Out of the depths I cry to you, O Lord. Lord, hear my voice! Let your ears be attentive to the voice of my supplications!

[Adapted from Choose Generosity: Discovering Whole Life Stewardship, Herald House, 2019, p. 53]

In the Book of Mormon, Jacob shared instructions to the people of Nephi:

“Think of your brethren as being like yourselves, and be familiar with all, and free with your substance, that they may be rich like you. But, before you seek for riches, seek for the kingdom of God, And after you have obtained a hope in Christ, you shall obtain riches, if you seek them; and you will seek them, for the intent to do good, to clothe the naked, and to feed the hungry, and to liberate the captive, and minister relief to the sick and the afflicted” (Jacob 2:22–24).

Jacob’s instructions upheld Jesus’ teachings about wealth, First, we are to seek God’s kingdom. Second, we receive hope in Christ of God’s love and grace. Third, if we do seek wealth, then we should seek it only to do God’s will.

This understanding of wealth was present in the early Restoration movement. Riches are not limited to possessions we gain. They include intangible riches of the Spirit given by God: “Seek not for riches but for wisdom; and behold, the mysteries of God shall be unfolded unto you, and then shall you be made rich. Behold he that hath eternal life is rich” (Doctrine and Covenants 6:3b–c).

These scriptural encouragements and warnings are just as valid today as when they were first written. God still calls us to seek God’s kingdom first. If we commit all we are and all we have to fulfill this mission, then our hearts remain centered on God’s will, and God’s light fills our lives.

Prayer Phrase

“Happy are those who observe justice” (Psalm 106:3).

Healing and Reconciliation

Gather a small mound of stones. Meditate on the stones as symbols of differences and destructive acts that continue to separate and wound the human family. Name and anoint each “stone wound” with a drop of water or scented oil. Offer them to God in a prayer for healing and reconciliation.

Today’s Prayer for Peace

Engage in a daily practice of praying for peace in our world. Click here to read today’s prayer and be part of this practice of peace.