The Rock of Our Redeemer

It's been a long time since I've posted on this blog; not from lack of desire, but rather, lack of time. I just read Elder Wilford W. Anderson's talk titled "The Rock of Our Redeemer". It teaches so beautifully, what I learned just a few years ago while passing through one of my life's great challenges-- Hope.

Here are my favorite excerpts:

• "The true source of hope is faith- faith in the Lord Jesus Christ and in His infinite Atonement.
• "Hope and happiness and joy are not products of circumstance, but of faith in the Lord."
• "Hope comes from faith in Jesus Christ."
• "If we would build our hope, we must build our faith."
• "True faith requires work" (i.e. keeping the commandments, repenting, & following the Savior)

See the common thread? If we want hope we must focus on exercising active faith in our Savior.

Here's the line that says it all for me:
". . .through the atonement everything will be all right."

That's the great lesson that I learned a couple of years ago. I can go through any hard trial God wills me to pass through. No matter what, I will be alright because of the atonement of Jesus Christ. There are no promises regarding how or when all will be made right, but it will, eventually all be made right. Once I learned that great lesson, my fear melted.

Here's how Elder Andersen puts it: ". . .we begin to grow in confidence that through the Atonement everything will be all right. Those feelings are confirmed by the Holy Ghost, who drives from us what our pioneer mother and fathers called "our useless cares." In spite of our trials, we are filled with a sense of well-being and feel to sing with them that indeed "all is well".

That thought reminds me of this line from Elder Uchdorf's talk, "Continue in Patience", also from the April 2010 General Conference, ". . .sometimes it is in the waiting rather than in the receiving that we grow the most." God lets us go through very difficult things, because he knows we are most teachable when we are at our extremities. But, there is the promise that He will make it all well and sustain us through our difficult moments.

I love this verse:
" And now, my sons, remember, remember that it is upon the rock of our Redeemer, who is Christ, the Son of God, that ye must build your foundation; that when the devil shall send forth his mighty winds, yea, his shafts in the whirlwind, yea, when all his hail and his mighty storm shall beat upon you, it shall have no power over you to drag you down to the gulf of misery and endless wo, because of the rock upon which ye are built, which is a sure foundation, a foundation whereon if men build they cannot fall." Helaman 5:12

Our Duty to God: The Mission of Parents and Leaders to the Rising Generation

My summary of this talk: Children need parents who talk with them a lot and listen even more.

• "For all of us, doing our duty to God as parents and leaders begins with leading by example—consistently and diligently living gospel principles at home. This takes daily determination and diligence. "
• ". . .we lead them by understanding their hearts and walking alongside them on the gospel path."
• "We must plan and take advantage of teaching moments that make a deep and lasting impression upon their minds and hearts."
• ". . .do you use the time to talk with them about their hopes and dreams and fears and joys?"
• ". . .the greatest influence [comes from] the regular, warm, friendly, caring interaction with parents."
• ". . .where family meals are concerned, it’s not the food but the family interaction that nourishes the soul."
• "Most important is asking them questions, letting them talk, and then being willing to listen—yes, listen and listen some more—even hearken with spiritual ears!"
• "The greatest family history work that we will do will be within our own homes. It is the spiritual preparation of our children in the rising generation that will, through their obedience, ensure the eternal preservation and perpetuation of our families for the coming generations."

I like this final quote. My grandmother once told me that after losing her young husband in a hunting accident she felt like going to church with her four kids was too hard. She wondedered if it really mattered. She's remained active her whole life. Looking back she can see that her decision has blessed her entire posterity. Oh how grateful I am for her righteous choices.

Up next: "Mothers Teaching Children in the Home" by Elder L. Tom Perry

Watching with All Perserverance

The premise of Elder Bednar's talk is profound-- that our childrens' responses to our gospel discussions, scripture study, & testimony bearing are an indicator of their spiritual condition, and serve as early warning signals.

Here are my favorite tidbits:

• "And the questions a child asks, the observations a child shares, and the discussions that occur provide crucial spiritual early warning signals. Importantly, such conversations can help parents to discern what their children are learning, thinking, and feeling about the truths contained in this sacred volume of scripture, as well as the difficulties they may be facing." Ah, there is a spiritual-ometer for our kids.
• ". . .discussions about the doctrines and principles in the Book of Mormon provide opportunities for parents to observe their children, to listen to them, to learn from them, and to teach them." I like the concept that parents can learn from the children.
• "Children may not understand all of the words and stories, but they certainly can feel the “familiar spirit” described by Isaiah" Love this. My kids don't understand most of what we read, but they love scripture study time because it's family time & they feel the spirit (okay, not every time, it's true). Family scripture study blesses my family.
  
