Quick Spiritual Thought

I was at Institute tonight and we were talking about gifts of the Spirit. My teacher read a quote from Marvin J. Ashton and I thought I would share it with each of you. I also sent it to Corm because I think it has a great message. The quote is from Elder Ashton's October 1987 conference address "There Are Many Gifts."

He said, "From the Book of Mormon, particularly 3 Nephi, chapters 11 through 26 [3 Ne. 11–26], when the Savior Jesus Christ showed himself to the people on the American continent, many gifts are referred to as being very real and most useful. Taken at random, let me mention a few gifts that are not always evident or noteworthy but that are very important. Among these may be your gifts—gifts not so evident but nevertheless real and valuable.

Let us review some of these less-conspicuous gifts: the gift of asking; the gift of listening; the gift of hearing and using a still, small voice; the gift of being able to weep; the gift of avoiding contention; the gift of being agreeable; the gift of avoiding vain repetition; the gift of seeking that which is righteous; the gift of not passing judgment; the gift of looking to God for guidance; the gift of being a disciple; the gift of caring for others; the gift of being able to ponder; the gift of offering prayer; the gift of bearing a mighty testimony; and the gift of receiving the Holy Ghost.

We must remember that to every man is given a gift by the Spirit of God. It is our right and responsibility to accept our gifts and to share them. God’s gifts and powers are available to all of us."

These less conspicuous gifts are great reminders of what we need to be doing with our lives and what we should be striving for. I would like to point out that Eliza can be secure in knowing that she has the gift of weeping ;).

I love you all! Give yourselves hugs from me.

Lots of love,
Kara