During my first few months as a full-time missionary, I read a sentence in a Church magazine that has stuck with me ever since. I’ve especially held on to it when asked to serve in various Church leadership callings.
“The Lord cares just as much about the instrument as He does the task at hand.”
A young woman named Hillary Olsen wrote that line in reference to how she learned patience as a missionary. But I think it is relevant in any situation involving service to others.
A call to serve can bring feelings of excitement and a deep desire to help those in our stewardship. And with that desire might come some stressors, especially when service isn’t as straightforward as we might hope.
In moments when it feels the task at hand is too daunting, I find it comforting to remember that the Lord cares just as much about me as whatever He has asked me to do. My growth and well-being are always important to Him, and He knows better than I do what I am capable of. As Nephi taught us, “The Lord giveth no commandments unto the children of men, save he shall prepare a way for them that they may accomplish the thing which he commandeth them” (1 Nephi 3:7).
Doctrine and Covenants 88:122 begins with the instruction to “appoint among yourselves a teacher” but ends by emphasizing the importance “that all may be edified of all.” So even when you are the one teaching the class or leading the meeting, your own edification is still very important to the Lord. Because of that, He is going to be right by your side, supporting you through whatever hurdles, insecurities, or nerves might come your way.
I love what Elder David A. Bednar said:
“You who today are pressing forward in the path of your duty are the strength of the Savior’s restored Church. And as the Lord has promised, ‘all thrones and dominions, principalities and powers, shall be revealed and set forth upon all who have endured valiantly for the gospel of Jesus Christ.’”
For more insight on serving and teaching in the Church, check out the articles below:
▶ How to avoid getting overwhelmed in your calling
