tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23815203552946544622024-03-08T12:22:49.081-08:00Joy in my JourneyLaurenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15317754201602943755noreply@blogger.comBlogger44125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2381520355294654462.post-5883040389462983342014-11-02T22:20:00.000-08:002014-11-03T14:29:15.807-08:00Why You Should Not Serve a Mission<span style="font-family: inherit;">ALERT: These here writings are my opinion. You don't have to like it. You don't have to agree with it. All I ask is that you respect that it's okay for me to possibly think differently than you do. </span><br />
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Alrighty folks. I want you to know that at this moment in time, I am not going to serve a mission. Nor am I currently getting married. I know that right now, being 20 and at BYU, this is highly unusual. But I have spent many hours talking this over with my Heavenly Father and this seems to be the right thing for me to do. It took a long time for me to reach that decision, and I hope that my experience might help somebody else. So let's go back in time for just a few moments...</span><br />
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It was October 2012. I had just started my freshman year here at BYU. I went home for the weekend so I could watch General Conference with my family. I'm sure everyone remembers this day as well, so I won't go into too much detail. But when I came back Sunday night, Provo had caught fire. Like, everywhere. The mission age change was all people talked about for weeks and weeks and weeks. All of my roommates quickly made the decision to serve and began their papers right away, along with everyone else. To put things in perspective, there were 120 kids in my freshman ward, and at Christmas, there were 90 open mission applications. It was crazy. </span><br />
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During this time, I began to think about a mission for the first time in my life. It had always seemed very far away, and I had decided that I would start to think about it once I got there. But suddenly, that changed. </span><br />
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It was a mad frenzy. As I started to try to think about a mission and prepare to serve, I began to realize that I had been riding the coattails of my parents' testimonies. It was hard to watch all those close to me bury themselves in preparation for missionary work, so sure of what they were doing, and I hardly even knew if the gospel was true. That process of gaining my very own testimony for myself is a story for another day. But back home, I was the "perfect" girl from the "perfect" family, and everyone expected me to either go on a mission right away, or get married right away. Yet neither was happening. I had never experienced pressure like that before. </span><br />
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So now we're going to jump back to present day. I'm still not going on a mission, nor am I getting married. And that is okay. The pressure is still there for me to serve though. But as I've been going along my merry way, I've both observed and been told reasons why I am supposed to serve a mission, and I do not agree with those reasons. Now, this is your final warning. This is all my opinion based on my experiences. These are the reasons I have come up with for not serving a mission:</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit; text-indent: -0.25in;"> 1. Serving a mission is the best way to prepare for wife
and mother hood.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Is a mission going to help
you be a better wife and mother? Yes. Absolutely. Is it the
only way to prepare to be a good wife and mother? Certainly not. For example, I don't believe that Sister Hinckley ever served a mission. Do you think she was able to serve as a worthy wife and mother for President Hinckley without missionary experience? Of course!! You can still be strong in the gospel, sustain your husband, and set an example for your children without missionary service. Your spirituality depends upon what you do to strengthen it, not whether or not you can check the "RM" box. This is meant to be a benefit of a mission, not a cause for one. As long as you are living righteously, you and your family can be just as worthy of the blessings of the celestial kingdom without you serving a mission. </span><br />
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<span style="text-indent: -0.25in;"> 2. Everyone else is going, so why not me?</span></span><br />
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I fear that some girls will go on a mission simply because of the social pressure. It can be hard to not be sharing in the same experiences as everyone else your age. It can be hard to have people question why you are not serving. However, decisions like this are meant to be between you and your Heavenly Father. For some people, a mission is the right thing right at 19, and that's wonderful. Some will serve later, and that's wonderful. Some will not serve, and that's wonderful. What matters is that you are doing what's right for YOU. You are Heavenly Father's precious child, and His children will never get a one-size-fits-all treatment. You are His greatest creation, and you deserve much more than that. I promise He has a plan just for you, all your own, and as long as you are living righteously, you will figure it out. </span><br />
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<span style="text-indent: -24px;"> 3. Guys only want to marry RMs.</span></span><br />
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<span style="text-indent: -24px;">I'm starting to hear some gentlemen saying that they will only be interested marrying girls that are returned missionaries. If that is the case, I hope they realize that they could very well be missing out on a bunch of great girls. Some girls may want to serve with all their hearts, but can't for medical reasons, or simply that it's not in the Lord's plans. The type of man you want to marry will be one who will make you want to push yourself to be a better person. He will appreciate you for how Christ-like you are with or without being able to share mission stories. </span></span><br />
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<span style="text-indent: -24px;"> 4. My marriage is more likely to fail if I haven't served
a mission.</span></span><br />
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<span style="text-indent: -24px;">Out of all of these reasons, I think this one bothered me the most. The first thing that came to my mind when I heard this was my dear mother. She and my dad have been happily married for over 27 years now, and they still love each other very much. And guess what? Plot twist! My mother is not a returned missionary. </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit; text-indent: -24px;">In the end, it will all come down to agency. The reason female RMs might have a more successful marriage is because they are the type of people who will make the choices needed to have a happy marriage. However, are there RMs who go inactive in the church? Yes. Are there girls who haven't served missions who are still happily married? Yes. It all comes down to the choices you make. </span><br />
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<span style="text-indent: -24px;"> 5. I want to come back at the same time as my high school
crush.</span></span><br />
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<span style="text-indent: -24px;">A lot can happen to someone in 18-24 months. Especially when they've spent it serving the Lord everyday. Don't serve a mission simply because it's a way for you to "save yourself" for that guy you kind of dated in high school. If you've prayed about it and it's the right thing to do, that's great. Go for it. However, I ask that you have faith on this one. I promise that if it's </span>meant to work out, it will find a way. Heavenly Father always makes a way for things to work out for the faithful. </span><br />
