Wednesday, July 29, 2015

LDS BOOK REVIEW: What to Know Before You Go by Don H. Staheli


ABOUT THE BOOK

As a former mission president and missionary preparation instructor, author Don H. Staheli is familiar with the questions, concerns, and needs of new missionaries. He also knows that the most effective missionaries are those who have learned how to be a missionary, not just those who have learned how to do missionary work. The most important elements of good missionary work are the heart and soul of the missionary, he states. This book provides gospel insights, tips, and inspiration that will give new missionaries confidence in their callings and help them to overcome discouragement, recognize the voice of the Spirit, eliminate distractions, set realistic goals, get up in the morning (even when it is cold and dark), find joy in the work, and prepare to bear a bold testimony of the restored gospel.

REVIEW

Becoming a missionary can be a frightening and intimidating thing, I mean going to a different place away from home, talking to strangers about something as important as the gospel of Jesus Christ.  As a former mission president Don Staheli sets out to share some of the things he has learned over the years about missionaries and missionary work.  Each of the thirty short chapters addresses issues and concerns that missionaries and prospective missionaries need to consider in order to become the best missionary he/she can be.  Topics include: listening to the Spirit and not the 'voice of the flesh', repentence, justification and sanctification, doing one's duty, pure service, and other related gospel topics related to missionary work.  While specifically aimed at prospective missionaries there is much here that applies to anyone who believes in Jesus Christ and wants to share that belief.  The inclusion of stories from real missionaries adds to the value of the book.  A truly valuable resource for those who will be, are, or have been a missionary for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints.

No comments:

Post a Comment