ACTS 13:1-5

For my class, we have to read these scripture verses. The prompt to go along with it said to read and outline in writing 3 points that could help a discouraged missionary.

In these verses, there are a few different things that we could pull out to help a missionary who is struggling.The three that I found were to fast, to pray, and to follow the Holy Ghost and to always be worthy to have that gift.

I think that these three tools are so important for someone to realize when they are facing a tough time in their life. When you fast and pray you are turning to the Lord for strength and for guidance. The thought about fasting for me is the sacrifice that you are giving up so you can be closer to the Lord. When you fast with a purpose, then you can be more aware of the things you need to do and even how to go about receiving the help you need. Prayer is an important tool as well. There is nothing more powerful and personal that turning to the Lord with your problems and feelings and asking sincerely for the help and strength. The power of prayer is truly remarkable. If you are praying then you are going to receive an answer, and the way we accept it is key. I would tell a struggling missionary this, and to remind them to pray with an open heart. If that is hard for them, I would say pray for an open heart and mind. The third item being the companionship of the Holy Ghost is also important. Being on a mission is going to bring lots of trials and grief to go along with the joys and humility and blessings. When you have the Holy Ghost there with you it is easier to be in tune with the spirit that will guide you. If you are living so that the Holy Ghost cannot be there with you, praying and fasting will be much harder than any other time.

Being discouraged is discouraging in itself, but with these tools life will get better. I personally have not gone on a mission, however, I do know through my own discouraging trials, when I have tried my hardest to grow closer to the Lord through prayer and fasting that I have been able to see the good in life.