Power in the Temple- By Brother Johnston

We recently had our ward conference. The primary focus for ward conference was temple attendance. President Nelson said, "construction of these temples may not change your life, but your time in the temple surely will". What are some of the struggles with going to the temple and what can we do to overcome them?

1. Accountability- As we write things down and involve others, we are more likely to stay accountable. Here are some ideas for doing that:

• Set a date. Put it on your calendar.
• Go with someone else. What a great opportunity for a date night.
• Make it a group date night. Involve the people you minister to and other friends. Grab pizza or ice cream before or after for an added element of socializing together. 

• Set goals or challenges for yourself and take them seriously. Brother Clayton has challenged all the youth to do the work for 100 people by the end of this year - what a great opportunity to help ourselves and others focus on temple attendance.

2.Time management-President Nelson said, "I bless you to identify those things you can set aside so you can spend more time in the temple". Prayerfully consider that and use that blessing to make the adjustments needed to prioritize the temple.

3.Physical Limitations-. President Nelson said, "Should distance, health challenges, or other constraints prohibit your temple attendance … I invite you to set a regular time to rehearse in your mind the covenants you have made."

4.Expired recommend-Brother Clayton and Brother Johnston will make themselves available before and after church on Sunday's and before and after youth activities on Wednesday (just give us a heads up on Wednesday's so we can be dressed appropriately).

5.Worthiness- If there is something that is bothering you, go see the bishop. He represents the Savior. Go and "cast your burden on the Lord, and He shall sustain you" (Psalm 55:22). "Come unto [the Savior], all ye that labor and are heavy laden, and [He] will give you rest. Take [His] yoke upon you … for [His] yoke is easy, and [His] burden is light" (Matthew 11:28-30). "Will ye not now return unto [Him], and repent of your sins … that [He] may heal you? … [His] arm of mercy is extended towards you, and whosoever will come, him will [He] receive. Behold, for such [He has] laid down [His] life … therefore repent, and come unto [Him] … and be saved." (3 Nephi 9:13, 14, 22). The Savior wants to forgive.
 
 
Our prophet has promised many blessings including greater access to the Lord's strengthening power, protection from the buffetings of the world, experiencing the pure love of Jesus Christ and our Heavenly Father, a feeling of peace and spiritual reassurance, and much more. May we each have a greater desire to go and then put it into action. -Brother Johnston