New Year Resolution

My mother in law told me that Elder Wirthlin spoke about LDS members and blogs during the winter 2008 graduation ceremony at BYUH. He encouraged those present to become active in blogging on the internet and to use their blogs to share their testimonies of the gospel. This will be one of my serious, spiritual entries.

I love making New Year resolutions. I thrive on organized schedules and lists I can check off. I just finished reading the book Priesthood Blessings by Donald E. Goff. Yes it took me forever, but it was one of the most soul-searching experiences I have ever had. I highly recommend it. A quote in the book from Lorenzo Snow has motivated my New Year’s resolution for this year and for each year for the rest of my life.

“When our friends are stricken down by sickness and disease, or when our little ones are in the agonies of pain and death, there should be Elders in our midst who have educated themselves so thoroughly in developing the gifts of the Spirit within them, and in whom the Saints have such perfect confidence, that they would always be sought after. . .There are men among us who possess the gift of healing, and might have great faith; but they do not exercise the gift, they do not live for it, and, therefore, do not have the power to use it so effectively as they might. There are men in this Church who are as good in their hearts and feelings as men ever were, but lack faith and energy, and do not obtain really what is their privilege to receive. . .The gift of the Gospel must be cultivated by diligence and perseverance.”

In every ward I have ever lived there have been people I admire for their understanding of the gospel and charity, the fervor of their testimony, and willingness to serve the Lord. They have not always held a role of leadership in the ward, but through their example I am strengthened and sustained. They are pillars upon which I lean. I am comfortable in knowing that they are stronger and more knowledgeable than I. I am safe in their shadows knowing the work will continue because of them.

Lately, I have come to realize I am selling my birthright and perhaps hindering the work of the Lord through my complacency. I feel I am one of those members spoken of by President Snow. “There are [members of] this Church who are as good in their hearts and feelings as [people] ever were, but lack faith and energy, and do not obtain really what is their privilege to receive [i.e. the gifts of the Spirit].” I can develop the fervor of testimony and understanding I witness in others if I study the scriptures and words of the prophets diligently and prayerfully. I can develop the charity and willingness to serve the Lord that I see in others if I give myself to that pursuit might, mind, and soul.

I realize now that, though I am at times more confident in other people’s testimony and understanding, I can become as confident in myself because that is how God will see me if I seek Him always. I will be a better servant for Him here on earth. I will still be inspired by great members of the church, but rather than hide in their shadows I will boldly stand with them in furthering the kingdom of God.