I figured I would get us started on this.... here we go
3 Nephi 1:18 -- "They knew that the prophets had testified of these things for many years... and they began to fear because of their inquity and their unbelief".
Think of it: The most glorious sign that could have ever been given, the pronouncement of the birth of our Lord, and there are individuals who are fearing! Clearly, signs from heaven don't incite fear. In fact, there are probably a LOT of people who are rejoicing! It is a wonderful day! The sign has been fulfilled! Their faith is verified! Praise the Lord! However, the reason for the fearful few is given... they fear because of "iniquity and...unbelief".
Lesson I learned: When we sin, righteous actions/events/consequences make us afraid. For example, Adam, who was communicating directly with our Father in Heaven (a GOOD thing) became AFRAID to communicate only after he sinned. He hid himself. If he wasn't sinning, he would have received the Lord with gladness. Another example: The righteous couple happily married rejoice to find out they are expecting a new child. The sinful, iniquitous sleezeballs who find out they are expecting are naturally...Afraid. Shocked. Nervous. Frightened. Angry.
We need not fear. We need to trust. Be optimistic. Be confident. Be faithful. Fear is not in the mind of God. It is a direct fruit of SIN and UNBELIEF. Faith, on the other hand, is a direct result of righteousness and obedience. Fear is of the adversary. Paul understood this:
"For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind".
- 2 Timothy 1:7
I loved that post Cliff! I totally agree. People only fear the good because they know they are not worthy.
ReplyDeleteWe were out of town for a week in Danville, and I just got your email about this challenge. I am excited and hope I can study the BOM and finish it by Christmas. What a great idea! Love you Cliff!!