June 9-15 Come Follow Me

 Come Follow Me June 9-15 D&C 60-63

As I was reading through the reading for this week, I thought about the major topics and realized there is a running theme in the lessons we are learning about this year. Maybe it's because the early saints needed to learn this too, or this is what they felt was the priority. 

1. D&C 60,62 - I can share my love and testimony of Jesus Christ. I felt this was covered in another blog I posted. Here is a link to that one. 

2. D&C 63:7-12 - Signs come by faith and the will of God. Again, was cover in another blog. Here is the link to that one.

So, I chose to write about how the scriptures teach of Jesus. 

In these sections there is overarching theme about the Savior which we will talk about; but I want to bring other things that are taught. 

1. He forgives us: D&C 61:2 "...sins are now forgiven you, for I, the Lord, forgive sins, and am merciful unto those who confess their sins with humble hearts;" This scripture is teaching us that we need to have a humble heart, and confess them. We can't be forgiven if we don't ask. We also learn in John 8:1-11 that the Savior will forgive our sins when we are humble. This story tells of the woman that is brought before the Savior by a group on men. Wanting the Savior to pass judgement on her. He simply begins writing in the dirt and says let him who is without sin cast the first stone.  Slowly the group walks away, and none is left save it be the woman and Jesus. Jesus then forgives her and tells her to sin no more. In Ether 2:15 the Savior tells the brother of Jared "I will forgive thee and thy brethren of their sins; but thou shalt not sin anymore" (Side note: I was thinking about this while I reread that verse and thought to myself, 'whoa Jesus is also an example of setting boundaries'. I was taught that forsaking your sins was part of the repentance process. I think it Jesus' way to set his boundaries.) 

2. He is our Advocate to the Father: D&C 62:1 - '...even Jesus Christ, your advocate," a person who publicly supports or recommends a particular cause or policy.  We are human and prone to making mistakes we will need someone on our side at judgement.  Jesus goes to bat us for the Father all the time. He pleads for mercy, patience and love on our behalf. But remember that there is overarching theme, JST 1 John 2:1 we must repent to have the Lord as our advocate. 

3. He is our companion: D&C 61:36 "... be of good cheer, little children; for I am in your midst, and I have not forsaken you;" this reminds of the poem of the footprints in the sand. Here is the version of "Footprints in the Sand" by Mary Stevenson, written in 1939:

One night I dreamed a dream.
As I was walking along the beach with my Lord,
Across the dark sky flashed scenes from my life.
For each scene, I noticed two sets of footprints in the sand;
One belonged to me, and the other to my Lord.
When the last scene of my life flashed before us,
I looked back at the footprints in the sand.
I noticed that during the saddest and lowest times of my life,
There was only one set of footprints.
This really troubled me, so I asked the Lord about it:
“Lord, you said that once I decided to follow you,
You’d walk with me all the way.
But I noticed that during the most troublesome times in my life,
There is only one set of footprints.
I don’t understand why, when I needed you the most, you would leave me.”
He whispered, “My precious child, I love you and will never leave you.
During your trials and suffering, when you saw only one set of footprints,
It was then that I carried you.”

I love this poem because even when you think you are alone you are not, that is when He is the closest. 

4. He is Alpha and Omega: D&C 61:1 "...even Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the end." Revelations 1:8 "I am Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the ending, saith the Lord, which is, and which was, and which is to come, the Almighty." He is in everything then He can do it all. 

These are the major ones I found in this week's reading, but other roles or attributes Jesus takes are: teacher, savior, good shepherd, living water, and the creator. If you want to take more time to learn of the Savior, the scriptures are a great place to learn. Here is a good place to start. 

