Obedience and Sacrifice

In 1998, President James E. Faust gave a meaningful talk on tithing titled, “Opening the Windows of Heaven.” In this talk, President Faust focused on how we can be greatly blessed by living the law of Tithing. “If we will trust in the Lord, He will open the windows of Heaven to us.” Through paying tithing, we are promised the riches of eternity and the growth of the knowledge of God.

To be a faithful member in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints requires that we make sacrifices throughout our life. These sacrifices will include living a certain life free of addictive substances, sexual transgressions, and even an abstinence from rough and coarse language. The Lord asks that we set aside 10% of our income and give it towards tithing. Though this may seem unfair or even pointless to others, I know that the Lord asks this of us in order to better bless us in our life.

In 2009, Elder Robert D. Hales spoke on becoming provident providers both temporally and spiritually. To live providently means that we joyfully live within our means, are content with what we have, avoid excessive debt, and diligently save and prepare for rainy-day emergencies.

By being provident providers, we can learn how to withstand from the natural man and focus on that which matters most – even eternal life with our Father in Heaven and our loved ones. By being patient and faithful in this life, we can draw hope from knowing that life does not end after death, but that it goes on into the eternities. Don’t waste your time or money on meaningless toys and monetary possessions, but invest in memories that will have eternal value and significance.

Both of these talks reminded me that I need to focus on living the simple and basic principles of the Gospel. By doing so, I know I can become a better daughter of God, and disciple of Christ.

$100 Challenge update:

This week I have learned more about funding and financing my business. Because I will be babysitting, I won’t need much money in order to start the ball rolling. I plan on just using my own funds in order to start up the business, so I won’t need any extra help from “investors” or other financial resources.