Living by the scriptures
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But I say unto you, Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you.
— Matthew 5:44
We have seen the effects of hatred toward us and the many people whose lives were lost. We have gathered around a flagpole with the stars and stripes flying proudly and recited the Pledge of Allegiance, sang "America, the Beautiful," and recited the 23rd Psalm. But more was needed in my life than this. Where was the peace and hope that the gospel can bring?
While attending a preparation meeting as an ordinance worker in the Louisville Kentucky Temple, my heart was comforted. It was the first meeting attended after the tragedies of Sept. 11, 2001. The sister who offered the prayer asked Father in Heaven to bless our enemies. How grateful I was to hear that prayer and I began to also seek Heavenly Father's help in this manner.
Soon after that day, while shopping at a store and hearing hard feelings from an employee, I remembered the experience in the temple and suggested that perhaps we might pray for our enemies. After several moments of reflection, she responded that it might help her to begin to feel better inside also.
Sweet is the peace the gospel brings. We can begin to be healed through prayer.
— Sharlie Carter, Louisville, Kentucky.
"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:
