Keep the Fire Burning in Truth

We just concluded the 183rd semiannual conference for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Members from around the world--or anyone who is interested--was able to watch or listen via satellite, television, radio, internet and soon, the written word.

I love these weekends for the inspiration, the spirit, the instruction, and the time to realign my priorities and goals. To help me remember, I tried to compile quotes from the talks and decided I'd share! In no particular order...

"We sometimes have a tendency to be very critical of ourselves. During these times we need to seek the spirit and ask. "Is this what the Lord wants me to think about myself? Or is Satan trying to beat me down?"" - Linda S. Reeves

"When the quiet promptings of the Holy Ghost come, you must have the courage to set aside your outlines and your notes and go where those promptings take you. When you do this the lesson you deliver is no longer your lesson, but becomes the Savior's lesson." Elder David M. McConkie

"Man's laws cannot make moral what God's laws have declared immoral." -Dallin H. Oaks

(image, © Wendy 2013)

"We need to get into spiritual shape." -Richard J. Maynes

"Satan will try to use our previous guilt to lure us back into his influence." -Richard G. Scott

"Shall I falter, or shall I finish?" - Thomas S. Monson

"...you are entitled to teach with the power and authority of God." -David M. McConkie

"This is our destiny--to prepare the kingdom of God for the return of our Savior." - Neil Anderson

"Our everyday decisions will impact our lives in significant ways...Choose to be diligent and gain the great blessings and protection that come from gathering together and keeping covenants." -Kevin S. Hamilton

"Can good fruit grow from a bad tree?" --Adrian Ochoa

"God should be the center of our universe, our literal focal point. Is He?" -Terence M. Vinson

"Stellar spirits are often housed in imperfect bodies." -Russell M. Nelson

"The gospel of Jesus Christ is a gospel of change!" Russell M. Nelson

"Sin, even if legalized by man, is still sin!" - Russell M. Nelson

"May you constantly nourish your testimonies of the gospel that they may be a protection to you against the buffetings of the adversary." Thomas S Monson

What were some of YOUR favorite conference quotes/moments?

LDS General Conference

Every 6 months, we have the opportunity to hear from prophets and apostles and other leaders in a world-wide broadcast. These men and women have been called by God to be leaders in His church and to deliver His message to us. I look forward to these weekends where we can spend time with our family feeling the spirit of the Lord. 

Also, for me it is a special time where I get to ponder the words and messages from Church leaders. I often receive personal guidance and revelation specific to me, answers to questions I have or problems I have been struggling with. The messages and inspiration fill my mind with peace, hope, and love and strengthen my resolve to live better. 

I encourage everyone to ponder questions you have, problems you or loved ones are having and to pray about these to God. Ask for His help and guidance. I know that you can receive answers from Him. 

If you're interested in watching, you can view a live stream, or find it on a local channel.

Also, you can find other inspiring videos on the Mormon Channel. 

I am really excited for this weekend. I love it and look forward to the spiritual boost and testimony building moments. 

Other related blog posts:

Brassy Apple

Dreaming About Someday

© Wendy 2013

Being an Answer to Prayer

I've been really touched recently as I have witnessed God working in my life and the lives of others who are close to me. It has caused me to reflect and realize how often He really has had his hand in my life--usually through others He has placed in my surroundings to teach, lift, inspire, shape, encourage, and support me.

Even as far back as elementary school and then into junior high, high school and college, I can recall times where friends, teachers and family have taught me and helped me in my life. I've claimed (unbeknownst to them) some as my personal mentors (I probably have more mentors than I can even count). Some have helped me through my personal hard times, some have taught me by their example, others have amazed me by their love. Sometimes, I have observed how bad choices have affected their lives. I have seen others helping each other in various ways to better their lives. I have learned from the strength, testimonies, hard work, compassion, and different views of so many wonderful people.

I love this quote as it encapsulates so much, while teaching us that we need to help each other:

I strive and hope to be a person that can meet the needs of another person. I want to help people become closer to Christ and to become who He knows we can become. I have had so many do this for me, how can I not desire the same for others? In fact, one of the reasons I started blogging almost 1 year ago, is because of some wise insight from one friend and encouragement from another. I truly believe that these two women have helped me to understand more fully my mission in life by being willing to help and lift me--and listen to promptings. 

Our Heavenly Father loves us so much more than we can comprehend in our mortal minds. He also sees us so very differently, so much better, than we see ourselves. If we only knew, I think we would not succumb to the pitfalls we sometimes fall victim to. He did not put us here to fail. We need to trust in Him, pray to Him for help, and seek out those who He can help through us. 

I feel my words are not adequate to share these deep feelings I want to express, but I hope you can feel the meaning in your hearts. 

