Joy

Nothings brings as much lasting happiness, satisfaction or love as does the gospel of Jesus Christ. There is much around us to fill our time. We are easily distracted as to the mundane and thoughtlessness of the world. Fleeting passions will buoy us up for a time. It is only the message of Christ that will bring us eternal happiness.

How we feel and how we think are directly related to our testimonies. If we study the scriptures, we feel like we have accomplished something. If we seek the father in prayer, we receive answers. If we consistently seek to better ourselves, we grow stronger. If we try we are blessed.

Happiness,  is the gospel of Jesus Christ. Have you ever seen the look on someone’s face when they hear the message for the first time? Wonder, replaces pessimism. Peace fills the soul. The light seems to come on and the spirit starts to work on the soul. The power of the spirit works on the heart to turn it to the savior. The Savior reminds us “how great will be your joy in the kingdom of your father if you should bring save it be one soul unto me, and now if your joy will be great with one soul that you have brought unto me…how great will be your joy if you should bring many souls unto me.”

Sharing the gospel is a simple and yet very hard work. The gospel message is simple, because all that is required of us is to open our mouths. The Lord tells us that if we will open our mouths, then they will be filled. Children are our best example of this. They are taught a gospel principle and they want to share it with everyone that they know.  

Matthew, a four year little boy sits on an airplane waiting to get home. So, like all little boys bored on an airplane he starts singing. He sings “I belong to the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, I know who I am I know Gods plan.” In just those few short lines a testimony was shared. It melts the heart and makes his father feel good.

It is hard work because people have their free agency. They choose to hear what you have to say. Missionary work seems hard because life gets in the way. Fear overtakes us. Laziness seems to be attractive and we give in to the temptations of the easy way. We must be alert and mindful of the things of this world. These are the things that keep us from seeing our goals, spiritual or temporal to fruition.

It is obedience where we find happiness. Blessings are plentiful as we are obedient. It is like a V. While at first it may seem restrictive what you have been asked to do. As we are obedient the more freedom and access you have.

Joy comes from knowing that Christ lives. He has marked the path that will lead us to our Heavenly home. His victory over the grave provided salvation to all who come unto him and utilize the atonement.

The nephites shouted hosanna! Hosanna! To god in the highest as his son visited them. A host of angels were awaiting the Lord when the atonement was complete. The Savior crossed the viel and greeted those in the world of spirits. What joy the twelve must have felt when the Savior of the world showed himself to them.

His charge was then as it is today be of good cheer. Come unto Christ and he will give you rest. They who follow his example will find happiness. They will find prosperity both spiritually and temporally.