• "Parents should be vigilant and spiritually attentive to spontaneously occurring opportunities to bear testimony to their children. Such occasions need not be programmed, scheduled, or scripted. In fact, the less regimented such testimony sharing is, the greater the likelihood for edification and lasting impact. “Neither take ye thought beforehand what ye shall say; but treasure up in your minds continually the words of life, and it shall be given you in the very hour that portion that shall be meted unto every man” (D&C 84:85)." I'm trying to get better at these everyday teaching & testifying moments.
• ". . .the best family home evenings are not necessarily the product of pre-prepared, purchased, or downloaded packets of outlines and visual aids." Simplify, simplify, simplify. The magic of family home evening is in the heart to heart teaching discussions, not elaborate preparations.
• "Are you and I helping our children become agents who act and seek learning by study and by faith, or have we trained our children to wait to be taught and acted upon?" Probably the latter. Glad to see where to focus.
• "The spiritual discernment and inspiration you will receive from the combination of these three holy habits will enable you to stand as watchmen on the tower for your families—“watching . . . with all perseverance” (Ephesians 6:18)—to the blessing of your immediate family and your future posterity." It was so clear to me as I read this, that it's not just about our immediate families. We are indeed leaving a legacy for generations and generations that will follow. Do we underestimate our circle of influence?

Up next: Our Duty to God: The Mission of Parents and Leaders to the Rising Generation by Elder Robert D. Hales

The Power of the Priesthood

"Against all of that (referring to the evils & natural disasters around us), we have very positive feelings about what lies ahead." I love the optimism that the brethren always portray. It strengthens me and give me courage.

"It has never been easy to live the gospel of Jesus Christ." Oh, it's nice to hear that from an apostle! I feel validated in my struggles. It's okay that it's hard, we just have to remember that it's worth it.

"It might seem hopeless; it is monumentally difficult; but it is not only possible but certain that we will win the battle against Satan." Again, the optimism, this time with a promise! We will be victorious.

"Unless we enlist the attention of the mothers and daughters and sisters—who have influence on their husbands, fathers, sons, and brothers—we cannot progress. The priesthood will lose great power if the sisters are neglected." Then, a few lines later, "We have done very well at distributing the authority of the priesthood. We have priesthood authority planted nearly everywhere. We have quorums of elders and high priests worldwide. But distributing the authority of the priesthood has raced, I think, ahead of distributing the power of the priesthood. The priesthood does not have the strength that it should have and will not have until the power of the priesthood is firmly fixed in the families as it should be." I initally thought, this talk is just for the brethren, but it's for us sisters as well. The men in our lives need our unfailing support to help them reach their full potential and to fulfill their responsibilities. They need our confidence in them.

President Harold B. Lee stated: “It seems clear to me that the Church has no choice—and never has had—but to do more to assist the family in carrying out its divine mission, not only because that is the order of heaven, but also because that is the most practical contribution we can make to our youth—to help improve the quality of life in the Latter-day Saint homes. As important as our many programs and organizational efforts are, these should not supplant the home; they should support the home.” Then as he concludes, "Every law and principle and power, every belief, every ordinance and ordination, every covenant, every sermon and every sacrament, every counsel and correction, the sealings, the calls, the releases, the service—all these have as their ultimate purpose the perfection of the individual and the family." I love the reminder that it all comes down to family. Quotes like these help me keep perspective when mothering seems mundane, unfulfilling, and unappreciated. They strengthen my desire to be a good mother, one who seeks "the best", not just "the good" or "better."

Up Next: "Watching with All Perserverence" by Elder Bednar

And upon the Handmaids. . .

"A good woman knows that she does not have enough time, energy, or opportunity to take care of all of the people or do all of the worthy things her heart yearns to do. Life is not calm for most women, and each day seems to require the accomplishment of a million things, most of which are important. A good woman must constantly resist alluring and deceptive messages from many sources telling her that she is entitled to more time away from her responsibilities and that she deserves a life of greater ease and independence. But with personal revelation, she can prioritize correctly and navigate this life confidently. The ability to qualify for, receive, and act on personal revelation is the single most important skill that can be acquired in this life."

