Posted on Aug 01, 2024

Constructing a Life Closer to Christ

Constructing a Life Closer to Christ

This week, on the Why We Believe show, I had the amazing opportunity to speak with Anurat Kaeocha. Anurat was the architect in charge of constructing the Bangkok Thailand Temple. He was able to share his story with us as he told us about his experience converting to The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Throughout the whole experience, he witnessed various miracles and times when God really made Himself known as a presence in Anurat’s life.

 

Today we will be going over the most important parts of what it is like to come closer to Christ and to really let Him into our lives. Through having faith, choosing to repent, deciding to get baptized, receiving the gift of the Holy Ghost, and continuing in faith as you embrace the gospel in your life.

Faith in Christ

Choosing to have faith in Christ is the first step in constructing a Christ-centered life because He is the foundation of all we do in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Not only is it His church, but following His example will help us as we choose to invite Him into our lives. 

 

To have faith is more than just something you say. It is shown and utilized through our actions. When you have faith that the weatherman was right and that it is going to rain tomorrow, you take an umbrella. Likewise, when you hear the teachings of Christ and choose to have faith in Him, you make changes in your life that align with what He teaches. 

 

This could look like anything from stopping smoking, choosing to do the dishes for your spouse, or taking the time to study your scriptures every day or more often than you had the day before. Christ teaches us a higher law that we can live by. He holds His followers to a higher standard. As a result, we can choose to rise to the occasion and live our lives in a way that exemplifies a follower of Jesus Christ.

The Process of Repentance

The scriptures teach that repentance is asking forgiveness from God for our sins. Because of Jesus Christ and His Atonement, we can have this divine gift as an active part of our lives. Christ suffered for our sins on the cross and in the Garden of Gethsemane. In doing so, we can become clean and free from our sins. 

 

Repentance is both an act of faith and something God, through His holy prophets, has commanded us to do. It all starts with understanding what you have done is wrong and asking God to be forgiven. After that, you work in doing everything within your power to make reparations and not to do those things again. 

 

One of the most beautiful things about repentance is that you can always try again. We are all human and, thus, prone to failure and accidents. Christ, as the one who has already suffered and atoned for our sins, understands exactly how hard or how long it takes for us to overcome these things. So, no matter what, he completely understands who you are, where you’re at, what you can do, and how you can grow.

The Choice to be Baptized

As you read, study, ponder, and apply Christ's teachings as you live your life and actively choose to follow Him, the decision to be baptized as a member of His church helps us build our spiritual foundation on Him. When you choose to be baptized, you choose to take upon yourself the name of Christ, keep His commandments, and serve Him to the end.

 

When you are baptized, all your sins are washed away. You are cleansed from all your past sins. As we live life, we continue to make mistakes and slip up sometimes, but each week, as we take the sacrament, we can renew our covenants and try to do better than the week before. As we continue on our path to discipleship, you may only get baptized once, but the covenant you make will last your whole life and beyond.

The Gift of the Holy Ghost

After we have been baptized, we are blessed to receive the gift of the Holy Ghost to be with us as our constant companion, guide, comforter, and protector. The Holy Ghost is a guide who will never lead us astray. He communicates with us through a still, small voice, and it is up to us to choose to follow it or not. We also need to learn for ourselves what actions we take to invite the Holy Ghost or drive him away. 

 

As you choose to live in a way that invites the Holy Ghost, you will feel peace and joy. Life will still be hard and, at times, complicated. People in your life will still pass away, and people will still get sick. But your life experiences are for you. No one else can live your life or progress in life for you. And having the Holy Ghost by your side can make all the difference in the world when you choose to let him be your guide.

Don't Stop There

Coming closer to Christ and constructing your foundation in Him is only the beginning. Whatever you do, always start with faith in Christ, look for ways you can improve, and choose to let Christ lead you and understand how His Atonement works for you in your life.

 

This week, I invite you to ponder ways you can revisit these four principles. See what the Spirit is trying to communicate with you and act on it. Nothing can bring you closer to Christ than actively choosing to reach out to Him because He is reaching right back.

 

 


Thank you for listening to this week’s episode of Why We Believe. If you are interested in more like this, you can check out our other blogs and episodes here.

