Blessings That Come From Living the Gospel of Jesus Christ

When Jesus Christ was living upon the earth He taught His gospel through sermons, parables, and by his unfailing example. He taught in such a way that people from all walks of life could find understanding in his message. He ordained apostles, used the power of the priesthood to work miracles, and taught things that we should and should not do.

Such is His gospel today.

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, the name by which the Lord said His Church should be called in the last days (D&C 115:4), is a restoration of His earlier church: complete with prophets, apostles, ordinances, priesthood power, thou shalts, and thou shalt nots.

I think it is sometimes easy to get caught up in the list of many things that are asked of us as members of the Lord’s church. But it seems that those who truly take that next step in their conversion process find a joy truly unknown by others. President Uchtdorf said,

“Sometimes, in the routine of our lives, we unintentionally overlook a vital aspect of the gospel of Jesus Christ…In our diligent efforts to fulfill all of the duties and obligations we take on as members of the Church, we sometimes see the gospel as a long list of tasks that we must add to our already impossibly long to-do list, as a block of time that we must somehow fit into our busy schedules. We focus on what the Lord wants us to do and how we might do it, but we sometimes forget why….

“[T]he gospel of Jesus Christ is not an obligation; it is a pathway, marked by our loving Father in Heaven, leading to happiness and peace in this life and glory and inexpressible fulfillment in the life to come. The gospel is a light that penetrates mortality and illuminates the way before us.

"While understanding the ‘what’ and the ‘how’ of the gospel is necessary, the eternal fire and majesty of the gospel springs from the ‘why’” (link to talk).

Jean A. Stevens also stated,

“The gospel of Jesus Christ is not a checklist of things to do; rather, it lives in our hearts. The gospel is not weight; it is wings.” (link to talk)

How do we make the transition from checking off our daily, weekly, monthly to-do list to becoming truly converted to the majesty and the why of the gospel of Jesus Christ? I think that by understanding more completely the gospel of Jesus Christ, and the blessings that await the faithful, we can gain the faith to move forward along the strait and narrow path of discovering why.

President Uchtdorf continues,

"When we understand why our Heavenly Father has given us this pattern for living, when we remember why we committed to making it a foundational part of our lives, the gospel ceases to become a burden and, instead, becomes a joy and a delight. It becomes precious and sweet.

“Let us not walk the path of discipleship with our eyes on the ground, thinking only of the tasks and obligations before us. Let us not walk unaware of the beauty of the glorious earthly and spiritual landscapes that surround us….

“[S]eek out the majesty, the beauty, and the exhilarating joy of the “why” of the gospel of Jesus Christ” (link to talk).

Seeking out the “why” of the gospel does not come without preparation and effort. Like the oil in the lamps of the ten virgins (Matthew 25:1-13) it is not something that can be shared or taught. It must be learned. It takes time, and a concerted, diligent effort. It takes wanting to do what the Lord wants us to do and wanting to become who He wants us to become above all else.

President Ezra Taft Benson tells us the blessings we can receive as we give our all to the Lord.

“[M]en and women who turn their lives over to God will find out that he can make a lot more out of their lives than they can. He will deepen their joys, expand their vision, quicken their minds, strengthen their muscles, lift their spirits, multiply their blessings, increase their opportunities, comfort their souls, raise up friends, and pour out peace. Whoever will lose his life to God will find he has eternal life.” (link to article)

The Lord has blessed us with so much, and will continue to bless us so long as we are faithful and obedient. In the Doctrine & Covenants we read,

“For of him unto whom much is given much is required;” (D&C 82:3)

It is only right that those who have received so much from the Lord are also required to give. I also believe that when much is required and much is achieved greater blessings than can be imagined begin to flow forth.

One of the many blessings we have received in this life is our knowledge of Jesus Christ. As we seek to learn more about our Savior we will find Him in the scriptures. We will see consistency in His examples and teachings. We will see the love and mercy He extended to all those who sought Him out. We see that those who trusted in His words received the promised blessings. It is when we trust in those promised blessings of the gospel that we can begin to move forward in faith. And, despite our circumstances, the short-term results, or patiently waiting, we can know that we are being blessed as we come to discover the why of His gospel.

One of the first principles of the gospel is “Faith in the Lord Jesus Christ” (Article of Faith #4). Faith is continuing to move forward, believing Jesus Christ, and living the gospel when things are going well or when our world seems to be falling apart around us. As we look to the Lord we can find hope for the future, strength to move on, comfort, understanding, blessings to be grateful for, forgiveness, and “the peace of God, which passeth all understanding” (Phillipians 4:7).

Prayer

One of the many ways the Lord has allowed us to come to Him, increase our faith in Jesus Christ, and find promised blessings is through prayer.

Elder Scott says this about prayer.

“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. Actually, because He knows how desperately we need His guidance, He commands, 'Thou shalt pray vocally as well as in thy heart; yea, before the world as well as in secret, in public as well as in private.'

