Thursday, January 11, 2018

It was a long day and was very busy.  The weather is proving the warm temperature forecast to be true and it felt wonderful outside although it is a little rainy. 

First Timothy 4:12 was used in the closing remarks at our preparation meeting this afternoon and I really liked it.  “. . . be thou an example of the believers, in word, in conversation, in charity, in spirit, in faith, in purity.”  Following this counsel with diligence will be a blessing in our lives, and can bring about a change of heart that will lead us to be true disciples of Jesus Christ.  I love it, that it includes “in conversation.”  By holding our tongues, we can overcome the tendency to gossip, criticize, and speak ill of others. 

I remember a quote from a General Conference talk several years ago that so impressed me, “Your name will be safe in my home.”  We may be inclined to speak freely at home the negative thoughts that we wouldn’t say in public, but this statement precludes even those conversations at home that might be gossipy or critical.  Both of these quotes are a great refining activity that will bring us closer to our Savior and help us develop compassion and understanding and truly learn to love our fellowmen.