Perfection can't be attained in this life. I know that. And I know Heavenly Father knows that. But what I also know is that Heavenly Father has faith in me, which gives me faith in me. Make sense?
He knows we can't become perfect while we are in a mortal state. But we can have the attitude of doing everything we can to become better. He has given me the tools I need to move forward every day. To listen and follow him every chance I can. To grow like I should. He's the one who knows the thoughts and intents of my heart, he's the one who knows what I do all day, every day. He's the one who can help me become better because he knows me the best.
That's so comforting, because sometimes it feel overwhelming to try and become perfect when I know that I will always mess up. It's comforting to know that I can move on from my mess ups. That I can be forgiven, and can learn.
It's comforting to know that I really can become like Christ.
Friday, April 29, 2011
Thursday, April 28, 2011
Day 82
I was reading in Isaiah chapter 56, meaning to read about the house of the Lord since temple worship was still on my mind from yesterday. Instead, I got something totally different out of it! I love it when the scriptures do that to me, and it's quite often.
The chapter isn't very long, but most of the verses seemed to focus on Christ talking about how he really will accept anyone who wants the gospel as a part of their lives. He will accept anyone that is worthy to enter his house. He doesn't judge by the outside at all. He judges by the inside, and he knows if I'm worthy or not. I love how accepting he is. I can always count on him to be there for me. I know I say that over and over again, but it's true! I can always find comfort in that.
The chapter isn't very long, but most of the verses seemed to focus on Christ talking about how he really will accept anyone who wants the gospel as a part of their lives. He will accept anyone that is worthy to enter his house. He doesn't judge by the outside at all. He judges by the inside, and he knows if I'm worthy or not. I love how accepting he is. I can always count on him to be there for me. I know I say that over and over again, but it's true! I can always find comfort in that.
Wednesday, April 27, 2011
Day 81
David A. Bednar gave a really good talk about the temple and how we should focus on attending the temple in order to become better members. He shared an experience he had with a friend of his who once was a stake president. The man told him he wished he was a temple worker first before becoming a stake president because it would have made him a better stake president. Elder Bednar asked why, and the man replied that working in the temple helped him understand so much more how important it is for our testimonies. He would have focused a lot more on helping people become more worthy to enter the temple because he understood better how important it is.
A lot of people outside of the church choose to critisize the temple and the acts of worship within it. I feel from personal experience these people choose to make fun of it because they simply do not understand it. It's a great "mystery" to them because we do not talk about what we do inside the temple. When we try and tell them we don't talk about it because it's sacred, they scoff and say we use that as an excuse.
But what does it matter what other people decide to make fun of? Making fun of something is a sign of insecurity in that thing, and within yourself. I know that I have a personal testimony of the temple and what a blessing it is in my life. I do not understand everything that goes on in the temple, and I've experienced all of it! But every time I go I feel the peace and love of my Heavenly Father, and I know that's where I need to be, and that I always need to be worthy to go, no matter what other people say. It's like the vision Lehi had about the tree of life and the people in the great and spacious building making fun of those holding to the iron rod. That's exactly what happens today too. They poke fun at the most sacred parts of our church because they choose to not try and understand. I am willing to share with those that would like to know. But to those who don't, I keep my peace and continue to do what I know I am supposed to do, and that is attend the temple.
A lot of people outside of the church choose to critisize the temple and the acts of worship within it. I feel from personal experience these people choose to make fun of it because they simply do not understand it. It's a great "mystery" to them because we do not talk about what we do inside the temple. When we try and tell them we don't talk about it because it's sacred, they scoff and say we use that as an excuse.
But what does it matter what other people decide to make fun of? Making fun of something is a sign of insecurity in that thing, and within yourself. I know that I have a personal testimony of the temple and what a blessing it is in my life. I do not understand everything that goes on in the temple, and I've experienced all of it! But every time I go I feel the peace and love of my Heavenly Father, and I know that's where I need to be, and that I always need to be worthy to go, no matter what other people say. It's like the vision Lehi had about the tree of life and the people in the great and spacious building making fun of those holding to the iron rod. That's exactly what happens today too. They poke fun at the most sacred parts of our church because they choose to not try and understand. I am willing to share with those that would like to know. But to those who don't, I keep my peace and continue to do what I know I am supposed to do, and that is attend the temple.
