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.
Sunday, October 24, 2010
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.
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