Temptations

The power of Satan's temptations are very real and something we must be constantly aware of. In 1 Corinthians 10:13 we are taught that through the power of the Holy Ghost we can overcome our temptations. President Henry B. Eyring said,"Withthe help of the Holy Ghost, we can watch over ourselves. We can pray to recognize and reject the first thoughts of sin. … And we can, when we must, pray for the humility and the faith to repent.” There are so many who have felt that there was no use in overcoming temptations because it was too hard and while it is not always easy keeping the commandments we have been provided a way. There are many who don't understand why members of the church obey the Law of Chasity and Word of Wisdom. They believe that life style is freedom and the church is restrictive. What they fail to understand is that keeping the commandments is freedom. To achieve that freedom is to not partake of the worldly activities but even if we succumb to temptation we can take comfort in knowing the Lord has provided us away to repent and gain strength to resist those temptations that would drag us down. President Eyring also stated, “The Savior is our Advocate with the Father. He knows our weaknesses. He knows how to succor those who are tempted.” We can also have peace in knowing that the Lord will not tempt us beyond what we can endure. However it is up to us to use the Atonement, the Gift of the Holy, and prayer to overcome Satan’s power. We need to be humble and have the faith to ask the Lord for His help in turning our weaknesses into strengths.It helps to remember that we are never alone. The Savior suffered for each of us and knows exactly what are individual struggles and weaknesses are. Remember the scripture found in Ether 12:27 which reads, "And if men come unto me I will show unto them their weakness. I give unto men weakness that they may be humble; and my grace is sufficient for all men that humble themselves before me; for if they humble themselves before me, and have faith in me, then I will make weak things become strong unto them." Have faith be humble, and remember we are not alone, and through the Savior we can turn our weaknesses into strengths. 

Blessing of the Scriptures

Sometimes I wonder why I have to raise my kids alone. It's hard and I miss being married and the family life. This quote helps me to remember that the Lord has a plan for me even if I can not see it.  I am reminded of a blessing I received about 15 years ago that said, “If you read the Book of Mormon daily the Lord will bless you and keep you safe.” If I read my scriptures daily the Lord is going to direct my path. Elder Richard G. Scott said, "The scriptures are and excellent source of understanding and strength when pondered with faith in the Savior. They bolster faith in truth. When the truths revealed are applied diligently, they become a vital source of worthy motivation. You will increase your courage to do what is right. Your discipline to adhere to the most important priorities of life will be fortified." While I may believe that some things are good the Lord knows what things are actually better. I need to put my faith and trust in Him and I do my part He most certainly will do His. He told me to read the Book of Mormon daily and He would bless me. I know this to be true and that when I feel I'm being rejected from something good I'm really being blessed and re-directed to something better. Reading the scriptures daily will give me the motivation and courage to continue to go forward knowing that the Lord will bless me, guide me, and not lead me astray.