Tuesday, April 26, 2011
Day 80
Today I read 2nd Nephi chapter 32. I was looking up chapters to read that had to do with teaching. This chapter has Nephi speaking to his fellow men who are not living righteous lives. His words really touched me because he was pleading throughout the whole chapter for them to open their hearts and take in the knowledge that Christ has to offer them.
He taught that the Holy Ghost is the ultimate teacher. If we open our hearts to the Holy Ghost, we can always learn from Him and his teachings. And we will only learn of good things. The Holy Ghost doesn't teach anything that is contrary to God. They are one in purpose.
He also taught the importance of prayer, how it is of the utmost importance that we pray always. Whenever we are in doubt or need help, always have a prayer in our hearts. It is our way to communicate with our Heavenly Father. Prayer helps him know that we are wanting his guidance and help. It opens up our hearts to fell his love and what he wants us to do.
He taught that the Holy Ghost is the ultimate teacher. If we open our hearts to the Holy Ghost, we can always learn from Him and his teachings. And we will only learn of good things. The Holy Ghost doesn't teach anything that is contrary to God. They are one in purpose.
He also taught the importance of prayer, how it is of the utmost importance that we pray always. Whenever we are in doubt or need help, always have a prayer in our hearts. It is our way to communicate with our Heavenly Father. Prayer helps him know that we are wanting his guidance and help. It opens up our hearts to fell his love and what he wants us to do.
Monday, April 25, 2011
Day 79
This week I'm focusing on Elder Bednar's talks. Todya I read one about being a good parent and teaching children about the Book of Mormon.
I'm grateful to say that I remember growing up being taught about the gospel in my home by my parents, and those teachings have helped me gain my own personal testimony. I know that the Family Home Evenings and daily scripture reading and family prayer are the roots of my testimony I have today. Thank you, Mom and Dad. You have taught me so much.
I feel inspired by this talk to continue to nurture my testimony, especially of the Book of Mormon. Though I don't have children to teach the gospel to at this time, I want to be prepared in my own testimony to be able to teach them when I do.
There is always something to learn about the Book of Mormon and the gospel. I have a lifetime to learn, and someday I will be responsible to help teach it to someone else. That's a big responsibility, if you ask me.
But I know if I continue to do daily scripture study and to pray, my testimony will be strengthened, and I will be able to teach it to others.
I'm grateful to say that I remember growing up being taught about the gospel in my home by my parents, and those teachings have helped me gain my own personal testimony. I know that the Family Home Evenings and daily scripture reading and family prayer are the roots of my testimony I have today. Thank you, Mom and Dad. You have taught me so much.
I feel inspired by this talk to continue to nurture my testimony, especially of the Book of Mormon. Though I don't have children to teach the gospel to at this time, I want to be prepared in my own testimony to be able to teach them when I do.
There is always something to learn about the Book of Mormon and the gospel. I have a lifetime to learn, and someday I will be responsible to help teach it to someone else. That's a big responsibility, if you ask me.
But I know if I continue to do daily scripture study and to pray, my testimony will be strengthened, and I will be able to teach it to others.
Sunday, April 24, 2011
Day 78
This video portrays all that I would want to say about this Easter Sunday. Please watch it.
http://lds.org/pages/his-sacred-name-an-easter-declaration?lang=eng
http://lds.org/pages/his-sacred-name-an-easter-declaration?lang=eng
Thursday, April 21, 2011
Day 77
Like I mentioned in the previous post, fear and faith are opposites. I was reading in Ether chapter 12 today and found a lot of really inspiring verses. I really liked the infamous verse talking about how Heavenly Father gives us weaknesses to make us stronger if we go to him to become better. I like to tie that into what I was thinking about yesterday. How, I know it is so easy to use a weakness I have to instill fear in me. And that fear keeps me from developing faith in those areas. And the weak areas are where I need to most help in anyways.
Tuesday, April 19, 2011
Day 78
Quentin L. Cook is the apostle I'm focusing on this week. I just read his talk he gave after being called to be an apostle. Once again, like the other apostles after receiving this call, he talked about how he felt truly humbled by being asked to take upon himself this calling.
He then went on to talk about faith and how faith is what we need to hold onto in our lives, not fear. I remember President Monson saying something similar in one of his talks, "Fear is the opposite of faith". How true! Whenever I let fear take over some part of my life, it's because I've given up the faith that something will work out and be ok. Fear and faith can't exist at the same time, I don't think.
It's with faith that I need to hold onto when I'm facing a big decision. Faith is what gets me moving forward. Fear is what keeps me holding back.
