July 13, 2014

I'm so happy to hear about Ryan being set apart and all the blessings he is going to receive as he shares the Gospel :) It's a great work that we are called to do! I think one of my favorite parts about sharing the Gospel is helping other people to receive the Holy Ghost. That's an endeavor that starts at baptism, and has to continue for the rest of our lives. It's particularly striking when it happens to people who haven't been exposed to the Spirit's influence before. They can change dramatically under its power. And so can we!

I spoke in Church yesterday and played piano! Everybody loved it, and the Firpo's were crazy about it as usual. I am really grateful for the appreciation and gratitude they have for the talents the Lord has given me. I played "I Feel My Savior's Love." I also taught Gospel Principles class about work and self-sufficiency. It was nice! We all talked about the jobs we has as kids, and what were our favorites and least favorites. I mentioned scrubbing the pool tiles to get the salt off, mowing the lawn, washing the windows... those jobs bring a great sense of satisfaction and they were perfect for learning how to work! Thanx for that :) The Gospel Principles book had a funny quote which in English would be something like, "The hardest work is to not work at all, because you can never take a break." SUPER TRUE! Preach My Gospel says, "If a missionary works, he will get the Spirit. If he gets the Spirit, there will be no time for missing family and friends...Work, Work, Work; there can be no substitute!" Excellent quote from the prophets. 

One of the coolest thing that I have been enjoying about studying the prophets is that their teachings extend into every part of life. President Benson taught that a prophet has the right to instruct or comment regarding any aspect of life, and there are no exclusions, EVER. He has insight into all affairs of life. Pretty interesting, right?

One of the things I've been learning this week is about the development of faith. My talk focused on the development of faith through several steps described by Elder Robert D. Hales. I know that if we will live these processes, that our faith will surely grow. I am watching mine grow, and I have plans for its maintenance. 

Well, I"m getting a little low on time, but... Tell Ryan how much I love him! 

Love,

Elder Talbot