What do you think?
Rate this book
The Practice of Stillness
With so much going on in the world and so much to do and be, why would anyone want to spend time in stillness?
Because that’s what Jesus Christ did. The scriptures describe many times He retreated to find greater time alone with God, yet experiencing this in our own lives can be surprisingly challenging. Though we all have reasons to feel busy, hurried, and stressed, the day-to-day practices of gospel living over abundant opportunities to stop the frantic doing and slow down so we can “be still” and know the living God for ourselves (Psalm 46:10).
The Practice of Stillness, a companion to the paradigm–shifting The Power of Mindful Living for Latter-day Saints, is a guided workbook that will help you create greater stillness and mindfulness in your life. In it, you will find short devotionals, questions to ponder, and actions you can take to better put into practice the power of stillness.
Because that’s what Jesus Christ did. The scriptures describe many times He retreated to find greater time alone with God, yet experiencing this in our own lives can be surprisingly challenging. Though we all have reasons to feel busy, hurried, and stressed, the day-to-day practices of gospel living over abundant opportunities to stop the frantic doing and slow down so we can “be still” and know the living God for ourselves (Psalm 46:10).
The Practice of Stillness, a companion to the paradigm–shifting The Power of Mindful Living for Latter-day Saints, is a guided workbook that will help you create greater stillness and mindfulness in your life. In it, you will find short devotionals, questions to ponder, and actions you can take to better put into practice the power of stillness.
- GenresReligion
196 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 27, 2024
18 people are currently reading
83 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 8 of 8 reviews
February 3, 2025
This is a wonderful workbook that highlights important principles of the gospel of Jesus Christ that help us remember the importance of being still, mindful, and focused. It covers topics on being mindful in our body, heart, and mind, our personal worship and with others, in our relationships, and in our challenges.
Some of my favorite topics were placing our heart in God's hands, spending time alone with God, Sabbath as restful retreat, renewal of sacrament, lifting hearts to God, the temple as a sanctuary, finding rest in the Lord, celebrating God's goodness, the practice of presence, cultivating Zion belonging, ministering as He would, letting go of something good for something better, leading and educating your heart, being still with your longing, and seeing His hand in all things, and here are some of my favorite quotes:
"The New Testament records nine different times the Lord retreated to find greater stillness--a habit that Luke states he did 'often.'... The possibilities for mindfulness, stillness, and contemplation are everywhere in the Church of Jesus Christ."
"'Spiritual stillness of the soul' can make available... a clearer awareness of our relationship to God as our cherished Father and Jesus Christ as our Savior."
"Be still, and seek to know the living God."
"'When Jesus asks you and me to repent, He is inviting us to change our mind, our knowledge our spirit--even the way we breathe' (Russell M. Nelson)... Breathing is something many of us take for granted and pay little attention to over the course of a day... Next time you pray, first spend a few minutes resting your attention on the rise and fall of breathing (p. 3)."
"'Have you ever contemplated the wonders of yourself, the eyes with which you see, the ears with which you hear, the voice with which you speak?... What a remarkable thing you are' (Gordon B. Hinckley). ... Practices that help us reconnect with the body can be helpful... What signs help you see that you're disconnected from your body and living in your heard (p. 5)?"
"Like deep cleansing a room, fasting can help clear out our bodies to make space to receive greater light and power from God... When sweetness, peace, or joy arise, notice them with gratitude (p. 7)."
"'Because thou hast seen me, thou hast believed; blessed are they that have not seen, and yet have believed' (John 20:29)... It can be confusing to hear another share about feeling God's love, joy, or peace when we don't feel the same (p. 9)."
"'Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on thee' (Isaiah 26:3). When we grapple with competing priorities and possible choices, it's reassuring to remember how much intimacy the Lord invites in our day-to-day lives... Before you consider the logic, reasons, or feelings regarding a course of action, take a moment to get grounded in the peace that the Lord offers... What does the sensation of peace feel like in your body? How can you tell when your mind is in a peaceful state (p. 11)?"
