The Articulate Women Podcast

S3E19 Conference Report and Parables Wrap Up Part 2We discuss Sunday Conference Sessions and share our parting thoughts about the last year of studying the parables.  Talks referenced:“Careful versus Casual” by Becky Cravenhttps://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/general-conference/2019/04/12craven?lang=engDegree of difficulty talk – “Your Repentance Doesn’t Burden Jesus Christ; It Brightens His Joy.” By Tamara W. Runia. https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/general-conference/2025/04/43runia?lang=eng Books mentioned: Gentle and Lowly by Dane Ortlundhttps://amzn.to/42QFZSi The King Washes Feet by Jessica Clair Bond https://amzn.to/42QG7BgInstagram:  @saltandgoldcollectionhttps://www.instagram.com/saltandgoldcollection/ Sponsored by “My Person Liahona” Patriarchal Blessing Guide:Print Version: https://goodnewsbrandco.com/products/my-personal-liahonaDigital Version: https://goodnewsbrandco.com/products/my-personal-liahona-digitalPrep Guide: https://goodnewsbrandco.com/products/seeking-lightt 

S3 E18 Conference Report and Parables Wrap UpWatch April 2026 General Conference Here:LDS.org - https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/general-conference/2026/04?lang=engYoutube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XtFN9wL0EEk&list=PLClOO0BdaFaOU3HIZfC9-Aiil8vvYbqhh  Bednar book about Becoming:https://amzn.to/3QQIrW5 John 14:27Psalm 9:9-10Rest Scriptures:Psalm 4:8 (NASB)Mark 6:31-32 (NASB)Redeeming ProductivityFavorite Goal Setting Episode:https://www.youtube.com/live/JgOYC-09QC0?si=vBRS7XCLXgtZOCXQ“What is Christian Productivity?”https://youtu.be/wNn-pdrW2AY?si=ivIFwvmXb_mYKcxJ Sponsored by “My Person Liahona” Patriarchal Blessing Guide:Print Version: https://goodnewsbrandco.com/products/my-personal-liahonaDigital Version: https://goodnewsbrandco.com/products/my-personal-liahona-digitalPrep Guide: https://goodnewsbrandco.com/products/seeking-lightt 

S3E17 What does it mean to follow Jesus? Matthew 20:1-16 - The parable of the last laborerLuke 14:28-33 - The cost of discipleship  Study Bible we used and referenced study material:NIV Women’s  Study Biblehttps://amzn.to/4kV5o5NCSB Women’s Biblehttps://amzn.to/4aywgVBNLT  Life Application Biblehttps://amzn.to/4cFyzaI The message bible:https://amzn.to/46QDQIV The Laborers in the Vineyard by Elder Holland: https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/general-conference/2012/04/the-laborers-in-the-vineyard?lang=eng Gently and Lowly by Dane Ortlandhttps://amzn.to/3PpmmgB "Following Jesus does not mean having a trouble free life."NLT study bible The Cost and Blessings of Discupleship by Elder Hollandhttps://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/general-conference/2014/04/the-cost-and-blessings-of-discipleship?lang=engHe knew that God knew it – Joseph Smith History 1:25 The apostle who didn’t get a promotion:https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/liahona/2002/03/the-currant-bush?lang=engSee also this video: https://youtu.be/Rr8xvw0cgw0?si=aQxqNqGMNlpsBl8z “Live the gospel faithfully even if others around you don’t live it at all. Defend your beliefs with courtesy and with compassion, but defend them.” Edler Holland  Want to be a beta reader for my upcoming book? Send us an email at [email protected] with the subject line “Melissa’s Book” and let me know if you would like to be a beta reader for this book!   Sponsored by “My Person Liahona” Patriarchal Blessing Guide:Print Version: https://goodnewsbrandco.com/products/my-personal-liahonaDigital Version: https://goodnewsbrandco.com/products/my-personal-liahona-digitalPrep Guide: https://goodnewsbrandco.com/products/seeking-lightt      

