When I was a young man preparing for a mission I didn’t know what to expect or how to prepare, or what it really would entail.

I knew I should go but didn’t know much about the details of mission service.

 At this time a returned missionary, Larry, in my ward took great interest in my future.

He began to coach me, to inspire me, and to instruct me on what a mission could mean, and what it could be like.

I listened to his advice, I listened to his stories, I felt the spirit of what he was saying, and I was now inspired to serve differently.

I had originally wanted to just serve a mission.

After months of his guidance and direction I now wanted to serve a faithful and powerful and lifechanging mission.

Listening to him literally changed my views regarding what a mission could be.

Ammon, who came to the people of Limhi, shared this greater view.

“Thus God has provided a means that man, through faith, might work mighty miracles; therefore he becometh a great benefit to his fellow beings” (Mosiah 8:18). 

My friend Larry, through his faith, had become an absolute blessing and benefit to me in my young life.

I am grateful that through his faith in missionary service, my life could be changed.

I read of a study recently that spoke of two groups of students who set goals regarding what they would like to achieve over the next decade.

The first group set goals that were normal and good. The second group read an article of an outstanding peer, before setting their goals.

The second group aimed much higher in their goals because a peer had elevated their aspirations.

I have learned time and time again that people of faith are inspiring, motivating and life-altering.

I am grateful to God for the countless times he has placed people of faith in my path to benefit myself and my family.