Attribute #11 - Obedience

Obedience: following the commands, wishes or instructions of someone; dutiful or submissive compliance

Hebrews 5:8

Though he were a Son, yet learned he obedience by the things which he suffered; 

D&C 105:6

And my people must needs be chastened until they learn obedience, if it must needs be, by the things which they suffer. 

I imagine Miss Evelyn would agree (I know I would have at her age) that obedience equals suffering. Often it means that we have to do something we don't want to do, particularly at a specific moment. However, I also know that she's learning the following scripture is true as well. Obedience leads to true happiness.

Mosiah 2:41

And moreover, I would desire that ye should consider on the blessed and happy state of those that keep the commandments of God. For behold, they are blessed in all things, both temporal and spiritual; and if they hold out faithful to the end they are received into heaven, that thereby they may dwell with God in a state of never-ending happiness. O remember, remember that these things are true; for the Lord God hath spoken it.

Several years ago in a Christmas devotional, President Monson spoke about giving and about the spirit of Christmas.

“The spirit of Christmas is something I hope each of us would have within his heart and within his life, not only at this particular season, but throughout the year. When we keep the spirit of Christmas, we keep the spirit of Christ.”

“What gifts would the Lord have me give to him or to others at this precious season of the year?

“May I suggest an answer to this searching question? Our Heavenly Father would want each of us to render to him and to his Son the gift of obedience.

“I feel he would ask us to give of ourselves and not be selfish, nor greedy, nor quarrelsome. In this marvelous dispensation of the fulness of times, our opportunities to give of ourselves are indeed limitless, but they are also perishable. There are hearts to gladden. There are kind words to say. There are gifts to be given. There are deeds to be done. There are souls to be saved.”

Even when it was difficult, Mary and Joseph were obedient to God's commandments. So was Jesus Christ. Throughout the year, as we strive to be obedient, we can feel the spirit of Christmas every single day.