S3E16 Will you let Christ help you prune your tree? Luke 13:6-9 (1-9) – Parable of the Barren Fig TreeJohn 9:3 Study Bible we used and referenced study material:NIV Women’s  Study Biblehttps://amzn.to/4kV5o5NCSB Women’s Biblehttps://amzn.to/4aywgVBNLT  Life Application Biblehttps://amzn.to/4cFyzaI Allegory of the Olive Tree - Jacob 5:49-53“A Million Chances” by Jamie MacDonaldSpotify link: https://open.spotify.com/track/0sfd53iGsKTy4lo6NGwbYg?si=40799d8fdd8a40de Full Album: https://open.spotify.com/album/0y3pWJZ5j2JPYI2K3vPzZp?si=rkmImvn8TaS91HobY_l-sA Abraham pleading on behalf of Sodom and Gomorrah: Genesis 18:16-33 Fumio Sasaki  - Goodbye thingshttps://amzn.to/4rwTxNs Parable of the Fig Tree: Matthew 24:1- 35 Every knee shall bow and every tongue confess: Isaiah 45:23, Romans 14:11   Parable of the Cursed Fig Tree: Matthew 21:1-22Many Hats Talk: “An Especially Noble Calling” by Joy D. Joneshttps://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/general-conference/2020/04/14jones?lang=eng“Women wear many hats, but it is impossible, and unnecessary, to wear them all at once. The Spirit helps us determine which work to focus on today.”  Joy D. Jones I’ll go where you want me to go, Hymn no 270Christ is Risen; Faith in Him will Move Mounatins: President Nelsonhttps://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/general-conference/2021/04/49nelson?lang=eng  Want to be a beta reader for my book? Send us an email at [email protected] with the subject line “Melissa’s Book” and let me know if you would like to be a beta reader for this book!   Sponsored by “My Person Liahona” Patriarchal Blessing Guide:Print Version: https://goodnewsbrandco.com/products/my-personal-liahonaDigital Version: https://goodnewsbrandco.com/products/my-personal-liahona-digitalPrep Guide: https://goodnewsbrandco.com/products/seeking-lightt      

S3E15 What will you give up for Jesus? Parable of the Dishonest Manager: Luke 16:1-15Link to the YouTube Video: https://youtu.be/F8c6VYjvHvk?si=34SvcF4QFDpKPjcGLuke 9:23-26  “My soul is satisfied.” - Psalm 63:4-5 New creature in Christ: 2 Corinthians 5:17Faust Quote: https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/general-conference/2004/10/where-do-i-make-my-stand?lang=engGalatians 5:16-24Video with crosses: https://www.instagram.com/reel/DAVgum0h3s7/?igsh=MXM3a2x5aWlxNGI2OQ== A Plea to my Sisters:https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/general-conference/2015/10/a-plea-to-my-sisters?lang=engNephi tied to the boat by his brothers: 1 Nephi 18:11-16Nephi tied up by his brothers after getting Ishmaels daughters: 1 Nephi 7:16-18. Genesis 50:20 Proverbs 3:25-26Ephesians 6:16 Miracle at the wedding feast: John 2:7 Everything was created first spiritually: Moses 3:5 Sponsered by “My Person Liahona” Patriarchal Blessing Guide:Print Version: https://goodnewsbrandco.com/products/my-personal-liahonaDigital Version: https://goodnewsbrandco.com/products/my-personal-liahona-digitalPrep Guide: https://goodnewsbrandco.com/products/seeking-lightt 

S3 E14 How to be persistent in prayer5 year prayer journalhttps://hosannarevival.com/products/one-thing-i-ask-5-year-prayer-journal-edinburgh-theme?variant=32910246346787&country=US&currency=USD&utm_medium=product_sync&utm_source=google&utm_content=sag_organic&utm_campaign=sag_organic&gad_source=1&gad_campaignid=22586005597&gbraid=0AAAAA_fhsBNVdsaw7_8fK8nKqpe8nloaN&gclid=Cj0KCQiA1JLLBhCDARIsAAVfy7grinq_sg0Ef98tGCca6cVdHnzVjy-WMpoAIcWSD9EfGAC6ueAlJ7IaAj93EALw_wcB Church News Article about using different versions of the Biblehttps://newsroom.churchofjesuschrist.org/article/holy-bible-translations-editions-church-of-jesus-christ Luke 14:7-11 The Parable of the Wedding FeastLuke 18:9-14 The Parable of the Pharisee and the Tax CollectorLuke 18:1-8 The Parable of the Persistent Widow English Standard VersionThe Message Translation - https://a.co/d/hJisk2yImage of the Bible Translation Charthttps://community.logos.com/discussion/246228/bible-versions?tab=acceptedDon’t fast with disfigured faces: Matthew 6:16 “Moreover when ye fast, be not, as the hypocrites, of a sad countenance: for they disfigure their faces, that they may appear unto men to fast. Verily I say unto you, They have their reward.”John 14:6-7. See also 2 Nephi 31:21 “And now, behold, my beloved brethren, this is the way; and there is none other way nor name given under heaven whereby man can be saved in the kingdom of God.”2 Nephi 31-33 (The doctrine of Christ – we are only saved by Christ) John 15:4-10 (NASB)“For apart from me, you can do nothing.” John 15:51 Samual 16:7Compact NASB Bible:https://a.co/d/8aH0lEoPrayer Bible Videos that inspired Melissahttps://youtu.be/fkOMopgr76I?si=qhSWkSRYPEQQ3K31https://youtube.com/shorts/_CfZuYhDh4Y?si=caWB_ZQ1-E6fSLVYhttps://youtu.be/DpN9AYmee9c?si=xS3elMbnek2GzJQmJohn 15:1-11Psalm 9:9-10“My hope is in Jesus.” – Psalm 71:5, Romans 15:15, 1 Timothy 1:1, 1 Peter 1:21Favorite Priscilla Shirer Sermons: https://youtu.be/XM8AgrM3pE4?si=9eXOop7h3Q9QzkIihttps://youtu.be/ZwgpBG7pV7k?si=7M0HTDf3rDn7p89Whttps://youtu.be/2R0iS4Q3l90?si=DXaXYB1QbkNFTk_yhttps://youtu.be/9NX5ljpYLrs?si=r4bfBnhsuRp2Bn_vJoshua 1: 5, 8, 9 (NASB) Verse:“ 5 No one will be able to oppose you all the days of your life. Ust as I have been with Moses, I will be with you. I will not desert or abandon you. 8 …for then you will make your way prosperous, and then y

