I appreciate all the kind comments and support of my blog - it really has increased my testimony of what the Spirit has been teaching me, and has reminded me of how awesome the Latter Day Saint community is. You all are truly a blessing with your thoughts, ideas, words of wisdom, and pearls that you have shared. Thank you!
First, I would like to share what comments I was able to save that I feel will add great value to part 2 of this topic, then I will get into additional gems that the Spirit has shown me, and from there I will share my own personal thoughts and opinions.
Comments
Probably the most intriguing comment that came in (on a facebook post), was a shared experience that really touched me and for some reason I have not since been able to find it, the commenter may have deleted it. It was from a woman who said she had just sold her home and was moving to Missouri. She and her family had just gone out that day to look at the land they had purchased. While there, she had a special experience in which a spirit visited her who had been a part of the mobs that persecuted and killed the saints in that area so many years ago. He was seeking forgiveness and apologized for what he had done on their land. She forgave him and assisted him in his healing and moving on. After this experience had happened she came across my article on the eclipse and received some special confirmations from the spirit of the sacredness of that area. I appreciated her sharing this pearl.
Another commenter shared,
"This weekend is also the Perseid meteor shower. It happens every year at this time. However, this year there are many more "shooting stars" than ever before in recorded history. The gibbus moon made it difficult to see, (as did the cloud cover in Utah) but, they happened. I've been thinking a lot about these three Heavenly signs in this 6 week period of time for quite awhile. It is definitely significant and a sign of the times. The meteor shower makes it appear that stars are falling from the sky. But what hit me just yesterday is that these falling stars appear to originate from the constellation Persius. He is a likeness of Christ. He holds Medusa's head, who is a likeness of Satan, showing that He ultimately triumphs over the devil. I haven't finished your blog, so I'm not sure if you mentioned this. But, where X marks the spot, looking at the earth it crosses in Missouri, but looking up to the stars it crosses over Medusa..."
...followed by another commenter:
"I just had the same thought occur to me this week and was telling my husband about it tonight - that the meteor shower comes from Perseus, and is even named after that constellation. My mind connected the dots to that constellation being a symbol of Christ and the meteor shower's origin being symbolic as well. Very cool to see when others are having the same thoughts at the same time."
This comment came in from a Jewish convert:
Very interesting. As a Jewish convert to the Church, and having lived in Israel over a long period of time, your "Jewishisms" are pretty good. I disagree, however, with the idea that Kolob may refer to the word "dog" and therefore the dog star. Since Kolob is written in English, it's impossible to know which "K" sound the word uses in Hebrew. There are several. But the first syllable is probably 'kol' which means 'all' or 'fullness.' The B in Hebrew is soft without a dot in the middle and becomes 'V.' With a dot in the center of the bet, it becomes the hard B. The 'ob' sound in Kolob is probably 'av,' which means father. Kobob probably means "Fullness of the Father," not celeb, which means dog.
More About Kolob
Several Mormon authors have attempted to situate Kolob within modern astronomy. Skousen speculated that Kolob is a star at the Galactic Center, Sagittarius A*, of our own Galaxy. This view also had the support of several former general authorities of the LDS Church, including J. Reuben Clark and George Reynolds (with Janne M. Sjödahl). In the mid-19th century, early efforts to find a single "central sun" in the galaxy resulted in failure.
Another Mormon author has hypothesized that Kolob exists outside the Milky Way Galaxy at a place called the "metagalactic center", and that this galaxy and other galaxies rotate around it. Within mainstream astronomy, the idea of a metagalactic center was once assumed, but has been abandoned because on large scales, the expanding universe has no gravitational center.
Another Mormon author has speculated that Kolob is Polaris.
As I looked into Polaris (the North Star), I discovered it was used by sailors and journey men who navigated by the Heavenly Host. This is where it starts to get interesting with the star Polaris. Some of the names that were given to Polaris were "The Pathway", "Gate of Heaven", or like the Chinese called it “The Great Imperial Ruler of Heaven”. The star Polaris is located in Ursa Minor Constellation. The Kabbalists associate URSA MINOR with the Hebrew letter Tau. The Tau is the 22nd last letter of the Hebrew Alphabet and is associated with the Alpha and The Omega, The Beginning and The End.
J.R. Church from Prophecy in the news wrote, “Long before the constellation became a bear, it was pictured as a sheepfold. It represents heaven, the place where the Great Shepherd keeps His sheep”. He also writes that, “There is a star in the constellation called Kochab, meaning “waiting for the coming;” another star, Alkaid, means “the assembled;” and yet another, Alpherkdain, means “the redeemed assembly.” So Ursa Minor tells a story of a “redeemed assembly” who are “waiting for the coming” of The Great Imperial Ruler of Heaven.
Astronomers have discovered that Polaris, the North Star, is getting brighter. They say the star has suddenly reversed two decades of dimming. It is expanding at more than 100 times the rate they expected – and no one is sure why.
