Unity in the LDS Church

I have heard many times about friends or other people who have to go "church shopping" or "church hopping" when they move to a new place. How they try to find the best pastor, the most exciting worship music, the kindest and best community, or an interpretation of the Gospel that appeals to them the best. 
Growing up in the LDS Church, I have never experienced that. And, I am so grateful that I will never have to.

The LDS Church is world-wide. There are member all over the 6 liveable continents. But, what is even more exciting, is how unified the church is.

The LDS Church is the SAME throughout the world.

The LDS Church is all about organization, unity, and being on the same page. We are all organized the same way--areas, stakes, wards. Each ward is run by a Bishop and his counselors. All the groups are set up the same way. Even the lessons are the same in each congregation--we have a manual. (For more about how the LDS Church is organized and united, click here.) So, if I go on vacation, the congregation I attend will be teaching the exact same thing that my home congregation would. It is so nice to have that knowledge and reassurance. It allows us not only to have a small community, but a world-wide community.  I am so thankful for this.

But, the reason we do this is because God and Christ mandated it. In John 17: "And now I am no more in the world, but these are in the world, and I come to thee. Holy Father, keep through thine own name those whom thou hast given me, that they may be one, as we are. Neither pray I for these alone, but for them also which shall believe on me through their word; That they all may be one; as thou, Father, art in me, and I in thee, that they also may be one in us: that the world may believe that thou hast sent me." Christ and Heavenly Father want us to be one and work together for the same eternally glorified goal, just as they are one in purpose and mind.

They want us to be the same, and this unity and organization helps us as mortal men to bring to pass and build up Zion. In Moses 7:18 it says, "And the Lord called his people Zion, because they were of one heart and one mind, and dwelt in righteousness."

However, that is harder to achieve than we think because we are mortal men, prone to our carnal and natural thoughts and feelings. Sometimes, we interpret the Gospel lesson differently than the teacher. Sometimes we get discouraged in our ward. Sometimes we are offended. Sometimes we don't agree with General Authority policy. We are not yet truly "of one heart and one mind." A friend of mine, who recently left the church, did so because she felt her ward was a "good ol' men's club" who did things weirdly, and didn't respect the women. Many of the young women in my family's ward when they lived in Barstow, California, typically wore tank tops and short shorts (which are not up to LDS standards) because of the extreme summer heat.  These differences, these personalities, these actions and reactions hinder us. 

But, although the people of the Church may different throughout the world, the Gospel, the Church is the same. That is because it the Church of Jesus Christ once again restored to the Earth. So, though I may move and may or may not like a congregation for any reason, I still have the reassurance that I am being taught the same as any other congregation. That my activities will be the same. That my leaders are set up the same way. That the church is run the same. And, I cannot tell you how thankful I am that I will never have to "church hop" ever. I have a testimony that this is because the LDS Church truly is the Church of God.

How does your church/sect/denomination show unity and organization? How has that helped you?

Why Serve A Mission

I have mentioned before that my brother is on a two year proselytizing mission for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. He is only 18 and just barely graduated high school back in May. He was even offered a 4 year full-ride to an instate university. Why would such a young boy with such a bright academic future leave that to try to preach the Gospel in south, south, south, south Argentina (oh, and he didn't get to chose where he was going)? Because he is helping to spread the Word of God. He has decided to follow Christ's admonition to be "fishers of men" (Matt 4:19). As Mormons, we love the Gospel and Word of God so much that we want everyone to have the Light of Christ in their life. Christ talked of the parable of the 99 sheep and lost one. He said we should be like the shepherd and find that lost sheep--we should bring the Gospel to all so that all can return home to our Heavenly Father's arms (Ezekiel 4:11). "Gospel" itself in Old English means "good news". So, why wouldn't we want to share the ultimate good news to others: that Jesus Christ died so that men can live! In Latin, "good news" is evangelium which derived from the Greek euangelion. So, I guess you could say that Mormon missionaries are also Evangelicals. .  Gah! There are so many good scriptures in both the New Testament, as well as the Book of Mormon as to why Mormons, especially Mormon boys, should go on missions (or any Christian, really), but I've only chosen a few that stood out:
Mormon 9:22 For behold, thus said Jesus Christ, the Son of God, unto his disciples who should tarry, yea, and also to all his disciples, in the hearing of the multitude: Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature.

Mark 16:15 And he said unto them, Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature.

Romans 10:15 And how shall they preach, except they be sent? as it is written, How beautiful are the feet of them that preach the gospel of peace, and bring glad tidings of good things!

D&C 42:6 And ye shall go forth in the power of my Spirit, preaching my gospel, two by two, in my name, lifting up your voices as with the sound of a trump, declaring my word like unto angels of God.

D&C 71:1 Behold, thus saith the Lord unto you my servants Joseph Smith, Jun., and Sidney Rigdon, that the time has verily come that it is necessary and expedient in me that you should open your mouths in proclaiming my gospel, the things of the kingdom, expounding the mysteries thereof out of the scriptures, according to that portion of Spirit and power which shall be given unto you, even as I will.

D&C 128:22 Brethren, shall we not go on in so great a cause? Go forward and not backward. Courage, brethren; and on, on to the victory! Let your hearts rejoice, and be exceedingly glad. Let the earth break forth into singing. Let the dead speak forth anthems of eternal praise to the King Immanuel, who hath ordained, before the world was, that which would enable us to redeem them out of their prison; for the prisoners shall go free.