© Wendy 2013 

Love One Another

I saw this picture on my friend's wall on facebook the other day, and it got me wondering: how many of us feel like this once in awhile, or even all the time? 

What kind of emotions does this bring to your mind and heart? What do you feel? How does it make you feel to think that perhaps some of the people you are afraid to lose actually feel this way too?

I want to propose a challenge, and I would love your feedback on how this changes your life, and perhaps the lives of those around you. Instead of always wondering if people are afraid to lose you--because inevitably there are people who desperately want you in their life--try to make sure that those in your life know how much YOU love them.

Tell them in words.

Show them by your actions.

Let them feel it in your embrace.

Let them see it in your smile and in your eyes.

Don't hold back your love.

Often, we may have a feeling, or a prompting, that tells us we ought to call, or say, or do something for another person. Don't ignore that feeling! Act quickly! You will be an answer to their prayers--verbalized or not. In return, we will feel ourselves becoming more like Christ, closer to Him, because we are doing what He wants to do for each of us. We will often feel an increase in love return to us as well. 

Opening our hearts to love can sometimes be hard, but if you put your trust in God, and try to listen to His promptings, you can never go wrong. 

President Spencer W. Kimball has said, "God does notice us, and he watches over us. But it is usually through another person that he meets our needs." (Small Acts of Service, Dec. 1974)

Be the kind of person who is willing to help fulfill others' needs. Be that conduit of love, faith, understanding, hope and peace. Don't let those who are in your life feel as if they don't matter. Love.

© Wendy 2013

We Still Have Hope

On the anniversary of the attacks on the world in NY at the Twin Towers, most of us are experiencing the gamut of emotions that we felt that day 12 years ago. I actually dread this day every year because of the sadness and fear it can bring back to the forefront of my heart and mind.

I recall being pregnant with my first child, due the following month. I was fearful of what life would be like for my children and the world after this terrible event. Though the events of that day were so horrific, there are some beautiful things that also happened as a result. People held their loved ones closer. We helped each other more. We were unified in support for the families that lost members that day. We rallied around those who help to protect us and our freedoms. Where there was hate, there was also love. Where there was sadness, you could also find happiness. People leaned on God a little more. Perhaps prayers became more fervent, more deliberate, more personal.

I found comfort and peace in knowing that regardless of what happened (or happens) to our nation, God is still in charge. If we are trying to do what is right, we have no need to fear. God's watchful eye and His gentle hand are there to help and guide us through perilous and difficult times--regardless of how big or small. 

Since the tragic events of that day, LDS Church leaders offered comforting insights and inspiration:

“Peace may be denied for a season. … But God our Eternal Father will watch over this nation and all of the civilized world who look to him. … Our safety lies in repentance. Our strength comes from obedience to the commandments of God.

“Let us be prayerful. Let us pray for righteousness. Let us pray for the forces of good. Let us reach out to help men and women of goodwill, whatever their religious persuasion and wherever they live. Let us stand firm against evil, both at home and abroad. Let us live worthy of the blessings of heaven, reforming our lives where necessary and looking to him, the Father of us all. He has said, 'Be still, and know that I am God' (Psalms 46:10).

“Are these perilous times? They are. But there is no need to fear. We can have peace in our hearts and peace in our homes. We can be an influence for good in this world, every one of us.” (President Gordon B. Hinckley, October 2001 General Conference)

"Today, the world remembers the tragic events of Sept. 11, 2001. We are still shocked and dismayed at the infamy of those cowardly attacks.

"We know that much good has come of these dreadful circumstances. From the smoke and ashes of New York, Washington, D.C., Pennsylvania and other areas of the world has arisen a greater sense of unity and purpose in ridding the earth of evil and providing for the freedom and security of all people. We endorse the righteous efforts of God-fearing people everywhere in this important endeavor.

"May our Father in Heaven smile upon us all, comfort those who continue to mourn and guide the leaders of nations in the quest for justice and liberty is our sincere prayer." (Pres. Gordon B. Hinckley, Sept. 11, 2002, Memorial Service)

"If there is a spiritual lesson to be learned from our experience of that fateful day, it may be that we owe to God the same faithfulness that He gives to us. We should strive for steadiness, and for a commitment to God that does not ebb and flow with the years or the crises of our lives. It should not require tragedy for us to remember him, and we should not be compelled to humility before giving him our faith and trust. We too should be with him in every season.

