Finding Your Purpose in Life: Does Faith Matter? - His Grace
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- čas přidán 12. 01. 2015
- www.mormonchannel.org/watch/se...
Have you ever wondered if God and Jesus Christ are really there? You are not alone. Rich Millar grew up believing completely in the reality and importance of the gospel. Prayer, scripture study, and service were his way of life. But that changed.
“Losing the faith that I had always had was a slow process,” he says. “You don’t realize what you’ve lost until much further down the road.”
What’s the purpose of life? Was God’s love real? Was God Himself real? Rich asked all of these questions. The problems of the world only confused him more.
“Because of all this pain and suffering that exists, maybe that means God doesn’t exist,” he thought. Rich left his faith behind to search for another kind of truth. He was surprised by what he found.
“No matter how illogical it may sound, there is a God-an all-powerful, all-knowing God.”
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I'm not Mormon but have always had a deep respect for them. This video and so many of the other videos released by the Church have such a deep Christian resonance with me and I am sure so many others of differing denominations. Thank You so much!
TamaSPC1, Thank you so much for such a positive comment on our latest video. We greatly appreciate you taking the time to watch it!
Best wishes,
Mormon Channel Team
Our Candid Kids hi,do you think you could probably change your invitation if possible thanks
I had and am having a similar experience. I was having a hard time living the gospel fully, so I gave up. It's been a hard road back, and my decisions have had serious consequences which make it even harder to live the gospel. I won't give up, since a life without faith is not a life worth living. Faith definitely matters in life.
God Bless
Crazy to hear this when I am going through the exact same thing. Losing faith and the church to waking up to my son crying realizing what I once had and needed to have again. Maybe this was meant to happen because the women that I love is now becoming a member. All I do know is that he really is there... Listening to us and loves us. Sorry, great video felt the spirit strong with this
Don't apologoze.(:
This is a difficult subject and I am trying to figure this out myself.
Follow the Shepherd not the sheep.
He remains long after the supernovas have dusted.
You may be apart but your not alone!
This story helps me understand the patience God has for us.
Thank you for this message. It gives me hope for some of my children who are currently away from the Gospel. I guess I had my rebellion at a younger age, prior to my mission. It was still hard to turn around and make the necessary changes to be worthy of the Temple and a mission, but through the infinite Grace of God and the Savior I was able to be clean once again. I made a decision many years ago that has made all the difference in the world for me personally. I read the Book of Mormon every day. I never finish reading it. At the end of Moroni I go right back to the beginning and start again. I learn something new every time I read it. The Book of Mormon brings me closer to Christ than anything else in this world. I love Jesus Christ and I love the Book of Mormon.
Finding and then re-finding Jesus has had an impact on my life so great I can not begin to describe to happiness. I know now beyond any doubt, and no one can convince me otherwise, that God lives and he is here for us when we are really in need of Him. He does touch lives and comfort those whom need it, even if they are doubters . He also through the atonement, can bring you back to the path that leads to him, and have you start anew. Jesus will even break his own commandments to see we have the opportunity to live again with Him.
Hi, I know this comment was from a long time ago. I just wanted to ask, how are you doing brother?
This reminds me of my brother, around the age of 16 he questioned the gospel. He would always be late to church and would leave early. We prayed for him so much and tried to help him see God's for him. He asked these questions that no one could answer. We told him to pray and ask Heavenly Father these questions. He said that he did and he got no answer. My dad told him that Heavenly Father would answer his questions when the time was right, but he didn't want that. He told us he didn't want to serve a mission and that he didn't want to be a part of this gospel. He would listen to inappropriate music. My dad told him that he needed to get it together and go on a mission or he would kick him out of the house. Somehow he held on and managed to prepare to serve a mission. He still didn't want to but somehow he did. He has changed and is now serving in Tijuana, Mexico. He is now open to the gospel. I am so excited to Skype him today on Mother's Day. I love my brother so much and that he made the choice to serve a mission even though he really didn't want to go to Mexico. He is struggling with Spanish but we know that by the Grace of God he will learn Spanish and be able to teach the gospel to the people.
I was left speechless, His explanations were almost the same ones I felt some time ago. This video really touched my heart.
