“Wherefore, be not weary in well-doing, for ye are laying the foundation of a great work. And out of small things proceedeth that which is great.” Doctrine and Covenants 64:33

Last weekend my daughter and I were invited to a small virtual fireside with the guest speaker David Archuleta, singer and songwriter, probably most known for his second-place achievement on “American Idol” and subsequent fame as a recording artist.  I found his story of faith and perseverance, despite his struggles with low self-esteem, anxiety, and health issues which affected his voice, motivating and comforting. I admired the strength he exhibited to leave behind his success, for two years, to serve the Lord on a mission for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, to share the gospel in Chile. I could empathize with many of his struggles and was astounded with all he’s been able to achieve. 

 As David shared some of his journey, after his feeling that he should audition for “American Idol,” as a 16 year old, despite his challenges, and the brutal schedule he survived during that time, I couldn’t help wonder at the incredibly individual nature of Heavenly Father’s plan for each of His children. My testimony was strengthened that no matter what physical or emotional challenges we have, or may endure in the future, Heavenly Father knows us, loves us, and can use even our weaknesses to bless others, if we let Him.  With faith and courage to be who we really are, develop our unique talents and gifts, and live in a way that invites the Holy Ghost to lead us and teach us, we can each be an instrument in the hands of the Master Musician, to bring hope and comfort to those in need, and lead souls to Christ.

My daughter and I were touched, inspired, and encouraged by the message David shared. Because he is who he is and had been through what he’d been through, he’s able to reach so many people, especially youth, right now in this painfully difficult period of isolation and struggle during covid-19 restrictions.  Through his story, through his music, through his life of integrity and principal, he is a witness that we can conquer and succeed, no matter what our personal challenges are, with the Lord’s help.

I was thankful for this experience and the feelings and conversations it sparked. Sometimes I’m overwhelmed with my own challenges and feel that I have little to offer. Though I’ve worked on understanding my value as a daughter of God, sometimes I still go back to looking for my value in what I accomplish and how much I serve. During this time of isolation from others, from serving in the church and in the temple, and after a release from long-term, and then intense, ministering to my mom, I’ve wrestled with discouragement and questions regarding my service, my consecration, to the Lord.

“Frequently it is the commonplace tasks … that have the greatest positive effect on the lives of others, as compared with the things that the world so often relates to greatness.” Howard W. Hunter

It’s so easy to think of all we can’t do, all we aren’t doing, and lose sight of what we are accomplishing, sometimes simply by carrying on, quietly, faithfully, one day at a time. The fireside helped me remember I am an influence for good, just like David, when I continue to live with faith and integrity, when it’s hard, when I feel like I can’t do it, when my service is simple and quiet in my own family. As a child of God, I know He has a plan for me, and will continue to guide and direct me—even when I’m weak, even after big changes, even during pandemics—because I matter to Him. Each of His children are precious to Him.

“By small and simple things are great things brought to pass.

“And the Lord God doth work by means to bring about his great and eternal purposes; and by very small means the Lord … bringeth about the salvation of many souls.” Alma 37:6-7

 As I ponder on this scripture, I feel the Spirit remind me that my small efforts do make a difference. A few simple ways I can serve Him:

• Share my testimony in my blog and through my actions
• Text, call, or mail a kind message
• Go help my daughter with her baby and visit and offer encouragement to my children, while receiving needed love and hope in return
• Strengthen family bonds through family history and my own personal history work
• Bolster my testimony through scripture study, inviting my family to join me
• Learn new skills and develop my talents
• Take care of myself and those I love, gaining strength for the work that surely is coming

It’s a weird and challenging time. I’m not sure that description will ever change again, but even if it doesn’t, I’m blessed with the gift of knowing Heavenly Father loves me and has a plan for me. If I want to serve Him, He’ll show me the way.  As I walk in the steps of Jesus, showing love and kindness, I pray He will magnify my tiny ray of light to bring a bit of His hope to a world in turmoil.

“Alma confirms for his son that indeed the pattern the Lord follows when we exercise faith in Him and follow His counsel in small and simple things is that He blesses us with small daily miracles, and over time, with marvelous works.” Steven C. Wheelwright