Related Blog

Faith and Vision With Christ Along the Way
Faith and Vision With Christ Along the Way
  • by Julia Denner
  • Sep 27, 2024

This week on the show, I got to speak with Andrew Van Noy. A successful entrepreneur, cancer survivor, and devoted family man, Andrew's life shows the transformative power of faith in the face of adversity. As the founder and CEO of Deep Power, former CEO of a publicly traded company, and operator of a cancer research company called Cancer Vax, Andrew has achieved remarkable success in the business world. However, it's his spiritual journey and unwavering faith that truly set him apart. Growing up, Andrew faced significant challenges that could have potentially ended his life. Diagnosed with cancer at just 17 months old, he lost an eye to the disease – an experience that would shape his perception of the world and his relationship with God for years to come. Yet, what began as a perceived weakness ultimately became the cornerstone of his spiritual strength and a powerful tool for sharing his faith with others. In this blog post, we'll dive into the moments of spiritual awakening that defined his path, including a miraculous experience in the Sacred Grove and a life-altering health scare that redefined his purpose. Through Andrew's unique perspective on vision – both physical and spiritual – we'll gain profound insights into living a purposeful life guided by faith. Join us as we uncover valuable lessons on choosing to develop faith in the face of struggles, understanding that while we may not always comprehend the reasons behind our trials, by choosing to follow Christ, we can become more than we ever thought possible. Embracing the Unexpected When faced with life-altering challenges, it's natural to question why we must endure such difficulties. For Andrew Van Noy, losing an eye to cancer as a child could have been a source of bitterness and resentment. Instead, it became the conduit for a spiritual journey that would shape his entire life. As a child, Andrew struggled with the visible difference that set him apart from his peers. A pivotal moment came when he stumbled upon a scripture in the Bible that would forever change his perspective. The passage spoke of a man born blind, not as a punishment for sin, but so that the works of God could be displayed in his life. This revelation opened Andrew's eyes to the possibility that his own challenge wasn't a curse but a blessing in disguise – a means through which God's glory could be manifested. This shift in perspective marked the beginning of Andrew's journey to transform his perceived weakness into a source of strength and spiritual insight. Developing Spiritual Vision As Andrew grew older, he began to recognize that his unique experience had granted him a different kind of vision – one that went beyond physical sight. This spiritual vision allowed him to see people and situations from a perspective that many others missed. One of the most profound realizations came during a mission experience, where Andrew encountered a scripture about having one's eye "single to the glory of God." For someone with only one eye, this passage took on a deeply personal meaning. It reinforced the idea that his physical limitation could be a spiritual advantage, allowing him to focus more intently on what truly mattered. This newfound spiritual vision manifested in various ways throughout Andrew's life. He developed a keen sense of empathy and compassion for others, particularly those facing their own challenges. His ability to see beyond surface-level appearances and recognize the inherent worth of each individual as a child of God became a powerful tool in his personal and professional life. Faith in Times of Crisis Andrew's faith was challenged when he faced a potential health crisis that threatened the vision in his remaining eye. Andrew suddenly found himself grappling with the possibility of complete blindness. This forced Andrew to confront his deepest fears and reassess his priorities. In the face of potentially losing his sight, material success and professional achievements paled in comparison to the things that truly mattered – his faith, family, and ability to make a positive impact on the world. Through fervent prayer and unwavering faith, Andrew navigated this challenging period. The experience not only strengthened his relationship with God but also clarified his life's purpose. It led him to refocus his career on endeavors that could make a significant difference in people's lives, such as sustainable energy and cancer research. This period of crisis became a powerful testimony to the transformative power of faith in action. Trust in God as You Choose to Keep Moving Andrew Van Noy's story reminds us that our greatest challenges often hold the key to our most profound growth and purpose. By choosing to develop our faith in the face of struggles, we open ourselves to transformative experiences that can shape not only our own lives but also the lives of those around us. As you reflect on Andrew's journey, consider the challenges in your own life. How could you view them differently? What perceived weaknesses could you transform into strengths? Take a moment to identify one area of your life where you can put your faith into action. Perhaps it's a long-standing insecurity, a professional challenge, or a personal relationship that needs healing. Commit to approaching this area with renewed faith, trusting that God can work through your circumstances to manifest His glory. Your experiences with faith are unique and ongoing. Like Andrew, you have the power to choose how you respond to life's trials. By placing your faith in God's hands and remaining open to His guidance, you can transform your greatest challenges into your most powerful faith-building experiences. Thank you for listening to this week’s episode of Why We Believe. If you are interested in more like this, you can check out our other blog posts and episodes here.