“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.” (link to talk)

Elder J. Devn Cornish shared an experience where a seemingly “small” prayer was answered. He then continues,

“In His mercy, the God of heaven, the Creator and Ruler of all things everywhere, had heard a prayer about a very minor thing. One might well ask why He would concern Himself with something so small. I am led to believe that our Heavenly Father loves us so much that the things that are important to us become important to Him, just because He loves us. How much more would He want to help us with the big things that we ask, which are right?

“Little children, young people, and adults alike, please believe how very much your loving Heavenly Father wants to bless you. But because He will not infringe upon our agency, we must ask for His help. This is generally done through prayer. Prayer is one of the most precious gifts of God to man.” (link to talk)

Throughout my own life I have witnessed more examples than I can count of the power of prayer. These range from small, insignificant requests, to heartfelt pleadings. Looking back, I can see how the Lord has answered my prayers – not always as I wanted, or imagined, but they were answered. In the words of the singer Garth Brooks, “Sometimes I thank God for unanswered prayers.” And for those unanswered prayers I continue to trust in my Heavenly Father, and my Savior Jesus Christ, because I know the time of their fulfillment will come.

Scriptures

Another tool that our merciful Lord has blessed us with in our attempt to come closer to Him, develop our faith, and discover the why of His gospel, is access to His word. In our day we have the scriptures and the words of the living prophet and apostles so readily available to us. As Elder Richard G. Scott stated,

“Who could have imagined not very many years ago that the full standard works and years of general conference messages would fit into your pocket? Just having them in your pocket will not protect you, but studying, pondering, and listening to them during quiet moments of each day will enhance communication through the Spirit.” (link to talk)

As we search these inspire words our understanding will increase and our testimonies will grow. We will come to know our Savior more deeply than we ever have before.

There are many blessings that come from immersing ourselves in the scriptures. However, we must not forget that these scriptures came with great sacrifice. President Ezra Taft Benson reminds us of their immeasurable value when he said,

“[L]et us not treat lightly the great things we have received from the hand of the Lord! His word is one of the most valuable gifts He has given us. I urge you to recommit yourselves to a study of the scriptures. Immerse yourselves in them daily so you will have the power of the Spirit…” (link to talk)

The power that comes from holding fast to the word of God is also described by Nephi, as he interprets the dream that his father saw about the Tree of Life.

“And [my brothers] said unto me: What meaneth the rod of iron which our father saw, that led to the tree?

“And I said unto them that it was the word of God; and whoso would hearken unto the word of God, and would hold fast unto it, they would never perish; neither could the temptations and the fiery darts of the adversary overpower them unto blindness, to lead them away to destruction” (1 Nephi 15:23-24).

What greater protection can we ask for in this day and age of temptation and blatant wickedness? By studying the words of the Lord we can be protected from temptation and the fiery darts of the adversary.

Later, the words of Nephi again tell us the promises we can receive from searching the word of God.

“Wherefore, if ye shall press forward, feasting upon the word of Christ, and endure to the end, behold, thus saith the Father: Ye shall have eternal life” (2 Nephi 31:20).

Elder Jay E. Jenson counsels us to remember the promises that can be found in the scriptures. He lists Promises of Power, which include power to: overcome evil, live righteously, teach convincingly, call down the powers of heaven, and to change the heart and disposition. He also lists Promises of Increase, which include increase in: hope and joy, spirituality, knowledge and understanding, power of discernment, and testimony. (link to talk)

How greatly we have been blessed to have a knowledge of the blessings and promises the Lord has made available to us through our faith and obedience!

Tithing

Another blessing of the gospel of Jesus Christ is the law of tithing. Why is this a blessing and not a burden? Aren’t we just giving 10 per cent of our income away? How can it be considered a blessing?

Breanna Olaveson, in the Ensign magazine, says this about tithing.

“In a world where many people place great value on wealth, willingly giving a tenth of your income may seem strange. Many may even argue that no one can afford such a sacrifice. But obedience to the Lord’s commandments always brings blessings. As Elder Dallin H. Oaks of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles said, ‘Those who place their faith in the Lord’s promises say, "I can’t afford not to pay tithing."

“Even in financially difficult situations, the Lord’s promises remain unchanged. When Church members faithfully pay their tithing, He will ‘open … the windows of heaven, and pour … out a blessing, that there shall not be room enough to receive it’” (link to article).

She then follows with several examples of ‘modern day miracles’ from paying tithing.

The law of tithing is one of those very defined requirements with a very defined blessing. As we pay our tithing the windows of heaven will be opened. Although we can’t dictate what those windows will bring, we know that they are opened by our all-loving Father in Heaven who “doeth not anything save it be for the benefit of the world” (2 Nephi 26:24).

President Howard W. Hunter lists the following blessings that come from paying our tithing,

“The principle of tithing should be more than a mathematical, mechanical compliance with the law. … If we pay our tithes because of our love for the Lord, in complete freedom and faith, we narrow our distance from Him and our relationship to Him becomes intimate. We are released from the bondage of legalism, and we are touched by the Spirit and feel a oneness with God.

