Many years ago, I found myself facing a major change in my life. For three years, life had been unusually peaceful and I was scared of sliding back into a world of changes. I fought the change hard and had to turn to prayer for help. I went weekly during that struggle to the temple, where I took time away from the world to pray in a quiet, Spirit-filled place. As I prayed, the thought came repeatedly to my mind, “If you’re prepared, you don’t need to be afraid.”

I recognized this piece of inspiration as coming from a Latter-day Saint book of scripture called the Doctrine and Covenants (albeit paraphrased), a collection of modern revelations given to Church leaders. This particular section was given to Joseph Smith and delivered at a conference in which the people were told to go to Ohio. I accepted the comfort and set out to prepare myself for the changes that were coming. Then, completely prepared, I sat back and waited for the fear to disappear.

It didn’t.

I kept right on being afraid and fighting against the coming changes. I didn’t understand why I continued to fear when I had done as instructed. Finally, I took it to prayer again, and this time the answer came quickly and clearly — as clearly as if someone were speaking to me. The answer was this: “I said you didn’t need to fear; I didn’t say you couldn’t choose to be afraid.”

God believes in agency. He gives us the right to choose, and we can choose whether to approach life fearfully or faithfully. Fear is a choice and it was what I had chosen. I went to work strengthening my faith and life felt so much better. In time, I understood the purpose of the changes and realized that even though I hadn’t wanted them, I had enjoyed the results of the changes. God knew much better than I did what I needed.

It’s sometimes said that faith is the opposite of fear. When we’re afraid, we aren’t completely putting the situation into God’s hands and trusting Him. What I attempt to keep in mind when I’m trying to overcome fear with faith is remembering that God sees the entire picture, whereas I only see a small bit of it. He is looking at life from an eternal perspective and I am not.

This doesn’t mean that if we have faith we will never have any problems. The story of the world isn’t just about us; it involves everyone who lives on earth at any time. Everything that happens impacts many different lives, all with different needs and plans, and God must juggle all those lives. In addition, people have agency. It is a critical part of God’s plan for us that we’re given the right to make decisions. Those decisions affect our lives and they also affect others who had no control over our decisions. We can choose our actions, but we can’t choose the consequences, nor can we choose who else will be impacted by our decisions. Sometimes our trials are caused by our own decisions and sometimes by the decisions of others; in addition, some things just happen and no one is to blame, as in the case of severe weather or illness. Sometimes God sends trials to help us learn something important. It can help to remember that even Jesus experienced extraordinary levels of suffering despite living a perfect life. Trials are simply a part of every life.

Having trials does not mean God has abandoned us. He is always in charge. While He may not always step in to protect us from our own choices (or even from the choices of others), He has a master plan for all of us, and for each of us individually. The events that occur might not be the ones He would choose if He were micromanaging us, but He will not allow them to derail His overall plan for us. This means God is still in charge, and even when tragedy or trial occurs, we’re still inside the master plan and we will be fine in the eternal scheme of things.

We can’t always control what happens to us but we can choose our reactions to them. This power to choose is why two people can face the same trials and come out with different results. One person who experiences prejudice or poverty will spend his life angry and using this as an excuse. Another will use it to become stronger and overcome the challenges life has given him or go through them with a cheerful attitude. One person with an illness will become demanding and discouraged and another, perhaps after a natural time of grieving, will go on to uplift and strengthen others through her example and courage. One person loses his job and wastes priceless hours blaming his boss, the economy, the government or anyone else who comes to mind; another uses the time to start his own business or upgrade skills.

Having faith in Jesus Christ can help us turn away fear. The more we trust God and Jesus Christ to watch over us and to help us get through our trials, the less frightened we will be by those experiences. We need to prepare ourselves for possible trials physically, mentally, and spiritually. The best time to build a loving relationship with God and to learn to trust Him is before the trial, not during it. In this way, we come into the trials knowing how God interacts in our lives. We have a tradition of obedience that allows us to receive His greatest gifts and we know how to recognize His hand in our lives. We’ve learned how to get answers to our questions and to feel the comfort He sends.

How do we do this? First, we need to set a goal to seek out complete truth and accept it, even if we find it where we don’t expect to. We can do this by believing the promise given in James 1:5, where we are promised that if we need wisdom, we can receive it from God. Then we need to act on that wisdom. We should put aside time each day to read scripture—not just racing through them to meet a goal, but reading them slowly and thoughtfully. If you’ve never read the Bible all the way through, this is a good time to do so. The Book of Mormon testifies of the truthfulness of the Bible and helps strengthen our testimony that Jesus really did live and that He came to earth for everyone, not just those who lived in His small geographical location. Reading this book will bring additional understanding of the Savior’s mission, since it actually discusses this more often than does the Bible.

We need to put time into prayer — not just the ritual repetition of words, but meaningful discussion with God followed by quiet and patience as we wait for answers. If we leap up and go back to everyday life, we may miss the gentle inspiration that follows. In a conversation with another person, when you ask a question, you wait for the answer before leaving the conversation. Prayer requires the same courtesy. Act as though you expect God to answer your question — this is faith.

When we ask God for help, we need to do our share of the effort and we also need to act like we trust Him to come through with the help. For instance, I’m a writer. I’m trying to learn to write fiction and sometimes I get lost. I reach a section of my novel I know I don’t have the skill to carry out. I often turn to God for help with those sections, but then I follow up by going to my bookshelf to read how to do what I need to do. I trust God to help me find the right book, and maybe even to have encouraged me to buy the right book before I knew I needed it. And then I sit at my computer and start typing, even if I don’t yet know what I’m supposed to type. If I’m not at my computer, I can’t write the book and God can’t guide my mind and hands to type the right words. Sitting at my computer is an act of faith that God will come through with the help.

I find it very helpful to try to figure out what God is trying to teach me when I’m facing a frightening trial. When I know what He wants me to learn, I can do my part to learn it, and I also find it easier to have faith. I watch for proof that God is nearby and participating in my trial with me. Knowing He’s nearby and that I can talk the trial over with Him gives me courage to get through the trial. No matter how few people might be in my life at any given moment, I never have to go through a trial alone.

