Turning Darkness into Light

One thing I've learned in life is that it is full of ups and downs. I've done a lot of pondering on this especially the following questions; How can I have more ups than downs? What is it that makes the down times so hard? Through scripture study and prayer I have received some insight. I've heard it said a few times that "light and darkness cannot occupy the same space at the same time." If a room is dark and you light a match or flip the light switch, no matter how dark it may seem, light WILL over take the darkness. The same principle applies with the light of the Holy Ghost and darkness of Satan. AKA the ups and downs of life.  Elder Robert D. Hales of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles states;

"Light dispels darkness. When light is present, darkness is vanquished and must depart. More importantly, darkness cannot conquer light unless the light is diminished or departs. When the spiritual light of the Holy Ghost is present, the darkness of Satan departs." Out of Darkness into His Marvelous Light (emphasis added)

My conclusion to the questions stated above replacing ups with light and downs with darkness is that as we do the things we know we are supposed to do light or happiness fills us. We allow Satan or darkness to overtake us by sinning, and our light diminishes and will eventually depart. One important thing Satan doesn't want us to realize is that we still have the ability to light that match or flip the switch; causing light to overtake darkness once again. Because of Jesus Christ and the sacrifice he has preformed the option will always be there. The choice is up to us. This doesn't mean it will be easy or even that our light will be as bright as it once was. But as we try our best and apply the atonement of Jesus Christ through repentance all that seems lost will be found, all that seems impossible will become possible, and every wrong will one day be made right. I know we can only see a portion of the big picture of life right now, but as we remain faithful more up times will come and all things will work out in the end.

Reason for the Season

As stated in a previous post I love this time of the year. I love the decorations, the candy, music, and spirit that seems to fill the air that everyone whether they want to or not can notice. Most of all, I love the REASON for the Season. That being Jesus Christ.

Throughout my life I've had a chance see the difference in remembering the real reason for the season verses just going with the motions that come with this time of year. I've noticed that as I put the material things aside, and make it a point to focus on our Savior, Jesus Christ, and try to morefully do the things he would have me do, true happiness comes and more of the Holiday spirit is felt. Satan knows that if he can get you so caught up in the shopping and gift giving, which in reality can take up all of your time or stress you out to the max, that you forget the real reason why any of this is even happening. My challenge to you: kick Satan to the curb this month, and hopefully forever, and focus on the real meaning of why we have Christmas. Act on the feelings you get and I can promise happiness will feel you, and you will have a more enjoyable Holiday Season that will last the whole year through.

He Hears Every Word

For those of you who don't already know, I LOVE music! I especially love the spirit it can bring. I know a lot of the time I will hear or sing the words to a song not realizing their true meaning. I love this song about prayer and know the message it shares is true.

There are days I get so lost and so caught up inside the crowd

I try to lift my voice but I keep getting drowned out

By the noise and all the sound

But somehow He hears, every word, that I say

He knows, just how I feel and I can pray for answers

I can turn to Him for peace

Or just to be heard

And He hears every word

There are times I lose my way and start to wander off alone

Even when I make mistakes I’m never on my own

And when I need to find the way back home

He hears, every word, that I say

He knows, just how I feel and I can pray for answers

I can turn to Him for peace

Or just to be heard

And He hears every word

Not one of us can fall far enough

To be out of reach of His Love

He hears every word

He hears, every word, that I say

He knows, just how I feel and I can pray for answers

I can turn to Him for peace

Or just to be heard

And He hears every word
(Click to hear the song Every Word)

 "Prayer is a supernal gift of our Father in Heaven to every soul. Think of it: the absolute Supreme Being, the most all-knowing, all-seeing, all-powerful personage, encourages you and me, as insignificant as we are, to converse with Him as our Father...

It matters not our circumstance, be we humble or arrogant, poor or rich, free or enslaved, learned or ignorant, loved or forsaken, we can address Him. We need no appointment. Our supplication can be brief or can occupy all the time needed. It can be an extended expression of love and gratitude or an urgent plea for help. He has created numberless cosmos and populated them with worlds, yet you and I can talk with Him personally, and He will ever answer." Richard G Scott Using the Supernal Gift of Prayer

Even though we may not realize or understand, I know Heavenly Father literally hears EVERY word of  every prayer you and I say. He may not answer them in the way we want, but He is hearing and answering them. It is up to us to open our eyes and see the answers.

Baptism

When we are baptized we make a covenant, or a two way promise with our Heavenly Father. As we keep our end of the covenant we are promised Heavenly Father will keep His promise he has made to us. An easy way I learned to remember my part of the promise is by using an acronym for the work take.
 When we are Baptized we promise to...

        Take upon ourselves the name of Jesus Christ

        Always Remember Him
        Keep His Commandments
        Endure to the End

Taking upon ourselves the name of Jesus Christ simply means asking ourselves in every situation we are in, "What would Jesus do?", and then acting on the answer to that question. When we take upon ourselves the name of Jesus Christ we act and do the things that he himself would do if he were here. That means helping someone who is in need and making someone feel better when they are sad.

