and Tennessee is so dull and lifeless. But after a quick stroll through our internal archives, we can call to remembrance the beauty of this so-called "God's country," and we have great reason to rejoice. As one of many aspects and blessings that flow from the Holy Ghost, this principle I have a strong testimony of.
The Lord told His disciples that the Holy Ghost will, "bring all things to your remembrance." (John 14:26) The Lord also told Enoch, that the Holy Ghost deals with "the peaceable things of immortal glory." (Moses 6:61) So after reading these 2 verses, we are taught that the Spirit of God will bring to our remembrance, the feelings and peace of immortal glory. The peace that we feel when the Spirit is present, is a foretaste of eternal joy. It is also a glimpse of what it felt like to be in the presence of our Heavenly Father and Savior Jesus Christ.
If the thought of roses helps us get through the bone chilling cold and gloom of winter, then it is my firm belief that the fruits of the Spirit can get us through the overcast days of mortality. I have felt this before, many times. And it is truly amazing. Our lives are not all spent in the climate of southern California. There will be winters, on occasion. But with the memory of eternal joy, the 'roses' of immortal glory, we can get through them and find joy therein. It is my prayer that we will feast upon the fruits of the Spirit. Leave me some comments and share a few examples of this in your life! But if anything, have a great day. And stay classy.
Love Elder Hill 

Teachers Without a Desk

I really didn't know what to write about today. So as I was sitting here, I couldn't help but overhear an employee here at the library instruct a few people from the community how to use a computer. These select few, it is safe to say, are computer illiterate. But here they are! Resolving to learn how to use these marvelous devices. To many, this would appear to be a bit foolish with their vast comprehension of how to use these contraptions. But there are still scores of people who don't know how to use them. Such it is in the Kingdom of God.
With the Gospel of Jesus Christ, there are many things that are easy to comprehend or come naturally for most folks. The principles of the Gospel are to some, as easy as booting up a computer and logging on to Facebook. While on the other side, there are those who still don't know where the power button is located.
That is the genius of this life. All around us are teachers, men and women of God, who teach others whether by their actions or by their words. Instructors, if you will. Which is wonderful! For we are all students in this school called life.
It is up to us, to teach and assist others along this journey. Especially the children of today's generation. Many obstacles lay in store for them. They need to be taught the principles of the Gospel, high morals, standards, and a whole lot more! If you think about it, isn't that why God placed His spirit children in the hands of His spirit children? Someone who is a little seasoned in the ways of mortality? It is all a part of the divine program.
I realize that I am not yet a father, a husband, or the head of any family. But I do know the magnitude of the things my own parents have taught me. It doesn't stop there, either. I have had so many leaders in the Church who I have learned so much from. They have helped get me to where I am today. People who are not of my faith have left their mark on my life, as well. I will be forever grateful for all of them.
My friends, I hope you see the impact you will have on others. Each day thousands of teaching oppurtunities will arise. What are you going to do with them? We know what the Savior would do. I love you all! Have a great day, and look for oppurtunities to teach others around you! Stay classy.
Elder Hill 

