Testimony

It is our ward's Fast Sunday tomorrow. I usually don't get up to bear my testimony at church because it makes me really nervous (and also because I usually cry). So I often think that I should type out my testimony on here, but that thought occurs during sacrament meeting, and I end up forgetting about it before I even get home. But I remembered tonight so I'm doing it now before I forget again.

I am so grateful for the gospel, and for the strength and blessing it brings to me. I know it sounds cliche to say that, but it's so true. Life is pretty hard right now, and maybe because today was particularly challenging (I felt like breaking down in tears on multiple occasions), but I know that with the strength of the Lord, I can continue to press forward and make it through. I notice a difference when I make an effort to make the gospel more a part of my life. Life doesn't magically get easier, but I'm able to be a little more patient and make it through each day. 

Heavenly Father knows us and has a plan for us. I can look back in my life and see His hand guiding me and my family. I trust that the struggles we face now will ultimately be for our good and benefit, even if I can't see how right now.

Yesterday I was reading in John chapter 9. Verse 5 says "As long as I am in the world, I am the light of the world." I was thinking about that and then re-read the verse as "As long as I am in [your life], I am the light of [your life]." If we allow God and Jesus Christ into our lives, they are able to light up our lives (and in turn we can share that light with others). Not matter our circumstances the Lord's light can always be with us to bear us up, and make our burdens light.

I say these things in the name of Jesus Christ, amen.