"Placing your heart in God's hands... Throughout scripture, we see beautiful examples of prayer focused on aligning personal hopes with God's wishes, rather than the other way around... Is there something in your life right now that feels right--what God wants--but that you have been resisting?... If you're unsure what to speak in prayer, remember Paul's encouragement that the Spirit can show us what to say. Listen for that guidance in your next prayer and 'labor for an inward stillness' (p. 13)."
"Rather than trying to resist, fight, and control your emotional weather patterns, you can learn to make space around inner turbulence and observe it from a deeper place of spiritual calm (p. 15)."
"Instead of tensing up, tune in to the quiet wisdom that often reveals itself in small, more subtle ways (p. 17)."
"Gentleness can lead troubling thoughts and feelings to have less hold over us than trying to resist and push them away... Are you believing any thoughts that would be wise to scrutinize further? Are there feelings coming up that God might be glad for you to observe and explore with His help?... When your mind generates thoughts that don't benefit you or rehashes outgrown stories of who you used to be, consider gently redirecting your mind with the prompt... 'we're not following that old story anymore' (p. 19)."
"Instead of delaying prayer until such obstacles are overcome, consider bringing those hurdles directly to the Father in prayer... How often do you have a chance to spend time alone with God?... This week, try living the way Alma encouraged, letting 'all thy doings be unto the Lord, and whithersoever thou goest let it be in the Lord' (p. 25)."
"The mental disciple of focusing--and refocusing--on the words of a single page has become necessary for many to relearn... Rediscover what 'feasting upon the word of Christ' truly means (p. 27)."
"Christians have an opportunity for deeper retreat every weekend... When was the last time you found deeper rest on the Sabbath?... As your next Sunday approaches, try approaching the day like you would a genuine retreat... That could include going on a walk, dropping by someone who needs a visit, reading and talking with loved ones, singing together, or escaping to a cozy spot in your home to read scriptures, pray, or journal (p. 29)."
"'Meditation is one of the most sacred doors through which we pass into the presence of the Lord... The sacrament is one of the best opportunities we have for such meditation' (David O. McKay)... Do whatever it takes to experience that newness of mind and heart once again (p. 31)."
"'I did look unto my God, and I did praise him all the day long; and I did not murmur against the Lord because of mine afflictions' (1 Nephi 18:16)... Our many hymns, prayers, ordinances, and talks are more than just words or actions--representing opportunities to commune with God and have our souls nurtured and restored (p. 33)."
"Rather than viewing these days as simply more meetings, the experience of conferencing can be a rich practice in itself--setting aside space and time to gather in a consecrated state of mind and heart... (p. Notice the difference it makes in your internal experience of the conference to create the mental and emotional space you need to receive what is being offered (p. 35)."
"'Enter this door as if the floor within were gold; And every wall of jewels all of wealth untold; As if a choir in robes of fire were singing here; Nor shout nor rush but hush... for God is here.'... What if our experience in the temple could become a welcome opportunity to get away from all the hyper-efficiency and experience what some cultures call 'non-doing'--retreating to a sanctuary of stillness where we can allow our minds to rest and our hearts to be in His presence?... Allow your attention to follow wherever you're being led until you receive what God has for you to see, feel, or hear (p. 37)."
"Would you say you have learned to 'cleave unto' your covenants, making them the hinge-point of the rest of your life (p. 39)?"
"'When thou liest down at night lie down unto the Lord, that he may watch over you in your sleep' (Alma 37:37)... Regularly place your burdens on Them as you seek a greater sense of peace and comfort (p. 41)."
"To make your mornings more meaningful, carve out some consistent time when you can be alone with God--even if you have to push back on pressing demands (p. 43)."
"'Oh, there is so much more that your Father in Heaven wants you to know' (Russell M. Nelson)... The Lord made the shocking statement to early followers that they should aspire to 'become as little children.'... See what it's like to approach daily activities over the next week with a childlike curiosity and wonder (p. 45)."
"'Record your proceedings,'... 'write the things which ye have seen and heard.' In addition to helping us recognize and remember the ways in which God is working in our lives, journals can spark the flow of even more revelation... How often do you write down what the Lord is communicating or doing in your life?... Identify a place that can be your own 'small plates' where you can 'write the things of your soul'... and 'ponder continually upon the things which you have seen and heard' (p. 47)."
