We would never want to live even one day without it" (Russell M. Nelson)

August 30, 2021

We would never want to live even one day without it" (Russell M. Nelson) - August 30, 2021

Spiritual Thought

In the October 2017 general conference President Russell M. Nelson recounted an experience he once had with an African king in Accra, Ghana. After delivering his lecture at a university, President Nelson was approached by this individual. The king asked who President Nelson was then, after hearing the response, inquired as to what President Nelson could teach him about Jesus Christ. President Nelson taught this king about the Book of Mormon then presented him with his own copy of the book. The king's response affected President Nelson deeply and has lingered with me since this talk was given. Upon receiving a copy of the Book of Mormon the king exclaimed: "You could have given me diamonds or rubies, but nothing is more precious to me than this additional knowledge about the Lord Jesus Christ."

How do you and I truly feel about the Book of Mormon. Do we also treasure it beyond even the greatest earthly riches? Do we yearn to learn from what it teaches or do we rush through a few verses in order to move on to the next part of our day? Does our copy of the Book of Mormon show wear marks from frequent use, or is it sitting in pristine condition on our shelf? Do we view the Book of Mormon as a collection of fanciful tales and stories, or do we know beyond question that it is truly the word of God? Do we know for ourselves that this book contains the fulness of the Gospel of Jesus Christ and do we long to draw closer to our Savior through its pages. Have we received a testimony for ourselves that this book is true and do we yearn to declare such knowledge to those around us? It is my prayer that each of us will "feel so deeply [that the Book of Mormon is the word of God] that we would never want to live even one day without it" (Russell M. Nelson). I ask each of us to recommitt ourselves to studying the Book of Mormon each and every day.

I know that the Book of Mormon is true. Among all the opinions that may be held of me I pray that there will never be any doubt as to whether I believe in the authenticity of the Book of Mormon. If such doubt ever exists then I have not been faithful to the testimony I have received. I know that Joseph Smith translated this record by the gift and power of God. He was the chosen seer through whom we have received this additional knowledge of Jesus Christ. Above all, Jesus Christ is the literal, living Son of God. He is the Savior of the World who has payed the ransom for each man, woman, and child to ever live upon this earth, from Adam to the end of the world. He atoned for the sins of all people, was resurrected after three days and know rules in power at the right hand of God. He did truly visit and minister to the people of ancient America and in a coming day will return to the earth. I promise that as you and I drink deeply from the pages of the Book of Mormon we will come closer to our Savior than through any other book.

In the name of Jesus Christ, Amen.

Weekly Update

Hello everyone,

Elder Marchman and I have now completed our first week as a companionship. It has been nice to have a bigger area and more territory to cover.

Last Monday we had a lesson with a girl named Kylah. Kylah would like to be baptized and has been taught everything she needs to know in order to do so. Her mom is an active member of the church and would also like for her to be baptized. However, Kylah's dad will not give permission. Her dad lives in Idaho and we are trying to work with the missionaries and bishop in his ward in hope that he will give permission. In the meantime we keep going over to continue teaching about the Gospel. Last week Sis. Raya (Kylah's mom) said that she was going to ask Kylah's dad more directly if she can be baptized. We are going back tonight and are hoping for good news. Any prayers for Kylah and that her dad's heart will be softened would be appreciated.

We were supposed to meet with Mason again this week but he caught strep throat. He has recovered but now his grandpa has it. We are going to give them a couple of days to recover then do another lesson with him.

It is very strange living in a two-man apartment. In some regards it is a nice change. Our apartment is pretty big for only two people so Elder Marchman and I both have our own bathroom. On the other hand, having four people also has its advantages. It is nice to come home and have some there who had different things than you happen in the day.

The highlight of this week was when our district (minus the sisters) was able to attend the temple. It was a great experience to be in the temple and once again participate in those ordinances.

I hope each of you have a great week,

Elder Payne

Last P-day with the four-man apartment. We played Risk. I was the blue troops, just in case you were wondering.

At the Bountiful temple last P-day.

First day being companions with Elder Marchman.

The featured animal for this week's edition of "Elder Payne's adventures with wildlife" is: turtles! There is some major construction being done to the street in front of our apartment. Some of the construction workers had found this turtle just before we walked past. They were talking about releasing it into the stream nearby. Tune in next week to see what other animals are roaming the streets of Bountiful!

Now, a message to any children who may read this email: Please do not follow Elder Payne's example and pick up every snake and turtle you run accross. I am a trained professional. Prior to entering the mission-field all missionaries receive extensive and detailed training in reptile safety and proper handling procedure.