We have to choose.

My scripture reading took me to Romans 3:25 where it calls Christ a propitiation. I went on line to the Theopedia, where it gave the following. The word propitiation carries the basic idea of appeasement, or satisfaction, specifically towards God. Propitiation is a two-part act that involves appeasing the wrath of an offended person and being reconciled to them “Propitiation is that "by which it becomes consistent with his character and government to pardon and bless the sinner. The propitiation does not procure his love or make him loving; it only renders it consistent for him to exercise his love towards sinners."

In other words Christ atonement does not cleans us or forgive us, it only makes it possible for us to repent if we choose and in that manner we can be cleansed and forgiven. It is said that was what the war in heaven was all about. Heavenly Father wanted to make it possible for us to have agency, or the ability to choose to keep the commandments. Lucifer, or Satan, some have said, feared that he having his memory of heaven removed would not choose the right and would lose his status in heaven. In any case it is a documented fact that he rebelled and was cast out of Heaven.  (Isaiah 14:12 – 16)(Luke 10:19)

Yesterday one of our speakers (our Stake President) said that some say that because Satan has increased his attack we have to fortify ourselves. He said that idea is backwards. Satan is aware, and has always been aware of us (who believe in Christ). As we come in to the last days and prepare for the coming of the end when Christ comes to receive his own Satan in his furry throws everything he can to stop us.

I don’t know if it is worse now than it has ever been or not. I do know that addiction of all kinds, abuse, and rebellion is on the rise.