The current Mormon president/prophet of the LDS Church, Thomas S. Monson has said, "Every worthy, able young man should prepare to serve a mission. Missionary service is a priesthood duty—an obligation the Lord expects of us who have been given so very much. Young men, I admonish you to prepare for service as a missionary” (“As We Meet Together Again,” Ensign or Liahona, Nov. 2010, 5–6). However, going on a mission is not a requirement for LDS men or women. It is highly encouraged, but it does not affect a member's standing or worthiness if they decline going on a mission. For example, one of my uncles didn't go on a mission, but he has a very strong relationship with his family, teaches Sunday School, still has full priesthood authority, and has been one of my examples on how to live a good, Christian, caring life.
My husband, Justin, went on a 2 year proselytizing mission for the LDS Church when he was 19. He was chosen to serve in the Salt Lake, Utah area. About why he decided to go on a mission, Justin says: The moment I knew I was going to serve a mission was when I was 6 years old.  My brother is 13 years older than me, so when I was 6 he was 19, and he was leaving to serve his mission.  He was selected to go to northern Spain.  I remember my mother reading letter he had written to us, I remember pictures he had sent, and I remember praying for his safety while he was gone.  I saw how happy his service made my family and that is when I decided that I was going to serve one as well. 
My brother was my idol as a kid, and I wanted to do everything he did.  I grew up to have my own reasons for doing the same things he did, like serving a mission, going to BYU for college, etc, but his example paved the way for me.  
Just like every kid, I wanted to tell my parents everything about whatever TV show I was watching or video game I was playing.  It excited me, made me happy, and I was insistent upon sharing it in hopes that my excitement would be transferred to those I shared it with.  Likewise, as I got older and started learning more and more about Christ and His Gospel, I developed a love for not only Him, but His teachings.  I had a few attempts at sharing my views about God with my friends in my youth.  It was scary, but it was important.  For these reasons did I decide to serve.  I wanted to emulate the example shown to me by elder brother, but also my love for the Gospel drove me to find a chance to share it and all of its importance, despite how difficult and daunting it would turn to be.
In a later post, sometime in January, I will talk about the specifics of being on an LDS Mission. But, just like Justin said, "I saw how happy his service made my family", families of LDS missionaries who support them are blessed as well. My friend, Madison, from A Homemade Happily Ever After, has had a few brothers serve 2 year missions for the LDS Church. Today, she is talking about how those missions blessed her entire family. Click here to check it out. Do you know anyone of any religion who has gone on a mission of sorts? Why did they decide to do so?

She Teaches Fearlessly

I have mentioned before that I have loved getting to know women from the Peony Project. Those women are such good examples of Christian women, representing their religions on their blogs. They are great member missionaries. I have also loved the daily emails and Instagram scriptures from She Reads Truth. So, I was very excited when I had to the opportunity to become a part of the admin team for a new devotional website dedicated to LDS women. It is called She Teaches Fearlessly. 

website // twitter // facebook // instagram // pinterest

She Teaches Fearlessly is a website dedicated to answering President Russell M. Nelson’s plea in the October 2015 General Conference:

“Today I plead with my sisters of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints to step forward! Take your rightful and needful place in your home, in your community, and in the kingdom of God—more than you ever have before. I plead with you to fulfill President Kimball’s prophecy. And I promise you in the name of Jesus Christ that as you do so, the Holy Ghost will magnify your influence in an unprecedented way!”

We are glad to answer his call. In the same talk, President Nelson said that “women of this dispensation are distinct from the women of any other…this distinction brings both privileges and responsibilities.” We know we hold responsibility in bringing light and Gospel truth to the world. We also know we have been admonished by the general authorities to be member missionaries. What a wonderful time we live in to be able to use technology to our advantage, to flood social media with uplifting messages and scriptures, easily bringing the Gospel to light with a simple tweet or graphic quote on Instagram.

There have been many LDS women who have been motivational speakers, celebrities both online and on television, and bloggers who have always upheld their beliefs. That takes courage. We applaud those women and would hope to join their ranks of strengthening the women of not only our faith, but all women in the world. In 1979, President Spencer W. Kimball prophesied, “Much of the major growth that is coming to the Church in the last days will come because many of the good women of the world … will be drawn to the Church in large numbers. This will happen to the degree that the women of the Church reflect righteousness and articulateness in their lives and to the degree that the women of the Church are seen as distinct and different—in happy ways—from the women of the world.” 

President Nelson declared, “The kingdom of God is not and cannot be complete without women who make sacred covenants and then keep them, women who can speak with the power and authority of God!” So, join with us in proudly teaching the gospel in our homes, neighborhoods and communities. Join us in the call to serve and teach, fearlessly. #sheteachesfearlessly

**You can read President Nelson’s full talk here.**

I have already written a handful of articles:

Martha and Mary Series Part 1: Anxiety and Temporal Worries

Advent Day 9: I Will Not Forget Thee

The Second Sunday of Advent (Day 8): Love

Patience is a Divine Virtue

Follow along with She Teaches Fearlessly!

More Than The Tattooed Mormon

**I received a free copy of this book from Cedar Forts Publishing, Inc in exchange for a review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.**

I can't remember when I first heard of The Tattooed Mormon or when I first started following Al Fox Carraway's blog or Instagram. But, I was enraptured. Currently, Al is an active Mormon who travels around the West giving spiritual and uplifting talks and devotionals to different groups of Mormons. Her spirit is so bright and contagious. She truly has a love for Christ and Heavenly Father and very easily shares His light and love with everyone she meets.

Via

In her book Al describes how she first was introduced to the LDS Church and her conversion story. Her family wasn't supportive, especially her dad who basically disowned her. However, she believed that the Mormon Church was true, and tried to do as Christ would live. After praying to see if God wanted her to serve a mission, she received personal revelation that she was to move to Utah. She knew no one there, had no place to live, no job, no money. But, she left New York anyway and went where God told her. In Utah, she experienced a lot of prejudice due to her tattoos from before she was LDS, but didn't let that discourage her from the Gospel. She eventually met her husband, married in the temple, and currently has a little toddler girl. Al focuses on her and everyone's individual worth in God and how we should all share the Gospel because we love it. She is very uplifting and loving. A true Christian.

There were definitely a few quotes that I absolutely loved!

