Are we children of God?

Good Morning, or Good Afternoon, or Good Evening,

this post should take approximately three minutes to five minutes to read from start to finish. 

I hope you know that each individual around the world including you and I are a child of God. This post is focuses on an October 1998 General Conference talk called "We Are Children of God" by Elder Russell M. Nelson. I would like to share with you some highlights what he mentions.

Elder Nelson mentions, “The Body:-
The marvel of our physical bodies is often overlooked. Who has not encountered feelings of low self-esteem because of physique or appearance?

Many people wish their bodies could be more to their liking. Some with naturally straight hair want it curly. Others with curly hair want it straight. Occasionally some ladies, believing that “gentlemen prefer blonds,” become “decided blonds.” Your body, whatever its natural gifts, is a magnificent creation of God. It is a tabernacle of flesh a temple for your spirit. A study of your body attests to its divine design.

Physical Limitations:- 
For reasons usually unknown, some people are born with physical limitations. Specific parts of the body may be abnormal. Regulatory systems may be out of balance. And all of our bodies are subject to disease and death. Nevertheless, the gift of a physical body is priceless. Without it, we cannot attain a fulness of joy. 

A perfect body is not required to achieve a divine destiny. In fact, some of the sweetest spirits are housed in frail frames. Great spiritual strength is often developed by those with physical challenges precisely because they are challenged. Such individuals are entitled to all the blessings that God has in store for His faithful and obedient children. 

Eventually the time will come when each ‘spirit and body shall be reunited again in perfect form; both limb and joint shall be restored to its proper frame’ (Alma 11:43). Then, thanks to the Atonement of Jesus Christ, we can become perfected in Him.

"You are a child of God. You are wonderfully made, dearly loved, and precious in his sight. Before God made you, he knew you. There is no one else like you."

Personal Behavior:-

How should these truths influence our personal behavior? We should gratefully acknowledge God as our Creator. Otherwise, we would be as guilty as goldfish swimming in a bowl, oblivious to the goodness of their provider. “Ye must give thanks unto God,” said the Lord, “for whatsoever blessing ye are blessed with.” And we can practice virtue and holiness before Him continually.

We will regard our body as a temple of our very own. We will not let it be desecrated or defaced in any way. We will control our diet and exercise for physical fitness.

Should not equal attention be paid to spiritual fitness? Just as physical strength requires exercise, so spiritual strength requires effort. Among the most important of spiritual exercises is prayer. It engenders harmony with God and a desire to keep His commandments. Prayer is a key to wisdom, virtue, and humility.

Scriptural warning is clear: “Let not sin therefore reign in your mortal body, that ye should obey it in the lusts thereof.” In time, addictions enslave both the body and the spirit. Full repentance from addiction is best accomplished in this life, while we still have a mortal body to help us.

As children of God, we should not let anything enter the body that might defile it. To allow sensors of sight, touch, or hearing to supply the brain with unclean memories is a sacrilege. We will cherish our chastity and avoid “foolish and hurtful lusts, which drown [us] in destruction and perdition.”We will “flee these things; and follow after righteousness, godliness, faith, love, patience, and meekness” traits that edify the whole soul.

Who are we? We are children of God. Our potential is unlimited. Our inheritance is sacred. May we always honor that heritage in every thought and deed."

I encourage you to read the whole talk in your own time, here's the link to the talk.
www.lds.org/general-conference/1998/10/we-are-children-of-god

Stay Tuned until next time.

Take Time with Your Children} Part Two

Good Morning, or Good Afternoon, or Good Evening,

this post should take approximately three minutes to five minutes to read from start to finish.

This post focuses on a October 1993 General Conference talk that I like and it is called, "Take Time for Your Children" by Elder Ben B. Banks. This post is part two. I would like to share with you some highlights while I was reading the talk.

Elder Banks mentioned, "Do things together - Vacations and recreational activities, also family work projects, give parents a good opportunity to teach the importance of developing a good work ethic. Doing things together gives a child and parent an opportunity to share their attention in a common objective."

Provide opportunities to learn how to be independent and responsible. Teach children how to make their own decisions, even if it involves their failing once in a while. We need to help children come to an understanding such as Lehi taught, “knowing good from evil; to act for themselves and not to be acted upon."

"There is no need to be perfect to inspire others ..... Let people
get inspired by how you deal with your imperfections." - Robert Tew.

Discipline with love.

Service - In his great farewell address, King Benjamin taught, “When ye are in the service of your fellow beings ye are only in the service of your God." There are few rewards in life that bring greater feelings of satisfaction, joy, and peace than when one gives meaningful service to a fellow being standing in need.

The last and most important is to establish a “house of God.”

It is not easy for children to stay clean and pure in today’s world. There are times when it becomes hard for them to tell right from wrong. We need to teach our children, as Alma taught his son Corianton, “Wickedness never was happiness." Teach them to stay on the Lord’s side of the line. Hold family home evening regularly. Hold family prayer twice a day, if possible.

Teach them to love the scriptures and how to experience the sweet answer to individual prayer. Teach them to understand and recognize how the Holy Ghost communicates with us and how it comes as promptings, thoughts, impressions, and feelings. Teach the sacred significance of the atoning sacrifice of our Savior Jesus Christ.

That all who are parents might be successful in convincing their children that true joy and happiness come from living the gospel of Jesus Christ, and that parents might find joy and fulfillment in their efforts and sacred role, is my prayer, in the name of Jesus Christ, amen."

I would like to encourage you to read the whole talk in your own time and here is the link below.
www.lds.org/general-conference/1993/10/take-time-for-your-children

Stay Tuned until next time.

Take Time with Your Children} Part One

Good Morning, or Good Afternoon, or Good Evening,

this post should take approximately three minutes to five minutes to read from start to finish.

I would like to ask the following questions and you may or may not answer those questions either now or your own time. What does it mean to take time with your children? Do you take some quality time with your children?

This post focuses on a October 1993 General Conference talk that I like and it is called, "Take Time for Your Children" by Elder Ben B. Banks. This post is part one. I would like to share with you some highlights while I was reading the talk.

Elder Banks mentioned, "We cannot overemphasize the importance of parenthood and the family. Some Latter-day Saint families are what we refer to as the “traditional family,” consisting of parents and children all together in a permanent relationship, with both mother and father sharing in the responsibility of caring for children. Others have witnessed the loss of one of the parents and become one of the many single-parent families.

I am one who grew up in a single-parent home. My father lost his life as a result of a construction accident when I was two years old, leaving my mother with seven children to raise. Even in single-parent families, the family continues on, for families are forever. Perhaps few human challenges are greater than that of being good parents.

Yes, even with the best intentions, conscientious, good parents sometimes experience feelings of despair, failure, and hurt when children do not make right choices and turn out the way we would like. Even in those circumstances it is so important for parents to love, pray for, and never give up hope for a son or daughter who may have strayed or brought disappointment.

Elder Howard W. Hunter stated: “The responsibilities of parenthood are of the greatest importance. The results of our efforts will have eternal consequences for us and the boys and girls we raise. Anyone who becomes a parent is under strict obligation to protect and love his children and assist them to return to their Heavenly Father”

Parents should be the master teachers of their children. The Church will assist parents in their teaching and training, but only assist. The Church cannot be a substitute for parental responsibility.

