"Let all your things be done with charity" (1 Corinthians 16:14)

(Source LDS Church)

"47 But charity is the pure love of Christ, and it endureth forever; and whoso is found possessed of it at the last day, it shall be well with him.
 48 Wherefore, my beloved brethren, pray unto the Father with all the energy of heart, that ye may be filled with this love, which he hath bestowed upon all who are true followers of his Son, Jesus Christ; that ye may become the sons of God; that when he shall appear we shall be like him, for we shall see him as he is; that we may have this hope; that we may be purified even as he is pure. Amen." (Moroni 7)

Oh how much I love these two scriptures...In-fact I love the whole topic of Charity.  It is something
that has been on my mind a lot recently...Well I should say a lot the last year. Before I came home this is something I had been working on. My amazing ward mission leader, Brother Clipp, shared gave a spiritual thought in a meeting about Charity and since then I've been thinking and praying for Charity. They describe what charity is, how to gain the Christlike attribute of Charity, and  some blessings of being full of charity.  I've been applying this scripture and have been praying for the gift of charity. My attitude  towards all of Heavenly Fathers children has been better....I love what Preach My Gospel says about charity:

"Charity is a gift from God. The prophet Mormon said that we should “pray unto the Father with all the energy of heart, that [we] may be filled with this love” (Moroni 7:48). As you follow this counsel and strive to do righteous works, your love for all people will increase, especially those among whom you labor. You will come to feel a sincere concern for the eternal welfare and happiness of other people. You will see them as children of God with the potential of becoming like our Heavenly Father, and you will labor in their behalf. You will avoid negative feelings such as anger, envy, lust, or covetousness. You will avoid judging others, criticizing them, or saying negative things about them. You will try to understand them and their points of view. You will be patient with them and try to help them when they are struggling or discouraged. Charity, like faith, leads to action. You will develop charity as you look for opportunities to serve others and give of yourself." (Preach My Gospel, Chapter 6)

"As you follow this counsel and strive to do righteous works,
 your love for all people will increase, especially
 those among whom you labor"
(Credit Jason F. Wright)

 Wow I love that! Preach My Gospel is amazing I love when it says:. "As you follow this counsel and strive to do righteous works, your love for all people will increase, especially those among whom you labor"  Our love for others will increase. Can you image this world with more love for each individual child of God? It would be an awesome place!

Preach My Gospel also said: " Charity, like faith, leads to action. You will develop charity as you look for opportunities to serve others and give of yourself." I've been trying to figure out ways I can perform acts of charity. Here are a couple of things I've thought about...

First, serving others. As I've been doing this service mission I've been able to lift others burdens. It's incredible to see the gratitude that people have as you serve them. As it says in Mosiah 2:17

"And behold, I tell you these things that ye may learn wisdom; that ye may learn that when ye are in the service of your fellow beings ye are only in the service of your God."

 That is such an incredible scripture, when we serve others we are really serving god. When we serve God we WILL be blessed! Also, while serving you are going to learn to love the people you serve. When you put their needs before your needs amazing things begin to happen.

Part of my service mission has been with welfare services. Which means I've been serving at the LDS Employment Resource Center, and the Desert Industries. I've been working with all types of people. Helping them when they are in a "low" place, helping them feel the love of Christ in their lives.   It does not matter who you are, how much money you have, or anything else, Heavenly Father and our Savior Jesus Christ love each and every individual so much! Serving helps you feel a portion of that love they have.

(Source: LDS Church)

Second, compliment some each and every day. I've stated doing this my self. It is an awesome feeling. I've been sending a text message to someone different each day telling them what I admire about them. Then when they text back they are always super happy. Its an awesome feeling knowing you've brightened their day! It's also funny because sometimes some people don't know how to react when they get a random text from someone complimenting them!

Third, visit the sick an the elderly. A few weeks ago I went to pick up my brother from voice lessons it was right before dinner. As I was approaching the house where my brother was at I had a distinct thought go visit Sister Smith. (Growing up I lived next door to Sister Smith, she lives just down the street from where I was at) I got my brother and said for some reason I have a feeling we need to visit Sister Smith. I keep thinking I need to get back to dinner. But I stopped anyways.She was so happy we stopped by.   It was a great experience. It was defiantly an act of charity!  It lifted her spirits and blighted her day.

As I have done some of these activities I just mentioned my love for each person whom I have served has increased. It is incredible the spirit that is with you when you are performing acts of charity for our brothers and sisters. Its a way to defeat satin. He does not what you doing these acts, but our Heavenly Father wants us to be full of charity .

Now I want to end with what I started with. But first, I would like to hear from you. What are some ways you've been able to perform acts of charity?  Please either comment on this post, or email using the contact me on the right side of the page. Thank you in advance. I'm excited to hear from you! :-)

"45 And charity suffereth long, and is kind, and envieth not, and is not puffed up, seeketh not her own, is not easily provoked, thinketh no evil, and rejoiceth not in iniquity but rejoiceth in the truth, beareth all things, believeth all things, hopeth all things, endureth all things.

46 Wherefore, my beloved brethren, if ye have not charity, ye are nothing, for charity never faileth. Wherefore, cleave unto charity, which is the greatest of all, for all things must fail--

47 But charity is the pure love of Christ, and it endureth forever; and whoso is found possessed of it at the last day, it shall be well with him. 

48 Wherefore, my beloved brethren, pray unto the Father with all the energy of heart, that ye may be filled with this love, which he hath bestowed upon all who are true followers of his Son, Jesus Christ; that ye may become the sons of God; that when he shall appear we shall be like him, for we shall see him as he is; that we may have this hope; that we may be purified even as he is pure. Amen." (Moroni 7)

"Charity is the pure love of Christ"
(Source: LDS Church)

The Blessings of the Priesthood.

