Thinking about serving a mission?

Kyla always thought it would be amazing to serve a mission, but never seemed 100% sure about it.

“I remember thinking to myself that I would keep preparing to serve a mission, but if something else compelled me to stay, I would,” she said.

So as soon as she could start her mission papers, she did. She never had any reason to stop the process, but also didn’t feel any type of confirmation from the Lord that being a missionary is what she was supposed to do.

Which, to be honest, was kind of frustrating!

“I wanted that ‘Yes’ from the Lord. I wanted to feel like I was doing the right thing,” she said. “I wondered: Am I ready to serve?”

Finally, the moment she was searching for came. It was right after meeting with her stake president for the final interview.

“As I walked out of that interview, I was overcome with a feeling of love from and for my Savior,” Kyla said. “I knew that I was ready to serve Him as a missionary.”

Are you considering going on a mission? Perhaps you are also seeking confirmation from the Spirit, or wondering if you are ready. Here are some things to ask yourself:

1. What is my reason for going? Maybe you feel like it’s your duty. Maybe you’re excited to live in a new place or learn a new language. Ultimately, your reasons for serving should center around your love of the Lord and His restored gospel. You can pray for a greater desire to serve Him “with all your heart, might, mind and strength” (Doctrine and Covenants 4:2).
2. What do I believe? A missionary’s purpose is to invite others to come unto Jesus Christ. Your testimony doesn’t have to be perfect. If you believe in the Lord and are willing to share this message, He will magnify your efforts.
3. Am I ready to receive my temple endowment? The good news is that preparing to make covenants in the temple will help you prepare for your mission, and vice versa. It might be good to ask if there is a temple preparation class offered in your area.

Remember, God wants you to succeed! Keep moving forward and answers will come in His way and according to the timing He knows is best.

NOTES
Read more about these ideas in this article from the Mar. 2023 For the Strength of Youth magazine.