Tag: Faith and Reason

The Ten Plagues, The Apocalypse, and The Ascent of the Saints: From Exodus to Revelation and the Doctrine of Exaltation

Timothy R. BermanLeave a comment

We are stepping into one of the most overlooked patterns within the scriptural narrative of Exodus chapters 7-13 – the journey from the Ten Plagues of Egypt to Exaltation – Divine Glory with Christ and the Father. We are going to look at the trajectory of moving from darkness of Egypt to the radiance of the divine presence of the Father and the Son. From judgment to redemption. From mortality to immortality and eternal life with Christ (Moses 1:39).. The ten plagues are not ancient catastrophes; they are a prophetic roadmap foreshadowing how we are to become heirs and joint-heirs with Christ (Romans 8:17). Having overcome as He has overcame (Revelation 3:21) in order to sit with Christ on thrones the Father has prepared for each of us (Matthew 20:23).

Every plague reverses a day of creation. Every judgment against the Egyptian God’s, Pharaoh, and the Egyptian empire, culture, and society exposes a counterfeit god. And it is every act of divine power pushing Israel one step closer to the mountain of God. 

This is the pattern scripture reveals: descent into chaos, confrontation with darkness, and the ascent into God’s presence. Exodus establishes the divine architectural blueprint that Revelation completes. 

Christ, and the infinite atonement that is revealed through the plan of salvation, is at the center. It is the redemptive arc narrative – the covenantal path of righteousness we enter into. From the blood in the Nile to the blood of the Lamb of God slain from the foundation of the world (Revelation 13:8), the story is always pointing forward. The plagues themselves reveal the cost of spiritual rebellion. However, they also reveal the depth of God’s divine sovereign grace and mercy. 

The Passover Lamb, the Firstborn Son, the deliverance through water – baptism for the remission of sins – these are not mere isolated events. They are shadows of Christ’s victory over sin, death, and spiritual bondage (Matthew 16:18-26). 

The purpose of God is specific: to bring to pass the immortality and eternal life of man (Moses 1:39). It was never about escape. God was not simply removing Israel from Egypt; He was raising them into a people with a covenantal identity. Today, our Heavenly Father’s desire is to do the same with each one of us. Bring us out of our own Egypts, our own spiritual bondage, to awaken us so that we may arise from the dust and shake off the awful chains that hold us bound (Isaiah 52:2) so that we are able to put on the armor of righteousness and come forth out of obscurity (2 Nephi 1:23). 

The plagues themselves are the very chain breakers. Sinai is where a covenant people are formed. The story of the Exodus is not complete because the redeemed will eventually stand in the glory of God’s presence. For this is what Christ prayed for: This is life eternal that they may know thee, the one true God, and Jesus Christ whom thou hast sent (John 17:3). 

Revelation mirrors Exodus because the same God is acting. the bowls, the trumpets, the judgments – they echo the plagues because the final deliverance follows the same pattern as the first. The Saints are not merely escaping Egypt, Babylon, or Jerusalem; they are ascending into divine heavenly Glory, ascending into the New Jerusalem and its Heavenly Temple (Ezekiel 48:35; Revelation 3:12; Revelation 21-22; apocryphal works 4 Ezra, 2 Baruch, 3 Baruch). Directly into the presence of the Lamb of God. 

Reason this matters for us today is because every one of us walks this specific journey of spiritual growth and covenantal faith. We are moving from bondage to freedom. From darkness and into light, from spiritual Egypts to the mountain of a Holy Sovereign and Gracious God. The plagues themselves show us the cost of our sin, our spiritual rebellion, and disobedience. They also reveal God’s divine grace, His tender mercies, and the unstoppable trajectory of redemption – from plagues to glory is our covenantal path of righteousness and movement toward spiritual perfection and strait and narrow way that leads toward the Celestial Kingdom (Matthew 7:14). 

So, as we begin, keep this truth in mind: God does not leave His people in the place of judgment or condemnation. He leads them through it, beyond it, and into divine heavenly glory. The Exodus narrative is our own personal story and the ascent into immortality, eternal life, and exaltation is our calling. 

