What's Wrong With Being Good?

I have always considered myself to be a "good girl." Mind you, I have had my moments of mistake making, but for the most part of my life I have strived to live what I know to be true. I have noticed though, that even among those of my same faith, there is mockery for those who choose to be good. Somehow it's uncool to be obedient, or to have integrity or to be honest. Those who are labeled as good are often ridiculed or made do fun of because they choose to live "strict" lives. I have come to the conclusion that there is absolutely nothing wrong with being good. No one should ever be afraid to keep the commandments or follow the rules because others don't do it. Obedience brings blessings and happiness. Period! 

 I have had times in my life where I wasn't as good as I should have been and I really did think that I would be happier because I was having fun...and you know what? Exactly the opposite happened. I  was absolutely misterable. Although I hadn't done anything inherently evil or horrible, I had lived below my true potential. At that moment, I realized that I wanted to be as good as I could be. I wanted to strive to live a life where I was constantly choosing to follow God no matter what others around me were doing. I have not been perfect at this, but I have found much more joy in my life as I have chosen to be good! I am not afraid to admit that I am a good girl, because I know that I am on the path to becoming the person the Lord wants me to be.

 I remember a few months ago I was in a movie with my dad. It was violent and adventurous at times, but appropriate in all other respects. When the movie had ended, my dad turned to me and councelled me to avoid watching violent movies. He made the comment that although it was clean morally, the violence was more than I needed to see. He wished we would have walked out. Now at this moment, I could have easily brushed off this advice of my dad was giving me. I could have rationalized that the violence was fine because it was a movie filled with battles and war...and yet, I knew what my dad was teaching me was true! It wasn't just about the movie, it was about discerning those things that are fair, from those things that are good! I am thankful for this one of many sweet teaching moments that I had with my dad. He constant pursuit of goodness and righteousness has made me want to be better in every aspect of my life.

So, don't be afraid to be good. Don't be afraid to be early to church, or to actively fulfill your church calling even if others around you don't. Don't be afraid to change the song on a radio station or flip off the TV even if others think it's okay. Finally, don't be afraid to talk to your Heavenly Father to get the help you need to be good. He will strengthen and guide you as you strive to keep his commandments and standards!

I am thankful to know that I have a loving Heavenly Fathee who loves me and is aware of my struggles and strengths! It is only through His Son Jesus Christ that I can truly be the good, person that I know I can become. I look forward to the day where I will meet my maker, and know that I made Him proud, because I choose to be good. 

Happy Tuesday!

Xo, erin