Today, while I was washing my hands in the bathroom, I noticed that my reflection was everywhere, the silver handels of the tap, the handle of the door, and even the dull places showed a litte bit of my colored shirt. I then looked in the mirror and saw my reflection. The mirror showed my reflection better than any other thing in the room.
I thought about this for a minute, God created the whole earth, and everything in it. So everything in the world points back to Christ. But his best reflections are His servants who are trying to do His will. Do we have His image engraven upon our countenences? Are we showing to the world what happiness really is? When we are doing our best to Do His will, then His image will be seen by everyone that we come in contact with.
The point of this post is to awaken the light of Christ within you. Matthew Chapter 5:16 reads:
Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.
Make sure that the light that you are shining is a reflection of the one who gave us life. He knows how to help all of us, He knows how to change us so we can share his wonderful light.
I leave this with you in the name of Jesus Christ, Amen.
Friday, November 19, 2010
Sunday, October 24, 2010
Touched by an Angel
The following experience happened to me on Friday October 22, 2010. I was visiting my friends in Provo, and we were having a great time enjoying one anothers company. Pretty late in the evening I received a phone call from one of my friends I was going to see the next day. I walked outside, and we talked for about half an hour. The conversation we were having brought me down. And I wasn't feeling good about myself. I could almost feel the happiness leaving me as we were talking.
I realized how my mood was changing and I told my friend that I needed to pray. She didn't really want to get off the phone with me sounding the way that I did. But after a few minutes she let go, and we hung up the phone. I sat on the bench thinking about what we had talked about. I didn't really want to go back in to enjoy the rest of the evening with my friends. I wanted to leave and go back home.
I stood up and walked about a hundred yards away, and I found a spot for me to pray. I kneeled down and I poured my heart out to my Heavenly Father. I told Him that I wasn't happy, and that my heart was hurting. I felt lost and afraid, and I was on the verge of tears. The next thing that happened, well, a single, little, leaf fell onto the very top of my head. I pulled the leaf off my head and held it in my hands. I looked at the leaf, and I realized that God cared for me enough to remind me that He knows what I am going through. God made that little leaf fall on my head right when I needed that reminder.
After I came to this realization, I cried. I cried as if He was holding me close to Him. I felt His love so strong for me at this moment. It took me a few minutes to come back to myself. I looked around, and this wonderful peace enfolded me, and a thought came to my mind. 'Everything is going to be ok.' And in my heart I knew that I could not doubt it. Everything is going to be ok. The simple assurance that the Lord is in charge, gave me the strength to go back in to visit with my friends.
I went back in, still with fears in my heart, and with some of the pain that I had received while I was on the phone. But the knowledge that God is in charge, and that He knows how to do His work, gave me courage to go back. I didn't want to talk about what had just happened to my friends. But they could tell that I was struggling with something. I am sure that they care for me a lot. I can't express enough how much they mean to me.
I look back on what happened while I was praying, and there is no doubt that God had that leaf fall on my head. He knew what I was going through, and He comforted me while I was praying. As I was telling this experience to one of my friends later that night, I remember using the phrase, 'I feel like I was touched by an angel.' I still feel like it is a good way to explain it.
I love how the Lord has so many ways to remind me that He really does care for me, that He really does love me. I know His love is infinite, more than I can ever express through words. God is willing to give us wonderful reminders if we are ready to receive them. I know that I needed that reminder, right when it happened. I am so grateful for the strength and knowledge I have gained and learned from this. I know that God wants to be a part of our lives, but we have to let Him in. If we let Him in, 'Everything will be ok.'
I leave these words with you in the name of Jesus Christ, Amen.
I realized how my mood was changing and I told my friend that I needed to pray. She didn't really want to get off the phone with me sounding the way that I did. But after a few minutes she let go, and we hung up the phone. I sat on the bench thinking about what we had talked about. I didn't really want to go back in to enjoy the rest of the evening with my friends. I wanted to leave and go back home.
I stood up and walked about a hundred yards away, and I found a spot for me to pray. I kneeled down and I poured my heart out to my Heavenly Father. I told Him that I wasn't happy, and that my heart was hurting. I felt lost and afraid, and I was on the verge of tears. The next thing that happened, well, a single, little, leaf fell onto the very top of my head. I pulled the leaf off my head and held it in my hands. I looked at the leaf, and I realized that God cared for me enough to remind me that He knows what I am going through. God made that little leaf fall on my head right when I needed that reminder.
After I came to this realization, I cried. I cried as if He was holding me close to Him. I felt His love so strong for me at this moment. It took me a few minutes to come back to myself. I looked around, and this wonderful peace enfolded me, and a thought came to my mind. 'Everything is going to be ok.' And in my heart I knew that I could not doubt it. Everything is going to be ok. The simple assurance that the Lord is in charge, gave me the strength to go back in to visit with my friends.
I went back in, still with fears in my heart, and with some of the pain that I had received while I was on the phone. But the knowledge that God is in charge, and that He knows how to do His work, gave me courage to go back. I didn't want to talk about what had just happened to my friends. But they could tell that I was struggling with something. I am sure that they care for me a lot. I can't express enough how much they mean to me.
I look back on what happened while I was praying, and there is no doubt that God had that leaf fall on my head. He knew what I was going through, and He comforted me while I was praying. As I was telling this experience to one of my friends later that night, I remember using the phrase, 'I feel like I was touched by an angel.' I still feel like it is a good way to explain it.
I love how the Lord has so many ways to remind me that He really does care for me, that He really does love me. I know His love is infinite, more than I can ever express through words. God is willing to give us wonderful reminders if we are ready to receive them. I know that I needed that reminder, right when it happened. I am so grateful for the strength and knowledge I have gained and learned from this. I know that God wants to be a part of our lives, but we have to let Him in. If we let Him in, 'Everything will be ok.'
I leave these words with you in the name of Jesus Christ, Amen.
Sunday, October 17, 2010
Plan for the Future
Today I was reading one of my friends most recent blogs. He had put up a post today, it included a picture slideshow of his mission. It wasn't a very long slideshow, but in the middle of it I thought about Gods plan for each and every one of us.
The way that I thought about it in my mind, is that God knows everything. From the beginnning to the end. So if we think in these terms, The slideshow of life is continually being created through the choices we make. The only difference for God is that he already knows how the slideshow ends.
