Week 75- Merry Christmas! #ShareTheGift

Random bird we found at our apartment complex!

My companion Elder Price & I 

(and some photo bombers)!

Merry Christmas!!

What a wonderful time of the year when so many more people in the world remember our Savior and his priceless gift to us--The Atonement.  As I've learned to more fully use that Gift, I've been able to feel more joy in my life.  I can testify confidently that God lives, that Jesus is the Christ and that They want the best for us. I can feel my Savior's love.  It amazes me how Heavenly Father can change us, when we do our best to have a Christlike character and help others around us. Truly remarkable!

Although serving in the Young Single Adults Stake is soooo different than serving in Family Stakes, I am LOVING it!! We cover 4 wards. Our area goes up to the University of Utah Campus, so we cover two student wards!  Our area also reaches down to 40th South in SLC, which is about 20 blocks out of the mission boundaries!  But we are given permission to go because two of our YSA wards meet down there :)  It's so much fun!  We are teaching quite a few people.  Liz is an investigator from Vietnam.  Aubreyis an investigator from Maine. Darius is a recent convert from Chicago!  And there many more!  We were able go with a recent convert to the Salt Lake Temple to watch her do Baptisms for the Dead for the first time!  We were able to do confirmations and be the witnesses for the baptisms :)  I love being able to meet new people and for the opportunity that I have to bear my testimony so frequently. I love the mission!

My mission President, President Hansen!

This past week we had our Mission Christmas Party. President Hansen (Mission President) shared a story once told by President Hinckley that I wish to share with you, because it touched my heart.  If you have just a second to read it, please do.  I promise you won't be disappointed.

“Years ago there was a little one-room schoolhouse in the mountains of Virginia where the boys were so rough that no teacher had been able to handle them.

“A young, inexperienced teacher applied, and the old director scanned him and asked: ‘Young fellow, do you know that you are asking for an awful beating? Every teacher that we have had here for years has had to take one.’

“‘I will risk it,’ he replied.

“The first day of school came, and the teacher appeared for duty. One big fellow named Tom whispered: ‘I won’t need any help with this one. I can lick him myself.’

“The teacher said, ‘Good morning, boys, we have come to conduct school.’ They yelled and made fun at the top of their voices. ‘Now, I want a good school, but I confess that I do not know how unless you help me. Suppose we have a few rules. You tell me, and I will write them on the blackboard.’

“One fellow yelled, ‘No stealing!’ Another yelled, ‘On time.’ Finally, ten rules appeared on the blackboard.

“‘Now,’ said the teacher, ‘a law is not good unless there is a penalty attached. What shall we do with one who breaks the rules?’

“‘Beat him across the back ten times without his coat on,’ came the response from the class.

“‘That is pretty severe, boys. Are you sure that you are ready to stand by it?’ Another yelled, ‘I second the motion,’ and the teacher said, ‘All right, we will live by them! Class, come to order!’

“In a day or so, ‘Big Tom’ found that his lunch had been stolen. The thief was located—a little hungry fellow, about ten years old. ‘We have found the thief and he must be punished according to your rule—ten stripes across the back. Jim, come up here!’ the teacher said.

“The little fellow, trembling, came up slowly with a big coat fastened up to his neck and pleaded, ‘Teacher, you can lick me as hard as you like, but please, don’t take my coat off!’

“‘Take your coat off,’ the teacher said. ‘You helped make the rules!’

“‘Oh, teacher, don’t make me!’ He began to unbutton, and what did the teacher see? The boy had no shirt on, and revealed a bony little crippled body.

“‘How can I whip this child?’ he thought. ‘But I must, I must do something if I am to keep this school.’ Everything was quiet as death.

“‘How come you aren’t wearing a shirt, Jim?’

“He replied, ‘My father died and my mother is very poor. I have only one shirt and she is washing it today, and I wore my brother’s big coat to keep me warm.’

“The teacher, with rod in hand, hesitated. Just then ‘Big Tom’ jumped to his feet and said, ‘Teacher, if you don’t object, I will take Jim’s licking for him.’

“‘Very well, there is a certain law that one can become a substitute for another. Are you all agreed?’

“Off came Tom’s coat, and after five strokes the rod broke! The teacher bowed his head in his hands and thought, ‘How can I finish this awful task?’ Then he heard the class sobbing, and what did he see? Little Jim had reached up and caught Tom with both arms around his neck. ‘Tom, I’m sorry that I stole your lunch, but I was awful hungry. Tom, I will love you till I die for taking my licking for me! Yes, I will love you forever!’”

To lift a phrase from this simple story, Jesus, my Redeemer, has taken “my licking for me” and yours for you."

