So the Tree of Life. What on Earth does one say about the Tree of Life?! We could do an insight-a-day on this chapter for a year. I would invite all to prayerfully read and ponder this chapter repeatedly and search for whatever insights the Lord might have for you.
I'm going to keep this simple. One of my favorite lines in this chapter comes from verse 33. It speaks of those who have held fast to the Iron Rod, and partaken of the fruit of the Tree of Life. Those in the great and spacious building point "the finger of scorn" at them. Many who have partaken of the fruit are ashamed because of these mockings. But many were not ashamed. They paid no mind. As the last line of verse 33 says, "but we heeded them not." I always picture this line looking a little more like "but we heeded them not!!." This inspires me. Of course we will experience persecution for what is right. Of course there will always be opposition (see 2 Nephi 2:11). There has to be. But we don't have to let it bother us! We can stand for what is right and heed not the fingers of scorn pointed our way. Someone famous once said something to the tune of the only power people have over us is the power we give them (clearly I don't remember who said it). We have a choice to let others judgments affect us. May we all choose to choose right, and heed not those who mock and persecute us for our righteousness. And receive the blessings of the Lord for doing so.
Cool picture, and great post! I always wonder when the greatest trial will come. Will it be on our way to the tree, or after we partake of the fruit?
ReplyDeleteI think it was Eleanor Roosevelt who said, "No one can make you feel inferior without your consent." Same idea. Great thoughts!!
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