He then went on to talk about faith and how faith is what we need to hold onto in our lives, not fear. I remember President Monson saying something similar in one of his talks, "Fear is the opposite of faith". How true! Whenever I let fear take over some part of my life, it's because I've given up the faith that something will work out and be ok. Fear and faith can't exist at the same time, I don't think.
It's with faith that I need to hold onto when I'm facing a big decision. Faith is what gets me moving forward. Fear is what keeps me holding back.
Monday, April 18, 2011
Day 77
2nd Nephi chapter 26 had a couple verses that I want to blog about.
"23 For behold, my beloved brethren, I say unto you that the Lord God worketh not in adarkness.
24 He doeth not anything save it be for the benefit of the world; for he loveth the world, even that he layeth down his own life that he may draw all men unto him. Wherefore, he commandeth none that they shall not partake of his salvation.
25 Behold, doth he cry unto any, saying: Depart from me? Behold, I say unto you, Nay; but he saith: Come unto me all ye ends of the earth, buy milk and honey, without money and without price."
Jesus Christ never asks us to do anything that goes against what he has taught. And all he has taught is for us to follow the gospel so that we can have everlasting happiness.
He also will never turn away anyone. Anyone. I love that. He loves all of us, no matter what. And he sees great potential in all of us. He will take all of us if we would decide to follow him. He is no respector of persons. I can always rely on him.
"23 For behold, my beloved brethren, I say unto you that the Lord God worketh not in adarkness.
24 He doeth not anything save it be for the benefit of the world; for he loveth the world, even that he layeth down his own life that he may draw all men unto him. Wherefore, he commandeth none that they shall not partake of his salvation.
25 Behold, doth he cry unto any, saying: Depart from me? Behold, I say unto you, Nay; but he saith: Come unto me all ye ends of the earth, buy milk and honey, without money and without price."
Jesus Christ never asks us to do anything that goes against what he has taught. And all he has taught is for us to follow the gospel so that we can have everlasting happiness.
He also will never turn away anyone. Anyone. I love that. He loves all of us, no matter what. And he sees great potential in all of us. He will take all of us if we would decide to follow him. He is no respector of persons. I can always rely on him.
Sunday, April 17, 2011
Day 76
This morning I listened to the general relief society broadcast because I realized I never heard it last fall. The main message I got out of it was to do my visiting teaching. I think it hit home for me really hard because I've been terrible about doing my visiting teaching lately. Like, really bad. And there's no excuse for it. I haven't been too busy, I've just. .well, found plenty of other reason not to, and simply forgotten.
But after listening to all those talks about it, it got me to feeling guilty enough to change that. I only have to do it once a month. That's no time at all sacrificed, really. But blessings come from it. Why am I not doing better at this? I don't really have an answer. All I can say is that I'm committing myself to being better at it. How can I expect visiting teachers to come see me, but I won't return the favor to someone else? It makes me selfish and lazy, that's what.
So from now on, I'm going to honestly do my best do actually do my visiting teaching.
But after listening to all those talks about it, it got me to feeling guilty enough to change that. I only have to do it once a month. That's no time at all sacrificed, really. But blessings come from it. Why am I not doing better at this? I don't really have an answer. All I can say is that I'm committing myself to being better at it. How can I expect visiting teachers to come see me, but I won't return the favor to someone else? It makes me selfish and lazy, that's what.
So from now on, I'm going to honestly do my best do actually do my visiting teaching.
Saturday, April 16, 2011
Day 75
No wonder the prophet, the apostles, and all the way back to Jesus Christ are always telling us to study the scriptures. There's always something new to learn. The scriptures are so deep, with so many hidden messages, that it would take more than a lifetime for me to understand everything about them. For example, today I wanted to read some scriptures that had to do with the talk I read yesterday by Elder Christofferson. He talked about being of one heart and one mind, creating the Zion the Lord wants us to for the last days. I came across section 27 of the Doctrine and Covenants because in verse 13, the Lord talks about gathering his people as "one" in the last days. But this whole section taught me so much that I wasn't expecting!
First, the Lord talks about the sacrament, and how "it mattereth not what ye shall eat or what ye shall drink when ye partkae of the sacrament, if it so be that ye do it with an eye single to my glory". I never thought of that. It always comes down to the intentions of our heart, and that's what makes the sacrament work for us in our lives. The bread and water are just symbols. What really matters is what changes in our hearts we are committing to make.
