with all thine heart.

It's no question that I've been hit with quite the load of health trials this year. People often ask how I do it and honestly sometimes I wonder the same thing myself. I've never been one to ask why these things may happen to me, I just try to carry on and wait for the storm to pass. Optimism will always get you further than you think. I believe my mom likes to call it denial, but hey- take your pick. 

My ultimate favorite scripture has always been Proverbs 3:5-6

"Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge Him and He shall direct they paths."

     You can thank freshman year of seminary for that one. It's perfect. Though I may not understand everything I go through and setbacks I face I can always count on my Savior. His plan for me is far more perfect than anything I could have planned on my own. If we put our trust in Him we cannot fail.

     Never underestimate the power of prayer. You build trust with Jesus Christ, along with your Father in Heaven, the same way you would your friends and family. Through constant communication and loyalty. If I want to build a close relationship with someone they need to know they can always rely on me. Here's where obedience to the standards comes into play. If I want to have that same relationship with Christ why wouldn't I obey his commandments? It just makes sense. PS. this reminds me of one of my favorite talks "The First Great Commandment" by Jeffrey R. Holland which includes this marvelous quote: "Love God and remain clean from the blood and sins of this generation... Your Father in Heaven expects your loyalty and your love at every stage of your life." Love it.