Friday, January 29, 2016

"Let the lower lights be burning"

I was studying in the fascinating book, The Book of Mormon (Get your free copy at this link:  https://www.mormon.org/free-book-of-mormon), in Alma 50 recently, and I took notice of 2 small verses, which I had not thought too long on before. 

It reads:
 
Alma 50:30-31 
And behold, they would have carried this plan into effect, (which would have been a cause to have been lamented) but behold, Morianton being a man of much passion, therefore he was angry with one of his maidservants, and he fell upon her and beat her much.   
And it came to pass that she fled, and came over to the camp of Moroni, and told Moroni all things concerning the matter, and also concerning their intentions to flee into the land northward.
You may wonder why I should think very much of those two verses in Alma, but to me, there is a larger story, which unfolds in those two verses.  

I had several questions as I studied the chapter several times. Here are a few questions- of many!
  • Why did this maid servant choose this time of leaving Morianton to go to the "enemy" side, to report the schemes she had learned during her work under Morianton?
  • Surely this maid had been beaten before, why did this particular abuse cause her to run to Moroni?
  • Did God plant the idea to go tell Captain Moroni in this maids thoughts, so that he could keep blessing his righteous people?
  • Was the maid’s only motivation to flee to Moroni, driven only by spite or vengeance? Or something else?
  • What would give this woman the courage to go into the camp of Moroni? Did this maid feel safe in going to Moroni?
  • Is it possible that Moroni’s righteous example had preceded him? Had she long admired what she knew of Moroni?  
  • Could she have at some point met him, or talked with him and been impressed by the kindness that radiated from him?   
  • Does this story have application in our lives?
I have taken some artistic liberty and turned my story, as a way of answering a few questions I had regarding the story.  Completely accurate, or not, I think there are some valid considerations to be made, regarding this seemingly simple story about a maid.

I hope you will also gather a few of your own insights, as you read my story below.
"Sophia's" Story by Christine

There was woman, who was a maid to a very evil, and angry man. (We shall call this nameless woman, Sophia) One night, Sophia's wicked master, Morianton became very angry at her, and he
used his twisted and cruel energies and power to beat up on her. When he drunkenly had finished his relentless injures, Sophia was left in a heap of blood and pain. 

In that heap, Sophia felt angry, yet very foolish, for she had not slept the night prior and with exhausted carelessness she had spilled the water, while helping prepare for a feast to be held in his honor. This made Morianton very angry. (Morianton was a self-centered and arrogant man, and he often had these feasts to celebrate himself, and his intended victories against Moroni.)


Sophia wished she could have fought him off of her, but despite being a strong woman, she was unable to fight against a man of his size and strength. 

Sophia had been a servant her entire life. She was not accustomed to the comforts and ease, that women of wealth enjoyed from their birth. For she was put to work from the time she learned to walk. Her tasks began small, and simple, but grew to be very large and important duties. She was not allowed time for idleness.

Sophia had strong sinuous muscles, and a sharp mind, from having spent years quietly listening and learning from those she waited upon day and night. Because of her skill and diligence, she was always working in the most private of political schemings, and heard even the most secret ploys. Though she was mistreated, she was nonetheless trusted with confidential information.
  
Being beaten upon by Morianton, or other men, was not a first, but it had never been as severe this time, and she had reason to be afraid, because she had caused him injury as she fought him. 

When she was a safe distance from the camp, and alone in the dark forest-she allowed herself a few moments to weep bitterly. She did not know where to turn, because there would be no safety for her, even if she returned to her parents, for Moriantun was a man of cold-blooded wickedeness and revenge. 

It was in those moments of hopelessness that Sophia had a thought which seemed to give her mind and heart a renewed glimmer of hope. She drew upon her hard-earned strength and intelligence from her life experiences, and determined she would flee from any future nights of suffering. She had wanted to leave before, but on this night she felt compelled to escape this place of evil and danger.

Following that impression, she clutched her ripped robes tightly around herself and she forced her body forward, with a great deal of stumbling and agony, in a steadfast direction toward the camp of Captain Moroni. 

