Expectations

We had lots of success this week in achieving our goals and working hard to make them happen. It was cool because when things we planned for fell through, the Lord opened new doors that weren't there before and actually allowed us to do more than we had originally planned. He will consecrate our efforts as long as we act in faith! Also had a great exchange here in Karlovac and Zone Conference is coming up this week so stoked for that!

I learned some important lessons about expectations this week while on an exchange. Every day of our lives, there are expectations set by ourselves and others for how we will act, what we will say and do, and what we should accomplish. Something I've seen on my mission is that sometimes these expectations can get exaggerated or away from the expectations that God has for us. His expectations are, of course, far more important in the long run. For example, we might expect learning a language to a certain ability, or getting a certain grade in a class. While these aren't necessarily bad things, they can sometimes pull our focus away from what is most important. What IS most important is that we are trying, that we are acting in faith and doing our best to accomplish God's will. That, in the end, is what God expects. If we are acting in faith each day, being obedient, and repenting, God's promises will be fulfilled. Just keep trying and rely on Jesus Christ!

Photos:

-on exchanges with Elder Merrill

-getting ice cream with Rajko

-One more from Slunj last week

-Karlovac streets and aquarium (of river fish)