Read more
Processing Divorce With Faith
Processing Divorce With Faith
  • by Julia Denner
  • Sep 20, 2024

Faith can be a powerful anchor in the face of life's most challenging moments. This truth is beautifully exemplified in the story of Jenn Zingmark, a divorce and life coach from South Carolina. Jenn’s experiences as a divorced single mother to a remarried woman with a blended family of five children are not just a tale of personal triumph; they're a testament to the transformative power of faith in the midst of life's storms. As a speaker at BYU's Life After Divorce Conference and BYU's Women Conference, Jenn brings experience and insight to those navigating the tumultuous waters of divorce. Her story shared on the "Why We Believe" podcast, offers invaluable lessons on trust, resilience, and the unexpected blessings that can emerge from life's most difficult chapters. In this blog post, we'll explore Jenn's experience with divorce and faith. From making tough decisions to rebuilding a life and family after divorce. Let's dive into the powerful lessons of faith, perseverance, and the beauty of new beginnings that Jenn's story has to offer. Embracing Faith in the Face of Divorce Divorce is often seen as a failure, especially within religious communities. However, Jenn Zingmark's experience helps us understand that it is a necessity and can be a catalyst for profound spiritual growth. When her 11-year marriage ended, she found herself at a crossroads. Instead of letting bitterness take root, she chose to come closer to God. In the midst of her pain, Jenn made a conscious decision to trust God more fully. She clung to her temple covenants, finding strength in renewing them whenever possible. This act of faith became her lifeline, providing her with the strength to face each day. Jenn's experience shows that even in our darkest moments, turning toward God can provide the comfort and guidance we desperately need. Divorce doesn't have to be the end of our faith. Instead, it can be an opportunity to grow closer to God, to lean on Him in ways we never have before. By choosing faith over fear, Jenn not only got through her divorce but found a new purpose and direction for her life. Making Difficult Decisions with Divine Guidance One of the most challenging aspects of divorce is the number of decisions that need to be made, often in areas where we feel ill-equipped. Navigating legal documents, custody arrangements, and financial settlements while caring for children is precarious and daunting. In these moments of uncertainty, you can ask God for guidance. Jenn's approach to decision-making during her divorce was rooted in seeking God’s wisdom. She recalls going to her attorney with ideas that seemed unconventional, ideas she felt had come directly from God. Despite skepticism from others, Jenn trusted these spiritual promptings, and time after time, they proved to be the right choices for her situation. This reliance on spiritual guidance teaches us that when faced with life-altering decisions, we don't have to rely solely on our own understanding. By partnering with God in our decision-making process, we can find clarity and confidence, even in the most challenging circumstances. We can choose to trust in God's wisdom, especially when the path forward seems unclear. 3. Finding Purpose in Pain Perhaps one of the most important aspects of Jenn's story is how she transformed her painful experience into a calling to help others. Recognizing the lack of support she had during her own divorce, she aims to fill that gap for others going through similar struggles. This has led her to specialize in helping individuals navigate divorce while maintaining their faith. She understands firsthand the fears, doubts, and challenges that come with divorce. But more importantly, she knows the power of faith in overcoming these obstacles. Through her coaching, Jenn helps others see that divorce, while painful, doesn't have to define their future or shake their faith. She stands as a living testament to the fact that life after divorce can be fulfilling, that faith can be strengthened through trials, and that God can bring joy and peace where there was loss and sorrow. Lead With Compassion and Faith For those currently going through a divorce, you are not alone in this journey. Seek God's counsel in every decision, big or small. Trust that He has a plan for your future, even when you can't see it. Allow your faith to be your anchor in the storm, knowing that this trial can lead to growth and new opportunities. To those who know someone going through a divorce, it is a painful and often isolating experience. Offer support without judgment, understanding that the decision to divorce is rarely made lightly. Be a listening ear, a helping hand, and a reminder of God's love during this difficult time. Ultimately, with faith, even our deepest pain can be transformed into purpose. Look for ways to trust God more fully, seek His guidance in our decisions, and believe that He can bring beauty from even the most challenging circumstances in our lives. Thank you for listening to this week’s episode of Why We Believe. If you are interested in more like this, you can check out our other blog posts and episodes here.