Nervousness or concern is natural, but paralyzing fear can frequently be overcome through faith. The more often we recognize God’s hand in our lives, the easier it will be to trust Him during the next trial. Every trial we handle with faith strengthens our ability to do it even better the next time.

This article was originally published in August 2011. Minor changes have been made.

Terrie Lynn Bittner

The late Terrie Lynn Bittner—beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and friend—was the author of two homeschooling books and numerous articles, including several that appeared in Latter-day Saint magazines. She became a member of the Church at the age of 17 and began sharing her faith online in 1992.

Our Refuge

Our homes should be a refuge for us. We often come home exhausted, and home should be a place of rest and rejuvenation. Retailers the world over seem to understand this concept, and home decor departments are full of items that remind us of being at the spa. The bedding departments tout the benefits of turning our bedrooms into a retreat.

And even paint departments offer color pallets and swatches that are supposed to elicit a feeling of peace. But there is one more area that I feel really makes a huge difference in our homes (and particularly in the way our homes feel): the art we have on our walls.

I’m a huge fan of decorating blogs and Pinterest. I spend hours getting ideas from them so I can make my home beautiful. When I walk into my home, I want to feel at peace, uplifted, and like I have arrived someplace special.

When I was in college (and dirt poor!), I accomplished this goal by putting 3×5 cards with favorite inspirational quotes and images on my dorm room wall. They helped me feel grounded and reminded me of what really mattered. I feel like all our homes should help us feel the Lord’s Spirit.

Religious Art Can Help Us Stay Focused

Abide With Me by Liz Lemon Swindle

The world is a busy place with many things that call for our attention. How do we keep ourselves focused? Well, just like my dorm room, our home decor can really make a difference.

In my home, I have a picture of the Savior titled Abide with Me by Liz Lemmon Swindle. She is an LDS artist, and in this picture, the Savior is smiling.  There is a special feeling that comes over me when I see the Savior smiling at me. I imagine that anyone of faith would be uplifted imagining the Savior is pleased with them and their offering for that day.

On another wall, I have a picture of my husband and myself on our wedding day. We got married in an LDS temple, (the holiest place on earth for the LDS people) and that temple features prominently in the picture. Every time I see it, I remember the feelings I had that day.

I remember feeling like a princess marrying my prince. I remember the love of family and friends who came to celebrate with us. And I remember the special, sacred atmosphere of the Lord’s holy temple.

It reminds me that I am lucky to have found the love of my life and that I have a responsibility to be worthy to enter God’s house, the temple. And it reminds me that I want to teach my children about choosing a mate wisely and that I want to teach them to love and serve the Lord.

Words as Decor

I also love inspirational quotes in my decorating. A favorite of mine is a constant reminder to be a more patient and kinder mother. The words “Let them be little” are above the door of our playroom. And when the noise levels get too high, it’s that quote that reminds me to take a deep breath before doing anything else.

A picture of the Savior surrounded by little children also reminds me that God values this time in all children’s lives; that I have a sacred duty to let them be children and not make them grow up too fast.

Family Art

Our inspirational art doesn’t have to be from the typical places. I am blessed to have many talented family members. We have works of art on our walls from some of those talented people. They are of special value to me.

My husband’s grandmother was a well-known artist in Canada with works that still hang in museums. For our wedding, she gave us a painting of an angel hugging a young woman. My grandmother-in-law could never have known how that painting would strengthen me.

She was a Christian who believed in life after death, and she was bearing her witness through her art. Her inspiration for the painting was her sister’s recent death. But it has been a huge comfort to me as I have experienced my own losses. It’s a beautiful reminder that life goes on after we leave this mortal existence, and that God is here with us when we need Him.

Personalize

To read more of Patty’s articles, click here.

A few years ago, we decided to create a family mission statement. My husband and I decided on one together, and we put it on the wall with vinyl. I love it. It reads, “‘Be the Rainbow in someone’s cloud.’ – Maya Angelou.” I see that sign daily. And, without realizing it, I find I’m treating others differently. I feel more motivated to make a difference. And what started as a unifying family activity has made a real difference in the attitude and philosophy of our family life.

Our home decor should be an extension of who we are. It can remind us to be a little more patient. It can lift us up when we are down. And it can remind us of the reason we do what we do. Pictures of temples, inspiring quotes, and even children’s art all warm a room and give it more purpose.

As we work to make our homes more of a heavenly place, let us remember the wonderful images of the Savior and inspirational art from around the world, because there is strength in reminders from heaven. I’m so grateful for all the inspiring artists out there and for their works that make my home a beautiful place to be.

Patty Sampson

Patty thrives on all things creative. You’ll often find her in the garden pretending she is a suburban farmer. She loves meeting new people, and is devoted to her friends and family. In her heart she is a Midwesterner even though life has moved her all over the country. She believes in “blooming where you’re planted” and has found purpose in every place she has been. She has a deep and abiding love for the Savior and the Gospel of Jesus Christ. And she loves editing LDS Blogs because it is a constant spiritual uplift. Not many people can say their job builds their witness of the Savior.

A young man whom I knew was called to serve a mission in Italy. He was so excited to go and teach the gospel of Jesus Christ to his brothers and sisters in the great country of Italy. He knew that the message he was going to share was true. The Church of Jesus Christ had once again been restored to the Earth—the same church that existed in the New Testament. The priesthood power and authority, which had been lost with the death of the ancient apostle, were once more upon the earth. We have a living prophet upon the earth. Along with the Holy Bible, we have been blessed with another testament of Jesus Christ called The Book of Mormon. This is a record of the Lord’s dealing with the inhabitants of ancient America. Through the restored gospel, we can understand many lost truths including who we are, why we are here, and where we are going.

This young missionary felt he was ready to go and teach and serve. Soon he found himself at the airport with other missionaries all headed for Italy. While waiting for his plane to arrive, a man came near and asked this missionary who he and his companions were. When the missionary answered, the man started asking him questions of what his mission was to do and what he was going to teach. Though the missionary answered all the questions, he did so haltingly, shifting from foot to foot, continuing to look down or at his companions a few feet away for his friends.

