The Two Great Commandments
During our life on earth we tend to seek our own self-interest. If
this tendency becomes our main interest, we can become self-centered and
cease to care about other people or God. The two great commandments--to
love God with all our hearts and to love our neighbors as ourselves--help
us overcome this self-centeredness. When we learn to obey the will of God
and to serve others, we can rid ourselves of self-centeredness. We can
become more like Jesus Christ, our Exemplar.
TWO GREAT
Love God
|
Additional Study
Willingness to sacrifice is essential to gaining eternal life: Matthew
10:39; Matthew 16:24-26; Romans 8:18; Philippians 3:8
The Lord requires the sacrifice of a broken heart and a contrite spirit:
Luke 14:33; Omni 1:26 (p.142); 3 Nephi 9:19-20 (p.425)
The Law of the Fast
The law of the fast also helps us to put the things of God above our
worldly cares and desires. To fast means to go ompletely without food and
drink for a period of time (usually two meals). Fasting helps us grow spiritually
and brings us closer to God. It should be accompanied by sincere prayer
for ourselves and others. Through the law of the fast we are also able
to help those in need. We contribute the money or food saved by fasting
to the Church for the care of the needy. Thus, the law of the fast helps
us become selfless, enables us to share in the Lord's work, and helps us
become more like him.
Additional Study
The Lord has described an acceptable fast: Isaiah 58:3-7; 3 Nephi 13:16
(p.434)
We receive many blessings from fasting: Ezra 8:23; Psalm 35:13; Isaiah
58:8-12; Alma 5:46 (p.221); Helaman 3:35 (p.374)
The Law of Tithing
Another way that we learn to put the things of God first in our lives
is to obey the law of tithing. God is the source of all we have. He asks
us to return to him one-tenth of our income so that his work can be carried
on. By paying tithing we can help in the work of the Lord and also develop
unselfishness. The Lord, in turn, promises to bless us both spiritually
and temporally.
Additional Study
Tithing is a sacred law of God: Leviticus 27:30; 2 Chronicles 31:5;
Malachi 3:8-12; 3 Nephi 24:8-12 (p.455)
What Can You Do to Develop Selflessness?
1. Continue attending Church, reading and praying about the Book of Mormon, and living the commandments.
2. Fast for two meals, and pray to know whether the message you have heard is true.
3. Plan to begin paying tithing when you become a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
4. During the coming week, plan and carry out one activity in which you give help to someone in need.
5. Attend worship services of the Church with a Church member.
6. Take part in the sixth discussion with the missionaries.