Read more
Finding God in the Details of Our Lives With Donald Kelly
Finding God in the Details of Our Lives With Donald Kelly
  • by Julia Denner
  • Jun 07, 2024

In a recent episode of Why We Believe, I sat down with our guest for this week, Donald Kelly. Donald is a renowned sales and podcasting expert. He founded The Sales Evangelist, a company dedicated to helping B2B salespeople reach their full potential. Donald has been a keynote speaker at numerous events and has received multiple awards for his work in the sales industry. Beyond his professional accomplishments, Donald is a man of faith who has served in various roles within the Church. This week, Donald shares the story of why he believes. Finding God in the details of our lives, even amidst adversity, is one of the focuses of Donald’s life. As we explore Donald's story, we'll see how his experiences have shaped his belief that God is intimately involved in our lives and that with Him, every problem has a solution. Though our lives are busy and complicated, in the end, nothing is impossible with God. Finding God We are all in different places in our lives. God will reveal himself in the lives of those who seek him. Donald has seen this throughout his life. Family, friends, and miracles that have helped his family stay together through the trials have been a huge testament to this. God has an active role in his life. Donald learned about the Church because of the scouting program. He was too old to participate, but his friend then told him about the Church’s Young Men’s program, and he was excited to be a part of that. Around that time, he felt a need to start going to church again. It made sense to him to start going with his friend, who had invited him to those activities. As Donald began learning about the Book of Mormon, Joseph Smith's First Vision, and the restored gospel, he felt the spirit as he applied what he had learned. Studying the scriptures and pondering them each day, he saw the difference in his life and in his relationships with his loved ones. Acting in Faith When we choose to live our lives in a way that will bring us closer to God, we choose to live our lives differently. Acting in faith is hard. It requires sacrifice and commitment of time and effort on our part. As we make decisions that bring us closer to Christ, going to church, taking the sacrament, and participating in saving ordinances, all help us grow in faith. Donald’s faith was tested again when he felt a strong prompting to serve a mission. His mother, who had sacrificed so much to bring their family to the U.S. for better opportunities, insisted that Donald pursue his education first. In the midst of the unknown, he chose to act in faith. He continued to make choices that would help him accomplish both goals. He applied to Brigham Young University-Idaho, and he began working on his mission papers. Towards the end of this process, his mother simply wanted him to do what would make him happy. And he was prepared for two very important parts of his future. Letting God Lead the Way Acting in faith is sometimes the best way to receive revelation. God guides us as we go, sometimes only with little lights to guide us along our way. The paths God will take us on will help us make changes and grow as we prepare ourselves to face them. Donald's experiences on his mission further reinforced the principle that with God, every problem has a solution. God may not be the answer, but He will help you find it. He gives comfort when we need it most. He helps us understand our divine identities and potential. Missions are an amazing place to grow, develop a personal testimony of what you have experienced, and see God’s direct influence in our lives. Donald witnessed the Lord guiding him to solutions. These mission experiences laid a foundation for Donald to trust God's guidance in future challenges. Fortifying Our Faith Any good thing must be maintained and taken care of. If you want something to last and work well in life, you do not leave it to gather dust. Our faith is the same way. You cannot build it up only to leave it idle and unused. Donald recognized the importance of maintaining a strong spiritual foundation through daily scripture study, prayer, and temple attendance. He also learned that when one member of a family is called to serve, the whole family serves and sacrifices together. Donald has continued to see the Lord's hand guiding him and his family in ways that can build up their faith together. Time and again, he has learned that what may seem like coincidences are actually evidence of God's involvement in the details of our lives. Seeking God's Will and Trusting His Path Donald’s story helps us see how, no matter where we are in life, letting God be the guiding force in your life will help you become more than you thought you could be. Here are some things to keep in mind as you continue on your path of faith: God is intimately involved in the details of your lives With God, every problem has a solution As we serve faithfully, God provides for our needs What may seem like coincidences are often evidence of God's hand If you find yourself struggling with doubts or facing challenges, remember that you are not facing your trials alone. Seek God's will for your life, trust in the path He leads you down, and have faith that He will guide you to solutions. Even if your faith is the size of a mustard seed, God will multiply it when you act on it. So, continue in faith, do what you can, and trust that God will make up the rest.

