Streaking the Scriptures

In today's episode of Streaking the Scriptures, we stay with Article of Faith 1 and go much deeper into the Holy Ghost. We walk through the Savior's promise in John 14 and 15, explore Nephi's powerful teachings in 2 Nephi 32, and look at how the Holy Ghost both tells us and shows us "all things" that we should do. I share a story about a tower of deadbolts, fifty keys, and one simple question that unlocked everything. Then we move into Article of Faith 2, what it really means to be "punished for [our] own sins," and how Doctrine and Covenants 19 reframes punishment through the Savior's atoning love.

Chapters

• 00:00 – Welcome Back to Article of Faith #1 Recap of our last study, the Godhead, and why we're spending extra time on the Holy Ghost.

• 02:22 – "Teach You All Things" and Bring to Your Remembrance John 14:26, the Comforter's mission, and imagining the original Apostles facing life without the Savior's physical presence.

• 04:45 – Gift of the Holy Ghost vs. Light of Christ How conscience and the light of Christ differ from the guiding, directing influence of the Holy Ghost after baptism.

• 06:04 – Words of Christ Tell, Holy Ghost Shows (2 Nephi 32) Nephi's teaching on speaking with the tongue of angels and the connection between the words of Christ and personal revelation.

• 08:26 – Ask, Seek, Knock… Really How often we stop at reading and pondering but never actually take our questions to the Lord in prayer.

• 09:58 – The Deadbolts, the Keys, and One Brave Question The object lesson at a women's conference: three locks, fifty keys, and the power of simply asking which one opens them all.

• 15:11 – Treasuring Up Words and Speaking by the Spirit Doctrine and Covenants 84/88, public speaking fears, and how the Lord gives us what to say "in the very hour."

• 17:14 – A Braces-Off Break and the Joy of Family A real-time family moment on camera and what it reminds us about the everyday goodness God gives.

• 20:35 – The Holy Ghost's Primary Mission John 15:26 and why testifying of Christ is the Holy Ghost's central work in our lives.

• 22:50 – Article of Faith #2: Punished for Our Own Sins Moving into the second Article of Faith and reframing what "punished" really means.

• 24:32 – D&C 19: Endless Punishment and Missed Opportunities Weeping, wailing, gnashing of teeth, and the heartache of "what could have been" when we do not repent.

• 28:55 – The Savior's Suffering So We Do Not Have To Reading Doctrine and Covenants 19 on Christ's exquisite suffering and His invitation to repent so we "might not suffer."

• 30:50 – Agency, Government, and Accountability (Mosiah 29) "Every man… answer for his own sins" and how that ties directly into the Articles of Faith and our personal responsibility.

• 33:30 – Looking Ahead to Article of Faith #3 A brief bridge to the next study on salvation through the Atonement of Christ and obedience to the laws and ordinances of the gospel.

Conclusion

As we wrap up today's study, we have seen again and again that the Holy Ghost is both Comforter and Teacher. He brings the Savior's words to our remembrance, he shows us what to do next, and he quietly confirms the most important truth of all: that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of the living God. We also saw how the Lord teaches us in Doctrine and Covenants 19 that "endless punishment" is His punishment, under His control, and that through Christ's Atonement we are accountable for our own sins – and blessed with the chance to repent and be healed.

If today's scriptures stirred something in you – a desire to study a little more about the Holy Ghost, to repent, or to act on a prompting – one of the best ways to honor that feeling is to make it consistent. That is why I use the MyStreaks – Streak Tracker App. You can set a simple streak like "Read at least one verse of scripture" or "Act on one prompting from the Spirit," record it quickly each day, and watch your identity as a true disciple grow one small action at a time.

If you have thoughts or experiences about the Holy Ghost you'd like to share, email me at [email protected]. I love hearing how the Spirit is working in your life. Until we study together again, have charity in traffic, keep your streaks alive, and as always… keep streaking the scriptures.

Welcome back to Streaking the Scriptures! Today marks a powerful moment in our year-long journey. We have officially completed every section in the Doctrine and Covenants, and now we turn our hearts and minds to the Articles of Faith and Official Declarations 1 and 2.

Even though published revelation in the Doctrine and Covenants has concluded, revelation has most certainly not stopped. We live in a church guided by living prophets, inspired apostles, and—equally important—personal revelation through the Holy Ghost. Today we begin Article of Faith #1:

"We believe in God, the Eternal Father, and in His Son, Jesus Christ, and in the Holy Ghost."

We'll explore the history behind these statements, how they came to be, and why they anchor our understanding of deity, identity, salvation, and daily discipleship.

Let's begin.

🕰️ Chapters 00:00 – The End of the Year and the Next Phase of Study

Reflecting on completing the Doctrine and Covenants and introducing Articles of Faith and Official Declarations.

01:24 – Why Continuing Revelation Matters

Understanding that revelation continues individually, personally, and institutionally.