Most of the pictures that I saw were portraying happiness. And with how many smiles that were shown just proves that the scripture 2 Nephi 2: 25 is true. Adam fell that men might be; and men are, that they might have joy. It is so amazing that we are here on the earth to experience joy. I am so happy that I can feel the peace that comes when I feel the spirit of the Lord.
So the purpose of this post today is that we must challenge ourselves to create the best slideshow of our life that we can possibly make. I know that sometimes we fall and that we need to repent of our sins. But if we repent then those parts on our slideshows will be 'edited', so to speak.
I know that God has a plan for each and every one of us. He knows the beginning from the end. With that said, He knows how to help you get to that end, but we must choose his path to get there. I know that this gospel is true. I know that as we live righteously, we will prosper and we will be blessed.
In the name of Jesus Christ, Amen.
The way that I thought about it in my mind, is that God knows everything. From the beginnning to the end. So if we think in these terms, The slideshow of life is continually being created through the choices we make. The only difference for God is that he already knows how the slideshow ends.
Most of the pictures that I saw were portraying happiness. And with how many smiles that were shown just proves that the scripture 2 Nephi 2: 25 is true. Adam fell that men might be; and men are, that they might have joy. It is so amazing that we are here on the earth to experience joy. I am so happy that I can feel the peace that comes when I feel the spirit of the Lord.
So the purpose of this post today is that we must challenge ourselves to create the best slideshow of our life that we can possibly make. I know that sometimes we fall and that we need to repent of our sins. But if we repent then those parts on our slideshows will be 'edited', so to speak.
I know that God has a plan for each and every one of us. He knows the beginning from the end. With that said, He knows how to help you get to that end, but we must choose his path to get there. I know that this gospel is true. I know that as we live righteously, we will prosper and we will be blessed.
In the name of Jesus Christ, Amen.
Tuesday, October 12, 2010
Slowing Down
Today I went to my institute book of mormon class. I had just come from my calculus class and I wasn't feeling too good (like I might throw up). But when the devotional was being put together. I found myself volunteering to say the opening prayer. During the opening song I really felt like needed to lie down. Once the song was over I stood up and prayed.
I remember praying for the ability to slow down and to feel the spirit, and have the spirit whisper to us what we needed to know from the lesson. I asked for the spirit to continue to be with us for the rest of the day. After I had finished praying I noticed that I didn't feel so sick any more.
I really loved the lesson that my teacher gave us today. He taught us about some of the promises made to the prophets of old. We talked about Enos, Ether, Joseph of Egypt, Nephi (Alma's grandson), Mormon, Moroni, and many others.
We discussed how hard they must have prayed to recieve promises from the Lord. In these promises, the prophets really wanted to have as many people as possible learn about the gospel and live by its teachings. Most of these promises are about one thing. The Book of Mormon.
The Book of Mormon is truely the word of God. There was no other way we would have had this book except by the Power and Authority from God. Just before Moroni hid the plates in the hill Cumora, he prayed earnestly that the records would be found and be used to teach his brethren the lamanites about the mercy and lovingkindness of the Lord.
Moroni then recieved the promise that the Lamanites would recieve the record in the Lords own due time. I believe that prophecy and promise has come true and is still coming true. There are so many more that need to know about the peace of the Gospel.
When my teacher said that class was over I looked at the clock and couldn't believe that an hour had past. I didn't want it to be over. I loved the feeling of the spirit so strong in my heart. I realized that because I asked for help to slow down, I was able to take so much more in than I usually do.
I know that if we ask for things that will help us feel and understand the spirit of the Lord, He will answer in ways that are new to us. The Lord is wonderful, and He knows each and every one of us, and will answer each of our questions in His own due time.
In short, I love the Lord. I love His spirit. I am so thankful for the ability to pray and to have questions and problems answered in such amazing ways. I know that the Book of Mormon is true. I have taken Moroni's challenge several times and each time I take it I recieve a renewed witness that it is true.
In the sacred name of Jesus Christ, Amen.
I remember praying for the ability to slow down and to feel the spirit, and have the spirit whisper to us what we needed to know from the lesson. I asked for the spirit to continue to be with us for the rest of the day. After I had finished praying I noticed that I didn't feel so sick any more.
I really loved the lesson that my teacher gave us today. He taught us about some of the promises made to the prophets of old. We talked about Enos, Ether, Joseph of Egypt, Nephi (Alma's grandson), Mormon, Moroni, and many others.
We discussed how hard they must have prayed to recieve promises from the Lord. In these promises, the prophets really wanted to have as many people as possible learn about the gospel and live by its teachings. Most of these promises are about one thing. The Book of Mormon.
The Book of Mormon is truely the word of God. There was no other way we would have had this book except by the Power and Authority from God. Just before Moroni hid the plates in the hill Cumora, he prayed earnestly that the records would be found and be used to teach his brethren the lamanites about the mercy and lovingkindness of the Lord.
Moroni then recieved the promise that the Lamanites would recieve the record in the Lords own due time. I believe that prophecy and promise has come true and is still coming true. There are so many more that need to know about the peace of the Gospel.
When my teacher said that class was over I looked at the clock and couldn't believe that an hour had past. I didn't want it to be over. I loved the feeling of the spirit so strong in my heart. I realized that because I asked for help to slow down, I was able to take so much more in than I usually do.
I know that if we ask for things that will help us feel and understand the spirit of the Lord, He will answer in ways that are new to us. The Lord is wonderful, and He knows each and every one of us, and will answer each of our questions in His own due time.
In short, I love the Lord. I love His spirit. I am so thankful for the ability to pray and to have questions and problems answered in such amazing ways. I know that the Book of Mormon is true. I have taken Moroni's challenge several times and each time I take it I recieve a renewed witness that it is true.
In the sacred name of Jesus Christ, Amen.
Sunday, October 3, 2010
Journal
Today I finished my first journal from cover to cover. I have had this journal since my senior year in high school. The ability to keep a record in these times is a wonderful thing. I have looked back to the past two years and I do realize how far I have come. I have graduated from high school, been in the Hill Cumora Pageant :D, worked full-time for a construction company, and finally come down to Snow college to continue my education.
There are so many things that I have learned about myself and others who I have come in contact with. When I was in high school, I learned a lot about how to treat others and those whom I care about. When I went to the Hill Cumora Pageant I learned how wonderful missionary work is, and how true the restoration on the gospel is. While working construction, I learned that even though several people may not have the same standards that I have, they still care about me and want me to learn and become better. Down here at Snow College, I have learned how to manage time, and be a more reliable person.
