Come Unto Christ and be perfected in Him.

In your final entry on your report, explain what you have learned about the process of conversion, the price of discipleship, and the various ways in which the Savior can bring about "mighty changes" in the lives of all who exercise faith in Him and obey His teachings.

The process of conversion is not like turning on a light switch.  It is achieved step by step, drop by drop, and principle upon principle. It is not something someone can do in an evening.

The price of discipleship is what we are willing to give of ourselves.  Are we willing to give our whole soul--all of our heart, all of our might, and all of our mind and strength?  What are we willing to give up?  Do we surrender our will to Heavenly Father's?  He can make more of us than we can make of ourselves.

The Savior can bring about "mighty changes" in the lives of all who exercise faith in Him and obey His teachings--examples:

• "Nevertheless the children of God were commanded that they should gather themselves together OFT, and join in Fasting and Mighty Prayer in behalf of the welfare of the souls of those WHO KNEW NOT God." (Alma 6:6)
• Alma the Younger--Alma's father prayed "mightily" for his son Alma.  His father's prayers were answered.
• Alma 5:7 "Behold he changed their hearts; yea, he awakened them out of a deep sleep, and they awoke unto God.  Behold, they were in the midst of darkness; nevertheless, their souls were illuminated by the light of the everlasting word; yea, they were encircled about by the bands of death, and the chains of hell, and an everlasting destruction did await them.
  
  • Alma 5:9, "And again I ask, were the bands of death broken, and the chains of hell which encircled them about, were they loosed, and their souls did expand, and they did sing redeeming love.  And I say unto you that they are saved." 
  • Alma 5:12, "And according to his faith there was a mighty change wrought in his heart.  Behold I say unto you that this is all true."
  • Alma 5:13"And behold, he preached the word unto your fathers, and a mighty change was also wrought in their hearts, and they humbled themselves and put their trust in the true and living God.  And behold, they were faithful until the end; therefore they were saved."
  • Alma 5:14, "And now behold, I ask of you, my brethren of the church, have ye spiritually been born of God?  Have ye received his image in your countenances?  Have ye experienced this mighty change in your hearts?
  • Alma 5:19, "I say unto you, can ye look up to God at that day with a pure heart and clean hands?  I say unto you, can you look up, having the image of God engraven upon your countenances?
  • Alma 5:26, "And now behold, I say unto you, my brethren, if ye have experienced a change of heart, and if ye have felt to sing the song of redeeming love, I would ask, can ye feel so now?
  • Alma 5:28, "Behold, are ye stripped of pride?  I say unto you, if ye are not ye are not prepared to meet God.  Behold ye must prepare quickly; for the kingdom of heaven is soon at hand, and such an one hath not eternal life.
  • Alma 5:34, "Yea, he saith:  Come unto me and ye shall partake of the fruit of the tree of life; yea, ye shall eat and drink of the bread and the waters of life freely;
  • Alma 5:35, "yea, come unto me and bring forth works of righteousness, and ye..."
  • Alma 5:38, "Behold, I say unto you, that the good shepherd doth call you; yea, and in his own name he doth call you, which is the name of Christ; and if ye will not hearken unto the voice of the good shepherd, to the name by which ye are called, behold, ye are not the sheep of the good shepherd."
  • Mosiah 5:7, And now, because of the covenant which ye have made ye shall be called the children of Christ, his sons, and his daughters; for behold, this day he hath spiritually begotten you; for ye say that your hearts are changed through faith on his name; therefore, ye are born of him and have become his sons and his daughters.
  • Mosiah 5:13, "For how knoweth a man the master whom he has not served, and who is a stranger unto him, and is far from the thoughts and intents of his heart?"

LeGrand R. Curtis, Jr.

"The greatest power of the Book of Mormon is its impact in bringing us closer to Jesus Christ."

Elder Richard G. Scott, October 1993, "Acquiring Spiritual Knowledge"

To acquire spiritual knowledge and to obey it with wisdom, one must:

• In humility, seek divine light
• Exercise faith in Jesus Christ
• Hearken to His counsel
• Keep His Commandments

"Spiritual learning takes precedence.  The secular without the foundation of the spiritual is ...like the foam upon the milk, the fleeting shadow...One need not choose between the two...for there is opportunity to get both simultaneously."--President Spencer W. Kimball

"The greatest achievement mankind can make in this world is to familiarize themselves with divine truth, so thoroughly, so perfectly, that the example or conduct of no creature living in the world can ever turn them away from the knowledge that they have obtained...."--President Joseph F. Smith

"Humility is essential to the acquiring of spiritual knowledge.  To be humble is to be teachable.  Humility permits you to be tutored by the Spirit and to be taught from sources inspired by the Lord, such as the scriptures.  The seeds of personal growth and understanding germinate and flourish in the fertile soil of humility.  Their fruit is spiritual knowledge to guide you here and hereafter.