“The payment of tithing strengthens faith, increases spirituality and spiritual capacity, and solidifies testimony. It gives the satisfaction of knowing one is complying with the will of the Lord. It brings the blessings that come from sharing with others through the purposes for which tithing is used…. A testimony of the law of tithing comes from living it. Like all other of God’s laws, when we live them we receive the blessings.” (link to talk)

Temple

Another blessing of the gospel of Jesus Christ is the temple. The temple is a sacred, holy edifice; a refuge from the outside world. A dedicated temple is literally the house of God on the earth.

President Monson lists some of the blessings we receive as we attend the temple.

“As we go to the holy house, as we remember the covenants we make therein, we will be able to bear every trial and overcome each temptation. The temple provides purpose for our lives. It brings peace to our souls—not the peace provided by men but the peace promised by the Son of God when He said, ‘Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid’” (link to article).

President Boyd K. Packer said,

"Temples are the very center of the spiritual strength of the Church. We should expect that the adversary will try to interfere with us as a Church and with us individually as we seek to participate in this sacred and inspired work. Temple work brings so much resistance because it is the source of so much spiritual power to the Latter-day Saints and to the entire Church.” (link to talk)

Great spiritual power, peace to our souls, understanding; these are blessings that come from God as we attend the temple. As the power of God increases in our lives the influence of the adversary will decrease. It is the same with the world. President Packer continues,

“At the Logan Utah Temple cornerstone dedication, President George Q. Cannon, then of the First Presidency, made this statement:

“'Every foundation stone that is laid for a Temple, and every Temple completed according to the order the Lord has revealed for his holy Priesthood, lessens the power of Satan on the earth, and increases the power of God and Godliness, moves the heavens in mighty power in our behalf, invokes and calls down upon us the blessings of the Eternal Gods, and those who reside in their presence.'” (link to talk)

We can find peace, safety, and a refuge to our souls as we enter the temple. With the world becoming more and more wicked, it is even more critical that we come to the temple often to renew our spirits. This need was expressed in the words of Elder Quentin L. Cook when he said,

“I have felt an urgency to counsel each of us to seek the higher ground—the refuge and eternal protection of the temple” (link to talk).

Another blessing of the temple is finding answers. President Boyd K. Packer said,

“When members of the Church are troubled or when crucial decisions weigh heavily upon their minds, it is a common thing for them to go to the temple. It is a good place to take our cares. In the temple we can receive spiritual perspective. There, during the time of the temple service, we are ‘out of the world.’

“Sometimes our minds are so beset with problems, and there are so many things clamoring for attention at once that we just cannot think clearly and see clearly. At the temple the dust of distraction seems to settle out, the fog and the haze seem to lift, and we can ‘see’ things that we were not able to see before and find a way through our troubles that we had not previously known.

“The Lord will bless us as we attend to the sacred ordinance work of the temples. Blessings there will not be limited to our temple service. We will be blessed in all of our affairs” (link to talk).

In my own life I have felt the blessings of the temple on numerous occasions, but I want to share what I learned on one day in particular. My mind had been weighed down for a time, and I felt like I was not finding answers or the right way to go. I felt mentally overwhelmed by many different ideas going back and forth, and was not feeling any clear direction. I decided to go to the temple. I remember so distinctly as I walked through the doors the chaos and noise in my mind cleared instantly. What a wonderful peace I felt while there that stayed even after I left.

What a blessing it is to have the temples on the earth. What a blessing to have a place where we can find peace, escape from the storms of life, and commune with our Maker.

What a blessing to have the gospel of Jesus Christ in our lives. How grateful I am for a wonderful, loving, Father in Heaven who prepared the way for us to communicate with Him, grow closer to Him, and return to live with Him someday. As we focus on living the gospel with our whole hearts, and turning our lives over to the Lord, we will be able to discover the why of the gospel. The Lord has defined the pathway. We just need to take the next step in our own journey toward a deeper conversion.

Life is a Gift

A lot of thought went into the planning and creation of this world, and everything on it, including us. We know that the Lord “doth counsel in wisdom over all his works.” (Alma 37:12). In Moses we learn that everything was created in spirit before it was placed on the earth.

“For I, the Lord God, created all things, of which I have spoken, spiritually, before they were naturally upon the face of the earth.…And I, the Lord God, had created all the children of men; and not yet a man to till the ground; for in heaven created I them; and there was not yet flesh upon the earth, neither in the water, neither in the air” (Moses 3:5)

Elder Russel M. Nelson states,

“We are dual beings. Each soul is comprised of body and spirit, both of which emanate from God….Your body, whatever its natural gifts, is a magnificent creation of God. It is a tabernacle of flesh—a temple for your spirit.” (link to talk).

