SMW 023: How to Have Confidence to be an Instrument for God as an Adult Convert || Anne Maxson

Anne Maxson grew up in Minnesota going to the Lutheran church. While attending graduate school in Chicago, Anne reached out to friend she had known through a church camp growing up and that friend introduced Anne to The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.   In the interview, you’ll hear Anne’s conversion story as well as the struggles and blessings she has experienced being the only member of the church in her family.   Anne talks about how she gained confidence to move forward with her decision to be baptized and soon after serve a mission. She shares how she handled the shifts in relationships with family and friends.   Anne reminds all of us that you don’t have to be experienced in the gospel to follow the Spirit. She said she often thinks of the words to the hymn, Lead Kindly Light, “One step enough for me” as she moves forward with confidence in the Lord.   Journal Questions Anne talked about how she felt comfort from her grandfather beyond the veil about her decision to be baptized. She also felt strength in the temple from other family members who had passed on. How have you felt an ancestor helping you in your journey? How have they strengthened you and your desire to confidently follow your Heavenly Parents and Jesus? Record the experiences that come to your mind in your journal.   Whether you are a lifelong member of the church, a convert or someone who is considering joining the church, Anne shared her advice during the interview that you don’t have to be experienced in the gospel in order to be guided by the Spirit. If you’ve been in the church for a long time, ponder on the traditions or expectations you can let go of to help you receive more personal revelation. And if you’re new to the church, think about how you can embrace promptings with confidence to know what your Heavenly Parents want to have happen in your unique journey.   Where are you lacking in confidence to move forward in your life? Think about one step you can take right now toward moving forward in that area.  Take the step and write about how you are trusting God. How are you seeing God lead you to the next step?   Episode Links Read the words to the hymn Anne mentioned: Lead Kindly Light Listen to Anne’s Podcast: Pebbles of Light Follow Anne on Instagram: @pebblesoflight Follow Anne on Facebook: @pebbles.of.light Visit Anne’s website: www.annemaxson.com Follow Spiritually Minded Women on Instagram – @spirituallymindedwomen Watch Spiritually Minded Women podcast episodes on YouTube