But with some I am not well pleased, for they will not open their mouths, but they hide the talent which I have given unto them, because of the fear of man. Wo unto such, for mine anger is kindled against them.

— Doctrine and Covenants 60:2.

I was called as a stake missionary in my ward some years ago, but it wasn't in my mind that one day I would be a servant of our Lord. The day I was asked to be a stake missionary, I accepted because our leaders said that it was a calling from God. It was difficult to magnify my calling. I was shy and I was afraid to stand before people to teach the gospel.

Our ward mission leader required me to attend correlation meeting every week. I didn't want to go. I didn't want him to tell me to teach gospel principles or new member lessons.

One day I opened the Doctrine and Covenants and read Section 60, verse 2. After reading the passage I felt like someone was talking to me. I thought, "God is not pleased with me, who won't open my mouth because of the fear of man." That day, the Spirit touched my heart. Tearfully I went into my bedroom and knelt down and asked my Heavenly Father for forgiveness.

That passage encouraged me to put all my heart, mind, might and strength into the service of the Lord. I served for three years as a stake missionary. Now I am serving as a full-time missionary in the Kenya Nairobi Mission. When I began my mission I didn't know how to speak or write English. I am so grateful to Heavenly Father for what He has done for me. I prayed and continue to pray that He will help me to open my mouth and not to fear men even though English is difficult for me. I am trying my best to please God. I am sharing my testimony with my brothers and sisters whom I am serving here in Uganda. — Odile Tunda Kintembila, Kenya Nairobi Mission

"Living by the Scriptures" is another in a series of Church News reader response articles. Was there a time when a particular scripture touched you, when it offered comfort, guidance and much-needed support? If so, please describe your experience in 250-300 words, giving the scripture reference and telling how it affected you. Send your submission to Church News, P.O. Box 1257, Salt Lake City, Utah 84110. Fax No. (801) 237-2524. Internet E-mail: churchnews@desnews.com