So today while I was writing my final entry, I discovered why keeping a journal is so important. My journal is my legacy. Today I listened to a talk in General Conference about names. What kind of name have I made for myself? Well, I must say that I have come farther that I originaly thought possible.
I remember a while back my mother was telling me about her journal and how she was having a difficult time finding time to write in it. She discussed with me what my legacy is. My Legacy is all of the spiritual experiences that have changed who I am and who I am trying to become. I want my legacy to be one of inspiration who all those who will read it. I recognize that I have not been the best example of a disciple, but that is why I am becoming a disciple of Christ.
I pray that all of you who read this will take some time right after you read this to take a step back and look at your life. What have you learned spiritually? How have you changed your life? The answers to these questions are your legacy and you need to write them down. Please write them down before you forget.
I know that the scriptures are a form of journalism. The book of Mormon is a witness to all those who read it that we must change. It gives very good examples of how to change and become better disciples of Christ.
In the sacred name of Jesus Christ, Amen.
There are so many things that I have learned about myself and others who I have come in contact with. When I was in high school, I learned a lot about how to treat others and those whom I care about. When I went to the Hill Cumora Pageant I learned how wonderful missionary work is, and how true the restoration on the gospel is. While working construction, I learned that even though several people may not have the same standards that I have, they still care about me and want me to learn and become better. Down here at Snow College, I have learned how to manage time, and be a more reliable person.
So today while I was writing my final entry, I discovered why keeping a journal is so important. My journal is my legacy. Today I listened to a talk in General Conference about names. What kind of name have I made for myself? Well, I must say that I have come farther that I originaly thought possible.
I remember a while back my mother was telling me about her journal and how she was having a difficult time finding time to write in it. She discussed with me what my legacy is. My Legacy is all of the spiritual experiences that have changed who I am and who I am trying to become. I want my legacy to be one of inspiration who all those who will read it. I recognize that I have not been the best example of a disciple, but that is why I am becoming a disciple of Christ.
I pray that all of you who read this will take some time right after you read this to take a step back and look at your life. What have you learned spiritually? How have you changed your life? The answers to these questions are your legacy and you need to write them down. Please write them down before you forget.
I know that the scriptures are a form of journalism. The book of Mormon is a witness to all those who read it that we must change. It gives very good examples of how to change and become better disciples of Christ.
In the sacred name of Jesus Christ, Amen.
Friday, October 1, 2010
The Goodness Test
When I was back in high school, I remember what my mother had told me about dating and relationships. At that time I was in a relationship with someone whom I really cared about. My mother had said, 'right now you are passing the goodness test.' I didn't know what she was talking about and she proceeded to tell a story about her brother.
Back when my mother was in her mid twenties, her brother had met someone whom he really cared about. And whenever he wasn't with her, he would tell his family and friends about her and all that they did together. My mother wasn't used to her brother acting this way, it seemed unusual, but my mom also noticed that he was very happy.
In short, the goodness test is a third person test. For example, when two people are in a relationship, it is noticed by their friends and family that they are happy one with another, and they are willing to share their happiness with others.
After my mother had told me the story, I stood back from my life and realized that she was right. I loved to tell stories about my friend and what we did together. I was happy and I really enjoyed all that I learned.
Today I was thinking about this same story (while in prep for homecoming next weekend), and I discovered much the same with those of us who are in a great relationship with Jesus Christ. When we have a testimony of the Gospel, we love to talk about it and we want to share our happiness with others.
But how do we know we are passing the goodness test with Jesus Christ? Well, first we need to step back and look at out lives through Christ's eyes. He knows very well how you are doing and where you are going. Recognize that his hand is in each little thing in life. Next, we must ask ourselves, 'Am I really sharing my happiness with others?' If the answer is no, then we need to change.
There is a lot of power when you repeat to yourself, 'I am not ashamed of the Gospel of Christ.' I have said that to myself several times, and each time I follow through with what is right. I bear witness that this is the true church of God.
In the name of Jesus Christ, amen.
Back when my mother was in her mid twenties, her brother had met someone whom he really cared about. And whenever he wasn't with her, he would tell his family and friends about her and all that they did together. My mother wasn't used to her brother acting this way, it seemed unusual, but my mom also noticed that he was very happy.
In short, the goodness test is a third person test. For example, when two people are in a relationship, it is noticed by their friends and family that they are happy one with another, and they are willing to share their happiness with others.
After my mother had told me the story, I stood back from my life and realized that she was right. I loved to tell stories about my friend and what we did together. I was happy and I really enjoyed all that I learned.
Today I was thinking about this same story (while in prep for homecoming next weekend), and I discovered much the same with those of us who are in a great relationship with Jesus Christ. When we have a testimony of the Gospel, we love to talk about it and we want to share our happiness with others.
But how do we know we are passing the goodness test with Jesus Christ? Well, first we need to step back and look at out lives through Christ's eyes. He knows very well how you are doing and where you are going. Recognize that his hand is in each little thing in life. Next, we must ask ourselves, 'Am I really sharing my happiness with others?' If the answer is no, then we need to change.
There is a lot of power when you repeat to yourself, 'I am not ashamed of the Gospel of Christ.' I have said that to myself several times, and each time I follow through with what is right. I bear witness that this is the true church of God.
In the name of Jesus Christ, amen.
Tuesday, September 28, 2010
Thirsting After Righteousness
I had the idea for this post this morning when I was getting ready for school. I got up at about 8:00 and started to get ready to go. For some reason this morning, I had a wonderful feeling like I could do a lot of good today. I thought, I want to do right today. I simply wanted it.
So I went to institute today at 10:30, in my book of mormon class, we discussed 2nd Nephi chapters 5-7. Brother Scott(my teacher) told us at the very biginning of class that it must have been really hard for Nephi because his brothers were trying to take away his life. So the discussion was on agency, saying that God will always allow his children to choose for themselves. I think that Nephi did pray very hard for his brothers not to have such hard hearts, but God will not take away anyone's agency. Even Laman and Lemuels.
We started a list on the board, Nephi at the top of one side, and Laman and Lemuel at the top of the other. Under Nephi's side we listed all of the people who went with him when God commanded Nephi to leave. And under Laman and Lemuel, we put several of the names of everyone who stayed. After doing this we read chaper 5 v. 7-19, and we listed many of the blessings that the Nephites had after they left. and in verse 27, "And it came to pass that we lived after the manner of happiness."