"How do you praise, celebrate, and rejoice in the Lord in your personal worship?... Write down or talk with someone about all the things in your life that you genuinely get excited about and relish (p. 49)."
"We sometimes miss the simple ways God may be acting in our lives, as well as the subtle pleasures of life: the taste of food, the colors of a sunset, the smile of a child, the touch of an embrace, or quiet time reading (p. 51)."
"When was the last time you felt joy because of the joy someone else was experiencing (p. 53)?"
"'Nothing is more liberating, more ennobling, or more crucial to our individual progression than is a regular, daily focus on repentance' (Russell M. Nelson)... Pray for strength to let go of self-talk that distances you from your Father's loving, enabling power. Fix your mind on God as an adoring Father who sees His children like any loving parent does and is eager to help them learn and grow (p. 55)."
"'Caring for the poor and the needy is less about giving stuff away and more about filling the hunger for human contact... You yourself are one of the best gifts that you can give to other people in need' (Sharon Eubank)... When was the last time you experienced whole, undivided attention from someone in your life--or offered that to someone else (p. 59)?"
"Whether through a physical gift, an act of service, or through words and gestures, opportunities to receive love are also a chance to draw closer with those around us. Don't miss those opportunities (p. 61)."
"In a fast-paced society, the act of gathering with loved ones for a meal is a radical act of stopping and uniting around a common time and place (p. 63)."
"'We hope and pray that each member's home will become a true sanctuary of faith, where the Spirit of the Lord may dwell' (Russell M. Nelson)... Make your home a place of peace and healing, learning and growth. These changes can take intentional planning and design, leading to inspired adjustments... How much like a sanctuary and refuge does your current dwelling feel (p. 65)?"
"'We must cherish one another, watch over one another, comfort one another, and gain instruction that we may all sit down in heaven together' (Lucy Mack Smith)... How often are you able to make time to nurture relationships around you (p. 67)?"
"What do you notice going on in your heart and mind when you study the gospel with others (p. 69)?"
"During a shared prayer, a single individual does their best to give voice to the heart and mind of the entire family, group, or congregation--as well as to the will of God (p. 71)."
"Congregational singing is such a common part of Christian worship service that it's easy to ignore it in the background (p. 73)."
"The home provides many other opportunities to teach children how to settle their minds, direct their attention, and regulate their emotions... How well do you model the practice of reverent stillness to young people in your circle of influence (p. 75)?"
"'And he shall turn the heart of the fathers to the children, and the heart of the children to their fathers' (Malachi 4:5)... How much heart and mind do you give on a regular basis to connecting with the simple heroes of your own heritage?... Choose an ancestor, see if you can find out some of their story, and think about celebrating (p. 77)."
"'Jesus Christ died for me; He thought me worthy of His blood. He loves me and can make all the difference in my life. As I repent, His grace will transform me. I am one with Him in the gospel covenant; I belong in His Church and kingdom; and I belong in His cause to bring redemption to all of God's children' (D. Todd Christofferson, p. 79)."
"'The only objective is to try to discern and apply the Lord's will and His timing' (David A. Bednar)... Look for other ways to contribute to an environment where everyone feels heard and respected, including being mindful of your language and tone of voice (p. 81)."
"We can all improve at listening to nudges to 'bind up the brokenhearted' and 'lift up the hands which hang down.'... Considering making an evolving, dedicated list of people that you want to remember and pray over in your own morning worship time (p. 83)."
"How often would you say that you are suffering with those around you who are hurting and legitimately 'mourning with those that mourn'? (p. 85)"
"The Lord asks those called to lead to be the 'servant of all' and to 'watch over the church always, and be with and strengthen them' (p. 87)."
"Trying to speak in the Lord's name provides a rich opportunity to partner with heaven in aspiring for something far better--to put into words, as best we can, what the Lord would have us share... Next time you have a chance to minister or teach, spend some extra time seeking to discern God's will for your visit or lesson rather than merely sharing something you think could be interesting (p. 89)."
"It's easy to get angry with anger and impatient with others' impatience (p. 93)."
