General Conference

This is an interesting time. It seems like following conference, there's people who find ways to critique and find what was "missing" or find those points that don't coincide with their own understanding.

That's fine. But, it seems those people miss out on something so uplifting and inspiring.

Referring to the scriptures, Nephi said, "I did liken all scriptures unto us, that it might be for our profit and learning." (1 Nephi 19:23).

I try to approach conference the same way. What can I liken and apply to myself, for my profit and learning. In other words, how can I repent and be a better instrument in the hands of the Lord. I've listed just a couple of questions that I liken to myself:

1. President Monson shared stories of receving a prompting and acting immediately. How often do I look for those whispering's? Am I living quietly in a way in which I can hear those promptings when they come? Do I respond immediately and act on them?
        -- What would our church be like if everyone listened and responded immediately to direction from the Spirit?

2. What type of spiritual leader am I in the home? Do I lead the family in some of the outward expressions of the Gospel such as scripture study, FHE, prayer, etc.? More importantly, do I work with my Wife to lead with love and kindness in the home? Have I sought the Lord to have him reveal the potential of our children, he certainly sees them in a different way than I do?

3. Regarding Church Service. Do I serve as I've committed to serve? How can I help the young men and others become fully converted to the GOSPEL?

4. Elder Holland.  When was the last time I shared my testimony or feelings about the gospel with someone outside the church? How often do I go "back to my fishing nets" rather than focus on our true mission?

There are numerous other opportunities for revelation and inspiration as we reflect on how we could be better servants to our Master. There will always be opportunities to find faults and "pick' at others - we'll find what we search for!

I'm grateful for a weekend of reflection, a weekend which allows us to recommit to the Savior, and a weekend that inspires me to be a better person. I personally walked away with several specific things in which I can do and act on now. I love the gospel and the organization of the church, despite its imperfections and the weakness of man!