Message from President Barlow
Sister Barlow often says, “The little things are the big things!” Alma said something similar to his son Helaman when he taught, “By small and simple things are great things brought to pass” (Alma 37:6). Nephi said it this way: “And thus we see that by small means the Lord can bring about great things” (1 Nephi 16:29).
Doing the small things in life requires discipline, and discipline is required to become a disciple of Jesus Christ. The small and simple things can be easy to overlook or dismiss as inconsequential or unimportant. But President Dallin H. Oaks has taught, “Though…practices may seem to be small and simple, over time they result in powerful spiritual uplift and growth. This occurs because each of these small and simple things invite the companionship of the Holy Ghost, the Testifier who enlightens us and guides us into truth.” (“Small and Simple Things”, April 2018 General Conference).
Sister Becky Craven made this observation: “There is a careful way and a casual way to do everything, including living the gospel. As we consider our commitment to the Savior, are we careful or casual?” (“Careful versus Casual”, April 2019 General Conference).
Consider these examples:
- Are you careful or casual about arising at 6:30am each morning?
- Are you careful or casual about your personal studies from 9-10am each day?
- Are you careful or casual about following the Safeguards for Technology and Using Technology Wisely?
- Are you careful or casual about keeping member meals less than one hour?
- Are you careful or casual about getting out the door at 10am every morning?
- Are you careful or casual about spending time in the Book of Mormon every day?
Elder Bednar has taught, ““The spiritual pattern of small and simple things bringing forth great things produces firmness and steadfastness, deepening devotion, and more complete conversion to the Lord Jesus Christ and His gospel.” (“By Small and Simple Things Are Great Things Brought to Pass”, 2011 BYU Women’s Conference)
Examine your life as a missionary. Are there small and simple things where you could be more exact? I invite you focus on having more discipline to do these small things. I promise as you do so, you will increase in power as a missionary. This discipline and commitment will deepen your conversion, help you to build greater faith, and lead you to become a lifelong disciple of Jesus Christ.
Sister Barlow and I love you! Let us know if there is anything you need.
Barlows in TKM 