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Latter-day Saint Book Nook

Latter-day Saint Book Nook

By Liz Kazandzhy

Come and learn from the best books to help you live your best life!

Latter-day Saint Book Nook is a cozy little podcast where we talk about books from a gospel perspective. So if you love books, and you love the gospel of Jesus Christ, tune in on Tuesdays to follow along!
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Ep. 4 - The Holy Ghost from A to Z: Brings *Abundance* to Your Life

Latter-day Saint Book NookMar 01, 2022

00:00
05:49
Taking a Break: Recap of Season 1

Taking a Break: Recap of Season 1

I'll be taking a break from this podcast for a while, but you can listen to this episode for a quick recap of season 1!

Visit https://ldsbooknook.com/season-1-recap to read this episode's transcript.

Visit https://lizkazandzhy.com/ to learn more about the host.

OUTLINE

🔹 I'll be taking a break from the podcast to write my next book and get back into copyediting work

To be notified when the next season starts, subscribe on your podcast platform, ldsbooknook.com, or the Facebook page

If you're just finding this podcast, feel free to go back and listen to the existing episodes because their lessons are timeless

🔹 Favorite book review episodes

  • Ep. 1 - The Little Prince: How to Love "The Least of These" (Even When That's Yourself)
  • Ep. 18 - The Hiding Place: Miracles Haven't Ceased!
  • Ep. 13 - Charlotte's Web: What a Spider Can Teach Us About the Savior

🔹 Favorite Holy Ghost episodes

  • Ep. 12 - *Encourages* You
  • Ep. 14 - Conveys God's *Forgiveness*
  • Ep. 16 - Expands Your *Gifts* and Talents

🔹 How to contact me

Use the contact form on ldsbooknook.com or email liz@ldsbooknook.com

Let me know if you have book suggestions for the next season!

Aug 02, 202205:57
Ep. 25 - The Holy Ghost from A to Z: Testifies of *Jesus Christ*

Ep. 25 - The Holy Ghost from A to Z: Testifies of *Jesus Christ*

The Bible teaches that "no man can say that Jesus is the Lord, but by the Holy Ghost." Learn how you can gain this testimony for yourself.

Visit https://ldsbooknook.com/holy-ghost-j to read this episode's transcript.

Visit https://lizkazandzhy.com/ to learn more about the host.

OUTLINE

🔹 The Holy Ghost from A to Z is a religious nonfiction book written by Liz Kazandzhy and published in June 2022

🔹 Quote from J - Testifies of *Jesus Christ*

Knowing that Jesus Christ is the Savior of the world is a vital first step. But knowing that He is your Savior will make all the difference in your life. As you seek a personal relationship with Jesus Christ, the Spirit will help you feel His love, experience the healing power of His Atonement, and find comfort from the One who “[took] upon him [your] infirmities … that he may know … how to succor [you].”

I share my testimony of the Savior in response to the Come Follow Me questions: "Consider writing your witness of Jesus Christ—what would you want to share? What experiences have helped you come to know and follow the Savior?"

🔹 Takeaway

Write down your testimony of Jesus Christ, then share it with someone if you feel prompted to

If you'd like to strengthen your testimony, review the Church's Bible videos—an amazing resource with 104 videos

🔹 Learn more about The Holy Ghost from A to Z

Jul 26, 202205:41
Ep. 24 - God Will Help You: Scriptural Insights from a Christian Pastor

Ep. 24 - God Will Help You: Scriptural Insights from a Christian Pastor

The message of this book is clear—God will help you! Learn about the power and grace of Jesus Christ and why you can count on Him for help.

Visit https://ldsbooknook.com/god-will-help-you to read this episode's transcript.

Visit https://lizkazandzhy.com/ to learn more about the host.

OUTLINE

🔹 God Will Help You is an inspirational Christian book by pastor Max Lucado published in 2020

🔹 About Max Lucado

"Max Lucado is a pastor, speaker, and best-selling author. His message is for the hurting, the guilty, the lonely, and the discouraged: God loves you; let him."

🔹 Count on Christ

Before the Savior miraculously fed the five thousand, the disciples "counted the hungry people, the money in their bag, and the amount of bread and fish. They did not, however, count on Christ."

"The next time you feel overwhelmed, remind yourself of the One who is standing next to you. You aren’t alone. You aren’t without help. What bewilders you does not bewilder him. Your uphill is downhill for him. ... Give him what you have, offer thanks, and watch him go to work."

🔹 Keep your gaze on Jesus

The author compares the story of Peter walking on water to him focusing on his doctor's diplomas after receiving a difficult diagnosis

"God has hung his diplomas in the universe. Rainbows, sunsets, horizons, and star-sequined skies. He has recorded his accomplishments in Scripture. ... His résumé includes Red Sea openings. Lions’ mouths closings. Goliath topplings. Lazarus raisings. Storm stillings and strollings. His lesson is clear. He’s the commander of every storm."

🔹 Acknowledge the Savior's humanity

When we "keep the humanity out of the incarnation," Jesus Christ is "easier to handle that way. ... But don’t do it. Let him be as human as he intended to be. Let him into the mire and muck of our world, for only if we let him in can he pull us out."

The series "The Chosen" is a great example of portraying Christ as a real person, which helps us feel more connected to Him

🔹 Be grateful for God's grace

"Jesus has seen every backstreet, back-seat, backhanded moment of our lives. And he has resolved, 'My grace is enough. I can cleanse these people. I will wash away their betrayals.' For that reason we must make the Upper Room of Mercy our home address."

The lyrics to "I Stand All Amazed" beautifully express gratitude for the Savior's sacrifice and grace

🔹 Takeaway

Think about the "storms" in your life right now. Then think about this: What has God accomplished—both in the scriptures and in your own life—that shows His power and love and ability to help you?