A team led by Scott Engle of Villanova University in Pennsylvania recalibrated historic measurements of Polaris by Ptolemy in 137 C.E., the Persian astronomer Al-Sufi in 964 C.E., and others. They investigated the fluctuations of the star over the course of several years, combing through historical records and utilising the Hubble Space Telescope. The team found that Polaris is 2.5 times brighter today than in Ptolemy’s time, which they say is a remarkable rate.
The single star we see as Polaris, which actually consists of a main star and two smaller companion stars in a triple star system, is a variable star. Interesting that 3 stars represents one!
The title of the brightest star in the Earth's night sky happens to belong to Sirius. It is easy to spot because three prominent Belt stars in the constellation Orion (three stars in a short, straight row) always point to it. Also known as the "Dog Star", reflecting its prominence in its constellation, Canis Major (Greater Dog). The heliacal rising of Sirius marked the flooding of the Nile in Ancient Egypt and the "dog days" of summer for the ancient Greeks, while to the Polynesians in the Southern Hemisphere, the star marked winter and was an important reference for their navigation around the Pacific Ocean.
In Dogon (an African tribe) mythology, they believe god (Nommos) came from a planet in that system. The Nommo divided his body among men to feed them; that is why it is also said that as the universe "had drunk of his body," the Nommo also made men drink. He gave all his life principles to human beings."They also believe, the Nommo was crucified and resurrected and in the future will again visit the Earth.
A few years ago I remember coming across an interesting passage in a book. I wanted to cite the book but after tirelessly searching for two days, I have not been able to find any trace of it online or in my library. I have read many scanned, archived journals and diaries of the early saints that have not yet been transcribed into searchable text and wonder if I might have found it there. If this rings a bell and someone can shed some light on where this reference can be sited, please, please, comment below.
As I remember, it was a story of a family of early saints who had taken the prophet Joseph in for refuge one night. They served him dinner and gave him a place to sleep. To thank them for their hospitality he offered to discuss with them anything that might be on their minds or hearts regarding the mysteries of God. The husband and wife asked to know where God dwells. Joseph walked out to the front porch and pointed up at the night sky and said, "Do you see the brightest star in the sky right there?" They nodded in which he replied, "Do you see that star right next to it?" They nodded and he replied, "That's the place where God dwells."
I quoted this to the best of my memory, but would feel much more confident sharing it by having the actual source to verify. Take it with a grain of salt, however I found it interesting this afternoon when I came across this fact - the star next to Sirius is a lovely star cluster called Messier 41 or M41. This cluster lies about four degrees almost exactly south of Sirius. It is sometimes also called the Little Beehive, after the other famous Beehive star cluster (M44), also an open cluster, in the constellation Cancer. I thought of the State of Utah - also known as the Beehive state, and had to chuckle.
If Kolob is the closest star to the throne of God, and if the above statement is accurate, it's possible that Sirius could be Kolob. It's certainly fascinating to consider all the possibilities. For more information on astronomy and prophecy fulfillment - you might really enjoy this post I wrote in 2015 titled, A Modern Sign in the Heavens. I wrote it right after witnessing in the night sky an incredible prophecy fulfillment of the Savior's return.
Additional Christian Prophecies
A few commenters have expressed their anger towards Trump and believe he is a punishment or curse for America. I thought the following prophecies might help shed some light on what I believe to be Trump's role in these last days.
1 Verily, thus saith the Lord unto you concerning the Apocrypha—There are many things contained therein that are true, and it is mostly translated correctly;
2 There are many things contained therein that are not true, which are interpolations by the hands of men.
3 Verily, I say unto you, that it is not needful that the Apocrypha should be translated.
4 Therefore, whoso readeth it, let him understand, for the Spirit manifesteth truth;
5 And whoso is enlightened by the Spirit shall obtain benefit therefrom;
6 And whoso receiveth not by the Spirit, cannot be benefited. Therefore it is not needful that it should be translated. Amen.
A book was referenced, A Remnant Shall Return by Michael Rush as a suggested read from an LDS perspective on this prophecy. I had planned to read this book earlier in the year but have not yet found the time. I'd love to hear thoughts from anyone who has read it. From what I have gathered, it suggests that Barack Obama may be the last president to serve a full term in office. Michael's theory contradicts a prophecy I heard last year from a non-LDS woman (Kat Kerr) who had prophesied along with many others beginning in 2016 that Trump would be the next president of the United States. She even prophesied exactly how it would happen and the prophecy was fulfilled down to every detail just as she had said.
Kat Kerr
Kat Kerr is very bold in her speaking style and not what most people are used to - and therefore may not be your cup of tea per se, but I didn't want to leave anything off the table that could add to this topic. The story behind why she has pink hair is a must hear. Keep in mind that because she is not LDS, her theology differs from Mormon Theology. However, she emphasizes many times the importance of not persecuting other religions as she teaches they all have a purpose in God's Kingdom.
" I will not curse nor judge America but I will judge and remove the current Administration that is leading America Into Darkness. America is a Christian nation because I have made America a Light & a Gift to the nations. It belongs to Me!! I will put someone in office who will establish justice freedom and liberty for America and the people of America and my people who have been crying out to Me, to heal their land."
