In an article written by Dale G. Renlund, "Preserving the Heart's Might Change" I found 11 key characteristics that I feel will be helpful in my efforts to become the woman God has intended for me to be.
- Honest & Upright in all things
- Firm in the Faith of Christ
- Eager to please God
- Worship with fervor and passion
- Interest in helping and service
- Hold covenants firmly
- Teach the Gospel to your children
- Distance yourself from temptations
- Frequently assess the condition of your heart
- Be humble
- Free of Pride & Envy
Every week I will study each one of these through the scriptures, words of the Prophets and any other uplifting helpful resources.
This week my focus will be on Honest.
Sunday night I flipped through the Dictionary to better educate myself with the word 'upright'. It is defined as being strictly honest or honorable. Because I find words fascinating I also looked up 'strictly/strict'. Without exception or deviation. It isn't enough to be honest but strictly honest. I imagine myself speaking only to stop and ponder did I speak complete truth? Did I embellish, exaggerate, or only tell half truths? For I know I have done these things before. I also feel that not only does this discipline of honesty apply to my words but my actions as well. I've fallen guilty to making myself out to be a liar. Falling through on my promises. Not producing the expected results.Think before you speak and/ or act. Always good advice. In everything I do I will strive to be honest by stopping to daily evaluate the previous' day actions and words. Did I make commitments; to God, myself, children or others? What activities, interactions can I anticipate for today that will prove me honest or false?
Scriptures to keep in mind;
- Exodus 23:1 Thou shalt not raise a false report: put not thine hand with the wicked to be an unrighteous witness. Don't tell lies, gossip, or even elevate myself above others by comparing. Gossiping no matter how factual it may be is not speaking with the spirit of Christ. Trying to 'one up' a persons experience is usually achieved through exaggerations.
- Ecclesiastes 5:5 Better is it that thou shouldest not vow, than that thou shouldest vow and not pay. Don't make promises you can't keep. Look through past experiences, recognize where I fell short, why and if the same could be the same again. Don't make promises to things that aren't tried and true. If it's the first time with a new project, an added errand to an already busy schedule, don't set yourself up to make you unreliable.
- Romans 12:17 Recompense to no man evil for evil. Provide things honest in the sight of all men. Don't sell myself short. If I'm working with others that aren't doing their full part don't let my work slide because of their attitude. If someone wrongs me and they are in need of help, serve them. Don't let their actions/words towards me change my nature and become choosey.
- Alma 7:20 I perceive that it has been made known unto you, by the testimony of his word, that he cannot walk in crooked paths; neither doth he vary from that which he hath said; neither hath he a shadow of turning from the right to the left, or from that which is right to that which is wrong; therefore, his course is one eternal round. Don't be distracted. Be truly reliable, even predictable.
- Alma 41:14 Therefore, my son, see that you are merciful unto your brethren; deal justly, jusdge righteously, and do good continually; and if ye do all these things then shall ye receive your reward; yea, ye shall have mercy restored unto you again; ye shall have justice restored unto you again; ye shall have a righteous judgment restored unto you again; and ye shall have good rewarded unto you again. I will always be better blessed for being honest.
