Somewhere in the wilderness east of Canaan, Jacob nervously awaited an encounter with his twin brother, Esau. The last time Jacob had seen Esau, about 20 years earlier, Esau wanted to kill him. Jacob spent all night in a wrestle, seeking a blessing from God. As a result of Jacob’s faith, persistence, and determination, God answered his prayers. That night Jacob’s name was changed to Israel, a name that means, among other things, “he perseveres with God” (Genesis 32:28, footnote b).

By Elder Jeffrey R. Holland

Of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles

Our modified Sunday service is to emphasize the sacrament of the Lord’s Supper as the sacred, acknowledged focal point of our weekly worship experience.

By Elder Jeffrey R. Holland

Of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles

From a Brigham Young University devotional address given on January 13, 2009.

Look ahead and remember that faith is always pointed toward the future.

By President Russell M. Nelson

President of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints

Faith in Jesus Christ is the greatest power available to us in this life. All things are possible to them that believe.

Sarah dies and is buried in the cave of Machpelah, which Abraham buys from Ephron the Hittite.

Abraham is commanded to sacrifice Isaac, his son—Both father and son yield to the will of God—Abraham’s seed will be as the stars and the sand in number—In his seed, all nations will be blessed—Rebekah is born to Bethuel.

Sarah bears Isaac—He is circumcised—Hagar and her son are cast out of Abraham’s household—The Lord saves Hagar and Ishmael—Abraham and Abimelech deal honorably with each other.

Abimelech desires Sarah, who is preserved by the Lord—Abraham prays for Abimelech, and the Lord blesses him and his household.