I want to get this blog going again. Actually... I feel that I need to get it going again. Last year, I attempted to share my testimony daily. I got through the first month, then ran out. I posted a couple more times, but eventually life took over, and I stopped posting.
I guess I should update some. I recently was called to be the Elder's quorum president in my ward. This calling absolutely terrifies me, as I don't feel like I measure up to what a Elder's quorum president should be. I feel like I struggle more than most would, and that I'm not really the best for this set of responsibilities, however, I feel that God truly did call me to do this, and I am working to trust in His hand, and follow His will as I struggle to balance life and this calling.
Now for the purpose of this post. I was in Ward Council this morning (a meeting where the leaders of my local church group meet to discuss the needs of our community), and we were discussing an activity that is happening in a few weeks, where testimonies of The Book of Mormon will be shared. Every member of the ward council has been asked to contribute our testimonies. I haven't done that yet. As I considered my testimony, I remembered this blog, and felt impressed that I need to start blogging again. However, it would be a good thing to mostly post about my studies in The Book of Mormon. I realized that there are many times where I read, and learn something that is either new to me, or I have understood differently than previous times that I read The Book. I also realized that I understand and love parts that others often say are confusing, hard to understand, or they are unsure why they are present in The Book of Mormon. Now, I don't know if people are just being humble, modest, or making jokes, but I really don't think that Isaiah is that hard to understand. The "war chapters" in Alma are essential to know and understand. Ether may be short and tragic, but it has direct repercussions to our day. The historical accounts are important, but even more so are the spiritual messages contained in them. As a result, I'm going to post what I learn daily on my blog. Today, I'm starting with my testimony:
I believe in the power of The Book of Mormon. It is the most important book in existence, and has the power to change lives more deeply and effectively than any behavioral program. The effects of reading and studying this book are both felt immediately and cumulatively throughout your life. Daily study is the best application of this wonderful book, but even starting small with weekly study will lift and benefit anyone. I testify that as you read the Book of Mormon, you will grow closer to God. As you do, repentance becomes more natural, the spirit will be more abundantly present, and even if life doesn't get easier, there will be more hope. I testify in the name of Jesus Christ, amen.