Sophia always smiled at the name of Moroni, for she recalled a tender memory of his respect and kindness when meeting him, when she was just a girl of 10. He was kind to her, and all those around him, and although he was clearly a firm, and determined leader, she sensed a softness in his voice and actions- which she had never seen in any man before. 

Oh, how she missed those happier times, before the wars and contentions began to break out over possession of lands. But Sophia slowed her weary step, as she allowed herself to worry that maybe he had changed in those years since. Maybe he had hardened with the threats and anger over who should have power of land and government.

But, she allowed herself to be led by the light of that happy memory, and that 

memory, as well as word of his reputation, kept her moving forward in faith. Faith that she would be met just as kindly as that childhood day, at a time when she felt such desperation.

Sophia took a less traveled direction, so she would go unnoticed by guards that surrounded her camp, as well as his. She felt the weight of loneliness as she traveled that perilous path toward Moroni's home. She was careful as she journeyed, and did all she could to avoid wild beasts, or the venemous snakes of the forest. 

After a several hours, Sophia felt relief, yet uncertain fear, as she came upon the camp of Captain Moroni. Her thoughts were filled with worried questions. How would she locate Moroni in such a large camp? And if she found him, would he listen to a female? Would he believe her words, or call her an enemy? 

Despite her fears Sophia inched forward in the darkness. She took notice of the lights around the camp, and she sat huddled near a tree, while she listened for some time, so that she could distinguish conversations that might lead her toward Moroni.


 
She was tired, and thirsty and her belly ached from hunger. And the sting of her swollen, blackened eyes and swollen, cut lips added nothing to her comfort. She finally mustered the courage to step out of the shadows, because there was a boy who walked past, and she felt she might be safe with this youth. Or if not, she felt sure she could successfully fight him, and escape potential danger.


With shaking voice, Sophia asked this youth for water, as a test of his character. The energetic, pleasant boy quickly procured water for her, from a nearby bucket. Sophia thanked him, then in a whisper asked, "I must speak to Moroni, will you take me to him?"

 
The boy chided that Moroni could not be seen, for he was busy making preparations of war and would not visit with anyone. It was at those words, when a tear stung her cheek, and as she took a step closer to the small torch he held, he finally observed that she was injured. Something about her eyes, softened this youth, and he said, "I will take you to Moroni." 

Her frightening and tormented sojourn toward Captain Moroni was rewarded by the kindness and goodness he treated her with- just as she had remembered of him as a girl; except now, his hair was grayed and his skin leathered with age. 

An example of his kindness was witnessed, even before he spoke directly to her- and before she had spoken directly to him. For Moroni in his initial silence towards he, was quick to call his maids to attend to her wounds with balms and wraps, and to feed her aching stomach. 

As Sophia was attended to, she gave her message regarding her wicked master Morianton. When Moroni heard what she had to say, his heart was filled with compassion towards her, for the courage she displayed. And, though very kind with Sophia, a crease of vigilant concern ran across Moroni’s brow, as he contemplated the lamentation that such a stratagem as taking possession of the land Northward would mean to his people. 

Moroni's heart was raised to defense and anger against Morianton. It was, for this cause, that Moroni speedily excused himself from Sophia’s presence. He knew he must gather with the brethren to determine a plan, and thus act quickly to halt the evil plans of Morianton. 

But before Moroni departed, all of Sophia's initial fears were melted away by the gentle, kind-hearted compassion he showed her, and his limited words toward her. He made arrangements with his servants, for Sophia to be welcomed to her new home, among his people. Moroni vowed he would not forget her faith in him, and as token of his gratitude for her deliverance of words to help his people, Moroni took an oath that she would be counted a true sister to him.

She would have a place of safety, refuge, and a family. She need never again be concerned that she would be mistreated, for here she would be treated with Godly respect and human dignity, all the remaining days of her life. 

Sophia felt that Moroni was grateful for the words she had delivered to him, for they were to the benefit and protection and liberty of his people- of which she was now included! And with his final words that evening, Moroni was off in haste to fulfill his duties to God, in defending liberty for generations yet to come.

