You Can Make the Pathway Bright

You Can Make The Pathway Bright

New Year's Eve is coming! The last year comes to an end, and the new begins. With a new year, we can find hope and optimism through faith in Christ. We can set new goals and plans for a brighter future. In D&C 1:12, the Lord commands us to "prepare..for that which is to come..." Although this was spoken and recorded nearly 200 years ago, that space of time is small in the eyes of God, and His words are just as pertinent for us today. D&C1:17 says, "Wherefore, I the Lord, knowing the calamity which should come upon the inhabitants of the earth, called upon my servant, Joseph Smith Jun., and spake unto him from heaven, and gave him commandments.." He knows what we're going through and He knows what is ahead of us. He has given us counsel and commandments to prepare us and lead us through all of this. Some words of encouragement He gives are, "And inasmuch as they sought wisdom they might be instructed;" "And inasmuch as they were humble they might be made strong and blessed from on high, and receive knowledge from time to time." ..."And also to those whom these commandments were given, might have power..." Now that verse, I feel was originally referring to Joseph Smith and the apostles then to lay the foundation of the church. I found encouragement though when taking it with personal application, in the sense, that Christ has given commandments for me (us all) to follow, and as I (we) follow them with faith, He will give me (us) strength to overcome the adversary; to overcome the turbulence of the world; to overcome personal weaknesses and challenges; and to grow strong! I find great encouragement for the future! President Gordon B. Hinkley once said, "Life is to be enjoyed, not just endured!" Which is exactly what I believe! Let us take from the Gospel of Christ, hope, love, charity, light, and JOY along our path this coming year. Let Christ bring sunshine into your heart which can "change the night to day" and lighten your burdens. I hope we can all feel His love and light and choose to follow Him and receive all the joy He has to offer each one of us! With Love, Jillene Smith