Always Remember Him. As we ask ourselves "What would Jesus Do?" We are Always Remembering Him. We do our very best everyday to remember Jesus and act the way he wants us to.

Keeping His Commandments means not only the 10 Commandments that were given to Moses but other commandments that have been given. Such as following the prophet, saying our prayers, obeying the word of wisdom, studying the scriptures, ect.


 On page 84 of Preach my Gospel an excellent definition of the last promise we make Enduring to the End  is given. " To remain true to the commandments of God despite temptation, opposition, and adversity throughout life." After we make these promises and are baptized and receive the gift of the Holy Ghost by the laying on of hands by someone holding the proper priesthood authority we are not done. You have to remember the promises you made and do your best everyday to keep your end of the promise.(2 Nephi 31:19-20)

Because a covenant is a two way promise we are promised to ALWAYS have the Holy Ghost as our constant companion if we do our part. Some may say that we have more work on our end but if you have felt the Holy Ghost in your life you know it is quite opposite.

I testify that God is our loving Heavenly Father and that He wants us to follow His son, Jesus Christs example, by being baptized by someone holding the Priesthood authority of God and in return has promised that His spirit will always be with us.

Happy Thanksgiving!!!

I LOVE this time of year for many reasons!!! One reason is that it helps me refocus my life. I am reminded of the the things I am grateful for and things that actually matter. I like this video because it hit home to me when I watched it. I know I take for granted not only the beautiful scenery around me but also all the blessings Heavenly Father has given to me. How grateful I am for a loving Heavenly Father who has blessed me with health, strength, family, friends, and everything I need to survive in this world. As I look around me and realize even more blessings He has given me my heart becomes even fuller. I hope you all have a Happy Thanksgiving and take some time to think of all the things Heavenly Father has given to you.

"Those who live in thanksgiving daily however, have a way of opening their eyes and seeing the wonders and beauties of this world as those seeing them for the first time. Look around you and notice...."

Faith is knowing...

I love primary songs and the simple yet powerful truths they teach. Sometimes faith can be hard to explain but I like the way this primary song teaches it.

Faith is knowing the sun will rise, lighting each new day.

Faith is knowing the Lord will hear my prayers each time I pray.

Faith is like a little seed:

If planted, it will grow.

Faith is a swelling within my heart.

When I do right, I know.

Faith is knowing I lived with God before my mortal birth.

Faith is knowing I can return when my life ends on earth.

Faith is trust in God above;

In Christ, who showed the way.

Faith is strengthened; I feel it grow

Whenever I obey.

 Childrens Song Book 

In the Book of Mormon faith is described as

" faith is things which are hoped for and not seen; wherefore, dispute not because ye see not, for ye receive no witness until after the trial of your faith." (Ether 12:6)

I know we don't always have the answer to life's questions, but that is where faith comes into play. I know that as we start with a particle of faith, by hoping for things which are not seen as the scripture sates above, that our faith will grow. We will have the faith sufficient enough to do the things that have been asked of us. As our faith continues to grow we will be able to make the necessary changes in order to return to live with our families and Heavenly Father after this life.



No Matter Where You Go...

I've always found it interesting how we as people need consistency. Consistency in many areas determines who we are and who we will become. I've grown up my whole life hearing that The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints is the same where ever you go. The building and people will be different but the principles that are being taught will be the same.Two weeks ago I was transferred from Kalispell Montana to Lovell, Byron and Cowley Wyoming. It wasn't until a couple days after we had attended church that a new understanding enlightened my mind. It hit me and strengthened my testimony of this church: That literally no matter where you go The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints WILL always be the same. You WILL have different leaders and a different building but the Gospel (the teachings) will remain the same. You can walk into any sacrament meeting around the world and see the Bishop and his two counselors on the stand. The sacrament will be blessed and passed the exact same way, Nursery, Primary, Young Mens and Young Womens, Relief Society and Priesthood, even the Hymn books are the same.  When you walk into the building people don't care who you are, all that matters is that you are there because we are all spirit brothers and sisters.


God knows of our need for consistency and fulfills those needs by reaching out in love to his children by calling another Prophet on the earth and restoring the same church his son, Jesus Christ, set up when he was on the earth. How grateful I am for a loving Heavenly Father!

I Thank Thee O God for a Prophet

I hope all of you got to listen or watch some of General Conference. Once again it has strengthened my testimony of Heavenly Father (God) and the prophets and apostles He has called to lead and guide us today. I testify that there is a God and that He loves all of Children which is why He has reached out in love by restoring the same church his son, Jesus Christ, set up when he was on the earth and calling another prophet to receive direction for you and I. I leave you the words to Hymn #19 "We Thank Thee O God for a Prophet". They have been on my mind a lot the last couple days with a few changes.