Then, through the rest of the section, the Lord gives a chronological history of how the church was restored in order for him to come. He mentions everyone he had come down to give the keys to Joseph Smith to help restore everything for the gospel.
And lastly, he asks us today to take advantage of this gospel and use it as our armor for the days until he comes again, because it's going to be a hard battle. It is a hard battle already. Every day I have to "put on my armor" in order to stay true to the gospel.
All of that I got out of 18 verses. It astounded me. And helped me see how important these scriptures really are. There's something in there for me to learn every day for the rest of my life, and I'm sure into the eternities.
First, the Lord talks about the sacrament, and how "it mattereth not what ye shall eat or what ye shall drink when ye partkae of the sacrament, if it so be that ye do it with an eye single to my glory". I never thought of that. It always comes down to the intentions of our heart, and that's what makes the sacrament work for us in our lives. The bread and water are just symbols. What really matters is what changes in our hearts we are committing to make.
Then, through the rest of the section, the Lord gives a chronological history of how the church was restored in order for him to come. He mentions everyone he had come down to give the keys to Joseph Smith to help restore everything for the gospel.
And lastly, he asks us today to take advantage of this gospel and use it as our armor for the days until he comes again, because it's going to be a hard battle. It is a hard battle already. Every day I have to "put on my armor" in order to stay true to the gospel.
All of that I got out of 18 verses. It astounded me. And helped me see how important these scriptures really are. There's something in there for me to learn every day for the rest of my life, and I'm sure into the eternities.
Friday, April 15, 2011
Day 74
Zion is known as "the pure in heart", meaning, one mind, one heart. That is the goal Heavenly Father has for all of us, to be of one mind and one heart. I think it's always going to be a continuous process. I think in order for it to truly work, I, along with everyone else, need to make sure that I am always trying to be of one heart and one mind with Heavenly Father. Because really, I only have control over myself. I'm not able to make someone else follow the teachings. I can try to influence them and be an example, but I really can't make them choose to follow Christ.
Heavenly Father wants us to reach out to others who don't understand all that we have learned being members of the church. Teaching the gospel to others is the only way we can really help in getting people to want to be of one heart and one mind. We all need to have the common knowledge of Christ, and want to follow him. That's why missionary work is so important. Reading a talk about the importance of Zion by Elder Christofferson made me want to reach out to those around me more. To be a better missionary, and to help build up Zion.
Heavenly Father wants us to reach out to others who don't understand all that we have learned being members of the church. Teaching the gospel to others is the only way we can really help in getting people to want to be of one heart and one mind. We all need to have the common knowledge of Christ, and want to follow him. That's why missionary work is so important. Reading a talk about the importance of Zion by Elder Christofferson made me want to reach out to those around me more. To be a better missionary, and to help build up Zion.
Thursday, April 14, 2011
Day 73
I just read King Benjamin's address to his people in chapter 2 of Mosiah. He talks about so many things. The reason why I chose to read that chapter in the first place was because he mentions how we have to choose to remember Heavenly Father's hand in all things. We have to choose to serve our fellow men. We have to choose to be disciples of Christ. And that even after we have done all of that, we are still eternally indebted to him.
We start out being indebted to him because he created this world for us to live on. And he created our bodies to keep us alive, allowing us to learn the lessons we need to learn while on this earth. How can you ever repay someone who gave you your body? It's amazing.
Then, he asks us to keep his commandments. That's a way to repay him, right? But when we keep his commandments, he blesses us because of it. So we are always, always in debt to him. Not to mention he had Christ suffer the sins of all mankind, giving us the keys to be able to completely repent and become more like him. That's a whole other story.
Heavenly Father will continue to bless us. He loves us, he wants us to be happy and to find joy. That's the whole point of the plan of salvation. Men are, that they might have joy. We just have to remember to acknowledge him in all things. Good times and bad. He wants a close relationship with us. That's up to us how close we want to get to him. And hopefully we realize that the closer we get to him, the happier we are.
We start out being indebted to him because he created this world for us to live on. And he created our bodies to keep us alive, allowing us to learn the lessons we need to learn while on this earth. How can you ever repay someone who gave you your body? It's amazing.
Then, he asks us to keep his commandments. That's a way to repay him, right? But when we keep his commandments, he blesses us because of it. So we are always, always in debt to him. Not to mention he had Christ suffer the sins of all mankind, giving us the keys to be able to completely repent and become more like him. That's a whole other story.