June 2–8: “Anxiously Engaged in a Good Cause”

Come Follow Me June 2-8 D&C 58:26-29

D&C 58:27 - "Verily I say, men should be anxiously engaged in a good cause, and do many things of their own free will, and bring to pass much righteousness;"  

I really like this verse, because I believe there are people who say "well I wasn't asked/told/assigned/etc." so they don't do anything.  In verse 26 it states, "For behold, it is not met that I should command in all things; for he that is compelled in all things, the same is a slothful and not a wise servant;" We have been sent here with agency, and we are asked to exercise it. God doesn't want to tell us everything; He wants us to try for ourselves. 

Right now, in life Mike and I could use a miracle. Things are just not going our way in several things. We have fasted, prayed, gone to the temple, received blessings, pondered, and no miracle has come. At least not what we are thinking. While at the temple one day I received the revelation of 'Stop asking me, just do something.' He was telling me to do something; to be fair I have been doing things. But I think He just wanted me to make a choice, decide what I want and go for it. It has still been hard, waiting on others for things to happen. Unfortunately, many of our problems are solved by the choices of other people. Anyways this is a post about being 'Anxiously engaged in a good cause' not Jess's drama life. 

While I was growing up and heard this, I always thought of the Lord's work as the good cause. And I still believe to a degree that it is. I would like to explore other ideas of a 'good cause.' (Some probably will still fall within the Lord's work realm but here we go.)

1. Raising your family. There are so many different ideas of what being engaged in your family looks like. I am not here to tell what is right or wrong. I know all families are different, kids have different levels of needs, parents have different experiences from their own childhood. I will give some thoughts and ideas of ways this could look, but what is right is for you to choose. 

• The Family Proclamation to the world states this: "Happiness in family life is most likely to be achieved when founded upon the teachings of the Lord Jesus Christ. Successful marriages and families are established and maintained on principles of faith, prayer, repentance, forgiveness, respect, love, compassion, work, and wholesome recreational activities." As we teach our families the teachings of Jesus, work together and have time together I know this happiness that is promised will happen. 
• Sister Kathleen Hughes shared in a conference address in October 2002 'covenants commit us to moral behaviors: both our ethics toward one another and standards of conduct related to our bodies. We need to teach our children ethical behaviors: honesty, respect, integrity, kindness in word and actions. We send our children into a world where these behaviors are declining, but we must teach them through word and, more importantly, example, the actions of decency and goodness.' 

• Elder Hales talk Strengthening Families: Our Scared Duty 
  

2. Community involvement: I think there are many ways this is a good cause. Things from the Just serve projects, to participating in neighborhood activities, being involved in the betterment of the area. In the Pilar goals from the Children and Youth program being part of the community is an idea that is shared in more than one place. (The program for those now familiar with it is to help the children and youth grow like the savior in the same area he grew up in. Social, physical, spiritual and intellectual, I believe this program can be used for all.) 

• Just Service Website Here is a link to the Just Serve site, a place where you can find ideas of projects going on in your area.
• Support the local businesses, theaters, libraries, and centers with your skills or time. They will greatly appreciate it. 

3. Yourself: I believe that you are a good cause. Working on improving your discipleship, faith, trust, and self- esteem are things that would warrant a good cause. As you improve yourself, and gain confidence, love, and hope you will find a renewed joy in being anxiously engaged in other good causes. Here are some ideas of how to be engaged in yourself. 

• Children and Youth Program Like I said earlier I believe this program can be and should for everyone. Setting goals, tracking them, and working towards a love for Jesus through growing like him is a powerful thing. As you accomplish goals you can find a new sense of appreciation for yourself, you can discover your true self and believe in yourself more. 
• The Children and Youth Program replaced the scouting program and the Young Women's recognition program. I believe the values taught in the Young Women's program are still valuable to work on today. Faith, divine nature, individual worth, knowledge, choice and accountability, good works, integrity, and virtue these are great to still develop. 
• Finding our Christlike attributes is another great way to see places you can improve and grow. Here is a link to the Christlike attributes section in the preach my gospel.  There is an activity at the end that allows you to rank different attributes to help you discover ones you are well rehearsed in and the others you might need to practice more on. 