I just love this quote! We desire to do good, but most of us already have more on our plate than we know how to handle. I love the insight that the spirit can guide us in how, when, and where to serve so that we are diligent, but do not run faster than we have strength.

I taught Relief Society today and challenged the sisters to pray each day to know who needs them. I promised them that as we pray with the intent to follow through, the Lord will guide us to those whose prayers we can help answer. I shared this favorite quote of mine by President Kimball, "“God does notice us, and he watches over us. But it is usually through another person that he meets our needs. Therefore, it is vital that we serve each other.” I aslo shared this scripture, " D&C 64:33 Wherefore, be not weary in well-doing, for ye are laying the foundation of a great work. And out of small things proceedeth that which is great." Oh, and one more great quote by Mother Teresa, "We cannot do great things, only small things with great love."

Another favorite from Sister's Beck's talk: "Insight found in scripture accumulates over time, so it is important to spend some time in the scriptures every day."

Oh, and this one from Eliza R. Snow, "Women should be women and not babies that need petting and correction all the time. I know we like to be appreciated but if we do not get all the appreciation which we think is our due, what matters?" It's bold, & appropriate.

I'm starting to love Sister Beck more & more. I've studied several of her conference addresses this week while preparing to teach Relief Society. They are packed with wisdom & great council.

Up next; The Power of the Priesthood by President Boyd K. Packer

He Is Risen

I was looking forward to reading President Monson's conference talk, eager to remember what council he has given us. This talk doesn't contain council, just a message of hope. These are my favorite excerpts:


"[He] went about doing good." Acts 10:38. This has been one of my favorite verses for a while.


"Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you." John 14:27. Jesus Christ, our Savior truely makes everything okay. There is no wound nor worry He cannot heal, no wrong He cannot make right.


I believe the testimony of one who, in this dispensation, spoke with the Father and the Son in a grove now called sacred and who gave his life, sealing that testimony with his blood. Declared he:
“And now, after the many testimonies which have been given of him, this is the testimony, last of all, which we give of him: That he lives! “For we saw him, even on the right hand of God; and we heard the voice bearing record that he is the Only Begotten of the Father.”D&C 76: 22-23


From Revelation chapter 21, verse 4: ‘And God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes; and there shall be no more death, neither sorrow, nor crying, neither shall there be any more pain: for the former things are passed away.’ ”


I am suprememly grateful for my Savior. He helps me be more than I can be on my own, strengthens me in my trials, and because of Him I have hope of a glorious resurrection.

Repent. . .That I May Heal You

"Sometimes in our repentance, in our daily efforts to become more Christlike, we find ourselves repeatedly struggling with the same difficulties. As if we were climbing a tree-covered mountain, at times we don’t see our progress until we get closer to the top and look back from the high ridges. Don’t be discouraged. If you are striving and working to repent, you are in the process of repenting."

I was in Utah for my mission reunion during the November 2009 conference. I was disappointed that I couldn't listen to conference in the comfort and privacy of my own home and really take it in. During this session I was driving. I listened to the above segment just as I stopped to get gas. I remember pondering it at the gas pump, eager to start the car again and continue listening. It spoke to my heart. There are dumb little things in my life that I struggle with over and over. They should be simple, even effortless to change. But for me, they're not. I see the consequence of these petty behaviors over & over, yet keep failing when I try to change them. This line, "If you are striving and working to repent, you are in the process of repenting." gave me hope and comfort. I couldn't remember who said them & I've been hoping to come across them again. I'm so glad God is patient with me.

I love Elder Anderson's definition of repentance, "It is the beckoning of a loving Father and His Only Begotten Son to be more than we are, to reach up to a higher way of life, to change, and to feel the happiness of keeping the commandments." Repentance in the Lord's invitation to turn to a happier and more successful lifestyle. What a gift!

Sometimes, I buy in to the feminine tendency to be far too critical of myself; to feel that my efforts are never good enough, that I will never be good enough, even that I need to change everything about me all at once. I learned a couple of years ago that the Lord can help me identify what thing or things in my life need most to be changed, and my efforts to change can be focused and meaningful. But I forget, so I'm always grateful for reminders like this, "A better approach is to humbly petition the Lord: “Father, what wouldst Thou have me do?” The answers come. We feel the changes we need to make. The Lord tells us in our mind and in our heart."

