Helaman 3:35

"Nevertheless they did fast and pray oft, and did wax stronger and stronger in their humility, and firmer and firmer in the faith of Christ, unto the filling their souls with joy and consolation, yea, even to the purifying and sanctification of their hearts, which sanctification cometh because of their yielding their hearts unto God."
Helaman 3:35


This scripture is from a period in the Book of Mormon where some of the people were persecuting other people.  Perhaps we can relate to that.  In fact, in this scripture it was members of the church of God that were doing the persecuting.  I think that is scary and instructive.  We have to be more careful than *anyone* ... because we profess to have the truth... that we are not persecuting others.  We are not better than anyone.  I think it is easy to fall into the trap of Pride, because sometimes to feel good about ourselves we want to find a favorable comparison.  Well, I am smarter than her... or faster or funnier... whatever it is.  And maybe we are.  But are we seeing the whole picture when we make comparisons like that?  Compared to God, we are nothing.  Our goal is to get *there* ... and so we need to be comparing ourselves, not to ANYONE else, but only to God, and to how we were yesterday.  Are we getting better or worse?  Are we happier or sadder?  Are we more at peace or less at peace?  Closer or further away from our potential?  I mean, look at that scripture... FILLING their souls with joy and consolation.  I want that.  And to have it I have to yield my heart to God.  Sounds silly in a way... but when we talk about falling in love, it isn't silly. We give our hearts all the time... :)  So, what's the difference?  I think the difference is very slight.  We have to dedicate our lives to something, and trust our hearts, goals, feelings, and desires to God.  Yielding is about breaking down walls, opening communication... trusting that God will find a way to fill your soul if you just let him.  I think all of us have tried to fill our own souls enough to know that we can't do it alone.