03:07 – The History of the Articles of Faith

The Wentworth Letter, Chicago Democrat, and how 13 truths were canonized.

05:15 – Article of Faith #1: The Foundation of Our Belief

"We believe in God, the Eternal Father…"

06:45 – The Relationship with God as Eternal Father

Spirit creation, pre-existence, Abraham 3, and Moses 3.

12:28 – "Graven Upon the Palms of My Hands"

Isaiah 49 and the image of divine remembrance.

19:07 – The Nature of Christ: Father and Son

Abinadi's teaching in Mosiah 15 explained clearly.

24:50 – The Great Condescension of God

Nephi's vision in 1 Nephi 11 and the revelation of divine love.

27:40 – The Comforter and His Mission

John 14 and Doctrine and Covenants 130 on how the Spirit dwells in us and testifies.

31:55 – The Application

Personal revelation, identity as children of God, and why Article #1 shapes everything.

🎧 Conclusion

Thank you for joining today's study on the power and depth of Article of Faith #1. Understanding God as our Eternal Father, accepting Christ as the Savior who lifts us to eternal life, and recognizing the Holy Ghost as our personal teacher changes the way we live—not someday, but today.

One of the best ways to live these truths is through consistency.

That's why The MyStreaks – Streak Tracker App exists. It helps you build daily spiritual actions—reading, praying, serving, repenting—so that revelation doesn't just visit you occasionally…it accompanies you.

✔ Track your daily scripture streak ✔ Record spiritual impressions ✔ Share with family and friends ✔ Build habits that turn into identity

Download the MyStreaks app today and begin streaking—not just activities, but discipleship.

Until next time, keep charity in your heart, keep momentum in your study, and always… Keep Streaking the Scriptures.

Welcome back to Streaking the Scriptures. I'm your host, Jeff Downs, and today we arrive at a profound moment in our journey through the Doctrine and Covenants. We are completing Section 138—the culminating revelation that opens the curtains on life after death, redemption, and the ongoing labor and progression of God's children beyond mortality.

This section reveals answers to some of humanity's deepest questions:

• What happens after we die?

• What is the nature of the spirit world?

• How does redemption continue beyond the grave?

Today, we'll read, ponder, and follow wherever inspiration leads as we finish this visionary chapter and uncover how these truths apply directly to our daily discipleship.

Let's begin.

⏱ Chapters 00:00 – The Unique Nature of the Doctrine & Covenants

Why this book doesn't follow a chronological narrative, and how its doctrinal clarity strengthens application and direction.

02:26 – The Bondage of Separation from the Body

What it means to be unembodied, why spirits consider that absence bondage, and how resurrection breaks those bonds.

04:25 – Footnote Journey into Section 45

Exploring scriptural context and how Christ Himself addressed the relationship between mortality, resurrection, and redemption.

09:14 – Resurrection and Eternal Identity

What resurrection guarantees, and how that certainty shapes how we view mortality.

13:06 – Power to Come Forth

Reflecting on how resurrection is received, why power is given, and what it means to be crowned with immortality.

16:00 – Noble and Great Ones

Understanding premortal preparation, leadership responsibility, and what it means to "labor in His vineyard."

18:26 – Leadership, Stewardship, and Burden Bearing

Why leadership is not status—but service—and how responsibility magnifies discipleship.

20:39 – Equal Access to Blessings

Why every follower of Christ, regardless of stewardship, can receive the same testimony, gifts, and ordinances.

23:30 – Redemption of the Dead and Repentance Beyond the Veil

What repentance looks like beyond death and how ordinances open access to salvation.

24:03 – Lift Where We Stand

Connection to priesthood callings, the Savior's invitation, and our work to assist in His mission.

26:57 – "Looking Beyond the Mark"

Connecting Jacob 4:14 and how discipleship is grounded not in reaching ahead, but in living what is right now.

28:55 – Closing Reflections & What's Next

End of Doctrine & Covenants study, upcoming focus on Articles of Faith, and transition toward Old Testament preparation.

🎯 Conclusion

Thank you for studying Section 138 with me today. What a powerful completion to a year spent watching revelation unfold line by line—from questions asked, to answers revealed, to doctrines clarified with eternal consequence.

We now transition into Articles of Faith, Official Declarations, and then onward to new scriptures and new applications.

Before you go—if you haven't already—make sure you download the MyStreaks – Streak Tracker App. Why? Because transformation comes through simple, daily, intentional action. The app helps you:

• Record what matters most each day

• Keep your spiritual and personal commitments visible

• Build identity through consistency

• Join others in shared growth through meaningful streaks

Whether your streak is:

• Read at least one verse a day

• Pray morning and night

• Send a note of gratitude

• Serve someone intentionally

• Practice kindness in traffic

…tracking it solidifies it.

Download the app in your store of choice and begin living what you learn—one simple streak at a time.