Heavenly Father will continue to bless us. He loves us, he wants us to be happy and to find joy. That's the whole point of the plan of salvation. Men are, that they might have joy. We just have to remember to acknowledge him in all things. Good times and bad. He wants a close relationship with us. That's up to us how close we want to get to him. And hopefully we realize that the closer we get to him, the happier we are.
Wednesday, April 13, 2011
Day 72
Moral discipline is an ongoing process. I read a talk by Elder Christofferson about it. He mentioned how if we become neutral in the gospel, we are rejecting the teachings of Christ.
That got my attention. I need to stand firm in what I believe. This world doesn't leave room for people on the fence.
That got my attention. I need to stand firm in what I believe. This world doesn't leave room for people on the fence.
Tuesday, April 12, 2011
Day 71
Section 78 of the Doctrine and Covenants is a great section all about the law of consecration, and how we as saints, should have an eternal perspective. What I got out of reading that section is that we all have been given so much by our Heavenly Father, and one of the many blessings he has given us is the people that love and support us. We can't make it through this life on our own. We first of all need the Lord, but we also need love and support here on earth. I've been blessed with a wonderful loving family, and a wonderful loving spouse who help me every day. I felt like Heavenly Father was trying to get the point across in this section that since he has given us these people in our lives, we can show our love and gratitude for him by serving these people and sharing our love, and whatever else we need to, with them.
These verses were my favorite in this section:
"17 Verily, verily, I say unto you, ye are little children, and ye have not as yet understood how great blessings the Father hath in his own hands and prepared for you;
18 And ye cannot abear all things now; nevertheless, be of good cheer, for I will lead you along. The kingdom is yours and the blessings thereof are yours, and the riches of eternity are yours.
19 And he who receiveth all things with thankfulness shall be made glorious; and the things of this earth shall be added unto him, even an hundred fold, yea, more."
We are as little children in his sight, we have so much to learn and to understand. His perspective is an eternal perspective, while our is still a mortal one. But he gives us comfort in the rest of those verses, telling me that he knows how everything is going to turn out, and that he will guide me to help me through everything, as long as I am living the best I can.
These verses were my favorite in this section:
"17 Verily, verily, I say unto you, ye are little children, and ye have not as yet understood how great blessings the Father hath in his own hands and prepared for you;
18 And ye cannot abear all things now; nevertheless, be of good cheer, for I will lead you along. The kingdom is yours and the blessings thereof are yours, and the riches of eternity are yours.
19 And he who receiveth all things with thankfulness shall be made glorious; and the things of this earth shall be added unto him, even an hundred fold, yea, more."
We are as little children in his sight, we have so much to learn and to understand. His perspective is an eternal perspective, while our is still a mortal one. But he gives us comfort in the rest of those verses, telling me that he knows how everything is going to turn out, and that he will guide me to help me through everything, as long as I am living the best I can.
Monday, April 11, 2011
Day 70
This week I'm focusing on the teachings of Elder Christofferson. I just read a talk by him titled "Reflections on a Consecrated Life". He talks about how living a consecrated life brings us the inner peace and joy we all strive for.
Sometimes my natural man gets the best of me, and I don't put Christ first. I'm ashamed to admit it, but I'm being honest. Living a consecrated life is easier said than done. Satan is the master at convincing me that there are more important things to do than to give my time to the Lord. How can I not have time for the Lord, when he always has time for me? He suffered to give me the chance to really live a happy life here. The least I can do is give him my time and love and servitude.
Sometimes my natural man gets the best of me, and I don't put Christ first. I'm ashamed to admit it, but I'm being honest. Living a consecrated life is easier said than done. Satan is the master at convincing me that there are more important things to do than to give my time to the Lord. How can I not have time for the Lord, when he always has time for me? He suffered to give me the chance to really live a happy life here. The least I can do is give him my time and love and servitude.
Sunday, April 10, 2011
Day 69
James chapter 4 is a great chapter to read to remind myself how little I am in the grand scheme of things. Reading about and studying about staying humble is interesting. We're taught that we are worth something "every soul is great in the sight of God", and I believe that. I know that Heavenly Father knows me personally and continues to want to help me, but at the same time, I am "less that the dust of the earth". Without Heavely Father, I am nothing. Pride is such an easy sin to give into, because there are so many forms of it.
