Power of Prayer should never be underestimated

"And I said unto them: Have ye inquired of the Lord?"

1 Nephi 15:8

This simple yet profound question has meaning for every child of God. It is through prayer that we receive comfort in times of sorrow and loss, answers to life's puzzling and often painful dilemmas, courage to face challenges that would be otherwise overwhelming and insurmountable, and the priceless gift of a testimony of our Savior's love and of the precious truths of His gospel.

At times we may wonder whether He is there and listening. This poignant question is echoed in a Primary song, and it carries with a resounding answer. Yes, He is there. The Savior reassures us of this eternal truth. "Pray always, and I will pour out my spirit upon you, and great shall be your blessing-- yea, even more than if you should obtain treasures of earth" (D&C 19:38)

In a church hymn we sing: Ere you left your room this morning. Did you think to pray? That's the first thing you should do when you wake up in the morning and ask for Heavenly Father's guidance throughout your day. Call upon his name at all times and for all things--morning, midday, and evening prayers for the successful daily operation of our households; for protection from our enemies and the adversary; for prosperity in our professions and occupations; for well-being for ourselves, our families, and our friends; and for mercy for our wrongdoings and shortcomings. 

The power of prayer should never be underestimated, and the power of the prayer of a righteous woman is awe inspiring. Her petitions in behalf of her loved ones bring answers and blessings worthy of note. And the sweet assurance found in Doctrine and Covenants 112:10 is a promise that all--men, women, and children alike--can claim: "Be thou humble; and the Lord thy God shall lead thee by the hand, and give thee answer to thy prayers"

A simple prayer can change your life or someone else's life.

Love,

Trish

Obedience to the Lord

"And it came to pass that I, Nephi, said unto my father: I will go and do the things which the Lord hath commanded, for I know that the Lord giveth no commandments unto the children of men, save he shall prepare a way for them that they may accomplish the thing which he commandeth them."

1 Nephi 3:7

In this simple declaration of faith and obedience, we hear no hesitation, no doubt, no expression of fear, no murmuring about the difficulty of the commandment. Rather, we hear an affirmation of faith and a positive plan of action, the key to which involves the words go and do. Whatever the Lord asks of us, He expects us to be up and doing. While our own personal tests of obedience may not involve traversing a rough and difficult terrain fraught with physical dangers, they do require us to keep putting one faithful foot in front of the other, trusting in the promises of the Lord.

Today, I did baptisms at the Salt Lake Temple after a few weeks of not doing it. I felt so inspired to go and I just couldn't understand all the enthusiasm that the spirit kept on giving me. So I went with friends: Stevie Fox and Monica Cedeno. As we were making our way to the font I asked both the girls to go in front of me. I prayed silently in my heart to help bless the lives of these souls that I was doing service for. Finally, during the baptisms I paid attention to the Last names because I always want to know where these people were from. They were from Mexico and Spain... Later, I read my Last Name and heard it as this Man was baptizing me. I felt the spirit so strong once again, as if these people could be my ancestors. I absolutely was thrilled beyond reason because the Angels rejoiced today as I did the work that the Lord would have me do.

Rather than being restrictive, the principle of obedience affords us greater freedoms. We bask in the Lord's promise of eternal safety and peace, and our spirits are continually refreshed by His rich shower of blessings.

When we reach out to the Lord and endeavor to keep His commandments, we are rewarded beyond our greatest expectations--not necessarily with worldly goods, but with peace, comfort, and the reassuring knowledge of God's love and concern. For every step we are willing to take toward our Savior, He gladly meets us more than halfway. This reassurance is found time and again in the scriptures. In our day we are told, "Be faithful and diligent in keeping the commandments of God, and I will encircle thee in the arms of my love." (D&C 6:20)

Today, I bought two books. One is written by Sheri Dew, my favorite author and it's called No One Can Take Your Place and the other one is called 100 favorite verses From the Book of Mormon. Both are really amazing books and I've been so inspired to read them all day. 

Today, marks the first day of WINTER for UTAH! It snowed and I've been listening to Christmas Music! I love this!

I hope you all had a fantastic day!

Love, 

Trish