I will tell you of a decision that I recently made. I will not divulge the exact nature of the decision, but I will explain the details of the process.
My mind and heart was heavy with the weight of eternal consequences of this decision. I did not want to get this one wrong. I went to the temple in an effort to prepare myself to make this decision. I then began to council. I sought advice from parents, spouse, friends and family. I looked to outside professionals. I counseled with my loving Bishop. I fasted. I prayed. I read scripture: modern day writings from the brethren, the Book of Mormon and the Bible. I weighed both sides of the decision. I would study the gospel concerning one choice and my mind would be made up. Then I would study the gospel concerning the other side of the choice and I would rethink my decision. I had my choice firmly made on 3 different occasions. I felt it was right.
I then set up a time the following day to attend the temple. I spent the night in on and off prayer and contemplation. At one point during the night I wrestled with Satan. I finally understand, having caught a glimpse of what it would have been like for him, how Joseph Smith felt wrestling with Satan in the Grove. As he did, I called upon the name of my Savior for deliverance. Satan did not want me entering the sacred temple to make this decision. I knelt on bended knees. I prayed for guidance. My heart was changed. I solidified this new decision as the one I would take before the Lord in His temple.
I slept.
I prepared physically in appearance and dress, then I drove to the Temple. Stepping onto the side walk an overwhelming spirit of confirmation filled my soul. As I contemplated in the Chapel, I again received confirmation in the affirmative of my decision. I was showered with personal revelation as I sat through the session. As I then entered the celestial room the weight of the decision was lifted from my shoulders as I received, for the 3rd time, an affirmative spiritual confirmation that my decision was pleasing unto the Lord.
I am so thankful for the gospel.
Now, I pray for strength to follow through, and act on the decision I have made.
My dear sweet Ryan,
ReplyDeleteI am extremely grateful that you are a righteous preisthood holder, that has been taught well by wonderful parents! Our girls are so blessed to have such an amazing father! I am envious that you are worthy to attend the temple, at the same time I am full of respect and gratitude. Had you not been worthy, I am pretty sure I know what the outcome of your decision would be. Again, thank you for living a righteous life and setting such a great example for me and the girls. I look up to you with the utmost respect and love. I look forward to spending eternity with you in the celestial kingdom!