"'While we were yet sinners, Christ died for us' (Romans 5:8). If we wait until we feel love or deem someone 'loveable' before showing and demonstrating love, we're not loving as God loves (p. 95)."
"Catch yourself when you find judgmental thoughts arising toward those who are on the opposite end of the certainty spectrum from you and do your best to re-anchor yourself in compassion. Practice bringing that spacious, nonjudgmental, and kind attitude to those sharing the pew with you. When you're ready, expand your practice and invite some of these neighbors over for dinner! (p. 97)"
"How much is sacrifice part of your daily life as a disciple? What kinds of sacrifices stretch you most? (p. 101)"
"'He suffered temptations but gave no heed to them' (Doctrine and Covenants 20:22)... It's possible to learn new ways of responding to sorrow, fear, or anger without letting these emotions overwhelm, control, or drive us... Watch this week for a moment when you feel an urge to react impulsively to an intense emotion (p. 103)."
"'The education of our desires is one of far-reaching importance to our happiness in life' (Joseph F. Smith)... When your desires feel at odds with God's will and your own long-term happiness, take heart and stay hopeful that you can lead them--with divine help--in a better direction over time... Are any of your desires currently at odds with God's will as revealed in scriptures and through living prophets? In what ways have you sought to work with those desires and lead them in a better direction? (p. 105)"
"Instead of seeking freedom alone, do whatever you can to seek Jesus Himself: the One who can deliver this precious gift back into your hands, especially as you keep turning back to Him over and over, moment by moment (p. 107)."
"Is there any area of your life where you keep feeling knocked down? What if you approached this struggle with the resilience of a movie hero?... Keep learning. Keep growing. Keep hoping. Keep connecting. And keep getting up! You'll get there. You have infinite worth. And your future is full of beautiful possibilities (p. 109)."
"'Watch and pray always.'... Appreciate watchfulness not as fearfulness... but rather as a valuable practice of wise and cautious attentiveness... Do you currently have a practice of personal 'watchfulness' in monitoring thoughts, words, and actions in your life? (p. 111)"
"Have you ever felt discomfort that guided you away from a decision you may have otherwise made? (p. 113)"
"'Let us cheerfully do all things that lie in our power; and then may we stand still, with the utmost assurance, to see the salvation of God, and for his arm to be revealed' (Doctrine and Covenants 123:17)... Can I really trust Him?... When it comes to personal dreams that currently remain unfulfilled, how do you currently hold them in your heart? Is there any area of your life right now where you have already done what lies in your power, and now it's time to be still, 'with the utmost assurance' to see the arm of the Lord revealed? Placing a deep heartache in God's hands can be a powerful comfort... Placing our hearts in God's hands as a trusting practice we can do every day. Again and again (p. 115)."
"'And God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes; and there shall be no more death, neither sorrow, nor crying, neither shall there be any more pain' (Revelation 21:4)... Is there anything painful in your own past which seems to keep coming up in your life today? How open do you feel to the Lord leading you through a process of healing that is as deep as your current pain?... He has saved drowning souls before from the worst storms imaginable, and He knows how to do it for you too. One step at a time (p. 119)."
"Give thanks in 'every thing.'... Have you ever felt genuinely grateful for an experience that stretched and challenged you?... Take a few moments at the beginning or end of each day to write down three to five things you appreciate. Making this a daily practice will help expand your awareness and hone your focus, helping you recognize God's hand in areas of your life you might have overlooked (p. 123)."
"'Take time this Christmas season to sit for a few quiet moments and let the Savior's Spirit warm you... Sit quietly with that little baby and come away spiritually strengthened... Let that moment be one of rest and refreshing and reassurance and renewal' (D. Todd Christofferson)... In your next prayer, lay aside any list of petitions you may be accustomed to raising, and instead try just 'being there' (p. 125)."
"How does it feel to approach this day, even this moment of your life, as brand new, and 'fresh with no mistakes'? Do you believe your own life can change in fundamental ways?... No matter what happens, the next moment can also be brand new. This can be true of every moment because of Jesus, who offers us a fresh start. Right now. As often as we need (p. 127)."