There is a difference between grieving and lamenting. Melissa explores what the prayer of lament looks like and how we can use it on our lives in the middle of the hard, before relief comes. References: Eyring, Henry B. “Proved and Strengthened in Christ” Ensign, Nov 2025https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/general-conference/2025/10/47eyring?lang=eng Mormon 2:19Matthew 26:39Doctrine and Covenants 121:1-3Doctrine and Covenants 121:4, 6McMinn, M and Neff, M. “Embodying Integration: A fresh look at Christianity in the Therapy Room.” Intervarsity press, 2020.  Psalm 13: 1-6Psalm 22:1-4 Psalm 28:21-22Wilcox, S. M. “Face to Face: Seeking a Personal Relationship with God” Deseret Book, 2014https://a.co/d/eBdNu1Q“Who He Is” by Jamie MacDonaldhttps://youtu.be/S0nwZmmL_AQ?si=Jh7oj2m4WH64jmuASponsored by “My Person Liahona” Patriarchal Blessing Guide:Print Version: https://goodnewsbrandco.com/products/my-personal-liahonaDigital Version: https://goodnewsbrandco.com/products/my-personal-liahona-digitalPrep Guide: https://goodnewsbrandco.com/products/seeking-lightt

Season 3 Episode 12: “Lay up your treasures unto God.” The Rich Fool: Luke 12:16-21The Rich Man and Lazarus: Luke 16:19-31 The story of the widows mite: Luke 21:1-4Sponsered by “My Person Liahona” Patriarchal Blessing Guide:Print Version: https://goodnewsbrandco.com/products/my-personal-liahonaDigital Version: https://goodnewsbrandco.com/products/my-personal-liahona-digitalPrep Guide: https://goodnewsbrandco.com/products/seeking-lightt

Season 3 Episode 11 “For mine arm is lengthened out all the day long.” Matthew 22:1-14 The parable of the Wedding FeastAbrahamic, Covenant of in Bible DictionaryGalatians 3:26-292 Nephi 28:32 Revelation 3:20Revelation 3:15-16Repentance, in Bible Dictionary“Repentance is not optional for salvation. It is a commandment of God.” Bible dictionary.  5 Year prayer journal: https://www.dayspring.com/hosanna-revival-one-thing-i-ask-5-year-prayer-journal-edinburgh-themeGentle and Lowly book: https://a.co/d/678P6prSponsered by “My Person Liahona” Patriarchal Blessing Guide:Print Version: https://goodnewsbrandco.com/products/my-personal-liahonaDigital Version: https://goodnewsbrandco.com/products/my-personal-liahona-digitalPrep Guide: https://goodnewsbrandco.com/products/seeking-lightt

