So, I’ve been thinking for a while about this word. “Spirituality”.
There are so many friend bloggers that have no problem with being eloquent in vocalizing about their spirituality. I am NOT one of them. I’ve been a member of “The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints” my whole life. And I feel like I’m behind. I mean, when I go to church, I pretty much cry at EVERY talk that is spoken. I FEEL the spirit very strongly. So, why don’t I feel like I know enough to talk about it? Maybe I just need to do it until I’m comfortable with it.
Today in Gospel Doctrine, our teacher spoke about listening to what the Prophets tell us. He’s such a good teacher. He’s one of those that don’t drone on, he demands to be listened to. Not in a bad way. When I say “demands” I mean that he re-iterates what he says and asks you what he just said. Almost like you were children. You know, when your speaking to your kids and then you say,”So, what did I just say?” He simplifies everything into something that EVERYONE can understand and then again reiterates it. I love it when he teaches. He is the most knowledgeable person I know. Some people get really irritated and think that this particular person is a know-it-all. But I don’t. I really feast on his words, because I know that I need it. And he does “know it all” because he studied, he prayed and he followed the “Word of God” (well, maybe not everything, but a sight more than I do!)
Anyway, how well do we listen to the prophets? In the 90’s President Hinckley in conference spoke about paying off our debts. What happened in 2008? Those that listened to his counsel are o.k. and have been blessed. Those of us who didn’t listen, are paying the price right now. Some people rail on about how the credit card companies are at fault or how the lenders gave money for houses to people who really shouldn’t have been given money to. Or about how they tricked you into the “Arms” or “interest only” But people! Give me a break!! We CHOSE to do these things. Nobody twisted our arms, and said “do it” Heavenly Father gave us free agency and part of that is taking responsibility for those decisions.
I’ve made some pretty big mistakes when it comes to debt. And I’m paying the price for that. But make no mistake, it was me and not anyone else that put me in this position. And I’ll take the consequences and live with it. And learn from it. And I WON’T be doing it again.
So, this lesson has made me realize. And understand. (It’s not that I didn’t before, it’s just that I didn’t think about how IMPORTANT it was. How much is riding on how well we listen and obey…) I wanted to listen and obey the Prophets words because it was the prophet. But now, thinking in the eternal aspect, I really need to be better at this. In everything, not just the easy stuff. But to make sure I take time out everyday and do scripture study, family prayer and family home evening. To make sure I do my Visiting Teaching. To make sure that the “Armor of God” is surrounding my children and myself. So that the “darkness cannot prevail” I want to stand before God and not be ashamed…
4 comments:
Jules, I agree with what you are saying. I think we are all guilty in one way or another of not doing what the prophet has told us to do. I know that there are many things that I can improve on that I'm sure will make our home more spiritual and more prepared to meet our Heavenly Father.
What a great post Julie! It is so true about gaining an eternal perspective. It is process everyday to do what is right. Thanks for such an uplifting and post.
AWESOME post Julia! Loved it.
I really like getting to know you through your blog. You write exactly how you feel. Thanks for your thoughts and feelings on this.
I never really thought much of the timing of this "warning" that the prophets have given to us. You are right! They did warn us. And now look at the economy. So true.
Obedience is the WHOLE key isn't it. I am SO glad that we at least get some warnings. I am going to pay closer attention to them all.
This is so good. We were one of the stupid ones. We were completely out of debt. 2 homes- 2 cars free and clear. We found an old home on the river and we LOVE projects, so we bought and gutted it. Our house hasn't sold. We started when the economy was booming and you know the rest of the story. It wasn't that we didn't listen, cause if our house sold we would have a small mortgage that we would have have paid off in a few years. Boy did we learn the hard way, and all of this has been going on this year, tucked right in the middle of all our crap!!!!!! So.......I listen.
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