I thank thee, O God, for a prophet

To guide me in these latter days.

I thank thee for sending the gospel

To lighten my mind with its rays.

I thank thee for every blessing

Bestowed by thy bounteous hand.

I feel it a pleasure to serve thee

And love to obey thy command.

When dark clouds of trouble hang o’er me

And threaten my peace to destroy,

There is hope smiling brightly before me,

And I know that deliv’rance is nigh.

I doubt not the Lord nor his goodness.

I’ve proved him in days that are past.

The wicked who fight against Zion

Will surely be smitten at last.

 I’ll sing of his goodness and mercy.

I’ll praise him by day and by night,

Rejoice in his glorious gospel,

And bask in its life-giving light.

Thus on to eternal perfection

The honest and faithful will go,

While they who reject this glad message

Shall never such happiness know.

This is my testimony. I Thank Thee O God for loving us enough to give us a Prophet on the earth today!!

General Conference

I love this time of year for many reasons. One main reason is General Conference. A simple explanation for thoes of you who don't know what General Conference is...  It's when the Prophet and Appostles of the Church of Jesus Christ of latter day saints address the world. So if you have ever been interested in hearing what the Lord is telling us today, this weekend is a great time to find out. Four Sessions over a two day period will take place. The schedule goes as following

 Saturday     10am-12pm  &   2pm-4pm 

      

Sunday     10am-12pm   &    2pm-4pm

General Conference is a great time to get answers to questions that have been on your mind. Write these questions down and pray about them. I can promise you that as you do, and watch all 4 sessions of General Conference (because you never know which one will have your answer) the answer to your questions will be given. God is the same God yesterday, today, and forever which is why He has reached out in love to his children by calling another Prophet on the earth today and restoring the exact same church his son, Jesus Christ, set up when he was on the earth. The way you can know for yourself is by watching General Conference and praying to know if the things you hear and see are true.

Planting Seeds

"Pray for a good harvest, but continue to hoe" is posted on a billboard in Kalispell. It has been food for thought running through my mind this last week and made me realize life in general is like a garden. In order to be successful or to have something to harvest there are steps you have to take. You can't just walk out to find a green luscious garden. You first have to prepare the ground. This may include tilling, plowing, fertilizing ect... You have to make rows and most importantly you have to plant seeds. And the seeds you plant take time to grow. From experience, you can't plant tomato seeds and walk out the next day to see a vine with ripe tomatoes ready to be picked.  There have been many incidences in life when I've gone to "my garden" to find it half completed. And for some reason am disappointed or question why nothing grew!.... The same goes for our spiritual growth. We have to plant seeds, water them everyday, and pull out the weeds. The process is NEVER over. As long as you want something to harvest from that garden it takes some form of effort everyday. We have to read our scriptures, pray, and look for the Lords hand in our lives every single day. Not once a year, once a month, or even once a week- but on a daily basis. I have seen a difference in my life when I've taken the time to complete all the steps instead of skipping one or two steps to get ahead. Success in anything comes with time. Sometimes remembering that can be the hardest part. But if we didn't have to work for something how would we know the joy that comes from succeeding? How would you know what fresh tomatoes from the vine taste like if you didn't continually water them? You wouldn't experience the sweet relief of finally accomplishing the goal you have been working so diligently towards. So don't give up! Keep sowing those seeds and one day your garden will be more luscious and plentiful than you ever thought possible. Pray for a good harvest, but continue to hoe!

Putting On Your Shoes... Everyday

Sometimes it is easy to disregard the things we know we should do. And most times, those things we don't want to do aren't hard, it's just that we don't want to do it. Be it out of peer laziness or the fact that it isn't very convenient at the moment. The example given in the video is prime. How hard is it to simply put on a pair of shoes? Had the boy taken the few extra minutes to put on his shoes he could have saved himself and his parents a lot of pain and suffering. I have learned a couple lessons in life the hard way just like this young boy. I have a testimony of doing the things we KNOW we need to be doing, even if it doesn't seem easy or what is convenient at the time. By taking a few extra minutes everyday to "put on your shoes", whether it be reading the scriptures or saying morning or nightly prayers, the spirit can and will be with you to help warn you of danger and save you from a lot of physical and spiritual pain and suffering.

One Year

One year and two days ago from today I left what I knew as "my life" and reported to the Missionary Training Center. I chose to serve my Heavenly Father for 18 short months and received my call to labor in the Montana Billings Mission. What an experience these last 12 months have been. I have learned new things about myself, this world, and God. I have stretched and grown and have done things I never thought possible... I know the reason I was able to do those things is because of God. He is our Loving Heavenly Father, and has sent us to Earth for a reason. Part of that reason is to learn and grow, to become more like Him so that one day we can return to live in His presence. I am trying to learn and grow to become the person He needs me to be. Thank you to all of you who have made this possible, for your love and support and for all those who have been a part of it thus far. I couldn't have done it with out you!