Just what I needed.
Thank you for this. Such a great reminder that we all are different but that Heavenly Father loves us all the same.
So many share these feelings that it cannot be mere coincidence. I too have had doubts, having gone through trials so devastating it's a wonder I didn't just give up and take what to some would be the easy way out by taking my own life. My family is facing trials even now that would break the strongest, most can't fathom how terrifying and overwhelming the issues we face now really are. It's at these times, when God can seem so distant or in many cases to many people not even there, these are times we need Him the most. At each turn when things seemed darkest, when we've reached out for help, people often recoil and pull away not knowing how to help. Throughout all this there was one thing above all others that sustained us, kept us going, that one thing is love. Something as simple as someone calling to ask how we're doing, confirming there are those who care even though they don't have the answers, can be the difference between giving up completely or receiving that mustard seed of hope needed to sally forth. In all the darkness the world at large is experiencing in these days even that darkness can't stand in light of love. It can come from unexpected places and at times when the darkness gets so bad we don't see so much as the flicker of lit candle light the way. With all the four letter words often uttered during hardships, anger, frustrations, doubts and so on there is one four letter word, a polar opposite, that outshines the darkest curse word. That four letter word, the most powerful I know of in the English language, is LOVE! It saved life. It's the greatest commandment, trumping and expounding upon all others, that we love one another. For God loved the world he gave his only begotten son... so must we love each other to be able to endure. Faith and hope cannot exist without it, trust me I know. It's not just the word that has power, for I've been told God loves me during trying times and that alone was of little comfort. I've been told by some that they love me during dark times, yet they did not show me that love thus making the word itself powerless. For love to have power over darkness it must be expressed through deeds and actions and not just spoken as a four letter word. Showing love is the sharpest sword against the enemy we can wield, it must be used to be effective and not just concealed nor brandished.
Beautiful I wish that everyone would see this
Atheism brings pain. No matter how deep it may be. Even tho it may be covered by a thick layer of denial. Even tho it may be covered up by a sarcastic jerk of a man, the pain is real, and it is there. Not matter how much you want to believe, that you are just using your brain, you're not. It does not set you free. It binds you. It hurts soooooo bad.
Christianity, sets you free. It actually makes you happy with no second thoughts. It is the best feeling you can ever experience. It brings hope! It heals all pain!
I should know. I've lived both lives.
I may have had a similar experience where I had faith at one point and I lost it at another and I went on a journey to rebuild that faith and to make it stronger than ever which I have. Now to continue that journey I am doing whatever I feel I must to keep that faith as well as my patience and persistence in life.
Really great video. I am glad to see that someone made it back to the religion. I, like this young man am currently struggling with faith issues. I would really like to stay in the religion, marry in the temple, raise a family with a beautiful and virtuous woman, however, there are times where things get really difficult. My mind gets filled with doubt and skepticism towards the Church, the Restoration, and the Book of Mormon. I have had powerful spiritual experiences in the past. That I cannot deny. Those moments were some of them most beautiful experiences of my life. However, the world would have me believe that such feelings were only emotions and not actual spiritual communication.
I want to believe. I want to raise my children in the faith, but I don't know how I can if I myself cannot testify to them that I know the Gospel is true. I don't know if any good mormon girl would want to marry someone like me who is weak in testimony, or if she did, I don't know if her parents would let her since they would probably consider me a liability. I don't know if I could endure such rejection, and I am afraid that if I experienced such rejection, I would lose all hope of having a mormon family and then simply seek companionship outside the Church. These are the really difficult issues that I am struggling with. I hope that Heavenly Father, if He really is there, will have mercy on me and reach out to me soon so that I can be strengthened and reminded of the great spiritual truths that I have learned in the past so that I can have as much conviction and spiritual strength as I did in my youth.
Thank you Zachary Wheeler for watching our videos. We hope that you will find peace and comfort through them and that you find the guidance you need in life to truly be your happiest self. Remember that you are never alone. Best wishes in all you do!