Jul 19, 202220:30
Ep. 23 - The Holy Ghost from A to Z: *Inspires* You to Do Good

Ep. 23 - The Holy Ghost from A to Z: *Inspires* You to Do Good

By following the promptings of the Spirit, we can help others in exactly the way they need, right when they need it.

Visit https://ldsbooknook.com/holy-ghost-i to read this episode's transcript.

Visit https://lizkazandzhy.com/ to learn more about the host.

OUTLINE

🔹 The Holy Ghost from A to Z is a religious nonfiction book written by Liz Kazandzhy and published in June 2022

🔹 Quote from I - *Inspires* You to Do Good

Because the Lord “knoweth all things,” and “all things are present before [His] eyes,” He knows exactly who needs help, what kind of help they need, and when they need it. And because “we are the Lord’s hands here upon the earth,” we have the unique blessing of providing that help by following the promptings of the Spirit.

President Monson once said, "The sweetest experience I know in life is to feel a prompting and act upon it and later find out that it was the fulfillment of someone’s prayer or someone’s need. And I always want the Lord to know that if He needs an errand run, Tom Monson will run that errand for Him."

I share an experience of when a ministering sister served me in just the way I needed, even though I didn't even know I needed it at the time

🔹 Takeaway

Ponder these questions: "How does the Spirit usually speak to you? If He were to prompt you to reach out to someone else in service, what do you think that prompting would feel like to you?"

Pray every morning that God will lead you to someone you can help

🔹 Learn more about The Holy Ghost from A to Z

Jul 12, 202205:16
Ep. 22 - The Atonement of Jesus Christ is for Me: Pure Doctrine for All Ages

Ep. 22 - The Atonement of Jesus Christ is for Me: Pure Doctrine for All Ages

This beautiful picture book teaches about Jesus Christ's Atonement in a powerful and simple way. Listen to be reminded of these vital truths!

Visit https://ldsbooknook.com/the-atonement to read this episode's transcript.

Visit https://lizkazandzhy.com/ to learn more about the host.

OUTLINE

🔹 The Atonement of Jesus Christ is for Me is a Latter-day Saint picture book by Sierra Wilson published in 2018

🔹 A great addition to any Latter-day Saint home

Great for reading in church, for an FHE lesson, or as a baptismal gift

Not just for kids—it teaches pure doctrine in a simple way that would benefit any reader of any age

🔹 Jesus Christ is the source of the Atonement

The book does a wonderful job of keeping the Atonement connected to Jesus Christ

"Jesus gave His life for you and for me / So we can repent and be happy and free. / And because Jesus died for us and now lives again, / We'll live again too, with our family and friends."

President Nelson taught, "It is doctrinally incomplete to speak of the Lord’s atoning sacrifice by shortcut phrases, such as ...  'applying the Atonement' or 'being strengthened by the Atonement' ... treating the EVENT as if IT had living existence and capabilities independent of our Heavenly Father and His Son, Jesus Christ. Under the Father’s great eternal plan, it is the Savior who suffered. It is the Savior who broke the bands of death. It is the Savior who paid the price for our sins and transgressions and blots them out on condition of our repentance."

🔹 Jesus Christ can comfort you

"When we feel scared, or lonely, or sad, / Jesus can help us feel peaceful and glad. / And what if I'm hurting down deep in my heart? / Jesus understands you and knows where to start."

Similar to Alma 7:11-12—"He shall go forth, suffering pains and afflictions and temptations of every kind ... and he will take upon him their infirmities, that his bowels may be filled with mercy ... that he may know ... how to succor his people according to their infirmities."

🔹 Jesus Christ can help you become better

"With Jesus's help, we can all do good deeds. / We can cheer up a friend or help someone in need. / Jesus knows how to help you become the best you. / He wants to guide you all your life through."

Elder Bednar explained, "The gospel of Jesus Christ encompasses much more than avoiding, overcoming, and being cleansed from sin and the bad influences in our lives; it also essentially entails doing good, being good, and becoming better."

🔹 The Atonement of Jesus Christ is the most important doctrine

"All other things which pertain to our religion are only appendages to [the Atonement of Jesus Christ]" -Joseph Smith

🔹 Takeaway

Study the Atonement of Jesus Christ by reading the verses found in the Topical Guide under the entry, "Jesus Christ, Atonement through"

Jul 05, 202211:50
Ep. 21 - The Holy Ghost from A to Z: Softens Your *Heart*

Ep. 21 - The Holy Ghost from A to Z: Softens Your *Heart*

When you're troubled by doubts, the Spirit can bless you with a humble heart, give you spiritual protection, and comfort you in your distress.

Visit https://ldsbooknook.com/holy-ghost-h to read this episode's transcript.

Visit https://lizkazandzhy.com/ to learn more about the host.

OUTLINE

🔹 The Holy Ghost from A to Z is a religious nonfiction book written by Liz Kazandzhy and published in June 2022

🔹 Quote from H - Softens Your *Heart*

Another time it’s important to seek out greater humility is when you come across gospel doctrines, principles, or practices that are confusing or even distressing to you. These topics can become a major stumbling block to your faith if you choose to harden your heart because of them. Instead, what you ought to do is actively strive to soften your heart—from the very moment you begin to feel doubts creeping in. Then you’ll be able to continue to seek understanding with the protective influence of the Spirit. You will probably not find all the answers you seek—at least in this lifetime—but the Holy Ghost can lead you to greater understanding and also help you “doubt your doubts before you doubt your faith.” And you, like Nephi, will be able to say, “I do not know the meaning of all things . . . [but] I know that [God] loveth his children.”

