FollowHIM: A Come, Follow Me Podcast Episode: Mormon 7-9 Part 2 • Dr. Sheldon Martin • November 4-10 • Come Follow Me
Release Date: October 30, 2024

In this insightful episode of FollowHIM: A Come, Follow Me Podcast, hosts Hank Smith and John Bytheway engage in a profound discussion with guest Dr. Sheldon Martin, delving deep into Mormon chapters 7 through 9. The conversation navigates through themes of materialism, envy, the importance of relationships, miracles, and the imperfections of leaders, providing listeners with actionable insights and heartfelt testimonies.

1. Treating People as Priority vs. Materialism

John Bytheway opens the discussion by referencing verse 39 from the Book of Mormon:

"You adorn yourselves with that which hath no life, whatever that is, and suffer the hungry, the needy, and the naked."
(00:38)

He emphasizes the danger of treating people as objects, stating, "You're treating things like people and people like things." This sets the stage for exploring how societal tendencies toward materialism can erode genuine human connections.

Hank Smith echoes this sentiment by highlighting modern-day distractions:

"Sometimes we take better care of our phone than we do the people in our life. We spend time protecting it and getting it all, making sure it's safe at all times. Do we even do that for people?"
(01:01)

2. Envy and Its Impact on Happiness

The conversation shifts to the pervasive issue of envy, with John referencing Elder Holland's 2012 message:

"Envy is a mistake that keeps on giving."
(03:33)

He humorously illustrates how envy can lead to constant dissatisfaction:

"Coveting, pouting, tearing others down does not elevate your standing."
(03:52)

Hank shares a personal anecdote about the temptation of unnecessary purchases, highlighting the real-life struggle against material desires:

"That stuff is going to make me happy. That happens when I go to Costco. I start looking around going, we need that. We need that too."
(03:52)

3. Focusing on Relationships Over Possessions

The hosts discuss the importance of prioritizing relationships, drawing from Elder Oaks' wisdom:

"Some of our most important choices concern family activity... there is no easy formula for that contest of priorities. However, I have never known someone who looked back on their working life and said, I just didn't spend enough time with my job."
(08:55)

John recounts a poignant story from a Father’s Summer Vacation, where the most cherished memory was a simple moment of connection:

"The thing I liked best this summer, the boy replied, was the night you and I laid on the lawn and looked at the stars and talked."
(09:01)

This underscores the episode's central theme: meaningful relationships surpass material acquisitions in fostering lasting happiness.

4. The Role of Miracles in Faith

Dr. Sheldon Martin introduces the concept of miracles, both grand and subtle, emphasizing their presence in everyday life:

"Neely Maxwell used to say that coincidences are the ways that God micromanages his universe."
(25:46)

He shares personal testimonies of experiencing divine intervention, reinforcing the belief in a God who performs miracles:

"Moroni is trying to warn us. We're going to get so smart in these last days, or we're going to start discounting there are going to be things that are still miraculous."
(27:54)

5. Imperfections in Leaders and Patience

The discussion addresses the human imperfections of church leaders, drawing from recent teachings:

"A church leader might say something that compounds your frustration or sense of isolation. They may not show the compassion or understanding you need."
(34:19)

Hank references Moroni's message on not condemning leaders despite their flaws:

"Condemn me not because of mine imperfection, neither my father because of his imperfection..."
(31:08)

This segment encourages listeners to extend patience and understanding towards leaders, recognizing their human limitations.

6. Personal Testimonies and Experiences

Dr. Sheldon Martin shares a heartfelt personal story from his college days, illustrating the transformative power of the Book of Mormon:

"I was at a breaking point. I didn't know what I was going to do... And the day before, I had left off with Alma 26:27... It really is a miracle."
(35:34)

His testimony underscores the profound impact of scripture in moments of personal crisis, reinforcing faith in divine guidance.

7. Concluding Insights and Takeaways

As the episode draws to a close, Dr. Martin offers key takeaways for listeners:

"Whatever the experience you're having is unique. But there are others who have had experiences that you can draw strength from."
(35:34)

He reiterates the importance of worshiping a God of miracles and maintaining focus on meaningful relationships.

Hank and John conclude by encouraging listeners to embrace the lessons discussed, emphasizing the value of faith, relationships, and recognizing divine interventions in everyday life.

Notable Quotes with Timestamps

• John Bytheway:

  • "You're treating things like people and people like things."
    (00:38)

• Hank Smith:

  • "Sometimes we take better care of our phone than we do the people in our life."
    (01:01)

• Dr. Sheldon Martin:

  • "Neely Maxwell used to say that coincidences are the ways that God micromanages his universe."
    (25:46)

• Hank Smith:

  • "The thing I liked best this summer... was the night you and I laid on the lawn and looked at the stars and talked."
    (09:01)

• John Bytheway:

  • "Be patient with Church leaders."
    (34:19)

Final Thoughts

This episode of FollowHIM masterfully intertwines scriptural analysis with personal stories, offering listeners both intellectual and emotional engagement. By addressing contemporary challenges such as materialism and envy, while also celebrating the miraculous and the importance of genuine relationships, Hank, John, and Dr. Martin provide a holistic approach to studying the Come, Follow Me curriculum. Whether you're seeking to deepen your understanding of the scriptures or looking for inspiration to navigate modern life's complexities, this episode offers valuable insights and heartfelt encouragement.

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