Cheers,
Mormon Channel Team
Zach, thank you so much for your comment. It really inspired me that someone would give such deep thought with just a short video and pour their heart and soul to it like you did. I can tell that you are a really thoughtful person with a great testimony. Your doubt shows that you are not taking your faith for granted and you are searching for deep answers. Just those wonderful qualities alone would be enough to attract a faithful, virtuous woman in the Church. At least, I know, if I were still single, I would be very impressed. So, hold on to the iron rod and always remember those precious moments when you feel the Spirit. I know you’ll some day find your answer and a lucky woman who will be led to the temple by a thoughtful and faithful priesthood holder.
Thank you for your comment. Really appreciate it.
@zachary wheeler I often read the comments on mormon.org videos and sometimes I feel prompted to reply, yours was one of those comments that made me feel very prompted.. Just wanted to say Dont give up, I have gone through the exact same thing (seriously, like doubts, logical arguments convincing me to leave the truth, etc) and I have gained a personal testimony that after much tribulation comes great blessings, when our faith is tested - if we endure dilligently: seeking guidance from him and his apostles, studying the scriptures, & following the guidance of the spirit - Heavenly Father opens the eyes of our understanding, we become stronger and grow in faith, strength, or whatever thing we need.. He helps us see some things arent always as the seem. He truly helped me see his wisdom is far greater than the cunning of the devil (see d&c 10:43 & d&c 18) He blesses us exceedingly for being valiant in our testimony of Christ and his gospel. Please cling unto him... Loving him as he’s loves you: with all your heart and strength. Dilligently seeking his help and counsel daily & I have faith you can endure to the end & recieve the great blessings that come with doing so.
I want to bear my testimony unto you that Ive been where youve been, and it really does hurt so much, but as ive prayed, studied the book of mormon, sought help and guidance from his servants and held on to my Savior & his truth, finding strength in him... Ive come to a true knowledge that this is his gospel. He truly has made these things known unto me, by his grace and faith...
I humbly testify that I know The Book of Mormon is true - through so many trials of faith, as the lord has helped me overcome them - I just cant deny what ive learned along the way. I know partnered with the bible, it contains the fullness of Our Redeemers gospel. For without it, one cannot fully understand, the mission and atonement of Jesus Christ, the reason our loving father sent us here, and many other plain and precious truths. I know the plan of salvation is true, seeing it you see the true merciful, just and kind nature of our father in heaven. I know Jesus Christ lives and this is his gospel. I personally know that if you hold on to the iron rod, dilligently, you will be able to overcome this trial and your faith will only become stronger and you will be blessed. I know you can do this if you rely on the lord for strength and guidance consistenly. In the name of jesus christ, amen.
Please watch these:
www.lds.org/general-conference/2013/04/lord-i-believe?lang=eng
www.lds.org/general-conference/2014/10/joseph-smith?lang=eng
ttps://www.lds.org/general-conference/2009/10/safety-for-the-soul?lang=eng
Zachary Wheeler Zachary Wheeler
I'm glad that Rich devoted himself to a belief and practice that gives him purpose and happiness. For me, the LDS faith doesn't provide purpose and happiness, but it took a long time for me to explore alternative beliefs because I was so afraid of being deceived by Satan. We should all celebrate the happiness and meaning each other find in life. I don't believe in God for reasons and evidence I have thoughtfully considered, but I support those who find meaning in their belief in God.
Astill, sorry to hear there is distance between you and the Church. I blame all the times we made you play as Nazi Germany in A&A. Ha, just kidding. I am really appreciative of your view about those in the Church. That you can be glad for them finding purpose and happiness there. Best of luck! If this is another Greg Astill then this comment is less funny.
Haha. This is the very same Greg Astill. Have you seen the online version of A&A they have now Logan? We could play again!
No need to be sorry about this change in my life. It's a change that has brought me happiness and peace. I think we as humans should accept the diversity of human experience and accept individuals' stories.
That's why I made the point of commenting here--even though my experience has been very different from Rich's, I support him and appreciate his perspective.
That's great. I did play a few other versions, like a d day one and pacific fleet one. I actually liked em better. Just blocking out 4 or 5 hours of time isn't as easy as it used to be.