When you feel distressed about a part of the gospel, draw nearer to God instead of distancing yourself from Him

The Spirit will (1) help you discern the truth, and (2) give you peace and comfort as you wrestle with your doubts

🔹 Takeaway

Notice the next time you feel your heart hardening, and decide today what you will do to soften your heart and seek the Holy Ghost when that happens

Learn more about The Holy Ghost from A to Z

Jun 28, 202205:59
Ep. 20 - Little Women: Heartwarming Lessons About Family Life

Ep. 20 - Little Women: Heartwarming Lessons About Family Life

Little Women beautifully captures both the joy and stress of family life. Learn from this classic how you can experience more "love at home."

Visit https://ldsbooknook.com/little-women to read this episode's transcript.

Visit https://lizkazandzhy.com/ to learn more about the host.

OUTLINE

🔹 Little Women is a classic written by Louisa May Alcott and published in 1868

A wholesome book with timeless themes like family and friendship, love and forgiveness, growing up and overcoming weaknesses

If you have Amazon Prime, you can get this ebook/audiobook (and dozens of others) for free at amazon.com/primereading

🔹 Forgiveness between siblings

Sisters Jo and Amy had a huge fight that probably would've estranged them for a long time if it weren't for tragedy striking

The fire can symbolize the inevitable bouts of contention that are bound to burn within our homes, and the ice can symbolize those moments when we remember just how much we love and need each other

🔹 Forgiveness between spouses

Newlyweds Meg and John Brooke learned how to make up after their first major fight

"Be the first to ask pardon if you both err, and guard against the little piques, misunderstandings, and hasty words that often pave the way for bitter sorrow and regret."

🔹 Let your kids know how much you love them

"Children will not remember you for the material things you provided, but for the feeling that you cherished them."

The website parentguidance.org is an incredible free resource that helps parents connect with their kids more

🔹 Help your kids understand God through your example

The more we strive to be like God, the more they will understand Him as their loving Heavenly Father

"Go to God with all your little cares ... as freely as you come to your mother."

🔹 Be open with your kids about your weaknesses

When Jo was feeling down about her temper, Mrs. March comforted her by sharing her struggles with her own temper

"[Jo] felt comforted at once by the sympathy and confidence given her. The knowledge that her mother had a fault like hers, and tried to mend it, made her own easier to bear and strengthened her resolution to cure it."

🔹 Takeaway

This week, focus on the good that comes from your family life—the little moments of joy and love, the sweet forgiveness that follows contention, or the connection you feel as you give and receive love and affection

Jun 21, 202229:43
Ep. 19 - Three Reasons Why You Should Read The Holy Ghost from A to Z

Ep. 19 - Three Reasons Why You Should Read The Holy Ghost from A to Z

Liz's book, The Holy Ghost from A to Z, was released today! Find out 3 reasons why YOU should read this inspiring, uplifting book.

Visit https://ldsbooknook.com/3-reasons to read this episode's transcript.

Visit https://lizkazandzhy.com/ to learn more about the host.

OUTLINE

🔹 The Holy Ghost from A to Z: What the Spirit Can Do for You (by Liz Kazandzhy) was published today!

Order from Amazon, CedarFort.com, Walmart, Target, or Barnes & Noble

🔹 Overview

A non-fiction doctrinal book that discusses 26 ways the Spirit can bless you

"It's time to unwrap the gift of the Holy Ghost!"

🔹 Reason #1: It's written for YOU!

Most people (1) are busy, (2) like when things make sense, and (3) want to be able to do something as a result of what they read

This book (1) is relatively short, (2) is written in a very understandable, conversational way, and (3) has "Liken to Yourself" questions at the end of each chapter with specific ways to apply what you learn

Within 10-15 minutes, you can learn something new that's relevant to you and know exactly how to apply it

🔹 Reason #2: It'll bless your life tremendously

"There is no greater blessing that can come into our lives than the gift of the Holy Ghost." (President Gordon B. Hinckley)

Don't live beneath your privileges—learn what the Spirit can offer you so you can experience it in your life

🔹 Reason #3: It's been endorsed by best-selling authors

The Holy Ghost from A to Z has been endorsed by Alonzo Gaskill, David J. Ridges, Susan Easton Black, Jack R. Christianson, and others

From David J. Ridges: "Liz Kazandzhy’s The Holy Ghost from A to Z is a delightful and compelling read. I believe it will be very helpful to anyone who would like to increase the effectiveness of having the gift of the Holy Ghost in their lives."

From Susan Easton Black: "The Holy Ghost from A to Z puts a new light on our understanding of the Comforter. Organized in a fun, beautiful way, Kazandzhy packs the book with words of Church leaders and prophets of all ages. Any reader will come away feeling the love of our Heavenly Father and will feel instilled with a new relationship with the Holy Ghost. With lifetime lessons of peace and hope, this is a read for all to enjoy."

🔹 Takeaway invitation

If you order the book and enjoy it, please leave a review! Whether it's on Amazon, Goodreads, or CedarFort.com—or all of the above—writing a review is basically the very best way you can support an author.

Jun 14, 202209:04
Ep. 18 - The Hiding Place: Miracles Haven't Ceased!

Ep. 18 - The Hiding Place: Miracles Haven't Ceased!

Learn about the incredible true story of Corrie Ten Boom—how she helped Jews during the Holocaust, and how God blessed her for her faith.

Visit https://ldsbooknook.com/the-hiding-place to read this episode's transcript.

Visit https://lizkazandzhy.com/ to learn more about the host.

OUTLINE

🔹 The Hiding Place is an amazing WWII memoir by Corrie Ten Boom published in 1971

🔹 Why so many Holocaust books?