As Sophia fell to sleep with a glowing candle by her bedside, and soft bedding beneath her weary, aching body. She knew her life was changing for the better. And though, she knew faintly of Moroni's God, she was willing to accept this new life, because of the peace and joy that welled up within her spirit-- a strong, life changing feeling, which she had hitherto never known, nor ever before felt. 

The next morning as Sophia awakened to a soft beam of morning light upon her face through a nearby curtain, she pleasantly discovered a savory breakfast had quietly been left on the table by her bedside while she lay sleeping.

Across Sophia’s battered face there came an assured and peaceful smile. She knew that life would still be laden with challenges, but she took joyful consolation from the charity, strength and valiance of Moroni. In her heart, Sophia silently vowed that she would give her life in support of him, and in all of his noble efforts.

With renewed hope and strength, Sophia placed her feet firmly upon the floor, and rose joyfully, for she knew she had awakened to a new, and brighter day.

Sophia was home.

The end.
Christine


 ===
Does this story have application in our lives?
Sophia’s story is very much like the untold stories of countless thousands. There are, even at this time, men and women who walk a similarly painful journey in this mortal experience.  And often, the most painful injuries are unseen. In their struggles they are beaten down in countless ways, both physically and emotionally.  Unlike “Sophia’s” story, those stories (maybe even your own story) are generally kept secret and hidden in the dark rooms, and back alleys of this world.


I wondered if this maid sought out Moroni because he was a beacon of light in her dark existence.  After all, here is this woman, who has been beaten down to submission in her life.  She probably believes all, or most, of the lies she has been told by him.  Lies declaring that she is worth nothing. Lies denouncing that she could ever inherit any good thing in this world, or the next. When in truth, you and I, and this maid, all have the glorious of eternity available to us!
It is with that speculation, that I feel this maid must have either known of Moroni’s example to others, or she personally had seen his example in action.  Either way, this maid was willing to go to Moroni in her time of need. I am just guessing, but I think she could see his radiance, and she was drawn to that.
I never thought much of example and influence, as I do now at this point of my life, but I have come to understand that the example of others can be profoundly impactful. I see now that a man or woman of integrity and goodness, can aide in altering the lives of others in not just a positive way, but also in and eternal way! 
I know firsthand, that the example of righteous people can be a beacon of light and goodness- which can help light the way through the storms of life.  I have often been blessed by the stalwart example of others- and am so, even now.
If we look around, we will be able to find examples to emulate. The ultimate example to follow is that of our Savior, Jesus Christ.  He was, and is, a perfect man in all regards. Jesus, made no mistakes, and had a clear vision of His identity and purpose, and he is the only gate, which lead leads us home to our Heavenly parents. The Savior is the only way to eternal life.
We have also been blessed with the privilege of prayer and scriptures. Heavenly Father has provided righteous men and women upon this earth, to follow the Savior’s pattern of living.
According to the scriptures, there IS a true and living prophet upon this earth. Currently, his name is Thomas S. Monson, and when his time on earth is complete, another man of
righteousness will be called.
There are other leaders, who are here to help bless and direct the saints toward righteousness.  These leaders include, but are not limited to, stake presidents, bishops, elders quorum presidents, relief society presidents, and many others. 
More importantly, some leaders will never have a prominent tittle, or any tittle at all! They may be a neighbor or a trusted friend.  But, in all cases, a true, good leader, and a righteous example, will be someone who leads us to Christ.
·         Several scriptures support this concept of how we can identify what is good (And there are a LOT more, so go study and study them out! :)

Moroni 7:24
24 And behold, there were divers ways that he did manifest things unto the children of men, which were good; and all things which are good cometh of Christ; otherwise men were fallen, and there could no good thing come unto them.
·         Moroni 10:6
6 And whatsoever thing is good is just and true; wherefore, nothing that is good denieth the Christ, but acknowledgeth that he is.
·         Moroni 7:11
11 For behold, a bitter fountain cannot bring forth good water; neither can a good fountain bring forth bitter water; wherefore, a man being a servant of the devil cannot follow Christ; and if he follow Christ he cannot be a servant of the devil.
·         Moroni 7:13
13 But behold, that which is of God inviteth and enticeth to do good continually; wherefore, every thing which inviteth and enticeth to do good, and to love God, and to serve him, is inspired of God.