In my daily prayers with the Lord I find much to plea for, and I try to remember to express my gratitude, and pray for others. I want to repent daily more consistently.

Up next: Whatever I want, whenever I want. Hee hee

Moral Discipline

This talk touched on some of the tender questions of my heart, so my post is quite personal. My husband will be going to school full time in the fall. His little business slows down more and more all the time, and simply is not adequate to support our little family. I wonder how we'll scrape by. I never thought we'd be living on a poor college student income after 11 years of marriage and four children. This wasn't my plan. So, I've pondered adding twelve more students to my already busy piano teaching pool of twenty-two. Doing so would mean I'd only see my two older children at breakfast and from 6:00 pm until bedtime, four days a week. I feel strongly that it's a husband's responsibility to provide and a mother's responsibility to nurture. However, I recognize that not every situation is ideal, and even ideal situations are not ideal all the time. I have conflicting thoughts. I trust that if it's the Lord's will that I add more students, he'll help me manage my time and bless my children to endure it well. But, the idea of spending so little time with my children breaks my heart. I already feel like an inadequate parent to my three beautiful girls & adding one more to the mix in July is only going to add to that challenge. The hope of my heart is that it's the Lord's will that I keep the nurturing of my children as my highest priority and that he will provide. The sons of the people of Ammon were taught that, ". . .if they did not doubt, God would deliver them." (Alma 56:47). Can I choose to be believing, put God first, and trust that somehow things will work out?

In his talk Elder Christofferson says, "In the end, it is only an internal moral compass in each individual that can effectively deal with the root causes as well as the symptoms of societal decay." Then a few lines later, "Moral discipline is learned at home." I would add, by mothers who nurture, (and fathers who provide but also see themselves as equal partners with their wives).

Later, "Each must be persuaded that service and sacrifice for the well-being and happiness of others are far superior to making one's own comfort and possessions the highest priority... There must be constant teaching, mostly by example."

This last part reminded me of a talk I read, but now can't find. I think it was by one of the brothren, who said that quality time with our children stems from quantity time.

Finally, "Our aim must be for [our children] to become truly converted to the restored gospel of Jesus Christ while they are with us. . .Then they will have gained a strength from what they are, not only from what they know. They will become disciples of Christ."

I love President MacKay's statement that no other success can compensate for failure in the home. In my eyes, nothing matters more than being a successful parent. In the end, I feel that I cannot adequately teach and nurture my children unless I spend adequate amounts of time with them. I'm still searching, pondering, & praying over this heart felt question. But, I know what I hope the right choice is.

Up next: Repent that I may heal you by Neil L. Andersen

Stewardship a Sacred Trust

I'm going to teach my family a family home evening lessons about stewardships. We'll play pictionary drawing the words bodies, minds, families, things (properties), time, talents, poor & needy. We'll discuss what it means to be accountable to Heavenly Father.

I liked Elder Cooks's reminder that when we report to the Savior He'll ask for an accounting of our relationship with our spouse and each of our children.

I also appreciated his reference to King Benjamin's statement, "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." (Mosiah 4:27). It's sometimes too easy however to use that verse as justification to do less than we are able. I guess that's why it's important to pray to know the Lord's will for us and where and how he would have us serve each day.

Up next: Moral Discipline by D. Todd Christofferson.

I'm running out of time to study all these conference talks before there are new ones.

More Diligent and Concerned at Home

I love listening to Elder Bednar. He speaks so that he cannot be misunderstood. I love this quote from his talk: "As disciples of the Savior, we are not merely striving to know more; rather, we need to consistently do more of what we know is right and become better." Did you notice that he repeated himself?

To me, quotes like this sum up the purpose of life so well. It reminds me of one of my all time favorite conference talks, Elder Oaks' talk, The Challenge to Become. In it, Elder Oaks teaches, "In contrast to the institutions of the world, which teach us to know something, the gospel of Jesus Christ challenges us to become something.", Then after referencing some scriptures about the final judgement he says, "From such teachings we conclude that the Final Judgment is not just an evaluation of a sum total of good and evil acts—what we have done. It is an acknowledgment of the final effect of our acts and thoughts—what we have become. It is not enough for anyone just to go through the motions. The commandments, ordinances, and covenants of the gospel are not a list of deposits required to be made in some heavenly account. The gospel of Jesus Christ is a plan that shows us how to become what our Heavenly Father desires us to become."

