Spiritual Matters: Wisdom and Inspiration from the Book of Mormon

By

Reviewed by Karen Hamilton
On 11/3/2008

Leatherwood Press, 2008 Paperback:
152 pages
ISBN-10: 1-59992-079-4
ISBN-13: 978-1-59992-079-5 Price: $11.95

This is a unique book, in the fact that there is no author to praise or criticize.

This book discusses a topic that has been largely forgotten. At the end of each thought, scripture and quote there is either a point to ponder or an application to life. There is one thought, supporting scripture, quote and either an application to life or a point to ponder per page. It was a fast and easy book to read. However, to digest it takes longer.

Here are some examples:

When we are truly meek, we possess both self-control and a consciousness of our own inadequacies.

And blessed are the meek, for they shall inherit the earth. 3 Nephi 12:5

Meekness is closely allied to the poor in spirit, but in addition to consciousness of a dearth of spirituality, meekness connotes a reserved dignity – a reservoir of self-control. A meek person may be quiet, unrevengeful, and not pusillanimous.

David O. McKay, The Better Way, Improvement Era, 1945

Ponder: How can I become more meek? (Pg.83)

Here's another:

When adversity hits, we should Hit our knees.

And it came to pass that so great were their afflictions that they began to cry mightily to god. Mosiah 24:10

Those who have been driven to their knees in weakness, grief, and humility commune with God not in the learned clichés of prayer, but in heartfelt, soul-revealing communion. And when our Father sustains and assures a tested faith and a tested love, they learn the sweetness of adversity.

A.Theodore Tuttle, Conference Report, Oct.1967

Application: Review the words of Hymn No. 142, “Sweet Hour of Prayer” (Pg. 110)

This is a small sample of what lies within these pages. Some of the thoughts are the cute phrases that are shared in the Young Women’s Program and at youth conferences. I felt as if I was reading mini-sermons from a Pastor. I know few people who remember how to ponder anything in a meaningful way and the applications can seem to be one more thing to add to an already long to-do list. While it is a good book for those looking for a bit of direction in spiritual growth, and have the time to sit and ponder, I do not recommend it for the over stressed, over-achieving individual.


Copyright 2008