If we look at the intricacies of the human body it is absolutely astounding. Elder Nelson spoke of the wonders of our bodies when he said,

“My professional years as a medical doctor gave me a profound respect for the human body. Created by God as a gift to you, it is absolutely amazing! Think of your eyes that see, ears that hear, and fingers that feel all the wondrous things around you. Your brain lets you learn, think, and reason. Your heart pumps tirelessly day and night, almost without your awareness.

“Your body protects itself. Pain comes as a warning that something is wrong and needs attention. Infectious illnesses strike from time to time, and when they do, antibodies are formed that increase your resistence to subsequent infection.

“Your body repairs itself. Cuts and bruises heal. Broken bones can become strong once again. I have cited but a tiny sample of the many amazing God-given qualities of your body.” (link to talk)

Our bodies are able to do incredible things because of how they were created. Our bodies, and sprits, are also incredibly capable because we are children of a Father in Heaven with the capacity to become like Him.

“All human beings—male and female—are created in the image of God. Each is a beloved spirit son or daughter of heavenly parents, and, as such, each has a divine nature and destiny” (link to “The Family: A Proclamation to the World”).

Before we came to earth we lived with our Father in Heaven. He is a glorified, resurrected being, with a “body of flesh and bones as tangible as man’s” (Doctrine & Covenants 130:22). We saw Him, talked with Him, and wanted to become like Him. Our Father in Heaven proposed a plan where we would receive a body and come down to earth. We would then learn, through our own experience, how to become like Him. We “shouted for joy” (Job 38:7) at this opportunity.

As part of our Father’s plan it was not intended that we would be left to wander alone and directionless on the earth. The Lord provided a plan for us, and a way for us to follow. We would have His words including the scriptures, words of the living prophet, and personal revelation. We would have the ability to pray to Him, and come to know His will for us. After we were baptized, and confirmed a member of His Church we would have the opportunity for the continuing guidance of the Holy Ghost in our lives.

We would be human, and it was known that we would sin and come far short of perfection. Because of the fall of Adam we would become fallen beings, making it impossible to return back to our Father. Through His infinite foreknowledge, and love for us, the way was provided for us to return to Him. It is through, and only through, the Atonement of Jesus Christ that we can return to live with our Father in Heaven again.

Jesus Christ our literal spirit brother was “Chosen from the beginning” (Moses 4:2) to come down and atone for our sins. We would have the ability to choose for ourselves to accept or reject His Atonement while in this life. There would be many who would, but many who would not, choose to follow our Father’s plan while on this earth. But it would be our choosing.

Elder ElRay L. Christiansen states,

“When the great council was held in heaven, in which all of us were involved, the Father presented his plan for peopling the earth, and for the salvation of man. Lucifer wanted to amend the plan. He proposed to destroy the agency of man and to save all mankind, that not one soul would be lost. This he would accomplish through outright force and coercion, denying all persons the right of choice.

“Satan’s proposal of compulsion was rejected by the Father, and Lucifer ‘was angry, and kept not his first estate; and, … many followed after him.’…

“The Father’s plan, accepted by Jehovah, provided man the right of choice, that through its exercise he might become strong and advance in learning, wisdom, and righteousness by conquering weaknesses and by resisting the temptations to do wrong.” (link to talk)

Satan does not, and never will, have a physical body. I think that is why many of his temptations seem to focus primarily on the physical body. His plan, however, is the same – to oppose the Lord’s plan. Slowly and subtly he uses his time-tested methods to cheat the souls of men and “[lead] them away carefully down to hell” (2 Nephi 28:21). But we need not feel deceived nor powerless against him.

Elder David A. Bednar says this about the physical body.

“Because a physical body is so central to the Father’s plan of happiness and our spiritual development, we should not be surprised that Lucifer seeks to frustrate our progression by tempting us to use our bodies improperly. One of the ultimate ironies of eternity is that the adversary, who is miserable precisely because he has no physical body, invites and entices us to share in his misery through the improper use of our bodies. The very tool he does not have and cannot use is thus the primary target of his attempts to lure us to physical and spiritual destruction.

“The adversary attempts to influence us both to misuse our physical bodies and to minimize the importance of our bodies….

“[But] according to your faithfulness and diligence, you will have the power to discern the deception and repel the attacks of the adversary as he tempts you to misuse your physical body.”  (link to article)

Joseph Smith said,

 “We came to this earth that we might have a body and present it pure before God in the celestial kingdom. The great principle of happiness consists in having a body. The devil has no body, and herein is his punishment. He is pleased when he can obtain the tabernacle of man, and when cast out by the Savior he asked to go into the herd of swine, showing that he would prefer a swine’s body to having none. All beings who have bodies have power over those who have not. …

“The devil has no power over us only as we permit him; the moment we revolt at anything which comes from God, the devil takes power.” (Teachings of Presidents of the Church: Joseph Smith (2007), 211, 214.) (as quoted by Elder Bednar: link to talk)

Our physical and spiritual bodies are very closely tied together. It is important that we take care of them; we will have them for a very long time. The state of our physical body can have a significant effect on the state of our spirit. Elder Richard G. Scott counseled,