"A proud individual cannot know the things of the Spirit.  Paul taught this truth, saying:

'The things of God knoweth no man, but the Spirit of God...

"But the natural man receiveth not the things of the Spirit of God: for they are foolishness unto him: neither can he know them, because they are spiritually discerned" (1 Cor. 2:11, 14)

 "The Savior declared:  'I now give unto you a commandment...to give heed to the words of eternal life...'"

"The role of obedience in gaining spiritual knowledge is crucial,..."

"Moroni said, 'Dispute not because ye see not, for ye receive no witness until after the trial of your faith.' (Ether 12:6)"

"I testify that you can receive inspired help.  Humbly ask your Eternal Father.  Seek divine light. Exercise faith in the Savior.  Strive to hearken to His counsel and obey His commandments..."

Humility "Retaining a Remission of Sin"

Elder Keith Crockett
"King Benjamin taught three principles that can help us retain a remission or our sins: first, to remain humble; second, to call upon the Lord daily; and third, to stand steadfast in the faith."

"Elder Bruce R. McConkie taught us that 'all progress in spiritual things is conditioned upon the prior attainment of humility.'"

"President James E. Faust taught that 'to sustain faith, each of us must be humble and compassionate, kind and generous to the poor and the needy.  Faith is further sustained by daily doses of spirituality that come to us as we kneel in prayer.'"

"Marriage: Watch and Learn," April 2013, Elder L. Whitney Clayton

"The promises of the Lord are extended to all those who follow the pattern of life that builds happy, holy marriage relationships."
"...the happiest marriages both the husband and wife consider their relationship to be a pearl beyond price, a treasure of infinite worth...the best marriage partners regard their marriages as priceless."

"Faith grows as we keep the commandments, and so do the harmony and joy in marriage."

"Humility is the essence of repentance.  Humility is selfless, not selfish.  It doesn't demand its own way or speak with moral superiority.  Instead, humility answers softly and listens kindly for understanding, not vindication.  Humility recognizes that no one can change someone else, but with faith, effort, and the help of God, we can undergo our own mighty change of heart.  Experiencing the mighty change of heart causes us to treat others, especially our spouses, with meekness.  Humility means that both husbands and wives seek to bless, help, and lift each other, putting the other first in every decision.  Watch and learn: repentance and humility build happy marriages...

Husbands and wives in great marriages make decisions unanimously, with each of them acting as a full participant and entitled to an equal voice and vote...Their marriages are based on cooperation, not negotiation...Loyalty is a form of respect.  Prophets teach that successful marriage partners are 'fiercely loyal' to each other."

D&C 112:10, "Be thou humble; and the Lord thy God shall lead thee by the hand, and give thee answer to thy prayers."

Ether 12:27, "And if men come unto me I will show unto their their weakness.  I give unto men weakness that they may be humble; and my grace is sufficient for all men that humble themselves before me; for if they humble themselves before me, and have faith in me, then will I make weak things become strong unto them."

Humility

Set measurable goals:

1.  Read from the scriptures daily for 30 minutes.
2.  Pray morning and evening
3. Attend temple weekly.
4. Do one act of service daily.
5. Invite someone over for dinner.

I'm going to start tracking my change today through Excel sheet.

Quote by President Gordon B. Hinckley

Being HUMBLE means recognizing we are not on earth to see how important we can become, but to see HOW MUCH DIFFERENCE WE CAN MAKE in the lives of others.--President Gordon B. Hinckley

Humility--Disciple Preparation Plan

1. What scriptures and teachings of living prophets have been helpful to you in your efforts to change or improve?

"I pray that we will resist the temptation to draw attention to ourselves and, instead, strive for a far greater honor: to become humble, genuine disciples of Jesus Christ."--Elder Uchtdorf
 

1. Describe specific efforts you have made to bring about the change or improvement you desire;

Studying the words of prophets and apostles and leaders in the church.

1. Briefly describe the tracking method you are using. How successful do you feel your action steps have been in helping you reach your goal?

I have tried to increase my humility.  I have failed to invite Carla over for dinner.

