God will never run out of blessings, so why do we cling to the blessings we have already received? There comes a point when we are struggling to retain things we can't keep, to the detriment of people who need those things right now.
Giving Cheerfully
When we give or serve grudgingly, we miss out on the enjoyment that is inherent in these activities. The faster we can overcome our initial resistance, the sooner we can experience the joy and growth that come from giving cheerfully!
2 Corinthians 8-13: “God Loveth a Cheerful Giver” (September 18-24)
1. God wants us to be generous and happy. 2. We can be clever and thoughtful in sharing the gospel without being deceitful or manipulative. 3. The Savior lovingly shows us the ways we need to improve, and He helps us turn those weaknesses into strengths.
Godly Sorrow
Godly sorrow looks to the future with hope, motivating us to act. Worldly sorrow looks to the past and wallows in despair. We should welcome experiences which motivate us to do better, and we should avoid letting negative experiences drag us down.
Out of Much Affliction
Three principles from Paul about suffering: 1. God loves us and will comfort us when we suffer. 2. Suffering can result in growth and progression with God's help. 3. We can find joy when we suffer, particularly when we maintain an eternal perspective.
Earthen Vessels
Jesus shines His light through us, but we are imperfect conduits of that light. Paul described that reality by saying, "We have this treasure in earthen vessels." As a result, we ought to be patient with ourselves and with others as we do the best we can.
Fleshy Tables
How can we write God's law in our hearts? (1) We can immerse ourselves in it, thinking and talking about it regularly. (2) We can increase our desire to obey it. (3) We can seek the companionship of the Holy Ghost.
“Changed into the Same Image”
As we focus on the Savior, trust in His grace, and strive to emulate Him, we gradually become more and more like Him. We may not notice the change from day to day, but little by little, we receive His image in our countenances.
Rending That Veil
After descending from Sinai, Moses had to wear a veil or the children of Israel would not come near him. Are we sometimes similarly hesitant to approach God? Moroni urged us to "rend that veil" which covers our heart.
2 Corinthians 1-7: “Be Ye Reconciled to God”
Four lessons from the first half of 2 Corinthians: 1. We need to open our heart so God can teach us. 2. Disciples of Christ seek reconciliation with others. 3. The time to repent is now. 4. Godly sorrow motivates repentance.