This story brought quiet tears to my eyes as I thought back to the times when I have so fully depended on Christ to take away my shame and guilt for my mistakes. I have felt the enabling power of the Atonement--the cleansing power.  I cannot accurately describe it to you in words. How merciful our Redeemer is, to take our "licking" for us.  I am eternally indebted to Him.  I know I must devote my life to serving and following Him.  It is the least I can do.

We recently watched a video series by Elder Christofferson called "Daily Bread". He outlines the importance of daily scripture study, prayer, and other simple yet essential things to help us keep on track to joy in this life, and on the road back to our Heavenly Father.  If you haven't (or if you have) seen these three, 3-minute videos, I invite you to watch them (again)!

Daily Bread: Pattern

 Daily Bread: Experience

Daily Bread: Change

So many great things are happening. Life is good. I wouldn't ask to be anywhere other than here in the Utah Salt Lake City Mission. The Lord is good. I hope you have a very merry Christmas and that all is well! Stay close to the Lord and I promise He'll bless you!! :)

#ShareTheGift #HeIsTheGift

Love,

Elder Carroll

My favorite quote this week...

"As I walk daily here on earth,

Give me thy Spirit as I seek

A change of heart, another birth,

And grow, dear Lord, to be like thee." - With Humble Heart (Hymn 171 v. 4)

WEEK 74- Things Erda,Utah Has Taught Me!

Heeeellloooo!!

First things first. Got a call from the Mission President yesterday and he informed us that both Elder Burt and I will be getting transferred this Tuesday! They are combining 2 zones into 1 and so a lot of things are getting switched around. I'm headed to downtown Salt Lake to serve in the Pioneer YSA stake! I'm sad to leave Erda and the many friends I've met here, but I'm excited to see who and what the Lord has prepared in Salt Lake City!

I have learned so much over the past few months here in good ol' Erda. Here's a few of them:

1.) You can never have enough property to live on.

2.) How to castrate cows.

3.) Steak is the best meal a farmer has to offer.

4.) How to harvest honey from over 100 live bee hives.

5.) Many hands make light work.

6.)Farmers be packin'.

And now for more of the spiritual lessons learned:

1.) Patience is a virtue.

2.) We must care about others needs before our own. Turn outwards rather than inwards.

3.) The Lord is willing to give if we are willing to act.

4.) We must work hard to bring our standards/will up to God's, not the other way around. That's called apostasy.

5.) God is very aware of all of His children and their circumstances/needs.

6.) God knows what we need better than we do.

7.) We must always "stand in holy places and not be moved" (D&C 45). The second we put our guard down, the adversary can jump in. And he will.

8.) We must do all we can to keep our faith strong. Satan feeds on doubts. CPR.

9.) We as members have an ultimate duty to do all we can to help the missionary work move along in our wards. It's the only way.

10.) There is nothing the Atonement can't handle.

I love the mission and what the Lord and His Gospel have to offer. The Gospel is very true, therefor, very important that we do all we can to learn of it and of Him. We'll all be much better off, I promise.

I know Jesus is the Christ and salvation is gained through, and only through, Him.

Love,

Elder Carroll

My favorite scripture this week-"Wherefore, the Lord God gave unto man that he should act for himself." (2 Nephi 2:16)

Write me at:

Elder Hayden Carroll

1535 S. Edison St.

SLC, UT 84115

WEEK 73- What Does The Gospel Have to Offer Us?

DECEMBER 8, 2014

SALT LAKE CITY TEMPLE pumpkin carving!

Our ZONE!!

People in Erda, love their guns!

Hey!!

I am eternally grateful for this marvelous opportunity that our loving Father in Heaven has given me to serve Him and His children full time here in the field.  My experiences have shown me many things.  I know what I want in life.  I know what can bring true and everlasting happiness.  I know what can happen when we start to think that we know better than God.  Being able to talk to so many different people and see all of their different viewpoints, I now see things in a different light than I ever have before!  Some of the things I've seen and learned hadn’t even crossed my mind before.  I'm grateful for the Gospel of Jesus Christ and all that comes with it.

So what does the Gospel of Jesus Christ have to offer us?  Well just to name a few... Salvation, joy, peace, comfort and knowledge, just to name a few!  Are these things that we as individuals want?  I don't know about you, but I crave them!!  What is this life for if I can't find joy in it? It is sad to come across individuals who don't believe or can’t see how the Gospel can bless them.   All we can do is invite, testify, promise blessings, and live so they can see the fruits of it.  The rest is up to them, if they truly wish to have these blessings.

