Letter to a Missionary of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints - 1

 

Dear Elder [Last Name],

I hope this message finds you well and full of encouragement in this marvelous work to which you have been called. Being a missionary of the Lord Jesus Christ is a sacred responsibility and an opportunity that will transform not only your life, but also the lives of many who are seeking the restored gospel.

Today I want to share with you some words of encouragement and reflections to help you find and strengthen the Holy Spirit in your daily service. I know the mission can bring challenges, but remember that you are never alone. The Lord is with you every step of the way.

The Power of Faith and the Spirit

Faith is the principle by which all things are possible. As the Savior taught:

“If thou canst believe, all things are possible to him that believeth” (Mark 9:23).

When you face moments of doubt or difficulty, remember that the Holy Ghost is your constant guide. He will help you discern the needs of those you serve and give you words to touch their hearts. The prophet Moroni taught us the way to invite the Spirit into our lives:

“And by the power of the Holy Ghost ye may know the truth of all things” (Moroni 10:5).

Dedicate time each day to pray and study the Scriptures sincerely. These moments of personal communion with God strengthen your connection with the Spirit and prepare you to hear His voice.

The Spirit Testifies of the Savior

Remember that the primary purpose of the Holy Ghost is to testify of Jesus Christ. In Doctrine and Covenants we are promised:

“If you receive the Comforter, which I will send unto you, he shall abide in your heart, and this shall fill you with joy” (D&C 88:3).

Seek daily opportunities to speak of Christ. As President Dallin H. Oaks taught in general conference:

“Sharing the gospel is not only to bless others, but it also strengthens our own testimony” (General Conference, April 2016).

When you center your message on Christ, the Spirit will fill your soul, and your words will resonate in the hearts of others.

The Power of Fasting and Prayer

When you feel you need specific guidance or special help, remember that fasting and prayer are powerful tools to invite the Spirit. The Savior Himself taught:

“Howbeit this kind goeth not out but by prayer and fasting” (Matthew 17:21).

I invite you to plan times of fasting during your mission. As you do, consecrate that sacrifice to the Lord and ask Him for direction. He always answers sincere hearts.

You Are Not Alone in This Work

It is normal at times to feel overwhelmed or inadequate. However, remember the words of the Savior to His disciples:

“Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest” (Matthew 11:28).

Trust in Him. You are an instrument in His hands, and He will work miracles through you if you remain humble and willing. President Gordon B. Hinckley shared counsel that every missionary should remember:

“The greatest joy in life comes from bringing souls to the Savior. Do all you can, and leave the rest in His hands” (Teachings of Gordon B. Hinckley, p. 283).

Ways to Strengthen the Spirit

1. Pray frequently and fervently: Speak with your Heavenly Father as with a close friend. He listens and desires to bless you.
2. Study the Scriptures daily: Find strength in the words of ancient and modern prophets. Dedicate time to read the Book of Mormon, for it is the key to invite the Spirit.
3. Seek constant service: By serving others with love, you invite the Holy Ghost to be with you.
4. Keep your mind and heart pure: Avoid anything that could distract you from your divine purpose. Be pure in thought and action.
5. Sing hymns: Sacred music has a special power to invite the Spirit. Remember the words:
   “A hymn is a prayer unto the Lord” (Hymns, “Prayer is the Soul’s Sincere Desire”).

Promises and Blessings

Finally, dear Elder, remember that the Lord has promised great blessings to those who serve faithfully in His work:

“Therefore, if ye have desires to serve God ye are called to the work” (D&C 4:3).

He knows your efforts and will reward you in ways you cannot imagine. President Russell M. Nelson promised:

“When we consecrate ourselves to the Lord, He transforms us. He makes us more useful instruments in His hands” (General Conference, October 2018).

As you move forward with faith, you will see miracles, and your own testimony of the Savior will grow in a deep and lasting way.

My Testimony

I know this is the work of the Lord. I know that Jesus Christ lives and that this is His restored Church upon the earth. The Prophet Joseph Smith was called to bring back the fulness of the gospel, and the Book of Mormon is the word of God. I testify that the Holy Ghost can be your constant guide if you seek Him with humility.

Take courage, Elder! You have a divine calling, and the Lord is with you every step of the way. Trust in His love and His plan for you.

With gratitude and prayers,