By His Grace...

I’ve had one of those months when my eternal dreams seem to come crashing down and I feel completely and utterly alone. I know what you’re thinking, ‘we are never alone,’ right? I know this in my heart but sometimes the enormity of all this life requires hits me straight in the eyes and I wonder if I really understood what it would take to live with my family in Heavenly Father’s kingdom forever. Would it be worth it? I have thought a lot about His plan this month desperately trying to understand how to fight for it in mortality with the same vigor as I did in the pre-mortal life. I wonder how to battle for the souls that will be saved and when to walk away from those that refuse to be.  

Elder Holland said, “In moments of fear or doubt or troubling times, hold to the ground you have already won, even if that ground is limited…When these moments come and issues surface, the resolution of which is not immediately forthcoming, hold fast to what you already know and stand strong until additional knowledge comes.” 

So, what do I have to cling to in times of such doubt and fear? 

I have a testimony of my Savior, even Jesus Christ, who came into the world full of grace, equity, and truth, full of patience, mercy, and long-suffering, that he is quick to hear the cries of His people and to answer their prayers. (Alma 9:26). I know that he lives and I know that by and through His grace I am saved, after all I can do. (2 Nephi 25:23)

According to the Bible Dictionary part of the meaning of the word “grace” is divine means of help or strength, given through the bounteous mercy and love of Jesus Christ. This gift of grace and truth is a guiding force for me as trials, fear and doubt descend. President Monson said, “Success is rarely simple. Generally it is preceded by tears, trials, trust, and testimony….But faith forged in the furnace of trials and tears is marked by trust and testimony.” I have experienced His grace at my lowest points and through it found strength to become a better person. I believe that one person stronger and full of light makes a difference. So when doubts come, I choose faith in Him who gave all for me. 

My challenge to you this next ten days as you prepare for Easter is to focus on the Savior and his grace as a force of strength to endure and prevail. Success is possible paved through His sacrifice and love. Elder Anderson said, “Embrace more deeply His love, His mercy and grace, and the powerful gifts of His Atonement.  As you do, I promise you that you will see the whirlwinds for what they are – tests, temptations, distractions, or challenges to help you grow. And as you live righteously year after year, I assure you that your experiences will confirm to you again and again that Jesus is the Christ. The spiritual rock under your feet will be solid and secure.”

Share your discoveries and how you focused on His grace for strength with others on Facebook and Instagram. Use the hashtags #lovelight #lightofgrace #nourishyourlight #soufulbsisterhood.