The Lord always sends us battle buddies

When we left the presence of our Heavenly Father, He never wanted us to journey through this world alone. We need support, encouragement, and often times guidance from those around us. That is, in part, why Eve was given to Adam. "It is not good that the man should be alone." (Genesis 2:18)
For those times that I get a wild hair and want to exercise, I need a workout buddy. Someone to push me and keep me from dropping the bar and darn near killing myself.
In the military, a soldier will have a battle buddy to watch his back and give him the strength that he needs. Well, throughout our lives, the Lord gives us battle buddies.
The Book of Mormon gives an account of a man named Amulek. Amulek tells us, "I am also a man of no small reputation among all those who know me; yea, and behold, I have many kindreds and friends, and I have also acquired much riches by the hand of my industry." (Alma 10:4) In other words, he was a pretty popular guy! Not only that, but he grew up as a follower of Jesus Christ. His father was a "believer," so consequently that is what he was familiar with. Nevertheless, he wasn't a righteous man. One day, an angel appeared to him and said, "Amulek, return to thine own house, for thou shalt feed a prophet of the Lord; yea, a holy man, who is a chosen man of God." (vs.7) This man, was Alma, a prophet. Amulek obeyed the angel's command, and so began the history of these two amazing missionaries.
Alma was sent to Amulek, among other reasons, to save him from his wicked ways. The Lord knew what Amulek was capable of, and sent one who could help him reach it. These two men of God proved to be the dynamic duo of the Book of Mormon.
I can think of a few "Alma's" in my life that the Lord has sent to me. One of which is my best friend, who is on a mission in Russia. He has saved me on more than one occasion, and has been a huge strength to me. He is a man of God. And I will be eternally grateful for him.
On the other side of the coin, the Lord will call upon you to be an "Alma" for someone else. We must respond to the call without hesitation. So I will end where I began. Our Heavenly Father never intended for us to do this alone. We all need a battle buddy. And there will always be someone who needs us to be their "Alma." That is what the Savior of the world would do. I love you all. Stay classy.
Elder Hill

Parents: a light to the world

I absolutely love my family! They are awesome and I will be forever grateful for them! On earth, family associations can be the source of some of our greatest joy. Mine most certainly is! Satan is attacking the family on many fronts, and too many families are being destroyed by his efforts. We believe that families are ordained of God. And as such, they have a vital role in our Heavenly Father's plan.
The Book of Mormon contains so many stories about the influence of parents on their children. A Prophet named Nephi stated, "having been born of goodly parents, therefore I was taught somewhat in all the learning of my father." (1 Nephi 1:1) Nephi was an incredible man who was a vital instrument in the hands of the Lord, many times. Another man named Enos, stated that his father was a just man, who taught him in the 'nurture and admonition of the Lord.' (Enos 1:1) Enos had an incredible trust in the Lord, and did so much good for his people.
Parents, if you think we, your children, don't remember the things you have said to us countless times, consider this example: "And it came to pass that as I was thus racked with torment, while I was harrowed up by the memory of my many sins, behold, I remembered to have heard my father prophesy unto the people concerning the coming of one Jesus Christ, a Son of God, to atone for the sins of the world." (Alma 36:17) Remembering the things his father, Alma, had taught him about Christ, he was able to pull through the dispair he was in. He clung to the words his father had said to him. Parents, we need your counsel and your testimonies. There will be days where we have nowhere else to fall, but on your faith.
Now moms, you have a huge impact too! Consider this example: "Now they never had fought, yet they did not fear death; and they did think more upon the liberty of their fathers than they did upon their lives; yea, they had been taught by their mothers, that if they did not doubt, God would deliver them." (Alma 56:47)

God has established families to bring happiness to His children, allow them to learn correct principles in a loving atmosphere, and prepare them for eternal life. We are here, together, for a reason. The Gospel of Jesus Christ enables us to understand the roll we have in this divine social unit. Parents truly are a light to the world. At least, to their family. The world needs more parents who will not put their light 'under a bushel, but on a candlestick.' So that it may give 'light unto all that are in the house.' (Matthew 5:15) I love you all. Stay classy.

