Becoming: Fulfilling My Life’s Purpose

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Because you have kept your covenants and gained valuable experiences on your mission, as a former missionary your opportunity to create a happy, gospel-centered life is greater than ever before.

“In contrast to the institutions of the world, which teach us to know something, the gospel of Jesus Christ challenges us to become something. … It is not enough for anyone just to go through the motions. … What is important in the end is what we have become by our labors” (Dallin H. Oaks, “The Challenge to Become,” Ensign, Nov. 2000, 32, 34).

“When we know who we are and what we are supposed to do, it is easier to make important decisions about education, careers, and marriage. It is easier to shine our light in our families, with our friends, and in all other places” (Julie B. Beck, “You Have a Noble Birthright,” Ensign or Liahona, May 2006, 107).

“A patriarchal blessing is a revelation to the recipient, even a white line down the middle of the road, to protect, inspire, and motivate activity and righteousness. A patriarchal blessing literally contains chapters from your book of eternal possibilities. I say eternal, for just as life is eternal, so is a patriarchal blessing” (Thomas S. Monson, “Your Patriarchal Blessing: A Liahona of Light,” Ensign, Nov. 1986, 66).

“I bear witness that [the Book of Mormon] can become a personal ‘Urim and Thummim’ in your life” (Richard G. Scott, “The Power of the Book of Mormon in My Life,” Ensign, Oct. 1984, 11).

Discuss

• How did your mission expand your vision of what you can become?

• How can your patriarchal blessing become a personal Liahona in your life?

• How can the Book of Mormon become a personal Urim and Thummim in your life?

Activity

To gain a better understanding of the Lord’s will for you, make a copy of your patriarchal blessing. Then take the following steps:

• Step 1: Circle all of the words in your patriarchal blessing that describe you (for example, humble or sincere). In your study journal, list these words beneath the heading “I am.”

• Step 2: Underline all of the phrases that describe actions to take (for example, “study the scriptures diligently” or “seek an advanced education”). In your study journal, list these phrases beneath the heading “I will.”

• Step 3: Review your lists. Ask yourself, “What does my patriarchal blessing reveal about God’s purpose for my life?”

• Step 4: Write in your study journal a description of the person you think Heavenly Father wants you to become.

Invitations

• Review the one-year vision you created in My Plan. Pray for guidance on how you will make this vision a reality. If needed, adjust your vision and plan.

• Continue to search your patriarchal blessing and the Book of Mormon to know the mission the Lord has for you.

Additional Resource

David A. Bednar, “Lehi’s Dream: Holding Fast to the Rod,” Ensign, Oct. 2011, 32–37.