To put it lightly, the nephites lived happily because they chose to do right and to keep the commandments of God. So what does it actually mean to thirst after righteousness. In a sense that came to me during class was that it is wanting and working toward all of the blessings that are promised to the righteous. So being righteous right now, is working towards those blessings and a happy life.
Today I choose to be righteous, and I choose to be happy. In the name of my Savior, Jesus Christ, Amen.
So I went to institute today at 10:30, in my book of mormon class, we discussed 2nd Nephi chapters 5-7. Brother Scott(my teacher) told us at the very biginning of class that it must have been really hard for Nephi because his brothers were trying to take away his life. So the discussion was on agency, saying that God will always allow his children to choose for themselves. I think that Nephi did pray very hard for his brothers not to have such hard hearts, but God will not take away anyone's agency. Even Laman and Lemuels.
We started a list on the board, Nephi at the top of one side, and Laman and Lemuel at the top of the other. Under Nephi's side we listed all of the people who went with him when God commanded Nephi to leave. And under Laman and Lemuel, we put several of the names of everyone who stayed. After doing this we read chaper 5 v. 7-19, and we listed many of the blessings that the Nephites had after they left. and in verse 27, "And it came to pass that we lived after the manner of happiness."
To put it lightly, the nephites lived happily because they chose to do right and to keep the commandments of God. So what does it actually mean to thirst after righteousness. In a sense that came to me during class was that it is wanting and working toward all of the blessings that are promised to the righteous. So being righteous right now, is working towards those blessings and a happy life.
Today I choose to be righteous, and I choose to be happy. In the name of my Savior, Jesus Christ, Amen.
Saturday, September 25, 2010
An Eternal Perspective
I remember a while back, I was trying to deal with some of my personal problems. I wasn't doing really well, and I was getting really tired of the temptations from satan that would not stop coming. I was having a hard time keeping an eternal perspective. Later I discovered for myself that it is so much easier to keep the commandments of the Lord if I keep my eternal goals in the front of my mind.
So, yesterday I was having a very difficult day, and satan was taking his opportunity to tempt me. I felt like it was the most I've been tempted in a very very long time. But while I was being tempted, I remembered how far I have come. This thought gave me the courage to keep the commandments, and was the predecessor of my eternal perspective.
My eternal perspective starts with finding my eternal companion, and keeping the commandments so I may be trusted by her forever. Next I want to be worthy to serve the Lord a mission. I have decided that I don't want satan to bring me down into depression about myself and where I am. I want to end up where my Father in Heaven wants me to be. And that is to be with Him forever. I want to be a good example of a worthy member of the church. I want the Lords will to be done in all things for me, because He knows what is best for me at all times, and in all things. I want to keep a strong testimony of this gospel.
I know I have a long way to go to reach all of these personal goals, but I do know that with the Lord, everything is possible. I want the Lord to be by my side for the rest of my life, and for this to work, I have to come to Christ. I am going to get to Christ by diligently studying my scriptures every day, and pray each morning and night. I know that the Lord wants us to be submissive to His will. I pray that I can and will be strong enough to do His will.
In the name of Jesus Christ, amen.
So, yesterday I was having a very difficult day, and satan was taking his opportunity to tempt me. I felt like it was the most I've been tempted in a very very long time. But while I was being tempted, I remembered how far I have come. This thought gave me the courage to keep the commandments, and was the predecessor of my eternal perspective.
My eternal perspective starts with finding my eternal companion, and keeping the commandments so I may be trusted by her forever. Next I want to be worthy to serve the Lord a mission. I have decided that I don't want satan to bring me down into depression about myself and where I am. I want to end up where my Father in Heaven wants me to be. And that is to be with Him forever. I want to be a good example of a worthy member of the church. I want the Lords will to be done in all things for me, because He knows what is best for me at all times, and in all things. I want to keep a strong testimony of this gospel.
I know I have a long way to go to reach all of these personal goals, but I do know that with the Lord, everything is possible. I want the Lord to be by my side for the rest of my life, and for this to work, I have to come to Christ. I am going to get to Christ by diligently studying my scriptures every day, and pray each morning and night. I know that the Lord wants us to be submissive to His will. I pray that I can and will be strong enough to do His will.
In the name of Jesus Christ, amen.
Wednesday, September 22, 2010
Humility
Yesterday, I was having a hard day. I got through my classes, and I got some homework done. And I was just tired of working. At seven I had a meeting with the rest of the Elders Quorum presidency (yeah, I'm the second counselor), and we were starting to make home teaching assignments to those in our ward. I remember that I was doing well and I felt the spirit and I did feel somewhat better.
The thought at the beginnning of the meeting was about idleness. If Satan is going to get those of us who are strong in the gospel, he will use idleness. The way he will start is by getting us to be lax in our scripture study, and in our prayers. If we do slow down our study and our prayers, so to speak, we will lose a greater portion of the spirit.
After the meeting, I went to the library to do some calculus homework. I think I only got about fifteen problems done in the hour I was there. I couldn't focus very well. I came back to my dorm and I started playing on the computer. While I was playing I remembered the thought we had at the presidency meeting. And I realized that I was still feeling down about myself. So I turned off my computer and started reading my scriptures. I started to feel a little better, and then I got down on my knees in prayer.
In my prayer, I recognized the spirit of the Lord in most of the things I had done during the day. I finally pinpointed why I was feeling down. I was not recognizing the Lord in the things happening throughout the day. I was being selfish. I asked forgiveness for my sins of not remembering Him. I realize now that I need more humility, to be more aware of the Lord and all that He does for me.
After I had prayed and I started getting ready for bed, I could the feel the spirit more that I had the entire day.
I pray that this experience will show a little more about what humility is and why it is required.
In the sacred name of Jesus Christ, Amen.
The thought at the beginnning of the meeting was about idleness. If Satan is going to get those of us who are strong in the gospel, he will use idleness. The way he will start is by getting us to be lax in our scripture study, and in our prayers. If we do slow down our study and our prayers, so to speak, we will lose a greater portion of the spirit.