Joseph Smith receives the Melchizedek Priesthood
(LDS Church)

As Joseph Smith was translating The Book of Mormon he read something about
Baptism. It made him want to  know more about the ordinance of baptism. On May 15, 1829 Joseph Smith and Oliver Cowdery went to a spot near the Susquehanna River to pray. They then had John the Baptist visit them. He restored the Aaronic priesthood back on the earth. Later that Month, Peter, James and John Visited Joseph Smith and Oliver Cowder and restored the Melchizedek  priesthood back on the earth.

Because of that miraculous event 186 years ago we are so blessed in this day to have the fullness of the Gospel, which blesses us with the priesthood. The priesthood allows us to heal the sick, perform the saving ordinances for both the living and the dead. It allows us to partake of the Sacrament each and every week. This week, I want to talk about some blessings that come to us because of the priesthood. Elder Robert D. Hales gave an amazing talk entitled "Blessings of the Priesthood" in General Conference of October 1995.  There are so many things he talks about. I would encourage each of you to take a few minutes and study his talk. He talks about how the blessings are available to all. This first quote is so powerful. As

you read this quote think about how the priesthood has blessed you personally and how life would be different if we did not have the priesthood on the earth.

"If the power of the priesthood were not upon the earth, the adversary would have freedom to roam and reign without restraint. There would be no gift of the Holy Ghost to direct and enlighten us; no prophets to speak in the name of the Lord; no temples where we could make sacred, eternal covenants; no authority to bless or baptize, to heal or comfort. Without the power of the priesthood, “the whole earth would be utterly wasted” (see D&C 2:1–3; D&C 2:1–3). There would be no light, no hope—only darkness." (The Blessings of the Priesthood, October 1995)

 We are all so blessed; the blessings of the priesthood are available to all men, women, and children.

Missionary work is established because of the priesthood. Missionaries are called by revelation though the holy priesthood. Elder Hales also said this about missionary work and the priesthood:

"The young man or young woman may be set apart as a full-time missionary and serve under the priesthood direction of a mission president, sharing a testimony of the Lord Jesus Christ with all who will listen. Through the blessings of service and sacrifice, they experience a humbling change of heart that allows them to discern the difference between the tendency of taking in the world in contrast to the giving of the kingdom of God. Then, having established a pattern of giving, they give Church and community service throughout their lives, while at the same time being blessed by the service of others." (The Blessings of the Priesthood, October 1995)

The priesthood is the reason why missionary work is so successful. It is directed by the power and authority of the Holy priesthood.

As I've been home, I've personally relied on the priesthood. I've been blessed to have received many priesthood blessings. The priesthood allows us to receive blessings of both healing and comfort.   The power that comes for a priesthood blessing is incredible. The provide the direction and council you are seeking. They help you feel the love of Our Heavenly Father. They do heal the sick, according to the will of Heavenly father.  The priesthood is a Real, Its a blessings to have a Father who is worthy to hold and exercise the priesthood, at anytime and in any place. It has helped me out so much as I've been home. Ask for a cherish priesthood blessings. The priesthood is available to bless each and everyone of us.

(Source: LDS Church)

The Temple blessings are made available because of the priesthood. These blessings allow us to live with our families forever though the sealing ordinance by the power of the Priesthood. The ordinances that happen in the temple are sacred and provide a protection, again available because of the priesthood. Elder Hales said this about the temple:

"The greatest of priesthood blessings available are found in the temple. There, they get a glimpse of heaven. In that holy place, although they are in the world, they are not of the world. In the temple, they see themselves as the offspring of royalty—as a son or a daughter of God. The joys of eternity, which can seem so distant outside the temple, suddenly seem within reach"

The Temple is the house of god. Where His work is accomplished.  It is where the sealing ordinance takes place. It is How we can return to live with God again.

As Elder Hales was closing his talk, he said:

"My brothers and sisters, I have witnessed the remarkable power of the priesthood to lift and bless, to heal and comfort, to strengthen and empower men, women, and children throughout the world. With all the sincerity of my heart, I desire to see the blessings of the priesthood be made accessible to all.
You brethren who have the priesthood—magnify it. You who have had the priesthood but have allowed it to lie dormant—reactivate it. You brethren who have never had it—seek diligently to obtain it. And may all of us seek more earnestly to receive and share the blessings of the priesthood, bringing the powers of heaven more fully into our lives and into the lives of our loved ones." (The Blessings of the Priesthood, October 1995)

 If you hold the priesthood, God has trusted you with it. How will you use it?  It goes everywhere with you. How will you direct your thoughts are places you go, because you hold the sacred and special priesthood. How will you share the gift? The blessings of the priesthood are available to all though you.

The priesthood is available to all. The Priesthood has been restored. The priesthood is the power and authority of God. It is the same priesthood Jesus Christ has. It is how He was able to perform miracles and heal the sick.

Jesus Christ Gave his Apostles the Holy Priesthood
(Source: LDS Church)

Life is grand

Holy smokes people! I've seriously been neglecting this blog  :/ on a good note, I've been buisy. It's 10:45 on Friday night and I'm finally getting around to do a little blog post. It's crazy how fast time goes and how chaotic life can get, but yet the Lord is still in the details of our lives. He shows us he still cares and is aware through tender mercies. 

Tender mercies have been on my mind a lot the last few weeks, as I've had several diffident expieiences and blessings. When trials come we will always be able to see blessings in the end. Trials can get hard, but the Lord will never leave us. Sometimes, he will give us little blessings,more tender mercies, to show us that He still is ware of us and most importantly that He still cares. 

There are many ways he can do it, but most of the time it is through someone else. Whether it is someone spelling you something you needed to hear, reading something in a conference address or the scriptures. Maybe it's an answered pray to find a job, or know what to do with your life. Maybe things are just falling into place and you cannot explaine why the things happen they way they do. 

