Devotion

There are many benefits to serving in Asia's Church Administration building, one of which is the weekly devotionals all of the missionary couples and staff attend and at which a member of the area presidency speaks once a month. Tuesday, October 19th, in addition to being Drew's 26th birthday (happy birthday, Drew!!!), was  Elder Carl Pratt's turn as the devotional speaker. He showed several clips from the most recent General Conference in a PowerPoint presentation, outlining how stories are a great way to teach principles and doctrine. Some of the stories he spotlighted were the one about how the cow broke through the fence to get to the wheat, not realizing that the fence was there for her protection, and how fishing flies were hand-crafted to fool fish into biting hooks disguised as insects. It was a good overview of the stories of Conference and a privilege to hear a General Authority speak to a small group. 


We realized that we have been feeling the Holy Ghost more frequently since we entered the MTC, which is logical since we are devoting our time and interests to serving. We feel noticeably more positive and hopeful, willing to help, not as bothered by inconveniences or problems, and our thoughts are somehow more clear. It brings to mind President Ezra Taft Benson's quote: 


"Men and women who turn their lives over to God will discover that He can make a lot more out of their lives than they can. He will deepen their joys, expand their vision, quicken their minds, strengthen their muscles, lift their spirits, multiply their blessings, increase their opportunities, comfort their souls, raise up friends, and pour out peace. Whoever will lose his life in the service of God will find eternal life."