"In the end, kids won't remember that fancy toy or game you bought for them, they will remember the time you spent with them. " - Kevin Heath.

Elder Richard L. Evans said the home “is also the source of our personal lives, and in a sense the determiner of our everlasting lives. And so our plea is for parents to take the time it takes to draw near to the children God has given them. Let there be love at home. Let there be tenderness and teaching and caring for and not a shifting of responsibility onto others. God grant that we may never be too busy to do the things that matter most, for ‘Home makes the man’”

Effective communication - Parents should spend a great deal of time listening, not just telling. This listening should be done with an open mind and heart. When children feel they can talk freely about their feelings, problems, and successes, wonderful relationships develop between parents and children.

Enthrone love and unity - It is important to make your children aware of your love and feelings. This can be done by a hundred little acts and gestures, such as tucking children into bed at night after listening to their prayers, offering a comforting arm or ear even though he or she may not be hurt very badly.

Encourage children to support each other through attendance at ball games and concerts where a family member is participating."

Stay Tuned until next time.

Parents and Children: Listening, Learning, and Loving} Part Two

Good Morning, or Good Afternoon, or Good Evening,

this post should take approximately five minutes to read from start to finish.

This post is focuses on a New Era article from February 2011 and it is called, "Parents and Children: Listening, Learning, and Loving" by Elder M. Russell Ballard. This post is part two. I would like to share with you some highlights that I loved while I was reading the article and I hope you will learn something new while you are reading this post.

To Mothers and Daughters,

Sisters, we, your brethren, cannot do what you were divinely designated to do from before the foundation of the world. We may try, but we cannot ever hope to replicate your unique gifts. There is nothing in this world as personal, as nurturing, or as life changing as the influence of a righteous woman.

But because all women have within their divine nature both the inherent talent and the stewardship to mother, most of what I will say applies equally to grandmothers, aunts, sisters, stepmothers, mothers-in-law, leaders, and other mentors who sometimes fill the gaps for these significant mother-daughter relationships.

Young women, your mothers adore you. They see in you the promise of future generations. Everything you accomplish, every challenge you overcome brings them pure joy. And likewise your worries and heartaches are their worries and heartaches.

Daughters

It is, unfortunately, all too easy to illustrate the confusion and distortion of womanhood in contemporary society. Popular culture today often makes women look silly, inconsequential, mindless, and powerless. It objectifies them and disrespects them and then suggests that they are able to leave their mark on mankind only by seduction easily the most pervasively dangerous message the adversary sends to women about themselves.

Please look to your faithful mothers for a pattern to follow. Model yourselves after them, not after celebrities whose standards are not the Lord’s standards and whose values may not reflect an eternal perspective. Look to your mother.

Learn from her strengths, her courage, and her faithfulness. Listen to her. But when it comes to matters of the heart and the things of the Lord, she has a wealth of knowledge. As you approach the time for marriage and young motherhood, she will be your greatest source of wisdom. No other person on earth loves you in the same way or is willing to sacrifice as much to encourage you and help you find happiness in this life and forever.

Love your mother, my young sisters. Respect her. Listen to her. Trust her. She has your best interests at heart. She cares about your eternal safety and happiness. So be kind to her. Be patient with her imperfections, for she has them. We all do.

"A daughter is a mother's greatest treasure."

Mothers

Teach your daughters to find joy in nurturing children. This is where their love and talents can have the greatest eternal significance. ..

Mothers, teach your daughters that a faithful daughter of God avoids the temptation to gossip or judge one another.

All youth will be more likely to make and keep covenants if they learn how to recognize the presence and the voice of the Spirit. Teach your daughters about things of the Spirit. Point them to the scriptures. Give them experiences that will help them cherish the blessing of priesthood power in their lives. Through keeping covenants they will learn to hear the voice of the Lord and receive personal revelation. God will truly hear and answer their prayers.

Conclusion

Three things you can do to make your relationship with your parents better than it is right now:

1. Trust your parents

2. Take an interest in their lives

3. Ask your parents for advice"

If you would like to read the whole article in your own time, here is the link below.
www.lds.org/new-era/2011/02/parents-and-children-listening-learning-and-loving

Stay Tuned until next time.

Parents and Children: Listening, Learning, and Loving} Part One

Good Morning, or Good Afternoon, or Good Evening,

this post should take approximately five minutes to read from start to finish.

This post is focuses on a New Era article from February 2011 and it is called, "Parents and Children: Listening, Learning, and Loving" by Elder M. Russell Ballard. This post is part one. I would like to share with you some highlights that I loved while I was reading the article and I hope you will learn something new while you are reading this post.

Elder Ballard mentioned, "To Fathers and Sons, Young men, you are your father’s pride and joy. In you they see a promising future and their hope for a better, improved version of themselves. Your accomplishments are a joy to them. Your worries and problems are their worries and problems.

Sons

1. Trust your father.
He is not perfect, but he loves you and would never do anything he didn’t think was in your best interest. So talk to him. Share your thoughts and feelings, your dreams and your fears. The more he knows about your life, the better chance he has to understand your concerns and to give you good counsel. .. Your Dad wants more than anything for you to be happy and successful, ..

2. Take an interest in your father’s life.
Ask about his job, his interests, his goals. How did he decide to do the work that he does? What was he like when he was your age? How did he meet your mother? Think about what you don’t know about him and find out. Your love, admiration, and understanding will increase by what you learn.

3. Ask your father for advice.
Let’s be honest: he is probably going to give you his advice whether you ask for it or not, but it just works so much better when you ask! .. Nothing shows respect for another person as much as asking for his advice, because what you are really saying is, “I appreciate what you know and the experiences you have had, and I value your ideas and suggestions.”

"Children desperately need parents willing to listen to them." - M. Russell Ballard.

Fathers,

1. 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. Your sons live in a very different world from the one in which you grew up. As they share with you what’s going on, you will have to listen very carefully and without being judgmental in order to understand what they are thinking and experiencing.

2. Pray with and for your sons.
Give them priesthood blessings. A son who is worried about a big exam or a special event will surely benefit from a father’s priesthood blessing. .. One-on-one prayer and the sharing of testimonies can draw you closer to each other as well as closer to the Lord.

3. Dare to have the “big talks” with your sons.
You know what I mean: talks about drugs and drinking, about the dangers of today’s media, the Internet, cyber technologies, and pornography and about priesthood worthiness, respect for girls, and moral cleanliness. While these should not be the only subjects you talk about with your sons, please don’t shy away from them. Your boys need your counsel, guidance, and input on these subjects.

I am especially concerned that we communicate openly and clearly with our sons about sexual matters. Your sons simply cannot avoid the blatant sexual imagery, messages, and enticements that are all around them. Be positive about how wonderful and beautiful physical intimacy can be when it happens within the bounds the Lord has set, including temple covenants and commitments of eternal marriage."

Stay Tuned until next time.

What makes a happy marriage?

Good Morning, Good Afternoon, or Good Evening, 

this post should take approximately four to six minutes to read from start to finish.