Read more
The Art of Faith: Del Parson's Journey from Delinquent to Renowned Religious Artist
The Art of Faith: Del Parson's Journey from Delinquent to Renowned Religious Artist
  • by Julia Denner
  • Oct 11, 2024

The Art of Faith: Del Parson's Journey from Delinquent to Renowned Religious Artist In the realm of religious art, few names resonate as deeply as Del Parson. Known for his iconic depictions of Jesus Christ, including the famous "red robe" painting, Parson has touched millions of lives through his masterful brushstrokes and profound spiritual insights. But the journey that led him to become one of the most influential Latter-day Saint artists of our time is as compelling as the artwork itself. In this week's episode of Why We Believe, we explore Del Parson's extraordinary life and career. From his humble beginnings as a self-described "juvenile delinquent" to his transformation into a beacon of faith and artistic excellence, Parson's story is one of resilience, divine inspiration, and the power of visual storytelling to fortify beliefs and touch hearts. Join us as we explore the intersection of art and faith, gaining exclusive insights into the creation of Parson's most famous works and the profound spiritual experiences that shaped both his life and his art. This powerful conversation offers a rare glimpse into what it truly takes to create art that resonates with millions of souls, demonstrating the transformative power of combining artistic talent with unwavering faith. The Roots of Artistic Inspiration: From Delinquent to Disciple Del Parson's journey into the world of religious art began in an unlikely place. Growing up in a large family of nine children, with a father who was an art professor at Brigham Young University-Idaho (then known as Ricks College), Parson was surrounded by creativity from an early age. However, he admits that he was far from the perfect Latter-day Saint boy, describing himself as a "juvenile delinquent" during his teenage years. It wasn't until his twenties that Parson experienced a pivotal moment that would set him on the path to becoming the renowned artist we know today. While working a job building fences in Southwest Idaho, he found himself with nothing to read but a Bible and a Reader's Digest. Over the course of that summer, Parson read the Bible from cover to cover, an experience that sparked a desire to truly give the church a try and turn his life around. This decision led him to apply to Brigham Young University, where he continued to develop his artistic skills. However, it was a chance encounter at a dance that would truly change the course of his life. Meeting a beautiful, spiritually grounded woman who would later become his wife, Parson was inspired to live up to higher standards and deepen his faith. This pivotal relationship, combined with a powerful patriarchal blessing that foretold his future as an artist, set Parson on the path to becoming one of the most influential religious artists of our time. Tragedy and Transformation: The Spiritual Crucible of Del Parson's Art While Parson's artistic journey was undoubtedly influenced by his early experiences and education, it was a series of profound personal tragedies that truly shaped his approach to religious art. In a heart-wrenching turn of events, Parson lost both his wife and young daughter in a car accident. This devastating loss became a crucible for his faith and his art, leading to some of the most powerful spiritual experiences of his life. In the aftermath of this tragedy, Parson experienced what he describes as a visit from the Holy Ghost, feeling an overwhelming sense of love and comfort that he had never known before. This experience became a touchstone for his art, with Parson striving to capture and convey that same sense of divine love in his paintings. He shares that this moment of profound spiritual connection is what he aims to recreate in every brushstroke, though he admits it doesn't always come easily. These personal trials also led to remarkable spiritual manifestations that further solidified Parson's faith and influenced his art. He recounts powerful dreams and visitations from his late wife, bringing messages of comfort and doctrinal truths that align perfectly with church teachings. These experiences not only strengthened Parson's testimony but also deepened his commitment to creating art that could touch souls and strengthen the faith of others. The Creation of Iconic Images: Behind the Scenes of Parson's Most Famous Works Perhaps no painting has had a greater impact on Latter-day Saint visual culture than Parson's famous "red robe" depiction of Jesus Christ. The story behind this iconic image offers fascinating insights into the process of creating religious art that resonates with millions. Commissioned by the church to paint a "Mormon