More Diligent and Concerned at Home--Part 3

Part 3

Be Consistent

I think this was my favorite part of the entire conference because it gives me such hope. I'm struggling with a young son and have to hold to the promise of being consistent.

When I was a little girl and watched the movies (remember the film strips?) the Church produced for us, I was in awe at the little children in their best dress and so reverent at FHE. I just couldn't wait until I had a family just like that. I knew my kids would fold their arms, all read along and be so good.

Reality check! WOW was that picture so wrong. It is so nice to read that Elder Bednar's family is much like mine. I can only hope that my boys and girl will be as faithful and turn out so well.

I have heard all those excuses. I have heard all the tattling. I have had the constant distractions and it has driven me to questions why we do this. So many mornings while I'm begging and dragging my kids out of bed for family scripture study I stop and think, "I really don't need the fight." But then the words of my mom and Elder Bednar start to echo through my mind. "They need it."

I remember my mother holding FHE for just one of us (there was seven kids at one time). I thought what a waste of time and energy (so teenager of me), but now I'm so thankful for that example. I remember waking up at 5 am for scriptures (and my non-seminary kids wake up at 7--cry me a river). I remember trying desperately not to fall asleep (you had to read extra if you fell asleep). I also remember that when I went away to school I had a good habit and missed the "family" part of scripture study.

I, like Elder Bednar's children can't tell you one scripture study or FHE or prayer that stands out in my mind--not even the fun activity driven FHE. But I do remember that my mom held it every week.

Think about all the things we do as members of the church and how being consistent is the key. Sunday meetings, tithes, fast offerings, FHE, scripture study, etc. It is said that it only take 28 days to make a habit. Why not try now to make a new habit of family scripture study? (and maybe I need to make a more concerted effort for personal scripture study).

"Being consistent in our homes is important for another reason. Many of the Savior’s harshest rebukes were directed to hypocrites. Jesus warned His disciples concerning the scribes and Pharisees: “Do not ye after their works: for they say, and do not” (Matthew 23:3). This strong admonition is sobering given the counsel to “express love—and show it,” to “bear testimony—and live it,” and to “be consistent.”"

I will NOT be a hypocrite! I will not!