Grace

Sometimes I find in my scripture study a gentle rebuke from the Lord, but at the same time renewed hope for the future. This morning was one of those studies. And honestly, I think I did need it. I am having a really hard time keeping up on my studies, and I really just want to be able to be the A student that I was before. I was pretty whiny in my prayer this morning with Heavenly Father, and this was his response:

4 That they should let no pride nor haughtiness disturb their peace; that every man should esteem his neighbor as himself, laboring with their own hands for their support.

5 Yea, and all their priests and teachers should labor with their own hands for their support, in all cases save it were in sickness, or in much want; and doing these things, they did abound in the grace of God.

I really love that I can turn to the Lord in prayer and receive direct answers from his words. I didn't realize I was being prideful, but that's exactly what was happening inside of me. Rather than asking to understand the plan that he had in store for me, I was feeling like a victim and wanting to decide my own path. I wasn't trusting the Lord's way.

I really love the focus on grace: "and in doing these things, they did abound in the grace of God." I've come to realize that grace is the only real way to be saved by the Lord, and my greatest hope is to believe in grace and allow it to shape the person I become. Now I realize that the formula is much simpler than I thought (and maybe wanted it to be).

I am reminded, again, that the Lord is not asking me for high marks, or perfect house keeping. He is asking me to walk the path ahead of me, one day at a time, one prayer at a time, and one spirit-filled moment at a time. He is asking me to work, to be humble, and to walk the path he gave me by faith.

I guess I was forgetting that it is such a blessing to be where I am, and that the Lord has beautiful things he wants me to do. Which is true for all of his children. He has a beautiful life and path for each of us. Grace is the way to my greatest successes and joys in life. In fact, it is the only way by which to achieve the best of my abilities. If I do nothing else in this life, I hope to be doing what it takes to have the power of God active in my life.