Moses 1:18-20

"And again Moses said: I will not cease to call upon God, I have other things to inquire of him: for his glory has been upon me, wherefore I can judge between him and thee. Depart hence, Satan. 

And now, when Moses had said these words, Satan cried with a loud voice, and ranted upon the earth, and commanded, saying: I am the Only Begotten, worship me.
And it came to pass that Moses began to fear exceedingly; and as he began to fear, he saw the bitterness of hell. Nevertheless, calling upon God, he received strength, and he commanded, saying: Depart from me, Satan, for this one God only will I worship, which is the God of glory."

After 102 days of praying and reading about prayer, can you proclaim, “I will not cease to call upon God”, as Moses did? Have you developed a personal relationship with your Heavenly Father? Do you have other things to inquire of Him because you know He will answer?  Do you know the goodness and glory of God and recognize that Satan’s power pales in comparison? Do you know that when temptations come that as you call upon God, He will strengthen you? Have you felt what it is like to be in God’s presence? Do you know that when Satan tempts you not to pray, when you proclaim your desire to worship only God, Satan must depart? Do you know that you are a daughter of God and that He has a work for you to do? Have you felt the power of prayer in your life?

It is has been a wonderful blessing in my life to focus on the power of prayer, and I pray that each of you have been blessed as well. Heavenly Father is real. He knows who you are. He knows your name and has a plan for you. He will strengthen you to withstand temptation. He loves each of you.  We are His daughters. It is my hope that each of you have made a commitment to call upon God every day and invite His influence and guidance into your life. Through prayer, Heavenly Father is reachable at any time and any place. Just believe!

Love, Sister Linnell

Moroni 10:3-5

"Behold, I would exhort you that when ye shall read these things, if it be wisdom in God that ye should read them, that ye would remember how merciful the Lord hath been unto the children of men, from the creation of Adam even down until the time that ye shall receive these things, and ponder it in your hearts.

And when ye shall receive these things, I would exhort you that ye would ask God, the Eternal Father, in the name of Christ, if these things are not true; and if ye shall ask with a sincere heart, with real intent, having faith in Christ, he will manifest the truth of it unto you, by the power of the Holy Ghost.

And by the power of the Holy Ghost ye may know the truth of all things. "

Through the power of the Holy Ghost, we may each come to a knowledge not only of the truthfulness of the Book of Mormon but of all things. There is so much confusion in the world. We have so many voices speaking to us telling us to believe a certain way, and it is hard to know who to believe. Advertisers want you to believe in their product so you will buy it. Politicians want you to believe them so you will vote for them now and in the future. Those encouraging you to lower your standards feel better if others believe as they do that sin brings happiness. Often times it is selfish desires that are the motivation behind others wishes for us to follow and believe.

Do you want to know what to believe and what is truth? Put this scripture to the test. Study it out. Ponder. Ask with a sincere and honest desire to know. Then listen.

Each of us hear in a different way. Some have a clear idea come into their mind. Others feel a pounding in the chest. And a quiet peace and calm will come to some. But, the answer is always preceded by a genuine desire to know.

The knowledge will come when we ask because we want to know truth. The scriptures teach us often to ask, and you will receive. If you desire knowlege, ask, then listen, and obey.

Love, Sister Linnell

1 Nephi 2:16-19

16 And it came to pass that I, Nephi, being exceedingly young, nevertheless being large in stature, and also having great desires to know of the mysteries of God, wherefore, I did cry unto the Lord; and behold he did visit me, and did soften my heart that I did believe all the words which had been spoken by my father; wherefore, I did not rebel against him like unto my brothers.

17 And I spake unto Sam, making known unto him the things which the Lord had manifested unto me by his Holy Spirit. And it came to pass that he believed in my words.

18 But, behold, Laman and Lemuel would not hearken unto my words; and being grieved because of the hardness of their hearts I cried unto the Lord for them.

19 And it came to pass that the Lord spake unto me, saying: Blessed art thou, Nephi, because of thy faith, for thou hast sought me diligently, with lowliness of heart.

When I think about Nephi, I picture a man with great wisdom and confidence.  We're reminded in this scripture that Nephi was not very old.  He lived in a time of great turmoil.  There was contention in his family, and in his city.  So many different people were telling him different things that he should believe and feel.  When you think about it like that it kind of sounds familiar, doesn't it?
Nephi made a choice.  He chose to ask, in prayer, what was right, and he was blessed for it.  That same ability and same blessings have been given to us.  Nephi's blessings came because of his faith and because he sought diligently.
"Diligently" doesn't mean that the first time Nephi asked, he received a vision or a definite answer.  Definitions of diligently include "constant in effort to accomplish something" and  "characterized by steady, earnest, and energetic effort."  We all have the power to be diligent.  To continue trying, to keep pushing forward, even to start again when we have slipped.
I am so grateful for my testimony.  There are two components of my testimony that I consider to be the greatest gifts in my life.  First is my knowledge that my Heavenly Father knows me by name, and the second is that, no matter how long it has been or what I have done, He hears me each time I come to Him in prayer. There have been times in my life that I have struggled with great trials, and this has helped me.  But more significantly, it is the day to day trials, and sometimes simply getting through each day, where this has become even more important to me.  Without this knowledge, I don't know how I would keep going.  There would be times that all of this simply wouldn't be worth it. Times that I felt too alone, and life too heavy. How grateful I am that during those times, small, simple, tender mercies happen in my life that remind me about what I already know and have simply momentarily forgotten.  When I stop and think, I realize how often those tender mercies happen.
At the age of 17, I had a pretty good testimony.  Nothing earth shattering, just a quiet assurance that the things I had been taught all of my life were true.  One night, after a week at Education Week listening to great speakers, my friend played a song for me.  The song was "Never A Better Hero" by Kenneth Cope.  While listening to that song, I came to know, in a way that I could never deny, that my Heavenly Father knew me by name.  Years later, though I haven't always lived a perfect life, I still know this.  This knowledge has been my rock and my salvation through the years.  I am so thankful for the testimony that I have been able to share these last few months.  It has been strengthened through my sharing and through hearing the thoughts and testimonies of so many others.  Prayer works.  He is listening.  He knows you and He loves you.
I look forward to spending the week with you!

Love, Sis. Norris

John 16:23-24

23 And in that day ye shall ask me nothing. Verily, verily, I say unto you, Whatsoever ye shall ask the Father in my name, he will give it you.