1. Provide an honest assessment of the progress you have made in achieving your desired change or improvement (i.e., How have you grown? How have you improved as a disciple of Christ? How have you been blessed as a result of your efforts to apply eternal truths?).

I have tried.  I have learned that it is better to be humble, than to be arrogant.  I still need to work harder on increasing my humility.

Humility--Elder Dieter F. Uchtdorf, "On Being Genuine," April 2015

"I pray that we will resist the temptation to draw attention to ourselves and, instead, strive for a far greater honor: to become humble, genuine disciples of Jesus Christ."--Elder Uchtdorf

"...if Jesus Christ were to sit down with us and ask for an accounting of our stewardship, I am not sure He would focus much on programs and statistics. What the Savior would want to know is the condition of our heart. He would want to know how we love and minister to those in our care, how we show our love to our spouse and family, and how we lighten their daily load. And the Savior would want to know how you and I grow closer to Him and to our Heavenly Father."--Elder Uchtdorf

"I am here because I desire with all my heart to follow my Master, Jesus Christ. I yearn to do all that He asks of me in this great cause. I hunger to be edified by the Holy Spirit and hear the voice of God as He speaks through His ordained servants. I am here to become a better man, to be lifted by the inspiring examples of my brothers and sisters in Christ, and to learn how to more effectively minister to those in need.

In short, I am here because I love my Heavenly Father and His Son, Jesus Christ."--Elder Uchtdorf

"With patience and persistence, even the smallest act of discipleship or the tiniest ember of belief can become a blazing bonfire of a consecrated life. In fact, that’s how most bonfires begin—as a simple spark."--Elder Uchtdorf

"My beloved brothers in Christ, the God of Creation, who breathed life into the universe, surely has the power to breathe life into you. Surely He can make of you the genuine, spiritual being of light and truth you desire to be.

God’s promises are sure and certain. We can be forgiven of our sins and cleansed from all unrighteousness.¹¹ And if we continue to embrace and live true principles in our personal circumstances and in our families, we will ultimately arrive at a point where we 'hunger no more, neither thirst any more. … For the Lamb which is in the midst of the throne shall feed [us], and shall lead [us] unto living fountains of waters: and God shall wipe away all tears from [our] eyes.'”¹²--Elder Uchtdorf

"The greatest, most capable, most accomplished man who ever walked this earth was also the most humble. He performed some of His most impressive service in private moments, with only a few observers, whom He asked to “tell no man” what He had done.¹⁵ When someone called Him “good,” He quickly deflected the compliment, insisting that only God is truly good.¹⁶ Clearly the praise of the world meant nothing to Him; His single purpose was to serve His Father and “do always those things that please him.”¹⁷ We would do well to follow the example of our Master."--Elder Uchtdorf

"What are some treasures in heaven that we can lay up for ourselves? For starters, it will be well for us to acquire the Christlike attributes of faith, hope, humility, and charity. We have been counseled repeatedly to “[put] off the natural man and … [become] as a child.”⁵ The Savior’s admonition is for us to strive to be perfect like Him and our Heavenly Father.^{6"--"Where Your Treasure Is," April 2014, Elder Michael John U. Teh}

"Second, we need to put more quality time and effort into strengthening family relationships. After all, “the family is ordained of God. It is the most important unit in time and in eternity.”⁷

Third, serving others is a hallmark of a true follower of Christ. He said, 'Inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of these my brethren, ye have done it unto me.'”⁸

"Fourth, understanding the doctrine of Christ and strengthening our testimony is a labor that will bring real joy and satisfaction. We need to consistently study the words of Christ as found in the scriptures and the words of living prophets. 'For behold, the words of Christ will tell you all things what ye should do.'”⁹

^{This is the whole story he told, as recorded by Luke:}

“Two men went up into the temple to pray; the one a Pharisee, and the other a publican.

“The Pharisee stood and prayed thus with himself, God, I thank thee, that I am not as other men are, extortioners, unjust, adulterers, or even as this publican.

“I fast twice in the week, I give tithes of all that I possess.

“And the publican, standing afar off, would not lift up so much as his eyes unto heaven, but smote upon his breast, saying, God be merciful to me a sinner.

“I tell you, this man went down to his house justified rather than the other: for every man that exalteth himself shall be abased; and he that humbleth himself shall be exalted.” (Luke 18:10–14.)--Elder Howard W. Hunter

This statement gives meaning to what the Savior said on another occasion: “Except your righteousness shall exceed the righteousness of the scribes and Pharisees, ye shall in no case enter into the kingdom of heaven.” (Matt. 5:20.)