Elder Hill 

It rains on the just and the unjust alike

So there I was, semi-reclined back in a magnificent sofa, it was about 8:00 o'clock, and I had a box of crackers at my side (Special K to make me feel good about myself.) In this blissful moment, I found myself reading the Sermon on the Mount, found in Matthew chapter 7. I've read it countless times, but this time something stood out to me that never really has before.
The Savior gives a short allegory about two men: a wise man, and a foolish man. So who are these fellas and what happens to them? "Whoso heareth these sayings of mine, and doeth them, I will liken him unto a wise man, which built his house upon a rock: And the rain descended, and the floods came, and the winds blew, and beat upon that house; and it fell not: for it was founded upon a rock." (Matt 7:24-25) The wise man here, built his life on Jesus Christ and His teachings. The foolish man didn't harken to the Savior's counsel, and he 'built his house upon the sand.' Well, "the rain descended, and the floods came, and the winds blew, and beat upon that house; and it fell: and great was the fall of it." (verse 27)
What stood out to me this morning, that I guess never has before, was this: both of them were battered by the elements! Even the wise man had to face the intense adversities! The Spirit then wispered to me, we can't control the elements, but we can choose where we build. He, "sendeth rain on the just and on the unjust." (Matt 5:45)
I have a firm testimony of the promise given by Helaman, a Book of Mormon prophet, to his sons: "when the devil shall send forth his mighty winds, yea, his shafts in the whirlwind, yea, when all his hail and his mighty storm shall beat upon you, it shall have no power over you to drag you down to the gulf of misery and endless wo, because of the rock upon which ye are built, which is a sure foundation, a foundation whereon if men build they cannot fall." (Helaman 5:12)
This topic is something I have discussed before, but I have never looked at in this light. Even when we are closer to the Lord than we have ever been before, these trials come. Be patient, and stand firm on that foundation. He will deliver you. We must learn to dance in the rain. Have a great day and stay classy my friends.
Elder Hill

In the mouth of two or three witnesses shall every word be established.

I wanna pose a question to all of you, that I have been asked SO many times. If we have the Bible, why do we need the Book of Mormon? Well, I wanna give you one of the many answers that I know for this question. I will do so by an illustration given by Elder Tad R. Callister.
"How many straight lines can you draw through a single point on a piece of paper? The answer is infinite. For a moment, suppose that single point represents the Bible and that hundreds of those straight lines drawn through that point represent different interpretations of the Bible and that each of those interpretations represents a different church.

What happens, however, if on that piece of paper there is a second point representing the Book of Mormon? How many straight lines could you draw between these two reference points: the Bible and the Book of Mormon? Only one. Only one interpretation of Christ’s doctrines survives the testimony of these two witnesses."

My friends, God doesn't want us to be confused about what is expected of us. There is but one way we follow the Son of the Living God. Only one Gospel of Jesus Christ. If God was casual or lenient about the scripture's interpretation, how easy would it be for the enemy of us all to carefully lead us away and grasp us with his everlasting chains?

"In the mouth of two or three witnesses (The Bible and the Book of Mormon) shall every word be established." (2 Cor. 13:1) The path has been marked. Marked, by the feet of Him who has trodden the wine press. With this duo, there are no questions as to where He walked.

I wanna hear some feedback so please, let me know what you think or if you have any questions!

Stay classy.

Elder Hill

For the full adress see http://www.lds.org/general-conference/2011/10/the-book-of-mormon-a-book-from-god?lang=eng

Consistency = Courage

The scriptures contain so many incredible stories about courage. David and Goliath, Daniel in the lion's den, Paul before the Sanhedrin, even our Savior's suffering and death is a story of courage and triumph. Well, I wanna talk to you about a little known story and how it fits with our lives. Put your study sweats on, this is gonna be great.
The Book of Mormon gives an account of a wicked man named King Noah, and his incredible lack of courage. As his city is being overtaken by the enemy, he runs for his life like a deer before a speeding Geo Metro. In the process, he tells all of the men in the city to leave their families and flee with him! The scripture reads, "Now there were many that would not leave them, but had rather stay and perish with them." (Mosiah 19:12) How many of us would exhibit such courage? I think most of us! Especially if our families were involved. Well, how many of us do the little, daily things to provide protection for our family?
Said Thomas S. Monson, the President of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, " Courage becomes a worthwhile and meaningful virtue when it is regarded not so much as a willingness to die manfully but as a determination to live decently."
I challenge YOU to determine to live decently and to demand improvement. Consistent effort is a sign of true courage. I would love to hear some feedback so please leave some comments! Have a great day, my friends. And show the Lord your courage. Stay classy.
Love Elder Hill

See http://lds.org/liahona/2012/01/living-the-abundant-life?lang=eng for a related adress.