Today I taught Gospel Principles, and the lesson was on Sacrifice!
Some key points I like from the lesson were that sacrifice is so necessary. As we sacrifice, our faith is tried, and thus our testimonies are strengthened. In the Bible, it tells of a rich young ruler who came up to Jesus, and asked him how he can be received into His kingdom. Christ laid out the 10 commandments to him first, to which the young man replied that he had kept these commandments ever since his youth. Jesus then said to give all he has to the poor, laying up treasures in Heaven and come follow me. The young man said he couldn't do this thing and he left.
This young man was a good man; we see that from his obedience to the commandments. However, he was not yet willing to give all he had to the Lord. In today's world, we are not asked to give everything we have up to the Lord. We are, however asked to give of our time and talents, among other things when the time calls. Tithing is a big part of this, and yet, all He asks is ten percent. We must do as the disciples Peter and Andrew did when Jesus offered them the same thing as this young ruler. Once this request was made, they laid down there nets and followed Him.
Are we comparable to Peter and Andrew? Are we willing to sacrifice whatever is necessary for the Lord. He does not ask for much as of right now, but what would you do if He were to ask of you to offer twenty or even thirty percent to tithing? Personally, that would challenge my faith, and for a while I would really struggle with that. However, if we remain faithful and trust that He will provide a way, there will be a way provided. Take Nephi as a star example. When asked to go back to retrieve the plates, he did not murmur nor ask how it would be possible, he simply said I will go and do this thing, for I know that the Lord provideth a way. He exercised that faith and he went and did as was commanded of him. After the trial of his faith, then did he receive a way to accomplish the thing that was asked of him.
As we continue to sacrifice for the Lord I can promise you that blessings will be received. I have seen this work throughout my life in many ways. I have grown spiritually and I have been able to put more faith and trust in the Lord because I know He provides a way. If our intentions are good and if we show our willingness to serve and sacrifice the blessings will out weigh any difficulties or hardships that may occur. In the name of Jesus Christ, amen.
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