"Humility is an attribute of godliness possessed by true Saints. It is easy to understand why a proud man fails. He is content to rely upon himself only. This is evident in those who seek social position or who push others aside to gain position in fields of business, government, education, sports, or other endeavors. Our genuine concern should be for the success of others.  The proud man shuts himself off from God, and when he does he no longer lives in the light. The Apostle Peter made this comment:

“Be clothed with humility: for God resisteth the proud, and giveth grace to the humble.

“Humble yourselves therefore under the mighty hand of God, that he may exalt you in due time.” (1 Pet. 5:5–6.)

Learning Humility

Goal:  Invite Carla over for dinner.  Carla is a widow who lives in our neighborhood and lost her husband a few years back.  I don't know if she has any family.  She did tell me that her neighbors on both sides of the street help her out at times.

Elder Dieter F. Uchtdorf "Pride and the Priesthood," October 2010

"Pride is a switch that turns off priesthood power.  Humility is a switch that turns it on."  "Every mortal has at least a casual if not intimate relationship with the sin of pride."
"Pride is the great sin of self-elevation."

"...my beloved fellow disciples of the gentle Christ, should we not hold ourselves to a higher standard?...we must realize that all of God's children wear the same jersey.  Our team is the brotherhood of man."

"The Apostle Peter warned that "God resisteth the proud, and giveth grace to the humble."  Mormon explained, "None is acceptable before God, save the meek and lowly in heart."

"with God all things are possible."  "Despite His magnificent abilities and accomplishments, the Savior was always meek and humble."

"It is almost impossible to be lifted up in pride when our hearts are filled with charity."  "We discover humility by thinking less about ourselves;"

"...We are tools in the hands of God."  "...let us follow the example of our Savior and reach out to serve..."

Elder Henry B. Eyring:  "Trust in that Spirit which Leadeth to Do Good," April 2016

"When our faith in Jesus Christ leads us to qualify for the joy of His forgiveness, we feel a desire to serve others for Him.  King Benjamin taught that forgiveness is not accomplished in a single moment." 

"Alma's great companion Amulek also taught the truth that we must continue in our service to Him to retain forgiveness..."

Be Thou Humble by Steven E Snow

"Humility enables us to be better parents, sons and daughters, husbands and wives, neighbors and friends."
Ether 12:27, "And if men come unto me I will show unto them their ^aweakness. I ^bgive unto men weakness that they may be humble; and my ^cgrace is sufficient for all men that ^dhumble themselves before me; for if they humble themselves before me, and have faith in me, then will I make ^eweak things become strong unto them."

"We must all strive to become more humble. Humility is essential to gain the blessings of the gospel. Humility enables us to have broken hearts when we sin or make mistakes and makes it possible for us to repent. Humility enables us to be better parents, sons and daughters, husbands and wives, neighbors and friends."

All of us look forward to exaltation, but before this can occur, we must persevere through what has been referred to as the “valley of humility.”<sup>8

I am grateful for prophets, like Alma, who have taught us the worth of this great attribute. Spencer W. Kimball, the 12th President of the Church, said: “How does one get humble? To me, one must constantly be reminded of his dependence. On whom dependent? On the Lord. How remind one’s self? By real, constant, worshipful, grateful prayer.”10 

It should come as no surprise that President Kimball’s favorite hymn was “I Need Thee Every Hour.”11 Elder Dallin H. Oaks reported that this was the most oft-sung opening hymn by the Brethren in the temple during his early years in the Quorum of the Twelve. He said, “Picture the spiritual impact of a handful of the Lord’s servants singing that song before praying for his guidance in fulfilling their mighty responsibilities.”12 

Humility (Family Home Evening)

Humility is a feeling that comes when we realize how much we depend on our Heavenly Father. We show humility by being teachable and by serving our fellowmen. Great blessings come to us when we are humble.

"...humility is: teachable, loving, dependent on the Lord, obedient to God, gracious. It is not: proud, arrogant, boastful, self-depreciating, weak, lacking confidence."

Mosiah 4:19 For behold, are we not all abeggars? Do we not all depend upon the same Being, even God, for all the substance which we have, for both food and raiment, and for gold, and for silver, and for all the riches which we have of every kind? 

"...real humility begins when we understand our true relationship to Heavenly Father. When we know that we owe everything to him, we realize that our achievements and possessions are not our own."

