Saturday, September 16, 2017

Letter to the Former Believer

To the man who formally believed in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints,

Where did you stray? Do you no longer study the scriptures, and offer sincere prayers?

Why the nit-picking on little things? You overlook the big picture. Do you not remember how you once felt? Do you not remember those calming moments when the Holy Spirit enveloped you, and you both felt and knew it was true, real, beautiful, and good?

Where does the real issue lie? Perhaps your concerns are decoys from the real concern. Are you struggling with a commandment, such as the Word of Wisdom or chastity? Do you struggle with pornography?

Or is some aspect of Church history gnawing at you? Can you put that concern on hold until you understand more, or are you going to throw out everything and denounce the Church as false on account of one or two hang-ups? Don't forget: One cannot judge 19th century behavior with 21st century eyes. It simply isn't fair. I have found that there is usually more to the story, and that eventually it will all make sense.

I would invite you to reflect on where you have been, and what you have learned and known. All is not lost. Give the doctrines a chance again. Try again. And sincerely repent.

Sincerely,
Your friend

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