Have you ever wondered or thought about or realizing what makes a happy marriage despite the challenges, the disappointments, the disagreements, the difficulties and so forth that individuals faces throughout a marriage? 

I can honestly say that marriage isn't always easy, and it isn't supposed to be easy all the time. Otherwise how are you supposed to learn to overcome those challenges, those disappointments, those disagreements, those difficulties and so forth throughout a marriage? It is normal to face those kind of things throughout a marriage and there are tons of experiences when you would be feeling happiness and there are tons of experiences when you would be grieving for loved ones and friends that you cared about who passes away before you do. After all, it is just life.

This post focuses on what makes a happy marriage. Often times; friends and relatives most see happiness through posts, stories and statues that an individual shares on social media. Therefore, not many people would feel bothered to ask how's the married couple's marriage going and just assumed that everything is going all smoothly and great unless people already know that marriage has its ups and downs. 

"A happy marriage is about three things: Memories of togetherness,
forgiveness of mistakes and a promise to never give up on each other."
- Surabhi Surendra.

What type of memories do you and your spouse cherish the most throughout the marriage?
What was some of the greatest memories that you and your spouse enjoy remembering the most?
Do you and your spouse find some time to spend quality time together?

I know that my husband and I always do our best make greatest memories together, even if it's just watching movies and shows together or bike riding together or just going grocery shopping together. It is still valid memories of spending quality time together.

What type of mistakes would you and your spouse forgive about? Do you forgive your spouse for any mistakes that he or she has done?

Mistakes has happened in the past, and mistakes are still going to happen regardless. It doesn't matter how long you have been married to your spouse for; you and your spouse aren't perfect.

Forgiving mistakes is a choice. Forgiving mistakes starts with acknowledging what was the mistakes and understanding of why those mistakes are happening. Those mistakes can be whenever there is a disagreement, whenever there is an argument, whenever there is a misunderstanding of something that your spouse has said to you or vise versa and so forth. Forgiveness of mistakes can truly be powerful and sometimes after forgiving mistakes; you would be able to have peace, comfort and a gratitude feeling.

~ Have you and your spouse promise to never give up on each other despite the challenges that you both would face throughout marriage?

~ Have you and your spouse promise to never give up on each other despite the disappointments that you both would face throughout marriage?

~ Have you and your spouse promise to never give up on each other despite the disagreements that you both would face throughout marriage?

~ Have you and your spouse promise to never give up on each other despite the difficulties that you both would face throughout marriage?

~ Have you and your spouse promise to never give up on each other no matter what?

I know that my husband and I haven't promise to never give up on each other despite the challenges, the disappointments, the disagreements, the difficulties, and no matter what we face throughout our marriage. We know how to be strong, tough, continue to love each other no matter what, continue to do our best to support one another, find successful ways of having effective conversations, reassure to make sure that we both are feeling okay, and so forth.

Remember it is okay to be not okay during a marriage; always do your best to feel your best self and remember to speak up whenever something is not okay. Don't ever assume that every marriage looks great and going smoothly and well by just looking at posts, reading statuses and viewing stories on social media. Feel free to ask any married individual about how is her or his marriage going. The married individual shouldn't feel pressured to share with you into deep detail about his or her marriage is going.

Stay Tuned until next time.

Some Necessary Things that has helped me to be prepared For Marriage

Good Morning, or Good Afternoon, or Good Evening, 

this post should take approximately five to eight minutes to read. 

If you are currently married to your spouse, what was some of the necessary things that has helped you and your spouse to be prepared for civil marriage or eternal marriage? Did you and your spouse had to take any necessary steps to make sure that everything will go smoothly on your wedding day?

Was there anything that you and your spouse would have changed to help you and your spouse to prepare better for marriage? Did you and your spouse felt calm or stressed throughout the wedding planning?

This post focuses on sharing some of the necessary things that has helped me to be prepared for eternal marriage. I must say; preparing for marriage was somewhat difficult and came with multiple challenges.

"Being deeply loved by someone gives you strength, while loving
deeply gives you courage."

I remembered three years prior to meeting my husband online and while I was in Perth for short stay; I must admit I was nineteen years old, I was able to go on dates with mostly temple worthy guys, who has high standards and were returned missionaries. I didn't felt a desire to persuade myself to be ready and be fully committed into a relationship.

I enjoyed those past dates because it was able to help me to work out what exactly I was looking for in a future husband at the time. I obviously learned that during those dates, it helps me understood and the reasons why I didn't like certain things. I know that I didn't like to have a huge age difference, I mean like no more than three years difference because I didn't want to make myself feel awkward.

I also didn't like to put myself into unexpected situations for me to drive to the locations where the dates was because it felt like totally unfair on me and who knows what would have happened if the guys went ahead to change his mind and gone on a date with someone else when I just arrived to the location. I also didn't like to go on dates and not being able to talk to one another because dates are suppose to be able to get to know one another and feel comfortable of able to talk to each other.

I also didn't like people misjudged and just assumed that I was someone's girlfriend because it has made me felt uncomfortable and I don't know how it truly looked like if we were boyfriend and girlfriend on the first date.

During dating stages with my husband has truly helped me to get to know him a lot. There has been countless times that I could think of that my husband has been there for me, he often done his best to show me that he supports me, he often done his best to show me that he cares about me, he often done his best to always remember to tell me that he loves me, he often done his best to always remember to tell me that he misses me, he often kept me feeling happy, and so forth.

Being an endowed church member and being faithful to my covenants that I have made in the Temple was a massive blessing to me and my husband. I have been aware of engaged couples that an individual has to go and receive his or her endowments just not long prior to their wedding day even just on their wedding day. It makes me sad that the couple didn't have much opportunities to attend more than two endowment sessions and sealings prior to getting married.

Therefore, my husband and I had multiple opportunities when we were able to attend more than two endowment sessions, and sealings as individuals. It has helped me to prepare to know the blessings that comes from being sealed. It makes me feel joy and happiness.

My husband and I was able to be spiritual prepared by doing our best to have couple scripture study often and taking turns who gets to say the couple prayers prior to getting married. It has helped me to prepare for deeper understanding of the purpose why we have the scriptures available to us in our lives. It certainly became a habit for having couple scripture study and couple prayers because we continue doing that throughout our marriage thus far.

Prior to me leaving Australia last July, I was employed at Domino's and I was able to save up as much as I can. I knew that I was financially stable because I was able to do my very best to rely on the income that I was earning to pay all necessary bills and I was able to set a budget. Budget is a useful skill to prepare for eternal marriage because not all marriages are cheap and it's good habit to have a budget. Having a budget comes very handy throughout marriage, it's good way to keep track of expenses, and saving up funds.

Just getting sealed in a LDS Temple may seem to be FREE but you got to think about you still have to purchase marriage license prior to getting sealed in the Temple. Marriage license cost money.

I had multiple opportunities for me to be able to learn how to cook and what to cook for dinner meals. It has helped me to prepare of having a rough idea for what I can make dinner meals for me and my husband. It definitely is a lot healthier to cook dinner meals at home versus eating a lot of takeaways and at fast food restaurants.

I can think of a lot of other necessary things that has helped me to be prepared for eternal marriage. However I would allow you to think about, and ponder about what was some of the necessary things that has helped you and your spouse to be prepared for civil marriage or eternal marriage.

