Selwin Still in Picayune

Me and my new companion, Elder Bennett

Well, I'm staying here in Picayune, Mississippi which was no surprise to me, to be honest. My new companion's name is Elder Bennett and, yes, just in case you're wondering he might be related to you, so it's all good. He's only been a convert for a year and ten months and his conversion and life story is a lot like my own but in some instances a bit harsher.  He's super cool and he's from... wait for it.... Utah. Yep, the people in Utah must surely love me to keep sending me their sons to be my companions here in the mission field.

Oh, boy, we had a heat wave hit us this week. It was crazy, but so cool. Elder Bennett's head got so hot, while we were out tracting, we both were considering probably frying an egg on his head or baking some biscuits a member had given us.  Yep, that would have tasted so good. That reminded me as individuals and as families we are all trying to do exactly what the Lord has asked of us but a lot of times we fall short of a few things.  Then we feel it's not worthwhile pursuing anymore because what we are trying to achieve is way above our level.  In other words, it is something which can only be done perfectly. In the scriptures we are commanded to be perfect even as our Father who is in Heaven is perfect.

My new winter home!

Elder Russell M. Nelson of the Quorum of The Twelve Apostles explained: “We need not be dismayed if our earnest efforts toward perfection now seem so arduous and endless. Perfection is pending. It can come in full only after the Resurrection and only through the Lord. It awaits all who love him and keep his commandments.” 

The Prophet Joseph Smith taught: “When you climb up a ladder, you must begin at the bottom, and ascend step-by-step, until you arrive at the top; and so it is with the principles of the gospel—you must begin with the first, and go on until you learn all the principles of exaltation. But it will be a great while after you have passed through the veil before you will have learned them. It is not all to be comprehended in this world; it will be a great work to learn our salvation and exaltation even beyond the grave”

So take courage in all you do and don't ever stop pursuing those things the Lord has asked of you.  Your decision to do so will show the Lord you are willing to give it your all to listen to His instructions and you will be an example for many to follow. By so doing, you will also aid in helping those around you to do the same.

As the prophet Nephi of old said:

7 And it came to pass that I, Nephi, said unto my father: I will go and do the things which the Lord hath commanded, for I know that the Lord giveth no commandments unto the children of men, save he shall prepare a way for them that they may accomplish the thing which he commandeth them."

For with God all things are possible.

PS: To all you Fathers out there, Happy Father's Day.  Keep doing what you do best and that is leading by example, just like your Father in Heaven.