05 April 2014

My Faith

I recently participated in a Boy Scout-sponsored leadership training called Wood Badge. As a part of that, I made several goals, including a goal to post at least once weekly on a spiritual topic, which I would then share with others.

 I am an active, life-long member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. I attended Brigham Young University, owned and operated by the Church, and served a two-year mission at age 19, teaching the gospel primarily to the spanish-speaking people of San Diego and Imperial Counties.

A unique aspect of my Church is our belief that God has called and operates His Church through living prophets. We believe that our Church is led by a prophet, Thomas S. Monson, a man who receives guidance and revelation from God. Additionally, we believe that each of us can receive personal revelation and guidance from God. The Book of James says the following:

If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally and upbraideth not, and it shall be given him (James 1:5).
Twice a year we forgo our normal Church services to listen to our prophet and other Church leaders in an event called General Conference. It is a helpful opportunity to check our personal conduct against the counsel that we think that our Heavenly Father wants us to hear.

I believe that the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day is led by a prophet of God. I have felt the fruits of the Holy Spirit (Galatians 5:22) as I have listened to his words, and that and other spiritual witnesses have given me a firm testimony that my participation in this Church is consistent with God's will for me. I encourage any who are curious to listen to the messages of General Conference and consider what is said. I am glad to discuss it with any who are interested.

3 comments:

Unknown said...

Amen, brother! Preach on!

Anonymous said...

Will be looking forward to future posts Joe!

Unknown said...

Thank you, son, for your uplifting words and your testimony. I am blessed to be your mother!