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<span style="text-indent: -24px;"> 6. Getting an education is a
selfish thing to do. </span></span><br />
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I will be honest in saying that I don't understand this one. The prophets and apostles have told us to get an education. We're told to be life long learners and to try to improve ourselves. As I'm still learning, it's perfectly okay to just be going to school right now. It's actually a perfectly wonderful thing to do. Just because you are not furthering the plan of salvation by being a full tim missionary or having babies at this moment absolutely does not mean that you are being selfish or doing something wrong. Going to college will help you to learn about yourself, how to interact with all sorts of people, and will allow you to provide for a future family if need be. </span></div>
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Now, as a final piece of advice from an oh-so-wise 20 year old, the most important thing to remember is that Heavenly Father has a plan for you. If you are living righteously and doing all the things you should be doing, that plan will eventually be revealed to you. Serving a mission for the Lord is a wonderful thing to do, and I love those who choose to do so. I admire their spiritual strength. But it can take strength to stay behind too. Someone needs to hold down the home front, and that's okay. You can't always know what goes on when a girl prays to her Father in Heaven. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br />Do I really know what the plan is for me right now? No, not really, to be honest. I'm going to play it by spiritual ear for now, you could say. But I promise I still love the gospel. I still do my best to serve the Lord here at home by being an example of Christ, magnifying my calling, and helping to lift those around me. But I hope you will turn to your Heavenly Father to find your own path. I hope you will not fear for the future. I hope that you will be able to feel even the slightest bit of His love for you. And I hope this helped somebody out there. Stay strong sisters!</span><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span>
Laurenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15317754201602943755noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2381520355294654462.post-58606945684124681812014-04-14T22:03:00.001-07:002014-04-14T22:03:41.203-07:00Above All ElseThere are some parts of scripture that people tend to always skip over simply because they are too confusing. I will admit, I have been now of these people, especially with the Book of Revelation. One of the main reasons I took this class about the second half of the New Testament was so I could learn more about this book. One thing that the book mentions is that there was a war in heaven. That war did not end there, however. It has simply changed battlegrounds. <br />
But we already know who wins. The only thing that's left to decide is what side you will be on. Here is how we are going to do it. Revelation 12:11<br />
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"And they overcame him by the blood of the Lamb, and by the word of their testimony; and they loved not their lives unto the death."<br />
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The way to win against the enemy is to focus on our greatest ally. By keeping our focus on the Savior and working to keep our testimony strong, we will be able to overcome the attacks that Satan throws at us. We will be on the winning side of this great war. Through our Savior's sacrifice, we are able to win against sin. <br />
This is possibly my last post. Now that the semester is ending, I don't know if I will be keeping up this blog. But there is one thing I have learned from this whole experience. The more I bear my testimony, the more it grows. Through writing about my Savior, the more I feel I have come to know him and gain an understanding of the Atonement. I still have a long ways to go, but everyday is another chance to improve. Everyday is another chance to come to know the Savior. I hope that you realize that. He will always be there for you.Laurenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15317754201602943755noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2381520355294654462.post-87587937819367726202014-04-07T21:55:00.003-07:002014-04-07T21:55:45.339-07:00For Your Own GoodPlease tell me I'm not the only person who has woken up on some mornings and not had much to work with in terms of looks. There are definitely days that I feel like I'm not amounting up to very much. That's when I have to remember how much I really am worth: an infinite price. Read here 1 Peter 2:9<br />
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"But ye are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, an holy nation, a peculiar people; that ye should shew forth the praises of him who hath called you out of darkness unto his marvelous light."<br />
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Usually people take the word "peculiar" to mean strange or odd. Which, sometimes, we may seem that way to other people. But there is a footnote for this word. It says that peculiar in this sense would mean purchased or preserved. <br />
Folks, we are something special. We were bought by the Savior's Atonement. We were saved for these times on this earth. Now I want you to read 1 Peter 1:7<br />
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"That the trial of your faith, being much more precious than of gold that perisheth, though it be tried with fire, might be found unto praise and honor and glory at the appearing of Jesus Christ."<br />
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We have trials because we are worth it. We mean something very special to Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ. While it may be hard to see in the moment, I can guarantee that one day, you will be very glad of the person you have become, and so will your Father in Heaven. If you do what is right, <b>all</b> things will work together for your good. Laurenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15317754201602943755noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2381520355294654462.post-37498572492853667872014-03-31T21:07:00.001-07:002014-03-31T21:07:55.922-07:00How to Succeed in LifeThroughout my vast nineteen of years of life, I have learned some things. Not a lot, but a few. And I'm definitely still learning. But let me tell you what I do know. I know that the power of the Atonement is very real. And it is there for each one of us, available at all times and under any circumstance. Hebrews 8:10,12.<br />
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"For this is the covenant that I will make with the house of Israel after those days, saith the Lord; I will put my laws into their mind, and write them in their hearts: and I will be to them a God, and they shall be to me a people... For I will be merciful to their unrighteousness, and their sins and their iniquities will I remember no more."<br />
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We have the chance to be the people of God! We have the chance to use the Atonement to become like our Heavenly Father! Isn't that just wonderful? If we can put God first, we can be forgiven of our wrongs and become like Him. We can always wipe our slate clean and return to the fold of God. <br />
There is one more scripture that I really love. As we try to be like the Savior, our faith and love for Him will grow. Read James 2:19<br />
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"Thou believest that there is one God: thou doest well: the devils also believe, and tremble."<br />
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While Satan and his followers also know who the Savior is, they fear the power that allows Him to be our Redeemer. We would do well to believe in Him and His Atonement. The key to real success is following the Savior and trusting in Him. As we try to be more like Him, things will continue to fall into place. Laurenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15317754201602943755noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2381520355294654462.post-9062592117848369972014-03-24T20:54:00.000-07:002014-03-24T20:54:24.543-07:00Be of Good CourageHave you ever been trying to make a decision, and haven't had the slightest idea about what the right thing is to do? If you haven't, keep living. But for those of us who have, I love this short and sweet little verse. 2 Timothy 1:7<br />
