In this heartfelt devotional, Honolulu Stake President Steven Yamamoto reflects on the profound influence of the Light of Christ in our lives. Drawing from personal experiences, he emphasizes how even a small light can dispel darkness and guide us through challenges. President Yamamoto invites listeners to seek and share this divine light, fostering a path of truth, service, and spiritual clarity.

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In this inspiring devotional, President John S. K. Kauwe III and Sister Monica Kauwe explore the scriptural promise of peace like a river and righteousness like the waves of the sea. They share powerful insights on how obedience, agency, and alignment with God’s will can bring steady peace and enduring spiritual strength in our lives.

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Kevin Schlag explores how living with gratitude can transform life. Through personal stories, guest insights, and practical tips, he shows how thankfulness improves relationships, mental health, and daily happiness. The focus is on making gratitude a lifestyle, embracing appreciation in all areas of life.

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Nnamdi Okonkwo
University Alumni and Sculptor 
BYU–Hawaii Devotional (September 14, 2021)

In this devotional, BYU–Hawaii alumnus Nnamdi Okonkwo shares how faith and prayer helped him overcome challenges. Starting basketball late and facing personal loss, he trusted God’s plan and received an unexpected opportunity to study and play basketball at BYU–Hawaii. His story shows that love, service, and faith lead to true fulfillment. Okonkwo encourages listeners to trust God and believe that no dream is impossible.

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Kikiana Hurwitz University Laboratory and Academic Chemical Hygiene ManagerFaculty of Sciences Brigham Young University–Hawaii Devotional (Tuesday, June 18, 2024) Kikiana Hurwitz reflects on the significance of knowing our identity as children of God, emphasizing how this fundamental truth can provide solace and guidance amidst life's uncertainties and challenges. She illustrates how prayer, faith, and enduring trials can lead to spiritual growth and a deeper connection with Heavenly Father. Hurwitz encourages listeners to find strength in their relationship with God and trust in His plan for them.

"We have a divine purpose, and I believe that in moments of doubt and uncertainty, when we question our abilities and worthiness, it is crucial to remember who we truly are—children of a loving Heavenly Father who knows us intimately and believes in our potential."

Kikiana Hurwitz has a degree in Microbiology from the University of Hawaii at Manoa. After graduation, she completed 8 years as a Research Assistant at the Pacific Cnidaria Research Laboratory working on Marine Toxins, more specifically Box Jellyfish. Since joining the college in 2012, she has instructed in both the Biochemistry and Biology divisions in the Natural Science Department. She is a native to the islands, and is married with two young children.

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David Elkington shares an inspiring story about learning to ride a bike as a child, using it as an analogy for building momentum and overcoming fear in life. He emphasizes the importance of having faith, setting personal goals, and creating a mission statement to guide one's actions. He also introduces a practical system for personal growth, which includes sleep, spirituality, sound, sun, sweat, study, and social connections. Elkington encourages all to believe in their unique potential and take actionable steps toward their goals.

"Once you believe in God and your eternal nature, every decision you make has an eternal effect."  _____

David Elkington is the founder and CEO of Elkington Electric, an EV automaker developing the e1 electric sports car. He previously founded InsideSales.com and co-founded Silicon Slopes. He serves on multiple advisory boards, including at Utah Tech University and BYU, and is an active investor and adviser in tech and healthcare. Elkington has received numerous accolades, contributed to prestigious publications, and appeared on major TV networks. He holds a BA in Philosophy with minors in Business, History, Japanese, and Hebrew from BYU and The Hebrew University of Jerusalem. An avid outdoorsman, he enjoys running, skiing, hiking, and rock climbing and resides in Utah with his two children.

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Makoa Freitas Financial Services Director & Controller​ at Brigham Young University–Hawaii​ Brigham Young University–Hawaii Devotional (Tuesday, June 4, 2024) Makoa Freitas emphasizes trusting in the Lord's plan and how divine guidance helped him through career transitions and personal challenges. He highlights the importance of understanding our divine nature and Heavenly Father's love. He encourages faith during trials, using personal and scriptural examples, and advises relying on basic principles in life. He concludes by urging students to make the most of their time in Laie, cherish relationships, and trust in the Lord, testifying of the gospel's truth and the importance of divine guidance.