Recently, we have come in contact with a family who, just a few months ago lost their 13 year old son to suicide :(  They are great and wonderful people, but have never taken the Gospel to heart or considered what it has to offer.  The father mentioned to us that he was an Atheist up until a few months ago, at the loss of his only son.  They are now meeting with us regularly and have so many questions such as… what will happen to their son since he never was taught the Gospel or will they be together after this life? They are turning to God in their time of need.  Please forgive me if this might sound harsh, but it's really sad that it took their own son passing away for them to believe in God.   If we only turn to God when we're in trouble, then we're already in trouble. The Atonement is real and it is never too late in this life to turn things around.   But it would be so much easier if we would only turn to him NOW rather than later or after a horrible tragedy occurring in our lives.

Elder Bednar once said:

"Can the spiritual strength that results from consistent obedience to the commandments be given to another person? Can the knowledge obtained through diligent study and pondering of the scriptures be conveyed to one who is in need? Can the peace the gospel brings to a faithful Latter-day Saint be transferred to an individual experiencing adversity or great challenge? The clear answer to each of these questions is no." (Converted Unto the Lord - Oct. 2012 General Conference)

If you haven't seen or read this talk, I invite you to do so. He outlines the vital importance of being converted for ourselves so that in time a need or tragedy, we will have something worthy to fall back on.

READ Elder Bednar's talk HERE!

WATCH THE VIDEO!

The Gospel has everything to offer us.  If only people would test it out and see for themselves, the blessings it has to offer.  I know the Gospel has these things to offer because I have seen it work firsthand.  I have witnessed  the divinity of the Gospel of Jesus Christ.   Joseph Smith saw what he said he saw and  I have no doubts of that!

Joseph Smith's First Vision of God & Jesus Christ

Hope all is well, stay close to the Lord.

Love,

Elder Carroll

My favorite scripture this week: Alma 36:24-25 (24) Yea, and from that time even until now, I have labored without ceasing, that I might bring souls unto repentance; that I might bring them to taste of the exceeding joy of which I did taste; that they might also be born of God, and be filled with the Holy Ghost.

(25) Yea, and now behold, O my son, the Lord doth give me exceedingly great joy in the fruit of my labors;

My favorite quote this week: 

"I need thee ev'ry hour;

Stay thou nearby.

Temptations lose their pow'r

When thou art nigh." (I Need Thee Every Hour - Hymn #98 v.2)

Week 72- HE is the GIFT! #ShareTheGift

Tagging, branding, and castrating cows!!  OUCH!

Hellooooooo!!

I am happy to say that I am still alive and well (and 15lbs heavier) after having FIVE Thanksgiving meals this past week!!  Life of a Utah Salt Lake City missionary! Haha  They take good care of us :)

Thanksgiving "card" from my family! lol

So now that Thanksgiving is over, we roll into the great season of CHRISTMAS! What a wonderful time of the year. The Spirit is more constantly in the air. Why? Because there is MORE Christ! Mas in Spanish means… more! Get it? Haha I thought it was pretty clever!

For this wonderful Christmas holiday, the Missionary Council of the Church (or the First Presidency and the 12) have put forth a HUGE initiative. If you haven't already seen anything about it (which I’m guessing isn't true), it's called "HE is the Gift.”  Emphasis on the HE.  Because CHRIST is the gift.  A gift that is given free to all of us, if we choose to accept it.  Christ is the whole reason we even have Christmas in the first place! So many people are forgetting that.  It is so easy to get wrapped up in the money, gifts, and shiny wrapping paper. We must remember Him!

The Church is doing so many things to get this initiative to as many people as possible, including buying a billboard in Times Square NYC for all of December, buying the YouTube headline advertisement for a day on December 7th, making an amazing video, and making hundreds of thousands of pass-along cards for missionaries and members to hand out to their friends and families! It's crazy!! 

If you haven't seen the video, you can watch here.  

Also visit HE is the GIFT mormon.org/christmas 

Once you have seen the video, please use all your Social Media to post, share, and invite others by using the hashtag #ShareTheGift   Spread the word!!! :) Social Media is going to be a huge game changer for the Hastening of the Work. The Lord is in charge and is taking things to the next level.  Prepare yourselves!

This past Sunday while sitting on the pews in church, I felt a little tug on my shirt and I turned to see a small boy who drew a picture of me on his paint app on his IPad.  He was so proud of it!  Just another great reminder that we as members of His church, are being watched constantly.  Our family and friends (whether we can tell or not) are always looking towards us as an example.  Let us continue to follow in the steps of our Savior and be a "light" unto the world.

A couple of days ago I was able to attend the Temple with a recent convert named Sandy.  She is from one of my last areas! She was baptized before I came into the area, so I had the privilege to work with her on some of the "New-member discussions."  I am so grateful for her and her desire to come closer to the Savior. The Temple is what it's all about!  It's how we "endure to the end". The Temple is the goal!

Sandy (in pink) and her family the Tadler Family!  