"In darkness, God's truth shines most clear"—despite the great evil of the Holocaust, so many people responded in courageous, valiant ways

🔹 What makes a hero?

Corrie Ten Boom didn't set off to be a hero—she just had a pure heart, strove to do what's right, and let the Lord lead her

🔹 God doesn't make us bear everything at once

Corrie's father once told her, "Some knowledge is too heavy for children. When you are older and stronger, you can bear it. For now you must trust me to carry it for you."

🔹 The power of the scriptures

While in the concentration camp, Corrie and Betsie treasured their Bible and shared it with others at every possible moment

"Life in Ravensbruck took place on two separate levels, mutually impossible. One, the observable, external life, grew every day more horrible. The other, the life we lived with God, grew daily better, truth upon truth, glory upon glory."

🔹 The miracle of the vitamin oil

The Lord miraculously blessed them to have enough vitamin oil for Betsie and other sick prisoners

"It was one thing to believe that such things were possible thousands of years ago, another to have it happen now, to us, this very day. And yet it happened, this day, and the next, and the next."

🔹 The miracle of the fleas

Corrie and Betsie strove to be grateful "in all circumstances"—even in a barracks full of fleas—and the Lord blessed them for it in an incredible way

🔹 The miracle of love

Corrie learned the miracle of God's love early in life, a lesson she had to apply after the war when confronted with one of her jailers

"Whenever we cannot love in the old, human way ... God can give us his perfect way."

"It is not on our forgiveness any more than on our goodness that the world's healing hinges, but on His. When He tells us to love our enemies, He gives, along with the command, the love itself."

🔹 God's will is our hiding place

"[God's] will is our hiding place. Lord Jesus, keep me in Your will! Don't let me go mad by poking about outside it."

Just as the Jews were preserved in Corrie's home during the Holocaust, following God's will will preserve us in this increasingly wicked world

🔹 Takeaways

1. Immerse yourself in the scriptures this week. Commit to one simple change that will bring your scripture study to a higher level.

2. Thank God for the fleas in your life! Think of something that's making your life difficult, and thank God for it. Try to find the blessings that have come from that particular trial.

Jun 07, 202229:41
Ep. 17 - "Invictus" vs. "The Soul's Captain"

Ep. 17 - "Invictus" vs. "The Soul's Captain"

In this episode, listen to two powerful poems—the famous "Invictus" along with Elder Orson F. Whitney's inspired response to it.

Visit https://ldsbooknook.com/invictus to read this episode's transcript.

Visit https://lizkazandzhy.com/ to learn more about the host.

OUTLINE

🔹 "Invictus" is a powerful poem that helped sustain Nelson Mandela through his many trials

The final stanza reads, "It matters not how straight the gate, / How charged with punishments the scroll, / I am the master of my fate, / I am the captain of my soul."

🔹 "The Soul's Captain" is another powerful poem written by Elder Orson F. Whitney in response to "Invictus"

The first two stanzas read, "Art thou in truth? Then what of Him / Who bought thee with His blood? / Who plunged into devouring seas / And snatched thee from the flood, // Who bore for all our fallen race / What none but Him could bear— / The God who died that man might live / And endless glory share."

🔹 Quote from President Gordon B. Hinckley

"When all is said and done, when all the legions of the ages have passed in review, when man’s terrible inhumanity to man has been chronicled, when God’s great love for His children has been measured, then above all stands the lone figure of Jesus Christ, the Redeemer of the world, the Savior of mankind, the living Son of the living God, the Prince of Peace, the Holy One."

🔹 Takeaway

Make Jesus Christ the captain of your soul by humbly asking God for help with something.

May 31, 202208:03
Ep. 16 - The Holy Ghost from A to Z: Expands Your *Gifts* and Talents

Ep. 16 - The Holy Ghost from A to Z: Expands Your *Gifts* and Talents

Whether you need help recognizing, developing, or using your gifts and talents, the Holy Ghost will surely be a valuable companion to you.

Visit https://ldsbooknook.com/holy-ghost-g to read this episode's transcript.

Visit https://lizkazandzhy.com/ to learn more about the host.

OUTLINE

🔹 The Holy Ghost from A to Z: What the Spirit Can Do for You (by Liz Kazandzhy) will be published in June

🔹 Quote from G - Expands Your *Gifts* and Talents

When you involve the Spirit in the process of developing your talents, He will accelerate your growth, expand your abilities, and increase your endurance. He can reveal to you how best to cultivate your talents, and He can lead you to opportunities for further development. As President Benson taught, “Men and women who turn their lives over to God will find out that He can make a lot more out of their lives than they can.”

When I had the help of the Spirit, I was able to write this book with "strength beyond my own," but whenever I did something to offend the Spirit, I was "left to [my] own strength" and wasn't nearly as effective

🔹 Takeaway

Write a list of your gifts and talents, and then say a prayer asking the Spirit to reveal to you what you may have missed. Finally, choose one of those gifts and decide how you could use it to bless someone else's life.

🔹 Learn more about The Holy Ghost from A to Z at https://ldsbooknook.com/holyghost

May 24, 202205:56
Ep. 15 - Normal for Me: Embracing Life as a Parent of Autistic Children

Ep. 15 - Normal for Me: Embracing Life as a Parent of Autistic Children

Tamara Anderson's life is anything but normal, yet she's embraced it anyway. Hear what life is like for her parenting two autistic sons.

Visit https://ldsbooknook.com/normal-for-me to read this episode's transcript.

Visit https://lizkazandzhy.com/ to learn more about the host.

OUTLINE

🔹 Normal for Me is a self-help parenting book by Tamara K. Anderson, published in 2019

🔹 Overview of the book

Two of Tamara's four children have autism, one high-functioning and one low-functioning

This is a great book for parents of autistic children and also those who want a glimpse into a family with autistic children

🔹 What is Normal?