I really liked the verse in James chapter 4:14- "For what is your life? It is even a a vapour, that appeareth for a little time, and then vanisheth away." That verse reminds me of the object lesson I've had in sunday school while learning about eternity. The teacher takes a long string, then ties a know in it, and the knot it very small. The knot symbolizes my mortal life, and the rest of the string symbolizes eternity. My life is nothing but a "vapor" that vanisheth quickly.
That makes me want to make good use of the time I have here, since in the grand scheme of things, it's not very much time. This is the time I have to become like Christ, and by humbling myself, I am more open to how Heavenly Father can help me.
I really liked the verse in James chapter 4:14- "For what is your life? It is even a a vapour, that appeareth for a little time, and then vanisheth away." That verse reminds me of the object lesson I've had in sunday school while learning about eternity. The teacher takes a long string, then ties a know in it, and the knot it very small. The knot symbolizes my mortal life, and the rest of the string symbolizes eternity. My life is nothing but a "vapor" that vanisheth quickly.
That makes me want to make good use of the time I have here, since in the grand scheme of things, it's not very much time. This is the time I have to become like Christ, and by humbling myself, I am more open to how Heavenly Father can help me.
Friday, April 8, 2011
Day 68
I just read the talk by Elder Anderson that he gave right after he was called to be an apostle. What a truly inspiring, humbling talk that was. Here is a man who is I feel, miles ahead of me spiritually, and he was speaking on how he is overwhelmed with his new calling, and how far from perfect he feels. If he's far from perfect, what am I? Listening to these brethren bear their testimonies and hear how humbled they feel before God is a good wake up call for me. Elder Anderson mentions at the beginning of this talk how he remembers speaking in a priesthood session with Elder Packer, and how Elder Packer got up and said "I know who I am. I am nobody." He then turned to Elder Anderson and said "Elder Anderson, so are you. If any of you need reminding of that, God will surely do it." I thought that was funny and humbling at the same time. We are "nobody" but yet, "somebody" at the same time. Heavenly Father wants us to know that we are working on becoming someone like him, but that right now, we really are nobody, especially without him. We need him for everything in our lives right now. Because of his blessings of mercy and strength within us, we are able to continue on with our lives.
Thursday, April 7, 2011
Day 67
1st Corinthians chapter 3 is quite good. It talks about how we cannot deceive ourselves in this life, thinking that men know better than God. Who are we to think man's ways are better than God's ways? Specifically, our own ways better than his ways? We have to be wary of those who puff themselves up, and take all the credit for themselves, and not God. Heavenly Father blesses us abundantely in this life and only asks that we acknowledge him in all things. Because really, we are here because of him. We have bodies because of him. We have this earth to live on because of him. How can we turn our backs on the God who gave us everything? And who could easily take everything away?
We need to always remember to glory in God, not men. "Even the elect will be deceived", by other men. When we start to focus on other men in this life as being greater than God, we lose the eternal perspective. Heavenly Father is the one we give praise and glory to, no one else. "False Christs" are everywhere around us, and the aren't even necessarily people. It could be anything we devote more of our time and energy to instead of Heavenly Father.
We need to always remember to glory in God, not men. "Even the elect will be deceived", by other men. When we start to focus on other men in this life as being greater than God, we lose the eternal perspective. Heavenly Father is the one we give praise and glory to, no one else. "False Christs" are everywhere around us, and the aren't even necessarily people. It could be anything we devote more of our time and energy to instead of Heavenly Father.
Wednesday, April 6, 2011
Day 66
"Beware the Evil Behind Smiling Eyes"-that's the title of the talk I just read by Elder Anderson. He was speaking to the men in a priesthood sessions years ago, but I found many words of wisdom from that talk. Mainly, he spoke about how Satan is the master deceiver, and can make evil things seem appealing. Think about it-Satan doesn't have anything else to do in his life except watch and study people, and tempt them. He tries to figure each of us out, and figure out our weakest points and do everything he can to make them weaker.
Unlike Heavenly Father, who has always known our spirits and everything about us, weak and strong. He tries to help us become stronger. It's our choice whether we become stronger or weaker. But Satan can make things that will only harm us in the end seem like the easier thing to do. He can brush over, make up, blow up, or whatever he wants to do to something, to catch our attention.
It's been said in the scriptures many times- even the elect will be deceived. Evil is disguised so easily. There are so many forms of it. Evil is whatever takes us away from our Heavenly Father.
Elder Anderson touched on the point that the closer we draw to Christ, the greater his light is within us, and that light helps us see more clearly what is good and what is not. I think that's a perfect analogy, because Christ is often described as "the light of the world". He is the one who helps us become stronger, and better able to discern what is good and what is bad. Satan just makes everything fuzzier and more confusing. With Christ we have clarity. With Satan, we have nothing.
