"If ye love me, keep my commandments" (John 14:15)

Day # 27

I am grateful for the blessings this scripture has brought into my life.

"If ye love me, keep my commandments" (John 14:15)

To love God is to keep His commandments. I have seen the blessings and the protection from keeping the commandments. Fear leaves, I am calm and know that God loves me and you. His commandments are a way of giving us freedom. Freedom from fear, freedom from hate or jealousy, freedom from addictions, or the burden of guilt.

When I finally chose to be obedient, to "love God with all my heart, might, mind, and strength" (see D&C 59:5), I no longer had the inner fight of should I or shouldn't I keep this or do that. As I have come to love God more and more there has been an inner peace that has filled my heart and mind. All I can say is that it is a wonderful feeling. Indeed, living this way is "after the manner of happiness." (2 Nephi 5:27) This I testify.

"...live in thanksgiving daily..." (Alma 34:38)

Day #24

I am so thankful for this scripture that helps me live a grateful and joyful life.

"That ye contend no more against the Holy Ghost, but that ye receive it, 

and take upon you the name of Christ; that ye humble yourselves even to the dust, 

and worship God, in whatsoever place ye may be in, in spirit and in truth; 

and that ye live in thanksgiving daily, 

for the many mercies and blessings when he doth bestow upon you." 

(Alma 34:38)

As I focus on the many mercies and blessings I have been given, even moment to moment, I am humbled and filled with such a deep sense of gratitude for all God has given and continues to give me each day. Life is so incredibly beautiful when I take time to worship God in expressing thanks to Him no matter the circumstance.

I am learning to "live in thanksgiving" is a way of life. It brings peace and love instantly when I recognize all that I have been given. When I am filled with love and peace, joy automatically follows.

May this day, and everyday be filled with that joy that comes from "living in thanksgiving daily".