Some of my favorite topics were placing our heart in God's hands, spending time alone with God, Sabbath as restful retreat, renewal of sacrament, lifting hearts to God, the temple as a sanctuary, finding rest in the Lord, celebrating God's goodness, the practice of presence, cultivating Zion belonging, ministering as He would, letting go of something good for something better, leading and educating your heart, being still with your longing, and seeing His hand in all things, and here are some of my favorite quotes:
"The New Testament records nine different times the Lord retreated to find greater stillness--a habit that Luke states he did 'often.'... The possibilities for mindfulness, stillness, and contemplation are everywhere in the Church of Jesus Christ."
"'Spiritual stillness of the soul' can make available... a clearer awareness of our relationship to God as our cherished Father and Jesus Christ as our Savior."
"Be still, and seek to know the living God."
"'When Jesus asks you and me to repent, He is inviting us to change our mind, our knowledge our spirit--even the way we breathe' (Russell M. Nelson)... Breathing is something many of us take for granted and pay little attention to over the course of a day... Next time you pray, first spend a few minutes resting your attention on the rise and fall of breathing (p. 3)."
"'Have you ever contemplated the wonders of yourself, the eyes with which you see, the ears with which you hear, the voice with which you speak?... What a remarkable thing you are' (Gordon B. Hinckley). ... Practices that help us reconnect with the body can be helpful... What signs help you see that you're disconnected from your body and living in your heard (p. 5)?"
"Like deep cleansing a room, fasting can help clear out our bodies to make space to receive greater light and power from God... When sweetness, peace, or joy arise, notice them with gratitude (p. 7)."
"'Because thou hast seen me, thou hast believed; blessed are they that have not seen, and yet have believed' (John 20:29)... It can be confusing to hear another share about feeling God's love, joy, or peace when we don't feel the same (p. 9)."
"'Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on thee' (Isaiah 26:3). When we grapple with competing priorities and possible choices, it's reassuring to remember how much intimacy the Lord invites in our day-to-day lives... Before you consider the logic, reasons, or feelings regarding a course of action, take a moment to get grounded in the peace that the Lord offers... What does the sensation of peace feel like in your body? How can you tell when your mind is in a peaceful state (p. 11)?"
"Placing your heart in God's hands... Throughout scripture, we see beautiful examples of prayer focused on aligning personal hopes with God's wishes, rather than the other way around... Is there something in your life right now that feels right--what God wants--but that you have been resisting?... If you're unsure what to speak in prayer, remember Paul's encouragement that the Spirit can show us what to say. Listen for that guidance in your next prayer and 'labor for an inward stillness' (p. 13)."
"Rather than trying to resist, fight, and control your emotional weather patterns, you can learn to make space around inner turbulence and observe it from a deeper place of spiritual calm (p. 15)."
"Instead of tensing up, tune in to the quiet wisdom that often reveals itself in small, more subtle ways (p. 17)."
"Gentleness can lead troubling thoughts and feelings to have less hold over us than trying to resist and push them away... Are you believing any thoughts that would be wise to scrutinize further? Are there feelings coming up that God might be glad for you to observe and explore with His help?... When your mind generates thoughts that don't benefit you or rehashes outgrown stories of who you used to be, consider gently redirecting your mind with the prompt... 'we're not following that old story anymore' (p. 19)."
"Instead of delaying prayer until such obstacles are overcome, consider bringing those hurdles directly to the Father in prayer... How often do you have a chance to spend time alone with God?... This week, try living the way Alma encouraged, letting 'all thy doings be unto the Lord, and whithersoever thou goest let it be in the Lord' (p. 25)."
"The mental disciple of focusing--and refocusing--on the words of a single page has become necessary for many to relearn... Rediscover what 'feasting upon the word of Christ' truly means (p. 27)."
"Christians have an opportunity for deeper retreat every weekend... When was the last time you found deeper rest on the Sabbath?... As your next Sunday approaches, try approaching the day like you would a genuine retreat... That could include going on a walk, dropping by someone who needs a visit, reading and talking with loved ones, singing together, or escaping to a cozy spot in your home to read scriptures, pray, or journal (p. 29)."
