Understanding the Book of Mormon’s Translation

an image of a wooden ball on a cloth surface

Though translating with a seer stone may seem odd, what matters most is that the Book of Mormon was translated by the power of God. Never-before-seen pictures of Joseph Smith’s first seer stone are found in “Joseph the Seer” in the October 2015 Ensign and Liahona. Assistant Church Historian Richard… Continue reading

Is What You’re Feeling Guilt or Shame?

an image of a statue of a man sitting on a rock

We expect to feel guilt when we sin, since we know that godly sorrow is essential to true repentance. But is it possible that we mistake shame for guilt? Guilt is a universal emotion. But for religious people, feelings of guilt can escalate because we believe that we have not… Continue reading

Come, Follow Me: Make Your Life A Parable

Shepherd tending his flock on a misty afternoon

Christ’s parables exemplify everyday people who experience common challenges and changes in their lives. Upon reflection, we may find that our own lives can become a parable. Throughout both the Old and New Testaments, parables illustrate how gospel principles can apply to the lives of ordinary people. For example, the… Continue reading

Choosing to Be on the Lord’s Side

an image of a drawing of a village with people walking around

We can choose to be on the Lord’s side by following our Church leaders, which will ready us for the important lesson of being tested, sifted, and prepared. In 1834, Joseph Smith received a revelation to create Zion’s Camp, an army of volunteers dedicated to protecting early members of The… Continue reading

Healing from Addiction

Hand reaching to the sun through the trees

When pornography addiction makes us feel broken, we can find healing through the Atonement of Jesus Christ. When a plague of fiery serpents befell the ancient Israelites, the Lord gave Moses a solution: make a serpent of brass, fix it to a pole, then invite those who have been bitten… Continue reading

Rain-Filled Boots: What Is the Meaning of Life?

Rainy window

“It was as if the spirit said to me, ‘Did you expect this earthly journey not to have struggles?’” —Richard J. Anderson When my trainer completed her mission and went home, suddenly the fire and drive I had as a new missionary vanished, and I was acutely aware of how… Continue reading

Career or Motherhood: You Can Do Both

Woman being embraced by her children while sitting in front of her laptop.

Women frequently think they have to choose either a career or motherhood, but they can enjoy both with support from those around them. The world often insists that women need to raise their children from home, but the world also claims that women fall short of their full potential if… Continue reading

3 Tips to Help You Stay Afloat Mentally

Girl floating in boat on water

When the weight of life is pulling you under water, remember that there are always buoys that can lift you up. Here are three tips to help you stay afloat when you’re drowning mentally. As a college student—especially during the COVID-19 pandemic—I often find myself drowning in everything I have… Continue reading

7 Strategies for Tackling Tough Spiritual Questions

an image of a man climbing a rock on a mountain

We shouldn’t be afraid to ask tough questions, but we should expect to work hard for a good answer. All Latter-day Saints can expect to face difficult questions regarding the Church and its history. Many people struggle with topics such as gay marriage and polygamy. Most people also have personal… Continue reading

3 Mistakes to Avoid When Loved Ones Reject the Gospel

an image of a couple sitting in chairs at sunset

We must accept that each child of God has agency and will choose a unique path. It’s painful to see close friends or family reject the gospel, especially if they once had a strong testimony. However, if we have an extremely negative reaction, we can push our loved ones further… Continue reading