Our reading assignment for June covered Alma 1-42. There is so
much material in these 42 chapters that it is impossible
to discuss all the doctrine, principles and applications in just one
short evening.
One of the outstanding concepts taught was Alma’s words to his
son Corianton, “Wickedness never was happiness”. This four word
phrase, encompasses all of the plan of salvation. It applies to the
pre-mortal life, the mortal experience, and the final state of man.
It demonstrates that all of Satan's temptations are actually lies
intended
to bring us nothing but misery. Likewise, it shows that all of God's
commandments are given for our benefit and happiness.
In the words of Samuel the Lamanite, we cannot seek for happiness
in doing iniquity, which thing is contrary to the nature of that
righteousness
which is in our great and Eternal Head (Hel 13:38).
I love President Gordon B Hinckley’s words on this subject:
"The way of the Lord is the way of happiness. Wickedness never was
happiness.
Transgression never was happiness. Sin never was happiness.
Disobedience
never was happiness. The way of happiness is following the way of the
Lord.
I believe this with all my heart. If there is any message that runs
through
all of the Book of Mormon, it is this great transcendent message, that
when
the people lived in righteousness they were happy and they were
prospered.
And when they fell into wickedness they were miserable, they were at
war,
they were in poverty, they were in trouble. That theme goes all the way
through the Book of Mormon. As it was true then, so it is true now. The
way
of happiness for the people of this Church lies in following the ways
of the Lord."
Reading assignment for July: Alma 43-63
Date and Location:
July 16th 7pm @ RaNae Shoaf’s home
