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| Off to Argentina (Sister Carter, leaving for Australia, not pictured) |
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| Houston West Stake Conference (next several pictures) |
Dear Sisters and Elders –
As full-time missionaries, we are encouraged to “pray continually without ceasing” (Alma 26:22). Moreover, we are commanded to “pray always, and not faint” and to “not perform any thing unto the Lord save in the first place [we] shall pray unto the Father in the name of Christ, that he will consecrate [our] performance…” (2 Nephi 32:9).
I strongly feel that if we will pray more frequently and more sincerely for the Lord’s help, He will lift the work in this mission to a new level. Certainly, for our prayers to be powerful, we must be virtuous, obedient, and diligent. However, I believe that there are many blessing left unclaimed because we do not pray frequently or fervently enough. As missionaries, we need to be praying ALL THE TIME!
Preach My Gospel suggests many specific things for which we should pray regularly. While the list is not exhaustive, please find suggestions below:
“Pray for the Spirit’s guidance, and valiantly follow the promptings you receive” (91).
“Pray for [investigators] for inspiration to…understand and meet their needs” (94).
“Pray for the members and priesthood and auxiliary leaders in your area” (94).
“Pray for your companion, other missionaries, and your mission president” (94).
“Pray for your family at home” (94).
“Pray mightily over your goals and plans” (151).
“Always begin your gospel study by praying for the Holy Ghost to help you learn” (18).
“Pray that you will be led to those who are prepared… [and] that you will recognize them” (94).
“Pray for the ability to see unplanned opportunities to serve and teach” (156).
“Pray for the faith and strength to be more bold in opening your mouth” (156).
“Pray for help in your teaching” (93).
“Pray that those you are teaching will feel the confirming witness of the Holy Ghost” (199).
“[Pray] in your heart throughout the day that the Spirit will help you know where to go...(151).
“Pray for a vision of how the Book of Mormon can be used more effectively…” (110).
“Pray to overcome temptation” (95).
“Pray for the Lord to help you develop [Christlike] attribute[s]” (123).
“Pray sincerely for divine assistance [with your mission language]” (127).
“Always pray before leaving your apartment” (150).
“[Pray and] express gratitude for your blessings” (94).
I invite each of you to read the “Pray with Faith” section in Preach My Gospel (93) with your companion tomorrow morning. Together, identify ways that you can pray more frequently and sincerely in your work. If you do, I promise that you will see more blessings and miracles from the Lord.
The Lord promises: “And inasmuch as ye are humble and faithful and call upon my name, behold, I will give you the victory” (D&C 104:82).
With love,
President Pingree