“Therefore” Experiences
“Therefore” Experiences
President Quinn’s Weekly Message
California Santa Rosa Mission
July 8th, 2024
I love the Book of Mormon! I am inspired by the truths it teaches on every page. I wish to share a one such truth this week in my message to you. I hope you will act upon my invitation.
In Alma 23, we read about the miraculous conversion that occurred among the Lamanites because of the missionary labors of Ammon and his brothers. The conversion of these people brought about a mighty change in their hearts – most especially the heart of their king. In verse 3 of this chapter, we read:
“… for the king had been converted unto the Lord, and all his household; therefore he sent his proclamation throughout the land unto his people, that the word of God might have no obstruction, but that it might go forth throughout all the land, that his people might be convinced concerning the wicked traditions of their fathers, and that they might be convinced that they were all brethren, and that they ought not to murder, nor to plunder, nor to steal, nor to commit adultery, nor to commit any manner of wickedness.” (Alma 23:3)
Please focus on the word “therefore” in this verse. Carefully note what happens before and after the word “therefore”. Because of the king’s conversion to the gospel, he “therefore” takes specific actions that demonstrate the depth of his conversion – that demonstrate he has changed. The king’s nature, priorities, values, and actions were different following his conversion to the gospel of Jesus Christ. He had what I wish to call a “therefore” experience with the gospel of Jesus Christ. An experience that forged a lifelong discipleship to the gospel of Jesus Christ. An experience that caused him to change for the better.
Sister Quinn and I desire “therefore” experiences for each of you as missionaries serving in CASRM and throughout your life. We desire “therefore” experiences that help you become lifelong disciples of Jesus Christ. One of the reasons we meet weekly on Miracle Monday, is so we can share “therefore” experiences with each other that will inspire our collective and individual deeper discipleship.
I have been blessed with many “therefore” experiences in my life. While serving as a missionary, I became a trainer after just two transfers. I was overwhelmed by the responsibility to train a new missionary and lead out in my area. I felt grossly insecure to teach in Spanish. The first several weeks were difficult for me and my companion. All our friends dropped us. We had trouble finding new friends to teach. Despite the challenges, my companion and I kept working and praying. We were obedient – relying on our obedience to qualify us for the Spirit. It did! Slowly we began to experience success. The Spirit sustained and taught us. This time of my mission provided a “therefore” experience for me. It taught me to trust in the Lord. It taught me the blessings that come from obedience. These lessons have blessed me my entire life.
Sister Quinn and I invite you to look for and record “therefore” experiences in your missionary service and throughout your life.
Love,
President Quinn
(707) 758-6380