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1974/75 – Melchizedek Priesthood Manual | Doctrine Lesson 4: How to Study and Ponder the Scriptures

Timothy R. BermanLeave a comment

One of the most common criticisms against the Latter-day Saint Faith is the lack of studying the scriptures. Yet, when one searches any given general conference address, there is plenty of counsel from the General Authorities regarding how significant and important scripture study is to the Latter-day Saint faith. This includes the recent implementation of the Come Follow Me curriculum, where members are highly encouraged to study and discuss the standard works of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Those who claim we do not focus our study on the Bible (Old and New Testament) are most likely those individuals who lacked the spiritual fortitude and discipline of implementing a strong scriptural study, memorization, as a daily spiritual discipline of a solid and genuine Christian life. However, those who give themselves over to centering on the spiritual discipline of scripture study—not merely to find answers to questions, doubt, or crises of faith—begin to notice a real transformation. This transformation occurs the moment one starts noticing the questions God is personally asking of them.

Today, we are a culture and society drowning in commentary while starving for genuine revelation. How often have you skimmed over the Come Follow Me lessons without ever stepping into the deeper layers? Consider the importance of studying the patterns, understanding the Ancient Near East context, discerning the covenant signals, and exploring the spiritual architecture beneath the words. How often have you decided that what you are reading may not be applicable to you in your current moment, spiritual growth, and development of faith in who Christ is?

The hope for this post, and its related content, is to show how we are to study the scriptures instead of merely skimming over them. The objective is to illustrate how to effectively ponder them instead of merely performing, allowing the scriptures to read us as much as we read and study them. This deep approach fosters genuine connection and reflection, moving beyond a superficial reading to something profoundly transformative.

Perhaps you have spent years building a devotional practice shaped by simple guidance and principles yet have not looked into ancient sources and evidence-based spiritual formation. Our approach to scripture study must be transparent, grounded, and truly lived out. Committing to the daily spiritual discipline of not merely reading the scriptures, but engaging with them meaningfully, can lead to profound effects. This involves effectively asking questions, taking notes, and having the courage to mark and notate specific information—not just for comprehension but for incorporation, application, and living out the principal truths of the scriptures in our everyday lives.

We are to strive to seek divine revelation from our Heavenly Father on how the scriptures resonate with us and our lives today. Such a quest fosters an enriching dialogue between the Divine and us, leading to insights that can illuminate our personal paths.

Scriptures serve the crucial purpose of anchoring us in a solid foundation of revelation regarding who Jesus Christ is, the purpose our lives offer, and the meaning we derive from knowing who we are through Christ. Understanding these principles enriches our faith, providing a strong assurance in Him. We are doctrinally anchored, continuously growing in faith, light, and truth, and living out the Law and Gospel of Christ in every facet of our lives. This multifaceted approach to scripture study invites us into a deeper relationship with the Divine, encourages us to discern divine truths in our contemporary contexts, and leads us toward a more purposeful and engaged Christian life. As we venture into this commitment, we find not just knowledge but wisdom and revelation that transforms our hearts and minds.

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What Phil Gets Wrong About the LDS Faith: Bible Corruption Claims and Joseph Smith’s ‘Abomination’ Statement Explained

Timothy R. BermanLeave a comment

For years, critics have repeated the same two accusations: that Latter‑day Saints “claim the Bible is corrupted,” and that Joseph Smith condemned all Christian ministers as “abominable.” These claims sound alarming—until you actually examine them closely. What becomes clear, very quickly, is that the real issue isn’t Mormonism at all. It’s the fragile framework of biblical infallibility and inerrancy that many critics bring to the conversation. When that framework is held up to the light of mainstream biblical scholarship, it collapses under its own weight, revealing the complexities and nuances that are often overlooked in the heated discourse surrounding religious beliefs.

The truth is far more grounded and far less sensational than the accusations imply. Latter‑day Saints simply affirm what conservative, moderate, and liberal scholars have acknowledged for more than a century: the Bible has a complex transmission history, contains missing writings, and reflects genuine human processes of preservation. This acknowledgment isn’t fringe thinking, nor is it merely “Mormon doctrine.” It represents the academic consensus that has emerged from rigorous study and analysis. Once you grasp this broader context, the accusations directed at Joseph Smith and the Restoration begin to appear less like informed critique and more like a double standard rooted in presuppositional inerrancy—a lens through which some critics view scripture without truly considering the historical and scholarly evidence that informs our understanding of biblical texts.