“[S]piritual communication can be enhanced by good health practices. Exercise, reasonable amounts of sleep, and good eating habits increase our capacity to receive and understand revelation. We will live for our appointed life span. However, we can improve both the quality of our service and our well-being by making careful, appropriate choices.” (link to talk)

Care for our physical body includes rest, exercise, and good nutrition. It is important to take care of ourselves that we may have the ability to use our bodies throughout our lives, and not be limited by our poor choices. Each of us has physical limitations that we also need to be mindful of. I know from experience that I am not at my best (usually grouchy and quick to anger) if I don’t get enough sleep, or if I’m not eating right. It seems to be the small, seemingly insignificant, things can add up to be much bigger than we had planned.

Thankfully, the Lord has given us instructions in his scriptures to direct us in our quest.

“[R]etire to thy bed early, that ye may not be weary; arise early, that your bodies and your minds may be invigorated.” (Doctrine & Covenants 88:124)

“Do not run faster or labor more than you have strength” (Doctrine & Covenants 10:4)

We have also been given the Lord’s law of health, known as The Word of Wisdom (see also Doctrine & Covenants 89), which gives us specific instructions on how to care for our bodies.

“On February 27, 1833…the Lord revealed which foods are good for us to eat and which substances are not good for the human body. He also promised health, protection, knowledge, and wisdom to those who obey the Word of Wisdom.” (link to article)

Caring for our physical body also includes caring for our minds.

“[S]eek ye out of the best books words of wisdom; seek learning, even by study and also by faith. (Doctrine & Covenants 88:118)

Our mind and our spirit need to be strengthened in order to help control our body. President Boyd K. Packer states, “Your body really is the instrument of your mind and the foundation of your character” (link to talk). Our mind is in control to choose the path we will take, as shown by our actions. Or, as Elder Neal A. Maxwell more eloquently states,

“Therefore, what we insistently desire, over time, is what we will eventually become and what we will receive in eternity.” (link to talk)

In the booklet For the Strength of Youth it summarizes what we can do to care for our body, and protect it from harm.

“Your body is a temple, a gift from God. You will be blessed as you care for your body. Choose to obey the Word of Wisdom. When you are obedient to this law, you remain free from harmful addictions and have control over your life. You gain the blessings of a healthy body, an alert mind, and the guidance of the Holy Ghost. You will be prepared to serve the Lord.” (link to article)

The Lord always keeps his promises. As we choose to obey the Word of Wisdom, we will receive the promised blessings. I love how President Boyd K. Packer explains the importance of obeying the Word of Wisdom, and the blessings that pertain to it.

“The Word of Wisdom does not promise you perfect health, but it teaches how to keep the body you were born with in the best condition and your mind alert to delicate spiritual promptings.

“I remember a blessing I received when I was serving in the military. It included counsel that’s good for every…person: ‘You have been given a body of such physical proportions and fitness as to enable your spirit to function through it. … You should cherish this as a great heritage. Guard [it] and protect it. Take nothing into it that shall harm the organs thereof because it is sacred. It is the instrument of your mind and [the] foundation of your character.’ That counsel had great influence on me.

“The promise of health for living the standard of the revelation is not limited to members of the Church. Tell your nonmember friends about the Word of Wisdom and urge them to live it.

“And then there is a greater blessing promised in the Word of Wisdom. Those who obey it are promised that they ‘shall find wisdom and great treasures of knowledge, even hidden treasures’ (Doctrine & Covenants 89:19). This is the personal revelation through which you can detect invisible crocodiles or hidden mines or other dangers.” (link to talk)

Obeying the Word of Wisdom is one of the ways that we can be protected from the power of the adversary. Another way is by keeping our bodies, and our minds, clean and pure.

President Marion G. Romney declared:

“I can think of no blessings to be more fervently desired than those promised to the pure and the virtuous. Jesus spoke of specific rewards for different virtues but reserved the greatest, so it seems to me, for the pure in heart, ‘for they,’ said he, ‘shall see God’. And not only shall they see the Lord, but they shall feel at home in his presence.

“Here is … the Savior’s promise: ‘Let virtue garnish thy thoughts unceasingly; then shall thy confidence wax strong in the presence of God’” (link to talk) 

Elder David A. Bednar adds,

“We also are promised that, as we pursue the pathway of virtue, “the Holy Ghost shall be [our] constant companion.” (link to talk)

We learn from the apostle Paul that our body is a temple where the spirit of God can dwell (1 Corinthians 3:16). Temples are a sacred place where we can make covenants, feel the spirit of the Lord, and worship Him (see also: Temples). As we keep our bodies clean we can feel the Spirit in our lives. In the Book of Mormon we learn that the Lord cannot dwell in unholy places, but dwells in the hearts of the righteous (Alma 34:36). It is critical that we care for our body as a holy and sacred edifice so the Spirit can dwell therein.

