Be a Light

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I have been studying about Jesus teaching the Nephites this week in 3 Nephi, and I have learned a lot!

The main thing that I found throughout the chapters that I read (3 Nephi 12 to 17) was that we do our part to gain faith and help others in the process. 

First, we have to know what we believe in. Elder Robert D. Hales give a good formula for gaining faith in his talk, "Finding Faith in the Lord Jesus Christ." He tells us that first we must hear the spoken and written word of God. Then, we need to let it sink into our hearts. Next, we need to "hunger in (our) soul for righteousness." Forth, we need to "obediently follow gospel laws, ordinances, and covenants." Finally, we are to "raise (our) voice in mighty prayer, asking in faith to know that Jesus Christ is our Savior." He then gives us the promise that if we find faith in Jesus, Heavenly father will strengthen this faith. 

It is important to understand, however, that faith is just the beginning. We need to take action. 3 Nephi 15:1 says, "...whoso remembereth these saying of mine and doeth them, him will I raise up at the last day." There are many things that the Savior asked us to do in these chapters. In chapter 12 He asks us to repent and come unto Him and keep His commandments. Chapter 13 tells us to give donations to the poor in secret, not expecting a reward, pray, forgive, and "lay up for yourselves treasures of heaven" (3 Nephi 13:20). In chapter 14 he says not to judge, pray for answers, and beware of false prophets. Chapter 15 tells us to do missionary work. These are all important steps to being more like and true disciples of Christ.

As we work towards discipleship, we will stick out for the world to see us. This is what the Lord wants. He says in 3 Nephi 12:14 to 16:

"Verily, verily, I say unto you, i give unto you to be the light of this people. A city that is set on a hill cannot be hid.
"Behold, do men light a candle and put it under a bushel? Nay, but a candlestick, and it giveth light to all that are in the house;
"Therefore let your light so shine before this people, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father who is in heaven."

These verses were talked about in my class a few days ago. More specifically, the words "let your light so shine" were talked about. A group talked about how they pictured a lighthouse shining as a beacon. As they talked about this a visioned a lighthouse in the dark, stormy night shining to anyone who may be looking for that light to bring them to safety.

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When I went back to read it again, I pictured more of a the light of a candle or lantern lighting up a dark room. In my head it is a calmer light showing the way.

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No matter if we are the bright beacon helping someone through the storms of their lives or the soft candle showing the way in a dark room, by following Christ, we can help others find faith in Christ as well as ourselves. 

I hope that as I continue to grow faith in Christ that I can be a light in someone's light.