A TESTIMONY of ACTION

If there’s one thing that I’ve found over this semester, it’s that the gospel of Jesus Christ is one that requires participation.  It’s one that will bring great joy and happiness, but it does not come by simply floating along, waiting for good things to come your way.  Faith requires action!  With my testimony, I may have great faith that the Atonement provides great blessings and offers eternal life for all that will be partakers of its redeeming grace, but unless I do my part to repent of my sins and change my ways, my knowledge and testimony is essentially useless.  Our testimonies of the principles of the gospel of Jesus Christ should call us to action; they should call us to make changes in our lives to become better people, better disciples and followers of Jesus Christ.

With the thoughts and teachings that I have come across through my search for inspirational quotes, I have also come to develop ten action statements that I hope to improve upon in my life:

1.  I will treat my family as the eternal family that we hope to become.  I will remember their individual value and try to see them as the Lord sees them.
2. I will take full advantage of the principles of the Atonement and apply them in my life.  I will not let our Savior’s sacrifice be in vain; I will use this life to prepare to meet my Father in Heaven.
3.  I will remember that each trial that comes is an opportunity to better myself. Choice is sealed by action.  My agency is a gift from God, and I will remember that I am responsible for the results of my choices.
4.  I will use these precious years of childhood to instill important values in my children.  Motherhood is the most important role that I will ever have, and I need to make sure that the use of my time reflects that. 
5. If I can ever hope for forgiveness of my imperfections, I must first be willing to forgive the imperfections and mistakes of others, even when they cause me great hurt and pain. Our Savior does not ruminate, he lovingly and willingly forgives. I am trying to follow the example of the Savior, and as difficult as it may be, he makes it easier for me. In this aspect, He truly takes my yoke upon Him and makes my burden light. 
6.  I will follow Elder Eyring’s advice to husbands and wives to help my marriage stay strong, ““Pray for the love which allows you to see the good in your companion. Pray for the love that makes weaknesses and mistakes seem small.” 
7.  I will turn to my Father in Heaven in meaningful prayer both day and night.  I will remember to express gratitude, ask for needed help and guidance, and pray for others.
8.  I will sound the alarms and raise my guard, fortify my family, and protect our homes from the deadly disease of pornography.
9. I will only participate in activities that will invite the Holy Ghost as my constant companion.
10. I will show my gratitude to our forefathers by feasting upon the words of Christ.  I will take the time to read my scriptures each day.