After a horribly difficult day with her children, Tamara was asking God, "Why is life so hard? Why can't we be a normal family?" In reply, God whispered to her, "Tamara, this IS normal for you."

That brought her great comfort, though her journey to acceptance was long and difficult

🔹 The Power of Journaling

Tamara shared a journal entry about "the day from hell," writing in a way that was raw and uncensored

When we write like that, it can help us work through our feelings, and it will help those who read it in the future to not feel so alone in their trials

I share an inspiring story from an ancestor who struggled with intense trials in Utah after leaving her comfortable life in England: "One of her daughters remembered her mother standing with her head on her arms resting on the mantel piece with tears dripping like rain on the hearth beneath, but in spite of this she was a brave and courageous woman."

🔹 Judge Not!

Tamara and her husband have had to deal with a lot of judgment from others

"There really is no way we can know the heart, the intentions, or the circumstances of someone who might say or do something we find reason to criticize. Thus, judge not." (Thomas S. Monson)

🔹 Trials: More than We Can Handle?

"I think the phrase needs to be changed to say, 'God doesn’t give us more than we can handle with His help.' Basically, He doesn’t give us more than HE can handle. The question is, do we turn to Him for help in our trials?"

🔹 Ask God for Parenting Help

Tamara shares a story of God helping her find a way to involve all of her kids in a family activity

Our children were God's children long before they were ours, and if anyone knows how to get through to them, it's Him

🔹 Take Care of Yourself

Tamara shares a fantastic list of stress-relieving activities that she could do in increments of 5, 10, and 15 minutes

🔹 Takeaways

1. The next time you have a horrible day, write about it. Be honest and open and raw and uncensored.

2. Create a list of stress-relieving activities that you can do in 5, 10, and 20 minutes.

May 17, 202225:45
Ep. 14 - The Holy Ghost from A to Z: Conveys God's *Forgiveness*

Ep. 14 - The Holy Ghost from A to Z: Conveys God's *Forgiveness*

Have you ever asked yourself, "Has God really forgiven me?" Finding out the answer might be simpler than you think!

Visit https://ldsbooknook.com/holy-ghost-f to read this episode's transcript.

Visit https://lizkazandzhy.com/ to learn more about the host.

OUTLINE

🔹 The Holy Ghost from A to Z: What the Spirit Can Do for You (by Liz Kazandzhy) will be published in June

🔹 Quote from F - Conveys God's *Forgiveness*

Even though repentance is a process, you don’t have to wait until the end of that process to feel God’s love, approval, and forgiveness. This is why Amulek taught that “if ye will repent and harden not your hearts, immediately shall the great plan of redemption be brought about unto you.” Immediately—not eventually. Or, in Elder Holland's words, “It takes exactly as long to repent as it takes you to say ‘I’ll change’—and mean it.”

From Elder Tad R. Callister: "If you feel the Spirit—when you pray, read the scriptures, teach, testify, or at any other time—then that is your witness that you have been forgiven or, alternatively, that the cleansing process is taking place, for the Spirit cannot dwell in an unholy tabernacle. In most cases the cleansing process takes time because our change of heart takes time, but in the interim, we can proceed with the confidence that God approves of our progress as manifested by the presence of His Spirit."

I share a journal entry that portrays the battle between justice and mercy with powerful imagery

🔹 Takeaway

Repent! 🙂 Choose something that you need to change, and then sincerely say "I'll change"—and mean it. Take steps toward changing, and in the meantime, try to notice the presence of the Spirit conveying God's approval and forgiveness as you seek to become more like Him.

🔹 Learn more about The Holy Ghost from A to Z at https://ldsbooknook.com/holyghost

May 10, 202208:12
Ep. 13 - Charlotte's Web: What a Spider Can Teach Us About the Savior

Ep. 13 - Charlotte's Web: What a Spider Can Teach Us About the Savior

Like Wilbur the pig, we were once destined for damnation. But someone came to our rescue, and because of His sacrifice, we can be saved.

Visit https://ldsbooknook.com/charlottes-web to read this episode's transcript.

Visit https://lizkazandzhy.com/ to learn more about the host.

OUTLINE

🔹 The Power of Language: "Some Pig"

By writing positive things in her web, Charlotte helped Wilbur become those things: "some pig," "terrific," and "radiant"

Satan often attacks our identity and relationships through negative language

🔹 Selflessness: "What's in it for me?" vs. Expecting Nothing in Return

Charlotte is a great example of selflessness (expecting nothing in return), whereas Templeton the rat is a great example of selfishness ("What's in it for me?")

Strive to first notice your motivations and then to purify them to become more selflessness

🔹 Charlotte's Sacrifice: "No one was with her when she died"

Charlotte's lonely death is reminiscent of Christ's death: "I have trodden the winepress alone ... there was none to uphold [me].”

"Just as Wilbur was destined to be slaughtered, we were destined to be damned based on our fallen nature. But someone came to the rescue—someone came and promised to save us. Not for glory or personal gain, but because of His selflessness and love for us."

We should learn to focus more on Christ's sacrifice—and the blessings that come from it—rather than our own trials and worries

We can't pay back the Savior for what He did for us, but we can "pay it forward" by taking care of God's children

🔹 Takeaways

1. Choose a day to take special notice of your language. Then, at the end of the day, write down what you noticed and how you can improve your language.

2. Consider some things that you're involved in right now, and think about what motivates you to do them. If needed, strive to purify your motives to be more selfless.

3. Ponder what the Atonement of Jesus Christ means to you personally, and share your thoughts with a loved one or on social media.