Point out that being humble does not mean denying our achievements. But it does mean acknowledging the source of our blessings. Challenge your family to develop a humble spirit by remembering that all good things in our lives come from Heavenly Father. 

 D&C 112:10 "Be thou ahumble; and the Lord thy God shall blead thee by the hand, and give thee answer to thy prayers."

D&C 136:32 Let him that is aignorant blearn cwisdom by dhumbling himself and calling upon the Lord his God, that his eeyes may be opened that he may see, and his ears opened that he may hear; 

D&C 67:10 "And again, verily I say unto you that it is your privilege, and a apromise I give unto you that have been ordained unto this ministry, that inasmuch as you bstrip yourselves from cjealousies and dfears, and ehumble yourselves before me, for ye are not sufficiently humble, the fveil shall be rent and you shall gsee me and know that I am—not with the carnal neither natural mind, but with the spiritual."

D&C 1:28, "And inasmuch as they were ahumble they might be made strong, and blessed from on high, and receive bknowledge from time to time."

3 Nephi 12:2, "And again, more blessed are they who shall abelieve in your words because that ye shall testify that ye have seen me, and that ye know that I am. Yea, blessed are they who shall bbelieve in your cwords, and dcome down into the depths of humility and be baptized, for they shall be visited ewith fire and with the Holy Ghost, and shall receive a remission of their sins."

Psalms 34:18, "The Lord is nigh unto them that are of a broken heart; and asaveth such as be bof a contrite spirit."

Isaiah 57:15, "For thus saith the high and lofty One that inhabiteth aeternity, whose name is bHoly; I dwell in the high and holy place, with him also that is of a ccontrite and dhumble spirit, to erevive the spirit of the fhumble, and to revive the heart of the contrite ones."

Mosiah 4:11, "And again I say unto you as I have said before, that as ye have come to the knowledge of the glory of God, or if ye have known of his goodness and have atasted of his love, and have received a bremission of your sins, which causeth such exceedingly great joy in your souls, even so I would that ye should remember, and always retain in remembrance, the greatness of God, and your own cnothingness, and his dgoodness and long-suffering towards you, unworthy creatures, and humble yourselves even in the depths of ehumility, fcalling on the name of the Lord daily, and standing gsteadfastly in the faith of that which is to come, which was spoken by the mouth of the angel."</sup>

A Child's Prayer

35395, Children's Songbook, My Heavenly Father, A Child's Prayer, 12–13

1. Heavenly Father, are you really there?
And do you hear and answer ev'ry child's prayer?
Some say that heaven is far away,
But I feel it close around me as I pray.
Heavenly Father, I remember now
Something that Jesus told disciples long ago:
"Suffer the children to come to me."
Father, in prayer I'm coming now to thee.

2. Pray, he is there;
Speak, he is list'ning.
You are his child;
His love now surrounds you.
He hears your prayer;
He loves the children.
Of such is the kingdom, the kingdom of heav'n.

Words and music: Janice Kapp Perry, b. 1938
© 1984 by Janice Kapp Perry. This song may be copied for incidental, noncommercial church or home use.
  
A Special Gift Is Kindness
35395, Children's Songbook, The Gospel, A Special Gift Is Kindness, 145

A special gift is kindness.
Such happiness it brings;
When I am kind to others,
My heart sings.

Words and music: Sharon Steed, b. 1935.
© 1969 IRI

Faith

35395, Children's Songbook, The Gospel, Faith, 96-97

1. Faith is knowing the sun will rise, lighting each new day.
Faith is knowing the Lord will hear my prayers each time I pray.
Faith is like a little seed:
If planted, it will grow.
Faith is a swelling within my heart.
When I do right, I know.

2. Faith is knowing I lived with God before my mortal birth.
Faith is knowing I can return when my life ends on earth.
Faith is trust in God above;
In Christ, who showed the way.
Faith is strengthened; I feel it grow
Whenever I obey.

Words: Beatrice Goff Jackson, b. 1943.
© 1978 IRI
Music: Michael Finlinson Moody, b. 1941.
© 1978 IRI

For Thy Bounteous Blessings

35395, Children's Songbook, My Heavenly Father, For Thy Bounteous Blessings, 21

(1) For thy bounteous blessings,
(2) For thy wondrous word,
(3) For thy loving kindness,
(4) We give thanks, O Lord.