My goal in this analysis is simple yet profound: to cut through the rhetoric that often obscures fruitful dialogue, examine the evidence with an open mind, and demonstrate why the claims repeated by critics don’t hold up—not because of LDS apologetics, but because of the very scholarship on which his own tradition depends. When we follow the data, explore the history, and apply logic, a far clearer picture begins to emerge—one that not only restores trust but also deepens understanding. This deeper comprehension invites a more honest and constructive conversation about scripture, revelation, and the Restoration. Engaging in this dialogue can lead to better mutual respect and a recognition of the shared elements found within our diverse faith traditions, fostering an environment where questions can be asked, and insights can be exchanged without the burden of past misconceptions.

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The Architecture of Anger: Navigating Threats, Expectations, and Addiction in the Refiner’s Fire of Recovery

Timothy R. BermanLeave a comment

Anger is not a random eruption. It is a structure—a system of triggers, distortions, and emotional wounds that form a predictable pattern. This understanding of anger as a structured response is crucial because it helps us identify the root causes of our emotions rather than viewing them as mere spontaneous reactions. In recovery, gaining insights into this architecture becomes essential for healing and personal growth. Consider this, “Anger is a progressive challenge in recovery and a symptom of deeper pain.”

This notion emphasizes that anger often masks underlying issues, such as unresolved trauma, anxiety, or fear. By acknowledging these connections, we can address the true sources of our anger instead of simply reacting to it. When we learn to map its components—recognizing our triggers, understanding the distortions in our thought patterns, and confronting our emotional wounds—we stop being acted upon by these feelings.

In doing so, we transition from a passive experience of anger to one where we can act with spiritual clarity and agency. This active engagement allows us to express our emotions constructively, facilitating healthier interactions and fostering deeper connections with ourselves and others. Embracing the complexity of anger paves the way for genuine healing and allows for the development of coping strategies that contribute to a balanced emotional life. Ultimately, this journey empowers us to reclaim our well-being and operate from a place of understanding and compassion.

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Part II – Lesson 6: The Church of the First Century

Timothy R. BermanLeave a comment

Every surviving document from the earliest Christians points to one unmistakable reality: the Church of Jesus Christ was never meant to drift, improvise, or evolve by popular opinion. It was governed—actively, visibly, and globally—by living apostles who traveled, taught, corrected, and unified the Saints across thousands of miles. The idea of a fragmented, locally‑run Christianity would have been unrecognizable to the men and women who lived under apostolic direction.

Archaeologists mapping Roman travel networks now show how apostles could realistically maintain jurisdiction across vast distances. Historians studying Acts 15 identify the Jerusalem Council as the first Christian governing council—binding on every congregation. And New Testament scholars across traditions agree that Peter’s leadership was real, but never monarchical. The earliest Church functioned through a council of apostles, not a solitary bishop and not independent local leaders.

This emerging academic consensus paints a picture that looks far more like the Latter‑day Saint model of apostolic governance than the later structures of Catholicism, Orthodoxy, or Protestantism.

When Latter‑day Saints speak of a living quorum of apostles with worldwide jurisdiction, we are not inventing a new ecclesiology—we are recovering the original one. The historical record, the New Testament, and the best modern scholarship converge on the same point: the Church Christ established was led by a unified body of apostles who held authority for the entire household of faith.

This is the pattern that disappeared after their deaths. This is the pattern the Restoration restores.

What to Look for in this Lesson: 

  1. Most of the religions of the first century of the Christian era stressed the acquisition of salvation through mystical initiatory rites or elaborate ceremonies. Christianity ignored these aspects of religion and stressed a high standard of moral conduct. 
  2. Christianity was a rapidly expanding movement in the first century. Arrangements were made for supervision so that it would not become disunited. 
  3. Enrichment material. In Apostasy from the Divine Church, pp. 39-77 can be found some unique quotations and comments concerning the doctrines and worship of the early Christian church. 

