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What does it mean to be self-reliant?
When we are
self-reliant, we use the blessings and abilities God has given us to
care for ourselves and our families and find solutions to our own
problems. As we become self-reliant, we are also better able to serve
and care for others. The Lord wants us to become both spiritually and
temporally self-reliant.
“When you are living righteously and are
acting with trust, God will not let you proceed too far without a warning
impression if you have made the wrong decision.”
Elder Richard G. Scott, Using the Supernal Gift of Prayer, April 2007 General
Conference
"It is not expected that you go through
life without making mistakes, but you will not make a major mistake without
first being warned by the promptings of the Spirit. This promise applies to all
members of the Church."
President Boyd K.
Packer, Counsel to Youth, October 2011
When we are consistently praying morning and
night, studying our scriptures daily, having weekly family home evening, and
attending the temple regularly, we are actively responding to His invitation to
“come unto Him.”
Elder Richard
G. Scott, Make the Exercise of Faith Your First Priority, October 2014
Remember, no one can reach upward on your
behalf. Only your faith and prayers will cause you to lift yourself and have
the mighty change of heart. Only your resolve to be obedient can change your
life. Because of the Savior’s atoning sacrifice for you, the power is in you. You have your agency, you have strong
testimonies if you are obedient, and you can follow the Spirit that guides you.
In
the Savior’s parable of the prodigal son, the son had many blessings awaiting
him, but before he could claim them, he had to look closely at his life, his
choices, and his circumstances. The miracle that happened next is described in
the scriptures with a simple phrase: “He came to himself.” May I encourage you to come
to yourself? In the Church, when important decisions must be made, we often
hold council meetings. Family councils serve a similar purpose. You may want to
conduct what I’ll call a “personal council.” After praying, spend some time
alone. Think about what is ahead. Ask yourself: “What areas of my life do I
want to strengthen so that I can strengthen others? Where do I want to be a
year from now? two years from now? What choices do I need to make to get
there?”
Just
remember, you are a pilot, and you are in charge. I testify that as you come to
yourself, your Heavenly Father will come to you. By the comforting hand of His
Holy Spirit, He will help you along.
Elder Robert
D. Hales, Meeting the Challenges of Today’s World, October 2015