"And I thought, What happened right before those miracles came? Well, Christ prayed, right? But they were prayers of gratitude. And I thought, Wow, what an incredible example. Not only did Christ know Heavenly Father was in fact there, but He also was aware of what He needed. And Christ, He had such great faith—perfect faith—that He didn’t even ask for help but instead gave thanks before knowing that Heavenly Father would bless Him. It’s easy to feel like we have enough faith to receive blessings and miracles now and that answers really can come in the exact second we want them. But sometimes the true test of faith is waiting for blessings to come when you have faith that they will come quickly." (page 52)

"I remember having to make a decision. It’s a decision I had to make and continue to make; it’s a decision you have to make every single day: choose to get mad, choose to get bothered or offended,

or choose to not. Choose to keep going, choose to trust, choose to have faith—or not. What it came down to and what it will always come down to is this: choose God or don’t. So I had to re-decide who I wanted to follow." (page 69)

"Our lack of efforts or knowledge should never lead to anger or doubts toward God’s existence. Don’t stop living the gospel to find out if it’s completely true—live it more fully to more fully know. The more you learn about the gospel, try in church, and make your testimony and relationship with your Father in Heaven stronger, then the more your desire to change will increase, and it will become easier to do so. Not easy, but easier." (page 89)

"Love where you are—a perfect reminder for when things are hard. Don’t spend your time looking ahead, pleading for things to be over and things to be different. Just stop. Stop looking backward. Stop yearning for the future. Today, where you are right now, is a joy. Today, right now, is the best place to be. Happiness does await us in this day. His blessings and promises are here, right now. He will not withhold His love and blessings from us just because we are at a different phase of our life. They are not withheld from us if sometimes we are not as strong or as good as we could be. No matter what we have or don’t have—no matter what we can or can’t do—good times or bad, joy comes now. Happiness is in today. God is always mindful of us, there for us, waiting for us, loving us. Even in hard times, life is oh so good. “His hand is stretched out, and who shall turn it back?”

(2 Nephi 24:27). (page 108-109)

.For more information on Al Fox Carraway:

blog // LDS Living article

To purchase this book:

Barnes & Noble // Seagull Books // Deseret Books // Amazon

Would you be interested in this book? Why?

Continuous Conversion

If you have been following my Instagram or Twitter for a while, you know that I have just been raving about The Continuous Conversion by Brad Wilcox. Seriously! This book has been a game changer! As you know, this year, I've had a little bit of trial of faith. But, this book has helped me refocus on the plain and precious truths of the Gospel!

Because this book is just so stock full of amazing truths, I'm going to do the same as I did with One Thousand Gifts and just list some of my favorite quotes! But, whether or not you are Mormon, I seriously suggest reading this to focus on Christ, His Grace, His love for us, and His plan for us. (He does include a few chapters on the LDS temples, but I decided to leave those quotes out and focus on ones that other Christians could relate to as well.)
"God isn't just proving us, He's improving us."
"'I can't do this Mormon thing,' a friend told me. 'I've tried and the expectations are just too high.' And she's not alone in her thinking. Many people, as they feel themselves falling short of perfection, are tempted to quit trying. But are there only two options? Think of it this way: When a person is learning to play the piano, are the only two options performing at Carnegie Hall or quitting? Similarly, in mortality, are the only two choices being perfect or giving up? No. Growth and development take time. Learning takes practice. Discipleship is a journey, and true conversion is a continuous process."
"Sometimes finding hope and motivation to keep moving forward...is as simple as going back to core doctrines and refocusing on them through new eyes."
"True conversion occurs when we stop trying to earn heaven and start trying to learn it. Conversion deepens as we understand the purposes and power of God and recognize how freely He offers His help...Conversion is refined as we nourish our testimonies and bring life to our discipleship. Conversion endures as we draw on the power of Christ's name and His holy temple. Conversion allows us to reach outward as we serve int he kingdom and juggle life's many responsibilities."

"I guess it would be easier if getting a body or getting baptized were our ultimate goals, but those are not the end. They are just a means to the end. Going to the temple and even going to the celestial kingdom are not the ends. They are means to the real end. The ultimate goal is for all of us to become more like our Heavenly Father and His Son Jesus Christ."
"Elder Dallin H Oaks said: 'The Final Judgement is not just an evaluation of a sum total of good and evil acts--what we have done. It is an acknowledgement of the final effects of our acts and thoughts--what we have become."
"We accept the Atonement by faith, which includes repentance, covenants, and ordinances. Baptism and temple ordinances are not attempts to add to the finished works of Christ's sacrifice. These and other righteous works are extensions of our faith, by-products of our acceptance of Christ, and evidence of Christ working with, in, and through us."
"How could we believe it would be easy for us when it was never, ever easy for Him?"
"Parents know that children are learning and growing. Their love is bigger than smelly diapers and temper tantrums. They see beyond such moments to the children's great potential. God must feel the same."
"Giving up would be rejecting the Atonement. Trying is accepting the Atonement."
"In the command, 'Be ye therefore perfect' (Matthew 5:48), the Greek word that was translated as perfect is teleios, which means 'finished'. We are finished as we place ourselves in the hands of the 'finisher of [our] faith' (Moroni 6:4). As we make covenants with Christ, He offers to be our tender tutor."
"I visualize grabbing the iron rod as grasping the arm of Jesus Christ. The only way any of us can make it is by holding on tot he Savior and being infused with His power."
"Because of the necessity of agency and choice, we must be the one to grasp, figuratively or literally, the extended had. It is that outreached hand that we call grace."
"Taking hold of His hand and allowing Him to lift us doesn't happen automatically or quickly. It is a spiritual skill that has to be learned and relearned, and then, that learning must be continually applied."