Unlike Heavenly Father, who has always known our spirits and everything about us, weak and strong. He tries to help us become stronger. It's our choice whether we become stronger or weaker. But Satan can make things that will only harm us in the end seem like the easier thing to do. He can brush over, make up, blow up, or whatever he wants to do to something, to catch our attention.
It's been said in the scriptures many times- even the elect will be deceived. Evil is disguised so easily. There are so many forms of it. Evil is whatever takes us away from our Heavenly Father.
Elder Anderson touched on the point that the closer we draw to Christ, the greater his light is within us, and that light helps us see more clearly what is good and what is not. I think that's a perfect analogy, because Christ is often described as "the light of the world". He is the one who helps us become stronger, and better able to discern what is good and what is bad. Satan just makes everything fuzzier and more confusing. With Christ we have clarity. With Satan, we have nothing.
Tuesday, April 5, 2011
Day 65
Doctrine and Covenants section 56 is pretty reprimanding. I'm reading through the scriptures today on "taking offense" and the consequences for it. As mentioned in my previous post, that's what I got out of Elder Anderson's talk-taking offense too easily can lead to no good.
So Doctrine and Covenants section 56 was a great section for me to read. The Lord is reprimanding some early members of the church over not following the law of consecration, and being selfish and prideful. He sure knows how to get his point across. One scripture he mentioned was verses 14-15- ". . .for behold, your sins are not pardoned, because you seek to counsel in your own ways. . .And your hearts are not satisfied. And ye obey not the truth, but have pleasure in unrighteousness." Yikes. How many times have I "counseled" in my own ways, thinking I know better than anyone else? Sometimes it's so subtle I don't realize I'm doing it, but I have. And like the Lord said, my heart is never satisified.
Pride is such an easy trap to fall into. There are so many forms of it, it's almost disturbing. But any time I'm making an unfair call on someone else, is a form of pride. What makes me think that I know better than the Lord when it comes to judging them? I don't. I'm not even close. He is the only one who knows the true thoughts and intentions of their hearts. I have enough to work on on my own.
So Doctrine and Covenants section 56 was a great section for me to read. The Lord is reprimanding some early members of the church over not following the law of consecration, and being selfish and prideful. He sure knows how to get his point across. One scripture he mentioned was verses 14-15- ". . .for behold, your sins are not pardoned, because you seek to counsel in your own ways. . .And your hearts are not satisfied. And ye obey not the truth, but have pleasure in unrighteousness." Yikes. How many times have I "counseled" in my own ways, thinking I know better than anyone else? Sometimes it's so subtle I don't realize I'm doing it, but I have. And like the Lord said, my heart is never satisified.
Pride is such an easy trap to fall into. There are so many forms of it, it's almost disturbing. But any time I'm making an unfair call on someone else, is a form of pride. What makes me think that I know better than the Lord when it comes to judging them? I don't. I'm not even close. He is the only one who knows the true thoughts and intentions of their hearts. I have enough to work on on my own.
Monday, April 4, 2011
Day 64
This week I'm focusing on talks by Elder Neil L. Anderson. I think for the next 15 weeks, I'm going to focus on each apostle's teachings one week at a time. It gives me something to really focus on and study.
Like I mentioned before, what I got out of conference was I need to make better use of my time, and to really study the scriptures and teachings of the church more. I just read Elder Anderson's talk called "Never Leave Him". He gave it last October.
He speaks about how in order to never stray from Jesus Christ, we need to choose 2 things: to not be offended and to not be ashamed. I'll admit, the not be offended part was something I needed to read. I love this doctrine and believe it with all my heart, but I do sometimes have a hard time not being slightly offended at the people in the church. More like, the "church culture". Reading this is helping me remember that the doctrine is perfect, but the people are not. At least, not yet. I have no room to judge others when I have my own weaknesses and faults. Who knows how many people sometimes have a hard time with me? Elder Anderson states in the talk that there will be times that we are offended, or hurt by others in the church, but we need to learn to put those things up on a shelf and carry on.