24 Hitherto have ye asked nothing in my name: ask, and ye shall receive, that your joy may be full.

Each day as I go through my routine of things that need to be done. Usually I am doing dishes or making my bed, one of my children will come and ask me if they can play or they want me to take them somewhere or they are hungry and want me to make dinner. I can usually foresee their needs but not always.

Heavenly Father is a God, he loves us and he knows us better than we know ourselves, he knows what we need before we even know. He gave us the gift of free agency, so to stay true to that gift we get to make the choice whether we want his help or not. He is there all we need to do is humble ourselves and ask for help. Sometimes that is the part that trips me up. The humble myself and ask. I get going along in my day and try to do things on my own, sometimes I forget to ask for help. Then something will go wrong and that's when I remember hey, I am not alone I can ask for help. It is funny because I am always telling my children, if you would just come and ask me for help with that I could help them and they would not have gotten hurt or maybe their task would not have been so hard.

Heavenly Father is just waiting for us to ask him for help. He wants us to be happy. Then we can have joy.

This is my last opportunity to participate in this blog. I have learned so much from reading the scriptures each day and have enjoyed reading the postings from the other leaders. My testimony of prayer has grown because of it. I only wish I was better with words and could convey better what is in my heart. I am grateful for this opportunity.

I am looking forward to camp. I know they were inspired to have prayer as our theme. I love the spirit that I have felt there the last couple of years. I am looking forward to participating in what the camp leaders have planned for us. I know they have gone to alot of work in our behalf.

Thank you!!!

Love,Sister Madsen

Helaman 10:4-5

4 Blessed art thou, Nephi, for those things which thou hast done; for I have beheld how thou hast with unwearyingness declared the word, which I have given unto thee, unto this people. And thou hast not feared them, and hast not sought thine own life, but hast sought my will, and to keep my commandments.

5 And now, because thou hast done this with such unwearyingness, behold, I will bless thee forever; and I will make thee mighty in word and in deed, in faith and in works; yea, even that all things shall be done unto thee according to thy word, for thou shalt not ask that which is contrary to my will.

The Lord plainly teaches us through Nephi's example not to be selfish, put others first, magnify our callings, and work diligently and he will "bless us forever".

It may seem like we have everything figured out and our path is the way we want it to be, but sometimes the Lord has a different plan; a better plan that we can not see from our perceptive. He knows us and what path he wants us to take, we just have to reach out to him in Prayer and Ask and Go forward in Faith.

The Lord wants us to be Happy and to live according to his will. He loves you and knows you better than anyone. We just need to keep the commandments like Nephi and earn the Lord's trust and blessings, so that we can have the spirit with us to lead us and guide us back to him.

I know the Lord has blessed me in my life when I am doing "HIS" will. When I am reading my scriptures, saying my prayers both morning and night, attending the temple, fulfilling my church responsibilities and all the other things that bring me happiness. He blesses me, I know without a doubt he does bless me!

Love you,
Sister Anderson

Psalms 27:1-4

"The Lord is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear? the Lord is the strength of my life; of whom shall I be afraid?

When the wicked, even mine enemies and my foes, came upon me to eat up my flesh, they stumbled and fell.

Though an host should encamp against me, my heart shall not fear: though war should rise against me, in this will I be confident.

One thing have I desired of the Lord, that will I seek after; that I may dwell in the house of the Lord all the days of my life, to behold the beauty of the Lord, and to enquire in his temple."

Do you live the gospel out of fear or because you have a testimony of its truthfulness? Do you pray each morning because you fear what might happen if you don’t? Or do you pray because you have faith that Heavenly Father hears your prayers? Sometimes fear becomes our motivation behind doing good things. But, faith and fear cannot coexist. One gives way to the other. For example, if we pray because we fear Heavenly Father might punish us or won’t help us if we don’t, then we allow that fear to prevent us from feeling His love and exercising faith and trust in His guidance.

I have five children, and I would find it incredibly sad if my children spoke with me out of fear that if they didn’t then I wouldn’t help them with the things they need. I desire a relationship with my children based upon their knowledge of my love for each of them and my desire to help them be the best they can become. Heavenly Father wants the same for His children.

Just as fear diminishes our ability to exercise faith, developing our faith will lessen any doubt or discouragement we may experience. 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”. If we desire less doubt and more faith, we must be more obedient. Faith is increased by exact obedience to the small, simple things in our daily lives.

If fear, darkness, and discouragement prevent you from a loving relationship with your Heavenly Father, increase your willingness to be obedient. Pray more frequently. Read and ponder the scriptures with more diligence. Prepare to learn as you attend your meetings. Seek to be in the temple more often. As you do these things, His light in your life will increase. Circumstances may not always change, but your faith and understanding will.

I testify that the Lord is our light. When His presence is near, fear and darkness will depart. Pray to Him simply because He loves you.

Love, Sister Linnell

Moroni 7:9 & 48

9 And likewise also is it counted evil unto a man, if he shall pray and not with real intent of heart; yea, and it profiteth him nothing, for God receiveth none such.

48 Wherefore, my beloved brethren, pray unto the Father with all the energy of heart, that ye may be filled with this love, which he hath bestowed upon all who are true followers of his Son, Jesus Christ; that ye may become the sons of God; that when he shall appear we shall be like him, for we shall see him as he is; that we may have this hope; that we may be purified even as he is pure. Amen.

I know that through sincere prayer we become like Christ, because we come to know Christ.

When I was in Seminary, I saw a video that really touched me that I’ve never forgotten. There were some boys in Scotland, who were on an outing and decided to explore some old castle ruins towards evening. One boy climbed up some ruins, and before he knew it, it was dark. As he tried to climb down, he got stuck on a ledge that he couldn’t get off. The other boys went for help. Soon, one of the other boys’ fathers came and stood below the frightened boy. He told him to jump, and he would catch him, but the boy couldn’t see the man in the blackness below, and was too afraid to take that step out into the darkness. He was coaxed by the man to no avail. Then, he heard the voice of his own father, who had come to help his son. The boy stared into the darkness below him, trying to make out his father’s form, but couldn’t see anything but blackness. His father promised him that if he jumped off the ledge into the darkness, that he would catch him and that the boy would be safe. I’m afraid of heights, so I can imagine the fear that that boy must have felt. But, he knew his father. He believed his father, and he jumped into the darkness below him into the safety of his father’s arms.

