values > pleasures

Here and there I struggle with some of the "worldly" things I use to do and regrettably I can sometimes miss them. I would be lying if I said I casually brushed some of these feelings off, because I don't. I try to build a strong hold against them... but my hold collapses and I am left trapped. I look at the world's view of certain things and behaviors and I get into thinking about those more than what truly matters, and that really damages my blossoming faith. I care more about that others think or how the world views me, I let my faith come second because I was too caught up in the world. I shy away when people ask about my religion. Even though I enjoy learning about the Gospel I would hide that because it came less meaningful once I stepped out into the world. This all changed when I came across a quote that changed my prospective. 

"My relationship with God is more valuable than any of the temporary pleasures that this world has to offer." - Nathan Punzalan

This quote has stuck with me ever since I read it, because I am putting worldly pleasures before my relationship with my Heavenly Father and that's just senseless of me. Something that will fade I was putting before someone who loves me dearly, cares for me like no one else, and who died for me... how worldly of me? 

It's actually been a big faith builder for me realizing this (about time too), and I will always keep these words in my mind so I am reminded what truly matters to me. I want people to look at me and see that I value my beliefs and hold them dear not be ashamed to state what I value. So I have decided to make it known that I value my relationship with my Father in Heaven more than any thing this world can offer. I will no more long for my old life style because that life brought me nothing but temporary happiness and my relationship with my Heavenly Father will only bring me everlasting eternal happiness, which is far greater than anything this world can bring me. I have something very promising right in front of me and I will not let it slip through my finger tips because of temporary things, I will no longer linger on thoughts or the judgement of the world because that does not matter, I will step forward with a new look at life because I now openly value my relationship with Him. 

I will continue to strengthen my faith and make it known that I am proud of my relationship with my Heavenly Father.