This comment makes me happy, although I'm sad that you strayed from the church I'm glad you aren't like many others who have a deep hate for members and the church afterwards. Respect to ya. (:
This is exactly what am going through, for 13 years I have been inactive but am finding my way back through the study of the book of Mormon and prayers . Thanks for sharing your story.
Hi @aaronariho2699, thank you for tuning in and sharing your comment. Studying the Book of Mormon and prayer are great first steps back. We hope you know you are loved and needed, and always welcome at church. When you're ready, visit comeuntochrist.org?cid=42001274 to find a Church unit or meetinghouse near you, or to request a visit from missionaries.
I once told a couple friends that a fish living outside a fish bowl is hurting itself, the same is said about those that live outside the gospel and don't want to keep the commandments, it is only hurting them in the end. We were all made before this life to follow God's commandments, this is how it is possible to feel a true sense of happiness, going against his commandments is against our nature, that is why we feel sorrow eventually if we don't adhere to God's standards.
I did the same thing, and went away from the Church and reading the scriptures. My life became impossible because I had a severe accident, lost my job, wasn't able to pay my bills, and became homeless for over four years. Coming back under the series "Come Unto Christ," got me back to the Church, regained my faith. I am now facing cancer, but I know that Jesus is there for me.
i am mormen and i love this video! thank you! for makeing this
God bless you. Thank you for sharing your beautiful journey with us ❤
I relate with some of the things Rich felt and experienced. I lost my wife in the last few months, I am home taking care of two kids and I have no job. It's hard to have faith as thing get worse.
Please carry on.
My mother died hours few hours after giving birth to my littlest sister, I was almost 9. My dad became widower from a day to another, remaining alone with me, the baby, my brother and other two little girls... More than 20 years had passed, 3 of my siblings are married in the temple, I got a master's degree and recently got my endowment, my dad is serving as counselor in a branch.
Hold on, I know it is being so hard and painful and many other things... God knows better, you can do it and bless the life of generations. Attach yourself to Him.
Kurtis Hornbeck Rich hasn't an idea about what you're going through. He only feels grief for his own actions, it sounds like the worst thing ever was inflicted on you, for reasons we don't understand! And not by your choice. Much respect and love to you man!!! I got two kids too, I fight for them everyday and don't really feel God there at all. If it is to be it is up to me.
Kurtis Hornbeck I love you. That's what I thought as soon as I read that. I have no idea who you are, we will never meet, but I think I Heavenly Father wants you to know, "I love you."
Kurt its been 5 years scence this comment . i read it and i honestly coulnt imagine .how are you doing now
Can the Mormon Channel make some of these from youth perspectives?? I think that would really give the youth hope and encouragement that there not alone.
Thanks :)
that is a pretty good idea
Hi! Yeah! I do think that's a good idea! It would give us hope and light and more understandment :)
I just prayed for the first time in along time perhaps even years. I am currently having the same inner struggles that this man Rich Millar went through; the struggles of being cynical about religion and the thoughts of if you can't measure it, it mustn't be true, I've also had recently the like minded thoughts about if god exists then why does he allow suffering and disaster. I have surrounded myself for the most part with people with the similar beliefs of atheism or agnosticism. Although not being rich or exceptionally well off myself i'm already learning that money and material possessions though nice and comforting they do not bring true happiness. While I was praying I asked god that if he existed to give me a sign or some proof and this was the first thing I found. I am glad I found this video I truly hope that it wasn't purely coincidence.
It's definitely not a coincidence. You have two choices, to go through life thinking everything is a miracle (plants growing, animal life, creating life, the wonder that is the human body, the body healing itself, the heart beating, the fact that we are where we are in the solar system, just the right distance from the sun, love, etc) or that nothing is a miracle.
God is alive and well. Today is Easter, Christ rose from the grave! Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ love you. Love you so much that the Father would allow and Christ would choose to die for you. Fan the flame of your faith! It's worth it. I'm glad you found this video and it's a miracle you commented because now I get to tell you what I know! :)
Also, bad things happen to bring understanding, compassion, service, kindness, hope, long suffering, gentleness, and humility into the world. You cannot have those things if there is no pain, agony, fear, rejection, depression, or trials. Much like the smooth stone in the river. It didn't become that way by sitting stationary on the bank. It was tossed around, refined, and roughed up by the crashing waves around it. We are here to become smooth and that only happens by way of adversity.