Conference part 2 Link to part one episode: iTunes: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-articulate-women-podcast/id1552601497?i=1000731727350Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/1mY6SkqTYv1bvrtE59DMCg?si=307d93c745424ae7Link to the podcast on Youtube: https://youtube.com/@articulatewomenpodcast?si=uTbeQmdgZdDzRCbbJohn 9 – the blind man sees by spit and dirt.World Report: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=peL0gUsJgkoDays for Girls Charity: https://www.daysforgirls.org/Light the World Giving Machines – Find One Near You - https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/comeuntochrist/light-the-world/giving-machinesTrades of Hope: https://tradesofhope.com/Mercy House Global: https://mercyhouseglobal.org/Mercy House of Global – Straight donations: Give to Local Ministry: https://mercyhouseglobal.org/products/give-to-mercy-house-globalGive to Global Ministry in Kenya: https://mercyhouseglobal.org/products/give-to-mercy-maternity-house-in-kenyaHelp us Continue to Empower Refugees: https://mercyhouseglobal.org/products/help-provide-for-an-esl-teacher-for-refugeesHelp Us Welcome a New Mother and Baby in Kenya: https://mercyhouseglobal.org/products/give-towards-a-baby-welcome-kitGive here Most Needed: https://mercyhouseglobal.org/products/where-most-neededHelp Fund Literacy Classes for  Womenhttps://mercyhouseglobal.org/products/literacy-classes-for-women-200Give Towards Emergency Medical Fundhttps://mercyhouseglobal.org/products/emergency-medical-fund-150Provide an Educational Scholarshiphttps://mercyhouseglobal.org/products/academic-scholarship-100Provide a Mosquito Nethttps://mercyhouseglobal.org/products/provide-a-mosquito-net  Elevate Academy – Help support survivors of human trafficking: https://elevate-academy.org/ 90 days to read the Book of Mormon: https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Kyu9hvafFKw/UT29W_nTnrI/AAAAAAAAC1I/4mTkrI8o7M0/s1600/Book-Of-Mormon-90-Day-Reading-Schedule.pngSponsered by “My Person Liahona” Patriarchal Blessing Guide:Print Version: https://goodnewsbrandco.com/products/my-personal-liahonaDigital Version: https://goodnewsbrandco.com/products/my-personal-liahona-digitalPrep Guide: https://goodnewsbrandco.com/products/seeking-lightt

We take some time away from parables this week to debrief General Conference. This is part one of a two part series. References:October 2025 General Conference DebriefHarold B Lee quote: https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/liahona/2024/03/digital-only/our-general-conference-walk-and-talk?lang=eng  President Nelson quotes President Kimballhttps://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/general-conference/2015/10/a-plea-to-my-sisters?lang=eng Good News Brand Conference Notebook:https://goodnewsbrandco.com/collections/general-conference-workbooks Song we couldn’t figure out: Now Let Us Rejoice, hymn #3 Bullet Journal Habit Tracker – https://youtu.be/VxblJHq3QW4?si=lfbQZ0Vi4HfMoXhETiny Habits by BJ Fogghttps://www.amazon.com/Tiny-Habits-Changes-Change-Everything/dp/0358362776/ref=sr_1_1?dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.8RlY2c4dXOn9giW84_VrKt64mNGgSzJH646tdSarVi9VixGJc3ZOfu0vdvimnOi1K2tuZAWbftppYXRDIRHFBCfXjujzbJHOphLZxPMmAE0ce92fUlDmDhUjuvwuhF4JYVt7sC86KIo2fCPJNesL-o_ZCgmPxmIO-rRWLyRjG0dTZkhBKRvx3s6i-0_DPNwUqvjicpc_5d1uhKEBFPbRf6RviJQJI1xu3kIvXYOg2_U.M87Uqt63aaAj3PDybfWG59bwZ8raOKmJGXZ8PdQnQnU&dib_tag=se&hvadid=713512285191&hvdev=c&hvexpln=67&hvlocphy=9030799&hvnetw=g&hvocijid=15160750540539590023--&hvqmt=e&hvrand=15160750540539590023&hvtargid=kwd-315467149809&hydadcr=22530_13730713&keywords=tiny+habits&mcid=f8c18d034f7c3ca7b6958ff272d91ad7&qid=1760330581&sr=8-1Face to Face by S. Michael Wilcoxhttps://www.amazon.com/Face-Seeking-Personal-Relationship-God/dp/160907520XFervent Prayer by Priscilla Shirer Priscilla Shirer Sermons:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-UxbhHMtn3Qhttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=emqXr6IQ7Z4 Episode 1 of the podcast talking about the challenge from President Nelson and how it changed my life. https://open.spotify.com/episode/6Ckx4zHpLthZniDCZvp4I9?si=R8Yi_dVPRUCBTKGpmb-mdwITUNES PODCAST https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-articulate-women-podcast/id1552601497?i=1000514988282Read the Book of Mormon in 90 days reading Chart:https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Kyu9hvafFKw/UT29W_nTnrI/AAAAAAAAC1I/4mTkrI8o7M0/s1600/Book-Of-Mormon-90-Day-Reading-Schedule.png2 Corinthians 5:18Romans 5:10