Words: Lester Bucher
Music: Traditional melody; arr. by Vanja Y. Watkins, b. 1938. Arr.
© 1965 IRI

Help Me, Dear Father

35395, Children's Songbook, The Gospel, Help Me, Dear Father, 99

1. Help me, dear Father, to freely forgive
All who may seem unkind to me.

2. Help me, dear Father, to truly repent,
Making things right, and changing my ways.

Help me each day, Father, I pray;
Help me live nearer, nearer to thee.

Words and music: Frances K. Taylor, 1870–1952
Added text (verse 2)
© 1989 IRI

 

The Empowerment of Humility by Richard C. Edgley

The strength of the Church is in the millions of humble members striving every day to do the will of the Savior.

These companion virtues are the first critical steps to opening the doors to the blessings of God and the power of the priesthood. It matters not who we are or how lofty our credentials appear. Humility and submissiveness to the Lord, coupled with a grateful heart, are our strength and our hope.

To this end, the Savior is our supreme example of the power of humility and submissiveness. After all, His submitting His will to the Father brought about the greatest, and even the most powerful, event in all of history. Perhaps some of the most sacred words in all the scriptures are simply, “Not my will, but thine, be done” (Luke 22:42).

Elder Marlin K. Jensen "To Walk Humbly with Thy God"

True humility will inevitably lead us to say to God, “Thy will be done.”--Elder Marlin K. Jensen

Fortunately, the Savior has given us a model for developing humility. When His disciples approached Him and inquired, “Who is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven?” He responded by placing a little child in their midst and stating, “Whosoever … shall humble himself as this little child, the same is greatest in the kingdom of heaven.”⁴

 ^{And because what we are does affect what we do, our submissiveness will be reflected in our reverence, gratitude, and willingness to accept callings, counsel, and correction.}

^{The power of that response itself brings a feeling of humility. It reminds us that the greatest act of courage and love in the history of mankind—Christ’s atoning sacrifice—was also the greatest act of humility and submissiveness. Some may wonder if those seeking to become humble must forever defer to the strongly held opinions and positions of others. Certainly the Savior’s life evidences that true humility is anything but subservience, weakness, or servility.}

Imagine a world in which we would replace I as the dominant pronoun.

Think of the impact on the pursuit of knowledge if being learned without being arrogant were the norm.

Even more importantly, think of the role of humility in the process of repentance. Is it not humility, coupled with strong faith in Christ, that carries the transgressor to God in prayer, to the offended party in apology, and, where necessary, to his priesthood leader in confession?

I resonate to the English author John Ruskin’s memorable statement that “the first test of a truly great man is his humility.” He continued: “I do not mean, by humility, doubt of his own power. … [But really] great men … have a curious … feeling that … greatness is not in them, but through them. … And they see something Divine … in every other man …, and are endlessly, foolishly, incredibly merciful.”¹³ 

The Old Testament prophet Micah, like our living prophet, President Hinckley, was concerned about nurturing the development of humility. To his people he said, “He hath shewed thee, O man, what is good; and what doth the Lord require of thee, but to do justly, and to love mercy, and to walk humbly with thy God?”¹⁴

 

Temple Cleaning

To show humility, my husband and I cleaned the temple this past Friday night.  I was able to vacuum the Celestial Room.  It was a complete privilege to do so.  As I was vacuuming, I had a lot of time to think.  I thought about the people who would come the next day to the temple.  I thought about the woman that will go through the temple for the first time tomorrow.  I thought about the Savior:  what if all of a sudden I just felt a tap on my shoulder and turned around and there He was?  I thought about my effort.  Did I do a good enough job?  Was my service enough?  It was a blessing for my husband and I to serve together in the temple that night.  We were healthy enough to do so.  That in itself is a great blessing.

Our ward was supposed to provide 20 people.  Only 13 showed up.  Seven people went without a blessing that night.  Our bishop provided a great example.  He and his wife were both there.  He gives a lot of service, so for he and his wife to be there was a great sacrifice.  We gave service for about 2 1/2 hours.

Abide in My Love by Elder D. Todd Christofferson

"God's greater blessings are conditioned on obedience."
"Abiding in his love will enable us to obtain our full potential."
The final judgment is not just a sum total of good and evil deeds.

Helen Keller--1880 birth
19 months old - became both deaf and blind
Age 6 - outbursts daily, sometimes hourly
Ann Sullivan- age 5 cornea left her mostly blind.  Went to the Perkins School.
Operation helped her vision.
Won Helen's heart and trust.
"Trust our divine teacher."
W A T E R = wonderful
Everything had a name
Loved language, eloquence as a public speaker.

"Savior comprehends our great potential. .. Each of us can love and serve God."