A Believer

Two words " A Believer" have been in my mind a lot lately. We read in the Book of Mormon about all the people who were told that Christ would come and after waiting what seemed forever some started loosing their faith. But as with everything, not everybody lost their faith. There were some who kept the faith knowing that someday HE WOULD COME. Several times I've put myself in their situation. Would I be a believer? Would my faith go dim as so many has?... And most importantly- Am I a believer today? Even though I don't see God and Jesus on a daily basis or just because I have never seen them, Am I "A BELIEVER"? As I've thought about this different responses have come to mind. To me A Believer is more than just believing. It's who you are and is part of your everyday life. A Believer is...

Always

Being

Enlightened...

Living

Intuitively... and

Enduring

Various

Endeavors

Regularly

Even those who did keep the faith went through their fair share of trials; just as we all do in this life. But as we endure the various endeavors a remarkable thing can occur. We can change and grow into the person Heavenly Father knows and wants us to become.

Don't Get Caught

I remember listening to this talk in General Conference and the spirit confirming the truthfulness of the message to my heart. I know these words spoken by Elder M. Russell Ballard are true. I know Satan does not want us to be happy and will do ANYTHING in his power to make us miserable like he is.

 

Here's a few helpful hints to help you NOT get caught in one of his lures... 

• sing a song to make you happy or change your thoughts
• watch a Mormon.org message
• get out of the situation A.S.A.P (As Soon As Possible)
• read the scriptures
• say a prayer

Don't get caught in one of Satan's false lures. You are better than that. Don't fall for the trap

I am His Daughter

I heard this song for the first time the other day and it touched my heart so I thought I would share it with all of you. I know the words of this song are true and we are ALL children of a LOVING Heavenly Father.

the photos in the magazines
don't dictate who i'm supposed to be
the world can't recognize, all that i am inside
but i know in his eyes, i am a part of, the bigger picture,

there's so much more to me
he helps me see that i have so much to offer
i am his daughter
he loves me the way i am,
he's my strength when i stand
he is my king, and my father,
i am his daughter.

the people on the tv screen,
the leaders, rulers, and queens
i watch them shape the world,
and though i'm just a girl, i still know for sure,
that i am a part of, the bigger picture

there's so much more to me
he helps me see that i have so much to offer
i am his daughter
he loves me the way i am,
he's my strength when i stand
he is my king, and my father,
i am his daughter

and when i'm feeling small,
and wondering if i'll ever, find courage to stand tall
through his love i remember

there's so much more to me
he helps me to see that i have so much to offer
i am his daughter
he loves me the way i am
he's my strength when i stand
he is my king, and my father,
i am his daughter

click on the link to listen to the song     http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PKh3wF7DBPk 

Fruits of the Spirit

Galatians 5:22-23 is one of my favorite scriptures that help me better understand how the Holy Ghost or the third member of the Godhead works. We know the Holy Ghost does not have a body of flesh and bone but is a personage of spirit. This is so that he can be felt by more that one person at a time- just like the sun. There is only one sun, but it can be felt by millions of people all over the world at the same time.

Sometimes it's hard to recognize when the Holy Ghost is telling you something but Galatians 5:22-23 tells us that some of the "fruits of the spirit" are:

Love

Joy

Peace

Long Suffering

Gentleness

Goodness

Faith

Meekness

Temperance

The way we can know something is true is by the things it produces. Or its fruits. For example, Noah's "fruit" was the ark, Moses parted the Red Sea freeing his people, and Joseph Smith translated the Book of Mormon.

So we have all these "fruits," but how do we know if they are true? It's just like real fruit. You have to try it, taste it yourself to know if it is something you like. People can tell you that strawberries are good but you won't know until you actually try it yourself. So test it out! If you want to know if something is true or you don't know what choice you should make- try it- taste it and pay attention to the "fruits of the spirit." Just as there are different fruits you can eat, there are different fruits, or different ways the spirit works in our lives.

If you feel love, peace, goodness, or faith while and afterwards then it is a good fruit.

My challenge to you is to go try it, test it out. Read the Book of Mormon. If you already have, read it again and pay attention to the feelings and thoughts you get while you are reading and praying about it. I have done this and I know it is real, and that it works. I know Heavenly Father wants us to succeed and be happy in this life. That is why he has given us the Holy Ghost to testify of truths. 

The 2,000 Stripling Warriors

I love how every time you read the Book of Mormon, regardless of how many times you think you may have read it, something new always stands out. This time reading the story of the 2,000 Stripling Warriors one major thing stood out.

The battles they were up against were defiantly not in their favor. But they didn't let that discourage them, because they remembered the things their mothers had taught them- that if they would not doubt, God would deliver them. (Alma 56:47)

They go into war and Heleman, their commander, in Alma 56:56 says that after the fight is over,

"to my great joy, there had not one soul of them fallen to the earth; yea, and they had fought as if with the strength of God; yea, never were men known to have fought with such miraculous strength..."

