For years I chose to ride a downward spiral into misery. What started as a small problem, soon become a much deeper issue in my mind as I contemplated step by step the worst trail of outcomes possible.
Recently, I was blessed to have an experience in which a problem began to trouble me, a car we had just purchased suddenly and rapidly began to throw every signal possible with the worst one being an engine overheating. For a moment later that evening I began my downward momentum.
Instead of sinking into deeper despair, I contemplated how things might work out for good. Could I not resolve the issue this way? Might I not resolve it that way? I soon began an upward path identifying all the blessings, relationships, and structure God had provided in my life so that this problem could remain small and unburdening. I felt that God had showed me how step by step I could trust in him to help me in my situation. I trusted in his Celestial goodness and wisdom.
Many problems are greater than that of a broken vehicle but the solution remains the same.
“When you are confronted with a dilemma, think celestial! When tested by temptation, think celestial! When life or loved ones let you down, think celestial! When someone dies prematurely, think celestial. When someone lingers with a devastating illness, think celestial. When the pressures of life crowd in upon you, think celestial! As you recover from an accident or injury, as I am doing now, think celestial!
As you think celestial, your heart will gradually change. You will want to pray more often and more sincerely. Please don’t let your prayers sound like a shopping list. The Lord’s perspective transcends your mortal wisdom. His response to your prayers may surprise you and will help you to think celestial.”