On March 5th 2016 (my birthday) she said,
"The next American President will be a Strong leader who is an 'All - American boy' who will be 'All for America' and is passionate about it! He is already a Leader of Leaders"
"He will not befriend America's enemies nor will he fear them, but will help Ameica's longtime Friends and he will restore a strong military base to protect and defend".
"Over the next couple days, God will continue to share about the next President and what type of team will develop in the next administration and how important they will be to His plans for America and the next generation and beyond. This is the Father's time to be seen and heard through the Believers and those who will become Believers, so lay down your opinions, stop blasting the candidates and PRAY that God has His way above all else. On earth as it is in Heaven is already here, do not let your flesh interefere and miss being a part of tremendous restoration and Blessings!
PS. I will still love you even if you decide against God's choice, but I am irrevocably on His team as His Love for me has totally won me!"
"P.S.S. The Father just said, "Stop fighting about it and agree that His Will, His way be done. You may have your own opinions, but do not allow them to turn into wrath. You will be quite surprised who the Presidential nominee picks for his running mate (a most unexpected pair); and they will 'balance' what areas they both need help in. Together they will be unbeatable and make a loud sound, because I have chosen them and I know what they are now and what they will become."
"May all who read have their spiritual eyes and ears open to hear what the Father and the Spirit and the Son is saying and doing to answer the cries of their hearts!!"
"God told me He would NEVER allow another to take the presidency away from Trump and that some who try to attack Trump may be 'removed' permanently!"
On March 6th 2016 she said,
"The one who will sit in the White House as President is in big business and because of that he already has within him the ability to change the status quo for business and will restore many Made In America businesses and create new opportunities in the marketplace to cause American made products to flourish. Hope for a bright future will explode into creativity and new inventions and many in the world will begin to change their opinion of this great Country founded by Me to be a Light to the Nations"
"As I have stated in the past; those countries who have financially benefited for years from their own products (sometimes poor in quality and made from questionable materials) being continually sold in America, will in this new season be running to purchase Made in America products and putting millions of dollars back into this country! The economy in America will prosper greatly and will do so for generations to come because of the wise decisions made through the next administration.
I have purposely timed the birth on earth of many (in this country and other countries) who now know Me and Love my Son, that I will prosper openly and will excel in Business, Government, Society, Education and Arts & Entertainment (rated for family enjoyment) before the eyes of the world. They will become examples of living the Truth without compromise and will be sought out for their wisdom by many. Do not resist what I have chosen for this Age and do not think it is time to escape but rejoice that you are living in the time when My manifest presence and Spirit will touch ALL flesh. Will you be willing to carry the Glory (without spot or wrinkle) or will you hide from it. How changed will America be? The day is coming when it will be popular to be a Believer or the friend of a Believer because the Nations will be drawn to the Light in them, because I say so and when you think you know more than Me, tell Me! Stop fighting, for My eyes are on you all!"
And on March 7th 2016,
"He will make quick decisions for what is best for America as far as justice and freedom are concerned. He will overturn any unjust self-made laws (forced by the current administration) that have hurt the American people by loss of hope, choice or hindered or stripped away their rights to live in peace and happiness including worshiping My Son, as did their ancestors for generations. What was once considered sacred has now become a crime and treated as such. It should not be so, for I have marked this Land as Mine and many have died for the opportunity to protect and defend this Land but even they have been directly scoffed at, belittled and even harmed through decisions of the current administration."
"Those who enter into this Land with intent to kill or destroy, will be dealt with harshly by the next President instead of being excused or helped. He will be a man of action so do not expect any boring days once he takes office! He does not fear man or their threats nor is he influenced by the liberal media of today. No matter how they attempt to insult or abuse his statements, I will cause him to lead far out in front. He will be recognized (even by other nations) as a strong leader and cause the return of honor to the title of President. He is far from perfect and many would not choose him but I do not choose the qualified; I qualify the chosen. He will make a wise choice for his running mate and will encourage them to have a voice."
"I do not always explain My choices and even though I have done so this time, some of My very own will harshly disagree and strike out against Me. It will be like tiny pebbles throwing themselves against a Great Mountain, but still I have chosen him to win. You have desperately prayed for help to change this nation and I Am answering those prayers with My choice for President and the one he chooses as Vice Presient. My Spirit will speak to them and even if they do not always know it is Me, they will not reject it as others have. He will change in time. If I could love you before you knew Me; then I too can love him. I see him through My eyes, not yours and even though he may not be fully mine yet, the devil fears greatly what he will do for Me and for this nation!
I AM HOLY and I have been from the Beginning to the End and from the End to the Beginning and I created it all. You may choose whom you want but My vote also counts!" May the anointing from His words consume you and break any yoke of darkness that you may be free to Live and not just exist!"
"Before I share what the Father's final comments are, I want to make you aware of some things to declare over;
"1 The liberal media is so terrified of this man as he is like no other candidate who will expose many things not only in the governmnt but in biased media. They were not expecting what he has already delivered so far and they are plotting together against him to flood FB and youtube with ridiculous stories and lies about him. You will see them coming from everywhere very soon as they want to stop him. He cannot be bought because he does not need their buyout schemes nor their approval."
