Of things that Matter Most

This Sunday, our Relief Society lesson was based on a talk given by Dieter F Uchdorf called, "Of Things That Matter Most".

At the beginning of the lesson this Mormon Message was shared. It was a way for us to start off by think about the relationships in our lives. Sometimes small things - that aren't important - get in the way of those relationships (would you rather yell at your child for spilling the bowl of spaghetti or hug them, clean it up together, and laugh).

"If life and its rushed pace and many stresses have made it difficult for you to feel like rejoicing, then perhaps now is a good time to refocus on what matters most."

When looking at the rings of trees, to observe there growth pattern, we can see years where much growth happened and years where the tree didn't grow as much. During those years of little growth, we know that the trees energy was focused on the basic elements of survival.

When we are struggling in our lives, we can focus on the things that matter most to keep us strong. President Uchdorf says, "Therefore, it is good advice to slow down a little, steady the course, and focus on the essentials when experiencing adverse conditions."

It's easy to be busy in our lives. Sometimes we base our self worth on our "to-do" lists.

"Let’s be honest; it’s rather easy to be busy. We all can think up a list of tasks that will overwhelm our schedules. Some might even think that their self-worth depends on the length of their to-do list. They flood the open spaces in their time with lists of meetings and minutia—even during times of stress and fatigue. Because they unnecessarily complicate their lives, they often feel increased frustration, diminished joy, and too little sense of meaning in their lives."

A poem called, "Girl in a Whirl" was shared. The tasks this sister was accomplishing were all good and goals many of us have. But trying to do them all at once is nearly impossible. If we slow down and really take the time to evaluate "what matters most" in the moment, we will be more happy and can find peace.

President Uchdorf shared in this Priesthood address, "We know what matters most in life—the Light of Christ teaches this to everyone. We as faithful Latter-day Saints have the Holy Ghost as a “constant companion” to teach us the things of eternal value."  The Holy Ghost can be that constant guide we need in a world of busy schedules and tasks to keep us focused on what is more important in that moment or at certain times in our lives.

He closes the talk by saying, "As we turn to our Heavenly Father and seek His wisdom regarding the things that matter most, we learn over and over again the importance of four key relationships: with our God, with our families, with our fellowman, and with ourselves."

#1 - Our relationships with God: "First, our relationship with God is most sacred and vital."

To strengthen our relationship with him we need to spend time alone studying our scriptures, praying, and attending the temple.

"As we seek Him, as we learn of His Son, Jesus Christ, as we open our hearts to the influence of the Holy Spirit, our lives become more stable and secure. We experience greater peace, joy, and fulfillment as we give our best to live according to God’s eternal plan and keep His commandments."

"We improve our relationship with our Heavenly Father by learning of Him, by communing with Him, by repenting of our sins, and by actively following Jesus Christ."

 #2 - Our relationships with our Families: "In family relationships love is really spelled t-i-m-e, time. Taking time for each other is the key for harmony at home."

How can we spend more meaningful time with our families?

#3 - Our relationships with our Fellowman: "We build this relationship one person at a time—by being sensitive to the needs of others, serving them, and giving of our time and talents."

Serving others is a great way to forget ourselves.

#4 - Our relationships with Ourselves: "May I suggest that you reduce the rush and take a little extra time to get to know yourself better. Walk in nature, watch a sunrise, enjoy God’s creations, ponder the truths of the restored gospel, and find out what they mean for you personally. Learn to see yourself as Heavenly Father sees you—as His precious daughter or son with divine potential."

"Strength comes not from frantic activity but from being settled on a firm foundation of truth and light. It comes from placing our attention and efforts on the basics of the restored gospel of Jesus Christ. It comes from paying attention to the divine things that matter most."