For example, as many of you know, that my mom, grandpa and I took a spontaneous trip back east to 

Visit DC. What many of you many not know, is why we took the trip. We went to meet with with our senators and congressmen. We had three appointments with we left Utah, one of with was with the actual senator, Mike Lee.  The meetings were all scheduled for Thursday. But, we had a meeting on Wednesday in DC as well with other people from the company we are working with to get work visas. We only had one meeting on Wednesday and no appotiments with leaders. We decided that we would go and stop by all the offices of the represanrives from Utah and see if there was any way we could meet with someone. We went to all their offices, but the people that are in charge of immigration were all out of the office. They gave us their emails, so we sent a mass email to all them and said we are available from 12-5 pm, and we would like to meet with you sometime during that time. Miraculously they each individually emailed back with a time, not conflicting with any other appotiments. Only the lord could have done that. 

Look for the little tender mercies throughout each and every day. You will see just how much the Lord is in your life. 

The Real R.M. Life

Opening my mission call!

Well, Hello everyone! These last few days have been super crazy for me! I've been working to get my Church-Service Mission started, and also getting an actual job! Well..This week has been a success! I've landed a Job in the afternoons! I've also been working out some final details for my church service mission! I met with my Bishop last week and  tomorrow, Sunday, I will meet with my Stake President and get the last signature! 

I don't like to complain much, as you may have noticed from my previous posts I try to look at the

trial as that is the Lords will. But, I will say this, It has been really quite hard going from constantly doing something, to not doing anything! Not even really having a social life, because I don't feel all well enough to go do something! haha But, now that I'm starting to get back on my feet I'm beyond excited to finally begin to stat my life! This is something I've been looking forward to for the past year and a half!

If someone were to ask me what suggestions I would have for ALL Return Missionaries, would be the council from Elder M. Russell Ballard in the Priesthood Session of this last General Conference. He says:

"“RM” doesn’t mean “retired Mormon”! As a returned missionary, you “should be anxiously engaged in a good cause, and do many things of [your] own free will, and bring to pass much righteousness.""

 I do have to admit I've felt retired! Being sick for so long..Not doing anything, it feels like an early retirement. haha. But, It has not been a retirement from the church. Yes, I may not currently hold a calling (Because we thought I was only going to be home for a few weeks). But, I've keep up on Temple attendance, gospel study, family history work, etc.

Use the skills you gained on your mission..
Have a balanced life
Credit: Jason F. Wright

Elder Ballard continued on to say this:

"Please use the skills you learned on your mission to bless the lives of people around you every day. Do not shift your focus from serving others to focusing exclusively on school, work, or social activities. Instead, balance your life with spiritual experiences that remind and prepare you for continued, daily ministering to others.
During your missions you learned the importance of visiting people in their homes. I would hope that all of our young adults, whether or not you served full-time missions, understand the importance of visiting with people who are lonely, sick, or discouraged—not only as an assignment but also because of the genuine love you have for Heavenly Father and His children."

When he talked about continuing to visit people in their homes I imminently thought about an experience I had a couple of weeks ago. This particular day, I had to pick up my younger brother from his voice lessons. As I was driving I had the thought go visit sister smith, a widow in our ward. {Background: while I was between the ages of 2-10 we lived next to sister smith} I had thoughts like, Mom has dinner ready, I'm tired, etc. I won the battle between my mind and the Spirit. I went to visit her. It wasn't anything special. I could tell she deeply appreciated it. I may never know why the Lord told me to visit her. But visiting her I was able to serve her. I was able to feel like I was in the field again, and I did learn I had not lost my skills I gained as a missionary. I was about to share a spiritual message, so I could count it as a lesson, then I realized I didn't have to share anything. I did what I need to. I lifted her spirits that day, because of the love I have for her and Heavenly Father!

Elder Ballard also said this:

"And don’t forget that classes and activities offered at your local institute or through your young single adult ward or stake will also be a place where you can be with other young men and young women and lift and inspire one another as you learn and grow spiritually and socialize together. Brethren, if you will set aside your cell phone and actually look around a little, you may even find your future companion at the institute.
Which leads me to another bit of counsel that I’m sure you knew was coming: You single adults need to date and marry. Please stop delaying! I know some of you fear family formation. However, if you marry the right person at the right time and in the right place, you need not fear. In fact, many problems you encounter will be avoided if you are “anxiously engaged” in righteous dating, courting, and marriage. Don’t text her! Use your own voice to introduce yourself to the righteous daughters of God who are all around you. To actually hear a human voice will shock her—perhaps into saying yes."

Source: LDS Church

Ohhh Man! This particular piece of council hit me strait in the Heart!  When the subject of Marriage comes up I usually think something along the line of "This doesn't apply to you quite yet" or 'I still have plenty of time to prepare for marriage." Well....I had an eye opening...I cannot use those excuses anymore... They are talking right to me! Ahh! {Maybe this is why anytime I get on facebook someone else is engaged.} While I was on my mission I keep thinking as soon as I get home, I'm going to date a lot...Well I've been home for seven months...and only two dates...Yeah...That is kinda pathetic! I do have the great excuse of being sick...But I really shouldn't make up excuses. I need to get to work! Like he said "Stop Delaying!" Marriage is the most important event in life! It is what helps us get back to our Father in Haven! We Need the sealing ordinance! I love that he said we do not need to fear if it is the right person, at the right time, at the right place! It is so true!

Well, Thanks, Elder Ballard, you inspired and reminded us. Young Adults, we have a lot to do! This is our time, we are out of time to procrastinate! Today is the day! What will you do to have the best R.M. Life possible? This is it!

To Read the whole talk please click here: https://www.lds.org/general-conference/2015/04/the-greatest-generation-of-young-adults?lang=eng

#BecauseHeLives

#BECAUSEHELIVES
[Source LDS Church]

The message you have been sharing with the world is the fact That He Live! What a wonderful time of the year; we have the celebrate the fact that our Savior, Jesus Christ, He Lives! He rose from the tomb on the third day. So much comfort can come because of that simple little truth. Think about some of these blessings Because He Live:

Because of Him all that seems unfair in life can be made right, though the atonement of Jesus Christ. Because of Him We will all live again!
Because of Him we can be forgive of our sins!
Because of Him we are able to be healed!
Because of Him we are able to find peace!
Because of Him we have this beautiful world!
Because of Him The atonement is Real!
Because of Him...All things are possible!

