Jul
21
Any Other Source is Inadequate
I often rely on myself even when I am aware and know that I should not. Sometimes I do it because I know I am weak, and want to fail. That way I can say, well at least I tried, and still partake of the evil that I should not. Sometimes I rely on others and I even tell others when they are giving up an addiction or a bad habit that one of the best ways to break through is by telling others what you are doing so that they will hold you accountable. Well, others fail too. Sometimes I trust in experts even though I know being a physician that most experts may have a basis of understanding, but they’re just making slightly more educated guesses. Putting faith in the expert also negates my own personal responsibility for my actions. If I go down there is someone to blame.
What it comes to is this…Christ is the way, the truth, and the light, and by no other means can I be saved. Alma 37:33 says
“ Preach unto them repentance, and faith on the Lord Jesus Christ; teach them to humble themselves and to be meek and lowly in heart; teach them to withstand every temptation of the devil, with their faith on the Lord Jesus Christ.”
It doesn’t say to fight some temptations with willpower. Or with a support group, or with a councilor, or even by reading my scriptures. All of those things are helpful and can guide me right, but they are not infallible and will not enable me to withstand every temptation.
Being willing to turn my life over to Christ completely is a big step, but a necessary one. How can I get to that point? I have to first truly believe that He has the power to help me. I need more evidence to build my belief. I’m not asking for grand miracles. I do have enough faith though, to ask for experiences that will help me to build my faith. I have enough faith to see his tender mercies. I have to believe so completely that I can give up my agency to Him and know that He has the power to make me whole. I don’t have that, but I’m sprouting.
As the father in Mark 9:24 “And straightway the father of the child cried out, and said with tears, Lord, I believe; help thou mine unbelief.”