Forgiveness is taught frequently in our church. I need to be quicker to forgive, or else how can I expect the Lord to forgive me? I need to put aside the irritations I sometimes feel in my ward from others. I can't judge their lives. I don't know what's going on behind closed doors, and they don't know the same about me. I want to focus on seeing people the way Christ sees them. Seeing their potential instead of their flaws. How awful and hopeless would it be if Jesus Christ and Heavenly Father only focused on my flaws? Both wouldn't seem very approachable to me, and my relationship with them would struggle. I'm here on earth to learn how to be like them, and that includes interacting with people the same way they would.
Like I mentioned before, what I got out of conference was I need to make better use of my time, and to really study the scriptures and teachings of the church more. I just read Elder Anderson's talk called "Never Leave Him". He gave it last October.
He speaks about how in order to never stray from Jesus Christ, we need to choose 2 things: to not be offended and to not be ashamed. I'll admit, the not be offended part was something I needed to read. I love this doctrine and believe it with all my heart, but I do sometimes have a hard time not being slightly offended at the people in the church. More like, the "church culture". Reading this is helping me remember that the doctrine is perfect, but the people are not. At least, not yet. I have no room to judge others when I have my own weaknesses and faults. Who knows how many people sometimes have a hard time with me? Elder Anderson states in the talk that there will be times that we are offended, or hurt by others in the church, but we need to learn to put those things up on a shelf and carry on.
Forgiveness is taught frequently in our church. I need to be quicker to forgive, or else how can I expect the Lord to forgive me? I need to put aside the irritations I sometimes feel in my ward from others. I can't judge their lives. I don't know what's going on behind closed doors, and they don't know the same about me. I want to focus on seeing people the way Christ sees them. Seeing their potential instead of their flaws. How awful and hopeless would it be if Jesus Christ and Heavenly Father only focused on my flaws? Both wouldn't seem very approachable to me, and my relationship with them would struggle. I'm here on earth to learn how to be like them, and that includes interacting with people the same way they would.
Sunday, April 3, 2011
Day 63
I loved Elder Holland's talk in conference today about how everyone gets something different out of conference. That's the point. Every single speaker isn't assigned a topic, but goes purely by inspiration. That's how our church works, we receive personal revelation and learn how to use it in our lives.
What I got out of conference in general is that I need to live within my means, and to do what I can to make good use of my time. I'm going to try and get even better at personal scripture study. This blog helps me, but I still could do a lot better. And I want to work on being better at being in-tune with the Spirit in finding ways to serve others.
What I got out of conference in general is that I need to live within my means, and to do what I can to make good use of my time. I'm going to try and get even better at personal scripture study. This blog helps me, but I still could do a lot better. And I want to work on being better at being in-tune with the Spirit in finding ways to serve others.
Saturday, April 2, 2011
Day 62
In honor of conference going on this weekend, I am going to blog about it. I mostly just want to express my love and appreciation for the church and all the leaders who continue to give me guidance and direction in my life. I always look forward to conference. I think especially since I've been on my own. I always knew it would give me the inspiration I was seeking at that time in my life. I don't know how to explain it, but I grow to love our leaders of the church more and more every time I listen to them speak. I really do have a testimony of President Thomas S. Monson as our prophet. He really does listen to the spirit and teach us what we as a church need to know and need to work on. I never feel like they are condemning me, but uplifting me instead. They have humor and I believe are very current with everything that is going on in the world.
I am also so grateful for modern technology to be able to listen and watch conference through many different medias. Paul and I don't have even your basic cable, but we were able to watch it live on his computer. I'm so grateful for the ability to be connected to something this incredible just by the click of a computer mouse. I truly am blessed to live in this dispensation. To have the gospel on the earth, to be a part of it, and to continue to learn more and more in order to help me become a better person.
I am also so grateful for modern technology to be able to listen and watch conference through many different medias. Paul and I don't have even your basic cable, but we were able to watch it live on his computer. I'm so grateful for the ability to be connected to something this incredible just by the click of a computer mouse. I truly am blessed to live in this dispensation. To have the gospel on the earth, to be a part of it, and to continue to learn more and more in order to help me become a better person.
Friday, April 1, 2011
Day 61
I'm trying to work on seeing myself more as how Heavenly Father sees me. I guess what I'm really trying to say is that he sees my potential. My potential to become better. Some days I don't see that. I let the world get to me and focus on all my faults, instead of focusing on how I can change for the better. Heavenly Father knows I have faults, but he also knows I can fix them, and work on them, and become better. He sees what I fail to see. But he gives me reminders a lot, and I really appreciate that. It helps me put things back into perspective, and helps me continue to move on. I have a lot to offer, and I plan on doing my best.
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