Stay Tuned until next time.

Don't Ever Ask Inappropriate Questions to Newly Weds

Good Morning, or Good Afternoon, or Good Evening, 

this post should take approximately four to six minutes to read from start to finish.

It certainly would seem this post took a lot of courage for me to share and speak up. I can clearly say that it definitely took courage for me to share this post for multiple reasons.

This post focuses on some of the questions that I have been asked by some individuals especially random church members who I barely met throughout my marriage thus far. I hope this post would be able to help and reach out to some individuals prior to getting married. I hope that they would acknowledge to have an understanding or to at least to know that the questions that I would be sharing would kinda be expected to be asked by other people throughout their marriage. 

I am seriously over and done with getting myself into unexpected situations when individuals thinks it is okay when it is totally not okay, and not appropriate to ask me pregnancy related questions including intimacy with my husband, job related questions when I'm not able to legally work in US yet, and so forth.

"It is not only marrying the right partner, it is being the right partner."
- Henry D. Taylor.

I often have been asked the following questions, I would like to explain why those questions are inappropriate and I would share a few experiences; 

"Are you pregnant? When are you due? How far along are you? When are you getting pregnant? When are you and your husband are going to start trying to have children? and When are you going to have children?"

I saw a pinterest post that mentions, "Stop asking women when are they getting pregnant. - Because endometriosis, Because PCOS, Because other fertility issues, Because miscarriages, Because they can't afford to, Because mental health, Because congenital heart defects, Because they don't want to!" 

I know that woman bodies are truly powerful but also it can truly destroy someone's life. I must say; my body has done some changes since I have been married, it honestly felt like and look like that I was pregnant. I often got so frustrated even at times when I don't even fully show it after having been asked those sort of questions. I was repeatedly been told by an elderly couple and a few others agreed with them for me to go and see an obstetrician doctor and find out what's going on. I kept delaying, and I refused to see an obstetrician doctor until eventually last month, I finally saw an obstetrician doctor. 

Within a month consist of two obstetrician doctor appointments in person, one obstetrician doctor appointment over a phone call, two different blood tests - total of six vitals that led me either feeling unwell or sore afterwards, two different ultrasound appointments, a pap smear test, and so forth. I didn't ever expected to have what I have now and indeed it did made me a little disappointed but I'm still being hopeful that those two things that I have now would go away on its own either soon or sometime this year. 

"Have you done it? Have you had sex?" I would consider that question is inappropriate because it's not about them to know about your sex life. It should definitely be only between you and your spouse, no one else. 

"As soon as you found out that you're pregnant less than twelve weeks, you are going to share the pregnancy announcement with your family and friends, am I right?" That question is definitely inappropriate, you shouldn't be feeling any kind of pressure when to share the pregnancy announcement at all because someone has told you so. 

It is simply not fair on you and your spouse. You and your spouse should determine when is best to share pregnancy announcement. I WOULDN'T EVER be sharing pregnancy announcements less than twelve weeks into pregnancy. I would share pregnancy announcements when I'm confident and ready to share the exciting news.

"Are you currently employed?" I'm not currently employed because I can't legally work in US yet and I don't have my green card. Even after getting my green card being approved, my husband and I both already agreed on for me to not feeling forced into working. 

"Have you and your husband submitted the federal taxes?" "How did you both do the federal taxes? - like did you had to pay for any fees and also shared information about federal taxes" That question is inappropriate, and very personal. It should be between you and your spouse for submitting federal taxes and how to do it without any troubles. I am so over with reading the same information especially anything that I already know about over and over again. 

Stay Tuned until next time.

Aren't Marriages Full of Learning?

Good Morning, or Good Afternoon, or Good Evening,

this post should take approximately four to six minutes to read from start to finish.

Are you currently married? Are you divorced from your previous marriage? Did you learned anything new throughout your current marriage thus far? Did you learned anything from your past marriage?

It is just four days away until my husband and I reach our six months of our marriage. I remembered messaging a certain amount of friends on Facebook about how their marriages going sometime before I got married and I always got similar replies from those friends and their replies ensured me that "married life is the best, being able to live with an eternal companion is great, and so forth."

Barely no one won't ever tell you what to expect and what would you be learning throughout a marriage prior to your marriage and throughout your marriage. Sometime before I got married, I had total of three people who was willing to share with me a few things what to expect during a marriage. I'm somewhat grateful that they have shared with me those certain things with me because it has been handy and helpful throughout my marriage.

Often times, people see marriages as a massive commitment and comes with sacrifices. It is true, marriage is a massive commitment. There are multiple ways of understanding how marriage is a massive commitment. Marriage isn't certainly easy at times, marriages does comes with its own ups and downs.

Sometimes marriages comes with a lot of expectations, trying out new experiences, trying to find successful ways of keeping the marriages last a long time, full of learning, and so forth. Prior marriages comes with being physically, mentally and spiritually prepared although throughout the marriage, there are going to be times to be physically, mentally and spiritually prepared.

"The way you feel in the temple is a pattern for how you want to feel in
your life." -  Elder Neil L. Anderson.

I must say; throughout my marriage thus far, my husband and I have learned so much. We both constantly learning something new. My husband and I both remind each other at times about what makes us happy, what makes us disappointed, what makes us to feel proud, and so forth. My husband and I constantly learning what our likes and dislikes in food choices, we always do our best to satisfy with each other's efforts, we constantly give each other compliments, and so forth. 

Marriages can be a tough topic to talk about to some people. If there are certain things that you didn't get the chance to learn prior to your marriage, you may or may not feel that you would have learned lots during your marriage.

The following list is some things that you or may not learn throughout your marriage;
~ You may or may not learn the importance of having a main provider in the home who makes the most income and able to afford to pay all the necessary bills including paying rent and groceries.

~ You may or may not learn the importance of having an emergency funds for up to six months and it certainly does come in handy when after losing a job, and while applying for other jobs to be employed again.

~ You may or may not learn the importance of having food storage. Food storage is wonderful and comes in handy when you ran out of food, and you're going through a shut down - to stay indoors for a period of time and you aren't allowed to go out to anywhere.

~ You may or may not learn about ways of how to effective budget between you and your spouse. Budget is wonderful, and it often best method to keep track of the spending expenses, how much you are saving and knowing how much you have in your current bank account.

~ You may or may not learn about the importance of staying out of debt. Getting into marriage with debts can be handy and a hustle. Pay off the debt/s as soon as you can. Don't delay it and try to avoid getting into debt again.

~ You may or may not learn the importance of how effective communication helps a lot throughout a marriage. You may not always agree with your spouse's choices, but do your best to be supportive and always find ways to appropriately express your feelings.

Stay Tuned until next time.

What Are Some Blessings Comes From Marrying a Temple Worthy Spouse?

Good Morning, Good Afternoon, or Good Evening, 

this post should take approximately three to five minutes to read from start to finish. 

I hope each individual of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints will have an opportunity to be sealed to a temple worthy individual inside a LDS Temple one day. If you don't get the opportunity to be sealed in this life, there is sure be opportunities to happen in next life. 

