Excerpt
In a shifting world, God’s laws don’t move. Standing in holy places anchors my heart and tunes my ears to revelation—often quiet, always real.
Intro
I came to the Layton Temple in July needing steadiness. Technology breaks, schedules slip, even good plans go sideways. Inside the temple, the noise falls away. President Monson’s call to “stand … in holy places, and be not moved” landed fresh. I felt why the Lord invites us to keep covenants and come back often—the temple is where He re-centers the soul.
Notes from President Monson
• God’s commandments are constant; they are commandments, not suggestions.
• Prayer is our lifeline; God answers—in ways we recognize as we practice.
• The world’s moral compass drifts, but Christ’s gospel holds steady.
• Revelation comes when we’re worthy, willing, and in the right places.
• Holy places (temples, homes, sacrament) give peace to weather life’s storms.
• Inspiration is to be trusted and acted upon.
Perspective — direct quotes
“The Ten Commandments are just that—commandments.”
“Our Father in Heaven is the same yesterday, today, and forever.”
“Watch and pray always.”
“Stand … in holy places, and be not moved.”
Practice — today, not someday
- Temple time: schedule my next endowment/initiatory before I leave this post.
- Daily prayer slots: five quiet minutes morning and night—no phone, just scripture and a kneeling prayer.
- Holy ground at home: set a small, uncluttered spot for scripture, journal, and temple card—use it daily.
Final Reflection
In July I brought a hurried heart to the Layton Temple and left carrying peace. President Monson reminded me that God’s laws don’t flex with culture, and that revelation often whispers when I’m where He wants me to be. The temple slowed me to the Lord’s pace. It didn’t erase my problems, but it reframed them. I can face outages, delays, and disappointments without losing center. Holiness isn’t escape; it’s alignment. When I choose the Lord’s places, I hear the Lord’s voice.
Pocket I’m Keeping
“Stand in holy places, and be not moved.” One line to carry into every room this week.
What I Hear Now — direct quotes
“The work of righteousness shall be peace.”
“Draw near unto me and I will draw near unto you.”
A Moment That Marked Me — Frankfurt, 1987 (Monson)
President Monson told how, during the Frankfurt Germany Temple dedication, he felt a clear impression to call Peter Mourik as the first speaker—even after being told Brother Mourik wasn’t in the building. Trusting the Spirit, he announced him anyway. At that very moment, Brother Mourik felt prompted across town to drive to the temple and walked in as his name was called. This experience witnesses that worthy, timely impressions can be trusted—the Lord coordinates details we cannot see.
Advantages of Standing in Holy Places (my takeaways)
- Clarity: Temples tune the heart; choices sort into wise vs. unwise.
- Protection: Covenants set boundaries that keep me safe when the world blurs lines.
- Power to Act: The Spirit gives courage to do right things in the right order.
- Peace: The promised effect of righteousness is quietness and assurance forever.
- Memory: Heaven records; the temple helps me remember who I am and whose I am.
Link to the Talk / Source
Official text: Stand in Holy Places — President Thomas S. Monson.
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