Jacob 1-3

Jacob 1-3 1.) Jacob 1:8 This verse talks about carrying one's cross. This is a term that we as Latter-day Saints use often. I've always believed that it means enduring to the end. It does mean that, but it means more too. Bruce R. McConkie said, "Growing out of the crucifixion of Christ is the concept that any great affliction or trial that comes upon the saints does in itself constitute a cross they must bear as part of their obligations to overcome the world.... Similarly, the gospel cause commands every man to take up his cross and follow him who carried his own cross to Golgotha. That is, the saints are to carry the cross of service and consecration, the cross of devotion and obedience. " It is important that we all "˜bear our crosses'.

(Bruce R. McConkie, Mormon Doctrine, p. 173) 2.) Jacob 1:19 Jacob says that if he did not magnify his calling to the best of his ability, the blood of those who were lost would be upon his clothes.

Jacob Kalich (second left) in Mezrach und Maarev, ...

JACOB GAGAN

JACOB GAGAN

If anyone had not had the chance to hear the gospel, and it was because of a lack on the part of Jacob, he would be responsible for their souls. The same goes for our time. Our callings are most important and exist to aid others. "If you do not magnify your callings, God will hold you responsible for those you might have saved, had you done your duty." (John Taylor, quoted by Hugh B. Brown, Conference Report, Oct 1962) 3.) Jacob 2:18-19 Among many people there is a belief is evil. "Money is the root of all evil", they say. There is a fallacy in this belief. Money is simply a medium to obtain things that we need. First, however, Jacob warns us to seek the kingdom of God. (See 3 Nephi 13:33) After that, He will give us the money that we need to help others. David O. McKay said, "Gold does not corrupt man; it is the motive of acquiring that gold that corruption occurs." (David O. McKay, Treasures of Life, pp. 174-175) 4.) Jacob 3:1 (Pure in heart) Jacob directs his words to the pure of heart. I believe that he does this because it is they who will humble themselves and follow the words of God. When those of pure hearts do what is right, it can be called Zion. "Zion can be built up among those who are the pure in heart, not a people torn by covetousness or greed, but a pure and selfless people. not a people who are pure in appearance, rather a people who are pure in heart. Zion is to be in the world and not of the world, not dulled by a sense of carnal security, nor paralyzed by materialism. No, Zion is not things of the lower, but of the higher order, things that exalt the mind and sanctify the heart. " (Spencer W. Kimball, Ensign, May 1978, p.181) 5.) Jacob 3:1 (prayer) Jacob instructs the people to pray. Prayer is so important to our relationship with God. In this instance Jacob promises that if we pray to God with real intent, He will help us in our weakness and affliction. "'Prayer is the soul's sincere desire, uttered or unexpressed.'" So universal is its application, so beneficial its result, that prayer qualifies as the number-one hallmark of a happy home. As parents listen to the prayer of a child, they too draw close to God. These little ones, who so recently have been with their Heavenly Father, have no inhibitions in expressing to Him their feelings, their wishes, their thanks." (Thomas S. Monson, Ensign, Oct 2001, "Hallmarks of a Happy Home")

JACOB GAGAN

JACOB LILLYMAN

English: David Oman McKay, the ninth president of ...