"Occasionally I have seen a man walking near the BYU campus carrying a large cross bearing the words 'saved by Grace'. He seems to thinks LDS are missing that message. On the contrary, we already acknowledge and agree that we are saved by grace alone. However, we also recognize that being saved by grace is only part of the purpose of Christ's cross. Christ came to save us by bridging the abyss between humans and the divine, but then what? Salvation assures there is life after death and life after sin, but there also has to be life after salvation! Our goal must include more than returning to and making peace with God. It has to be transformed by Him." 
"When I focus too long on my inadequacies, I peter out quickly in my quest. When I focus instead on Christ, I find 'the power of godliness'."
"The Bible is not religion; it is a history of those who had religion. The religion of those who live within the covers of the Bible centered in living oracles and the ordinances of salvation. Theirs was a religion of prophets and apostles. That is the same religion we enjoy today."
"My oldest son, Russell, would say, 'We believe in the exact same Christ you do. We just know Him better.' How could Russell make such a bold claim? Because we have additional scripture and the words of modern apostles and prophets who testify of Christ and help us come to know Him. It is one thing to believe in Jesus. It is another thing to know Him."
"Too many LDS were zealously testifying of truth without actually knowing the gospel...Some LDS go through all the right motions without feeling any of the emotions. They settle for rule following instead of religion, for obedience and sacrifice instead of consecration, for testimony instead of conversion, and for cultural Mormonism instead of the soul-transforming fulness of the gospel of Jesus Christ. IT is time for a little zeal with our knowledge. It is time for a few alarm clocks to ring. 'Awake and arise, come forth, and do not tarry.' It's time for wide-awake discipleship."
"While serving his mission...my son David once wrote, 'People need to realize that Christ's Atonement is not just about giving us a fish, but teaching us to fish. It is not bout feeding us for a day, but rather feeding us for a lifetime--an eternal lifetime.' If this were not true, then Christ's suffering could be dismissed as nothing more than a kind but shortsighted act of a friend who is allowing us to turn in His homework with our names on it. Such a good deed might get us a passing grade in the moment, but it wouldn't teach us anything in the long run."
You NEED to read this book!

It's About Families

There is a lot of strong feelings going around both between non-members and members of the LDS church this week because of a recent change in the church's handbook on how to handle baptism children of same-sex marriage. I, myself, was initially troubled about this and wrestled my emotions with it. But, now that I've had a bit to think, ponder, pray, research, and ask friends of multiple walks of life, I feel more comfortable about it.
First and foremost, the LDS Church believes that the family unit is the most important building block of humanity. There is a very famous quote we have: "Whatever wounds and breaks the family, wounds and breaks the world; whatever lifts and saves the family, lifts and saves the world."

Via

The first glimpse anyone got of this new policy change was through newspapers, blogs, and newstations commenting on a leaked information. So, I had to do my research into actual church documents and sites to make sure it wasn't a hoax. And, as we all know, the media loves to blow things out of proportion and out of context. Here is the actual change:
1) Children living with parents in a same-sex marriage may not receive a name and a blessing.  This is not a required ordinance, but rather, typically the first father's blessing a child receives, and it begins a church record for the child, as well as the expectation for the child to attend all church services and meetings. It does not exclude these children from receiving blessings of comfort or healing!! Anyone, even non-Mormons, are allowed these if they so chose!
2) Children living with parents in a same-sex marriage may be baptized, confirmed, ordained to the priesthood, and go on a mission under these guidelines:      ~ They have approval from the First Presidency      ~ They accept all the teachings of the church, including disavowing same-sex marriage (NOT their parents...but members of the Church do believe that acting on homosexual tendencies is a sin)      ~ They are of legal age (18) and not living with their same-sex married parents
3) Those participating in same-sex marriages are considered apostates. Again, this should be no surprise--the church regards acting on homosexuality as a sin...we don't believe that you are a sinner if you are homosexual, we just believe acting on it is. 
After further reading and further thought, I realized this policy is pro-family and pro-gay! Think about it. If *Sally* was adopted by two former Mormons, *Bridget* and *Jane* who had to leave the church because they decided to get married, but wanted *Sally* who is only 8 years old to go to church and be baptized in the LDS church, what tension might that cause at home. At church, *Sally* will be taught that the only appropriate, celestial, God-approved marriage is between one man and one woman, and the only way families can be together forever is by that one man and one woman being sealed for eternity in the LDS temple. *Sally* comes home and realizes that her moms and her won't be able to be an eternal family and that her moms are sinning. Imagine the inner turmoil *Sally* must have because she absolutely loves her moms and her moms are amazing and kind parents! Can you really expect an 8 year old, or even a minor at any age to take that weight upon them by entering into covenants with the Lord to live and obey all His commandments?  This policy is helping to avoid that. 
We believe that families are the most important thing. We want to avoid contention, resentment, and hatred within families that may be in these situations. We don't want children of same-sex couples to be taught one thing at church and one thing at home that don't agree with each other. The entire family, children and homosexual parents, are invited to come and worship with us on Sundays and participate in all activities. We want to fellowship them. We want to preserve their families. So, we believe that it would be better for the child to be more mature and understand the Gospel and all it requires of the child before being baptized. It's not restricting these ordinances and blessings from the child, but it is only delaying it so that they can mature and fully understand the covenants they are to make and keep.
The Church has long been respectful to parental authority and cultural influences. Any child between the ages of 8-18 who wishes to be baptized must have parental approval. Even me, who was born into the church and whose family has been in the church for generations, needed my parents to approve my 8-year-old baptism. There are many polygamous families in the west. They aren't Mormon and we don't consider them part of the LDS Church. And yet, these exact same requirements that are now in place for children of same-sex parents have been in place for children of polygamous relationships for decades! This is because if they are baptized into the LDS Church, they must realize that their parents are disobeying God by disobeying the law of the land and participating in polygamy. Imagine the fuel between both parents and children who both believe they are doing the Lord's will? Also, Muslims have special circumstances too. If a Muslim wants to be baptized into the LDS Church, the Church has to be positive that no jihad or honor killings will occur to that individual or their family. The Church would rather protect their life and the lives of their family rather than increase it's size. Going along with that stem of thought, many people see the Church as a "corporation" focusing only on numbers and getting more tithing money. This is a totally false thought. If it was, why this policy that is sure to cause heartache and some people to fight against it?
I am still saddened by the effect of this new policy. Not because I think it was wrong for our leaders to do it, not because I doubt it was God-directed, not because I disagree with it, but because I know it will cause heartache to others who are in this situation. But, that is part of my baptismal covenants: to mourn with those who mourn. 