The plane arrived and the missionary started to say goodbye when the man asked one more question: “Are you ashamed of the church you belong to?” The missionary quickly and empathetically responded, “No!”

“Are you ashamed of the message you are going to share?” the man asked. Again the young missionary gave the same response: “No!”

“Then why,” asked the man as he turned to leave, “are you acting like it?”

As the young missionary was left to face the answer to this pointed question, he was filled with shame and sorrow. He was not ashamed, was he? If not, then why was he acting in a way that gave that impression? He thought of Paul’s declaration in the New Testament long ago:

“For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ: for it is the power of God unto salvation to every one that believeth…”

At that moment, that young missionary set aside the fear that had driven his previous behavior and made the decision that he would live so that no one would ever again doubt that he was not ashamed of the gospel of Jesus Christ, nor that he knew that The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is in fact Christ’s Church.

When my friend told me of his experience (for he was the young missionary), I began to ask myself if I ever gave the impression from my words or behavior that I was ashamed of the gospel of Jesus Christ. I hoped that the answer was no. Even so, that day I too made the same promise to myself as my friend had: that I would live so that no one would ever again doubt that I was not ashamed of the gospel of Jesus Christ.

This article was originally published in June 2008. Minor changes have been made.

Julia G

Their plan was to catch Daniel in prayer and turn him in to the king. His fate would be final—he would land in the lions’ den to be eaten by the ferocious beasts. But Daniel was not afraid. He knew Heavenly Father would protect him with a miracle. And He did! He sent an angel who shut the lions’ mouths. The next morning, the king was so grateful to find Daniel still alive, he too began to worship Heavenly Father.

Normally it is a story that teaches children to have faith and to pray, and that their prayers will be answered. But as an adult I can revisit the lions’ den, exploring crevices I may have missed as a child, and find deeper meaning for my life today.

Daniel Was Not Afraid

Anyone else would be afraid of being thrown in a den of hungry lions. Daniel was not. He had a relationship with his Father in Heaven. He knew he was a child of God. He knew his life had meaning and purpose. He knew that no matter what happened to him, he would live with his Father in Heaven again because he was faithful in keeping all of God’s commandments, including repentance. Daniel had a testimony of God’s love for him. He kept that testimony at the forefront of his existence, which made him a target for the evil servants.

Our understanding of who we are in relation to God’s plan puts us in the same position as Daniel. We have a peace about ourselves because of this knowledge. Evil people will try their best to take this away from us, to condemn us because of it, and to keep us from telling anyone the good news. We don’t need to be afraid when we are surrounded by spiritual lions ready to destroy our testimony.

When the Lions Growled, Daniel Prayed

Daniel did not growl back. He did not try to fight the lions with his bare hands. He did not try to run nor outsmart them. He prayed. He turned his heart to God. This may have made him feel vulnerable at first, but he kept his mind and heart single to the glory of God. When we are surrounded by the growling of spiritual lions who mock us for our testimony, who tempt us to let down or standards or who try to snuff us out of existence, we can turn to our Heavenly Father. Sometimes this means a silent prayer. Other times it may mean keeping Him at the forefront of our mind and remembering who we are in relation to Him, thus walking in silent confidence away from the gaping jaws surrounding us.

The Lions Shut Their Mouths

I have often faced spiritual lions trying to tear down my testimony. I have said silent prayers for protection. I have kept my standards, bore testimony when necessary, and stood as a daughter at the side of my Heavenly Father. I have witnessed the miracle many times of God’s hand in silencing the people who have tried to tear me down. But there have also been times when the growling seemed to be endless, despite the prayers. Could it be that Heavenly Father had left me? He didn’t leave Daniel, so why me?

To read more of Nanette’s devotionals, click the picture.

When I fear the roaring is mounting faster than the miracles seem to come, I look to the Atonement. Jesus, by taking on the sins and afflictions of the entire world, made it possible for me to be clean and worthy to live in heaven again. His Atonement acts almost as a spiritual shield between me and the ravenous lions of life. While their growls may seem deafening and endless, Christ’s Atonement tells me there is an end to them—and that it ends well. The persecution that surrounds me now will be silenced forever.

While the scriptures teach us the stories, they do not follow the same timeline as our own lives. In the story, Daniel had great faith and though it doesn’t completely detail Daniel’s time in the lion’s den, I think that he likely prayed all night. The next morning, he climbed out of the lions’ den and met his king with loving arms. Our walk through life may have spiritual lions hiding in the shadows, and people attempting to silence our testimony may try for the rest of our lives. But in the next life we will ascend from this cruel den and into the arms of a loving king—our Heavenly King. The promise of this blessing makes our devotion sweeter, our prayers more meaningful, and the connection to our Heavenly Father more sacred and real.

This post was originally published in February 2014. Minor changes have been made.

Nanette ONeal

Nanette O’Neal loves the gospel and is very happy to share her testimony on LDS Blogs. She is a convert to the church and still feels the spirit burn strong within her heart. She graduated from Mason Gross School of the Arts with a degree in music education and has taught children and adults in the private and public sphere for over twenty years. Nanette continues to study the gospel and the art of writing. She writes weekly inspirational articles on her blog and is currently working on an LDS fantasy novel series, A Doorway Back to Forever. You can find her at NanetteONeal.blogspot.com. Nanette has a wonderful husband, talented son, and three beautiful dogs.

About four days into it I decided to take a cheat break and watch one of my guilty pleasure TV shows. I was stunned by how truly shocking the violence was, and the language grated. I felt traumatized! And that was after only four days. So, I jumped back on the bandwagon and recommitted to my media fast.

Commute

The next afternoon I was fighting my usual commute, but this time things felt different. I had been listening to the scriptures instead of the argumentative political talk radio. I found the drive felt peaceful. I saw nature and how beautiful everything was. And I felt like being nice to other drivers. They were even nice to me!

As I listened to the scriptures, they gave me ideas for helping my family. And what originally made me worry that I would fall asleep on the road became interesting. I have read the scriptures many times but listening to them is giving me a different perspective. The story structure stands out. And the peace it adds to my drive is such a welcome change.