Elder N. Eldon Tanner said,

“Joseph Smith through revelation taught a new concept of the human body as the tabernacle of the spirit. A man’s body is sacred and is not to be violated. Any willful impairment is an affront to God, and therefore care of the body is of spiritual significance.” (link to talk)

As we take care of our bodies, our spirits can be greatly blessed. As we chose to nourish our spirit our faith and testimony will grow. We can come to know for ourselves that we are truly children of a Father in Heaven who knows us and loves us.

In the book of Moses we read about how Moses speaks with God “face to face” and God calls him “my son” (Moses 1:2-4). Moses sees the wonders and glories of God’s majesty. After the spirit of the Lord withdraws Moses is approached by Satan and immediately recognizes the difference between God’s glory, and the lack thereof with the adversary.

“And it came to pass that when Moses had said these words, behold, Satan came tempting him, saying: Moses, son of man, worship me.

“And it came to pass that Moses looked upon Satan and said: Who art thou? For behold, I am a son of God, in the similitude of his Only Begotten; and where is thy glory, that I should worship thee?

“For behold, I could not look upon God, except his glory should come upon me, and I were transfigured before him. But I can look upon thee in the natural man.” (Moses 1:12-14)

Moses came to know that he was a child of God and, through that knowledge, was able to withstand the attacks of the adversary. Sister Susan W. Tanner states,

“Moses learned who he was through a powerful spiritual experience. He talked with God face-to-face and learned that he was God’s son, with a special mission to perform. After having this experience, Moses was then buffeted by Satan. But because Moses had felt of God’s glory, he recognized that Satan did not have any glory. Because Moses knew that he was God’s son and that God had a mission for him, he had the power and ability to resist Satan, to make righteous judgments, to call upon God for strength, and to continue to have His Spirit to be with him.” (link to talk)

The same is true for us. As we come to truly know and understand that we really are children of God and that he loves us, we can be strengthened in our trials. As we are obedient to his direction we can be blessed with the guidance of the Holy Ghost. We will find comfort and peace through the whisperings and tenderness of the Comforter. We can access the power to change through the Atonement of Jesus Christ. As we strengthen our physical and spiritual bodies to work in unison we can be an instrument in the hands of God and fulfill our purposes for being here on this earth.

Life is truly a gift from the Lord. How grateful I am for each new day and the opportunities that await.

Being Grateful for Trials

Bishop Dean M. Davies, of the Presiding Bishopric, was at a devotional with LDS cadets at the U.S. Air Force Academy. Instead of a formal talk, time was given for the cadets to ask questions. One of the questions was, “does the Lord give us challenges that are intended to impede our progress?” (Dean M. Davies, "Heavenly Help for Our Mortal Journey", Ensign, July 2014). I think that sometimes as we face challenges we may wonder where the Lord is, because they may feel too hard to bear.

When I was about 12 years old we were living in Venezuela. One evening I remember being really excited for our Young Women’s activity: a daddy-daughter date. When my dad came home from work I remember being dressed and ready, standing in the kitchen. It was then that he told me the activity had been canceled. My friend’s dad had been killed.

What I remember is that her dad was a businessman, and had been taking a suitcase of money to the bank after work. When he got there, two men opened the car door and demanded the money. When he refused, they shot him in the leg, took the suitcase and ran. He died that day, leaving behind his wife and 7 young children.

Elder Harold G. Hillam, of the Presidency of the Seventy, related it this way,

“[I had] an interview …with a handsome zone leader in the Brazil São Paulo Interlagos Mission. I said to the missionary, ‘Tell me about your family.’ He then relayed the following. He was born into a wealthy family. His father had a responsible position in a multinational corporation. They moved from Brazil to Venezuela. He was one of seven children, all members of the Church.

“When the missionary was fifteen years old, his father was shot and killed by a fleeing thief. In a family council it was decided to return to Brazil and invest their savings in the purchase of a small home. A year and a half later, the mother informed the children that she had been diagnosed with cancer. The family used valuable savings to help pay the medical expenses—but to no avail. Six months later the mother passed away, leaving the young family alone.” (Harold G. Hillam, "Sacrifice in the Service", Ensign, November 1995)

This happened over 25 years ago, and it is still something that is hard for me to fully understand. I sometimes wonder why they had to face this trial, and how their life might have been different without this sorrow. President Uchtdorf said,

“Sooner or later, I believe that all of us experience times when the very fabric of our world tears at the seams, leaving us feeling alone, frustrated, and adrift.

“It can happen to anyone. No one is immune.” (Dieter F. Uchtdorf, "Grateful in Any Circumstances, Ensign, May 2014)

Have any of you ever felt that way? That your life is completely falling apart around you? How does one find the strength to move on, trust the Lord, and endure?

I want to talk about the story of Job, from the Old Testament. Job had to deal with a lot of trials. In the book of Job we find out what kind of person he was.

“There was a man in the land of Uz, whose name was Job; and that man was perfect and upright, and one that feared God, and eschewed evil.