Until we study again—have charity in traffic, serve wherever you're called, and as always— keep streaking the scriptures.

🎙️ Introduction

Good morning, and welcome back to Streaking the Scriptures. Today we continue our study of Doctrine and Covenants section 138—a section that lifts the veil and lets us glimpse the grandeur of the Lord's redemptive work on both sides of the veil. Yesterday we explored Joseph F. Smith's pondering, his searching, and the revelatory "recipe" that opened his understanding.

Today, beginning at verse 29, we move into the heart of his vision—how Christ organized messengers among the righteous to preach the gospel to those in darkness. These verses expand our understanding of life after death, the state of the soul, the justice and mercy of God, and the sweeping scope of the plan of redemption.

Let's dive in.

📘 Chapters 1. The Eyes of Understanding Opened (00:01.02 – 00:03.20)

Joseph F. Smith wonders how the Savior preached to spirits in prison—then sees the Lord organizing missionaries from among the righteous to teach the gospel beyond the veil.

2. The Gospel Preached to the Dead (00:03.20 – 00:06.06)

The doctrine unfolds: vicarious ordinances, repentance, spirit instruction, and the completeness of the plan of redemption.

3. Agency, Opportunity, and Eternal Justice (00:06.06 – 00:08.23)

The Lord gives everyone every possible chance—here or hereafter—to accept Him and receive eternal life. Not all will choose it, but none will be denied the opportunity.

4. Alma 40 and the State Between Death and Resurrection (00:08.23 – 00:11.20)

Alma outlines the "space" between death and resurrection, the condition of the righteous and wicked, and the nature of paradise and prison.

5. Time: Measured to Men, Not to God (00:11.20 – 00:12.40)

A brief meditation on God's eternal perspective and our mortal lens.

6. Understanding the Soul's Condition (00:12.40 – 00:15.02)

Alma teaches that all spirits are taken home to God, and that the state of the soul—happiness or misery—continues until the resurrection.

7. A Resurrection Defined (00:15.02 – 00:17.50)

Clarifying the difference between spiritual "states" before resurrection and the actual reunification of body and spirit.

8. Why Preach the Gospel in This Life? (00:17.50 – 00:18.40)

The gospel brings the best life now—and joy in the life to come.

9. "The Same Spirit": Alma 34 and Belief Beyond the Veil (00:18.40 – 00:22.10)

Exploring Amulek's teachings that the same spirit—or belief structure—we cultivate now accompanies us into eternity.

10. Sociality Beyond the Veil (00:22.10 – 00:24.43)

How missionaries beyond the veil teach, persuade, and help spirits understand truth—just as we do here.

11. A Vast Congregation of the Righteous (00:24.43 – 00:27.05)

Seeing Adam, Eve, Abel, Seth, Noah, Shem, Abraham, Moses, Isaiah, Ezekiel, Daniel, Elias, Malachi, and many Nephite prophets gathered in anticipation.

12. What Their Presence Teaches Us (00:27.05 – 00:28.43)

The power of righteous legacy, future association, and eternal learning from those who lived before.

13. Spirits in Bondage and the Gift of Liberty (00:28.43 – 00:27.45)

Understanding why the separation of spirit and body is viewed as bondage—and how truth brings freedom.

14. Parallels to Mortal Life: The Columbus Analogy (00:27.45 – 00:28.10)

How false beliefs keep us bound, and truth sets us free.

15. Immortality and Eternal Life: The Father's Work (00:28.10 – 00:28.43)

Connecting D&C 138 to Moses 1:39 and the joy of God's plan.

16. Final Reflections: Our Eternal Destiny (00:28.43 – end)

Living now for what we hope to become—and the thrill of future learning, association, and growth.

🎙️ Conclusion

Thank you for studying with me today. This section of scripture does something profound—it lifts our eyes to eternity, sharpens our understanding of God's mercy, and motivates us to live now in a way that aligns with our eternal identity.

If you're looking to deepen your consistency in scripture study, in prayer, in Christlike living, or in any spiritual practice, let me invite you to use the MyStreaks – Streak Tracker App. It's a simple, powerful way to keep your spiritual commitments alive day after day. Even one small action—done consistently—opens the door to revelation, peace, and lifelong discipleship.

You can download the app at MyStreaksApp.com and start your own spiritual streak today.

If you have thoughts or insights from this episode, feel free to email me at [email protected].

Until we study again—have charity in traffic, live with intention, and as always… Keep Streaking the Scriptures.

Introduction

Welcome back to Streaking the Scriptures! I'm Jeff Downs, and today's study session is coming to you right in the middle of the day—a little lunchtime lift.