image of the Savior," Parson faced the daunting task of creating a more masculine, accessible representation of Christ. The process was far from smooth, involving multiple sketches, divine inspiration, and even a vivid dream foretelling challenges with the church's approval process. Parson's humility and dedication shine through as he recounts working tirelessly on the painting for nine days, only to feel he had failed completely. It was his wife's insistence on sending the painting to the church anyway that led to its eventual approval and widespread adoption. Another of Parson's most beloved works, "Perfect Love," depicting Christ with children, holds a special place in the artist's heart. Parson feels this painting comes closest to capturing the overwhelming sense of divine love he experienced during his moments of deepest trial. This commitment to conveying not just the physical likeness but the spiritual essence of Christ is what sets Parson's work apart and allows it to touch so many lives. The Impact of Visual Storytelling: Art as a Tool for Strengthening Faith Throughout the conversation, Parson reflects on the power of visual art to strengthen faith and convey spiritual truths. He shares how his paintings have been used in missionary work, church publications, and personal devotion, becoming a visual language through which people connect with their faith. Parson's approach to religious art goes beyond mere representation. He strives to capture the intangible qualities of love, divinity, and spiritual power in his work. This is evident in his recounting of a dream where he met the Savior, noting that it wasn't the physical appearance that mattered but the spirit and essence of Christ that left the lasting impression. The impact of Parson's work extends far beyond the Latter-day Saint community. He shares a touching anecdote about a nun requesting to use his "Perfect Love" painting in a book about Christian philosophies, demonstrating the universal appeal and spiritual power of his art. This broad reach underscores the potential of visual storytelling to bridge denominational divides and touch hearts across diverse faith traditions. Key Elements of Creating Soul-Touching Religious Art: Personal spiritual experiences: Draw inspiration from profound moments of divine connection. Unwavering faith: Maintain a strong testimony to infuse authenticity into the artwork. Technical skill: Develop and refine artistic abilities to effectively convey spiritual concepts. Humility: Remain open to guidance and feedback throughout the creative process. Persistence: Push through challenges and setbacks to achieve the desired spiritual impact. Focus on essence over appearance: Strive to capture the spirit and feeling of religious subjects. Universal themes: Create art that resonates across denominational lines. Prayer and inspiration: Seek divine guidance throughout the artistic process. The Continuing Legacy of Del Parson's Artistic Ministry Del Parson's journey from a self-described juvenile delinquent to one of the most influential religious artists of our time is a testament to the transformative power of faith and artistic expression. His story reminds us that creating art that touches millions of souls requires more than just technical skill – it demands a deep well of personal spiritual experiences, unwavering faith, and a commitment to conveying the intangible qualities of divine love and spiritual truth. As we reflect on Parson's incredible journey and the impact of his work, we are called to consider how we might use our own talents and experiences to strengthen faith and touch lives. Whether through art, music, writing, or any other form of expression, we all have the potential to create something that resonates with others on a spiritual level. Let us take inspiration from Del Parson's example and seek to infuse our own creative endeavors with the same depth of spiritual meaning and authenticity. By doing so, we can contribute to a rich tapestry of faith-affirming expressions that have the power to uplift, inspire, and strengthen souls across the world. As we conclude, consider how you might use your own unique gifts to create something that touches the hearts of others. Whether it's through visual art, music, writing, or simply living a life of faith and kindness, remember that each of us has the potential to make a profound impact on those around us. Let Del Parson's journey inspire you to explore the intersection of your talents and your faith and see where that path might lead you. Thank you for listening to this week’s episode of Why We Believe. If you are interested in more like this, you can check out our other blog posts and episodes here.

Read more

Subscribe to our newsletter and receive new episodes sent straight to your inbox.

Comments

Share your story