Via

However, I do believe with all my heart, this policy, however worded and however received, comes from a place of love and hope.
My husband has a good friend who is openly gay, but has decided not to act upon it because of his belief in the LDS church. I wanted his opinion on the matter and this is what he told me via Facebook:
I am at peace with the issue. I have no issue with the policy. What I have issue with (and it's not unique to this) is the anger that surrounds the discussions on it. I hate all the anger on both sides. I have heard it said about same-sex attraction and related issues that this will be one of those sifting issues of our time. People will have to choose a side, the Lord and His servants or the world and its philosophies. It's sad to say that we may lose members of the church for these kinds of things... But that's part of the sifting process.
A month ago during General Conference we sustained the brethren as prophets, seers, and revelators. Now we've heard something from them that is hard to hear. Whether we feel for the kids, the LGBT community, or whoever, this need not be a destroyer of testimony. If you are struggling with the new policies, I invite you to read it the words of the prophets and apostles, read the Book of Mormon, read your patriarchal blessing, and then once you've immersed yourself in the word of God, pray to Him, as Moroni directs "with a sincere heart, with real intent, having faith in Christ, he will manifest the truth of it unto you, by the power of the Holy Ghost." (Moroni 10:4) It is my testimony and my witness that the Lord, through His Holy Spirit, will bless you with a witness of the authority and the validity of His servants if you are true of heart and intent. And as you refresh your witness of the Lord's servants, you will know that their actions and their decisions in directing the Lord's kingdom (including instituting the new policies last week) are according to he perfect will of the Lord. Even if we don't understand the Lord's decisions, we can trust that He loves His children and He will never do anything that will be a detriment to their eternal progression and salvation.
I have also asked my good LDS blogger friend, Britt Hanson, for her input. Britt's father (who no longer attends the LDS Church) just celebrated his same-sex marriage to his partner. So, I thought it'd be interesting to get  her opinion as well.

When Tayler asked me to write a couple of paragraphs for her blog post I thought, hmmm, I can do that. And then I started writing and then it started becoming a novel and then I decided to really just pare what I think down into two parts. Perhaps I will write my own blog post later and include more of what I wrote, or maybe I will just keep my thoughts as a journal entry and never share them. I haven’t decided yet. No matter what I do with the rest of my thoughts, here are the two that I want to share with you today:

1. I know that the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is the TRUE church on the Earth today. I’ve had it manifested to me through the Spirit multiple times, and it has always just felt like “home” to me. I love our leaders, and I believe that they are in direct communication with God. I believe that Christ is at the head of this church. And with this testimony I can weather whatever policies or doctrine or anything else that may come up, “new” or “old”. Because I know this is the true church, and because I also know that “[His] thoughts are not our thoughts”. Even if I do not understand, maybe I’m not meant to.
2. I understand where people are coming from, I do. At least partly. My own father is gay, and is married to his partner, and I have no ill feelings towards them or anyone else who identifies as gay or lesbian. I’ve had my own experiences with that that I won’t go into. But, from those experiences and from my own knowledge and from my own learning, I know that these new changes are coming from a place of love, not hate. I feel for those that feel otherwise, but I do not feel that way. This was done to keep families together, not tear them apart.

In closing, I want to say one more thing. And that is this: while others may feel like the church will “change their mind” and will be allowing same-sex marriages in the future, etc., I do not believe that at all. One of the core doctrines of the church is that marriage is between a man and a woman. Period. In this current time, same-sex marriage is such a big part of what is happening in our country. You can hardly read anything that doesn’t somehow tie back into LGBT and rights and laws, etc. I’m not saying that spitefully, just as a fact. And so, with this policy change, the church is making 100% clear their stance on gay marriage. Not to be hateful, not to discriminate, but simply to make it clear where we stand. And for that I am grateful. This world is becoming ever increasingly grey, and I’m grateful for the black and white of the Gospel.

Here are some good links with more about this change: The First Presidency of the LDS Church explains their reasons Mormonsandgays.org (The church's official site for homosexual members) Elder Christofferson's explanation of the policy (he is one of our leaders) LDS.net's 9 Myths about the policy Deseret News's coverage on the policy A Mormon Daughter of Lesbians's point of view on the policy A Gay Mormon's View on the policy FAIR Mormon's view on the policy I love this view of love and trusting in Christ by Danica It's True, Isn't It?
Robert D. Hales
That is why we must study and pray. Having the eternal plan as a goal in our lives, we will make eternal choices. However, we will not make the right eternal choices based solely on our pure intellectual deduction and factual analysis from our own understanding: Prayer and study must be used together to build knowledge and wisdom.

D&C 9:7-8
But, behold, I say unto you, that you must study it out in your mind; then you must ask me if it be right, and if it is right I will cause that your bosom shall burn within you; therefore, you shall feel that it is right.

Barbara Thompson
The Savior has asked us to do the things which He has done, to bear one another’s burdens, to comfort those who need comfort, to mourn with those who mourn, to feed the hungry, visit the sick, to succor the weak, lift up the hands which hang down, and to “teach one another the doctrine of the kingdom.”

Moroni 7:41
And what is it that ye shall hope for? Behold I say unto you that ye shall have hope through the atonement of Christ and the power of his resurrection, to be raised unto life eternal, and this because of your faith in him according to the promise.

Dallin H. Oaks
Our Savior experienced and suffered the fulness of all mortal challenges “according to the flesh” so He could know “according to the flesh” how to “succor [which means to give relief or aid to] his people according to their infirmities.” He therefore knows our struggles, our heartaches, our temptations, and our suffering, for He willingly experienced them all as an essential part of His Atonement. And because of this, His Atonement empowers Him to succor us—to give us the strength to bear it all.

** Please keep comments civil. Your opinion is valued, but if there is any hate or discrimination on any side, your comment WILL be deleted.**

From Baptist Preacher to Mormon Teacher

** I received a free copy of the novel from Cedar Forts, Inc. in exchange for a review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

As some of you may know, this year, I've had some challenges with my faith. One thing that has hurt it was the knowledge that there has been an influx of Mormons leaving the Church this past year. Some of my friends have even left the church. So, I've been trying to refocus on the plain, simple, pure, and true center of the Gospel--Jesus Christ. I've been reading books written by Mormons on topics such as grace, faith, Christ, testimony, and overcoming trials of faith.

