A Reason For The Hope That Is In Me - 1 Peter 3:15

I wanted to share some of the reasons for the hope that is in me as Peter challenges in 1 Peter 3:15.

The Restored Gospel of Jesus Christ has given me the answers to the basic questions that most everyone asks: Who am I? Where am I from? Why am I here? Will I just cease to exist after I die? If not, where will I go and what will it be like? Having this knowledge, as revealed in the scriptures and the words of the living prophets and apostles gives me a sense of purpose and a sense of direction. It also helps me make the right decisions and recognize my mistakes and reconcile my thoughts, words and deeds with God and those that I have offended.

One of the many blessings that the Gospel has brought me in my life is the knowledge between good and evil and the peace and happiness that I feel when I do what is right. The scriptures teach us that "men are, that they might have joy." (2 Nephi 2:25). I think that so many people in the world are unhappy and they likely don't even know why they feel that way. Perhaps they don't have a clear understanding of what is good and what is evil. They cannot be happy in their sins because "wickedness never was happiness" (Alma 41:10). This is not to say that I live a perfect and happy life. What I can say, though, is that when times are tough I know that through God's justice and mercy, through the atonement of Jesus Christ and the influence of the Holy Ghost I can have hope for a brighter future.

 I am so grateful for the knowledge, peace and happiness that the Gospel of Jesus Christ has brought and continues to bring into my life. I feel a great responsibility to share the good news of the gospel with others.