Hope in Our Hearts

By Russell M. Nelson

Few people understand the human heart better than Elder Russell M. Nelson, who, prior to his call into the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, was a pioneering cardiac surgeon. Today, as an Apostle, he understands our hearts in a new way—most particularly, he understands our need for hope in our hearts. As a special witness of Jesus Christ, he testifies powerfully of where that hope can be found.
In Hope in Our Hearts, Elder Nelson brings his remarkable grasp of the gospel and his unique medical training to bear in eighteen outstanding messages that focus on family and relationships, Church doctrine, and personal growth. The book includes such classic addresses as: “Nurturing Marriage,” “Jesus Christ—The Master Healer,” and “The Magnificence of Man.”
“My greatest desire,” writes Elder Nelson, “is to be a worthy disciple who willingly follows the Lord Jesus Christ. If my testimony and the teachings in this book prompt anyone to follow Him more diligently, I will be most grateful.”

 

First off, this is a book pointed toward a “Mormon” audience, or people belonging to The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. Russell M. Nelson is one of the 12 apostles.  It would probably get a tad confusing to read if you aren’t a member of our church. This is one of those compilations of different talks given either in general conference or at devotionals and such. I’m not sure, but you can probably find most of them online at lds.org, but there are some that I’d never heard before that were absolutely wonderful.  I especially liked the chapters on Christ’s birth and the last few chapters contained messages about the influence of good music and the character of man. There were a lot of choice messages in here along with some good messages that didn’t apply specifically to me.

I give it a 3.5 out of 5

Perfection Pending

By Russell M. Nelson

“We need not be dismayed if our earnest efforts toward perfection now seem so arduous and endless. Perfecion is pending…it awaits all who love Him and keep His commandments…It is the end for which we are to endure.”
In this important book Elder Russell M. Nelson, a member of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, offers o=hope and valued counsel to those who are struggling along life’s path to perfection. “If we do the best we can,” he says, “the Lord will bless us according to our deeds and the desires of our hearts.” And, in the same encouraging spirit, he notes, “Men are that they might have joy—not guilt trips!...Remember that the Lord gives no commandments that are impossible to obey.”

This is a book of favorite discourses by Elder Russell M. Nelson, who always gives wonderful talks at the LDS General Conferences. I adore his talk that this book is named for; if you are a perfectionist you MUST read this one talk at least. I'm sure you could find it at lds.org, but whatever you do it is wonderful and gives you peace about trying to follow the commandment to 'be perfect evan as your Father in heaven is perfect'. This talk is just the beginning in this book that focuses on the plan of salvation, home teaching, serving others, and many many other topics that will enhance your understanding and enrich your day. I loved it and hope others will pick it up and read it.