BYU–Hawaii President John S. K. Kauwe emphasized the importance of having an “attitude of gratitude” at the Feb. 22 campus devotional. Quoting President Nelson’s 2020 message, he shared counting one’s blessings is much more beneficial than focusing on problems. “Showing gratitude for [one’s] privileges is a fast acting and long-lasting spiritual prescription.”
He invited students to foster a disposition for gratitude by being thankful in their circumstances instead of being grateful for things. Although gratitude won’t fix all of our problems, he shared it “provides [people] with a greater perspective on the very purpose and joy of life.” He added gratitude heals hearts and allows a clearer view of one’s privileges, their source and the resulting stewardship.
Sister Monica Kauwe shared President Nelson’s four steps to strengthening one’s spiritual foundation include scripture study, prayer, temple worship and allowing God to prevail in their lives. She said following these steps will build one’s foundation on Christ’s teachings, which will lead to Satan having no power over them.
Daily scripture study allows people to recognize and allow gospel principles to guide their lives, said Sister Kauwe. By not studying the scriptures, she shared, they leave themselves “vulnerable to philosophies that may be intriguing but are not true.”
She said Heavenly Father is always ready to hear and answer anyone’s prayers and praying allows people to feel his love for them.
Third, Sister Kauwe invited students to remember their covenants and strive to live worthy to enter the temple. Finally, she added, people must let God prevail in their lives. They can do this, she explained, by “striving to keep [their] covenants with God and by seeking revelation from him.”