External Problems Are Really My Problems

Just finished the reading for Chapter 21 Points to Ponder in the Institute Old Testament Manual 1. While I will generally pull my posts directly from questions in these sections I thought I would instead review the general idea. The section talks about dealing with problems. Some times problems appear to be caused by external sources when really they are caused by our own sins. When we realize we are the cause of our problems, we turn to the Lord and repent, and then he helps us overcome our problems.

Throughout my reading of the Old Testament I read about Israel constantly facing problems; for example, getting out of Egypt, finding food while in the wilderness, getting into the promise land, and conquering the promised land. Many times Israel thought they were dealing with external problems, when really they were internal. In other words, Israel believed something, or someone, else was creating their problem when really the problem existed because of their own wickedness.

An example is found in the book of Joshua; when Israel first fought the people of Ai and lost. Joshua approached the Lord to find out why, and learned that one sinful man was the cause. Israel repented--destroying the sinful man--and was able to conquer Ai. It was only after Israel had cleansed themselves that the Lord was able to help them. See Joshua 7.

Modern Application

I am the 11-year old boy scout leader, and over the last few weeks I’ve had a problem. We don’t do very much scouting when we meet. Instead, we show up and play basketball or throw frisbee. I have wanted to do more, help the boys actually achieve their ranks and get them ready for the next level of scouting, but nothing has happened.

This last week I realized that it is up to me to plan out activities that will help the boys move on in scouting. I am responsible for creating the atmosphere where the boys can develop and grow as scouts.

Applying myself, I have an idea on how to change and succeed. First, approach the Lord for help and guidance. Second, look to the resources from scouts, church, and others. Last, don’t give up when the problems come up. I know if I’m repenting (i.e. actually do my part instead of expecting things to come together magically) then the Lord will do his part. The Lord never shirks from his responsibility as long as I am following his commandments. Doctrine & Covenants 82:10.

Old Testament Manual, Chapter 20 Points to Ponder Question

Old Testament Manual, Chapter 20 Points to Ponder Question

Take a moment now to thumb through the book of Deuteronomy. What scriptures did you mark? What concepts impressed you as Moses lovingly counseled Israel for the last time? Write, in no more than a page or two, your own reaction to Moses’ counsel. What value does it have for you? How would your life be different if you took his counsel fully to heart?

Moses counsel to the children of Israel in Deuteronomy is powerful. He reviews the blessings and the curses the Lord promises to the people of Israel. He promises the people that if they keep the commandments of the Lord they will receive the blessings of inheritance in the promised land, safety and protection from their enemies, and having enough from the land. However, if they failed to keep the commandments and accepted idolatry they would be cursed and face the punishment of God. This punishment included bondage, famines, and eventually being cast out of the promised land and becoming a byword, or term of hate and rejection. The Lord even went on to say that at some point that is exactly what will happen.

I am reminded of the power of a patriarchal blessing. Moses, in a sense, gave Israel a patriarchal blessing. He told them of what blessings and curses were waiting for them. He gave them counsel and direction on how to follow the Lord. In the end, he gave them a prophecy of what would happen to Israel because of their eventually apostasy.

How does this apply to me?

I look to my patriarchal blessing. It counsels me on what I should do to enter the promise land and is filled with blessings and warnings. Most importantly it tells me directly to remain obedient to God because all blessing comes from God. These blessings, like those explained to Israel, are conditional upon my obedience. If I do not follow God and his commandments I forfeit any promises. As well, if I place other God’s before God I will receive the curses that come with such apostasy. I will become subject to the bondage of sin, endure famines of the spirit, and eventually lose the promise land, eternal life and exaltation. At some point I will become a byword to those who see what I could have been and what I have become.