'We are beloved spirit daughters of God, and our lives have meaning, purpose, and direction.' This statement from the recently published Relief Society Declaration is a bold affirmation at a time when the world is engulfed in turmoil and confusion. It is both a testimony and a challenge, an invitation for women to find their meaning, understand their purpose, and seek the direction their lives should go. In Sweet Is the Work, Relief Society General President Mary Ellen Smoot demonstrates the power of Relief Society to help in this quest. 'Regardless of time or place,' she writes, 'Relief Society has meant sisters lifting one another spiritually, loving and taking care of one another, serving one another, learning together, and absorbing insight and inspiration from other women headed in the same direction.' As she shows, this inspired organization holds the answers to many of life’s most challenging problems. Each chapter of the book examines in depth one of the principles from the Relief Society Declaration, using stories, examples, scriptures, and counsel from latter-day prophets to demonstrate the practical application of the idea. 'The Power of Belonging,' for example, discusses the strength of 'a worldwide sisterhood . . . united in our devotion to Jesus Christ, our Savior and Exemplar.' In 'Anchored in Christ,' we learn how to 'increase our testimonies of Jesus Christ through prayer and scripture study.' And 'How Broad Is Our Mission' re-creates some of the excitement that abounds as women 'delight in service and good works.' 'The Relief Society Declaration is an inspired standard that will help us—and our families—stay on course,' writes Sister Smoot. Sweet Is the Work is an invaluable guide to its timeless principles, which will help women everywhere come unto Christ. -- amazon.com
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