"'Meditation is one of the most sacred doors through which we pass into the presence of the Lord... The sacrament is one of the best opportunities we have for such meditation' (David O. McKay)... Do whatever it takes to experience that newness of mind and heart once again (p. 31)."
"'I did look unto my God, and I did praise him all the day long; and I did not murmur against the Lord because of mine afflictions' (1 Nephi 18:16)... Our many hymns, prayers, ordinances, and talks are more than just words or actions--representing opportunities to commune with God and have our souls nurtured and restored (p. 33)."
"Rather than viewing these days as simply more meetings, the experience of conferencing can be a rich practice in itself--setting aside space and time to gather in a consecrated state of mind and heart... (p. Notice the difference it makes in your internal experience of the conference to create the mental and emotional space you need to receive what is being offered (p. 35)."
"'Enter this door as if the floor within were gold; And every wall of jewels all of wealth untold; As if a choir in robes of fire were singing here; Nor shout nor rush but hush... for God is here.'... What if our experience in the temple could become a welcome opportunity to get away from all the hyper-efficiency and experience what some cultures call 'non-doing'--retreating to a sanctuary of stillness where we can allow our minds to rest and our hearts to be in His presence?... Allow your attention to follow wherever you're being led until you receive what God has for you to see, feel, or hear (p. 37)."
"Would you say you have learned to 'cleave unto' your covenants, making them the hinge-point of the rest of your life (p. 39)?"
"'When thou liest down at night lie down unto the Lord, that he may watch over you in your sleep' (Alma 37:37)... Regularly place your burdens on Them as you seek a greater sense of peace and comfort (p. 41)."
"To make your mornings more meaningful, carve out some consistent time when you can be alone with God--even if you have to push back on pressing demands (p. 43)."
"'Oh, there is so much more that your Father in Heaven wants you to know' (Russell M. Nelson)... The Lord made the shocking statement to early followers that they should aspire to 'become as little children.'... See what it's like to approach daily activities over the next week with a childlike curiosity and wonder (p. 45)."
"'Record your proceedings,'... 'write the things which ye have seen and heard.' In addition to helping us recognize and remember the ways in which God is working in our lives, journals can spark the flow of even more revelation... How often do you write down what the Lord is communicating or doing in your life?... Identify a place that can be your own 'small plates' where you can 'write the things of your soul'... and 'ponder continually upon the things which you have seen and heard' (p. 47)."
"How do you praise, celebrate, and rejoice in the Lord in your personal worship?... Write down or talk with someone about all the things in your life that you genuinely get excited about and relish (p. 49)."
"We sometimes miss the simple ways God may be acting in our lives, as well as the subtle pleasures of life: the taste of food, the colors of a sunset, the smile of a child, the touch of an embrace, or quiet time reading (p. 51)."
"When was the last time you felt joy because of the joy someone else was experiencing (p. 53)?"
"'Nothing is more liberating, more ennobling, or more crucial to our individual progression than is a regular, daily focus on repentance' (Russell M. Nelson)... Pray for strength to let go of self-talk that distances you from your Father's loving, enabling power. Fix your mind on God as an adoring Father who sees His children like any loving parent does and is eager to help them learn and grow (p. 55)."
"'Caring for the poor and the needy is less about giving stuff away and more about filling the hunger for human contact... You yourself are one of the best gifts that you can give to other people in need' (Sharon Eubank)... When was the last time you experienced whole, undivided attention from someone in your life--or offered that to someone else (p. 59)?"
"Whether through a physical gift, an act of service, or through words and gestures, opportunities to receive love are also a chance to draw closer with those around us. Don't miss those opportunities (p. 61)."
"In a fast-paced society, the act of gathering with loved ones for a meal is a radical act of stopping and uniting around a common time and place (p. 63)."
"'We hope and pray that each member's home will become a true sanctuary of faith, where the Spirit of the Lord may dwell' (Russell M. Nelson)... Make your home a place of peace and healing, learning and growth. These changes can take intentional planning and design, leading to inspired adjustments... How much like a sanctuary and refuge does your current dwelling feel (p. 65)?"