"Remember our Father's love for us, and I promise he will lead you where you need to be. Remember that the Savior has walked in your footsteps, knows what you are going through, understands your sorrow, and will offer you peace." 

Makoa Freitas is BYU–Hawaii’s director & controller of finance, overseeing financial accounting, tax filings, payroll, investments, capital project accounting, and procurement. He started at BYU–Hawaii in 2012 and has held various roles, including assistant controller and management control auditor at the Polynesian Cultural Center. Freitas holds an MBA and a master’s in accounting from Indiana University and is a certified public accountant. He previously worked at PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP and played as an NFL offensive lineman for the Indianapolis Colts. 

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Caryn Lesuma Assistant Professor​ Faculty of Arts & Letters​ Brigham Young University–Hawaii Devotional (Tuesday, May 25, 2024) Caryn Lesuma shares several intergenerational stories, highlighting the small and simple choices made by her ancestors that have resulted in great things for her and her family. She invited students to ponder on their own "small and simple choices" and the effects they may have in their lives and relationships.

"Brothers and sisters, your choice to get an education and develop your discipleship will have an immense positive impact on future generations of your family." 
 _____

Dr. Caryn Lesuma, was born and raised in Laie, Hawaii. She graduated as valedictorian from Kahuku High School and earned a BA in English from Stanford University. Following her undergraduate studies, Caryn worked as a newspaper reporter for the Honolulu Advertiser for five years. During this time, she married her spouse and later moved to Seattle. She went on to complete her MA in English at BYU and her PhD at the University of Hawaii at Manoa. Caryn's dedication led her to a faculty position in the BYU–Hawaii English program, where she now teaches. She is also a devoted mother to two children, Manasa and Zelda, and a loving wife. Her journey reflects her commitment to education and family.

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Elder Adeyinka A. Ojediran General Authority Seventy of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints Brigham Young University–Hawaii Devotional (Tuesday, May 21, 2024) Elder Adeyinka A. Ojediran emphasizes the unique integration of secular and spiritual education at Brigham Young University–Hawaii. He shares personal experiences of overcoming educational challenges through establishing priorities and patterns rooted in spiritual foundations. Elder Ojediran stresses the importance of making and honoring covenants with God, which guide us toward eternal life and exaltation. He encourages students to seek both temporal and spiritual knowledge, establishing patterns that build character and integrity to lead and serve others.

"The priorities and patterns we establish and uphold in temporal and spiritual things will guide us in our journey of lifelong discipleship of Christ." 
_____

Elder Adeyinka A. Ojediran was sustained as a General Authority Seventy of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints on April 4, 2020. He has served in various roles, including branch president, bishop, stake president, and counselor in a mission presidency. Professionally, Elder Ojediran holds a bachelor's degree in botany, a master's in business administration, and several accounting and finance qualifications. He has worked for Shell Nigeria in various financial management positions and is currently the Assistant Executive Director of the Temple Department and Second Counselor of the North America West Area Presidency. 

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Trevor Wilson Senior Associate Athletic Director at Brigham Young University Brigham Young University–Hawaii Devotional (May 14, 2024) BYUH Alumnus Trevor Wilson testifies of the power of keeping the commandments and moving forward with faith in today's devotional. His message reassures students that no matter how small their offering to the Lord may be, He will receive it lovingly and multiply it.

"In the case of the lad with five loaves and two fishes, the Lord was not looking for someone who had fish and bread, he was looking for someone who had faith."  
_____

Trevor Wilson attended BYU Hawaii from 1989-1992, where he played basketball and ran cross-country. He graduated with a Bachelor of Science from BYUH in 1992 and holds a Doctorate in Educational Leadership from BYU. Trevor has worked as a junior high and high school principal, an assistant men’s basketball coach at Weber State University, and is currently a Senior Associate Athletic Director at BYU. He also serves as a YSA Stake President in Syracuse, Utah. 

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