Me Thinks

I am enriched by reading the Liahona. I like reading church books, CFM, scriptures, and conference talks too, but I can testify that I have learned from and loved the Liahona articles, and I have been blessed by reading them. There are articles on foundational gospel truths, along with articles containing practical advice on marriage and family relationships. Members of the church from throughout the world contribute content, and their life experiences and wisdom strengthen me. The topics are current and meaningful.  Here is a sampling of truths I learned this month from the January 2023 Liahona:

We read in the scriptures that it is by our “fruits” that we shall be known and recognized by our loving Heavenly Father. We will not be recognized, judged, or limited by our roots. Some of us come from backgrounds and life experiences that are less than desirable, but our life circumstances do not define us or determine our destinies. It is our omnipotent Father in Heaven that can and will lift us to His heavenly courts on high if we will simply come unto His Son, Jesus Christ, through being obedient and keeping our covenants. Please know that whoever you are and whatever your unique personal circumstances, every blessing is available to you through your faithful journey on the covenant path (Larry Laycock).

President Harold B. Lee wisely said, “Just as a flood-lighted temple is more beautiful in a severe storm or in a heavy fog, so the gospel of Jesus Christ is more glorious in times of inward storm and of personal sorrow and tormenting conflict.” In those verses in Mark chapter 4, Christ calmed the seas. Sometimes He calms the seas and storms in our lives. Other times, He calms us while the storms of life continue around us. The temple is our key to calming the storms of life. As we attend the temple, we bring our challenges and leave them at the door. We find peace therein. When we leave, our challenges are still there, but we pick them up with an added measure of peace and a new perspective (Michael Manzur).

Now I look back and can see that even though my parents tried to make the marriage work, they didn’t like each other—they tolerated each other. Here are some things I’ve observed spouses doing when they like as well as love each other: 

    They want to spend more time with each other than with other people.

     They feel comfortable doing or talking about anything with each other.

     They work toward the same goals.

     They find the middle ground often, but they also are willing to yield to each             other when they see that the other spouse needs it.

     They aren’t afraid to be openly affectionate with each other.

     They listen attentively to each other.

     They make time for each other.

     They work together.

     They have fun together.

     They read the scriptures and pray together.

     They go to the temple together.

     They see each other as blessings.

     These are ideal aspects of marriage, of course (Suzanne Uchytil).

You are better than you think you are. The Lord has always used the small and weak things of the world to bring about His glorious purposes. The Lord often accomplishes the most with those who feel the least accomplished. Perhaps we all see ourselves as a little less than we are. Unworthy. Untalented. Nothing special. Lacking the heart, mind, resources, charisma, or stature to be of much use to God.
You say you’re not perfect? Welcome to the club! You may be just the person God is looking for. The Lord chooses the humble and meek—partly because they are humble and meek. In this way, there is never a question regarding the reason for their success. These wonderful, ordinary people accomplish great things not because of who they are but because of who God is! For “what is impossible with man is possible with God." God doesn’t need you to be exceptional, let alone perfect. He will take your talents and abilities and multiply them—even though they may seem as scarce as a few loaves and fishes. If you trust Him and are faithful, He will magnify your words and actions and use them to bless and minister to multitudes! God does not need people who are flawless. He seeks those who will offer their heart and a willing mind (Dieter F. Uchtdorf).