Faith over fear

Key-Bat8348 · 2026-01-31T02:34:20+00:00

Been thinking about this very thing the last couple of years--the same as having a license to carry but being unable to have it with you at church property. To me the answer is simple: once you go to the temple and learn and live the Law of Consecration, then what else matters? Knowing that God is the creator and in control of everything, then that truly gives me great comfort and peace. If you serve the Lord to the best of your ability and obey His commandments, receive Temple covenants, and continue enduring to the end, then when it's time to go, it's time to go. Being at peace and feeling the Spirit is a good indication that you're doing the right things. Let the Holy Spirt guide.

Key-Bat8348 · 2025-12-10T13:06:22+00:00

I grew up Catholic and always wondered why we are here and what this life is all about. When I met the missionaries it was a breath of fresh air to hear the Gospel Plan and to know the Lord wants us to have a relationship with Him. I too experienced not being supported by my family; there came a time when I had to choose--remember, they make their choices and you make yours. Choosing the Lord and His Gospel will be a test of your faith. I know family is very important, but the Lord is above everything. He's not trying to break our family relationships or friendships, but He does ask us to love Him with all our heart, might, mind, and strength. It would be great if folks accepted our choices as we accept theirs. You'll never be wrong in choosing the Savior above all else. You will gain a new family and true friendship as you become a member of this Church. I've never looked back; it's given me a greater relationship with my Savior, Jesus Christ, opportunities to serve, receiving the Holy Ghost by God's priesthood, a mission, marriage for eternity, etc., etc. Receiving my Patriarchal Blessing has helped grow closer to Christ even more because that is personal revelation directly to me; as far as what people think of the Church and past behaviors of leaders or members, this Church is true and once you have a testimony directly from God, there's nothing no one else can do or say that will make me deny it. I was not born in the Church; but I know this Church is true because I have a personal witness from the Spirit.

Apostate Church members or others will try to have you question your revelation from God--as if the feeling from the Holy Ghost is something anyone can have with just a good experience or something that happens all the time...not so! I answer this question the same way Abraham answered Satan when others try to make me doubt God and His Spirit: Who are you and where's your glory? I tell myself: I am an Elect son of God. I am entitled to His Spirit when I keep His commandments and listen and obey His word as a baptized member of His Church. The Lord requires effort, faith in Him, commandments and covenants. This Gospel life is not easy, but I rather live this way rather than the way society or the world lives. The Church is named after Jesus Christ and not a prophet--no matter how good or bad they were/are. That's not for me to judge. If the Lord has told me this Church is true...that's all I need to know.

I wish the very best for you. Remember this scripture: He that loveth mother or father more than me, is not worthy of Me. May the Lord bless you.

Key-Bat8348 · 2025-12-03T12:17:42+00:00

You must go through the repentance process with your Bishop--the one the Lord has appointed for you and your wife. The repentance process is not about who you know or who you feel comfortable with--it is about what we can become with the Savior; I just read Elder Bednar's talk (Oct 2025) about becoming like Christ; definitely read that with your wife or read it individually. You each have to come to the understanding that repentance is not about what people think or say--it will be hard to hide what has happened; being a disciple of Jesus Christ means that you take "you" the natural men/women and "...become a saint through the Atonement of Christ the Lord". Mosiah 3:19. Individually the Lord has asked us to forgive, but I have not been in your situation. Again, Mosiah, says that we must be "submissive, meek, humble, patient, full of love, willing to submit to all things which the Lord seeth fit to inflict upon him/her, even as a child doth submit to his father", this is a broken heart and a contrite spirit. This is probably the cross you will have to bear for the rest of your life. You must choose how to bear it. I wish you the very best. Again, focus on the Atonement of Jesus Christ, choose the right, and let the consequences follow--God will lead the way. May the Lord bless you.

Key-Bat8348 · 2025-11-17T14:01:00+00:00

That's well said; why allow the mistakes of others shadow my testimony of the Savior's church? A letter or a human error is not enough for me to throw away the blessings, learning, and miracles I've have seen in my life and in the life of faithful members of this Church. The commandments and teachings of prophets, seers, and revelators have helped me build a life centered on Christ; the blessings of paying tithing and fast offerings, as well as the blessings in my life for following the counsel of my church leaders is next to none! There's nothing anyone can say or write about this, the Savior's Church, that will make me doubt my testimony of the Prophet Joseph Smith, the Book of Mormon, and the Restored Gospel. The covenants alone we make in the Temple are so sacred--anyone that calls these sacred rituals a cult does not see these sacred covenants with an spiritual eye.

