What I Believe

 I have appreciated the chance to explore my own personal beliefs. To write these down in meaningful ways. Here they are, in order:

I believe that God is my eternal Father, who knows and loves me throughout the ages. I chose Jesus Christ as my Savior and Redeemer and continue to trust in His grace in my life. I rely on the gift of the Holy Ghost to help ground me in my Savior and to turn my heart to God. (AoF 1:1)

I believe that my choices in this life matter. I believe that through the Atonement of Jesus Christ I have been given the gift to choose for myself, as have all those around me. I honor this gift as I seek to be obedient to God's commands, come to know God through the scriptures, and participate in the ordinances of the gospel of Jesus Christ. (Joshua 2:24, AoF 1:3)

I believe that God loves all His children regardless of their background, race, religion, politics, gender-identity, sexuality, or any other earthly factor. I believe that His plan of happiness allows the chance for every child of God to return to Him if they are willing to humbly accept Him as their God. I don't know the meaning of all things, but I know that God loves His children. (1 Nephi 11:17, 2 Nephi 26:33)

I hold firm to my temple covenants and to the temple marriage I am building with Kelley John Ballard. I choose to love him each day, to encourage and uphold Him as the priesthood leader of  our home and as my best friend and true love! (Doc & Cov 131:1-4)  

I trust that God has trusted Elena, Allie, and Tae to my care because He knows my potential for goodness as a mother. I believe that there are many upon the earth who He trusts me to serve and that He has angels around me (seen and unseen) to buoy me up when things are hard.(Alma 56:47)

I'm intentional about only keeping objects that support my family in building a home where the spirit of the Lord can dwell. I find peace flows more readily to my heart when our home is kept free of worldly distractions. (Moroni 7:47, 1 Nephi 2:15)

As I seek to follow Jesus Christ, I find hope and faith in good things to come, even as I face life's trials. I strive to give patience and grace to others as Christ and God give these gifts to me. I believe in a Gospel that sees and celebrates the beauty in the people and world around me and I seek after the good, wonderful things that God has given to His children across the globe. (AofF 1:13)