What an incredible blessing it is to be able to celebrate Easter, and reflect on the life and miracles of the Savior.  He has done so much for us!

As Easter approaches I've thought a lot about this scripture in Doctrine and Covenants Section 76:

22 And now, after the many testimonies which have been given of him, this is the testimony, last of all, which we give of him: That he lives!
 23 For we saw him, even on the right hand of God; and we heard the voice bearing record that he is the Only Begotten of the Father—
 24 That by him, and through him, and of him, the worlds are and were created, and the inhabitants thereof are begotten sons and daughters unto God. [D&C 76:22-24]

So much truth in that scripture! He does live! He created the worlds, He is a member of the Godhead! And we are all sons and daughters of a King! Jesus Christ is our brother! He is the Son of God!

I love this quote from President David O, Mckay:

"The message of the Resurrection … is the most comforting, the most glorious ever given to man, for when death takes a loved one from us, our sorrowing hearts are assuaged by the hope and divine assurance expressed in the words: “He is not here; he is risen!” [see Matthew 28:6; Mark 16:6]. 

With all my soul I know that death is conquered by Jesus Christ, and because our Redeemer lives, so shall we." ["He is Risen" Ensign April 2015]

Because he lives, so shall we! That is wonderful news! We will live again! Our loved ones, who have
passed on before us Live! All this is possible because Jesus Christ came and did as he was directed. He selflessly gave his life for you and me! He did that because He loves us, that love is unconditional!

Just as the Savior taught the Children, We
Will be taught by Him at Conference
[Source LDS Church]

This Easter we have privilege..That privilege is being able to watch and listen to His special witnesses! We are able to Listen to what He would have us hear. Elder Robert D. Hales said this:

"In our dispensation, the Savior Jesus Christ referred to a gathering of Saints as “my general conference.”
Wherever we are in this world, however we receive these proceedings, I testify that we are gathered in His conference. I also testify that we will hear His word, for He has said, “Whether by mine own voice or by the voice of my servants, it is the same.”" [October 2013 General Conference]

This weekend we are going to hear His Voice. This is His conference. He gave us his all, so lets give him our weekend.  Lets worship Him by Listening to conference!

If you haven't watched the new #BecauseHeLives Video I would highly recommend you do. It is so powerful; the way it talks about the Savior. For more information about Easter please visit www.mormon.org/easter

I'll Go Where YOU Want ME to Go!

 Being home the hymn number 270, I'll Go Where You Want Me To Go, Has become much more meaning to me. It says:

1. It may not be on the mountain height
Or over the stormy sea,
It may not be at the battle's front
My Lord will have need of me.
But if, by a still, small voice he calls
To paths that I do not know,
I'll answer, dear Lord, with my hand in thine:
I'll go where you want me to go.
(Chorus)
I'll go where you want me to go, dear Lord,
Over mountain or plain or sea;
I'll say what you want me to say, dear Lord;
I'll be what you want me to be.
2. Perhaps today there are loving words
Which Jesus would have me speak;
There may be now in the paths of sin
Some wand'rer whom I should seek.
O Savior, if thou wilt be my guide,
Tho dark and rugged the way,
My voice shall echo the message sweet:
I'll say what you want me to say.
3. There's surely somewhere a lowly place
In earth's harvest fields so wide
Where I may labor through life's short day
For Jesus, the Crucified.
So trusting my all to thy tender care,
And knowing thou lovest me,
I'll do thy will with a heart sincere:
I'll be what you want me to be.

Where does the Lord need you at?

Coming home is all part of the Lords plan. He may be testing us to see if we will go where He wants It may not be on the mountain height or over the stormy sea, It may not be at the battle's front my Lord will have need of me." We don't always know where the Lord needs us at. But, we can feel comforted knowing that we have put our whole heart, might, mind, and strength into the battle! 

us to go. Will we do what He wants us to do? As the song says, "

Now that you are home do you still have the attitude of: "But if, by a still, small voice he calls To paths that I do not know, I'll answer, dear Lord, with my hand in thine: I'll go where you want me to go."? If the still, small voice prompts you to return to the field will you? If the still, small voice prompts you to serve a church service mission will you?  Will you still go where the Lord wants you to go? Or, "Perhaps today there are loving words which Jesus would have me speak". Will you still speak what the Lord would have you say? Where is your heart at? Have you checked out of being a missionary, or do you have missionary badge pinned to your heart, as Elder Neil L. Anderson counselled? 

Where can you still serve? As the third verse says: "There's surely somewhere a lowly place in earth's harvest fields so wide where I may labor through life's short day For Jesus, the Crucified." There really are many different places where you can still serve! 

I'm sure most of you are aware of this post I made on Facebook: 

I have been fasting, praying, and attending the temple about this decision. This decision was between me and the Lord, with council from my Bishop, Stake President, and Mission President. It'ts not where you serve, it's that YOU SERVED or continue to serve. My Mission President said the Lord looks upon church service just as he would a proselytizing mission. You have been Honorable excused from Full-Time Service, now, find out what the Lord would have you do. 

I'm not saying you have to serve a Church Service Mission, or Return, however, I am saying council with the lord, Find out what he would have you do. As it says in Isaiah 55:8:

For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, saith the Lord

The Lord may have other plans for you. Do what HE wants you to do! Go where He wants you to go! Be what He wants you to be!

A Little About Church Service Missions: 

There are many ways and opportunities for an individual to serve! The church is very flexible with you and your schedule. The Brethren would like you to do something else with the church service mission, like attending school, or working part time. They even allow you to date (you just cannot go on a date with your missionary tag still on).

There are a few requirements you must meet in order to serve: (these are also found on https://www.lds.org/callings/missionary/church-service-missionary/ycsm/am-i-eligible?lang=eng)

•  Be worthy to hold a temple recommend.
• Meet the standard mission age requirements (18-25 for young men, 19-25 for young women).
• Be honorably excused from a full-time proselyting mission (applies to young men only).
• Be physically, mentally, and emotionally able to fulfill the specific call and its related duties.
• Provide their own transportation.
• Be responsible for their own financial support, including living expenses and insurance.
• Be responsible for their own medical and dental needs, including eye care and prescription drug expenses.
• Be endorsed by bishop and stake president.
• A worthy young man or woman returning home early from a full-time proselyting mission for reasons other than worthiness may also serve as a YCSM.