Have you ever considered about thinking any of the blessings that comes from marrying a temple worthy spouse? What inspires an individual to marry his or her temple worthy soon to be husband or wife? Why does it matter to the couple?

As I was growing up during my late youth years and throughout my YSA {Young Single Adults} years; I always made a goal to be sealed inside a LDS Temple for time and for all eternity one day. I kept in mind that I always wanted to make sure that I would always do my best to remain temple worthy, having a current temple recommend, and date temple worthy guys who has high standards. 

"The Temple Sealing has no greater meaning as life unfolds. It will help you
draw ever closer together and find greater joy and fulfillment." - Richard G. Scott.

Five months approaching to six months ago; I had the opportunity to be sealed with my husband in Dallas LDS Temple for time and all eternity. There are has been many wonderful blessings that I have acknowledged throughout the past months of marriage thus far. 

I would like to share with you some blessings that comes from marrying a temple worthy spouse, as known as my husband and those blessings aren't in order. 

My husband has been able to be a Provider for me and him in the home which means he is currently employed to make sufficient income to be able to pay for all necessary bills, paying rent, paying groceries, and so forth. I know there has been times whenever his work consist of extremely long days, and he somehow has the strength to remain awake until sometime after he gets home. 

My husband has the Melchizedek Priesthood. There are multiple blessings that comes with marrying someone who has the Melchizedek Priesthood. There has been times throughout early into my marriage, my husband has been able to ask me if I would like a priesthood blessing. I often said "Yes." because it was during those times when I needed a blessing at most.

After three months of marriage, my husband and I take turns with asking for a blessing. My husband and I often have been able to feel promptings of the Holy Ghost whenever my husband is giving me a blessing and we both ended up in tears of joy towards the end of the blessings. 

My husband is a Returned Missionary. He served a full-time two years mission for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. Most times after our couple scripture study in the evenings, I often have questions about certain scripture passages and verses. My husband often loves answering the questions that I have and he helps me to understand why the answers that he gives me is true and correct. I know that for him serving a mission has helped him to provide those answers for me. 

Sometimes, my husband shares with me some of his memorable experiences during his mission and often times, it makes him to have gratitude for serving a full-time mission.

My husband has a current Temple Recommend. Often people would see having a spouse who has a current Temple Recommend is one of the greatest blessings. I must say, I always seemed to have greater spiritual experiences at the Temple whenever my husband and I go to the Temple together.

I always enjoy whenever my husband and I have the opportunities to participate sealing sessions together. We often hold each other's hands tightly, I often reflect on our own sealing, and some of the sealing sessions that we were able to participated prior our own sealing. I don't know if my husband reflects on anything, but I do know that he feels the spirit throughout the session.

Stay Tuned until next time.

Brightness of Hope

Good Morning, or Good Afternoon, or Good Evening, 

this post should take approximately four to seven minutes to read from start to finish. 

I would like to encourage you to think about, ask yourself and answer the following question,
What is your understanding and definition of "hope"?

This post focuses on a October 1994 General Conference talk and it is called, "Brightness of Hope" by Neal A. Maxwell. I would like to share some highlights with you while I was reading the talk and I hope you will learn something new. 

Neal A. Maxwell mentions the following, "Hope helps us to walk by faith, not by sight. This can actually be safer. When unaided spiritually, natural sight often shrinks from the odds (see 2 Cor. 5:7). It is immobilized by improbabilities. Mauled by his moods and intimidated by his fears, the natural man overreacts to, while hope overrides, the disappointments of the day.

Hope is particularly needed in the hand-to-hand combat required to put off the natural man (see Mosiah 3:19). Giving up on God and on oneself constitutes simultaneous surrender to the natural man.

By pressing forward, we can stand on what was yesterday’s horizon, thereby drawing hope from our own experiences. Hence Paul described how “tribulation worketh patience; and patience, experience; and experience, hope” (Romans. 5:3–4).

Only the acceptance of the revelations of God can bring both direction and correction and, in turn, bring a “brightness of hope” (2 Nephi. 31:20). Real hope does not automatically “spring eternal” unless it is connected with eternal things!

“What is it that ye shall hope for?” Moroni wrote. “Behold I say unto you that ye shall have hope through the atonement of Christ” (Moro. 7:41; see also Alma 27:28). From this triumphal act, resulting in the eventual resurrection of all mankind, so many lesser hopes derive their significance!

You and I can be repeatedly reassured concerning this grand hope by the Comforter, who teaches us the truth about “things as they really are, and … really will be” (Jacob 4:13; see also Moroni. 8:26). Such hope constitutes the “anchor of the soul” (Hebrews. 6:19). Such hope is retained through faith in Christ (see Alma 25:16; Ether 12:9). In contrast, a resurrection-less view of life produces only proximate hope (see 1 Corthians. 15:19).

Having ultimate hope does not mean we will always be rescued from proximate problems, but we will be rescued from everlasting death! Meanwhile, ultimate hope makes it possible to say the same three words used centuries ago by three valiant men. They knew God could rescue them from the fiery furnace, if He chose. “But if not,” they said, nevertheless, they would still serve Him! (Daniel. 3:18.)

Faith and hope are constantly interactive, and may not always be precisely distinguished or sequenced. Though not perfect knowledge either, hope’s enlivened expectations are “with surety” true (Ether 12:4; see also Romans. 8:24; Hebrews. 11:1; Alma 32:21). In the geometry of restored theology, hope has a greater circumference than faith. If faith increases, the perimeter of hope stretches correspondingly.

Humble hope helps us to improve by being sufficiently free of ego to ask, “Lord, is it I?” (Matthew. 26:22.) Submissive hope also readies us to “give away all [our] sins” because we have come to know Jesus, who alone can take them! (Alma 22:18.)"

I encourage you to read the whole talk in your own time. Here's the link below,
www.lds.org/general-conference/1994/10/brightness-of-hope

Stay Tuned until next time.

Hope in Christ} Part Two

Good Morning, or Good Afternoon, or Good Evening, 

this post would take approximately three minutes to read from start to finish. 

This post focuses on an October 1986 General Women's Conference talk from General Conference called "Hope in Christ" by Sister Barbara W. Winder. This post is part one. I would like to share with you some highlights while I was reading the talk. Yesterday's post was cut short because I had to get ready to go out with my mother in-law. Here is part two.

Sister Winder mentioned, "And then the soothing answer came from a kind and loving Father: “Thine adversity and thine afflictions shall be but a small moment; “And then, if thou endure it well, God shall exalt thee on high; thou shalt triumph over all thy foes” (D&C 121:7–8).

An then, later, tenderly, “Know thou, my son, that all these things shall give thee experience, and shall be for thy good” (D&C 122:7). Most of us have witnessed how living the gospel can change the lives of people in a positive way.

Sister Barnes writes: “As we read the scriptures, we found that Jesus gave the instruction to ‘be of good cheer; thy sins be forgiven thee’ (Matt. 9:2), indicating that as we truly repent and forsake our sins, we may be optimistic about the future. He said, ‘Let not your heart be troubled: ye believe in God, believe also in me’ (John 14:1). And we do believe in him, and this belief has changed our lives. We now feel that we can say, as Paul did, ‘I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me’” (Philip. 4:13).

"PEACE comes through hope." - James E. Faust.