Family

My husband has seen changes too. He is also trying this media fast. Which means he is at the kitchen table without the yelling political arguments in one ear. We have been having nice family conversations. Tonight, he told me that he felt our dinner communication needed improvement.

I laughed because a few years ago he told me he wanted only the executive summery of my day because he felt I was talking too much. I reminded him of this, and we both got a laugh realizing what a difference having the talking heads turned off has meant. We haven’t had as many good conversations in a long time.

To read more of Patty’s articles, click here.

To be continued…

I’m going to keep you posted as my media fast continues. But I already know there are blessings I never expected waiting for us. I’m so grateful for this opportunity to change the direction my life has been going.

Patty Sampson

Patty thrives on all things creative. You’ll often find her in the garden pretending she is a suburban farmer. She loves meeting new people, and is devoted to her friends and family. In her heart she is a Midwesterner even though life has moved her all over the country. She believes in “blooming where you’re planted” and has found purpose in every place she has been. She has a deep and abiding love for the Savior and the Gospel of Jesus Christ. And she loves editing LDS Blogs because it is a constant spiritual uplift. Not many people can say their job builds their witness of the Savior.

The Kawaiaha’o Church in Honolulu, via Hawaii Travel Guide

Christian denominations from all around O’ahu participated in songs celebrating Jesus Christ’s impact in our lives. Someone from each group shared a testimony of Jesus Christ in the beautiful Hawaiian way of “talk story.”

My mom and I scored some tickets to the event and went early to find parking as close as possible to the historic Kawaiaha’o Church in the center of Honolulu. The church is beautiful, commissioned by a Hawaiian king in the 1800s.

After bouncing seats, we settled near a window. Without air conditioning, the room was already warm. The couple in front of us watched us bounce seats and wanted to know why we moved.

We chatted for 5-10 minutes when THE moment came. Do you know the moment? That missionary opportunity moment? The moment when the conversation is churning and coming closer and closer to the moment you can identify yourself as a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints or not?

I can usually feel when it’s about to happen. I’m amazed at how frequently the moment really comes in everyday conversation. But I fully expected the moment last night at an interfaith concert in a Christian church.

The woman asked, “Do you live in town and go to this church?”

“No,” I responded. “We live in Ewa Beach and …”

Immediately, the man interjected his comments into the conversation.

AAK! Did I miss my opportunity for the moment? I work from home and generally don’t see many people during the course of my day or week who aren’t members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. I didn’t want to miss such an easy opportunity to at least say the words.

The conversation spiraled on.

I saw my chance. “Have you ever been in this church before?”

“No.”

“I belong to The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and attend in Ewa and I haven’t been in this church either.”

Instantly, mom and I felt the freeze and shift. The woman immediately turned around in her seat. She never spoke to us again. The man shifted a bit. But I quickly asked where they went to church. He said they were Christians and attended Grace Bible Church. Then he turned around, too.

Do we seize opportunities to bear witness of Christ?

Mom and I smiled at each other, acknowledged the importance of seizing the moment and also accepting their reaction. The freeze didn’t bother us.  We began our favorite word game that we play every chance we get.

When the woman went to the ladies room before the concert, the man turned around again and chatted for a while.

So what?

I began President Russell M. Nelson’s challenge to read the Book of Mormon and mark references to Jesus Christ  by December 31st. I’ve also been writing down the verses that particularly jump out at me. A few of those verses came to mind as I decided what to do with the moment.

Verses that Flashed to Mind as I Considered the Moment

From my study journal:

1 Nephi 13:37 — And blessed are they who shall seek to bring forth my Zion at that day, for they shall have the gift and the power of the Holy Ghost; and if they endure unto the end they shall be lifted up at the last day, and shall be saved in the everlasting kingdom of the Lamb; and whoso shall publish peace, yea, tidings of great joy, how beautiful upon the mountains shall they be.

1 Nephi 20:6 — Thou hast seen and heard all this; and will ye not declare them?

2 Nephi 6:18 — And all flesh shall know that I the Lord am thy Savior and thy Redeemer, the Mighty One of Jacob.

2 Nephi 8:7 Hearken unto me, ye that know righteousness, the people in whose heart I have written my law, fear ye not the reproach of men, neither be ye afraid of their revilings.

2 Nephi 8:16-17 — And I have put my words in thy mouth, and have covered thee in the shadow of mine hand, that I may plant the heavens and lay the foundations of the earth, and say unto Zion: Behold, thou art my people. Awake, awake, stand up.

I wrote these verses down as different reasons that inspire missionary work “bravery.”  But because they were recently in my mind and heart this week, the Holy Ghost brought them to mind as I considered how determined I wanted to be about stating my identity as a member of the Church.

President Russell M. Nelson’s Book of Mormon Challenge Promise

And, as you prayerfully study, I promise that the heavens will open for you. The Lord will bless you with increased inspiration and revelation.

 

As you read, I would encourage you to mark each verse that speaks of or refers to the Savior. Then, be intentional about talking of Christ, rejoicing in Christ, and preaching of Christ with your families and friends. You and they will be drawn closer to the Savior through this process. And changes, even miracles, will begin to happen.

To read more of Delisa’s articles, click here.

In that experience, I realized I already saw a fulfillment of President Nelson’s challenge! Not only had the Holy Ghost inspired my mind with applicable scriptures in my personal journey, but as I was intentional about talking of Christ, opportunities and confidence came to do that with strangers.

I also realized that the moment had broadened. I’d seized the moment to follow the prophet’s counsel and guidance. That helped me recognize the moment to identify myself. That gave me cause to pause and reflect on the moment I’d had with the Lord in the Book of Mormon. That experience caused me to realize that I should see every moment as the moment—the moment to live intentionally, with eyes wide open to revelation and opportunities that will and do come.

Delisa Hargrove

I am a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. I have moved 64 times and have not tired of experiencing this beautiful earth! I love the people, languages, histories/anthropologies, & especially religious cultures of the world. My life long passion is the study & searching out of religious symbolism, specifically related to ancient & modern temples. My husband Anthony and I love our bulldog Stig, adventures, traveling, movies, motorcycling, and time with friends and family.

