Faith

Another week has passed and we are into August. I don't know if it's busy being a mom and figuring out this new life...or if time really is going faster.

 

I am really trying to get through the Conference talks again before October hits; what a blessing they are in life. I am so grateful for the encouraging words from our prophets. One of my favorite quotes was Elder Perry's in it he said, "...today's complexity demands greater simplicity..." There is so much in the world to keep our lives complex and busy, but like this quote says it demands greater simplicity. I was just thinking today what an adjustment to life it has been to move here to Brazil. I use to be running a million miles a hour. Since moving here to Brazil it hasn't really slowed down but our situation has demanded adjustments. Learning Portuguese, making friends, embracing a culture....the most important adjustment I think has been taking that time daily to fill my spiritual cup. Because I don't understand what is going on during church, I have felt it really strong to make sure I get what I need on my own. Something I will never take for granted again....but also gain this new sense of growth that I have embraced with all I have. It's what keeps me going.

 

Elder Perry described a story of his grandfather and how he likened obedience to a team of horses. There is a master (the Lord) and a bit (the holy ghost). You work better if you follow your masters lead. The spiritual bit will give you gentle tugs in life to keep you on the right path. It is our duty to stay in tune and listen to where the master wants us to go and do.

 

Along with being in tune comes great faith in your master. Gaining faith is critical in life...but also scary. The greater the faith, the greater the test. Think of Abraham and Issac. Think of the faith that was tested. It makes me really think, would I be so faithful is my trying circumstances? Honestly, I don't know. I want to develop greater faith in God...but it is scary. I know I know, it wouldn't be scary if I had faith - see?! I need to work on that.

 I love the Lord so much. I know his teachings are true. I would be so lost in life without the gospel. I often pray I can know my purpose here in Brazil. Not only know my purpose, but recognize it. There is so much to learn about life and in life. I have often reminded that it comes line upon line. God is good and he is aware of each of us.

Love to you all!