Today, Heavenly Father led me to a talk, which, to me, seemed so ideal for my blog post!  I cuddled with my sweet 11-year old girl, who was home sick from school today.  I asked her what stuck out to her, and then I discussed those points, and others, which had impacted me.  My time with my sweetheart, was a little bit of heaven on earth for me!
 “Placed around the world, temples have their own unique look and design on the outside, but inside they all contain the same eternal light, purpose, and truth. In 1 Corinthians 3:16 we read, “Know ye not that ye are the temple of God, and that the Spirit of God dwelleth in you?” We too as daughters of God have been placed all around the world, like temples, and we each have our own unique look and outward design, like temples. We also have a spiritual light within us, like temples. This spiritual light is a reflection of the Savior’s light. Others will be attracted to this brightness.”
“We have our own roles on the earth—from daughter, mother, leader, and teacher to sister, wage earner, wife, and more. Each is influential. Each role will have moral power as we reflect gospel truths and temple covenants in our lives.”
More than a hundred years ago, a well-known Protestant preacher, Dwight L. Moody, shared a story of a ship trying to enter the Cleveland harbor on a very stormy night.
The ship’s captain could see the bright light of the Cleveland harbor lighthouse. However, the lower lights weren’t visible at all. The lower lights were the way that ships identified the centerline of the safe entry to a harbor.
Because the lower lights were not burning that night, the ship missed the entrance to the harbor and crashed into rocks. Many lives were lost.
At the end of his sermon, Moody said, “Brethren, the Master will take care of the great lighthouse; let us keep the lower lights burning.”27
One of the members of Moody’s congregation that day was a man named Philip Paul Bliss, a musician. Bliss was so inspired by the lesson in Moody’s sermon that he wrote a hymn, which in our hymnbook is entitled “Brightly Beams Our Father’s Mercy.” Many of you will be familiar with the hymn. All of you should be. With the image of the lighthouse and these experiences in mind, listen to the first verse of that hymn:
Brightly beams our Father’s mercy
From his lighthouse evermore,
But to us he gives the keeping
Of the lights along the shore.
Let the lower lights be burning;
Send a gleam across the wave.
Some poor fainting, struggling seaman
You may rescue, you may save.
28

The lighthouse of God’s love for His children is ever present and never moving. Some people will see it and will be drawn to it, but they may not know how to get to it. They will be looking for someone—some lower light—to show them the safe passage to that light. Their feelings may be like those found in a letter President Monson received from a less-active member of the Church: “I know where the Church is, but sometimes I think I need someone else to show me the way, encourage me, take away my fear, and bear testimony to me.”29

