War, Politics, and Power of the Book of Mormon

an image of a painting of a man in armor holding a flag

The Book of Mormon includes details and principles of war that would have been impossible for young Joseph Smith to make up. Although the Book of Mormon was published by Joseph Smith, a young man with little education and no war experience, it is remarkably accurate in its portrayal of… Continue reading

New Perspectives: Women in Church History

young woman talking and smiling with an older woman

Women throughout the Church’s history have shared new perspectives that we can benefit from today. When we explore the unique voices of women throughout history, we can increase our understanding and change our perceptions. What happens when this refreshing outlook is explored in the context of Church history? In the… Continue reading

The Creation Account and the Seed in Alma’s Sermon

yellow flowers in a valley

If you don’t think of Genesis 1–2 when you read Alma 32, you’re missing powerful Creation imagery that emphasizes fundamental Christian teachings. The sermon on faith in Alma 32 is among the most iconic passages found in the Book of Mormon. In it we read that God’s word is a seed… Continue reading

Seeing Samson as a Messianic Prototype

an image of a painting of a man standing on a pillar

Archaeological digs have uncovered mosaics and prayers suggesting Samson as an important messianic prototype in ancient Galilee. Samson of the Old Testament is revered for his strength and wit in his endeavors to deliver Israel from the Philistines. But his affair with Delilah made the biblical judge a controversial character,… Continue reading

Learning from an Outside View of Mormonism

Three women laughing on a park bench

A university professor tells what helps non-LDS students of Mormonism to gain a more accurate and nuanced understanding of the faith. When Dr. Laurie F. Maffly-Kipp teaches her Mormon studies class at the University of North Carolina, she uses the study of Mormonism as a model that can be applied… Continue reading

Can Christ Really Heal ME?

Crowded stairwell.

Jesus Christ has the power to provide healing and relief regardless of the trials we face. Life can be hard for many reasons. Some people suffer from mental illness, addiction, financial burdens, death, or even familial burdens. Everyone struggles and needs help to persevere through life. Sister Carole M. Stephens, then… Continue reading

Understanding Instead of Fixing: Mourning with Those That Mourn

an image of a woman sitting on a couch with her head in her hands

When others are sad, we want to take their sorrow away. But we need to try to understand their feelings rather than try to fix them.  When other people feel sad, our instincts tell us that we need to somehow make them happy again. Our society views sadness as a disease that… Continue reading

Diary of a Soon-to-Be Mother

pregnant woman with hand on stomach

With two more semesters to go before my college graduation, my husband and I discovered that I was pregnant. How could I do what the Lord wanted while fulfilling my own goals? As a young woman, I always had a fear that I wouldn’t get married or have a family. But… Continue reading

3 Dos and Don’ts for Asking Effective Questions

a teacher in a gospel class, in spanish

Do you use effective questions when teaching the gospel at church or at home? Imagine you are in Sunday School. Your teacher wants the discussion to go a certain direction that works with his or her notes, but also wants to ask a question to get people involved. In order to drive the discussion,… Continue reading

4 Tips to Be Single and Happy

an image of a woman holding a bunch of flowers on a city street

Being single can be discouraging. But Professor Michael A. Goodman recommends four ways we can live a rewarding life while we continue to date.   Let’s say you’re single. No one is asking you on dates, or those you do ask never seem interested. It’s easy to become discouraged and even question… Continue reading