FOOD FOR THE SPIRIT--Rejoice!

I have been reading over my posts from the last few months and I have been struck by a few things.  At first, I felt ashamed at the negativitity that I felt from several of them, but then I realized that the struggles I have been facing have been real, difficult, and intense, so I'm going to give myself a free pass.  Though these struggles continue, at this moment, on this day, I feel to REJOICE!  I am so grateful for the gospel of Jesus Christ!

More specifically, I am thankful for His Infinite Atonement.  I have been asked to speak in sacrament meeting this week about the blessings that come from the Atonement, and as I have been studying, the miracle of this life as well as the promise of life eternal with my sweetheart and posterity, are promised blessings that fill my heart to overflowing.  I am so humbled as I try to even contemplate the blessings that await me.

Last night as I was falling asleep, I had a wonderful feeling of peace.  I felt, for the first time in years, that the spiritual sacrifices and efforts I have been making in my life were pleasing to the Lord.  I felt good.  As this feeling swept over me, I prayed that God would allow me to be good my whole life.  I am so imperfect, but I am realizing that being good AND imperfect are not mutually exclusive possibilities.  I am so grateful for the plan of salvation because I feel such hope even as I deal with adversity.  I feel joy and pain in shifts, but the joy always seems to shine a little brighter.

My life is so blessed and so full.  I love God.  He is for me.  He will always be for me.  And that truth, that understanding, causes my heart to sing.  I rejoice in His goodness.  I rejoice that He is kind.  I rejoice that He has offered His Son.  The tomb is empty and my heart is full.