6 of us!

6 of us!

9.20.2009

Refining

I've not been blogging since my pictures are on my computer that I don't have hooked up. And we have been painting and getting new flooring. It's taking all of my energy to keep up with that, get back in the school routine, and do other daily tasks that are necessary.
The purpose of this post is to share some thoughts.
We were blessed to have Elder Yoshihiko Kikuchi preside at our stake conference this weekend. I feel like the Lord is teaching me so much this year!
I felt the spirit so strong throughout the whole meeting today. I sang in the choir so I was able to have one of the best seats. It also meant I wasn't wrestling with kids and so I got to take notes and pay attention and receive answers to my prayers. It felt similar to attending the Temple. It was a very special experience for me. Member missionary work is huge in our stake. As a family or as a couple, Stan and I have committed to set goals regarding missionary work and be more bold to share and more in tune with the spirit so we'll know who is ready.
Some things I learned today:
-pray to have the spirit with you as you say a prayer- i.e. similar to when someone is about to give a blessing to someone else, a prayer is said so the person giving the blessing will say what Heavenly Father wants them to know. I'm so excited to implement this. It will bring me that much closer to my Heavenly Father.
-The Lord REQUIRES a willing heart and mind in ALL things, not just the things I choose to do. I need to pay tithing with my whole heart, it's not about the money.
I need to serve with all my heart, not just when it's convenient
I need to share the gospel with my whole heart, not just when I get the chance or someone asks me about the Church.
I need to serve my family, even when I'm tired
I need to visit teach, even if the sisters don't need me or want me to come. I can still do something.
I need to strengthen my marriage with my whole heart, not just when Stan is being extra sweet or when I'm feeling good.
I need to sacrifice with my whole heart, even when it hurts and it is hard and you have to be creative with your time.
The Bishop just called and is meeting with us tonight. Interesting. I wonder if today I was being prepared for something.
I received impressions today in regards to missionary work and what I need to do with specific people I've been praying for. I'll share what comes...

3 comments:

Bryan and Lindsay said...

What awesome insight. I love how the gospel can always teach us to do a little better and try a little harder. Every one of these things I need to better with too! Thanks for sharing!

Kyrk said...

do you remember when Elder Kikuchi came to our stake when we were kids? I am guessing I was mid teens. I remember thinking, "great a boring speaker that I guess is 'important.'" I was young and ignorant then. I am glad we have grown up and learned to listen to these leaders! Good job sis!

judy torrie said...

Way to go Sh'Nell ,A lot to try and do but you and Stan can do it if anyone can!!Be sure you let us know what that little interview was about !!Love Mom and DAd Torrie !!cheso