Matthew 10 - Come Follow Me lesson.

I want to journal my experiences in the scriptures.  Time is so limited.  I thoroughly enjoy the Come Follow Me study time.  When I put into it, I definitely pull from it!

This morning I read Matthew 10.  That was it. I was intrigued by the Savior’s use of animals as he spoke with the apostles.  Serpents are wise?  Doves are harmless?  He also mentions sheep (those we minister to) and wolves (those who seek to destroy).  

Jesus sends his disciples on a “go-as-you-are” mission, i.e. no packing, no money – only the good news of the gospel to teach, preach, bless and open their mouth – aka being an instrument in God’s hands – to do His work!  V20 Spirit of Father is the speaker; not them.  

Many times, I’ve felt the influence of the Holy Ghost as I’ve delivered a talk, bore my testimony or served in auxiliaries and spoken.  It is an exhilarating experience!  The first time I experienced this, and knew what was happening, was when I had been asked to give a talk.  I had studied the topic thoroughly.  I knew it passionately.  It didn’t hurt that it was about music in our worship and in our daily lives.  I had my talk typed out.  This was when I had small children and we all know how hectic getting out the door for church can get.  Such was my morning.  When I got on the stand and looked in my things, my talk was nowhere to be found. The meeting had started.  I was somewhat panicked, but calm.  Does that make sense?  Perhaps it was the Spirit.  I delivered the things that must have been important to the Lord and felt His influence and support as I gave my talk with eye contact to the congregation.  That was the beginning of many more talks just like it.  I purposely leave my “talk” at home.  I take a card with bullet points, aka reminders of what I think I’m to give.  

The Savior gave his disciples the power of the Priesthood to go forth and teach and preach.  How can I access His power as I serve in my callings and as a minister?  Again, studying the scriptures is key.  I honor the Priesthood and value the blessings I’ve been given through Priesthood blessings.  To deny oneself of unrighteousness is taking up the “cross”, as we seek the Holy Ghost as a constant companion.  

I loved ready 2 Corinthians 6:1-10!  God has been very good to me.  The counsel in v1 is to not let that goodness be in vain.  Hmmmm, maybe this means the blessings the Lord has given us should not cause us to be prideful but to realize these gifts are so we can do His work. 

V2 – Don’t pass judgment on others as I serve them.  

V3-6 Patient in afflictions, tumults, labor, fasting, pureness,   

And that is all the time I have this morning.  It was a lovely time in my scriptures!