Choose Christ

We must be prepared for the adversary's attacks. When the enemy comes, he will attack with full force, and there is little that we can do if we have not prepared spiritually. Choosing to follow Christ is an important way to protect ourselves from the adversary. As we follow Christ, we walk in His ways and we fill our lives with the spiritual preparation that we need. It is important to follow this principle, because if we don't, we will fall for the temptations of the adversary, and we will be trapped. It is much easier to conquer the adversary when we are spiritually prepared. 

Keep smiling,
JS :)

Turn The Other Cheek

A friend of mine, Elder Cloward, shared an awesome story in a letter that I felt like I should record. It is important for all of us to learn to turn the other cheek and be patient, because all of us are children of God. We need to treat each other as such.

"I'll admit there have been times when I've wanted to turn around and give a couple of people a piece of my mind, and sometimes it's all I can do to just grit my teeth and keep walking. What helps most is a scripture that comes to my mind often where Jesus says that it's easy to "return railing for railing", but the true mark of a follower of Christ is one who "bears all things with meekness and humility". Strength is not determined by whether or not you can deck the guy who just insulted you, strength is when you have every reason to retaliate but you choose to do as the savior did and 'turn the other cheek'. It's been a hard lesson for me to learn, but I testify of that truth."

What a powerful lesson to be learned. I pray that we will be able to apply this to our lives as we strive to become like our Father in heaven.

Ever smiling,
JS :)

Peace, Be Still

Be at peace, for God is with you, and He loves you! No matter how hard the afflictions you are going through, He is with you through every step of it. He will bless you with the peace and comfort you need to endure. His love is eternal!

Take the time to pray and thank Him for His support. Prayer is an excellent way of coming unto Him. He will listen, and He will provide answers.

Something I have done to "be still" is to go into a quiet place and seek His forgiveness. Sometimes we are blinded and confused because of the sinful decisions we have made. We need to get back on the path. When I choose to talk to my Father and repent of my misdoings, He blesses me with peace, comfort, and forgiveness. He still does, every time I choose to talk to Him. I choose now to repent of my sinful behavior and come unto Him in prayer.

Ever smiling,

JS

The Gospel's Gift

The gospel is such a great blessing in my life! I would be nothing without it. It has given me hope when there could have been none, joy when I am least expecting it, and comfort when I am feeling down. Because of the gospel, I am a better person! :)

Ever smiling,
JS

Necessary For Your Salvation

"Every calamity that can come upon mortal beings will be suffered to come upon the few, to prepare them to enjoy the presence of the Lord. … Every trial and experience you have passed through is necessary for your salvation." ~Brigham Young

Keep smiling!

JS