Earlier this morning I was blessed to attend an endowment session in the Mount Timpanogos Utah Temple. Our home temple in Saratoga Springs is temporarily closed for maintenance, so a whole bunch of us just "moved temples" for a couple of weeks. What an incredible blessing it is to live where, even when one temple is closed, you can choose from several others within about 30 minutes. That thought alone sets the tone perfectly for today's study in Doctrine and Covenants section 138—a section all about the reach of the Savior's redeeming power and the hope He offers to everyone.

In this episode, we'll walk with President Joseph F. Smith as he sits in his room, pondering the scriptures and the atoning sacrifice of Jesus Christ, and then receives a sweeping vision of the spirit world. We'll connect his pattern of pondering to President Russell M. Nelson's invitation to study the names of Christ and to Elder Peter M. Johnson's experience of wrestling with hard questions and finding peace in remembered revelation. Along the way, we'll highlight a simple, repeatable pattern you and I can follow to better receive personal revelation.

And because we're all about tiny, consistent actions here on Streaking the Scriptures, I'll also invite you to turn what we're studying today into a living, breathing streak in your life—something you can track daily in the MyStreaks – Streak Tracker app so this kind of pondering doesn't just happen once in a while, but becomes part of who you are.

Let's dive in.

Chapters

1. 00:00 – Lunchtime Study & Temple Tender Mercy Saratoga Springs Temple closure, attending Mount Timpanogos, gratitude for multiple nearby temples, and welcoming listeners to a lunchtime study in D&C 138.

2. 02:26 – Historical Setting: Joseph F. Smith's 1918 Vision Context for section 138: October 3, 1918; General Conference; Joseph F. Smith's divine communications and the canonization process of this revelation.

3. 04:33 – "I Sat in My Room Pondering": A Pattern for Revelation Begins President Smith's simple setup: a dedicated place, pondering the scriptures, and reflecting on the atoning sacrifice of the Son of God—all scriptures pointing to Christ.

4. 05:33 – Names of Christ & President Nelson's Topical Guide Challenge Searching for the talk, discovering that the "2,200 references" story grew out of earlier teachings, and then connecting to Elder Neil L. Andersen's "We Talk of Christ" and President Nelson's invitation.

5. 10:20 – "I'm a Different Man": Drawing on the Power of Jesus Christ Reading from President Nelson's April 2017 talk "Drawing on the Power of Jesus Christ in Our Lives"; the danger of shortcut phrases like "the Atonement," and the need to focus directly on the Savior Himself.

6. 14:46 – Pondering the Savior, Not an Abstract Event Tying Nelson's counsel back to section 138: Joseph F. Smith pondering the Son of God and His atoning sacrifice, and how that focus sets the stage for receiving revelation.

7. 19:10 – Resurrection, "Bone to His Bone," and a Fullness of Joy Reading Joseph F. Smith's description of the hosts of the dead awaiting deliverance; cross-referencing Ezekiel 37's valley of dry bones, and exploring what it means to have spirit and body reunited in a fullness of joy.

8. 22:22 – Curiosity, Questions, and the Mechanics of Revelation Watching Joseph F. Smith's curiosity awaken: noticing Peter's teachings about preaching to the spirits in prison and wondering how the Savior could do that work in so short a time—modeling how our own questions can trigger revelation.

9. 29:18 – Elder Peter M. Johnson: Wrestling with History & Remembering Revelation Reading Elder Peter M. Johnson's story from "The Power of Administering to the One": learning difficult church history, feeling unseen and confused, receiving love from a companion, and being led to D&C 6 to remember earlier spiritual witnesses.

10. 32:54 – Tearing Down Spiritual Walls & A Template for Personal Revelation How anger, hurt, and perceived unfairness can block the Spirit; the need to soften our hearts, pray, ponder, and remember prior witnesses—parallels between Elder Johnson's experience and Joseph F. Smith's pattern.

11. 34:00 – Your Turn: Pondering, Recording, and "Keep Streaking the Scriptures" Summarizing the "recipe" for revelation; previewing the next study session (picking up at verse 29), invitation to email thoughts, and the closing reminder to have charity in traffic and keep streaking the scriptures.

Conclusion

As we wrap up today's study of Doctrine and Covenants section 138, look at the pattern the Lord quietly teaches us through President Joseph F. Smith and Elder Peter M. Johnson:

• Set a place and a time. "I sat in my room pondering…" A simple, dedicated spot and a deliberate moment.

• Ponder the Savior and His atoning sacrifice. Not an abstract "atonement," but the living Jesus Christ—His love, His mission, His power to redeem.

• Let questions come. Joseph F. Smith wondered how the Savior could preach to the spirits in prison in such a short span. That honest question opened the way for vision.

• Remember past revelation. Elder Johnson was led back to a previous spiritual experience that restored his ability to feel the Spirit. Remembering is often the key to feeling again.

• Soften the heart and tear down walls. Love, humility, and a willingness to be tutored make room for the Holy Ghost to speak.

If you want this pattern to become part of who you are—not just something you heard in one episode—turn it into a streak.