"2 He does not need anyone's money and he is not about to throw his away in order to secure 'safe passage' in Washington. He is very dangerous against the devil's plans because the people have already chosen him too and it is because God's hand is upon him. None of the elite can wrap their heads around this avalanche of support from the everyday masses. They will not figure it out because they will not consider that Heaven is involved."
"3 Remember that there is another still to be included as half the team; the future Vice President (the unexpected one) who will balance the new President. Declare over both the new President and the other half of his team. It will be a surprise for me too as God is not saying any names right now. Let us also pray over all the leadership in Washington DC as well as those who run the political machines of our day, that they will al extend favor (without knowing why) to God's choice for President and pray that the Body of Christ lay down their differences and come together for God's will to be done (especially when all other competitors have left the race)."
THE FATHER SAID TODAY, March 9, 2016: " Although I will win him to Me in time, I have not chosen this man to be your Apostle, your Prophet, your Pastor, your Teacher nor your Evangelist; I have chosen him to be your President - Donald Trump will WIN."
She continued,
"On God's own Timeline in His Throne Room, there is a mark that says "Kingdom Age" and therefore change MUST happen because it is now His time and no longer man's time to decide if God really exists or not. Do you know that even the secular world wants change in America? It is a good thing, because God has already started change even though some of His own do not see it as His hand moving on their behalf."
According to Kat, God was going to vote in this election, and it would be His will that would trump. I felt confirmation of her words. The night of the election when the states were lit up in blue and things were looking to swing the other way - that's when God voted. Suddenly the map turned red and every media outlet was flabbergasted. They said it was either a miracle or rigged. According to Kat, God rigged the election by voting. His will was done.
Kim Clement
In 2013, he prophesied the Dow Jones Industrial Average would climb to 20,000 (it was, at the time, on a "winning streak" and had reached a record high of 14,447.29). It happened.
In 2014, more than a year before President Donald Trump announced his candidacy, Clement prophesied that a future leader of America would come forth and "restore the fortunes in this nation because of his brilliance." The president is now working hard to "Make America Great Again."
In the same prophecy, Clement also shared:
"California, you are dying because of a drought. Watch My sign, watch the sign of rain for I told you there would be severe wind from above and all the states that are affected by this severe weather have been set up for a shaking of My Spirit and an outpouring of My Spirit. California, I am looking at you."
California's drought has since been turned around to the point that dams were nearly bursting.
Recently footage from 2005 has surfaced on YouTube of Kim Clement prophesying of Donald Trump's presidency. The following is an excerpt from his Donald Trump prophesies of 2014 he made prior to Donald Trump entering the election.
"This man will throttle the enemies of Israel.This man will throttle the enemies of the west. And there are highly embarrassing moments that are about to occur for many, many, politicians in this nation. There will be a shaking among the democrats in the upcoming election, but unsettling for the republicans. For God said, 'I Am dissatisfied with what emerges from both parties...they will shout 'impeach', 'impeach' they say - but Nay."
"...This new one shall arise as my David that I have set aside for this nation. A man of prayer. A man of choice words."
Here is footage of a 2014 prophecy that shortly followed. Kim passed away November 22, 2016 just after seeing his prophesies fulfilled.
"It shall come to pass that the man that I place in the Highest Office shall go in whispering my name. But God said, when he enters into the office he will be shouting out by the power of the Spirit."
"For I shall fill him with my Spirit and he shall go into office and there will be a praying man in the highest seat in your land."
"There will be a praying president not a religious one. For, I will fool the people says the Lord. I will fool the people, yes I will. God says, the one that is chosen shall go in and they shall say, 'He has hot blood'."
"For the Spirit of God says, 'Yes he may have hot blood, but he will bring the walls of protection on this country in a greater way and the economy of this country shall change rapidly, says the Lord of Hosts."
"Listen to the word of the Lord. God says, I will put at your helm for two terms, a president that will pray, but he will not be a praying president when he starts."
"I will put him in office and then I will baptize him with the Holy Spirit and My Power says the Lord of Hosts."
There have been many others who have prophesied of these similar events. What I have enjoyed most about listening to them is that they are all positive focused. They all speak of hope and so much good that is coming for the believers of God and His Church (the body of Christ). They mention that those in the body of Christ who fight against God's choice, are in reality fighting against God.
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| Cyrus |
This article points out,
"Cyrus was anointed by God to restore the Jewish people from captivity and to rebuild Jerusalem after Nebuchadnezzar, as a vessel of divine judgment, was called by God to send the Jewish people into exile and to destroy Jerusalem."
"Two pagan kings, one raised up to bring judgment and the other raised up to bring restoration."
"Could Donald Trump, then, be a modern-day Cyrus? Could it be that Trump, like Cyrus, clearly does not know the Lord in a real and personal way but could still be used by God to accomplish His purposes?"
My Dream
The Spirit told me to count 545 pages (5:45 am) into my triple combination (BOM, D&C, POGP). This is where the first scripture began. The numbers on this stick of gum were 1:3
1) Doctrine and Covenants 1
3 And the rebellious shall be pierced with much sorrow; for their iniquities shall be spoken upon the housetops, and their secret acts shall be revealed.
