Sunday Report

Dear Sisters,
Here we are in  the third month of the new decade.  Who says time doesn't fly!

Sunday's Lesson given by Nicole Hill presented inspiring messages from two conference talks both of which are well worth rereading:  Hold On by Sister Ann Dibb and Safety for the Soul by Elder Jeffrey R. Holland of the Quorum of the Twelve. 
Sister Dibb  spoke of the often difficult experiences that are a part of our mortal probation which is our opportunity to prove ourselves by the wise exercise of our agency.  We are often dealing with challenges, experiencing problems and disappointments temptations and uncertainties and fears all of which have been foretold by prophets ancient and modern.  We learn and grow by overcoming challenges with faith , persistence and personal righteousness. We have the right to rely on our Heavenly Father who has promised to bless us and even turn our supposed weaknesses into strengths.  He has not left us alone  and has given us numerous aids such as prayer, scriptures and living prophets to help us as well as the incomparable gift of the Holy Ghost.  We must choose to use these aids.  The iron rod of Lehi"s dream is offered that we might find our way to eternal life  The iron rod, the word of God, comes from prophets  words which warn and teach and encourage truth, whether they were spoken in 600BC or the 21st century.Hold fast to iron rod and believe that Heavenly Father will bless you for your diligence.  Elder Holland used his talk to voice a mighty and moving testimony of the keystone of our religion, which will be a protection and a strength in a time of latter-day ills.  The Book of Mormon which begins and ends with the message of love, healing, help and hope which is so badly needed for the days of trial and despair that we face.  Nephi and Moroni and the Prophet Joseph all bore witness of the saving healing power of this great scripture brought to our day literally out of the dust.  Two wrote the words of the Lord to their day, and the third translated them and brought them to the restored Church that we might have this added testimony of Christ, that we might know to whom we may look for a remission of our sins and and example of how we must navigate the murky and dangerous waters of mortality and be worthy to gain eternal life.  This divine record brings peace to the human heart.  Elder Holland wanted all to know of his abiding testimony of the truthfulness of the book that came forth just the way Joseph Smith said it did and was given to bring happiness and hope to the faithful in the travail of the latter days.  God always provides safety for the soul and the Book of Mormon does that for this dispensation that we might not be deceived.  
Be diligent in your  study of the word of God, especially the Book of Mormon and you will feel of its power and strength
The Relief Society Presidency