I know what I say; I understand my mission and business. God Almighty is my shield; and what can man do if God is my friend? I shall not be sacrificed until my time comes; then I shall be offered freely. All flesh is as grass, and a governor is no better than other men; when he dies he is but a bag of dust. I thank God for preserving me from my enemies; I have no enemies but for the truth's sake. I have no desire but to do all men good. I feel to pray for all men. We don't ask any people to throw away any good they have got; we only ask them to come and get more. What if all the world should embrace this Gospel? They would then see eye to eye, and the blessings of God would be poured out upon the people, which is the desire of my whole soul. Amen. _Monday, 23_.--Was at home, and wrote the editor of the _Wasp_ as follows: _The Prophet on Participation in Politics_. DEAR SIR:--I have of late had repeated solicitations to have something to do in relation to the political farce about dividing the county; but as my feelings revolt at the idea of having anything to do with politics, I have declined, in every instance, having anything to do on the subject. I think it would be well for politicians to regulate their own affairs. I wish to be let alone, that I may attend strictly to the spiritual welfare of the Church. Please insert the above, and oblige Nauvoo, Jan. 23, 1843. JOSEPH SMITH. {260} In the evening rode with Emma to see Dr. Richards, who was sick, at the old postoffice building, up the river. Elder John Snyder returned from his mission to England. _Tuesday, 24_.--Was at home till noon, when I rode out with Emma. Evening, attended the Masonic Lodge. _Wednesday, 25_.--Was about home. _Thursday, 26_.--In the afternoon rode to the Temple, and afterwards to William Clayton's. _Friday, 27_.--Rode on the prairie with William Clayton. Dined at Brother Cornelius P. Lott's. _Saturday, 28_.--Played ball with the brethren a short time. Rode round the city with Mr. Taylor, a land agent from New York. Some snow fell, the ice began to give way in the river, and a steamer that had wintered at Montrose went over the rapids. _Sunday, 29_.--I attended meeting at the Temple. After reading the parable of the prodigal son, and making some preliminary remarks, I stated that there were two questions which had been asked me concerning my subject of the last Sabbath, which I had promised to answer in public, and would improve this opportunity. _The Greatness and Mission of John the Baptist_. The question arose from the saying of Jesus--"Among those that are born of women there is not a greater prophet than John the Baptist; but he that is least in the kingdom of God is greater than he." How is it that John was considered one of the greatest of prophets? His miracles could not have constituted his greatness.