How do we get to know and trust our Father in Heaven as this boy trusted his earthly father? How do we become like our Savior Jesus Christ? How do we become "purified even as he is pure?" How do we become sons (and daughters) of God? We do these things by turning to our Father in prayer, by spending time with Him in conversation and in scripture. I know that as we try to do His will, as we ask for His guidance in our daily prayers, as we read the scriptures looking for His council for us that we will become like Him. Our will will become His will. Our hearts will be turned to Him. We will be filled with His love and with His Spirit. We will become the followers of Christ that we know we were meant to be.

I know that our Father in Heaven loves you. He knows you. He wants nothing but the best for you. Turn to Him in prayer. Read in the scriptures His words for you. He will make so much more of your life than you could possibly make of yourself. Trust in Him.

Love,
Sister Jones

D&C 88:76 & 126

76 Also, I give unto you a commandment that ye shall continue in prayer and fasting from this time forth.

126 Pray always, that ye may not faint, until I come. Behold, and lo, I will come quickly, and receive you unto myself. Amen.

Today's scripture reminds me of the parable of the ten virgins. I remember being worried if I would like one of the 5 who were not prepared or if I would be prepared. I worried because I didn't understand how much oil I had, i couldn't see anywhere that showed me if I was full, 1/2 full or getting close to the bottom, would I be ready, i wasn't sure. A few years back in the Ensign magizine i saw the most beautiful picture of one the virgins, she was holding her lamp, but she was also holding a vase. I understood alitte more about how to be prepared and also how i knew if I was prepared for when the Lord comes again. We have our lamp, (our testimony), it shines for us and others to see, we need this lamp but we also need the oil to keep the lamp lit. The neat thing I learned from this picture is the vase, we also carry the vase of oil, when our lamps get low we fill it up again with the oil we have in the vase. We fill up our vase with all the good things we are doing, we fill it up with making and keeping our covenants, going to church, paying tithing, I know that we fill our vase with oil when we pray, I also think that we can measure our oil through our prayers. The Lord lets us know we need to fill up our lamps. He loves us and wants us to be there when he comes. I know he will and I pray we will all be there. Have a fun and safe 4th of July. Thank Heavenly Father for your freedoms, use them wisely, Love Sister MaryAnn Jensen

2 Nephi 32:8-9

8 And now, my beloved brethren, I perceive that ye ponder still in your hearts; and it grieveth me that I must speak concerning this thing. For if ye would hearken unto the Spirit which teacheth a man to pray, ye would know that ye must pray; for the devil spirit teacheth not a man to pray, but teacheth him that he must not pray.

9 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.

I recently lost a dear friend to cancer. As I reflect on his life, I am grateful for a loving Heavenly Father. He has allowed us the opportunity to choose. We may not always choose wisely, but as we learn from our choices, we can also choose to repent, and seek forgiveness. Pray always, that you will have the Holy Ghost to guide you.

With Love, Sister Woolsey

1 Samuel 2:1-3

1 And Hannah prayed, and said, My heart rejoiceth in the Lord, mine horn is exalted in the Lord: my mouth is enlarged over mine enemies; because I rejoice in thy salvation.

2 There is none holy as the Lord: for there is none beside thee: neither is there any rock like our God.

3 Talk no more so exceeding proudly; let not arrogancy come out of your mouth: for the Lord is a God of knowledge, and by him actions are weighed.

The first time I read this scripture I looked for some kind of deep meaning in it.  As I reread it several times, and looked at the story behind it, I recognized in this scripture Hannah's deep reverence and gratitude for her Heavenly Father.  It made me ponder my own view of my Heavenly Father.
During the last 3 months, as we have read and shared these scriptures about prayer, I have gained a stronger testimony of my Heavenly Father.  I know that He loves me.  I know that He can be my best friend.  I know that I am His daughter.  I know that He wants me to be happy.  I know that He hears me.  I have come to know Him more intimately and personally. I think that Hannah knew these things also.  She also knew, as I do, that He is the creator, that He is all powerful and all knowing, and that all things are possible through Him.  I'm not sure that I have words that can do justice to the awe that I am feeling as I think about His majesty and power.  And to think that with all of the power of the universe and beyond, He cares about me.
I think Hannah knew, and she chose to show her gratitude through rejoicing.  Today, I rejoice too.  I rejoice in a beautiful world.  I rejoice to live in America. I rejoice to be a wife and a mother.  I rejoice to have the gospel in my life and to have a testimony of that gospel.  I rejoice that I can share my testimony.  I rejoice in a Heavenly Father that loves me, and I rejoice in all of you.

Love, Sis. Norris

Alma 22:15-16

15 And it came to pass that after Aaron had expounded these things unto him, the king said: What shall I do that I may have this eternal life of which thou hast spoken? Yea, what shall I do that I may be born of God, having this wicked spirit rooted out of my breast, and receive his Spirit, that I may be filled with joy, that I may not be cast off at the last day? Behold, said he, I will give up all that I possess, yea, I will forsake my kingdom, that I may receive this great joy.

16 But Aaron said unto him: If thou desirest this thing, if thou wilt bow down before God, yea, if thou wilt repent of all thy sins, and will bow down before God, and call on his name in faith, believing that ye shall receive, then shalt thou receive the hope which thou desirest.


Have you ever looked at someone and thought, "Look how happy they are. I want to be like that." Or, "They are so 'put together'. I want to be more like them." I love to see Sister Dalton, the General Young Women's President, speak. Isn't she gorgeous? She seems so organized and well spoken. I admire her and would like to be like her. But, mostly the thing I like about her and aspire to be like is her spirituality. I sit back and listen to her speak and just think, "Man, I need to really step it up. I need to be better. I need to strengthen my testimony. I have got to be better at reading my scriptures."

I feel like the King in this scripture. He wants to be better. He wants to be "born of God," and not be wicked anymore. He wants to be happy. And, we know that "wickedness never was happiness." So, the king's desire is a righteous one. I think my desire to be better, to strengthen my testimony and work harder at accomplishing my goals, is also a righteous one. Aaron helps us know what we need to do to have our righteous desires. He says that we need to kneel down in prayer in faith, repent of our sins, and ask Heavenly Father for His help and guidance. He will help us accomplish our goals, strengthen our testimonies, and be "born again". We just need to ask Him in prayer. And then, we need to be willing to do what He asks of us.