How This Lesson Functions in LDS Apologetics

Apostolic jurisdiction is not an abstract ecclesiological idea—it is the structural backbone of the New Testament Church. Showing that the earliest Christians were governed by a mobile, authoritative quorum of apostles accomplishes three apologetic goals:

  • It demonstrates that the original Church was hierarchical, organized, and led by living apostles, not by Scripture alone or by independent congregations.
  • It shows that later Christian structures—papal monarchy, conciliar episcopacy, or Protestant congregationalism—do not match the first‑century pattern.
  • It clarifies that the Restoration restores a model that actually existed, rather than inventing a new one.

This lesson therefore becomes a bridge between historical reconstruction and Restoration theology.

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The “All or Nothing” Fallacy: Why Tyson Guess’s Logic Fails the Scriptural and Historical Test

Timothy R. BermanLeave a comment

If there is any given reason for someone to question and leave the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Tyson Guess has built a shiny logical-looking exit ramp. However, if you are willing to take a moment and slow down to breathe, the architecture of his argument is built on a very sandy foundation – specifically, a fundamental misunderstanding of how God interacts with fallible mortals.

It is in his recent article over at Medium – “One False Revelation Collapses Mormonism” – where he attempts to use the Book of Abraham as a silver bullet to take down the entire Latter-day Saint Faith. He proposes that because the surviving Egyptian papyri does not match the Book of Abraham linguistically, one ought to conclude that Prophet Joseph Smith was a fraud. By extension, he claims that this means the Book of Mormon is a lie perpetuated upon the 19th-Century American populace—and by many individuals today.

What Guess seems to overlook is that faith and belief systems are complex, multifaceted experiences that often transcend mere textual analysis. Having immersed myself in the scriptures and extensively researched various scholarly articles on the Bible, the Book of Mormon, and the Book of Abraham, I am not one to shy away from the hard questions that arise. Indeed, grappling with difficult topics is an integral part of faith development.

Moreover, it is important to remember that neither the Church nor its members need to hide from the papyri or the so-called “missing scroll” theories. These subjects, when approached with integrity and a commitment to truth, can lead to a deepened understanding of the faith. Once we apply proper scriptural exegesis and peer-reviewed scholarship to the questions surrounding these texts, Guess’s assertion of an “inescapable conclusion” begins to look more like a desperate reach rather than a definitive argument against the faith.

Ultimately, it’s essential to recognize the broader context in which these discussions occur. Many who leave or reconsider their faith do so not only based on intellectual arguments but also due to personal experiences, feelings, and the intricate tapestry of their spiritual lives. Engaging with such matters requires not only scholarly rigor but also compassion and understanding for individual journeys. The dialogue around faith and doubt can be rich and illuminating, offering avenues for personal growth and deeper connections with God and each other.

If the Book of Mormon is true, the Book of Abraham must be true.

The Book of Abraham is demonstrably false.

Therefore the Book of Mormon is false.

That is not a rhetorical flourish. It is a logical necessity rooted in the nature of God himself. God does not put his name on lies. God does not commission a prophet and then authorize that prophet to deliver falsehood as scripture. A divine commission that produces falsehood is not divine. Which means the two books stand or fall together. They claim the same origin: the gift and power of God through Joseph Smith. That origin is either reliable, or it is not. It cannot be selectively reliable. If one product of that commission is demonstrably false, the commission itself is false, and everything resting on it falls with it.

This article proves each premise. By the end, the conclusion is inescapable.

Tyson Guess’s argument rests upon presuppositional apologetics and is quite a rigid syllogism where he makes the first point regarding how the Book of Abraham stand or fall together. The second point is how he views the Book of Abraham as “demonstrably false” because it is not a literal linguistic translation of the surviving papyri. And third, he concludes that because the Book of Abraham and the Book of Mormon are false, Joseph Smith, therefore, is a false prophet under the presupposed interpretative understanding of Deuteronomy 18. His argument leads to the conclusion that the entire Latter-day Saint belief system collapses under scrutiny.