"The way to be with God in every season is to strive to be near him every week and each day. We truly 'need him every hour,' not just in hours of devastation. We must speak to him, listen to him, and serve him. If we wish to serve him, we should serve our fellow men. We will mourn the lives we lose, but we should also fix the lives that can be mended and heal the hearts that may yet be healed." (Pres. Thomas S. Monson, 10th anniversary of 9/11)

We are so abundantly blessed. We must do all we can to repent, strive for righteousness, show love for all of mankind. We need to pray, to worship God, and strengthen our families. If we are living in accordance to the laws and principles of God, we will have no need to fear.

I know that regardless of what happens in this world, God has a plan, even a mission, for each of us to fulfill. Should we die while on His errand, all we be well. We will be in His presence, and free from our earthly cares.Trust in the Lord. Rely on Him and pray always. Have hope in His plan and His mercy.

© Wendy 2013 

The Lord Looketh on the Heart

I've been having a lot of thoughts recently about outward appearances vs. inward goodness. Too often, I think many choose to judge each other based on how someone else looks, or what is perceived based on a few observations. It's hard not to at times, but I think it is really important that we try to love and accept people regardless.

There are people who have tattoos, piercings, or who dress immodestly. Or perhaps the actions of some may be of concern--smoking, drinking, or other inappropriate actions. Even though our standards may be different, it is not our place to judge, as we do not know anyone's full story. We do not know anyone else's trials, their upbringing, their level of understanding, what their journey has been, or especially what their mission on earth is that they were sent here to complete.

A quote I read today states:

"Recognize the good in others, not their stains. At times a stain needs appropriate attention to be cleansed, but always build on his or her virtues."
—Richard G. Scott

In other words: LOOK for the GOOD in others. See what you can that is right with their lives and focus on that instead of the negative.

And this thought is perfect:

There are many good people who may not look the part. The opposite is also true. But, I know that the Lord can see beyond our outward facade and knows our hearts, our intentions, our thoughts and desires. Everyone can change; we need to allow change for others and ourselves. 

All of us can learn to accept and love others just the way they are. That will open windows and doors not only for them to perhaps be inspired to better themselves, but it will also create and allow for changes within ourselves. Try to see others the way God sees each of us. We are ALL children of God, even if some of us are a bit like the rebellious child at times. We're all in this together, so we need to help build each other up and truly love others. Being a Christian means acting as Christ would--and I am sure he would be found among those who outwardly we may not expect.

 © Wendy 2013

Mormon Musings

My 10-year-old daughter has come home from school on many occasions reporting conversations she has had with one of her friends, who attends a Christian church in our city. The conversations disturb me--not necessarily the subject matter because religious discussions are not something I shy away from, but the fact that her friend's church and her parents are actually teaching her such false things about others.

Over the past couple of years, my daughter has been told by her friend very negative things and attitudes toward Mormonism, a.k.a., The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints:

• Mormons aren't Christians.
• She doesn't like living here because of all the Mormons.
• It's "annoying" that there are so many Mormons.
• She doesn't like Mormons.
• Mormons are weird because they can't have tattoos and piercings.
• Slanted views of our beliefs in the Book of Mormon and prophets.

I have helped my daughter explain/refute some of these things:

• Mormons ARE Christians; we believe in, worship, and testify of Jesus Christ.
• If she doesn't like all of the Mormons, then she doesn't like my daughter. It hurts my daughter when one of her good friends says these things.
• We don't have tattoos and piercings because we treat our bodies with respect and believe they are special.
• We also believe in the Bible; The Book of Mormon is "another testament of Jesus Christ" and we do believe in (but do not worship) modern day prophets and revelation.

Having questions like this are not wrong, but having someone in authority in a church preaching falsehoods about any other religion or people IS wrong. Teaching your children such things is also wrong.

My daughter is still friends with this girl, and I'm happy about it. I hope that over time, the example and love that my daughter shares will ultimately help her friend understand that the things being taught to her are simply not true. Actions speak louder than words.

As best I can, I try to help my kids understand that not everyone is going to agree with all of their beliefs or opinions, but we still need to respect and love them; we can surely still be friends with people of other faiths, backgrounds, and situations. We are meant to learn to live with others in peace and harmony.We are meant to love each other even if we disagree.

I wish people would simply go to church to rejoice in Christ, preach of Christ, and be edified in Christ, not to preach against other religions that they do not understand, or may even fear. Isn't that what being a Christian means--worshiping Christ? Acting as Christ would if he were on the earth today?

Regardless of religion (or no religion), we need to be more united, more full of love for one another, work together instead of against each other. We can accomplish so much more good working together. We are all in this life together. Help your neighbor. Lift another. Share your light. Spread sunshine instead of gloom. Be a force for the positive: Seek it, live it, be it.

For some more inspiring posts:
Babes in Hairland
A Mouse in My Kitchen
Brassy Apple
Girl Loves Glam
Dreaming About Someday

© Wendy 2013