(This is what I mentioned in my eclipse post part 1. That this is the time when the rebellious of heart will be exposed and held accountable for their crimes and/or abominations. Many people in power, politics, the media, and high places will be exposed for rather embarrassing actions and choices. Spoken on the housetops represents satellite and WiFi - I believe we receive the news of their actions on our TVs, phones and devices. It will be shared all over social media. They will feel much sorrow, regret, and embarrassment. The Lord allows this because He loves them. Humility is the path back to Him.)
4 And the voice of warning shall be unto all people, by the mouths of my disciples, whom I have chosen in these last days.
(Listen to those who have prophetic voices and are shouting out these warnings. They are chosen for this calling - to warn the people and call for repentance. The Lord chooses many disciples because He has many different sheep in different folds. We are all being gathered in together and eventually will join one fold.)
8 And verily I say unto you, that they who go forth, bearing these tidings unto the inhabitants of the earth, to them is power given to seal both on earth and in heaven, the unbelieving and rebellious;
9 Yea, verily, to seal them up unto the day when the wrath of God shall be poured out upon the wicked without measure—
10 Unto the day when the Lord shall come to recompense unto every man according to his work, and measure to every man according to the measure which he has measured to his fellow man.
11 Wherefore the voice of the Lord is unto the ends of the earth, that all that will hear may hear:
(Because of YouTube and social media, the voice of the Lord is being heard unto all ends of the earth.)
12 Prepare ye, prepare ye for that which is to come, for the Lord is nigh;
(Preparing for the Millennium)
13 And the anger of the Lord is kindled, and his sword is bathed in heaven, and it shall fall upon the inhabitants of the earth.
14 And the arm of the Lord shall be revealed; and the day cometh that they who will not hear the voice of the Lord, neither the voice of his servants, neither give heed to the words of the prophets and apostles, shall be cut off from among the people;
15 For they have strayed from mine ordinances, and have broken mine everlasting covenant;
(Apostasy of early Christian Church, apostasy of individuals today, and Apostasy of Israel.)
16 They seek not the Lord to establish his righteousness, but every man walketh in his own way, and after the image of his own god, whose image is in the likeness of the world, and whose substance is that of an idol, which waxeth old and shall perish in Babylon, even Babylon the great, which shall fall.
17 Wherefore, I the Lord, knowing the calamity which should come upon the inhabitants of the earth, called upon my servant Joseph Smith, Jun., and spake unto him from heaven, and gave him commandments;
18 And also gave commandments to others, that they should proclaim these things unto the world; and all this that it might be fulfilled, which was written by the prophets—
(the Lord not only commanded Joseph Smith to proclaim these things the world and within the Church, but He commanded others, of other folds to proclaim repentance as well.)
19 The weak things of the world shall come forth and break down the mighty and strong ones, that man should not counsel his fellow man, neither trust in the arm of flesh.
(Sin and transgression will bring people of high places and positions to their knees. We will even see this happen within the Church. So much, that the world will lose their trust in man and begin to seek out God and put their trust in Him.)
20 But that every man might speak in the name of God the Lord, even the Savior of the world;
21 That faith also might increase in the earth;
22 That mine everlasting covenant might be established;
23 That the fulness of my gospel might be proclaimed by the weak and the simple unto the ends of the world, and before kings and rulers.
24 Behold, I am God and have spoken it; these commandments are of me, and were given unto my servants in their weakness, after the manner of their language, that they might come to understanding.
27 And inasmuch as they sinned they might be chastened, that they might repent;
(The chastening is an act of love and a blessing. We shouldn't point fingers and ridicule but open our arms in love and welcome the repentant back into the fold.)
28 And inasmuch as they were humble they might be made strong, and blessed from on high, and receive knowledge from time to time.
31 For I the Lord cannot look upon sin with the least degree of allowance;
32 Nevertheless, he that repents and does the commandments of the Lord shall be forgiven;
33 And he that repents not, from him shall be taken even the light which he has received; for my Spirit shall not always strive with man, saith the Lord of Hosts.
(Part of the baptismal covenant we renew every Sunday during the sacrament. By repenting and turning to the Lord and His Atonement, we are promised to always have His Spirit with us.)
34 And again, verily I say unto you, O inhabitants of the earth: I the Lord am willing to make these things known unto all flesh;
35 For I am no respecter of persons, and will that all men shall know that the day speedily cometh; the hour is not yet, but is nigh at hand, when peace shall be taken from the earth, and the devil shall have power over his own dominion.
(God can choose and use anyone to fulfill His purposes. Often people we would never expect. He is no respecter of persons. If the day was "nigh at hand" in 1831 when Millennial peace ends and Satan is loosed, then think how soon the day must be when the Lord returns to the earth.)
36 And also the Lord shall have power over his saints, and shall reign in their midst, and shall come down in judgment upon Idumea, or the world.
(Final Judgement)
37 Search these commandments, for they are true and faithful, and the prophecies and promises which are in them shall all be fulfilled.