Love you all,
Sister Norman

D&C 6:22-23

"Verily, verily, I say unto you, if you desire a further witness, cast your mind upon the night that you cried unto me in your heart, that you might know concerning the truth of these things.

Did I not speak peace to your mind concerning the matter? What greater witness can you have than from God?"

Have you ever been making a decision and get more opinions than you want? Or possibly, it is hard for you to decide, and you ask everyone’s advice about what you should do. And the more opinions cause more confusion. Often times the only counsel we really need comes from our Heavenly Father. There have been many times in my life that as I have prayed, I knew exactly what I should do, but when I got up from my knees and discussed my decision with others, I would begin experiencing uncertainty. As we seek the Lord’s guidance, He will speak peace to our mind and heart when the decision is the one that is best for us.

Several years ago, we needed to buy a vehicle for our family and had limited funds to do it. We began looking at used car dealerships and searching the want ads in the newspaper. Many people offered their opinions, and often it was that we would need to spend more money in order to get a reliable car. We asked for Heavenly Father’s guidance to help us find the best car within our budget. One day as I was looking through the paper, I knew immediately when I read a particular ad that it was the car we should buy. I felt a tremendous peace. To others, the car probably didn’t seem like the wisest choice at the time, and if we had been willing to spend a little more money, we could have purchased something more reliable. It was only when I listened to others that I began to feel confusion and question my choice, but when I thought back on the guidance the Lord provided, I always felt peace about our decision. Despite the car being older, it required minimal repairs and blessed our family with adequate transportation for many years.

If you find confusion about the choices you need to make, remember where peace can be found. I love the words of the hymn “Where Can I Turn for Peace?”

Where can I turn for peace?
Where is my solace
When other sources cease to make me whole?
When with a wounded heart, anger, or malice,
I draw myself apart,
Searching my soul?

Where, when my aching grows,
Where, when I languish,
Where, in my need to know, where can I run?
Where is the quiet hand to calm my anguish?
Who, who can understand?
He, only One.

He answers privately,
Reaches my reaching
In my Gethsemane, Savior and Friend.
Gentle the peace he finds for my beseeching.
Constant he is and kind,
Love without end.

Other sources may cause doubt and confusion, but as we reach out to Christ, He will speak peace to our minds when we humbly go to Him and seek His will for us.

Love, Sis. Linnell

Matthew 11:28-30

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

29 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.

30 For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.

When I read this scripture I had so many feelings come over me. I reflected on the times in my life when I needed Christ's help. I wanted to give him my burden's so I could quit worrying about them. Then because I was weak or lacked faith I would turn around and take them back. I loved Elder Hollands talk he says thing's way better than I can.

"I don't know what things may be troubling you personally, but, even knowing how terrific you are and how faithfully you are living, I would be surprised if someone somewhere weren't troubled by a transgression or the temptation of transgression. To you, wherever you may be, I say, Come unto him and lay down your burden. Let him lift the load. Let him give peace to your soul. Nothing in this world is more burdensome than sin--It is the heaviest cross men and women ever bear."

"No matter how serious the trial, how deep the distress, how great the affliction,God will never desert us. He never has,and He never will. He cannot do it.It is not His character to do so. He is an unchangeable being; the same yesterday,today and will be the same throughout the eternal ages to come. " We shall emerge from all these trial and difficulties the better and purer for them, if we only trust in our God and keep his commandments".

I know Jesus is the Christ, the Son of the living God. He wishes us to come unto him, to follow him, to be comforted by him. Only through Christ will we truly find rest.

Love, Sister Madsen

Mosiah 27:14

14And again, the angel said: Behold, the Lord hath ^aheard the prayers of his people, and also the ^bprayers of his servant, Alma, who is thy father; for he has ^cprayed with much faith concerning thee that thou mightest be brought to the ^dknowledge of the truth; therefore, for this purpose have I come to ^econvince thee of the power and authority of God, that the ^fprayers of his servants might be answered according to their faith.

I love how this scripture talks about the power and authority of God. God does hear our prayers. Whether we are praying for ourselves or others. We just need to have the FAITH to know that He will do what is best for us. I have personally witnessed this when I have prayed for loved ones, those around me and for myself. He has answered my prayers! He hears me and knows what is best for me. Your Father in Heaven loves you. Go to him. He will help you through every moment of your life's journey.

Love You,

Sister Anderson

Ephesians 6:18

18 Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, and watching thereunto with all perseverance and supplication for all saints;

I looked up the definition of supplication and found it means to ask humbly or earnestly, to beg or plead. When we pray earnestly and humbly, we are more prepared to receive answers to our prayers. A lot of times I find myself praying without really focusing or paying attention to what I'm saying. It's easy to get lax in our prayers and to go through the motions without having our hearts really in our words. When I am humble and earnest in my prayers, coming to the Lord with purpose and intent, I find that I am more receptive to the Spirit and can be touched to know what I should do.

When you pray today, really prepare and humble yourself before you start. Think about what prayer is--a conversation with your Father in Heaven. Earnestly seek Him and plead to Him for the answers and help that you need. He loves you and wants to help you.

Love,
Sister Jones

3 Nephi 13:5-8

5 And when thou prayest thou shalt not do as the hypocrites, for they love to pray, standing in the synagogues and in the corners of the streets, that they may be seen of men. Verily I say unto you, they have their reward.

6 But thou, when thou prayest, enter into thy closet, and when thou hast shut thy door, pray to thy Father who is in secret; and thy Father, who seeth in secret, shall reward thee openly.

7 But when ye pray, use not vain repetitions, as the heathen, for they think that they shall be heard for their much speaking.

8 Be not ye therefore like unto them, for your Father knoweth what things ye have need of before ye ask him.

Do we use "vain repetitions" when we pray? Are we thankful for the same things and asking for the same things and saying our prayers without even thinking about them sometimes? I know that I get caught in that cycle from time to time and have to remind myself that I'm not just saying words. I'm talking to my Father in Heaven, who loves me, and I love Him. He wants to hear from you and me, and we need to get advice and feedback from Him. Today when you pray, take the time to think about what you are saying. And take time to stop and listen. Prayer is a two way form of communication. I find that when I take the time to pause after I ask for something, or tell Him something, that the Spirit will speak to me and answer my questions and give me impressions on what I need to do. But, if I'm rushing through and saying everything on my list that I need to say, and then closing the prayer and hurrying off to the next thing, I don't receive nearly as many answers. So, pray today like you are having a heart-to-heart with your Father. Listen to His voice. Share things from your heart. Really take the time to feel His love for you. He knows what you need before you even ask of Him, but He really loves to hear from you and will bless you for spending time with Him every day. I know that's true.

