Becoming an Example and a Light

Becoming an Example and a Light

Quoted by President Monson, in his talk "Be an Example and a Light" Photo by Karrie Lasater

This week's scripture study was the last six chapters of  2 Nephi.  I found 2 Nephi 28 very interesting. While it is kind of dark, the more I studied it the more I saw how much it can be related to the world we currently live in.  Nephi is warning of all the things that will draw his people away from Heavenly Father.  Here are seven examples that are happening today - 

1 -  Contention among different churches.
2 -  Denying the Power of God.
3 -  Disbelief in modern day revelation.
4 -  Live however you want there are no consequences.
5 -  The Law of Chasity is old and out of date.
6 -  False preaching and false doctrine.
7 -  Life is not valued, it is wasted.

While these things exist in the world there are things that we can do to be an example and a light to the world.  I had the wonderful opportunity to teach the Relief Society fourth Sunday lesson, our Bishop had chosen the most recent conference address by President Thomas S. Monson, "Be An Example and a Light" from the Sunday Morning Session.  This is based on two scriptures:

Matthew 5:16

Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.

1 Timothy 4:12

Be thou an example of the believers, in word, in conversation, in charity, in spirit, in faith, in purity.

President Monson goes on to explain that he believes that the second scripture explains how we can accomplish the first.  He says that we become examples of the believers by living the gospel of Jesus Christ in all the ways that 1 Timothy 4:12 tell us to.  President Monson says:  "Each of us came to earth having been given the Light of Christ.  As we follow the example of the Savior and live as He lived and as He taught, that light will burn within us and will light the way for others."

So how does this all tie into my Becoming Project?  First, if we are aware that the scriptures are written for us and our day, they become so much more personal. Second, I felt like President Monson was talking directly to me.  Giving me the pieces that I need to learn to put together to become more Charitable to those around me and those I meet everyday.  Each week as my scripture know grows, I see what I need to do to be a better example and a light.  I would highly recommend that we each study and then act upon this important message from our beloved prophet of Heavenly Father!