"When I have kids, do I raise them with a belief in God? Do I not?"
Rich's question is one of the most important I have, and touches on a fear I have of falsely convincing myself to accept the gospel simply out of fear of not knowing how to live other than how I had been taught to live my whole life. When I finally settle down and start a family, I'll be forced to choose what to teach my children, especially about God. I see my brother teaching my niece about Jesus. She is so beautiful and innocent, and I know my brother wants her to develop faith because he has that same faith and believes teaching her will make her happy in the way the Gospel has brought him joy. I get that--I would love believe that same way and teach my child in that manner. But unless I have a high degree of confidence in that message, how can I even begin to teach a child so pure and innocent?! What if that child grows up and starts being challenged in life and I'm still uncertain? What can I say? Was it right to "fake it till I make it" or "do it for the kids"? What's the alternative--avoid religion? No, that's not responsible at all.
As a single member (anyone surprised its singles having faith struggles?), I have an even more immediate struggle and that is...the big M word--marriage. How can I even think about marrying someone until I've figured this out? I've done my fair share of dating both members and non-members, and the risk of flip-flopping or continuing in uncertainty down the road is too great for me to be willing to place that on someone I grow to love.
Jordan, I would say develop that faith now as you are single (assuming you still are, but doesn't matter either way :) Do the little things: pray, read your scriptures every day (every day!!!), watch and listen to wholesome entertainment, go to church, reverence the Sacrament. Do things to invite the Spirit and see how you feel. Be sincere. If you feel good and that feeling grows, that's your faith growing! Because by your experience, you have Faith that following those principles, you are happier! Faith is not a sure knowledge. It's a belief and trust which can grow to be as strong as steel. The Gospel is not an insurance plan that prevents bad things from happening in your life but rather it's the life jacket that buoys you up and enables you to stay afloat amidst the storm. By teaching your kids about God and his goodness, you're giving them a lifeline to use when they feel they are sinking in the waves of life. I'm forever grateful that my parents taught me ❤️
+Jordan Lontine Also your acoustic covers are great! Good job 👍🏼
I wonder where you are today in your faith walk?
Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ were the ONLY being I know who didn't abandon me no matter how many times I betrayed and abandoned them.
I absolutely completely love this! There is a God! I love how he says life is much easier seeming when you convince yourself there's not... no consequences, no reason to really choose the right. But there is! I know there is and I will never deny him! I'm so grateful I have his true and restored gospel in my life! It makes me who I am today and hopefully one day, much much more!
I am not recommending stepping away from the church however it did bring me closer to Him. I took a 15 year hiatus from the church. I realized how dark the world is & how lonely I was without Father. I am so glad to be back. Life without Heavenly Father is lonely. If you have stepped away I would strongly recommend returning, you will see how much better life is with Him. I love Father, I will not leave again. He did not leave me at any time.
I have a couple of Sons who seem to be struggling like the young man in the video. Obviously, life is much more complex. I can only pray my sons find their way back like this young man. It definitely takes some effort to maintain a testimony. It is like exercise. It may be easier to stay Spiritually fit than to recover after becoming Spiritually "flabby". It may not be possible for some to "walk the straight and narrow". The young man in the video is incredibly lucky (blessed) he found his way back. Many, VERY many do not.
Amazing story! So many have had experience similar. Thank you, Mormon Channel, for giving this to us!
Brother Randall Ridd just gave a Worldwide Young Adult Devotional about living a deliberate, an intentional, and a purposeful life. Now here, just a few days later is this. A young man that got a "glimpse of what I once was, and what I needed to become again." This is more than just coincidence. Heavenly Father knows of the struggles of His children, and He knows what the answer to those struggles are. If our purpose in life is not to be focused on His Son, the Savior, and becoming like Christ is not happening, or there has been a sidetrack or deviation away from what one once knew to be the correct path, Heavenly Father is gonna do all He can to reclaim His children. There is going to ample opportunity and the proper means of help and outreach to get everyone of them back.