There may be many around you in the places in which you stand who are in the same position. They want to do what is right, they want to have greater peace in their lives, and they want to come closer to God, but they are unsure of how to do it. Your example may provide the lower lights they need to see the safe passage. More may depend on your scripture study, prayer, and covenant keeping than just your well-being. Others may be affected by your doing these things as well
I feel genuine sorrow for those of you, who have experienced any form of abuse. I can feel added empathy for the abused, because I have experienced a life of it.  I suppose that is why I can relate to this maid.  I have felt powerless, and afraid at these times.  I have felt the psychological effects of believing the lies of my self-worth, and even still I must fight daily against believing the labels of past or present falsehoods that people may try to label me as.
With all that said, I have been blessed by taking responsibility for my personal efforts and righteousness. When I decided to give my life to God, I learned that he really could make more out of my life, than I could.  In humbling myself before God, he was able to perform miracles. Miracles I never imagined possible. Miracles that filled me with hope in his greater vision. 
My life is not perfect. But I am at grateful for my blessings, and I am at peace within myself.  Consequently, miracles regularly occur in some very serious situations in my life. Heavenly Father doesn’t smooth out all situations as we’d like, because God does not take away the agency of any of us, His children. But God can help you smooth out your spirit to be at peace, and he can help you to change unhealthy thinking, into healthy thinking. Healthy thinking is at the core of trying to live a righteous life.
As we sojourn through life, let us make sure we choose good people, with noble and righteous desires to follow after. Let us use care in the examples we follow. 
Let us also make sure that we are a light for others to follow, that we may help them to find a home with Christ.
Sincerely, Christine
P.S. My words today are of an especially spiritual basis of finding a better way of living, but if you are in physical danger, and harm, please escape that situation immediately. 
Unlike the days of this maid, there were not the resources of safety that can be found now.  There are shelters, police, and LDS church leaders, which can either help you, or who can help you locate the help you need in your area.
YOU ARE A DIVINE CHILD OF GOD.
NOW IS ALWAYS THE BEST PLACE TO START YOUR NEW LIFE.
GOD FORGIVES, AND IS ALWAYS WAITING TO RECEIVE YOU
WITH OPEN ARMS.
IF YOU ARE NOT WHERE YOU WANT, OR NEED TO BE, THEN TURN DOWN A NEW PATH, AND START A NEW AND BETT ER JOURNEY FOR YOURSELF.
You have the strength to do all things, through Christ! (Philippians 4:13)

Saturday, January 16, 2016

"Let the healing start"


I have been considering lately how it is easier to feel anger, and frustration, than to acknowledge tender emotions.  Tender emotions are, in my opinion, more challenging, because they can leave one feeling confused, vulnerable, and worried.  Such tender feelings can take us in a heartbeat from feeling confident and capable, to feeling weak and unsure, can't they? Angry or hardened feelings on the other hand seem to make us believe we are stronger and more in control.
It's been a long time now, but I remember when I was hurting so very deeply. I didn't like that hurt, and I stumbled across a singing artist and especially one song, which took my tender emotions and seemed to help make me feel stronger.  I remember writing in my journal and telling myself that I was going to be brave, because no one was going to "steal my crown!"

A portion of something I wrote that dreary September day went as follows: ==

"I stumbled upon this, Rebecca Ferguson, today. I tend to listen to different musical genres, so I had never heard her songs. I love this message--because I've just finally and completely given to God the part of my heart that was in pain and needless despair. I'll just keep trying to do my best. I won't give my energies to believing negative voices in my life. I'm going to look to God for strength and courage."
"This whole song doesn't apply to what WAS (past tense) gnawing at me, but the essence of the message applies---I am strong in the face of opposition!! 
"I'm going to live with the intent to share the positive in myself and seek it in others. I'm not going to play games that are intended to poison others with the hurt I feel/felt, nor am I going to try and "get even."
"I'm going to show forth the love and joy I feel from knowing Heavenly Father loves me--even when I make mistakes. I'm not going to let anyone take my "crown" and I'm not gonna "crumble." I'm just going to freely give love even when it doesn't SEEM deserved, "face my fears," and "let the healing start."
"I am me and I am Okay. I am not keeping your labels. I am strong and Blessed. My worth and value is not dependent upon whether or not I follow social norms- even if I make mistakes, I am a beloved Child of God and so are You." 
lyrics: "I almost crumbled
I almost fell
..This war has started
Rivers parted
But I'm gonna cry no tears
Give it all that I've got
I'll give it all that I've got
Let the healing start

I almost stumbled
When you shot me down
You almost got the best of me and stole my crown

... I'll give it all that I've got
Let the healing start"

Rebecca Ferguson - All That I’ve Got 
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3naloY2JG9w

====End of that September entry===
I consider the song, "Shock to the heart, and you're to blame, baby you give love a bad name," and it is just another technique of taking hurt and sadness and trying to displace it at a comfortable distance from one's tender, hurting heart, by angrily pointing fingers. (I considered sharing that link, but the song is too angry and coarse-- and apparently I knew it a little too well in high school! But, I've matured a little, so I'm not linking it here!) 