There are many other 'good causes' you can find yourself a part of. These are just a few I thought were maybe a little different than Missionary work and the farthing of the gospel of Christ. You should still have the Lord as part of your life and as you discover areas of improvement put the Lord there, He isn't going to tell you how to do it, He wants you to discover that for yourself. But He will know that you are making the right choices, and that you are loved by Him. You are a child of Living God, and the sibling of Jesus Christ who loves you so much that he died for you, suffered all things for you and bowed himself below all things for you. You matter to them, you are important to them, and you are a unique individual and have a personalized purpose on this earth that only you can do. So be engaged, be willing to get uncomfortable, be willing to grow as you do you discover your true self. 

Here is my shameless plug for my Etsy shop. I created this Shirt: 

'Come Follow Me' May 26-June1

I really struggled with this week's Come Follow Me, not in what was taught, but what I wanted to share my insights on. 

These sections D&C 51-57 talk about several things, I decided to write about the section labeled "I can invite others to come unto Christ wherever I go." 

Several months ago I was at my Conference Club monthly meeting. (Conference Club is like a book club, but we focus on a conference talk instead of a book) During this month's meeting we were talking about how there are some people that are very open about their relationship with Jesus, they talk about him all the time in normal conversation. As a group we felt that we collectively did not talk about Jesus the way others in our lives did.  Some might have tried to make a note and change the way they speak about Christ in their everyday lives. I know I did. I was also speaking to my mom about this as well, and she agreed it's just not something that always happens as Members of the Church. We talked about reasons why; the main reason we thought of was that in Utah we felt like everyone already knew about Him or was not interested in hearing about Him. Not everyone is this way, but that was the reason we decided was why we didn't at least. 

Do you speak of Christ often? Do you talk about your Sabbath day worship? Or events that happen in your life around the savior?

You might be thinking 'I do. I love to talk about my Savior with everyone I meet. It comes naturally for me.' or 'hmmm, nope.' Elder Uchtdorf shared in his April 2019 conference address "Some members of the Church seem to have a gift for this. They love being ambassadors of the gospel. They boldly and gladly serve and lead the work as member missionaries. However, others of us are more hesitant. When missionary work is discussed in Church meetings, heads are slowly lowered until submerged behind the pew, eyes focused on the scriptures or closed in deep meditation to avoid eye contact with other members. Why is this? Maybe we feel guilty for not doing more to share the gospel. Perhaps we feel uncertain about how to do it. Or we might feel timid about going outside our comfort zone. I understand this." Elder Uchtdorf understands, he says so. He also shares 5 suggestions to help with gospel sharing. Let's talk about them. 

1. Draw close to God: Elder Uchtdorf reminds us that this is the first great commandment to love God. "The closer you draw to our Heavenly Father, the more His light and joy will shine from within you. Others will notice that there is something unique and special about you. And they will ask about it.  Elder Neil L Andersen shared in his October 2020 conference address "Interestingly, while this spiritual conviction is increasing within us, there are many on the earth who know very little of Jesus Christ, and in some parts of the world where His name has been proclaimed for centuries, faith in Jesus Christ is diminishing. The valiant Saints in Europe have seen belief decline in their countries through the decades. Sadly, here in the United States faith is also receding. A recent study revealed that in the last 10 years, 30 million people in the United States have stepped away from believing in the divinity of Jesus Christ." As the world puts distance between themselves and God, we will be able to see the result in the ways society changes, accepting things that the Lord has taught to be right to be wrong.  I can't recall the source, but I have heard it said that in the last days that people will perceive things that are right as wrong, and things that are wrong as right. I believe as the world puts distance between themselves and God this will happen more.  Elder Andersen also proclaims this "If the world is going to speak less of Him, who is going to speak more of Him? We are! Along with other devoted Christians!" Are you? 