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"For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind."<br />
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I want to rely on the Lord when I'm making my decisions. But a big part of that is actually being able to recognize the Lord's answer. I'm learning that Heavenly Father won't make you fearful. He doesn't want you to be scared. His Spirit will bring you hope and light. <br />
One thing that helps me is that I have to remember that my Savior knows what I'm going through. I know this one is a little long, but read it. I promise, it's good. Hebrews 2:9-11<br />
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"But we see Jesus, who was made a little lower than the angels for the suffering of death, crowned with glory and honor; that he <i>by the grace of God should taste death for every man</i>. For it became him, for whom are all things, and by whom are all things, in bringing many sons unto glory, to make the captain of their salvation <i>perfect through sufferings</i>. For both he that sanctifieth and they who are sanctified are all of one: for which cause he is <i>not ashamed to call them brethren</i>."<br />
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I love the phrases that I have put in italics. Jesus Christ chose to put Himself below all else for us. I especially love the last line. I hope that Christ considers me as someone worth associating with. I want to have that kind of relationship with my Savior. <br />
We have no reason to be afraid. We will always have our Savior's love. I hope I can one day be like Him.Laurenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15317754201602943755noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2381520355294654462.post-66550783563795472752014-03-17T21:37:00.000-07:002014-03-17T21:37:54.641-07:00Where You StandIn Ephesians 6, Paul gives us the armor of God lesson. I have heard this lesson in Sunday School many a time, but it was one of those things where I never actually went past the surface level. Yes, dressing up a class member in tin foil battle gear can be great, but I think there was supposed to be more to it than that. <br />
I guess we could start with why this analogy was given. Ephesians 6:11-12<br />
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"Put on the whole armor of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. 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."<br />
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While most of us won't be accosted by swordsmen in our day to day lives, we are constantly being attacked by Satan. The adversary will always be trying to fight against us and pull us down. <br />
Now, we certainly don't want that, do we? So here's what you're gonna do. Verse 13:<br />
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"Wherefore take unto you the whole armor of God, that ye may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand."<br />
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We shouldn't cower in the corner, hoping that the devil doesn't find us. We must take a stand. <br />
I would love to review each of the parts of the armor individually, but that would take a year and a half on here, and I don't quite have that much time to spare. But I encourage you to look it up and learn for yourself. <br />
Heavenly Father will not leave us defenseless. He has given us the tools and power we need to succeed in this life. But we must take the action to put on the armor and put it to good use. Laurenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15317754201602943755noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2381520355294654462.post-81863486290951236802014-03-10T20:36:00.000-07:002014-03-10T20:36:49.140-07:00Raindrops were Falling on Their HeadsI have been on a boat once. At Lake Powell. It was awesome. But at busier times on the lake, the water would be really choppy and not fun to ride on. I can't imagine what it's like trying to survive a storm on a boat like Paul did.<br />
In Acts 27, Paul is on his way to Rome. He has been taken prisoner and they're traveling by boat. It's early winter, and Paul predicts that there will be a terrible storm. The owner of the ship is likely an experienced sailor, and he says that there's no chance of a storm, and even if there were, he probably thinks he could handle it. Plus, Paul was a prisoner, so they probably weren't too excited to listen to his opinion. So they set sail anyways. <br />
Cue Acts 27:15<br />
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"And when the ship was caught, and could not bear up into the wind, we let her drive."<br />
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The wind was so strong that the sailors could hardly control the boat. Paul was right, and it would almost cost them their lives. Verse 18-19:<br />
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"And we being exceedingly tossed with a tempest, the next day they lightened the ship. And the third day we cast out with our own hands the tackling of the ship."<br />
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The storm is so fierce, the sailors start throwing supplies overboard for survival. Not just the extra stuff, but the tackling as well! There have been some storms in my life, and I'm sure you've had some as well. During those times, the only way we can really survive is to throw out the extra cargo. Get back to the basics of the gospel and our Savior. Focus on those to keep you steady. <br />
We should also follow the counsel that our church leaders give us. If we are choosing the right and leaning on the Savior, even during the hard times, we will not be forgotten. We will be preserved and live to see another sunny day. Laurenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15317754201602943755noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2381520355294654462.post-20772443083258584682014-03-03T21:17:00.000-08:002014-03-03T21:17:17.497-08:00No Matter WhatIt would seem that I have fallen in love. With the New Testament, that is. It's amazing to me just how much you can find the Savior in the scriptures. <br />
I didn't know this, but Romans is considered the most doctrinal of Paul's epistles. It's got some great stuff! I like the first six verses of chapter 5, but I especially like Romans 5:3.<br />
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"And not only so, but we glory in tribulations also: knowing that tribulation worketh patience."<br />
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I don't know about you, but I'm not always the best at being patient in my tribulations. But it says here in Romans that patience will lead to experience, experience will lead to hope, and hope will lead to not being ashamed. One day, when I return home to my Father in Heaven, I would love it if I could stand in front of Him, unashamed of the way I lived my life. I want him to be well pleased with me. <br />
I also love chapter 5:11.<br />
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"And not only so, but we also joy in God through our Lord Jesus Christ, by whom we have now received the atonement."<br />
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Fun fact about this verse. This is the only time in the New Testament that the word "Atonement" is used. The more that we embrace Jesus Christ as our Savior, the better off we will be. I have noticed that the more I embrace the gospel, the happier I feel. I feel more joy when I am doing what is right, and I don't think that is a coincidence. <br />
Finally, these verses are incredible. Romans 8:37-39.<br />