“And there were born unto him seven sons and three daughters.

“His substance [was such] that this man was the greatest of all the men of the east.” (Job 1:1-3)

To be perfect means, as noted in the footnote in Job 2:3 means to be “blameless”. To be upright is defined as “strict adherence to moral principles”. He feared God, or in other words reverenced or respected Him. To eschew means to “habitually avoid”.

In later verses it also shows Job being a man of integrity (Job 2:3); he strengthened the weak (Job 4:3-4), he was compassionate (Job 29:12-13); he followed the way of the Lord and valued the words of the Lord more than his “necessary food” (Job 23:11-12).

In short, Job was an incredibly wealthy man, who was also incredibly good. I am guessing that he was also very humble.

One day Satan approaches the Lord, and Job is talked about in their discussion. The adversary thinks that Job is only righteous because he has been blessed so abundantly.

“And the Lord said unto Satan, Behold, all that he hath is in thy power; only upon himself put not forth thine hand. So Satan went forth from the presence of the Lord.” (Job 1:12)

When hearing this verse, something occurred to me. Satan had to ask the Lord's permission to essentially destroy everything that Job had. This reminded me that the Lord is in charge. Satan’s power is limited. If given the chance, I am sure that Satan would completely destroy anything and everything that each of us hold dear. But he cannot. He had to approach the Lord. Satan saw only what Job had, but the Lord knew Job’s heart. I think that is why the Lord allowed Satan to try Job in this way.

Sometimes in our own lives we may feel challenged with more than we think we can bear. But, the Lord knows our heart. He knows what we can handle, and he knows our limits. Our purpose here on earth is to be tested and tried in such a way that we can, not only return to live with Him, but to become like Him.

With Satan unleashed, Job lost all of his children, his servants, his property, and income in one day. His response?

“Then Job arose, and rent his mantle, and shaved his head, and fell down upon the ground, and worshipped,

“And said, Naked came I out of my mother’s womb, and naked shall I return thither: the Lord gave, and the Lord hath taken away; blessed be the name of the Lord.

“In all this Job sinned not, nor charged God foolishly.” (Job 1:20-22)

Job worshipped the Lord. Job probably did not understand why all of this was happening to him, but he trusted in the Lord. President Uchtdorf gives us a little insight into something else that may have been a key to Job’s response.

“Everyone’s situation is different, and the details of each life are unique. Nevertheless, I have learned that there is something that would take away the bitterness that may come into our lives. There is one thing we can do to make life sweeter, more joyful, even glorious.

“We can be grateful!

“It might sound contrary to the wisdom of the world to suggest that one who is burdened with sorrow should give thanks to God. But those who set aside the bottle of bitterness and lift instead the goblet of gratitude can find a purifying drink of healing, peace, and understanding.” (Dieter F. Uchtdorf, "Grateful in Any Circumstances, Ensign, May 2014)

After seeing that this did not crush Job, Satan again approached the Lord and asked for another try. This time the Lord allowed Satan the power to afflict Job physically, but he could not take his life (Job 2:1-6). Again, this is something the Lord allowed Satan to do because he could see into the depth of Job’s heart.

Job is then tried with boils covering his body, nightmares, loss of support from family and friends, not understanding why he has to go through these trials, mocking, feeling that the Lord had forgotten him or was not listening to his prayers. But never once did Job lose faith, nor doubt the Lord. Job found strength in the Lord, despite his challenges.

Continuing from President Uchtdorf, we read,

“Being grateful in times of distress does not mean that we are pleased with our circumstances. It does mean that through the eyes of faith we look beyond our present-day challenges.

“This is not a gratitude of the lips but of the soul. It is a gratitude that heals the heart and expands the mind.” (Dieter F. Uchtdorf, "Grateful in Any Circumstances, Ensign, May 2014)

I think that, along with his deep and abiding faith in the Lord, Job had developed this kind of gratitude.

In Romans we read,

“And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose.” (Romans 8:28)

In Second Nephi we read,

“thou knowest the greatness of God; and he shall consecrate thine afflictions for thy gain….For it must needs be, that there is an opposition in all things….But behold, all things have been done in the wisdom of him who knoweth all things.” (2 Nephi 2:2, 11, 24)

From these scriptures we can find comfort in knowing that we will face opposition, but the Lord is in charge and all things will work out for our good…eventually.

President Henry B. Eyring said,

“If we choose the right, we will find happiness—in time. If we choose evil, there comes sorrow and regret—in time. Those effects are sure. Yet they are often delayed for a purpose. If the blessings were immediate, choosing the right would not build faith. And since sorrow is also sometimes greatly delayed, it takes faith to feel the need to seek forgiveness for sin early rather than after we feel its sorrowful and painful effects.” (Henry B. Eyring, "A Priceless Heritage of Hope", Ensign, May 2014)

Many times we need to struggle through our challenges in order to become stronger. The Lord may see greater challenges ahead that we need to be strengthened for. In His infinite love He is preparing us for greater challenges, but also for even greater blessings.