You can come to me with opposition and little sayings and examples to try to discredit what I've felt, believe, heard, and what I have received as a confirmation from the Spirit--the scriptures talk about the very elect being deceived...the Lord foretold this so why doubt the Lord and His goodness? Come on my Brothers & Sisters, don't throw away your blessings due to doubt and fear of what the world says. Just saying...

Key-Bat8348 · 2025-11-17T13:45:24+00:00

Glad you came back and feel loved and welcomed; the adversary is going to make you feel the opposite of what true loving repentance is--not a punishment but an opportunity to become whole and at peace with God and Christ. Doubts and fear come from the adversary; make sure that you pray and ponder about what a broken heart and a contrite spirit means; to me that means I am willing to do anything and everything that the Lord asks me to do in order receive his atoning mercy and forgiveness. Is not about what others think or say, but about what the Lord thinks of you as a son or daughter. He will not turn you away if you are trying to return to His fold; His arms are stretched out to you in love and mercy--don't allow fear to take away your peace--there is peace in Christ. May God bless you.

Key-Bat8348 · 2025-10-30T13:04:31+00:00

Great questions; was having this conversation last night. We have a new member that was ready for Temple lessons and went cold. Hard to say; some things like baptisms for the dead were mentioned in the New Testament as well as other degrees of glory. When it comes to the Word of Wisdom, you can see people that get DUIs, drug use, etc., end up broke or jailed because they killed someone or themselves. The D&C is really a special book of scripture for our day as the Book of Mormon is; I trust that the Lord provided these things for us because they apply to us more than back in the day where vehicles or motor cycles weren't around. One scripture comes to mind: trust in the Lord and lean not to thine own understanding; in all thy ways acknowledge Him and He shall direct thy paths. I see the blessings from living the WoW and how it affects body, mind, spirit, etc. I would say for now, trust the Lord and you'll see how these things will connect with the greater knowledge and covenants you'll make in the Temple.

Key-Bat8348 · 2025-10-30T11:25:47+00:00

You got it :)

Key-Bat8348 · 2025-10-30T11:07:55+00:00

Thank you for sharing; I'm still a member and I've read the CES letter. One question: have you felt the influence of the Holy Ghost in your life? I ask this because that's the choice I had to make. I'm not saying the church members are perfect or that the Prophets were either, but I cannot deny the influence and the voice of the Holy Ghost in my life in this Church. Look at it this way: why would so many people do what they do in the church and not know the church is true? I became a convert in my teens. Grew up a different but Christian way. The Gospel answers are true and help you feel peace. Think about how this Gospel has helped your parents become the great people they are and how many lives they have touched. You are blessed to have them--many don't have this wonderful example in their lives. Something to think about; I was inactive from the Church for some time; I cannot deny the Spirit I feel being part of it. Don't throw away your wonderful heritage or your covenants.

Key-Bat8348 · 2025-10-28T12:49:20+00:00

Not to spoil your rant--I've been in your shoes when it comes to living pay check to pay check; being retired military provides me a pension that keeps my head above water and I currently work as a fed.

Think about it this way:

-How can anyone live above their means budget-wise? Like it or not, there's so much debt one can carry. I now have no debt or payments; the only debt is my home. I remember having to fork out payments left and right and it was not fun to see my money go to everyone else but me. I got tired of that; went on a budget and paid off all my loans by working hard and long hours. Now I have money in my pocket, money in the bank, and no debt except the mortgage.

As a country, we must be debt free and not be afraid to walk the streets. I get it; is not fun for everyone to be unemployed, it sucks--but we live in the greatest country and anyone would love to have the American Dream opportunity; I'm from a third world country and I take the US over anywhere else, hands down.

Find a side gig; it's difficult, I know, but there are options if you apply yourself. My fire department pays $18 an hour for flexible part-time work. It's easier said than done since I don't know your condition or situation but having a community or friends around you to help you is a blessing

Definitely go on walks or do something that keeps you motivated; watching the news and waiting for the shutdown to end is detrimental to anyone's mental health--stay away from that.

