Duce's Wild: Missionary preparation — unleashing your potential

• Not just pray but plead for the power to overcome temptations.

• Develop bonds with priesthood leaders like our new bishop so that we feel comfortable going to his office when needed.

• Find positive sources of power through sports, studies and service.

• And distinguish proper repentance that truly helps us not repeat past mistakes.

As a class, we agreed to be ready for not if, but when Satan tempts with sexual enticements. We recognize his efforts will intensify as we come closer to missionary service because that’s one sure way to be disqualified from the privilege of serving.

Missionary preparation is a lot more than gathering suits and shining shoes. It’s more than learning a language and teaching with power. Ultimately, it’s becoming an instrument in the hands of God to go wherever he needs and do whatever he needs to help bring more of his children closer to the truth.

Stacie Lloyd Duce is a columnist and magazine editor featured regularly in several Montana and Utah publications. Her columns appear Thursdays on www.desnews.com. Email: duceswild7@gmail.com