38 What I the Lord have spoken, I have spoken, and I excuse not myself; and though the heavens and the earth pass away, my word shall not pass away, but shall all be fulfilled, whether by mine own voice or by the voice of my servants, it is the same.
39 For behold, and lo, the Lord is God, and the Spirit beareth record, and the record is true, and the truth abideth forever and ever. Amen.
2) 1 Peter 4:17-18 the second scripture the Lord led me to.
17 For the time is come that judgment must begin at the house of God: and if it first begin at us, what shall the end be of them that obey not the gospel of God?
18 And if the righteous scarcely be saved, where shall the ungodly and the sinner appear?
(In the following verses Peter gives us the formula for how to overcome sin, and reminds us in these last days to minister through the Spirit and give all glory to God.)
7 But the end of all things is at hand: be ye therefore sober, and watch unto prayer.
8 And above all things have fervent charity among yourselves: for charity shall cover the multitude of sins.
9 Use hospitality one to another without grudging.
10 As every man hath received the gift, even so minister the same one to another, as good stewards of the manifold grace of God.
11 If any man speak, let him speak as the oracles of God; if any man minister, let him do it as of the ability which God giveth: that God in all things may be glorified through Jesus Christ, to whom be praise and dominion for ever and ever. Amen.
3) Abraham 3:2-16
(The Lord clearly wanted to reference Kolob in this post. Again, I am in awe.)
2 And I saw the stars, that they were very great, and that one of them was nearest unto the throne of God; and there were many great ones which were near unto it;
3 And the Lord said unto me: These are the governing ones; and the name of the great one is Kolob, because it is near unto me, for I am the Lord thy God: I have set this one to govern all those which belong to the same order as that upon which thou standest.
(I see Kolob also as symbolic of the Savior. He is nearest to the throne of God as He sits at His right hand. He will govern all those who belong to the Kingdom of God. Jesus and Lucifer were both referred to as morning stars in the Bible. John the Baptist is called a "bright morning star" in Eastern Orthodox Church hymnnology. A “bright morning star” is a star that outshines all the others. Satan, as perhaps the most beautiful creation of God, probably the most powerful of all the angels, was a bright morning star. Jesus, as God incarnate, the Lord of the universe, is THE bright and morning star. Jesus is the most holy and powerful “light” in all the universe. Morning star, is also a name for the star Sirius, which appears in the sky just before sunrise during the Dog Days. These stars govern.)
4 And the Lord said unto me, by the Urim and Thummim, that Kolob was after the manner of the Lord, according to its times and seasons in the revolutions thereof; that one revolution was a day unto the Lord, after his manner of reckoning, it being one thousand years according to the time appointed unto that whereon thou standest. This is the reckoning of the Lord’s time, according to the reckoning of Kolob.
(1,000 years is a day unto the Lord)
5 And the Lord said unto me: The planet which is the lesser light, lesser than that which is to rule the day, even the night, is above or greater than that upon which thou standest in point of reckoning, for it moveth in order more slow; this is in order because it standeth above the earth upon which thou standest, therefore the reckoning of its time is not so many as to its number of days, and of months, and of years.
(Abraham learned that there are other governing stars located nearer to Kolob and that they rotate more slowly, or “longer,” than many other stars (but not more slowly than Kolob).
6 And the Lord said unto me: Now, Abraham, these two facts exist, behold thine eyes see it; it is given unto thee to know the times of reckoning, and the set time, yea, the set time of the earth upon which thou standest, and the set time of the greater light which is set to rule the day, and the set time of the lesser light which is set to rule the night.
7 Now the set time of the lesser light is a longer time as to its reckoning than the reckoning of the time of the earth upon which thou standest.
8 And where these two facts exist, there shall be another fact above them, that is, there shall be another planet whose reckoning of time shall be longer still;
9 And thus there shall be the reckoning of the time of one planet above another, until thou come nigh unto Kolob, which Kolob is after the reckoning of the Lord’s time; which Kolob is set nigh unto the throne of God, to govern all those planets which belong to the same order as that upon which thou standest.
10 And it is given unto thee to know the set time of all the stars that are set to give light, until thou come near unto the throne of God.
11 Thus I, Abraham, talked with the Lord, face to face, as one man talketh with another; and he told me of the works which his hands had made;
12 And he said unto me: My son, my son (and his hand was stretched out), behold I will show you all these. And he put his hand upon mine eyes, and I saw those things which his hands had made, which were many; and they multiplied before mine eyes, and I could not see the end thereof.
13 And he said unto me: This is Shinehah, which is the sun. And he said unto me: Kokob, which is star. And he said unto me: Olea, which is the moon. And he said unto me: Kokaubeam, which signifies stars, or all the great lights, which were in the firmament of heaven.
14 And it was in the night time when the Lord spake these words unto me: I will multiply thee, and thy seed after thee, like unto these; and if thou canst count the number of sands, so shall be the number of thy seeds.
15 And the Lord said unto me: Abraham, I show these things unto thee before ye go into Egypt, that ye may declare all these words.
(Abraham was to declare what he learned to Egypt)
16 If two things exist, and there be one above the other, there shall be greater things above them; therefore Kolob is the greatest of all the Kokaubeam that thou hast seen, because it is nearest unto me.
