"Lord, I Believe"

Twice a year my church has a worldwide meeting where we listen to our leaders give us counsel.  These meetings take place on two weekends in April and October.  This past weekend we had this opportunity, and it was truly a blessing and inspiration. 

My favorite talk of all four sessions was Jeffrey R. Holland's "Lord, I Believe".  This righteous man has always been able to spiritually touch my heart so effortlessly.  I am so grateful for his words, his example, his faith, and his encouragement.  His faith truly does strengthen my own and I am overwhelmed with love and appreciation for his testimony.

If you are interested in knowing more about General Conference or about the Church of 

Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, click on the "My Faith" tab at the top of the page. 

"Be not afraid, only believe." 

"Belief is always the first step toward conviction."

"So if your faith is a little tested, in this or any season, I invite you to lean on mine."

"Hope on, journey on.  Honestly acknowledge your questions and your concerns, but first and forever, fan the flame of your faith, because all things are possible to them that believe."

It's Better to Look Up

This used to be something I lived by.  Lately I've been getting torn down easily, and most of the time there isn't a good reason for it.  I have always believed that your happiness is your choice, but I seem to have forgotten that.  

There was a talk given in General Conference a while back by Carl B. Cook.  He speaks of an encounter he had with Thomas S. Monson.  Elder Cook was feeling burdened and discouraged when the prophet gave him these words of wisdom: "It is better to look up". Elder Cook reflected on this experience:

In order to be guided in life's journey and have the constant companionship of the Holy Ghost, we must have a "hearing ear" and a "seeing eye," both directed upward.  We must act on the direction we receive.  We must look up and step up.  And as we do, I know we will cheer up, for God wants us to be happy.

So let's choose happy.  Let's look up and step up.  Stay up late, sleep in, be spontaneous, laugh too much, spend time with family, be childish and silly.  Remember what is truly important.  Life is meant to be enjoyed, and it is better to look up.

If you would like to read this talk or learn more about the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, click here.