Since I was born in the Mormon Church, and have never known any differently, I've been really interested in converts to my church and their reasons why they left another religion to come to ours. So, when I had the opportunity to read and review From Baptist Preacher to Mormon Teacher by Wain Myers, I was excited and really interested. I had lived about 8 years in Virginia, where the Baptist church flourished. Although I personally never encountered any hate from baptists there, I have had friends who have. One Mormon friend of mine was invited by a Baptist friend of hers to a local baptist church's "Bring a Mormon friend night" youth activity. The Baptist friend thought it was going to be a bonding experience. But, it turned out to be a Mormon-bashing experience. The Baptist friend profusely apologized to my friend. So, knowing that Myers was a Baptist preacher who turned Mormon really intrigued me!

First of all, let me just say I love the way this is written. It is so conversational. Myers isn't afraid to share his personal revelations and heart-felt heart-conversations with Heavenly Father. He also isn't afraid to let his culture, heritage, and fun-filled personality shine through in his writing. There is definitely some Southern humor, as well as Baptist preacher mannerisms in it, which makes it a fun, quick read.

Myers was born to a church-hopping mother in a ghetto area, with a non-present father. But, at a young age, after a sermon at a Baptist Church, he had a clear vision that he was supposed to start teaching the Gospel. So, he spent his life working toward that goal. He became a Baptist Preacher, and he was a dang good one, too. He loved preaching, he loved sharing the word of God. But, he was being paid for it, which never set well with that. And, he believes because of that payment (manna, or temptation from Satan), his life started to spiral down. He was a preacher on Sunday, but during the week, living not how he was supposed to. He finally left his Baptist Church and moved. He met a woman who just emanated the Spirit from her and he had another personal revelation that she was to become his wife. Sebrina was a recent convert to the LDS Church, and he started becoming interested in the Church as he felt God was leading him to it.

Although there were issues Myers felt with the Church, especially the topic of blacks not being able to hold the priesthood before the 1970s, he trusted in God and allowed God to speak to him and let him know the church was true. He related an experience he had before he even thought about the LDS Church similar to Joseph Smith's first vision: going to a secluded area and asking God which church he was to join. God answered to him none but that He would lead Myers to His true church. When Myers heard the Joseph Smith story, that was an affirmation that the LDS Church was the church he should join.

There were a few quotes that really helped me because they reflected the issues I've had with my church recently:

"One of the best things that happened to me while I was trying to find my Father's straight and narrow path was that my faith in men of God was shattered. It didn't feel amazing at the time, but now that I look back, it was nothing but amazing. You see, as I sought counsel from preacher after preacher and received heartbreaking answer after heartbreaking answer, I realized that I was looking for God in all the wrong places. It became painfully evident that I wasn't going to find Him, the real Him, in any of the churches or pastors I was interacting with.

When I found the truth in the LDS Church, I didn't see its leaders as men of God; I saw them as mortal men searching for answers--just like I was. That's not to say that they weren't men of God; that's just to say that I didn't expect them to be perfect. I knew that only one man has walked the earth in perfection. I have a clear understanding that we are all prone to mistakes and bad decisions--even Church leaders." Page 82

"When people tell me that they've asked God if the LDS Church is true and haven't received an answer, I know that they aren't truly relying on God for the answer. Instead, they're relying on their own understanding for the answer. ....

A young man once said to me, 'Wain, I don't get it. There are so many issues and past practices with he LDS Church that are bothersome.' I responded by pointing out that his issues with the Church are all based on the actions of man, not God. I've dealt with--and continue to deal with--the problems I have because my faith is in God, not man. Members of the LDS Church are human and have shortcoming and flaws, just like everyone else. I cant judge them; I've got too many of my own weaknesses and sins to correct." Page 130

It is definitely a book worth reading!

To purchase the book:

Amazon // Barnes & Noble // Books and Things

For more about Wain Myers:

blog // facebook

Full of Friday 10/9

Awesome Moments
1) I absolutely loved last weekend's LDS General Conference. There was such a spirit, especially during Saturday morning's session, which was my favorite. Here are links to my favorite talks:
- Dieter F Uchtdorf's talk on how to search for truth
- M Russell Ballard's talk on how even if apostles and prophets aren't perfect, they are still obeying God's word
- Jeffrey R Holland's talk on the divinity of motherhood

2) Being hired as a Virtual Assistant in charge of a health and fitness blogger's monthly newsletter and Pinterest account

3) Spending an hour and a half at the park with Rhys yesterday

4) Going to the local food truck roundup for dinner on Wednesday.

5) Getting to go to the Elev8 blogger night last night and meet with some local businesses.

Grateful List
1) Rhys is developing just fine according to his 15 month checkup
2) My new VA part-time job and the opportunity I have to substitute a few times this month
3) Mom willing to watch Rhys a few of those subbing days
4) My bishop who truly cares about my spiritual well-being in a sheparding, but not over-bearing way.

Awkward Moments
1) Walking around SLC in the dark, late last night, alone, trying to get to a TRAX station after the Elev8 night.

2) Having a good friend send some discouraging material to me last night at 11pm as I was heading to bed.

3) The fact that yesterday was supposed to be a post about a new recipe I was supposed to make on Wednesday...then we decided to go do food trucks and I didn't have a post at all yesterday, meaning there will be two posts today!

In Case You Missed It
6 Ways to Love Your Body
My Insecurities
Rhys is now 15 months old!

Check out These Awesome Posts!
Ever done the egg drop science experiment? This is what happens when Rachel and her siblings do it without parental supervision.
Britt talks about a wonderful Christian book called, "Our Glory Days"
Sharlee explains why it IS OKAY to not have already lost your pregnancy weight!

Around the Web
How to manage time as a work-at-home-mom
How IGNORANT can you be?!?!?

Looking Forward To
- Making a lot of new recipes this week!
- Going to church on Sunday. I don't know why, I just am!
- Substituting next week and being back in the classroom!
- My VA job!
- Date and temple night!