2. Fill your heart with love for others: Elder Uchtdorf begins this suggestion by reminding us again of the great commandments. This is the second great commandment. He continues that we are asked to minister to others, and 'Strive to emulate the love of Christ and have compassion for others' Elder Andersen states ""Be ready always to give an answer [for] the hope that is in you." Let us talk of Christ."  Elder Andersen gives an example of how we can make conversation easily "Let us kindly witness our faith in Christ. If someone shares a problem in his or her personal life, we might say, “John, Mary, you know that I believe in Jesus Christ. I have been thinking about something He said that might help you.”"  We should have our homes be a place where we speak of Christ often.  We are commanded to teach our children about Christ. " And we talk of Christ, we rejoice in Christ, we preach of Christ, we prophesy of Christ, and we write according to our prophecies, that our children may know to what source they may look for a remission of their sins." - 2 Nephi 25:26

3. Strive to walk the path of discipleship: Elder Uchtdorf states "As your love for God and His children deepens, so does your commitment to follow Jesus Christ."  Elder Andersen shares a plea "With those around us, let us be more open, more willing to talk of Christ. President Nelson said, “True disciples of Jesus Christ are willing to stand out, speak up, and be different from the people of the world.”" He also requests "As the world speaks less of Jesus Christ, let us speak more of Him. As our true colors as His disciples are revealed, many around us will be prepared to listen. As we share the light we have received from Him, His light and His transcendent saving power will shine on those willing to open their hearts."  I will be first to tell you that my discipleship level varies subject to subject.  I am comforted to know that the walk isn't easy, and that it takes practice walking it. As we practice walking the discipleship path Elder Uchtdorf promises us that talking with our friends about our faith will become easier as we do it more.  "In fact, the gospel will be such an essential, precious part of your lives that it would feel unnatural not to talk about it with others."  Elder Andersen gave a similar promise "I promise you that as you prepare yourselves, as President Nelson did, you too will be different, thinking more about the Savior, speaking of Him more frequently and with less hesitation. As you come to know and love Him even more deeply, your words will flow more comfortably, as they do when you speak of one of your children or of a dear friend. Those listening to you will feel less like debating or dismissing you and more like learning from you." I believe in their words that if we grow our relationship with the Savior and practice the path of discipleship these promises will be ours. 

4. Share what is in your heart: I feel some of this section I added to the section above.  As our hearts feel with love, love is what we will speak. "There are many normal and natural ways to do this, from daily acts of kindness to personal testimonials on YouTube, Facebook, Instagram, or Twitter to simple conversations with people you meet." Elder Uchtdorf gives great examples of ways to share what is in your heart. "“But,” you might ask, “what if I do all this and people react poorly? What if they are critical about the Church? What if they unfriend me?” Yes, that may happen." People who respect you will be kind about it. 

5. Trust the Lord to work His Miracles: "Understand that it’s not your job to convert people. That is the role of the Holy Ghost. Your role is to share what is in your heart and live consistent with your beliefs."  

I believe we can truly share the gospel everywhere we go. " I am asking that you “stand as witnesses” of the power of the gospel at all times—and when necessary, use words." Elder Uchtdorf encourages to let our light shine to to be witness we don't always need to use words to share. 

I encourage you listen to the talks and see what you can do share where you are. 

Elder Uchtdorf's talk

Elder Andersen's talk

Seek out Miracles

 So, I must give credit to this BOOK for my ideas of having a Christ Centered Life. It is a great book I highly recommend it. 

The 2nd chapter of the book talks about expecting miracles, I am going to take my own spin on it, by discussing a few talks from conferences (links are found at the bottom)