I like the concept that it's not what we do, how efficiently we do it, or how grand our acts are that really matter, it's what happens to our hearts in the process. I'm not expected to be more or do more than the Lord knows I am capable of; to run faster than I have strength. I am expected to let the things I do every day gradually and consistently change my nature until the Lord helps me achieve a celestial condition.

My thoughts on Elder Bednar's 3 points:

1. Expressing and Showing Love- One of my family members pointed out recently that I wasn't expressing love often enough. I was genuinely surprised; I hadn't even realized. In contrast, I felt like that family member expressed love sometimes without showing it. Both require an constant and consistent effort.

2. Bearing Testimony & Living It- I feel like I live true to my testimony, but I don't adequately verbalize my testimony to my family. To be honest, I'm not sure how to tie brief and frequent testimony moments into family life. I'm going to ponder this more.

3. Be Consistent- This section made me feel like I'm doing something right. Although our Family Home Evening, Family Scripture Study, & Family Prayer are often lacking in quality, we are consistent at doing them. Elder Bednar's talk made me feel like that consistency may do more good than I know. He said, "The consistency of our intent and work was perhaps the greatest lesson-- a lesson we did not fully appreciate at the time." and ". . .our consistency in doing seemingly small things can lead to significant spiritual results. 'Wherefore, be not weary in well-doing, for ye are laying the foundation of a great work. And out of small things proceedeth that which is great.' (D&C 64:33) A consistent childhood is the foundation of a great life, isn't it?

And for final encouragement, "[Our Heavenly Father and His Beloved Son] love us and know our circumstances, and They will help us to become more diligent and concerned at home."

Up next: Stewardship a Sacred Trust by Elder Quentin L Cook

Safety for the Soul

I love those "aha" moments when you re-"get" something you already completely comprehended; like Elder Holland pointing out that all of the travelers in Lehi's dream traveled through the midsts of darkness, even the faithful and determined ones. I always try to press forward, usually clinging awkwardly, tenaciously onto. . . well something or another. Elder Hollands talk makes is clear that the thing we ought to cling to most in our misty moments is the Book of Mormon.

I confess. I love reading General Conference talks. I relate to them, they're not encrypted, I remember them and I can easily connect how this talk relates to that other one. Not so with the Book of Mormon. In the last decade my scripture study has been spotty. I get frustrated when I don't get it, or realize that I've read this section a dozen times in my life & I still don't remember the basic story line. I get discouraged that I don't have a spiritual experience every time I read and often my mind wanders. I unrealistically feel like I need to commit a silent 30 minutes to scripture study every day & I just never feel like I'm able to. When I study the scriptures I feel like I fail, so more often than not, my scriptures spend days unopened.

I recently read a devotional talk in the BYU magazine by Sister Elaine Dalton. She bore testimony that reading the Book of Mormon every day, even if only for five minutes can change our lives. Five minutes!?! Five minutes?!? I think I could commit to five minutes!

I know the Book of Mormon is true. I know the Lord has answered many of my hearts deepest questions through the scriptures. There are many notes in my scriptures that look like this "8/10/04 Kate". And I remember exactly what the Lord taught me on that day from that verse. I'm certain those moments would happen more often if I did read the Book of Mormon daily.

Up next: More Diligent and Concerned at Home by Elder Bednar

Seeking to Know God, Our Heavenly Father, and His Son, Jesus Christ

Reading this talk reaffirmed that I have a rock solid testimony that Heavenly Father is my Father, that he know and cares about me, and that he hears and answers my prayers. I see so many of His tender mercies in my life, so many not-insignificant happenings, so many answered prayers. I pray, He hears, He answers.

I like this quote:
"With your own testimony of God, you will be able to bless your family, your posterity, your friends, your own life--all those you love. Your personal knowledge of God is not only the greatest gift you will ever give, but it will bring you the greatest joy you will ever have."

And I might add. . .great security.

To Acquire Spiritual Guidance

First and foremost I appreciated Elder's Scott's recognition that receiveing revelation is not easy. He says, "I am convinced that there is no simple formula or technique that would immediately allow you to master the ability to be guided by the voice of the Spirit. Our Father expects you to learn how to obtain that divine help by exercising faith in Him and His Holy Son, Jesus Christ. Were you to receive inspired guidance just for the asking, you would become weak and ever more dependent on Them. They know that essential personal growth will come as you struggle to learn how to be led by the Spirit." It's assuring to have an apostle validate the difficulty.

