You Don't Need an Apostle to Learn

May 16, 2016

Wow! What a week we've had here! On Friday night we left at 10:20 at night and got into Madrid Saturday at 9:20 AM. It was an interesting adventure in a seat all night long but worth it to be able to learn with Elder Bednar. There was a lot that I learned during the conference with Elder Bednar but I want to highlight four principles that are all related together that really impacted me.

First, there is no reason to stop and check the oil every five minutes if the car is running fine. When we are doing the best we can, keep going, trust in the Spirit to turn on the oil light when there are things to fix. In life we can't be so caught up in asking Am I a good missionary? Am I good home teacher? Am I a good disciple of Jesus Christ? We forget to focus on others. When the Spirit says change the oil, don't argue don't get stopped on the side of the highway of life worrying about your imperfections, change the oil and get going.

Second, Faith is being able to focus on others or turn outwards, trusting that the Spirit will indicate those things that you need to change in your life. Have the confidence that you are doing well. The Spirit, if you ask, will always show you where to improve. Have faith that He will lead and guide you so that you can return to live with God, as you are striving to keep your covenants and serve those around you.

Third, treasure up the words of life constantly in your mind. If we want power when we speak, one of the requisites is that we treasure up the words of life constantly in our minds. In the scripture that I was ponderizing last week it talks of the principle of opening our mouths and as we do it at all times and in all places we will "strength such as is not known among men."

Fourth, what was said by Elder Bednar was what everyone needed to hear, and what we heard from the Spirit was what each of us needed to hear. Really we don't need an Apostle to come teach us because, as members of the church, we have a member of the godhead with us in all times. He is the real teacher, as we learn to listen to Him we will receive everything that we need.

I loved this conference because of how empowering it was to keep moving forward. Don't get caught on the side of the road, the Spirit will teach you what you need to know as you put in your effort to keep moving forward. I love being a missionary. I am great fun for the experiences that I have everyday that testify of my Father in Heaven. There is no greater blessing in this life or the next than to have a relationship with Him!

I love you all,
Elder Gustafson

P-Day Futbol

Happy Missionaries!