Much comfort and direction

Alma 27-28

There is a quality about me that I think sometimes could be a bad thing, and has been, yet it is also a strength I have in my life. In my patriarchal blessing is tells me that I have an open mind to people and to things, and that because of that and my love for those who seek me out for guidance and inspiration, I will give much comfort and direction. I truly know the meaning of this phrase...for I have seen it work both good and evil in my life.

What I mean, is I try to be a non-judgemental person when it comes to people that are struggling with sin and problems...I understand where they've been, I understand how hard things can get. And though I believe in justice for sins commited, I also am a firm believer of repentance and of the mercy of God...I know He is not some mean person standing in Heaven watching our every move and saying, "OH, I SAW THAT! PUT A BLACK MARK BY HER NAME!!"

And so, sometimes, in my quest to help others and to be non-judgemental and to be the best listener/friend to someone that is struggling, that strength has become a weakness for me, and has put me in predicaments where I maybe faltered in righteousness.

I'm working on that weakness, trying to make it, as Moroni testifies, a strength..."...for if they humble themselves before me, and have faith in me, then will I make weak things become strong unto them" (Ether 12:27).

SO the whole reason why I thought of this is because of what the Nephites do for the Anti-Nephi-Lehies in this chapter (ch. 27). They gave them a land of inheritance and vowed to protect them so they wouldn't have to take up arms and break their covenants with God.

"...and we will guard them from their enemies..." (vs. 24)

As I read that phrase, I couldn't help but think of a certain friend struggling with something. I've been a listener to her...I've tried to be a comfort for her and let her know that I accept her and love her just the same...I don't want my acceptance to become another weakness in my life, but I do want to be there for her.

I need to strengthen and encourage, and, as my blessing says, 'give comfort and direction'...but do that in the RIGHT way, encouraging her to be righteous, helping to 'guard her from her enemies'.