Second, I appreciate Elder Scott's teaching that we can receive personal inspiriation while being taught by those who are humble and sincere, even though they may not teach eloquently. Even more importantly, we can receive personal inspiration in gospel classes that may not seem oh so inspired.

Third, I was impressed by Elder's Scott's experience he shared about revelation he received:

• He received the inspiration & wrote it down
• He pondered the inspiration & made some minor changes
• Then he prayed, reviewing with the Lord what he had been taught by the spirit & asked "Was there any more to be given?
• He repeated the process of writing, pondering, & praying for confirmation
• He asked again "Is there I should know?" and there was

I sometimes take my moments of inspiration at face value but still have a bit of that dumbfounded, "but I'm not sure I really get it" feeling. I like this prinicple of write, ponder, review, pray, & ask for more understanding. I guess it's reassuring to know it's okay not to get it all at first and feel like I need more inspiration.

Up next: Seeking to Know God, Out Heavenly Father, and His Son Jesus Christ by Elder Robert D. Hales.

Fathers and Sons

I almost skipped this talk because I'm not a father and I don't' have any sons. But I read it. It's exactly what I'd want a member of the 12 to say to my teenage son if I had one, and what I'd what the same member of the 12 to say to my husband.

My highlights:

• "When you put your trust in your dad [or any person, I'd add], he will feel the responsibility of that trust and try harder than ever to understand and help."
• "First, fathers, listen to your sons—really listen to them. Ask the right kind of questions, and listen to what your sons have to say each time you have a few minutes together. You need to know—not to guess but to know—what is going on in your son’s life. Don’t assume that you know how he feels just because you were young once." I think these same principles apply to mothers and their interactions with their children.
• "A one-on-one relationship should be a routine part of your stewardship with your sons [and I would add daughters]. Every father needs at least one focused, quality conversation with his sons every month during which they talk about specific things such as school, friends, feelings, video games, text messaging, worthiness, faith, and testimony. Where or when this happens isn’t nearly as important as the fact that it happens. " I don't think we can wait until our children are 12 to start this kind of relationship. 1:1 time needs to begin early.
• "Remember, conversation where you do 90 percent of the talking is not a conversation." Funny, that's what happens most of the time at my house. No one around here talks very much. It think it causes problems.
• "Use the word “feel” as often as you comfortably can in your discussions with your sons." Great advice. I think I'll try it.

Up next: To Acquire Spiritual Knowledge by Elder Richard G. Scott

Love and Law

This is the talk that replays in my mind over & over. I understood some of the concepts on a deeper level as I contemplated it in the temple and thought about how our loving Father in Heaven fulfills his role as a parent. Some of the consequences he allows or even causes to happen must cause him the deepest anguish. I want parenting to be all about gentle love, happiness, and joy. I acknowledge the need to discipline, as I've studied it at a worldly perspective. But this talk has made me recognize the divine, eternal responsibility I have to withhold the laws of my home by enforcing consequences. Sometimes I just don't want to do it. It's easier is the short run not to do it. But now I'm seeing the grand significance of being "the meanie."

"In the midst of such stress, we must endure the reality that the straying of our loved ones will detract from our happiness, but it should not detract from our love for one another or our patient efforts to be united in understanding God’s love and God’s laws." We're not dealing with teenage rebellion or serious sin in our home, but this quote helped me grasp that sometimes the poor choices my children make & the consequences I have to enforce will decrease my level of happiness for a time, but that's just the way it is. I sometimes want to keep my emotions out of some aspects of parenting, but that's not really how it works.

Here are the quotes that sum this talk up for me:

"In teaching and reacting to their children, parents have many opportunities to apply these principles. One such opportunity has to do with the gifts parents bestow on their children. Just as God has bestowed some gifts on all of His mortal children without requiring their personal obedience to His laws, parents provide many benefits like housing and food even if their children are not in total harmony with all parental requirements. But, following the example of an all-wise and loving Heavenly Father who has given laws and commandments for the benefit of His children, wise parents condition some parental gifts on obedience."

"Real love does not support self-destructing behavior."

"There is no area of parental action that is more needful of heavenly guidance or more likely to receive it than the decisions of parents in raising their children and governing their families. This is the work of eternity."