Another sister wrote: “On August 3, my twenty-one-year-old son broke his neck in a diving accident six hundred miles from home. He hovers near death, but we are at peace. We do not understand the reason this had to happen, but we do understand the gospel.”

Elder Richard L. Evans was sensitive to the need to prepare spiritually and emotionally for difficult times: “We have to prepare even for what we are unprepared for and do the best we can … to improve, to repent, to be grateful for all that is good and to have faith and hope even [in hard times]. …

“And whatever happens in the interim, there is solid assurance that life is everlasting, and that eternal progress is its purpose” Let us recognize and be grateful for the blessings we have. From the Savior comes hope! Understanding the gospel, doing his works of righteousness, and following the counsel of our prophet are our assurance of the realization of that hope."

I would like to encourage you to read the whole talk either now or in your own time. Here's the link,
www.lds.org/general-conference/1986/10/hope-in-christ

Stay Tuned until next time.

Hope in Christ} Part One

Good Morning, or Good Afternoon, or Good Evening, 

this post would take approximately three minutes to read from start to finish. 

I encourage you to answer the following question in your own time. What does Hope in Christ means to you?

This post focuses on an October 1986 General Women's Conference talk from General Conference called "Hope in Christ" by Sister Barbara W. Winder. This post is part one. I would like to share with you some highlights while I was reading the talk.

Sister Winder mentioned, "As our Father and the Savior planned for us to come to earth, they said, “We will prove them herewith, to see if they [you and I] will do all things whatsoever the Lord their God shall command them” (Abr. 3:25). This was to become a testing ground; we would come to an understanding of good and evil, of happiness and suffering, of joy and pain. We knew the plan. We desired it; we endorsed it. We defended it. We even fought for it!

With eagerness and excitement, we came to earth to learn each of us having our own particular set of circumstances with trials and temptations to overcome.

We were not left without hope. Our Savior, through his atonement, has made it possible for us to obtain salvation. He will not leave us helpless as we struggle to overcome the adversities of this life.There are so many kinds of challenges: the frustrations and disappointments of disobedient children or a difficult marriage, the loneliness of an empty house when one is so eagerly seeking companionship, the long upward road to repentance, or the difficulty of keeping a positive attitude and counting our blessings even in times of hardship.

"Once you choose hope, anything is possible."

The example of the Savior’s life and the teachings that he left us are patterns for us to follow. He faced trials similar to those we experience; he handled each situation in a perfect manner. In the wilderness of Judea and the Garden of Gethsemane, we witness two of the most grievous temptations of Christ, but during no part of his days in the flesh was he free from temptation. Otherwise his life would have been no human life at all. We read in Mosiah, “And lo, he shall suffer temptations, and pain of body, hunger, thirst, and fatigue, even more than man can suffer” (Mosiah 3:7).
Which of us has not known disappointment, discouragement, and despair? That is one of the tests for all of us. Consider the Prophet Joseph, as he languished in Liberty Jail in March of 1839, having been there for months, knowing that his people had been driven from their homes and were destitute. His cry is touching: “O God, where art thou? … How long shall thy hand be stayed?” (D&C 121:1–2).

Stay Tuned until next time.

He GIVES me PEACE

Good Morning, or Good Afternoon, or Good Evening, 

this post take approximately three to five minutes to read from start to finish.

Sometimes whenever we get caught up and worry about what has been happening around us, we may or may not realized that we can forget about a simple truth of Jesus Christ can give individuals the feeling of peace on multiple occasions even at times when we aren't ready to feel peace straight away.

"He gives me peace." - John 14:27

I would like encourage you to allow yourself some time to think about, ask yourself and answer the following questions either now or in your own time. In what ways, have you acknowledged the feeling of peace that comes from Jesus Christ? What does peace means to you?

In the past, I know that I have been able to acknowledge the feeling of peace that comes from Jesus Christ by giving me multiple opportunities to feel peace such as whenever there is disagreements of not liking someone's opinions, whenever I am at Temple grounds, and so forth. I know whenever I feel peace, I tend to feel happy and to know it is okay to feel peace whenever I am not ready for it.

I know that Heavenly Father always does his best to help each of us to feel peace whenever we do deserve to feel peace and whenever we aren't ready for it. As days goes by; we can trust ourselves that we can feel peace by listening to our favourite songs, we can feel peace by the Holy Ghost, we can feel peace by talking to a relative, we can feel peace by talking to a friend, and so forth.

Whenever we are in tune and having the Holy Ghost by our side, we are able to feel peace by listening to the promptings and guide us to safety. We are able to also feel peace whenever we are making the right choices.

Whenever something doesn't go as plan, it's a good time to feel peace. I would like to encourage you to ask yourself and answer the following questions either now or in your own time.
In what ways of how can I improve for myself to feel peace more often?
In what ways of how can I improve for my relatives to feel peace more often?
In what ways of how can I improve for my friends to feel peace more often?

Stay Tuned until next time.

Peace, Hope and Direction

Good Morning, or Good Afternoon, or Good Evening,

this post should take approximately five minutes to read from start to finish.

This post is focuses on a Liahona January 2000 article that I love and it is called, "Peace, Hope, and Direction" by Sister Patricia P. Pinegar. I would like to share with you some highlights while I was reading the article.

Sister Pinegar mentioned,

“Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths” (Prov. 3:5–6).

Brothers and sisters, I love the Lord and trust in Him with all of my heart. I know He lives and loves each of us. I know our Father in Heaven has a perfect plan for us. As we follow this plan and the example of our Savior, we can find peace in this troubled world, our hearts can be filled with hope, and we will receive the direction we need.

The difficult experience of my son’s death helped me identify and rejoice in the blessings of peace, hope, and direction blessings that all who truly accept and live the gospel of Jesus Christ may enjoy. I can bear witness to the words of Elder Richard G. Scott: “Please learn that as you wrestle with a challenge and feel sadness because of it, you can simultaneously have peace and rejoicing"

What are some specific things we can do to have these blessings of peace, hope, and direction in our lives? May I share with you three things that have helped me.

"Let us rejoice in the blessings of peace, hope and direction,
blessings that so many of our Father's children do not enjoy."

First, we must have complete trust in our Father’s plan of happiness and our Savior’s part in that plan.

The second thing that has helped me receive these blessings is the principle of courageous obedience. I am so grateful for God’s gift of laws and commandments. Peace, hope, and direction are outcomes of striving to live the teachings of Jesus and obeying His laws and commandments.

The scriptures teach, “Great peace have they which love thy law” They also teach that “he who doeth the works of righteousness shall receive his reward, even peace in this world, and eternal life in the world to come”

The third thing we can do to receive these blessings of peace, hope, and direction is to learn to respond to the promptings of the Holy Ghost and acknowledge to the Lord our gratitude for this great gift."

I encourage you to read the whole article in your own time. Here's the link below.
www.lds.org/liahona/2000/01/peace-hope-and-direction

I know that each of us as individuals always would like to feel peace in our lives.
I know that each of us as individuals always would like to feel hopeful in our lives.
I know that each of us as individuals always would like to have senses of right directions in our lives.

Stay Tuned until next time.

