Aug 10, 2014

Let Your Faith Show

Let Your Faith Show
by Elder Russell M. Nelson

Elder Nelson's talk reminded me a little of the talk "Dare to Stand Alone" that President Monson gave in October of 2011.  Both talks admonish us to stand up for what we believe in- even if we have to stand alone.

"One of the realities of mortal life is that our faith will be tested and challenged."
What will we do when that time comes?  Will we have to courage to let our faith show?

"The temptation to be popular may prioritize public opinion above the word of God. . .Even if "everyone is doing it," wrong is never right.  Evil, error, and darkness will never be truth, even if popular."

Awhile ago, I was invited to go to dinner with a group of girls from my new ward.  I was excited to be included and wanted to make a good impression and hopefully some new friends.  Dinner was going great until some of the girls started talking about how they felt some of the things the Church teaches were too strict and not right.  My stomach dropped.  I knew what they were saying wasn't right, but did I have the guts to stand up for my beliefs and possibly offend them?  I was nervous and scared, but I knew I had to say something. 

Quoting President Monson, Elder Nelson says:
"Of course we will fave fear, experience ridicule, and meet opposition.  Let us have the courage to defy the consensus, the courage to stand for principle.  Courage, not compromise, brings the smile of God's approval. . . Remember that all men have their fears, but those who face their fears with [faith] have courage as well."

 I was able to tell these girl's my view and why I felt that way. I don't know if it made any difference, but I felt better knowing I had let my faith show and had taken a stand.

"Spiritual truth cannot be ignored- especially divine commandments.  Keeping divine commandments brings blessings, every time!  Breaking divine commandments brings a loss of blessings, every time!"

So, how do we go about letting our faith show?
". . . Living the Lord's pure religion, which means striving to become a true disciple of Jesus Christ, is a way of life and a daily commitment that will provide guidance.  As you practice your religion, you are exercising your faith.  You are letting your faith show."

Elder Nelson suggests that "the scriptures provide one of the best ways to find our course and stay on it.  . .We can gain great knowledge from the scriptures and obtain inspiration through prayers of faith.  Doing so will help us as we make daily decisions. . . In dealing with controversial issues, we should first search for God's guidance."

Never be afraid to LET YOUR FAITH SHOW!
"Day after day, on your path toward your eternal destiny, increase your faith.  Proclaim your faith!  Let your faith show!"

Next Week's Talk:
I Have Given You an Example
by Elder Richard G. Scott

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