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"Nay, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him that loved us. For I am persuaded, that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor powers, nor things present, nor things to come, nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature, shall be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord."<br />
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God loves us. I believe that is part of the reason why he gives un tribulation. He wants us to grow and be strong. He wants us to appreciate the joyful times in our lives. But He will never stop loving us. No matter what.Laurenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15317754201602943755noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2381520355294654462.post-80505305491168965582014-02-24T21:47:00.001-08:002014-02-24T21:48:28.872-08:00Where Much Has Been Given, Much Will Keep Being GivenI know that God loves me. And I know that He loves each of us perfectly as well. This is something that I have just been learning for myself recently. Now that my testimony of this principle is growing stronger, I am starting to see it more in the scriptures, and I love that. I love finding those little places where I can throw myself into the scriptures. It is very fortifying. <br />
One of my new favorite places happens to be in 2 Corinthians 1:21-22, which read:<br />
"Now he which stablisheth us with you in Christ, and hath anointed us, is God; Who hath also sealed us, and given the <i>earnest</i> of the Spirit in our hearts."<br />
I would like to point out that I have italicized the word "earnest." During this time of the Lord's church, earnest is a financial term. It refers to a down payment. In other words, each time we feel the Spirit in our hearts, God is making a down payment of sorts on our souls. He gives us a small taste of what it is like in the celestial kingdom and how it will be if we live righteously. He does this over and over again for us. And when you make a down payment, it is done with the intention that you will at some point pay everything in full. I know that the Lord has wonderful things in store for us, especially when we strive to be like our Savior Jesus Christ. <br />
I love feeling the great care that my Heavenly Father has for me. He wants me to be happy now. He wants me to make the right choices now so that, hopefully one day, I can live with Him again. What a wonderful moment in time that will be. I hope I can always live up to His expectations. Laurenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15317754201602943755noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2381520355294654462.post-36819294141534569102014-02-17T19:28:00.002-08:002014-02-17T19:28:57.337-08:00The Refiner's FireI think one of the most painful and inconvenient things is getting a paper cut. That probably sounds silly, but really. They're very possibly the worst. But when you do get a paper cut, do you proceed to smash your finger with a hammer, telling it that it's so stupid for getting itself cut? Nope, I don't either. <br />
The same should go for people. When people mess up, including ourselves, we shouldn't just give up on them. It says in 1 Corinthians 12:23, "And those members of the body, which we think to be less honorable, upon these we bestow more abundant honor; and our uncomely parts have more abundant comeliness." Through the Atonement, we can be spiritually healed of our mess ups. Jesus Christ can heal everything from spiritual paper cuts to major bruises. <br />
Another scripture I really liked was verse 24. "For our comely parts have no need: but God hath tempered the body together, having given more abundant honor to that part which lacked." Tempering is a process using heat and pressure to refine metal. As it would turn out, Heavenly Father likes to use that process on us as well. Who knew, right? Sometimes in life we must go through the refiner's fire. But we need to have faith that our Father in Heaven is helping us to become something wonderful and useful. I know that is something I need to remember in my life. I hope that I can be somebody wonderful, and I know that Heavenly Father has great plans just for you. Laurenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15317754201602943755noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2381520355294654462.post-56969548653485947812014-02-10T22:03:00.001-08:002014-02-10T22:03:10.360-08:00Dancing Through Life<div style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 16px; margin-bottom: 2px; min-height: 15px; word-break: break-word;">
One great thing that I have been working on is gaining a testimony that I am a daughter of God. I have always thought that there is no way that little old me could be a child of the Almighty. But there is a scripture in 1 Corinthians that has helped me as I have been learning and thinking about this. </div>
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In 1 Corinthians 6: 19-20, it says the following: </div>
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What? know ye not that your body is the temple of the Holy Ghost which is in you, which ye have of God, and ye are not your own? </div>
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For ye are bought with a price: therefore glorify God in your body, and in your spirit, which are God's. </div>
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My spirit is of great worth unto God. But not just my spirit, my body as well. I suppose that is one of the reasons why I love dancing so much. It it a way that I use my strong and healthy physical body. It is a way of expressing myself. It is a moment when my body and my spirit can be fused, working together as one and giving glory to my Father in Heaven. </div>
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I feel very fortunate to have a knowledge of a loving Heavenly Father, and that I chose to come to this earth and receive a body. Even though it is imperfect, it is still a place for my spirit to reside. It is a place for the Holy Spirit to reside. I hope I can treasure my temple more, and all of things that it does for my spirit. </div>
Laurenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15317754201602943755noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2381520355294654462.post-72319685620123980122014-02-03T21:41:00.001-08:002014-02-03T21:41:19.502-08:00*See Blog TitleI'm sure you've heard the term "decade of decisions." Or at least something similar. As it would turn out, I'm in that very period of my life right now! It's still a little strange. It's almost feels like I'm playing house or something. <div>
But with the way I am, I am a planner. I like knowing that I'm heading in the right direction. And being in this decade of decisions will determine what direction I go in, so I want to make sure I'm doing it right. </div>
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Something I've been thinking about lately is if I'm headed in the direction that my Heavenly Father wants me to be going. I wonder about His will for me and what exactly He wants me to do. Fortunately enough for me, I came across this in 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18.</div>
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Rejoice evermore.</div>
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Pray without ceasing.</div>
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In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you.</div>
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This wasn't quite the answer that I was expecting or even looking for. I'm going to have to keep working on relying on the Lord and having faith that things will work out the way they should. I'll need to play it by my spiritual ear for a while. But the one thing I do know at this point is that Heavenly Father wants me to be happy. And I know the same goes for each of us. I guess I've been guilty of spending too much time looking at the map, and consequently forgetting to enjoy the scenery around me. </div>
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I hope you remember that now is a time for us to have joy, not just someday. Even if you have to fake it til you make it, that's a start. And now, looking at the top of this page, I can see the title of this here blog of mine. I hope you choose to find joy in your journey too.</div>
Laurenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15317754201602943755noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2381520355294654462.post-87082061297503846702014-01-20T21:52:00.003-08:002014-01-20T21:52:38.983-08:00Unique, Just Like Everyone ElseAt this particular moment in time, my life is pretty dandy. The plans I thought I had all neatly set out for myself are no longer there, but they've been replaced by something much better. I'm quite content with where I am right now. In fact, I haven't dealt with anything really hard for quite some time now. That always worries me a little. Maybe that it's the calm before the storm. I don't know. But anyways, there's gotta be someone out there who's having a tough time, so hopefully this will help someone. <br />
In Acts 7, Stephen is giving a not-so-brief history lesson. At least that's what it looks like at first. But if you look at little closer, Stephen is describing lots of the major characters in the Old Testament. He talks about trials they went through and how they each reacted. One of those "bitter or better" sort of things. <br />
Well, as it would turn out, I've heard that people today also have to deal with hard things. While our problems are different than those of Moses and Abraham, we all run into those rough patches. I hope I can be strong enough to withstand my personal storms when they come, and I hope that others will find that strength too. Laurenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15317754201602943755noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2381520355294654462.post-77380245936197155482014-01-13T21:59:00.002-08:002014-01-13T21:59:39.122-08:00New Life ResolutionsUsually around New Year's, I spend some time reflecting on my past and what I've accomplished with 365 days. I've also been given another 365 more to fill, hopefully with many wonderful things. I've decided that one of those wonderful things shall be actual scripture study. Old fashioned scripture reading is great! Love it. But scripture study is where it's at. I certainly still need to work on that, but this being the case, I want to continue learning about the New Testament this semester, beginning with the book of Acts. <br />
Let's start at the very beginning. A very good place to start, yes? In Acts 1:1, Luke addresses this book to Theophilus. While he was likely a real person, here's a fun fact for you. "Theo" means God, and "philus" means lover or friend. So, the name Theophilus is translated as Lover or Friend of God. I like to think of my Heavenly Father as one of my closest friends, and I hope you feel the same. So really, this book was written to you and me! Cool, right? <br />
I suppose the next reasonable question would be why this book was written. Cue verses three and eight. Using the "infallible proofs" (v. 3) that Christ gave, the book of Acts "shall [help us] receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you: and ye shall be witnesses unto me." (v. 8). I have been so blessed to have a knowledge of the Savior in my life, so I suppose the least I could do in return is to help share my happiness with those around me. I guess a good way to start is to continue to learn about my Savior. You can't teach what you don't know. <br />
So, cheers. And here's to a New Life. Laurenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15317754201602943755noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2381520355294654462.post-30426814992762680972013-12-13T12:06:00.001-08:002013-12-13T12:06:30.240-08:00Wonderful to MeI love learning! It makes me feel powerful, having all of this knowledge at my command. I used to only feel that way about secular things, but now, I've learned to feel that way about the gospel too. It seems the more knowledge I gain, the more I want. I like the way it makes me feel. <br />
Learning about the life and ministry of Christ has helped my testimony grow, and I love that our last three lessons covered the Atonement, crucifixion, and resurrection of Christ, just in time for Christmas and the chance to celebrate His birth once more. <br />
Let's start with the crucifixion. What I didn't know is that, while on the cross, Jesus once again felt the pains of Gethsemane, but even stronger. While He was physically being tortured, He was also suffering all of our pains. Folks, what love the Savior must have for us. I'm so glad to know that He will always be there for me, with whatever is going on in my life. <br />
One of the great beauties of this gospel is that you never have to be worthy to come to Christ. He is the one that makes you worthy. He has overcome both physical and spiritual death for us. I can't imagine what it will be like to meet Him again one day. The more I study and learn about Him, the more I can feel His love in my life, and I encourage you to do the same. Laurenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15317754201602943755noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2381520355294654462.post-37725201795434721152013-12-09T22:09:00.001-08:002013-12-09T22:09:40.972-08:00Yes, I Know That My Savior Loves MeI feel like it's been forever since I've written! And I will be trying to pick back up again with our Savior's atoning sacrifice. I'm warning you now: there is no way I will be able to do this the justice it deserves. And, as I've been learning, the more I try to understand the Atonement, the more I realize just how very far away I actually am from doing so. Here we go. <br />
As you probably know, Jesus has never sinned. Because of that, He's also never experienced the things that follow, namely guilt, shame, remorse, feeling unworthy, sorrow, horror, solitude, and so forth. <br />
That is, until now. <br />
He fell on His face. He needed an angel to come and comfort Him. He asked not to do this, but finished it anyways. He experienced every emotion, every sensation, every feeling, both good and bad, up to the point of spiritual death. That sounds <i>exhausting</i>. Why would someone ever want to do that? <br />
Because it was all for you. <br />
That's right, you right there, looking at this here screen. It was for you. Because Jesus Christ loves you. He suffered every negative feeling you could ever think of so that one day, you wouldn't have to. He loves you so much that He wanted to give you a chance. A chance to return to live with a Heavenly Father who wants you to be with Him so much, He was willing to send the Only Begotten to die for you. <br />
I suppose one of the best ways this can be summed up is here in this lovely children's song. Enjoy :)<br />
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ueGIP8VzoDwLaurenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15317754201602943755noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2381520355294654462.post-43473341550702792322013-11-25T17:31:00.000-08:002013-11-25T17:31:07.683-08:00I Thank Him ReverentlyHave you ever come across something in your day that made it so much brighter? That one little thing that happened that, for whatever reason, totally made your day? Sometimes I find that little thing in the scriptures. That one little verse that really makes my heart smile. <br />
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For example, John 16:33. "In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world." The Savior tells us this right before Gethsemane happens. I don't know about you, but if I knew I was about to experience suffering beyond comprehension, I probably wouldn't be too sympathetic toward other people and their problems. Yet the Savior is still so compassionate. What an example. <br />
In the next chapter, Christ gives the intercessory prayer. It's John 17, and I highly recommend you read it. And specifically pay attention to the way that Jesus prays. Because that was one thing that really struck me. The way Jesus talks to Heavenly Father is still respectful, but He prays like He is actually talking to someone face to face. His relationship with His Heavenly Father is so strong. I think the most wonderful part is that I know I'm capable of having a relationship like that too. I already love the relationship I do have with Him, but I know I should still work to develop it. It's like any other relationship here on earth; it takes genuine time and effort. But I still feel so lucky knowing that I have a Heavenly Father who loves me. <br />