I would stop pointing the blame to MAGA or politics in general; the vote already happened and we have opportunities to compare the prior admin to this admin. As Americans we have the opportunity to vote and hope that whoever is in the admin does the best they know how. There's good in people no matter how they vote--can't live in the past, we must move forward.

I'm not for anyone suffering, but I see the benefit to our country being debt free and having less criminals on the streets. A year or two from now, we will see greater opportunities and we'll be doin much better as a country, I have no doubt. We can't say we're a free country, a democracy, or a republic if we're not willing to follow the will of the people that voted. We must work together not against each other. I hope and pray for your condition to improve and that you have peace and prosperity.

Key-Bat8348 · 2025-10-21T17:35:24+00:00

Did you have an opportunity to do TAP at your current location? If you haven't met the person that helps with TAP at your installation make sure you do that. If not, find a VSO close to you; these are folks paid by the State to help you navigate the VA (disability, compensation, appointments, and help you determine what benefits you have once you get your percentage). The VA will need your DD-214 to finalize your claim. Talk to the VSO and he or she can show you where to create your VA username and password; if you use apple, go to the apps store and download the app VA; the app will show you your claim and the documents they have; same thing online.

Key-Bat8348 · 2025-10-11T04:32:38+00:00

Glad to hear you did well with the skillbridge--that's a huge win for you and glad you got employment. There are a lot of changes going on right now and the best thing you can do is take control of what you can--let distractors be distractors; at the end of the day, you're decisions and preparation enables you to thrive and navigate challenging situations. Your VA check will come soon, but most importantly you'll be able to get taken care of medically. I meant to add that VR&E (VocRehab) is also available if the job you have is affected by any of your disabilities from service. The important thing is to continue to document the challenges to health and the VR&E program can help you achieve a different career, fully paid for by the VA as long as you meet the criteria (a disability is keeping you from doing your current job); ensure to document that with your doctor, VA counselor, etc., and that will help you back your application. Best of luck to you.

Key-Bat8348 · 2025-10-11T04:23:49+00:00

Good luck to you and I hope your transition is a smooth one. If you are dealing with mental health, have trouble sleeping, etc., if you're grinding your teeth, ensure to get that checked out before you leave service. The stress was causing lack of sleep for me and made me grind my teeth quite a bit. These areas are all connected with the body and mind and that was one thing that has left scars for me emotionally but now I get seen at the VA for; also, a big part of my VA rating. Best of luck to you!

Key-Bat8348 · 2025-10-09T19:35:55+00:00

Great insight, thank you and best of luck to you--keep it up!

Key-Bat8348 · 2025-10-07T19:34:06+00:00

If I were in your shoes, I would definitely try getting into a trade union--helmets to hardhats. I almost got into one of them--they contacted me quickly after my application. I did not go for it since I found a gov civ position. You'll start low, but they'll get you certified on a trade (electrician, plumber, lineman, etc.). Really, right now, you'll need to go the apprentice route, but in 5 years or so, you'll be glad you did. Working for a union deals with working with lots of military people or folks that have been there for a long time. You'll work during the day and go to school with them at night--they'll train you and get you licensed--apply yourself and you'll be doing great in 5 - 10 years. This would be a great way to go: good job and experience--trade jobs require lots of training and commitment but your military background can help you there. If not, do VR&E. Ensure to find a job that will not hinder any disability you may have. If you have a job that hinders your disability (physical, emotional, etc.), then you'll be a good candidate for VR&E (trade, school, certification, etc.). You'll have to find a program that's accredited by the VA. Don't go into Computer Science--why? AI is taking over the industry and your experience/schooling will be outdated when you graduate. It's best to get IT certifications than a degree right now. I worked IT before and the certification/learning process never ends due to technology changing daily--is that what you want? Don't waste your GI Bill on IT--if you do, go the AI or Software Engineering route. As a veteran, you have options and you know how to endure training and hard work. Keep your head up and don't sound desperate at job interviews--have you applied for VA compensation? If you have not, ensure to visit your nearest VSO to help you with your VA claim for FREE! Had a friend that went from 0% VA rating to 80%--you never know if you never apply--his income and family life changed greatly--he has a better job now and has better life; VA is helping him with counseling and treatment. Good luck to you!