I will discipline my children and hold them accountable because I love them.

Revelation

• “Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you.” Over the past year or two this promise has stuck out to me over and over again in my stripture study. I'm curious to know how many times this promise is repeated in the scriptures. It is powerful! It's a promise!
• "And I have leared that I always need to be ready to receive it (revelation)." In my youth, I remember reading in my youth, a quote from the General Young Women's priesident that said, in essence, each of us needs some time to be alone with God each day and to tell him how things really are with us. As we commit ouselves to have spiritual quiet time each day, we open ourselves up for revelation to flow how and when the Lord sees fit.
• I appreciated Elder Nelson's explanation on why it is difficult to follow a prophet:"A desire to follow the prophet requires much effort because the natural man knows very little of God and even less of His prophet. Paul wrote that “the natural man [receives] not the things of the Spirit of God: for they are foolishness unto him: neither can he know them, because they are spiritually discerned.” The change from being a natural man to a devoted disciple is a mighty one." The word "foolishness" stuck out to me. Just like, we often don't heed spiritual promptings, because they seem foolish. It takes faith to trust the words of a living prophet and heed them. We don't know until we obey, what blessings may be predicated upon that obedience. So, what have you done for someone today? (As counciled by Pres. Monson?) Prophetic council is so easy to interpret as a good suggestion, rather that council from a living prophet of God, isn't it? Maybe it doesn't seem foolish, but sometimes it doesn't seem all that significant; but I trust it is.

Anger, fear & prayer

I've had a horrible week this week. I've given in to anger & fear. It's consumed me, leaving almost no room for spiritual things, but this line from this talk keeps rattling around in my head, "One of the adversary’s sharpest tools is to convince us that we are no longer worthy to pray. No matter who you are or what you may have done, you can always pray." Not that I feel unworthy to pray, but I haven't wanted to. This quote keeps reminding me to pray anyway.

These other quotes just caught my spiritual eye:

"When temptation comes, you can invent a delete key in your mind—perhaps the words from a favorite hymn. Your mind is in charge; your body is the instrument of your mind. When some unworthy thought pushes into your mind, replace it with your delete key. Worthy music is powerful and can help you control your thoughts."

That would work with anger & fear, right?

"We were given our agency. We must use it wisely and remain close to the Spirit; otherwise, we foolishly find ourselves yielding to the enticements of the adversary. We know that through the Atonement of Jesus Christ our mistakes can be washed clean, and our mortal body will be restored to its perfect frame."

Sometimes the natural man in me really just wants to yeild to my ugly feelings; as if I'd find some solace there.

I do like the way Pres. Packer incorporates real stories from average people and children. I think one of the most important things we teach our children is to really pray and then how to listen for answers.

The Love of God

I've enjoyed studying the first presidency's messages in order. It's been insightful to see the common thread through all of them--LOVE.

"—if we truly learn to love our Heavenly Father and our fellowman with all our heart, soul, and mind—all else will fall into place."

Ah, there's the key to simplifying gospel living! It's not about our energy level as much as it's about our love level. I think we often get that backwards.

President Uchdoft says, . . ."there are so many “shoulds” and “should nots” that merely keeping track of them can be a challenge. Sometimes, well-meaning amplifications of divine principles—many coming from uninspired sources—complicate matters further, diluting the purity of divine truth with man-made addenda. One person’s good idea—something that may work for him or her—takes root and becomes an expectation. And gradually, eternal principles can get lost within the labyrinth of “good ideas.”

So often we try with all our energy to do all of the right things for all of the right reasons, and yet can't figure out why we're feeling so wrong about it. We have to do those things for the right reason. . .LOVE. Our heart has to be right. Sometimes in all of our righteous doings we forget to listen for the voice of the Lord.

This passage makes the commandment to love God so clear.

"No, God does not need us to love Him. But oh, how we need to love God!
For what we love determines what we seek.
What we seek determines what we think and do.
What we think and do determines who we are—and who we will become."

All of the do's and the do not's in the Gospel are not some sort of spiritual checklist we can check off to qualify for eternal life. We have to allow those acts to work through us, to change us into celestial beings.