After the meeting, I went to the library to do some calculus homework. I think I only got about fifteen problems done in the hour I was there. I couldn't focus very well. I came back to my dorm and I started playing on the computer. While I was playing I remembered the thought we had at the presidency meeting. And I realized that I was still feeling down about myself. So I turned off my computer and started reading my scriptures. I started to feel a little better, and then I got down on my knees in prayer.
In my prayer, I recognized the spirit of the Lord in most of the things I had done during the day. I finally pinpointed why I was feeling down. I was not recognizing the Lord in the things happening throughout the day. I was being selfish. I asked forgiveness for my sins of not remembering Him. I realize now that I need more humility, to be more aware of the Lord and all that He does for me.
After I had prayed and I started getting ready for bed, I could the feel the spirit more that I had the entire day.
I pray that this experience will show a little more about what humility is and why it is required.
In the sacred name of Jesus Christ, Amen.
Saturday, September 18, 2010
My Testimony Growing
To begin with this post, I am finally off to college. Happy day. :D I have learned that the ability to work can make a big difference to anything I'm doing. (Especially Homework.) I have been down here for just over a month and I have done a lot of new things.
Last week I was asked to give a talk in Sacrament meeting about the scripture, 1 Nephi 15:25. I must say that I prepared for a while before getting the talk finished. I didn't really know that the Sacrament meeting would be the ward conference and that the Stake Presidency would be there. But I gave my talk anyway, and I think I did a good job.
Later that evening I went to the CES Fireside with Elder Richard G. Scott. Just as the fireside was starting I recieved a phone call from one of the stake presidency asking me to meet with them just after the fireside. I said ok, and I felt a little tense during the rest of the fireside.
I went to meet with them after the fireside was over, and I was really suprised to be extended a calling. (I will share what the calling is in the next post.) When I came back to the dorms I was just really happy, and some of my friends could tell. :D
Over the past few days I have been evaluating my testimony of the gospel and I have come to realize that the Lord has had his hand in my life for a long time. I know that He will guide me in this calling. He qualifies those He calls. So I know that He will be with me to strengthen me with each thing he requires.
I know that Jesus is the Christ. He is my Savior. I know that He was the only one who could have finished the infinite atonement. I thank Him for all He has done for me.
In the name of Jesus Christ, Amen.
Last week I was asked to give a talk in Sacrament meeting about the scripture, 1 Nephi 15:25. I must say that I prepared for a while before getting the talk finished. I didn't really know that the Sacrament meeting would be the ward conference and that the Stake Presidency would be there. But I gave my talk anyway, and I think I did a good job.
Later that evening I went to the CES Fireside with Elder Richard G. Scott. Just as the fireside was starting I recieved a phone call from one of the stake presidency asking me to meet with them just after the fireside. I said ok, and I felt a little tense during the rest of the fireside.
I went to meet with them after the fireside was over, and I was really suprised to be extended a calling. (I will share what the calling is in the next post.) When I came back to the dorms I was just really happy, and some of my friends could tell. :D
Over the past few days I have been evaluating my testimony of the gospel and I have come to realize that the Lord has had his hand in my life for a long time. I know that He will guide me in this calling. He qualifies those He calls. So I know that He will be with me to strengthen me with each thing he requires.
I know that Jesus is the Christ. He is my Savior. I know that He was the only one who could have finished the infinite atonement. I thank Him for all He has done for me.
In the name of Jesus Christ, Amen.
Thursday, May 27, 2010
Determination
I had once heard that when you share your testimony, you are forgiven of your sins. To me it has been really hard to forgive myself for my sins. But over the last few days, I have come to realize that what is past is past. And I need to move on in my life. I remember a flair on face book before I got off, it said, “You don’t know how strong you are until being strong is the only choice you have.” I am now coming to a state of mind where I need to be in control of my life. I don’t want anyone else in charge of my life.
I have decided to become the man that the Lord wants me to be. This involves me giving more of myself to Him. I haven’t been the best example of being a disciple. But that is why I am making choices to ‘become’ a disciple. It takes time, and effort. And, yes, I know that effort is hard. But it is so worth it. The joy that comes from the spirit is so wonderful. I have felt it as I have gone to the temple of the Lord. He is so wonderful and compassionate to be willing to share his Spirit with me.
I have been thinking about what it means to give your all. Recently I have been training for the Ragnarok Race, (sorry about spelling) it is 188 miles split up between twelve runners. My uncle invited me to start training for it because a couple of men in his team might not be running in it due to injuries. So I have started training. It is hard but I am getting where I can run farther and farther every day. I think that this is a way of showing the Lord that I am willing to submit to his will. I have decided, before I run every day, I am going to read my scriptures for half an hour to get the Lord on my side.
And not just read the scriptures, but study and ponder what they mean and how they can apply to me today. When I take the time to do this I feel an added measure of the spirit. I saw a quote by President Abraham Lincoln, “when I do good, I feel good. When I don’t do good, I don’t feel good.” This is simply a saying how you feel with each choice you make. We all have a conscience (light of Christ) within us, so we know what is good and what is bad. When we choose for follow that light for good, we feel good. It is that simple. :D
I know that Jesus is the Christ, He suffered for our sins and our sufferings. It is hard to imagine what it would be like to take on the sins of the world. Only Christ could have done it. I think of how many challenges have been hard for me. And Christ suffered them all and more. His Atonement is infinite, and it is available to us, so let us take advantage of what he has given us. I Love the feeling of the Spirit in my life. I Love my Father in Heaven, He is so kind and Loving to everyone, and I hope to be like him someday.
May the Good Lord bless and keep you.
I have decided to become the man that the Lord wants me to be. This involves me giving more of myself to Him. I haven’t been the best example of being a disciple. But that is why I am making choices to ‘become’ a disciple. It takes time, and effort. And, yes, I know that effort is hard. But it is so worth it. The joy that comes from the spirit is so wonderful. I have felt it as I have gone to the temple of the Lord. He is so wonderful and compassionate to be willing to share his Spirit with me.
I have been thinking about what it means to give your all. Recently I have been training for the Ragnarok Race, (sorry about spelling) it is 188 miles split up between twelve runners. My uncle invited me to start training for it because a couple of men in his team might not be running in it due to injuries. So I have started training. It is hard but I am getting where I can run farther and farther every day. I think that this is a way of showing the Lord that I am willing to submit to his will. I have decided, before I run every day, I am going to read my scriptures for half an hour to get the Lord on my side.