Thank you for this video. I know so many whose life is right in the middle of this video and although I know they won't be watching this it reminds me that there is such a thing as the Lord's time.
Amazing story, I loved it😊💜❤🙏
getting close to my 40s and i still strugle what what my purpose is.
Very touching life story it reminds us our covenant made during our baptism our commitment to follow His commandments . If we fall along the way stand up or be repentat person . Heavenly Father lives us Jesus Christ is our savior and redeemer, The Holy Ghost is always there to guide us .
Heavenly Father, are you really there? And do you hear and answer every child's prayer?
Pray he is there. Speak he will listen. You are his child, his love now surrounds you
Awesome God, awesome video, well done good and faithful servant.
I have a loved one going thru that. I pray he makes his way back. Thanks for the video!
This was really inspirational. A testament to God and Jesus Christ our savor!!
good story but how true, sometimes it is harder to come back but we hope, thanks
Thank you -
+Zachary Wheeler First, you are not lost. You may be weaving your way through life but, I believe, you are not lost. Learning from life's experiences can sometimes throw doubt along the way. I wish many more people - young and old - can listen to your message to help them on their life's journey. Thank you for sharing your story.
Thanks for sharing this
Thanks for sharing this Rich. A lot of things resonated with us as we watched the video and read your story. We appreciate you being honest in your quest and your willingness to share. Best of luck to you going forward.
Thank You!
I have seen a couple of videos who judge the church. Which I feel is disrespect for us and our faith. I feel like we should respect all religions. And even those who do not belong to the church. I am slowly rebuilding my faith. ❤
Thanks for you example, bro. Clearly reminds me and many more that the opposite life of living the gospel, no matter what how enticing they may be, is NOT worth it. God will provide for all of our needs when the time is right.
Actually, the opposite if freedom to make life beautiful. It is definitely worth it.
Randy Cragun Huh? If you're saying that living the opposite is better, bruh, you wrong lol. . . but you are entitled to your opinion as am I.
Thank you for the message,,,,
Rich! Great video. Thanks for sharing.
Thank you so much for this.
Thank you for this. Very inspiring.
Nice powerful video!
Beautiful❤️
I can relate to this video so much :)
Thanks! A familiar story.
I'm reminded of the quote in 'The Screwtape Letters' where C.S. Lewis has a demon explain: “Never forget that when we are dealing with any pleasure in its healthy and normal and satisfying form, we are in a sense, on the Enemy’s ground I know we have won many a soul through pleasure. All the same, it is His invention, not ours. He made the pleasures: all our invention, not ours… An ever increasing craving for an ever diminishing pleasure is the formula. It is more certain; and it’s better style. To get the man’s soul and give him nothing in return- that is what really gladdens our Father’s heart. And the troughs are the time for beginning the process.”
Great stuff! Good story!!
he is right! btdt and now have a wonderful temple marriage and all the blessings I always wanted !
Perhaps we need to refind God everyday in our lives.
To those who viewed and liked this video. Would you have validated a similar video were the adherent to express returning to the belief of their upbringing such as Islam, Paganism, or non theism? Or are your expressions of congratulations only relegated to portrayals of persons who return to the beliefs that you share?
I had a friend who served as a missionary for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, and he shared a story of how his visits to a man in Europe ended up motivating that man to reconnect with the faith of his childhood rather than be baptized into this Church. I think that's fine. There's a statement in one of our books of scripture that says that God has commanded us to proclaim his gospel "that faith might increase in the earth." I take that to mean more than that everyone gets baptized into the Mormon church. I'm thrilled when people gain a testimony of this gospel and make promises to follow God and receive membership in the church. But I'm also grateful that we live in a world with so many examples of people living by faith in a great variety of religious traditions that motivate them to draw nearer to God and to serve those around them.
Such a good video! :D
Dido :) Thanks for the share.
The Lords plan wouldnt be the same without you.❤
your right
finding my purpose in this life, what is it?i still not finding it yet!
I feel the same way, porn ruined my life...I’m trying so hard to come back to the light 💡 I need help, like I got so many thoughts in my head I can’t control and it sucks!!!
Hi, thank you for reaching out. We hope these videos can help you to overcome:
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I wish it was this easy for me......sigh.
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