They are awesome!

"Because I have been blessed by thy great love, dear Lord,

 I’ll share thy love again, according to thy word.

 I shall give love to those in need;

 I’ll show that love by word and deed:

 Thus shall my thanks be thanks indeed." - Because I Have Been Given Much (Hymn 219)

"Because I Have Been Given Much" performed by Alex Boyé

What an awesome song!  We sang it this past Sunday and this verse really stood out to me.  We can find so much joy in serving others. We must always do our best to do as the Savior and turn outwards, rather than inwards in all situations.

Love you all! Keep up the good work. Hope you have a wonderful week. Stay close to the Lord and I promise he'll bless you.

~Elder Carroll

My favorite scripture this week: "And now, when I, Nephi, had heard these words, I remembered the words of the Lord which he spake unto me in the wilderness, saying that: Inasmuch as thy seed shall keep my commandments, they shall prosper in the land of promise." (1 Nephi 4:14)

Week 71- CHURCH, PRAY, READ!

NOVEMBER 24, 2014

Sheep herdin'!

 Road to Ibapah (South of Wendover)

Family & Friends,

Living life as a missionary has been the most wonderful, rewarding and personal growing experience that I have ever had in my entire life.  It has also been one of the most frustrating.

Just yesterday, we dropped our most progressing investigator, Brad. He has been keeping all of the commitments we extend and has been doing great. But he says he doesn't or hasn't felt a difference in when he keeps our invitations and when he doesn't.  He is a very logical thinker and says he feels good whenever we meet, but he doesn't think it's the Spirit.  So we decided to try an experiment.  We are not going to meet with him for the next 2 or 3 weeks, so he can see if he can tell a difference in his day-to-day life.  It's hard to tell someone you love that you can't come back for awhile, but the Spirit confirmed to us that it is necessary. Will keep you updated on Brad.

It is heart-breaking to have someone tell you straight to your face that they feel as if the Church has nothing to offer them.  It's even worse when these individual's used to be faithful, temple-going members, who once held respectable callings. Some of these people say that they are "too busy" to do what the Lord has asked. In my opinion, it’s a pathetic excuse.  The sad part is these people honestly really do feel as if they are too busy.  Satan is so smart!  He has so much experience.  He doesn't have to do hardly anything before we as weak mortals fall into his snares. The Lord will not ask us to do something unless we were given a way to accomplish it.  If we are too busy to do what the Lord asks, then we are too busy.

The title of this email is "Church, Pray, Read."  If there is one thing that I would plead with you to do, it would be these 3 simple things. If you are not doing your absolute best to attend all of your church meetings, I invite you to do so. If are currently not praying daily, I invite you to do so. If you are not doing your absolute best to read from His word every day, I invite you to repent and do so.

*CHURCH*

"And that thou mayest more fully keep thyself unspotted from the world, thou shalt go to the house of prayer and offer up thy sacraments upon my holy day; For verily this is a day appointed unto you to rest from your labors, and to pay thy devotions unto the Most High;" (D&C 59:9-10)

*PRAY*

"But behold, I say unto you that ye must pray always, and not faint; that ye must not perform any thing unto the Lord save in the first place ye shall pray unto the Father in the name of Christ, that he will consecrate thy performance unto thee, that thy performance may be for the welfare of thy soul." (2 Nephi 32:9)

*READ*

And now, my sons, I would that ye should remember to search [the scriptures] diligently, that ye may profit thereby; and I would that ye should keep the commandments of God, that ye may prosper in the land according to the promises which the Lord made unto our fathers." (Mosiah 1:6-7)

There's a reason why the Lord asks us to do these things. I can say that it's so we don't fall into Satan's traps.  It's so our testimonies and personal conversions will be strong enough to get us through life's trials.  If you are not actively keeping the Lord's commandments in doing these things, I plead and beg you to start.  I invite because I have seen firsthand what happens when these things cease. It isn't pretty or joyful.  It's misery.  Please do them!!

We have been having a great scripture study each week with a less-active member of the church. He shared this following passage with us this week:

"I am a part of the fellowship of the Unashamed. I have the Holy Spirit Power. The die has been cast. I have stepped over the line. The decision has been made. I am a disciple of Jesus Christ. I won't look back, let up, slow down, back away, or be still. My past is redeemed, my present makes sense, and my future is secure. I am finished and done with low living, sight walking, small planning, smooth knees, colorless dreams, tame visions, mundane talking, chintzy giving, and dwarfed goals.

I no longer need preeminence, prosperity, position, promotions, plaudits, or

popularity. I don't have to be right, first, tops, recognized, praised,

regarded, or rewarded. I now live by presence, learn by faith, love by

patience, lift by prayer, and labor by power.