"I have thought much about the circumstances of so many others. What about the innumerable faith-filled, priesthood-blessing-receiving, unendingly-prayed-for, covenant-keeping, full-of-hope Latter-day Saints whose miracle never comes? At least in the way they understand a miracle. At least in the way that others appear to receive miracles. What about those who suffer from profound afflictions—physically, mentally, emotionally—for years or for decades or for their entire mortal life? What about those who die so very young?" - Elder Donald L. Hallstrom 'Has the day of Miracles Ceased?' - Oct. 2017 When I read this, I thought to myself hmmm yeah! I feel like I fall into this group of people. My Husband and I fast, attend the temple, fulfill our callings, ask for priesthood blessings and still no miracle. But Elder Hallstrom states something else in his talk that we must also consider "My limited knowledge cannot explain why sometimes there is divine intervention and other times there is not. But perhaps we lack an understanding of what constitutes a miracle. Often, we describe a miracle as being healed without a full explanation by medical science or as avoiding catastrophic danger by heeding a clear prompting. However, defining a miracle as “a beneficial event brought about through divine power that mortals do not understand” gives an expanded perspective into matters more eternal in nature. This definition also allows us to contemplate the vital role of faith in the receipt of a miracle." So, to get a miracle we need faith, but I am sure you are saying 'yeah Jess I have faith, and the first quote talked about faith-filled disciples. So, where are mine? Why are mine not what I need?'  I don't know the answer, but if I really did, I would tell you! 

I believe often someone is looking for a miracle because some sort of hardship has fallen into their laps. They try to endure, have faith, patience, and humility. But at some point, you get tired, unsure how you are going to keep going.  For some people this can stop to cause anger, but if we need the Prince of Peace through this trial then we can't have anger in our hearts to have the Lord with us. President Russell M Nelson in his conference address in April 2022 "the Power of Spiritual Momentum" he states the following "We are followers of the Prince of Peace. Now more than ever, we need the peace only He can bring. How can we expect peace to exist in the world when we are not individually seeking peace and harmony? Brothers and sisters, I know what I’m suggesting is not easy. But followers of Jesus Christ should set the example for all the world to follow. I plead with you to do all you can to end personal conflicts that are currently raging in your hearts and in your lives." Even President Nelson knows having a heart of peace and harmony all the time isn't no easy. In this conference talk he gave 5 steps for great Spiritual Momentum. I would like to bring those to light again.  I know this was a great talk given 3 years ago, and many people have talked it to death, but I believe it fits well with expecting miracles. Some sections I have some insights and others not so much. 

1. "Get on the Covenant path and stay there.

2. Discover the joy of daily repentance." It wasn't until recently, about a few weeks before I started this blog that I realized I have several things I need to repent of and improve. And I created this blog as a way to keep me accountable for the items I need to repent of and improve! President Nelson has this to say about repentance and the covenant path, and personally I think it also applies to miracle receiving: " Repenting is the key to progress. Pure faith keeps us moving forward on the covenant path. Please do not fear or delay repenting. Satan delights in your misery. Cut it short. Cast his influence out of your life!" I believe that Satan also wants us to not see the miracles that have come into our lives, when we can't see them, he is delighting in our misery, and I know I don't want him to be happy.  "Returning to the covenant path does not mean that life will be easy. This path is rigorous and at times will feel like a steep climb. This ascent, however, is designed to test and teach us, refine our natures, and help us to become saints." I think when we are in the middle of trial and are seeking miracles the path can be rigorous and a steep climb. Who knows maybe the miracle will be that you will be getting a stronger you. 

3. Learn about God and how He works. As President Nelson continues in his talk he states "we need daily experiences worshipping the Lord and studying His gospel. I plead with you to let God prevail in your life. Give Him a fair share of your time. As you do, notice what happens to your positive spiritual momentum." If we aren't having daily experiences in worshipping, then how can we see the 'beneficial events brought about through divine power'?  If you are making choices that don't give the Lord a 'fair share of your time' then your miracle receiving time might be delayed.