Love,
Sister Jones

1 John 5:14-15

14 And this is the confidence that we have in him, that, if we ask any thing according to his will, he heareth us:

15 And if we know that he hear us, whatsoever we ask, we know that we have the petitions that we desired of him.

On 21 September 1823, a little more than three years after the First Vision, the Prophet Joseph Smith prayed to know his standing before God. Moroni was sent to answer his prayer. Joseph said of the event, “I had full confidence in obtaining a divine manifestation, as I previously had one” (JS—H 1:29). Joseph’s experiences had taught him that God heard his prayers. Joseph had obeyed the Lord’s counsel and had been steadfast in his testimony—continuing, despite persecution, to affirm that he had seen a vision. He had grown in confidence that God “giveth … liberally” (James 1:5) to those who ask. (Spiritual Confidence, Liahona, Dec 1994 pg25)

We are so blessed that Joseph Smith caught on the first time, he received his testimony of prayer the first time. It was a big answer but none the less, Joseph Smith believed what God told him, he had confidence that God would answer his prayer the second time and the third and so forth, What if Joseph Smith would have questioned his answer, or thought that his first prayer was a lucky shot and God will not be there for him again.

Has prayer ever worked for you? I know that our prayers are answered, I have had my prayers help me in all areas of my life. I wish that I could be like Joseph Smith and get it the first time that Heavenly Father hears our prayers, but still many, many answered prayers later I sometimes don’t get it, I have let my confidence slack and think maybe Heavenly Father will not be there for me this time, that I might have to handle things alone. I testify that has never been the case, I have never be left alone before when I have sought out the Lord, he has always been there, my first prayer and my thousandth prayer. Keep your confidence in Jesus Christ
Believe him! He is there, every time.

I love you,
Sister MaryAnn Jensen

Mosiah 4:9-11

9 Believe in God; believe that he is, and that he created all things, both in heaven and in earth; believe that he has all wisdom, and all power, both in heaven and in earth; believe that man doth not comprehend all the things which the Lord can comprehend.

10 And again, believe that ye must repent of your sins and forsake them, and humble yourselves before God; and ask in sincerity of heart that he would forgive you; and now, if you believe all these things see that ye do them.

11 And again I say unto you as I have said before, that as ye have come to the knowledge of the glory of God, or if ye have known of his goodness and have tasted of his love, and have received a remission of your sins, which causeth such exceedingly great joy in your souls, even so I would that ye should remember, and always retain in remembrance, the greatness of God, and your own nothingness, and his goodness and long-suffering towards you, unworthy creatures, and humble yourselves even in the depths of humility, calling on the name of the Lord daily, and standing steadfastly in the faith of that which is to come, which was spoken by the mouth of the angel.

As a parent, I have experienced great pain, for and because of the choices, my children have made, and continue to make. I pray for them, remind them of the blessings God pours out to them. Love and accept them, as they are. I pray that we will all seek greater knowledge, and understanding of our Father in Heaven, that we will have the desire to dwell with him again.

With Love, Sister Woolsey

Philippians 4:6-7

6 Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God.

7 And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.

I love reading the epistles of Paul to the Saints.  He has such a love and concern for them.  However, sometimes they can be a little confusing.  When I first read this scripture, I wasn't sure what to think.  I thought about focusing in on just a word, like Thanksgiving, or Peace.
The next time I read it, I started reading all of the footnotes.  I learned that "careful" could be substituted with "afflicted", or that the whole phrase could be substituted with "don't be unduly concerned about anything.
This began to change the meaning for me.  As I have studied and pondered I have come to learn that for me this scripture is telling me to not be concerned about the little things, but instead turn it over to my Heavenly Father through prayer, and with a grateful heart.  Have I ever told my Heavenly Father thank you for the fact that I can turn my burdens over to him?
The word afflicted really struck me also.  Too often I spend my time worrying about little things, details that aren't important and I let myself get worked up over them.  To be afflicted by them.  I forget that I know that I can turn the worrying over to my Heavenly Father.  It is a hard thing for me to let go of things and I need constant reminders about it.  The greatest part, though, is the promise -  the peace of God.
The last few weeks I have had a dilemma that I have been trying to figure out involving my sons' job and a car pool.  It was something that shouldn't have been that big of deal, yet it was a huge focus for me.  So much so that I was indeed feeling afflicted.  I prayed about it, stewed about it, thought about it, with no solution.  I was reading this scripture in the temple and reading the footnotes and felt prompted.  I thought at the time that my answer was to let it go and be okay with how it was.  Then that afternoon I was presented with an opportunity to change it.  I took it and thought  - this was really my answer.  Then, later that evening my solution fell through.  I was back to thinking that I really need to just accept it.
In fact what I needed was to simply let the feelings of affliction go.  To be thankful to my Heavenly Father and to let him know that I could be okay with it.
I finally felt at peace.  No longer was it consuming my thoughts and causing me stress.  I could feel peace again.  Then an amazing thing happened.  I literally had someone show up on my doorstep with the answer to my problem!  I know this seems like such a silly thing to make such a big deal about, but I was reminded that our Heavenly Father cares about us so much that He is concerned even about the little things.  It doesn't have to be a big problem to go to our Heavenly Father and ask for His help, to allow Him to help us.
In fact, we are reminded later on in this chapter, in verse 13, of a great important truth.  "I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me."  But we must remember to ask.  I'll end today with the same farewell that Paul used to close his epistle. "The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you all."  He loves you! What problems can he help you with today?
Love,
Sis. Norris

D&C 109:8

8 Organize yourselves; prepare every needful thing, and establish a house, even a house of prayer, a house of fasting, a house of faith, a house of learning, a house of glory, a house of order, a house of God;


Have you ever tried to make dinner in a messy kitchen? You try to find the right measuring cup and it's dirty. There's no counter space because there's homework out or playdough, or whatever. You go for an ingredient and it's gone- the kids ate it and you didn't even notice in the chaos. Everything seems to be in an uproar. Well, that's how I'd feel, anyhow. But, now think of walking down to the kitchen to cook and all the counters are cleared off, no clutter, and they have been wiped clean, just waiting for you to cook away. All the dishes are clean, no need to rinse something off real quick so you can use it. The recipe book is tucked away in it's designated spot ready for you to pull it out make something wonderful. You're not having to go put your shoes on to cook, because the floors have been swept clean and therefore no crunching underfoot. Wouldn't you feel more creative in the clean kitchen? More calm? More ready for a challenge? More of a willingness to take on the task of making dinner?

