Back So Soon?

an image of a woman standing next to a woman holding a book

Returning home early from a mission can be devastating. But with the support of loved ones and Heavenly Father, returning missionaries can press forward to achieve what the Lord has in store for them. For most missionaries, coming home is a joyous occasion. As the proud returning missionary is greeted… Continue reading

Single and Still Faithful

an image of a woman standing in front of a body of water

In a church that focuses so much on dating, marriage, and family, how can you avoid feeling discouraged when you are single? Being single is often difficult for members of the Church, no matter their age. Even as a young adult, you may feel unwanted and doubt that you will… Continue reading

Our Words May Minister Grace

One young woman whispers to another.

Our language can either lift others or tear them down. As Christ’s disciples, we can use good language and humor to uplift others and bring light to their lives. Everybody loves people who have good humor and wit. On the other hand, it is harder to communicate with people who… Continue reading

What Armor Do I Put on Today?

armor lying on wall

With the enemy of righteousness surrounding us on every side, we need to ensure that we put on the armor of God every day. Suppose you woke up one morning and knew that you had to fight in a medieval battle later that day. So, you shower, get dressed, brush your teeth,… Continue reading

You Can Write, Right?

an image of a person sitting on a bench writing on a book

Find a way to recognize and remember God’s kindness through journaling.  The counsel to write in a journal daily tends to invoke groans and grimaces. The excuses for not writing range from the practical (I don’t have time; I have bad handwriting; I can’t type) to the emotional (I don’t want others… Continue reading

Rooting Your Testimony in Christ

Large tree trunk in green forest

Despite the whirlwind of challenges thrown our way, we can fulfill our potential by planting and nourishing roots in Jesus Christ. What do a scrub oak tree and a testimony have in common? They both can outlast oppressing conditions—but only if they have deep roots. In the article “Rooted in… Continue reading

Science Is Catching Up

an image of a model of a human head on a table

Modern science continues to affirm the blessings of following the Word of Wisdom. In his Ensign article, “A Principle with Promises,” G. Craig Kiser discusses the counsel given in Doctrine and Covenants 89 with an insightful approach to the Word of Wisdom. Not surprisingly, there is scientific evidence to support the… Continue reading

A Return to True Civility

group of college age talking

Although we are imperfect mortals, we can still treat others with love and civility even if we don’t always agree with them. In today’s society, “civility” often sounds like an old-fashioned word. Why? In his publication “Civility and Moral Being,” Terrance D. Olson points out that in our day, we… Continue reading

Kindness Is a Virtue

an image of a woman sitting on the sidewalk next to a bicycle

Developing the virtue of kindness can help us in our efforts to build the kingdom of God. In “The Virtue of Kindness,” Elder Joseph B. Wirthlin highlights the importance of kindness with two powerful sentences: “The Church is not a place where perfect people gather to say perfect things, or have… Continue reading