Real Power

I recognized a great truth recently.....

Our testimony meeting at Girls Camp was yet another strong reminder of the common insecurities that most people, young and old, feel in their lives. Even the July New Era had an article about a young man with similar overwelming loneliness and insecurity. Many members of our ward struggle with these same feelings. In the article, the answer to his feelings of inadequacy came from something Ben's MTC missionaries have realized and put into practice. PERSONAL spiritual habits like prayer and scripture reading can bring answers, strength and power. Ben shared with us about how several of the missionaries had testified of overwelming witness and change of heart that came through personal spiritual wrestling.


When I visited my dear Stake Young Women friends in Park City, I was amazed at the power and energy I felt when I was with them. I felt the same power in our Jeremy Ranch ward. It was real power--strength in righteousness, strength in the Spirit, power in the priesthood. I was overcome with love and power.


When I am in Montreal, I feel great love among our members, but I don't feel that intense spiritual power. I think what is missing is that personal strength and power from personal spiritual habits--prayer, scripture study, temple attendance--really personalizing the gospel. The members are seeking answers from others, from the Bishop, from the leaders. They overlook the personal responsibility that comes with spiritual growth.

At Family Home Evening, I challenged our family to keep up with the basics of family and personal strength so that our faith and testimonies have power to withstand the struggles we will face.