Ep. 402: Doctrine & Covenants 136:1-28 Follies and Faux Pas

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.

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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.

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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.