May 03, 202224:37
Ep. 12 - The Holy Ghost from A to Z: *Encourages* You

Ep. 12 - The Holy Ghost from A to Z: *Encourages* You

Messing up can be hard. But the Spirit can encourage you to move forward, "growing from failure to failure without any loss of enthusiasm."

Visit https://ldsbooknook.com/holy-ghost-e to read this episode's transcript.

Visit https://lizkazandzhy.com/ to learn more about the host.

OUTLINE

🔹 The Holy Ghost from A to Z: What the Spirit Can Do for You (by Liz Kazandzhy) will be published in June

🔹 Quote from E - *Encourages* You

You may also need extra encouragement when you're faced with your failures. Instead of turning to God in repentance, you might find yourself paralyzed by shame. In such situations, allow the Spirit to work on your heart, communicate God’s love for you, and drive away your shame. With the help of the Holy Ghost, you can truly learn to “cherish the gift of repentance,” and you’ll be able to “grow from failure to failure without any loss of enthusiasm.”

I share words of encouragement that the Spirit shared with me recently: "You're human, not a hypocrite. God planned for this. Just learn."

🔹 Takeaway

This week, pay close attention to how God encourages you through the Holy Ghost, and write about those moments in your journal.

Learn more about The Holy Ghost from A to Z at https://ldsbooknook.com/holyghost

Apr 26, 202208:26
Ep. 11 - Growing Up Unto the Lord: Connecting Kids with Heaven

Ep. 11 - Growing Up Unto the Lord: Connecting Kids with Heaven

In this episode, learn how you can help kids find their own spiritual answers by connecting them with heaven.

Visit https://ldsbooknook.com/growing-up-unto-the-lord to read this episode's transcript.

Visit https://lizkazandzhy.com/ to learn more about the host.

OUTLINE

🔹 Growing Up Unto the Lord is a religious book by Craig Cardon (Emeritus General Authority Seventy) that was published in 2021

🔹 What it Means to Grow Up Unto the Lord

Helaman's sons, Nephi and Lehi, "began to grow up unto the Lord" even during a time of great wickedness and corruption—and we can do the same.

🔹 Teenagers: "By Divine Design, They Begin to Question"

"As a divinely appointed part of their earthly experience, [teenagers] question. They want to know for themselves rather than merely accepting what others know. .... [Adolesence] is not a time to be lamented. It is an important, essential time that is to be knowingly and faithfully embraced."

🔹 Connecting Kids with Heaven

Our role as parents and leaders is to connect kids with heaven so they can gain a testimony from the Holy Ghost.

🔹 Mission Distractions: "He Will Let You Know"

Elder Cardon asked his father for advice at the beginning of his mission, and instead of his father sharing his own advice, he taught Elder Cardon how to find the answers by seeking revelation from the Lord.

🔹 Breaking Curfew: "Did You Hear Him?"

When Elder Cardon's children would come home late, he would ask them if they had heard the Spirit speak to them.

"If the child responded saying, 'No, I didn't hear anything,' we knew that as parents we had some important spiritual work to do.... However, if the response was something like, 'Yes, I heard the voice," as it most often was, we would say, 'Good. Now help us understand why you responded the way you did.'"

🔹 Dating Before 16: "Because a Prophet Said Not To"

The Lord inspired Elder Cardon to hold discussions with his teenage son, and in one of their conversations, his son received a powerful spiritual witness about the prophet.

🔹 Takeaway

The next time you're talking with someone close to you and they ask your advice about something, redirect them heavenward and invite them to seek their own revelation about it. That doesn't mean you can't share your own thoughts and feelings, but try to make the focus much more on the Lord than on any wisdom you might have to impart.

🔹 Quotes from President Nelson

"I promise you ... that wherever you are in the world, wherever you are on the covenant path, even if at this moment you are not centered on the path, I promise you that if you will sincerely and persistently do the spiritual work needed to develop the crucial, spiritual skill of learning how to hear the whisperings from the Holy Ghost, you will have all the direction you will ever need in your life."

"Pray in the name of Jesus Christ about your concerns, your fears, your weaknesses—yes, the very longings of your heart. And then listen! Write the thoughts that come to your mind. Record your feelings and follow through with actions that you are prompted to take. As you repeat this process day after day, month after month, year after year, you will 'grow into the principle of revelation.'"

Apr 19, 202224:23
Ep. 10 - The Holy Ghost from A to Z: Gives You *Direction*

Ep. 10 - The Holy Ghost from A to Z: Gives You *Direction*

Learn how the Spirit can help direct your life for good. After all, "the Lord is [your] shepherd" and won't lead you astray.

Visit https://ldsbooknook.com/holy-ghost-d to read this episode's transcript.

Visit https://lizkazandzhy.com/ to learn more about the host.

OUTLINE

The Holy Ghost from A to Z: What the Spirit Can Do for You (by Liz Kazandzhy) will be published in June and is available for pre-order

Quote from D - Gives You *Direction*

Throughout our lives, we face decisions that have a significant impact—choices about education, employment, marriage, child-rearing, and so on. Surely the Lord doesn’t expect us to make these major decisions all on our own! Just as the Liahona led Lehi’s family “in the more fertile parts of the wilderness” all the way to the Promised Land, so too will the Holy Ghost lead you on a prosperous life path—all the way to the Celestial Kingdom.

The Lord "leadeth [us] in the paths of righteousness for his name’s sake." (Psalm 23:3)

I share a story about a Russian-speaker being called to Romania, which put her in a position to help Ukrainian refugees that have fled to Romania for safety

Takeaways

1. Reflect on how the Spirit has directed your life so far, and thank Heavenly Father for the blessings that have come from that.