My pace is set, my gait is fast, my goal is Heaven, my road is narrow, my

way is rough, my companions few, my Guide is reliable, my mission is clear.

I cannot be bought, compromised, deterred, lured away, turned back, diluted,

or delayed. I will not flinch in the face of sacrifice, hesitate in the

presence of adversity, negotiate at the table of the enemy, ponder at the

pool of popularity, or meander in the maze of

mediocrity.

I won't give up, back up, let up, or shut up until I've preached up, prayed

up, paid up, stored up, and stayed up for the cause of Christ. I am a

disciple of Jesus Christ. I must go until He returns, give until I drop,

preach until all know, and work until He comes.

And when He comes to get His own, He will have no problem recognizing me. My

colors will be clear for "I am not ashamed of the Gospel, because it is the

power of God for the salvation of everyone who believes.." (Romans 1:16)"

By Dr. Bob Moorehead

Are we this devoted to Christ? Should we be? How can we be? Here's a little hint... It all starts with Church, Pray, Read.

We must use the Atonement now, repent, and turn towards our Savior in every thought, word, and deed. There are truly no excuses. I can confidently testify that when we obey these simple commandments, we will have true joy in our life. I again invite you to do these things if you are not already, and promise you will be blessed for doing so.

I love this Gospel and I love our Savior. Without Him, none of this would be possible. We would all have to fulfill the demands of justice on our own, and trust me that wouldn't be fun. As we follow Him, and obey Him, we can access that grace. There is no other way. And in that I rejoice, for the opportunity I have to return and live with our Loving Heavenly Father, with my family forever.

Please stay close to the Lord and I promise He will bless you.

~Elder Carroll

Week 70 The Adventures of WENDOVER!

November 17, 2014

Hi Everyone!  Another great week in Paradise (aka The Mission Field)!!!

Rube Mine is Gold Hill, UT 

(Population: 4.. We literally tracted out the entire town :))

 Adventures of Wendover... 

A "hidden" Book of Mormon up on "Pride Rock" in Wendover that missionaries sign when they go out there. This (the Book of Mormon) is our main weapon in taking over all of Satan's temples. Don't ask about my apparel...I wasn't prepared to go on a hike at 6am in 20* weather, so I had to mix and match borrowed clothing! haha :)

The time I have left to serve the Lord full-time here in Utah, in the eternal perspective, is unfortunately so short.  I know I just have to make the most of it.   I'm even grateful for  the opportunity the Lord has given me to learn and grow as much as I have and to serve his children 24/7 for the past months.   So much joy, happiness  and self-growth comes out of serving others.  I love it!

This past week, I had the great opportunity of going with one of the District Leaders in the zone out on companion exchanges out to Wendover!   If you don't know where Wendover is, it's the most western side of the mission into Nevada.  Almost a 2 hour drive from all civilization! This is where people in Utah (because it's illegal) go to gamble.  There are 5 casinos in the small town of Wendover.

It's a very wicked place.  I noticed that all the casinos are open 24/7.  It made me think... If Satan's temples (casinos) are working restlessly, then there is no excuse for us to as well!  The feeling in Wendover is so weird and eerie.   The people who live in Wendover are either teachers at the local schools or work at the casinos.  They are slaves to the casinos.  They come from Mexico seeking work and then get stuck working 36 hours a week at 2 or 3 of the casinos.  They don't make enough to move away, so they are trapped.  Satan's main purpose is to tear us down to where he is.  He is miserable and wishes us to be eternally miserable as well.

"And thus we see that the devil will not support his children at the last day, but doth speedily drag them down to hell." (Alma 30:60)

He’s doing a pretty good job of this in Wendover.  His temples (casinos) are meant to tear families and individuals apart.  And they work very well.  It's so sad.

"Now the cause of this iniquity of the people was this—Satan had great power, unto the stirring up of the people to do all manner of iniquity, and to the puffing them up with pride, tempting them to seek for power, and authority, and riches, and the vain things of the world." (3 Nephi 6:15)

I've said it many times, and I'll say it again: The adversary has so much experience.  It would be such a mistake to underestimate him.  He is the father of all lies, all contention and all sin.

We can overcome him.  We can crush his head.  How?  Well, funny you should ask! Haha  It's a little something us missionaries like to call CPR! :) Church, Pray, Read. (The "primary answers")

"For there shall arise false Christs, and false prophets, and shall shew great signs and wonders; insomuch that, if it were possible, they shall deceive the very elect." (Matt. 24:24)

Since I've been here in Utah, I've run across a handful of those "elect" who have fallen away.  Former Relief Society Presidents, Young Men Presidents, Young Woman President, Primary Presidents.  Mostly all still great people, but who have totally been blinded by the "mist of darkness."