5 on Friday | Friday Favorites | High Five for FRIDAY | TGIF Hop | oh hey Friday

Full of Friday 10/2

** Don't forget to enter this giveaway for a free ebook on 31 devotionals for being more thankful.

I am so excited for this weekend! Justin, Rhys, and I will be spending it with my family, watching The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints' Semi-Annual General Conference. General Conference is held twice a year the first weekend of April and October. There are 4 different two-hour sessions between Saturday and Sunday (including one more Saturday evening for the priesthood holders) in which the general leaders of our world-wide church give talks, or sermons, about Christ, the Gospel, and different topics of spiritual edification. It is broadcast on BYUTV, but also streamed live on lds.org. It is a wonderfully uplifting weekend in which we can hear modern-day prophets, seers, and revelators speak through the Spirit of Christ. So, I am officially inviting you to check it out and be edified!

Via

Awesome Moments
1) Rhys climbed up a chain ladder on the playground all by himself...he is so talented, tenacious, and smart!
2) I got a new library book that I am absolutely loving: An American Bride in Kabul: A Memoir by: Phyllis Chesler.
3) I got frozen yogurt with Shannon from Shanndelier.
4) I won yet another giveaway!

Grateful List
1) All the scripture study that I've been doing and remember more often to say morning prayers.
2) Dad being willing to babysit Rhys while Justin and I went to a dinner date.
3) The naps I've been able to co-sleep with Rhys the past two days (since he's been sick and needed his Momma).
4) The opportunity to spend this weekend with my family.

Awkward Moments
1) Rhys waking up in the morning with already dried throwup all over his pajamas and crib. Poor boy threw up in the middle of the night. He has been sick the past two days.
2) An old man reading a newspaper at the library near me and my SAT student loudly "Hurumphing" as we were whispering and practicing SAT skills and strategies.

In Case You Missed It
My Solidarity Sister gives a sriracha recipe
Justin takes over the blog
How We Wore It // Fall Transition
October 2015 Goals

Around the Web
Why you need a contract to work with brands as a blogger
How to make super easy but sophisticated backdrops for your blog pictures
10 Awesome resources for bloggers

Looking Forward To
1) General Conference--duh!
2) Getting Rhys back on a solid schedule once he feels better.
3) Seriously taking to heart to lose these last 10 pounds of baby weight.

5 on Friday | Friday Favorites | High Five for FRIDAY | TGIF Hop | oh hey Friday

A Thankful Heart and Giveaway

** I received a free copy of the book from Cedar Fort Publishing in exchange for a review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

As I've recently mentioned, I am focusing on gratitude to help bring myself closer to Christ. So I was very excited to be able to read this book.

Via

This book is set up with 31 teachings or devotionals to focus on gratitude. It has a quote from a general authority in the LDS Church, a small parable or lesson, scripture references, and an ending thought. Christensen says that you can read these one of two ways--straight through, or take one teaching a day. That is what I've decided to do--one a day. Every day, when I wake up, I read two chapters of scriptures (right now I just finished 2 Kings), and then I'll read one teaching from this book. So, to be honest, I'm not finished with it, but it has done wonders to help me begin each day with gratitude. I am also highlighting all the references in my scriptures as they have to do with gratitude. But, even in my personal scripture study, I'm noticing more and more verses of gratitude and thanksgiving. It truly is what Christ wants us to do. I've seen myself kneel and say morning prayers more often, and my evening prayers are more full of gratitude. It has really helped improve my mental and emotional health, as well as strengthen my testimony and faith in Christ and His Church. Whether you are Mormon or not, I strongly suggest this book to help in your study of gratitude and recognizing all of God's blessings in your life!

And, because Christensen (and I) want you to focus more on the blessings in your life, we are offering a free e-copy of this book. It will be a digital copy, not a hard or soft cover tangible book. But, that way, you can put it on your smart phone or tablet and take it to church with you or on the road!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

You can purchase the book here:

Barnes & Noble 

Find out more about the author here:

Website // Facebook // Instagram

What are you doing to be more grateful in your life and see His blessings?

When Beauty Is a Beast

*I was given a free copy of this book from Cedar Forts Publishing in return for a review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

I know I'm not the best wife around. I know I'm not always equally yoked to Justin as I should be. Sometimes I'm just plain lazy in our relationship. I should be his help-meet, not his task master. So, I willingly asked to review this book, to help improve myself.

Now, this book uses the term "abuse" to describe the 10 things women do that harm their relationships, but Sorenson makes sure to define abuse as the spectrum...it's not all just threats, sexual abuse (which women are guilty of too), or swearing and saying profanities toward him. No. It could be simple, subtle, little off-putting things that sometimes we just don't realize are hurting our husbands. Sorenson also reminds us that men are sometimes just as guilty with these 10 things, but there are already plenty of church talks, studies, books, etc condemning and lecturing them for that, but there aren't really any resources when women act these ways.

Now, this book takes an LDS gospel twist to it, but honestly, it is applicable to any Christian marriage, or really ANY marriage in that matter!

Again, Sorenson's 10 things are really a broad spectrum:

1) Controlling your spouse

This could be manipulation, isolation, forced submission, trying to make men thing like women (they are physiologically and psychologically wired differently!), trying to be overtly influencing in his church duties, making him do everything (chores, cooking, child-rearing) her way and saying that his way is wrong, the whole "what do you want to do tonight" "oh, I don't want to do that," and using "revelations from God" to control your spouse.

The one that I'm guilty of and trying to work on is having Justin do things my way, especially when it comes to Rhys, cooking, and driving. I'm not a perfect parent, and Justin takes good care of Rhys and Rhys loves him, so I need to be less controlling when it comes to that. Even simple things like saying, "Cook the fish first before frying the rice" (which I actually said on Sunday night and he called me out on it), or "get into the right lane, the turn is coming up" when he knows where to go is considered "controlling your spouse", and therefore harming our relationship. I'd be annoyed if Justin acted that way to me, so I shouldn't do it to him.

2) Verbal abuse

Of course this could be profanities, yelling, and being demeaning to your husband. But, it could also be little threats. It could also be nagging. Sorenson says that we shouldn't use PMS'ing as an excuse to be *witch-y*.  He says that a lot of times, men will tiptoe on eggshells because they don't want to upset us. Really, with reading this chapter, I just got the impression of the Kat from Taming of the Shrew. He even includes complaining about our husbands as verbal abuse. 