And not just read the scriptures, but study and ponder what they mean and how they can apply to me today. When I take the time to do this I feel an added measure of the spirit. I saw a quote by President Abraham Lincoln, “when I do good, I feel good. When I don’t do good, I don’t feel good.” This is simply a saying how you feel with each choice you make. We all have a conscience (light of Christ) within us, so we know what is good and what is bad. When we choose for follow that light for good, we feel good. It is that simple. :D
I know that Jesus is the Christ, He suffered for our sins and our sufferings. It is hard to imagine what it would be like to take on the sins of the world. Only Christ could have done it. I think of how many challenges have been hard for me. And Christ suffered them all and more. His Atonement is infinite, and it is available to us, so let us take advantage of what he has given us. I Love the feeling of the Spirit in my life. I Love my Father in Heaven, He is so kind and Loving to everyone, and I hope to be like him someday.
May the Good Lord bless and keep you.
Monday, April 26, 2010
Preparation
I have found it really interesting that we do a lot of things that prepare us for something else. I work for construction and I seem to do a lot of preping for all the projects we work on. eg; preping steel beams for paint, sweeping the floor for final inspection, or just getting ready for the days work.
But today, I would like to focus on the fact that everything we do and go through, each and every day is preparation for us to meet God. We make choices each day and we will be held accountable for our choices when we finally meet God at the judgement seat.
In a way, preparation is just getting us some place where we will do more preparation for something else. Our preparation builds upon itself until it is complete. Wherewith I will keep studying my scriptures and keep on preparing myself until that final day.
The trials we face are, in a sense, a preparation for some later trial that you wouldn't have been able to stand if you hadn't had the first one. So we need to look at our trials with gratitude. When we choose the right through our trials, the Lord will bless us because we are showing our love for him. He loves us and wants us to succeed.
Almost everything in life worth recieving is in need of preparation. I am still preparing for the blessing of going through the temple to recieve my endowment. I want to have the Lord in my life so I can be blessed, and share the blessings by sharing my testimony.
I know that the Lord, Jesus Christ lives. He has atoned for my sins. He loves me. I know that Joseph Smith restored the gospel in these the latter days. I know that the Book of Mormon is true, I have recieved personnal revelation to know these things.
May the Lord bless and keep you.
But today, I would like to focus on the fact that everything we do and go through, each and every day is preparation for us to meet God. We make choices each day and we will be held accountable for our choices when we finally meet God at the judgement seat.
In a way, preparation is just getting us some place where we will do more preparation for something else. Our preparation builds upon itself until it is complete. Wherewith I will keep studying my scriptures and keep on preparing myself until that final day.
The trials we face are, in a sense, a preparation for some later trial that you wouldn't have been able to stand if you hadn't had the first one. So we need to look at our trials with gratitude. When we choose the right through our trials, the Lord will bless us because we are showing our love for him. He loves us and wants us to succeed.
Almost everything in life worth recieving is in need of preparation. I am still preparing for the blessing of going through the temple to recieve my endowment. I want to have the Lord in my life so I can be blessed, and share the blessings by sharing my testimony.
I know that the Lord, Jesus Christ lives. He has atoned for my sins. He loves me. I know that Joseph Smith restored the gospel in these the latter days. I know that the Book of Mormon is true, I have recieved personnal revelation to know these things.
May the Lord bless and keep you.
Wednesday, April 21, 2010
Diligence
Diligence means to have constant and earnest effort to accomplish what is undertaken. Is your best effort earnest and constant? I know mine hasn't been. But trying to be diligent in the small things every day makes a big difference over time. I really liked what Nephi said in 2 Nephi 4:16 "Behold, my soul delighteth in the things of the lord; and my heart pondereth continually upon the things which I have seen and heard." Wow, Nephi knew the definition diligence, and lived it.
Recently I have decided to read the Book of Mormon for at least half an hour every day. I know that I have felt the spirit more in the last two weeks. Being diligent in this task has not been easy. "If I don't make time to read my scriptures, I won't have time." I have taken this task upon me and I hope to be a better person for it.
I would like to turn this challenge to you. Make some time to read and ponder the scriptures. I have also noticed that if you keep a journal and pen at the ready personal revelation comes easier.
Being diligent requires making a decision and acting on it. I made the decision to read the scriptures and now I am going to do my best to be diligent and consistent with it.
May the good Lord bless and keep you.
Recently I have decided to read the Book of Mormon for at least half an hour every day. I know that I have felt the spirit more in the last two weeks. Being diligent in this task has not been easy. "If I don't make time to read my scriptures, I won't have time." I have taken this task upon me and I hope to be a better person for it.
I would like to turn this challenge to you. Make some time to read and ponder the scriptures. I have also noticed that if you keep a journal and pen at the ready personal revelation comes easier.
Being diligent requires making a decision and acting on it. I made the decision to read the scriptures and now I am going to do my best to be diligent and consistent with it.
May the good Lord bless and keep you.
Saturday, March 20, 2010
Symbols
Yesterday and today, I went to the temple. I went to the Provo Temple yesterday, and to the Bountiful Temple today. Both trips were really awesome. :D
When I went to the Provo Temple, while I was waiting for my turn to do baptisms for the dead, I was thinking about what all of the symbols in a temple mean. I recall the song called "Sacraments and Symbols," and it is quoted, 'Sacraments and Symbols, open up my mind, pointing to a world waiting behind them. simple bread and water, represent the Christ, even daily bread serves to remind.'
Then I started looking around and discovered many little things that got my mind going. I wrote a bit about what I saw and what I thought each of them means;
Being at the temple we all dress in white, which is a symbol of Purity, and a symbol of unity, we are all Loved by our Heavenly Father.
When I picked up the book of Mormon, I noticed that this copy was white with silver lettering. I was thinking about what it means, I thought that the white symbolized purity in honest written form. The silver lettering shined in the light, and I realize that anyone who will read the book of Mormon can have a share in the light of Christ and shine their testimony abroad.
The benches we sit on have patterns of vines with leaves. To me this symbolizes our relationship with our Heavenly Father, He is our Father and I know that each of us can be the fruit of his tree. "You can count the seeds in an apple, but you can't count the apples in a seed."
There are Celestial Mirrors in the baptistry around the font, To me this signifies the eternal gratitude of those we do the work for. Also it gives us an inkling of what our existance will be like in the next life.