There are many areas in which you may serve. Here are a sample also found here: https://www.lds.org/callings/missionary/church-service-missionary/ycsm/where-can-i-serve?lang=eng

Young Church-service missionaries are able to serve in many areas. Here is a list of some of them:

Serving in the Bishops Storehouse, Baltimore, MD

• Family History: research, image processing, indexing, FamilySearch support, assisting at the Family History Library
• Information and Communication Services (ICS): information technology–related opportunities
• Publishing Services: media support
• Mission Offices: referral management, materials management, office support, administrative assistance
• Meetinghouse Facilities: building maintenance, inspection, and repair
• Seminaries and Institutes: office work, computer Support, student recruitment and enrollment, special needs assistance, event support
• Welfare Operations: assignments in bishops' storehouses, Deseret Industries stores, employment resource centers, canneries, and so forth

For much more information please visit: https://www.lds.org/callings/missionary/church-service-missionary?lang=eng

Where Can I Turn For Peace?

A wonderful member of the church brought this scripture to my attention recently:

(Source: LDS Church)

D&C 124:49 Verily, verily, I say unto you, that when I give a commandment to any of the sons of men to do a work unto my name, and those sons of men go with all their might and with all they have to perform that work, and cease not their diligence, and their enemies come upon them and hinder them from performing that work, behold, it behooveth me to require that work no more at the hands of those sons of men, but to accept of their offerings.  (http://www.lds.org/scriptures/dc-testament/dc/124?lang=eng)

I think that this scripture is perfect for missionaries who return home early. The Lord will accept our best effort. He understands we are not perfect, so he provided us with the amazing atonement! 

The Atonement makes up for our weakness, our Heath issues; both emotional and physical, it makes up for our burned heart. It helps us feel at peace. 

I love the hymn "Where can I turn for Peace" it says:

Where can I turn for peace?

Where is my solace

When other sources cease to make me whole?

When with a wounded heart, anger, or malice,

I draw myself apart,

Searching my soul?

2.Where, when my aching grows,

Where, when I languish,

Where, in my need to know, where can I run?

Where is the quiet hand to calm my anguish?

Who, who can understand?

He, only One.

3.He answers privately,

Reaches my reaching

In my Gethsemane, Savior and Friend.

Gentle the peace he finds for my beseeching.

Constant he is and kind,

Love without end.

(Source: LDS Church)

That song is just so comforting. Our Savior is there waiting for each of us. He loves and understands us. He WILL answer us. He is our Savor and our friend. He loves us with out end. Wow, I love that so much! 

We don't need to feel guilty for returning home. We need to remember the Lord will accept our best. We then can turn towards the Savior for peace. 

We have done as he has commanded. Feel good about that!!! You have served!!! Our Savior, Jesus Christ is the only one who can heal our aching soul. Put your trust in Him. He will answer your prayers. I know personally it is easy to start to feel guilty for not being out. But we seriously need to not feel guilty. We need to remember the Lord will accept our offering, Then the Savior will heal! 

Invite ALL to COME UNTO CHRIST!

(Source: LDS Church)

In Preach My Gospel it says:

"Your Purpose: Invite others to come unto Christ by helping them receive the restored gospel through faith in Jesus Christ and His Atonement, repentance, baptism, receiving the gift of the Holy Ghost, and enduring to the end." (Preach My Gospel, Page 1) 

Just because you are home, doesn't mean you are not still a missionary. Elder Neil L. Anderson said this:

If you’re not a full-time missionary with a missionary badge pinned on your coat, now is the time to paint one on your heart—painted, as Paul said, “not with ink, but with the Spirit of the living God.”(1 Peter 3:15.) And returned missionaries, find your old missionary tag. Don’t wear it, but put it where you can see it. The Lord needs you now more than ever to be an instrument in His hands. All of us have a contribution to make to this miracle." (Elder Neil L. Anderson, "Its a Miracle" April 2013 General Conference)

I have my badges sitting beside my bed, so I can see them whenever I get up and go to bed and multiple times throughout the day.  You can and should still pray for missionary opportunities, then look for opportunities to share the gospel throughout the day. You may not be able to get out much, but we all have such an amazing tool, Social Media. These sites such as Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, etc. are wonderful tools! You are able to reach so many different people! Elder David A. Bednar said this about Social Media:

"The Lord is hastening His work, and it is no coincidence that these powerful communication innovations and inventions are occurring in the dispensation of the fulness of times. Social media channels are global tools that can personally and positively impact large numbers of individuals and families. And I believe the time has come for us as disciples of Christ to use these inspired tools appropriately and more effectively to testify of God the Eternal Father, His plan of happiness for His children, and His Son, Jesus Christ, as the Savior of the world; to proclaim the reality of the Restoration of the gospel in the latter days; and to accomplish the Lord’s work." (Elder David A. Bednar, "To Sweep the World as with a Flood" 19 August 2014)

The Lord is hastening the work, you know this, you were in the field and saw it first hand! There are so many tools for us to use to share the plan of happiness with others! We need to be in tune with the Spirit to know what to say and post. Elder Bednar gave four bassic guidelines for sharing the Gospel online:

1. Be Authentic and Consistent 
   "First, we are disciples and our messages should be authentic. A person or product that is not authentic is false, fake, and fraudulent. Our messages should be truthful, honest, and accurate.  We should not exaggerate, embellish, or pretend to be someone or something we are not. Our content should be trustworthy and constructive. And anonymity on the Internet is not a license to be inauthentic."
2. Edify and Uplift
   "Second, we and our messages should seek to edify and uplift rather than to argue, debate, condemn, or belittle...Brothers and sisters, share the gospel with genuine love and concern for others. Be courageous and bold but not overbearing in sustaining and defending our beliefs, and avoid contention"
3. Respect Intellectual Property 
   "Third, we and our messages should respect the property of other people and organizations. This simply means that you should not create your own content using someone else’s art, name, photos, music, video, or other content without permission. To assist you in creating uplifting gospel messages, we are pleased to announce that the content in the Media Library on LDS.org, unless otherwise indicated, has been cleared for use by members without seeking permission from the Church. Additional information about the use of Church media can be found at social.lds.org."
4. Be Wise and Vigilant
   "Fourth, be wise and vigilant in protecting yourself and those you love. We should remember that the Internet never forgets. Anything you communicate through a social media channel indeed will live forever—even if the app or program may promise otherwise. Only say it or post it if you want the entire world to have access to your message or picture for all time."
    (Elder David A. Bednar, "To Sweep the World as with a Flood" 19 August 2014)

There are many different ways we can share the gospel online. Personally, I have posted many things online, though social media; here are some of my examples: Click Here to go to Storify (https://storify.com/spencerjensen16/my-social-media-posts)

These are just some of my examples of sharing the gospel online. You may have noticed I used the hashtag Sharegoodness. The reason why I always use the #sharegoodness is because Elder Bednar encouraged us all to use the Hashtag(#) Sharegoodness (#Sharegoodness) when we make a gospel related post. 

(Source: LDS Church)

I, personally, have had many wonderful experiences share the gospel online. Even if I'm not out in the field, I'm still finding ways to share the gospel.."To Invite all to come unto Christ". It helps me feel like I'm still doing something good. I'm still being a Missionary. I'm still sharing my testimony. Find creative ways you personally can share the gospel! It will bless your life and the life of those you serve. The Lord is aware of all his children and knows what they are going though. Pray and ask Him how He wants you to share the wonderful gospel of Jesus Christ!

**For More Information on #Sharegoodness please visit these links:** 

• https://www.lds.org/media-library/video/2014-10-001-sharegoodness?category=social-media-sharable-videos&lang=eng
• https://www.lds.org/church/share/goodness?cid=c:rd:ocs:shareGoodnessBednar

The Blog will be updated most Tuesday and Saturday Mornings at 12:00 A.M. MST 

The Next blog post will be Tuesday, March 24, 2015 at 12:00 A.M. MST. 

PLEASE NOTE: Beginning in April, the blog will only be updated once a week.

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Follow the Prophet!

With General Conference coming up soon, I want to express some thoughts about General Conference and Prophets!

President Thomas S. Monson,
 Prophet, Seer, and Revelator
(Source: LDS Church)

While I was out in the field, I had the opportunity to teach and testify that we have a prophet here on the earth, as we did in ancient times, such as Adam, Abraham, Moses, etc. In Preach My Gospel it says:

  "One important way that God shows His love for us is by calling prophets.” It continues on to say... “Prophets learn the gospel of Jesus Christ by revelation. They in turn teach the gospel to others and testify of Jesus Christ as the Savior and Redeemer. "

Giving us a prophet is really an act of love. He is able guide and directs each one of us. As preach my gospel said they teach the gospel and Testify of Jesus Christ. Because we have a prophet, we know how we must live our lives to return to live with God again.

Sister Carol F. McConkie, of the young women general presidency said this:  

“We heed prophetic word even when it may seem unreasonable, inconvenient, and uncomfortable. According to the world’s standards, following the prophet may be unpopular, politically incorrect, or socially unacceptable. But following the prophet is always right.”

I love that she said “Following the prophet is always right” It may be hard at times, it may not be what Is easiest but when we follow the prophet we sustain the prophet.

As I was getting ready for my mission, me, my mom, and aunt when to do a session at the salt lake temple; as we were walking through one of the halls we were all in our own little world, not paying attention to what is going on around as. When all the sudden we heard a distinct voice say to us: “Hi, How are you doing today?” neither one of us replied, as soon as we realized what had happened we turned around to see Elder L. Tom Perry going into a closed door.

As I reflected on that experience I keep thinking are we really listing to what the Prophets are saying to us? Are we sustaining them? Are we heeding their council? Or, are we listening but not acting, or not paying attention.  Are our actions, words, and thoughts in harmony with the teachings of the prophets, both ancient and modern?   

While I was on my mission I had many opportunities to testify that God has called a Prophet again on the earth.  One particular time, we were teaching the Message of the Restoration, we finished the first vision, and told him that God has called a Prophet again. He was so excited. He kept saying things such as: so you mean we have a guy that talks with God? You mean we have a Prophet like olden times?  He later asked why not everyone knows about this. We then told him that is what we are for. We are here to share this wonderful message with YOU!

Most of the world has no idea that there IS A TRUE AND LIVING PROPHET here on the earth! We have 15 men, who are prophets, seers, and revalators! That is so comforting knowing that we have 15 men to guide and direct us.

We have the opportunity to listen to these men in 3 weeks! In the mission field it was such an exciting time. It was so fun to go around and tell everyone we could that we have the best opportunity soon to listen to a prophet speak to each and every one of us. We would try to get less actives or our investigators to let us in their home for at least one session to listen.  It was interesting to watch and see how they would respond as they listened.

One family, we invited them into a member’s home to watch. When they showed up they brought a lot of chaos with them. They told us how they didn't want to be here, and every excuse why they had to leave. We got them to say! As conference got started, and continued on their mood and countenance changed. The spirit of conference began to soften their hearts. When President Monson came on and started talking they started crying. At the end they realized that that is where they needed to be. They each then bore a powerful testimony saying that they know that he is a prophet of God.

 How will respond when the prophet talk to us? Will allow the spirit into our hearts to teach and testify of the reality of a prophet here on the earth?

We also have a sacred opportunity to sustain our prophet. What does it mean to sustain a prophet?