We really shouldn't complain about our husbands...I've seen plenty of FB groups for newlyweds that do that. NO! Remember what you learned as a child: "If you don't have anything nice to say, don't say anything at all!" However, I do realize I am guilty of nagging Justin.

3) Drawing comparisons

This includes comparing him to other men spiritually ("you don't respect your priesthood as well as the Bishop"), physically (drooling over six packs when your husband doesn't have one), or situationally ("Bob is getting his PhD, owns a house already, and is making twice as much as you. Why didn't I marry him?")

I'm bad at comparing our situation to others, but together as a couple. I don't blame Justin for any of it, but I do have the green monster tendency sometimes.

4) Unreasonable expectations

Basically, think of your teenage check-list for the perfect husband. I'll be honest. There is no such thing as a perfect husband. These expectations could be in how he treats you, the job he works, his skills and hobbies, how spiritual he is, how he looks. It isn't fair to project a set of dream standards upon him when you agreed to marry him the way he is.

I wanted to marry someone taller than six feet, who wanted to go to grad school immediately, loved to read, and loved to stay active, and had some sort of musical talent. Although Justin is good at folk-dancing and some ballroom dancing, he is only 5'10", has an auto-immune (plus diagnosed flat feet) so maintaining as active a lifestyle as I lead is difficult, would rather watch sports or play a game then read, and doesn't need to go to grad school for his career choice (just take qualification tests and certificates), I still love him for who he is. I support his decisions, although if he chose to work on any of those check lists, I would be ecstatic, but I don't expect him to because I fell in love with him the way he is and married him for who he is.

5) Transference of blame

This is blaming all arguments on your husband, or saying that he drove you to do a certain thing, or "he brought it upon himself." It takes two to argue, and the truth hurts. I have seen my dad give up many arguments with both my mom and us children saying, "I'm the loser. You win. It's my fault," when the majority of the time, it was our fault to begin with. My dad doesn't like tension in the house and doesn't like confrontation, so he'll put the blame upon himself before someone else can do it.

I feel like I'm the opposite in this. I tend to blame myself more than blame Justin. I tend to think of myself as the worse spouse and him as the better spouse. Maybe that needs to be fixed, but at least I'm doing good with this chapter!

6) Creating doubts

Sorenson describes this chapter as "not necessarily seen as formal 'abuse'...may simply be evidence of bad communication skills or the utilization of dysfunctional 'techniques' in relating to others or in expressing needs and concerns." Really, it's making your husband think something that isn't true. It's kind of like Verbal Abuse and Transference of Blame put together. And, it can be seriously manipulative and cause serious damage to your husband's self-image and self-confidence. And the worst part is, sometimes it's completely unintentional!

One of the clearest examples I have was when we were dating. I've always been a pretty independent girl and put heavy dedication into my schooling. So, there would be a few nights that I would say, "Ok, I'm gonna go work on homework, see you in the morning." Then, without a kiss, but a quick hug, I'd leave and go work on homework. Justin never dated a girl like that, so he thought he did something to cause me to leave. Also, apparently, I have a few faces or tones that I use for various reasons. Sometimes that can be confusing to Justin and makes him wonder if he did something wrong.

7) Manifest Jealousy

Sometimes women can be jealous of their husbands: how they react with other women, staying at home while he gets to go to work, or how close he is to his family, etc). This can cause tension between the marriage. But, he also says it could also include women who are overtly dependent.

Honestly, I'm not jealous of Justin in any of these regards. I don't isolate him, I let him go out on bro-dates, and have his own hobbies, and let him play video games often. However, there was a point in our marriage in the first few months, where I had trouble socializing outside of him. So, when he was out with friends, after a while, I'd get real lonely and couldn't sleep, so I'd ask him to come home because I missed him. I don't do that anymore. If he's out late, or playing a video game late, I text him and tell him I love him and I'm going to bed (because he asks to know when I'm going to bed).

8) Exhibiting Violent Behavior

Now this is another spectrum one: actual physically violent behavior to him or his property, threats, or accidental violent behavior.

I am proud to say that I have never damaged Justin's property, nor have I ever touched him harshly. I have made a vow to him that I will never hit him. And I take that seriously.

9) Withholding Intimacy

Now, I'm going to say this upfront--this is a private issue, I'm not going to talk about Justin and me. Eww. Bedroom stuff should stay in the bedroom, and not on a blog.

Remember that one episode of Everyone Love's Raymond where he and Deborah got in a fight and then starting withholding sex from each other and then it turned into a contest to see who could go without the longest? That's an example of this chapter--withholding sex as a punishment or encouragement to get your husband to those unreasonable expectations. However, it also has a big caveat for women who have been sexually abused before or to whom sex is physically painful for them. However, the biggest warning he gave was that withholding sex because you just don't feel like it or are too tired or that "the stars aren't aligned" is a small form of this abuse. He makes sure to say that women shouldn't have to give sex to their husbands whenever they wanted it, but they needed to be clear about expectations and to remember that Heavenly Father gave us the commandment and gift to be intimate with each other. Intimacy strengthens the marriage.

10) Creating Fear

This is another form of manipulation. Again, threats like divorce, turning kids against your husband, telling everyone negative things about him, suicide, etc. This just isn't fair or nice, nor is it establishing a good strong partnership. 

Thankfully, I don't threaten my husband! However, he has mentioned that sometimes, he stays silent because he's afraid I'll get upset or it'll hurt my feelings. That, too, is a form of creating fear. We both act that way--we don't want to hurt each others feelings so badly that sometimes our communication as a married couple suffers for it sometimes.

Honestly, most of these chapters have to do with communication, which is one of the most important things in a marriage. I really enjoyed this book, and love learning different ways to improve myself as a women of God, a mother, and a wife. I definitely suggest this book to you if you are married, engaged, or dating someone.

You can buy the book here

Amazon // Barnes and Noble

C.C. Sorensen is a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, and has served in many positions on both the ward and stake level. “When Beauty Is a Beast” grew out of Sorensen’s many years of counseling husbands and wives who were struggling with various relationship issues.

What can you do to improve as a wife?