"To atone for our sins...his suffering caused himself to tremble because of pain..."

Olive oil---crushed by rolling a large stone over them.
Olives were put in baskets upon baskets.  Oil is blood red as it first flows out.

Endured the agony until justice was satisfied to the very last drop.

"Will you not now return unto me...Blessed our those who come unto me"

"...receive all that he graciously offers you."

Goals

1.  Attend the temple weekly.
2.  Read the scriptures daily for at least 10 min.
3.  Pray morning and evening
4.  Have FHE
5.  Give service to at least one person daily..

Attending the Temple

I think that attending the temple is part of gaining humility.  I was grateful for the opportunity yesterday to attend the temple.  It was nice to be there. 

Look to the Book!  Look to the Lord!  Elder Gary E. Stephenson--The Book of Mormon is the keystone of our testimony, our spiritual strength.  Keystone of our religion. Keystone in our witness of Christ.  Keystone of our doctrine.

"As you strive to follow the teachings you find there, your joy will expand, your understanding will increase, and the answers you seek to the many challenges mortality presents will be opened to you. As you look to the book, you look to the Lord."--Elder Gary E. Stephenson

Disciple Preparation Plan

My plan is to become humble enough to listen to the whisperings of the Holy Spirit and learn what God would have me do in my life.

Humility Goals

I wanted to attend the temple weekly, but this past week and the week before hasn't been a good one.  Sunday night, last week, I became sick with the flu.  Tuesday, I started sneezing uncontrollably.  Friday, I finally went to the doctor and was prescribed an antibiotic.  Tuesday, this week I started vomiting because of the antibiotic, so I called the doctor and they prescribed a different antibiotic that I am currently taking.  Last night was the first time I actually went somewhere besides the grocery store.  I'm hoping to attend a sister's temple session tomorrow who is going through for the first time.  She is a beautiful woman and I love her testimony and her love for the gospel.

Gladys Knight and the Saints Unified Voices Choir

Last night, my husband and I attended the Saints Unified Voices Choir with Gladys Knight.  Can I just say it was amazing?  It was beautiful.  Her spirit is beautiful and she conveys love to everyone around her.  The beautiful voices were a real treat.  She is a wonderful person and is so genuine in her love for the Savior.  I'm glad my husband and I didn't miss this concert.  I learned a lot from their performance, but the most important thing I learned was to accept the Lord today, invite Him in your life today, not tomorrow.  The music was exhilarating--"His eye is on the sparrow", "Blessed Assurance," "Via Dolorosa," "I am a Child of God," and more.  She is a gift from God with her musical talent that spans generations.  If you ever have a chance to go to one of these concerts, please don't miss out!

Humility

The Lord will strengthen us as we humble ourselves before Him.  James taught:  "God resisteth the proud, but giveth grace unto the humble...Humble yourselves in the sight of the Lord, and he shall lift you up" (James 4:6, 10)

Proverbs 18:12 "Before destruction the heart of man is haughty, and before honour is humility."

2 Chronicles 7:14, "If my people, which are called by my name, shall humble themselves, and pray, and seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways; then will I hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin, and will heal their land."

https://www.lds.org/media-library/video/mormon-messages-2016?lang=eng

General Conference

What we were asked to do in conference:

1.  Know the Savior
2.  Follow Him
3.  Serve Him
4.  Pray to God with all the energy of heart...become purified
5.  Believe Him and his assurances
6.  Study and Feast on His word
7.  Receive the power of Godliness in our lives
8.  Give away all our sins to know Him
9.  Be perfected in Christ
10. Faith in the words of Christ
11.  Trust Him
12.  Become submissive to God's will
13.  Repent
14.  Become sanctified
15.  become like Christ
16.  Endure to the end
17.  Lay hold on every good thing
18.  apply the doctrine of Christ
19.  Recognize God's hand in our calling
20.  Ask the bishop, "How can I help?"
21.  Magnify your calling
22.  Serve your neighbor
23.  Become committed to Jesus Christ
24.  Hearken to the counsel of God
25.  Always remember the Savior
26.  Bless and lift others
27.  Keep the commandments
28.  Don't forget your heritage
29.  Be faithful
30. Abide by His teaching
31.  Be diligent parents
32.  Share spiritual experiences
33.  Seek that which will edify
34.  Record feelings of joy
35.  Do not forget your divine heritage
36.  Respond with faith
37.  Learn from afflictions
38. Be meek
39.  Come unto Christ
40.  Become one with the Savior
41.  Turn from sin
42.  Recognize the Savior's divinity
43.  Forsake our sins.

