Monday, May 26, 2014

Natural Laws

Last night was very difficult.  Restless legs and extreme fatigue seemed like torture.  But Heavenly Father was teaching me.  This is what I learned.

A dedicated missionary was sent to a beautiful, sunny location.  He got fried his first day out walking in the sun.  He learned that even though the sun is beautiful he must protect himself from it.  He had to wear sunscreen everyday, all day.  When he did he was fine.  But if forgot, got lazy, or refused to believe he needed protection he paid for it.  Even if he worked hard all day teaching the Gospel and doing the Lord's work he had to guard against sunburn.  Praying for protection or comfort didn't replace the need for him to solve this problem himself.  The seeming injustice that he had to wear sunscreen and his companion didn't didn't change his need for protection.

Likewise, if I don't follow a strict diet and eating plan (no sugar, chocolate, refined flour, no eating after 4pm, etc.)  I will get restless legs terribly.  No amount of praying for comfort will change the fact that I could have prevented or at least reduced the problem.  Heavenly Father has helped me.  He has taught me ways that will help bring comfort.  If I choose not to follow them I will pay the price.  If I forget, get lazy or undisciplined, or simply think a little of banned items or too much of good food won't hurt I have to suffer the consequences of not living what I know.

Guidelines, rules, laws, and commandments from God aren't there to restrict us; they are gifts to help ease the way.  They protect us when we follow them.  They show us the way to happiness, health, and hope.  I am making great choices today and expect to be able to sleep a bit tonight.  I'm grateful Heavenly Father lets us choose and lets us experience natural consequences.

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