"And it came to pass that there arose a mist of darkness; yea,even an exceedingly great mist of darkness, insomuch that they who had commenced in the path did lose their way, that they wandered off and were lost." (1 Nephi 8:23)

While do they fall? Well usually is starts a lack of scripture study.  Then prayer ceases.  Then church meetings become less and less appealing.  Or any combination of that formula.  And usually some Anti-Mormon material gets studied within that time.  We must stay strong and steadfast in the in the faith. And remember that the adversary only wants to "speedily drag us down to hell."

This past week we have met a family who fosters kids.  They are currently fostering 3 boys.  All around ages 16-17. One from Mexico, one from Kongo, Africa and one from Afghanistan!  They are awesome! Francisco (from Mexico) is a baptized LDS member (not active), we are currently teaching Toto (from Africa), and Mosin (from Afghanistan) doesn't speak a lick of English so we're having to wait off on him. haha

"Know ye not that there are more nations than one? Know ye not that I, the Lord your God, have created all men, and that I remember those who are upon the isles of the sea; and that I rule in the heavens above and in the earth beneath; and I bring forth my word unto the children of men, yea, even upon all the nations of the earth?" (2 Nephi 29:7) It's true!

The Book of Mormon is the power in which we help others around us become truly converted unto the Lord and His Gospel.  Coming out in the field over a year ago, I thought I was so clever and smart.  I did all I could to learn the Bible and expected to convince people using the Bible.  Man was a mistaken.  The power to help others become converted is the Book of Mormon.  It has the FULLNESS of his everlasting Gospel and is the only way man can be led to Salvation at this time in man's existence.

"It is not just that the Book of Mormon teaches us truth, though it indeed does that.  It is not just that the Book of Mormon bears testimony of Christ, though it indeed does that, too.  But there is something more.  There is a power in the book which will begin to flow into your lives the moment you begin a serious study of the book.  You will find greater power to resist temptation.  You will find the power to avoid deception.  You will find the power to stay on the straight and narrow path.  The scriptures are called "the words of life" (D&C 84:85), and nowhere is that more true than it is of the Book of Mormon. When you begin to hunger and thirst after those words, you will find life in greater and greater abundance." -Ezra Taft Benson "Ensign", General Conference Issue Nov. 1986

If you have never read the Book of Mormon, or are not currently studying it daily, I invite you to do so. Your life will be easier.  Not because the challenges and struggles will be easier, but because you'll be stronger.  If we aren't willing to study the scripture and knowledge that our loving Father has already given, he sure as heck won't give us anymore!  It's so priceless.

I love this Gospel and will defend the word for the rest of my life. The benefits we are able to reap from this Gospel are to be found nowhere in the heavens or on earth.

Love,

~Elder Carroll

My favorite quote this week: "True Christianity is love in action." -David O. McKay

My favorite scripture this week: " Behold, God is my salvation; I will trust, and not be afraid; for the Lord Jehovah is my strength and my song; he also has be come my salvation. Sing unto the Lord; for he hath done excellent things; this is known in all the earth." (2 Nephi 22:2,5)

Week 69- Are We Willing To Pay The Price Of Obedience?

Hey!!!

We just got out of an always amazing session at the Salt Lake Temple!! I love the Temple!  It's because of the blessings of the Temple that families can be sealed together forever.  We must stay true and faithful in order to fully partake of the blessings that the Lord and Gospel has to offer us.

Brad is doing great, but still has not received (or recognized) an answer to his prayers.  He relapsed with coffee, but is back on track and is doing everything right.  Please keep him in your prayers.

I am so grateful for the opportunity I have to have some time in (almost) every day set apart for strictly studying the words of our Savior.  This precious opportunity of study and the experiences I am able to witness day to day has changed me.  The Lord has changed me.  Although I have so much more to learn and experience, I am eternally grateful for the knowledge and blessings the Lord is willing to bestow.

Elder Bruce R. McConkie taught: “Faith is a gift of God bestowed as a reward for personal righteousness. It is always given when righteousness is present and the greater the measure of obedience to God’s laws the greater will be the endowment of faith”

Or in other words:  When we are obedient, the Lord can bless of with increased faith.  Faith is so simple yet so extraordinary.  It is so essential.  The only reason miracles/blessings cease to be in someone’s life is because of "unbelief".

"And the reason why he ceaseth to do miracles among the children of men is because that they dwindle in unbelief, and depart from the right way, and know not the God in whom they should trust." (Mormon 9:20)

When we can humble ourselves as little children and accept help from our all-loving Heavenly Father, we will begin to see the blessings flow.  When we exercise (when we ACT for ourselves) that particle of faith with obedience, the Lord can start to help us.  As we continue in obedience, he can strengthen us in so many ways, just one of them being increased faith and hope to help us through the trials of this imperfect world.