I looked at the oxen holding up the font. I notice that each and every one was different, meaning that the tribes of Israel all have differences in who we are, and the responsibilities that we each have to fulfill. The fact that all of the oxen are holding up the font together siginfies that each of the tribes has the responsibility to bear one anothers burdens. If we all work together, we can get the Lords work done.
I know that there is power in going to the temple and doing the Lords work. It gives us a greater resolve to fight the adversary, and a greater desire to become the disciple the Lord knows we can be. So take the time to go to the temple and give someone the chance to gain salvation.
May the Good Lord bless and keep you.
When I went to the Provo Temple, while I was waiting for my turn to do baptisms for the dead, I was thinking about what all of the symbols in a temple mean. I recall the song called "Sacraments and Symbols," and it is quoted, 'Sacraments and Symbols, open up my mind, pointing to a world waiting behind them. simple bread and water, represent the Christ, even daily bread serves to remind.'
Then I started looking around and discovered many little things that got my mind going. I wrote a bit about what I saw and what I thought each of them means;
Being at the temple we all dress in white, which is a symbol of Purity, and a symbol of unity, we are all Loved by our Heavenly Father.
When I picked up the book of Mormon, I noticed that this copy was white with silver lettering. I was thinking about what it means, I thought that the white symbolized purity in honest written form. The silver lettering shined in the light, and I realize that anyone who will read the book of Mormon can have a share in the light of Christ and shine their testimony abroad.
The benches we sit on have patterns of vines with leaves. To me this symbolizes our relationship with our Heavenly Father, He is our Father and I know that each of us can be the fruit of his tree. "You can count the seeds in an apple, but you can't count the apples in a seed."
There are Celestial Mirrors in the baptistry around the font, To me this signifies the eternal gratitude of those we do the work for. Also it gives us an inkling of what our existance will be like in the next life.
I looked at the oxen holding up the font. I notice that each and every one was different, meaning that the tribes of Israel all have differences in who we are, and the responsibilities that we each have to fulfill. The fact that all of the oxen are holding up the font together siginfies that each of the tribes has the responsibility to bear one anothers burdens. If we all work together, we can get the Lords work done.
I know that there is power in going to the temple and doing the Lords work. It gives us a greater resolve to fight the adversary, and a greater desire to become the disciple the Lord knows we can be. So take the time to go to the temple and give someone the chance to gain salvation.
May the Good Lord bless and keep you.
Thursday, March 11, 2010
Time
Today has been interesting. For those of you who don't know, I work construction for a campany called HHI. The work I have been doing is mostly cleaning up the job sites that are being finalized. But this week three of the projects are getting finished. And I have been 'working myself out of a job,' So to speak. So today I didn't have work, and I will have the same problem tomorrow.
Yesterday, when I went to my Great Grandmothers funeral I talked with my great uncle and I asked how he was doing. He is retired and just playing. He said he made a deal with his wife when they got married, which was (and is), 'if you ever have any free time, fill it with something to do.'
So today I decided to give it a try. And wow, it has made feel like I can actually get things done. I cleaned my room, I cleaned the family room and I took time to read my scriptures and pray.
And for sure the temptations were there that wanted me to waste my time with nonsense things, but making the conscious decision to fill my time with positive things makes the biggest difference about how I feel about free time.
Tomorrow, There is no free time for me.
May the Good Lord bless and keep you.
Yesterday, when I went to my Great Grandmothers funeral I talked with my great uncle and I asked how he was doing. He is retired and just playing. He said he made a deal with his wife when they got married, which was (and is), 'if you ever have any free time, fill it with something to do.'
So today I decided to give it a try. And wow, it has made feel like I can actually get things done. I cleaned my room, I cleaned the family room and I took time to read my scriptures and pray.
And for sure the temptations were there that wanted me to waste my time with nonsense things, but making the conscious decision to fill my time with positive things makes the biggest difference about how I feel about free time.
Tomorrow, There is no free time for me.
May the Good Lord bless and keep you.
Saturday, March 6, 2010
Foreordination
I've been thinking a lot recently about what it means to be foreordained. The word foreordained means that we were chosen to have a certain calling in this life before we got here. The concept of being chosen in the premortal life gives us a clue to how strong and righteous we were before we reached this mortal life.
In this life however we do not know how we acted in the premortal life, thus giving us the opportunity to choose for ourselves what to think and believe here on earth.
My thoughts tonight are about choosing to be foreordained. It is my oppinion that through our actions and our choices that we become foreordained. Like a Patriarchal blessing, we can choose to follow it's guidance or choose to completely ignore it. But if we choose to follow it, we will gain the blessings of it and gain the Spirit more fully into our lives. The way we live our lives and the decisions we make fulfill our opportunity to become what the Lord has planned.
I believe that we choose to be foreordained. The wonderful Plan of Happiness sets the scene and we choose our outcome, though we may not know the consequences at that time.
I know that the Lord lives. I know that Jesus Christ is my Savior, he is my advocate with the Father. I know that the Book of Mormon is true. I know that if we make the right decisions we will be happier in life and become better and true disciples.
May the Lord bless and keep you.
In this life however we do not know how we acted in the premortal life, thus giving us the opportunity to choose for ourselves what to think and believe here on earth.
My thoughts tonight are about choosing to be foreordained. It is my oppinion that through our actions and our choices that we become foreordained. Like a Patriarchal blessing, we can choose to follow it's guidance or choose to completely ignore it. But if we choose to follow it, we will gain the blessings of it and gain the Spirit more fully into our lives. The way we live our lives and the decisions we make fulfill our opportunity to become what the Lord has planned.
I believe that we choose to be foreordained. The wonderful Plan of Happiness sets the scene and we choose our outcome, though we may not know the consequences at that time.
I know that the Lord lives. I know that Jesus Christ is my Savior, he is my advocate with the Father. I know that the Book of Mormon is true. I know that if we make the right decisions we will be happier in life and become better and true disciples.
May the Lord bless and keep you.
Sunday, February 28, 2010
Opposition
There is opposition in all things. If there were no sadness then there would be no happiness, if there were no hardships then nothing would be easy. If there were no evil there would never be good.
The Fall of Adam and Eve was a key component to the plan of Happiness. One asks, 'do you think that Adam and Eve were set up to fall?' In answer, 'no, I believe they were set up to succeed.'
The opposition in the beginning was created by God. "The Tree of Life, and the Tree of the Knowlegde of Good and Evil, the one being sweet and the other bitter." God knew that for man to be tested they needed to choose for themselves, so he created opposition in all things so we may be tried.