And, because it is musically important for me to make an analysis of these songs (and you all want to hear my opinion ;) let me say that Rebecca Ferguson's song and Bon Jovi's song both express frustration, but Bon Jovi is one of blatant blame, and not accepting personal responsibility to change, and move forward with courage and faith! (But admittedly, that the musical lines of "shock to the heart, you're to blame" is quite catchy!)

The song "All That I've Got" makes the suggested meaning of, "Hey, I'm worth more than the pain you've added to my life, and because I'm strong, I am going to get passed the anguish."  Whereas the song "You give love a bad name," seems to denote a man, who is angry at a woman, and he blames her for his pain. 

;) Because I'm sure it's likely that Bon Jovi is (was?) highly religious, maybe it would have been better if he lyrically asked God, "Is there something I am supposed to learn from this?" "Did you want me to feel this way?" "Wilt Thou (You) take my whole heart, and teach me how to live a new and better life?"

Indeed, Any righteous question, would be better than casting blame, and narrow-mindedly missing what there is to learn from the experience of "love," or sorrow. But, let's face it, most of us can relate to the psychological technique of "fight or flight," in some way or another. Initially, it seems to dull the pain.

Is it easier to throw angry, hurting stones?  
Is it easier to run away from harmful stones?
Or is it easier to pick up those stones, carefully study them, and then prayerful seek to find something that is beautiful about the injury and pain of that stone that was cast at your head? Can we find something that is valuable and loved about the stone- independent from the suffering experienced? 






I am not different than anyone else, and I'd say that it's easier to either run away and hide, or it's easier to pretend to be strong and put up an angry fight.  As I struggle to make my way through this world, there are times, which I have certainly have (or have wanted to) put up my fists to say, "Come on then, I'll fight you!"

[If I'm being honest, I hurt for almost an exact year, from writing that portion above.  It took a lot of prayer and questions of God, to finally see what I needed to learn!]


While those songs do seem to offer some temporary reprieve of the hurt we will feel in life, they do not adequately bring long lasting comfort.  

In truth, I am finding that peace at times of heartache, comes only when I fall to my knees (figuratively and symbolically) and allow the Savior to take my broken and troubled heart and mind, and soothe it with the balm no earthly source can offer-- the balm of peace.  

I experienced that balm of peace, last night, as I was picking up in the kitchen. After everyone else was asleep in bed, I was growing more troubled about what could easily be read as uncaring intent of a friend. It was on that tenuous verge of vulnerability where the devil was nastily playing with my "vain imaginations," while God was trying to work with my righteous desires.  I was, at this seemingly insignificant moment, standing on an unseen, dark, and very real battle field of life!  

I had no sword in hand, only dirty silverware. I had no armor, only pajamas on. I had no protective boots nor helmet-just socks and a messy bed-head. I did not see an enemy and I was very much alone, but I was nonetheless tormented by a very real enemy, that was seeking to destroy my peace!  

In those delicate minutes of mental and spiritual warfare waged directly at me, I was praying that I would be comforted. I was hurting by the messages of silence by a friend, and the enemy was successfully yielding that sword at me!

However, as I reached to get a drink of water, I heard two special lines of this song play sweetly into my thoughts.  You can't imagine the warming peace I felt! Few things in that spiritual moment could have been sweeter, and I prayed that, unlike me, my friend will never doubt my enduring concern and love, despite any warfare waged, or trials of life.

Teacher, Do You Love Me?



(Child) Teacher*, do you love me?

Teacher*, will you care for me?
Even if I turn away, or disobey, or go astray,
Then will you love me still?
Teacher*, will you teach me?
Teacher*, help me choose the right.
When I do not understand the Lord's command, please take my hand
And lead me safely with his light.



(First time child only.)

I need your love, I need your light
To show me how to be like Jesus.
The Savior's love will light the path
To lead me safely home.
(Teacher) Oh yes, my child, I love you.
My child, I'll always care for you.
And with the Savior as our guide,
I'll share the light I feel inside,
And you will feel his love for you.
Oh, yes, my child, I'll teach you.
My child, I'll help you choose the right.
And when you do not understand
The Lord's command, I'll take your hand,
And he will lead us with his light.


