Ep. 338 Doctrine & Covenants 90: God Wants You Balanced

Summary

In this episode of the My Scripture Streak Podcast, Jeffery Downs studies Doctrine and Covenants Section 90, a revelation given in March 1833 that further establishes the First Presidency of the Church. He explores the historical context of the section, the meaning of the “oracles of God,” and how these revelations were meant for the entire Church, not just the prophet.

Jeffery shares insights from President Nelson and past prophets about the importance of prayer, peacemaking, and listening to modern revelation. He reflects on the Lord’s warnings about pride, the principle of keeping households in order, and how early church leaders were counseled to limit boarding guests in their homes—particularly Joseph Smith Sr.—to preserve family peace.

Through scripture cross-references (Amos 3:7, Mosiah 4, Jacob 2), personal experiences, and study aided by ChatGPT, Jeffery connects these 19th-century revelations to modern applications: setting healthy boundaries, balancing stewardship and service, and strengthening families first so service flows outward sustainably.

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Chapter Headings with Time Codes

• 00:01 – Introduction & Transition from Section 89

• 02:21 – Historical Context: Establishing the First Presidency

• 04:45 – Keys of the Kingdom & The Oracles of God

• 06:03 – What Are the Oracles? (AI-assisted study)

• 08:25 – Warnings: Do Not Take Revelation Lightly

• 10:54 – Be Peacemakers & President Nelson’s Counsel

• 11:59 – Equality in the First Presidency

• 14:18 – Gospel Preached in Every Tongue (Fulfillment Today)

• 16:34 – The Lord’s Charge: Preside, Counsel, and Set in Order

• 18:59 – Warnings Against Pride and Self-Dependence

• 21:04 – Balance Between Humility and Self-Worth

• 22:53 – The Problem with Self-Deprecation

• 25:04 – King Benjamin’s Teachings: All Are Beggars

• 28:41 – Stewardship, Service, and Family Order

• 30:58 – Jacob 2: Seek Ye First the Kingdom of God

• 32:54 – Reordering Daily Routines for Spiritual Priority

• 35:26 – Using Wealth for Tithing, Offerings, Missions, and Charity

• 37:37 – Counsel to Leaders: Keep Families Manageable

• 39:40 – ChatGPT Historical Research on Boarding Practices

• 44:24 – How Housing Evolved from Kirtland to Utah

• 48:50 – Modern Application: Boundaries and Sustainable Service

• 51:19 – A Sacrament Talk Outline: Balancing Service & Stewardship

• 56:06 – Streaking Lens: Strengthen Family First, Then Serve

• 57:36 – Conclusion & Testimony

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Conclusion

This episode highlights a principle that runs through both scripture and life: strengthen your foundation first, so you can bless others more fully. Just as the Lord counseled Joseph Smith Sr. to avoid overburdening his household, we too are reminded to protect the order and peace of our homes.

The Streaking philosophy fits beautifully here. A streak is a small, consistent action that keeps your priorities alive. Imagine streaks like:

• “Today I will read at least one verse of scripture.”

• “Today I will express gratitude to a family member.”

• “Today I will serve others without neglecting my stewardship at home.”

These streaks protect what matters most, ensuring that service doesn’t deplete but instead flows outward from a strong center.

That’s exactly why the MyStreaks app exists—to help you track the laughably simple, consistent actions that strengthen faith, family, and service. By keeping spiritual, personal, and family streaks alive, you build a sustainable rhythm where revelation can guide you and joy can accompany your service.

Keep strengthening your foundation, keep balancing service and stewardship, and—above all—keep streaking the scriptures.