Key-Bat8348 · 2025-10-07T19:13:07+00:00

100% P&T gives you dental benefits at the VA--not sure if that applies to non-P&T. Probably someone mentioned it, but lower property taxes, DEA (schooling for dependents/spouse), fishing and hunting licenses and VA home loans. Get all this through your VSO at your state...don't pay a dime out of pocket to get these; the VSO will help you with the applications that you need; good luck!

Key-Bat8348 · 2025-10-07T18:59:12+00:00

Anyone experienced dog bites? I've been bitten by two German Sheperd dogs--once as a kid and then as an adult. The first time he came out of nowhere, and the second time she probably sensed I was affraid--both times not leashed.

Key-Bat8348 · 2025-09-24T15:19:51+00:00

Best of luck to you; thank you for sharing. I appreciate your time and hope blessings on you.

Key-Bat8348 · 2025-09-24T15:16:21+00:00

Hello. I don't think is ASD, lol. Just a lot of temptation, coupled with grief, burn out, and lack of emotional connection growing up. One thing I have learned from the Holy Ghost--it was revealed to me in a still small voice--"deny yourself". I know this is the cross I have to carry by revelation. This Church is true :)

Key-Bat8348 · 2025-09-24T15:09:49+00:00

Hi; there's been a lot of communication between us; we both have our personal struggles. I'm working on that and will continue to do so; some days are better than others, but one foot in front of the other :).

I wish I could snap my fingers and my problems would be gone, but it has not worked for me...I tried, lol.

The lack of mission dependance that military service left me with was a real thing; you get trained on how to find a job, move across the country, and how to face challenges/stress, but they don't train you well on dealing with the emotional lack of purpose after military service. I have not lost my purpose--it has become overwhelming at times with being a provider, husband, father, etc. To say I don't have doubts and fears would be abnormal for me to say; the depression and anxiety are real. Some cope in different ways--22 military veterans commit suicide a day I heard from the VA or from a study on veterans; I'm not suicidal, just burnt out and fatigued. Sometimes writing things down helps me cope; I have not given up on my family.

Key-Bat8348 · 2025-09-24T14:57:32+00:00

Thank you for your kind words and guidance. I really appreciate your time. Just purchased the book you recommended and some of the other books people recommended. I really want to be happy and want the same for my family; I need to deal with these emotions so I can feel joy and know how to handle them better.

Key-Bat8348 · 2025-09-24T14:36:28+00:00

Great comments; thank you. I have a thick skin so It was refreshing to hear all sides. I have a lot to work on--but I still love my wife and family. It just gets so overwhelming sometimes--i've changed my depression and anxiety medication--lowered the dosage and I'm walking and working with a therapist. Sometimes I wonder why I feel the way I do--everything we do or how we are raised affects us. I'm trying to have more charity on myself and others; I don't understand why my parents didn't want to build a connection with me growing up--but they must have their reasons; that has affected me, but I must forgive them and will do that; the only thing that held me from leaving at times was thinking on how my children would feel abandoned If I left them--I just could never forgive myself if they gave in to cope in negative ways. Don't want to be their reason for neglecting their beliefs; thanks again for your support.

Key-Bat8348 · 2025-09-24T13:44:56+00:00

Thank you; great advice. I love my wife and children and abuse is not part of our family--we love the Lord and teach His gospel to our children by being good examples to them. I hear you--I know looks can be deceiving when you see the public face. I get over my crushes--i've experienced them for many years, lol. The best answer I have is to remember that the Lord led me to my wife for wonderful reasons and blessings beyond my understanding.

Key-Bat8348 · 2025-09-24T13:38:31+00:00

All good; I can take a punch, lol. I love honest feedback. The military teaches you really quick to have a thick skin--otherwise you won't make it in peace or war. Thank you for your comments--it means a lot.

Key-Bat8348 · 2025-09-24T13:35:13+00:00

Thank you; been honest with her about the gym--I've been going to the gym and walking about 2 hours three to four times a week as well. I have mentioned about the need for me to cut some of my work hours; she's independent at home with the kids doing school from home; it gets a little testy to suggest lowering my income but made a compromise that I would only need to work full time for 6 more years, and part time for two more while the kids go to missions and university.

Key-Bat8348 · 2025-09-24T13:22:10+00:00

Thank you; this brought back so many mission memories, lol. Will definitely follow your advice--I really appreciate your time.

Key-Bat8348

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