Today's post will probably seem more serious than normal but it is a serious question that has been on my mind
So forgive me as I share some of my thoughts and concerns.
My question is why do so many, who have grown up knowing what is right, when presented with one little lie are so quick to throw away all their experiences, feelings, miracles and their faith.
Why do they feel like they have to drag down as many as they can with them?
I know the answer is that the adversary is working within them, trying to drag them down to where he is
But is it more complicated than that?
Everyone is faced with challenges throughout their life and have those times when satan has more power over them than usual, but many have been able to overcome those challenges, coming out with stronger faith and hope.
It makes me sick with sadness when I hear of those who were so strong at one time, just turn away and leave everything they know to be right.
But it also gives me a reaffirming feeling that what I believe and know, is true. It makes me want to be better at the little things, that in the end are the life lines that save you when rough waters throw you out of the boat of a firm testimony.
It gives me a desire and a burning in my heart to want to share the gospel even more and just to shake those who have turned away until they come back to their senses.
Life is a funny thing that can be turned completely upside down at any given moment. We cannot get too comfortable where we are. If we do, we find that we are not standing still but actually heading backwards. We must press forward, trying to be a little taller, a little better and a little stronger.
I love the comparison of faith, hope and our testimonies being like an hour glass where the sands are ever running out and that we must be continually filling it up so that we never lose the conviction that we have.
We must be able to forget about ourselves and learn to serve others with an open heart and loving arms
I pray that I will and those I know and love will strive to do those little things that can save us during our darkest times of life. That we will continue to fill our hour glasses and not let a little lie lead us from everything we know to be true. That we follow the spirit's guidance and act on his promptings.
This life is too important to just throw away the truths that we have learned. The truths will bring happiness that cannot be found anywhere else. A happiness full of peace and comfort. A happiness that last the eternities, not just for a minute, an hour or a day. A happiness only found when we are surrounded by love and family, when we are at peace with ourselves and others, when we have faith, hope and charity and when we put our trust in the lord and come unto him with a broken heart and a contrite spirit.
I want you all to know that I know and have a testimony that our Heavenly Father is there and that he loves us and wants the best for us. I know that I have a Savior who suffered for me and has given me a second chance whenever I make a mistake in this life through his Atoning sacrifice. I know that there is a plan for me and that I will be able to see them and live with them again. I know it is the little and simple things like reading the scripture, prayer, service and obedience that keep us going through the struggles of life. I believe it with all my heart and I hope that those who are struggling will look to God for strength and power. Pray to him unceasingly, trusting him and using the beautiful gift of the Atonement to find your faith and testimony and continue to strengthen them everyday of your life. It will be a continuous battle everyday of your life but I promise that it will be worth it and you will be blessed for your diligence.
I know this to be true and I am grateful that I know it and I hope that you know it too. Life is too short and too important to turn our backs on our faith and our Father in Heaven. So keep the faith and be believing and come unto him and he will wrap you in his arms of love.
