Why are we so hard on ourselves when we don’t read the scriptures or pray every day?
Here’s a thought that’s been on my mind:
We know that we are going to be judged by our works.
And I hear people talking about this idea all the time:
That they feel like they are drowning because they just can’t seem to be consistent with their scripture study or prayer habits.
So if we are going to be judged by our works, that puts a lot of pressure on us when we feel like we are constantly falling short in the things we are able to do.
But here’s what we learn in D&C 137:9.
“For I, the Lord, will judge all men according to their works, according to the desire of their hearts.”
Did you hear that last part? Yes, we are judged according to our works, but it is “according to the desire of their hearts”.
To me, this isn’t an excuse, but instead a beautiful showing of mercy.
How many times have I been stopped from going to welcome a new member at church by a kid who needed me immediately?
I missed out on some good works, but what was the desire of my heart?
Or how many times have I been trying to read my scriptures as my eyes keep closing after a long day?
I missed out on some good works, but what was the desire of my heart?
God sees and understands EVERYTHING.
He isn’t keeping track of your daily scripture study as tick marks for or against you.
He has just asked you to come closer to His Son, Jesus Christ, and He is happy to see any good works you choose to do to bring you closer.
And He also completely understands the desires of your heart when you fall short of what you wanted to do.
He sees both. The actions, and the desires.
How merciful is our God!
Happy Studying!
-Cali Black
14 Responses
I’m terrible at reading them, but good at listening. I actually get more out of the dramatized scriptures that I listen to at work, and tune out the language I here from others. Does the Lord give credit for that?
I would say absolutely He does!
I felt great comfort while reading this and yes! relief, that inspite of the struggle of being inconsistent, Heavenly Father can truly see what is in my heart. And my desire is to please him, to keep trying always no matter the fall.
<3 <3
How merciful indeed. He is the pinnacle of mercy and extends it all ways, for which I am ever grateful.
I’m forever grateful for that as well!
I love this thought; seriously, thank you!! I’m always beating myself up for not being consistent all the time with scripture study (I have 3 young kids, the oldest is 5). I feel like if something went wrong or didn’t happen the way I feel it should’ve it’s because I didn’t read my scriptures (sounds silly when I write it out, but I feel it a lot). I’ll keep trying but I love that He knows our intentions ♥️
All we can do is try our best! He understands. <3
Boy, did I need to hear this message. Thank you!
Thank you!! 🙂
Thank you as always for “Shining that solar light” right on the point! Since my crazy finger was partially fixed, I have listened to the D&C to the end, while crazy knitting (which I could not do for such a long time) scarfs for the children (girls) in primary. I sit between two young sweet girls and wanted them to feel love. I then decided to make them for my class (girls). My hubby and I teach all of the children who turned 8 and up in our Primary for our class. If all attend we have about 12 children. We love them and this post makes me feel that what I am doing is worth it.
Good for you for making all of those scarves! I have no doubt they will feel your love!
Thanks for sharing this! It’s exactly what I needed!
<3 <3