Choosing to Think Celestial: Our Daily Practice in the Field

Sometimes I’m sitting here, thinking back on the days when I first felt the call to serve, or maybe reflecting on a particularly challenging mission discussion I had back in the field. You know how it is—you feel that electric mix of excitement for the work, mixed with the sheer weight of knowing how much good needs to be done. You’re eager to get back into the rhythm of it, to feel that Spirit guide you through the next conversation.

But the world, and even our own hearts, can be so distracting. We can jump off the 'balcony' of our comfort zone, pretending we're fine, only to realize later that the fall was a little too far, or the landing was much harder than we anticipated.

I was recently reminded of this concept by watching a talk given by K. Brett Nattress. It hit me right where it needed to. He spoke about choosing to “Think Celestial.”

What struck me most wasn't the athleticism, but the underlying principle: the power of choice, anchored by the infinite Atonement. We all make ill-advised jumps—spiritual missteps, poor choices, moments of distraction. We can feel the pain of those moments, the weight of what we *almost* did, or what we *did* do.

But the beautiful, overwhelming truth that the Savior offered is that healing is always available. We can be completely forgiven. That’s the foundation upon which we build our discipleship, whether we are in the MTC, serving in a stake, or simply having a quiet moment studying scriptures at home.

The Power of Celestial Thought

To “think celestial” isn't just about avoiding falls; it’s about actively choosing the higher perspective. It’s about remembering that no matter how deep the spiritual injury, the light of Christ’s Atonement shines brighter. As President Jeffrey R. Holland taught, we are never beyond the reach of that divine love.

Think about it through the lens of the work. When we are teaching, and an investigator raises a tough question—a question that requires us to really dig into the doctrine—we have to pause. We can’t just give a quick answer. We have to pause, feel the Spirit, and choose the celestial thought: *How can I answer this way that builds faith, that points them to the Savior, and that helps me, too, feel more connected to the Source?*

This principle applies everywhere. It’s what allows us to be effective internet missionaries, even when the connection is spotty or the conversation is difficult. It’s what allows us to show up for our friends in the ward, to volunteer for that committee, or to simply be better disciples in our own homes.

A Daily Practice for Disciples

So, how do we practice this? How do we keep this choice central?

1. Prayer: Start by asking Heavenly Father for the grace to see things through His eyes.
2. Scripture Study: Don't just read the words; *feel* the covenants and the promises. Use the LivingBook to engage in social scripture study—highlighting passages that remind you of the Atonement’s breadth.
3. Service: Serve with the awareness that every act of service, no matter how small, is a chance to live that celestial standard.

If you want to sharpen this skill, I highly recommend diving into the Iron Rod. It has some excellent insights on maintaining spiritual focus amidst the noise of the world.

For those of us who are new to this concept, or who just need a little push toward action, I invite you to join our free weekly Disciple Challenge. It’s a low-stakes way to practice applying these principles right where you are. If you’re feeling called to deeper study, check out the Book Club options in HolyPlaces—it’s a wonderful place to connect with other disciples!

Keep choosing that high standard, brothers and sisters. The Savior has paid the ultimate price so that we can always choose to rise.