To do the task properly, I had to first remove all the storm windows and wash them separately. The ones on the pulley didn’t do any fancy tilting for easy cleaning, so I had to use a step ladder to reach the tops of the inside panes, and a 12-foot ladder for the outside. There were 8 sides of glass that needed cleaning for each window, with 14 windows in the house. That’s 112 sides of glass, plus going up and down the ladders all day, and, of course, removing and returning the storm windows when they were clean. My body ached just thinking about it. Yes, I dreaded the chore.

For the first few years, I didn’t clean the windows very well. Maybe a few squirts of spray-cleaner on the inside panes in the kitchen, or some spot cleaning where the dogs’ snouts pressed against the ones in the living room. But I couldn’t stand the idea of doing the job properly. And they didn’t seem that dirty, anyway. After all, I could still see through them. So I put off the job year after year.

Then, something marvelous happened. General Conference talks became available to listen to online. General Conference is a twice-yearly event for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints where the prophet, apostles, and other Church authorities speak to the people. The talks are broadcast live, and then they appear in print after the conference is over. During the age of the internet, the Church got right on board and began to post them online after conference. We’d still wait for the printed version to read and to make notes in, but to listen again online was truly a new and awesome experience.

Coincidentally, the year when this amazing online phenomenon took place was the year I noticed how dirty my windows had become. I could still see through them, but there was a slight haze of gray obstructing my view. But an idea came to me: I could take advantage of listening to the talks again while I cleaned the windows. I balanced the duration of each cleaning session with an hour or two of talks, making sure I could hear conference from whichever spot I stood—outside or inside—while cleaning.

I was shocked at how filthy the windows had gotten. Still, I pressed on, relying on the words of the prophet and other speakers to strengthen my resolve. While I worked, I felt as if I had my own mini-conference going on. It made the time go by so quickly.

It took me several days to finish the entire house. When I was done, I stood in the middle of my home with the shades and blinds drawn open. The sun streamed in and I saw something I never saw before. The outside world looked so clean that it was as if I was looking through no glass at all. The neighbor’s yard was beautiful, my own grass was coming in a velvety green, and the sidewalks were bright. Everything looked new. But the only things that were new were my windows—my clean windows—and my outlook on the task I managed to complete.

We Get Comfortable in Sin

Sometimes in life, we have habits that may not be the best for us. We may struggle with family relationships, addictive vices that take away precious time and resources, or we may even have a weakness for certain distractions that pull us away from doing better things with our time. Everyone faces a situation like this once in a while. We recognize how it may not be the best thing for us, but we’re not up to the challenge of turning away. And just like my dirty windows, the problem can get worse over time.

We Become Short-Sighted About Heaven and the Future

Over the years, I truly thought my windows were clean enough. I couldn’t see how dirty they had become. I remember looking outside at times and not really appreciating the view, yet not realizing it was due to the condition of the windows. My neighborhood was beautiful, but I couldn’t see it that way anymore. When we are distracted with our own personal temptations or sins, our view on eternity is blocked. We may even doubt the promises of our Savior and our worth to him. We wonder if we can ever see clearly again.

We Feel Daunted by the Task

It’s usually when we are “in too deep” that we are forced to face our problems, but therein lies the perplexity. We feel we can’t tackle them. But the alternative—living under the pressure of sin or being a slave to our temptations—is worse. Luckily, this often leads us to our knees. When there seems as if no one else will listen, it is on our knees that we find strength to stand tall.

We Realize We Can’t Do It Alone

“Hear my prayer, O Lord, give ear to my supplications; in thy faithfulness answer me, and in thy righteousness.” (Psalms 143:1)

There are some things we simply cannot do alone. Overcoming our own personal vices is one of them. We’ve seen it so many times in the scriptures, where men and women of God have gone to their knees for guidance. Christ himself taught us this pattern when he gave his great intercessory prayer in John 17. It is a pattern that has been laid out since the beginning of time. And fortunately for us, it is an eternal pattern—one that discriminates against no one, no matter how harsh the grip of the vice, no matter how often it bears down on us.

We Allow the Savior to Walk Beside Us

“O send out thy light and thy truth: let them lead me; let them bring me unto thy holy hill, and to thy tabernacles.” (Psalm 43:3)

For me, listening to the words of modern day prophets—words that echo the love and forgiveness my Savior, Jesus Christ, has to offer—gave me the courage to face the challenge I was not willing to face before. True, having dirty windows is not a crime against man or nature. They won’t keep me out of heaven. But they were a real stumbling block in my life, something I was not willing to face alone. And I didn’t have to, thanks to modern technology. But even more importantly, I was able to see the symbolism in this week-long event to help clean the vices of my own life, so that I can have a spiritually clean heart again.

The Task Becomes Light

Our Savior has counseled us: 

“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.” (Matthew 11:28-30)

It seems impossible that the task of taking upon ourselves another yoke—even that of the Savior’s—could make our own task light, but it does. I know for me, as I listened to the counsel of the general authorities, my mind was distracted from the duty at hand and my soul was strengthened. In time, the windows were sparkling and I was edified for my efforts.

I know this to be true in spiritual matters as well. When we trust the Savior, truly trust Him, we are strengthened by His eternal power to heal and to save. This in turn gives us the ability to see heaven more clearly and to know that His promised glory is something we are worthy to obtain—simply because He loves us enough to help us every step of the way.

A Renewal of Spiritual Eyes

“For after much tribulation come the blessings. Wherefore the day cometh that ye shall be crowned with much glory…” (D&C 58:4)

To read more of Nanette’s articles, click here.

When we open our hearts to the Lord, when we allow Him to walk with us and restore us as we work through our trials, our eyes are made pure again. We see clearly, just as we did before we allowed sin and temptation to corrupt our spirit. We see further, even past life’s little barriers, for we see as God sees. What I love most about this gift is that it is for all to receive whenever and as often as needed.

