seek first

“As we live providently and increase our gifts and talents, we become more self-reliant. Self-reliance is taking responsibility for our own spiritual and temporal welfare and for those whom Heavenly Father has entrusted to our care. Only when we are self-reliant can we truly emulate the Savior in serving and blessing others. It is important to understand that self-reliance is a means to an end. Our ultimate goal is to become like the Savior, and that goal is enhanced by our unselfish service to others. Our ability to serve is increased or diminished by the level of our self-reliance.” Elder Robert D. Hales

These statements are wonderful boosters for anyone. Our Heavenly Father like any earthly parent wants us to learn to stand on our own feet but not totally independent of His concern, direction, and love. Really, we are nothing without Him, which we must acknowledge. Nevertheless, I don't believe He wants us to remain as tiny infants, dependent for everything. That is why he gave us curiosity and imagination. Likewise, that is why He gave us scripture and the Holy Ghost to guide our path. But He's commanded us to check in with Him to make sure we are following the way He wills for us.

"In the sweat of thy face shalt thou eat bread, till thou return unto the ground..." Genesis 3:19

I guess this goes back to what I discovered before; work is a blessing. Self-reliance comes from all kinds of work, which make us emotionally happy, spiritually steady, financially sound, physically strong, intellectually clear, and socially (family life) fit. At this point, we are ready to serve all of God's children, wherever He wills.

"But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you." Matthew 6:33