As we get closer to the time of the Garden of Gethsemane, I'm just amazed at the love that both Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ have for us. One of my absolute favorite songs is "My Heavenly Father Loves Me." I ask you to really listen to it, because it is wonderful, beautiful, and true. You can listen to it here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7XSE63QIc7I<br />
Folks, your Heavenly Father loves you, whether you like it or not. There's no denying that. I hope you can feel His love like I have in my life. Because it's there. </div>
Laurenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15317754201602943755noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2381520355294654462.post-88245153656737040732013-11-18T21:02:00.001-08:002013-11-18T21:02:41.202-08:00For Those Days
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I know I say this pretty much every time, but I’ve found
another new favorite parable.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The
parable of the talents.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Basic summary: a
wealthy man gives his servants each a certain number of talents.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>One gets five, another two, and another
one.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>When the master returns, he asks
the servants what they’ve done with their respective talents.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The first had earned ten, the next four, and
the last had buried his.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I guess I’d
never consciously thought this, but a common misconception is that the man who
ended up with ten talents is the most righteous.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>However, this is not true.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>In Matt. 25:15, it says that the master gave
“to every man <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">according to his several
ability</i>.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’d never picked up on
this phrase.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
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For those who don’t know, I play the piano, the organ, I
sing, I do ballroom dance, and I’m currently attending BYU.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>That’s more than the average 19 year old is
up to, I guess you could say.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Throughout
my life, people have commented that they were impressed with how naturally talented
I was.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This always bothered me, because
I certainly wasn’t born with what I have.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>This did not just “happen.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’ve
spent many hours working to get to where I am now.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And now I’m glad I did (Yes, mom.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You were right that I would thank you one
day.)<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
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I like that this gospel makes us work hard.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>How boring would it be if you just got the
short straw and there was nothing you could do about it?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This gospel is about helping us become
better.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We are meant to find
happiness.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You develop whatever talents
you have.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Not much will be sweeter than
hearing, “Well done, thou good and faithful servant: thou hast been faithful over
a few things, I will make thee ruler over many things: enter thou into the joy
of thy lord.” (Matt 25:21).<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
Laurenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15317754201602943755noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2381520355294654462.post-34616425140209910632013-11-11T21:43:00.000-08:002013-11-11T21:43:02.769-08:00The Reins of JesusI don't know about you, but I like knowing stuff. It feels cool. It gives me almost this sense of power. Plus, I know that this crazy brain of mine is all I get to take with me at the end of my time here, so I might as well make it a good one. <br />
As we've been studying the scriptures, I've gained so many new little nuggets of knowledge. I never realized how much Atonement symbolism is in the New Testament. Of course I knew that the Atonement was the most important part of it, but I never realized just how many places you could find it, whether explicit or discreet. <br />
For example, the triumphal entry in Matt 21. I never knew this story very well, for some reason, but now it holds beautiful symbolism for me. Jesus rides into Jerusalem on an unbroken donkey. First of all, a donkey is the most lowly creature. Second, because this donkey was a colt, it was unbroken. It was a miracle that that donkey didn't get spooked and start bucking once he was surrounded by people shouting, throwing clothes in front of him, and waving palm fronds in his face. This is no coincidence, that's for sure. The Savior has taken the reins, and He will steer the donkey where it needs to go. <br />
So it is with us. If we can let the Savior take the reins in our lives, He will take us in the right direction. He will keep us on the path that we need to be on, helping us get through our daily struggles. This is something I have a bit of a hard time with. I'm very independent. I can do lots of things by myself, and I really like it that way. I like knowing that I can manage my own life. However, as I've approached the doorstep of this period of big decisions, it's more crucial now than ever to really trust the Savior. This has been tough for me, and I need to have greater faith that I won't be led astray. I certainly can't do this alone, no matter how hard I try. Let's work on this together, shall we?Laurenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15317754201602943755noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2381520355294654462.post-92216169356127991462013-11-03T21:01:00.005-08:002013-11-03T21:01:40.329-08:00The Rolling StonesIf your life has been anything like mine, you probably ran into an immature boy or two or a few hundred. I'm sure there's also been one of those boys who chose to share the shortest verse of scripture ever written as a spiritual thought. That shortest verse happens to be John 11:35, and it has now become one of my new favorites. <br />
So here's the background story on this verse. Lazarus, one of Jesus's friends, gets sick and passes away. The Jews believe that the spirit lingers around the body for three days. But by the time Jesus gets there, it's already been 4-5 days. Mary and Martha both tell Jesus that if He has only gotten there sooner, Lazarus wouldn't have died and they start to weep. Cue John 11:35<br />
"Jesus wept."<br />
The shortest verse in words, but the longest in meaning. <br />
He doesn't just get teary-eyed or let out a little sigh. He weeps. Why? I think there are several possibilities. He could be demonstrating the scripture that says to mourn with those that mourn and comfort those that stand in need of comfort. We also weep about things we care about. But I think the answer I like best is that He can feel our mourning and sadness. He understands the sufferings inside our hearts, and I think He sincerely wants us to be happy. It pains Him when we are in pain. He loves us so much! <br />