I think our lives can be like my messy kitchen scenario. Sometimes are lives are full of clutter- literal clutter, negative thoughts, and sin. We might be a little "messy" or lax in our attitude towards our callings, or our responsibilites. We may be unorganized in our approach to prayer and fasting and scripture study, having no real schedule or habit formed. We may be a little unprepared- missing essential ingredients to Heavenly Father's plan.

Heavenly Father has said that we need to clean out the clutter in our lives. We need to get organized, prepared. We need to make our homes be homes of prayer, fasting, faith, learning, full of glory and order. I think he means this literally. Our homes need to be organized and in order to function at their true potential. But, I think He is also referring to cleaning out the "messy" in our lives. We need to repent. We need to pray and read our scriptures regularly. We need to prepare ourselves and our families for the Second Coming. And, we need to cut out the clutter in our lives like bad language, movies, books or music, negative friends, anything that distracts us from becoming closer to our Heavenly Father.

I know that if we put our homes and most importantly, our lives, in order Heavenly Father will bless us so that we can live up to our true potential. We will be more excited to take on the challenges of life, we'll be more creative, and calm, and ready to make a masterpiece of our lives!

Love ya,
Sister Norman

1 Corinthians 14:15

"What is it then? I will pray with the spirit, and I will pray with the understanding also: I will sing with the spirit, and I will sing with the understanding also."

Why?

Have you ever found yourself asking that question in your prayers? Often times when we experience trials or heartache, we may want to know why we must endure hard things. During the past couple of years of my life, I have dealt with trials that seemed so hard that I simply could not understand why my Heavenly Father would require so much of me. As I prayed, I pleaded for understanding as to why I needed to endure these particular trials. But, it wasn't until I changed the questions in my prayers that the burdens no longer overwhelmed me. One day as I was praying, instead of asking to know why, the question changed to help me understand how to accept, have patience, and endure.

Praying with understanding isn't about gaining knowledge of why we must do what the Lord requires, but how we can accomplish the things He wants us to do. Once we comprehend what it means to understand, we will be more aware of how to pray with understanding.

When searching the meaning of understand on dictionary.com, the following definitions will be found:

- to be thoroughly familiar with; apprehend clearly the character and nature

- to grasp the significance, implications, or importance of

- to learn or hear

- to accept as true; believe

- to perceive what is meant; grasp the information conveyed

- to regard as firmly communicated

Praying with understanding means to be familiar with Heavenly Father and to comprehend His character and grasp the significance that we can ask the God of the universe for individual help to guide our lives. To understand, we must perceive, learn, hear, accept, and believe the words He speaks to us. When we seek to understand, we must desire to know what is being communicated. Understanding requires more listening that speaking.

I often find myself doing all the talking during my prayers because it takes more effort to listen. I need to constantly remind myself that the fewer the words, the better the prayer. In your prayers today, try to listen and understand instead of doing so much talking.

Love, Sister Linnell

Alma 7:23-24

23 And now I would that ye should be humble, and be submissive and gentle; easy to be entreated; full of patience and long-suffering; being temperate in all things; being diligent in keeping the commandments of God at all times; asking for whatsoever things ye stand in need, both spiritual and temporal; always returning thanks unto God for whatsoever things ye do receive.

24 And see that ye have faith, hope, and charity, and then ye will always abound in good works.

This scripture gives a recipe for how we should live our life each day. Being Humble and submissive and gentle, I interpret this as someone who is kind, who is not selfish. Patience; have patience with your family. Sometimes it is easier to be nicer to our friends than our own family. Diligence in keeping the commandments; do your very best to keep all of the commandments not just the ones that are easy for you.

I like the part of this scripture that says ask for what ever things we need. We are being invited to ask for help with whatever we need. Personally I need help with alot of things that are in my life. But I have faith that Heavenly father hears me and wants to do what is best for me, knowing that, gives me hope. We should not forget charity the pure love of Christ, try to see others how Christ would see them then we can feel love for that person even if it is your brother or sister. So do something today for someone else.....abound in good works.

Have a great day today.

Love, Sister Madsen

Moses 1:1-6

1 The words of God, which he spake unto Moses at a time when Moses was caught up into an exceedingly high mountain,

2 And he saw God face to face, and he talked with him, and the glory of God was upon Moses; therefore Moses could endure his presence.

3 And God spake unto Moses, saying: Behold, I am the Lord God Almighty, and Endless is my name; for I am without beginning of days or end of years; and is not this endless?

4 And, behold, thou art my son; wherefore look, and I will show thee the workmanship of mine hands; but not all, for my works are without end, and also my words, for they never cease.

5 Wherefore, no man can behold all my works, except he behold all my glory; and no man can behold all my glory, and afterwards remain in the flesh on the earth.

6 And I have a work for thee, Moses, my son; and thou art in the similitude of mine Only Begotten; and mine Only Begotten is and shall be the Savior, for he is full of grace and truth; but there is no God beside me, and all things are present with me, for I know them all.

I find it so comforting to know that the God's knowledge and experience is "Endless". He knows all things that have happened before we were here, so he has the wisdom and the knowledge to help us.

In verse 6 I want you to replace the name of Moses with your own name and replace the word son with daughter. "And I have a work for thee, my daughter; and thou art in the similitude of mine Only Begotten; and mine Only Begotten is and shall be the Savior, for he is full of grace and truth; but there is no God beside me, and all things are present with me, for I know them all."

We were created just like the Savior, full of grace and truth. The Savior is our brother and just like our mortal families we have characteristics just like him. I don't mean the same eye color, I mean that we have the same divine inheritance that he has.

Like the Savior we need to trust that the work God has given us to do will better our lives and the lives of those we serve. We also need to have faith that when our Father in Heaven says that he knows all things, he really does!