The Parable of the Two Sons and the parable of the wicked Husbandmen Matthew 21: 23-44When Peter is called:  Luke 5:3, 8, 11Nice versus Kind Article: https://www.ldsliving.com/ask-a-latter-day-saint-therapist-does-following-jesus-and-being-kind-mean-getting-walked-on/s/90626“My wife dryly observes that “if you’re trying to be like Jesus then brandishing a whip and flipping over tables are perfectly acceptable options for behavior.” So what does this mean? Are we not commanded to be kind, loving, and nice?The first two? Yes. “Nice?” No. Jesus was never nice. Jesus was kind. There’s a big difference. Being nice is about not wanting to upset people or ruffle any feathers. Christ didn’t care about that. He had zero problem with upsetting people. That’s because He was kind. Kind people don’t want to hurt others, but they will speak the truth with boldness and love. Kind people care about the welfare of those around them. Kind people draw healthy boundaries because that’s good for everybody. The Lord upset plenty of people, but that’s not because He was mean. It’s because He was kind, direct, and honest.Culturally we tend to misunderstand the Lord’s teaching that “the spirit of contention is not of me, but is of the devil” (3 Nephi 11:29). We mistake conflict for contention. Contention is a heated disagreement. It involves anger and can escalate into malice and hatred. Conflict, on the other hand, is unavoidable as we navigate our differences or stand for the right. In trying to follow our Savior, we may erroneously become something that He never was: conflict-avoidant. There was perpetual conflict between Him and the scribes and the Pharisees. Did He back down? He did not. There is conflict today between the ways of the world and the ways of the gospel. There’s conflict between our will and God’s will. He doesn’t avoid any of it." John 18: 37-38 Second parable: The wicked husbandmanMatthew 21:33-44Women’s study bible: NIV translation: https://www.amazon.com/dp/078521237X?ref_=ppx_hzsearch_conn_dt_b_fed_asin_title_2Genesis 50:20Footprints in the sand poem: https://thebottomofabottle.wordpress.com/2013/03/23/footprints-in-the-sand-by-mary-stevenson/Alma 14:10-11Daniel 3:12,  15, 17, 24-26, 29-30 1 Peter 1: 6-71 Peter 4:13 1 Peter 3:15Lukewarm: Revelation 3:16Hymn 165 Abide with Me Tis Eventide. Revelation 3:20Come Follow Me Quote:https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/manual/scripture-helps-new-testament/21-matthew-21-23-mark-11-luke-19-20-john-12?lang=eng "Jesus Christ used the parables of the two sons and the wicked husbandmen to testify of His divinity as the Son of God. In each parable, the Savior condemns those who questioned His authority and abused their own authority."

The Parable of the Unforgiving ServantMatthew 18: 23-35 Sitting at the Feet of Rabbi Jesus by Ann Spangler and Lois TverbergGenesis 4: 23-24Matthew 18:21-22“Just as Lamech was vowing a punishment that far exceeded the crime, we should let our forgiveness far exceed the wrong done to us.”  - Sitting the Feet of Rabbi Jesus Joseph and his brothers: Genesis 42-45Joseph weeps – Genesis 43:30Makes himself known to his brothers – Genesis 45:3-7 Beauty for Ashes: Healing Path of Forgiveness by Sister Kristin M. Yee from October 2022 General Conference https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/general-conference/2022/10/23yee?lang=eng“Through His infinite Atonement, you can forgive those who have hurt you and who may never accept responsibility for their cruelty to you.“It is usually easy to forgive one who sincerely and humbly seeks your forgiveness. But the Savior will grant you the ability to forgive anyone who has mistreated you in any way. Then their hurtful acts can no longer canker your soul.”Quoted from “Four Gifts that Jesus Christ Offers to you” First presidency devotional Dec 2018. Bessel Van Der Kolk, The Body Keeps the Score. Alma 7:11-13 Romans 8: 35, 37-39Revelation 3:20

The Parable of the Good Samaritan Luke 10: 25-37 Study:   https://learn.academy4sc.org/video/the-good-samaritan-experiment-why-do-people-help-each-other/ Story of the Triplet Mom: https://www.facebook.com/share/v/1AmQeVDZix/?mibextid=wwXIfr Parable of the Pool:https://imlearningtothrive.wordpress.com/2015/09/26/reflection-and-the-parable-of-the-pool/ Talk: “Room in the Inn” by Gerrit W. Gong from April 2021 General Conferencehttps://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/general-conference/2021/04/16gong?lang=eng Isaiah 40:31 Just Serve App 

Trigger Warning:During this episode we will be a discussion of suicide and suicidal ideation. If you or a loved one needs help, please call the suicide hotline at 988.References:The Parable of the Mustard SeedMark 4:30-32Alma 32:27Luke 13:11-19Silent Souls Weeping by Jane Clayson JohnsonJohn 9:3Doctrine and Covenants 121 &122Mosiah 18:8-9Elisha: 2 Kings 6:15-17“17 Miracles” Movie

Todays episode is a quick pick me up from Melissa. She uses her knowledge as a mental health therapist to relate the way God shows up for us, sometimes in the silent moments. References:Isaiah 9:6Doctrine and Covenants 67:1-2

The Prodigal Son Episode art from: Dan Burr and Sir Edward PoynterThe Parable of the Lost Sheep:Matthew 18:11-14, Luke 15:1-7The Prodigal Son:Luke 15:11-32 “Waiting for the Prodigal” by Elder Brent H. Neilson of the 70 from April 2015 General Conferencehttps://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/general-conference/2015/04/waiting-for-the-prodigal?lang=engHebrews 12:6