("Kokaubeam" is a transliteration of the Hebrew "כּוֹכָבִים" [c.f., Gen. 15:5]) as meaning "all the great lights, which were in the firmament of heaven").
Joseph Fielding Smith wrote: “The Lord made known to him [Abraham] the following facts: That Kolob is the first creation, and is nearest to the celestial, or the residence of God. It is the first in government, the last pertaining to the measurement of time. This measurement is according to celestial time. One day in Kolob is equal to a thousand years according to the measurement of this earth, which by the Egyptians was called Jah-oh-eh. Oliblish, so called by the Egyptians, stands next to Kolob in the grand governing creation near the celestial, or place where God resides. This great star is also a governing star and is equal to Kolob in its revolutions and in its measuring of time. Other grand governing stars were also revealed to Abraham” (Man: His Origin and Destiny [1954], 461).
Abraham learned that it is not size that makes one star or planet greater than another, but rather its proximity to Kolob. So it is with the children of God – their greatness and glory will depend upon their proximity to the Creator, Jesus Christ, who is “nearest unto the throne of God,” “the great one,” “the first creation,” and is “set to govern all those which belong to the same order.” The great star, Kolob, is a symbol of Jesus Christ. After the Spirit told me that Kolob does symbolize Jesus, He sent me to this reference for a confirmation (The Pearl of Great Price Student Manual, p. 37.
Not Only did the Lord tell me Abraham Chapter 3 but He told me facsimile #3.
Abraham is reasoning upon the principles of Astronomy, in the king’s court. The Spirit confirmed to me that the Lord is pleased when we seek to learn and understand these principles.
A Little More About This Eclipse
Today I made the connection that this year's 2017 total solar eclipse will be the 17th total solar eclipse in America since 1776. Just had to add that to the mix.
A couple of commenters wanted more detail about what made this eclipse so unique. The total eclipse of 1918 started south of Japan, went across the Pacific Ocean, and then across the United States. From what I understand, this 2017 eclipse and the 2024 eclipse stretch across the entire North American Continent - coast to coast. The total eclipse of 1776 was exclusive to the North American continent but only wrapped around it and did not touch any other region which made it one of a kind - that is until now. The 2017 and 2024 eclipses which are only 7 years apart only cover North America like 1776 but also like 1918 go from coast to coast. What's funny is they mirror back to back which makes the X. There is no other total solar eclipse that came after 1776 that would have crossed over North America exclusively. All of the following eclipses would have touched other regions or possibly their totality path came no where near the 1776 path to even cross it. That's what makes this pair so rare. Here are two map links for 1776 and 1918.
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| 1776 |
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| 1918 |
The Coming 7 Years
A Message for All of Us
A few years ago, I had an interesting encounter with the Spirit. For many years I was a huge fan of talk radio and news. I would begin each morning by listening to my favorite conservative talk show hosts, then call friends and family to fill them in on the latest and add my own two cents, and then spend the last minutes before going to bed re-visiting the headlines and passing along links to friends and family members with messages like, "Did you hear about this?" or "Can you believe it?"
One day the Spirit showed me just how much valuable time I was wasting by doing this. It was a tough blow when I realized that by spending my efforts and energies spreading negative headlines, I was actually being a very helpful tool for the Adversary rather than the Lord. No matter how repulsed I was by world events, political actions and correlating conspiracies, by spreading my negative feelings and reactions I was aiding Satan's army. In my mind I was simply "informing" my family, however anger and fear stirred up more anger and fear, and soon it was difficult to find room for love and peace. Though I kept this doom and gloom perspective on the down-low from the rest of the world, it showed through so many areas of my life. The Spirit didn't hesitate to tell me that if I continued to listen to these talk show hosts and media outlets, He was not going to stick around, and I could miss out on the plans the Lord had for me.
Quickly, I obeyed and went cold turkey. With all the distractions and loud voices now gone, the Spirit was able to teach me. The Lord said,
"Look to Me for your news. My news is good, and will fill your cup. Look for Me and you will find me. Listen for my voice and you will hear Me. My message and my news will bring peace to your soul."
I realized that Satan used the media to spread fear and anger for all sides, which is why I felt so drained and depleted at the end of the day. Feelings of, "it's hopeless", "things are only going to get worse", "the world is so wicked", "people are deceived and cruel", "the end is near", and on and on, were not coming from the Lord and were not benefiting me in any way. Through all of this negative thinking and feeling, I had forgotten how to dream because I didn't see the point. I stopped imagining, hoping, and believing in a bright future for my family and I, because what was the use? I used all my energy to prepare temporally for impending doom. The day I stopped dreaming and hoping, was the day I stopped living and enjoying my life. There were no more family vacations in the plans because I felt I had to save every penny for extreme apocalyptic preparedness. If I did make plans, I would hear, "Are you sure you want to visit there? That's an earthquake zone." or "There have been some terrorist attacks there. You're safer just staying put." My life was being ruled by fear.