Steelmanning Tyson Guess’s Assertions

The strongest point he makes is the physical evidence: the Sensen papyri (the fragments recovered in 1967)1 do indeed contain standard Egyptian funerary texts (The Book of Breathings) and do not contain the text of the Book of Abraham. This mismatch is acknowledged by the Church in the Gospel Topics Essays, which lends credibility to his claim. If one’s definition of “translation” is strictly limited to a 21st-century academic decoding of hieroglyphs, Guess’s point feels quite weighty and compelling.

However, to thoroughly engage with Guess’s perspective, it is essential to steelman his position—articulating it in its strongest form—before launching into a counter-argument. A steelman approach involves understanding the nuances of his claims, thus allowing for a more productive discourse. From there, one can examine the logical fallacies that underlie his assertions, such as potential fallacies of composition—implying that the failure of one work invalidates the entirety of a belief system—or false dilemmas that oversimplify complex theological concepts.

In addressing the primary contention regarding translations, scholars advocate for a broader understanding of the term “translation.” The restoration of the Book of Abraham is often viewed not merely as a linguistic exercise but as a theological endeavor. Thus, one might argue that the translation in question relies on Divine inspiration rather than strict linguistic fidelity. An exegetical interpretation of the text could highlight its contextual significance within the framework of Latter-day Saint theology, countering Guess’s assertion of its demonstrable falsehood.

Engaging with peer-reviewed literature reveals diverse scholarly opinions on ancient texts, translations, and the role of revelatory processes in religious contexts. Numerous Latter-day Saint scholars and Egyptologists have contributed rigorous analyses of the Book of Abraham, arguing that the text retains spiritual truths even if its historical and linguistic basis is complex.

While it is necessary to acknowledge the weight of Tyson Guess’s arguments, it is equally important to invite readers to examine the evidence for themselves rigorously. The discourse surrounding the Book of Abraham is multifaceted, integrating historical, linguistic, and theological dimensions. Encouraging critical thought fosters a more robust conversation, allowing individuals to explore the nuances of faith, history, and evidence as they pertain to the Latter-day Saint belief system. Through this lens, one can engage not only with the arguments presented but also with the broader implications for understanding religious texts in a modern context.

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The Architecture of Grace: A Systematic Analysis of the Everlasting Covenant

Timothy R. BermanLeave a comment

Jacob’s story is not the tale of a man who finally got his act together. It is the story of a God who refused to let go. From the well where Rebekah ran to serve a stranger, to the night Jacob wrestled until dawn, Genesis 24–33 reveals a God who enters the grit of human weakness and patiently reshapes a people who learn—slowly, painfully, beautifully—to let Him prevail. This is not ancient history; it is the architecture of grace still unfolding in every disciple who dares to surrender.

Every scene in this week’s Come, Follow Me block is a doorway into covenant transformation. A servant prays at a well and finds a woman whose kindness alters the future. Two brothers clash over a birthright that neither fully understands. A fugitive dreams of a ladder where heaven touches earth. A deceiver becomes Israel. A wounded family becomes whole again. These are not disconnected stories; they are covenant threads woven by a God who meets His children in deserts, dreams, and wrestles—and invites them into a life only He can build.

The New Testament echoes these moments at every turn: Christ offering living water at Jacob’s well, the Father running to embrace a prodigal son, the Savior calling His disciples to leave lesser things for eternal ones. The Book of Mormon, Doctrine and Covenants, and Pearl of Great Price amplify the same truth: God prevails when His children yield.

This study follows an expository and exegetical method—tracing themes of covenant, surrender, revelation, reconciliation, and divine guidance across the Old Testament, New Testament, Restoration scripture, and the teachings of modern prophets. It is expository, exegetical, devotional, and practical. It is written for individuals who want more than information—they want transformation.

If you’ve ever wrestled with God, waited for answers, feared reconciliation, or wondered whether He remembers you, Genesis 24–33 is your story. And the God who prevailed in Jacob’s life is ready to prevail in yours.