The Parable of the SowerMatthew 13:1-9, 18-23, Mark 4:1-9, 13-20, Luke 8:4-8, 11-152 Timothy 3:7 (also verses  2-6)2 Nephi 9:28   “The Parable of the Sower” by Dallin H. Oaks from April 2015 General Conference  Fruits of the spirit: Galatians 5:22-23By their fruits ye shall know them: Matthew 7:16-20“The Savior’s examples could cause us to think of this parable as the parable of the soils. The suitability of the soil depends upon the heart of each one of us who is exposed to the gospel seed. In susceptibility to spiritual teachings, some hearts are hardened and unprepared, some hearts are stony from disuse, and some hearts are set upon the things of the world.” – Pres OaksThe simpleness of the word can distract people: 2 Corinthians 11:3 – “But I fear, lest by any means, as the serpect beguiled Eve through his subtilty, so your minds should be corrupted from the simplicity that is in Christ.” “This beautiful gospel is so simple a child can grasp it, yet so profound and complex that it will take a lifetime—even an eternity—of study and discovery to fully understand it.” – President Uchtdorf, October 2015 General Conference, “It Works Wonderfully!”https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/general-conference/2015/10/it-works-wonderfully?lang=engThe Tree of Life: 1 Nephi 8We are to be a peculiar people: 1 Peter 2:9 “But ye are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, an holy nation, a peculiar people; that ye should shew forth the praises of him who hath called you out of darkness into his marvellous light:”“Divine Discontent” by Michelle Craig from October 2018“Divine discontent comes when we compare “what we are [to] what we have the power to become.” Each of us, if we are honest, feels a gap between where and who we are, and where and who we want to become. We yearn for greater personal capacity. We have these feelings because we are daughters and sons of God, born with the Light of Christ yet living in a fallen world. These feelings are God given and create an urgency to act.We should welcome feelings of divine discontent that call us to a higher way, while recognizing and avoiding Satan’s counterfeit—paralyzing discouragement. This is a precious space into which Satan is all too eager to jump. We can choose to walk the higher path that leads us to seek for God and His peace and grace, or we can listen to Satan, who bombards us with messages that we will never be enough: rich enough, smart enough, beautiful enough, anything enough. Our discontent can become divine—or destructive.The Parable of the Wheat and the Tares: Matthew 13:24-30Prove Him herewith: Abraham 3:25“And we will prove them herewith, to see if they will do all things whatsoever the Lord their God shall command them;”Will prove you in all things: Doctrine and Covenants 98:14“Therefore, be not afraid of your enemies, for I have decreed in my heart, saith the Lord, that I will prove you in all things, whether you will abide in my covenant, even unto death, that you may be found worthy.”

The Parable of the 10 Virgins: Matthew 25:1-13 Quick article that mentions all four talks that mentioned the parable: https://www.ldsliving.com/did-you-notice-the-parable-that-multiple-speakers-mentioned-during-conference/s/127341.       President Camille Johnson, the Relief Society General President: Spiritually Whole in Him:https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/general-conference/2025/04/14johnson?lang=eng2.       Elder Sandino Roman of the 70: Faith: A Bond of Trust and Loyaltyhttps://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/general-conference/2025/04/24roman?lang=eng3.       Elder Dale G. Renlund of the 12: Personal Preparation to Meet the Saviorhttps://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/general-conference/2025/04/25renlund?lang=eng4.       President Dallin H. Oaks of the First Presidency: Divine Helps for Mortalityhttps://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/general-conference/2025/04/47oaks?lang=engTalk about being a casual disciple: Careful versus Casual by Becky Craven of the YW General Presidency. https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/liahona/2019/05/12craven?lang=eng  Story of the woman who let her temple recommend expire:https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/liahona/2019/05/12craven?lang=engDesiree shares her experiences about not having a temple recommend and the repentance process and how she found healing through the Atonement in a previous episode of the podcast. Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-articulate-women-podcast/id1552601497?i=1000515971322Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/3e3zX1CUeLFE1viA8LuZOF?si=iXwQ23AHQqSh-x2PvpBQmg Parable of the Talents: Matthew 25:14-30Melissa’s episode about finding her voice by following the prophet: Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-articulate-women-podcast/id1552601497?i=1000514988282Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/6Ckx4zHpLthZniDCZvp4I9?si=Jz_i_A39Qn6O5D7FKx5P3gMelissa’s guest episode on the Spiritually Minded Mom about her motherhood journey: https://spirituallymindedmom.com/2020/02/05/smm-078-why-a-deep-relationship-with-god-is-the-best-way-to-be-a-better-mothermelissa-buckley/Parable of the Sheep and the Goats: Matthew 31-46.   President Nelson Quote about Articulate Women in his talk in 2015, not 2019. (I quoted that wrong.) https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/general-conference/2015/10/a-plea-to-my-sisters?lang=eng 

I am catching up after a few weeks off for finals, but we are picking up where we left off in 2 Nephi 6-10. The prophesy was fulfilled that Jerusalem was destroyed and Jacob prophesies and testifies of Christ through his own words and those of Isaiah. 