"Though we are incomplete, God loves us completely. Though we are imperfect, He loves us perfectly. Though we may feel lost and without compass, God’s love encompasses us completely." I felt great comfort reading that even through I am incomplete & imperfect, God's love for me is complete & perfect. I'm still trying to comprehend this principle as it applies to how I love others; in theory, I can love perfectly the imperfect & unfinished people in my life. It's contrary to my current pattern of love. Thus far in my life, other peoples' behavior causes my love to vacillate. But now I'm learning that my love can be higher than that. I love the theory. But I confess, on a practical level I can't quite grasp how to get there.

We can and must expect to become better as long as we live

My new mantra: "Try to show kindness in all that you do." I'm getting this feeling that life is all about service, love, & kindness.

"The joys come from putting the welfare of others above our own. That is what love is. And the sorrow comes primarily from selfishness, which is the absence of love." That's pretty concise.

Self-centered=sorrow
Others-centered=joy

This passage left me thinking & re-thinking. "Pray for the love which allows you to see the good in your companion. Pray for the love that makes weaknesses and mistakes seem small. Pray for the love to make your companion's joy your own. Pray for the love to want to lessen the load and soften the sorrows of your companion."

Somehow, our culture has fed us this idea that love is a magical thing that just happens and endures. I think for some lucky people it is that way, but I imagine for the larger majority, love requires prayer, patience, and work. And that's okay. Often in the scriptures we're commanded to love. It's a decision we make, and effort we put forth.

One of my previous bishops taught me about the enabling power of the atonement. Not only can the atonement take away our sins, redeem us, it can help us become better. The atonement of Jesus Christ can enable me to love my husband better, stronger, deeper. This council to pray for love for our companions has motivated me. I'm going to do it & I'm going to do it repeatedly. I've done it before and I know it works. The reminder was a good one for me. I like that his council is not merely, "pray for a greater love for your spouse," but was more specific than that.

I also enjoyed this tidbit on peace. "You have felt the peace of a pure little child at times when you have tried to be like Jesus. . .These moments will come more often as you try to do the things you know Jesus would do. . .And this gift can come not only to you alone but also to the loving members of your family."

This is neat! We try to do what the Savior would--> we feel peace --> AND our family get to experience greater peace too!!!

Kerri's thoughts on doing good

“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.” Matt 11:28-30

This passage reminds me of this illustration by Don Wood in the children's book "Quick as a Cricket."
The irony of this passage amazes me. I could say a lot about it, but in short, I can tell that my being yoked to the Savior wouldn't be for His benefit, it would only be for mine. Really, his yoke is easy and his burden is light? When we're burdened by the cares of life, what is the Lord's remedy? To buckle down and get to work with Him (i.e. in serving others). That is not the world's way.

Doesn't it go hand in hand with this other scriputure Pres. Monson quoted? “For whosoever will save his life shall lose it: but whosoever will lose his life for my sake, the same shall save it." Luke 9:24

Can anyone expound on this verse? "By love serve one another" (Galatians 5:13) I think those few words say a lot. Sometimes we're busy. Sometimes we feel like we don't have much to offer. This verse said to me, sometimes just feeling love in your heart for someone is service.

This section felt especially personal, "We become so caught up in the busyness of our lives. Were we to step back, however, and take a good look at what we’re doing, we may find that we have immersed ourselves in the “thick of thin things.” In other words, too often we spend most of our time taking care of the things which do not really matter much at all in the grand scheme of things, neglecting those more important causes."

This spoke to me. I'm still pondering this quote from Sister Beck's address at the General Relief Society session:

"President Dieter F. Uchtdorf taught: “A wise man once distinguished between ‘the noble art of getting things done’ and ‘a nobler art of leaving things undone.’ True ‘wisdom in life,’ he taught, consists of ‘the elimination of non-essentials.’ ” President Uchtdorf then asked: “What are the nonessential things that clutter your days and steal your time? What are the habits you may have developed that do not serve a useful purpose? What are the unfinished or unstarted things that could add vigor, meaning, and joy to your life?”

I'm trying to figure out how I can simplify the matters of family life that need to get done, so I have more time for the people in my life. Actually, it's more than that. I'm trying to quit hiding behind my to-do list where I'm in my comfort zone. I recognize that when I try to be in charge things get muddled. When I organize my daily to-do's around the Lord's will it always works out better. But so often, I'm scared to do it. In reality, I know that the Lord understands the limits on my time, energy, capabilites & means better than I do and that he won't ask more of me than I'm capable of. What am I capable of?

I want to start warm fuzzy jar for my family. I want to learn to be service minded & I want my kids to learn from my example.