They enter into another fight and again they "obey and observe to perform every word of command with exactness; yea, and even according to their faith it was done unto them." and they remembered the things their mothers taught them. (Alma 57:21) Because of this, two hundred out of the two thousand and sixty fainted because of the loss of blood. Heleman says,

"Nevertheless, according to the goodness of God, and to our great astonishment, and also the joy of our whole army, there was not one soul of them who did perish; yea, and neither was there one soul among them who had not received MANY wounds.

    And now, their preservation was astonishing to our whole army, yea, that they should be spared while there was a thousand of our brethren who were slain. And we do justly ascribe it to the miraculous power of God, because of their exceeding faith in that which they had been taught to believe—that there was a just God, and whosoever did not doubt, that they should be preserved by his marvelous power.

    Now this was the faith of these of whom I have spoken; they are young, and their minds are firm, and they do put their trust in God continually." (Alma 57:25-27)

Just because the 2,000 stripling warriors were righteous doesn't meand they were exempt from receiving many wounds. Infact there wansn't one who didn't receive MANY wounds. the sentence "neither was there one soul among them who had not received MANY wounds" stood out to me. Just because we are faithful and are doing the things we know we should be doing doesn't mean we aren't going to receive wounds along this path we call life. We are in a battle and the wounds we do receive are going to only make us straonger and prepare us for bigger wound thats may come later on down the road. I know we have a loving Heavenly Father who is very much aware of us and our needs. I know we will all receive wounds in this life, and we may even "faint" because of them. But just like the stripling warriors we won't receive any wounds we won't be able to handle. The point of this life is to learn and grow so that we can be more like our Heavenly Father and return to live with him again someday.

Happy 4th of July!!!

The 4th of July is just around the corner. How grateful I am for the men and women who have fought for our freedom and are still fighting today. My heart and respect go out to them. Thank you for all you do!

If you can for a minute and think what it would be like not to have the religious freedoms and rights we have today. I can't imagine! As we continue to put our faith and trust in God he will watch over us and provide us with the things we need. God bless America- My Home Sweet Home!!

Come What May And Love It

Most times the saying"Come what may and love it"  is a lot easier said than done. At least for me anyways. Especially in today's world- we want instant results and control over anything and everything possible. I've found that the more power and control I try to have the more I realize there is a higher power. I know there is a God; and that everything good comes from Him. As we turn to him and try our best to follow the example he has given us true happiness can come.

I pass on Elder Worthlins challange, "...the next time you're tempted to graon, try to laugh instead..." and then come what may... and love it!

Finding the Right Tool

The other day Sister Tuckett and I were helping a member of the ward with some simple service. We were asked to take the old license plates off of a car and put new ones on. We were given the tools necessary to accomplish the job and sent outside to do it. After just a few seconds of trying to loosen the screws I realized we didn't have the right size of screw driver to accomplish the job. Being my stubborn self I tried to make it work. After several minutes of miserably failing I finally gave up and realized I couldn't do it. I needed the right tool. After swallowing my pride I finally went in and asked for a different screw driver. When I had the right tool, what should have taken no longer than five minutes ended up taking close to fifteen minutes, the job was done in no time. As we walked back into the house I couldn't help but think how much easier it would have been had I asked for a different tool right when I realized what we had wasn't going to work.  It made me think; how often have I made things harder on myself because I wasn't using the "right tool"

I know we have been given all the right tools in order to be successful in this life. Its up to us whether or not we choose to use them. When we came to earth we were given tools to help us such as; a family, prayer, the Holy Ghost, the Scriptures, and Prophets. Five major tools but not close to all of the ones that are out there. As we go through life it is up to us to choose to use them. To learn the function of each one and how each one can best help us. Some are better for certain tasks. As we get familiar with them the more we learn and realize how they can help us. I hope I can learn from my mistakes. Learn more about the tools I have available at my grasp and take advantage. I know that as I do, the Lord will bless me and will make anything possible.

Degrees

Often times we wonder how things came about.  You wake up one morning and wonder how you found yourself in this situation. Most incidences or changes don't just happen. They happen in a matter of degrees.

Amalickiah wanted to be a king over the Lamanite people. When given the chance to be a leader over a large army he took advantage of the opportunity. He convinced Lehonti that if he would take his army and surround them Lehonti would be their chief commander and he would be second in command. Lehonti agrees and over takes Amalickiah's army.

"And it came to pass that Amalickiah caused that one of his servants should administer posion by degrees to Lehonti, that he died...." Alma 47:18

Just as Amalickiah poisoned Lehonti by degrees Satan too posions us by degrees. We don't just one day wake up and decide to commit a serious crime or sin. It happens a little at a time. Satan first entices us, making us believe if we follow him we will have more, and that things will be better. We become subject to his will one decision at a time until we have no other choice to but to follow him. Or so he wants us to believe.