Therefore They Hushed Their Fears} Part Three

Good Morning, or Good Afternoon, or Good Evening, 

this post should take approximately five minutes to read from start to finish. 

This post focuses on April 2015 General Conference talk and it is called "Therefore They Hushed Their Fears" by Elder David A. Bednar. This post is part three, I would like to share with you some highlights while I was reading the talk and I hope you will learn something new. 

The Fear of the Lord
Different from but related to the fears we often experience is what the scriptures describe as “godly fear” (Hebrews 12:28) or “the fear of the Lord” (Job 28:28; Proverbs 16:6; Isaiah 11:2–3). Unlike worldly fear that creates alarm and anxiety, godly fear is a source of peace, assurance, and confidence.

But how can anything associated with fear be edifying or spiritually helpful?

.... Please note that godly fear is linked inextricably to an understanding of the Final Judgment and our individual accountability for our desires, thoughts, words, and acts. ... I do not believe we will be afraid of Him at all. Rather, it is the prospect in His presence of facing things as they really are about ourselves and having “a perfect knowledge” .. of all our rationalizations, pretenses, and self-deceptions. Ultimately, we will be left without excuse.

"Are these perilous times? They are. But there is no need
to fear. We can have peace in our hearts and peace in our
homes. We can be an influence for good in this world every
one of us." - Gordon B. Hinckley.

Every person who has lived or will yet live upon the earth “shall be brought to stand before the bar of God, to be judged of him according to his or her works whether they be good or whether they be evil” (Mosiah 16:10). If our desires have been for righteousness and our works good, then the judgment bar will be pleasing. And at the last day we will “be rewarded unto righteousness."

Conversely, if our desires have been for evil and our works wicked, then the judgment bar will be a cause of dread. ... And at the last day we will “have [our] reward of evil” (Alma 41:5).

As summarized in Ecclesiastes:
“Fear God, and keep his commandments: for this is the whole duty of man.
“For God shall bring every work into judgment, with every secret thing, whether it be good, or whether it be evil” (Ecclesiastes 12:13–14).

My beloved brothers and sisters, godly fear dispels mortal fears. It even subdues the haunting concern that we never can be good enough spiritually and never will measure up to the Lord’s requirements and expectations. In truth, we cannot be good enough or measure up relying solely upon our own capacity and performance. Our works and desires alone do not and cannot save us. “After all we can do” (2 Nephi 25:23), we are made whole only through the mercy and grace available through the Savior’s infinite and eternal atoning sacrifice (see Alma 34:10, 14). Certainly, “we believe that through the Atonement of Christ, all mankind may be saved, by obedience to the laws and ordinances of the gospel” (Articles of Faith 1:3).
Godly fear is loving and trusting in Him. As we fear God more completely, we love Him more perfectly. And “perfect love casteth out all fear” (Moroni 8:16).  ..."

You may or may not like to read the whole talk either now or in your own time. I think it was a great talk. Here is the link below.
www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/general-conference/2015/04/therefore-they-hushed-their-fears

Stay Tuned until next time.

Therefore They Hushed Their Fears} Part Two

Good Morning, or Good Afternoon, or Good Evening, 

this post should take approximately five minutes to read from start to finish. 

This post focuses on April 2015 General Conference talk and it is called "Therefore They Hushed Their Fears" by Elder David A. Bednar. This post is part two, I would like to share with you some highlights while I was reading the talk and I hope you will learn something new. 

Elder Bednar mentioned the following, "Look to Christ
The counsel Alma gave to his son Helaman applies precisely to each of us today: “Yea, see that ye look to God and live” (Alma 37:47). We should look to and have our focus firmly fixed upon the Savior at all times and in all places.

Recall how the Lord’s Apostles were in a ship, tossed in the midst of the sea. Jesus went to them, walking on the water; but not recognizing Him, they cried out in fear. - Matthew 14:27-31. ...

We can be blessed to conquer our fears and strengthen our faith as we follow the Lord’s instruction: “Look unto me in every thought; doubt not, fear not” (D&C 6:36).

"Therefore they hushed their fears." - Elder David A. Bednar.

Build upon the Foundation of Christ
Helaman admonished his sons, Nephi and Lehi: “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).

Ordinances and covenants are the building blocks we use to construct our lives upon the foundation of Christ and His Atonement. We are connected securely to and with the Savior as we worthily receive ordinances and enter into covenants, faithfully remember and honor those sacred commitments, and do our best to live in accordance with the obligations we have accepted. And that bond is the source of spiritual strength and stability in all of the seasons of our lives.

We can be blessed to hush our fears as we firmly establish our desires and deeds upon the sure foundation of the Savior through our ordinances and covenants.

Press Forward with Faith in Christ
Nephi declared: “Wherefore, ye must press forward with a steadfastness in Christ, having a perfect brightness of hope, and a love of God and of all men. Wherefore, if ye shall press forward, feasting upon the word of Christ, and endure to the end, behold, thus saith the Father: Ye shall have eternal life” (2 Nephi 31:20).

The disciplined endurance described in this verse is the result of spiritual understanding and vision, persistence, patience, and God’s grace. Exercising faith in and on the holy name of Jesus Christ, meekly submitting to His will and timing in our lives, and humbly acknowledging His hand in all things yield the peaceable things of the kingdom of God that bring joy and eternal life (see D&C 42:61). Even as we encounter difficulties and face the uncertainties of the future, we can cheerfully persevere and live a “peaceable life in all godliness and honesty” (1 Timothy 2:2).

We can be blessed to hush our fears as we receive the fortitude that comes from learning and living gospel principles and resolutely pressing forward on the covenant pathway.

Stay Tuned until next time.

Therefore They Hushed Their Fears} Part One

Good Morning, or Good Afternoon, or Good Evening, 

this post should take approximately five minutes to read from start to finish. 

This post focuses on April 2015 General Conference talk and it is called "Therefore They Hushed Their Fears" by Elder David A. Bednar. This post is part one, I would like to share with you some highlights while I was reading the talk and I hope you will learn something new. 

Elder Bednar mentioned the following, "... You undoubtedly have experienced much greater feelings of dread after learning about a personal health challenge, discovering a family member in difficulty or danger, or observing disturbing world events. In such instances, the distressing emotion of fear arises because of impending danger, uncertainty, or pain and through experiences that are unexpected, sometimes sudden, and likely to produce a negative outcome.

In our daily lives, endless reports of criminal violence, famine, wars, corruption, terrorism, declining values, disease, and the destructive forces of nature can engender fear and apprehension. Surely we live in the season foretold by the Lord: “And in that day … the whole earth shall be in commotion, and men’s hearts shall fail them” (D&C 45:26). ....

"Faith and hope invite into our lives the sweet peace of conscience
for we all yearn." - David A. Bednar.

Mortal Fear
... Notably, one of the first effects of the Fall was for Adam and Eve to experience fear. ... This potent emotion is an important element of our mortal existence. An example from the Book of Mormon highlights the power of the knowledge of the Lord (see 2 Peter 1:2–8; Alma 23:5–6) to dispel fear and provide peace even as we confront great adversity.

In the land of Helam, Alma’s people were frightened by an advancing Lamanite army.
“But Alma went forth and stood among them, and exhorted them that they should not be frightened, but … should remember the Lord their God and he would deliver them. “Therefore they hushed their fears” (Mosiah 23:27–28).

