DAY 248 -- Lessons of Ammon and His Brothers

When I posted last night about Ammon and his gratitude for Father's help in converting so many Lamanites, he said he was nothing, that his strength was weak, but in the strength of Father, he could do all things.  I have been pondering about that story all day long. 

I continue to pursue different possibilities to realize my dream of 50K.  I "listen" to whispers from Father.  I follow up every thought, every possibility, and every little concept that could turn into a great blessing.  I pause to  look at them and can't help but wonder...

My mind flows back to where Ammon and his brethren started out their mission to the Lamanites.  They began slowly.  It took quite a while to be successful.  In fact, it took about fourteen years to realize their dream of converting many, many brethren from their enemies who they had fought many times.  Most of these missionaries lived through prison, being rejected, spit upon, etc.  They followed what they thought was right in trying to preach the truth and were met with utter failure and even persecution. 

But they didn't give up.  They continued to try no matter the obstacle.  While they were naked and in jail, deprived of food, etc, I would assume they were depressed, knowing that they were doing the Lord's mission to some of His lost sons and daughters. I am sure they felt like Joseph Smith when he started out D and C section 121, "Oh God, where art thou?"   Finally they were released and permitted to preach the gospel.

As I continue to pursue my mission to prepare for our mission financially, I need to learn the lesson of these brethren.  It isn't always easy.  It isn't always without heart break, disappointment, failure, and obstacles.  But it should be without losing sight of the ultimate goal.  No matter how long, how difficult, how many detractors, or mountains to climb, I must keep working toward that goal, either until we arrive, or until those sweet whispers from Father tell us to change our goal and dream.  Hopefully, it won't take the 14 years it took them.  The key is not to give up, keep trying, and rest if need be, but get up and fight again.