"Yielding to his [Satan's] temptations leads down a narrower and narrower range of choices until none remains and to addictions that leave us powerless to resist." -Elder D. Todd Christofferson

I've seen this in my life and in others around me and know that it is true. I also know we don't have to let or allow Satan to poison us. By choosing to be aware of things around us and choosing weather to act or not act can make all the difference.

Hold On

My Senior year of High School I needed a quote to go in the yearbook next to my photo. After searching and thinking for a while I came across a quote by Franklin D. Roosevelt that stuck with me.

"When you get to the end of your rope, tie a knot and hold on"

When thought about physically, it sounds impossible. I imagine holding on for dear life, not having enough rope to somehow magically tie a knot and "hold on." Just thinking about it makes me tired!

But when thought about spiritually it brings a whole new meaning. The rope once a burdensome thing I have to hold on to is now my faith and my testimony. When I think I am at the end and there is NO possible way I can go any further some how I am able to tie a knot and "hold on". I've come to realize that is doesn't "magically" or "somehow" just happen. It happens
because Jesus Christ and Heavenly Father are REAL. They know me (and you) and love me (and you). They know how much rope I really have left. They will never let me fall unless I choose to do so. I know the Atonement of Jesus Christ is REAL. He came to earth, paid the price not only for my sins but for yours as well. And because of that, He KNOWS how I feel. He KNOWS what I'm going through. He has felt my worse and has felt my best, and because of Christ and His Atonement we can all return to live with Heavenly Father and our families for eternity if when what seems impossible, exercise faith, tie a knot and hold on.

Be Prepared

I've been thinking a lot about "being prepared" lately. I came across a story in the Book of Mormon that illustrated the importance to me.  Moroni- a great leader and warrior knows his people are going to be attacked. Not only does he prepare himself, but he prepares his people as well. Preparations such as huge amounts of earth moved to build large walls with trenches around the cities were built. When the Lamanite army came to attack them they were taken back by how prepared the Nephites were. In disappointment they left to try another city, only to find the same thing. We read

And thus were the Nephites prepared to destroy all such as should attempt to climb up to enter the fort by any other way, by casting over stones and arrows at them.

Thus they were prepared, yea, a body of their strongest men, with their swords and their slings, to smite down all who should attempt to come into their place of security by the place of enterence and thus were they prepared to defend themselves against the Lamanites. Alma 49:19-20

Because of their preparedness the Lamanite army was not able to overtake them. Not only were they prepared, they were ready to defend themselves against Anything that might attempt to enter their city. It made me think-
How prepared am I? What am I willing to do to prepare my self against the dangers that come into my life? Is my wall high enough? Do I have the nesessarey equipment to fight anything off that may attempt to harm me?

I know blessings come from being prepared. And in the Nephites case being prepared saved their lives.

We have a Moroni on the earth today. His name is President Thomas S. Monson. He is the Prophet of the Church of Jesus Christ of Later-day Saints. He receives direct direction from Heavenly Father that if listened to will prepare you for any and all danger that may attempt to harm you.

Blessings of the Priesthood

The other day I was able to feel of the spirit while listening to a priesthood blessing being given. It made me realize how grateful I am to have to priesthood restored on the earth again and to be able to receive the blessings that come from it. As I got onto facebook that day- just a little while after- I went to mormon.org and saw the mormon message of the priesthood so I thought I would share it.

It is my testimony that we have the priesthood restored back onto the earth in it's fullness today. The same priesthood Jesus Christ gave to his Apostles! How grateful I am to the worthy Priesthood holders who honor the priesthood they hold. That keep themselves clean to be ready and willing to bless those in need. I know the priesthood has been restored for our benefit and if we will have the faith and take advantage of it miracles will happen.

The Lord is My Light

Transfers can be a crazy time for a missionary. Especially when you move areas. The other day I was worrying and stressing about all the things that needed to be done. Things I knew, things I didn't know, things I did know but needed to remember, and things I need to learn. Amiss all things going though my mind the words to a famous Hymn ran through my mind

"The Lord is MY light; then why should I fear? By day and by night his presence IS near. He is my salvation from sorrow and sin; This blessed assurance the Spirit doth bring."

As I starting singing the song in my head, comfort and peace rushed through me. I knew everything thing was going to be okay because I knew one thing. That the Lord is my Light.
    
       The song continues...
  

"The Lord is my light; tho clouds may arise, Faith, stronger than sight, looks up thru the skies where Jesus forever in glory doth reign. Then how can I ever in darkness remain? The Lord is my light; the Lord is my strength. I know in HIS might I’ll conquer at length. My weakness in mercy he covers with pow’r, And, walking by faith, I am blest ev’ry hour. The Lord is my light, my all and in all. There is in his sight no darkness at all. He is my Redeemer, my Savior, and King. With Saints and with angels his praises I’ll sing.

The Lord is my light; He is my joy and my song. By day and by night He leads, He leads me along."

