This may prove to be a sensitive subject for some, but it’s one worth discussing. Plus, I recently had a wonderful experience and I thought it would be worth a shot at conveying the feelings I felt. It all begins with this truth…
“For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God.” -Romans 3:23
No one is perfect. Elder David A. Bednar of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles stated this past General Conference, “…we are dual beings, for our spirit that is the eternal part of us in tabernacled in a physical body…” The physical bodies that we posses are subject to temptation, and sin. God knows this. That is why he provided a Savior for us. The Atonement of Jesus Christ is a literal, real thing. It works. All we need to do is allow it to fill our lives. When we do, we can literally feel God’s love for us. It is the ultimate expression of love. I can feel it every day, and so can you.
“And he shall go forth, suffering pains and afflictions and temptations of every kind; and this that the word might be fulfilled which saith he will take upon him the pains and the sicknesses of his people. And he will take upon him death, that he may loose the bands of death which bind his people; and he will take upon him their infirmities, that his bowels may be filled with mercy, according to the flesh, that he may know according to the flesh how to succor his people according to their infirmities. Now the Spirit knoweth all things; nevertheless the Son of God suffereth according to the flesh that he might take upon him the sins of his people, that he might blot out their transgressions according to the power of his deliverance; and now behold, this is the testimony which is in me.” -Alma 7:11-13
Even though there are consequences for our mistakes, there are great benefits and blessings. God knew that we would slip up according to our weaknesses while we are here on earth. It’s all part of His plan for our growth and experience. We are more prone to learn from our mistakes, and from witnessing mistakes of others.
There is great happiness that comes from making things right with God. Life seems brighter. There is a clearer perspective. It’s easier to love and serve others.
“And now I would that ye should be humble, and be submissive and gentle; easy to be entreated; full of patience and long-suffering; being temperate in all things; being diligent in keeping the commandments of God at all times, asking for whatsoever things ye stand in need, both spiritual and temporal; always returning thanks unto God for whatsoever things ye do receive. And see that ye have faith, hope, and charity, and then ye will always abound in good works.” -Alma 7:23-24
The Latter-day Life 