How can we be obedient to our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ? Let me share a wonderful formula once used in the Fukuoka Japan Mission:

Obedience is the price,

Faith is the power,

Love is the motive,

The Spirit is the key,

and

Christ is the reason.

[Japan Fukuoka Mission Motto, 1991–1994]

The only way we can truly benefit from being obedient and exercising faith, is if love is our motive. We must choose to be obedient not because we are compelled to be obedient, but because we want to be obedient. Being obedient leads to increased faith, which leads to increased love for others and our Savior, which brings the Spirit more into our lives. And it's because of Christ that this is at all even possible. It all fits into place. Are we willing to pay the price of obedience?

"We believe that through the Atonement of Christ,

all mankind may be saved,

by obedience to the laws and ordinances of the Gospel." 

- 3rd Article of Faith

I can confidently testify that it is by grace we are saved, after all we can do. It is a vain a foolish doctrine to think that we do nothing in this life and expect eternal life. Christ did not suffer for us to sit back and expect exaltation. He suffered so that we could repent. With no repentance comes no Salvation.

The Lord does not require obedience in something unless he provides us a way to achieve it (1 Nephi 3:7). Remember CPR? Church, Pray, Read. If we aren't being obedient to these "primary answers", then we need to get our priorities figured out. There's a reason we learn these simple things starting at pretty much at birth. Without these simple tasks completed, we have no foundation (Hel. 5:12). Not saying that we are perfect, and knowing that we will all have to repent every day of our lives about something. But the question is:  Do we love Him?  Do we trust Him?  If we did, or if we do, we would be more obedient because we would know that the Lord doesn't do anything unless it is for our positive benefit.

Not to drill us with more duties or responsibilities, but Joseph Smith taught that:

“A religion that does not require the sacrifice of all things never has the power sufficient to produce the faith necessary unto life and salvation.”

The Lord expects us to obey him.  I remind us of our Temple experience.

"Who am I that made man, saith the Lord, that will hold him guiltless that obeys not my commandments?  Who am I, saith the Lord, that have promised and have not fulfilled?  I command and men obey not; I revoke and they receive not the blessing. Then they say in their hearts: This is not the work of the Lord, for his promises are not fulfilled. But wo unto such, for their reward lurketh beneath, and not from above." (D&C 58:30-33)

If we're not doing all we can, our personal best (and the Lord knows our personal best) to obey him, then we aren't doing enough. And this is ultimately displeasing to Him.

"But be ye doers of the word, and not hearers only, 

deceiving your own selves." (James 1:22)

"He that receiveth my law and doeth it, the same is my disciple; 

and he that saith he receiveth it and doeth it not, 

the same is not my disciple, 

and shall be cast out from among you" (D&C 42:5)

We must CPR daily and weekly, attend the Temple frequently if at all possible, fulfill our home/visiting teaching assignments (and enjoy them), hold Family Home Evening weekly, magnify our church callings in every way possible, and faithfully living His commandments.

This is not to be overwhelming, but to cause for a sense of urgency.  The excuse of being "too busy" is not to be an excuse at any time in our life.  If we have become so busy and caught up in the world to the point where we put the Lord's commandments on the back burner, we are far more busy than the Lord ever intended us to be.

The thing is, we'll learn that when we are obedient, our lives actually become easier.

"Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.

Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls.

For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light." (Matt. 11:28-30)

I testify of the support the Lord can give us in our everyday matters, if we will only obey Him. I know the Atonement is real and that if we use it, we may become stronger.

My love is sent out to everyone for the wonderful emails and letters! :)

Stay close to the Lord, and I promise He will bless you.

Love,

Elder Carroll

My favorite scripture this week: "Behold, my soul abhorreth sin, and my heart delighteth in righteousness; and I will praise the holy name of my God." (2 Nephi 9:49)

My Area...Erda, Utah

WEEK 68- The 3 D's

Woke up this morning and found this!!!

Family & Friends,

Our friend, Alissa was baptized and confirmed this past weekend! I am so happy for her and excited for her new path in following Christ. Baptism, confirmation, and receiving the Holy Ghost are so essential for each and every one of God's children. It is by these ordinances that we can come closer unto Him and be saved by His grace.

We had an amazing lesson with Brad a few days ago. He is doing awesome. We talked about the Word of Wisdom. He drinks alcohol, coffee, and chews tobacco. When we first asked him if he would live the WoW, he said, "Honestly, no."  He didn't believe that it was possible. But after a few more testimonies were borne, some blessings promised and the Spirit testifying to him, he accepted to live the WoW, cold turkey:)  Please keep Brad in your prayers that he will be able to have the strength to continue to live the WoW (he is doing great thus far!!), and that he may receive a definite answer to his prayers about the Book of Mormon and Joseph Smith.