"'We must cherish one another, watch over one another, comfort one another, and gain instruction that we may all sit down in heaven together' (Lucy Mack Smith)... How often are you able to make time to nurture relationships around you (p. 67)?"
"What do you notice going on in your heart and mind when you study the gospel with others (p. 69)?"
"During a shared prayer, a single individual does their best to give voice to the heart and mind of the entire family, group, or congregation--as well as to the will of God (p. 71)."
"Congregational singing is such a common part of Christian worship service that it's easy to ignore it in the background (p. 73)."
"The home provides many other opportunities to teach children how to settle their minds, direct their attention, and regulate their emotions... How well do you model the practice of reverent stillness to young people in your circle of influence (p. 75)?"
"'And he shall turn the heart of the fathers to the children, and the heart of the children to their fathers' (Malachi 4:5)... How much heart and mind do you give on a regular basis to connecting with the simple heroes of your own heritage?... Choose an ancestor, see if you can find out some of their story, and think about celebrating (p. 77)."
"'Jesus Christ died for me; He thought me worthy of His blood. He loves me and can make all the difference in my life. As I repent, His grace will transform me. I am one with Him in the gospel covenant; I belong in His Church and kingdom; and I belong in His cause to bring redemption to all of God's children' (D. Todd Christofferson, p. 79)."
"'The only objective is to try to discern and apply the Lord's will and His timing' (David A. Bednar)... Look for other ways to contribute to an environment where everyone feels heard and respected, including being mindful of your language and tone of voice (p. 81)."
"We can all improve at listening to nudges to 'bind up the brokenhearted' and 'lift up the hands which hang down.'... Considering making an evolving, dedicated list of people that you want to remember and pray over in your own morning worship time (p. 83)."
"How often would you say that you are suffering with those around you who are hurting and legitimately 'mourning with those that mourn'? (p. 85)"
"The Lord asks those called to lead to be the 'servant of all' and to 'watch over the church always, and be with and strengthen them' (p. 87)."
"Trying to speak in the Lord's name provides a rich opportunity to partner with heaven in aspiring for something far better--to put into words, as best we can, what the Lord would have us share... Next time you have a chance to minister or teach, spend some extra time seeking to discern God's will for your visit or lesson rather than merely sharing something you think could be interesting (p. 89)."
"It's easy to get angry with anger and impatient with others' impatience (p. 93)."
"'While we were yet sinners, Christ died for us' (Romans 5:8). If we wait until we feel love or deem someone 'loveable' before showing and demonstrating love, we're not loving as God loves (p. 95)."
"Catch yourself when you find judgmental thoughts arising toward those who are on the opposite end of the certainty spectrum from you and do your best to re-anchor yourself in compassion. Practice bringing that spacious, nonjudgmental, and kind attitude to those sharing the pew with you. When you're ready, expand your practice and invite some of these neighbors over for dinner! (p. 97)"
"How much is sacrifice part of your daily life as a disciple? What kinds of sacrifices stretch you most? (p. 101)"
"'He suffered temptations but gave no heed to them' (Doctrine and Covenants 20:22)... It's possible to learn new ways of responding to sorrow, fear, or anger without letting these emotions overwhelm, control, or drive us... Watch this week for a moment when you feel an urge to react impulsively to an intense emotion (p. 103)."
"'The education of our desires is one of far-reaching importance to our happiness in life' (Joseph F. Smith)... When your desires feel at odds with God's will and your own long-term happiness, take heart and stay hopeful that you can lead them--with divine help--in a better direction over time... Are any of your desires currently at odds with God's will as revealed in scriptures and through living prophets? In what ways have you sought to work with those desires and lead them in a better direction? (p. 105)"
"Instead of seeking freedom alone, do whatever you can to seek Jesus Himself: the One who can deliver this precious gift back into your hands, especially as you keep turning back to Him over and over, moment by moment (p. 107)."
"Is there any area of your life where you keep feeling knocked down? What if you approached this struggle with the resilience of a movie hero?... Keep learning. Keep growing. Keep hoping. Keep connecting. And keep getting up! You'll get there. You have infinite worth. And your future is full of beautiful possibilities (p. 109)."