In our new house, the windows are much easier to clean. It doesn’t take nearly as long. But I started a tradition back in the old house, one that I try to maintain twice a year—cleaning windows with the General Authorities. Each time I do, I enjoy the talks of conference again while I work. And each time, my spirit is cleansed more than the windows ever could be.

This post was originally published in 2014. Minor changes have been made.

Nanette ONeal

Nanette O’Neal loves the gospel and is very happy to share her testimony on LDS Blogs. She is a convert to the church and still feels the spirit burn strong within her heart. She graduated from Mason Gross School of the Arts with a degree in music education and has taught children and adults in the private and public sphere for over twenty years. Nanette continues to study the gospel and the art of writing. She writes weekly inspirational articles on her blog and is currently working on an LDS fantasy novel series, A Doorway Back to Forever. You can find her at NanetteONeal.blogspot.com. Nanette has a wonderful husband, talented son, and three beautiful dogs.

Riding the Colorado River rapids; a Cancun morning sunrise; peering across the city from the top of the Eiffel Tower in Paris; Washington Park during a sunset; or driving across Deception Pass Bridge near Fidalgo Island in the state of Washington—all of these cannot fully be experienced with words.

Deception Pass Bridge

Have you ever been to Deception Pass Bridge? I expect not. It connects the Fidalgo and Whidbey islands. This is known as a ‘must see’ when visiting Anacortes and the Puget Sound.

There are so many pictures of this place from multiple perspectives that looking at them still elicits feelings of hope and joy in a location we called home for three years during my career. To someone who has never been there, I imagine the pictures are still inspiring, but pictures alone cannot capture the true brilliance of this little bit of heaven on earth. In the grand scheme of things, the Deception Pass Bridge is a memory for a handful of people. My guess is that you have probably never heard of it; I hadn’t until a friend mentioned it. But to those who daily drive Route 20 connecting Whidbey Island to Fidalgo Island, it is a lifeline.

About 20,000 cars now cross the bridge 180 feet above swirling water every day. My son and I fished for salmon on the banks below this massive structure. A friend of mine, a marine biologist, would conduct his research far below the water’s surface here, but it was critical that he understand the risks and the potential cost. He would have to time his dive just right or the millions of gallons of water from the tide would pull him out into the ocean. The Skagit Basin is the largest drainage in Puget Sound, supplying over 30 percent of the freshwater and an estimated 10 billion gallons of water a day.

There are many more particulars available. An interested party could conduct a Google search that would produce more information and facts about this phenomenal place and the incredible sights and sounds in detail. All are readily available.

Admittedly, this all could be intimidating to the casual observer. The first time I drove across the bridge, I was amazed and stunned at the beauty and facility of the adventure. It was not necessary for me to understand how or when it was created or the myriad of complicated algorithms needed to make it a reality. I simply pressed the accelerator, and we effortlessly moved from one end of the bridge to the other. Others certainly understood the physics better than I, but I benefitted.

In a similar way, though I have been a member of the Church my entire life, I do not have to understand all the details of scripture or grasp the principles of the gospel perfectly. I don’t need to. I know enough to easily realize that the gospel of Jesus Christ provides value and hope in the midst of the trials of life, and it offers strength and healing when needed. I don’t just believe this. I know it through experience.

And if the gospel of Jesus Christ can consistently deliver all these things and much more now in this time, it most assuredly will continue to do so in the life to come. I believe that with all my heart.

I have a favorite video (see below) that to me articulates the emotions I am trying to express in this article. The funny thing is that this video is about something that I am really bad at: walking the high line. I have children and friends that are much better at this sport than me, but maybe that’s why I love this video so much, because for a few moments I can experience the ecstasy they must feel when harnessing the balance, strength, and discipline required to walk the high line.

To read more articles by Walter Penning, click here.

Though we have critics that peer in from the outside and may often feel the commandments are restrictive and controlling when compared to the seeming freedom they feel to live life the way they choose, the truth of the matter is that so do we. We consciously make our decisions. Members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints also get to choose to live life their way, which for us happens to be the same way God created for his children to reach the full measure of their creation. And that keeps us safe and happy and fulfilled even though we don’t always know why or how.

“We can bring the light of the gospel into our homes, schools, and workplaces if we look for and share positive things about others,” shared Jean B. Bingham, counselor in the Primary General Presidency.

Sometimes, reading verbiage provides added insight to simply just listening to it. The qualities expressed in this video are also found in the gospel, since in reality the commandments are our lifeline.

Similarly, living the gospel provides a wealth of additional understanding and appreciation to simply hearing about its principles.

The universe and everything in it was created by God for our benefit. Of course, commandments have the ability to deliver joy, which is our very purpose.

And that is also the work and glory of our Father in Heaven.

When we see the gospel is at its best, it is really a beautiful thing—just like the high line.

~*~

The High Line

Everything is telling you not to walk.

It feels like an explosion going off in your mind, and you have got to just breathe.

You are kind of going against your primal instinct, you know. It takes everything you have.

Like you can’t just get out there and not be scared.

My relationship with the line is pretty straightforward.

The high line has a simple set of rules you need to follow, and those rules can be bent.

I think it is important for people to know their limits.

You know if you are not feeling comfortable with the situation, just walk away.

It’s not completely about walking the high line every time.

Sometimes you will have some frustrating moments.

It’s the whole journey.

People think it’s an adrenaline sport. It’s not. It’s all about the breathing and being in the moment.

You’re not thinking about three steps ahead of you. You’re not thinking about the mistakes you might have made three steps back. You’re taking one step at a time and you are in your zone.

You really can’t kid yourself when you are sitting up a couple hundred feet up off the ground.

You might as well take a look down. And try to take in the situation.

It’s not about eliminating the fear. It’s about finding the courage within to face the fear is what matters the most.

And then really it’s just your ability to stand up and put one foot in front of the other, kind of like how you should do everything else in life.

~*~

Walter Penning

In 1989, Walter Penning formed a consultancy based in Salt Lake City and empowered his clients by streamlining processes and building a loyal, lifetime customer base with great customer service. His true passion is found in his family. He says the best decision he ever made was to marry his sweetheart and have children. The wonderful family she has given him and her constant love, support, and patience amid life’s challenges is his panacea.

