I noticed a few patterns in stories that i found interesting. like they happen to all of us, but it was cool to be able to really identify and label them.
Something bad happens. exhibit a.
heartbreak-grief-anger-blame-revenge.
Once my sister told me 'jeanette, get ahold of yourself, you're spiraling downwards.' i think of that term often. when the couple lost their baby you could see how they were 'spiraling'. what it leads to is worse.
'seeking to ruin'. they became obsessive and eventually 'rejected' any form of help.
"where once there was faith and devotion to the Lord". they were actively participating members.
anyone can go from strong to bottom rapidly if you don't keep control.
something bad happens. exhibit b.
anticipation of a really awesome thing, instead everyone dies.
"without hesitation--turned to the Lord".
"IMMEDIATELY turned to the Lord and His Atonement....(notice the next 2 words)..without dwelling on why this could happen and who might be to blame."
didn't dwell. didn't spiral. stopped. turned to the Lord.
"they focused on living a righteous life".
FOCUS on good. don't DWELL on bad.
God gives us challenges for our own good. and sometimes they suck. but i love that he gives "clear direction and great promises...and shall by with you forever"....if we let Him that is.
LOVE how you phrase this: "God gives us challenges for our own good....and sometimes they suck!" So true!! It reminded me of a saying that says "if you think your life is bad, ask around and you'll realize it's not so bad". Even the rich and seemingly "happy" people have tons of trials and heartaches to deal with. We just have to remember to always turn to the Lord and focus on the positive like you said. Great insight Jeanette!
ReplyDelete