2. Pray for direction—choose an area of your life, and ask God what He would have you do next.

PRE-ORDER INFORMATION

You can now pre-order The Holy Ghost from A to Z, which will be released in June.

$8.99 at Cedar Fort: https://www.cedarfort.com/products/the-holy-ghost-from-a-to-z

$12.99 on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Holy-Ghost-What-Spirit-Can/dp/1462142745

Take the Spiritual Inventory Quiz: https://ldsbooknook.com/holyghost


Apr 12, 202205:35
Ep. 9 - Is There No Other Way? Exploring Growth Through Grief

Ep. 9 - Is There No Other Way? Exploring Growth Through Grief

This life isn't just about GOING through trials—it's about GROWING through them. This inspiring book will teach you how to do just that.

Visit https://ldsbooknook.com/is-there-no-other-way to read this episode's transcript.

Visit https://lizkazandzhy.com/ to learn more about the host.

OUTLINE

Is There No Other Way? is a religious book by Emily Adams published in 2020

Overview of the Book

  • The author has firsthand experience with grief (having suffered the death of one of her identical twin boys), and she also interviewed about 50 other women about their trials

How the Atonement Can Help You Grieve

  • "There is nothing you have experienced . . . that [Jesus Christ] does not also know and recognize."
  • "He’s not waiting for us to be perfect. Perfect people don’t need a Savior. He came to save his people in their imperfections. He is the Lord of the living, and the living make mistakes. He’s not embarrassed by us, angry at us, or shocked. He wants us in our brokenness, in our unhappiness, in our guilt, and in our grief."

Don't Feel Ashamed for Your Sorrow

  • The Savior, who was perfect, is "a man of sorrows, and acquainted with grief," which is evidence that there is nothing wrong with sorrow and grief
  • "Does perfection mean not letting words and experiences hurt us? Or does it just mean not permitting them to dull our faith and distance us from our Heavenly Father?"

Don't Compare Grief

  • "Someone who drowns in 6 feet of water is just as dead as someone who drowns in 20 feet of water. Stop comparing traumas, and stop belittling yours or anyone else’s traumas because it wasn’t 'as bad' as someone else’s. This isn’t a competition, we all deserve support and recovery."
  • Don't use the phrase "at least" when trying to comfort someone ("At least your baby died before you could make memories with him since that would be so much harder")
  • Instead, just say, "I'm sorry. I love you. What can I do for you?"

Write a Headline for Your Hardship

  • "Woman's Husband Has Terrible Accident that Ruins Their Life" vs. "Young Couple Remains Joyful Despite Husband's Terrible Accident"
  • Whatever your headline is (how you feel about the trial), you begin to look for evidence to support it, so try to choose an optimistic one instead of a pessimistic one

Talk About It

  • Never underestimate the healing power of talking and the priceless gift of listening

Grow Through Grief

  • A progression from Victim to Survivor to Contributor
  • A victim asks "Why me?" A survivor asks "Now what?" And a contributor confidently states "Now me," as in now it's my turn to help others.

Takeaways

  • 1. Think about a trial that you're going through right now and choose a headline that represents how you'd like to handle it.
  • 2. Imagine yourself in five years telling someone about your current trial, what you learned from it, and what helped you get through it.
Apr 05, 202222:55
Ep. 8 - The Holy Ghost from A to Z: *Comforts* You

Ep. 8 - The Holy Ghost from A to Z: *Comforts* You

The Holy Ghost is also known as the Comforter. Find out how the Spirit can comfort you in your trials, no matter how big or small.

Visit https://ldsbooknook.com/holy-ghost-c to read this episode's transcript.

Visit https://lizkazandzhy.com/ to learn more about the host.

OUTLINE

The Holy Ghost from A to Z: What the Spirit Can Do for You (by Liz Kazandzhy) will be published in June

Quote from C - *Comforts* You

“As the soothing voice of a loving parent can quiet a crying child, the whisperings of the Spirit can calm our fears, hush the nagging worries of our life, and comfort us when we grieve.” What a fitting metaphor, because children cry for so many reasons! Their problems may seem trivial, but for the child, they’re very real. Likewise, whatever it is you’re struggling with—no matter how trivial it may seem—God longs to send His Spirit to comfort you.

I share the story of the Spirit comforting me while waiting for my fiance's visa to be approved

Takeaway: In the next prayer that you say, tell Heavenly Father about something that's been weighing on you, and ask Him for comfort. Then pay attention to the thoughts and feelings the Spirit gives you as God answers that prayer.

PRE-ORDER INFORMATION

You can now pre-order The Holy Ghost from A to Z, which will be released in June

$8.99 at Cedar Fort: https://www.cedarfort.com/products/the-holy-ghost-from-a-to-z

$12.99 on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Holy-Ghost-What-Spirit-Can/dp/1462142745

Take the Spiritual Inventory Quiz: https://ldsbooknook.com/holyghost

Mar 29, 202208:13
Ep. 7 - The Gifts of Imperfection: How Vulnerability Can Conquer Shame

Ep. 7 - The Gifts of Imperfection: How Vulnerability Can Conquer Shame

Do you ever get down on yourself because of your weaknesses? In this episode, find out more about Satan's tool of shame, what blessings can come from your imperfections, and how you can embrace your authentic self.

Visit https://ldsbooknook.com/the-gifts-of-imperfection to read this episode's transcript.

OUTLINE

The Gifts of Imperfection by Brené Brown is a self-help book published in 2010

  • Also worth checking out are Daring Greatly and I Thought it Was Just Me, as well as her TED Talks online.

Shame vs. Guilt

  • Guilt says "you made a mistake"—shame tells you that you are a mistake. Not that you did something bad, but that you are bad.

