God's love...

Palmyra Temple, July 2009

Recently I have watched many loved ones as they face adversity.  My heart has been full of love, worry, and especially a desire to shout from the rooftops my testimony of God's love.  I want to help, but I can't take away the pains others are experiencing, despite how much I may want to, therefore I do the simple things I know I can-- pray, babysit, clean, offer a listening ear, and share words of love.

Today I was blessed with a quiet hour of reflection as both girls were napping. I saw something on pinterest (I began my time with a distraction), that was exactly what I needed (thank you, Crystal, somehow after years of being away from each other you can still be an answer to my prayers).  The pin was to a devotional given by Elder Holland.  His words are exactly what I wish to share with those I see in their difficult and troubling moments.  We all have them, I have experienced such and it is inevitable that more will come our way, but I share my testimony of God's love by reiterating, "God often moves in a mysterious way, His wonders to perform. . . He turn[s] adversity into blessing."

My dear family and friends please know:

-God has not forgotten you.

-The Savior has been where you have been.

-The powers of Heaven cannot be controlled nor handled, except upon the principles of righteousness.

Please watch Elder Holland's insightful address at: http://www.mormonchannel.org/ces-devotionals?v=1466597284001.  I am grateful for my testimony of these things and hope I can exemplify it in my interactions with others.

Lovingly,

Shannah Marie