Ep. 388: Doctrine & Covenants 125 - 126 Faith, Family, and Following the Prophet

🎙️ Summary

In this episode of Streaking the Scriptures, Jeff Downs continues the study of the Doctrine and Covenants, moving from section 124 into sections 125 and 126. He explores the Lord’s counsel regarding the Saints in Iowa Territory, the naming of the city Zarahemla, and Brigham Young’s divine instruction to focus on his family after years of missionary labor.
Jeff reflects on questions of faith, willingness to serve, and the peace that comes when one’s offering is acceptable before God. The discussion moves from historical context to deeply personal application—what it means today to “gather,” to follow prophetic counsel, and to make family the center of gospel living.

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⏱️ Chapters

00:00 – Welcome and Context
Jeff introduces sections 125–128 and reminds listeners of the study approach—unscripted reflection guided by the Spirit.

01:15 – Section 125: The Saints in Iowa
The revelation answers a clear question: what is the Lord’s will for His Saints in Iowa Territory? Jeff parallels this with our own prayers about where we should live or serve.

02:24 – Building Zarahemla and Gathering to Zion
Discussion on the Lord’s command to build a city “opposite Nauvoo” named Zarahemla, emphasizing obedience, community, and preparation for future blessings.

04:30 – The Organization of the Church
Jeff highlights the inspired structure of the Church—stakes, wards, and quorums—as a way for Saints to gather, serve, and receive saving ordinances.

06:59 – Researching Zarahemla’s Location
Curiosity leads Jeff to discover that the revelation refers to land across the Mississippi River in Iowa Territory. He connects this to modern revelation and how stakes are organized today through inspiration and counsel.

10:56 – Section 126: Counsel to Brigham Young
A short revelation offers Brigham rest from travel and permission to focus on his family. Jeff reflects on what it means to serve faithfully and then receive a new stewardship.

13:21 – Personal Reflection: Willingness to Serve
Jeff asks, “Am I willing to go wherever the Lord asks?” He shares a story of turning down an assignment and wonders what blessings he might have missed—an honest look at faith and self-reflection.

17:46 – When Leaders Call and Circumstances Challenge
Insightful commentary on how Church leaders make inspired decisions with limited knowledge and how members can communicate their needs with faith and humility.

22:24 – Family as the Greatest Mission Field
Drawing on President McKay’s counsel, Jeff teaches that the most important missionary work happens at home. He shares his family’s scripture-reading streak—one page of the Book of Mormon every day—and the principle of keeping streaks “laughably simple.”

26:30 – Alma the Younger: A Father’s Prayer
Connecting to Mosiah 27, Jeff recalls Alma the Younger’s conversion through his father’s prayers, reinforcing the eternal responsibility parents have to teach and pray for their children.

29:10 – A Call to Study the Family Proclamation
Jeff invites listeners to study The Family: A Proclamation to the World as preparation for the next episode and to consider how it outlines true joy in family life.

30:00 – Closing Thoughts
Encouragement to live the gospel within the family, keep charity alive “in traffic or wherever you may be,” and continue streaking the scriptures daily.

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✨ Conclusion

Consistent scripture study strengthens faith and family. Whether it’s one verse or one page, the power lies in doing it daily.
Start your own streak of scripture study today with the MyStreaks App—a simple, inspiring way to track the spiritual habits that bring joy and peace.
Download the app, set your “Read the Scriptures” streak, and keep the light of consistency alive—one laughably simple action at a time.
Keep streaking the scriptures!