Mormon Musings

We cannot always do what we would like to do, but we shall have the power to do that which we should do. The Lord will give us the power to do this.  (Teachings of Presidents of the Church: Lorenzo Snow, Chapter 11: “I Seek Not Mine Own Will, but the Will of the Father”) We depend upon God; and in all our works and labors, and in all the success that attends us in our labors, we feel that it has been God who has wrought it.  (Teachings of Presidents of the Church: Lorenzo Snow, Chapter 11: “I Seek Not Mine Own Will, but the Will of the Father”) See also 1 Nephi 3:7

“When our days become dreary with low hovering clouds and our nights become darker than a thousand midnights, let us remember that … [God] is able to make a way out of no way, and transform dark yesterdays into bright tomorrows.” - The Papers of Martin Luther King, Jr.,  ed. Clayborne Carson (2007), 534; quoted in “The Refining Fire of Grief,  Ensign , Feb. 2013, 59

"The knowledge which we seek, the answers for which we yearn, and the strength which we desire today to meet the challenges of a complex and changing world can be ours when we willingly obey the Lord’s commandments." —Thomas S. Monson, " Obedience Brings Blessings "

“A man is saved no faster than he gains knowledge, for if he does not get knowledge, he will be brought into captivity by some evil power in the other world, as evil spirits will have more knowledge, and consequently more power than many men who are on the earth.  Hence it needs revelation to assist us, and give us knowledge of things of God.” Joseph Smith - History of the Church , 4:588

“As concerning the resurrection, I will merely say that all men will come from the grave as they lie down, whether old or young; there will not be ‘added unto their stature one cubit,’ neither taken from it; all will be raised by the power of God, having spirit in their bodies, and not blood.” Joseph Smith - Teachings of the Prophet Joseph Smith,  199-200

My brothers and sisters, the Lord’s purposes are often accomplished as we pay heed to the guidance of the Spirit. I believe that the more we act upon the inspiration and impressions which come to us, the more the Lord will entrust to us His errands... I never cease to be amazed by how the Lord can motivate and direct the length and breadth of His kingdom and yet have time to provide inspiration concerning one individual—or one cultural celebration or one Jumbotron. The fact that He can, that He does, is a testimony to me. President Thomas S. Monson, October 2012 General Conference  https://www.lds.org/general-conference/2012/10/consider-the-blessings?lang=eng

A testimony provides proper perspective, motivation, and a solid foundation on which to build a life of purpose and personal growth. It is a constant source of confidence, a true and faithful companion during good times and bad. A testimony provides us with a reason for hope and gladness. It helps us cultivate a spirit of optimism and happiness and enables us to rejoice in the beauties of nature. A testimony motivates us to choose the right at all times and in all circumstances. It motivates us to draw nearer to God, allowing Him to draw nearer to us (see  James 4:8 ). Our personal testimony is a protective shield, and like an iron rod it is guiding us safely through darkness and confusion. Nephi’s testimony gave him the courage to stand up and be counted as one who obeys the Lord. He did not murmur, doubt, or fear no matter what the circumstances. When times got tough he said, “I will go and do [what] the Lord [has] commanded, for I know that the Lord … shall prepare a way … [to