Let Him.

The way God works fascinates me.

Simple as that.

It amazes me how reading your scriptures can change EVERYTHiNG.

I testify that the scriptures ARE true and that God speaks to us through them!

He teaches us through them;

He comforts us through them;

and 

He reminds us of the love that he has for us through them.

I testify of the happiness that the scriptures can bring to you in your life.

I know it is hard sometimes to open them up and to start reading, but if you can push past that block in the road, I promise you that you won't regret it.

As you may or may not know, I have been battling this strange disease called shingles. I have struggled the past week with excruciating pain, misery, and fatigue. I have felt down, discouraged, and grumpy. My spirits have not been as bright as they normally are and I have definitely had an influence on those around me. 

The Lord had a reason to why I had to go through this trial and today it finally hit me-- He wanted me to learn patience, and gratitude; but most importantly, He wanted me to realize how powerful and special the Atonement is and how it can HEAL you. 

First of all, I have learned how precious a healthy body is. Please, please, pleaseee thank God everyday for a body. I am so grateful for legs that can walk, arms that can move, and the strength to do those things. You definitely don't realize what you have until it's gone-- it's true. Shingles have made me realize how precious "feeling normal" is. I know that I have taken for granted peaceful nights of sleep. Constant aching shots of pain and being uncomfortable no matter what while trying to sleep is miserable and I don't wish it upon anyone.

So be grateful.

Pray always.

And seek Him always (in prayer and in scripture)

Also, be patient (always)...  and in all matters of affliction.

I had a friend remind me of the scripture in D&C 121:7-8 that says: 

"...thine afflictions shall be but a small moment"

Shortly after my friend reminded me of that scripture, I came across another reminder of patience in my own reading.

Alma 34: 40-41 "...have patience and bear with those afflictions, with a firm hope that ye shall one day rest from all your afflictions."

Wow! I knew for a fact God was trying to tell me something right there. Be PATIENT Kate!! This trial will only be but for a small moment and if you endure it well (meaning, if you press forward in faith, without wavering, being obedient and steadfast) then you will be blessed! 

reminder reminder reminder reminder reminder reminder!!!

Do not give up. EVER.

And in the hardest of times, turn to the Lord. Let Him lighten your burden. He is ALWAYS there and will carry you at the hardest times of your life.

That leads me to my last realization: the power of the Atonement. 

First of all, Alma 33: 20-23 really hit me. It is about being healed by Jesus Christ through the Atonement. (vs. 23: "may God grant unto you that your burdens may be light, through the joy of his Son.")

Then today in church it was all just perfect. The sacrament talks were focused on the atonement, the songs we sung were about trials, (Be Still My Soul--- favorite hymn ever), and it just seemed like everything I heard was perfect for what the Lord wanted me to hear and learn. 

The Atonement covers everything... even shingles! ha ha I know that it is probably so weird that I am talking about shingles and the Atonement, but really this has been such a huge learning/humbling experience for me. And in all honesty, I am grateful for this experience.

Then someone shared this scripture today:

1 Peter 4: 12-13 Beloved, think it not strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you, as though some strange thing happened unto you:

But rejoice, inasmuch as ye are partakers of Christ's sufferings; that, when his glory shall be revealed, ye may be glad also with exceeding joy.

Holy moly! This 'fiery trial' is to try me, so I should rejoice! We're all partakers of Christ's sufferings and we will be filled with joy if we let him heal us. "Through thorny ways leads to a joyful end" <Be Still My Soul>

So pretty much in a nutshell, the Atonement is for us. I have learned how to rely on Jesus Christ. I am constantly learning how to let him heal me, and I am letting the Atonement work for me in my life. He suffered for all of us so that he could succor us. Meaning, he suffered all pains, and afflictions so he would know how to comfort us, help us, and strengthen us.

I love this gospel. I love my Heavenly Father and his son Jesus Christ. I am so grateful for the love that I feel from both of them and the strength that they provide me with.

I am also grateful for the people in my life. To my friends and loved ones who have provided me with support while I have struggled, thank you. I appreciate the love so much, and I hope you all know that. But especially to my best friend Tiana, I couldn't thank you enough for all that you do for me. Thank you for being there for me. 

Love,

Kate