Now, as I sit and think of ways to improve this, I can think of doing more scripture study and conference talk studying and things like that, praying for who needs to hear those things I am learning about so that I can share it with them. I can strengthen my testimony by helping others gain theirs.
Missionary work is so important and it is truly an amazing thing. If we can help others find their way to God, we can surely, only continue strengthen our own knowledge of God, Jesus Christ, and this gospel. Missionary experiences are so amazing and they require us to act upon promptings, be close to the spirit, and not be afraid of what others will think of us when we act upon these promptings.
All last year I thought about serving a mission. I prayed and prayed and kept getting the answer "not yet". I know now that that was due to me getting into the nursing program and Heavenly Father has plans for me with that. I recently have been finding myself wishing I would have gone on a mission, but the time was not right. I know that as I follow the Lord's promptings I will be blessed and I know that I am "serving a mission" right where I am.
You see, the thing is, we do not need to be called on a mission to be serving a mission. The more I have thought about this, the more I believe it is true. I have felt promptings and I have acted upon some. I have noticed that I as I do act upon them, not only does it help affect those that I try to help, but it also affects me. As I share my testimony, walk in faith, and try to keep the commandments, it strengthens my testimony and I can help lead by example, that is, only when I am doing what is right and what the Lord would want me to do.
Missionary work is about so much more than sharing the gospel with those around us. It is about serving those around us. Ministering. Loving. Being an example. Praying. Having faith. Listening. As well as sharing. Missionary work is about showing people that there is more to lives than themselves, and teaching yourself that others matter just as much, if not more than yourself. Missionary work is about charity and learning to see everyone through Heavenly Father's eyes. As we strive to serve and teach others we can strengthen and encourage ourselves. We have to learn to love Heavenly Father's children if we want to be able to make a difference in their lives.
I want to share my testimony that missionary work and ministering are truly some of, if not the most important things that we can do for others around us. We can share things on social media, be examples, answer questions, share our testimonies, and lead by example, and we may never know who it will help. Maybe someone just needs some encouragement that day, and that one little thing you share or say can greatly affect their day. Reacting to promptings is a huge part of ministering and missionary work. When we react to these promptings, it shows that we truly want to help encourage the growth of the Lord's gospel. I know that as we put forth our best efforts to help and minister and teach others, we too will be blessed with guidance in our own lives, and we will strengthen our own testimonies. I say these things, in the name of Jesus Christ, amen.
Love, MaShayla :)