Sustaining prophets
(Source: LDS Church)

Elder Russell M. Nelson said this about suntanning a prophet:

 “Our sustaining of prophets is a personal commitment that we will do our utmost to uphold their prophetic priorities. Our sustaining is an oath-like indication that we recognize their calling as a prophet to be legitimate and binding upon us.”

We raise our hands towards heaven saying we will support and heed these men’s council.  But sustain is more than just raising our hands. It is doing as they say. It means defending their name; it means living according to their words and teachings. 

Let's all listen with real intent. Let's need there council and direction. Let's all really sustain our prophet, and other leaders. They are called by God to direct this work. If we're listen with an open heart and mind something that is said will touch your heart. It may be the answer you want, or comfort about being home. Something they say will always bless us. 

The Blog will be updated most Tuesday and Saturday Mornings at 12:00 A.M. MST 

The Next blog post will be Tuesday, March 17, 2015 at 12:00 A.M. MST. 

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Look Not Behind Thee, Only Look Forward and Believe

Seeing Vegas in the rear view mirror 

In a recent Facebook post I talked about how I went with my Dad on his last semi trip for the season. We got a load to Los Angeles, California to deliver Idaho potatoes. On our way home, as we were going though Las Vegas, Nevada my dad made the comment in reference to returning home "I only like to see Vegas in my rearview minor." I got thinking about that, as I was thinking I had the thought come to mind: "Look not behind thee, only look forward and believe."

Having that thought come to mind really brings a lot of peace from returning home early. Look back at the good memories and experiences you had. Don't look back wishing things are different. Coming home is completely out of our control. Our health is out of our control.  Look forward and believe. Look forward to the feature. Elder Edward Dube, of the 70, gave a great talk about this in the October 2013 General Conference. His talk was titled "Look Ahead and Believe". There are some pretty incredible things he said. Here are something's, which I really enjoyed and brought a lot of peace.  First he said talking about bishops or stake presidents, but I think it applies PERFECTLY for missionaries:

"When a stake president or a bishop is released, he joyfully accepts his release, and when a calling is extended to serve in any way which the Lord, through His servants, 'seeth fit' (Mosiah 3:19), he is not overshadowed by his previous experience, nor does he look back and think that he has served enough. He is 'not weary in well-doing,' because he knows that he is 'laying the foundation of a great work' with a clear vision that such efforts bless lives for eternity. Thus “out of small things proceedeth that which is great” (D&C 64:33)."

Me and My companion walking on the streets in Virginia
(Credit: Jason F. Wright) 

I love how he said he does not look back and think has he served enough. Missionaries need to
remember that. Don't look back and wonder if you did enough. If Heavenly Father sent you home you did all that was required of you.

Elder Jeffrey R. Holland of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, also, said this:

“The past is to be learned from but not lived in. We look back to claim the embers from glowing experiences but not the ashes. And when we have learned what we need to learn and have brought with us the best that we have experienced, then we look ahead and remember that faith is always pointed toward the future” (“The Best Is Yet to Be,” Ensign, Jan. 2010, 24; or Liahona, Jan. 2010, 18).

It's not about where we have been, Its about where we are
willing to go.

Look ahead! Don't look back! Have faith that the future is for our best! His ways are not our ways. He can see all both in the past, current, and future! We need to trust Him! My grandpa once told me that all of his hard times have ended up being really useful latter on in life. THE BEST IT YET TO BE!!

I want to end this post with one last quote from Elder Dube, He said:

"In the sight of the Lord, it is not so much what we have done or where we have been but much more where we are willing to go."

It really is all about where we will go. The Lord may be testing us to see what we will do. Will we go where the Lord wants us to go? Will we say what He wants us to say? Will we be what He wants us to be?

Don't look back. Look forward to the future. Look ahead and believe. Look not behind thee, only look forward and believe.

Pray With Faith

(Source: LDS Church)

I know I touched on prayer a little in my last post (Listen to the SPIRIT); but I just want to add to what I said about prayer. Praying allows us to communicate with our wonderful Father In Heaven. It allows us to express our feelings and thoughts to Him, it allows us to personally think Him for blessings and request blessings for our self's or others. It's our chance to tell real OUR Father how our day went and express our innermost thoughts and feelings and thank Him for our many blessings. It's someone to talk to, who is the perfect listener--HE IS REALLY LISTENING, and WILL ANSWER our prayers in his timing and his way.

Elder Richard G. Scott Said: "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." (April 2007 General Conference) 

Each and everyone of can pray to Him each and everyday. No matter what our circumstances, what we are going though, who we are, we are all children of our Heavenly Father. He loves us, and wants us to pray and talk with Him. Whether in the best of times or the worst of times He is there ready and willing to listen to us.

(Source: LDS Church)
"When we go to worship in a temple or a church,
we put aside our working clothes and
 dress ourselves in something better"

We can talk to our Father in Heaven openly and honestly. We don't have to worry about offending him or not expressing things as well as we would like. He is compassionately listening and compleately understanding. Although we should be respectful and use the language of prayer

Elder Dallin H. Oaks said: "When we go to worship in a temple or a church, we put aside our working clothes and dress ourselves in something better. This change of clothing is a mark of respect. Similarly, when we address our Heavenly Father, we should put aside our working words and clothe our prayers in special language of reverence and respect. In offering prayers in the English language, members of our Church do not address our Heavenly Father with the same words we use in speaking to a fellow worker, to an employee or employer, or to a merchant in the marketplace. We use special words that have been sanctified by use in inspired communications, words that have been recommended to us and modeled for us by those we sustain as prophets and inspired teachers...We should address prayers to our Heavenly Father in words which speakers of that language associate with love and respect and reverence and closeness...When we address prayers to our Heavenly Father in English, our only available alternatives are the common words of speech like you and your or the dignified but uncommon words like thee, thou, and thy. In our prayers we use language that is dignified and different, even archaic." (April 1993 General Conference) 

I think it is so important to talk with Heavenly Father with a respectful language.  The language we use shows our respect and love for Him.  We can talk to him as long as needed. He has a listening ear; ready to bless and help us. In the Book of Mormon; In Alma 34:18-27, it says regarding prayer:

 18 Yea, cry unto him for mercy; for he is mighty to save.

 19 Yea, humble yourselves, and continue in prayer unto him.

 20 Cry unto him when ye are in your fields, yea, over all your flocks.

 21 Cry unto him in your houses, yea, over all your household, both morning, mid-day, and evening.

 22 Yea, cry unto him against the power of your enemies.

 23 Yea, cry unto him against the devil, who is an enemy to all righteousness.

 24 Cry unto him over the crops of your fields, that ye may prosper in them.

 25 Cry over the flocks of your fields, that they may increase.

 26 But this is not all; ye must pour out your souls in your closets, and your secret places, and in your wilderness.

 27 Yea, and when you do not cry unto the Lord, let your hearts be full, drawn out in prayer unto him continually for your welfare, and also for the welfare of those who are around you.

