Thou Shalt Not

I love this talk- given in 1971 by Elder Sterling W Sill titled "THOU SHALT NOT"

1971 was a long time ago- but still these words touch me! I first read this talk when I was studying the Ten Commandments. I wanted to know how these commandments fit into my life- or even if they were relevant for today. My study was extensive- and I learned so much- and I can tell you that YES! these commandments are very relevant and very necessary for today.

In a nutshell- Elder Sill states this:
If you were contemplating starting a new business, one of the first steps to be taken would be to decide definitely on those things that should NOT be done under any circumstance. There are certain dishonest and improper practices that should be definitely and permanently ruled out of bounds- in advance. The same would be true in a marriage- there are dis-loyalties and infidelities that must never be entertained.

"WHEN ONE HAS DEFINITELY ELIMINATED THOSE THINGS HE WILL NOT DO, THEN HE CAN CONCENTRATE ALL OF HIS TIME AND ENERGY ON THE THINGS HE SHOULD DO"

There was once a minister on a radio show who stated that he never spoke of the Ten Commandments- one reason being that they were dated. The other reason he mentions is that the language is too harsh. He suggests that maybe God would have better luck with his children if he did not command- but maybe if he used kinder language such as I suggest, or I recommend or I advise you to follow these commandments.
I, for one, disagree with Mr. Minister.

These 67 words can be read in 30 seconds or less- yet IF they were followed, they would quickly transform our earth into Gods paradise.

1)Thou shalt have no other gods before me
2)Thou shalt not make unto thee any graven images
3)Thou shalt not take the name of the Lord thy God in vain
4)Remember the Sabbath day, to keep it holy
5)Honour thy father and thy mother
6)Thou shalt not kill
7)Thou shalt not commit adultery
8)thou shalt not steal
9)Thou shalt not bear false witness
10) Thou shalt not covet

These are the things that God has placed "out of bounds" and frequent visits with these words will help keep us on the path the He has paved for us!