Throughout life, time and time again I have learned that I can not do it all on my own. I'm not supposed to, neither am I expected to. If I will allow Jesus Christ to be my light HE WILL BE. But the choice is up to me. And if he is my light then why should I fear?

Behold, God is my salvation; I will trust, and not be afraid: for the Lord Jehovah is my strength and my song; he also is become my salvation.
Isiah 12:2

Simple Coumpounds

Simple compounds combined together can make something incredible. On their own they might not be able to do much or seem of much worth but when combined together something amazing can occur... 
 I've heard an analogy that stuck with me. Cement is made from simple compounds- cement powder, rocks, sand and water. When these what seem to be simple ingredients are combined something that can withstand and hold an amazing amount of pressure is created. But if the mixture is wrong it can become weak and crumble away. There is also a curing time. When cement is drying the slightest of breeze or touch can cause an indent or a mark that will dry and cure to be seen for all of its existence.

  Our testimony and faith can be compared to cement. When what seems to be simple compounds such as prayer, scripture study and church attendance are combined something great that can withstand a tremendous amount of pressure and weight is created.  What our faith and testimony is built on must be strong, able to withstand whatever may come our way.  While it is curing what we let influence us also matters.
Just as the tape imprinted into this picture of cement, trials and hard times will come and may leave an imprint but this doesn't mean they have to make up who we are. By putting our faith and trust in Jesus Christ all things are possible.
 

Guardians of Virtue

Sister Giang and I were able to go to the Young Women broadcast this year. It was amazing and I loved the song they sang so I wanted to share it.

We were born to come forth in these days.
We are called to follow in His ways.

We will choose to answer because we know the truth.
We will be examples in your youth.
We are Guardians of virtue, we stand for what is right.
We are beacons of His love pointing others to His light.
Walking in the paths of holiness, we seek the temples peace.
And become who He wants us to be

We find joy in living what we know.
Righteous choices help our faith to grow.
As daughters of God we'll serve our Heavenly King with confidence in beauty from within
We are guardians of virtue, we stand for what is right.
We are beacons of His love pointing others to His light.
Walking in the paths of holiness, we seek the temples peace.
And become who He wants us to be

Through virtue we find the power divine that can change the world!
We are guardians of virtue, we stand for what is right.
We are beacons of His love pointing others to His light.
Walking in the paths of holiness, we seek the temples peace.
And become who He wants us to be
And become who He wants us to be

I know these words are true. I know great power and strength comes from being a guardian of virtue until we become who He wants us to be.

I Dare You

I can't believe General Conference will be here in 7 days! Did you know there is an amazing promise that comes with it? I remember one year in Seminary our teacher asked us to think of a question we wanted answered. It could be something that was weighing on our minds, something we need help with- anything that pertained spiritually. He said that if we would pray about it and watch General Conference we would find our answer. So I took his challenge and put it to the test. I don't remember the exact question I asked but I do remember getting an answer.
So I invite you to think and pray about some questions that have been on your mind. Then to watch General Conference and listen. I know that as you do this your answer will come. It may not be the answer you want, but it will come. I know we have a Prophet, Apostles and church auxiliary that have been called by God. The reason we have them is because we have a Heavenly Father who is very mindful of his children and wants us to succeed in life. If we will take this opportunity to listen to them they will have the answers we are looking for. So write down some questions, watch and listen. I dare you

Conference will be held on
Saturday April 2- 10am-12pm and 2-4pm
Sunday April 3- 10am-12pm and 2-4pm

Be Faithful to Him

While in the MTC I decided I would read the Book of Mormon again. In doing so I found one of my favorite scriptures that comes to mind quite frequently. Nephi and his family are in the wilderness because they listened to their father Lehi, who is a prophet whom the Lord told to leave Jerusalem because it was going to be destroyed. While in the wilderness Nephi's brothers Laman and Lemuel get angry with him because he is on his fathers side. In one of Nephi's "rebukings" he tells his brothers,

"Yeah, and how is it that ye have forgotten that the Lord is able to do ALL things according to his will, for the children of men, if it so be that they exercise faith in him? Wherefore, let us be faithful to him." (1 Nephi 7:12)

  I love Nephi's response. He is put in so many situations where he could choose to be angry like Laman and Lemuel but he CHOOSES to have faith. Life (and being on a mission) gives you many situations where you can be angry, sad, frustrated, etc. But when you choose to look at it in a bigger picture and realize what Nephi is saying is true.  I know if it is according to Heavenly Fathers will he WILL provide a way if we do the things he has asked us to do. Even though we may not see how it is going to work out, by putting our faith in him and taking a couple steps in the dark he will light up the path.

