Consecration

A few weeks ago, our Gospel Doctrines class was talking about the Law of Consecration. We discussed how people failed to live it before, and how we have tithing and offerings now. Of course, tithing is an eternal principle and has existed from before the time of Abraham, but it is through tithing and offerings that we can be consecrated to God.

And just as we won't suddenly become righteous at the end of our mortal life if we aren't living well already (see Alma 34:34), we won't suddenly be truly consecrated when the Church is called upon to live the Law of Consecration if we aren't already. If we're not paying a full tithe and giving generously through fast offerings, we won't be ready for celestial standards.

Beyond that, consecration is about more than just money. A person who gives great amounts of money in offerings but spends all day doing something like playing video games or watching sports is not consecrated. If I don't share my talents in the service of God or I if I fail to fulfill my Church responsibilities because of personal interests or anything else, I am not consecrated.

Consecrating oneself to God means giving up a lot, but sacrifice is a good thing. In fact it's an amazing and wonderful thing. Heavenly Father always gives us something greater in return. Joseph Smith said, "A religion that does not require the sacrifice of all things never has power sufficient to produce the faith necessary unto life and salvation; for, from the first existence of man, the faith necessary unto the enjoyment of life and salvation never could be obtained without the sacrifice of all earthly things."

Of course, our greatest example of consecration and sacrifice comes from Jesus Christ. Everything He did was devoted to His father.

Last thoughts for now:
I must yet make significant progress before I am confident in my level of consecration to God. Even not having acheived this goal, I know that consecrated life is what will bring us the greatest happiness.

The Most Important Consequences

Twice in the last week, I've had religious conversations with another soldier while at work. In each case I thought to bring to light a certain point. It begins with a question:

What are the most important consequences of our actions?

It should be obvious that the effects and influence of what we do extends into a great many areas. If we steal a pack of gum, if we beat and rob someone, if we shovel a neighbor's snowy sidewalk, or if we donate money and time to a worthy cause, there are always obvious direct and immediate consequences to the world around us; however, the most important consequences are what our actions do to us. Whenever we act, we become better or worse. At every moment of every day we thrive, fester, or just stagnate.

That doesn't mean that every moment has to be fast paced. We can wear ourselves out quickly if we try. (I'm not in danger of that myself, though; personally, I need to be more fast-paced sometimes.)

Despite all we may do to better ourselves spiritually, what really makes exaltation possible? The Atonement of Jesus Christ. Without Him, we would have no hope.

I don't think I can say much more at this point than Elder Oaks has said in his talk "The Challenge to Become". Here are the audio and text (see Saturday Afternoon Session): http://lds.org/conference/sessions/display/0,5239,23-1-138,00.html

Last thoughts for now:
I have yet to fully understand the Atonement of Jesus Christ and what it does for me, how it helps me to become like God. All the same, I know that there is no time when I can sin without consequence and impact on my eternity. I hope I can remind myself of my unceasing obligation to act righteously.