Minor Setbacks

I'm a firm believer that God is willing to bless us with anything we ask of him in faith, nothing wavering. However, this last weekend I was reminded of the words of James found in chapter 2 verse 17, that faith without works is dead. Let me explain.

I found out last week that I was not accepted into the Masters Program for Information Systems here at Brigham Young University. I had prepared myself for whatever may come, but it was still crushing when I heard the news. Elder Bednar said, "I long have been impressed with the truth that meaningful prayer requires both holy communication and consecrated work." I did not feel that God had let me down, only that I had let myself down. As Elder Bednar explains in his address in the link above, prayers of faith must be followed by action on our part. It is a really good talk about faith. You should read it.

Anyways, what it all comes down to is that I procrastinated studying for and taking my test and only have myself to blame. I know that this was an opportunity for God to teach me. I plan on retaking the GMAT and reapplying for the Masters here. The option of getting an MBA or applying somewhere else for the Masters is also floating around in my mind. I plan on taking a GMAT prep course, as well as taking the test early so that I can retake it before my application is due. This time I will be prepared.

Minor setback and an opportunity for growth.

Three Years Today and Counting!!

Three years ago today, I made the best decision in my life when I married my best friend Courtney! With three years of marriage have come high times and low times, disagreements and frustrations, as well as joyous times and times of great unity. Through it all my love for Courtney has only gotten stronger. I appreciate her for who she is and who she wants to become. I admire her courage, her faith and her example of service. She makes me want to be a better person, a better husband and a better father (when the time comes).

Courtney, I love you. Thanks for being patient with me through it all, the good and the bad. I look forward to spending the rest of eternity with you. I'm grateful to know that Heavenly Father loves us and allows for us to be with families forever if we love him and follow his son Jesus Christ. I'm grateful for the sacrifice of my Savior that allows me to repent and become a better person. I'm grateful for a wife who is able to look past my faults and love me for who I really am. I love you Courtney! Happy Anniversary!