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Latter-day Saint Faith as a “Narcissistic System”? A Structured, Evidence – Based Response

Timothy R. BermanLeave a comment

Is the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints a high-demand and structurally narcissistic organization? Apparently, this is the newest claim being peddled on podcasts and social media networks, gaining traction in various online circles. And it is quite telling for such a bold claim. It is one thing to share personal experiences and insights into how faith in Christ led to the healing of trauma and abuse, which can foster a sense of community and understanding. However, what is defiantly and demonstratively uncalled for is the onslaught of these claims that are thrown around with terms like gaslighting, narcissistic tendencies, and arm-chair pop-psychology vernacular, often lacking in substantiation or context. Such language can be inflammatory and misleading, reducing complex issues into simplistic labels. It seems to be more of a projection of the one making these claims and not about sound, objective, and reasonable arguments that are rested on evidence-based truths and realities, which are essential for a thoughtful and constructive discourse. In this climate of social media sensationalism, it is crucial to approach such sensitive discussions with nuance and an emphasis on genuine dialogue rather than sensational accusations.

And enter a recent episode of the Almost Awakened podcast where Teresa Hobbs attempts to argue that The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is not merely a high demand religion; but it is structurally narcissistic. She claims the church mirrors the dynamics of narcissistic abuse, breeds codependency, suppresses intuition, and even contributes to chronic illness and nervous-system dysregulation.

Now, do not hear what I am not saying (or in this case read into what I am not saying). I am not making light of someone’s traumatic experience – nor should any make light of someone’s past where they struggled with abuse, family history of dysfunction, and even their own addictions and mental health challenges. It is crucial to approach these topics with sensitivity and understanding.

Neither am I here to offer any clinical or therapeutic advice, medical recommendations, or render any professional diagnosis. The nuances of mental health issues require a level of expertise that extends far beyond casual conversation or podcasting. Many listeners may find themselves grappling with their own experiences, and the last thing they need is a misinformed diagnosis or unfounded advice. It is important to encourage individuals to seek professional help if they are facing significant challenges.

The sad reality – when these podcasters speak and throw around the terms narcissism, gaslighting, and do not make any disclaimer, they most likely are offering up a diagnosis and recommendations. Both of which is unprofessional and unethical and does more harm than good for their audience. In doing so, they risk invalidating the real and complex experiences of those who have genuinely faced such issues, and they undermine the credibility of mental health conversations.

Furthermore, creating a false sense of understanding about such intricate dynamics can lead to a slew of misconceptions. It must be emphasized that discussions around mental health, especially in relation to specific organizations, require great care and should prioritize the lived experiences of individuals, incorporating scientific understanding and the need for professional guidance.

There is good reason one needs to provide such a disclaimer. It not only protects the integrity of the conversation but also respects the audience by acknowledging the complexity of psychological issues. Offering blanket statements or proclamations without context distracts from meaningful dialogue and can lead to a harmful oversimplification of serious matters. It is essential for podcasters and content creators to recognize the responsibility that comes with discussing sensitive topics, ensuring that they equip their listeners with proper resources rather than inadvertently misguiding them.

And so, what is the reason to respond to this recent podcaster’s claim? Given what I just said? Because the host, Teresa Hobbs, is making a very serious accusatory claim about the LDS Faith – one that delves into the lived experiences of individuals who have suffered real trauma, abuse, and dysfunction. These claims are not just mere allegations; they bear significant weight as they touch upon deeply personal and painful stories that countless individuals carry with them. It also speaks more harm in condemning and judging many who live healthy, productive lives – specifically, many who have overcome their past issues, demonstrating resilience and strength. By unfairly generalizing the experiences of a few, Hobbs risks painting an entire community in a negative light, overshadowing the positive contributions and transformations of those who strive to move forward. Furthermore, such a narrative can perpetuate stigma and misunderstanding, detracting from the support and understanding that so many seek and deserve. It is crucial to engage with these topics thoughtfully, considering the wide-ranging implications that come with public discourse, especially when it involves faith and personal recovery journeys.