The Lord had other plans for me. He wanted me to be living a life of faith. He wanted me to live in the present because that's where He was. The future was uncertain and unknown, but the present was His presence. The Lord said to me,
"You know the final outcome. Where is your faith? If you believe, show it by the way you live your life. Live your life for Me."
I realized that as a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints I was representing the Lord. Was I representing Him accurately? No, I was not. I was representing the spirit of fear whom I served.
That experience was a real eye opener and from the day forward I never looked back. I kept my eye straight ahead on the Lord. I began to dream again, set goals, and achieve them. I purchased beautiful things for my home and yard. We went on lovely trips and vacations - all while remaining valiant in our faith and staying close to the Lord. As I began to live this way, the Lord came through for me. He was true to His word. He showed me the good news in every moment of every day. I began to hear His voice more than I ever had before. His messages became more clear. My spiritual gifts began to be magnified and I felt immersed in all the good and beauty that Heaven had to offer.
My spiritual eyes were opened and I could see so much good in the world. I began to see others the way that He sees them. I began to understand His mysterious workings and could recognize His will. With this came so much peace and gratitude. I no longer relied on Sunday meetings only for my spiritual food, I was being fed three-course-meals every day of the week. In fact, instead of the mentality of, "What am I getting out of this Sunday lesson, or calling", it was "What can I contribute to this Sunday lesson or calling? How can I serve? Who can I uplift?"
The "what's in it for me" attitude that many members of the Church fall victim to, can really hinder one's testimony and spiritual progress. It can cause a person to start looking for reasons to not go to church, serve, or contribute. It can cause a person to look for flaws in others and focus on those flaws as justification for personal negative feelings and choices. Being on the Lord's team means giving up the "What's in it for me?" attitude. It constitutes of everything in Mosiah 27.
25 And the Lord said unto me: Marvel not that all mankind, yea, men and women, all nations, kindreds, tongues and people, must be born again; yea, born of God, changed from their carnal and fallen state, to a state of righteousness, being redeemed of God, becoming his sons and daughters;
26 And thus they become new creatures; and unless they do this, they can in nowise inherit the kingdom of God.
Yes, I was a baptized member of the Church. Yes, I attended every meeting faithfully. Yes, I did my visiting teaching 100% every month, paid my tithing and attended the temple regularly - but none of that mattered without being born again of the Spirit. Righteous conviction and actions weren't enough - I needed my heart in the right place. I needed God in my heart at all times. My motives needed to be pure. I needed that mighty change of heart spoken of in Alma 5:12-14
12 And according to his faith there was a mighty change wrought in his heart. Behold I say unto you that this is all true.
13 And behold, he preached the word unto your fathers, and a mighty change was also wrought in their hearts, and they humbled themselves and put their trust in the true and living God. And behold, they were faithful until the end; therefore they were saved.
14 And now behold, I ask of you, my brethren of the church, have ye spiritually been born of God? Have ye received his image in your countenances? Have ye experienced this mighty change in your hearts?
I believe that the meaning in verse 13 is what Born Again Christians are referring to when they ask other faiths, "Have you been saved?" I truly don't believe it's meant to be offensive though many take it that way. They simply want to know if you've accepted Christ into your heart in a way that you no more have the desire to ever do evil as was the case of King Benjamin's people in Mosiah 5:2
"...the Spirit of the Lord Omnipotent, which has wrought a mighty change in us, or in our hearts, that we have no more disposition to do evil, but to do good continually."
It's a pressing and constant desire to do good and love unconditionally - without judgement. A life changing alteration in which a person will never be the same. They have become something new in the Lord - and it's difficult, nearly impossible to go back. Often those who have had Near Death Experiences can attest to this.
A few days ago, in my email, I came across a recent article from one of the talk show hosts I used to listen to. It was a segment form his radio show that had aired earlier that day. In the segment he mentioned how at the end of the day he had been feeling so drained and tired. He had been drained by world events, politics, and life in general - so much that he returned home late each evening just wanting to go to bed. He expressed the sorrow he felt for not being able to spend time with his family and give them the attention they needed. Instead, he mentioned how they would fight. He felt angry and annoyed with them and he recognized it wasn't good.
This talk show host has suffered many health problems and fatigue during his career. His career is based on negative news. Negative news and fear makes money - it builds ratings. It was evident in this man's life and I felt the Spirit was showing me how different my life might be had I continued on that path.
Anger and fear form when a person feels they do not have control. Remember it's Satan's plan to control. But when it comes to God's Kingdom, let us remember that God is the one who sits on the throne. He has this world in the palm of His hand! Because of that I have complete faith and trust in Him, and I demonstrate that trust by choosing to feel peace each day, and living my life always hoping for the best.
It's my hope and prayer that all of us can can "shoot for the stars" (pun intended) and claim the blessings that the Lord has in store for us. These coming years may very well be a grace period for the unrepentant and a time in which the repentant will prosper spiritually, physically, and temporally. Righteous prosperity speeds up the growth of God's Kingdom. As Israel gathers, let us all do our part by extending charity in a way that this world has never seen. Let's brighten our lamps, hold our chin high, continue to dream big, and keep our eye single to the Lord. May we be greatly blessed by doing so!
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