In the MyStreaks – Streak Tracker app, you might create streaks like:

• "Ponder 1 verse about Christ daily"

• "Record one revelation thought per day"

• "Review one past spiritual experience each week"

MyStreaks will quietly help you keep those commitments alive—tracking your days, visualizing your consistency, and nudging you with simple reminders so your spiritual life isn't left to chance or mood. It's a way to "think Celestial" not just in big moments, but in small, daily actions that build into a life of steady discipleship.

If something from today's study sparked a thought, a question, or an experience you'd like to share, I'd love to hear from you. Send me an email at [email protected]—that's J-E-F-F-E-R-Y at mystreaksapp.com.

Until we study together again, have a marvelous, fantastic, wonderful day. Remember to have charity in traffic, and as always… keep streaking the scriptures.

🎙️ Introduction

Honestly, December seems to have arrived in a blink. Time itself is constant, but our experience of it shifts depending on what fills our days—service, discipleship, family, the work of the Lord, everyday life. Some seasons stretch; others accelerate.

I'm Jeff Downs, and this is Streaking the Scriptures, where our focus is simple: application. We study to act. We study to grow. We study to come unto Christ through small, consistent choices that change us.

Today we're entering Doctrine and Covenants section 137, a sacred and stunning glimpse into the celestial kingdom given to Joseph Smith in the Kirtland Temple. No script. No outline. Just the scriptures, the Spirit, and the impressions that come in real time as we study together.

Let's get started.

📖 Time-Coded Chapter Headings 00:00 — Time, Perspective, and the Pace of the Soul

How life's activity level makes time feel fast or slow, and why intentional spiritual living brings steadiness.

01:10 — The Setting of Section 137: Kirtland Temple Light

A look at the moment, the timing, and why this early revelation matters at the end of the Doctrine and Covenants.

02:30 — Alvin in the Celestial Kingdom: Hope for All God's Children

Joseph's vision of his brother and the doctrine that brings comfort to every parent and family.

04:05 — "Permitted to Tarry": Agency, Accidents, and the Perfect Judge

Reflections on early death, fairness, and Christ's complete comprehension of every heart.

05:30 — Ordinances, Baptism, and the Gate of the Kingdom

Linking D&C 137 with 2 Nephi 31 and Revelation 21. Why baptism is the covenant gate—and how proxy work completes the pattern.

08:00 — Pearly Gates, Oxen, and Symbolism Across Scripture

The 12 gates in Revelation, the 12 oxen under the baptismal font, and the unified testimony of Christ in all scripture.

10:20 — "Think Celestial": President Nelson's Call to Lift Our View

A deep discussion on expanding perspective, receiving revelation, and resisting the narrowing forces of the world.

14:15 — Prayer, Wisdom, and the Danger of the "Shopping List"

Why celestial thinking changes how we pray—and how heaven teaches us when we truly seek.

16:00 — Avoiding Addictions That Steal Agency

How obsession becomes a false god and why spiritual freedom matters in discipleship.

17:40 — Moral Purity, Eternal Identity, and the Covenant Path

Clarity on chastity, covenants, and the blessings of living God's law in a confused world.

19:05 — Revelation: The Holy Ghost Shows You "All Things What Ye Should Do"

A personal reflection on promptings—following them and the cost of missing them.

21:00 — Tithing, Faith, and the Windows of Heaven

Why obedience expands opportunity in both temporal and spiritual life.

22:20 — The Temple as the Classroom of Eternity

Covenants, revelation, and the power to solve life's most perplexing problems inside the Lord's house.

23:45 — The Invitation of Section 137: Widen Your Spiritual Horizon

How this vision expands perspective, anchors hope, and keeps us moving toward Christ.

🎙️ Conclusion

Thank you for spending this time studying with me. Section 137 invites us to lift our eyes, widen our spiritual field of view, and remember what matters eternally. Celestial thinking isn't abstract—it's practical, daily, doable, and life-changing.

If you're ready to turn these impressions into consistent spiritual actions, the MyStreaks – Streak Tracker app is a great companion. Set a streak to study, pray, think celestial, serve, or record spiritual impressions—small, daily actions that draw you closer to Christ. Consistency builds conversion, and streaks help you stay on the path.

If you haven't yet, download the app, log in, and start a few simple spiritual streaks today. Let it help you live what you learn.

If you have thoughts from today's study, send them my way at [email protected].

Until next time—have a marvelous day, practice charity in traffic, and as always…

Keep Streaking the Scriptures.

