During one of my Book of Mormon classes on Monday a student asked a question that more of us should ask. She wanted to know how she could make herself do what was right when she really didn’t want to do it. There are times when doing what is wrong seems easier or more fun or much more enjoyable. Her honesty in asking delighted me and I opened the question up to the class for their answers and was delighted all over again.
First I was surprised at the number of hands that went up immediately. But it was their answers that astounded me. They had some wonderful things to say and two of them especially I want to share. One young man said that when he feels tempted to do something wrong and can feel himself wanting to give in to the temptation, he imagines his mother lecturing him and that convinces him to do what is right. No one said this, but I’m not the only one that would be influenced to do what is right just by thinking about the disappointment it would cause my parents if I did what was wrong. That is another motivator.
One of the young women in my class said that when she’s tempted she immediately opens up her scriptures and begins to read. She said she thinks the adversary is tempting her less and less because he’s beginning to realize that if he tempts her she’s going to read scripture and he doesn’t want her to do that.
These young people are amazing! I think they teach me more than I teach them!
(Check back later. I couldn't find a picture I liked for this post and so I'm going to take a picture of that class later today to add to this.)
Great comments Sherrie, you are lucky to get to share in these moments. I hope that most of our youth are thinking about these things.
ReplyDeleteI would add my comment to those already in your post. I think that if we truly understand the reason for temptation, and realize that it is an important part of our progress and growth, we can look forward and know that it is coming and prepare ourselves for it. I think attending Church "every Sunday" and partaking of the Sacrament are key in that preparation. Understanding the Plan of Salvation is a powerful shield and protection for us.