Pink Pillbox

I’d gone with another friend a couple of weeks ago and even though we went in the morning, it was still brutally hot for me. I endure a physical condition that freaks out at heated body temperature. So while my friend Shayla scaled the trail’s steepness and boulders with a baby strapped to her front and a preschooler strapped to her back, I leaned against a rock trying to keep the heat nausea at bay because I was so hot. I joined her and her six children at the pillboxes long after they arrived. But I arrived.

That’s why I told Roxy I’d go with her, because whatever the struggle, I always make it to the top. I crave conquering struggles right now. And the view at the top is worth the struggle for me. Also, I’d never been on that mountain at sunset.

Feeling the Fear

The day of our adventure, though, I absolutely regretted my promise. I felt drained from a challenging day/week teaching seminary. I only slept a few hours the night before. I felt drained physically for other reasons. And it was still so hot! The weather forecast predicted the afternoon/sunset climb time to still be the hottest part of the day.

Really, I felt fear. What if my body freaked out and left me in trouble and a world of hurt on the mountain?

When he got home from work, my husband—who has carried my fainted self out of more than one hot situation—asked if I really should be going. He reminded me that he wasn’t climbing up a mountain to carry me down a mountain. Our love is honest and real.

I’d made a commitment, a covenant, with a friend I love, so I prepared to go. But I told Anthony and myself that I would take the climb at my pace. And I promised him that if I felt too hot at the base of the mountain, I wouldn’t climb.

Facing the Climb

Roxy arrived and we began our drive. I’d told her I needed an hour to make the climb since it was so hot, so we planned to begin the climb at 5:30. Sunset was at 6:29 PM. I did NOT want her to miss her sunset photography and drone moments because of me.

The mountain view from the top of the last pillbox.

Being with Roxy and seeing her excitement to hike the trail for the first time gave me courage. I’d already climbed an even steeper, hotter mountain with her and she was so patient with my infirmities. I expressed my concern, telling her if we cut it close to sunset, I just wanted her to go ahead so she could experience it. That was her goal, after all. She reiterated that for her it’s not about a race to the summit, but an entire journey/adventure to be enjoyed.

True friends are priceless gifts.

Finding a Strong Reality

As I drove, I watched the clouds. Some seemed to hover over our mountain and remained as we parked at the trailhead. We hit the trail with Roxy leading at a very Delisa-doable pace. She actually went much slower than I would have attempted to go. I appreciated her kindness to me.

The clouds provided a respite from the afternoon sun. It was still hot and humid, but the sun wasn’t beating us to a pulp.

I love listening to Roxy’s thoughts. She carried the conversation as we slowly, but surely, wound our way up the mountain. We paused to take a picture of my favorite tree and any time we felt a trace breeze. Per usual, I was drenched, but I wasn’t totally overheating.

I repeatedly expressed surprise that my foregone conclusions and fears hadn’t materialized. I felt stronger in that realization.

We turned right at the final fork leaving the vertical climb beginning the more horizontal section of the trail. As we approached the seaside face of the mountain and the summit, we felt the wind again. The wind always rejuvenates me.

We saw the sun start falling from the sky. It burst across the crest in front of us. Beautiful.

Suddenly, we arrived at the summit’s first pillbox. The views are incredible. The sea extends forever…to Roxy’s homeland of New Zealand.

We checked the time (because I am mission-focused). 6:01 PM. WHAT? 6:01? How was that possible?! I couldn’t believe it.

While Roxy cherished the view and expanse of sky, sea, and mountains, I stood bewildered. By taking the slowest pace known to man, I’d shaved 20 minutes off my personal record.

We leisurely climbed the trail to the higher pillboxes and more expansive views. The clouds providing respite also blocked the sunset—which was hysterical to me—but we still enjoyed sunset colors over the ocean’s horizon.

The Point

Fear—the voices of an unknown future based on my weaknesses—nearly kept me off the mountain. I feared my body’s weakness in heat. I feared my lack of personal fitness. I feared my sleep deprivation. I feared slowing my friend down, causing her to miss the sunset. I feared my inability to travel at her pace.

I’m not sure where it comes from, but deep, deep down, my DNA’s wired to accept responsibility and keep promises. Though I’ve failed in that regard, for the most time I show up, no matter how difficult.

Because I had promised and actually could go climb a mountain that evening, I showed up despite my fear. Miraculously, the reality was a million times better than the horrific physical meltdown I’d imagined.

Fear became an awesome reality by “not [hiking] faster than I had strength.”

And see that all these things are done in wisdom and order; for it is not requisite that a man should run faster than he has strength. And again, it is expedient that he should be diligent, that thereby he might win the prize; therefore, all things must be done in order.

As I went slower, at my own pace, I set a new personal record. Roxy could have easily climbed in the mountain in half that time, but she willingly walked with me at my pace in my weakness. I felt no comparison or competition as we walked together, Roxy invigorated by the beauty visible at a leisurely pace and me chugging along in profuse sweat. We walked toward the same goal and reached it together.

[I]f ye are prepared ye shall not fear…. I will be merciful unto your weakness. Therefore, be ye strong from henceforth; fear not, for the kingdom is yours.

Jesus Christ also walks with me, at my slow pace and in my weakness. Stunningly, by His grace, He’s actually offered to not only strengthen that weakness but often remove the weakness. But I have to be willing to fully face and understand the weakness to give it to Him. And so we walk together, Jesus merciful to my weakness and me learning to be strong.

Delisa Hargrove

I am a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. I have moved 64 times and have not tired of experiencing this beautiful earth! I love the people, languages, histories/anthropologies, & especially religious cultures of the world. My life long passion is the study & searching out of religious symbolism, specifically related to ancient & modern temples. My husband Anthony and I love our bulldog Stig, adventures, traveling, movies, motorcycling, and time with friends and family.

Following are my friend’s words.

Service Includes Accepting Help From Others

What is service?  President Thomas S. Monson taught: “Service to others is akin to duty, the fulfillment of which brings true joy.  Service, to be acceptable to the Savior, must come from willing minds, ready hands, and pledged hearts.”