*]:pointer-events-auto [content-visibility:auto] supports-[content-visibility:auto]:[contain-intrinsic-size:auto_100lvh] scroll-mt-[calc(var(--header-height)+min(200px,max(70px,20svh)))]" dir="auto" tabindex="-1" data-turn-id= "a7eb8de9-969f-496d-a10f-d8c41aa5715f" data-testid= "conversation-turn-2" data-scroll-anchor="true" data-turn= "assistant"> 🎙️ Introduction

Welcome back to Streaking the Scriptures. In this episode, Jeff walks with us through the final verses of Doctrine and Covenants section 136, picking up at verse 28—"If thou art merry, praise the Lord with singing, with music, with dancing…"—a fitting starting point after a whirlwind Thanksgiving filled with family, homecomings, missionaries abroad, and, for the first time ever, no turkey. Instead: brisket, chicken drumsticks, abundant sides, and even a night of dancing among the lights at Temple Square.

From that joyful beginning, Jeff moves into the heart of this chapter's themes: turning to the Lord when sorrowful, pouring out our souls to make room for His joy, the pattern for receiving revelation taught by President Russell M. Nelson, and what it means—across scripture and personal experience—to see prophets rejected, cast out, or even killed.

This is an episode rich in application: how to respond when you're the one left behind after family leaves; how to trust the Lord with your enemies instead of handling them your own way; how revelation grows as a daily, consistent practice; and what it means to stand as a witness of Christ when stones—literal or verbal—start to fly.

And of course, Jeff ties it all back to the essence of streaking: small, simple, daily actions that open the windows of heaven.

📘 Chapters 00:01 – Starting Back in D&C 136:28

Jeff picks up where the last episode left off—praising the Lord with music, dancing, gratitude, and a reflection on a very nontraditional Thanksgiving feast.

02:24 – Preparing for the Journey West

A quick overview of the Saints at winter quarters, Brigham Young's role, and the broader December schedule including sections 137 and 138, the Articles of Faith, the Proclamation, and the Christmas study week.

04:45 – What to Do When You're Sorrowful

Jeff shares the reality of family coming and going and connects verse 29 to Lily's poignant insight: if you don't pour out your anxieties and fears, there's no room for the Lord to fill you with anything better.

06:44 – President Nelson's Blueprint for Revelation

Jeff searches for and reads from Revelation for the Church, Revelation for Our Lives, highlighting the pattern: find your quiet place, pour out your heart, pray, listen, write, and repeat—day after day, year after year.

10:41 – Fear Not Thine Enemies

A reflection on trusting God with our adversaries instead of handling them ourselves, and how trials prepare us for Zion.

11:59 – Prophets Rejected and Cast Out

Jeff explores scriptural patterns—Ether, 3 Nephi, and the days of the Jaredites—drawing parallels to Joseph Smith's martyrdom and the stoning (literal and metaphorical) of those who testify of Christ.

18:20 – A Missionary Story: "Being Stoned" in Washington D.C.

A personal memory of literal rocks thrown at missionaries and a companion who turned anger into teaching, demonstrating what it really means to stand as a witness.

21:22 – Standing Firm Like Samuel the Lamanite

Encouragement for anyone facing criticism, mockery, or resistance for sharing their testimony.

23:01 – Marvel Not at These Things

A discussion about the shock of prophetic martyrdom, how the Lord frames Joseph Smith's death, and the sobering reminder that discipleship will always involve opposition.

24:51 – The Application: Keep the Commandments

Pulling the chapter together—diligence, obedience, faith fortified through action, and the Lord's gentle "no more at present."

26:45 – President Nelson's Final Invitation

Jeff concludes with President Nelson's assurance that God does want to speak to you—and w

Thanks for joining this study session. Section 136 closes with a simple but powerful instruction: be diligent. Consistency is the key that unlocks revelation, strengthens testimony, and fills your soul with the joy the Lord promises to the sorrowful who turn to Him.

If you're building that consistency in your scripture study—or want to—make it easier by tracking your streak with the MyStreaks – Streak Tracker app. A streak is simply a consecutive record of success. When you read even one verse a day, log it. When you pray, log it. When you act on impressions, log it. Watching your streak grow becomes a joyful motivator and a powerful reminder of who you're becoming, day by day.

You can download MyStreaks in the App Store or Google Play. Set your scripture streak, keep it simple, and watch what happens when you stay consistent.

If you have comments or thoughts, send them to [email protected].

Until next time—have a marvelous, fantastic, wonderful day.

And as always…

Keep streaking the scriptures.

Introduction

Welcome back to Streaking the Scriptures! Jeff Downs here, grateful to be studying with you—even if it's a little later in the day than usual. It's the eve of Thanksgiving in the United States, a moment that invites reflection, gratitude, and a deeper appreciation for the blessings and freedoms the Lord has given us.

Today, we open Doctrine and Covenants section 136—a revelation given through President Brigham Young at Winter Quarters after the martyrdom of Joseph and Hyrum Smith. The Saints were crossing the Mississippi, driven from Nauvoo, and preparing for a westward journey that would shape the future of the church.

This section offers instruction, organization, stewardship, faith, and a powerful reminder that the Lord guides His people—both anciently and today. So grab your scriptures and let's walk through these verses together, exploring what they meant for the Saints then and what they mean for us now.