"'Watch and pray always.'... Appreciate watchfulness not as fearfulness... but rather as a valuable practice of wise and cautious attentiveness... Do you currently have a practice of personal 'watchfulness' in monitoring thoughts, words, and actions in your life? (p. 111)"
"Have you ever felt discomfort that guided you away from a decision you may have otherwise made? (p. 113)"
"'Let us cheerfully do all things that lie in our power; and then may we stand still, with the utmost assurance, to see the salvation of God, and for his arm to be revealed' (Doctrine and Covenants 123:17)... Can I really trust Him?... When it comes to personal dreams that currently remain unfulfilled, how do you currently hold them in your heart? Is there any area of your life right now where you have already done what lies in your power, and now it's time to be still, 'with the utmost assurance' to see the arm of the Lord revealed? Placing a deep heartache in God's hands can be a powerful comfort... Placing our hearts in God's hands as a trusting practice we can do every day. Again and again (p. 115)."
"'And God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes; and there shall be no more death, neither sorrow, nor crying, neither shall there be any more pain' (Revelation 21:4)... Is there anything painful in your own past which seems to keep coming up in your life today? How open do you feel to the Lord leading you through a process of healing that is as deep as your current pain?... He has saved drowning souls before from the worst storms imaginable, and He knows how to do it for you too. One step at a time (p. 119)."
"Give thanks in 'every thing.'... Have you ever felt genuinely grateful for an experience that stretched and challenged you?... Take a few moments at the beginning or end of each day to write down three to five things you appreciate. Making this a daily practice will help expand your awareness and hone your focus, helping you recognize God's hand in areas of your life you might have overlooked (p. 123)."
"'Take time this Christmas season to sit for a few quiet moments and let the Savior's Spirit warm you... Sit quietly with that little baby and come away spiritually strengthened... Let that moment be one of rest and refreshing and reassurance and renewal' (D. Todd Christofferson)... In your next prayer, lay aside any list of petitions you may be accustomed to raising, and instead try just 'being there' (p. 125)."
"How does it feel to approach this day, even this moment of your life, as brand new, and 'fresh with no mistakes'? Do you believe your own life can change in fundamental ways?... No matter what happens, the next moment can also be brand new. This can be true of every moment because of Jesus, who offers us a fresh start. Right now. As often as we need (p. 127)."
November 3, 2025
I read the Power of Stillness years ago and loved the principles and applications of mindfulness I learned. This companion book of prompts and reflections helped me remember and put those principles of stillness into practice. It is filled with beautiful quotes, scriptures, and insights to ponder and write about. The writing aspect was revelatory for me. Additionally, it offers simple practices you can utilize in your daily life to help maintain and return to these quiet moments of peace. This book helped me make time for stillness in my day and the practices helped me connect with God and His Spirit. “Just sit with the Lord and let Him warm you like a fire in the winter.” Elder Christofferson
June 26, 2025
This companion workbook to The Power of Stillness has been a great daily/weekly study process that has enlightened my practice of being more reflective, humble, and wellness.
A great book for everyone.
I love that stillness allows for the mind to wander with distractions and then bring it back to focus with exercises that help us improve our soul and actions.
A great book for everyone.
I love that stillness allows for the mind to wander with distractions and then bring it back to focus with exercises that help us improve our soul and actions.
February 16, 2025
I thoroughly enjoyed this one. If I had my own copy I would probably try to pick it up and re-read pages, make some notes on the lines provided and be more thoughtful about how to apply some of the concepts to my daily life, make them more intentional.
May 29, 2025
I just read through this and didn't really try any of the suggested practices, meditations, etc. This is a special book and I look forward to reading it again and again and putting into practice all that it suggests a little bit at a time. Highly recommend this book!
February 20, 2025
I just happened to run across this book and the title and content intrigued me so I checked it out from the library. I enjoyed it so much I may need to buy a copy!
June 9, 2025
I loved it. I have been doing meditation for several years and it really helped me understand why it helps so much on a spiritual level.
August 15, 2025
Libby. Rd. Did not do a review
Displaying 1 - 8 of 8 reviews