Staying Matters Blog (12.26.23)

When a crisis of faith hits home, and people you love walk away from the Restored Church of Jesus Christ, you look to grab every floating straw on the water. I have had weak places of faith in my life. I have felt lost and broken and been found wanting. Oh, God, I believe, help Thou my unbelief! For years after my divorce I didn’t go back to the temple. I kept going to church and I kept serving. I kept listening to lessons and talks and conferences, because I wanted to be strong for my children. I kept reading the Book of Mormon (often superficially) with my family, for my children. I guess it was because in those times of doubting, I refused to take the risk of non-belief. The risk of losing them in the eternities was too great to give up. I had to choose to believe, to follow. I strengthened as I kept going. It’s not that I never have doubts or times of unbelief; it is that I am willing to suspend any doubts or questions while I press on, learn more, and listen to the Spirit. Spiritual blessings follow. Miracles, small tender mercies, follow. It’s interesting to me that the age of the Internet, which is full of evil and threatening ideas and beliefs, is also full of testimonies, conversions, and clear ideas that increase testimony and inspire me with Jesus’ love. I pray to trust him. I pray to trust in His peace. I pray for hope in Christ. I appreciate those who left, and came back to tell their stories. I love those who found the gospel and are brave enough to share. I am stronger and more faithful from serving in the temple, wearing my garments faithfully for 54 years, and heeding the voice of the prophets. It all matters!

https://youtu.be/qotxFzB8aX4?si=XP8_kOrad5E79ysq