Empowering Believers - Christian Resources for All Paths to Christ
Our Only Chance: Finding Strength in Christ
Inspired by Sheri L. Dew’s Address in April 1999
Today’s inspiration is drawn from “Our Only Chance” by Sheri L. Dew, emphasizing the profound role of Christ’s Atonement in our lives.
In a world filled with uncertainties, disappointments, and challenges, where do we find the strength to carry on? Sheri L. Dew’s powerful message in her April 1999 General Conference address reminds us that our only chance for lasting peace, happiness, and transformation lies in embracing the Savior, Jesus Christ. Let’s explore the timeless wisdom in her words.
The Way, the Truth, and the Life
In His final discourse to His disciples, Jesus declared, “I am the way, the truth, and the life” (John 14:6). On this Easter morning, we are reminded that there is no alternative path to salvation—only through Christ can we find true redemption and meaning in life. As Alma, the prophet, affirmed, our salvation is “only in and through Christ” (Alma 38:9).
The Inclusive Atonement
One remarkable aspect of the Savior’s Atonement is its inclusivity. As the scriptures declare, “For as in Adam all die, even so in Christ shall all be made alive” (1 Corinthians 15:22). It is an invitation extended to all, regardless of wealth, marital status, nationality, or ethnicity. The gospel of Jesus Christ is universal, with spiritual requirements and rewards that apply to every individual. In the realm of salvation, “all are alike unto God” (2 Nephi 26:33).
This inclusivity stands in stark contrast to the adversary, whose sole purpose is to lead us away from our divine heritage, making us feel less than who we truly are as children of God.
Navigating Life's Storms
Sheri Dew shares a personal story of a Christmas Eve journey fraught with obstacles—a journey that ultimately required the intervention of her father. In this anecdote, we can see parallels to our own lives. We are all on a journey toward our eternal home, and for various reasons, we need rescue.
Whether it’s loneliness, despair, innocent mistakes, or even blatant sins, we all face challenges that seem insurmountable. But, as the Savior guided Lehi’s family through the wilderness, He will guide us through the challenges of mortality. His promise is clear: “I will prepare the way before you … ye shall be led towards the promised land” (1 Nephi 17:13–14).
The Savior: Our Only Chance
The Savior is not a last resort; He is our only chance. He is the answer to self-doubt, sin, and despair. He offers us the opportunity to become something greater, to repent, to purify our hearts, and to obtain redemption and exaltation. In Christ, we find peace and happiness in this life and the promise of eternal life in the world to come.
Left to our own devices, the natural man succumbs to Satan’s influence. However, the Savior does not abandon those who follow Him. He will guide us all the way home. But to access the power of the Atonement, we must actively seek Him.
Activating the Power of the Atonement
We must activate the power of the Atonement in our lives. This requires faith, repentance, obedience to His commandments, participation in sacred ordinances, and constant seeking through prayer, scripture study, and temple worship. Our faith in the Lord is essential, and as President Gordon B. Hinckley noted, “if there is any one thing you and I need … it is faith.”
As we learn to rely on the Savior, we can overcome life’s challenges, no matter their source. His Atonement provides us with the strength, peace, and light to face life’s trials, whether they stem from our own choices or external circumstances beyond our control.
The Savior's Unique Offering
The Savior offers what no mortal can: unwavering commitment, boundless power, and limitless love. He is our advocate, intimately acquainted with our weaknesses and temptations. He “knoweth the weakness of man and how to succor them who are tempted” (Doctrine and Covenants 62:1).
The Gift of Peace in Hard Times
One question lingers: “Is it possible to be happy when life is hard?” The answer is a resounding yes. The gospel of Jesus Christ teaches us how to find happiness even amidst life’s difficulties. By embracing Christ, we can experience peace amid uncertainty and hope in the face of cynicism. We can change, let go of old habits, and become new. We can live with integrity and purity, even in a world that often values these virtues less.
A World in Need of Christ
In a world marred by chaos, divisiveness, and moral decay, what the world needs most is the gospel of Jesus Christ. President Howard W. Hunter affirmed that the Savior can transform marriages and families, breathing life into them. He can do the same for us individually and collectively.
As we reflect on Sheri Dew’s message, let us commit to seeking Jesus Christ, the path to peace and happiness. Let us rely on His Atonement to rise above the world’s distractions and temptations.
Let us remember His promise: “I will go before your face … and mine angels round about you, to bear you up” (Doctrine and Covenants 84:88). Christ is our only chance, and He will guide us on our journey home.
Conclusion
In conclusion, we find solace in the knowledge that Jesus Christ is our only chance. His Atonement provides the strength to endure and the hope to overcome. In times of trouble, we must not hesitate to seek His help.
As we make Christ the center of our lives, we can find peace and happiness, even in the face of life’s challenges. So, let us embrace the Savior, rely on His Atonement, and extend His love and grace to others. In doing so, we can play a vital role in making the world a better place, one transformed heart at a time. Link to Original : Our Only Chance
God Is Available. He Loves You…Do You Want Help?…see Prayers Answered”
The content, titled “Our Only Chance: Finding Strength in Christ,” explores the profound role of Christ’s Atonement in navigating life’s challenges. It emphasizes the inclusive nature of the Atonement, the need for personal transformation, and the call to actively seek the Savior. The narrative encourages readers to activate the power of the Atonement through faith, repentance, obedience, and seeking Christ in various aspects of life.
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