I have a testimony that God speaks to us through our prophets, through personal revelation and through prayer. He tells us what needs to be done, and then lets us decide whether or not we want to do it. We have the Book of Mormon because of a 14 year old boys obedience to his Heavenly Father. Like Moses, Joseph Smith was just a man trying to show obedience to Heavenly Father. Like Moses, Joseph Smith's faith and actions have blessed generations of people after him.

If a 14 year old boy can exercise that amount of faith, then so can we.

I Love You!
Sister Horne

3 Nephi 18:18-20

18 Behold, verily, verily, I say unto you, ye must watch and pray always lest ye enter into temptation; for Satan desireth to have you, that he may sift you as wheat.

19 Therefore ye must always pray unto the Father in my name;

20 And whatsoever ye shall ask the Father in my name, which is right, believing that ye shall receive, behold it shall be given unto you.

These scriptures are from my favorite part of the Book of Mormon, when Jesus visits the Nephites. So this is counsel directly from our Savior!

It starts with a warning, we must pray always because Satan desireth to have us! Then He encourages us to have faith in our prayer. Today as you say your prayers, think of our Savior as you read His counsel. Then pray believing that ye shall receive that which you are asking for and "behold it shall be given unto you". What a great promise from our Savior, Jesus Christ!

Love,
Sister Emett

D&C 136:28

28 If thou art merry, praise the Lord with singing, with music, with dancing, and with a prayer of praise and thanksgiving.

What a joyful verse! How many of you participated in, or attended, the Temple Celebration that our stake participated in in conjunction with Oquirrh Mountain Temple dedication? This scripture reminds me of that event, where we really did have the opportunity to praise God and offer a prayer of thanksgiving through singing, music, and dancing. It was such a memorable event for me, and I felt so grateful to have been a part of that effort. I left that celebration feeling uplifted and really like we had offered a prayer of thanksgiving to our God. How can we continue to have that kind of prayer in our every day lives? What music do you have on your mp3 player right now? What do you listen to on the radio in the car? What song do you have in your head as you go about your day? Today make a conscious effort to have uplifting music in your day. Sing a hymn. Listen to good music. Pick media that uplifts and inspires you. Make your music and entertainment a prayer to God. And have joy in doing it! The Lord loves music, and He loves you! Have a great day!

Love,
Sister Jones

Proverbs 15:29

29 The Lord is far from the wicked: but he heareth the prayer of the righteous.

So where does the Lord go? Why is he far from the wicked? Many times in the scriptures and lessons from our latter day prophets they tell us that Christ is waiting with arms open ready for any one that humbles himself enough to come to him. Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ is always there, it is us that move away from him. Each sin takes us a step away from him, even baby steps in the wrong direction adds up. I love our Young Women theme, it says We will Stand as wittiness of God in all things and in all place. We stand, meaning we don't go this way one day or with one circumstance or friend and back again, than maybe the other way for the next friend but we stand, believing in God, all the time, no matter where we are or who we are with. We will always have his spirit to be with us.
I have felt the power in a righteous prayer, I sometimes like to think of prayers as fireworks being shot up to heaven, sometimes I shoot duds, not much going on there, I know went I send up a 4th of July firework, when I know that my prayers made it there. I also love the thought of everyone saying there prayers, can you imagine the firework show that we can give the world. We can and do make a different. Stay close to the Lord.
Love you, Sister MaryAnn Jensen

Enos 1:8-9

8 And he said unto me: Because of thy faith in Christ, whom thou hast never before heard nor seen. And many years pass away before he shall manifest himself in the flesh; wherefore, go to, thy faith hath made thee whole.
9 Now, it came to pass that when I had heard these words I began to feel a desire for the welfare of my brethren, the Nephites; wherefore, I did pour out my whole soul unto God for them.

We are again reminded of the power of FAITH. His faith made him whole. In these trying times, we must continue to exercise our faith. Faith in God, Faith in Jesus Christ, Faith in our Prophet, Faith in each other. Then pray for our leaders and ourselves, that we may have God watching over us, and blessing our lives.

With Love, Sister Woolsey

James 1:5-6

5 If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him.

6 But let him ask in faith, nothing wavering. For he that wavereth is like a wave of the sea driven with the wind and tossed.

I have a favorite talk that I like to listen to.  I first heard it 5-6 years ago, and I like to listen to it again a couple of times a year to remind myself of it's message.   It's called Prayers That Reach Heaven by Diana Hoelscher.  It was given to a youth group, and while she is a very entertaining speaker, her message, at least to me, is profound.  I'd like to paraphrase one of the experiences she shares. 
Before I do, picture in your mind the boy Joseph Smith, confused and looking for answers.  One night he was reading in the bible.  (Did you catch that?  He was reading the scriptures, looking for answers and peace!)  When he came across this scripture, he realized that this was his answer.  So he choose a place that he knew would be peaceful, and where he could be alone, and began to pray - out loud.
Sister Linell reminded us a couple of days ago of the power of praying out loud.  This story is another example.  In the talk, Sis. Hoelscher shared an experience she had on her mission.  There was an elder that got up to share his testimony at one of their meetings.  He said something like this.  "The other night as I was preparing to say my prayers"...  Preparing.  That means he thought about what he was doing and who he was praying to before he began to pray!  He went on to say that he prayed out loud.  That really struck Sis. Holescher and she decided to try it.  Because she was on a mission, finding alone time was very difficult, so she chose a moment when her companion was in the shower and she proceeded to pray out loud to her Heavenly Father.  She shared that the power of that prayer and the love that she felt from her Heavenly Father were overwhelming.  Later, her sister was visiting her on a mini-mission.  When her sister knelt to say her prayers, she stopped her.  She told her to go in the other room to be alone, and then to pray out loud.  Minutes later, her sister came running back in the room, tears streaming down her face saying "Why have you never told me this before?"
I'm telling you know, there is power in praying out loud.  Not a prayer for your class or your family (though they are powerful too) but an out loud conversation between you and your Father in Heaven - just between the two of you.  When you pray out loud, your prayer becomes much more personal.  It is easier to stop and listen for a response, and when you pray with faith, nothing wavering, it is almost impossible to not feel His love.
Joseph Smith followed this example.  He prayed out loud and was rewarded with the knowledge that Heavenly Father knew him by name.  Find a quiet place.  Have a conversation with your Father in Heaven. Talk to him out loud.  It may change your whole relationship with Him.  Heavenly Father is real. And He is waiting to talk to you today.