Sometimes our challenges may last a lifetime, but once this life is over how grateful we will be when we can see things more clearly and understand the whys.

President Uchtdorf counsels,

“It is easy to be grateful for things when life seems to be going our way. But what then of those times when what we wish for seems to be far out of reach?

“Could I suggest that we see gratitude as a disposition, a way of life that stands independent of our current situation? In other words, I’m suggesting that instead of being thankful for things, we focus on being thankful in our circumstances—whatever they may be….the choice is ours. We can choose to limit our gratitude, based on the blessings we feel we lack. Or we can choose to be like Nephi…like Job…like the Mormon pioneers…or [w]e can choose to be like the Prophet Joseph Smith, who, while a prisoner in miserable conditions in Liberty Jail, penned these inspired words: ‘Dearly beloved brethren, let us cheerfully do all things that lie in our power; and then may we stand still, with the utmost assurance, to see the salvation of God, and for his arm to be revealed.’

"We can choose to be grateful, no matter what.” (Dieter F. Uchtdorf, "Grateful in Any Circumstances, Ensign, May 2014)

I want to continue from Elder Hillam’s talk about my friend and her family.

“Our young missionary, Elder Bugs (pronounced Boogs), now sixteen years old, went to work, first selling clothing, then later computer supplies. He used his hard-earned money to support the young family. He said, ‘We were always blessed to have enough to eat. I would work during the day, then help the children with their studies at night. I especially miss my little sister. I taught her to read.’

"Elder Bugs continued, ‘Then the bishop invited me to come in for an interview. He called me on a mission. I told him I would need to speak with my family first. In our family council, they reminded me that Dad had always taught us that we should be prepared to serve the Lord as full-time missionaries. I accepted the call. When I received my letter from the prophet, I withdrew all my savings. I bought a new suit, a pair of pants, white shirts and ties, and a new pair of shoes. I gave the rest of the money to the bishop (enough for about four months of support for the family). I hugged my little family and left for my mission.’

"I looked at that brave young man and I said, ‘But Elder, with you away, who is taking care of your family?’

“’Oh,’ he said, ‘my brother is sixteen. He is the same age I was when our mother died. He is taking care of the family now.’

"I had an opportunity recently to talk by telephone with Elder Bugs. He has been home from his mission for six months now. When I asked him how he was doing, he said, “I have a good job again and I am caring for the family, but oh, how I miss my mission. It was the greatest thing I have ever done. I am now helping my younger brother prepare for his mission.”

Elder Hillam then asks us,

“Why have these great missionaries and others like them been willing to sacrifice the comforts of home, family, loved ones, and sweethearts to answer the call to serve? It’s because they have a testimony of Jesus Christ.” (Harold G. Hillam, "Sacrifice in the Service", Ensign, November 1995)

And, I want to ask, "How can those who suffer be able to endure their trials patiently?" They do it by holding fast to their faith in Jesus Christ.

"What about those who are treated unjustly, or for whom life is unfair?" They remember, as Linda K. Burton stated,

“All that is unfair about life can be made right through the Atonement of Jesus Christ.” (Linda K. Burton, "Is Faith in the Atonement of Jesus Christ Written in Our Hearts?", Ensign, November 2012)

Elder Orson F. Whitney offers us comfort with these words,

“No pain that we suffer, no trial that we experience is wasted. It ministers to our education, to the development of such qualities as patience, faith, fortitude, and humility. All that we suffer and all that we endure, especially when we endure it patiently, builds up our characters, purifies our hearts, expands our souls, and makes us more tender and charitable, more worthy to be called the children of God…and it is through sorrow and suffering, toil and tribulation, that we gain the education that we come here to acquire and which will make us more like our Father and Mother in heaven” (Orson F. Whitney, quoted by Spencer W. Kimball, Faith Precedes the Miracle, 98).

So, in response to the question asked by the cadet, I want to quote again from Elder Davies,

“Does the Lord give us challenges in life that are intended to impede us? No. When we face tests and trials, rather than feeling sorry for ourselves, let us ask these questions:

"‘What can I learn from this experience?’ and ‘How will this experience strengthen me and help me prepare for the future?’” (Dean M. Davies, "Heavenly Help for Our Mortal Journey", Ensign, July 2014)

In our quest to continue forth in faith, I am reminded of the words to a hymn:

“Let us all press on in the work of the Lord,…

We will not retreat, though our numbers may be few
When compared with the opposite host in view;
But an unseen pow'r will aid me and you…

If we do what's right we have no need to fear,
For the Lord, our helper, will ever be near;…

Fear not, though the enemy deride;
Courage, for the Lord is on our side.” 
(Let Us All Press On, Hymn #243)

We can remember to be grateful despite our circumstances. We can be as Job, who never lost faith in the Lord. We can continually press forward, and fear not, knowing that the unseen power of the Lord will be there, and that the Lord, truly, is on our side.