Chapters 00:00 — Opening Thoughts on Thanksgiving Eve

Jeff sets the tone by acknowledging the holiday and the blessings that come with pausing to give thanks. He introduces Section 136 and situates the Saints historically at Winter Quarters.

02:00 — Organization of the Camp of Israel

A reading of the first section of verses, focusing on captains, companies, and the covenant the Saints made to journey west together.

05:10 — Revelations for Specific Moments

Jeff explores how some revelations are meant for a particular people and a particular time—like the Saints crossing the plains, Moses parting the Red Sea, or Noah building the ark—and why that matters today.

07:15 — Brigham Young Taking Up the Mantle

A reflection on what it must have been like for Brigham Young to receive revelation after Joseph's death, and how spiritual responsibility often comes with spiritual empowerment.

09:30 — Stewardship, Keys, and Personal Experience

Jeff shares insights from his own time as bishop—what inspiration felt like when he held the keys, and what changed the moment he was released.

11:50 — "Seek Not to Build Up Thyself"

A candid story about organizing a community fundraiser, the unexpected backlash, and the lesson learned about seeking the Lord's counsel and coordinating through proper channels.

16:20 — Ceasing Contention and Edifying One Another

Discussion on the Lord's commandments to avoid contention, steward what we've been given, return what we borrow, and lift those around us.

18:40 — Music, Merriment, and a DJ Story

A lighthearted moment about DJing a wedding reception and kicking off the dance floor just a little too early—and how it ties into praising the Lord with music, singing, and thanksgiving.

20:30 — Stewardship and Gratitude Before Thanksgiving Day

Jeff closes the scripture portion with reflections on wise stewardship, gratitude, and ending on verse 28—the verse that encourages singing, music, prayer, and thanksgiving.

Conclusion

As Jeff wraps up this episode on the eve of Thanksgiving, the message of Doctrine and Covenants section 136 feels especially fitting: organize your life with intention, move forward with faith, steward what the Lord has given you, and do all things with a pure heart.

If you're looking to bring more consistency and spiritual nourishment into your daily life, the MyStreaks – Streak Tracker app can help you do just that. It's a simple, purposeful way to keep your commitments—your scripture study, your prayers, your gratitude journal, anything you feel called to do—alive and active every single day.

Just open the app, set the streaks that matter most, and let consistency work its quiet power. You'll be amazed at how daily, intentional action—even if laughably simple—opens the door to revelation, peace, and spiritual momentum.

Thank you for spending part of your day studying the scriptures with me. I wish you a warm, joyful, gratitude-filled Thanksgiving wherever you may be. And as always—keep streaking the scriptures.

Podcast

Welcome back to another uplifting morning of Streaking the Scriptures. Even if the sun is a little higher than usual, the spirit of morning study is still alive and well. In today's episode, Jeff takes us into Doctrine and Covenants sections 135 and 136—two chapters filled with weight, history, testimony, and deep personal application.

Before diving into the text, Jeff shares an experience he had while out on a run—an experience involving a podcast, a message that was good, a delivery that wasn't, and a moment of honest wrestling about charity, irritation, and how we respond when something pricks us the wrong way. That reflection becomes a powerful doorway into understanding the martyrdom of Joseph and Hyrum Smith, the resilience of the Saints, and the Savior's pattern of seeking the one.

Together, you'll explore how these sections speak to courage, divine purpose, faithfulness, and the heart-softening gift of charity—even when you're provoked.

Let's begin.

Chapters 00:00 – A Late Morning Start & A Running-Trail Insight

Jeff sets the scene with a personal story from his morning run, describing how a podcast message struck him wrong and why it stirred something in his heart.

03:00 – Introducing Sections 135 & 136: Power Chapters in a Painful Moment

A transition into the historical context—Nauvoo, persecution, and the devastating news of Joseph and Hyrum's martyrdom.

05:15 – Reading Section 135 in Full

Jeff reads the entire section without interruption, allowing its testimony and tone to stand on their own.

13:30 – What the Saints Must Have Felt

A reflection on grief, faith, shock, and the seeming contradiction of a prophet of God being taken by violence.

15:00 – The Lord's Work Moves Forward

How the Church, by divine design, continued despite the loss—and what that truth offers us in our own trials.

16:00 – "A Conscience Void of Offense": Personal Application

Jeff explores how Joseph's words invite us to examine our own discipleship and integrity.

17:00 – The Lost Sheep & the Call to Care for the One

Turning to Luke 15, Jeff connects the Savior's parable to the earlier story about charity, irritation, and how we reach those in need.

20:00 – Separating Doctrine From Delivery

An honest discussion about distinguishing eternal principles from imperfect presentation and avoiding comparison in discipleship.