Developing humility

Disciple Preparation Plan-

1       Study the scriptures for the attribute of Humility.

2.     I want to know what Heavenly Father wants me to do.  I want to be a better person through humility.  I can find my weaknesses and try to make them strengths with this attribute.

3.      Attend the temple weekly.

4.      “Humility enables us to be better parents, sons and daughters, husbands and wives, neighbors and friends.”—Elder Steven E. Snow, April 2016 General Conference

5.      Read the scriptures daily.

6.      “Be thou humble; and the Lord thy God shall lead thee by the hand, and give thee answer to thy prayers.”  --D&C 112:10

7.      Listen carefully to others for instructions on how I can be a better person.

8.      Listen carefully to conference for instructions on how I can be a better person.  Follow those instructions.  Accept what I am told in humility and do what I am asked.

9.   Pray for help to develop this attribute of humility.

1   Watch children to see how humble they are.

1   Ether 12:27, “And if men come unto me I will show unto them their weakness.  I give unto men weakness that they may be humble; …for if they humble themselves before me, and have faith in me, then will I make weak things become strong unto them.”

1   The song, “Be Thou Humble” teaches pure and simple truths.  It teaches us that if we humble ourselves, our prayers are answered; we enjoy peace of mind; we serve more effectively in our callings; and, if we continue to be faithful, we will ultimately return to the presence of our Heavenly Father.

Humility Scriptures

JST, Colossians 2:22, "Which things have indeed a show of wisdom in will worship, and humility, and neglecting the body as to the satisfying the flesh, not in any honor to God.

Helaman 11:11, "Now, O Lord, because of this their humility wilt thou turn away thine anger, and let thine anger be appeased in the destruction of those wicked men whom thou hast already destroyed."

Proverbs 18:12, "Before destruction the heart of man is haughty, and before honour is humility."

Acts 20:19, "Serving the Lord with all humility of mind, and with many tears, and temptations, which befell me by the lying in wait of the Jews:

Proverbs 22:4  By humility and the fear of the Lord are riches, and honour, and life.

Doctrine and Covenants 19:30, "And thou shalt do it with all humility, trusting in me, reviling not against revilers."

Doctrine and Covenants 4:6, "Remember faith, virtue, knowledge, temperance, patience, brotherly kindness, godliness, charity, humility, diligence.

Proverbs 15:33, "The fear of the Lord is the instruction of wisdom; and before honour is humility.

Doctrine and Covenants 104:79, "And it is my will that you shall humble yourselves before me, and obtain this blessing by your diligence and humility and the prayer of faith.

4 Nephi 1:29, "And again, there was another church which denied the Christ; and they did persecute the true church of Christ, because of their humility and their belief in Christ; and they did despise them because of the many miracles which were wrought among them.

"Modesty is an opportunity to use our agency to witness to the world that we do keep sacred covenants and that we humbly and faithfully follow the Savior in all things,..."--Sister Carol F. McConkie

"When we hold our character to the light of the Son, He will show us the truth of who we are and correct our course so we can make adjustments to more accurately reflect His light."--Jennifer Brinkerhoff Platt, BYU assistant professor

As we seek daily to walk in the light of His love, we come to recognize Him, know Him, and pattern our lives after His works, while becoming worthy receptacles of His light."-- Jennifer Brinkerhoff Platt, BYU assistant professor

As we fill our hearts and homes with the Savior's light and truth, we will have the inner strength to withstand in every circumstance."-- Cheryl A. Esplin, 2nd Counselor in the Primary General Presidency

"Developing the ability to subdue the things of the earth begins with humility to recognize our human weakness and the power available to us..."

"To be humble is to recognize gratefully our dependence on the Lord--to understand that we have constant need for His support.  Humility is an acknowledgment that our talents and abilities are gifts from God.  It is not a sign of weakness, timidity, or fear; it is an indication that we know where our true strength lies.  We can be both humble and fearless.  We can be both humble and courageous."

"Jesus Christ is our greatest example of humility.  During His mortal ministry, He always acknowledged that His strength came because of His dependence on His Father.  He said:  "I can of mine own self do nothing...I seek not mine own will, but the will of the Father which sent me"--(John 6:30)

The Lord will strengthen us as we humble ourselves before Him.  James taught:  "God resisteth the proud, but giveth grace unto the humble. ...Humble yourselves in the sight of the Lord, and he shall lift you up."  (James 4:6, 10)