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Day 2 – A Single Step

Timothy R. BermanLeave a comment

And there are also secret combinations, even as in times of old, according to the combinations of the devil, for he is the founder of all these things; yea, … and he leadeth them by the neck with a flaxen cord, until he bindeth them with his strong cords forever.
~ 2 Nephi 26:22 ~

There’s a reason the scriptures don’t say the adversary drags us with chains from the beginning. They say he starts with a flaxen cord—soft, subtle, almost unnoticeable.

Flaxen cords feel harmless. They feel like “I’m fine.” They feel like “It’s not that bad.” They feel like “Everyone else is the problem.” They can be associated with small compromises and everyday distractions that initially seem trivial, but over time can lead us down a path we never intended to walk.

We might find ourselves rationalizing decisions that, in retrospect, clearly lead away from our values or beliefs. Gradually, we become accustomed to the tightened grip of that cord, oblivious to our increasing vulnerability. Over time, each little distraction or compromise we accept acts as another loop in that cord, binding us tighter and tighter until we feel as though escape is impossible.

And then one day, you wake up and realize you’re not holding the cord. The cord is holding you. The realization can be jolting; it is a moment of clarity where we recognize how far we’ve strayed from our intended path. This moment often comes with feelings of regret, confusion, or despair, as we confront the reality of our situation.

This is exactly how 2 Nephi 26:22 operates in real life. Not with sudden destruction—but with slow spiritual erosion until the truth becomes unavoidable. It’s a gradual process, where the adversary uses our own indifference against us, allowing darker patterns to take root before we even realize the danger. Awareness becomes the first step toward liberation. By recognizing the effects of the flaxen cord, we can take action—whether seeking support, reevaluating our choices, or returning to foundational truths that can help strengthen us against the subtlety of temptation. Thus, the journey back to freedom is not only possible but essential for spiritual renewal and growth.

Hello and welcome fellow travelers. Today, we are going to focus on what it means to take that single step. How it breaks the flaxen cords that brought us into captivity, and how we take necessary action when we step out in faith and into God’s grace – a grace that empowers us to seek His will, His purpose, and brings us into a right relationship with who he is, his love, tender mercies, and joy.

Let’s pray

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Day 1 – The First Step – Honesty

Timothy R. BermanLeave a comment

“I do not boast in my own strength, nor in my own wisdom; but behold, my joy is full, yea, my heart is brim with joy, and I will rejoice in my God. Yeah, I know that I am nothing: as to my strength I am weak; therefore I will not boast of myself, but I will boast of my God, for in his strength I can do all things” (Alma 26:11-12)

Addiction surrenders later freedom to choose. Through chemical means, one can literally become disconnected from his or her own will.” (Elder Russell M. Nelson, in Conference Report, October 1988, 7; or Ensign, Nov. 1988, 7). 

There comes a moment in our own personal journey when the illusion of self-sufficiency collapses. We discover that the strength we trusted has betrayed us, and the wisdom we followed has led us into bondage. Yet this moment – this breaking – is not the end. It is the doorway to the only strength that can save us.

Welcome, fellow travelers. Today we walk together into the holy paradox of recovery: the place where admitting our nothingness becomes the birthplace of divine strength. The scriptures do not shame our weakness – they reveal it as the very place where Christ meets us. This journey towards wholeness involves a profound acknowledgment of our vulnerability and the limitations of our mortal existence. As we explore these spiritual truths, we uncover the transformative power inherent in our weaknesses, enabling us to forge a deeper relationship with our Creator.

Heavenly Father, we come as we are – empty, weary, and aware of our need. Thank you for your grace that teaches us the freedom of surrender. Thank you for teaching us the joy of boasting only in Your grace that strengthens us in our own weakness. Thank you for your grace that fills our nothingness with Thy strength, that we may rise in the light of Thy truth – in Jesus’ name, Amen.

There is a sacred honesty that God requires before He can remake a soul. It is not the honesty of mere confession, nor the honesty of admitting mistakes. It is the honesty of reaching the end of our own resources and discovering that our strength has never been enough. Alma’s declaration— “I know that I am nothing”—is not the groan of despair but the first breath of spiritual clarity. It is the moment when the soul stops pretending, shedding the facade of self-reliance to embrace the empowering truth of dependence on God. This is where healing begins—a transformative process that beckons us to lay down our burdens.

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