June 28, 2010

I am finishing the talk I began yesterday. Some of the things that I liked in this talk go along with what I read about in another magazine article today called The Compound Effect, which in essence, is the principle that it is by "small and simple means that great things are brought to pass." It takes a consistent effort, diligently over time, to change. These are the quotes from the talk I read. Although speaking of Priesthood duties, I feel like I can apply in my life as well.

"We are to learn our duty from the Lord, and then we are to act in all diligence, never being lazy or slothful. The pattern is simple but not easy to follow."

"When I find myself drawn away from my duties by other itnerests and when my body begs for rest, I give to myself this rallying cry: 'remember Him.'"

The pattern is consistent diligence, and true, that is simple, but it is not easy to do, especially since the results of our diligence are not seen right away like most things we are used to in this day and age. It helps me so much too, to "remember Him." In fact, truly when I am so tired and just want to go to sleep, that is what helps me to stay awake long enough to do this study. Remembering Him makes it easier and easier to maintain that pattern of consistent diligence and to not give in to weariness.

The last quote is counsel that Elder Eyring gives which I loved and am striving to follow: "Ponder deeply and diligently in the scriptures and in the words of the living prophets. Persist in prayer for the Holy Ghost to reveal to you the nature of God the Father and His Beloved Son. Plead that the Spirit will show you what the Lord wants you to do. Plan to do it. Promise Him to obey. Act with determination until you have done what He asked. And then pray to give thanks for the opportunity to serve and to know what you might do next."