By LINDSAY LICHFIELD
The director of the BYU dietetics program spoke on progressing temporally and spiritually through implicit trust in God at Tuesday’s Devotional in the de Jong Concert Hall.
Trust in the Lord entails humility, acceptance of trials and appreciation for the Savior’s Atonement, Nora Kay Nyland said. When trust is placed in God, the ability to testify of Him is enhanced.
“When so moved by the Spirit, we may testify to the grace and power of the Lord in confronting and conquering challenges. Our increased strength, compassion or insight could be most helpful to someone else,” Nyland said.
Trust in God enhances vision, happiness and personal growth.
Students who dislike certain required courses or assignments often find those to be the most beneficial in their professional practice and careers. As an associate professor, Nyland said, “In our curriculum, not one course or assignment is included capriciously — everything is carefully calculated to build the knowledge base and skills required to become a dietitian.
“If we are willing to accept that the Lord’s view of what we can become is both loftier and clearer than our own, we may recognize the blessings, even prizes, that come with struggles,” Nyland said. “Trust in the Lord leads to a more mature perspective.”
God’s vision surpasses our own, Nyland said. “Because we are in the hands of a very skilled pattern-maker, we won’t be disappointed with the completed design when we see it in its entirety. Frequently, one experience or set of circumstances prepares us to deal with a subsequent occurrence.”
Attitude, in addition to past experiences, better prepares us for the challenges that are ahead of us.
“Good humor lets us take our situation seriously, but ourselves lightly.
“If negative responses are a habit for you, change the habit. You may not be able to change the direction of the wind, but you surely can adjust the sails.”
People who maintain a cheerful disposition during difficult times will be assisted by others who enjoy their company.