See April 2007
General Conference
(Source: LDS Church)

There is NOTHING that we cannot pray and talk to Him about. We can ALWAYS pray. He wants to hear from us; and the only way we can do that is by praying to him. We can and should pray for our enemies, pray for protection, pray to feel His love, pray to know the truth of all things, pray for guidance and direction, pray for health, strength, and healing. I personally have spent lots of time on my knees praying and pleading to be healed, and to know what to do with my life. My prayer may not be answered in the timing and the way that I would prefer; but it will get answered in the Lords timing and in His own ways. His ways are not our ways. His thoughts are not our thoughts.

 We also need to express gratitude to him for our blessings. Because of Him we have all things. We need to have a gratitude attitude. My fabulous mission president and his morning prayers all he does is thank our Heavenly Father for his blessings. I think that is a great thing to incorporate into our lives. Be grateful for our Heath and strength. After being sick for so long, I've learned to appreciate the little bit of energy that I do have. Thank Him for the little and big blessings.

There are many ways He may answer our prayers. He may do it though a feeling or though, an individual, or even though the blessings of the scriptures both ancient and modern.  Elder Richard G. Scott also said:

"Often when we pray for help with a significant matter, Heavenly Father will give us gentle promptings that require us to think, exercise faith, work, at times struggle, then act. It is a step-by-step process that enables us to discern inspired answers.

I have discovered that what sometimes seems an impenetrable barrier to communication is a giant step to be taken in trust. Seldom will you receive a complete response all at once. It will come a piece at a time, in packets, so that you will grow in capacity. As each piece is followed in faith, you will be led to other portions until you have the whole answer. That pattern requires you to exercise faith in our Father’s capacity to respond. While sometimes it’s very hard, it results in significant personal growth.

He will always hear your prayers and will invariably answer them. However, His answers will seldom come while you are on your knees praying, even when you may plead for an immediate response. Rather, He will prompt you in quiet moments when the Spirit can most effectively touch your mind and heart. Hence, you should find periods of quiet time to recognize when you are being instructed and strengthened. His pattern causes you to grow." (April 2007 General Conference) 

I absolutely LOVE how he said "He will always hear your prayers and will invariably answer them"  That is so true; In fact I feel like that is answer to my own prayer. We need to exercise faith and fast with real intent. In the Doctrine and Covenants section 9 verse 8 it says:

  But, behold, I say unto you, that you must study it out in your mind; then you must ask me if it be right, and if it is right I will cause that your bosom shall burn within you; therefore, you shall feel that it is right.

Sometimes we have to make our decision and then ask God if it is right. Rarely will our prayers be answered like Joseph Smith's did. He prayed to know which church to join. What happened next changed the world. In Joseph Smiths own words he said:

Jesus Christ and Heavenly Father Answered
Joseph Smith's Prayer.
(Source: LDS Church)

"I saw a pillar of light exactly over my head, above the brightness of the sun, which descended gradually until it fell upon me.When the light rested upon me I saw two Personages, whose brightness and glory defy all description, standing above me in the air. One of them spake unto me, calling me by name and said, pointing to the other—'This is My Beloved Son. Hear Him!'"

Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ visited him and told him not to join any of the churches. In Their own words, They said:

"for they draw near to me with their lips, but their hearts are far from me, they teach for doctrines the commandments of men, having a form of godliness, but they deny the power thereof." (See "The testimony of the Prophet Joseph Smith")

 Heavenly Father heard and answered Joesph Smith's questions. They knew his name! How comforting that is knowing they hear and answer our prayers and know us EACH INDIVIDUALLY?!?   They LIVE! They have a body of Flesh and Bone, just like us! They love and know each and everyone of us! We CAN communicate to with Them though the wonderful gift of prayer!

Sources 

• "Alma Chapter 34." The Book of Mormon: Another Testament of Jesus Christ. Salt Lake City: Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 2013. 294-295. Print.
• Oaks, Dallin H. "The Language of Prayer." The Language of Prayer - Dallin H. Oaks. The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, 1 Apr. 1993. Web. 
• https://www.lds.org/general-conference/1993/04/the-language-of-prayer?lang=eng
• Scott, Richard G. "Using the Supernal Gift of Prayer." Using the Supernal Gift of Prayer - Using the Supernal Gift of Prayer. The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, 1 Apr. 2007. 
• https://www.lds.org/general-conference/2007/04/using-the-supernal-gift-of-prayer?lang=eng
• Smith, Joseph. "The Testimony of the Prophet Joseph Smith." The Testimony of the Prophet Joseph Smith. The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, 1 Jan. 1999. Web. 
• https://www.lds.org/topics/joseph-smith/testimony?lang=eng

Helpful Links

• https://www.lds.org/topics/prayer?lang=eng
• http://www.mormon.org/beliefs/book-of-mormon
• http://www.mormon.org/beliefs/joseph-smith

The Blog will be updated most Tuesday and Saturday Mornings at 12:00 A.M. MST 

The Next blog post will be Tuesday, March 3, 2015 at 12:00 A.M. MST. 

Please enter your email address on the Right of your screen to receive updates directly into your inbox  when I update the blog. (Don't worry, No Spam or anything like it will come)