Now on with the story. Jesus asks some of the others to move the stone. He certainly could have done it Himself, but I think He wanted the focus to be on the rising Lazarus. But this also makes a beautiful Atonement symbol. In our lives, sometimes we do bad things. Sometimes our choices turn out to be not so great. But if we want to get on with our lives, we must be the ones to move the stone blocking the way of the Savior. There is no stone big enough that can block you from the power of the Atonement. Once we let Him in, He can bring us back to life. He can restore us and help us return to a happy and healthy life. <br />
Guys, I believe this is true. I really do. But that's not going to make one bit of difference if you don't do anything about it. This is a gospel of action! As was stated in one of my favorite movies: "Life's not a spectator sport. If watching is all you're gonna do, then you're gonna watch your life go by without you." Right now is the time to turn that life of yours around. Let Him in. Laurenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15317754201602943755noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2381520355294654462.post-61460225890823035452013-10-27T16:28:00.001-07:002013-10-27T16:28:55.450-07:00In Someone Else's ShoesMost likely, you've heard the phrase that you have to walk a mile in someone's shoes before you really know them. Well, I've found that it really enhances my scripture study if I try to do that. The story comes more to life when you think of each character as a real person, with thoughts, feelings, wants. <br />
For example, let's talk about when Jesus feeds the 5,000. Jesus told the disciples to feed the people. Andrew then said "There is a lad here, which hath five barley loaves, and two small fishes: but what are they among so many?" (John 6:9). <br />
Now imagine you are that little boy. You have these few loaves of bread and two little fish. Maybe you need to sell them to make money for your family, maybe you earned them today for your pay and that is all your family has to eat. Whatever the case, it was all this little boy had. And the Savior asked him to give it up. That probably took quite a bit of faith from that lad. The boy gives the food to the Savior, and once everyone has been fed, there are twelve baskets leftover. I like to think that the boy got to take some of that home, ending up with more than he started with. <br />
This story is so powerful because if we give all that we have to the Savior, fully trusting in Him, He can leave us better off than before. He can give us so much more than we could obtain all by ourselves. I just love the Atonement! <br />
Here's another one for you. Peter comes to Jesus, possibly frustrated about something. He asks, "Lord, how oft shall my brother sin against me, and I forgive him? til seven times?" (Matt. 18:21). Jesus replies that we should forgive seventy times seven times. Does that mean we should a little notebook in our back pocket to keep track of each time we're offended? No, probably not. Then the Savior goes on to give the parable of the man who owed a 10,000 talent debt. Fun fact: that's equivalent to about 150,000 years of labor, so in other words, it was a debt that could never be paid. It came time for the man to pay up, but of course he didn't have the money. But the lord forgave the man his debt. <br />
Later, this man went and found his fellow servant who owed him 100 pence (about 100 days labor) and demanded payment. When the fellow servant couldn't pay up, the man had him thrown in prison. When the lord found out, he asked, "Shouldest not thou also have had compassion on thy fellow servant, even as I had pity on thee?" (Matt. 18:33). <br />
Jesus has agreed to take your sins upon Himself. He owns your sins and debts. But this is also true for other people as well. Because Jesus owns other people's sins and mistakes, we must forgive people when they trespass against us. Let go of the issue, and let the Savior step in to resolve it. <br />
The Atonement is such a beautiful thing, not only in what it's capable of, but in the fact that it applies to everyone! The Savior is there for YOU!! He knows you and me, loves you and me, and He wants the both of us to trust in Him. He wants nothing but the best for you. And all you have to do is agree to follow Him. Laurenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15317754201602943755noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2381520355294654462.post-19866309910701100822013-10-21T21:09:00.000-07:002013-10-21T21:09:12.988-07:00Chicken Noodle Soup
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I don't know about you, but I love those "feel good" sorts of stories. I like having my dear little heart warmed, like the way that soup gets your insides all toasty and comfortable. I always thought the story of the Good Samaritan was this way, just a nice, happy story to show us that there are good people in the
world. While that is still true, the
meaning is so much deeper than that. <br />
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<o:p></o:p></div>
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This parable comes about when a lawyer, otherwise known as a scribe, asks Jesus how to inherit eternal life. In return, Jesus asks what the scriptures say, and the man says that we must love God with all our heart, might, and mind, and to love our neighbors as ourselves. Jesus says that the man should go and do this, but the man then asks who his neighbor is. The story of the Good Samaritan is Christ's response. </div>
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The story begins, "A certain <i>man</i> went down from Jerusalem to Jericho..." (Luke 10:30) with the word "man" also being in italics in the scriptures. As it would turn out, anytime a word is in italics in the scriptures, that means it wasn't in the original Greek manuscript. So we can totally substitute ourselves into this story. I like making the scriptures personal to me, because it's much more meaningful when I do and I'm able to answer the "So what?" question. </div>
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While this man was going on his merry way, he fell among thieves. Now, I must ask, what do thieves do? They take the good things that we have, and only leave bad things behind. To make this personal to us, we can substitute devils for thieves. Satan will only leave you hurt and with bad things where the good things used to be. </div>
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A couple people passed by this man, a Jew, on the side of the road. But then a Samaritan came. I didn't know this, but a Samaritan is someone who is part Jew and part something else. The Jews considered them an unclean people, so they didn't like them very much. The Samaritan stops and helps the man, binding up his wounds and taking him to an inn to rest. </div>
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Symbolism time! A Samaritan is part Jew, part something else, right? Well, if you think about it, the Savior also happens to be part Jew, part something else! I don't know about you, but I don't believe in coincidences. As we go along our path in life, sometimes we will get beat up and torn down. But the Savior will always stop to help us, nursing us back to full spiritual health. He just asks that we "Go, and do thou likewise." (Luke 10:37). </div>
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This is definitely something I need to work on, because I know how it feels when other people stop and help me. Just last week, I was walking home and I was feeling a little defeated. The week had been long, this next week will be even longer, and just several other big things were weighing in on my mind. As I was walking into my complex, a guy was sitting on the sidewalk tying his shoes, about to go on a run. I'd never seen him before. He asked how I was doing, and I said I was alright. He then asked if I'd had a tough day, and I nodded. He told me not to worry, and that things would get better for me. He knew everything was going to be alright. I don't know who that boy was, and I haven't seen him since. But he was my good Samaritan that day. It didn't take him a lot of time or effort, but he helped me get on the road to recovery. This was such a simple, real deal, everyday life example for me. I hope I remember to pass on the good favor, not just from him, but from my Savior. Let's get out there and do some good. </div>
