Feeling Unsure

Growing up, the priesthood was something I admired from a distance. My family didn’t have many experiences with it at home, so it always felt a little strange to me. I remember thinking that I would probably never get a priesthood blessing. I didn’t know what to expect, and I wasn’t sure I even needed one.

A Friend’s Perspective

One day, a close friend of mine shared how she felt whenever she received a priesthood blessing. She said it was like her birthday, full of joy, warmth, and a special kind of love. Her words made me curious. Could it really feel that way? Could Heavenly Father reach me through the priesthood even if I hadn’t grown up with it?

Accepting the Blessing

I decided to accept the opportunity. My heart was nervous as I knelt in the room, unsure what to expect. As I listened to the words spoken over me, I felt a calm wash over my soul. The warmth my friend had described wasn’t exaggerated at all. Every sentence and every prayer seemed to carry love and guidance just for me. I thought about the promise in James 1:5: “If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him.” I realized Heavenly Father was giving me guidance, love, and understanding in that moment.

Understanding the Priesthood

For the first time, I understood the personal nature of the priesthood. It wasn’t about what I had or hadn’t experienced growing up. It wasn’t about perfection or tradition. It was about the love of Heavenly Father and His desire to bless His children, no matter where they started in their spiritual journey. I remembered the words of President Thomas S. Monson: “Never let a problem to be solved become more important than a person to be loved.” That is exactly how I felt—I was being reminded that I am loved.

A Birthday of Joy

Afterward, I felt joy that I hadn’t expected. I smiled quietly to myself, thinking about my friend’s words. Receiving that blessing really did feel like a birthday, like Heavenly Father was celebrating me and reminding me that I am His. I felt seen, loved, and strengthened.

Reflecting on Divine Love

Now, when I think about priesthood blessings, I don’t see them as strange or distant. I see them as an invitation to feel Heavenly Father’s love and guidance, a reminder that He knows me personally, and a gift that can bring peace, joy, and direction, just like a celebration of who I am and who I can become.