Love, Sister Norris

Alma 5:45-46

45 And this is not all. Do ye not suppose that I know of these things myself? Behold, I testify unto you that I do know that these things whereof I have spoken are true. And how do ye suppose that I know of their surety?

46 Behold, I say unto you they are made known unto me by the Holy Spirit of God. Behold, I have fasted and prayed many days that I might know these things of myself. And now I do know of myself that they are true; for the Lord God hath made them manifest unto me by his Holy Spirit; and this is the spirit of revelation which is in me.


I appreciate so much the times in my life when I have felt Heavenly Father has answered my prayers. Like when I prayed to Heavenly Father to know if I should marry my husband. And, when I asked Him to bless my husband in finding a new job. And, when I have prayed to Him to please bless a family member of mine who was so, so sick. Those are major things, but He has also blessed my in the little things I have prayed for, like helping me to be a patient mom, and help with getting all of the things done that are on my list for the day.

But, the most important prayer that He has answered for me is that of letting me know that the Gospel is true. Jesus Christ is my Savior, and He died for me. I did not have an experience like Joseph Smith when I prayed. I didn't see Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ. There was no lightening bolt or loud voice from above. But, the answer came to me in a better way. He answered my prayer in a way that was right for me, in a way that I would understand and that felt personal to me. The most amazing thing about this though, is that He continually answers this prayer. I feel the Spirit testify to me often that Heavenly Father loves me and that this is His true church. I love being in a church meeting and listening to a speaker or a beautiful musical piece and feeling the Spirit testify of the truthfullness of the Gospel. I love seeing the seasons change around me, or go for a hike in the mountains and see the beautiful creations of Heavenly Father and have the Spirit witness to me again of the goodness of our Heavenly Father.

I know that you can also know of a surety of the truthfullness of this Gospel. This scripture tells us that we can fast and pray to know the truth. I testify that if you are looking to gain a testimony, you can get down on your knees and pray to Heavenly Father. Pray often. Don't give up. Sometimes, when I think Heavenly Father hasn't answered my prayer, I need to look back and examine my life. I need to focus. Sometimes He has answered my prayer and I didn't notice. Isn't that sad? I can't believe I admitted that you you! I wasn't listening, or I wanted my prayer answered another way. And, maybe Satan really didn't want me to feel the Spirit and I let him be a distraction. But, I know that if you pray and listen for Spirit to testify to you, Heavenly Father will bless you with a testimony! And, He will continually bless you with the knowledge that Heavenly Father loves you!

Love,
Sister Norman

Joseph Smith-History 1:14-17

14 So, in accordance with this, my determination to ask of God, I retired to the woods to make the attempt. It was on the morning of a beautiful, clear day, early in the spring of eighteen hundred and twenty. It was the first time in my life that I had made such an attempt, for amidst all my anxieties I had never as yet made the attempt to pray vocally.

 15 After I had retired to the place where I had previously designed to go, having looked around me, and finding myself alone, I kneeled down and began to offer up the desires of my heart to God. I had scarcely done so, when immediately I was seized upon by some power which entirely overcame me, and had such an astonishing influence over me as to bind my tongue so that I could not speak. Thick darkness gathered around me, and it seemed to me for a time as if I were doomed to sudden destruction.

 16 But, exerting all my powers to call upon God to deliver me out of the power of this enemy which had seized upon me, and at the very moment when I was ready to sink into despair and abandon myself to destruction—not to an imaginary ruin, but to the power of some actual being from the unseen world, who had such marvelous power as I had never before felt in any being—just at this moment of great alarm, I saw a pillar of light exactly over my head, above the brightness of the sun, which descended gradually until it fell upon me.

 17 It no sooner appeared than I found myself delivered from the enemy which held me bound. When the light rested upon me I saw two Personages, whose brightness and glory defy all description, standing above me in the air. One of them spake unto me, calling me by name and said, pointing to the other—This is My Beloved Son. Hear Him!

About 15 years ago, when my children were little we purchased some animated scripture stories on video for our children to watch. One of the videos told the story of Joseph Smith and the First Vision. There was some controversy surrounding this particular story. When Joseph Smith begins praying the video shows a thick darkness gathering around him and a great struggle to overcome this enemy as the scriptures describe. Many parents felt that it was too graphic and might scare their children that the same experience might happen to them if they chose to pray. I was somewhat concerned that my children might feel that way, but I love to focus on the fact that no matter how dark or powerful the adversary is that the light is always greater. By facing the adversary first, Joseph learned that as great as the power of evil might be, it must always withdraw with the appearance of righteousness. I believe that Satan is more subtle with each of us in his persuasion against prayer. If we were seized upon by darkness and felt we were doomed to sudden destruction as Joseph was, I believe we would all call upon God immediately with all our energy to deliver us as Joseph did. Satan is more cunning with his attempts against our prayers with Heavenly Father. We don’t battle thick darkness or feelings of destruction, but laziness, uncertainty, distractions, and doubt.

Joseph Smith believed in the principles taught in the scriptures and had faith that if he asked God, that he would receive an answer. He prayed in the morning in a secluded place. It was the first time in his life that he had prayed vocally. He kneeled and offered the desires of his heart to God. He fought against the adversary. When the light appeared, Heavenly Father called him by name. And he listened and obeyed.

What would happen today if you followed the example of Joseph Smith and prayed as he did? Would you find yourself delivered from the temptations and struggles in your life? Would you hear Heavenly Father call you by name? Would you feel the presence of God and His light? Would you listen and obey?

Your prayer is just as important to Heavenly Father as Joseph Smith’s prayer, but if you doubt that, try this experiment.  I went to a secluded place in my home and knelt down. I began praying vocally and said, “Heavenly Father this is Alison.” I then paused and imagined what His response might be. “Hello Alison, how is my daughter?” I responded, “My heart feels sorrowful because of the choices of my child.” I paused again and then imagined Him saying that His heart was heavy also, and then we cried together. I told Him that I wasn’t sure how to help my sister-in-law. He told me to keep doing what I was doing. I thanked Him for His help and guidance in planning Girl’s Camp. He told me He knew it was important, and He would always help if I kept asking. As I prayed, instead of making a list of things I needed or was grateful for, I listened to what He wanted me to know. I knew that my needs were important to Him, and I felt His light and was delivered from the burdens facing me that day. When fears and temptation come your way and keep you from praying remember that light and righteousness are and will always be more powerful than darkness and doubt.

Love, Sister Linnell