In my life, I sometimes focus so much on helping family members and friends that I often forget about accepting service from others.  My thinking is that I do not want to inconvenience others, so to the best of my ability I often do things without asking for help.

Changing a Cultural Norm

I would like to share the experience that I had with my grandma how my life is blessed today because of her accepting the service of others.

I was born and raised in a strong Buddhist family where none of my family members were Christian.  Many of my relatives, friends, and neighbors disliked Christianity and wanted nothing to do with our Savior.

In fact, a lot of my neighbors were living in abusive relationships.  As a young girl, I often witnessed husbands physically and mentally abusing their wives.  It seemed to worsen as I grew older and realized what was going on.  I was terrified that if I got married, my husband would not be faithful to me and physically and mentally abuse me every day just as the women that lived around me experienced.  I was completely lost as I tried to fit into my cultural norm that I did not want to accept.  I did not want to have an abusive husband.  I wanted love and respect and trust.

I always felt that there is something out there more than what I had experienced.  However, I did not know where to find it until one day I found the missionaries.

I Want to Become a Christian

I was shocked to see how polite and respectful they were toward me and other people around them.  When they were late for teaching appointments with me, they even said sorry.  In Cambodia, men apologizing to women are completely unheard of.  Even if they are wrong, they do not say sorry.  When I took the lessons, the missionaries told me that I did a good job even if I answered their questions wrong.  They forgave me when I made mistakes.

After I finished all the discussions, they asked me to get baptized and join the church.  I really, really wanted to get baptized, but how?  I knew that I would get into big trouble if my parents ever found out.

I wanted to tell someone in my family that I wanted to become a Christian, but who would I tell?  My desire to join the church grew stronger and stronger and I could not keep it to myself any longer.  I decided to tell my grandmother because she was the only person whom I knew that no matter what happened she would never abandon me.

Grandma

I told her, “Grandma I have something to tell you and you have to promise me that no matter what, you will not hate me and stop talking to me.”  My grandma replied, “Of course!”  So, I continued, “Grandma, I want to become a Christian and I hope to get baptized soon.  Would you still like me if I became a Christian?”

To my surprise, my dear grandmother looked at me and smiled.  She asked me why did I want to be a Christian?  I told her that I really loved everything that I learned in the Church very much.  I found the truth that I had been looking for.  The more I learned about the Church, the more I realized that this was the place for me.  I belonged here and this was a missing piece of my life puzzle that I had been looking for.  However, I was scared because everyone would hate me and no one in our family would want to be around me anymore.

Grandma listened very carefully and to my big surprise, she said, “Do you know that Christians actually are really good people?  They practice what they preach.  Many Buddhists do not know much about Christians and have the wrong idea about them.”

I looked at my grandma and asked, “How do you know?”

Serving Though Threatened with Execution

She shared with me an experience where she had encountered a group of Christians.  She said that in 1975 when the war began in Cambodia that she was at home working at the rice field with her 5 children.  My grandfather was on his business trip in Phnom Penh, the capital of Cambodia.  While she and her 5 children were working, a group of communist soldiers forced her and her children to leave home without clarifying where.

She asked if she could return home to get clothes and food for her kids but they laughed and said no.  As the journey went on, she realized that she would never be able to return home and did not know if she would ever see her husband again.  Her five children grew hungry and weak and got very sick.

Meeting

Then she met a group of nice people who were trying so hard to help her out by giving her their clothes and food.  Furthermore, they helped her build a shack for her and her children and gave them medicine.  While this group of people helped my grandma out, the communist soldiers told them that if they continued to help my grandma that everyone in their group would be executed.

My grandma was really scared and told the group that she did not want them to get hurt because they were helping her and her children.  But, the group continued to secretly help her out.

One day, she asked those people which village they came from and instead they replied that they were Christian. They visited Cambodia for their charity mission and were trying to leave Cambodia before everything completely shut down.  The missionaries also told my grandma to not worry about them, that they would be ok.

The last time before the group of missionaries left they asked my grandma if she would be ok.  Was there anything else that she needed help with?

Go and Become a Good Christian

Grandma said that from that moment on, the kindness of that Christian group would never leave her memory until the day she died.  After she finished her story, she turned to me and said, “You know what, sweetheart? I know for sure that I will never become a Christian myself, but I will be very happy if you become a Christian.  Go and become a good Christian.  Do not worry about whether or not people will like you.  They will understand later.”  After the conversation with my dear grandma, I decided I would be baptized and join the Church.

I am so thankful that my grandma met that group of Christians and I am so thankful for the service that they had done for my grandmother because they showed her what it was like to be a Christian.  Because my grandmother accepted service from a group of Christians, it has been a tremendous blessing for my family and me today.

The Foundation of Service is Love

Our Savior taught us that the foundation of service is love.  The Savior taught us in John 13:35, “By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to another.”

President Dallin H. Oaks proclaimed, “Service with all of our heart and mind is a high challenge for all of us.  It must be motivated only by the pure love of Christ.”

Love and Accept Love

To read more of Delisa’s articles, click here.

I know that performing service is important as we strive to love others.  And it is also important for us to open our hearts to accept the service of others because it is a way for us to show them that we accept their love and care for us.

When we serve we will receive blessing and we will be blessed because of the good work we have done. But we have to remember by accepting service from others, we actually allow them to serve and allow them to have the blessing of their service. Being served is not weak and it is not that we are not capable of doing things on our own, but it is a way to show that we are strong enough to humble our self and put down our ego to accept the love from others.

I am thankful for the amazing people I have met throughout my life and all the service they offered. I am very thankful that we have the true gospel today. I am forever grateful that we have the prophet to teach us what we should do to prepare us to go back to our Father in Heaven when our time comes.

(Previously posted on Patheos.com)

Delisa Hargrove

I am a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. I have moved 64 times and have not tired of experiencing this beautiful earth! I love the people, languages, histories/anthropologies, & especially religious cultures of the world. My life long passion is the study & searching out of religious symbolism, specifically related to ancient & modern temples. My husband Anthony and I love our bulldog Stig, adventures, traveling, movies, motorcycling, and time with friends and family.