I need your love, I need your light
To show me how to be like Jesus.
The Savior's love will light the path
To lead us safely home.


Words and music: Michael Finlinson Moody, b. 1941. (c) 1986 IRI
*word may be replaced with a substitute word of another person. :)

As I headed for bed, I smiled with the comfort only God can offer. And I smile even now, in knowing that I won that round, despite the enemy’s attacks. That I was, even in those lonely, and troubled moments, victorious over sin! I smile to realize that I had risen up to the occasion spoken of in Ephesians.  Even though I was literally dressed for bed, I was, at that time, spiritually dressed for any battle that came my way.  I am going to strive to always be found worthy on God’s errand.

Ephesian 6:10-18

10 Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord, and in the power of his might.

11 Put on the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil.

12 
For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places.

13 
Wherefore take unto you the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand.

14 Stand therefore, having your loins girt about with truth, and having on the breastplate of righteousness;

15 
And your feet shod with the   preparation of the gospel of peace;

16 
Above all, taking the shield of faith, wherewith ye shall be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked.

17 
And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God:

18 
Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, and watching thereunto with all perseverance and supplication for all saints;





Yesterday, i had the song "Didn't he send us to be tested, didn't he say the way would not be sure" play into my thoughts several times.  

And even this morning I woke up to the hymn/song “Whatever thy lot, thou hast taught me to say- It is well with my soul. It is well."  

I think that as our desires for worldly things change from "Please protect me from that pain or suffering" and move instead to, "Please strengthen me and help me to bear and learn from these trials" that we will see a dramatic shift in our ability to handle the things that come our way!

The Savior is the best example of this. 
In Luke 22:42 we read:
Saying, Father, if thou be willing, remove this cup from me: nevertheless not my will, but thine, be done.



For me this scripture personally speaks of facing the dark and painful hours of my life, with a willing heart before God. Giving him everything, and accepting His answers- whether they are a yes or a no, or a wait. The feelings of longing, hope, desire, hurt, and sorrow, anger, and disappointment, can be swallowed up in Christ! There is nothing we need be ashamed of, when we give our life to him, and seek his healing grace.

I can't comprehend the Savior's agony, but I do understand my own relatively small pains and sufferings.  I know that agony is not something our mortal flesh or emotions appreciate. I know that we try to bypass pain whenever possible. 

Instead of praying, "Please protect me from that pain or suffering,” “Heavenly Father, it’s not fair what they have done to me” let us instead pray, “What can I learn from this Heavenly Father?” "Please help me to understand what I am feeling." "Please strengthen me and help me to bear and learn from these trials.”

As our prayers change, and we purify our desires, I confidently declare that we will see a dramatic shift in our ability to handle the things that come our way. And while we may not joyfully feast upon our trials, we can learn to experience them with peace, and enduring hope- which will help to see us through the darkness.

As I walk through the hours and minutes of my days, and I face the trials I face currently, or I consider future trials I may severely face, I offer heartfelt prayers that I will have the faith, courage, and physical and emotional stamina, to accept whatever He see's best to help refine me with.  

How thankful I am for the person that Heavenly Father is helping me to become! With all my heart, I want to be more like the Savior-- even if that means I must accept personal moments of agony.  I pray I will never lose sight of those worthy desires to know and be like the Savior.


beseech of thee that thou wilt hear my words and learn of me; for do know that whosoever shall put their atrust in God shall be supported in their btrialsand their troubles, and their afflictions, and shall be clifted up at the last day. (Alma 36:3)

My friends, may we prayerfully and diligently seek to know the Lord- each day and each hour of our lives. Let us allow Him to soften and nourish our hearts, instead of seeking the easier road of 
letting anger and fear harden our hearts.  It will only be through the power of Jesus Christ, and His ultimate gift, that we are permanently and eternally able to be victorious over sin!

Christine

#VictorythroughChrist #Loveistheanswer #TrueLoveInspires #don'tgiveintothepressure&lies #listentothewhisperingof God'sSweettruth  #hatebuildswalls #Lovebuildsbridges 
#YouAreLoved


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