I Will Not Have Smooth Knees.

Not too long ago, I dated the most incredible man. Few have I known who are so dedicated and diligent for our Lord. As a result of that relationship, among many positive things, I have acquired some great, insightful talks and quotes (they're all amazing, but there are a handful of specific ones that have truly spoken to me), and this is one that has stuck with me for years. It was beautifully written by Elder Jeffrey R. Holland (one of my absolute favs.) Enjoy!



I am part of the fellowship of the unashamed.
The dye has been cast.
I have stepped over the line.
The decision has been made.
I am a disciple of Jesus Christ.
I won't look back, let up, slow down, or be still.
My past is redeemed, my present makes sense, and my future is secure.

I'm finished and done with
low living,
small planning,
smooth knees,
colorless dreams,
tamed visions,
worldly talking,
cheap giving,
and dwarfed goals.

I no longer need
pro-eminence,
positions,
promotions,
plaudits,
or popularity.

I don't have to be
right,
first,
recognized,
praised,
regarded,
or rewarded.

I now live by faith, lean on His presence, walk with patience, am uplifted by prayer, and labor with power.

My face is set, my gait is fast, my goal is Heaven.

My road is narrow, my way is rough, my companions are few, my guide is reliable, my mission is clear.

I cannot be bought, compromised, detoured, lured away, divided, or delayed.

I will not flinch in the face of sacrifice, hesitate in the presence of the adversary, negotiate at the table of the enemy, ponder at the pool of popularity, or meander in the maze of mediocrity.

I won't give up,

shut up,

or let up

until I have stayed up, stored up, and paid up for the cause of Christ.

I must go till He comes, give till I drop, preach till all know, and work till He stops me.



And when He returns for His own, He will have no problem recognizing me.


My banner will be clear.






I am thankful for... Greg Olsen

1. His depiction of the savior, to me, feels so real, so legit, SO what I picture Him to look like... I have attempted my hand at drawing the savior, and it is a difficult task to tackle and accomplish. He's so unbelievably talented.




2. The pictures he paints are so moving. Each picture tells a distinct story, and each one touches me in a different way.


3. His paintings have been, many times over, means for great conversation, and what we think the artist is trying to say. The picture below was a favorite to the guy I dated, who I referred to at the top of this post.



4. Some people are moved by someone's verbal testimony, or through music, and in this case, i believe conversions can be sparked with a beautiful painting, especially one by Greg Olsen. I wonder how many people have been brought unto Christ because of him.


5.The visual image of the savior brings so much peace and serenity into our lives, and for someone to create such an abundance of portraits and scenes to pick from, is such a blessing. Many homes, studys, places of worship, college dorms, and bedrooms have been blessed with it's beauty and spirit.