Joseph Smith Papers Part 2

This week I had the opportunity to study another couple of Joseph Smith's revelations. One of the revelations that struck me as particularly strong was the revelation given on February 17, 1834 in Kirtland, commonly known as the War Prophecy. This revelation is so amazing because it predicts the Civil War in America, thirty years before it actually happened. It gives details on the upcoming war, from the fact that the southern states will be divided against the northern ones, that foreign countries will be involved, and even the specific fact that it will begin with the seceding of South Carolina. This is incredible to me because it is undeniable proof that Joseph Smith was a prophet of God. No one could have predicted so exactly events that were yet to occur, without divine inspiration. This revelation was wildly popular, and for a reason. Joseph prophesying such specific events that were to happen was a bold move. It was essentially a way that both non members and saints alike would test him. Of course, Joseph passed this test and his prophecy came to pass, because he was a true prophet and spokesman for God.

The other thing about this revelation that stuck out to me was the advice given at the end of it how to best make it through this time of war and natural disaster. It commands "stand ye in holy places and be not moved". Although the time of the American Civil War has long since past, this commandment is still just as applicable today. We live in a world truly infested with war and rumors of war. You can't turn on the news without hearing of some new conflict or tension. Natural disasters are just as common. Earthquakes, floods, hurricanes, tsunamis, and fires seem to be striking everywhere, and many people are living in a state of constant fear. Signs such as this, that these are the last days are inescapable. And just as the saints in 1834 were commanded because of similar events to "stand in holy places and be not moved", we need to follow the same advice today with withstand the world. 

What are these holy places, exactly? The obvious answers such as the temples of the Lord and church buildings are correct. By spending time in these holy buildings we will certainly find new strength and grow closer to our Heavenly Father. Other, less obvious, Holy Places are also present. Our homes can be a holy place, a place of peace, love, and refuge from the world. Anyplace, in fact, where the Holy Ghost can reside is a holy place. I personally believe that a holy place can even be a state of mind-when one wants nothing more than to serve the Lord, follow the commandments, and return back to him one day. Surely more wars and treacherous times, like the American Civil War prophesied by Joseph Smith, will occur. But if we stay strong and stand unmovable in holy places, we will make it through them as better people and better servants of God.