Press Forward with a Steadfastness in Christ

Today is the first day of a new year. My own personal theme for this coming year is found in the Book of Mormon.

"Press forward with a steadfastness in Christ" (2 Nephi 31:20).

It is my intention to live with a greater awareness of the magnificent life and mission of Jesus Christ, our Savior. I know that any efforts to draw near to Him will create greater love, peace, understanding, and goodness in my life and in my relationships.

But how does one "press forward with a steadfastness in Christ"? What are the things one must do to have such wonderful blessings flow?

I would love to hear your ideas on how to "press forward."

I know it has something to do with taking time every day. The words to a wonderful song ring true to me.

Take Time to Be Holy
text by W. D. Longstaff (1822-1894)

Take time to be holy, Speak oft with thy Lord;
Abide in Him always, And feed on His word;
Make friends of God's children, Help those who are weak,
Forgetting in nothing His blessing to seek.

Take time to be holy, The world rushes on;
Spend much time in secret with Jesus alone;
By looking to Jesus, Like Him thou shalt be;
Thy friends in thy conduct His likeness shall see.

It is a tall order to try to draw near to Christ, to be steadfast, to be holy, to try to be like Him. A certain measure of failure is built in to such a goal, such a path. And yet, God blesses and helps us, He lifts us and teaches us. We are capable of improvement thanks to His great atoning sacrifice and tender mercies.

If I can improve a little, as President Hinckley often asks of us, that is a good thing.