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By the way, if you just happen to have 5:45, I highly suggest that you watch this video I just found. It's a good one :)</div>
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http://www.lds.org/training/wwlt/2013/hastening/members-and-missionaries?cid=HPMO101413118&lang=eng</div>
<!--EndFragment-->Laurenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15317754201602943755noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2381520355294654462.post-16254760090060115942013-10-14T20:40:00.000-07:002013-10-14T20:40:05.524-07:00Finding PeaceI'm sure there's been a time in your life where you felt like there's no possible way you can get everything done or that nothing seems to be going your way. If that's the case, this post is for you! If not, don't worry, just live a little longer. <br />
As a college student, I feel that way more often than not sometimes. I'm trying to balance all the things I need to do, plus those I want to do, as well as those I should do, and there's hopefully an occasional bit of sleep thrown in there somewhere. I really hope I'm not the only one who's dealing with this situation. <br />
As a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, I know that I always have the Savior there to help me out. In Matthew 11: 28-30, it says, "Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light." <br />
Now, I'm going to be perfectly honest for a moment. I didn't totally know what a yoke was at first. For those who were in my same predicament, it's a piece of wood that's used to hook up two animals, usually oxen, to some sort of cart so they can pull it. It looks like this:<br />
<img height="213" src="webkit-fake-url://FE0B8871-F516-4D43-9E2F-39011CAD2DD1/application.pdf" width="320" /><br />
In this scripture passage, Christ is already hooked up and ready to pull. He so desperately wants to help us with our burdens, but we have to let Him. We have to join Him as we press on. Now, I don't know about you, but having my soul find rest sure does sound nice every once in a while, so let Him into your life. I promise, it will be well worth it. <br />
<br />Laurenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15317754201602943755noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2381520355294654462.post-10024579864020404252013-09-30T22:13:00.001-07:002013-09-30T22:14:57.557-07:00Pyramid up to PerfectionSometimes I really wish there was a "Life's How To" book. I'm at the point in my life where the most important decisions I'll be making that will affect me for the rest of my life are being made. Right now. Where should I live, what career should I pursue, whom should I marry, so forth. All within the next five years, just about. Stressful much? <br />
But, I'm SO glad that at least I have a "True Happiness How To" book. You might be more familiar with its other name, the scriptures. One of my favorite chapters has got to be the Sermon on the Mount in Matthew 5. In this chapter, Christ gives us what's known as the beatitudes. In order, they are:<br />
<br />
Blessed are the poor in spirit: for <i>theirs
is the kingdom of heaven</i>.<br />
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Blessed are they that mourn: for they
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Blessed are the meek: for they shall
inherit the earth.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Blessed are they which do hunger and
thirst after righteousness: for they shall be filled.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Blessed are the merciful: for they
shall obtain mercy.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Blessed are the pure in heart: for
they shall see God.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Blessed are the peacemakers: for they
shall be called the children of God.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Blessed are they which are persecuted
for righteousness’ sake: for <i>theirs is the kingdom of heaven</i>.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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Now, I want you to think of these as a sort of spiral staircase. Each step leads up to the next, guiding you on your ascent to perfection. But if you notice, the blessing promised for both the first and last is the same: "for theirs is the kingdom of heaven." This makes a beautiful cycle for us to follow, giving us a step by step guide to not only live righteously, but to consequently be happy. They guide us as we try to become like our Savior. </div>
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I would love to focus more on each idea, but that would make this post much too long, so I shall conclude with one final idea. In Matt 5:48, Christ commands us to be perfect like our Heavenly Father. I don't know about you, but that sounds like a pretty tall order to me. I have always struggled with being a perfectionist, partially because of my personality, partially because I did ballet for ten years. It has gotten better recently, but for a while this was a hard scripture for me to read because I didn't fully understand it. But I've recently read an article that talked more in depth about this scripture. We don't have to be perfect now, but we do have the capacity to become perfect later. Part of the deal is that we do the best we can, and then we rely on both the Savior's ability and willingness to help with the rest.</div>
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I'm still learning to have more trust and faith in Him, but I can tell you this: it's worth it. The more I embrace His teachings and strive to be like Him, the more joy I feel in my life. </div>
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All it takes is one step...</div>
<!--EndFragment-->Laurenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15317754201602943755noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2381520355294654462.post-13122315631246984802013-09-22T21:41:00.002-07:002013-09-22T21:41:47.748-07:00A Gift to Your SoulEverybody likes to receive gifts. Of course I know that you have a good heart and you like to give gifts more than receive them, but let's be honest for a moment here. Everyone likes to get a present every once in a while. But I can't imagine being the mother of a two year old and receiving gifts like gold, frankincense, and myrrh in their behalf for their birthday. <br />
But let's remember, this was no ordinary toddler. This was the Son of God. I never really understood what some of these gifts were until this past week. Gold is, of course, a gift for kings. Frankincense is a type of incense that they would use in the temple, representing the prayers of the people as it went up to the heavens. Finally, myrrh is an anointing oil and embalming agent that was very costly. This shows us that the wise men not only knew who the child was, but what He would grow up to do and become. Christ is the King of Kings. He is our intercessor with our Heavenly Father when we pray. He will later be crucified and lay in the tomb for three days, anointed with oils until He is resurrected. This symbolism amazes me! The wise men knew how important this little child was. They knew how He would be the Savior for each of us. I think that is incredible. <br />
Now we are going to fast forward about 30 years. One of the first events of Christ's ministry that we talked about in class was when He cleansed the temple. He reminds everyone that this was His Father's house, a very sacred and special place. Now, in First Corinthians, Paul also tells us, "Know ye not that ye are the temple of God?" (1 Corinthians 3:16). Let's connect these two statements for a moment. If Christ can cleanse the temple, and we are the temple of God, wouldn't that mean that He can clean us? Why yes, it does. He can help us cleanse ourselves so that one day we can return to live with our Father in Heaven. He wants to do it! He wants to help you. We just have to let Him in. <br />
Do yourself a favor. Give yourself a little gift. Today. Right now. <br />
Let Him in. Laurenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15317754201602943755noreply@blogger.com0