While on my mission, I picked up a book by James Allen called, “As a Man Thinketh” and treasured the wisdom in its pages. After Elder Holland’s conference talk last Saturday about faith coming from thoughts and words, I revisited the book. Throughout life it seems we hear talks and read poignant thoughts at times when we need them the most.

Lately, with stressful and unpredictable times at work, I’ve had to cultivate a positive attitude beyond anything in recent memory. This has taught me two things: First, that I have been lazy in cultivating positive thoughts and speech. Second, that what you put out comes back, or, in terms we all know, you reap what you sow.
I want to share some clips from the book, but I’d encourage you all to read it.

Also, in terms of Elder Holland’s talk, let me share this quick story: Emma was sick two weeks ago and she asked me for a blessing. I wasn’t sure how to bless her, because I knew she’d be okay eventually and didn’t feel the pressing need to “raise her from the dead” so to speak. I thought, “I guess just giving the blessing will comfort her enough and she’ll know I care about her.” However, as I was sealing the anointing, I was impressed ever so slightly to say the following: “Emma, you will sleep through the night without interruption and I promise your fever will be gone by morning.” Emma slept through the night and her fever was gone the next day. Perhaps giving the blessing was for her and me.

“Not what he wishes and prays for does a man get, but what he justly earns. His wishes and prayers are only gratified and answered when they harmonize with his thoughts and actions.” 

“Good thoughts and actions can never produce bad results; bad thoughts and actions can never produce good results.”

“Suffering is always the effect of wrong thought is some direction.”

“Men imagine that thought can be kept secret, but it cannot; it rapidly crystallizes into habit, and habit solidifies into circumstance.” 

The equation,for me, works like this:

Positive/Good Thoughts + Positive Speech = Faith = Success/Miracles.