Lessons Learned Around The Fire Pit . . .

Sunday night for FHE the kids wanted to have a fire and roast marshmallows. Wood was gathered (from a next door neighbor) and a fire was underway. As we sat outside looking at and feeling the warmth from the bright flames, Kelsey likened Matthew 5:16 to the fire
"Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven."
She went on to discuss how the fire is like the "light of Christ" and that we need to have a testimony of the "light of Christ."

It was a short but powerful message. As we sat and enjoyed the cool weather and warmth of the fire I pondered the implications of fire and testimony this is what came to mind.
When we add logs to a diminishing fire often times we smother the existing flames. Yes the fire will eventually return, but it may take longer and not without alot of smoke. At this point, if we want the flames or our testimonies to return we need to stroke or blow on the already existing embers. What do we use to help reignite our testimonies? The essentials. What are the essentials? Having a personal relationship with Heavenly Father and our Savior Jesus Christ. Having a testimony of the Plan of Salvation, families can be together forever, Book of Mormon, the gospel, we are sons/daughters of God and then sharing these truths with all we come in contact with.

It is by doing these simple things that will help to ignite a new flame, desire or testimony that often times may be dimmed and go quickly. But once stroked again and again with the necessary element of oxygen or better yet the desire to grow the fire will once again give the desired warmth.

As I pondered this concept I asked my kids the question "what do you think smothers a testimony?" Hailey responded, "the distractions of the world." Once again the pondering began.