Devotional: ‘My House is a House of Order’

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    By Jessica Mallard

    The importance of having order in every aspect of life was the topic of Tuesday”s Devotional, March 7, 2006, given by Stephen Jones, dean of the College of Fine Arts and Communications.

    He said when one understands order it helps one understand Heavenly Father, which eventually helps that person become like him. Order is evident in the creation of all things, and the Lord”s house is a house of order.

    Jones quoted King Benjamin, in Mosiah 4:27, to explain how one can achieve this order:

    “And see that these things are done in wisdom and order, for it is not requisite that a man should run faster than he has strength. And again, it is expedient that he should be diligent, that thereby he might win the prize; therefore, all things must be done in order.”

    He said everyone must carefully guard against situations in which their actions are not in line with the gospel. The ultimate disorder that Satan perpetuates is the line between good and evil, just as he did with Adam and Even in the Garden of Eden.

    The temple plays a central role in setting things in order, Jones said. Also, the covenants and ordinances one makes with Heavenly Father guides and blesses them as they strive to put their lives in proper sequence.

    “Ordinances point us to Christ and his saving power,” he said.

    The sacrament is a wonderful example of an ordinance that helps members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints maintain order in their lives, he said. As members partake of the sacrament, Heavenly Father calls upon their heart asking them to keep his commandments. In return, they are promised the companionship of the Holy Ghost to assist them in their journey.

    “Ordinances and covenants act as a compass to our soul,” he said.

    As people become more obedient and faithful the depth of the promises they make with God increase, Jones said.

    He said there are a few ways to increase order in one”s life.

    First, obedience is essential in keeping one”s mind clear and strong, he said.

    Along with being obedient, prayer and scripture study help increase spiritual knowledge and understand God”s will, Jones said. Spiritual knowledge brings light and clarity.

    “Studying leads us on the straight and narrow course, landing our mortal souls in the kingdom of Heaven,” Jones said.

    Also, learning patience is part of this mortal life and everyone will fall short, Jones said.

    “I fall short within all of my stewardships,” he said. “It is the Atonement that makes up the difference between our inabilities and responsibilities.”

    Jones said seeking intelligence and making one”s eyes like Heavenly Father”s will cast away the darkness.

    Students and faculty are responsible for achieving the great vision of BYU, a fully anointed university, a united order of learning, a “Zion university,” he said. This means that all involved must build a house of learning, not only by study, but also by faith.

    Ways to increase order in one”s life

    1. Obedience

    2. Prayer

    3. Study

    4. Patience

    5. Seek Intelligence

    Taken from the Devotional address given by Stephen Jones

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