Courage to Stand

"Have not I commanded thee? Be strong and of a good courage; be not afraid, neither be thou dismayed: for the Lord thy God is with thee wheresoever thou goest." (Joshua 1:9)


I often times find myself pondering on both this scripture and what I've done throughout the day to be the best example I can to those around me and to share the gospel and a smile with others.
Before I go to bed at night I pray for all those around me who may be having a hard time or struggling with things in their lives because I too have gone through more than I ever thought I would have had to endure at my age, but it has made me a much stronger person, even if at times I don't always believe that. (But that's for another blog. haha) I also thank our Lord and Savior for all the blessings and sacrifices he has made for us, all the while wondering what it is that I can do to help serve others around me. They say service big or small is one of the biggest blessings and best opportunities we have. I want to take full advantage of this in every way I can because when we have the courage to do what we know is right and we live by gospel standards, we are blessed and the lives of others around us are blessed.
It is my hope to be able to be the best example and friend that I can to those around me while leaving them with the feeling that someone really does care. Especially in today's world where so many of us are caught up in our own lives and keeping up with what society expects of us, but really all that matters is serving our Heavenly Father and those around us. Let us not disappoint him. He loves us!
Elder W. Craig Zwick Said, "Never forget that you are a child of God. He loves you. Live by your standards. Stand up for what you believe in. Sometimes it is not easy, and you may be standing alone for awhile." I am taking this challenge and going to do just that. If Jesus can sacrifice himself for us, the least I can do is sacrifice a little of my time for family, friends and strangers so that we may all be strengthened through him. My hope is that I can be an example to at least one person while I am here and help them and if I can do that, then I have succeeded.
I'm sure you've heard, "I never said it would be easy, I only said it would be worth it."
Let us all apply this to our own lives. Use it to remind yourself to have the moral courage to be a light for others to follow!!


XOXO
Tara Ashley