4. Seek and expect miracles: ta da President Nelson has a whole step about expecting miracles. "Every book of scripture demonstrates how willing the Lord is to intervene in the lives of those who believe in Him." He continues by giving examples of big miracles the Lord has performed in people's lives, but he says this: "Each of these miracles took time and may not have been exactly what those individuals originally requested from the Lord." I know the same can be said for us. We are getting a miracle, and we might not notice it because it's different from what we requested, or enough time has passed. I think the wording of 'originally requested' is important, we can't be completely vague in our request for a miracle, but we must request something. Again, we might not get what we are asking for, but if we don't specifically ask, we won't see it. Some miracles take time.  In Elder Hallstrom's talk he tells a story of a man who fell off a cliff and lived.  He used the word HAPPENED, several times, I feel this important to the miracle could just be that happening upon something. Doubt nothing! In Come Follow Me this week there was a chance to discuss things that edify us things that come from the Lord edify us otherwise it from the darkness (see my Come Follow Me post to read more). President Nelson encourages and promises the following "Do the spiritual work to seek miracles. Prayerfully ask God to help you exercise that kind of faith. I promise that you can experience for yourself that Jesus Christ “giveth power to the faint; and to them that have no might he increaseth strength.” Few things will accelerate your spiritual momentum more than realizing the Lord is helping you to move a mountain in your life." I guess the answers to the questions asked above can be answered here, they are not what you are requesting so you might still be looking for yours. also, pray for the ability to access the faith required for seeking miracles.  

5. End Conflict in your personal life.  We must "exercise the humility, courage and strength required to both forgive and to seek forgiveness." I know this talking about forgiving and forgiveness again, but maybe that is what is needed for your miracle to come about. 

President Nelson closes with this "As you act on these pursuits, I promise you the ability to move forward on the covenant path with increased momentum, despite whatever obstacles you face. And I promise you greater strength to resist temptation, more peace of mind, freedom from fear, and greater unity in your families." I think if we are able to obtain more peace of mind, or freedom from fear those alone could be our miracles. 

I challenge you listen or read these talks to see what you need for your miracle, again your miracle might need time, to be looked at from point of view, prayers for miracle seeking faith, repentance or forgiving someone, inviting the Prince of Peace into you your life more, or a list of other things. I too will be looking to see 'what lack I yet?' 

Link to Elder Hallstrom's talk

Link to President Nelson's talk

"That Which is of God is light"

 

May 19-25 - Come Follow Me - D&C 49-50

In "Come Follow Me" this week, one section covers only 3 verses, D&C 50:23-25 " And that which doth not edify is not of God, and is darkness. That which is of God is light; and he that receiveth light, and continueth in God, receiveth more light; and that light groweth brighter and brighter until the perfect day. And again, verily I say unto you, and I say it that you may know the truth, that you may chase darkness from among you;" Sometimes we believe we understand a word because it's used so much, but I want to explore what the word edify really means. 

A quick Google shows: Edify is a verb: instruct or improve (someone) morally or intellectually. Origin Middle English: from Old French edifier, from Latin aedificare ‘build’, from aedis ‘dwelling’ + facere ‘make’ (compare with edifice). The word originally meant ‘construct a building’, also ‘strengthen’, hence to ‘build up’ morally. So, if something does not edify you; build up, strengthen, improve, or instruct; then is not of God. Take a quick moment to think about the major things in your life and do those things edify you? If not, what can those things be replaced with? For example Doom strolling can be replaced with face to face interaction with someone else. 

As we fill our lives with things of light, then darkness can be chased away.  While I was in school I was taught this "Darkness is the absence of visible light.  It can refer to the total or near total lack of light. In general, it is the quality of being without light." -Again, a Google search of what is darkness? I believed that darkness isn't possible without light. There has to be opposition in all things. Ponder with me. We are outside on a nice sunny day; the season can whichever you want. Together we lay down on the ground and close our eyes.  If we are in the sun and we close our eyes we still can see the light. But if we go in the shade to somewhere darker, and close our eyes that light that comes through is less.  If you live our lives in semi darkness then we won't see the light of Christ in our lives.  As we make unedifying choices we allow ourselves to live in these places of 'shade' or of gradual darkness. 