Two Knocks

One of my favorite parts of missionary work is tracting. One apparent thing I have learned is that most people don't answer the first time we knock. It usually takes two. Why is this? As I have pondered for some reasoning behind this, something hit me. How often is the Savior knocking on my door and I'm not answering? How may times will it take to get my attention? Am I going to get off the couch and get my body in action? He's not going to stand out there forever. The decision is mine.
  The message we share is of great value and importance, just like the message Jesus is trying and wanting to share in this picture.  There is no handle for Him to "just walk in." There has to be effort on my part to simply walk over and open the door. It's amazing to feel the love, peace, comfort and support that comes immediately by simply choosing opening the door. So I re-dedicate myself and challenge you- Answer the door on the first knock. I know that as we do, so may blessing await. Answers to questions, a glimpse of light at the end of the tunnel, and that extra dose of faith we need to make it through the day will come. Remember: You are never alone. Christ is always on the other side of the door waiting with out stretch arms.

Patience

We may not be 4 years old but I know that this experiment applies to us all. Only 30% of the children were able to wait to see their reward double. I find this to be like Heavenly Father. What may seem like a life time to a child (15 minutes), may feel like seconds to a parent taking a "time out." How many times Heavenly Father has said, "wait 15 minutes and your reward will double!" but we can't wait that long. We think we know what is best. Not knowing/remembering we can't see the whole picture like Heavenly Father can.

"What started as a simple experiment with children and marshmallows became a landmark study suggesting that the ability to wait—to be patient—was a key character trait that might predict later success in life."

This saying stuck with me the first time I saw this video. Everyone wants to be successful in life. And a servant of the Lord has told us how we can achieve this. Be patient!!  Believe me, I know this is not easy. But I also know that Heavenly Father isn't going to give us anything we cannot handle.

"And it came to pass that I, Nephi, said unto my father: I will go and do the things which the Lord hath commanded, for I know that the Lord giveth no commandments unto the children of men, save he shall prepare a way for them that they may accomplish the thing which he commandeth them." 1 Nephi 3:7 

I know we have a Loving Heavenly Father who wants us to succeed. And we can do this by following President Uchtdorf's advice by keeping the commandments, trusting God- serving Him, having faith and hope in Him and NEVER give up.

Slippery Roads

A couple weeks ago I learned a very valuable lesson... The once snow packed roads had just turned into ice packed roads. Sister Buchanan and I were driving down the road when all of a sudden our truck started to fishtail. By the time we were done sliding we had done a complete180 degree turn. We were on the other side of the road facing the direction we had just come.After a few wide eyed looks, big breaths, and a "thank you!" to Heavenly Father we took off again. We had only gone a block down the road when we started sliding and completed another 180 degree turn! All I could think is "what is going on! and get me out of this truck!"  That night we got a couple inches of fresh snow. I was excited- thinking it would help give some traction. We were walking down the street and all of a sudden the next thing I knew I was on my back laying in the cold wet snow. The roads were wet and icy with a layer of snow on them which made it very dangerous. I found I couldn't see what was underneath me to tell me where to walk. Needless to say I fell a couple times that day. By the time I was laying in bed that night my body ached as I thought about what had taken place over the last couple days. The snow covered the slippery ice so you couldn't tell where it was safe to walk... Just like Satan covers things that are harmful, making them look okay and not that bad. When really what is underneath is INEVITABLE to MAKE you fall. Not just slip with a few close calls but laying in the cold snow with the wind knocked out of you wondering, "What just happened!" When we don't fix those falls right away we end up on the other side of the road facing the direction we just came. Feeling either scared, abandoned, angry or frustrated.
   I know we have a loving Heavenly Father who has provided a perfect path to follow. Doesn't mean there won't be times we slip and fall, but that we get up, brush ourselves off and learn from the past.

Look Not Behind Thee

             I love this video! I love how a man points out that Lot's wife wasn't able to look a head and put her trust in Heavenly Father; that something better was coming. How often I don't see what Heavenly Father can see. But as I put my faith and trust in Him something better always comes. Everyday is in fact the first day of the rest of your life!!!

I Know That My Redeemer Lives

I remember singing the Hymn "I Know That My Redeemer Lives" one Sunday in church, and it hit me like a ton of bricks- all the reasons my Redeemer Lives. Tears filled my eyes as I sang and recognized the abundant blessings, love and comfort that He lives to freely give me.  The reasons for His life seemed to be never ending and the spirit touched my heart letting me know I have a Savior who loves me, knows me, is aware of my needs and fulfills those needs. 
He lives to....

1-Bless me with His love

2- Plead for me above

3- Feed my hungry soul

4- Bless in time of need

5- Grant me rich supply

6- Guide me with His eye

7- Comfort me when faint

8- Hear my soul's complaint

9- Silence ALL my fears

10- Wipe away my tears

11- Calm my troubled heart

12- All blessings to impart

13- Be a kind, wise Heavenly friend

14- Love me to the end

15- Be my Prophet

16- Be my Priest

17- Be my King

19- Conquer death

20-Prepare my mansion above

21- Bring me safely home

This is why He lives. Because He loves us!  I know He not only lives for me, but He knows and lives for you too
"Oh sweet the joy this sentence gives! I know that my Redeemer lives!!!"