Times have certainly changed since the wisdom of Proverbs was recorded. Life is faster paced and global issues impose new stresses.
Still, some things - like the lessons of life - are ageless and remain as applicable today as yesteryear. So when Carolyn Nielsen of the Longmont 1st Ward, Longmont Colorado Stake, faced a moment of personal crisis, she turned to the Old Testament to find words of peace and encouragement:"So shalt thou find favour and good understanding in the sight of God and man.
"Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding.
"In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths." (Prov. 3:4-6.)
Sister Nielsen was a young mother when she "assumed the momentous role as single parent of five children under the age of 8."
"I was touched by this scripture," she said. "It became my grip, my safety rope, my strength in the climb of finding `favor and good understanding in the sight of God and man.' "
Life demanded much from Sister Nielsen during those days. She was mother, student, cook, housekeeper, chauffeur and part-time employee. But while many demanded something from her, there were few who could replenish.
It was at those times that "the Spirit would whisper this scripture to me and I would find my once-weary body and soul rejuvenated," she said.
In time, Sister Nielsen was able to see the fingerprint of the Lord's hand directing her affairs.
Shortly before graduating from college with a double major in social work and English, "feelings of overwhelming gratitude filled my whole being as I once again realized the Lord's understanding in my struggles. Truly, my grades and learning reflected His help as I balanced the challenges of a single-parent family."
Two years after graduation, Sister Nielsen married "a wonderful man." Their union doubled the size of their family on weekends, creating a new set of challenges.
"I have spent hours on my knees praying for guidance. Once again, I hear the whisperings to Trust in the Lord' andlean not unto thine own understanding.' "
