Pen vs. Sword=Unfair Fight!

“You have a great opportunity to be a powerful force for good in the Church and in the world. There is truth in the old adage that “the pen is mightier than the sword.” ¹ In many cases it is with words that you will accomplish the great things that you set out to do. And it’s principally about ways to share those words that I want to talk to you.” (M. Russell Ballard, “Sharing the Gospel Using the Internet,” Ensign, July 2008.)

                Words have been around since the beginning of time.  Swords were invented quite a bit later. J  Words have the power to stir emotion, change hearts, and save lives.  However, they also have the power to destroy, ruin, and tear apart.  Swords only have the capability to kill.  Words are incredibly powerful, and must be used carefully.  A single word in the right place can make or break somebody’s day, build up or destroy someone’s self esteem.  We must choose how we are to use these words-to further the work of the Lord and build up those around us, or to hurt and tear down.  It is our choice, and we have the obligation to choose what we know to be right.

“Every disciple of Christ will be most effective and do the most good by adopting a demeanor worthy of a follower of the Savior. Discussions focused on questioning, debating, and doubting gospel principles do little to build the kingdom of God. The Apostle Paul has admonished us to not be “ashamed of the gospel of Christ: for it is the power of God unto salvation””  (M. Russell Ballard, “Sharing the Gospel Using the Internet,” Ensign, July 2008.)

 We have been taught that Bible bashing is useless, proves nothing, and drives away the spirit.  We must be careful to avoid arguing with people (especially online, in forums or chat groups) and instead focus on bringing the gospel to others.  Those that are willing to debate or fight over gospel principles just to prove that you are wrong are probably not going to want to listen to the spirit or accept the gospel.  Rather than argue, we must learn to love.  This is much more condusive to the Spirit and the Spirit converts people-not the missionary or teacher.  When we learn to defend our faith with a firm  resolve, yet avoid tearing down or arguing with others, we become truly effective missionaries and teachers.

               

Talent to Opportunity? Sharing the Gospel Online

I have grown up learning about technology.  My dad is a chemical engineer and has worked for Dow and Microsoft, and has taught me many things about computers and technology.  I also know quite a bit about computers and operating systems.  This knowledge can be used to my advantage.  I can use this information to further the work of the Lord online.  I have begun a Mormon.org account (still going through the red tape) and I can share my talents and interests, such as music and writing, in this way.  I can also use these skills to help other people learn about God.  Blogs, websites, and social networks can also be used to share testimony of the gospel of Jesus Christ.  As I continue to develop skills with technology and writing, I can repay Heavenly Father by helping to spread His work.

My Perfect Day

   My perfect day would be so much fun!  I would eat a HUGE breakfast with eggs, bacon, french toast, and orange Juice!  After breakfast, I would go hang out with Clark and Michael!! We would go airsofting, play computer, eat tons of pizza, watch a movie, and write music (Viva la Vida/Titanium coming soon!).  At home, I would grab a good book (I love Louis L'Amour novels) and some tasty snacks and read in bed.  I like reading the best when it is quiet and I can hear the rain on the windows or see the snow falling outside.  After reading for a few hours, I would drift off to sleep, and the end of my perfect day :).

(this is a picture of me during one of my big airsofting trips with Clark and Michael)