You Don't Have to do Anything

We do so much out of obligation.  It's almost culturally acceptable to moan about "all the things" we have to do.

I have to do the laundry.
I have to make dinner.
I have to sign up to feed the missionaries.
I have to watch my friend's kids.
I have to go to bed early.
I have to....
I have to...
I have to...

It's interesting, though, that in the scriptures we read, "All that he requires of you is to keep his commandments (Mosiah 2:22)."

But there are so many!

True.

But the Lord also gently reminds us, "If ye love me, keep my commandments (John 14:15)."

I have one child who, when asked to help with some household chore, will crumple up on the floor in tears or stomp to their room.  My usual response is, "It's okay.  You don't have to. You just won't get the promised reward if you don't."

Think about that. The Lord says the same thing to us.  "It's okay. You don't have to.  You just won't get the promised blessings I have in store for you."

Remember, too, this is all said without manipulation or guilt attached. It's not a "do this or else" type of attitude.  Rather, in the place of manipulation and guilt, there is love.   He means every word.  We don't have to.  He will never force us.  The Lord's plan is agency.  We get to decide and have the capacity to understand the Holy Ghost's guidance in our lives.  Through those whisperings we will know when we can do something and when we can refrain.

Women's hearts are born to nurture and to love (in general).  Our hearts are so willing sometimes, that we place ourselves in bondage by our obligations.  If we love Him, we will keep His commandments.  In keeping the commandments we will receive the reward.  The ultimate thing that is required of us, however, is our hearts and a willing mind (D&C 64:34).  With such a mind and heart we no longer feel the burden of all the "have to's" in our lives, but feel the joy that comes from serving the Lord.

His is a plan of happiness.