Today we explore the way that the Lord helps Nephi to set some hard boundaries with his brothers in order to preserve not just his physical health, but his mental and spiritual health as well. Thoughts about building the temple are from Courtney Casper of @courtneycasper.letters

This episode was a bit more fluid for me. I just share some things I have been pondering on the last week or so. I talk about the Chosen, an experience in the temple, agency, being acted upon and a great phrase "having been led" from an interview with a Baptist preacher.  The Chosen TV series - Season 4 in theatres (episodes 1-3)https://thechosen.tv/en-us?gclid=CjwKCAiA8YyuBhBSEiwA5R3-E8vxRTG3qH2P68VFmzoD64wF5qI63PuZoeZR8XA__zhYDY2caJPdOBoCazsQAvD_BwE&gclsrc=aw.dsInterview with Missionary Baptist Preacher:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Au_FFVePKwM&t=1442s

We don't have to be jealous of the Liahona that Lehi had for his family because we each have our own in our patriarchal blessing! Let's explore how they are similar. President Monson's talk about Patriarchal Blessings:https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/general-conference/1986/10/your-patriarchal-blessing-a-liahona-of-light?lang=eng1. 1 Nephi 16:10, 16: He will lead us to prosperity. 2. 1 Nephi 16:28; 18:12, 21: Our blessing works by faith.3. 1 Nephi 17:3: He will help us to accomplish the thing He commands through the Atonement. 4. 1 Nephi 16:29: Its words may change based on the time in our lives. 5. 1 Nephi 17:51: He can work miracles in our lives like Moses and the tribes of Israel because we are descendants of Israel. Purchase my study guide titled "My Personal Liahona"Physical copy: https://goodnewsbrandco.com/collections/wrkwndr-guides/products/my-personal-liahonaDigital copy: https://goodnewsbrandco.com/collections/wrkwndr-guides/products/my-personal-liahona-digitalPreparatory guide: https://goodnewsbrandco.com/collections/shop-all/products/seeking-lightt

This one has been mulling around for a while. I have been wanting to share how experiencing this with a loved one pushed me to evaluate my own faith and help me to be more sure of where I stood in my own faith. Now feels like the right time, so here we go!Here are the study resources that I mentioned:Saints Volume 1:https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/history/saints-v1?lang=engAvailable in the gospel library digitally and in print through the distribution center.Joseph Smith History:https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/scriptures/pgp/js-h/1?lang=engThe First Vision: A Joseph Smith Papers Podcast:https://www.josephsmithpapers.org/articles/the-first-vision-a-joseph-smith-papers-podcast (links to various podcast hosting sites on this page)The Ten Minute Bible Hour Youtube Channel - He now calls it after himself, the Matt Whitman channel.  https://www.youtube.com/@MattWhitmanTMBHVideo on the protestant reformation:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_gfV6TBRAA8&t=15sChurch Tour Playlisthttps://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLeLDw8KQgqi4vbm__vNR6gMnwhLmGj0CdMy Favorite interview with a Baptist Pastor:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Au_FFVePKwM&list=PLeLDw8KQgqi4vbm__vNR6gMnwhLmGj0Cd&index=20

The Spirit was working on me hard today and it just feels like its time to get back into this podcast! I provide a life update of where I have been the last few years and discuss some thoughts I had about 1 Nephi 1-5 for this week's Come Follow Me. I help connect the Bible to the Book of Mormon and talk about the gift of prophesy in relation to motherhood. Scripture chain for connecting the Bible to the Book of Mormon:1 Nephi 1:42 Kings 24:1-42 Kings 24:10, 13, 14Daniel 1:1-3Ezekiel 1:1-21 Nephi 2:12-13Patriarchal Blessing Study Guide - "My Personal Liahona"Physical copy to purchase: https://goodnewsbrandco.com/collections/shop-all/products/my-personal-liahonaDigital copy to purchase: https://goodnewsbrandco.com/collections/shop-all/products/my-personal-liahona-digitalPreparatory guide (for teens or before you get your blessing): https://goodnewsbrandco.com/collections/wrkwndr-guides/products/seeking-lightt

Every phase of my life, it seems God is teaching me something different. And with it, I see a new side of who God is to His children. Right now He is teaching me that He is gentle. Resources:Doctrine and Covenants 121:41Revelation 3:20