"I love to see the temple.

I'll go inside someday.

I'll cov'nant with my Father;

I'll promise to obey.

For the temple is a holy place

Where we are sealed together.

As a child of God, I've learned this truth:

A fam'ly is forever." -  2nd verse of I Love to See the Temple

During a leadership meeting this past week, our Mission President, President Hansen, held up his Temple Recommend in front of all of us and asked us to do the same. He does this every so often and bears a powerful testimony on the importance of the Temple. The temple is where families can go to be sealed together for time and all eternity. What a privilege the Lord has blessed us with, to be able to take part in His powerful covenants and ordinances.

So how do we get to the Temple and receive the fullness of blessings that our loving Father has in store for us? I had the great opportunity to speak on this exact topic just this a few weeks back in a Sacrament Meeting in one of our wards.  Here's a few points from that talk:

I had a wise mission companion once say, "All you need is the 3 D's. Desire. Decision. Determination." - Elder Souday (Tahiti). He's right, you know. We must first have a desire to go to the Temple. If we do not yet have that desire, there are many ways of helping ourselves achieve that desire. First, we must drop our "weapons of rebellion" (Alma 23) against the Lord. Such as pride, selfishness and disobedience. We must humble ourselves, and be meek as a child. We must submit our will, to the Lord's will. If we would all just realize that the Lord gives us commandments in order to help us live a Higher Law, to become as He is. It's all completely for our good. He knows better than we do, what is good/bad for us. We must trust Him. Through being obedient to Him, He can bless each of us with increased faith in Him.

"[The Lord] doeth not anything save it be for the benefit of the world;for he loveth the world, even that he layeth down his own life that he may draw all men unto him. Wherefore, he commandeth none that they shall not partake of his salvation." (2 Nephi 26:24)

Second, we must be an agent. We must act and not wait to merely be acted upon. We must make a Decision. If we just sit around and expect great wisdom, knowledge, comfort, peace and anything else to just come to us with much or any effort, we are sadly mistaken. Just yesterday, we ran into a lady who told us she could be just as close to God while living in a life of sin (participating in fornication, drinking alcohol, smoking, speaking profanity, not attending church or partaking of the sacrament) as someone else who is striving to do their best to follow the Lord in all his commandments and repenting often. After reading Josh's "Six Points", I was reminded that we as missionaries were called to be lovingly bold in declaring absolute truths. I kindly testified that unfortunately she was mistaken and mislead, and that she could come closer to God than she was by actually living His laws. And that He gives us commandments so we can be happy, and eventually become as He is. Although she admitted that she believed Joseph Smith was a Prophet, she does not believe the Word of Wisdom was inspired. Towards the end of the conversation, she realized her points of view were slightly skewed and ending leaving the conversation by saying, "I know I'm stubborn. Maybe I just need to be humbled.".. We must learn to take responsibility for our actions and always strive to do better. It is the only way to salvation.

Lastly, we must have Determination. We can receive this strength from the Lord by actively attending our church meetings, the temple if possible, reading our scriptures, and praying to Him daily. We can receive support from our family members, friends, loved ones, and Priesthood leaders. Sometimes the trials we go through are to big to be handled on our own, we must seek help from the Lord and those around us. We must stand in holy places...The Temple, church meetings, mutual, seminary, institute, good friend groups,etc. The Lord once counseled, "My disciples shall stand in holy places and shall not be moved." (D&C 45:32)

All in all, we must help ourselves to become more personally converted unto the Lord. "Conversion starts when we feel something" - Elder Ballard .. We must do everything we can to feel that "something"-- The Spirit.  By following these 3 D's, I know that we will all have a much better chance at feeling that something. I know that by following the 3 D's, we can all come closer to the Lord and become more converted unto Him.

Patrick Willoughby once stated, "The Gospel isn't a band-aid, it's a cure."

I know this is true and that through living the laws and partaking in the ordinances of the Gospel, we can find everlasting happiness and a cure from all the worries and tragedies of this world.

Stay close to the Lord and He will bless you.

Love,

Elder Carroll

PS  Don't forget to write!

"The Lord is my light, my all and in all.

There is in his sight no darkness at all.

He is my Redeemer, my Savior, and King.

With Saints and with angels his praises I'll sing." - The Lord is My Light, Hymn #89 v. 4

My favorite scripture this week: "O, my beloved brethren, remember the awfulness in transgressing against that Holy God, and also the awfulness of yielding to the enticings of that cunning one. Remember, to be carnally-minded is death, and to be spiritually-minded is life eternal." (2 Nephi 9:39)