Notice Alma did not hush the people’s fears. Rather, Alma counseled the believers to remember the Lord and the deliverance only He could bestow (see 2 Nephi 2:8). And knowledge of the Savior’s protecting watchcare enabled the people to hush their own fears.

Correct knowledge of and faith in the Lord empower us to hush our fears because Jesus Christ is the only source of enduring peace. He declared, “Learn of me, and listen to my words; walk in the meekness of my Spirit, and you shall have peace in me” (D&C 19:23).

... Trust and confidence in Christ and a ready reliance on His merits, mercy, and grace lead to hope, through His Atonement, in the Resurrection and eternal life (see Moroni 7:41). Such faith and hope invite into our lives the sweet peace of conscience for which we all yearn. The power of the Atonement makes repentance possible and quells the despair caused by sin; it also strengthens us to see, do, and become good in ways that we could never recognize or accomplish with our limited mortal capacity.

... The peace Christ gives allows us to view mortality through the precious perspective of eternity and supplies a spiritual settledness (see Colossians 1:23) that helps us maintain a consistent focus on our heavenly destination. Thus, we can be blessed to hush our fears because His doctrine provides purpose and direction in all aspects of our lives. His ordinances and covenants fortify and comfort in times both good and bad. And His priesthood authority gives assurance that the things that matter most can endure both in time and in eternity.

But can we hush the fears that so easily and frequently beset us in our contemporary world? The answer to this question is an unequivocal yes. Three basic principles are central to receiving this blessing in our lives:
(1) look to Christ, (2) build upon the foundation of Christ, and (3) press forward with faith in Christ."

Stay Tuned until next time.

How do you overcome your fears?

Good morning, or Good afternoon, or Good afternoon;

this post would take approximately five minutes to read from start to finish.

I would like to ask you the following questions and you may or may not ask yourself and answer the following questions either now or in your own time. What's your definition and understanding of the word "fear"?

What is your worst fear or fears that you have ever experienced in your life so far? Are you having fears
about the future?

Do you have a fear of someone's choices may have limited your choices about employment?
Do you have a fear of someone's choices may have limited your choices about education?

What are your current fears? What are you doing to overcome present fears?
Do you have a fear of losing someone such as a loved one or a friend?

What was some of your past fears and were you able to overcome any of those past fears?
How did you overcome those fears?

"Fear not, little flock." - President Uchtdorf. 

When I was childhood years, and even now at times; I had and I still have fear about noises from thunderstorms. 
If thunderstorms are happening overnight; I wouldn't be able to go to sleep straight away, I would get so scared that I would try to wake up my husband and cuddle up with me. I have been doing a strategy of praying to have comfort whenever there is thunderstorms and sometimes, I would even pray to ask for the thunderstorms to go away.

During my teens years, and even now at times; I had and I still have fear about death. I don't ever imagine myself to ever die at a young age. I have been able to share the topic of The Plan of Salvation to non-members and I have been able to remind myself about The Plan of Salvation.

During my teens years, and even now at times; I had and I still have fear about losing loved ones and friends who passed away before I do. I have learned it is okay to mourn with those who have passed away before I do, it certainly does take some time for me to overcome and move forward after they have passed away before I do, it certainly does take some time for me to build confidence to share the topic of The Plan of Salvation to other non-member friends and remind myself about The Plan of Salvation. It brings joy to me to know that I would be able to have multiple opportunities to see them again in Heaven when I return one day.

During my childhood years, my teens and even now at times; I had and I still have fear about losing friendships. There is always a season for everything and everything has its own purpose. I know that I often make a lot of friends and it's always great to talk to true friends. When the spark of friendships starts to disappear and goes away, it comes to reality for me to not be friends with them anymore.

At times, it does hurt especially after being a friend for a several years or so and did my very best to continue being friends with them. When it's time to let go, it's a good way to have refresh start and find other friends to talk to and spend some time with.

Sometimes former friends blocks me on social media accounts and could possibly block my phone number. I know that it is either something that I did or they have done to get me overthinking that I was friends or more than friends with them in the first place. When they don't block me on social media accounts, I used to check their social media accounts and found out that they have moved on with their lives especially with getting married and later on, having children. It is obvious that they just aren't interested of being friends anymore and doesn't want to repair a friendship.

I learned to tell myself that I need to constantly reassure myself to know who my real and true friends are. I know that I barely on social media accounts these days, I don't really talk to huge amount of friends anymore like I used to while I was living in Australia. I learned to be careful of what to say to friends and how to choose friends wisely.

Stay Tuned until next time.

God Hath Not Given Us the Spirit of Fear} Part Two

Good Morning, or Good Afternoon, or Good Evening,

this post would take approximately three minutes to read from start to finish.




This post is based on an article from Ensign; October 1984 and it is called, “God Hath Not Given Us the Spirit of Fear" by President Gordon B. Hinckley. This post is part two. I would like to share with you some highlights while I was reading the article and I hope you will learn something new.




President Hinckley mentioned, “... We loved the Lord and we loved good and honorable friends. From such love we drew great strength. How great and magnificent is the power of love to overcome fear and doubt, worry and discouragement. God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind.” What did Paul mean by the words, a sound mind? I think he meant the basic logic of the gospel. ... I do not fret over the mysteries. I do not worry whether the heavenly gates swing or slide. ... I am more concerned with the fact that God has revealed in this dispensation a great and marvelous and beautiful plan that motivates men and women to love their Creator and their Redeemer, to appreciate and serve one another, to walk in faith on the road that leads to immortality and eternal life.



"Perfect love casteth out fear." - Moroni 8:16

I am grateful for the marvelous declaration that “the glory of God is intelligence, or, in other words, light and truth.” (D&C 93:36.) ... “That which is of God is light; and he that receiveth light, and continueth in God, receiveth more light; and that light groweth brighter and brighter until the perfect day.” (D&C 50:23–24) ... What have any of us to fear regarding our challenges and difficulties in life? “Only fear itself,” as U.S. President Franklin D. Roosevelt once said in a different context.




Let us refer again to the tremendously important truths taught by Paul: “For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind.” (2 Tim. 1:7.) Then gave Paul his great mandate to Timothy: “Be not thou therefore ashamed of the testimony of our Lord.” (2 Tim. 1:8.)




May this counsel be as a personal charge to each of us. Let us walk with confidence never with arrogance and with quiet dignity in our conviction concerning Jesus Christ, our Savior and Redeemer. Let us find strength in the strength that comes from him. Let us find peace in the peace that was of the very essence of his being. Let us be willing to sacrifice in the spirit of him who gave himself a sacrifice for all men. Let us walk in virtue after his mandate, “Be ye clean, that bear the vessels of the Lord.” (Isa. 52:11.) Let us repent of any wrongdoing, in fulfillment of his commandment that we do so, and then let us seek forgiveness under the mercy he has promised. Let us demonstrate our love for him through service to one another."




You may or may not would like to read the whole article in your own time. Here is the link below.

www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/ensign/1984/10/god-hath-not-given-us-the-spirit-of-fear




Stay Tuned until next time.