24:00 – Programs, People, and Why Both Matter

Jeff reflects on social gatherings, fellowship, and the purpose behind activities, planning, and service within the Lord's kingdom.

29:00 – Details, Atmosphere, and the Spirit's Influence

Why even "small things" like planning a ward activity or temple details contribute to lifting hearts and strengthening faith.

31:30 – Charity as the Key

Tying the episode together with Ether's teaching on charity, Hyrum's final scripture, and our call to be faithful and true.

Conclusion

As you close this episode, take with you the steady conviction of Joseph and Hyrum—their courage, their clarity of conscience, and their unwavering devotion to the Lord's will. Their lives remind us that discipleship is not a passive path; it's a daily choosing, a daily becoming, a daily softening of the heart toward God and His children.

If today's study stirred something in you—a desire to build charity, to strengthen consistency, or to keep your spiritual habits simple and steady—you'll find real power in making those moments into streaks. The MyStreaks – Streak Tracker app is designed exactly for that purpose. It helps you stay consistent in scripture study, prayer, acts of service, or any faith-centered practice you want to anchor into your life. Track your spiritual streaks, receive encouragement, join groups, and let small, daily actions shape the disciple you're becoming.

Until we study the scriptures together again, keep building charity, keep choosing faith—and as always, keep streaking the scriptures.

🎙️ Introduction

In today's episode of Streaking the Scriptures, Jeffery reflects on a Sabbath filled with joy, family, and spiritual depth. His daughter recently returned from serving in the Birmingham, Alabama Mission, and her homecoming message stirred heartfelt reminders of the power of discipleship. Surrounded by loved ones and lifted by rich discussions in the scriptures, Jeff transitions into a focused study of Doctrine and Covenants Section 134—a declaration on governments, laws, conscience, and the delicate balance between civil authority and divine agency.

As always, this episode follows Jeff's signature approach: reading the verses, following promptings and questions as they arise, and discovering practical application for discipleship in daily life.

⏱️ Chapters

00:00 – A Sabbath Overflowing with Joy Reflections on worship, family gatherings, and the beauty of hearing a daughter's mission report.

02:23 – Setting the Stage: D&C 134 and Its Origins Jeff introduces the declaration on governments created in 1835 and why its context matters.

04:51 – Verses 1–4: Governments, Conscience, and the Purpose of Law A discussion on the belief that governments are instituted of God and that civil authority must protect life, liberty, property, and conscience.

07:10 – Persecution, Clarification, and the Missouri Backdrop Exploring why the Saints might have needed to make their loyalty to law unmistakably clear.

08:25 – Articles of Faith Connections Linking D&C 134 directly to Articles of Faith 11 and 12 and the principles of worship and obedience to law.

10:52 – "We Believe in Being Subject to Kings": What This Really Means A look at honoring civil authority while maintaining moral and religious integrity.

12:50 – Enter Ammon: The Scriptural Example of 'Front-Door' Ministry Drawing parallels from Ammon's approach to the Lamanite king and how it models lawful discipleship.

15:53 – Influence Without Rebellion Why the gospel changes hearts—and ultimately nations—without sedition.

17:57 – Government, Persuasion, and Peaceful Change How persuasion, example, and righteous living shape civilizations.

20:04 – Lamoni, His Father, and the Reshaping of a Kingdom The cascading effect of conversion on political authority and national decisions.

22:26 – Upholding Government While Following Christ Discussing obedience, protest, and how Saints balance both faithfully.

24:51 – The Right to Worship and the Limits of Government Power An exploration of where civil law must stop and religious agency must remain untouched.

27:02 – Separation of Church and State the Scriptural Way A powerful reflection on why mingling ecclesiastical authority with civil coercion is spiritually unsound.

29:24 – Punishment, Justice, and Self-Defense Unpacking verses on crime, justice, redress, and lawful protection.

31:16 – Mosiah 29 and the Voice of the People How the Book of Mormon illustrates the development of systems resembling representative government.

33:00 – Application: Honoring Law While Honoring God Final reflections on balancing obedience, conscience, and righteous influence in a modern world.

🎙️ Conclusion

Thank you for joining Jeff for this thoughtful walk through Doctrine and Covenants 134. It's a chapter that invites every disciple to reflect on their responsibilities—to their faith, to their community, and to the laws that protect both agency and peace.

As you study, ponder, and apply these principles in your daily walk with Christ, consider strengthening your consistency with the MyStreaks – Streak Tracker app. Whether it's daily scripture study, acts of service, or the smallest spiritual routines that keep your heart aligned with heaven, MyStreaks gives you a simple, joyful way to stay accountable and intentional. Build momentum, create spiritual habits that last, and keep your discipleship vibrant—one streak at a time.

You can reach Jeff at [email protected] with thoughts or impressions from today's study. And until next time—have charity in traffic, cherish the moments the Lord gives you, and as always…

Keep streaking the scriptures.