Sometimes when we feel like we are doing good, we are tempted by Satan and we fall. But God knew we would fall, so he provided a way to return; the Atonement of Jesus Christ.
When we fall, we feel the loss of the Spirit of God. This is the sorrow we must feel so we can feel the wonderous Spirit of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.
In Alma 36, Alma repents and he says, 'and how bitter was my pain, was how sweet my joy.' I'm paraphrasing. We can all feel that Joy, but sometimes we will feel the pain before we reach that marvelous Joy. And yes, putting effort in is hard, but it is so worth it.
I know that all the pain we feel in this life, will be a Joy to us in the end if we choose to follow the Savior.
The Fall of Adam and Eve was a key component to the plan of Happiness. One asks, 'do you think that Adam and Eve were set up to fall?' In answer, 'no, I believe they were set up to succeed.'
The opposition in the beginning was created by God. "The Tree of Life, and the Tree of the Knowlegde of Good and Evil, the one being sweet and the other bitter." God knew that for man to be tested they needed to choose for themselves, so he created opposition in all things so we may be tried.
Sometimes when we feel like we are doing good, we are tempted by Satan and we fall. But God knew we would fall, so he provided a way to return; the Atonement of Jesus Christ.
When we fall, we feel the loss of the Spirit of God. This is the sorrow we must feel so we can feel the wonderous Spirit of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.
In Alma 36, Alma repents and he says, 'and how bitter was my pain, was how sweet my joy.' I'm paraphrasing. We can all feel that Joy, but sometimes we will feel the pain before we reach that marvelous Joy. And yes, putting effort in is hard, but it is so worth it.
I know that all the pain we feel in this life, will be a Joy to us in the end if we choose to follow the Savior.
Wednesday, February 24, 2010
Heirs of the Celestial Kingdom
Today I was thinking about what I wanted to study in the scriptures. I thought about our goals that are most important in an Eternal sense. We all want to make it to the Celestial Kingdom. I started reading in Doctrine and Covenants, Section 137:2-4
I saw the transcendant beauty of the gate that the heirs through which the heirs of that kingdom will enter, which was like unto circling flames of fire;
Also the blazing throne of God; whereon was seated the Father and the Son.
I saw the beautiful streets of that kingdom, which had the appearance of being paved with gold.
What a great promise for those who inheirit the Kingdom of God. But how do we make sure we are heirs of that kingdom? A couple of the answers are in 2 Nephi 9:18 We must:
Believe and stand as a witness
Be righteous
Endure the crosses of the world (foot note 18 C)
Also in Mosiah 27:26 (25-26) We must be 'Born Again' which is to say that we must be changed from a carnal state to a state of righteousness continually.
In conclusion, since we cannot comprehend the Eternal Life of the Celestial Kingdom, we can know that our trials will be a small price for the "greatest of all Gods gifts" (D&C 14:7)
I saw the transcendant beauty of the gate that the heirs through which the heirs of that kingdom will enter, which was like unto circling flames of fire;
Also the blazing throne of God; whereon was seated the Father and the Son.
I saw the beautiful streets of that kingdom, which had the appearance of being paved with gold.
What a great promise for those who inheirit the Kingdom of God. But how do we make sure we are heirs of that kingdom? A couple of the answers are in 2 Nephi 9:18 We must:
Believe and stand as a witness
Be righteous
Endure the crosses of the world (foot note 18 C)
Also in Mosiah 27:26 (25-26) We must be 'Born Again' which is to say that we must be changed from a carnal state to a state of righteousness continually.
In conclusion, since we cannot comprehend the Eternal Life of the Celestial Kingdom, we can know that our trials will be a small price for the "greatest of all Gods gifts" (D&C 14:7)
Monday, February 22, 2010
Beginning the Journey
Welcome to my blog, this is my chance to tell you how I am becoming a disciple of the Lord Jesus Christ. On this site I will bare my testimony, and share scripture thoughts I have had recently.
I have recently decided to prepare more effectively and efficiently to serve a mission. I went to a YSA fireside last night and I listened to brother and sister Foust talk about running. They used running as a metaphor for life. Brother Foust talked about his experience running the wasatch 100. Really, it is one hundred miles. Our life is a journey, full of ups and downs. And we always need to be on the watch for the deadly snakes on our paths and point them out to others on their way. This is saying that we need to always be on guard for the Adversary, He wants us to be miserable. Also, we need to bear one anothers burdens and help them on their way back to the Lord.
Then Sister Foust spoke about the Disneyland Half Marathon. She prepared with her daughters for this event for two months. They woke up every day and took the time to strengthen their endurance. She thought about how this life is the time to prepare to meet God, and that she could be doing a lot more to strengthen her spiritual endurance. This is why I am starting this blog. I want to strengthen my spiritual endurance and become a disciple of Jesus Christ.
I know that my Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, lives. I know that he has atoned for my sins, and for the sins of the world. I know that the Book of Mormon is true, I have taken Moroni's challenge several times, and every time I have taken the challenge, I recieve a greater resolve to conquer Satan. I know that keeping the commandments is the only way to recieve peace of mind.
May the Lord Bless and keep you.
I have recently decided to prepare more effectively and efficiently to serve a mission. I went to a YSA fireside last night and I listened to brother and sister Foust talk about running. They used running as a metaphor for life. Brother Foust talked about his experience running the wasatch 100. Really, it is one hundred miles. Our life is a journey, full of ups and downs. And we always need to be on the watch for the deadly snakes on our paths and point them out to others on their way. This is saying that we need to always be on guard for the Adversary, He wants us to be miserable. Also, we need to bear one anothers burdens and help them on their way back to the Lord.
Then Sister Foust spoke about the Disneyland Half Marathon. She prepared with her daughters for this event for two months. They woke up every day and took the time to strengthen their endurance. She thought about how this life is the time to prepare to meet God, and that she could be doing a lot more to strengthen her spiritual endurance. This is why I am starting this blog. I want to strengthen my spiritual endurance and become a disciple of Jesus Christ.
I know that my Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, lives. I know that he has atoned for my sins, and for the sins of the world. I know that the Book of Mormon is true, I have taken Moroni's challenge several times, and every time I have taken the challenge, I recieve a greater resolve to conquer Satan. I know that keeping the commandments is the only way to recieve peace of mind.
May the Lord Bless and keep you.
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