I am sure many of you have heard of the revelation compared to a light switch, which is the most uncommon way of the revelation and answers to prayer. The other comparison is that of the sunrise. A little light at time until you have a full brightest of the sun, just as verse 24 stated above. I think the same can be said about darkness and a sunset.  As the sun goes below the horizon the source of light slowly fades away. However, unlike during a clear day there is no darkness left in the sky, but on a clear night, you can see light. Light from the moon, which is really just light from the sun reflecting off it, or the stars which are other suns just far away.  Though you may have strayed from the light; the light never leaves you. 

My challenge to you this week is similar to my questions already asked. 

1. What do you have in your life that edifies you? Specifically in increasing your spiritually light.

2. What brings darkness into your life? Specifically, what drives the spirit away? What weakens you?

3. How can you replace things in your life with that of good report, so that I can live without darkness? So you can endure your dark trials that will come. 

Since I always want to tag something from my shop for a shameless plug Sticky notes I created these as an afterthought for the getting ready for Sunday book.  These are simpler. 

"Seek Ye Earnestly the Best Gifts"

Come Follow Me May 12-18 D&C 46:7-33

Oftentimes I find myself questioning what makes me special? What makes me unique so that I can make a difference in someone's life? This is when I go to my husband, Mike, for help.  He tells me how I differ from him, I naturally love people, and care deeply about them quickly and easily.  He is more reserved, requiring time to create the same level of love I have others rarely ever getting to that same level. 

D&C 46:12 "To some is given one, and to some is given another, that all may be profited thereby." Recently I partook in a compassion training, during the training we learned about how boring the world would look if there was only 1 color or maybe 2.  Or if there were only mountains or only beaches, the world would look very plain and boring.  I think the same could be applied to gifts of spirit. We aren't all given the same because that would be boring. We are given gifts according to the spirit D&C 46:10-11 "And again, verily I say unto you, I would that ye should always remember and always retain in your minds what those gifts are, that are given unto the church. For all have not every gift given unto them; for there are many gifts, and to every man is given a gift by the Spirit of God." Our gifts and talents are given to us to help the gospel of Jesus Christ grow and expand around the world. We are asked to share all we have to the gospel, to further the church.  Again, this can't be done if we are all the same. 

Recently I had a conversation where someone had been seeking answers, and a knowledge of love from Heavenly Father.  They came to me with what they thought was their answer. They were reading Mosiah and King Benjamin's address during which it tells everyone that they are nothing. Mosiah 4:5, 11 "For behold, if the knowledge of the goodness of God at this time has awakened you to a sense of your nothingness, and your worthless and fallen state. ...even so I would that ye should remember, and always retain in remembrance, the greatness of God, and your own nothingness, and his goodness and long-suffering towards you, unworthy creatures, and humble yourselves even in the depths of humility, calling on the name of the Lord daily, and standing steadfastly in the faith of that which is to come, which was spoken by the mouth of the angel." They just felt like nothing, that they were nothing. This was my reply to them: "what if we thought of nothingness as this 'nothingness is the purest simplest state of being.' He created the universe, the earth out of nothingness or out of unorganized matter. But they followed his command, he uses these to create.  If we are nothingness, we are able to truly follow the savior without everything of the world. People of nothingness are humble, submissive, which makes us blessed. 'Blessed are the poor in spirit for theirs is the kingdom of heaven' Matt 5:3" After reading this they said all the burden, darkness, and stress was lifted, they had never felt anything like it better.  So, as we think about gifts and nothingness, how do they work together? 

If our gifts are given to us for the use of the church and are given to us by the spirit then they can be taken away too.  I am reminded of the parable in Matthew 25:15-28. There is when someone loses their talents because they didn't use them. We have been blessed with many wonderful talents and gifts that are a unique combination just for us! There is a reason, a purpose you have been blessed with your gifts. You are no mistake; you are meant for greatness through our savior Jesus Christ. As you humble yourself, letting God use you as He needs your life will begin to grow. But there is nowhere that states you are only allowed to stay with the gifts you have. You should be developing new talents, finding new gifts of the spirit. As you do you will be blessed beyond measure.