Spiritual Distractions

Hey everyone!

It's been another great week here in New Rochelle, NY!   We found (the Lord helped us find) some really cool and prepared people this week, so I'm pumped for that! The work is going great and I’m loving life!

Something that has been talked about recently by my mission president, President Smith, is recognizing spiritual distractions and getting rid of them. I have been thinking about this a lot lately as I have tried to think spiritually and focus on the work. So what is a spiritual distraction? It is anything that distracts you from the spirit or from your purpose whether you're a missionary or you're a child of God trying to achieve exaltation. It is important that we recognize things that distract us spiritually if we want to progress at the most efficient rate possible. It is amazing how many things can distract you! I had no clue until I started trying to recognize when I was distracted and then I noticed that it happens all of the time!

BUT, the cool thing has been being able to recognize the things

distracting me and then getting rid of them immediately by singing a primary song.  I often sing "If the Savior Stood Beside Me" and I am then able to remember my purpose and refocus. I have seen the blessings of this and that's why I'm choosing to talk about it. This applies to all situations though, not just to me. Are you spiritually distracted by sports, work, or whatever to the point that you haven't gone to the temple in a long time? Are you distracted during your prayers at night? Are you distracted to the point that you aren't even praying at night?! If we can get rid of our spiritual distractions and focus on real life, eternal life, we can all live much happier. I know these things to be true. I have personally seen it in my life and I'm grateful for a Loving Heavenly Father who helps me recognize what I need to change and I'm grateful for Jesus Christ for helping me to make lasting changes.

Love you all! Have the best week ever!

Elder Mackintosh

  Only one picture...

We played ultimate Frisbee today and it was awesome!