Periodically I will do these short episodes, with just a little nugget of wisdom for you, to encourage you--a pep talk!Today I want to give you the courage to act on a prompting you have, no matter how inconvenient it is!Resources:Study on Good Samaritan by Darley and Batsonhttps://faculty.babson.edu/krollag/org_site/soc_psych/darley_samarit.htmlJeffrey R. Holland - "Christianity is comforting, but it is not comfortable."from https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/general-conference/2020/10/57holland?lang=engThomas S. Monson - "Never,  never, never postpone following a prompting."fromhttps://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/general-conference/1985/04/the-spirit-giveth-life?lang=eng

Desiree is a powerful force for good in this episode. She doesn't mince words when sharing about her ups and downs as a disciple of Jesus Christ. She is quick to admit both her mistakes and the power that God has brought to her life to overcome those mistakes. That is what the Atonement is. And she testifies of this so powerfully. She was able to stop relying on others' testimonies and be firmly rooted in her own, and most importantly in Christ. She stopped thinking she had to "arrive" at her faith and has learned to embrace the ever changing journey that is conversion. Resources:Consider the Goodness and Greatness of God by Dale G. Renlundhttps://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/general-conference/2020/04/26renlund?lang=eng

In this bonus episode from my conversation with Allie Barnes, she presents the unique idea of separating a faith crisis from a culture crisis. She talks about either of these crisis' as an example to reexamine and expand our faith in to something more. Buy her book here:https://www.amazon.com/Not-According-Plan-Becoming-unexpected-ebook/dp/B08KZ2SRCMFind her on Instagram @lookslikewandering

Allie talks very openly about the depression she experienced after feeling prompted to move to Cedar City, far away from any family or friends. She shares how God led her to the exact scripture she needed and how that helped her to feel God's love in a difficult time. She explores what it means to have faith, even when promptings don't make sense. Her testimony of how God works in a variety of ways and that He knows her very personally. She gives some great advice for anyone who struggles with depression or other mental health trials and how to deal with difficult times. You can find her on Instagram @lookslikewandering and her Podcast of the same name here:https://anchor.fm/looks-like-wanderingIt is available on Apple Podcasts and Spotify.Buy her book here:https://www.amazon.com/Not-According-Plan-Becoming-unexpected-ebook/dp/B08KZ2SRCMResources:2 Nephi 10:20-21https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/scriptures/bofm/2-ne/10?lang=engSocial media accounts mentioned:@thesmallseed@multiplygoodness@thescripturestudyproject@thecharaproject

When President Nelson asked us to ponder how we hear the voice of God, he didn't just ask us if we hear Him, but HOW. This is the key to becoming more articulate. When we can recognize who God is to us so we may better share His love with others. We will also discuss what it means to be articulate. Resources:Articulate Prophecy from Spencer W. Kimball, 1979https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/general-conference/1979/10/the-role-of-righteous-women?lang=engTurn On Your Light by Sharon Eubank, 2017https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/general-conference/2017/10/turn-on-your-light?lang=eng#HearHim Invitation Videohttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sGhQym_vhFUPlaylist of #HearHim responses from General Authoritieshttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=55kpsQ_MOno&list=PLAYgY8SPtEWF8s8XA579j7CELv4A72EkCRevelation for the Church, Revelation for our lives, 2018https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/general-conference/2018/04/revelation-for-the-church-revelation-for-our-lives?lang=eng

As I approached General Conference in the fall of 2018, I was in a deep depression and grasping for light and knew that I could find it through asking questions at Conference. When President Nelson issued the four challenges to the women, I jumped at the chance to follow the prophet. I knew it would change me, but I was not prepared for how it would change my whole life in a variety of ways. Following the Prophet helped me find my voice. Resources:Pink Journaling Edition of the Book of Mormon, from Line Upon Line:https://lineuponlineco.com/products/the-book-of-mormon?variant=18104546164832Sister's Participation in the Gathering of Israel, October 2018 General Women's Sessionhttps://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/general-conference/2018/10/sisters-participation-in-the-gathering-of-israel?lang=engAlma 5https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/scriptures/bofm/alma/5?lang=engLDS Living Article: "9 Simple Ways for Busy Moms to Find Time for Personal Revelation"https://www.ldsliving.com/9-Simple-Ways-for-Busy-Moms-to-Find-Time-for-Personal-Revelation/s/91668Mosiah 4:9https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/scriptures/bofm/mosiah/4?lang=engI talk more about this experience in episode 78 of the @spirituallymindedwomen podcast:https://spirituallymindedmom.com/2020/02/05/smm-078-why-a-deep-relationship-with-god-is-the-best-way-to-be-a-better-mothermelissa-buckley/

What does is mean to be articulate? Come with me as we explore how we as women of the last days can fulfill the prophecy from Spencer W. Kimball to be righteous and articulate as we share our faith and gather Israel!