Recently, Elizabeth and I were considering where we were at in our lives and found ourselves identifying with the seeds in the parable of the sower where they found themselves in shallow soil and where,

“When the sun was up, they were scorched; and because they had no root, they withered away” (Matthew 13).

Of recent, we had felt just a little withered from the day to day minutia before us. Like waves beating away at beach without much replacement. We took some time in a recent Family Home Evening to consider this concern and try to identify how we can keep a better spiritual balance. How can we find spiritual renewal?

We started thinking of instances in the scriptures and what we can learn from them. Below are four stories from the Book of Mormon that we considered:

• Psalm of Nephi – 2 Nephi 4:16-19, 27-28, 34;
• Prayer of Enos – Enos 1:3, 4, 9;
• King Lamoni’s Father – Alma 22:3, 18, and Alma 23:1-3
• Alma the Younger – Alma 36:12-13, 18-19 and 24

As we considered these, Elizabeth pointed out three elements that were present in each story. There was an element of reflection and deep considering of who they were and their relationship to God. There was an element of sacrifice, where each individual gave something. And thirdly, that sacrifice was accompanied by an action and greater commitment to follow the Savior.

Perhaps the most profound revelation in this process was how much of this wasn’t a revelation at all. Meaning, when we take a step back and really consider what these stories are teaching us, it’s exercising faith in Jesus Christ and repenting of our sins.

It’s in the giving that we get the renewal we need. He that loses his life, for the Savior’s sake, shall gain it. Truly, the most sure way of finding spiritual renewal is in the promise of the Savior,

“Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.

Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek andlowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls.

For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light” (Matt. 11:28-30).