Staying Grounded in the Present

The scriptures remind us that ‘in quietness and confidence shall be your strength’ (D&C 101:16). This means that we must learn to stay grounded in the present, focusing on what is within our control rather than getting caught up in worries or fears about the future.

One way to do this is by practicing mindfulness. Mindfulness isn’t a new age fad; it’s simply being aware of and attentive to the present moment. It involves letting go of distractions such as social media, email, or even our own thoughts, and focusing on what we’re doing right now.

Practicing Gratitude

When we focus on the past or worry about the future, it’s easy to forget the blessings that are present in our lives. To combat this, try keeping a gratitude journal. Each day, write down three things you’re thankful for, no matter how small they may seem.

This can help us shift our focus from what we lack to what we have. It reminds us of the Lord’s promise that ‘when ye are in the service of your fellow beings, ye are only in the service of your God’ (Mosiah 2:17). By recognizing and appreciating the blessings in our lives, we can find peace in the present moment.

Putting It into Practice

1. Start small**: Begin by setting aside just a few minutes each day to focus on mindfulness or gratitude. This could be as simple as taking a short walk outside or writing down three things you’re thankful for before bed.
2. Prioritize your time**: Make time for activities that bring you joy and help you connect with others. Whether it’s volunteering, reading, or playing music, prioritize your time to focus on what truly matters.

Remember, finding peace in the present moment is a process. It takes practice and patience, but the rewards are well worth it. As the Lord has promised, ‘peace be unto thy soul; thine afflictions shall be so severe that thou shalt not live many years in the land’ (D&C 101:16). But even in the midst of challenges, we can find peace by staying grounded in the present moment.

Trust and Hope

In the midst of trials and challenges, it’s easy to lose sight of God’s presence and care in our lives. We may feel like we’re walking through a stormy night with no light at the end of the tunnel. But what if I told you that there is hope? What if I shared with you a small practice that can help us cultivate greater trust in our Heavenly Father, even when things seem darkest?

Gratitude: A Key to Trust

Gratitude has been called ‘the currency of heaven’ by some. When we focus on the good things in life, no matter how small they may seem, we begin to see God’s hand at work more clearly. We start to trust that He is truly our loving Father who desires only the best for us.

The Benefits of Gratitude

• Helps us focus on the present moment and find joy in it
• Removes our eyes from ourselves and places them on God’s goodness
• Increases feelings of happiness, well-being, and peace

The scriptures teach us to ‘give thanks unto thy Heavenly Father for all things which come unto thee’ (D&C 78:19). This means being thankful not just for the big things in life, but also for the little things – like a beautiful sunset or a good cup of coffee.

Putting Gratitude into Practice

1. Start small**: Begin with one or two things you’re grateful for each day. It could be as simple as a good meal, a comfortable bed, or a beautiful sky.
2. Make it a habit**: Try to write down three things you’re thankful for each evening before bed. This can help you develop a consistent gratitude practice and make it easier to stick with over time.
3. Be specific**: When writing down your gratitudes, be as specific as possible. Instead of just saying ‘family,’ say ‘I’m grateful for my kind husband who helped me with the kids today.’

Remember, gratitude is a muscle that needs to be exercised regularly in order to grow stronger. By making it a habit to focus on the good things in our lives, we can take small steps towards greater trust in God’s goodness and care for us.

Conclusion

In conclusion, regular gratitude is a powerful tool for cultivating greater trust in our Heavenly Father. By starting small, making it a habit, and being specific, we can begin to see the world through God’s eyes – as a place of beauty, joy, and wonder.