Living by the scriptures
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I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me. — Philippians 4:13
In August of 2005, shortly after arriving in the Belgium Brussels/Netherlands Mission, I had only begun to grow a love for the work. At first it was hard and sometimes it still is.
Shortly after arriving into the mission field, straight from the Missionary Training Center, there were many changes. I was in a new country, on a continent I had never been to. I had a new companion, but I couldn't speak the language that I had spent two long months studying, and the culture was a little different.
Through these many changes, I began to think about home. Soon thereafter I realized I was homesick. My friends and especially my family were not there to comfort me, to give me a hug, or to give me the encouragement that I needed. Of course, I got that once a week, through the form of mail, but at that time I needed a little more. I found myself on my knees a lot more, asking Heavenly Father for help.
In that same week a brother in the ward, who was the seminary teacher, asked my companion and me to prepare a short lesson for the upcoming week. We accepted gratefully and began to study from Philippians in the New Testament. My companion took the first two chapters and I took the last two.
As I prepared, I read about the apostle Paul and his hardships, and how he kept a positive attitude through all the persecutions. As I read from Philippians 4:13, it sank deep into my heart. I prayed and asked for help knowing this time, without doubt, through Christ, that I would feel strong and comforted again.
I know through Jesus Christ, anyone can be strengthened. Jesus is the Redeemer and Savior of the world. He has lightened our load of burdens, only if we let him. I know that my Redeemer lives. — Elder Jordan Behunin, Belgium Brussels/Netherlands Mission
