Be One Who Tries — D&C 125-128 — Life Experienced with Terri Anne Flint

From an early age, I loved the French language. I took French classes every year in school from seventh grade through my sophomore year in college. When I was six, I wanted to change my name to Yvette. When I submitted my mission papers, there was serious negotiation with the Lord that my calling would be French speaking. To this day, French words pop off the page to me so what a surprise to find a French word in D&C 125: 2: “Verily, thus saith the Lord, I say unto you, if those who call themselves by my name and are essaying to be my saints…”.

In French, the word, essayer, means “to try” or “one who tries”. The verse is addressing those who are trying to be saints, calling themselves by His name. Isn’t that a relief and a delight! We don’t have to be perfect, just one who keeps trying.

“If you get tired, learn to rest, not to quit” (Banksy) is one of my well-used life mottos because let’s be honest, essaying is hard work. Rest could be as simple as a nap or a time of fasting and prayer for strength. Find your rest, let Him take your yoke for a season, then with renewed energy, keep trying.

“…Don’t you quit. You keep walking. You keep trying. There is help and happiness ahead.” Some blessings come soon, some come late, and some don’t come until heaven. But for those who embrace the gospel of Jesus Christ, they come. It will be all right in the end. Trust God and believe in good things to come.” –Elder Jeffrey R. Holland

“He is not waiting to love you until you have overcome your weaknesses and bad habits. He loves you today with a full understanding of your struggles. He is aware that you reach up to Him in heartfelt and hopeful prayer. He knows of the times you have held onto the fading light and believed-even in the midst of growing darkness. He knows of your sufferings. He knows of your remorse for the times you have fallen short or failed. And still He loves you.” –Elder Dieter F. Uchtdorf

Be One Who Tries — D&C 125-128