Worldly Sorrow vs. Godly Sorrow

  • "Godly sorrow inspires change and hope through the Atonement of Jesus Christ. Worldly sorrow pulls us down, extinguishes hope, and persuades us to give in to further temptation. True repentance is about transformation, not torture or torment. When guilt leads to self-loathing or prevents us from rising up again, it is impeding rather than promoting our repentance." (Elder Dieter F. Uchtdorf)

"Actually Doing Okay"

  • I share a story about a horrible day of parenting and how I managed to conquer shame by practicing self-compassion and seeing myself as a whole

The Blessings of Weakness

  • Because we're imperfect, we get to practice courage, compassion, and connection.
  • Weakness also makes us humble, which can lead us to God, who can make us stronger than we ever could be on our own

Taking the Plunge into Authenticity

  • "Authenticity is a collection of choices that we have to make every day. It's about the choice to show up and be real. The choice to be honest. The choice to let our true selves be seen."

Learning to Embrace My Voice

  • I've had a long journey of learning to accept my voice because it's so low—first as a musician and now as a podcaster.

Takeaways

  • 1. Make a list of the unhealthy things you tend to do when you feel shame. Then make a list of healthier ways you could handle those difficult moments.
  • 2. Ask for help. Think about something you need, something you might be afraid to admit because it'll show your weakness. Tell a trusted friend or family member how you're feeling and how they could help.

Important Caveat

  • Some ideas in the book can be interpreted in a way contrary to the gospel
  • Read Brené Brown's books (and all books) with the Spirit so that He can help you discern truth from error

Episode next week: C - The Holy Ghost Can *Comfort* You

Episode in two weeks: Is There No Other Way? by Emily Adams

Mar 22, 202223:03
Ep. 6 - The Holy Ghost from A to Z: Strengthens Your *Bonds* With Others

Ep. 6 - The Holy Ghost from A to Z: Strengthens Your *Bonds* With Others

Discover how the Holy Ghost can strengthen your relationships with your family, friends, and others.

Also, you can now pre-order The Holy Ghost from A to Z, which will be released in June!

$8.99 at Cedar Fort: https://www.cedarfort.com/products/the-holy-ghost-from-a-to-z

$12.99 on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Holy-Ghost-What-Spirit-Can/dp/1462142745

Visit https://ldsbooknook.com/holy-ghost-b to read this episode's transcript.

Mar 16, 202208:58
Ep. 5 - The Morning Breaks: Ukraine's Fight for Freedom

Ep. 5 - The Morning Breaks: Ukraine's Fight for Freedom

In this special episode, learn more about Ukraine and its inspiring history, including the blessings the Lord promised this great country.

The next episode will discuss chapter *B* from The Holy Ghost from A to Z: What the Spirit Can Do for You. And you can get ready for the episode after that by reading The Gifts of Imperfection by Brené Brown.

Visit https://ldsbooknook.com/ukraine to read this episode's transcript.

Mar 08, 202222:46
Ep. 4 - The Holy Ghost from A to Z: Brings *Abundance* to Your Life

Ep. 4 - The Holy Ghost from A to Z: Brings *Abundance* to Your Life

Discover how the Holy Ghost can bring abundance to your life, no matter where you are on the spiritual spectrum right now.

Get ready for the next episode by reading Atomic Habits by James Clear!

Visit https://ldsbooknook.com/holy-ghost-a to read this episode's transcript.

Mar 01, 202205:49
Ep. 3 - The Boy, the Mole, the Fox and the Horse: Timeless Tidbits of Wisdom

Ep. 3 - The Boy, the Mole, the Fox and the Horse: Timeless Tidbits of Wisdom

Today's episode delves into The Boy, the Mole, the Fox and the Horse, a beautiful book that teaches about charity, relationships, fear, and vulnerability.

The next episode will discuss chapter *A* from The Holy Ghost from A to Z: What the Spirit Can Do for You. And you can get ready for the episode after that by reading Atomic Habits by James Clear!

Visit https://ldsbooknook.com/boy-mole-fox-horse to read this episode's transcript.

Feb 22, 202223:45
Ep. 2 - The Holy Ghost from A to Z: Introduction

Ep. 2 - The Holy Ghost from A to Z: Introduction

Learn more about Liz's book The Holy Ghost from A to Z: What the Spirit Can Do for You, coming out in June. In 26 brief chapters, the book will help “unwrap” the gift of the Holy Ghost so you can better recognize and receive Him into your life.

Get ready for the next episode by reading The Boy, the Mole, the Fox and the Horse by Charlie Mackesy!

Visit https://ldsbooknook.com/holy-ghost-introduction to read this episode's transcript.

Feb 15, 202208:33
Ep. 1 - The Little Prince: How to Love "The Least of These" (Even When That's Yourself)

Ep. 1 - The Little Prince: How to Love "The Least of These" (Even When That's Yourself)

In this week's episode, learn about two characters in The Little Prince—the rose and the drunkard—and what they teach us about charity and self-compassion.

The next episode will introduce my book, The Holy Ghost from A to Z: What the Spirit Can Do for You. And you can get ready for the episode after that by reading The Boy, the Mole, the Fox and the Horse by Charlie Mackesy!

Visit https://ldsbooknook.com/the-little-prince to read this episode's transcript.

Feb 08, 202230:13
Ep. 0 - Wisdom from the Best Books: What to Expect from this Podcast

Ep. 0 - Wisdom from the Best Books: What to Expect from this Podcast

Welcome to Latter-day Saint Book Nook! Learn the “who, what, when, where, and why” of this podcast, and most importantly, how it can help you in your life.

Get ready for the next episode by reading The Little Prince by Antoine de Saint-Exupéry!

Visit https://ldsbooknook.com/introduction to read this episode's transcript.

Jan 13, 202209:30