Thoughts

We had our Regional Conference Broadcast today for Stake Conference.  It was a very thought-provoking meeting.  Keilah was actually quite good enough that Nate and I were able to listen to most of it.  Bishop Edgely spoke of realizing that we have chosen our path to be here on earth knowing it's going to be very difficult at times.  He said that we definitely didn't jump up and down with joy in the pre-existence when we heard about all the pain, sorrow, and suffering we would endure during this life.  However, we did rejoice when the Savior stood and said He'd suffer on our behalf so that we would be able to experience joy with the sorrow.  I think of all the times in my life I've complained about how hard things are and "why did this happen to me? Do I deserve this?"  No, sometimes we don't "deserve" the bad that we are dealt, but if we rely on the Savior and His Atonement, we are able to have a peace and simple happiness during our trials.  It's been said many times before by our church leaders, but maybe it was something that I needed to hear today.  

Pres. Uchtdorf also spoke.  He suggested that we do three things in our lives to keep us spiritually sound.  The first thing was to hold a current temple recommend no matter how far we live from a temple.  The second was to study the scriptures DAILY.  Then to also pray alone and with our families each day.  I have been thinking a lot about raising a family in a world that's more evil at every passing moment.  I'm constantly wondering how I'm going to be able to make our home a "haven on earth."  I know that if I do these three things along with other gospel principles, I'm going to be able to receive the answers I need.  Our leaders are inspired to teach us things we need to know now.  In this scary, mixed-up world we live in, how blessed we are to have a living prophet and church leaders to guide us according to Heavenly Father's will!  My goal this next month is to read the scriptures and pray daily along with going to the temple at least once, if not more.  So, at the end of the month, I'll report back and let you know how I did :)