Conclusions

As I read the Book of Revelations, a concerning question came to my mind: am I worthy to stand with God and his most beloved servants in the Celestial Kingdom? Almost immediately, I concluded that I wasn’t. My weaknesses and mistakes flooded into my mind, and I realized how insignificant and wicked I seem compared to righteous disciples described in the scriptures. But as I pondered this question, hope returned to my mind, and I remembered the Atonement of Christ. Three fundamental principles—faith, hope, and love—have reminded me that because of Christ’s selfless and everlasting sacrifice, I can change; I can become a daughter of God who is worthy to inherit His Kingdom.

This first principle directly shows me how I can overcome sin and become God’s worthy daughter. If I live with active faith in Christ, then I will be given opportunities to perform the work of God. Paul and Barnabas, as described in Acts 14:3, epitomize what it means to actively live in faith. These two disciples gained their testimonies by living the gospel, by knowing Christ and teaching his word. In return for their obedience, Paul and Barnabas were made courageous, bold, and exemplary disciples. They were given opportunities to prove their faith and worthiness to Heavenly Father.

While I read about these men, I strived to become more like them. I took the time to examine my own testimony: I believe in the Plan of Salvation; I believe that Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ live and are watching over me always; I believe that Christ’s Church was restored to this earth by the Prophet Joseph Smith, and that he has been succeeded by Prophets called of God; I believe that the Book of Mormon, the Bible, the Doctrine and Covenants, and the Pearl of Great Price are revelations from God that contain eternal and absolute truths; I believe that if I cleave unto these truths in my heart and mind, I will once again live with my Heavenly Father.

After acknowledging my testimony, I decided to more actively live it. I made it a point to speak to my Heavenly Father every morning and every night, seeking his guidance and forgiveness. I pondered the scriptures more often, and more sincerely. I tried loving others with an open heart, forgiving them in every instance, and always trying to treat them well. After applying these practices to my life, I noticed how blessed I was to have it. I began recognizing what others needed, and how I could use the gospel to help them. I was more courageous to share my testimony to my friends, more willing to teach my younger siblings how the church could help them be happier, and more steadfast in gathering my family in prayer and study. I realized that living in faith brought me power and opportunity.

I have the ability to obtain the same faith that Heavenly Father used to create the Universe. All I have to do is act upon what I believe, and seek to do the will of God. If I endure life well, my faithful living “might be found unto praise and honour and glory at the appearing of Jesus Christ,” bringing me eternal exaltation (1 Peter 1:7). I will be found worthy to inherit his kingdom.

This next principle, taken from Romans 5:3-5, reminded me that hope also brings infinite blessings. If I have hope during my trials, then I will be filled with the Holy Spirit. In these scriptures, Paul teaches that tribulation can inspire patience within us, and that patience gives us experience. Our experiences teach us to have hope in Jesus Christ. In that hope we can never be ashamed or discouraged because we are filled with the Holy Ghost, who testifies of God’s love.

My experiences and mistakes have taught me that a joyful, successful life is not possible without help from my Heavenly Father. When I lose hope and believe that my trials will never end, that no one could save me, I feel lost and alone. But during quiet moments, when I’m not too busy holding pity parties for myself, I feel a burning sensation within my heart, reminding me that God loves me. This small sensation grows to overwhelming heights.

This final principle explores the power of God’s love. If I allow God's love to fill my heart, I will not feel fear. 1 John 4:18 states, “There is no fear in love; but perfect love casteth out fear: because fear hath torment. He that feareth is not made perfect in love.” This is one of my favorite scriptures. It has given me comfort, strength, and guidance on a deeply spiritual level. At one time in my life, I had little confidence in my ability to be loved. I knew that my family had love for me, and I believed that Heavenly Father loved me as well, but I hadn't really grasped the concept of unconditional love. I had trouble believing in the power of love, and I always felt fear when I got close to others; fear that they would see something in me that would turn them away; fear that I wasn't good enough.

This scripture taught me that everything God is, all that he does, is love. I gained a testimony that Heavenly Father loves me, has always loved me, and will always love me. I knew that I could not fear anything because Heavenly Father loves me. The most powerful being in the universe holds tender affection for me, and does everything in his power to ensure my safety and happiness. I now recognize the love others have for me, and the deep love I have for others. I know that I am never alone, and that I am always loved. I know that I can be made perfect in his love, and that I can one day be good enough to live with him again.